Happy to Tri

My week in a nutshell...

2008-09-11T06:17:00.001-08:00

Monday- I did a round of bricks 5 miles bike, 1 mile run, etc... I ended up doing 20 miles on bike, 3 mile run with 10 minute cooldown

Tuesday- Elliptical 30 min. Weight training 45 min

Wednesday- Elliptical 20 min. Spin Class 45 min. In the afternoon headed out for a 30 mile bike ride on the Silver Comet. I fell 2xs trying to clip out of my shoes. I know that I looked so silly, like a weeble I wobbled and I fell down. Very sore today

Thursday- Elliptical 10 min. Weight training 45 min.

School is great. I have 13 adorable pre-k children. We are learning about our Community Helpers. My husband came by in his Waste truck to show the kids how it worked. They are so excited, some cried, others jumped for joy.

I hope all of you have had a great week.
Keep training. Keep dreaming.

10k Classic

2008-09-06T09:59:00.001-08:00

I decided to still run the 10k on Labor Day in honor of my dad. I was so tired from Sunday (Dad's memorial) but I really wanted to do it.
Hubby got up with me. I tried to convince him to run with me but he said, No way. Maybe next year. He dropped me off at Cumberland Mall at 6:15 am and headed down Cobb Parkway to the finish. They close Cobb Pkwy at 6:30. I went to the bathroom before lines got really long. I did some stretches and ran for about 30 min. to get ready.
It took me about 1:05 according to my watch. The official time was 1:19 min.

It was the hardest race, even though it was not my longest race it just seemed to wear me out. I cried most of the way. I am sore and over worked but it was worth it.

TODAY August 29, 2008...

2008-08-29T17:59:00.000-08:00

my dad died. It is so hard to see someone so strong all of your life wither down to almost nothing. I know that one day I will see him again, but for now I am learning to cope without him here on earth.

I am still working on my training. Today I did an hour spin class. I have a friend coming down and we are riding the Silver Comet this week.

Cancer REALLY SUCKS!!!!

2008-08-26T17:24:00.000-08:00

My posts have been few and far between. I am still working out and training daily, but both of my parents have cancer. The most urgent need that I am helping with is my dad, he is battling lung cancer.
As a little girl, he was the strongest man that I knew- totally different from today as I watched him desperately trying to take a breath.

I cried most of the day.

Cancer sucks.

I am so glad that there are people out there raising money to help find a cure.

Down 3 more pounds!!!

Life?!?!-- It happens!

2008-08-15T15:25:00.000-08:00

and continues to happen, even when I want it to slow down. I know that I haven't posted in a while about the training so I thought I would comment about what has been happening.
The training has been steady-every morning at 5:00-6:30 am, which is so good for me and yesterday I even did an extra hour in the evening.
I am trying to drop weight so balancing nutrition is something that I am working on. Marni Rakes has a great blog where she posts recipes and such. In the past three weeks I have dropped 9 lbs. Woo-Hoo !!! I would like 10 more. We will see what happens.

School has started this week for all of us. I like the schedules and routine that school brings. I thrive with a schedule and so does my family.
Trevor is starting 2nd grade and Roman is a big 10th grader.
I have 12 wonderful kindergarten children. I think that it is going to be a great year.

Back from the dead... I mean California

2008-08-04T13:29:00.000-08:00

I just returned from an 8 day trip to see my mom in California. I am little out of it with the time change, but I am wanting to get outside and run.
I planned on doing the Acworth's Women Tri this coming weekend, but I don't think that it is happening. I have been away from my family for a week and they just want to be with me... so, I am opting to stay here and be with them and catch the next one August 23rd in Peachtree City.

Look what I got!!!!

2008-07-22T15:01:00.000-08:00

SHIMANO Bike shoes!!!! WooHoo!

I woke up Saturday morning for a 40 mile bike ride on the Silver Comet with a friend. I parked at the Silver Comet Depot and after the ride I decided to take "Sally" (my bike) in for some love and they were having a SALE. A BIG sale. These shoes were 100.00 with 75% off.
$25.60 with tax

I have never ridden with bike shoes so this will be an experience. I will keep you updated.

Peachtree Road Race

2008-07-14T15:07:00.000-08:00

I really enjoyed this race.

I ran it for the first time last year, as a matter of fact it was my first 10K ever.
I wanted to finish strong this and I think that I did. As I was running I saw some patients for the spinal center in their wheelchairs and some Vietnam Vets so I ran over and gave them high-5's.
Seeing the swarms of people running and the great costume ideas was truly an awesome thing.

I cry at every race. The tears start to flow when I see the finish line. This race was no exception I was boo-whooing like a baby.

Time 67 min.

Run 30 min
Elliptical 35 min

The swim and bike portion of the race

2008-07-11T18:15:00.000-08:00

The Swim

First, let me say before I competed in my first triathlon, I thought that I was a good swimmer. I swam in high school and competed in a couple of races at my local pool. I didn't realize how different it would be in the lake (where you can't see in front of you) as opposed to the pool.

Back to the race report

I really try to focus on the end of the swim. I have a hard time controlling my breath because I get so nervous at the start and then my heart rate goes too high and I am unproductive. This has happened the past two swims that I have had including IronGirl. After getting out of the water we had to run almost straight up a hill. I was completely out of breath. I started listening to the announcer talk about a competitor in the race and how her sister had breast cancer. He spoke about the money that she raised to help with the research, I was touched and thought about my sister losing her life to cancer and how that I needed to keep going. I refocused and grabbed my bike. Standing right outside T1 as I came out were my 7 year old and my husband. Loved seeing their smiling faces.

Since this is really my first season competing I am learning through trial, error and other bloggers the ins and outs of triathlon. It was very hard for me to train outside for the bike and run portion because of my work schedule, so I spent a lot of mornings in the gym doing Bricks, long bikes and long runs. Having said that, I didn't spent a whole lot of time on my road bike outside (this changed the minute I got home from the race).

The Bike

Well, you know what happened? I spent the first 7 miles in the same gear, because I thought I had broken the shifter-- OPERATOR ERROR!!!! I forgot how to shift. With those hills it was brutal. I even stopped a few times to see if my chain was broken, no it was the fact that I wasn't shifting. Finally at mile 14 I figured it out and laughed at myself.

I am not a great writer...

2008-07-10T15:04:00.001-08:00

so when I sit down to write I know what I want to say I just don't know how to say it. It has taken me almost 2 weeks to complete a race report. Next time I am going to just post pictures.

The Iron Girl race report a day (or five days late) and a few pictures short...

2008-07-03T15:57:00.000-08:00

Sorry that it has taken me so long to post about last weeks race. So much to do, so little time.
I have been working full-time this summer and I am not used to it. I know that women do it all the time and I salute you. Wow, it is hard-okay enough of the whining.

Race Report

I don't know about you, but I always get so nervous getting ready for a race.

IronGirl was no different

Saturday (before the race) my son, Trevor and I went to Lake Lanier to put my bike in transition and pick up the race packet. It was about an 1 1/2 to Lake Lanier so we made an afternoon out of it. I was so happy that we were able to put our bikes to rest the day before. No having to worry about setting it up the morning off.
I picked up my packet, along with the wonderful card from Aflac and a visor from Team Courage. All part of the awesome package that Aflac paid for.
Then it was off to the expo, Trevor and I sampled some products, talked to ladies and gents, signed up for chances to win prizes and stayed for the clinic at 3:00. After the clinic we headed to the van to put a bike computer on Sally (Trevor named my bike). Why I thought that it would be a good idea to mount a bike computer on my bike the day before the race is beyond me. Trevor was a good sport and sat in the back of the van with the hatch for an hour while I tried to get the stupid #$%&* bike computer to work. I gave up trying and we walked Sally to the bike transition.

As we were going into transition a very fit lady by the name of Amy caught my eye. She was wearing an Ironman visor. I immediately started asking her questions, picking her brain about what it took to complete an Ironman. She answered my questions so graciously and she also told me that she is a swim coach in Kennesaw. Jackpot! I asked her if I could call her for some coaching and she gave me her number. Look forward to see what happens with that. We then headed to a nearby pizza place to carb up.
I had a very restful evening with the family. My husband and I had established that we would ride together to the race on Sunday.

I don't like to ride with my family to a race, I like for them to meet me at the race.
For all kinds of reasons I won't go into I like to prepare for the race on the way to the race-Does that make sense? Well, the whole way there they got on my last nerves. They were not ready to go when I needed to go and I arrived at 6:40 am. My wave was starting at 7:00 am. Agghhhh!!!!
Needless to say I was able to get transition set up and make a beeline for the water. A little frustrated I got into the water to warm up. Within what seemed like seconds they call my age group together for the start.

More to come....

I am an Iron Girl...

2008-06-30T03:09:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to let you know that I survived and what an awesome day it was.

IronGirl Race report and pics coming soon

What a treat-- I was able to meet 3 favorites of mine from blog land-- Wes, Dee Dee and Sarah. Wow! I have been reading Sarah's blog for a year and through her site found Wes a little over six months ago. I try to read daily for inspiration and information.

This week...

2008-06-20T13:18:00.000-08:00

I started doing something a little bit different. During the summer I work full-time (summer day camp) and I haven't had a lot of success trying to balance family time and work-outs after I get off work. So, I decided to get up early and go to the gym to train.

Can I tell you that I LOVE it !?!

Well, 5:00 am does come early, but I am able to complete 1 to 1 1/2 hours of training.

Monday- Brick Bike 45 min. Run 30 min.
Tuesday- Elliptical 30 min. Run 30 min Swim with camp 2 hours

Wednesday- Run 45 min.
Thursday-Bike 1 hour Swim 2 with camp 2 hours

Friday- off
Saturday- Brick 1 hour bike 30 min Run

This time in the morning works so well for me.
I am down 4 lbs. this week.

I will not be competing in the Calloway Triathlon this weekend, my dad is sick and I really need to go and see him.

Good Luck to Wes and all of the other racers out there.

Burning Rubber...

2008-06-11T17:49:00.001-08:00

man, I love my new bike. Ever since the Lake Murray Triathlon last month I have been pushing myself to go faster on my bike. For the last two weeks I have been riding longer and harder.
Yesterday, I rode 18 miles in under 47 min. a big accomplishment for me seeing that in the triathlon I rode 16 miles in 1 hour 1 min. (although my chain came off 2xs)

Nutrition, Nutrition, Nutrition-- this is something that I have been working on for years.
I have been reading Rachel's
blog for some tips on nutrition. I have a real sensitive stomach so her words through trial and error have been very helpful.

I moved a friend from Oklahoma to Tennessee this past weekend, so training schedule is

Monday-Rest
Tuesday-1 hour bike & 40 min run
Wednesday-Swim 1 hour
Thursday-Swim 1 hour & 40 min run
Friday-Brick 1hour bike & 30 min run
Saturday-Swim
Sunday- Long Bike (Father's Day I hope I can sneak away for a while)

Iron Girl

2008-06-03T03:25:00.000-08:00

A great big thank you to Dee Dee- Wes's wife. She let me know about the Iron Girl and I am signed up. Aflac is fitting the bill (thank you so much).
On the website Aflac asked for cancer stories from the lives of the women here in Georgia. I submitted my story and they paid for my entry. How awesome is that!?

Email from Aflac

Hello Christian it would be our honor to extend you an entry to the Aflac
Iron Girl Atlanta event. You are truly a guiding light in your family that
has suffered so greatly with cancer. I have attached a letter to take you
through the registration process online to enter the race.

You are an inspiration!

Dream Big Always,
Judy

I am so grateful for this opportunity.

Thanks Aflac, IronGirl and Dee Dee.

Schedule for this week

2008-05-28T18:20:00.001-08:00

Tuesday- Bike 1:00; Run 30 min 21.46 miles; 2.80 miles
Wednesday- Swim
Thursday- Swim 1:00; Run
Friday- Recovery/ Strength training
Saturday- Long Bike 2:00 hours
Sunday- Long Run 9 miles
Monday- Swim 45 min pm; Run 30 min am

Lake Murray Triathlon

2008-05-28T13:15:00.000-08:00

What an amazing rush. My first triathlon this season. Nothing like crossing the finish line.

I drove to South Carolina on Saturday, May 17th with my friend, Sharon and her mom. We checked in to the hotel and then scoped out the course, picked up my packet and went out to dinner. I didn't want to eat anything heavy, so while everyone else was eating chips and salsa, I was thinking, "If I eat that I am going to have trouble". Sometimes I have stomach problems and I didn't want any trouble for the race.
Went to bed about 10:30 pm. I think I finally drifted off at 11:30 pm. The alarm woke me up at about 5:o0 am and I ate a bagel with peanut butter, got dressed and waited for my ride. Darron (Sharon's brother) picked us up at 5:30 am.
I felt more confident this time knowing what to do in setting up the transition and preparing myself mentally for what was about to happen.
Out of the three events, the swim was the one I was worried about--750 meters!!! I was used to doing 400 meters.
The bike I thought I would have a decent time--new bike and all!!!
and the run, what can I say? I wanted to run it in under 35 min.

As we neared the water ready for the start, I tried to calm myself down.
Breathe deeply I said to myself. The buzzer went off and there I went. I told myself that I wanted to make it to the finish and I didn't care what the time was I just didn't want to be last.
As I came out of the water (not last). I was so thankful that the swim portion was over. 24 min.
T1
On to the bike. Got a great start. My chain came off 2 times in a matter of 20 min. I wasn't really prepared, good thing it was just the chain. 1:01
T2
Coming off the bike my legs were pretty strong. I finished in 35 min.

Overall, I was very happy with the results. I am looking forward to the next tri

I took the plunge

2008-05-14T15:17:00.000-08:00

I bought a bike!
Allez Specialized
My bike time is the weakest part of my triathlon, so I really need to work on this area. I wanted to buy an entry bike so I can later upgrade the components. Since this is my 2nd triathlon on Sunday and I have always borrowed a bike to train and race, I didn't have anything to go with the bike. I purchased a spare tube and co2 kit. I know that I need a seat bag, bottle holder and pump. Anything else essential that I need before the race?

Work-out
Monday- Run 45 min
Swim- 1hour
Tuesday- Brick-Bike 1 hour
Run 30 min
Wednesday- Rest
Thursday-Bike 45 min
Swim-1 hour
Friday- Run easy
Saturday- Easy Bike
Sunday- Lake Murray Triathlon

Race for the Cure post race report

2008-05-10T16:41:00.000-08:00

Woke up this morning at 5:00am and got ready for a great day and a great race. The Susan G. Komen-Race for the Cure.

Hubby stumbled in the bathroom at about 5:30. We both were ready to go at 6:00am. You see because it is Mother's Day Weekend (I get what I want, right?)

I asked him to hang out with me
and pamper me today. He said he would.
We headed to Marta and made our way to the starting line. I was really nervous (I don't really know why) but I ended up using the bathroom 3x's before the race. At the starting line the runners/walkers let balloons go in honor of the survivors and in memory of losing someone fighting breast cancer. With so many racers and many of them were walkers it was so difficult to break away for the crowd and start running. Next time I know to get close to the starting line. Overall, it was an awesome race. Hubby was there to take pictures and cheer for me at the finish.

After the race we picked up the boys and went to a couple of bike shops in search of my Mother's Day present. I think I found the bike.
http://www.trekbikes.com/women/wsd_products/bikes/2008/road/12wsd/
Let me know what you think

Don't feel sorry for yourself

2008-05-07T11:31:00.000-08:00

I receive a daily email about a 90 day renewal that I am on. After reading today's I had to post it. It spoke volumes to me. Have a read and tell me what you think

Never Feel Sorry For Yourself
copyright@2006 by Donna Partow

One of the greatest hindrances I've faced in my journey toward becoming the woman I want to be is self-pity. Self-pity is far more destructive than we realize, not only spiritually and emotionally, but physically, as well. Self-pity isolates and research on longevity conducted at Harvard University found that isolation is a strong predictor of poor mental and physical health, and premature death.

One thing that struck me as I interviewed The Chief (my husband's 104 yr-old great grandfather) is that self-pity had no place in his thinking. I thought you might enjoy a few more excerpts from the book I am currently writing, 104 Tips from the Chief, based on his wisdom and extensive research on longevity.

"When I was 3 years old, living in a small village in Northern Italy, my father became very ill, even though he was only in his 40s. I vividly remember the doctor being called to our home. I remember creeping up the stairs and spying on him as he performed surgery on the goiter on my father's neck--without anesthesia. Mostly, though, I remember the blood...and how my father died that day.

After my father died, our life became very difficult. When we had absolutely nothing left, my mother decided to take us to America. We traveled by horse-and-buggy for two days and nights until we reached Naples. I was around eight years old at the time and I can recall how we prayed and prayed before going through the health inspection line to gain passage on the ship. If any one of us failed, we would all have to turn back. Thankfully, we passed. We sailed for16 days through turbulent waters, under deck and surrounded by animals. We never saw the light of day nor had a breath of fresh air. Everyone was throwing up and the stench was unbelievable.
But we were together and we made it to America. Three years later, my mother died of pneumonia at the age of 44. Shortly before her death, she told my two older sisters to divide the boys (myself and my brother) between them and, no matter what else happened, to remain a family.

It never occurred to me that I should feel sorry for myself or that I might be entitled to sympathy or preferential treatment because of the difficulties I had faced. This was simply my life story. I could not change any of it, so there was no point dwelling on it. Besides, I was too busy living each day, preparing for the future, to keep looking backwards. That's why I am always surprised--and saddened--when I hear people (especially on television) turning their life experience into an excuse for bad behavior.

No possible benefit can come from feeling sorry for yourself. Trust me as someone who has a whole lot of past in my past: what's past is best left in the past. Don't use it as a crutch. Don't use it as a weapon against a cruel world. Don't use it to get what you want from people. You can't move forward when you're looking backward. Saint Paul put it this way: "Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on." If you want to live a long, happy, healthy life, let it go and move on.

Your simple step for today: Refuse to feel sorry for yourself

Here's to Your Transformation

Monday-Run 45 min Elliptical 15 min and swim 1 hour
Tuesday- rest
Wednesday-Run 35 min Elliptical 15 min
Thursday-Bike 1 hour
Friday- Run
Saturday-Race for the Cure
Sunday-Long Bike

T

A new bike

2008-05-04T13:12:00.001-08:00

I am going to buy a bike. I need input. I don't know much about what bike would be the best for me. I am going to my local bike shop tomorrow to look around.

On a side note, I signed up for the Lake Murray Triathlon
on May 18th I am nervous, but very excited about this event.
I have a friend that lives in South Carolina, so lodging will be cheap (free).

Logged miles

2008-04-29T17:33:00.000-08:00

I am still working on writing down all of my workouts so that I can keep track of what I am doing.

Monday- 1 h our treadmill average 5.0 pace
30 min. Elliptical weight loss interval
Later on in the evening I did an hour of swimming
I felt really good yesterday. I had a lot of energy
Tuesday- woke up and felt tired (of course, look at yesterday) Decided to do a brick
3o minutes on the bike, pedaling 95+ and then into a run. I ran for 15 min. ( I needed to pick up my son from school) but the great thing is I could have kept running.
Wednesday-I am planning on a swim
Thursday- Bike
Friday- Day off
Saturday- Long run
Sunday- Bike

On May 10th, I am running the Susan G. Komen-Race for the cure 5k to raise money to help find a cure for breast cancer. This cause is really close to my heart because so many of my friends and family have been affected by this disease as I am sure that your families have been affected also. My younger sister passed away with skin cancer at the age of 29, leaving behind a son. Both of my parents are currently battling this disease. (Mom-breast cancer) and (Dad- lung cancer).
I want God to use me to help others fight this. I will be wearing a shirt during the race with all the names of my friends and family that are survivors or those who have lost their battle with cancer.

Focus on the journey, not just the finish

2008-04-25T18:09:00.001-08:00

This week I have really tried to focus on the journey. This journey I am on to become a better me. A healthier me. I feel that I am always living for tomorrow, not the right now. I think, "When I do this or when I do that." My goal is living in the now and enjoying it, not wishing for tomorrow.

I am in the process of dropping 20 more pounds for speed as I work on the training for Callaway Gardens Tri on June 22nd I started my nine week plan last Monday.

Monday Swim #1 Workout
Run 4 miles

Tuesday Bike 45 min. Zone 2 Cadence at 90+

Wednesday Swim
Run 5 miles

Thursday Bike 45 min

Friday Day off

Tomorrow (Saturday) I plan to run 30 min with a cadence of 22+

Me and my husband are attending a marriage conference this weekend and I am very excited to see what we take and apply it to our marriage.

Us

2008-04-20T14:02:00.001-08:00

Picture of me and my hubby.

Quote for the day

2008-04-19T05:19:00.001-08:00

"Treasure every ordinary day while reaching for every extraordinary treasure"

I love this saying.

It is a word from "The Cinderella Pact" by Sarah Strohmeyer

Ran 5 miles yesterday, felt great.

I have been gone on vacation

2008-04-14T19:03:00.000-08:00

I traveled to Florida for Spring Break last week.
We had an awesome time. I took my youngest son, Trevor while Roman went to Jamaica on a mission trip with his youth group.
My husband was lucky enough to stay here and man the house :)
I was able to get in some runs. Nothing like running on the white sandy beach, that is until you are knocked over by a wave.
I also did a lot of swimming.
I did relax in the sun while reading the March issue of Triathlete. I found my inspiration. It is a photo of a triathlete named Kristen Hilger standing with a Scott bike. Something about this photo renews my desire for Triathlon. I am making goals for this next year.
Whatever it takes, I guess.

Today I went for a 3 mile run and then got on the elliptical for 3 miles. I also attended my weekly swim drill class. It was absolutely the best class. I really do enjoy swimming.

Week at a glance

2008-04-03T16:16:00.000-08:00

On Monday-Ran 3 miles Tempo/20 min. Elliptical
1 hour butt-kicking cross training aerobic swim
Tuesday-Rest
Wednesday-Ran 3.5 miles slow and steady/
1 hour abs and leg work
Thursday- Rest
Friday- I plan on running 5 miles/ Weights
Saturday- SPRING BREAK- Panama City here we come for a week. For obvious reasons I will not be going to the gym, but rather doing my work-outs on the beach :}

I want to shed 15 more pounds. I am going to a clean eating plan.

My Journey to weight loss

2008-03-26T14:31:00.000-08:00

I was very inspired to post my weight
loss journey after reading Sarah's
journey. I hope to inspired someone who wants to lose weight but doesn't think they can.
Here goes-Two weeks prior to this picture
(I am the one on the far left) I had had a baby. Before pregnancy I weighted 214 pounds. During the 9 months of bliss, I gained 70 for a whopping total of 283 lbs.

As you can see I was overweight.

I was very discouraged after the baby came.
I won't bore you with all the details, but I
decided to join Weight Watchers to lose
the weight.It was a process, it didn't come off all at once.

Through support, sweat and tears I dropped 108 pounds. Was it easy? NO WAY.
Was it worth the effort? YES.
Does it get easier to control the food after the weight is gone?
Not really, it is something that I think that I will struggle with my whole life.
I have learned to eat what I want but not to overdue it. If I eat too much, I exercise more.

In 2007, I started running, something that I despised. Last year I ran my first 1/2 marathon. I also completed my first Triathlon. I would encourage you to find something that you enjoy and go for it.

If I can do this, anyone can.

Yesterday I rode 15 miles and ran 2.5 miles

Just call me Flipper

2008-03-25T10:06:00.000-08:00

last night I attended an hour of high-intensity swim aerobics. An hour of burning muscles.
Man, it was hard. I have aches in my muscles, but it was GOOD! I do enjoy the swim part of Triathlon.

Great day

2008-03-23T15:14:00.000-08:00

Well, I have planned out my week of training.
Today I did an easy 3.5 mile run.
Tomorrow I have a swim planned
Tuesday- Strength training/Bike
Wednesday-Swim
Thursday- Run
Fri-Rest
Saturday- Race

My son (Trevor) got baptized today. My heart was overflowing with joy for him as he starts this journey in his life.

Back in Business

2008-03-17T18:11:00.001-08:00

I have been running and stretching and enjoying the weather here in Georgia. I feel like I am back on track.
Do you ever get down on yourself about not running? I have been in a funk these past couple of weeks. I think that I have learned that when I start to feel that down, I need to push the "feeling" aside, grab my running shoes and head out the door. I so need to exercise, not just for weight loss, but for my emotions.
I want to be found in actively pursuing maximum health in my spirit, soul and body.
Each area affects the others. I can not have optimal health in one area without attending to all three areas. An excerpt is from a great devotional that I am reading called, "Becoming the women I want to be." A 90-day journey.

It has been a long time...

2008-03-12T16:03:00.000-08:00

I have been sick for the past week. Sucks to be sick! I tried to train, no can do. So I got down and you know the rest.
I am feeling better and back in the game(so to speak). I plan on getting up tomorrow and running, I am going to listen to my body and see what it says.
I will keep you posted.

Time to be Outside...

2008-02-26T11:58:00.000-09:00

I love being outside. Outside is a place where you can meet with nature, where you take in all the sights and sounds and breathe in the smells from the air. I love the outside.
I was signed up for the Run for the Son Race 10k on Saturday, but I felt that my knee would suffer more harm if I ran, so I skipped it.
On Sunday, I decided I would try to run outside, easy. I have been running on the treadmill for the last couple of weeks and I just want to say, "It was wonderful to be outside".
My knee didn't hurt either.

I did the happy dance when I got home-no sore knee.

The moral of this story is, why run inside when you can run outside or better yet it should be--
Do that happy dance every time you run.

Also, don't forget to vote for Sarah for Evotri. All you need to do is email - vote@evotri.com with 'Sarah McKibben Final Round' as the subject. That's it!
Remember to only vote once!!!

Orthopedic doctor

2008-02-22T11:36:00.000-09:00

Here's the deal. I have a friend who works for a foot doctor. I told her about my problem (knee clicking when I run) she said she would speak to her doctor to find out what I need to do. Doc said, "She needs to see a orthopedic doc." Yuck, I don't really like seeing doctors--no offensive to doctors I just don't like going.
So, husband just got new job. No insurance for the first 60 days. I really need to make an appointment to see him next week and I guess we will have to pay out of pocket, I mean I guess we will have to bend over :)

I was planning on running a race tomorrow. I probably shouldn't do it, huh?

My Knee HURTS!!!

2008-02-18T19:07:00.001-09:00

I have been struggling with a pain in my knee for the past couple of weeks. I have been running and biking, but I haven't been able to give it my all. A clicking noise coming from the left side of the knee has left me in pain. What happened? In the meantime, ice after every run, double strength Glucosamine and Chondroitin and I am resting longer in-between the running and biking. Maybe shoes? Posture? Anyone? I am searching for answers.

P.S. I am sure that I don't have fans coming out of the woodwork to read this blog, but Sarah McKibben's video was chosen as one of the 10 finalists for Team Evotri. She is an inspiration to me. I so enjoy reading her blog and the progress that she has made. Vote for her.
Send an email to - vote@evotri.com with ‘Sarah McKibben’ in the subject line.

Inspired

2008-02-10T03:30:00.000-09:00

I get so inspired when I read other blogs- triathlete blogs, runner blogs to see what is happening with the training and life of the other runners. The World Wide Web- what a concept. A blogger like myself can read about another bloggers day sitting in the comfort of home.
Great stuff.

On a side note, I am preparing for the ING. I ran about 20 miles this week. I am also adding nutrition to the mix. Mental note: add nutrition on a 1/2 marathon :) I tried a shot block yesterday and I seemed to do well. I have a sensitive stomach, so Gatorate upsets it. How do you carry water? I am trying to decide what I need.

See you outside!

Trying to find a gym

2008-01-22T17:05:00.000-09:00

I am trying to find a gym. I have looked at Workout Anytime, American Fitness and BodyPlex. I love the lay-out of BodyPlex, but not the price.
My husband is interested in possibly joining, which is great...he likes Workout Anytime. BodyPlex has a great spinning class that I am interested in. A house divided :)
Free passes to each gym should help us decide.

Very pleased...

2008-01-19T06:39:00.000-09:00

looking back on last year I am very pleased at what was accomplished. As a new runner, I had a misconception that running was for "other" people. I often ask myself, self-who are the other people? Self-esteem was something I struggled with growing up, so it often takes me longer to do a task. Last year, I became a runner and a triathlete and I look forward to new goals this year.
On a totally different subject-I am thinking about joining a gym. I would have access to a treadmill and a bike at the same time. Any comments

Miles report

2008-01-15T11:14:00.000-09:00

It has been a few days since my last post, although I have been running.
I did 8 miles on Saturday and I did speed work today.
I am planning on running the Polar Bear at Johnson's Ferry Baptist Church on Jan. 26th
In the meantime, swimming takes a backseat (brrr...) and I haven't been out on my bike in a while.

Happy New Year

2008-01-06T13:31:00.001-09:00

I haven't posted in such a long time. I am not good at writing...so I don't post as often as I would like.
I would like to keep track of my mileage and my activity so I am going to try to blog often.

I wanted to write down the blessings from 2007 and my goals for 2008

Blessings 2007

Discovered a LOVE for running and exercising
Completed a triathlon (would I be considered a triathlete?:)
Completed a 1/2 marathon
Have a healthy family
Got rid of car payments
11 years of marriage
Maintaining my weight
New couch
Husband leading Homegroup
No wreaks or speeding tickets
California to see my Mom
Christmas with my Mom
Sweet love from my boys
Cancer free (with Mom, Dad and sister with/had cancer)
Read a book a month

Goals 2008

Marathon
Read the bible in one year
Run race a month
3 Triathlon's
Lose 15 more lbs. for a total of 119 lbs.
Healthy
Heart Healthy
Read a book a month
Be a better friend
Prepare for 1/2 ironman (next year)

Gearing up for a half...marathon that is

2007-09-30T16:56:00.000-08:00

You know how you are all geared up for a race and you plan on it and then you visit the website to register and *bam* they have closed registration. I had been planning on competing in Emerald Point on October 7th, but I waited to late. Oh, well maybe next time.

Happy Labor Day

2007-09-03T16:30:00.000-08:00

To celebrate Labor Day I decided to run the U.S. 10K classic. Down Cobb Parkway starting at Cobb Galleria and ending at White Water. This is the 1st year I have run the Classic and I really enjoyed it.
To start the race the Men's cycling took off down the street for a 100k, followed by the women cyclists. Then the in-line skaters and the wheelchair athlete's. It was so moving to see them racing. I was so emotional when the Army rangers parachuted out of the plane-carrying the sponsors flags and the last man carried the American Flag along with a POW flag. I was boo-hooing.
I don't think that I had an outstanding race, but it was a good race. Around 1:10. I broke into a sprint after I crested the hill by the Big Chicken and saw the FINISH line. The glorious finish line. I started crying again excited about doing this for me.

A nice run

2007-08-27T19:00:00.000-08:00

I started out this morning just going out for a casual run. I didn't know what kind of run I wanted to do- a long run or short intervals.
I turned left and just kept going and going and going. It felt so good. I ended up running to my son's school and back. Not that 5 miles is all that, but it did feel great. It took me about 40 min. I am happy with that time.
I would like to work up to a half-marathon. I need to incorporate a training plan for that.

It's official- I have the picture to prove it!

2007-08-18T19:13:00.000-08:00

Well, I did it-- My first Triathlon. I rank it up there with the top 5 wonderful things that I have done in my life.

I did it!!!

2007-08-13T17:32:00.000-08:00

Wow! That is the only word I can use to describe the feeling of completing a triathlon. No, I didn't finish first, but I did finish. I can only improve from here. I will post pictures later.
My dad came down from LaGrange to watch me. I loved it. His head was bald from the chemo and radiation, but he was there anyway cheering me on. Thanks Dad for the encouragement. My boys and husband were there and my good friend, Juli. Thanks to all of you.

terrific tuesday...

2007-08-07T17:05:00.000-08:00

started out with a bike ride. Out of the three sports - swimming, biking and running-Biking is the sport I don't excel at.
So, my friend Sharon's brother-Darron is trying to help me. He is a cyclist and he has been showing me some moves. Yesterday we met for a ride. I thought I was ready. He wore my butt out. We rode 18 miles today and 20 miles yesterday. I felt so good today after the ride.

Family Day

2007-08-04T15:41:00.000-08:00

I love Saturdays. We are able to be together and make memories. Today we just about finished painting the Master Bathroom. I am resting today. No run, or swim not even a bike ride. Monday I am going to ride with Sharon's brother, Darren. He is a cyclist and he is going to give me some pointers.
Just one week until my first Triathlon. Getting ready.

A good run...after a day of sitting

2007-08-03T17:32:00.000-08:00

I went to see my dad today in LaGrange. It was so good to see him. He was in pain, but he was able to hold his own and we were able to talk about his will and what he wants to happen if he were to pass away. You might think I am weird but I was actually relieved. The whole day was spent with him and then I was able to come home and run 4 miles in 39 min. Very happy. Gearing up for next weekend-My first Triathlon.

My Dad is in the Hospital

2007-08-02T05:59:00.001-08:00

He called me this morning and said he had some good news and some bad news. Bad news he was in the hospital-stomach problems. Good news is that his tumor in his lung was shrinking just after 3 radiation treatments. Very good news. They have given him some pain medicine. I am going to drive to see him (about 2 hours away).

The start of a new day

2007-07-31T23:15:00.000-08:00

I am excited to see where running takes me. I really like to run-not because of the soreness I feel or the blisters on my heels, but because of the experience. The high you feel after accomplishing something that maybe you didn't think you could do. My whole attitude is different after I run. Why didn't I do this earlier in life? I ran about 4 miles yesterday, hard. I think I am running a 12 min. mile.