To say I took a break from blogging is a bit of a modest statement. In fact, I pretty much forgot about it. In 2010 I had my first baby. I blogged here for three years (under The Triathlete Bride moniker) all about triathlons, marathons, our wedding and eventually even pregnancy. I had my hands full with ornery E2 and was also keeping a fitness only blog over at www.fitmommylife.com. By the time my first figure competition was over, I was also over blogging. I tried a few times but failed at making a blog comeback.
I've decided I missed my blogging outlet. I don't have anything exciting to talk about. There's no exotic Ironman triathlon in my future. No marathon PR at stake. So I'm going to talk about what I know. That's being an exhausted, three-part time job mom of an infant and a preschooler and wife to a super dedicated business man and daddy. I work at the gym a couple days a week, behind the keyboard several hours a week, and behind a sewing machine most nights. I get to have breakfast, lunch, and dinner with my kids every single day. I dabble with exercise in various forms. I laugh often, usually over bedtime stories and fart noises. I try not to yell when I scold E2 or the dogs. I have really long hair and I really do care. I change diapers ten times a day and only get poop on myself once or twice. I get to give love and feel love deep in my heart all, day each day.
So that's what I'm going to blog about.
If you're really interested in who the hell I think I am, click on the "introduction" tab up top. Or if you're too lazy to move your cursor, this whole sentence is a link.
Showing posts with label Courtney Staton. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Courtney Staton. Show all posts
Sunday, January 18, 2015
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Eli: A Race, er, Birth Report
Cramps. The, I have held my pregnant pee too long cramps. At least, that's what I thought it was.
Saturday, the 24th (Lil' Dude's official due date), I went to my pedicure lady. "Massage me." She agreed. It was time. There's this old wives' tale that having your feet massaged will bring on labor. I need a cut and polish anyway.
Husband and I had a relaxing afternoon. Went to bed at a decent time. At some point, that's when the cramps started.
By 5:30am, I had decided they weren't pee cramps. Still laying in bed, snuggled together, we started timing them. Seven minutes. Six minutes. Five. They were consistent. And getting closer. I said I wanted breakfast. Husband climbed in the shower. I knew a trip to the Big Biscuit would never happen. I made us a breakfast at home. One way or another, this would be our last Sunday breakfast as Eric and Courtney. We knew next Sunday we would be The Staton Family. Bittersweet.
I paged the on-call doctor. I knew it was going to be Dr. Dickhead, the OB I switched from. My own doctor called me back instead. "Well, if there's a bit of bite to them, come on in. We'll check you out. Worse case, you'll come back tonight." My terrific Dr. Lady had switched on-calls with Dr. Dickhead. AWESOME.
We arrived at the hospital just past 9am. Husband walked in holding my hand. I told the nurse, as she hooked me to a monitor, that I wasn't sure if they were real contractions. There wasn't much in my abdomen area, but my back hurt like hell. Her response: "Uh-oh." That's not good. She checked me for dilation and effacement. 2cm. Maybe 60%. Not numbers you want to hear when starting labor. I had made no progress from the previous week's OB appointment. After a quick scan over, she confirmed my back pain. Sunny side up. Straight OP. (differences here) Back Labor. Lil' Dude was kicking and squirming and giving no relief. Like a squid in my stomach.
I was told to walk. So I did. Husband and I walked the hallways. And walked. And walked. The contractions were getting stronger. And stronger. I needed to sit. Then I was hit with the WHAMMY. Pain hard enough to make tears roll from my eyes, and vomit surface in my mouth. This is the real deal. After 90 minutes of waddling, and eventually needing to stop during contractions to focus only on breathing, I was checked again. Almost 4cm, 80%. Progress, but not much. Dr. Lady decision time: Well, you're coming back tonight anyway, so why make two trips? Let's get some active labor started. We were well past inducing, now, we were augmenting. Whatever. I just want my baby!
I was moved to a room where we would remain for our stay. The pain was getting tough. Dr. Lady broke my water. It was painless. I even asked "Would this hurt?" but she was already done. I was hooked to an IV tower, and told to walk some more. I made it about 10 minutes. I was still on the no pain medication train. Barely. I agreed to Stadol. But I wanted to use the birthing ball and whirlpool tub first. I made it through one contraction on the birthing ball. Fuck the tub. Give me the narcotic. It made me itchy. ITCH-EE. I was given Benadryl. The combination of Benadryl and Stadol made me sleepy. During this time, Eric called the fams. My dad and grandma came in. I mostly remember it. I was hurting like hell. My contractions were now double peaking, something that comes with back labor. I was "sleeping" between contractions, and waking right in the peak. So, I was out for about two minutes and yelling in pain for two minutes. Effing A. I remember saying something along the lines of This Fucking Sucks. Sorry grandma.
Get me the epidural. NOW.
Eric held my hand. Well, he held still while I tried not to break his bones. I recall during a Stadol coma contraction him telling me that there are pins in that hand, and he can feel them. Sorry honey. Let me take a second to say what an amazing, huge, terrific help Eric was. He never left my side. He held my hand through every contraction. Stayed right next to me. Perfect. They kept me turned half on my side hoping to get Squid to roll over. It didn't work, but they kept me in that position.
The epidural was painless. Not that I would have felt anything besides the explosion rocking my core. All was right with the world once I had my epidural. I still felt every contraction, but had full control over my legs and could feel the "urge to poop" coming on. I wasn't numbed entirely. Exactly what I hoped for. At 3pm, the time my epidural was administered I was at a 6, and almost 90% effaced. I took a nap.
At 4pm they came in to check me again. My nurse, an angel named Shannon, told me it was time. Dr. Lady agreed. You're at a 10, 100%. Let's have a baby. You're ready to push.
Whoa. Shock waves. Can't believe it. I'm about to have a baby!
The nursery nurses came in. There was a little meconium in the fluid, so they wanted to be sure they were ready in case the Squid needed to be intibated. That was a scary thought, but I figured the best I pushed, the less likely he would be to inhale any goo.
In my birthplan I had expressly said NO to a mirror. But once I was ready to go, I asked for one. I am SO glad I did. The first couple pushes are practice really. The nurse asked if Eric could count for me. He did and did great. I did ask him to count slower. I wanted to push for as long as I could in every contraction. There wouldn't be any pushing for four hours BS here. Squid was ready. Husband did get up the guts to look in the mirror one time. It was maybe a bit much for him.
After 35 min. Shannon said STOP. STOP STOP! I panicked. I could see his head! The Dr. Lady was scurrying into her gear. I had to sit out two contractions. That was awful. I could see his hair (OMG! beautiful dark hair, just like my husband!). I reached down, I touched him. I bawled. I was moments away from mommy-hood. Gathering myself, I readied for the big transition. Here we go. I looked at Eric, he started counting.
One contraction.
Two contraction.
50 minutes of pushing. Here's your baby.
The emptying of your abdominal cavity is the craziest feeling ever. I immediately felt lighter, yet as if I would burst open. The nursery nurses looked him over. He inhaled no meconium. He was wailing. It was amazing.
Eric got to hold his hand while he got cleaned up. Then he was able to hold the Squid while the placenta delivered (no, we didn't keep it to eat it. Google that. No, don't) and my stitches were completed (2nd Degree. Not fun, but not horribly awful.).
I was then given my little bundle. Little is kind of a loose term.
Our Squid weighed in at 9lbs 1oz, and 21.5" long. The measuring tape only went to 21". The nurses had to extend the tape out to get him measured.
Ten perfect fingers (that look like Eric's).
Ten perfect toes.
Saturday, the 24th (Lil' Dude's official due date), I went to my pedicure lady. "Massage me." She agreed. It was time. There's this old wives' tale that having your feet massaged will bring on labor. I need a cut and polish anyway.
Husband and I had a relaxing afternoon. Went to bed at a decent time. At some point, that's when the cramps started.
By 5:30am, I had decided they weren't pee cramps. Still laying in bed, snuggled together, we started timing them. Seven minutes. Six minutes. Five. They were consistent. And getting closer. I said I wanted breakfast. Husband climbed in the shower. I knew a trip to the Big Biscuit would never happen. I made us a breakfast at home. One way or another, this would be our last Sunday breakfast as Eric and Courtney. We knew next Sunday we would be The Staton Family. Bittersweet.
I paged the on-call doctor. I knew it was going to be Dr. Dickhead, the OB I switched from. My own doctor called me back instead. "Well, if there's a bit of bite to them, come on in. We'll check you out. Worse case, you'll come back tonight." My terrific Dr. Lady had switched on-calls with Dr. Dickhead. AWESOME.
We arrived at the hospital just past 9am. Husband walked in holding my hand. I told the nurse, as she hooked me to a monitor, that I wasn't sure if they were real contractions. There wasn't much in my abdomen area, but my back hurt like hell. Her response: "Uh-oh." That's not good. She checked me for dilation and effacement. 2cm. Maybe 60%. Not numbers you want to hear when starting labor. I had made no progress from the previous week's OB appointment. After a quick scan over, she confirmed my back pain. Sunny side up. Straight OP. (differences here) Back Labor. Lil' Dude was kicking and squirming and giving no relief. Like a squid in my stomach.
I was told to walk. So I did. Husband and I walked the hallways. And walked. And walked. The contractions were getting stronger. And stronger. I needed to sit. Then I was hit with the WHAMMY. Pain hard enough to make tears roll from my eyes, and vomit surface in my mouth. This is the real deal. After 90 minutes of waddling, and eventually needing to stop during contractions to focus only on breathing, I was checked again. Almost 4cm, 80%. Progress, but not much. Dr. Lady decision time: Well, you're coming back tonight anyway, so why make two trips? Let's get some active labor started. We were well past inducing, now, we were augmenting. Whatever. I just want my baby!
I was moved to a room where we would remain for our stay. The pain was getting tough. Dr. Lady broke my water. It was painless. I even asked "Would this hurt?" but she was already done. I was hooked to an IV tower, and told to walk some more. I made it about 10 minutes. I was still on the no pain medication train. Barely. I agreed to Stadol. But I wanted to use the birthing ball and whirlpool tub first. I made it through one contraction on the birthing ball. Fuck the tub. Give me the narcotic. It made me itchy. ITCH-EE. I was given Benadryl. The combination of Benadryl and Stadol made me sleepy. During this time, Eric called the fams. My dad and grandma came in. I mostly remember it. I was hurting like hell. My contractions were now double peaking, something that comes with back labor. I was "sleeping" between contractions, and waking right in the peak. So, I was out for about two minutes and yelling in pain for two minutes. Effing A. I remember saying something along the lines of This Fucking Sucks. Sorry grandma.
Get me the epidural. NOW.
Eric held my hand. Well, he held still while I tried not to break his bones. I recall during a Stadol coma contraction him telling me that there are pins in that hand, and he can feel them. Sorry honey. Let me take a second to say what an amazing, huge, terrific help Eric was. He never left my side. He held my hand through every contraction. Stayed right next to me. Perfect. They kept me turned half on my side hoping to get Squid to roll over. It didn't work, but they kept me in that position.
The epidural was painless. Not that I would have felt anything besides the explosion rocking my core. All was right with the world once I had my epidural. I still felt every contraction, but had full control over my legs and could feel the "urge to poop" coming on. I wasn't numbed entirely. Exactly what I hoped for. At 3pm, the time my epidural was administered I was at a 6, and almost 90% effaced. I took a nap.
At 4pm they came in to check me again. My nurse, an angel named Shannon, told me it was time. Dr. Lady agreed. You're at a 10, 100%. Let's have a baby. You're ready to push.
Whoa. Shock waves. Can't believe it. I'm about to have a baby!
The nursery nurses came in. There was a little meconium in the fluid, so they wanted to be sure they were ready in case the Squid needed to be intibated. That was a scary thought, but I figured the best I pushed, the less likely he would be to inhale any goo.
In my birthplan I had expressly said NO to a mirror. But once I was ready to go, I asked for one. I am SO glad I did. The first couple pushes are practice really. The nurse asked if Eric could count for me. He did and did great. I did ask him to count slower. I wanted to push for as long as I could in every contraction. There wouldn't be any pushing for four hours BS here. Squid was ready. Husband did get up the guts to look in the mirror one time. It was maybe a bit much for him.
After 35 min. Shannon said STOP. STOP STOP! I panicked. I could see his head! The Dr. Lady was scurrying into her gear. I had to sit out two contractions. That was awful. I could see his hair (OMG! beautiful dark hair, just like my husband!). I reached down, I touched him. I bawled. I was moments away from mommy-hood. Gathering myself, I readied for the big transition. Here we go. I looked at Eric, he started counting.
One contraction.
Two contraction.
50 minutes of pushing. Here's your baby.
The emptying of your abdominal cavity is the craziest feeling ever. I immediately felt lighter, yet as if I would burst open. The nursery nurses looked him over. He inhaled no meconium. He was wailing. It was amazing.
Eric got to hold his hand while he got cleaned up. Then he was able to hold the Squid while the placenta delivered (no, we didn't keep it to eat it. Google that. No, don't) and my stitches were completed (2nd Degree. Not fun, but not horribly awful.).
I was then given my little bundle. Little is kind of a loose term.
Our Squid weighed in at 9lbs 1oz, and 21.5" long. The measuring tape only went to 21". The nurses had to extend the tape out to get him measured.
Ten perfect fingers (that look like Eric's).
Ten perfect toes.
I am in love.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Boob Gate 2010
My boobs are huge. Prior to being pregnant, my boobs were BIG, but not ridiculously massive. I could still race in a swim suit if I wanted to. However, going from a 36 D to a 38 F (as in What The F!) is not exactly taking too kindly to me.
Pull up a chair, and let me illustrate what has now become Boob Gate 2010.
Yesterday morning I got work feeling less frazzled than normal, mostly because I looked cute. I was wearing this super cute green dress, and a black one button cardigan. It's so comfy. However, the tube top part has started to become a little snug. No big deal though. Here's what I think I looked like.
Cute, right? Well, I thought it was a darling outfit.
I had a 9am appointment with a potentional new lifeguard. She's young, and impresssionable. Just the way I like them- makes them easy to train. What's this got to do with Boob Gate 2010? Please, stay with me.
We hold the interview in my office. It's got a long L shape desk that sits up against a window overlooking my pool.
See? Here's my chair, and the chair the interviewee was in. The interview went well, but about halfway through she seemed to get really nervous. Like, Really nervous. And she stopped looking at me. What is with teenagers that makes them all of sudden get weird? I thought maybe it had something to do with my discussing what a tight ship we run, and how I have a zero tolerance for a lot of things. We also discussed appearance and professionalism. That's really important to me, as I put (way too) much emphasis on how I look, as that's how people percieve you. She was all fine and dandy, but a little weird averting eye contact. Maybe she had a short attention span. Regardless, things went well, I told her I was intrested in having her on my staff. In conclusion, I stood up to shake her hand and thank her for coming in. That's when I turned to my left to look out at my pool.
That's an old picture of my office. I now have a dry erase board on the outside that also acts as a mirror of sorts for me. As I was looking out at my guard, I realized, through the reflection of my window-mirror, I now looked like this:
That's right, ya'll. My super super cute little green tube dress betrayed me, my cardigan, and giant nude colored nursing bra.
The Girls Were Out. The tube part had slide down to right underneath my bra. I hadn't felt a thing.
All of my right boob, and pretty much all of the left. Out. Actually, they weren't entirely alone. You see, I was leaning forward for most of the interview, with my gut hanging... and the Girls just sitting on top.
So, here I am, talking to the new hire about the Christian principles of the YMCA, and I have my tee-tas in her face, three feet away.
Stunned, I pulled my top up and stood there, looking away. I finally turned back towards her, and apologized. I AM SO SORRY. I DID NOT KNOW.
She then says, "I was going to say something but I thought it would be rude."
Ooookay. Let's go back to young and impressionable. If I were interviewing a 30-something, she would have said "Sorry, your top is down." I could have pulled it up and continued. No, teeny bopped Tina didn't have the balls to say to her potential new boss "Ma'am, your tits are out." I politely suggested that it might be rude NOT to tell someone the milk jugs are swinging freely.
I'm going to skip the second interview and send her to training. I don't really want to see her again until I feel less like a flasher.
Awesome.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Decade in Review
I'm a member of an online women's forum- kind of like the Knot, but way cooler- and the decade in review came up. I thought I'd add mine here.
2000- Finished my Freshman year in High School! Dyed my hair purple for the first time. Became a cheerleader (omg, seriously!?). Buried a close friend from suicide. Had a crazy summer cheeering and traveling my little brother around from state to state for moto racing. Turned 15. Met my future husband!
2001- Won conference in Humorous Interpretation for Forensics in school, somebody found my storytelling funny. Stopped cheerleading, it never would have worked out, anyway. What I would consider my Swan Song year in swimming- did fantastic at state, and had two relays win gold at nationals (NSG's). Watched future husband and brother race motorcycles.
2002- Swam, but not well. Got distracted by a boy (oh that scoundrel). Started taking college credit courses while still in HS. Husband graduated HS. Became a car hop at Sonic. I wore roller skates and black booty shorts. Seriously, easiest job ever. Look cute, don't fall, smile. Made bank. Started Senior year.
2003- Kept working. Went to school only in early AM's for college credit. First time purchasing a vehicle. My dad thought I was crazy buying a new car when they got me a perfectly good one the year before. Future husband bought a boat. Started wake boarding, well struggled at it. Graduated HS. Started college full time.
2004- Paid off said new car. Between sonic and the bar, I made money. Not kidding! Started getting kind of good at wake boarding, began competing. The boat thing caught on. Started working at future husbands boat dealership. Decided I missed swimming. Went back to club swimming at age of 19. Had to start all over.
2005- Finally requalified for swimming nationals. Tore labrum in right shoulder. Cried a lot. Retired again at age 19. Started getting really good at wake boarding. Earned world ranking of 45 in women's open cable wake boarding. Began looking at homes with future husband.
2006- Bought home with future husband. Started big girl job at hell hole law firm. Graduated college. Thought about attempting triathlon. Purchased bicycle. Did first triathlon. Met some new best friends for life. Did a few more triathlons. Turned 21. Did a half ironman triathlon. Won my age group. Qualified for Triathlon Long Course World Championships. Signed up for Ironman.
2007- Devoted life to training for first Ironman. Busted my ass. Began to worry weather I would ever get married to future husband. Had terriffic year in triathlon. Hated my job. Got engaged- on the beach, at Ironman. Completed Ironman.
2008- Began planning wedding. On cloud nine. Got fired (or, as they so nicely put it, "position is being terminated, and you will be eligible for state unemployment") 7 weeks before wedding. Best thing that EVER happened to me. Got married to WONDERFUL at dream Halloween Wedding, 8 years to the day of our first date. Went on AWESOME honeymoon to Mexico. Came back to job offers waiting for me. Started at new job.
2009- Excelled at new job. Did first stand alone marathon. Got pregnant.
2010- Finally got new car. Had the mustang the whole time. Planning on baby date of July 24. Turn 25 in August. Probably going back to school part time. Maybe new house? Going to have a great life. On to the next decade!
2000- Finished my Freshman year in High School! Dyed my hair purple for the first time. Became a cheerleader (omg, seriously!?). Buried a close friend from suicide. Had a crazy summer cheeering and traveling my little brother around from state to state for moto racing. Turned 15. Met my future husband!
2001- Won conference in Humorous Interpretation for Forensics in school, somebody found my storytelling funny. Stopped cheerleading, it never would have worked out, anyway. What I would consider my Swan Song year in swimming- did fantastic at state, and had two relays win gold at nationals (NSG's). Watched future husband and brother race motorcycles.
2002- Swam, but not well. Got distracted by a boy (oh that scoundrel). Started taking college credit courses while still in HS. Husband graduated HS. Became a car hop at Sonic. I wore roller skates and black booty shorts. Seriously, easiest job ever. Look cute, don't fall, smile. Made bank. Started Senior year.
2003- Kept working. Went to school only in early AM's for college credit. First time purchasing a vehicle. My dad thought I was crazy buying a new car when they got me a perfectly good one the year before. Future husband bought a boat. Started wake boarding, well struggled at it. Graduated HS. Started college full time.
2004- Paid off said new car. Between sonic and the bar, I made money. Not kidding! Started getting kind of good at wake boarding, began competing. The boat thing caught on. Started working at future husbands boat dealership. Decided I missed swimming. Went back to club swimming at age of 19. Had to start all over.
2005- Finally requalified for swimming nationals. Tore labrum in right shoulder. Cried a lot. Retired again at age 19. Started getting really good at wake boarding. Earned world ranking of 45 in women's open cable wake boarding. Began looking at homes with future husband.
2006- Bought home with future husband. Started big girl job at hell hole law firm. Graduated college. Thought about attempting triathlon. Purchased bicycle. Did first triathlon. Met some new best friends for life. Did a few more triathlons. Turned 21. Did a half ironman triathlon. Won my age group. Qualified for Triathlon Long Course World Championships. Signed up for Ironman.
2007- Devoted life to training for first Ironman. Busted my ass. Began to worry weather I would ever get married to future husband. Had terriffic year in triathlon. Hated my job. Got engaged- on the beach, at Ironman. Completed Ironman.
2008- Began planning wedding. On cloud nine. Got fired (or, as they so nicely put it, "position is being terminated, and you will be eligible for state unemployment") 7 weeks before wedding. Best thing that EVER happened to me. Got married to WONDERFUL at dream Halloween Wedding, 8 years to the day of our first date. Went on AWESOME honeymoon to Mexico. Came back to job offers waiting for me. Started at new job.
2009- Excelled at new job. Did first stand alone marathon. Got pregnant.
2010- Finally got new car. Had the mustang the whole time. Planning on baby date of July 24. Turn 25 in August. Probably going back to school part time. Maybe new house? Going to have a great life. On to the next decade!
Monday, January 11, 2010
Tagged?!
Like the case of H1N1 that finally got me last week, I've been hit. This time, it's just blog tag. Trish (AKA Womanof1000blogs) tagged me in her latest blog.
So, here we go.
7 things about me.
7. I hate running. I know, weird. I do triathlons, marathons, every distance from zero and up. Still, running isn't a favorite. What I do love, however, is competing. Usually this is just with myself (can anyone say 18 mile run by myself AFTER work? No? Then read this. ) So why do I run, when there are so many things I can compete in? Well, underwater basket weaving is kind of tedious, and really, running requires the least amount of technical gear. Sure, I have a lot of the fancy schmancy stuff, but really it requires two working legs. Thank God, I have that.
6. My hair changes color faster than my uncle's veiled chameleon. I don't know what it is, but when I'm platinum blonde, I'd rather be a redhead. When I'm deep brunette, I want pink streaks. Currently, I am two platinum chunks and a pile of strawberry champagne. Your guess is as good as mine.
5. I know something you don't know. And I'm not telling for at least another month or more.
4. I am a Twitter fiend. It's ridiculous. Social networking be damned, I can't help it. Follow me on Twitter at TriathleteBride (Duh). Don't have Twitter? It's connected to my Facebook status. We're not friends? Well, looky here ---> It all feeds into the right side of my blog. Perfect.
3. I once quipped, "I'd rather give birth to a litter of puppies than have a baby." Please, please, please, do NOT tell my child this when it's old enough to be scared by it.
2. My husband has, on several occasions, been confused for Travis Barker. View Husband. View Barker.
1. I like to have fun. It can be out drinking with the girls, on the lake with best friends, dinner at Grandmas. I love to have fun. Fun at work, fun at home. I try to be upbeat and happy when possible. I do have some Negative Nelly, but I really try to be happy and fun (this does not read as wild-and-crazy). I enjoy life. So should you.
PS
I have to tag someone, so Tim, Julie, Andrea, and Moto Michele, you're up.
So, here we go.
7 things about me.
7. I hate running. I know, weird. I do triathlons, marathons, every distance from zero and up. Still, running isn't a favorite. What I do love, however, is competing. Usually this is just with myself (can anyone say 18 mile run by myself AFTER work? No? Then read this. ) So why do I run, when there are so many things I can compete in? Well, underwater basket weaving is kind of tedious, and really, running requires the least amount of technical gear. Sure, I have a lot of the fancy schmancy stuff, but really it requires two working legs. Thank God, I have that.
6. My hair changes color faster than my uncle's veiled chameleon. I don't know what it is, but when I'm platinum blonde, I'd rather be a redhead. When I'm deep brunette, I want pink streaks. Currently, I am two platinum chunks and a pile of strawberry champagne. Your guess is as good as mine.
5. I know something you don't know. And I'm not telling for at least another month or more.
4. I am a Twitter fiend. It's ridiculous. Social networking be damned, I can't help it. Follow me on Twitter at TriathleteBride (Duh). Don't have Twitter? It's connected to my Facebook status. We're not friends? Well, looky here ---> It all feeds into the right side of my blog. Perfect.
3. I once quipped, "I'd rather give birth to a litter of puppies than have a baby." Please, please, please, do NOT tell my child this when it's old enough to be scared by it.
2. My husband has, on several occasions, been confused for Travis Barker. View Husband. View Barker.
1. I like to have fun. It can be out drinking with the girls, on the lake with best friends, dinner at Grandmas. I love to have fun. Fun at work, fun at home. I try to be upbeat and happy when possible. I do have some Negative Nelly, but I really try to be happy and fun (this does not read as wild-and-crazy). I enjoy life. So should you.
PS
I have to tag someone, so Tim, Julie, Andrea, and Moto Michele, you're up.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Let Me Crawl Out from Under This Rock
Hi. I'm Courtney, and I have a Blog. I need to stare in the mirror and tell myself this every morning, and maybe someday I'll set aside 10 minutes to update it.
Ok, so let's see here, what have I been doing?
Let's start somewhere back around Kansas 70.3. I had a great race, and decided to take a few weeks off to chill out. I eventually picked up on running again, trying to gear up for the Kansas City Marathon. Then I cut my achillies at the dog park, which made wearing shoes, even bandaged up and double socked, impossible. The deep cut took about two weeks to heal up enough to stand running.
Well now I'm over that. But, I seemed to keep missing (ie: Being lazy, work, having too many excuses) my long Sunday runs. About a week ago I realized I was supposed to be running 14. I did 9. 9 was impressive. Wanna know why? Because prior to my 9miler, my longest run since KS 70.3 was a 6.5 miler. Yes, I know. Roll your eyes.
So, this week I of course missed my Wednesday run. Which I actually did make up, on Thursday. Then I ran my scheduled Friday. Two days back to back. Not fun. Then a long run for Saturday. To get myself back on track, I actually did the 14 (14.85 to be exact). I felt decent, considering I didn't start until 9am, at which point it was already 80* outside. When I finished almost three hours later, it was 94*. Gah. Well, at least I can survive in the heat. Which is good, since next weekend is 16-18.
Also next weekend is a bachlorette party. At this point, the prudent thing to do is to go and not drink, and have my ass in bed before 1am. It will be an early wake up call to get my feet on the pavement. Then, we're heading to the in-laws for lunch. An hour away. This means that if we have to be there by, oh, 1:30pm, we need to leave by 12:15pm. So I need to finish my run by 11:00am in time for me to stretch, ice bath, and shower. Completing my run which will take approximately 3hr and 40 min for 18 miles (not counting a gas station pit stop to refill hydration systems) means starting by 7am. At the latest. That's getting up at 6:15am. With 5 hrs of sleep.
On second thought, I'll be home before midnight. Sigh.
Other things on the agenda:
Swimming in Moonshine 2mi Open Water Race. It's the tail end of August and will make a great camping trip. Now, if I could only get my ass in the water to do a little swimming before hand.
I Got Older:
I had a birthday last Monday. Thus, I realized that unless I decided to do another race other than the marathon, I am approaching the end of my 20-24 age group career. Wow, so strange to think that when I started at 20. I'm actually ageing up! Welcome to the fast girls, huh?
For my birthday I got a fancy new phone, and a Garmin 305. I heart them both. Oh, and I can't forget. Neon blue Asics. Yes, back to the (b)Asics. I like the Zoot Ultras, but they're really just flats, and can't support a second season, let alone a marathon. I may pull them out of retirement for sprint triathlons if I ever enter another one.
Can't shake that (ironman) feeling:
I'm still sad that I decided to back out of the Redman full. It broke my heart and as race day nears, I'm feeling like I should be getting ready. It's definitely less time consuming training for marathon only races, and it worked out better for my schedule. Now, I'm looking ahead to 2010. Will it be Cozumel or Arizona? Both are held at the end of November. This would place a 20 week countdown at the begining of July. May thru the start of August were crazy work months for me, but I've seen things taper off as I gradually got a hold of it. I'm looking forward to next summer, as I feel like I now have the tools I need to get thru both training, and work.
Congrats:
To Julie. She finished her fourth marathon over the weekend at the ET marathon outside of Vegas. Crazy thing- they start at effing midnight! She's also got Chicago coming up this year.
Ok, so let's see here, what have I been doing?
Let's start somewhere back around Kansas 70.3. I had a great race, and decided to take a few weeks off to chill out. I eventually picked up on running again, trying to gear up for the Kansas City Marathon. Then I cut my achillies at the dog park, which made wearing shoes, even bandaged up and double socked, impossible. The deep cut took about two weeks to heal up enough to stand running.
Well now I'm over that. But, I seemed to keep missing (ie: Being lazy, work, having too many excuses) my long Sunday runs. About a week ago I realized I was supposed to be running 14. I did 9. 9 was impressive. Wanna know why? Because prior to my 9miler, my longest run since KS 70.3 was a 6.5 miler. Yes, I know. Roll your eyes.
So, this week I of course missed my Wednesday run. Which I actually did make up, on Thursday. Then I ran my scheduled Friday. Two days back to back. Not fun. Then a long run for Saturday. To get myself back on track, I actually did the 14 (14.85 to be exact). I felt decent, considering I didn't start until 9am, at which point it was already 80* outside. When I finished almost three hours later, it was 94*. Gah. Well, at least I can survive in the heat. Which is good, since next weekend is 16-18.
Also next weekend is a bachlorette party. At this point, the prudent thing to do is to go and not drink, and have my ass in bed before 1am. It will be an early wake up call to get my feet on the pavement. Then, we're heading to the in-laws for lunch. An hour away. This means that if we have to be there by, oh, 1:30pm, we need to leave by 12:15pm. So I need to finish my run by 11:00am in time for me to stretch, ice bath, and shower. Completing my run which will take approximately 3hr and 40 min for 18 miles (not counting a gas station pit stop to refill hydration systems) means starting by 7am. At the latest. That's getting up at 6:15am. With 5 hrs of sleep.
On second thought, I'll be home before midnight. Sigh.
Other things on the agenda:
Swimming in Moonshine 2mi Open Water Race. It's the tail end of August and will make a great camping trip. Now, if I could only get my ass in the water to do a little swimming before hand.
I Got Older:
I had a birthday last Monday. Thus, I realized that unless I decided to do another race other than the marathon, I am approaching the end of my 20-24 age group career. Wow, so strange to think that when I started at 20. I'm actually ageing up! Welcome to the fast girls, huh?
For my birthday I got a fancy new phone, and a Garmin 305. I heart them both. Oh, and I can't forget. Neon blue Asics. Yes, back to the (b)Asics. I like the Zoot Ultras, but they're really just flats, and can't support a second season, let alone a marathon. I may pull them out of retirement for sprint triathlons if I ever enter another one.
Can't shake that (ironman) feeling:
I'm still sad that I decided to back out of the Redman full. It broke my heart and as race day nears, I'm feeling like I should be getting ready. It's definitely less time consuming training for marathon only races, and it worked out better for my schedule. Now, I'm looking ahead to 2010. Will it be Cozumel or Arizona? Both are held at the end of November. This would place a 20 week countdown at the begining of July. May thru the start of August were crazy work months for me, but I've seen things taper off as I gradually got a hold of it. I'm looking forward to next summer, as I feel like I now have the tools I need to get thru both training, and work.
Congrats:
To Julie. She finished her fourth marathon over the weekend at the ET marathon outside of Vegas. Crazy thing- they start at effing midnight! She's also got Chicago coming up this year.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Come Swim With Me!
Myself and another aquatics director are hosting a masters swim meet at the Vivion Rd. YMCA on July 25th. It’s a non-sanctioned, completely for fun event. Everyone from lap swimmers to hardcore athletes like yourselves can participate. It’s going to be outdoors, in a 50 meter pool.
There are several different events in all distances, and it will be a good time all around. I’m attaching the meet entry info. All you have to do is fill it out and mail it in. J Please pass these out to your swimmers, or forward this email along.
This isn’t a huge meet, and it will be a great time to either tune up for a triathlon or just enjoy the age group summer league feeling we had when swimming as kids.
Let me know what ya think!
I can really use the help promoting this event! Thank you!!
1st Annual YMCA of Greater Kansas City
Masters Summer Sizzler
Vivion Road Family YMCA
Kansas City, Missouri
Saturday, July 25, 2009
HOSTED BY: Vivion Road Family YMCA and the YMCA of Greater Kansas City
LOCATION: Outdoor pool area at Vivion Road Family YMCA
FACILITY: POOL Outdoor 50 meter by 25-yard pool, offering 8 lanes
of long course competition.
TIMING Manual stop watch timing and back up will be used.
RULES: 2009 United States Masters Swimming rules will govern the meet.
OFFICIALS: Meet Directors : Sara Garrett and Courtney Staton
WARM-UP AND
START TIMES: Saturday morning warm-ups at 7:00am with competition beginning at 8:10 am. Indoor 25 yard short course pool will be available for warm-ups immediately before and after each event. Indoor pool will be open to YMCA patrons, please be courteous to members using the facility. All times are Central Standard Time.
SAFETY: In the interest of safety and accident prevention, spectators, coaches and swimmers are asked to observe all posted pool rules and to conduct themselves in a safe manner.
ELIGIBILITY: Swimmers are not required to be registered with USMS or YUSA Swimming. This is an open, non-sanctioned event.
ENTRIES: Swimmers may enter up to six individual events. Please note, events may be run back to back. Breaks will be given between events if time is available. Bring volunteer, receive 20% off. Volunteer must be available at warm ups and stay through entire meet.
ENTRY FEES: YMCA Members: $20 up to four events. $5.00 charge for each additional event up to six events. Community Members: $30 up to four events. $5.00 charge for each additional event up to six events.
Make checks payable to: YMCA of Greater Kansas City and mail with entry packet.
ENTRY LIMIT: Swimmers may enter a maximum of 6 events.
DECK ENTRIES: Deck entries will be accepted at the discretion of the meet directors. Deck entries will not be seeded with an entry time. Deck entries will be seeded as “NT”.
ENTRY DEADLINE: Pre-registration is due by Monday, July 6, 2009 for discounted shirt offer. Entry forms, release waiver and entry fees are due to meet director by Monday, July 20, 2009 at 8:00am. All entries received after this deadline will be deemed “Deck Entry” and may be entered with “NT.”
EVENT SHIRTS: Cost of event shirts is $6.00 with pre-registration. If registered after July 6, 2009, cost of shirt is $12.00. An order form is included with entry sheet.
MAIL ENTRIES TO: Email entries to saragarrett@kansascityymca.org
Mail to:
Vivion Road Family YMCA
ATTN: Sara Garrett, Meet Director
1101 NE 47th Street
Kansas City, MO 64116
816.453.6600
SEEDING: All events are timed finals and will be seeded according to all applicable YUSA Swimming rules. Seed times will be times entered on the entry form. Entries with no time (NT) will be seeded by random draw. Notification of scratches will be appreciated in case lanes are needed for late entries.
Events will be swam co-ed and mixed age groups for purpose of seeding. Awards will be given based on gender and age group.
The 800 Free, 400 IM and 400 Free will be seeded fast to slow and combined if necessary to expedite the meet. We reserve the right to limit any event as necessary due to the session limitations. The courses and events will be split or combined at the discretion of the meet referee in the interest of running the most efficient meet.
Times entered shall be in Long Course Meters. If no LCM time available, please refer to: http://www.swimmingworldmagazine.com/results/conversions.asp
SCRATCHES: All scratches should be submitted to the Clerk of Course as soon as possible to provide lanes for possible late entries.
AWARDS: Awards will be given to top three finishers in each age group category for both genders. Age groups are as follows: 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60 +. Awards ceremony will take place at TBA.
SCORING: There will be no team scoring.
SWIMMERS
MEETING: A swimmers meeting will be held at 8:00am prior to the start of the meet.
CONCESSIONS: There will be a concession area provided upstairs in the spectator area. Heat sheets and t-shirts will also be for sale in this area.
Order of Events
1 400m Indiv. Medley 8 100m Freestyle
2 200m Freestyle 9 100m Backstroke
3 100m Breastroke 10 50m Butterfly
4 50m Backstroke 11 200m Indiv. Medley
5 100m Butterfly 12 50m Freestyle
6 400m Freestyle 13 800m Freestyle
7 50m Breastroke
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*This Portion Must Be Detached and Included With Entry Blank For All Mailed Entries*
2009 YMCA of Greater Kansas City
Masters Summer Sizzler
Waiver and Entry Blank
Waiver
In consideration of this entry, I hereby for myself, my heirs, administrators and assigns, waive and release any and all claims against the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, Vivion Road Family YMCA, meet directors, staff, officials, and volunteers for injuries and /or expenses incurred by me at this meet or while on the road to and from this meet. I am a bona fide amateur athlete and am eligible to compete in all the events I have entered.
Signature_________________________________
Printed Name ______________________________
Date_____________________________________
There are several different events in all distances, and it will be a good time all around. I’m attaching the meet entry info. All you have to do is fill it out and mail it in. J Please pass these out to your swimmers, or forward this email along.
This isn’t a huge meet, and it will be a great time to either tune up for a triathlon or just enjoy the age group summer league feeling we had when swimming as kids.
Let me know what ya think!
I can really use the help promoting this event! Thank you!!
1st Annual YMCA of Greater Kansas City
Masters Summer Sizzler
Vivion Road Family YMCA
Kansas City, Missouri
Saturday, July 25, 2009
HOSTED BY: Vivion Road Family YMCA and the YMCA of Greater Kansas City
LOCATION: Outdoor pool area at Vivion Road Family YMCA
FACILITY: POOL Outdoor 50 meter by 25-yard pool, offering 8 lanes
of long course competition.
TIMING Manual stop watch timing and back up will be used.
RULES: 2009 United States Masters Swimming rules will govern the meet.
OFFICIALS: Meet Directors : Sara Garrett and Courtney Staton
WARM-UP AND
START TIMES: Saturday morning warm-ups at 7:00am with competition beginning at 8:10 am. Indoor 25 yard short course pool will be available for warm-ups immediately before and after each event. Indoor pool will be open to YMCA patrons, please be courteous to members using the facility. All times are Central Standard Time.
SAFETY: In the interest of safety and accident prevention, spectators, coaches and swimmers are asked to observe all posted pool rules and to conduct themselves in a safe manner.
ELIGIBILITY: Swimmers are not required to be registered with USMS or YUSA Swimming. This is an open, non-sanctioned event.
ENTRIES: Swimmers may enter up to six individual events. Please note, events may be run back to back. Breaks will be given between events if time is available. Bring volunteer, receive 20% off. Volunteer must be available at warm ups and stay through entire meet.
ENTRY FEES: YMCA Members: $20 up to four events. $5.00 charge for each additional event up to six events. Community Members: $30 up to four events. $5.00 charge for each additional event up to six events.
Make checks payable to: YMCA of Greater Kansas City and mail with entry packet.
ENTRY LIMIT: Swimmers may enter a maximum of 6 events.
DECK ENTRIES: Deck entries will be accepted at the discretion of the meet directors. Deck entries will not be seeded with an entry time. Deck entries will be seeded as “NT”.
ENTRY DEADLINE: Pre-registration is due by Monday, July 6, 2009 for discounted shirt offer. Entry forms, release waiver and entry fees are due to meet director by Monday, July 20, 2009 at 8:00am. All entries received after this deadline will be deemed “Deck Entry” and may be entered with “NT.”
EVENT SHIRTS: Cost of event shirts is $6.00 with pre-registration. If registered after July 6, 2009, cost of shirt is $12.00. An order form is included with entry sheet.
MAIL ENTRIES TO: Email entries to saragarrett@kansascityymca.org
Mail to:
Vivion Road Family YMCA
ATTN: Sara Garrett, Meet Director
1101 NE 47th Street
Kansas City, MO 64116
816.453.6600
SEEDING: All events are timed finals and will be seeded according to all applicable YUSA Swimming rules. Seed times will be times entered on the entry form. Entries with no time (NT) will be seeded by random draw. Notification of scratches will be appreciated in case lanes are needed for late entries.
Events will be swam co-ed and mixed age groups for purpose of seeding. Awards will be given based on gender and age group.
The 800 Free, 400 IM and 400 Free will be seeded fast to slow and combined if necessary to expedite the meet. We reserve the right to limit any event as necessary due to the session limitations. The courses and events will be split or combined at the discretion of the meet referee in the interest of running the most efficient meet.
Times entered shall be in Long Course Meters. If no LCM time available, please refer to: http://www.swimmingworldmagazine.com/results/conversions.asp
SCRATCHES: All scratches should be submitted to the Clerk of Course as soon as possible to provide lanes for possible late entries.
AWARDS: Awards will be given to top three finishers in each age group category for both genders. Age groups are as follows: 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60 +. Awards ceremony will take place at TBA.
SCORING: There will be no team scoring.
SWIMMERS
MEETING: A swimmers meeting will be held at 8:00am prior to the start of the meet.
CONCESSIONS: There will be a concession area provided upstairs in the spectator area. Heat sheets and t-shirts will also be for sale in this area.
Order of Events
1 400m Indiv. Medley 8 100m Freestyle
2 200m Freestyle 9 100m Backstroke
3 100m Breastroke 10 50m Butterfly
4 50m Backstroke 11 200m Indiv. Medley
5 100m Butterfly 12 50m Freestyle
6 400m Freestyle 13 800m Freestyle
7 50m Breastroke
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*This Portion Must Be Detached and Included With Entry Blank For All Mailed Entries*
2009 YMCA of Greater Kansas City
Masters Summer Sizzler
Waiver and Entry Blank
Waiver
In consideration of this entry, I hereby for myself, my heirs, administrators and assigns, waive and release any and all claims against the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, Vivion Road Family YMCA, meet directors, staff, officials, and volunteers for injuries and /or expenses incurred by me at this meet or while on the road to and from this meet. I am a bona fide amateur athlete and am eligible to compete in all the events I have entered.
Signature_________________________________
Printed Name ______________________________
Date_____________________________________
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Ironman Kansas 70.3
Ironman Kansas 70.3
June 14, 2009
Goals: Finish. Have Fun. Touch Chrissie Wellington.
Saturday morning I worked. Same as everyday. Bike check in was also Saturday, which put a bit of time crunch on everything.
However, I made it out to Lawrence- Clinton Lake, in time to ride about 45min of the course (and go past Chrissie Wellington- totally almost crashed), and check my bike in. I met up with Shannan Garcia, another aquatics director, and we rode together. Then, we stood in the lllooong registration line. But, it wasn’t awful. Why? There was a live band playing. Just like Wildflower! I loved it.
After registration Shannan and I walked our bikes down to bike check in. This race was set up a lot differently than last year- two transition areas about a mile apart. The swim to bike TA was right next to the lake (duh). Before we could drop off our bikes, we had to get body marked. I despise night-before body marking, but whatever, I’m not the race director. The TA was tightly packed with about five rows set up in long columns to house the 2200 entries. Goldmember was snuggled up against several hot looking Cervelos, and I kissed him goodnight.
After bike check in, we trudged back up the hill to check out the bike to run TA. This one was much more spacious. We talked about driving the course, but it was already almost 6pm, and Shannan had to drive back to Olathe. I was lucky enough to be staying at my friend Jill’s house, and Julie was meeting me there to Sherpa me. Yay for Half Iron Sherpas.
Jules and I met up at Jill’s and decided to head out to dinner. Dinner is always an experience. Particularly since I am now eating Gluten free. I had shrimp and veggies, which were delish. I watched Julie take a couple bites out of the bread. She swears it wasn’t that good. I don’t believe her.
There were a few others in the restaurant that were racing on Sunday, but none of them were sporting the fancy schmancy compression socks I was. They. Are. Sexy.
After dinner we went back to Jill’s and I packed and repacked my now two transition bags. I was kind of frustrated. I have never felt so unprepared for a race. It was all mental. I’ve been working so much the race was really far off in my mind. When I packed items up for the weekend, I just walked around my house grabbing things and putting them in my bag. I’m glad I got the right stuff!
Jules and I snuggled up in bed- facing each other. Yes, like we are lovers. We totally are. I almost immediately fell asleep. Next thing I realized, the alarms were going off and it was go time!
This was my first race eating gluten free, so instead of a bagel, I ate an apple with natural peanut butter and a banana. Yum.
Sunday morning we arrived in the parking lot the same time as everyone else. So much for being early. It was very nice not having to walk my bike in from the parking lot, and the walk helped to um, loosen some stuff up, if you will.
When we made it to the main festival area, everything looked great. I got my run shoes and visor set up, then we proceeded down to the swim to bike TA. There was definitely a buzz in the air. A guy a few spots down kept asking everyone questions. I don’t know if this was his first race, or if he just had a lot of things to learn. I think it’s great to ask questions about the sport, but the morning of the race is not that time. I am antisocial in the TA. It’s part of my getting my game face on. At 6:20 a volunteer started walking thru the TA letting everyone know it was closing. Ahh! Time to scramble! I grabbed my wetsuit my father in law got me for Christmas (I love it!! It’s the Blue Seventy reaction sleeveless), some Chamois butter, swim cap and goggles. I made my way down to the swim start- very Wildflower-esq as well. The start is between some docks, and Mike Reilly was standing on one side getting everyone reved up. My waved started at 6:40, and had about 90 women in it. I like big swim waves. More feet to float off of!
Swim 1.2 Miles 33:36
I started at the front and inside- my favorite starting position. The sky was very overcast, and I was praying it wouldn’t start storming (IMKS 70.3 in 2008 a stormed brewed right at the finish- I was pulled off the run course with just a few more to go!). I felt really good thru the whole swim. I wasn’t real springy, but I felt good sighting. My one complaint with the swim was that I would like to see more big buoys. But, you get what you get and everyone is one the same course, right? Right. The water was dingy, big surprise for Kansas, huh? It got a little choppy on the way back, but the swim was over quick. Not my fastest time, but I was pleased.
T1 3:27
I completely took my time. It was starting to sprinkle and I knew it was gonna get nasty fast. I was slow and made sure I had everything I needed before hitting the course.
Bike 56 Miles 3:19.27
Right away there’s the gradual climb up to the festival area. Then a flat section, a couple ups and downs, the dam and smaller rollers with some fast sections. I felt like this year’s revised course was much easier than last years. However, after talking to several people, I figured out I’m just in better shape! It took me nearly 3:45 last year! Huge improvement. Saw my dad out on the course too, which was awesome. So glad he got to drive to Lawrence to see me zoom by for 20 seconds. I really was glad he made it out though! Dad was parked right by the last big hill headed back to the lake. I’m not sure what he said, but I think it was something along the lines of “It’s not a hill, it’s a hump.” Which made me laugh. I was bummed by having to stop to pee at mile 30, but it was better to stop for two minutes than waste 10 trying to pee on the bike. For the first three hours, we had cloudy skies, and sprinkles. Then, on the way back, I saw some blue sky start to perk up.
T2 1:58
Again, I wasn’t rushing, but I had a decent TA. I ran passed my slot because I was listening to how Chrissie Wellington went 4:14. Holy shiit that’s fast. Then I back tracked to my spot. Someone else had racked in it, so I had to return to favor to some poor person behind me. Sorry!
Run 13.1 Miles 2:47.33
Well, when I left the TA it was SUNNY. And hot. And humid. I like it. I felt pretty springy so I decided to just sit back and roll with my legs. The course is basically a two out and back with a loop in between that you repeat twice. Sounds confusing, I know, but it was AWESOME. It was a really good chance to be surrounded by spectators. I got to see Julie and her hubs Dan several times. Along with so many friends. Also, it was great to see the other people racing so much. Very very good course! Around mile 6 I was starting to fade a little bit, so with a little self pep talk on how I would only need to suffer another hour, I tried to pick up the pace. At about mile 9 I knew I had to pee and couldn’t hold it any more, so I “stretched” in a squat behind an aid station. OMFG. I had some bad monkey butt and didn’t realize until I pee’d. Yeeooouuuch!
Right after that Julie jogged up next to me, beer in hand, and encouraged me. So jealous. No more beer for me :sigh:
Soon, I was curving home onto the coolest finish chute. The chute had sunflowers down it, and a bright yellow carpet- just follow the yellow brick road! I finished and was stoked. Then a lady said, make sure you get your finisher’s medal from this lady- CHRISSIE WELLINGTON! Chrissie Freaking Wellington put my finisher’s medal on me, and HUGGED ME for a photo. Thus, fully accomplishing ALL of the day’s goals. I almost started crying!
And, after walking around a bit with Julie, we found Chrissie signing autographs and taking pictures. Of course, we stepped up. She signed my finisher’s medal. YAY!
All in all, I had an awesome race, only 6 min off of my PR from 2007. I’m very happy. I got to meet lots of Texas Gorillas (they’re awesome!) Also, the course and race directors were amazing. Great job to those guys.
June 14, 2009
Goals: Finish. Have Fun. Touch Chrissie Wellington.
Saturday morning I worked. Same as everyday. Bike check in was also Saturday, which put a bit of time crunch on everything.
However, I made it out to Lawrence- Clinton Lake, in time to ride about 45min of the course (and go past Chrissie Wellington- totally almost crashed), and check my bike in. I met up with Shannan Garcia, another aquatics director, and we rode together. Then, we stood in the lllooong registration line. But, it wasn’t awful. Why? There was a live band playing. Just like Wildflower! I loved it.
After registration Shannan and I walked our bikes down to bike check in. This race was set up a lot differently than last year- two transition areas about a mile apart. The swim to bike TA was right next to the lake (duh). Before we could drop off our bikes, we had to get body marked. I despise night-before body marking, but whatever, I’m not the race director. The TA was tightly packed with about five rows set up in long columns to house the 2200 entries. Goldmember was snuggled up against several hot looking Cervelos, and I kissed him goodnight.
After bike check in, we trudged back up the hill to check out the bike to run TA. This one was much more spacious. We talked about driving the course, but it was already almost 6pm, and Shannan had to drive back to Olathe. I was lucky enough to be staying at my friend Jill’s house, and Julie was meeting me there to Sherpa me. Yay for Half Iron Sherpas.
Jules and I met up at Jill’s and decided to head out to dinner. Dinner is always an experience. Particularly since I am now eating Gluten free. I had shrimp and veggies, which were delish. I watched Julie take a couple bites out of the bread. She swears it wasn’t that good. I don’t believe her.
There were a few others in the restaurant that were racing on Sunday, but none of them were sporting the fancy schmancy compression socks I was. They. Are. Sexy.
After dinner we went back to Jill’s and I packed and repacked my now two transition bags. I was kind of frustrated. I have never felt so unprepared for a race. It was all mental. I’ve been working so much the race was really far off in my mind. When I packed items up for the weekend, I just walked around my house grabbing things and putting them in my bag. I’m glad I got the right stuff!
Jules and I snuggled up in bed- facing each other. Yes, like we are lovers. We totally are. I almost immediately fell asleep. Next thing I realized, the alarms were going off and it was go time!
This was my first race eating gluten free, so instead of a bagel, I ate an apple with natural peanut butter and a banana. Yum.
Sunday morning we arrived in the parking lot the same time as everyone else. So much for being early. It was very nice not having to walk my bike in from the parking lot, and the walk helped to um, loosen some stuff up, if you will.
When we made it to the main festival area, everything looked great. I got my run shoes and visor set up, then we proceeded down to the swim to bike TA. There was definitely a buzz in the air. A guy a few spots down kept asking everyone questions. I don’t know if this was his first race, or if he just had a lot of things to learn. I think it’s great to ask questions about the sport, but the morning of the race is not that time. I am antisocial in the TA. It’s part of my getting my game face on. At 6:20 a volunteer started walking thru the TA letting everyone know it was closing. Ahh! Time to scramble! I grabbed my wetsuit my father in law got me for Christmas (I love it!! It’s the Blue Seventy reaction sleeveless), some Chamois butter, swim cap and goggles. I made my way down to the swim start- very Wildflower-esq as well. The start is between some docks, and Mike Reilly was standing on one side getting everyone reved up. My waved started at 6:40, and had about 90 women in it. I like big swim waves. More feet to float off of!
Swim 1.2 Miles 33:36
I started at the front and inside- my favorite starting position. The sky was very overcast, and I was praying it wouldn’t start storming (IMKS 70.3 in 2008 a stormed brewed right at the finish- I was pulled off the run course with just a few more to go!). I felt really good thru the whole swim. I wasn’t real springy, but I felt good sighting. My one complaint with the swim was that I would like to see more big buoys. But, you get what you get and everyone is one the same course, right? Right. The water was dingy, big surprise for Kansas, huh? It got a little choppy on the way back, but the swim was over quick. Not my fastest time, but I was pleased.
T1 3:27
I completely took my time. It was starting to sprinkle and I knew it was gonna get nasty fast. I was slow and made sure I had everything I needed before hitting the course.
Bike 56 Miles 3:19.27
Right away there’s the gradual climb up to the festival area. Then a flat section, a couple ups and downs, the dam and smaller rollers with some fast sections. I felt like this year’s revised course was much easier than last years. However, after talking to several people, I figured out I’m just in better shape! It took me nearly 3:45 last year! Huge improvement. Saw my dad out on the course too, which was awesome. So glad he got to drive to Lawrence to see me zoom by for 20 seconds. I really was glad he made it out though! Dad was parked right by the last big hill headed back to the lake. I’m not sure what he said, but I think it was something along the lines of “It’s not a hill, it’s a hump.” Which made me laugh. I was bummed by having to stop to pee at mile 30, but it was better to stop for two minutes than waste 10 trying to pee on the bike. For the first three hours, we had cloudy skies, and sprinkles. Then, on the way back, I saw some blue sky start to perk up.
T2 1:58
Again, I wasn’t rushing, but I had a decent TA. I ran passed my slot because I was listening to how Chrissie Wellington went 4:14. Holy shiit that’s fast. Then I back tracked to my spot. Someone else had racked in it, so I had to return to favor to some poor person behind me. Sorry!
Run 13.1 Miles 2:47.33
Well, when I left the TA it was SUNNY. And hot. And humid. I like it. I felt pretty springy so I decided to just sit back and roll with my legs. The course is basically a two out and back with a loop in between that you repeat twice. Sounds confusing, I know, but it was AWESOME. It was a really good chance to be surrounded by spectators. I got to see Julie and her hubs Dan several times. Along with so many friends. Also, it was great to see the other people racing so much. Very very good course! Around mile 6 I was starting to fade a little bit, so with a little self pep talk on how I would only need to suffer another hour, I tried to pick up the pace. At about mile 9 I knew I had to pee and couldn’t hold it any more, so I “stretched” in a squat behind an aid station. OMFG. I had some bad monkey butt and didn’t realize until I pee’d. Yeeooouuuch!
Right after that Julie jogged up next to me, beer in hand, and encouraged me. So jealous. No more beer for me :sigh:
Soon, I was curving home onto the coolest finish chute. The chute had sunflowers down it, and a bright yellow carpet- just follow the yellow brick road! I finished and was stoked. Then a lady said, make sure you get your finisher’s medal from this lady- CHRISSIE WELLINGTON! Chrissie Freaking Wellington put my finisher’s medal on me, and HUGGED ME for a photo. Thus, fully accomplishing ALL of the day’s goals. I almost started crying!
And, after walking around a bit with Julie, we found Chrissie signing autographs and taking pictures. Of course, we stepped up. She signed my finisher’s medal. YAY!
All in all, I had an awesome race, only 6 min off of my PR from 2007. I’m very happy. I got to meet lots of Texas Gorillas (they’re awesome!) Also, the course and race directors were amazing. Great job to those guys.
-
Oh, I still haven't done a recap from the KC Triathlon. I will soon, promise.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Manicures and bike work.
I can't reset my groupo and derailleurs. Right?
-Courtney Staton
www.triathletebride.blogspot.com
Sent from my T-Mobile Sidekick®
-Courtney Staton
www.triathletebride.blogspot.com
Sent from my T-Mobile Sidekick®
Monday, January 12, 2009
Listen Up!
As you may have noticed, I've made some cha-cha-chaaangges to the blog. I decided a re-vamped look for 2009 is in order. So, I'll try to stick to this for a while, or until I get really tired of looking at it.
One of the new items is a playlist. I'll continue to update this, but as I think of new workout songs, I'll add them to the list here. It's pretty much the stuff I'm adding to my iPod.
If you get tired of hearing it, all you have to do is hit the "Pause" or stop buttons. I make no concessions for my choices in music. They cuss, scream, and wail. Consider yourself warned.
Oh, and if you're at work and playlists are blocked, then check them out at home.
Crank the volume to 11.
One of the new items is a playlist. I'll continue to update this, but as I think of new workout songs, I'll add them to the list here. It's pretty much the stuff I'm adding to my iPod.
If you get tired of hearing it, all you have to do is hit the "Pause" or stop buttons. I make no concessions for my choices in music. They cuss, scream, and wail. Consider yourself warned.
Oh, and if you're at work and playlists are blocked, then check them out at home.
Crank the volume to 11.
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Unraveling.
"If you want to destroy my sweater...
Woah-ah-woah-ah-woah.
Hold this thread as I walk away...
As I walk away."
Two-thousand and eight was a year of serious ups and downs. I've breifly discussed it. Pretty much my personal, athletic and professional lives were flipped turned upside down many times over. Like a washing machine. You could sit on the floor by the front-loader and watch it go thru the spin cycle.
I am so tired of the begging, the pleading with my mom to get help. I am so tired of people and animals dying. I am completely over the petty arguments and pointless bickering. I have escaped from the horrors that I called my co-workers at South & Assoc. I am sick of the economy. I am through with the things that one by one unraveled my heart strings. Thankfully, I'm very lucky to have an awesome husband and a handful of really wonderful friends.
I entered 2009 on a very sour note. A fairly blah New Year's Eve, a dog that crapped on my favorite rug (Which I stepped in with both bare feet. It was warm. And liquid like), an argument with my hubby with him a thousand miles away. While not everything is totally resolved yet (except for the rug. No amount of Resolve would fix that- it found the way to the trash), I'm trying to make a resolution of 2009:
Let it go.
Woah-ah-woah-ah-woah.
Hold this thread as I walk away...
As I walk away."
Two-thousand and eight was a year of serious ups and downs. I've breifly discussed it. Pretty much my personal, athletic and professional lives were flipped turned upside down many times over. Like a washing machine. You could sit on the floor by the front-loader and watch it go thru the spin cycle.
I am so tired of the begging, the pleading with my mom to get help. I am so tired of people and animals dying. I am completely over the petty arguments and pointless bickering. I have escaped from the horrors that I called my co-workers at South & Assoc. I am sick of the economy. I am through with the things that one by one unraveled my heart strings. Thankfully, I'm very lucky to have an awesome husband and a handful of really wonderful friends.
I entered 2009 on a very sour note. A fairly blah New Year's Eve, a dog that crapped on my favorite rug (Which I stepped in with both bare feet. It was warm. And liquid like), an argument with my hubby with him a thousand miles away. While not everything is totally resolved yet (except for the rug. No amount of Resolve would fix that- it found the way to the trash), I'm trying to make a resolution of 2009:
Let it go.
Let everything go. Let everyone go. The things and people that hurt me in 2008 aren't going to affect my life anymore. I am going to just count to ten, and breathe out everytime something gets me flustered. I will walk away from the heart ache and resentment that I've carried for so long. I am done with it. I am airing it out.
The people can keep doing what they do. I don't care anymore. It's not my life to live, and if they want to destroy themselves, fine. Go for. It won't hurt me anymore. For the loved ones I've recently lost including my grandpa and my friend, I hope you have found peace. I'm letting you have it. For the critters that passed, may all dogs (and bunnies) go to heaven.
This is me, unraveling to my core.
The people can keep doing what they do. I don't care anymore. It's not my life to live, and if they want to destroy themselves, fine. Go for. It won't hurt me anymore. For the loved ones I've recently lost including my grandpa and my friend, I hope you have found peace. I'm letting you have it. For the critters that passed, may all dogs (and bunnies) go to heaven.
This is me, unraveling to my core.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)