Ain't Nobody Got Time For That

It's after midnight. I just ate a Greek yogurt and a cheese stick. Riveting, isn't it? What's most incredible to me, is aside from dinner, this is the first time I have sat today.

Some days, most days really, are like this. Middle of the night baby feedings right off the boob, big kid bad dreams, early risers.  Breakfasts are poured from BPA free containers (also known as the boxes). Husband Dearest is kissed and shooed out of the door with coffee in hand. Our "at home" days twice a week are filled with background noise cartoons, potty breaks, Hot Wheels, pre-school and errands. Go here. Be there. Hurry. Hurry. Hurry! I find that I lose hours each day to baby and kid feedings.  I clean the whole kitchen only for it to be marred by sippy cups strewn about and crackers flying from a highchair.  Evenings are quick dinners, as healthy as I can make five ingredients and 15 minutes. Then it's gymnastics, BMX, and lately even motocross.

The spare moments I think I have are commuting to work, to the grocery store, to the bank, to the grocery store, the BMX track and the grocery store. Did I mention grocery store? All these Es in my house know how to eat.

I work three different part time jobs. Not including my "stay at home mom job." Depending on the day, a big chunk may be devoted to working at the gym or Skype teleconferences. Other days, I burn the midnight oil. Tonight is one of those nights.

I feel like I never have enough time. I know most parents can relate. I've also heard, and said, the adage "You make time for the things that are important." Well yes, that's true too. I know that leaning on the counter watching Facebook videos while the kids eat peaceful lunches is not productive and is time wasting, but sometimes my brain just needs to hibernate for a few minutes.

Although my heart is always full, so are my hands. What I really wish I could make room for is time.

Give Thanks

Ten things I'm so very grateful for.

1. My Son. I'm blessed that I was able to get pregnant without really having to "try." Some women try and never can concive, or do and lose the pregnancies. Thank God, we didn't have to endure this. He's the most amazing, wonderful, awesome thing that I will ever do in my life.

2. My Husband. We made TEN YEARS this year. It's gone by quickly. I'm looking forward to many many more.

3. The Rest of My Family and Friends. I have such a huge extended family when you include our friends. We are so blessed to have many people we're close to.

4. My Job. There's so many Americans right now struggling to make ends meet. While we aren't rolling in it (hardly with the new expense of daycare), we're still able to tuck away a little into savings every two weeks. My husband works extremely hard to provide for our family, and we have been able to take that hard work and make it a beautiful home, a new pick up and car, and really want for nothing, within reason. I'm not bragging, I'm counting blessings.

5. My Health. I had an uncomplicated pregnancy. I'm fit and strong and becoming more so with every day. I want to live a long time, and taking care of myself will help me get there.

6. See Number 5 (Cars, House, Plasma Screen TVs). We want for nothing. Praise be to God.

7. My Trainer, Angela.  Without her and my new workout buddy (and competition!), Cheryl, I wouldn't have the slightest idea what I'm doing in the figure arena.

8. My Mother Visiting.  To say the least, my mother hasn't been in fabulous health over the last couple years.  She came in September and her grandson got to meet her, and she was doing great. I pray it's not the only time.

9. My Staff and Coworkers.  The structure at my work is changing and a lot of people are leaving or being shut out. I can't say I entirely agree, although I know the direction we're headed in is the right one. I'm Thankful for the people that I work with and those that work for me.

10. Everything. Every night when I go to sleep, I try to thank God for each of the blessings my family has. I never get all the way thru, but in case God reads triathlon blogs,

                                                                Thank You.

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.

I am in love.

If I Were an Oscar Meyer Weiner

* So, Texas gets it's very own full distance Ironman. First race is May 21, 2011. I'm not sure how I feel about all these IMs in the US. There's just so many. I loved it being more exclusive. However, it does provide a lot more options. And, should I ever get to do another IM, a spring one might be the only thing that really works for me. Considering how much I work, specifially in the spring and summer, I don't have the time to devote to training. Not to mention I will need LOTS of time with Lil Dude and Husband, plus household crap, I think spring might be the best option. So, maybe 2012? http://ironmantexas.com/





Off the top of your head, how many Ironman races will be held in the US in 2011? What about in North America? Answer will be at the bottom of the post.





* My dad's 52 birthday this year happens to fall on one of the coolest sporting events ever: Motocross des Nations. And guess where it is: Lakewood, Colorado! http://www.mxthundervalley.com/rev/?page_id=256 This event is usually held in some totally awesome European venue, and this year it's back in the 'States. I know he wants to go. I know husband wants to go. I actually kind of want to go, but not sure if Lil Dude would be into the 10 drive in a motorhome (I wonder if that thing even runs...) at 9 weeks old. I may have to just sent pops and Husband.





*Tomorrow Husband and I are taking our maternity pics. And, of course, I went in to get my nails done, and they were in such bad shape, nail lady said to soak off the acryllics, let them heal, and redo them in a couple weeks. Le Sigh, I really wanted pretty nails. I should take better care of my hands. Then there's this swollen pregnancy face thing. It just started about three days ago, but I have puffy jowels, and a swollen bridge of my nose. It doesnt help I have a honkin' zit right there, but seriously. And my feet and ankles have puffed considerably... but nothing like this lady:





I mean seriously. That's just fat feet, right?

* I have to pee.

* I'm just under 36 weeks now. So, I am giving Lil' Dude until about the 10th of July, and I'm running stairs and doing jumping jacks. He's gonna get an eviction notice soon. To help, I've started taking Evening Primrose Oil Capsules this week. Julie's doula recommended them, then they were on my list of things in birthing class to help induce or ease into labor. Here's something I found regarding the practice:

Evening Primrose Oil and Red Raspberry Leaf Tea
Neither will actually induce labor. While some lay midwives will argue that statement about the Evening Primrose, which is the reason it is not recommended until 36 weeks or "full term", almost all sources with experience agree that it does nothing that the body was not ready to do on its own. I will repeat this at the end of this section, to make sure you understand this, as there is a lot of confusion and misconception surrounding these two substances.
Evening primrose oil is an excellent source of prostaglandins, which we already determined readies your cervix for labor. It can be taken orally as soon as 34 weeks, and can be applied directly to the cervix at full term (36 weeks). The general recommendation is two 500mg capsules per day until week 38, at which time you increase to 3-4 per day. The entire capsule can be inserted vaginally (inserted just before bed, it will dissolve before the first time you wake to use the bathroom), or you can use the oil on your fingers for your perineal massage, then also rub on your cervix (assuming you can reach it). Applying directly to the cervix is optimal, but the beneficial ingredients are absorbed through the external skin or the stomach also.
Red raspberry leaf tea is a uterine tonic used by Native Americans for thousands of years. It tones your uterus by helping to "focus" your Braxton Hicks contractions. Think of its job as helping your uterus do more effective exercising while you are pregnant. It does not "cause" contractions and can be safely used throughout pregnancy. It is contraindicated for those having complications "just in case", however, by most doctors who do not understand its use. Many women safely use it from the moment they learn they are pregnant at six weeks until months after delivery. (It helps to tone the uterus after delivery as well, shrinking it back to size more quickly and reducing bleeding.)
Again, neither of these actually causes labor to start.

Just to clarify: I'm not sticking capsules up my hoo-ha. They are taken orally, thankyouverymuch. Still in search of: Red Raspberry Leaf Tea (Pregnancy Tea). Julie and Chrissy have both found the tea, so I'm going to get them to get me some. I went on an exploration that included Consentino's, Nature's Pantry, and Hy-Vee, all to giagantic fails.

* I may or may not have tried on my boob pump. Yes, it will suck something out. I didnt turn it up high enough to see if it would suck something out right now, but, I'm pretty sure it could. I also stuck the vaccum displayed at birthing class onto husbands arm and pumped. I think he might have a hickey the size of a peanut butter jar. I started laughing really hard because I couldnt figure out how in the hell to release the pressue. We are *that* couple in class.

Answer:

US Ironman events, including Kona: 9.
North American events: 11.

I Miss It.

I really miss triathlon. I did two tris last summer. I was busy, had other plans. Now, more than ever, I miss it. As the weather perks up, and spring mornings remind me of my pre-dawn runs before work, and the warm breezes of evening usher in the smells of the grill- which, believe it or not, remind me more of riding my bike thru Lake Lotawana wishing I was grilling, than of the food itself- I want to training. I want to be racing.

I'm starting to reach a point in my pregnancy that makes me think "Oh crap, nothing will be the same." I know it's all for the better. This was something I wanted bad, but just didnt expect to happen so soon. Now I'm wondering if I did enough living pre-parenthood. I know my life isn't over, thank God, but I also know I can't just pack up and go for a bike ride when I get home from work a year from now.

It's too early for me to start planning what races I'll attend, and mostly if my mind, body and family will stand for another Iron distance race next year. I'm doubting that, and looking more toward 2012. That would be five years from my first Ironman. I can't believe it's been three already!

Yesterday, I was mulling over race results from the Boston Marathon. My old neighbor qualified last year and raced. Looks like he did well. I was thinking to myself if I would ever be fast enough to qualify for Boston (no). But what about Kona? My chance was probably in the 18-24 age group, which, I have now left (le sigh). But, I think I have a much better chance of making it in triathlon, than in running alone. And, probably in the half distance, thru courtesy of a rolldown... okay you're right this is all wishful thinking. If I'm going to Kona it's by lottery. And, it will probably be ten years down the road. But that's okay. Because, according to Bree Wee, moms are faster anyway.

I keep telling myself that I can do the Kansas City Half Marathon in October. I mean, I did a 10k at 20 some weeks pregnant, so I can struggle thru a half sans baby in belly. Part of me, the sick, sadistic part, says to race the full, but I know better than that. Right now, I need to sit back and relax. Let myself be hungry for triathlon again.

It's Always Sunny in Kansas City

Okay, that's a lie.

I've been in Florida for a few days to lay to rest my grandmother's (and grandfather's) ashes. It's been a very tough and emotional trip. However, I got to spend a lot of quality time with my mom, whom I miss dearly, and my brother, sister in law, and one of my niece's (and a slew of aunts, uncles, cousins, second cousins, etc., that I rarely get the chance to see).

While I took my running stuff, I never unpacked my Garmin, let alone the running shoes. Tisk tisk. Not sure if running in 95 degrees would have been condusive to this weekend's marathon, anyway.

Speaking of the marathon: guess what! Mixed reports from drizzle, to run, to, what's this?! Farking SNOW?

Whatevs. This is the updated WeatherUnderground.com report (might not be the most credible, but it seems to be the most positive):

So, it will be cold. According to Brett Anthony (the official meteorologist for Runner's Edge KC) it should be dry all morning, and 48 by noon. And, I'd like to finish by 12:30pm.

I am still planning on Gorilla Multisport Shorts, with the tank, and an underarmour shirt. I'll start the race with the throw-away jacket I got from DFT many moons ago. Never had conditions that I thought I would need the throw-away for, and now I do.

I got some of those $1.00 gloves and almost matching $1.00 headband from Target. That oughtta do it, right?

If not, I may end up in capris, which will probably be the more sensible choice.

Here's the info on the marathon, and my number, in case you'd like to track me!

http://www.waddellandreedkcmarathon.org/

http://tracking.theendresultco.com/2009/kc/step1.php

Where Was I Before I Stopped Breathing?

I have a marathon in one week, 16hrs.

Julie is racing Chicago Marathon on Sunday.

IRONMAN Kona is TOMORROW.

I have budgets for mutli centers due TODAY.

My maternal grandmother passed away this week. I'm jumping a plane to Orlando on Sunday. I'll spend time with my mother, and extended family. I'll have budget presentations, and meetings from the moment I land back in Kansas City, until race day.

Did I mention the weather? It's raining, drizzling, and, what's this? SNOW tomorrow!? I know, it's flurries. But still!

I hear O-Town is setting record highs again. Won't that be a kick in the ass. At least it's taper time. My shorter runs will be in 95 degree. After, of course, tonight's run, and Sunday morning's- both in the lower 40's.

I'm teaching a swim coaches clinic for the association tomorrow. I don't really know what I'm going to say, I have a basic outline, but I haven't made a packet yet. Yikes.

Sn0o0w. I said it again.

I just finished admistering my 5th pool check of the week, the 3rd of which I played "victim" in a spinal scenario. I have scrapes on my neck from the cervical collar, and scratches on my arms and legs from the straps. At least my spine is fine.

I worked the ICE fashion show last night. Some of the models are great. Some need throat punches. I saw a lot of random boobs.

The good news: The marathon forecast for the 17th looks like this:
Oct 17 Saturday
Mix of sun and clouds. Highs in the mid 50s and lows in the low 40s..

I'm super itchy. It's nerves, irritation and dry dry skin.

I am hoping to finish up work before 7pm. I want to go home. Run, if possible. Drink a bottle of wine, and sit with my husband.

I'm really tired.

I need to breathe.

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.

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.

May 2008

May '08


Friday, May 30, 2008
Get Your Grown Woman On

Sometimes you just don’t realize how grown you are. I know I’m young. I don’t often feel like I can classify myself as an adult. But sometimes, sometimes, it just sucks to know that I’m really not 12 anymore.

I can’t wash away all my problems with an episode of Full House, a glass of milk and mom’s chicken cordon bleu.

I used to get mad when my parent’s wouldn’t let me listen to Insane Clown Posse (keep your snickers to a minimum, please), or Aqua’s “Barbie Girl.” I couldn’t understand why Mom didn’t like a 14 year old shopping at Victoria’s Secret, or why Dad didn’t want some 17 year old punk kid coming over for dinner on a school night.

You learn so many things from your parents with age. I never thought “I know it all” but I sure did act like it. I was full of myself. Better than everyone. I didn’t know it all, but I knew plenty.

Last night I had to give a tutorial to my parents. It’s the hardest thing to drop a couple bombs just to clear debris. I feel guilty, but I know so many things needed to be said. So I said them. I had to be the parent bestowing a bit of knowledge on a child.

It sucks.

But I grew a little more. I had to pull myself up by my big girl bootstraps and break Hell loose.

And I’m proud of myself.

And I’m proud of them.

But I’m still a little girl. My milk made me feel better. But the Olsen Twins are fakes. And I still love the punk kid.
posted @ 5/30/2008 11:36:32 AM (0) Comments
Thursday, May 29, 2008
You Can't Outswim It
"Because no matter how fast you swim your 100’s, I've learned it’s really hard to outswim the current of things you cannot control."-Liz Fedofsky

So I have this problem.
It's a control issue.
I don't deal well with losing it.
I am a meticulous planner, but if a plan goes awry, we're in big trouble, folks.
I'm set off easily.
The slightest change completely destroys everything.
Two hour bike? No problem. Having to be done 15 min early to come home to clean for a party? Doesn't work.

How do I let go when losing control?
How do I say, "It's okay, just don't worry?"
I need to try.
Go with the flow.
Ride it out.
Just deal with it.

So I'm resolving to let things be.
To adapt to changes in plans when they come about.
Relax.
Because, as Liz says, you can't outswim the current.


posted @ 5/29/2008 6:39:52 AM (1) Comments
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
High 5! One long 9 miler, and a 1.2 Swim TT
“I looked at your schedule. We need to do some big changes starting now. Can you do that nine mile run tonight?” Coach Lady called to say, referring to a run I didn’t quite make on Sunday (I made it to the end of the subdivision, realized it was 91 degrees with 85% humidity, and that it was half past noon). It’s 3:35pm. I leave work in less than an hour, with, what was supposed to be, a night off. “This is the most important week. The next thirteen days are the biggest, hardest miles. You have to get it in.” So, in that instance, my three days off in the week become one day off. I sigh and tell her, Yes, I can do the run tonight. She then surprises me with a 1.2mile swim time trial for the morning, along with a slew of other switch ups and add ins for the week.

I was plodding along the ADP trying to stay focused on the task at hand. Nine miles, eh? I have done nine miles so many times. I mean : pff: check this out, it’s not even a weekend distance run. It’s a Tuesday evening run. How many people do I know that are running nine miles on a Tuesday night? I looked at my watch, noted the landmarks, and realized I was only at about three and one half miles. Ugh. Ok, so nine miles is a long way. Why am I doing this again? Who’s grilling? Oh that smells so good. Gu should totally make a cheeseburger flavor for people to eat when they run past houses that are grilling out. What are those kids doing? They’re going to fall in that pond. I’m going to get my shoes muddy. Have I gone any farther yet? Dammit, it’s at least another ten minutes until the turn around. I should just run to Melissa’s house and make her drive me home. My watch beeped, sounding the Feed Bell, if you will, and I happily scarffed down a chocolate Gu. I tried to count my stride cadence to bring my head back into my workout, and less on what was going on around me. 81.. 82.. 83.. 8- BEEP! Dangit! How am I ever gonna make 88? That’s like, impossible. How can you turn your feet over that fast? Better yet, what’s this crap about the same cadence no matter what the speed? That doesn’t make sense… 43..44.. 45.. 47.. 47.. UGH. Learn to count. 50.. 51.. Turn around time! Wait, what was I on?

The sky was looking more dark, but I figured I’d at least make it close to home before it opened up. The wind was harsh and cool, but it was a comforting contrast to the warm, humid air.

Of course, if there was a stoplight, I had to stop. Apparently, there’s no such thing as green when you’re a pedestrian. HONK HONK! Well, look at that. Melissa and Jeff drove past, presumably on the way to the pool. I so should have just gone to her house.

I continued on, trying to count cadence while sending snotty looks to snotty kids and occasionally sipping from my CamelBak (yes, I have officially switched. There’s no jostling and it has a pocket big enough for my Laptop Sidekick mobile and a couple Gu.

On the opposite side of the road, my fiancé cruises by, honking. Three minutes later, he passes me from behind, honking again. I smile and wave. I love when he “checks in” on me during my runs and training sessions. He’s not vocally supportive, and is sometimes a PITA when it comes to my workout schedule, but it’s his actions that make me feel like he’s behind me. I look at my watch, and make note that it will be about 35 minutes before I get to see him at home.
The rest of the run is as uneventful as the first. Minus the High 5. Yes, the High 5. With about one and a quarter miles to go, I passed the only other runner I encountered all evening. It was an older guy, early 50’s, kind of chubby, but he was putting in work. As I went passed him, I stuck out my hand a la t-ball good game style. “High 5!” I yelled. He simply stuck out his hand and gave it right back.

I cruised home smiling to myself the whole way. I like to think I helped to make that guy’s run.

After a Taco Tuesday (ok, chicken wrap Tuesday) outing at Tanner’s Sliders, and a possible Sundae from Culver’s, Eric and I came home to tidy up for today’s Thomas is Moving to California and We Need an Excuse to Have a Weekday Party party.

This morning I obediently pumped out the 1.2 miler time trial swim. It wasn’t fantastic, by any means, but I held a constant 1:28 pace. Oddly enough, I swam HalfMax last year faster. I have come to the sad realization that their course may be short. SIGH oh well.

Provided it is not raining (which I both hope for, and against), tonight I have a 2hr ride. If it is raining, I’m doing a ride on the trainer for 1hr 20min (Hey, 1.5/1 rule, right?).




posted @ 5/28/2008 9:01:20 AM (0) Comments
Saturday, May 24, 2008
We Are Family
I'm at my Grandma's and I want to keep this short. I wanted to say how proud I am of a certian person in my family- my Mom. She's making some big humongus changes in her life and I totally support her.
And, while I'm thinking about it, here's a face not many have seen before- my granpa, "Papa" Gale who passed away this April 16. Here he is with my grandma, in about 1973. In Vegas. Please note, the style sense DOES run in the family. And yes, my grandma's hot, and my grandpa was a mack daddy ballin' pimp. I mean, come on, check out the leisure suit.

The color problems are from the old old sepa/color print work they had back in the stone age. ;)
posted @ 5/24/2008 6:48:10 PM (0) Comments
Monday, May 19, 2008
Kansas 70.3 Course Review

Kansas is NOT flat.

But: It’s not the mountains Paso Robles, California, either.

After putting in 50 miles of the 70.3 bike course and about 5 on the run, I have made note of a few things:

1. It will never ever matter which direction you’re headed- you’re headed into a head-crosswind at all times.
2. I really miss having horses. I do not, however, miss the smell of horse poop in 80 degree heat.
3. There will be absolutely NO shade on the bike course.
4. This is the biggest thing that the “Clinton Store” will have ever experienced.
5. Said store does not have indoor potties. But don’t worry, they’re brining in an extra port a john.
6. The average high for June 15th is 83 degrees. My prediction is 91.
7. The most difficult climbs will be in the last 10 miles of the bike course.
8. The run course is going to be packed, which is just how I like it.
9. Clinton lake is muddy. Deal with it.
10. The bike course is pretty smooth, which made me very very happy.
11. There’s not much shade on the run either.
12. My coach is way too fast for her own good. If only she can stay healthy.
13. I’m super excited for a local IronMan trademarked 70.3
14. If you’re not doing this race, you’re missing out.
15. Drewie should skip her SIL’s wedding and race this instead.
posted @ 5/19/2008 2:16:00 PM (0) Comments
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Change of Plans
After discussing with Coach Nancy, I have decided to pass on Heritage Park Triathlon this year. I’m really sad about it, as it was my first race, and is a good favorite, but I’m less than four weeks from Kansas 70.3. Aside from the astronomical $75 entry fee (late fees suck), we’ve decided to continue on for the remainder of my build phase, uninterrupted. Of course, this means even more change of plans.
I had planned to go to Lawrence Thursday evening for GNO with my best friend- a little track workout at Freestate HS, dinner, and cake tasting for the wedding. BUT, Lawrence is quite a drive, especially when after work, meaning I don’t get home until close to 11pm. However, it looks like I may be trekking out to Larryville to get in a little pre-race ride time on the course that is “The Iron Cross.” Simply put, I cannot afford the gas and travel time to make two trips to LA in three days. So, we have to get stuff figured out. I’m just waiting on Coach Lady to get me this weekend’s plan. In her defense, I procrastinated and did not decide for or against HP until yesterday evening. Ok, last night at like 10:30pm. So now, we have changes for the weekend. Are there any other procrastinating neurotic athlete brides?
posted @ 5/13/2008 10:57:11 AM (0) Comments
Thursday, May 08, 2008
The Text Message Coach
Nothing like getting encouraging impetus text messages from your coach.

Incoming Text:
From: Coach Nancy
I hav your wkout written up to 24th. Wanted to see what u thought of it with the improv you have done. Are u on board or do I need to tweak?

Outgoing:
To: Coach Nancy
This week is tuff- my bike won't make it back until next monday, so it wont be put together until proabably tuesday. Which means no bike tonight, or brick sat. But I'm still running/ swimming.

Incoming Text:
From: Coach Nancy
Do in gym. Ride 1 hr on bike of choice. Saturday swim 1 hour, bike 2 hrs, run 1hr on treadmill or treadmill/track. U HAVE to put this time in!! Capiche'?

Outgoing:
To: Coach Nancy
2hrs on bike in gym!! ? Woman you're going crazy. I know you're right tho. But pphhuccck. Can I run outside instead of treadmill?

Incoming Text:
From: Coach Nancy
Yes, outside is fine. but GIRLFRIEND u know what u gotta do. Get a friend to join u on your misery :-O

so uh... Anyone busy from 8:00am to Noon Saturday?????
posted @ 5/8/2008 1:00:52 PM (0) Comments
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Approved comments, Speedy think I'm Obese. :)
So, today I saw that I had about 100 blog comments that were never posted. Oops, sorry!
I had quite a few from Dawn, Moto, Robo, etc. Some are over a year old! Anyway, I got to read and remember a lot of things from my past blogs; my memory since jogged by the comments:
Here is my favorite, from my recap of the KC Women's Tri in August 2007:
Posted By: Speedy Gonzales
8/16/2007 11:05:47 AM

You didn't have a 27 minute run in you because you are too fat... I'm guessing in terms of BMI actually obese.
Reply Delete

This actually made me laugh out loud. So, thanks, Speedy, wherever you are. You made me giggle. :)
posted @ 5/8/2008 10:18:09 AM (0) Comments
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
RECAP! WildFlower Triathlon Festival May 2-4 2008
WildFlower Triathlon Festival May 2-4 2008
Olympic Distance

I can think of 1000 other races that would have made for a much easier first race of the season. Note to self. Do not travel 1720+ miles for an Olympic distance race that is twice as difficult as any half you have ever done.

I had so much drama the week or more leading up to the race, I’m not even going to discuss it. As a Cliff’s Notes, we had death in the family, job stuff, bike work, bike drama, shipping drama, plane drama, tornadoes the night before, fiancé freak out, and finance meltdown.

I boarded my plane in KC after paying $150 one way for my bike, pit stopped in freezing cold Salt Lake City (Um, hello, why is the airport outside, and why am I wearing running shorts and a T-shirt?) I eventually made it to sunny San Luis Obispo about 11am PCT, and thankfully, someone was there to pick me up! We trucked over to Fluid Headquarters A (Dave and Michelle’s house) where Dave and I assembled my bike, and loaded the Fluid Mobile. Rich showed up with sandwiches, we hit the supermarket, and Dave and I started the drive to Lake San Antonio (I think it was just over an hour from SLO, and it was a really pretty drive).

Once we got to the Wildflower race site, I met some of the Cal Poly team, and the Fluid team- they are awesome! Then I sat for a while and listened to Fluid elite athlete Yuri Green discuss the property matters and ingredients in Fluid, and how the body reacts to it… very, very, um.,. over my head. J

As a group we rode down to the transition/ festival area—about 3 miles-ish from where we were set up in camping. Right away a got an education. Meaning, I was SCHOOLED in descending. Also, I prayed like hell that Dave had everything put together tight, because I started the 1.2 mile straight down, winding descent on a road with a shear cliff drop. Um, I almost pooped myself, mostly because there were cars, people that were way too timid in the middle of the road on mountain bikes, and guys riding in flip flops and no helmets. I arrived in one piece, checked in and then tried repeatedly to find phone service to call Eric and Kim at TriSports, much to no avail. (FYI- the ONLY service provider that gets service there is Verizon. Apparently, the Network is all triathletes. I stood around stalking total strangers on their phones all weekend. When they hung up I was ask to borrow their phone. Yes, I was that girl.) I separated from the group and meandered around pretty much by myself for the next 90 minutes looking for Kim. I finally spotted the tent on the far side of the TA and made my way there. I hung out with the TriSports group for a while, they fed me delish food (ah, food! So good!), and I eventually made my way back to my bike. This was just the greatest… I proceeded to get COMPLETELY lost. Not a little, but totally, back-ass-wards 110% lost. One and half hours later I made it back to base camp, just as the sun went down.

There I hung out with Michelle (Dave’s fiancé), Tamra and Megan, mostly. These girls are super cool. My tent mates were Amy and Ashley, and poor Ashley had a heck of a time getting to the race, so she was rather late, which meant we were quite late getting to bed- but that was ok because they were nice enough to provide me with an air mattress and a tent over my head! This is where my lacking of camping skills played in. I had to borrow a sweatshirt, and I slept too close to the tent wall, which left me to wake soaking wet with dew. Um, eew, not fun.

I wasn’t even close to adjusted to the two hour difference, so I woke early and headed down with Megan to watch her boyfriend, Travis (a Fluid teammate), Tamra, Michelle, Dave, and the Pros- Chris McCormack, Samantha McGlone, et al., race in the Long Course (1 mile shy of a half ironman). WoW! They are SO fast!

I hiked back to camp by myself and did some exploring. I found a trail over to Lynch and sat and watched the pros descend for a bit. They are absolutely insane. Then I ventured over to the Fluid “aid station”, was entertained by the antics of the underclassmen, and squirted racers with squirt guns. I am so glad I’m out of college! Ashley, Amy and I sat and shook our head and laughed at “Bonnie.” She’s such a doll.

I headed over to the tent, napped, showered, and got myself ready for my race. In the evening, the Cal Poly parents prepared a feast for the team, and it was terrific. Afterwards Colette announced that she and her boyfriend were going for a jog, and that everyone should join. I had heard about this. I hung back but brought a camera. Sure enough, 15 minutes later I saw a bunch of boobs and weenies as a HUGE group of people went streaking thru the Purple Monster tent during their dinner, “it’s a yearly tradition” I was told. Again, glad I’m out of college, but I got some HILARIOUS pictures.

After that Ashley and I went to fetch her bike and had a good conversation about racing. She’s my age, and has been racing as long. But she is super fast. I want to learn to be more like her, so I need to implement some changes. BTW, she was really really nice and made sure I was included in conversations, and introduced me to her friends. I felt very welcomed. I’m really happy to have “tented” with her and Amy, the president of the CalPoly team.

Dave, the coach for the Cal Poly team, walked the team (and myself) thru a review of the course, and a visualization. I really wish I had a team like that here. They train together, race together, support one another and are supervised by a coach.

Things winded down quickly and we packed it in for the night about 9:15pm (which felt like 11 for me!) We decided to set my alarm on my phone for 6:15 and we dozed quickly.
The alarm went off so early we couldn’t believe it, but we were all awake, and moving. Then, I noticed it still hadn’t started to get light- weird! Ash unzipped the tent and commented that no one was awake yet, either. I checked my phone, “Yep, 6:15” .. Ashley asked, “California time?” … Crap. Well, back to sleep we went after a pitch black trip to the bathroom. We then got up at the correct time, had a bagel, got dressed and rolled down to the TA. Ashley was racing collegiate, which started at 9:05, and I age group, which was a 10:10am start.

It felt odd to be setting up a TA. My last race season seemed so far away, but everything still seemed natural. I even helped a couple girls next to me who were doing their first race.

It was a cool, cloudy, foggy morning. However, the fog burned off just minutes prior to the race start, making it one hot day. I had planned to double cap, but quickly decided I’d over heat, and bestowed an old school KC Blazers cap to a spectator. I didn’t have time to take it back to the TA, so I’m sad to see that one go. Hopefully it has a good home!

SWIM: 1.5k 25:41 1:34/100 yard
I seeded at the front, and center. There were roughly 200 in my wave. I did not really feel that great warming up, but I decided I’d do the best I could. The horn went and my row and probably the two rows behind attacked immediately. I know I third going into the first buoy. Fast Feet Fast Feet Stay on Fast Feet I kept telling myself. Alas, these girls weren’t playing. The next thing I knew I was left to fend for myself in open water. I didn’t get the Velcro closed fully on my wetsuit and it was cutting me every time I sighted. Ouch. I just wanted to let someone do the work for me. I felt off from the get go and was trying to survive. I doggy paddled twice to get my bearings and avoid ripping my neck flesh. By 800 yards I was passing men from the previous heats. All the men went before the women, so I knew where I was in terms of caps. At 1200 yards I was passing guys from the two heats before, or 10 minutes, before my start. I was still feeling really frustrated. I was actually relieved to see the exit arch. With 200 yards to go all I could see was dark purple caps- the men before me. I figured I was just stuck with the stragglers because I saw no light purple (my) colored caps. I was so afraid I was in the back of the pack. I tried to up my kick and turn my arms over faster. I have never been so happy to finish a swim! I looked at my watch and thought it said 29, thankfully I read it wrong. I swam a 25, which was what I figured I’d go. After looking at the results, I actually excited my AG wave in 8th. I am fully capable of going a 23 high or 24 low, so I was slightly disappointed, but I had no expectations for this race, so overall, the swim was just fine.

TA 1: 03:57
I’m pleasantly surprised this wasn’t longer. The TA was bigger- much bigger- than that of Ironman, and there’s no one to dress and prep you! I didn’t rush too much, because I wanted to keep my HR down for the climb ahead.

BIKE: 40k 1:53.02 13.5mph (other stats: Av climbing speed um, about 5mph. Fastest descent 49.8 mph)
Directly out of transition, you hit Lynch hill. It sucks. The best part is, I didn’t start with my shoes on the bike, because I didn’t want to jack around trying to get my feet strapped in. Well, that doesn’t matter if you can’t clip your foot to your pedal. I started climbing with only one foot clipped. My left leg was doing ¾ of the work. My right, only the down stroke. I got my foot to clip about a second before falling over. Too late. I had lost all momentum and was about to tumble. I thankfully got my foot loose and down before I fell. I then pushed my bike for approximately 50 yards while trying to get enough speed going to get back on. Let me tell you how much it sucked: It sucked bad. It got super hot, a little windy, and was just tough! I was really glad to have my MOTORTABS for my electrolyte replacements to get me thru.

At some point my mind switched from “at least you have the swim” to “at least you have the run.” I have gained a certain amount of running confidence lately and was ready to show myself what I could do in a race situation.

The rest of the bike consisted of ridiculously long, steep climbs at 100% HR while going 5.5mph at a cadence of about 40. Then of course, were the super fast, super windy down hills. I’m not often timid of descending, but all the skinny light powerful people that passed me on the way up were just landmines on the way down. I was bobbing and weaving more than Mike Tyson on trial. I loved it and hated it. Lastly came the descent of Lynch- this time, there were people running! The early collegiate men’s heat leaders were on their last mille of the run and were cruising down the pounding hill. I unstrapped stealthily and was off the bike quicker than about 7 people in front of me.

TA 2: 2:27
I am happy with this transition. Bike racked, shoes on, grabbed visor, gels, number belt. I felt light running thru the TA area and up the Lynch ramp stairs (yes, you have to RUN UP STAIRS).

RUN: 10k 1:27.09 14min/mile
The first kilometer my feet felt quick, and my turnover was just shy of 84. I looked at my HRM- 154 I could run this pace all day!!! Then my back started to tighten. At first it was annoying. Within 5min it was debilitating. I was reduced from a run, to a walk, to a hobble, to standing on the side of the course-watching people go past me while I held my back and tried to contort into poses to stretch the screaming muscles. I tried running again after a few minutes. I made a few steps, then walked, and repeated the above. I couldn’t believe it. I was feeling so good, even after a craptastic bike, I wanted to run. Yet, there I was, alternating a bent sideways hobble and a standing stretch. I knew I wasn’t anywhere near the front of my AG, but I was just watching girls with 19, 21, 23, on their calves go past me. I have never in a race felt like I should DNF, but it hurt so bad I couldn’t believe it. I told myself I hadn’t come all the way to Cali for my first DNF.

So I started the hobble walk again. I was shuffling as a run, and leaning sideways. I kept telling myself to keep moving. I walked up a big hill, and made the decision to run. Just deal with it, it’s tweaked, you’ll live. So I started running. I kept my thumb pressed on my bike as tight as I could and ran. It started to fade. Thankfully I soon came up on the FLUID aid station and got a few words of encouragement from the group. I told them I was picking up Toto before Lynch and heading back to Kansas. I walked the next uphill. My back pain had turned into a dull roar. I had long let go of running a 68 minute 10k that I felt I was capable of on this course. I stopped my watch and instead relied only on how I felt and my HR.

I struggled to go down Lynch. It was so painful on my back and knees. More girls passed me. I was running, but I felt out of control. Finally, the finish line. I never even looked at the clock. I was happy to finish, aching, very sun burnt, tired and all.

I got my cold towel, my finisher’s medal and plopped down in a chair in the shade. I watched more finishers come in before gathering my things and heading to the tram to take me back to the camp area.

That evening Michelle treated me to a delish sandwich, French fries, and a beer from her brewery (she’s a quality control gal there- gets paid to taste beer!). We rented a movie and relaxed at their house before my travel day the next morning.


Even though it was not the ideal race, I had an amazing time, and really learned a lot. It was a terrific experience and I’m really excited about my new friends and a new race checked off the “must do list.” I want to come back in great shape and try my hand in the super grueling Long Course (almost half) distance race.

I want to thank FLUID (Especially Dave, Michelle, Richard, and Ashley), the whole CAL POLY tri club, TriSports.com, MotorTabs, Tropical Xtreme Tanz, and Freeride Bike and Skate.

Finish: 47/2033
http://www.tricalifornia.com/index.cfm/Wildflower2008-results_and_photos.htm
Photos not yet posted.
posted @ 5/6/2008 10:16:56 AM (2) Comments
Thursday, May 01, 2008
#*&%^$@#%# Week!!!
“His palms are sweaty, knees weak, arms are heavyThere's vomit on his sweater already, mom's spaghettiHe's nervous, but on the surface he looks calm and ready”


This has been one helluva week, and it’s only Thursday morning. I sat down with the intention of writing some nice storyline on how things are going and everything that’s leading up to this weekend, but instead, I’m going to go all random and just bullet it off.

I’m kind of a nervous traveler.
I’ve never gone to a race out of town by myself.
My bike refuses to break down.
The airlines website and reps say they won’t accept my case.
I have had to take my car in for tire repairs twice within a week.
I don’t want to go without Eric.
I am staying with people I don’t know =, have never met IRL, in a tent, somewhere I’ve never been.
I feel so unprepared.
I’m anal retentive about getting things ready in the correct order.
What was supposed to cost me about $100 is now going to be from $225-$325.
Crap, so I forgot to order the save the date cards yesterday. Hell, I didn’t even work on them at all.
I have this thing at tonight that I really need to do well at.
I am not really fond of plane trips.
I’m nearing mental breakdown.
I just want to race!
I am trying really hard to let go of all my expectations, especially the one I had of finishing in 2:55. Now I’m thinking 3:30, if I’m lucky, but I need to put all numbers out of my head.
I want to enjoy myself.
I need to enjoy myself.

Please send good thoughts, vibes, prayers, karma this way. PLEASE.
posted @ 5/1/2008 9:02:14 AM (2) Comments

March 2008

March '08


Monday, March 31, 2008
The Human Condition, as taken from ChuckieV
Wednesday, March 26, 2008

The Human Condition
Sorry ladies, good health is a lifelong journey, not a lap of the track. Walk on.
First, however, a disclaimer: perhaps it's not so politically correct of me to post this, but I can't always help myself. Nor do I care for politics.The human body---yours---is the single most amazing instrument you will ever own. You will own it from the day you are born right up until the moment you die; it's the only "thing" you will own throughout that entire span. Don't be ashamed of your body, no matter what condition it's in. Learn to cherish it and befriend it, or the date of your demise may come sooner than you realize. Change your ways before it's too late, and though it may already be too late to ever be fully healthy, it's never too late to try.Diabetes Type II is preventable. Heart disease is preventable. Obesity is preventable. Cancer (to a lesser extent) is preventable. Bad health is preventable. Death is, um, delay-able.Walk on ladies, walk on. But do me a favor: don't despise Angela because she cares about herself more than you do. Your mumbles are as loud as each of your foot-strikes.

Posted by Chuckie V at 12:12 PM 16 comments
Labels: Chuckisms, health
http://chuckiev.blogspot.com/
posted @ 3/31/2008 5:56:37 AM (0) Comments
Friday, March 28, 2008
Save the Seals!!!!


Watch our video to see what Canada's sealers are desperate to hide.Then, please help our campaign.If you received this email twice today, we sincerely apologize!Trouble with links or images? Want to share this email? Use this link:https://community.hsus.org/ct/Hpw2qks1aXYd/

We'll be here until the seal hunt is stopped -- with your help.


Warning! Very graphic images.
We're not going anywhereuntil the seal hunt ends.But we need your help.
Dear Ms. Courtney, Just before dawn this morning, the annual hunt for baby seals began in Canada.Over the next few weeks, 275,000 harp seals will be brutally clubbed or shot for their fur. Incredibly, though, many people believe that Canada ended this hunt in the 1980s. But it's still happening, right now. That's why the sealers don't want us here -- with our cameras rolling.For four years, The Humane Society of the United States' ProtectSeals team has stood its ground as Canada's extraordinary harp seal nurseries are transformed each spring into bloody killing fields. The sealers have rammed our cars, smashed our boats, and brandished the very same clubs that they use to kill baby seals -- all in a vain attempt to intimidate us.

Then yesterday, Canada’s government took an unprecedented step: It refused to issue hunt observation permits to our team -- and to journalists -- in time for us to document the slaughter this morning. This means that sealers, if they have reached the seals by now, are killing baby seals without witnesses. Which is exactly what they want.Watch our video to see what we're up against. It's hard to watch (and you can skip it if you prefer). But it shows why we'll remain here, steadfast, until Canada ends this barbaric hunt for good. Exposing the hunt is the surest way I know to stop it forever.As another year's slaughter begins, watch our video now -- and then please make a donation to sustain our team on the ice and end this hunt once and for all. The seal hunters don't want us here, but with your support, we'll continue the fight until the cruel hunt ends.
Sincerely,
Rebecca AldworthDirector of Canadian Wildlife IssuesThe Humane Society of the United States
Copyright © 2008 The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) All Rights Reserved.The Humane Society of the United States 2100 L Street, NW Washington, DC 20037protect-seals@humanesociety.org 202-452-1100 humanesociety.org
posted @ 3/28/2008 1:20:03 PM (0) Comments
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Ahh, what a difference a little massage makes!
Well, I didn't have to hire the 300lb Swedish woman named Helga, but I did find someone who did just as well.
I tried out Kent B. at http://www.tkmuscletherapy.com/ and was quite impressed- Dawn and Michele both use him, and I like him as well.
Now, if I could just have one of those, oh say, once a week or better, I might be a little less cranky. Try as he may, even Eric with his nimble fingers couldn't work some of those kinks out.
I'll be visiting Kent's office again just before WildFlower, maybe he'll make me go fast, too!
posted @ 3/26/2008 12:57:34 PM (0) Comments
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Break-Thru Run!

Email to coach:
-----Original Message-----
From: Courtney
To: Nancy
Subject: 6miler
Date: Mon, 24 Mar 2008 19:31:42 -0500
I'm a believer in the pose technique.. I think I might be getting it....
Fastest 6 miles of my life! Don't laugh... the 3 out I had the wind at my back, on the way back the wind was fierce in my face...
Here's the data=
m1 10 12 39
M2 11 11 15
M3 10 41 33
M4 11 33 74
M5 12 25 44 .. This is a looonng uphill
M6 10 27 39
Total 1 06 31
Hr av 174
I was really trying to count my turnover... usually around 84 or 86.
Hard to make that 90! My calves are def gonna be sore. It is such a different form of running.



Last night after my run I sat on the floor with bags of frozen vegtables on my joints. My knees are kind of sore today, as are my calves, which I'm not surprised about. Also, some muscles in my back are sore too, but it doesn't HURT like it has been. I tried to you the "Pose" method as much as I could- and I would say that since I was really focused on my running the whole time, and wasn't daydreaming, a good 85% was with the new technique.

Oh, and there's something I have to own up to....
I ran with a Camelpak last night... and LIKED it. Before I left for my run I opened up every drawer possible to find my fuelbelts--- I could hunt down the bottles, even most of the lids, but no belt anywhere! So I decided, eff it, I'm using the Camelpak, which also allowed me to bring my cell phone tucked neatly away (you know, that massive green turtle in a half shell that I call my SideKick II).
I probably won't use this exclusively, but it served it's purpose and never aggrivated my back nor felt jostly. I liked it! I liked it a lot!
posted @ 3/25/2008 6:48:09 AM (0) Comments
Monday, March 24, 2008
Ugh! It Sucks!
FYI
Bill paying SUCKS>
Everytime I pull up my bank account online I get anxious. Seriously, I know there's money there, but it just really really sucks having to pay for stuff. No, really.
It sucks.
You know what sucks a lot? Personal Property taxes? Those of you in Texas. You're so lucky.
posted @ 3/24/2008 2:18:58 PM (0) Comments
Monday, March 24, 2008
You Want an Agent?

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To: Broadcast Sent: 3/24/2008 6:22:24 AM So You Think You Need an Agent?
http://2Amanagement.com/

From the agency company of the likes of Teddy Maier, now presenting the newest action sports management company in the industry.
The website is still in the early stages, but check out their myspace, too!
http://www.myspace.com/2AManagement
posted @ 3/24/2008 6:34:17 AM (0) Comments
Sunday, March 23, 2008
My Running Form, and Lack Thereof

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qilkxkrqpi
Don't laugh.


Oh, and I am NOT the one wearing basketball shorts (look for MDot tattoo).
posted @ 3/23/2008 4:42:39 PM (0) Comments
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
How NOT to Get Sponsored, and A Way to Fix It.
Hi all. If you remember back in November I did a clinic for a local tri club on how to find sponsors. Well I was browsing some company websites here on sponsorhouse, and I came across a few doozies. These aren't applications for sponsorships, but are actually comments and posts left on companies' pages.
One young man stuck out to me. I checked out his profile and it looks like he really wants to make a name for himself in athletics. However, his comment to the potential sponsor wasn't so hot. I would like to preface this, however, by saying he isn't even in High School yet. So, while it wasn't the best, he is learning the skills to approach potential sponsors by internet cold calling, something I probably wouldn't do when I was his age. Okay, who am I kidding, of course I would have.
Below is what I left on his page. Before some of you readers scoff, please note, I've seen some messages you leave on potential sponsor's pages, and they are no better, and most of you are twice (or more) of my new friend Dustin's age.
Also, if anybody has a question on how to approach a sponsor, I'd be more than happy to field it.
Hey Dustin, I see you're kind of new to sponsorhouse.com. That's great that you're taking some steps to find a way to promote yourself and your athletic achievements.
I would like to take a moment to show you a better way to search for sponsors. I saw that you made a comment post on a company site. I don't think it came across the way you wanted it to. Remember, applying or requesting sponsors is just like looking for a job! Ask your parents or even a teacher to help out, I'm sure they would have great suggestions.
Remember to be humble, but very honest and direct. Write just like you are turning in an assignment to a teacher, always use spell check and have proper grammar. Best wishes in all of your athletic endeavors. Message me if you have any questions!-Courtney
-Your Version-HEY IM A GREAT HOCKEY PLAYER FROM H***CALIFORNIA. I HAVE BEEN IN MANY TOURNOMENTS AND HAVE MANY TITLES. MY BIGGEST HOCKEY CHAMPIONCHIP WIN WAS IN FLORIDA AT NARCH A COUPLE YEARS AGO. I TRAVEL A LOT AND IM ALSO AN AWESOME SNOWBOARDER. I WOULD LIKE TO BE ONE OF YOUR SPONSORED ATHLETES. CHECK OUT MY PROFILE AND IF YOU LIKE WHAT YOU SEE THEN CLICK THE SPONSOR ME BUTTON. THANKS
-A litte more appropriate-Hi! I'm Dustin from H***, Ca. and I love to play hockey! Over the course of my playing career I have played in many tournaments and even won some titles. My biggest Hockey Championship win is at NARCH in Florida a couple years ago. I do a lot of traveling and am also a very good snowboarder. I would really like to be a sponsored athlete and help promote your company. Do you have a way for me to contact you so I can explain how sponsoring me will bennefit your company?Please check out my profile! I'd love to hear from you.Sincerly, Dustin
A link to a Power Point Presentation I made that reflects this subject:
mhtml:file://C:\Documents%20and%20Settings\CourtneyC\Desktop\TRI%20stuff\How%20to%20get%20sponsored-%20seminar%20for%20TriKC\Getting%20Sponsored%20PowerPoint%20by%20Courtney%20Crutcher.mht!GettingSponsoredPowerPointbyCourtneyCrutcher_files/frame.htm
If this link doesnt work, message me and I'll email it to you.


posted @ 3/19/2008 12:03:18 PM (0) Comments
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
5 for 5 and Going Strong
Well, in the last 4 days I have made all 5 of my workouts. I won't lie, some of them I didn't make for the whole time, but I'm doing them, which is a huge step up.
Tonights workout: Weights! Plyometrics! Whoohoo. It hurts but it feels so good.
I only have 6 workouts left this week so hopefully I'll make them all!
Tomorrow I'm meeting Coach Lady to video me running. Ugh. It's u-g-l-y and I really don't have an alliby on why it's so bad. All I can do is train-- but this should really be helpful. I know I need a lot a LOT of work, so I'm looking forward to taking away something from our training session.
Also, after all the stress I have going on, along with the muscular stress from training, I broke down and called a massage therapist. Throughly Kneaded. It's by my work and MotoMichele and DaringDawn both use them. Not to mention pro athletes Kelly B (cycling) and Ben Schloegel (tri) So, I hear it's the best. And since I'm the best, I need the best (wink wink).
The guy that runs the place is a triathlete and Ironman, so he'll be able to identify what I really need done- probably better than I can.
My first appointment is next week- over my lunch break. I'm not going to want to come back! :) Then I scheduled for the week before Wildflower. I'll have to do my own tune ups in between unless they decide to sponsor me and pick up the tab. Hint Hint nudge nudge. :-)
I do have to admit, Eric did do a pretty darn good job the other night, but I think he fell asleep while rubbing my back so I'm not sure if that counts. A for effort I suppose. Isn't he the best fiance ever!?




posted @ 3/19/2008 7:54:34 AM (1) Comments
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Ain't That the Truth!
This summer I am budgeting to spend $320 a month on gas, driving to and from work only. 300 miles a week, 15 gallons a tank at (jebus christ) $4/gal. getting 20mph (if the highway traffic is moving) = $80 a tank. x 4 = $320.That's almost $4000 a year in fuel. That's a sh*t ton. That's my $.02. Or, in this case my $3840.

Subject: FW: Gas Prices









posted @ 3/18/2008 2:12:51 PM (0) Comments
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
A Bunch of Updates! Yes, I'm still alive! :)
Hey all you in blog land!
I have a LOT going on right now, so I'm going to try to give you a pretty brief synopsis of things that are happening with me:::
-My best friend and maid of honor is doing a triathlon! She and her roomates are signed up for a relay race, and then she is planning to do a sprint on her own. I'm really proud of her because this is TOTALLY out of her element. She even did treadmill intervals with me last night at the gym--- and held her peak interval longer than I could hold mine. Yeah, she's a badass.
-Sadly, things aren't going so well for my grandpa. I mentioned about a year ago that his cancer had returned. It's now progressed into end-stage and things are getting kind of hairy. My family and I would really appreciate any good vibes, thoughts, and prayers- if you're so inclined, sent our way.
-WildFlower is 46 days away. I just finished up with an email from my big sponsor this year-- FLUID RECOVERY-- I'm excited to go out there and represent for them. Eric's sports agency (wait, did I ever mention that Eric started an Action Sports Mangement company? It's called 2A MANAGEMENT) has even joined forces with Fluid and you can look for big things from them in the motocross world coming soon.
-Speaking of FLUID... Fluid was named BEST OVERALL NUTRITION PRODUCT at TriFest this year. Check out the full scoop at the TriFest website or here If you're wanting to try some of that tastey stuff, please email me at triswimcoach@yahoo.com -- I'm going to pickup up the rep work for the midwest region. So if you dig it and are interested in placing an order, let me know.
-I'm gonna be a movie star. Ok, not quite, but a guy I went to highschool with has started a production company. From the sounds of things, they are really wanting to promote athletes looking for a hand up. They are doing something similar to a video montage of an athlete in their respective sport (swimming, triathlon, soccer, football, motocross) and packaging it so the athlete can market their abilities and skills to potential sponsors, teams, coaches, universities, scouts, etc... and I get to make the demo reel! I don't have any concrete details, but I will post once things are finalized and we start shooting. For all of you athletes trying to find a way to catch a company or person's eye- this is a big way to do it.
Well, that sums up most things-- oh, send good vibes to Harold Martin of MotoPlayground/ The Pickle. I'm not sure of the details but it sounds like a bike tagged him in Texas (I don't think he was riding, I get the impression he was photog-ing). He's going to need to undergo a LOT of surgeries and healings. Send good thoughts to him and his family!
Oh! PS
My lil brother is racing Oak Hill National this week. If anyone sees him, cheer for him. He rides A class on a Nicoll Motors Kawasaki :) Hopefully he'll be a green blur.
posted @ 3/18/2008 11:32:13 AM (0) Comments
Thursday, March 13, 2008
CORRECTED :: TriSports.com Discount Code!
Hey everyone, I want to share with you my Trisports.com discount code.
CCrut-S
Use this code for 10% off your next purchase over $25!
Order online at http://www.trisports.com/
Also, don't forget to check out my profile, as well as my teammates!
http://sponsorship.trisports.com/html/individuals.html
posted @ 3/13/2008 7:27:29 AM (0) Comments
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
ENTERED! Kansas 70.3
Hey all you old swim buddies. I'll see you on the start line.

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posted @ 3/11/2008 2:32:21 PM (0) Comments
Monday, March 10, 2008
Get Your Ass Up- Training, Homemaking, Living
MOVE IT

Text from my coach:

"pep Talk- its sunny, crisp & refreshing ;-O more sun, less dark, it's time to get your butt off the couch & start enjoying it. Get Fast Now!! :D Goooo!"
As you may have noticed by my lack of blogs, and lack of enthusiasm I have the Midwest Plague (head cold followed by bronchitis). Other detriments to my training have been the freezing weather and the early dark. I can't do the treadmill and trainer anymore. I'm SO over it.
Well dammit, I know, It's still gonna be chilly out, but I'm 3 weeks behind on my training, and I have a lot of lost ground to cover.
WildFlower is in T-55 days.

I am SO ready for this week! I can skip the rain, but bring on the 60's!!!
10-Day Forecast
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NEW: Larger Radar Maps & No Ads
NEW: Larger Radar Maps & No Ads

High /Low (°F)
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TodayMar 10
Sunny
46°/30°
20 %
Tue Mar 11
Sunny
61°/43°
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Wed Mar 12
Sunny
67°/41°
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Thu Mar 13
Mostly Cloudy
59°/38°
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Fri Mar 14
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48°/34°
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Sun Mar 16
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Mon Mar 17
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Tue Mar 18
AM Clouds / PM Sun
53°/25°
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Wed Mar 19
Mostly Sunny
47°/32°
20 %
Last Updated Mar 10 11:15 a.m. CT
Suzy Homemaker
While I haven't done the blog thing much lately, and I really haven't done any training to speak of, I did do something.
I completely re did Bunny's old room (sadly, Bunny passed away the second week of Feb). So, instead of being a giantic rabbit cage, it is now the new and improved study.
Full new office furniture, striped the wallpaper, repainted, decorated, everything! I'll post pictures whenever I find some time... but I might be too busy since I'll be training.
What the new Study means:
I have a place to read and to write workouts instead of the living room table. Eric has his very own desk and office space to do all his, um, office type work, vs. the living room table. This means instead of chatting on the phone right in the middle of an important scene from LOST, he can actually go to the study and talk business. This way I don't get his business confused with Ben telling Locke about Penny's father (um, yeah, LOST people know what I mean).
Maybe now with this change we'll start eating meals at the dining table. Except for Thursday nights. That's where we'll eat, at the living room table, and figure out why Faraway had to cut his Oxford hair. :)
posted @ 3/10/2008 10:55:57 AM (0) Comments
Thursday, March 06, 2008
101 Year old Man to Run London Marathon
How's this for making you feel like lazy? Talk about some motivation.



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Marathon hopeful, 101, training hard
Wed Mar 5, 10:43 AM ET
Already Britain's oldest employee, 101-year-old Buster Martin now aims to become the world's oldest marathon runner by completing the London Marathon and celebrating with a pint of beer and a cigarette.
Sprightly and bearded, he completed a half marathon at the weekend in five hours 13 minutes. The former Army physical training instructor works three days a week for a London plumbing firm and says he has trained for the April 13th race in his spare time.
"I've said I'll attempt it," he told Reuters by telephone from his workplace at Pimlico Plumbers. "I haven't said I'll complete it. If I do make it, all the better. I hadn't thought of doing it before but someone asked me and the money goes to charity so why not?"
His sponsorship money will go to the Rhys Daniels Trust, which provides temporary accommodation for families of patients in specialist children's hospitals.
Martin, who had 17 children and returned to work at the age of 99 saying he was bored after two years of retirement, would beat the previous record for world's oldest marathon runner by eight years.
"If I finish, I'll do what I always do and have a pint and a fag," he said. "People ask what is my secret but I haven't got one. They say fags and booze are bad for you -- but I'm still here, aren't I?"
(Reporting by Peter Apps)

Copyright © 2008 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of Reuters content is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Reuters. Reuters shall not be liable for any errors or delays in the content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon.
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posted @ 3/6/2008 6:56:26 AM (0) Comments
Monday, March 03, 2008
Just Another Manic Monday.





posted @ 3/3/2008 9:41:43 AM (0) Comments