Here's the news!!

We are Iron Girls!! This is a pic of some of my teammates from my tri group. We had sooooo much fun!! The one on the end did not actually get to complete the tri on account of a cycling accident. We missed her out on the course.
The swim was great. I finished in just over 14 minutes. That was fast for me. It was nice and cool outside on Sunday morning. The water was warm but the air was cold getting out.
Feeling refreshed I transitioned slow, but felt quick (2 minutes) to get on my bike. Unfortunately someone knocked my helmet off my bike and broke the viser. That is why it looks weird. Anyway, I pushed as quickly as I could through the 12.76mile ride. I finished in an unbelievable 43 minutes (something like 17mph). Let me tell you all this, I HAVE NEVER RIDEN THAT FAST, EVER!! I felt great but was getting hot. I had so much fun going that fast. At one point, I was going so fast I was afraid to take my hands off the handle bars.
I walked the first half of the 5K because my legs were noodley. Yes, that is a word~a very scientific word. Hahaha. Anyway, because it was getting warm and I had not practiced enough brick workouts I needed extra time to adapt to the transition. I was so happy to cross that finish line. I felt amazing. I was excited that I had actually completed it. My first tri!! In all I finished in 1:48:49. I was faster than I had predicted. I told my family it would likely take about 2 hours. I really had no idea how long it would take me.
My family had so much fun. Hotty hubby, my mom and dad were all present and accounted for. They said that they could totally tell just how much fun I was having because everytime they saw me I had the biggest smile on my face. They also had a great time. My mom mentioned that the environment of a tri was more relaxed than that of a marathon. We all had a ton of fun. I am definitely addicted!!

Blog on friends!!

Ohhhhh, my back is killing me with all of this pressure and guilt!!

Okay, I was supposed to go to the track party this morning at 5:30am and I chose not to go. I called RunnerSusan at 5:30 to tell her to relay that I would be sleeping an extra hour and then I'd head off to the trails. I needed to get in 18-20miles today. I figured trails then a dip in the lake~what a morning. Too bad I decided to torture my hotty hubby with a like 2 hour snooze session. I felt really bad for about 30seconds. Hahaha. I did not get up until 8am. What is my major lack of motivation problem. I feel uninspired to run today. Swim?? I am up for it. Ride??? I am up for it. Run??? No way!! Could it be the oppressive heat? Overtraining? Overwhelmed by this weekend and the high mileage? Likely a combo of it all!! I am looking at my calander and am stumped by when I can get this mileage in. Perhaps on Thursday. The only problem....recovery. Thursday to Sunday~would this be enough recovery? It will have to be.
Hey Massoman, I have been thinking about the answer to your question. I think bleachers would be a suitable switch for lunges and squats, the only prob...bleachers are a form of Plyos. Becareful and give yourself time for recovery. Haha, listen to me....do as I say not as I do!!! You may consider cutting back on mileage the day of and after for rest's sake. What a calorie blasting workout!! Following in the footsteps of Fireman Ken huh??? Way to go!! Sorry for being such a slacker!!

Blog on friends!!

6 days, 5 minutes, and 49 seconds left!!

Alright guys that is all I have left before my very first tri!!! Yippeeeee!!! I am well prepared and so incredibly excited!!! Over the weekend, the Irongirls spent some time getting to know the course. WOW!! Not wow as in it is the most incredible place ever but, wow as in this is really here....I am really going to do this!! I am so fired up!! My family is coming in and my hotty hubby is going to be there!! My workouts this weekend were light. We rode the course and ran the course in Las Colinas on Saturday. I actually hung with the lead group on the cycling portion, right up until I had to make a pit stop. Luckily there was filling station along the course near the end I was able to stop at. I was shocked that I was able to hang with that group!! I think we were averaging 14-16mph. Yes!!!! It is great what a good bike will do for you!! Also, the Irongirls noticed that I got a new bike. That was cool!! They had only seen my old bike once or twice!! I was glowing inside that they noticed!! Anyway the running part was way hot and I was afraid of pushing too hard without anyone there so I walked half the course. I must say, there is not much shade. It will be miserable!! We will make it though and we will do great!! Yesterday, hotty hubby, PM, and I went for a short and easy ride. We pushed the pace a bit and I think it upset hotty hubby. We finished our regular route in a minute quicker than last time. Hotty hubby rides a MTB with big knobbies, so he has a hard time keeping up. We spent time yesterday talking and looking for some different tires for his bike. He will feel better when we get those on. I have to jet off to work, so I will check in with you all later!!
Blog on friends!!

Not much going on...

Monday was a recovery day. That meant no exercise. And that was that.
Tuesday I ran 5 miles in 52:50. After training clients I swam. I went to the gym and swam about a mile~just under. I actually did not sleep well last night, so I am groggy today. I had figured that I would have slept better after a swim, but I guess not. Today I procrastinated myself into a run only day. I was supposed to swim again, but I just did not get it done. Oh well. I did however ran off some anxiety over my Dr.'s appointment on the 24th. Those close to me know which Doc I am going to see. I will fill the rest of you in later. Let's just say this is something I have avoided for a really long time. I ran my scheduled 5 miles. I watched "So you think you can dance." Pretty good show. I enjoyed it. I finished in 58 something. I just wanted to run off anxiety. I was pretty successful. Tomorrow is 13 miles. I think I will run half with the tri group and the other half on the trails. I could use some change. Heehee. I am also overdue for another swim. I would like to get it in after training some clients.
I am tired for now and Lost reruns are on, so I should go.
Blog on friends!!

Funny Hahaha!!

I thought some of you would get a great kick out of this!!! Especially all of you tri babes out there!!!
BTW: It is not really like this. (For all of you who have not been bitten by the tri bug yet...)

http://weshobsonperformance.com/images/video.mpeg

Blog on friends!!

It's all about strategy, right??

Let me fill you all in. Yesterday was a big workout day!!! I started off with a 5 mile dreadmill run (52:30). I trained a few clients then went home to rest. I still had a brick workout ahead of me. This for all who don't know is a bike with a run immediately following the bike. I rode the spin bike for 1 hour then beat the rain and ran 3 miles. I was pooped!!
This morning I ran my long run (18 miles). I got up early and went to WR lake and made one loop (9.2miles) then went to the Jeep to refill water and Hammer gel. I finished up as quickly as possible--only it was at a snails pace. I averaged 15 minute miles. I am left feeling irritated and sore!! So one, marathena, is left to ponder what it will take to shave approximately 3 minutes per mile off her time in let's say 8 weeks??? Will it be enough to just lay off the other training?? By other training I am refering to the swimming and biking, brick workouts and duathlons??? The simple answer would be a loud YES!!!! Ummm, with that said I also did a swim workout tonight with the Irongirls. I am way tired!! My right hip is bugging me a bit. I am not sure if I need an adjustment or rest or what. Probably both. I will have to make an appointment with Dr. Voodoo. It has been awhile any way. I gotta go!!
blog on friends!!

Happy 4th Y'all!!

I want to say happy Independence Day to all of yall out there!! It is rainy here in Tejas. I hope we will get to see some fireworks this evening.
Last night I met the Irongirls for a swim workout at the PC. It is this swanky club only the most beautiful people in Dallas get to workout in. Thank goodness, I am one of those people. Hahahaha!!! How disgusting. Heehee!! It was a great workout. I have been feeling like a slug lately, so it was a good motivator!!This morning was the Flagpole 8K. It was pleasantly cloudy and a touch cooler than last year. It was a small race/run consisting of only about 200 people. I finished in just over an hour. I averaged 12:08's. Slower than I wanted but still under 13's. Glad to have it done. I am anxiously awaiting an 18mile run, 27 mile ride and a short duathlon. What a busy week ahead!! Enjoy the fireworks yall!!
Blog on friends!!

What a great day!!

I need to catch up. I must warn you all though, I am back to my normal happy go lucky, perpetually positive self. Thank goodness. All of those deep thoughts are a bit overwhelming. I agree with Robtherunner though about his comment on my last post. I don't think that the running is my purose so to speak but it is the relationships that I build through running that might the right path. Anyway, I digress.
Friday
Open water swim. I did not feel that great in the water. I struggled the whole 500m. The water was great, no huge waves. I did it only once.
Saturday
Mock Tri. I had a crappy night's sleep. Woke up around 4:15am and could not go back to sleep. I finally got up around 6:00am and got ready to go meet the Irongirls. I went down stairs to load up my bike and forgot Nikko's crate was still in the Jeep. It is usually hotty hubby's job to take the crate out. Anyway, since it was 6:30am (by now) and he was asleep I made a valient effort to get it out when I sliced my finger open. I remember thinking, "yeah, this is a great way to start the day!!" Blood running down my hand, I was furious and still very tired. I got the crate out and ran upstairs to clean my hands up. I was awake and ready to go. I was not about to let this get in the way. I finally hit the road around 7:00. We had a transition clinic for the first hour. I had no idea how technical this was. Everything has to be stacked a certain way and in such a small place. Oh, and your bikes have to be lined up a certain way. Also something I did not even think about. Finally around 9am we started our mock tri. We started with a swim. That was interesting because this was the first time we had a "start". We all lined up and then took off swimming. I can tell you that the middle of the pack is not where I wanted to be. It freaked me out a bit when I kept getting kicked and hit, but I just slowed down and did the breastroke until I was able to calm down. Finally when everyone sort spread apart, I was able to pick back up with the swim. It only took me 14 minutes. (This might be really slow for some of you, but remember this is my first tri--I am a bit anxious.) We got out and ran to our bikes. I took a little longer than I wanted to wash off my feet and get my shoes on. I was off quickly though. We rode this 11 mile route. I think it took me just under an hour. I kept getting lost (missing arrows and such). I did not print the directions because I was under the impression that we'd all be together. I figured I'd just follow everyone....wrong!!! I was by myself for awhile, but at one point I heard someone screaming out. I looked back only to find I was off course. Our coach sort of floated around between riders to try to keep us on track. He'd give me directions and I would forget them before he was finished telling me. I just kept getting lost. A lot of stopping and turning around. I don't think I rode as well as I could have. Also, I was getting pretty hot. I wore my black tri shorts and a black sport bra. Bad move!! Even though I was half naked, black is still not a good choice. I figured since I was wearing very little color would not matter. I am changing my opinion. Anywho. By the time I was finished with the swim and bike it was 10:30 or so. I am telling you, it was hot hot hot!!! I opted out for the run. There was no shade and one big hill. I am wondering if it was the black, the heat, not enough sleep, cramps, not enough fuel or food the night before that caused me to crap out. One other Irongirl skipped the run as well. I was left feeling proud, guilty and freaked out. I was proud that the swim felt easier than the bike (usually the easiest for me). Guilty for skipping the run. Freaked out about how I am going to make it through the triathlon. This is the first time I am second guessing myself. I hope I will be fine. I have made some adjustments to my trianing to get me out in the heat a bit more. I have registered for an 8k on Tuesday morning, 27mile ride/rally on Saturday and a short Duathlon on Sunday (2mile run/9.6mile ride/2mile run). I am forcing myself to get acclimated. I have also invested in trying a few electrolite mixes. Heed, ELoad, and Endurolytes (caplets). I have tried Heed before and wasn't crazy about it. Never tried Eload. I have tried the Endurolyte powder but also, wasn't crazy about it. I tried the Hammer products during running but again wasn't crazy about them. I am curious about how they sit on the bike.
Today
My friend PM, Hotty hubby and myself rode 18.2miles this morning. It was gorgeous. There was nice breeze. We met at 8:00 and rode to the Gaylord Texan. That is always a nice ride. Hotty hubby struggled a bit. He is feeling under the weather (sore throat, runny nose and he says his lungs burn a bit). I am wondering if it is allergies?? Likely. Anyway we finished in 1hour 19 minutes and 37 seconds. My G mini said 13.7mph, PM's computer said 13.8mph. I did try out a new bike this morning and loved it!!! It is older and way modified so to tell you what kind it is would not be of much help. It is a lot lighter and smoother than mine (which is in the shop being worked on). I might invest in it. I don't even feel like I worked out today. Legs are great, back isn't sore anymore and cramps are gone (for the most part). I only wish I could have done the mini tri today instead of yesterday. I feel so much better. Oh, just for my own sake of journaling, I must review the bra I tried out. I wore a yellow and white New Balance bra with clasps and mesh on the back. I have a red and black one already but remember I am trying to avoid black. I like it. It came as a recommendation from a sponsored triathlete. I did notice a difference in temperature. So that was helpful. The only thing I was not crazy about was the cleavage factor. I am a fairly modest woman and don't want all of my goods just hanging about. The other thing I was worried about was the see through factor. When it gets wet, will it be see through? This reminds me of a Friends episode wear Monica is singing on a stage in a bar full of men. They are just cheering her on and on so she stays up there. Chandler walks in and sees her on stage and immediately runs up to there too. He starts standing in front of her and getting in the way. Monica starts to get really mad because everyone is still cheering her on. Finally Chandler tells her why they are all actually cheering for her. Her shirt and bra are totally see through and she has been showing her "headlights" to a whole bar full of men. That is really why they were cheering her on. She was humiliated and ran off the stage. Let's just say I am not looking for that kind of adventure. Hahaha!!!

Blog on friends!!

Intresting thoughts for the day

I have been reading this book called: If you want to walk on water, you've got to get out of the boat. It is by Robert Ortberg. It is very interesting. The topic of the book is finding purpose in your life and discovering what it is that God has called you to do. I suppose I am craving a bit of reality today. Hmm. Anyway, I have spent the last 2 years or so trying to figure out what my purpose in life is. I am not depressed, sucidal, or insane. I just am curious if what I am doing right now with my life is what God intended me to do. I think so, but am I? I think about my passions~running, fitness, relationships, physical challenges, the myth of limitations. Are these gifts from God or are they imposed passions that I have forced to fit into what I think my life should be. Some of you out there may be thinking; whoa Marathena this is so deep. I tried to warn you all I am in a bit of a philosophical mood today. I am left wondering if running, training, and triathloning is my calling. And if it is then what about testing patients? How does this fit in? I suppose through the fitness and health aspect, but it is not something I enjoy and wake up excited to do every couple of days. In this book, the author talks about how sometimes your calling is not something you love or are even good at. Does this fit that category? I am over reaching I am sure. I have no intentions of changing or overhauling my lifestyle or job situation. I am merely questioning my reality. I actually take much pride, joy and fulfillment in what I do every day. Even if I complain about how tired and worn out I may be.
Here are somethings that have triggered these thoughts:
Peter answered him, "Lord if it is you, command me to come to you on the water. " He said, "Come". Matthew 14:28-29.
"The line between 'Thou shalt not be afraid' and 'Thou shalt not be rediculous' is often a fine one and not easily located. Knowing when to get out of the boat and take a risk does not only demand courage; it also demands the wisdom to ask the right questions, the discernment to recognize the voice of the Master, and the patience to wait for is command."

I think this is particularly intresting because I have been told or asked if I am being rediculous about running. Is running 26.2miles or further for some of you rediculous? Or is it what we are called to do? When we bump up against failure is this some sign that we have missed a turn or have been misguided? Hummm....What are we afraid of? Failure? Isn't failure a big part of growth and maturity? Wow, these thoughts are shocking to even myself. If running is truely my passion, gift, my calling; then my excitement over conquering 12 miles could be explained.

As Arthur Miller says, "It's the lifeblood of a person, the song that her heart longs to sing, the race that his legs were born to run...There's an electricity associated with giftedness. Give a person the chance, and he will jolt you."

Wow. I can only hope that I have that kind of impact on the people I work, train, and run with.

Psalm 19
In the heavens he has set a tent for the sun, which comes out like a bridegroom from his wedding canopy, and like a strong man runs its course with joy.

"I love to think of the strong man--a champion, some translations put it--exulting in the race. He knows he's going to be taxed and stretched; he knows it will take everything he's got. But he loves the race. He relishes the challenge. He competes, not for the trophy at the end, but for the love of the game."

If you are truely compelled to run the race as I am, then this strikes you at the very core of your spiritual being. I know for sure the first time I read it, it struck me that way. As I sit reading it to my hotty hubby tears start flowing from my eyes. Why? I guess you could say I am an emotional being.

"I am convinced that if I face up to acknowledging the limitations that pain me most, there is enormous freedom and joy on the other side."

Jesus put it like this: You are the salt of the earth. You are the light of world. Others have come before you. Others will come after you. But this is your day. You are on a mission from God.

How is your mission going? Are you on the right path? Are physical rewards clouding your path? I am on a mission. Are you??

Headed in the right direction, I think.

I can't believe it has been almost a week since I've blogged. Hmmm.
Monday:
I lifted with my friend Massoman and swam. I was a bit sore from lifting. True confession of a slacker in that area I suppose. My swim could not have been better. I am working so hard in the pool. I completed a big ladder, again. 4 x 50m, 1 x 100, 1 x 200, 1 x 300, 1 x 400, 1 x 300, 1 x 200, 1 x 100, and 4 x 50 cool down. I was a bit sunburned and am showing the true summer badge of training (cycle short line and a swim cap line). That is so hot!!! Hahahaha! Not to mention the ultra sexy sunglasses/goggle eyes.
Tuesday:
I instated a bigger track party. There were 5 of us (BC, JM, Massoman, his BW, and myself~runnersusan slept in and called later to tell me she was sorry she didn't make it). It was a gorgeous morning in FM Tejas. I think it was like 65-67degrees with very little humidity. Fabulous!! My job was to run a 1 mile warm up (12minute mile), 4 x 800 (3:40, 3:40, 4:00, 4:03~smokin' fast!!!) and a 1 mile cool down (12:30). Oh and I was supposed to walk/job 400m between each 800. Since it was so beautiful outside I decided to add this track work onto a long run for the week. I know, or should I say realize, that this is in some way cheating, but I did it anyway. I left the track and headed over to the trails at the Y. I completed half of it (4.75 miles) to round out 10.75 miles in 2:20. I headed home, worried that I had not heard from hotty hubby and checked in. Only he wasn't home. Apparently he and Nikko were out enjoying the unseasonably cool morning. I ran to the fitness center determined to get 12-15 miles in. I jumped on the treadmill to completed 1.25 miles (14minutes). I decided I was done. I did 12 miles in 2:34 (this includes the superfast track workout). I am okay with that.
Wednesday:
Hotty hubby and I went for a bike ride last night. Another fantastic evening. The last 3 have been so pretty and cool. Maybe not cool, but not humid I guess I should say. We rode our usual loop in Coppell. (10miles). I had picked up a movie to watch while spending my time on the spin bike so when we got back I still owed 30mintes of riding. So we popped in the movie (Failure to Launch~kind of corny but still good) and I topped off the ride. Wooohooo!! I have not missed a workout yet.
Today:
At the risk of sounding like a slacker~haha~I slept in instead of getting up and heading over to WR lake to run with the group. We are supposed to run for a total of 40-50minutes with pick ups in the middle. (Warm up 10 minutes, pick up for 3, slower for 2--repeat 5 times and then a 10 cool down). I wanted to go with the group to ensure I would not crap out or slack off. I have to make the very best of these shorter runs if I have any hope to PR in NM. Whoa, too many abreviations. Hahaha. Oh well, I am let to my own demise.

Blog on friends!!

A blast from the past and sweet stress relief!!

Well, I am back from my HS reunion. It was a good time. We kicked off the weekend with a music fest and then a breakfast with a tour. We walked around our newly remodeled high school and talked about how none of us knew where the cafeteria is or was. Hahaha. Saturday night concluded the reunion with a relaxed cocktail party. There were a ton more people there than I thought there would be. I saw some people I was really excited to see and others I couldn't quite remember and others still that I just hadn't thought of since I left high school. I learned that some of my "friends" are now getting ready to be doctors, are dentists, moms, speech pathologists, lawyers, PR people, and a super talented singer headed off to Italy for a few years to perfect her talent even more. It was a nice party. I am however incredibly blessed with my life here. I love my friends and my life here. The reunion reminded me in such a bold face way that I had in fact grown up and out of my insecurities. I am no longer that person that wants to be in the "in crowd". I don't care to put that much effort into all of my relationships. If you like me and we are friends, that is so wonderful. If you don't like me, okay we can move on. I am no longer going to try to make you like me. I will let you go. To pass over a friend because there might be someone else of greater status to talk to is wrong and I won't be a part of that any more. I left that bad habit when I left home. I revisited that this weekend. Or should I say that revisited me this weekend. I will leave it like that.
Today we rushed back so that I could get in an extra open water opportunity. The Irongirls were meeting for some extra practice. It was so great to see so many of us all in one place. We all practiced going out to the buoy and back (400m). I struggled all the way out--the waves were huge!!! Once I got turned around and headed back I felt better but still struggled. Once we all got back to standing the coach said anyone want to try it again? I think everyone said yes and away we went. Round 2. It just go harder. I made it though and got back. Only this time I was more relaxed on the way back. It was great. By the time I was finished, I was shakey and tired. But oh my goodness I felt great and so relieved from a tough weekend. I swam 800m today in a lake, with huge waves!! Wow!!

About the 11 miles on Friday--I ended up walking most of it due to some seriously sore legs. I think maybe I ran about the first 3 miles then hoofed the rest. I actually only completed 8.5 to be honest. I ran out of time. Too slow!! I had not felt that stiff and sore since Chi town marathon. I felt better by Saturday and not sore at all today. So a frustrating and very difficult (mentally) 8.5miles but it is done.

Blog on friends!!
Oh:
PS: Welcome to my blog everyone who has just joined in. (I learned that several people I graduated with from HS have actually been reading my blog!!) So again--welcome. Stay as long as you like.

Thanks for the support everyone!!

You guys rock!! Thanks for the support. I know that when I have a bad day you all will be there to give me constant encouragement! Isn't that what we are blogging for anyway??
I have had a great couple of days as far as my workouts go. Yesterday I ran 4 miles in 50 minutes (12:30's). Not too bad. If I haven't said this already I realize that I will sacrifice speed for frequency of workouts. I am okay with anything faster than 13 minute miles!! I ended my evening with a swim. It was fantastic!! I am increasing my distance everytime I get in the water. I did a mini ladder (100m, 100m, 150m, 200m, 300m, 400m, 100m cool down). I was very tired after finishing. Last night I did a larger ladder (100m, 200, 300, 400m, 500m, 600m, 100 cool down). I felt like I could have kept going on the 600m, but I ran out of time.
Today I helped my sis pack up and move away. I am totally crushed. To the point of tears. Tears are reserved for the privacy of my home, yet I find myself welling up in front of my future bro in law, and on the way home from work. I want her to be happy and she was not while she was living here. She is moving, or should I say on her way, to St. Louis. Sad. Hmmmm.......
I did not workout because tomorrow I am going to get that 11 mile long run in. After work, I am off to OKC for my high school reunion. Should be fun. I will give a full report when I get back!! Have a great weekend all!!
Blog on friends!!

Dead Legs!!

So I did not make it 11 miles on the dreadmill. I did make 4 though. I went over to WR lake after my bike class to finish out another 3. I rounded out my daily mileage to 7 averaging 11:10min/miles. Not as great as I had hoped but it will do. Remember anything faster than 13's will suffice. I woke up this morning ready for another speedy track workout. I met my usual buddies at the local track to get some work done. I was scheduled for 1 mile warm up, 2 x 400, 2 x 800, 2 x 400 and 1 mile cool down. I only made it through the first half of the workout. I am wondering now that I am looking back could I have plogged through the rest?? Perhaps, perhaps not. For my 400's I felt weak and super slow. My times (1:44 and 1:44) did not really show it. I immediately started feeling a bit crappy after this. My legs stiffened the shortness of breath came over me. My arms were super quivery and I felt like I could just fall asleep right there on the track. I sat down, drank some water and got my bearings. When I felt better I got up to make an attempt at the first 800. I started it and stopped. I walked a 400. After getting back around I started my 800 with the thought of I will not stop and just do it, even if it doesn't feel good. I will do it. I did (4:21). That was it. Now I was really sleepy. I sat down and got a bit dizzy. Perhaps I should have kept standing. Oh well. I stood up and my legs were way stiff. I walked to get my water and then started down the track walking. I went to some bleachers and sat down. I nearly fell asleep. My head drooped, I was breathing very hard, and my body shook. I decided that that was not the place to take a nap. I got up and ended up walking 1 mile to "cool down". I continued to struggle with my breathing and stiffness until I got home and layed down. Massoman hinted at the fact that I am on the verge of over training since I had just run 7 yesterday. Maybe he's right. This was the usual hot weather feeling though. Dizziness, sleepy, breathless, and stiff. The humidity was way high here and it felt significantly warmer. The temp was 73degrees. Hummmmmm......this will get better I hope. I am scheduled for a swim this evening and I think I will take it easy!! I will get it done, but slow and steady.
Blog on friends!!

A fun weekend of travel!!

I am in my 2nd weekend out of 3 to travel. This weekend we went to Austin for a bridal shower for my sis. It was big fun!! I was a bit frustrated because my parents popped in and I missed my open water swim on Friday. That was the whole point of staying in town until Saturday morning. Anyway, I rode my new spin bike for 2 hours as the schedule instructed. It actually said to ride for 2 hours, I am assuming it really meant ride 2 hours outside but oh well. I did ride, my legs were fatigued and I think that was the point! Today I am going for an 11 mile dreadmill run and a swim in the pool. This evening I will be going for a bike maintainence class. I am excited about that. I need to know how to change a tire and so on when I am on the road. Tomorrow invites more workouts!! I will go for now. I will report on the dreadmill run and swim later.
Blog on friends!!

A fun weekend of travel!!

I am in my 2nd weekend out of 3 to travel. This weekend we went to Austin for a bridal shower for my sis. It was big fun!! I was a bit frustrated because my parents popped in and I missed my open water swim on Friday. That was the whole point of staying in town until Saturday morning. Anyway, I rode my new spin bike for 2 hours as the schedule instructed. It actually said to ride for 2 hours, I am assuming it really meant ride 2 hours outside but oh well. I did ride, my legs were fatigued and I think that was the point! Today I am going for an 11 mile dreadmill run and a swim in the pool. This evening I will be going for a bike maintainence class. I am excited about that. I need to know how to change a tire and so on when I am on the road. Tomorrow invites more workouts!! I will go for now. I will report on the dreadmill run and swim later.
Blog on friends!!

A hot dog and a lot of catch up!!

I have had such a busy training week. Not to mention watching the MAVS!! Wednesday I rode the spin bike at the Y for 1 hour. I was 30 minutes short of my goal but I got it done. This morning I had a track party with Massoman and his BW. My job was to run a 1 mile warm up, then 3 x 1 mile repeats that were broken up by 400's (1st was all out;1:38, 1:44, 1:44, 2nd a slight bit slower; 1:48, 1:52, 1:48, 3rd easy; did not time them, and 4th walk) and cool down with 1 mile easy. Each of the 400's were seperated by 30s to1min rest. I bookended the day with a bit of a swim lesson from my friend PM. She did some coaching some time ago and offered to help. I am thankful. She helped quite a bit. I ended up doing an undetermined number of 25m's (just to get my form down a little better), then a ladder. I started with 50, 100, 125, 100(missed a step), 150, 125, 100, 75, 50 then 2 x 25 cool down. I am pooped and the MAVS are down by a lot. Grrrr!! They will come back!!

The hot dog reference might only make sense to a few people. I will briefly fill you in. You see I only sweat on one side of my body. Therefore I am likely not able to regulate temperature very well. This is something I have dealt with for 4 years now. Only it seems in the last two summers it has gotten intolerable. Since it has been so freakin hot here and the pollution has been really bad I have been short of breath. My husband made an analogy last week during my mental and physiological meltdown that perhaps my shortness of breath is my body's reaction to its inability to cool correctly. Like a dog. He meant no offense although at the time it was totally not funny. He was just trying to make me feel better. He succeeded in making me feel better and convinced me to go back to a neurologist. I will hold steady to my promise. I know this makes my dear friends runnersusan and massoman feel better. I talked about going last summer but because of my own fears and denial I did not go. I have come to the conclusion that alienating myself from my friends because they run at 6:30 instead of 5:00am is no longer acceptable. I am determined to get to the bottom of all of this mess. I will not go into all the issues right now, but I am sure if you really wanted you could go back into the archives from last summer and see a trend. It is all related from the stiffness of the legs to the inabilty to make progress as far as speed and distance. I won't go into it all right now.

I will say this, just before my meltdown I ran a 1 mile PR (8:04). Yippeeee!!! I think this gave me confidence going into my cool weather run in PA!!!

Blog on friends!!

It's chilly in Indiana, PA

I have been out of town the last few days. We have traveled to Indiana, PA for a family reunion. It was heavenly cold--or chilly. I only got to run one day, but it was a wonderful run. It was blissfully clean, quiet and cool. We started off with 55degrees and ended with about 57degrees. It was fantabulous!!
I will blog more on this later. I also have really fun pics from the trip I will share with you all!! Right now the MAVS are playing and I am a tad bit distracted. I must root for my team!!!
Go MAVS!!

400m, 5K, 14miles and 9more

Okay let's start with Friday. I went to the open water swim clinic at the lake with the irongirls. I was presented with a challenge. Do you want to swim to the buoy and back--says my coach? I responded by saying how far is it? About 200m. So out and back is a 400? Yep. Wanna try it? Okay why not. So I started off by myself. I got about 1/3 of the way out and then thought to myself, I am going back. So I did. I struggled back. We tooled around near the shore when another coach said, anyone else want to try it. I was determined to make it to that buoy. I wanted to go for it. I did and she followed. Along with another irongirl we set out for a buoy. We stopped half way to re assess the situation. We decided to procede. At this point I was starting to struggle. How could this be? I have been working so hard in the pool. Anyway, we made it to the turn around spot. The infamous buoy. I hung onto that thing for dear life. I actually sunk it a bit. The coach quickly said to get off of it, other swimmers are siting it. Oops, okay. I won't lie to you all, it was ugly. I made it back to the shore, but not before I reached a state of panic and terror. Not so much that I would drown but that I would be able to catch my breath enough to swim back. I spent more time treading than swimming. I need more practice. I left the swim clinic a bit frustrated but boosted as well. I mean I have been working really hard in the pool and you totally could not even tell. I guess I need more practice. The really great thing about it is that I made it. Swimming unlike cycling or running you don't get a break. Even when you stop swimming you still have to tread, work. With running you can slow down and walk, cycling you coast, swimming you tread--not quite the same kind of break. Hum. I made it, and that is what counts.
Saturday morning Massoman's BW and I participated in the Race for the Cure. OMG was it crowded. There were a ton of strollers and baby joggers. I realize that they are welcome, but they did not line up where they were supposed to. We got to the race a tad on the late side, but I am not sure I would have wanted to get there much earlier. BW needed to pick up her race chip and number so we waited in line and then lined up to start the race. We stood at the start line for nearly 30 minutes before starting. Talk about some hot and grumpy people. Why they delayed the start is unknown, but I will tell you that 30 minutes makes a difference in temperature. Finally we got started around 9:00 (supposed to have been 8:30). BW and I started with 3:1's. We ended up just running as long as BW could go and then walking a bit. It was tough to pace. She did a wonderful job!! We finished in 38:50. Wooohooo!! It was her first 5K. I think she is inspired to try another one, but wants to shave some more time off her pace first. I would be glad to run with her again. I had a great time.
After the race I was still scheduled for a 1.5-2 hour ride. Hotty hubby and I went after a short rest. It was hot, and I had the worst attitude. I really did not want to go. I'm glad he made me go though. I did get pretty sunburned. Hohum. We got in 14 miles in just under 1.5hours (slow!!)
Sunday
This morning I got up early to run 9 miles. I traveled to White Rock lake to meet up with the irongirls. I was way early, but did not mind because they were only going 3-6 and I needed 9 to stay on track for the marathon. I did an out and back in hopes to run into some of them on the way back when I was I tired. It worked. By mile 8 I was ready to quit. Just as I was about to take a break, I heard from behind me:
"Pick it up girl, don't quit." I whipped my head around and was greatful to see my training buddies. They were on their way back. They asked how much further I had and told me that they'd carry me back. Thank goodness they did. I was so ready to just walk the last mile. I finished running 12:30's. I made my goal. I wanted to be faster than 13 min/miles. I made it. Next long run, I'd like 12's. We'll see. I will just take it one step at a time.


My heart and thoughts go to those finishing up the San Diego Marathon today!! Way to go guys!!
Blog on friends!!

Feeling Strong

Tonight was a swim workout with the irongirls. It was big fun. We worked on technique and endurance. I was pleasantly surprised that I was able to do the mini ladder with no problem. Compared to last night's workout, this one was a breeze. It would seem that I am pushing myself harder than the coaches in the group are pushing me. No shock there. I am so tough on myself. I am hard competition (the coaches vs myself). I was glad they were there though because at one point I was tired and wanted to stop. I had 2 other irongirls in my lane that kept me going. It was really nice. My arms are whipped as usual. I am pleasantly sleepy. I think it might be time to head to bed!! Goodnight all!!
Blog on friends!!

It's been awhile...

since I have blogged that is. Sorry about that!! I have been busy!!
Monday I ran with runnersusan. We did a recovery run for her and a long run for me. We did 8 miles. It was tough, but not bad. I was moving at a snails pace!! (14:13's). I finished and that is all that matters.
Tuesday I rode the spin cycle at the Y for 45 minutes. Boring. I have to learn what 90-100RPM's feels like.
Wednesday I ran trails with runnersusan. I have never done that before. It was pretty tough. I liked it. The key to trail running is to keep your eyes on the trail. I fell because I saw a bunny and was watching it. Just as soon as I looked at it, I was on the ground. Oops. I laughed. I am always falling down. Hmmm. I was supposed to test in the afternoon but due to an uncooperative van, I got the day off. Yippee!! I decided to go for a swim. Here was my workout:
1 x 200 warm up
1x 100
1 x 200
1x 300
1 x 400
2 x 50 kicking
1 x 200 cool down
I was whipped after that.
I still needed to get a ride in so hotty hubby and I went for a ride. We rode on some local trails (about 10-12miles). The bugs and gnats were terrible. I was wondering what the RDA is for gnat protein? Gross!! We made it back home and I was asleep faster than you could say goodnight.
This morning runnersusan and I went for another short run (3miles--11:57's). It was cooler but my goodness the humidity was almost unbearable. It was nice to get it over with. Tonight is another swim with the group. I am rested up and ready to go!!
My hips and hams are sore. (Just a note for myself).

Blog on friends!!