Phaedra Cote

Essentials of the High Speed Life

2011-03-31T07:55:00.000-07:00

As I roll into another season going 100 miles an hour in every different direction, I've learned that there are some key factors that need to be attended to so I can be successful in my athletic pursuits no matter how short on time I am. We are all busy, and challenged with juggling life while trying to squeak out time for a training session here and there. There's a rolling priority list that seems to always be evolving and rearranging. For me, my kids and school are at the top of that list and I try my best to manage the rest, often not so gracefully. I realize that this is a common struggle for most of my friends and fellow athletes, and it occurred to me that to have success juggling all of this, there are some rules to live by. You can cut a warm up short, stretch while doing homework with your kids, skip that recovery ride or learn to let it go when you just aren't hitting your marks for that days training session. However, I have learned the hard way that there are some short cuts you cannot make and decided to share my thoughts as we enter another triathlon season. Sleep is gold, good nutrition is essential and stress is a big hairy monster that needs to be constantly managed.

Sleep. Ah, that delicious time we daydream about. You're aware when you don't have enough of it, grateful when you get too much, and bitter when you lay in bed, welcoming it with open arms and it never shows. I spend a lot of time thinking about sleep. I have struggled with lack of sleep enough to understand you must respect this elusive gift, and learn to coddle it. I think it all boils down to consistency, and understanding the ingredients necessary for a good nights sleep. First off, it helps to go to bed the same time every night and wake the same time each morning. We haven't changed all that much since we were infants. We require less sleep but our bodies still appreciate being able to anticipate when sleep will arrive and went it will leave. Secondly, for the most part, athletes require more sleep than most. Get in your 8 hours. If you can't get it in all at once, a cat nap can serve as a 'sleep snack'. In my experience though, this nap cannot last for more than 20 minutes or it effects the next nights sleep. Lastly, caffeine, nutrition and hydration can have a big effect on the quality of sleep you delight in. Personally, I've found that one cup of coffee in the morning is all I can handle. Then I spend the rest of the day conscious of good hydration, and making sure to eat a nutritious snack before bedtime that includes protein.

Considering I spend a lot of time in the car, kids sports practices and walking around a college campus, I don't have the luxury of having a refrigerator at my finger tips. This is where snacks that don't require refrigeration come in handy. The good news is, there are a lot of options out there from bites to energy blasts to protein shakes that although are great to eat while you're training, can also be consumed as a snack on the run. Powerbar has not only made it easy to get the types of calories needed during workouts but has made eating on the run mindless. In addition to consuming enough water, it's important to replenish electrolyte stores with a sports drink. I have found that coupled with adequate water intake, a sports drink instead of caffeine, helps me maintain a steady amount of energy throughout the day. I learned the hard way that more caffeine just ends up making me more tired, more anxious, and less able to have a restful nights sleep.

Stress. We all suffer from it, some more than others. You can feed it or learn how to deplete it's momentum. When not well managed, it can cripple us and leave us cowering in a corner. But when overcome, we can be left with a great sense of triumph. In my experience, I have found that the three major factors that have the largest impact on my stress level are regular exercise, efficient sleep and proper nutrition. Funny and frustrating how these are all intertwined, as a common theme in my life. If I get my training in, eat well, and sleep well, I am a well-oiled machine and can take on anything! However, if I don't sleep well, training sessions don't go well, I have trouble concentrating on daily tasks and then I suddenly find myself as a poorly functioning victim of the stress monster.

It's simple really, it just takes awareness and some creative prioritizing. We are all short on time, it is a scarce resource these days. But ultimately, what we do with our time is a choice. And it's amazing what we are capable of when we are taking good care of our bodies. Good luck in the fast lane!

Confessions of a Late Bloomer

2010-11-15T22:25:00.000-08:00

I remember having a conversation with my brother, at the beginning of this arduous educational journey as a single mother. He pointed out to me, that we come from a family of late-bloomers. After all, our father, (a retired chemical engineer) didn't speak a word until he was 4 years old and he turned out to be a smarty pants. I've carried this simple statement with me and pondered on it often.

I married young, had children young, and grew up in the middle of raising a child who taught me that strength comes in many packages. I did my first ever race at age 33, am now a single mother, college student, triathlete, and most recently started taking voice lessons because when I grow up, I want to know how to sing. So ya, I'd say I fall in the late-bloomer category.

Chem Lab. That's my lab partner Josh who is a phenomenal athlete and in no way, suffers from late-bloomerism.

So what is it that constitutes the order in which you're supposed to progress through life? What is the purpose of this order, and who and what does it serve? Is it worse or less efficient if you do things out of order? What affect, ultimately, does the order in which you progress through life have on your overall experience?

One side effect is that you end up dressing like this and having friends like these who don't see anything wrong with it.

There seems to be an acceptable manner in which people play out adulthood. Go to college, get married, launch a successful career while simultaneously having 2 1/2 perfectly healthy children, retire and go live out your days with your spouse in some warm place. The thing is, decision making is hard. Making decisions not only about your own life, but those included and affected by your life, is difficult. Who doesn't want an outline? So, many follow the provided outline because it's safe, it's a great recipe for success, and let's face it, it's the fairy tale. And everyone loves a good fairy tale. However, in all reality, many a folk discover themselves in their 40's, acquire their dream job on the cusp of retirement, have sex before love, marriage before maturity, and career before knowledge. So,why is there this pressing need to do things in order? What I think, is that when we do things in order, life unfolds like a delicate silk scarf. And when one decides to do things out of order, life unfolds like an old cardboard box with all kinds of trinkets and crap wedged in the crevices of the box. It's not neat, it's not pretty, and you never know what's going to come flying out at you next. I know this, because I am clearly not following the standard life outline. I made a one-winged oragami bird out of that perfectly crafted outline, and just lit it on fire!

This little one provides me with matches, and regular reminders that life is fun, and funny. And let me tell you, there's a lot to laugh at in my little world. Especially with friends like these.

I'll admit: it's tough being a single mom and going to school full-time. It's scary sometimes knowing that I'm the only one responsible for my triumph or failure, that there's no one to catch me if I fall. But the fun in this is, I am charting my own course, and making my own outline while learning along the way. There are all kinds of scribbles and arrows all over my paper, and it doesn't even resemble an outline. It's got coffee spilled on it, a few post-it-notes, and of course, lots of random doodling. But it's mine, and I can write whatever I want on it. The thing is, no matter how hard one tries, your plan is never going to be perfect. No matter how meticulously stacked our papers are, the wind is gonna blow. And really, do you want it to be perfect? Who wants to watch a movie in which they can always predict what happens in the next scene? I've learned not only to "go with it", but to slow down, stop, and take a look around. There are times when I do this and feel completely overwhelmed by the greatness of life, and wanna cry. And other times, when I just get a mischievous smirk and shake my head. Not many dull moments on this course I'm charting. I am settling in, and learning that it's not all about finishing what I've started, but taking in as much as I can along the way. I've learned that 'difficult' is a relative term, and that you can catch up on sleep, homework, and housework, but you can't catch up on being a mother. And of course, if something scares the shit out of you, stop...ask yourself why, and then do it. I have found that the things in life that scare me the most, are the ones that I reap the greatest reward from overcoming.

I race because I like how it feels on the other side of the finish line, much more than I like the comfort and safety of the sidelines.

So, if there's something you want to do, but you're not doing it because you think you're too old, it'll be too hard, or people will make fun of you...I'm here to tell you: you're not, it won't be, and they will! This is to all those late bloomers out there. Get your arm in the air, and let that freak flag fly!

He forgot to put his game face on. Good thing I had mine.

A little plug: Our elite women's running team put together a running calendar to raise money for Active4Youth which supplies under-privileged children with the opportunity to be coached and run. Please buy one! Who doesn't need a calendar??

"You will turn over many a futile new leaf till you learn we must all write on scratched-out pages." ~Mignon McLaughlin

I've got a new lawnmower!

2010-07-22T10:35:00.000-07:00

Well, actually, not a brand new lawnmower. It's a hand-me-down of sorts. So, I no longer have an excuse to hire the neighbor kid to mow my lawn. Sigh. I haven't actually "used" my new lawnmower though. It's sitting outside the patio door like a dog who rolled in poop and is in exile. It's taunting me to just start it up and take it for a spin. And the idea kind of makes me giggle, considering I've never used a lawnmower before. Never. I understand some of the basic lawn mowing rules, such as: always wear tennis shoes, avoid the pine cones (although I'm *really* curious to see what would happen if I accidentally ran over one), and of course be methodical about your lawn mowing pattern. A "wandering" pattern is the true mark of a rookie.

So, what have I been doing in place of yard work this Summer? I've raced a little and finally feel like myself after taking over a year off. If that's something you're interested in, 2010 results are at bottom of blog but I won't bore you with the details. Email if you'd like me to bore you with race details. I've been playing with my boys (water parks are really fun, not just for kids) and reveling in the freedom of having Summer off of school and working at Fitness Fanatics part time. And of course, a few pictures are always worth more than my 1000+ words. what? I'm wordy.

Jodi and her parallel-parking job. This is after numerous attempts. Notice the wheels on the curb. Jodi, Adrianne and I headed over to Whidbey Island for the half marathon in April. This is in front of my brother's condo in Seattle. Out of 1500 participants, Jodi got 2nd overall, Adrianne 8th overall and I was 10th overall. We all placed in our AG. Good times. Gatorade bottles work for more than just carrying gatorade. Ask Jodi.


Jodi and I at the 12k trail run. She took 1st overall, I took 2nd. We even beat all the boys. There may have been only one boy racing but we beat him. Sorry dude				.

Spokane Moving Crew. And Wolfpack. Long story. From left to right: me, Eve Nelson, Jodi Suter and Adrianne Campbell.


"Family Portrait" This delightful photo is a real gem. This is my Spokane Family. Starting at back left: Jason & Adrianne Campbell, Troy and Eve Nelson, Paul Suter, Aaron Scott. Bottom row left to right: Annie Warner , me (that's ginger ale ;), lil' Brooke, Jodi Suter & Haley Cooper-Scott. Leave it to Aaron to find a yard gnome. Make note of the grass. Yes, this is in my backyard.


The girls. Thanks to my dad for all of these photos


Me and the loves of my life. My little men.


Jodi's other half, Paul. Between the two of them, I get my rear handed to me at least once a week. Haley and I practicing our cyclo-cross skills. Bri was nice enough to snap this photo of our adventure. Off for an open water swim in Coeur D'Alene and then I'd better get to that lawn. Up next: Trail Running Nationals (7/31) and then Lake Stevens (August 15th). Carry on!

Why do you run?

2010-03-31T09:27:00.000-07:00

Late last night, when I was supposed to be on my way to bed, I saw a friend had posted a youtube video on Facebook (link is at bottom of post) This video was poor quality but the message was rich. I awoke this morning, thinking of it again. And it inspired me to write about it.

I'm sure many of you who participate in triathlon, running or some other crazy endurance sport have been asked the question "why?". Why do you get up before it is light in the dead of winter to pedal away on a trainer that takes you nowhere? Why do you decide to spend hours in a pool every week, swimming back and forth as you stare at the unchanging line at the bottom? Why do you choose to run out on the streets, fending your way through traffic and pain of climbing hills and challenging terrain, to end up in the same place you started? Why do you give up your relaxing weekends to throw yourself into a race where the first leg is bound to give you a kick in the head (literally), and the rest is most certainly a promise of pain in one form or another?

I know I have been asked before, why I race; why I train. My answer is usually a simple "because it's a challenge that I like to overcome again and again. It never gets old". But upon deeper dissection, this is what I came up with:

Running gives me freedom, cycling gives me strength and swimming gives me humility.

I can put on my running shoes anywhere and take myself on an adventure that costs nothing but sweat and time. No one has their thumb on me when I'm running. I'm like a little girl with ribbons undone and I can't help but smile. It is a gift. I think the more appropriate question is "why wouldn't I run?"

Cycling. It is the next best thing to skydiving. If I had to boil it down to one thing, I'd have to say, my favorite part is the speed. The best part of a ride is always the descent coupled with the effort it took to get to the top of the hill. Flying down a hill, hearing nothing but the wind in my ears is something I will never get tired of. I feel like a dog with my head out the window of a car. It is my reward. The experience of riding in a pack of people, the buzz of combined energy and effort all moving in the same direction is a close second. Directed chaos.

Swimming is a soothing yet frustrating experience. There are days when the pool spits me out like a sour grape, leaving me shriveled and defeated. And there are days when I have a glimpse of something greater, a better swimmer inside myself, struggling to get out. So, I continue to immerse myself in that chlorinated bath, week after week, in the hopes that I'll have less bad days and more good. And when I stand at the shore , waiting for the gun to go off, I feel confident that although I'm not the fastest swimmer (far from it), I am far from the weakest. I am six feet tall, and 200lbs, in that water and I can hold my own.

Although it takes help from my coach to know what to do, understanding from my children that my time is divided as well as the willingness of friends/training partners to lend an ear to talk over a bad race or training day...ultimately, it is me, and me alone who delivers myself safely to that finish line. And that is why I do it. The opportunity to prove to myself, over and over again that I am strong, independent and gutsy. Not to mention, to prove to the people who at one time or another, who have told me "you can't". Watch me.

Watch this video, think about it and ask yourself "why?" and maybe for some of you, you need to ask yourself "why not"? Find the reason why, white knuckle it and enjoy the ride. I promise, you won't regret it. Empower yourself.

SPRING BREAK!

2010-03-27T00:10:00.000-07:00

Another quarter flew by and the boys and I are now officially on Spring break. My life has felt like a grand parade on fast foward, these past few months. In the middle of the mach 10 parade, I took a jaunt over to New Jersey for Timex camp. I know this post is a little delayed, considering camp was in mid-February but gimme a break. I moved on February 1st (I do not recommend this to any single mothers in the middle of a quarter with nightclass on top of it-UGH). I think there is an entire collection of items (including the propane tank for my grill?) that are lost. I wouldn't be surprised if somewhere along the 9 blocks between the old house and the new house, these things fell out the back of my Subaru and are clustered on the side of the road, like kids waiting at a bus stop. If you find a propane tank (and it's in good shape) it's mine :)

So, Timex camp. I had a perma-grin lacquered across my face, the entire weekend. It was held at the New York Giants Training Facility in NJ and the whole weekend was a jaw dropping, delightful experience.

I felt like the lady on a game show who wins but is completely oblivious that her boobs are flying everywhere while she jumps up and down, screaming and cheering for herself. Ya, that was me, all weekend long (sans the boobs). Below is a picture of our entire team. I'm up front with the perma-grin. Told you. I sat there, waiting for the shutter to click before someone said "who's the girl in the front? can we get the groupie out of the shot?". To be amongst these athletes, and to call them my team mates is such an honor. I feel like I accidentally wandered into a board meeting at a gazillion dollar corporation and they slid a big ol' leather chair under my ass, handed me a name plate (with my name spelled correctly on it) and a gold pen worth more than my car. YA!!

The weekend was action packed...filled with the making our own "commercials" (to be aired sometime soon on youtube), meeting some of the Giants Players, "playing" football in the Giants indoor stadium (I didn't catch one ball but was knocked to the ground, in a chest-bump-gone-wrong), taking on Medieval Times as an entire team as well as hitting the streets of NY city together. Oh, and I had to include the below photo of my locker with my name above it, in the Giants Locker room. It's blurry not because of my Blackberry camera but because I was shaking, I was so excited. That backpack had my name tag on it as well and was filled to the brim with a plethora of beautiful red, black and white TIMEX gear. Mine is in the middle.

But by far, the most exciting moment of the whole weekend, was the surprise arrival and distribution of the Timex Global Trainer (GPS) to each member of the team. Since I have returned from camp, it has accompanied me on every run. I'm in love. How did I ever get along without this magical watch?? I've been able to tweak my training to now incorporate pace along with heart rate on the run which has been incredibly helpful, especially considering I'm coming off of an injury and my training zones are still a little wacky (wacky sounds better than slow). The more information I have, the better. And this baby has every bit of information a girl could ask for. And it's extremely accurate! Not to mention, being the technically inept girl I am, it's very easy for even me, to operate.

Below is rare documentation of our team being very still. I am at the bottom of the "I", notice I'm the only one who had to put my arms above my head to count for a whole "normal sized" person.

Timex also provided us with Vo2 max testing while at camp. For those of you who haven't had this done on a treadmill, it's a treat :/ You want to allow yourself to get to that point that you just can't go anymore (I believe it's called "failure"), while on a treadmill without killing yourself--flying off the back. Thankfully, someone (Keith?) shot this photo of me before I got to that point.

I was also recently notified that I made it onto PowerBar Team Elite. This is extremely exciting, considering I have been a die-hard PowerBar consumer since I got into this crazy sport. I've been jumping up and down outside their window for years now. I'm thrilled that they finally let me in!

As far as school, another quarter is in the books, as they say. It went well, although it was hectic. I'm moving forward, keeping my eye on the prize--the one that seems so far away, I'm squinting to see it. At times, I feel so guilty as a mother; not being able to give to the boys the daily, undivided attention I once offered. But they are so encouraging and understanding. My little men. I don't know who's holding who's hand, and from day to day, I think it changes. But I love the feeling of those little sweaty fingers intertwined with mine and I'm so grateful for their belief in me.

Here's to all your Spring goals, whatever they may be. Summer is upon us. Get'er done!

Good ol' San Diego New Year

2010-01-09T16:44:00.000-08:00

I don't even know how to begin this post. There are so many random, hilarious, tinkle-inducing moments that I'd like to share but fear they may be lost in translation. I'll do my best to provide photo documentation and be less wordy. Oh jeez, like that's possible. Just sit down and read.

After a whirlwind Christmas with my family and boys, I left the Christmas tree standing and barely made my flight for San Diego. Shelby and I have adopted a tradition of spending New Years together (usually Haley is in the mix as well) and so far, it happens in Spokane. But this year, we decided to do New Years, San Diego style. I do not regret this, or any part of it (although Haley, you really should have been there). It will forever go in the memory books as an excellent adventure.

Shelby picked me up from the airport and somehow (I have no idea who suggested it), we ended up at the El Torito right across the street from the airport for a commemorative shot of Tequila. Soon enough, we had a random stranger taking pictures with us. Why does this happen? That was our cue, it was time to head out. We got home, stayed up late that night...and every other night after that, until I left.

The next morning, we hit the ground running, quite literally. Case in point, below photo. Shelby arranged a track workout so I could get my arse handed to me, like I do every other day of the week at home. Don't let the others fool you who look like they're just screwing around. I woulda vomited had I know them better, but I didn't want to be rude.

That same day, we got to tour the Aqua Sphere grounds and wreak a little havoc while checking out the latest and greatest from them. I'm looking forward to next years' wetsuit!

That evening, we were able to meet up with some of my high school friends who I haven't seen in 20 years. The only photos we have, are very "smoky" but I included a couple anyway. We just thought the restaurant was smoky from the BBQ. It wasn't until I was sitting on the plane, heading back to Spokane, that I realized I hadn't taken the plastic covering off of my blackberry camera lens. I got a good laugh out of that one. Is anyone surprised?

Ed, Me and Mike. Good times. I had to include the below photo of Shelby because she looks like she's 10 (if that) and because she has a ton of food in front of her, although she's the only one who just got a salad.

The downside of the above, spectacular evening was, we had planned on getting up early the next morning for a bike ride with Bill Holland (he built Shelby's ultra-light, Christmas ornament of a bike) and so we had to. We showed up, smelling like recycling bins with a touch of BBQ. However, we rallied for a beautiful tour with Bill and were better for it. Here's Bill and I on the ride.

Moving on now. At some point, early in the trip, we found ourselves talking in British accents (just to each other, no other victims involved). Mine teetered between New Zealand and London and Shelby's was more of an interesting mix between some small British village and Texas. We amused ourselves (as usual) for hours with this activity although it gave us both headaches, it just kept peppering our dialogue. I had to include the below, random photo because it is evidence of Shelby's ongoing struggle with depth perception (and the fact that her booster seat doesn't boost-her enough).

The night before New Years Eve Day, we ended up rallying to put on our own performance at home. We sang late into the night (yes, just the two of us). And the day I left, rolling my bike box out of her place, her neighbor made a comment about the band equipment. He seriously thought we had a band. Takin' that show on the road in 2010, folks.

For New Years Eve day, I had talked Shelby (and she got TCSD to do the rest) into organizing a 5k/10k, so I could do a road race in the nice weather. We had to stop at the grocery store to pick up snacks and drinks on the way. We were not aware that you are not allowed to cross the yellow line (which we didn't even see!) with a shopping cart and if you do, it locks up until someone comes and reactivates it...as in it stops and won't move in ANY direction. I cannot even put into words the chaos we caused in that New Years Eve parking lot that day. But the cart locked up and we could not seem to find a breath or a moment of logic to fix the problem. We just crumpled into hysterics. The below photo was taken after 2 separate/unrelated people had gotten out of their cars and lifted up the cart to move it out of the high traffic area. In our defense, notice all of the water jugs. That was one heavy cart!

After the cart debacle, we were off to the races! It came together quite nicely. And although an hour before the race, I still wasn't sure if I could get enough momentum going to move forward at a steady rate, I did it. The good news is, I won my distance! The bad news is, I was the only one running the '8k'. I seemed to have missed the turn-around (and the big florescent, green cone that marked it) for the 5k. And somewhere between the 5 and 10k turn around, it occurred to me. I considered, for a moment, just going for it and running the 10k but I soon came to my senses and turned around. Good times. My friend Ed (from high school) and his beautiful, pregnant, Italian, wife came out and Ed rocked the 10k.

Here I am, finishing the '8k'. My parents must be so proud of their baby girl. LOL

And here are some of the other folks in their t-shirts generously donated by Timex. They're all smiling because they saw the turn around and ran the correct distance. Awwwlrighty then!

New Years Eve, Shelby and I found ourselves at the Small Bar (in walking distance from her house). Below photo, proof that it actually does exist.

We couldn't think of a better place to spend together, ringing in the New Year. This proved to be a stuuuuupendous idea (hear the accent?). We met some nice friends and ended up getting the entire bar singing 'Piano man' by Billy Joel just before midnight struck. Gloooorious times!

The day before I left, just Shelby and I went for a leisurely bike ride together. I wish this picture better depicted what a gorgeous day it was.

After we rode, we drove to Orange County to visit with our friend Kristi, who introduced Shelby and I. It was a night filled with reminiscing about how we haven't changed...at all. What?

The below photo, of an upside-down, un-frosted cupcake with a little bite taken out--says it all. We're not sure who the culprit was but we walked by it and laughed for 2 days, rather than picking it up and throwing it away. A photo, really is, worth a thousand words.

And that brings me to my next form of documentation. But first, a little background: Shelby and I started our friendship by jumping out of airplanes together (she actually funded my first skydive). It was so fitting that, during this trip, an old friend dug up and posted a video on youtube of the three of us on a disastrous, flailing, skydive. For those of you who have done any skydiving, or still do, you'll understand what a train wreck this was. For those of you who have never jumped out of an airplane, I'm here to tell you that there's nothing amazing or cool about this skydive but man, is it funny. Please reserve your right to mute until we exit the plane. We weren't of drinking age yet, and it's that's clearly apparent. We had the maturity of 14 year olds and the presence of annoying, little sisters. Oh well, I guess not much has changed. And no, I hadn't discovered eyebrow shaping yet...obviously. Watch below, if you dare.

Back to school, early morning training sessions and my sweet, lovable boys. Carry on!

What I've been up to...

2009-12-27T22:41:00.000-08:00

It's been a while. I finished finals on the 10th and have been enjoying a little time off. I made the honor roll again and I'm anticipating my special certificate in the mail so I can sit, look at it ,and giggle. So, this is what I've been up to lately:

Jed Conklin photographed me recently. Here are just a few of the photos:

Wetsuit, fins, and goggles by Aqua Sphere. Photo concept: completely Jed's idea.

Watch by Timex. Helmet and glasses by Rudy Project

Swimsuit and cap by TYR. Goggles by Aqua Sphere.

Christmas came and went. My boys say they still believe in Santa Claus although I'm suspicious; Tabor is almost 12 and Hayden just turned 8. This was our first Christmas with separate households, and I have to say, it was delightful. I no longer have double ovens and a 6 burner gas cooktop, but I made a mean prime rib and was surrounded by great company. It was a gift to have my whole family here, crammed in this little house with leaking pipes and creaky floors. The boys were wonderful and excited as always--kids just make Christmas cool. My family spoiled them with gifts and smoochie kisses, and my dad made his traditional soup on Christmas eve. Good friends joined us for dinner and somehow we ended up dancing and singing Fleetwood Mac in the kitchen; the only casualties being burnt popovers and a melted spatula. It was a good ol' Peterson Christmas with a splash of Nelsons.

The day after Christmas, I got up at 6am and went skate skiing. I watched the sunrise as I drove up the mountain, and when I got there, there wasn't a soul in site. I was able to break in the trails that crisp cold morning, all by myself. If you haven't tried skate skiing, you really should. It's challenging but it's great cross training for the bike and a fantastic way to enjoy winter here in Spokane. If you're interested in just trying it, you can rent skis at Fitness Fanatics for a reasonable fee.

Tomorrow, I'm off to San Diego to visit Shelby for a week and get some mild-weather training in. It'll be a nice little vacation before school starts back up. Stay tuned, I hope to post some photo documentation of our adventures. At the very least, it'll be entertaining.

Happy Holidays!!

Shoulda Been a Water Ballerina

2009-11-21T08:43:00.000-08:00

The week started out with Masters swim and the coach telling me I missed my calling as a water ballerina. Huh. Not really what one wants to hear when hoping to get faster in the pool, as a Triathlete! However, there seems to be hope. I will continue waking at 4:30am to swim alongside (as in the lane next to) the fast boys who make swimming look like a relaxing activity. On Friday, I was able to put my fins and paddles on to do a few sets with the guys at their cruising pace. Humbling experience but a fun one indeed. I'm grateful for their willingness to take me under their wing, in the hopes that surely, I can get faster than I am now.

I also went to yoga on Wednesday night. I needed to find something "relaxing" to do because my body is all jacked up from throwing myself full-steam back into training without considering I'm totally out of shape and lacking the strength/flexibility in many muscle groups that I once possessed. I didn't know what "Mysore" meant but wow, still today, my sore.

I showed up at Yoga Shala and was greeted by my English teacher in the lobby (the woman who is responsible for getting me to come in the first place) and was informed that Mysore is "work on your own" yoga. This gave me the giggles considering I didn't have any tricks up my sleeve to bust out while everyone else folds themselves neatly into pretzels. As people started showing up, my giggles turned to panic as it became clear by looking at them and the way they laid their mats out and sprayed them "just so", that I was most definitely the reject of the group. Shocker. Not like I haven't been HERE before. Usually, I laugh my way through my inadequacies--an inappropriate survival tick. Problem #1: you are NOT allowed to laugh in yoga or talk for that matter. Considering the previous statement, suppressing my urge to giggle proved to be more challenging than originally thought.

However, I did it. I only had a few, very short, well recovered, snorts. There was this woman in front of me who was doing things that made her body look unrecognizable; is that her foot or her arm? Who else is in there with her? Our instructor would go around to different people and give them tips to help them achieve their poses. She would give me a few poses to do in succession (as to not overwhelm me) and then she'd come back and check with me. As I sat patiently waiting for my next set of "tricks", I observed everyone. More often than not, I forgot the steps in my poses and I'd just sit there and look like I was meditating--duh, I didn't forget, I'm just getting in touch with my Chakra. At one point, there was a woman getting help with a handstand and I had once again forgotten what I was supposed to be doing. So, I pulled out my only trick: A headstand. However, I quickly realized that my poorly crafted headstand was child's play compared to the kind of things they were doing. As people all around me put Gumby to shame, I just stayed in my headstand, preferring the feeling of blood rushing to my head over the grunting and grimacing that accompanied trying to calmly hold a pose without shaking uncontrollably. The lesser of two evils. What an incredibly humbling experience.

For all of you who think Yoga is an activity you can't get your a$$ kicked in, I'm here to tell you you're wrong. What I took away from this experience was, I need to go back many, many times. I obviously need to work on or at least locate, my flexibility and strength. I'm grateful for the folks at Yoga Shala who welcomed that runner girl who can't even touch her toes...Yet.

The Climb

2009-11-07T17:58:00.000-08:00

How has my life been reduced to a Miley Cyrus song? I'm embarrassed to admit, the lyrics of this Disney prodigy's song actually have had an emotional affect on me (and more than once...sigh). I take comfort in the hope that she didn't actually write it. Moving on now...

The past couple of weeks have offered a few "climbs" but not without reward. I'll just say this: I'm grateful for the undying support of family, friends and the inimitable love of my boys. My youngest had his first slumber party at a friends house last night so I took my oldest (11) on a "date". What strikes me, and never ceases to amaze me, is the love and admiration children innately have for their parents. What a treasure. They don't care how much money you have, what kind of clothes you wear or what your job is (or if you even have one! LOL). They don't need you to be perfect in any way, except in your love for them (and sadly, even that's negotiable). I am grateful that the one thing I have an endless amount of, just happens to be all they truly need from me...in addition to the essentials, of course.

I've been plugging along in the training department and have made some gains in the pool (hallelujah!). I'm looking forward to the snow and the opportunity to get back out on the skate skis. This is an activity I have yet to master, but it is (by far) one of my favorite Winter activities.

My parents came out for a visit, and my dad took the below photo of me running (yes, I'm running!) through Manito park. Check out his website if you have the time. While you're at it, you should look at my mom's blog as well. I'm very proud of my parents. They are talented, smart and fun to be around but more than anything, just really exceptional human beings. I don't think I've ever appreciated them more than I do now.

"Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall". Confucious

A 5k, Chic Time and a Monster Dash

2009-10-25T20:29:00.000-07:00

The school week ended with a math and a physics test and the weekend began with my first cross country 5k with the team. It was time. We left the campus at 7am, Saturday morning, and I was able to watch the sunrise on the way. Have I mentioned what a beautiful place we live in? A huge grin found comfort on my face early in the drive and I couldn't help but let it stay.

We got to the race, and before I knew it, it was time to start. We got a pep talk from the coaches, had a huddle, and then the gun went off.

My lungs were really angry with me most of the race. More than anything, that's where I notice the biggest deficit; my cardiovascular fitness. My body can go faster but my lungs are screaming, "STOP!" As I ran, I sounded like a poorly tuned musical instrument that needed to be put out of it's misery: a trumpet being played by someone with emphysema. The girls around me were probably wondering what was wrong with me. "It's okay ladies, just leap over me if I crumple to the ground!" However, I achieved my goal of improving my time from last week, and took 1:10 off. I feel like I've discovered a new side to running that is really FUN! I like playing this game. My official time was 21:48. The number is getting smaller, and it's feeling better...so, I'm just going to continue to focus on that. Here's a super picture of our team. I was going to crop it, but I just couldn't do it. Some things just need to be left the way they are. Good stuff.

I finished off the day with a long overdue dinner in the company of good friends. A double feature and a sleepover followed...sans the lingerie pillow fights. We woke up early this morning for the Spokane Swifts Monster Dash 5k (for adults and kids alike with a Halloween theme). There's something powerful about being amongst a bunch of badass women in tutus. We arrived at Manito park at 6:45am to set up, and continued to freeze our a$$es off for the rest of the day but it was worth every shiver. Amazing day. Stay tuned for photos on the Swifts website

Adrianne and I ended up being the "sweepers" on the course which worked out well, since I'm quite familiar with pulling up the rear these days. Here we are out on the course, we asked some spice girls (as in salt, pepper and paprika) who didn't seem to be in a hurry, to take our picture. And for the record, we returned the favor to our photographers by taking their picture as well.

I was struck today by how many remarkable, strong, encouraging, positive women I have in my life. I just want to acknowledge the women I spent the day with today, and all the supportive friends I've been fortunate enough to have in my life along the way. I'm aware of what a gift it is, and I'm grateful for that.

I didn't die

2009-10-18T19:28:00.000-07:00

Today I ran my first 5k since February. I am finally back and running! Considering my current state of fitness with my cross country coach this week, we decided it'd be better for me to run a random, local 5k before doing a team race. And today was the day.

Let me start by saying, it's really nice to be racing again. Regardless of how much fitness and speed I've lost or how much work is ahead of me, I loved getting up this morning, knowing there was a race on the docket. Racing is my passion and it brings me a tremendous amount of satisfaction and motivation, in all aspects of my life. And I've missed having the physical ability to go out and just run...so much so, that I haven't really felt like myself in these past months. I am incredibly grateful that I got to go give it what I had today, and especially excited to say, my knee felt PERFECT!!

There's not much to say about a 5k, other than, "ouch". Because this was my first race in a while, I decided that although I was going to wear my watch, I was not going to look at my time or heart rate and just go on feel. This was a great idea, although it's particularly sad when you come around for your second lap, thinking it's time to finish. I came around the corner looking towards the finish line and saw the clock. I quickly realized, no matter how convinced I was that I had only one working lung and was seeing the light of God calling me home, I hadn't run a 13 minute 5k. So, I headed out on my third and final lap a bit discouraged and a touch slower. There's always an upside though...I could have come screaming through the finish line, not looking at the clock--throwing my hands in the air screaming "ya baby!!". I like to point out that things could always be worse. Yes, I am grateful for these little things.

Now, I'll talk about my time. Well folks, I ran this cross country course in a whopping 22:58 today. Yes, that's right. The fun little detail about this particular pace (7:23/mi) is that I actually ran my last half marathon (on a hilly course) at a pace of 7:22/mile, one year ago, after my Lupus diagnosis. Shelby tells me I should not, and cannot, compare where I was then, to where I am now. She's little, but she's wise, and she knows some things about me...well, maybe a lot of things. So, I'm listening.

There it is in print. My baseline, my starting point. I am grateful for a healthy, working body that allows me to run pain free. I've been patient but now it's time. And what I'll focus on, is that it only gets better from here. At this point, all I've got is a working body and a motivated mind. The slate has been wiped clean and I've got some goals, not based on the past but based on what I want in the future. And I have no doubt that I'll get there. It's just going to take some time, hard work and a heaping dose of patience. Game on.

Introducing: Miss Shelby Madden

2009-10-15T21:11:00.000-07:00

So, ya'all have seen Shelby all over my blog. As embarrassed as she'll be, I felt it necessary for a somewhat formal introduction.

I met Shelby when I was about 18. She loaned me the money to do my first skydive. From there, we became room mates and spent a couple of years jumping out of airplanes together and working at the drop zone out in Perris Valley, California. Since then, we've encouraged each other to do ALL kinds of things. I just happened to rope her into participating in triathlon. But with Shelby, it doesn't take much to get her going on something.

Now for the reason I'm writing this little blurb. Shelby has taken on a huge challenge and she has started blogging about it. http://shelbymadden.blogspot.com/ Read it. At the very least, you will be entertained. But I'm going to bet, you'll be inspired. There's so much I want to write about regarding how, where and when she started, what she has faced and the incredible strength and perseverance she possesses. But, it's her story. So, I'll let her tell it...for now. But I might just pipe in if she forgets to mention something....

There's always an upside to change

2009-10-05T20:21:00.000-07:00

Well, Fall is here and the Cross Country season is far underway. I have missed the first 2 races because on the second day of school I seem to have contracted a nasty flu bug that I'm still recovering from 2 weeks later. On the upside, I am starting to feel human again, I didn't miss one day of school and my boys didn't get sick. I am surely grateful for that. Below is our team. I am second from the right. I giggle every time I look at it. We were supposed to look like we were on the starting line, ready for the gun to go off but I think we just ended up looking like we're all holding kitchen utensils. However dorky our team photo is, this is a very talented group of young ladies and I am honored to call them my teammates.

I woke up early this morning to ride on the trainer before school and I watched the sun rise out my window as I did so. Often, I have these moments in life when I'm completely overwhelmed by the greatness of life. This morning, while watching the sunrise as I sweat my rear off while riding my beautiful, orange Trek inside a cozy home, I had one of those moments. I love my life! I was able to run today as well and tomorrow I'll get my butt back in the pool. I may have a different kind of "feeling" about my swim workout but I'll give it a good Tinkerbell try. At least the folks at the Y will be entertained. Moving onward!!

I'll leave you with a few great quotes:

"The trick is in what one emphasizes, we can make ourselves miserable or make ourselves strong, the work is the same" Carlos Castoneda.

"Anyone can give up, it's the easiest thing to do. But to hold it together when everyone would understand if you fell apart, that's true strength" Author Unknown.

"It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, it is the one most responsive to change". Author unknown (often misquoted as Darwin).

If you can roll with the punches, find that "nugget of gold" in even the most dire of situations, and have gratitude for the journey no matter what it brings, I believe you can't help but be truly happy.

What it looks like to get dropped by...

2009-09-20T15:26:00.000-07:00

I'm considering temporarily changing the name of this blog to "What it looks like to get dropped by _____". Here's what it looks like to get dropped by Sam:

But let's start from the beginning. Sam told me he had an easy 2 hour ride to do in Coeur D'Alene. When my friends who are in stellar shape tell me they have an "easy day", what that translates to for me is "maybe I can hang on for dear life to keep up". And I'm always game for that.

I awoke Thursday morning to rain pouring outside. It was such a cozy feeling to be in my big, warm bed while hearing the rain falling outside. Then it occurred to me that I was meeting Sam in Coeur D'Alene to ride. Crap. I texted Sam and said "it's raining". His response included calling me a pussy and that I should "nut up". Being so confused by the references to body parts, some of which I don't actually possess, I figured I'd better just "nut up". When I arrived in Coeur D'Alene, this is what it looked like:

Then I really started to feel like a wimp or the small feline he referenced when I saw Sam was out there in the lake swimming. I took a picture but it's hard to see him. He's the small spec off-center in the picture below.

He got ready and as we were heading out on our ride, he said "I have some intervals to do". Oh great. So much for hanging on for dear life. He dropped me at the first hill we hit and that was during the warm up. Here he is, waiting for me again.

I had some nice quality time with myself as Sam shot off like a rocket for his intervals. I actually laughed out loud at how quickly he was out of sight. But Turbo always came back around to get me and it actually ended up being a beautiful day and a really fun ride. After his intervals, Sam slowed the pace so I could hop on his wheel and I did hang on for dear life! I got that giddy feeling in my stomach, a reminder of one of the many reasons I love to ride. I've still got a long way to go, but I feel like I am slowly but surely pulling away from that cloud hanging over my head and coming into the warm sunshine, promising me more warmth if I just keep on going.

I am grateful for the journey, the reminder that health and fitness are gifts to be coddled and savored. And I'm grateful for what lay ahead. I've had a small taste of what lies on the other side of commitment, hard work, early mornings and humiliating, vomit inducing training sessions...and that is what drives me, keeps me focused even when it seems like I'll never get there. A friend shared a quote with me today by Tim Timmons, "celebration is empty without desperation". I like it and I believe it to be true.

Last Big Weekend of Summer

2009-09-16T23:12:00.000-07:00

I started out this post writing down all kinds of details about the weekend. There was a visit from Shelby, lots of riding, a wedding and a race. I realized, sometimes pictures just speak for themselves...

Shelby would not stop talking during the above photo session.

Shelby just climbed a huge hill but she's always ready for a photo op!

She just licked me!

Amazing feats of strength and balance....not achieved.

Our last minute team. "Gulliver's girls of Lilliput". Alternate name was "All downhill from Rick" I thought that was more fitting. No one is standing in a ditch or on a crate. Rick swam, Shelby biked and I actually "ran". Highlight of the weekend was getting to be on a team with Shelby for the first time. Gotta do that again.

Shelby's shoes with Ricks, they could have fit right inside.

Keep on movin'

2009-09-15T18:10:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy week of training and playing. Last Monday, Laura and I reunited on the trail for our first run together in quite some time. I've resumed using a hydration belt while running. I gave those up for a while, trying to adjust to running with little or no water like the young pups I run with. Not a good idea. I'm old and I require constant hydration. Nathan makes the one I'm wearing in the below photo. It's called 'Speed 2' and I will not run without it now. Even on a 30 minute run, I take it. It carries my Blackberry in the front pouch with room for an ipod and even a few gels. It doesn't slip around or ride up on me, it doesn't get hot on my back and I can get the bottles in and out with one hand. Nothing compares. Check em out. Now, back to my story...

I told Laura she didn't look like she was running in this picture but she does look hot. I love running with Laura. I can honestly say, some of my most memorable training runs have been done with her by my side.

It was a chilly yet beautiful morning. Not to mention, Laura had chocolate milk to share when we were done, a to-go bag of home grown tomatoes, plus some honey just for me. Score!

The next day, I went for a bike ride with Annie. Annie always seems to have these crazy interval rides. Maybe that's why she's so fast. I figured in my current state of fitness, I'd just hang on to her wheel for dear life during these efforts and hope for the best. The first 10 minute interval, I hung on and didn't die! YA BABY! 5 more to go, this is fun. Um, so the second one didn't go as well. As we came around a bend, a head wind hit me and girth-challenged-Annie didn't do her job of blocking the wind. As she pulled away, I quickly realized there was no chance of catching back up. As the all-too-familiar feeling of dropping a lung overcame me, I looked up and noticed what a beautiful sight lay ahead. So I got real, slowed down, and pulled my phone out to snap a couple of shots. Might as well get a good picture in the midst of my humiliation to share the beautiful sight of just what it looks like to get dropped by Annie.

I made it through the rest of the ride, watching Annie out in the distance and checking in between intervals. But once again, it was a beautiful day with great company. I am grateful for my friends who have been generous with their training time to pull me along when it'd be easier to leave me at home. I'll get it back, I know I will. In the meantime, it's nice to play with my friends, who I miss, on the big-kids' playground. Even if I can't reach the monkey bars, catch a ball to save my life or dodge even the smallest, slowest ball, I'm out there! And this is only temporary. Patience. Patience. Patience.

Just Going for a Ride

2009-09-06T20:36:00.000-07:00

Haley and I went for a little bike ride today. We hit the western plains and headed towards Cheney. This was her first ride since Ironman Canada. It was pretty windy out so I decided to allow her to be out in front for some Kona practice. I mean, I wouldn't be doing her any favors by letting her suck on my wheel ya know. So, this was my view a lot of the time on the way out. Sister has got some calves, she might as well put them to use. Just sayin'.

Once we made it through the wind, we pretty much screwed around and acted like complete dorks for the rest of the time. Not much different than when we're not riding. Case in point, below photos:

And my personal favorite:

I can't stand this photo of me but it's the only one I have of both of us today. The depressing part is, we took two other photos that were worse. Probably had to do with the fact that I was eating during our photo session. Shocker.

I snapped this while riding. It doesn't even capture how beautiful the sky was. I don't think it ever even hit 70 degrees. I feel so lucky to train in such a beautiful place.

There was a moment today when we were on our way back, that I got just a small glimpse of how it feels to be "back". Granted, I was riding on a slight decent with a wicked tailwind. Ha! But, it was still a gift, a familiar taste of something I've had before that I really liked. Not to mention, it was great to get out there with my friend. No pressure, no pace to keep, no getting dropped, just going for a ride.

Back in the Saddle with Eve

2009-09-04T08:13:00.001-07:00

Eve and I headed out at 9am last week for a ride. She's training for Kona and I'm training my ass to shrink. Not to mention, I used to do this thing called triathlon and I'd like to get back to it. In addition to that, my cross country season has officially begun and I just recently started training again after a longer than expected, post-surgery hiatus. No time like the present! Eve had a 6 hour ride and talked me into riding 3 with her although it had been almost a year since I'd ridden that long. But I figured if I can't keep pace for 3 hours with Eve when she has to ride 6, it's my problem. er, it became her problem pretty early on.

We headed out the side streets of the South Hill and ran into Haley coming back in from sending Katya out on a "pre-Canada spin". Haley seemed to think Eve and I could catch up with her. We could see her disk out in the distance. I told Eve we should catch her! Um, ya. Eve could have, she galloped with every push of her pedal while I felt like I was riding a big wheel with warn out plastic wheels. I was seeing stars two minutes into putting the "hammer down". Eve looked back at me at some point (probably wondering what that loud wheezing sound was) and had mercy on me. We didn't want to catch her anyway, duh. Stupid, really dumb idea.

Twenty minutes after the Katya chase, Eve dropped her chain which turned into a major mechanical and the two of us proceeded to take apart Eve's bike in the middle of a country road.

My trusty El Torito kept Eve company while I tamed the hunger beast and spat out suggestions on what she should try next.

Eve decided it was time to call "the man". After getting some technical assistance over the phone, Troy was on his way. Yes folks, the one and only Troy Nelson.

By the time he arrived with another bike, we were already riding again but Troy showed up with a back up bike and took the ailing machine to the bike doctor.

Eve tuned in to the fact that her riding partner not only was a little plumper since the last time we road together but quite a bit slower. We stopped at the chapel to pee and fill up our water bottles with the hose. As Eve was pulling a swift mount on the very steady pavement after riding her road bike through grass and gravel, she went down. As in, she was completely upright and just tipped over and hit the pavement. Now, THAT was the coolest thing I'd seen all day! She cut her elbow and sliced her leg, all with no forward speed. Eve, you are such a badass.

We made it to the next stop for cold water and a real bathroom so we could finally wash our faces and hands. We split off and Eve went on to ride a few more hours as I slowly pushed my wounded self home. Funny, considering Eve was the one who fell.

Since then, I have a ridden a few more times by myself. While riding with others in my state of fitness is humiliating and discouraging, it is WAY more entertaining and fun.

Anyone want to go for a ride?

Life Happens

2009-08-24T20:15:00.000-07:00

Summer is almost over. I haven't competed in one race or been able to get any consistent training under my belt. I don't have any stellar results to share or epic training sessions to brag about. But I can say that I have had some very meaningful time with my boys, I've embraced imperfection like never before and feel more like "myself" than I have in years.

As August comes to a close, I have completed my first "real" week of training. I have run numerous times for more than 20 minutes with minimal pain. My knee is stiff and not perfect but I think it's coming around. I went for a bike ride today and was grateful that my magnet slipped down so I could not monitor what my average speed was. It felt good, my power was consistent and I didn't get passed by any old ladies on cruisers (I didn't see any either so I'm not bragging). Usually, I start training for the following season in late January/early February. So this year, September is my February. The way I look at it, I'm getting an early start!

In the past 12 months (in order) I was diagnosed with Lupus, had my first DNF (Las Vegas Marathon), got divorced, became a member of the Timex Multisport Team, went back to college, ran on the track team, lost my coach in a tragic accident, dealt with my first injury and had knee surgery, moved out into my very own place for the first time in my life and experienced (on numerous occasions) what "I can't afford it" REALLY means.

As the above paragraph shows, life is messy, unpredictable and rich. What my words may not show is that I have learned something from each and every one of those experiences (good and bad). In my quest for perfection and strength, I have been humbled by the realization that life with challenge and not-so-immediate gratification is not always predictable or glamorous but incredibly rewarding!

I don't know how the next 12 months are going to go. I start school in a few weeks. I don't know how my health is going to hold up or if my knee is really on the mend or I'm just willing it to be. My cross country season has started. I went for a "warm up" with the team in the 90 degree weather the other day and it felt like a tempo run to me. I was a tad discouraged but more than that, I was motivated. In my "grab-bag-of-a-life", I seem to be right on course even if I don't know which way is up.

Stay tuned. I'm slowly getting back in the groove, using some excellent training tools (I will share about those along the way) which are helping a great deal. I'm experiencing triathlon training as a "newby" with a few grand challenges thrown in there to boot. If you are trying to get motivated to work towards a goal, come along with me. I'm starting from ground zero. It's painful at times, discouraging and humbling but it's nice to have company and we all could use a little help.

Looking for recipes?

2009-07-07T12:34:00.000-07:00

Hey all! I have posted a couple of recipes on our Team Timex blog. I thought I'd share with you while I'm in the process of updating my blog. Here's the link: http://teamtimex.timexblogs.com/2009/07/07/summer-eats/ Check it out!!

What I've been up to

2009-05-16T12:58:00.001-07:00

I know, I know, I've fallen off the blogging. I hope there's still a reader out there. It's been a roller coaster ride since my coach passed away. This is going to be a long one so pull up a comfy chair and something to eat. I finally moved out of the house into a cute little place by a giant park and the boys love it. It's the first time in my life I've had my "own" place. I don't even get scared at night and I sleep like a rock. Who knew? Here is a picture my dad took of me and the boys on our new front porch. Tabor on the left, Hayden on the right. These boys take good care of their mom.

March and April were tremendously stressful and I ended up with a whopper Lupus flair up. I had finals, moving and a knee injury all come together in a perfect storm. But quite honestly, I love storms. I love the dark clouds rolling in, the drastic change in temperature, the cracking of thunder and wind that sounds like it will pull the roof off. All the while trusting I'll be just fine. I've always been like this. I think in life, I enjoy enduring storms to prove that I can make it through anything. It's a confirmation of survival. This is not to say I like drama, it's quite the opposite. But I believe there is beauty in challenge, in fear: not knowing but getting through all of that with my head high. I sometimes wonder if I do this purposely to test myself. Now, let's see here...how much can I put on my plate before I explode? But I can honestly say, I love my life. I love that I'm struggling to pay the cable bill but keep cable for the kids (because I never watch it), I love that I often eat scrambled eggs for dinner because that's all I can afford and I love that my boys love me for who I am and how I love them. This is the life I want for myself and the journey is incredibly rewarding. And someday, I will be done with school and be a real-live grown up! Well, kind of.

I made the honor roll for the first time in my life and got a cheezy certificate in the mail the other day. I might just frame it. I actually laughed out loud when I opened it. Shocker, I know. It's an "honor" quite literally and I am grateful to be recognized for my efforts. But, for some reason, I found it humorous that an honor roll certificate actually had my name on it. I was never a good student growing up, making friends was way more important at the time. To add to the excitement, I have decided not to go into nursing. A friend told me that the average person changes their mind 7 times while in college. That made me feel better. I am really trying to be smart about what direction I go. I need to follow my passion. I have great interest in medicine but also have tremendous passion for health, activity and nutrition as well as the affect that has on others. But I also need to make enough money to support two kids and not be working all of the time. So, at this point, I'm clueless. All I know is that I want a Bachelors in something and not be in school for longer than 4 years. Please feel free to share any thoughts or suggestions. What am I going to be when I grow up???

I had to forfeit running track for the remainder of the season because of my knee injury. However, due to my change in school plans, I will be staying at the local community college next year and running cross country in the fall as well as track in the winter/spring. I'm especially excited to run cross country, that's my favorite type of running! I'll still be dropping lungs left and right while training with the wrinkle free, dewey-skinned, invincible girls with lungs the size of garbage bags and asses you can bounce quarters off of. And you wonder why I'm motivated?

The knee surgery has delayed the start of my triathlon season and I'm disappointed that all that speed I was gaining has now been lost due to a 6 week running hiatus. Once again, I am reminded of how grateful I am to have the ability to do the things I love; this is only temporary.

I plan to be up and racing by late June. More to come...

Timex Camp

2009-05-16T12:56:00.000-07:00

I thought this topic deserved a separate post. Even though camp was over a month ago. I arrived on Thursday night and Shelby picked me up and Haley was already there. Rachel arrived later that night. The craziness began. Friday, we went over to the expo so the girls could pick up their packets. I was registered for this race (it's a half iron) but because I was focusing on speed and track through the winter I decided I wouldn't be ready for a half this early. Not to mention, I ended up injured anyway. Shelby and I went over to the Timex set up at the hotel and I picked up my HUGE gear bag full of all kinds of goodies. I also met my new, orange TREK equinox: his name is El Torito. Here's me being a total geek with as much gear as I could get on. Notice my "time pieces".

I have no words. The helmet says it all. This is Haley and Shelby...being themselves. This is after the ceremonial dance routine they performed for me which was choreographed before I got there. NICE.

Here's Rach wearing her Obama shirt and trying on her swimcap.

Saturday morning came quickly as Shelby and I were volunteer body markers for the race. It's a dirty job but someone's gotta do it. We had to arrive at the race at 4am. Brutal. Here I am placing Haley's "P" for pro on the wrong calf. woops. It was early, I was tired and Haley likes to be different. At least that's what I told myself.

Some other "spokanites" showed up to race. From left to right, Matt, Craig, me and Erika. I'm glad I got to send off some friends from home with some expertly placed digits.

Here's Trevor, getting ready to rock his first half ironman. And he did. woop woop! I know I look like I'm 300 lbs but it's just because I had about 4 layers on. Well, and I've been grounded from running as well.

This is after the race. Danielle, Ben, me, Shelby and Haley. Good times. The waitress thought Ben was THE Ben Harper when she saw his credit card (obviously she hasn't ever seen the real one) and she just kept bringing free sake. Bottle after bottle. hilarious. There was something else that happened which is a little foggy but I think one of us peed our pants in the parking lot. It wasn't me. Good times. Just trying to represent.

Once the race was over, it was time to check in at camp. Rachel and I roomed together which was good entertainment. The keebler and the 6ft bombshell. We stayed in a very nice hotel with a beautiful pool and the bar was the same one Shelby and I got everyone kicked out of last year. It was surely just a misunderstanding. It was a simple test of brute strength...just trying to seperate the men from the boys with a barstool swinging contest. For some reason, the management thought it was unsafe. They didn't understand that these were professional strong people. Albeit gullable show-offs...but strong. They let us back in this year with no mention. I think they realized the entertainment far outweighed the risk. Just for the record, the original incident was Shelby's idea (shocker) and I just encouraged them.

Below: Dan & Paul from Lifesport, Shelby, Andrew, me and Haley with the demon eyes. These photos are never good taken with a blackberry but they are necessary.

We spent the days meeting and learning good information about our sponsors. I was especially impressed with the benefits of Trigger Point. I lack patience and am horrible at stretching but this is right up my alley. It's important to hydrate your muscles but also "kneed" the muscles to keep them soft and supple and in good working shape. I'm in fo sho...and have my own little kit at home. LOVE IT.

A few of us were asked to do a photo shoot for Timex. What?? LOL. I just do what I'm told and love every minute. We had a blast and the below photos were taken after the photo shoot. They are my favorite. Here's Ian and I doing a ballerina lift. Well, he's doing the lifting and I'm faking the ballerina-ing. I was reminded once again why mom pulled me out of ballet in kindergarten.

Here's me and Alex going for a running high-5 although Alex got caught up in the moment and went for the finish line shot. I felt totally dissed.

This is my favorite shot though. This is me and Ian doing a running high-5 and he actually hit my hand. Good times.
Camp was a blast. We have an incredible team and I'm blown away by our sponsors. Here are just a few below:

Timex, Trek, Bontrager, Sram, Sugoi, Nathan, Training Peaks, Power Breathe, Trigger Point, PowerBar, GAIAM, Aqua Sphere, Rudy Project, Headsweats, CycleOps, Nuun

I am so grateful to be a part of Team Timex.

Gimpy on the mend

2009-05-16T07:18:00.000-07:00

In the middle of March in the peak of my lupus flair up and finals, I ran a 5k in complete exhaustion which sent me over. I haven't run since then although I've made many attempts. Yesterday, I went in for knee surgery and I'm stuck on the couch with nothing to do but watch tv (depressing) or write. I have missed blogging so this seemed like the perfect opportunity. The surgery was not horribly invasive. The Dr. performed a scope, cleaned out debris and inflammation and did a "fat pad" resection as well as removed the synovia plica due to thickening and inflammation. He did say I have a beautiful, healthy ACL and meniscus :). Haley dropped me off for surgery, Klaire picked me up and then Haley brought me dinner, totally pampered me and spent the night. She even rubbed my feet! I'm so grateful for my friends. Below is a picture of me, totally bored, waiting to get hawled into surgery. Shad made me take it. I'm such a dork.

I plan to recover quickly and be up and running in a few weeks. The doctor told me that's a realistic expectation if I take it easy in the next week. LOL. I have school and 2 kids and am taking a trip to California on Thursday. But I am glued to the couch all weekend and the boys are taking great care of me as well as ravaging the tulip beds to make sure I have fresh picked flowers, dying on the coffee table next to me as I lay and recover. Sweet little men. I guess those tulips wouldn't have lasted much longer anyway. LOL.

California slumber party

2009-04-03T00:36:00.001-07:00

I was informed that I needed to update my blog. I'm here in California and the photographs we've taken so far, are not suitable for a family audience. I left the snow in Spokane this morning and connected through Vegas today, it smelled of smoke and there were people coughing everywhere. Good thing that was a temporary stop. Shelby picked me up and Coops was waiting at home. After a lovely dance routine by Shelby and Haley, we went to the bike shop, then dinner and then Rachel rolled in. Now it's time for bed. Actually, it was time for bed hours ago but it's a slumber party.

Tomorrow we are off to the expo so the girls can get their thing done. It's weird to be here and not be racing. I figured as long as I'm here, I might as well bodymark :) so Shelby and I have to be in transition at 4am on Saturday. That's the earliest I've ever shown up for a race. Ouch. Then off to Timex camp for the remainder of my trip. Can't wait to meet the rest of the team AND my new orange Trek. I'll be sure to get some pictures.

My head hurts from laughing. More later. So far so good.

The Measure of a Man

2009-02-22T13:41:00.001-08:00

My track coach, Erik Anderson, died in a tragic accident at school on Thursday, February 19th. He leaves behind a family he adored...wife Mariza and daughters Evelyn and Ripley. I thought I'd share just what a difference he made in my life in the brief time I knew him.

I first met Erik Anderson when I came to talk to Coach Beatty (head track coach) about running on the Spokane Community College track team. I am a 35 year old, single mother going back to school with only a few years of triathlon experience. I had never run track or cross country and had only been running for the past 3 years in conjuction with my triathlon training. But they took me on and for whatever reason, thought I had potential. Since I was going to be a distance runner, Larry took me into Erik's office to meet him. All three of us sat there, talking about running track and why they thought I'd be a good addition to the team. I literally could have sat there all day talking with them. It didn't take long for me to realize that the only thing small about this man was his physical size.

Immediately upon leaving, I called my best friend in San Diego (who is my other cheerleader ;) and told her that I'd just met my track coach and I really feel like he believes in me. I actually got choked up talking to her about him. I had never felt so much excitement and enthusiasm for my ability from someone else-it was inspiring to say the least.

School started a month or so later and I showed up for practice that first day. We had a team meeting and Erik spoke to us as a group. His passion for our team, for our ablity and his desire for our success was overwhelming. I knew I was a part of something great, something life changing, little did I know that this man would have such an effect on me in such a short period of time and then be gone. However painful the loss of him is, the richness of his brief presence in my life is such a gift that will stay with me always. I know that even though he is gone, he will continue to inspire and teach me.

As the weeks went on, I often found myself walking by Erik's office just to talk about running or to gather some enthusiasm for the day. His smile was welcoming and I always walked out of there, ready to take on whatever task was handed me.

We had an indoor meet coming up and Erik asked me how I was feeling and if I wanted to race. I wanted so badly to race, to show him that his belief in me was not wasted. And so, he signed me up for the 5k. Race day arrived and he stood on the track, yelling out splits to me along with encouraging words. I went out WAY too fast and ended up really blowing my first track race. He stood there, every lap I came around and yelled out to me and encouraged me to keep going. I remember one go-around he yelled "I'm still proud of you!" I wanted to yell back "WHY???" but that was him, no matter what-still believing in us no matter how bad we blew it. I found him after my event so we could talk about it. I wanted to talk to my coach, I loved that he was there to go to and I wanted to hear what he had to say. I wanted to hear that he shared my disappointment and that he believed as I did that I was capable of much more. And that is just what he did-just what he said. Not even two minutes into the conversation (shortly after I had just choked in a 5k) I wanted to get back on that track. Had he asked me, I would have run again that day without batting an eye. I wanted him to see that his belief in me was not wasted, that I would get there, that I would show him I could do it.

Two days after his death, we had another meet scheduled and I was going to run the 3k. We were working hard to get me feeling the pain in preparation for the meet. That was one thing he told me after the 5k, that he didn't think I was hurting as much as I thought and so we had been working on getting past that pain and finding the strength to push through it. One of the last things Erik said to me with a huge grin on his face was "you've had a really good week" in reference to how hard I was working and I could tell he was excited for Saturday. I am so sad that he won't be present to see me have the kind of success he envisioned for me-that I won't get to see that smile when I finish. And so I hang on to his vision, his undying enthusiasm and faith in me not only as an athlete but as a human being. I am making a promise to him that I will get there, I will make him proud, lacking only his physical presence but full of his encouragement, belief and inspiration.

A man is measured by many things. This man, who stood 5-foot-something, was larger than life. His smile was huge, his laugh enormous and his ability to encourage and inspire others was like no other. I remember last weekend, we were doing hill repeats. Really, really hard hill repeats. As I came up to the really steep part of the hill on repeat #7, he yelled out to me "there is a difference between good and great-anyone can be good, what are you going to do?". I busted my ass up that hill, realizing that I had so much more to give-and that is one of the many things he taught me, sometimes you've got to dig deep but it's there. Those words will stay with me always. Anyone lucky enough to have known him is a better person for it. Saying he will be missed is such an understatement. We have lost a giant of a man but his gifts are many and we all will continue to benefit from them-from him. His absence will always be felt-his presence never forgotten.

PROOF

2009-01-17T21:39:00.000-08:00

This past week we had our team pictures taken. This is the first bit of evidence that I'm actually on the SCC Track Team, not just bringing cookies by and fetching water bottles. I asked the photographer if he'd mind emailing me a copy of our team picture so I could put it on my blog. He was very accommodating and also included my "solo" picture in the email. LOL. I'm sorry, I can't even post it, it's so bad. And it will be there, for all to see on the school website.....along with my lack of stellar results. But I'm working on that. After dropping a lung on the track last week during our "introduction" to speedwork, it's apparent this old lady has a long way to go. Coach says this coming Tuesday is going to be a tough day....he actually used that word "tough". Considering his description of the workout which almost killed me, I'm a pinch anxious with a heap of giddy. Bring it on. To really spice it up, Tuesday is my first Biology test.

So here are the girls. Pictured is the entire track team. I mostly train with the distance runners. That little girl to my left is Katie and to her left is Melissa. These two handed me my ass last week and they weren't the only ones. Over the course of the season, I'm sure I'll have more photos of them. I'm front and center with the spider hands, the hair (?) and the orange shoe laces. I'm so glad I reap so much joy from laughing at myself or this whole experience would be painful.

I am grateful for laughter. Eye watering, gut wrenching, pee your pants, laughter.

The Routine

2009-01-15T18:18:00.000-08:00

Closing in on the second week of school and practice, I've developed a routine. The consistency of my routine seems to calm me but I still get a little choked up once in a while.

Wake up, get ready, make kids breakfast, pack their lunches (keep forgetting to pack my own), try to scarf breakfast down while Hayden bounces around the kitchen trying to make me laugh (he has a high rate of success) and Tabor reads "facts about animals" to me (I think he is trying to contribute to my education). Get out the door and drop the boys off at school.

Once the car is quiet, I put on "Suite for Solo Cello no. 1 in G major". I play this a few times and I think it is one of the most beautiful songs I have ever heard. It reminds me of the beauty in things that are unpredictable or uncontrollable and how often, the things in our life that we don't predict are the most appreciated. After my cello song, I go on to a little Tracy Chapman or other random artist so I can belt out the notes. Get to school, drive around for 40 minutes looking for a parking spot (although lately I've gone right for the far away spot and saved a lot of time and find it's not that far after all). I spend the day running from class to class and then after that, running some more.

Today, we did our first round of speedwork on the track in the 30 degree weather and I got my rear handed to me. These girls are fast and this was just the first time. I made the rookie mistake of trying to keep up with them on the sprints and by #6 (out of 16) I was cooked. I thought I tasted blood in the back of my throat. I've heard people speak of this sensation but never experienced it until today. It was hard-much harder than I expected. My coach told me that I lean back when I sprint. I guess that's not what you're supposed to do when trying to propel your body forward chasing little girls with cheetah legs and lungs the size of garbage bags. I finished all 16 sprints wandering aimlessly looking for my left lung I dropped on the track-where's the guy with the scalpel? Open up my trachea so I can breath! And that was what coach called an "introduction" to speedwork. uh huh. You mean it doesn't get easier from here? In good time is what they say. In blood, sweat and tears is what I say. But I've already tasted the blood and it's not so bad.

Back again tomorrow.

I am grateful for hard work, it makes the easy days that much better.

Week One-DOWN

2009-01-11T21:43:00.000-08:00

I survived my first week of school and track (well, practically.....Monday was a snow day).

I learned some Algebra, memorized some biology words-n-stuff and even wrote an in-class essay! Who knew?

I have to share a bit about track.....considering this IS a triathlon/running blog. Day #2 consisted of running with some of the group and dodging snowballs and bodies being flung around me. Boys are hard on eachother. Entertaining nonetheless. I felt right at home :)

Everyone has been accepting of the old lady on the team. My coach told me to bring my boys to practice on Saturday morning because he brings his kids and that's one more day of practice that I can train with the team. We ended up working out in the pool on Friday and Saturday in a manner I'm not accustomed. No goggles required....although I could have used them because of the splashing that was happening between the boys (seriously). I was SO tempted to show up with my swim cap, goggles and zoomers on and just sit at the side of the pool kickin' my feet. But I thought I'd break em' in easy....they still aren't sure what to do with me.

We played some water polo (which I totally sucked at, I felt more like a buoy bobbing, watching the ball fly back and forth. So I worked on my water treading skills and fantasized about being able to score a goal (which will never happen-that's why I'm a triathlete). No points for me on that front.

Coach told me to run today and again tomorrow. I went out and had a good solid run today that felt as close to perfect as I could have asked for. Since my lupus diagnosis, starting the meds and going off of the meds, my runs haven't felt super or fast. I decided that I could manage my symptoms by taking really good care of myself. After the disastrous marathon, both my doctor and I agreed that the meds were probably hurting my athletic performance more than helping. But today, the chorus was at full volume and I was reminded why I love to run. I feel like the old me is coming back, rearing her little head and I'm excited, really excited. Next week it's time to get my swim back on and throw in some trainer rides. The next month is going to be all about balance.....a fine delicate balance.

I am grateful for running. How it has changed my life, what it does for my health, how it makes me feel and the opportunities this simple, physical act has presented me. Good stuff. I still have a long way to run but I am, most definitely, enjoying the journey.

Taking on the New Year with Kids, School, Track and Team Timex

2009-01-05T10:58:00.000-08:00

My first day of school and track was canceled on Monday but today, the week officially started.

After a sub par night of sleep (I think I was a little excited), Shelby and I got ready and headed out for school (she came along for the ride for the ENTIRE day and just waited outside my classes.) I had a moment in the car when it all just hit me (this happens periodically) and I got a little choked up. This adventure I'm embarking on is all so big and wonderful....that once in a while, I'm overcome by the greatness of it all. I'm excited, I'm overwhelmed and plum full of anticipation for what is to come. Of course when I get choked up, Shelby follows. So we laughed and cried and had a good long ride to school. After driving around the "off-road-ice" parking lot for 50 minutes, we were able to kidnap a cute young lady and take her to her parking spot. Task #1 completed. Here's me with my backpack on, behind the Subaru.

English 101 was my first class of the day. Notice that bright pink slip outside on the wall? Yeah, that's telling me that there's been a classroom change. Neither Shelby nor I read that because we were too busy with our photo shoot. Since I'm a sharp girl and I had my "thinking cap" on, I picked up on it shortly after and jetted to the other building. Good thing I got the Northface backpack so everyone will be able to see me in the dark.

As you all know, I'm very soft-spoken. So, I had to tell Shelby to keep it down while walking through the halls.

After English, Math and Biology, it was time to meet the track team. We met up in a classroom before running. I can say with confidence, I am, by far, the oldest member of the team (by a good 15 years). I was getting some looks, I'm sure they were wondering if I was the new coach or someones mother. I wanted to blurt out "I'm the team mom! I'll have cookies and cold remedies for you next week...and wear sunscreen!". But I just listened and was quiet (shocker, I know). We had a choice to run outside on the ice or on the treadmill. I chose the treadmill because it had a better view than my wall at home and I'd been walking through puddles all day.

I can honestly say, it was a really fun day. When I got home, Shelby made me do my homework and the boys were sincerely interested in helping me. When Tabor saw my biology book, he told me I could borrow his biology books too. Weird reversal of roles....but in a good way.

This great day was preceded by the news that I am now a member of the Timex Multisport Team. Throughout this year I have met several members of this team and am inspired by the people they are and their athleticism. I am SO honored to be a part of this team and look forward to a great experience.

I am grateful for the people in my life who inspire me, love me for who I am and remind me that life is about embracing the moment and seeing every moment for the gift that it is. LET'S DO IT!!!

p.s. I love my brother!

Bread From the Sky

2008-12-29T23:40:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning to more snowfall and laughed out loud. It's beautiful and I do love it, I just can't believe it keeps on falling. I resigned to the fact that I'd be running on the treadmill this morning since it had rained the night before and it was probably pretty icy. But then I went out to get a coffee and drove by this guy running in the snow, falling all over the place and squinting because he could barely see. I said to myself "now that looks like fun" or maybe it was a little "if HE can do that then so can I!" So I bagged the treadmill and got suited up to run out in the snow. Here's how the hill looked when I started my run.

As I started to run, I realized that this was going to be a doozy. The snow was really falling and the snowflakes were huge! The only thing I can liken the snowflakes to is crusts of bread. But it was breathtaking. I ended up pulling my beanie over my eyes a bit just to keep the snowflakes from finding their way to my eyeballs. The downside to this plan wasn't only that I couldn't see but I looked like a total idiot. However, it was effective.

So I ended up running for an hour. The temperature was actually quite nice-right around 30 and there weren't too many cars out. It was interesting at times, trying to find my footing with all of the frozen ice under the snow but it was a fun challenge and WAY better than the treadmill.

Here's my feet as I stood on the porch after my run. My ankles were a little cold. Notice the chunks of snow tucked in between my shoes and pants.

I ended the day with a club trainer ride at the Thompson's house with friends and soup. Good stuff.

I am grateful for good friends and the peace that running brings. Who wants to run tomorrow?

The Shoes That Will Take Me Anywhere

2008-12-26T16:59:00.001-08:00

It hasn't stopped snowing for days. Seriously. I've been getting the running done on the treadmill but I'm tired of staring at that little piece of spackle on the wall all the while trying to stay motivated. I love running but I hate the treadmill. So today, I ventured out into Narnia dodging clueless drivers and snowplows. When is it that it'll occur to the motorists out there that I'm not waving at them to be friendly, I'm waving so they will see me and maybe, just maybe move over a bit. One man made sure to wave back excitedly, all the while leaning on the wheel and actually steering towards me! I think he got close enough to see the terrified look on my face.

I ran through a neighborhood where the snow was so deep it was hard to get a forward motion going.......I came upon two cross country skiers and made sure my pace was faster than theirs-it was a close match but I was pleased to finally pass them and kick a little snow their way.......it was then that I realized they were elderly.

I'm not sure if this can be considered a workout. And at times, the dance I was doing out there couldn't quite be considered running but it felt good. I "ran" for an hour which was what I wanted to do.

I'm grateful for a beautiful place to run, the ability to do so and these shoes that will take me anywhere, even if at a granny pace.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T14:41:00.001-08:00

It's Christmas Eve, the boys are out sledding, I've got the turkey in the oven, presents are wrapped and laundry completely done. And I've already been on facebook three times today. Sans pictures, I thought I'd do a little post.

I've been considering changing the name of my blog since there will be so much more than triathlon to report on this year! I'm open to suggestions....

Since my disastrous 19 miler, I've been building up the running frequency to prepare for the track season which starts on January 5th. I am giddy with excitement for what is around the bend. I know my life will be changing drastically but I feel like a kid the night before Christmas. I get to go to college and learn. I get to run track and be coached.....and see what I'm really made of. I get to show the boys that an education is a gift to be treasured.

We've been rolling through the holidays at full speed and time seems to be flying by so fast I haven't had time to stop and think. I sold my fancy Volvo and bought a used Subaru. It's funny, it was such an economical step down but it felt like a step up to me. I am 35 years old and this is the first time in my life I have bought a car for myself. I love it!! I sat in the Subaru dealership in Post Falls, Idaho eating a snickers bar from the vending machine for dinner awaiting paperwork to sign. I felt an incredible sense of peace and happiness. There are moments I could cry. These waves of panic rush over me and I have to stop and focus on breathing. I have never experienced such a mixture of fear and excitement in my life....I guess jumping out of an airplane comes pretty close. There are such parallels to skydiving and the adventure that lies ahead for me. Sometimes in life, you don't know exactly how things are going to look or feel when they're flying by you at 120 miles an hour. But you must stay calm, weigh your options and make quick decisions because LIFE is not going to slow down for you. It is a huge leap of faith, one that I am willing to take and anxious to conquer. Honestly, I am at times terrified but continually find peace in the belief in myself and drive to see just what I'm capable of. It's a fun little game, I must admit.....this game of Life.

I am grateful for my boys, their unconditional love and ability to roll with the punches. I am grateful for the love of my family & friends who are always willing to remind me of their belief in me. And I am grateful for those of you who above everything else, can laugh with me and make me laugh. Life is so incredibly entertaining and humor is one of those things I hope I never lose sight of. Thank you. I promise to make it entertaining for all of you on the sidelines, God knows we all need something to laugh at....

Merry Christmas!! Hang tight, I can't wait to share what's next!

Elvis, 19 miles and some friendly EMT's....Viva Las Vegas!

2008-12-11T17:13:00.001-08:00

I’ll begin with this: My intention for running a marathon was to experience running the distance before I did my first Ironman. In addition to that, my recent diagnosis of lupus encouraged me to temporarily simplify my training in an effort to get healthy yet still have a goal to work towards.

Being in the midst of many life changes and the stress of my current situation, it just wasn’t possible or realistic to get in the running volume I would have liked to. I accepted this knowing that I couldn’t expect my marathon result to be ideal nor did I deserve this. I have a tremendous amount of respect for those who put in the hours of training a marathon requires and execute a well thought out plan. I went into the marathon hoping for a decent result but knowing deep down inside, I didn’t do “the time” and therefore shouldn’t expect anything.

Laura and I arrived in Vegas early on Saturday afternoon. I have to say, I am not a fan of Vegas. Everything it represents is a striking opposition of what I seek out and enjoy. We found our hotel was so huge it was actually difficult to find our way outside for a pre-race run….and even when we found our way outside-where were we to run? Stoplight to stoplight? In addition to that, I found it to be incredibly excessive. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy nice things such as clean sheets of good quality, fresh food with good presentation, quality customer service, the convenience of internet connection…..I have a great appreciation for nice hotels. But I also enjoy being connected with the outside, smelling fresh air and exploring what a destination has to offer. What was so disturbing about Vegas is how much money is put into building these enormous structures as if to keep people in, locked up. And then to see the casinos filled with people parked behind slot machines staring at a screen, clicking a button, either not aware or not bothered by the fact they can’t even see through a window to the outside. I understand that different people find enjoyment in different activities, Las Vegas is a place that has little to offer me and incidentally, I have nothing to offer Vegas. I'm happy to report we enjoyed ourselves anyway.

We went to the pre-race pasta dinner expecting to see a small performance by some Cirque Du Soleil performers along with an Elvis Karaoke competition. To our dismay, the Cirque Du Soleil “performers” were standing around while we were in line to get our spaghetti but then left soon after. Laura and I got a good laugh at our stupidity and the entertainment we provided each other was worth the $35 a piece we paid for our spaghetti dinner. We turned in early after taking these pictures in front of the marathon sign. There were some girls taking pictures of each other in front of the sign so we asked if they’d take our picture. I’m not sure what I’m doing to the sign but I’m fully aware that I look like I’m humping it like a cocker spaniel.

This second shot is a keeper. After taking the “humping photo” I said to Laura (as the girls are standing there, my blackberry in hand, waiting for the next shot) “get under the sign”. She looked at me peculiarly and as I was getting situated on the floor under the sign, she was on all fours crawling underneath the sign. She was confused as to why I thought it’d be a good photo op but she generally follows my lead on these things-this was no exception. My face looks like it’s going to pop in this picture because she realized what I meant after she was "under" the sign and followed suit. I’m laughing so hard I can’t breath. Notice my eyes aren’t even open-my cheeks are taking them over.

We turned in early and woke up at 4:30am for a 6am marathon start. We made our way through the enormous hotel, following the heard of marathoners with sporadic Elvis look-a-likes scattered about. We found our way to the start line and were pleased that it was a nice morning, perfect running weather. The high for the day was going to be in the 60’s and it was in the high 40’s at the start. We wore disposable gloves that we could toss as it warmed up.

In the weeks before the marathon, I talked to a lot of people who have run marathons, trying to get a feel for how to run the darn thing. I have run enough half marathons in half irons and road races that I know within 1 or 2 beats, where my heartrate should be. But I lacked confidence in the full, both due to my lack of training as well as lack of experience. The consensus was, DON’T START TOO FAST! So I came up with a plan. I would keep my heart rate over 10 beats below my half marathon starting heartrate and re-evaluate at the halfway mark. Laura is an experienced marathoner but the rule is, when we go to races, we run our own race and if we end up together, that’s great. If not, see you at the finish.

From the time the gun went off, my body hurt. CRAP! When I started running I was reminded how that this was going to hurt. I hoped that once I ran a few miles, I’d get warmed up and feel a little more comfortable. I never felt “good” but I kept my heart rate consistently between 151-152 the entire first half. I ended up running it about 1:15 slower per mile than my half marathon pace so I felt that I was being very conservative, focusing more on heart rate than pace. As I passed through the halfway mark I remember thinking to myself “I’m half way done and I feel like I should be finishing”. I plugged along and started feeling a bit sick, getting hot and then feeling dizzy and nauseated. I took water in at every aid station and sipped on my water/gel mix but didn’t feel like I was absorbing anything…..like it wasn’t going anywhere.

By mile 15 I started to realize that things weren’t looking so good and my heart rate started to drop so I began walking through the aid stations and finally after mile 17, I succumbed to just straight walking. I have never walked in any race-not even through an aid station. I walked past an ambulance late in mile 17 and thought about stopping but it all seemed so dramatic so I plugged on hoping a walk would turn things around. It was somewhere between mile 18 & 19 that I began to get really cold and started staggering a bit (well this is awkward). I had these visions of dropping on the side-streets of Vegas and that didn’t sound so appealing. By the time I made it over to a police officer I was really shaking and felt very dizzy. He got me in his car and cranked up the heat and called the ambulance. So much for no drama. I asked him to tell them not to put the sirens on, this is humiliating enough. I have never DNF’d and to have sirens and an ambulance for running just shy of 19 miles in mild weather was more than I could handle. Once the ambulance got there and got me in the back, they couldn’t get a pulse on me because my body was shaking so severely. I told them to look at my watch-Timex gets it all! It was cool outside, in the 50’s but I consider that perfect running weather. They said I was white as a sheet and having difficulty regulating my body temperature and that I needed medical attention that they could not provide for me. This is where I drew the line. I knew if I could just get in a hot bath and down about 5 ibuprofen, I’d come around. My hands were so puffy and red, they couldn’t see my veins, it was the weirdest experience. They covered me in some wonderful hot packs and while we waited for my shuttle they made me sign a sheet that told me how I refused medical treatment, against their recommendation which could result in injury, death, blah blah blah. Standard cover-their-butt sheet. Which I understand. They were very nice and took good care of me. I just wanted to get back to my hotel room and get warm. Unless they were transporting me to the hospital, they couldn’t transport me anywhere. So we waited for my shuttle. If you could have seen this HUGE shuttle pull up….you would have laughed. I did. I had to walk around, covered in my heat packs and ambulance sheets as all of the runners passed by. As I sat there waiting to take off, just me and the driver, I watched all of the people go by. All of these people who worked so hard to get to this day and were executing their plan. Some running, some walking.....but they were doing it. I did not deserve to be classified with them-no matter how slow they were going. This was humbling. I was giving up for the first time in a race but there was just no possible way for me to walk 7 more miles being as cold and unsteady as I was and I just couldn’t get my body to run. I applaud each and every one of those people who crossed the finish line at the Vegas marathon. I am sad I wasn’t one of them and at this point, I’ve written off the marathon until I get more clarity on what went wrong.

Props to Laura for running a 3:44 on the uninspiring Vegas course. She really wanted to break 3:30 but still trudged on through the second half not feeling as good as she would have liked.

I had an appointment with my doctor on Tuesday and after going over all the details, the consensus was that the prednisone (to treat my lupus symptoms) I was on the two weeks before the marathon was the biggest culprit. The medication caused me to retain a ton of water and put my system way out of balance. I had a good 4 pounds of water weight on me which seemed to inhibit my ability to absorb fluids and calories and also caused me to have difficulty regulating my body temperature. I added that I'm sure it didn't help that I didn't put in the training necessary to run a marathon. He called it "the perfect storm". I think it was a disastrous storm..."perfect" doesn't belong.

Thanks to Laura for the sympathy and fun, I enjoyed her company and we managed to laugh a lot which makes everything better. Thanks also to all of you who texted, called and offered advice and support for me on my first marathon. I just wish I could have reported better results.

Now, it's on to getting myself ready for the track season. I'm going back to school at SCC and am running on the track team! It's okay, laugh out loud....I did. It's hilarious that I'll be running alongside girls I could have given birth to but I figure opportunities like this don't come along very often. I have never been coached as a runner and am excited to see what the coaches can do with an old lady like me. I have decided to bag Ironman this year. In addition to that, I am going to focus on getting settled as a single mom, student and employee. My plan is to just race locally in sprints and olympics while doing as many road races as I can. This is a huge relief of stress for me although this will be my first year in triathlon that I haven't raced nationally. I will miss racing the big ones like Oceanside, Wildflower, Honu and Clearwater....to name a few. But it is clear to me that this is the best thing for my health and my boys. And I'm particularly excited about running track for SCC. For now, I'm going to enjoy the journey. Life is messy but I'm incredibly excited to see how this all unfolds.

Today I am grateful for the opportunities that seem to be placed in my lap like I ordered them. Right now, my life feels like a great big treasure hunt. Just when I think I'm totally lost and doomed, I turn around to see a great big treasure waiting just for me. Sometimes you just have to have faith in the journey.....and I am most grateful for this crazy journey called life.

Gratitude

2008-11-09T15:21:00.000-08:00

On this cold Sunday afternoon, I'm sitting in my warm house listening to the giggles of my boys downstairs. I just returned from a trail run with Laura. I can't help but be overwhelmed with a strong sense of gratitude. This post may be a little sappy for some but I thought I'd share.

The racing season is over...as far as triathlons go. It was a season of growth, not in my ability but my spirit. I struggled through a string of disappointing performances and illness. I was finally diagnosed with Lupus a couple of months ago which helped explain why I got mono and why my body wasn't performing the way it "should have". I've probably had it for years but just experienced a "flair up" this Summer. I am taking medication, took some time off and recently started to experience a return to "normalcy" I know this is only temporary and I strongly believe I will be "back to normal" soon. I decided to bag doing the 70.3 World Championship this year and instead I'm training for my first marathon.

I'm embarking on a journey that will bring many changes. I will soon be a single mom, starting school full time and experiencing a huge change in lifestyle. But again, I can't help but feel incredibly grateful. There are so many things I am grateful for on a daily basis, the list is too long to recite. But I thought what I could do from here on out is at the end of each blog post, list one thing that I am grateful for on that particular day. I encourage you to do this as well. In times of stress and what seemed like impending doom, I have found unwavering strength in gratitude. It's amazing what can happen in one's life if they focus on the things that are going well rather than what's not going well. And I speak from experience.

Today, I slept in until 8:30. I am grateful for ibuprofen. I am grateful for sweet boys in pajamas in the morning. I am grateful that my boys still love kisses and snuggles (at least when their friends aren't around). I am grateful for my friend Laura. She showed up at my house at 11:30 and we went for a 2 hour trail run. It rained in the morning but by the time we went out, it was misty and surprisingly warm........and beautiful.

We grabbed some hikers to take our picture. I am grateful for a beautiful place to run and a friend to keep me company.

Here's me running in the enchanted forest. I am grateful for the ability to run, it is my medicine-even if I have to take medicine after I run right now :). I'd be way worse off to not run at all.

I am grateful for all of you, taking the time to read my blog and all the things I babble on about. Thank you for your comments, it's always fun to get a buzz on my blackberry telling me someone has commented. Even if I've never met you! And every day, I'm grateful for hugs. I LOVE hugs.

So, go ahead, try it. Just one thing a day.....I think you're going to find it's hard to pick just one thing.

Breaking into the Sewage Treatment Plant...and a little run

2008-11-08T21:35:00.000-08:00

Amy and I met up at Audubon to do the "Sunday-Sundae" 10 mile route even though it was only Friday. It was a wet, dreary day. We headed out. About 20 minutes into our run, we came upon a road closure but I said, "ah-that's just for cars, let's keep going". So we ran around the road block but soon came to the "construction". The whole darn road was gone and there was a drop off to the water. Amy thought there'd be a trail down there somewhere and we could just pick up the road on the other side. So, we gingerly got down the hillside and ventured out on somewhat of a dirt trail.....but soon that trail turned into more river rocks, less trail....then we came to rushing water seperating us from the trail we could now see on the other side.
Waterfall ahead, chainlink fence to our right, river rushing to our left or turn around and go back the way we came. I voted, well, more like "convinced" Amy we were going to hop the fence and run through the Sewage Treatment Plant. Then Amy tells me she's never climbed a fence before. What? Blackbelt in Karateeee...and you've never climbed a fence? Just to give you a little background on Amy, she makes me look like a heavyweight. I could have chucked her over the fence with one arm. But, a seasoned marathoner nonetheless. So here's Amy, climbing her first fence (man, I love my crackberry-never miss a moment). I climbed it first to show her how it's done and of course to snap the pic.

Running through the sewage treatment plant was a real treat. Here I am being "sneaky". I think I wore my best B&E outfit.

We were soaked and tired but made it back. I shivered all the way home.

Placement Testing and Beyond

2008-11-05T16:35:00.001-08:00

I'm going to start out by saying this post has nothing to do with triathlon.....but this blog is about my life so I thought I'd share today's events.

I have decided to go back to school. I never got a 4 year degree nor have I worked since my oldest was born (almost 11 years ago). I plan to get a BA in nursing. To do that, I've got at least 4 years ahead of me. I haven't had a math class since 1992.

I went to the community college today to take the placement testing. I was a little nervous but decided that it's better to just go and get tested rather than try to "brush up" on my math skills that honestly weren't there to begin with.

I got into the testing room and learned quickly that you're supposed to talk in a "whisper"....for those of you who know me, and my son Hayden, we have some issues with volume control. So I decided unless I REALLY needed help, it was better to just keep my mouth closed.

I started with reading and writing and that was easy. No issues there. Maybe this math part won't be so hard! It could just all come pouring back to me. Always the optimist. Second question in.....why do they always throw that "x" in there? and then square it? Those parenthesis make everything so complicated. And what's [this]? So, some of the questions, I just went for the one that I had a good feeling about. Other's I was able to answer-not exactly confident it was the correct answer but what I came up with was one of the choices so that was good enough for me. Yes folks, this was a multiple choice test. All in all, I didn't feel terrible about the test. I mean, I haven't taken a math class in 16 years-what did I expect?

Once the I completed the assessment, I raised my hand. See? I catch on quick. The gal in charge came over after printing out my results. As she walked toward me, I thought she might say "honey, you may want to check with the highschool". She didn't, she just said, "now I'm going to have you watch a math video". I'm thinking "do they think the concept of math classes will be so difficult that I need to watch a video to explain?" I was so focused on the fact that I had to watch a math video for "special people" it didn't even occur to me how gross the headphones were....until after. ewe.

I started watching the 12 minute video and felt the giggles coming on. I'm sitting there, knowing that I completely bombed this math assessment and at the same time, finding great humor in the fact that I had to now watch a math video because of it! And then trying not to be obvious about looking around the room to see what other dumb-asses had headphones on. The video ended up just talking about the different math courses available and all the different possibilities for placement. A pamphlet would have been sufficient-even for me. The lowest a person could place would be math 090. From there, it went to math 91 and on up. The good news is, I didn't place in math 090. The bad news is, I placed in math 091. DOH!

All in all, I learned that I'm going to need a few "math refresher" courses. No big surprise.

Tomorrow's another day. Now I'm looking for a job. Anyone?

A headcold, 20 miles with Laura, An ice bath and Lasagna

2008-11-03T11:23:00.001-08:00

I woke up Sunday morning with some kind of crazy head-cold. I'll spare ya'all the details. It's gross though. Laura brought her daughter Kellie over to sit with the boys while we headed out on a 20 mile run. Lately, I've hit a lot of milestones with Laura by my side. I ran 16 for the first time with her, then 18 and now 20. I have to say, running for this long is torture for me, I enjoy triathlon training a lot more than just straight distance running. But I do understand with Ironman training I'm going to have to do it all.....sigh. Every time Laura and I go on long runs I remind her of how much I appreciate her running with me. One of these times, I need to count how many times I say it during the course of one run. Props to all of you out there who have trained for a marathon by yourself.

Laura and I are running the Vegas marathon in December so it makes sense to train together-not to mention, it's WAY more fun. She mapped our run but forgot to check elevation so the first half of our loop was climb after climb but it was beautiful. I had my phone with me so we snapped a few shots of just how picturesque it is to run 20 miles in Spokane. Every time I go out for a ride or a run, I am reminded of how lucky I am to live and train in such a beautiful place.

Here's me:

And Laura:

After having a long discussion about dog attacks, we were chased by Cujo. On the "to do" list for this week-buy mace. Someone got some good entertainment watching Laura and I trying to scare a dog that weighed as much as the two of us put together. I felt like a bad-ass chihuahua. Or as Hayden would say "chu-chuwawa".

We got back, soaked in ice baths and then headed out looking like bag ladies for some hot lunch. I had hot cocoa and lasagna-nice combo. I'm staying inside today, lookin pretty scary but I don't want to share this illness with anyone. Brutal. Tomorrow is another day.

I've got stories.......

2008-08-25T10:58:00.000-07:00

I've got a lot of updating to do....back from mono, ramping up training....not to mention what I've been doing this past month. But this was the pinnacle. Shelby and I headed over to Seattle this past weekend to visit my brother. The tradition is, we play a game of pick up soccer every time we visit. We decided this time to take it up a notch. And oh, how we did. We were 80's from head to toe and played soccer like this. Chris had to claim us.

I was pleasantly surprised to learn that sweat-bands actually do work, zink-pink lipstick works like sunscreen for your lips, legwarmers can double as shin-guards and when your ass is hanging out of short-shorts, you actually have great range of motion with no chaffing! Who knew?

More to come......

Mono Lockdown Day #7

2008-07-15T22:20:00.000-07:00

As I sit here, at 10:30 at night, eating two "organic, frosted toaster pastries"(code name for pop-tart) while washing it down with skim milk glass #2, I wonder where my wheat-free, dairy free diet has gone. It's late, I'm hungry and Laura wants the black bikini. I'm such a good friend.

Anywho......I thought I'd share just what mono lockdown looks like these days. This would be day #7. Here Tanya and I are (in her and Sam's backyard), and pretty much where we were parked the entire day. My ass is burnt-yours? Tanya did get up a bit here and there to change a diaper, get me food or grab the camera because I forgot mine.

The only time I did get up was to pee or get in the water to cool off. After reading that last line, I realized I could have killed two birds with one stone. I'm all about being the efficient lazy person, can't let my OCD skills go to waste in this time of rest. Something to ponder on if they invite me back.....maybe not after that comment.

Anyway, once we got in the water, we decided it'd be fun to wear goggles. The next thing we knew, we were practicing flip turns. We'd do a few, lay on our chairs, get hot and get back in. One of the times I was parked on the chair, Tanya went and got their under-water camera. This is me in the photo below, can't say how good that one turned out. The challenge was to not show crack while doing a flip turn in a bikini that's not real tight. I don't think I did one without my suit coming down. It's also quite difficult to do freestyle without a swim cap. Kind of like swimming with seaweed on your shoulders.

The last day before lockdown, we worked on flip turns at Masters. That was 8 days ago. I thought I'd share my wisdom with Tanya. Here's her butt hitting the wall......she definitely got close enough! Notice that her feet are square on the wall.

And the push off. All I can look at is her hot bod is & how cute her suit is. Who cares that she's 3ft below the surface of the water?

Here's another attempt from me. And by the way, I got my suit at "Swank" on the northside. Ed Hardy. It was a gift to myself in celebration of my new body that will be healthy inside and lumpy on the outside, all in a months time!

We finally roped Sam to get in with us. He showed us a few flip turns but seemed to leave those pictures out when he emailed me these. The only picture he did email was one that I can't put on here because his wife was taking it and it was rather crude. SHOCKER.

So far, I'm loving lockdown and so are my kids. Tomorrow is a whole new day! My ass is kind of burnt. Did I say that already? I guess I'll work on my front-side tomorrow.

Lake Stevens and the "lockdown" that followed.

2008-07-10T15:46:00.001-07:00

When I got back from Lake Stevens, I started writing yet another race report. All I could come up with was how perplexed I was with another disappointing performance. I did everything right, got in the calories on the bike and kept my inhaler on me through the whole race but still, it went like this:

Swim: 39:12 (what? that's 2 minutes slower than my first half of the season and 4 minutes slower than my wildflower swim) Also, this was 1 min slower than my swim last year at LS when I wasn't busting my butt 5 days a week in the pool! I know swim courses can be "off" but come on......

Bike: 3:03:28 (same as my Wildflower bike time and WF is a MUCH tougher course....not to mention, I was coming down with the flu in WF) 9 minutes slower than my LS bike time last year and 6 minutes slower than 2006 which was my first half ever and my 3rd triathlon.

Run: 1:48:02 (well, this is 1 minute slower than the Honu run which is a MUCH tougher run course and also 1 minute slower than my run last year at LS).

Here I am finishing with Tabor. The highlight of the day. I was so happy to be done but dreading having to face everyone and once again try to explain what happened without sounding like an "excuse maker". The truth is, I was out of answers. I didn't know why. Even though it was a crappy race, it was really fun to share the finishing chute with Tabor. Hayden declined.

Across the board, I was slower than last year. My total time was 5:33:53. Last year I did a 5:22 and change. I needed to lay that all those times out so ya'll don't just think I was reaching for the stars and didn't reach some random time goal I plucked from the sky.

For once in my life, I was speechless. Is this it? Am I just getting old and now I'm going to continue getting slower? There was a saving grace here.....a huge diamond in the rough and that was that I did get a roll down slot for Clearwater. Mission accomplished. But still I just couldn't figure it out.

We got home late Sunday night, the drive home was miserable. My body ached and I was extremely sore.....I don't usually feel so sore so quick after a race. And this was full body, achey sore. Monday, I went for a swim and my times were unbelievably slower than I had been swimming just two months ago. My pace was 12-14 seconds slower per 100. My times in the pool have continually gotten slower since Wildflower. I knew something was wrong-but what? I wasn't anemic, that already came back normal.

I went back to the doctor on Tuesday to get the last of my lab results because some had come back "abnormal" so we needed to go over them. I had gone to him a few days after my disastrous race at Blue Lake and he ordered every blood test he could think of. I went back this past Tuesday and he walked in, sat down and said "you have Mono". WHAT? Are you freakin' kidding me? Who gets mono? I thought teenagers got mono. I'm 35! How did I get this? He said I could have taken a drink out of someone's pop can. I don't drink pop. Okay, someone's water bottle. So, how do we treat this? His answer hit me like a ton of bricks. "You're going to have to take some time off". Oh, like scale way back-no racing, no half irons for a while? "no, like you can't exercise AT ALL for at least a month. We will retest then and see what your results are". I wanted to cry right there, I was doing everything I could not to fall apart. But all these thoughts were going through my head....I can't do Tiger Tri! I can't do Coeur D alene. I'm gonna get fat. I'm going to lose all my fitness. My season is ruined. PZ (doc) talked me through it, he was very understanding and helped me realize that I didn't just come down with a few weeks ago, I've had it since April or May. That does explain a lot. And then, I started to feel better. This is why:

After taking a month off and recovering from mono, I am going to be no slower than I am right now.
I have a month in the middle of summer to play with my boys, lay by the pool in the sun and relax.
I can put more time into planning the Kids Triathlon which I'm very excited about
I am writing a cookbook and this gives me more time to cook and make up more recipes
I've been really perplexed and confused about my performance, I finally have an answer...and it's not that I'm crazy or that I've reached my peak.
I am encouraged to rest by the thought of the first time I get to run again.....just how much I'm going to appreciate the ability to run and how good it's going to feel.

The truth is, I've been feeling so warn out, so frustrated and tired lately. I've felt a lot of guilt for feeling tired because everyone around me has such busy lives (most of them HAVE jobs) and they handle it just fine. I've been able to let go of that and come to terms with the fact that I'm sick. My body is sick, tired and worn down and I just need to take care of it. I'm glad I was able to recognize (only took a couple of months) that something was wrong and get it figured out.

I've always felt very appreciative of my body.....healthy, strong and all in one piece. This hiatus is going to magnify that appreciation. I hope it does for you too, even though you don't need to take the time off. To be able to physically challenge our bodies on a daily basis and pay no more than some tired feet and a good nights sleep is a gift. I am looking forward to getting back in the game but for now, I'll just rest.......and walk the dog until August (at least). Today happens to be day #2 on "mono lockdown".

I am going to do a separate post on all of the fun over the weekend. I got to hang out with Cody, the boys and my parents for a couple days in Bellingham and then come over to Lake Stevens to hang w/the Tri-Fusion crew. The race was the only downer and even Tim, Andy, Trish and Nat made that fun by cheering and making signs. Cody, the boys and my parents were also out there cheering and it was the first time my mom has watched me race.

I've got pictures to post and lots to say. It deserves it's own post though. Coming soon......

Highlights of our weekend in Portland

2008-06-18T07:02:00.000-07:00

Friday evening, we headed off to Portland. After many relentless attempts at getting Kelli & Laura to learn the words to my new favorite song (wadsyaname by Nelly), I finally gave up only to find myself laughing so hard I couldn't breath....and I just MIGHT have peed my pants-jury is still out on what actually qualifies as "peeing your pants". I'll leave it at that.

We got into our lovely accommodations only to be "shushed" by the hotel manager. Shocker, I know. Kelli parked the car, Laura took their two bikes up to the room (this was quite a feat for Laura to get two bikes moving in the same direction at the same time). My job was to get this luggage rack and my bike into the elevator and up to the third floor. Let me tell you folks, it looks a lot easier than it was. There was an art to getting my bike in the elevator and then the luggage rack without the door closing on me. After getting the evil eye from the hotel manager (because now I was laughing all by myself), Kelli saved me and helped with my tasks. I had to shush her so we wouldn't get three strikes against us and kicked out of The Sleep Inn so early in our stay.

We woke up bright and early the next morning to head out and cheer on our friends racing in the sprint. We loaded up our gear so we could get a little training in while we were there. After loading up, I chucked my keys up on the drivers seat and closed the back of the car. We all went to get in.....and um, the car was locked. WHAT? I have such incredible luck that when I threw the keys, they landed "just so" that the lock button successfully was pressed and therefor locked us out of the car. An hour later, AAA arrived and our buddy broke us in. All I gotta say is good thing it happened that day. Sad to say, we missed the swim start but were able to cheer Tim & Andy on and see their finishes.

Foof! Here' s Kelli & Laura in their cheering positions.

We headed out for a little pre-race ride and Steve got a flat. He changed it in 6 1/2 minutes....which is a lot faster than my flat change in Hawaii. We got out of helping him change it by convincing him that it's good race practice and that we should time him. Worked like a charm and he changed it fairly fast so we didn't have to wait around long. ;)

Laura busting some kind of dance moves. I wasn't the ONLY one dancing. Love the "sash" prop.

After we got some training in we headed out in search of a pre-race pedicure. If you don't like feet, skip these photos. Here's mine:

Kelli's:

and Laura's:

Here's me with my own gang-sign. This was adapted the day before when we were in the car driving and Kelli was taking my picture and I turned to her while driving and put three fingers up instead of the more common "rocker" sign (I must admit, this was not intentional, I just don't know my signs). This was one of the many causes of the rumored, peed-in-pants and now it is "my sign".

Kelli & Laura getting pedicures. What-no gang signs?

Me & Laura at dinner the night before the race.

The weekend Crew. Me, Laura & Kelli. Good times, good times.

We headed back to the hotel to get jammies on, read our important pre-race material (People, US and OK magazine) and eat some cereal. Here are Laura and Kelli eating their dainty bowls of cereal before bed.

Maybe I didn't get enough to eat at dinner. And yes, I did consume that entire bowl of cereal with the exception of the soggy bits at the bottom. In this case, my eyes were not bigger than my stomach. I wish I could say they were.

Photo documentation of the peeing-in-pants/bed.

After getting Tiffany to sign a waiver, I helped attach her aero-bottle and Trish was a pro with the velcro placement. What'd you need me for??? Here's Tiffany with her big mouth and Trish with her strong thighs. What a team these gals make!

Yes, my race number really was #69. Where's the content of my blog headed? I only report the facts.

Blue Lake Club Championship

2008-06-16T08:27:00.000-07:00

This was such an incredibly FUN weekend filled with a lot of laughter and a small helping of disappointment. I think the highlight of race day was Laura and I, hiding in the car after the race, laughing and crying simultaneously (it is possible). Crying because we both had less than stellar performances and laughing because-why are we crying? Seriously, pull it together. Not to mention the fact that we were sweaty with crusty noses, matted hair, snot on our shoulders (our aim on those snot rockets still hasn't been perfected) and puffy eyes. We got it out of our systems, were able to laugh at how lame we were and then get over it and move on. My husband left a note in my luggage before I left because I had a rough week and training didn't go so well. The irony is that I didn't find the note until AFTER the race, on the way home. I came to the club championship really excited to represent our team and hopefully contribute. I came away feeling like I let the team down with my poor performance. I do understand that regardless of how I performed, I added value to the team by being there and for that, I am grateful. The quote (by Michael Jordan) that Cody included was so appropriate for the situation (even though he had no idea what the weekend would have in store for me), I thought I'd share:

"I've missed over 9,000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. 26 times I've been trusted to take the game winning shot....and missed. I've failed over and over again in my life. And, that is why I succeed".
Michael Jordan

It's good to know that all this failure will somehow turn into success. I'm just hoping it happens before my body falls apart. So, I will continue to work on failing so that I can succeed. I think I've perfected the failure thing and I'm kind of bored with it but I'll listen to Michael Jordan since he's pretty good at what he does. Once again, I will work towards a solid race next time. Speaking of solid races, there were SO MANY great performances this weekend. Numerous PR's and firsts......I have to give a shout out to my friends who went above and beyond in so many ways.

Here's just part of our club after the race on Sunday.

Laura: my girl....I know you are frustrated with your swim. Way to keep your chin up and celebrate everyone else's victory. We'll get that swim figured out. And, it's summer now so you can really focus on your training. Man, we did have fun though-didn't we?!
Kelli: OHMYGOD! I am so excited for you! What an incredible PR! 20 minutes???? You had an amazing race. I can't wait to cheer you on in CDA! Thanks for all the laughter this weekend, it was really nice to have girl time with you. Haven't laughed that hard in a while.
Jessi: you kicked BUTT! I still am trying to remove this foot print from my ass. Way to push through little sleep AND a big ol' butt cramp.
Steve: my SUPERSTAHHH team mate, NICE, fast, solid race. You represented for the both of us!
Tiffany: way to not only 'survive' your first olympic race but you ROCKED! It was probably the aero-bottle set-up for sure.
Roger: what can I say? You won another one.....it's exciting to see how you are consistently winning EVERYTHING....
A-Dawg: Another great performance....wished I could have spent more time with you. Thanks for being there for me after the race ;)
Eve: Well, it's one for me and one BIG one for you. WOW!! You are insanely fast. I'm so happy you had such a great race. On to Lake Stevens now.
Aaron: I still want to hear how your race went.....loved seeing you there.
Ben: Awesome job on another rockin' race.....I'm looking forward to seeing what you do at IM CDA! You're SO talented.
Tim: It was so fun to watch you kill that sprint distance & get 2nd AG!!! Incredible!
Andrea: First duathlon and 2nd in your AG!! WHAT? Way to stay in your aero bars and rock those new pedals.
Dori: Thanks for coming out to represent our masters even though you're injured and you had to change your weekend around. We are so grateful!!! Thanks also for letting me kidnap you off to dinner with us. It was nice to get to know you a little.
Tia & Steve Rupe: Great job to both of you....thanks also for the Starbucks run when our keys were locked in the car ;) Also, I know you had a sick kiddo which makes everything more challenging and stressful.
Heather Flowers: I know it was a challenging day for you but you made the club proud. Thank you for your sacrifices.
Virginia: AWESOME job! Way to represent the club!
Kirk W-G: You consistently amaze me with your drive and dedication.....you're such an asset to the club. Thanks for working through your injury to be there.
Martin: You old pro, once again-you make the team proud.
Matt: Way to work through stomach issues and still have a great race.
Jay & Michelle: Thanks to both of you for being such team players! You are SO appreciated!
G-man: Way to rock the race and WOW-what a great run. Jeesh! Can't wait to see what you do at Lake Stevens
Sheena: WORD! way to represent!
Mark & Daryce: You guys are a hoot to be around.....and your great attitudes are infectious!
Matt Taylor: You Da-man!

Thanks to Scott Ward, Dave & Tasha Gordon & Jon Moen for coming and racing for the club. I didn't get a chance to talk with you but I know you were there.....

A special thanks to Trish Cudney, Jen Snyder, Jessie Cusack, Andrea Swanson, Eric Byrd and anyone else that was cheering out there. Even though I looked rough on the run, I really appreciated you yelling loud and I know everyone else did too! You went above and beyond to support the club!

I will have to do a whole separate post on the adventures of our weekend. Good times, good times. Below are just a few photos of some of the above mentioned people.

Tim & Andrea Swanson after the sprint on Saturday. They both placed 2nd in their AG!

There were some good tunes playing at the sprint on Saturday so of course a girl has to dance! Steve took this shot of me (& many others) rockin' to the tunes by the porta-potty. I think I'm a bad-ass but really, we all know I'm a total dork.

Me, Kelli, Laura, Michelle, Jay, Tim & Steve in the back....at the sprint on Saturday.

Jay & Michelle Huskinson. Michelle walked the olympic run to finish....and represent the club.

Tiffany & Trish. With my wealth of bike tech knowledge & skill (NOT!), I helped Tiffany set up her aero-bottle the night before the race. This was VERY entertaining to say the least. Trish-your thighs are very strong ;)

Tiffany & Eric Byrd. Tiffany raced her first olympic and Eric was her cheerleader....awe.

The clan at dinner the night before the olympic race. Sheena, Jen, Trish, Laura, Kelli, Dori (behind Tiffany's head), Tiffany & Eric.

Daryce, Kelli, Dori & Laura

Matt & Jessie Cusack, Michelle, Virginia, Jay, Jessa & Ben Greenfield.

Me, Laura & Kelli. The weekend crew. This is the most composed we were all weekend. More on that in the next post.

Trish and I.

At the race, Jessi getting her well-deserved AG award.

Steve (team superstahhh) & I at lunch after the race. Won't explain, you just had to be there.

More in the next post about the weekend with Laura and Kelli.....Thanks girls for making it so memorable. Can't wait for our next adventure!!

"Pain is just weakness, leaving your body"

2008-06-10T22:58:00.000-07:00

We arrived at the pool for masters swim this morning at 5:30am to find the water resembling milk. Fearlessly, we jumped in (some of us quicker than others) and risked the unknown to get yet another masters swim under our belts. About 20 minutes into our workout, the pool blew up and we all had to get out. Maybe that's a little dramatic but there was a loud noise, smoke and we did have to immediately get out of the pool. Kevin sent us over to the mats for some core work while we awaited a verdict. Verdict in and there's no swim. Alrighty then. I still had a track workout to do so I roped Jessi, Laura & Trevor into joining me. Way more fun than doing speed-work by myself. Not to mention the fact that it was 6:30am, and raining/snowing as we got on the track. What??? It's JUNE!

Jessi had her own workout to do and Laura was doing some kind of ladder so I roped Trevor into doing the same workout with me....er, uh, ahead of me. That boy can run. He gave me good motivation and made it fun. Jessi would hoot and holler at us when she was in between sets and I stuck my tongue at her cuz I thought I was gonna barf. This is where the title quote comes in. "Pain is just weakness, leaving your body". Keddie from Masters shared that with me and I'm not sure if it's his or someone else's.......but I LIKE it. There was a helping of weakness that was left on the track today. I'm hoping there'll be some weakness left in Blue Lake this weekend as well....for all of us.

After pulling into our neighborhood and dropping a Starbucks off for Jessi, we decided that even though we didn't bring a camera to the track, it was important to document that we went from soaking wet in the pool to soaking wet and freezing on the track, all before 7am! Bummer we didn't have the camera at the track. The above photo was taken with Jessi's timer....I'm sure the neighbors were entertained by the photo shoot.

Fire up the grill again.....

2008-06-09T21:15:00.000-07:00

Tonight we had grilled chicken and pineapple with cilantro-lime rice. Ingredients and recipe below:

Pineapple & Cilantro Chicken

6 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
5 limes, juiced (approx 3/4 cup)
1 bunch cilantro-finely chopped
1/2 cup warmed honey
1 Corona Beer
1 16 oz can crushed pineapple with juice
1 tbsp minced garlic
fresh ground salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a 13x9 baking dish, add chicken and marinade for 3-4 hours or more. Grill until done (approx 15 minutes). When serving, slice avocados and lay on top of chicken.

Cilantro-lime Rice

2 cups white rice (I prefer a shorter grain white rice-it makes the best sticky rice and works better for leftovers as it does not dry out)
3 1/2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup fresh squeezed lime juice
1 bunch cilantro, finely chopped
1 tbsp minced garlic (seeing a pattern here?)
2 tsp Tabasco brand green pepper sauce
fresh ground salt and pepper to taste

Here's when I'm going to sell you on owning a rice cooker. Because I don't eat wheat, I always have sticky rice in the fridge. It's my bread. A rice cooker makes recipes like these, brainless. Add all ingredients in rice cooker and press "start". The rice can sit on "warm" while you grill the chicken. If you don't have a rice cooker....you're on your own. Get one.

Grilled Pineapple

Cut off top and bottom of pineapple and then cut skin off of outside. Lay pineapple down and cut into 2 inch slices. Grill 5 minutes per side. This needs no marinade. It's delicious.

Throw it all together and we've got dinner! The hardest job of this whole meal is juicing the limes. It's a pain in the butt however, DO NOT use "pre-squeezed lime juice". NO NO NO. There is absolutely no comparison. What I often do is, squeeze a bunch of limes and keep the juice in the fridge. It keeps well. For those of you who have eaten in my home, you know I make A LOT of food but leftovers are my favorite. This is a great recipe for leftovers. I had a busy day so I didn't make a salad. A green salad with a light, citrus dressing would go well with this. I'll work on that recipe :)

What's For Dinner?

2008-06-08T20:32:00.000-07:00

Before our neighbors roped me into this thing called triathlon, I used to be really "into" cooking. I think my husband probably liked my old hobby better. I still have a great love for eating and feeding others but just don't have the time or desire to spend an entire day preparing lavish meals. On top of that, I have given up wheat and dairy. Not to mention, my older son is allergic to everything on the planet.

I thought it might be fun to share the way I cook now....very different from before. And since all of my 5 readers are triathletes, I thought they might enjoy some suggestions for "training friendly eating". I make up my own recipes (all very simple) and I don't like to take more than 30 minutes to prepare anything. For the most part, I don't.

Here's what we ate tonight: Filet mignon, grilled onions, grilled red potatoes and broccoli with roasted pine nuts. My darling husband burnt the potatoes on the grill a bit but they were still good. I added a little ketchup to dip the potatoes in. Notice there's already a bite missing.

Before I go into the recipe for this, if you are interested.....there are a handful of ingredients that I try to always have stocked:

olive oil
balsamic vinegar
cooking sherry
fresh limes
fresh lemons
kosher salt
pepper grinder (fresh ground IS better)
white & brown rice

First I started with the pine nuts for the broccoli. You can find these in with the nuts at the grocery store. Un-roasted, they look like this and only take a few minutes to roast.

In a frying pan, turn burner on to medium heat and stir constantly. They roast quickly so don't walk away or stop stirring.....believe me, I've turned these beautiful nuts into charcoal bits on more than one occasion.
When done, they should look like this:

Potatoes..... I bought red potatoes and sliced them in about 1 inch slices. Marinade ingredients:

6-8 red potatoes
1/2 cup Olive oil
1 1/2 tbsp dijon mustard
1 tbsp worcestershire sauce
5 shakes of tobasco sauce
3-4 cloves of minced cloves of garlic (or 1 1/2 tbsp pre-minced garlic)
fresh or dried herbs (oregano, thyme, rosemary)
kosher salt & fresh ground pepper to taste

The grocery store was out of fresh rosemary so I just used some dried thyme I had in my spice rack. Place sliced potatoes in a glass baking dish. whisk marinade ingredients in a large measuring cup and pour over potatoes. Place potatoes on grill the same time the steaks go on. These should cook for about 12 mintues.

They should have come off the grill when they looked like the below photo. They taste good when they're a little crispy on the edges......

Now, onto the onions. I have come to the conclusion that ANYTHING marinated in balsamic vinegar and honey, grilled......is GOOD. When coming up with marinades, especially for the grill, I like to have an acid (vinegar, lime/lemon juice...) and either an oil or sugar or both. Sugar and the grill are a good mix because it caramelizes and you can't go wrong there.

I took a vidalia sweet onion, sliced it in 1 inch slices, poured some balsamic vinegar over it and drizzled honey on top. These grilled for about 6-8 minutes. I like them still a little crunchy. I think overcooked vegetables are a tragedy. A bite of steak mixed with a bite of onions is tasty.

The broccoli:

4 bunches of broccoli (about 5-6 cups cut up)
1-2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup cooking sherry
1/3 cup roasted pine nuts.

Heat frying pan on medium heat. Add oil, sherry and garlic until fragrant. Add broccoli and stir to cover. Stir often until broccoli turns bright green. Do not overcook. As you turn off heat, stir in pine nuts.

As far as steak goes, I eat beef at least once a week. I like a tenderloin steak because it is very tender and very lean. Grill as you prefer. I like mine medium and that takes approx 12 mintues total.

I place some fresh ground pepper and kosher salt on the plate next to the steak and dip each bite in the mixture. Again, a VERY simple meal. This is pretty much the way we eat every night. We grill throughout the winter. It's a great way to add flavor to many things without adding sauces and fat. More to come......

Getting to Hawaii

2008-06-02T20:30:00.000-07:00

So, after getting in my masters swim on Wednesday morning and then getting the boys off to school, Cody took me to the airport for my 11:30 am flight to Kona. I need to point out that my sweet husband packed up my bike and was "super dad" while I was off racing in Hawaii. I am so grateful for his support and what a great dad he is. Obviously, without him I would be unable to do these races. I never have to worry about the boys when I'm gone because I know they'll have a blast while I'm gone. And, like always, they did.

After our monster roadtrip to Wildflower and the leg heaviness that ensued, I decided to try compression tights on the plane. I wore these full tights under my velour, juicy sweatpants. This wardrobe information is relevant....more on that later.

I got all checked in and was off to connect in Seattle. After hitting the fish taco spot in the Seattle airport and picking up a book to read at Borders, I was walking through the airport with my backpack on. I noticed that it seemed like a lot of people were staring at me. Do I look that cool? As I walked by an older gentleman with eyes as big as saucers I felt an odd sensation and looked down to catch my velour pants as they were making their way past my knees. NICE. I said something out loud about velour and spandex not being a good combination only to get NO response from the surrounding onlookers. Another classic, Phaedra moment.

The rest of my trip to Kona was uneventful and thankfully, I didn't loose any more clothes. I got into my hotel room at around 9pm. Ah, Hawaii. I unpacked and put my bike together and got into bed around 11pm (that's 2am Spokane time).

I woke up bright and early on Thursday morning, went for a run, got some breakfast, walked to Starbucks and made my way over the the spa for an incredible massage. Here's me, "pre-massage" wearing my spa uniform. I look so well behaved.

After my massage, I went out for a short ride and got registered. I ended up hanging out in my room and ordering room service for dinner and watching "Fools Gold" on tv. Pretty uneventful.

Friday morning started much like Thursday morning and then I headed out for a run that felt great (which was a good sign, no leg heaviness....maybe there is something to these compression tights). After that, I got a short ride in and was pummeled by the wind. I knew there was a very good possibility the wind was going to be brutal on race day. Tough conditions-good experience.

Former Spokane resident, Rick Rubio picked me up at the hotel (thanks Rick!) and we headed over to Hapuna to check our bikes in and go for a short swim in the choppy water.....and yes, the wind was blowing and the current was evident.

After we swam, I found Rachael and Katherine in their bathing suits putting their bikes together.....I think the only reason there weren't a swarm of men around them was because they were hidden off in a secluded spot. I felt like a prairie dog surrounded by gazelles. We ended up meeting for dinner at around 4pm and Paul (Rachaels coach from Lifesport) joined us a little later. It was a relaxing pre-race dinner and I was grateful for the company and all the great information they shared with me. Thanks guys! 3 hours later, I headed back to my room.

4am rolled around quite quickly after waking up a few times to hear the wind howling outside.

The Chop, The Wind, The Flat and The Run PR

2008-06-02T20:25:00.000-07:00

Before you read my perception of the day, here's a link to the coverage of the day's conditions and what the pros and other participants had to say about it.

I woke up at 4am race morning after a mediocre nights sleep. The wind was blowing most of the night and woke me up a couple of times. I got everything together and went down to catch the shuttle to Hapuna. note: at this race, the swim starts and ends at Hapuna Beach and T2 is at the Mauna Lani resort as well as the finish line.

Once I got to Hapuna, it was clear that conditions were just going to be tough. The wind was really blowing and although I wasn't concerned about getting hurt or crashing, I was concerned about being SLOW in the water and on the bike.

This year, there wasn't an option for the swim start. All 1300 participants started in the deep water at once. I positioned myself fairly close to the front knowing that my best chance of getting through this swim with a decent time was finding a draft. Before the gun went off, things got a little tight and I was getting knocked into a bit. Once the gun went off, it was a bit chaotic but nothing compared to what was coming. About 400 meters from the start line, there's the first turn buoy....and it's a hard, right turn. I've got scratch marks on my arms and was dunked a few times. I took in a lot of water and there were a ton of people all on top of each other, trying to get around the turn buoy. Once we turned, we were swimming against the current, not to mention the wind was really blowing the water across the surface. I'd look up to spot but couldn't see any buoys. I just followed the pack. I had a draft for a bit from a 60 year old man and then someone fought me for it and I just didn't have the energy to fight back. They were bigger than me and I was putting a lot of effort into getting through the swim. This was by far the toughest swim I have ever experienced. And, I knew that the bike wasn't going to be much easier. I knew before I got out that this was not going to be the swim time I was hoping for.

swim time: 40:44

I ran up the long ramp to T1 and had an uneventful transition. Everything had to be in a bag, hanging on your bike. This is a fairly long transition.

T1: 3:00

I headed out on the bike and the wind was blowing pretty good. I just stayed in my aero bars and leaned into the gusts as they came. There were a couple of gusts that almost knocked me over but I felt pretty confident that I could handle the conditions. I did my best not to tense up when the gusts hit and just stayed in my aero bars. I noticed my wattage was really low but I decided rather than pushing beyond what I thought I should to bring my wattage up to, I went off of perceived exertion. I stayed steady knowing that once I got to the turn around at Hawi, I'd be able to enjoy some high speeds coming down. There were times because my power was so low, I questioned whether or not my SRM was properly calibrated. I did calibrate it the day before, the same time of day, so I knew it had to be.....but my power was so low. When I got closer to the turn around, I started to have some foot problems that have occurred before in training but never racing. Just get to the turn around and you will have relief.

I turned around at Hawi and was excited to enjoy some speed. I was going about 27 mph with a smile on my face when I heard a very loud "pow" followed by something hard hitting my cadence sensor. I stopped and pulled over to find a large screw lodged in the side of my back tire. BUMMER. 10 minutes later, I was back on my bike with everyone I had kept in my sights.....LONG gone. The last 10 miles were brutal, my power was averaging about50 watts under what it should have been. The pain in my feet just kept getting worse and worse. In hindsight, this had to be a shoe or saddle problem. Oh well. I was SO happy to be off the bike. The moment I got off, the pain went away.

Bike Time: 3:10:17

Got into T2 and there was a helper there to round up my stuff as I got what I needed out of the bag and left the rest for him to put back. I have to say, they've got a great system at this race and it worked well for me.

T2: 2:39

Ah, finally onto the run. There's a lot I have to say about the run. First of all, so far this season, I have pulled out my slowest run times ever in my half irons. This has been discouraging, to say the least and I was starting to wonder if I just thought I was capable of more than I was capable of. With that said, I'm happy to talk about the run.

I headed out and decided to get settled into a mellow pace and see how I was feeling. I know I was a little behind on calories because I wasn't feeling great the last half of the bike and I didn't take in as many gels as I was supposed to. First mile split was an 8:45 but my heartrate was nice and low. Good. Next mile felt even better. I guess that's the benefit of having a really weak bike ride and 10 minutes of rest. As I clicked off the miles, I was passing people and surprised at how good I was feeling. I think I've been traumatized by my slow run times lately that I was just waiting for things to go south. I kept my heart rate pretty low, still lacking some confidence that I could stay consistent on my pace. I negative split the run, 5 of my miles under an 8 minute pace, only two of the miles over an 8:30. The last 2.1 miles at a 7:30 pace. I obviously benefited from going so easy on the bike but this was a great confidence booster for me. This is a challenging run course that is, in no way, flat. It's not nearly as tough as the Wildflower run course but it's rolling, up and down, winding around and across grass and some sand. I actually pr'd on this run and being as tough as it was, it instilled a little bit of confidence in my running ability.

The last two miles were my fastest. I paced myself conservatively, took in a lot of water and consumed all my gels. I was extremely happy with how my run went and I finished strong.

Run Time: 1:47:12

Finish Time: 5:43:52

I still haven't been able to put together a solid race across the board this season, but like always, it's a work in progress. I'm pleased with this progress. Sooner or later, all these things I've learned will come together......hopefully.....for one race, or ten. That's why I keep coming back for more. Sometimes, it's solving a little mystery, (nutritional or otherwise), finding balance or learning to have confidence in my ability to push harder than I thought I could. The conditions were tough, the bike didn't go AT ALL as planned but the run went better than I could have imagined. I thought the fastest possible time I could have run was a 1:50. I got 14th in my Age group which was disappointing but for my performance, it's right.

2 weeks until Blue Lake Olympic and 5 weeks until Lake Stevens 70.3

I can't wait to race again!

Post Race Playtime

2008-06-02T20:15:00.000-07:00

Before you go on to look at these pictures, I'd like to share my opinion on training and racing and how those relate to playing. I train hard, take it very seriously and follow a pretty strict, pre-race regimen. My attitude is, after I finish, I allow myself to let loose, have some fun but once Monday rolls around it's time to hunker down.

Rachael and Katherine were game for anything and I had a blast playing with these two gals. Rachael is injured and was under strict orders to DNF after the bike but still managed to produce some incredible results for the swim and the bike. Click on her name to read her race report. While you're at it, check out the rest of her blog too, she's freakin' hilarious.

After Katherine's stellar performance, 1st in AG and 5th overall.....I thought it was only appropriate to do a post-race shot. Katherine had never had a shot in her life. Here I go, corrupting another. Here we are, pre-shot. I can see just a bit of fear and hesitation on Katherine's face.

Post-shot. I LOVE this picture.

Me on the left, Rachael in the middle and Katherine on the right. Love the facial expressions but I do have to point out that Katherine didn't quite finish her shot. Rachael and I emptied ours. We cut Katherine slack since we still had to head over to awards....and she'd have to walk up on stage and collect some bowls (they give out wooden bowls instead of trophies and she got TWO).

Here we are at awards. From left to right: Paul (from Lifesport, he coaches Rachael), me, Katherine and Rachael. Paul had some great pre-race tips that he shared at dinner the night before. Thanks Paul!

Speak no, Hear no, See no evil.

And of course, it wouldn't be complete without a picture of me with a World Champion on my lap. I decided to go black and white with this photo mostly because my face was so red.

The story is, I wanted to get a picture with Chris McCormack. I had to assure him he wouldn't squash me before he'd sit down on my lap. How often do you get a world champ in your lap? And, because I'm all about a good photo and this is way more original than the standard pose. To see other pics of him and other athletes I admire in action, check out my Gallery.

I had to get a picture of me with the tri-goddesses I spent my weekend with. Their legs are longer than my whole body! They are both incredibly talented, humble and FUN! Thanks girls, for a great weekend and tremendous inspiration. I am blown away by your ability. I'm not sure what I'm doing with that beer bottle. I think I felt like a Geisha among......non-geisha's.

After this photo was taken, the girls headed off to the airport and I was once again alone in Hawaii. I grabbed my camera and headed to the beach to take some pictures. Below are just a few.

After that, I walked over to the nearby shopping center to eat dinner at Tommy Bahama's. I ended up running into some folks we sat with at awards and joined them for dinner. After that, I walked back to the hotel and went to bed.

I woke up early the next morning and went to breakfast, joining my new friend Penny. Penny is 68 and lives on Oahu. She qualified for Kona and will be competing in October. I enjoyed her company and zest for life!

After that, I packed up my bike and then went to go hang out at the beach in my bikini until 7pm. Below are a few of the photos I took on Sunday.

The airport shuttle picked me up from the hotel at 7pm and I took the red eye home. I landed in Spokane at 8am this morning.

Chic ride.......

2008-05-24T20:15:00.001-07:00

Heather came to stay with us to get in some hill training this week because she lives in "flat Florida". So, I rounded up the girls on Friday and planned a little "chic ride". It was Heather, Eve, Annie and myself. Haley was invited but she had to be a responsible student. It was really windy with LOTS of hills. Thanks gals for the fun ride. All these girls inspire me. Heather-pro triathlete, wife, mother of three and multiple Ironman champ.....she's the energizer bunny. Eve-mother of two and wife of an Ironman athlete in addition to a full time job! I don't know how you do it all and still go SO fast?! Annie (ITU Pro), you work harder than anyone I know and I can't wait to see how Boise goes.....your first half (props to you for 5th at Memphis). Coops-bummer you couldn't join us but I admire how hard you're working in school, at work and in your Ironman training....you are one tough cookie. And I know I look under-dressed but I was just fine, these girls had me working hard.

And we're off! Heather is still messing with her bike (it had just been assembled moments before we left).

I just read a post by Bree Wee (I've never met her and she has no idea who I am). But it was a good one. http://breeweehawaii.blogspot.com/ is the link. Anyway, her blog is a great read, she's got an inspiring story. The last post really hit home for me.

I think, so often as female athletes, we're made to feel bad for being competitive. What's wrong with that? What's wrong with wanting to win? Winning obviously has different meanings to different people....my point in this statement is not that everyone shoots to win an entire race but more "winning your race" and what that means to you. I think we all set goals for ourselves whether it be finishing a race and running the whole run (Trish :), beating a time from a previous season, winning an age group or catching up and passing someone you are competitive with. Isn't that why we work so hard? That's why I work so hard.....and I'm not ashamed to say, I work really hard. It is called a "race" after all! We need to stick together, challenge each other, be competitive (& unashamed while doing so), cheer each other on and inspire one another to try hard and give it 100%. I love that I have many strong women in my life (too many to name).....who I learn from every day. Thanks for a great ride girls and for inspiring me to try hard! Thanks to Bree for writing a great post.

note: I added to this post re: the "winning" topic because after reading it again myself, I realized it sounded like I thought everyone was training to win races......and that I was as well. I wanted to clarify what I meant by "winning". We are all driven by something, recognize what that is and use it to help you achieve your goals. Ya gotta want it to get it.

Spring Thaw Duathlon Series, Part 2

2008-05-19T21:03:00.000-07:00

Sunday was the second installment of the duathlon series in 9 mile Falls. The distance was a little longer than the previous ones. 3.3 mile trail run, 22 mile bike, 3.3 mile trail run.

I am proud to say, I was the first one there. I'm not kidding. Haley can attest to my desire to get to races REALLY early. Cody was out of town so our lovely babysitter arrived at 6:30am. I was able to swing thru my trusty Starbucks and was racking my bike in transition at 6:55. Atta girl.

Eve showed up not long after I did and it was nice to have some company. We picked her a real nice transition spot and I joined her when she went over to pick up her number and swag bag. Then, we had an hour and a half to do absolutely nothing. I don't mind this. I like walking around with my tunes on and stopping and chatting. It's nice to be at a race where I actually know the participants. It's good time to catch up.

After Eve pulled a geriatric move and fell while warming up (seriously).....we were off to the start line. Eve looked tough with blood dripping down her leg and some weeds in her shorts. I just stood next to her looking jittery. We talked about paces and I decided that Eve was a good carrot. I have to admit, I was quite nervous before the start. I'd say more nervous than Oceanside.....and Wildflower. I am learning this is a good sign. When I'm not nervous, bad sign.

Countdown...and it's time to go. And, there goes my carrot. By the first lap, I could no longer see Eve. There are a lot of trees, maybe she's not that far ahead. Hm.

I had a solid first run, I went a little bit conservative but I'd never done this distance so I didn't want to blow it on the first run.

Got on the bike and within a mile, I saw Eve pulling over on the side of the road, rubbing her butt cheek. I checked in with her (didn't slow down or stop, just yelled "you alright?"), she thought maybe she hurt her hip in that Rambo warm up. So I kept going. Since she was upright and not visibly crumbling, my conscience was put at ease. This is the Spring Thaw Duathlon after all. I knew I wasn't going to catch Haley unless one of her wheels fell off so I decided to look for some boys to chase.

Out on the bike course, Roger, Matt, Jessie & Jessi cheered and at the same time, Jessi hung out the window and risked her life to get the "good shots" (all photos here were taken by her). It was so nice to have some fans. It was also nice to have someone taking pictures of me. Although, I might take that back after seeing this shot.

Seriously, I'm not that scary in real life and I DO look like a girl when not yelling like a caveman. But I had to give a shout out to them. They were doing such a great job! Thanks also to Nat & Greg for cheering.

Here I am rounding the last corner of the last lap.

I had a good day. Placed 2nd overall (1st amateur) behind Miss Zooty Pants and won my age group.

Honu 70.3....the countdown

2008-05-15T11:33:00.000-07:00

After coming back from the dead with the "Wildflower stomach flu" I am 100% and counting down to Honu. I couldn't resist sharing my enthusiasm and excitement for this race. It is, by far, my favorite Half Iron event. I'll be flying out in 12 days and on the course, racing in 15 days.

To start, the swim is in Hapuna Bay (pictured below) and it's a mass swim start. In addition to that, it's a no-wetsuit swim. This is one of the reasons I first chose to do this race in 07. Personally, when choosing races, I try to find ones that not only compliment my strengths but I also look for races that challenge me where I'm lacking and make me a little "uncomfortable".

I figure in doing this, I don't rule any races out for dumb reasons like "I'm not a fast swimmer" or "I'm not good in the heat". I like to take these on and see how I come out on the other end and learn from whatever the result is. In addition to that, I feel it puts me in a better position for future races. Sometimes weather changes, water warms up or there's not an accurate course description. The more often you can suffer through tough conditions on tough courses in training and racing, the more natural it will feel in a race whether it's expected or not. Stepping out of your comfort zone only makes you stronger in the end.

Last year, my swim time was 40:11. Yes, folks....that's forty minutes, eleven seconds. But the mass start was harmless, the waves mellow and the scenery incredible! I'll try to focus more on the feet ahead of me this year instead of the colorful little fishies. I plan to see improvement on the swim from last year.....but who knows how much?

In this swim, you have the choice to do a running, beach start or deep water start. Last year I chose the deep water start but personally, I think the beach start is the smarter way to go. That's what I'll do this year.

The bike course goes on part of the Ironman Kona course. It's a nice course, not technical at all but you do have to consider the wind. There's the climb out to Hawi.....more of a rolling elevation gain than a climb. After doing Wildflower, I don't feel like I can call any hill a climb. Nasty grade is a climb. The photo below is the way back which is a refreshing way to do the second half of the bike course but this is also when a side/head-wind seems to kick in. Must stay in aero position and push through it....

Since I was SO far behind everyone else on the swim last year, I passed 305 people on the bike. Having to get through all of these people caused me to go a little hard on the first half of the bike. At one point, I just decided to stand and pass. I didn't want to get caught behind people and there were a lot of "clumps". I'd say I kind of hammered this first half, a lot of it standing. Mistake #1. Must be steady on the bike because the run is a kicker.

The run course is mostly on the Mauna Lani Golf course. It kind of reminded me of a cement roller coaster path at times.....there was a small run across sand but not bad. My mistake here was that I started out hard coming off of a bike time that I was happy with. I was just going to close it up with the run. Not so fast. As things started to go south, I stopped hydrating because in my "idiotic race head" there was no time for this. The run was 11 minutes slower than my slowest half iron run at the time. Must be smart before the race and carry plan through during race. For any of you planning on doing this race, I would strongly recommend a strict nutrition and hydration plan before the race that is followed strictly during the race. This is a tough run course and it's hot out there. There's not a whole lot of room for being under-hydrated or low on calories.

After this difficult race, it was really fun to come through the finish line and just "be" in Hawaii. The grounds of the resort are beautiful and there's no better place to revel in your accomplishment. There's even Hula dancers! I'll admit, these aren't as good as the naked people (that weren't even there!!!) at Wildflower.....but still pretty cool. Last year I spent the day after the race, laying in the sun. I burnt my backside SO bad, the red-eye home that night was less than comfortable. I will wear sunscreen this time but still lounge by the ocean the day after the race and take it all in.

I'd recommend this race to anyone who wants to do a half. It is an incredible experience to say the least. I'm counting down the days.....

Happy Mother's Day to ME!

2008-05-11T17:48:00.000-07:00

Oh, what a wonderful day! I had the option to sleep in but couldn't seem to stay in bed past 7:15. So, I guess that's sleeping in for me now. Got up to find my boys watching some kind of 'quality' tv and my husband fast asleep on the couch. What time did everyone else get up?

Come to find, Hayden was up in the 5am range (I guess any holiday, even Mother's day, their internal clock tells them to get up EARLY). The other tid-bit was that Cody now has the flu that I brought back from Wildflower. He's on the first day, which shows up as just being extremely tired with an aversion to being upright. I can proudly say, that yesterday was the first day I felt normal. After having a whole week off of any training, I ran for an hour and although I felt a little more tired than I normally would have, it went well.

So, I showered, drank a smoothie and went to visit my trusty Starbucks store. We met the Duchows for brunch at Twigs at 10:45. After that, we headed downtown to Nordstroms :) to look for my mother's day gift. After looking at all the lovely purses and being mildly entertained by my kids bouncing around the cosmetics department while Cody sat in a 'makeover chair' with my 'old purse' on his shoulder, in a total daze, completely unaware of anything going on around him, we left my "home away from home" and headed over to Fitness Fanatics (my newly adopted "home away from home"). I am confident in saying, I am the only one that was disappointed to be leaving Nordstrom.....not to mention, empty handed. Hayden made it clear that this whole day was incredibly 'bowing' and many a time he posed the question "why can't we do something fun?". Why would anyone in their right mind CHOOSE to do this with their "very own day"? Cody explained again and again that this was Mother's day......Mommy's day to have with her family and do what she wants. Hayden's response was "well, then TOMORROW, we are going to Chuck E Cheeses". Poor guy, still doesn't get the concept. Oh well, on to Fitness Fanatics.

I had to include this picture I took of Hayden in the fall.....it opitimizes him and the usual form he was in today.
So, we walk in and were greeted right away by Robin. Haley was holed up in the back, working in the shop (she's such a grease monkey). So, I said to Robin "well, it's a choice between a new, designer bag and wallet OR carbon base bar & aero bars". The fashionista in me is somewhat ashamed to admit Robin didn't need to twist my arm......at all. I've had the same Coach purse for 5 years now, and I do have a vision base bar with some nice, carbon s-bends.......BUT, time to chuck the idea of a new purse out the window because this is what I got........

Profile Design, Cobra Wing carbon base bar. Pictured below

Profile Design, Sonic CSX Aerobars

And of course, I had to get a new, fancy Oval R900 carbon stem!
So, even though Hayden didn't think it was very fun, it was a great mother's day. I was really spoiled! Thanks to Robin and John at Fitness Fanatics for taking the time to help me find just what I needed and helping me make (what we all know) was the right decision. Who needs a new purse? Thanks to my wonderful husband for making it through the day and refusing to go home and lay down because he wanted to spend it with me......not to mention, spend on me :) Thanks for making me feel like a princess.....uh, of the "tri kind".

Wildflower-Race Day

2008-05-06T17:08:00.000-07:00

The cars are parked and it's time to head down to transition......butterfly's!!

Me, Jeff and Steve.

Sam heading down to transition.

Laura took this shot from the bus down to transition. This is Lake San Antonio. The water was looking very calm which I was happy about.

Transition on race morning looks a lot different than it did the day before. I found my way to my spot and got set up. I had plenty of time to freeze my butt off since we got there so early. It was cold but the heat was on it's way.....

Here's me going down to the swim start....feeling ready!

I lined up with my other 35-39 age groupers (yes, I just turned 35 and moved up an age group) and got ready to start the swim. I placed myself up towards the front and the gun went off! I started out smooth and slow and didn't get caught up in all of the craziness. I had to swim through a few people but settled in quite quickly. Initially, I tried drafting off of another girl but she was going too slow and I needed to pick up the pace. I pulled out in front of her and focused on my stroke and rhythm. I seemed to swim on course and didn't even run into any buoys! It was a lonely swim, running into a few people here and there but mostly going it alone.

I got out of the water and looked at my watch. NO WAY! I had started my watch about 30 seconds before the swim start and it said 35:20 so I figured I was right around 35 minutes. In all actuality, I broke 35 minutes with a swim time of 34:57. For some, this swim time would be a total failure, but for me, it's a milestone. I have been putting a lot of time and effort into improving my swim for the last 3 weeks and this is the first glimpse of some measurable improvement. Just a month ago, I swam a 37:08 in Oceanside. For me to take over 2 minutes off of my half iron swim time since my last race just a month ago, made me feel really happy. Here I am running up the hill to transition.

Swim: 34:57

Had a smooth T1 of 2:32. This is a pretty big transition area so that seemed like an acceptable time. I mounted my bike and hit the course. From the start of the bike, my legs felt a little 'heavy'. This was a bit concerning but I just focused on my power and kept going. I'd find myself fading a bit, power dropping and then I'd start pushing a little harder. I was just so tired but I couldn't figure out why. It was clear that the bike was not going as well as I'd hoped but I did my best to stay on target with my power and hope that this meant I'd have a good run. I've had races in the past where my legs don't feel great on the bike and then I get on the run and my legs feel fresh because I couldn't go hard on the bike. I was hoping this would be the case.

Bike: 3:03:27

As I came down lynch hill on the bike, Haley was running down to finish her race. It was fun to see her and loved that the timing worked out so perfectly. At the same time, I wanted to be her, and be done (not to mention, be as fast as her). I still had 13.1 miles to run. We gave each other a shout and I made my way to T2.

I had a smooth T2 although I ran right past my spot and had to run back. Headed out on the run and right out of transition you have to climb stairs! Oh man. I settled in and noticed that my heart rate was a little low but I thought I'd just go on perceived exertion since I was heading into the toughest half iron run I'd ever done. I just never got my legs under me. Surprisingly, the run seemed to go by pretty fast. Now, this was not due to me running fast, I think it actually had something to do with the fact that I was somewhat delirious. I just focused on the miles, one at a time and at times felt like I wasn't moving forward. It was really hot and the hills just kept coming. To top it off, there were NO naked people! Rumor has it that at aid station #4, there are naked people cheering. I looked forward to this because any form of entertainment would have helped me stay conscious but they never appeared.

I never did walk but passed a lot of people that were walking. I don't think I was going much faster than them but nonetheless, I was still "running". I took a ton of water and gatorade in, unlike past races that go south. I knew from the beginning, not to look at my run splits because I didn't want to get discouraged and I was already trying as hard as I could. For those of you that haven't done Wildflower, this run course is just plain HARD. There's lots of ups and downs as well as a nice, steady climb that is never-ending at around mile 10. Then, the last mile is straight downhill which I found to be a bonus. This just made me go "less slow".

I refused to look at my watch to see what my finishing time was going to be until I was done with the race. As I entered the finishing chute, I stopped my watch and saw it said 5:46. OHMYGOD. I didn't realize I went THAT slow. I tried my best to finish strong but I was in bad shape. I felt a bit of shame as I saw Laura in the stands, cheering me on with camera in hand. Sigh. It is good to be done.

Run: 2:04:08

However, I can honestly say-I tried really hard. It was just a very tough race.

Overall Time: 5:47:21
9th in Age Group

Haley came and found me in transition and knew that it didn't go well for me. Both Laura and Haley said I looked really rough coming in. It was nice to have her there and get a big hug from her. She understood. She did mention that my belly was really bloated. Hm. The first signs of something on it's way.....and no, I'm not pregnant.

I got all of my stuff out of transition, hooked up with Laura and we met up with the gang. Jeff Blackwell, Steve Rupe, Sam, Haley, Troy Nelson, Molly and Sean Linder. Molly placed 5th in our AG, Sam got 5th in his AG and Jeff got 5th in his AG. The Spokane clan made a great showing! Haley placed 12th in the pro's and it was quite a competitive field.

Usually, when I finish a race, I get over it if it didn't go well and I'm ready to celebrate someone's victory! But, I just couldn't rally. After waiting around for a long time to see if Sam and Jeff were going to place in their age group, we had to pack up and leave. I couldn't stay upright. Laura and I headed out. She was racing the next morning.

Here's me, Troy, Molly, Haley and Sean.

I couldn't eat much and felt completely wiped and achy. By bedtime, the huge victory burrito I had bought sat on the nightstand with one bite out of it. For those of you who know me, I can put away the food. Especially after a race. Not to mention, a beer or two. I went to bed that night disappointed in my lack of appetite and fatigue.

As the following day passed, it became clear that I had the stomach flu. I haven't been that sick in a long time and am still battling this lovely gift. The ride home was torture as I did my best to stay curled up around my pillow in the fetal position while Laura drove. Thank god for her, I can't imagine having to drive all the way home by myself feeling like that.

Speaking of Laura, she raced the olympic distance on Sunday. I got to be her sherpa. I went to hang out at the swim start. I found my way onto the dock and was approached and asked if I wanted to announce the next wave start as well as blare the horn. So, I got to give a shout out to Laura and Roger (who was already on the bike) and got to mention our tri-club and talk about myself (they asked!). As Laura later explained, she could hear me saying her name and she was looking around at people saying "that's me". The funniest part was after this shot. The announcer had just realized that the Laura that I had given a shout out to earlier was now warming up in the water. So, she interviewed her in front of everyone and after they were done, she quickly walked over to the back of the pack and got ready for the gun to go off.

She really doesn't always have her tongue hanging out of her mouth.....

Here's Laura after her race, looking pretty fresh. Maybe, you could give just a little more effort next time, so you're actually sore the next day?

A shout out to Sam Picicci for an awesome race and only one minute off of the time I predicted he would do, Steve Rupe for a solid effort on his first half of the year, Jeff Blackwell for placing 5th in his AG with an injured calf, Troy Nelson for taking 10 minutes off of last year and Coops for being my hero :). Also, a shout out to Roger for killing the field in the olympic distance race (3rd overall and 1 second behind 2nd). You can check out his blog for all of the details and photos.......that I took. Make sure to check out the posts below, I made three today. It was a long trip!

Thanks to all of my pals for making this such a fun weekend, can't wait for next year. Who's in?

Wildflower, Day Before Race

2008-05-06T16:04:00.000-07:00

After a few hours of sleep from our late arrival into Paso Robles, we got up and showered and hit the road with Steve and Jeff (who had flown in the night before). Steve drove the course which was nice because I got to sit back and just take it all in. I was excited to see that there were some descents on the bike course to reward all the hard work. Let me tell ya, folks.....this bike course is tough, not just physically but mentally. The hardest part is the last 15 miles.......so that's just hangin' over your head the whole time.

Here's Steve and Jeff, I thought they looked like they belonged in some kind of men's catalog.

Laura went into the port-a-potty......I was going to shake it but thought that was mean. Not to mention, she was going to be my sherpa the next day and I didn't want her injured in some freak, port-a-potty "accident".

Coming out, totally unscathed.

Here's me, trying to look important. I don't know if anyone was even on the line.

Jeff and Steve heading over to registration.

Here's the view of the massive transition area. Pitter patter.

Here's Jeff, standing in line at registration. I had to put this picture in here because, little did anyone know around him that he'd place in his age group! Nice job, Jeff! Note: Jeff just started triathlon last year with a running background. Coeur D Alene was his second triathlon and he qualified for Kona there. Not bad.

Laura, Sam and I went to a BBQ place for dinner. Jeff and Steve opted for something less fun.

As we were walking out, Laura wanted to get a picture. So, Sam grabs this random guy to take a picture with us.

It just so happened that this monster truck belonged to the stranger in the above photo. Knowing that Sam and I are both vertically challenged, that Sam has a background in monster trucks and mullets, I couldn't resist having my picture taken with him in front of the truck. And yes, we are standing.

After dinner, we headed back to our posh accommodations and settled in for the night. I felt ready and excited to tackle this difficult race and quickly fell into my best pre-race sleep yet.

Road Trip to Wildflower

2008-05-06T13:35:00.000-07:00

Wednesday night, we packed up the car and went to bed. Laura and I woke up at 4am and hit the road by 4:10. Ready for a 17 hour road trip......hm. Maybe it turns out a smidge longer than that. Details to follow. Here's the first shot of our Nav....somewhere out in the middle of nowhere.

Although this shot is blurry, I love the feel of it. The silhouette of the saddle with the sun rising......ready for an adventure.

I felt it was only appropriate to take a picture of every Starbucks we stopped at. Here's the first one. Many to come.

YARD SALE! We were a little afraid to get busted parked out in front of this persons house taking pictures with my telephoto lens. But seriously, how could we not?

We drove for hours on hwy 97 at 55 mph because that was the speed limit and we didn't want a ticket (cops were hiding out everywhere). After tirelessly looking for "just the perfect picnic spot"(per Laura's request) we stopped to eat our lunch that I'd prepared for us the day before. We found this trashed parking lot and this was our view. This lovely (dead, but lovely) tree had a tag on it that actually read "SOLD". It wasn't quite the spot that Laura was hoping for but it did give us something to ponder on while we ate lunch.

Across the street from the sold, dead tree, we could see this sign. Great lunch ambiance.

Now doesn't that look good? We decided that we couldn't depend on the gas stations and fast food restaurants to get good pre-race nutrition in. So, I shredded up chicken breast and we ate some fully loaded cold chicken tacos with fresh guacamole for lunch and dinner.

Here's Laura, loving me for making her such a good lunch.
Notice how much bigger the taco was in the picture above. That was my taco. I'd like to say my eyes were too big for my stomach but I devoured the entire taco completely. Power to the little people.

Just one of the many lovely views we found along the way.

Laura and KISS go way back.

Shoe tree. Like, a real tree with shoes in it. Stopping to take pictures of things like this and the yard sale is probably what turned our "17 hour road trip" into a "21 hour roadtrip". Next year, we are going to bring a pair of our own shoes to hang. Hopefully, it's still there.

A bunch of smelly, old shoes in a tree.

And Laura is trying to touch them.

Starbucks stop in Bend, Oregon.

Me, happy to have another cup in my hand. Many hours to go.

This is at the last Starbucks stop of the day.

I love this picture. Notice Laura's parking job. There were even folks sitting outside on the patio to witness this. When I got back into the car, there was a guy that was getting into his truck next to us. I noticed that he was really checking out our bikes.....I felt cool. Then I realized he was most likely gawking, not at our cool bikes, but a car that was most definitely parked by a girl.

So, the sun went down and we continued driving. We talked on the phone with Spokane crew #2 (Haley, Troy, Sean & Molly) who left a whole 6 hours after us yet were only 3 1/2 hours behind us. How did this happen? Was it the shoe tree? This is when the realization hit that we probably weren't going to roll into the Paso Robles Motel 6 at 9 or 10pm. Oh no, it was going to be much later than that. We were in our lovely motel 6 beds at 1:30am and asleep by 2. After a 21 hour road trip.

That's day one of our Wildflower adventure. More to follow.....

Masters Swim

2008-04-15T20:17:00.000-07:00

Alright, so Jessi had to bring the camera to the Masters Swim this morning. Here's the thing, I really don't like to blog unless I have pictures. It's not nearly as exciting to read a blog without pictures so why would I post one?

I couldn't seem to keep my tongue in my mouth this morning. That's better than the other picture she got.....

Now it means I've got to make my Masters swim post. Here goes.

Since I started triathlon, the swim has always been the slowest to come along (Jessi was witness to my first laps in the pool 2 years ago and it wasn't pretty). I have said SO many times "I have really got to get faster in the water". Or I've heard "wow, just think of what you could do if you weren't so slow in the water". Believe me, I've thought....and been frustrated. But what it all boils down to is just putting the effort forth and working really hard in the water.

Without re-hashing my last two seasons in triathlon and some pretty funny swim stories, it's just time to work on the swim. Actually, it's time to bust my ass on the swim. Period. After Oceanside I decided that this is the year that I have got to do something different to improve my times. And it just so happened that Kevin Wang was starting his masters swim program the week after Oceanside. Perfect timing. So, I am committed. 5 days a week I drag my rear outta bed at 5am and head to the pool to swim for an hour and a half and then come home, get the boys off to school and do the remainder of my training then. And, it's WELL worth it.

Kevin runs an awesome program and I am so thrilled to be a part of this group. Right now, I am the slowest one there. No kidding. Often, everyone is waiting at the wall for me to finish so we can go on to the next set. More the reason to bust my butt. So there it is. My new favorite workout is no longer speedwork at the track because I like my results, it's Masters Swim with Kevin Wang because I want to have results that I like......it's just going to take some early mornings and a lot of hard work.

Here's J on the block. That could be a song.....Anyway, I told her to hop up there for a picture and was laughing really hard that this is how she thought she should do it. This girl can SWIM and she's standing on the block like, well, like she's doing a yoga pose. Ahhh, good times. Always looking for good entertainment at 5:30am.

Thanks to J.O.T.B for the pics, for inspiring me to push harder in the water......and of course, the entertainment.

Get er' done!

Spring Thaw Duathlon

2008-04-13T20:26:00.000-07:00

Today was The Emde Sports, Spring Thaw Duathlon, part 1. These races are somewhat special for me. This series in 2006 was the first exposure I had to racing. The first one I did, I won my age group and that was inspiring to say the least......and FUN. When my name got called, I just sat there, confused, thinking maybe they were going to say they found my sweatshirt. Granted, had I done the time I did in 2006 today, I wouldn't have even placed in my age group. These races have become more and more popular and today, there were about 200 participants.

Here's us at the start line. Let's play a little "where's Phaedra?". It is only when I see pictures of myself around other "normal sized" human beings that I realize just how small I am. Can you find me? I'm there.

I have to thank my dear husband who showed up with the boys and camera in tow to the race and took a ton of pictures of everyone (I'm going to go out on a limb and guess that maybe the boys dressed themselves today to help Daddy out). Here are the boys hiding out. I don't think they actually watched the race even though Hayden says it's his favowate thing to do.

SUPERSTAHHHH! That's me, Greg and Steve. Steve and I have coined ourselves team "superstahh". Both Greg and Steve had superstah performances today.

Cody captured this shot of me coming through for the second loop of the last run. I was passed by two REALLY fast women with less than 1/4 mile to go. I seriously felt like I was standing still when Janet Collar passed me with about 100 yards to the finish. I could hear her coming like a freakin' train. Good-ness.

Here I am coming to the finish, with a total time of 58:30. I'm happy with this, I took 1:40 off from last year at the second duathlon. I won my age group and I think I was 6th overall in the women (including the two pro's).

I want to give a shout out to Coops and Fannie for a fantastic race. Coops was the first overall woman and shaved off a nice chunk of time from last year and Annie came in second, at least a minute faster than last year! They never cease to amaze me with their talent, skill and hard work. Also, nice job to Sam for winning overall and setting a new course record. You owe me a Starbucks and I won't forget about it. Steve, you're a SUPERSTAH-it was fun competing against you today, props to you for passing me before the hill on the second run ;). Vicki, you always inspire me to push hard. I was riding hard, knowing you weren't far behind me.

I love this picture of little miss Zooty pants. Do you know Haley Cooper? She's on the ZOOT team. Oh, how we love to embarrass Haley by making a fuss over her. And no Coops, I'm not going to remove this from my blog.

And here's Fannie, off to Mazatlan next week to race with the pros. Good luck Fannie! I'll be sending lots of fast thoughts your way! Make sure to practice your "BANG!"(from the diaphragm).

Congrats to Greg, Conrad, Stan, Martin, Amanda, Michael, Daryce, Tia, Phil and everyone else that raced today. Great job to ya'all! Thanks also to J. Po, Rupe, Allison, Julie, Darcy, Tanya, Mark, Aubrey and Sarah for cheering. It was so nice to hear you guys out there!

3 weeks until Wildflower