Vendor Review:
Ceremony, Reception, and Rehearsal dinner site:
James P Davis Hall, Wyandotte County Lake KCK B
The site was super beautiful and was perfect for our themed wedding. However, the parks and rec department was difficult to work with, and the mandatory parks rangers “security” the night of the event were kind of jerks to my guests. Also, they told my mom that everything had to be mopped up and cleaned, so she and my DOC stayed and cleaned everything, instead of just cleaning off the tables and trash per the agreement. Later, the groundskeeper said they didn’t need to do any of that, but the rangers had already told them to. Also, I paid for the fireplaces to be lit, and they never were. It wasn’t a big deal since it was warm outside, but, I would have liked a refund immediately. The site itself is a jewel and I’m so happy to have found it. It was $200 cheaper by having a friend that lives in WyCo sign the rental agreement with me as well. The rehearsal rental cost was $100 (when booked a week in advance. Earlier than that and it’s full price.). For the rental from 8am to Midnight the day of the wedding the rental price was $400 plus a $200 deposit. ‘Couldn’t have found anything for that pricing elsewhere.
Flowers and Décor:
Artistic Flowers, Belton/Peculiar, MO C-
Pricing was good and my original meeting with the florist was great. The flowers at the wedding looked good, but the color wasn’t as bright in the bridesmaids lilies (they were a pale orange, instead of the vibrant color I wanted). My bouquet was exactly what I pictured, and the boutenierrs and corsages looked great. My issue: I tried to call to confirm our order six weeks out, and the phone numbers were disconnected, and the shop front was closed up! After many emails I finally got a response that he was now working out of his home and “forgot” to notify me. Very very unprofessional!! But, the florist, Don, did come thru on the wedding day.
Catering:
McGonigle’s Randy Ross, KCMO A
http://www.mcgonigles.com/
Inexpensive, easy to work with. Everything was just as it was supposed to be and they even provided linens. Super great job.
Cake:
Meg’s Lady Cakes, Lawrence, KS A
www.megsladycakes.com
Megan took my vision and put her own spin on it. It was exactly as I saw it. Good contruction, and flavors to DIE for. We had red velvet and spice cake. She did a phenomenal job.
Rentals:
Accent Rentals, KCMO B
www.accentrentals.com
They had a good product. Delivered and picked up on time, but I found it to be rather pricy when the overtime delivery was added in.
Music:
KC Discjockeys Inc C
http://kcdjforyou.com/
I had booked with Frank, and was told he personally would be doing the event. Then, I got a call from another dj two weeks before saying he was doing the event and wanted to go over our music selections. This was fine. We met and everything seemed ok. Then I got a call right before rehearsal saying he wouldn’t be there even though it was my understanding he would be. Ryan, our dj, also did the ceremony music. He had A LOT of issues with feedback during the ceremony and stopped the wedding party processional early, and our bm/moh pretty much walked down the aisle in silence. There was feedback during my bridal processional, and he stopped the song when it was supposed to be let played.
During the reception he kept coming up and asking me questions, when he was already given a timeline. I finally told him that he needed to talk to our DOC because I didn’t have answers and didn’t care. Basically, to leave me alone. The dance floor never really got moving- there would be a good song played, then a bad song that would clear the floor, and that repeated thru the evening. Whatever.
Photography/Videography:
Monika Herbert/ Trevor Hawkins A++
www.Monphotography.com
My favorites. Super affordable and wonder packages. Seriously, this duo (an engaged couple) did an AMAZING job. I can’t sing their praises enough. I’m excited to get all of the pictures back!
DOC:
Suzanne Arnold OCCASIONS Louisberg, KS A+
Suzanne took charge of everything rehearsal/ceremony/reception related the week of the wedding. She was awesome.
Showing posts with label wedding. Show all posts
Showing posts with label wedding. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
The Light at the End of the Tunnel
I'm a Mrs.!
I am employed! (Well, I start Friday!) It's a job I want! Like, ya know, something I *want* to do! And it's in health, sports, and fitness!!
I start winter spin training and lifting shortly!
yippee!!!
Oh, Here's a couple teaser pics from the wedding.
It. Was. Ahhhhwwwsome. ...and Mexico was equally amazing.
I am employed! (Well, I start Friday!) It's a job I want! Like, ya know, something I *want* to do! And it's in health, sports, and fitness!!
I start winter spin training and lifting shortly!
yippee!!!
Oh, Here's a couple teaser pics from the wedding.
It. Was. Ahhhhwwwsome. ...and Mexico was equally amazing.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Two Days to Go!
Ahh! it's just over 48 hrs until wedding bells! Eek. ssooo crazy! there's so much going on and I have so many earrands to run. This will probably be the last post I make until I return for the much needed honeymoon.
Also, good luck to everyone racing Ironman Florida on Saturday. I'm so jealous! I can't wait for my next Iron distance race!
Cheers!!!!
Also, good luck to everyone racing Ironman Florida on Saturday. I'm so jealous! I can't wait for my next Iron distance race!
Cheers!!!!
Thursday, October 16, 2008
I'm Alive
Even after everything, I'm alive. I keep looking for that rainbow and I think I can see it in the distance!! I've had a couple interviews in the last week, one they wanted to hire me, but the money was a j-o-k-e, the other I'll hear from shortly. They're wanting to start someone right after I get back from the honeymoon, so I think there's a good chance. Plus, it's actually a posistion I've been trying to get into for about 9 months now, so it would be pretty badass. :)
As for other details on what's bee bringing me down, I'm still not at liberty to discuss, but hopefully will be after tonight. ::sigh:: We're trying to get everything wrapped up, and I think that should happen this evening.
I'm finalizing everything for the wedding, and am growing more excited and anxious by the day. If it weren't for the baggage we're toting around right now I think Mr. Starfish and I would be floating in the clouds, so it's good we're still grounded.
As for other details on what's bee bringing me down, I'm still not at liberty to discuss, but hopefully will be after tonight. ::sigh:: We're trying to get everything wrapped up, and I think that should happen this evening.
I'm finalizing everything for the wedding, and am growing more excited and anxious by the day. If it weren't for the baggage we're toting around right now I think Mr. Starfish and I would be floating in the clouds, so it's good we're still grounded.
Monday, September 29, 2008
UUUUUUUUUGGGGGHHHHH
Ok, I don't want to vent at anyone in particular, so I'm just going to vent to everyone. Ok, go grab your favorite coffee mug and pour a strong one. I need to list some stuff:
I don't have a job. I don't have any money, mostly due to lack of job. I am getting married in T-32 days. I feel like there's so much left to do. My mom has something going on that can't be avoided, so she won't be around much until the week of the wedding. My ShyShy dog is chewing the pads of her paws off. I'm going to have to get her one of those damn elizabethan collar things until her paws heal.
I don't have a job. I don't have any money, mostly due to lack of job. I am getting married in T-32 days. I feel like there's so much left to do. My mom has something going on that can't be avoided, so she won't be around much until the week of the wedding. My ShyShy dog is chewing the pads of her paws off. I'm going to have to get her one of those damn elizabethan collar things until her paws heal.
Those things do not look good on any dog, especially a pit bull. I broke my favorite flip flops while trying to carry said dog down stairs today. I had to clean her paws with peroxide solution to fight infection and she yelped and whined and cried and it made me feel like the worst dog mom EVER. I feel chubby. I am agravated with my hair and my skin. I feel like I have no direction because I have no job thus making me a worthless member in society. I'm nervous the weather is going to turn craptastic for the wedding.
Ok, so here's some good things, as I would like to remind myself that life isn't all that bad.
My bachlorette party is this weekend, and I have the best friends and bridesmaids in the universe. I have a super hot dress I'm going to wear, but first I have to figure out how to make a duct tape bra to hold up the girls since it's backless. Hoo-ah! We're going to hit up some good spots, and I'm excited to have a fun girls night. My MOH Alyson got us some rooms at a swanky near by hotel, so we just have stumble, er, walk back. 
I'm currently sipping a creme-bru-le coffee at Scooter's. I got a free upgrade to the 20 oz. mmmmm. In six days I have driven a total of 41.8 miles. I even ran and walked to swim practice a couple times. I really enjoy that. The running is great exercise, but walking home from the pool saturday felt great. it's been a while since I've just gone on a Walk for transportation versus a run to nowhere. i think i might continue that on Saturdays. Run in the morning before practice, and stop at the pool. Swim, walk home.
Ok you're right. I'm feeling better already.
Friday, September 26, 2008
The Flower Guy's Alive!
Whew. Just got an email from the florist apologizing for not contacting me. Due to escalating overhead, he closed the store front, but still has his home studio and is doing events and weddings only now. That's fine with me!
Ok, so, I don't have to freak about that, at least!
Ok, so, I don't have to freak about that, at least!
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Just Over a Month
About a month until I become a Mrs- Eight years in the making. Ahh! Today I'm working on wedding stuff, and I have encountered a minor problem.
I think my florist may have packed up and left shop. I keep calling and calling and the phone is disconnected. I just sent an email. While I don't expect an immediate response, it sure would calm my fears.
My little brother moved back to KC this week from Minneapolis and I'm making him do a drive by of their location to make sure there's still an open sign on the door. If so, they better call me! I freaking out, man.
I think my florist may have packed up and left shop. I keep calling and calling and the phone is disconnected. I just sent an email. While I don't expect an immediate response, it sure would calm my fears.
My little brother moved back to KC this week from Minneapolis and I'm making him do a drive by of their location to make sure there's still an open sign on the door. If so, they better call me! I freaking out, man.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
June 2008
June '08
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Load 'em up- move 'em out! Buffalo Springs 70.3-- Lubbock, TX
Heading to Lubbock in the morning. First father/daughter trip. super pumped for trip and to see how I can fair just 2 weeks from my last half!
http://ironman.com/events/ironman70.3/buffalosprings70.3/?show=resultsTo follow me along during the race (to see how i'm doing and my time splits) click on the link above, then athlete tracker for 2008 (should be up saturday evening). Type in my name or number. If you don't know my name, dig around. Or look to the left. Wish me luck!!
About the RaceBuffalo Springs 70.3Open water lake swim. Wave starts (approximately 200 per wave), rectangular course counter clockwise, entry at beach area and exit on cement boat dock area, within 20 yards of the transition area.Bike course is a modified out and back, out of town farm to market roads, limited traffic, flat with 8 challenging hills, ranging from 2.9% - 8.9% grade and a quarter of a mile to 1.2 miles in length.Run is on asphalt, flat with 3 challenging hills, ranging from 10-14% (not the same hills as found on the bike course) grade. The hills are approximately 300 yards to 880 yards in length. Partially shaded, tough, scenic course.
posted @ 6/26/2008 1:55:58 PM (1) Comments
Monday, June 23, 2008
70.3 KS in a few more details.
Ironman KS 70.3 Recap June 15, 2008
Swim- 41:20
Long counter clockwise rectangle-ish. Start was really really good. Myself and Robyn were at the very front until the first buoy.
Then, I forgot my ability to swim in a straight line. Along with swimming in a zig-zag pattern, this was the roughest swim I can remember! Super choppy, big rollers. I don’t mid that so much, because I feel like I can deal better than others. But, I had to stop and “choke it out” at least twice. One of my favorite swim coaches used to say “do not breathe the clear blue liquid.” This time it was more like “Definitely do not breathe the milky brown, pudding looking substance.”
My watch said 39 something, and the clock says 41. So, two things: I know I wasn’t going blazing fast, but I was swimming more like a 33, not 39. The course was long (look at pro men’s results). Then, there was a 350 yard “run” to the transition area. Yikes!! That’s still about 12 minutes slower than my last half ironman in September 2007!! WOW!
T1- 1:50
I calmly gathered my things here. No huge rush when you’re going 70.3. This was pretty quick considering the size of the TA.
Bike- 3:44.12
Slow, steady. This course is really difficult. Very hilly, very windy. I thought I would average closer to a 16, but with the wind, I’m pretty pleased with the 15mph average. Slow, but, I felt pretty good.
This course has the “IronCross” which is a collection of 4 right hand turns in the same place. On the first section, at about mile 14 I saw a guy on a stretcher, and a guy that looked really hurt and dazed. Hearsay is that the two collided on the downhill (very very fast downhill section) and slammed into the Gatorade aid station and the bridge railing. I later learned they were life-flighted out.
I kept seeing Dawn yelling at the top of her lungs, and Alyson with the doggies all over the bike course. It was super motivational to see them!
On the last portion of the bike leg, headed back to the TA I saw my fiancé’s truck. I didn’t think he was going to make it out. Then, I saw two guys jumping up and down in thongs. Oh. My. God. That was my fiancé and brother. The funniest thing I have ever seen. My friend Alyson was there too, with her doggies. It was hilarious.
T2- 1:34
Again, I wasn’t blazing fast thru here, but I should have gone a little faster.
Run- ?
Bad stomach cramps forced me to walk the majority of the first couple miles until I found a bathroom. I was still run/ walking for a bit after that, but then was feeling better, so much better, that the last mile split I caught, was a 10:05!! The first two were over 15 min/mile.
Then, somewhere after mile 6, everyone was being shoo’ed into the corral- there was an impending storm (never happened) and they had called the race. I just pulled my hat down and started crying because I was feeling better and really trying to salvage what I could of my race.
As I crossed the “finish” line and was handed my “finisher’s medal” I looked up and saw Robyn. I could see she was bumming, but I was in no mood to commiserate. I found the closest tree, and went behind it. I dropped down on my knees with my head in my hands. I was sobbing. I just bent down there and let it out. I have never not finished a race. I know a few people have said that those that were forced off while still on the way to completion, should be considered finishers. I just can’t find it inside of me to agree. I heard someone come over to me, ask if I was ok, or if I needed medical help. I saw his shoes and bike tires, but I never looked up. I just kept saying, “I’m ok, I’m ok.”
Who ever that nice man was patted my back and said “I’m really sorry,” finally realizing why I was so upset. I still don’t know who he was.
I have no idea what my time was, how far I really ran, or where I placed.
I was telling my dad about it, and he offered to take me to another.
This morning after the race, I looked a up other 70.3 series races, found a few, called coach lady and asked for her suggestion. Then called Dad and he said he was down, so, here I am, booked for another half in 2 weeks.
Buffalo Springs 70.3 in Lubbock, TX on June 29th. Hopefully I can redeem myself there. Also, I’m super excited that I get to go with my dad. He’s really pretty much taking care of everything, and we’ve not done a tri trip before (usually motocross) so this is going to be really really cool!!!
Plus, I’ve never been to Texas for a tri, and this is going to be super hot, and super hard. Just the way I like ‘em!!!
Thank you::
Trisports.com, Fluid Recovery, Tropical Xtreme Tanz
posted @ 6/23/2008 7:41:20 AM (0) Comments
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Weight Watchers
Well, I jumped on board with Meggie Mac and GeekGrl to joing the Weight Watchers bandwagon.
There's a lot to explore on the site, and I'm just getting started. Alas, my biggest races for the year are either behind me, or withing days, so it won't have much affect on my racing- maybe for the sprints- but it will have impact on the marathon if I can successfully get the weight off, as I did for ironman (but it popped back on just weeks after the race. figures.)
Also, I seem to keep forgetting that I have a wedding in the upcoming months. My first alteration is in late August, so hopefully the gown will need a few nip/tucks. It fits pretty well now, but a little big (well, last I checked in mid April, so who knows now).
posted @ 6/17/2008 8:07:08 AM (0) Comments
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Finishing Place?
Well, the so called 'Results' are posted on www.IronmanKansas.com, however, I'm pretty sure that not only are they significantly inconclusive, they're totally wrong.
But, for the time being, I'm posted as finishing 4th. However, there's a girl listed below me, that I know beat me. So did I beat people in front of me? Did others behind me actually finish, or "finish" before I did?
Well, for now, we'll say I got 4th in my division, but it's subject to change.
posted @ 6/17/2008 6:23:31 AM (0) Comments
Monday, June 16, 2008
Teexxxxxaaaasss!
YEEEEHAAW!
So I'm pretty pumped about racing in Texas. I've swam there, but this will be my first tri there. Super Super exticited!!!
So, in honor of the Buffalo Springs 70.3 I have changed my background (again).
posted @ 6/16/2008 11:46:55 AM (0) Comments
Monday, June 16, 2008
Teexxxxxaaaasss!
YEEEEHAAW!
So I'm pretty pumped about racing in Texas. I've swam there, and gone to motocross races, but this will be my first tri there. Super Super exticited!!!
So, in honor of the Buffalo Springs 70.3 I have changed my background (again).
posted @ 6/16/2008 11:46:38 AM (0) Comments
Monday, June 16, 2008
IM Kansas 70.3, and a new race to the schedule!!!!
Ironman KS 70.3 Recap
Race only and in condensed version — will add more later.
Swim-
Long counter clockwise rectangle-ish. Start was really really good. Myself and Robyn were at the very front until the first buoy. Then, I forgot my ability to swim in a straight line, however, my watch said 39 something, and the clock says 41. So, two things: I know I wasn’t going blazing fast, but I was swimming more like a 33, not 39. The course was long (look at pro men’s results). Then, there was a 350 yard “run” to the transition area. Yikes!!
T1- 1:50
I calmly gathered my things here. No huge rush when you’re going 70.3. This was pretty quick considering the size of the TA.
Bike- 3:44.12
Slow, steady. This course is really difficult. Very hilly, very windy. I thought I would average closer to a 16, but with the wind, I’m pretty pleased with the 15mph average. Slow, but, I felt pretty good.
This course has the “IronCross” which is a collection of 4 right hand turns in the same place. On the first section, at about mile 14 I saw a guy on a stretcher, and a guy that looked really hurt and dazed. Hearsay is that the two collided on the downhill (very very fast downhill section) and slammed into the Gatorade aid station and the bridge railing. I later learned they were life flighted out.
On the last portion of the bike leg, headed back to the TA I saw my fiancé’s truck. I didn’t think he was going to make it out. Then, I saw two guys jumping up and down in thongs. Oh. My. God. That was my fiancé and brother. The funniest thing I have ever seen. My friend Alyson was there too, with her doggies. It was hilarious.
T2- 1:34
Again, I wasn’t blazing fast thru here, but I should have gone a little faster.
Run- ?
Bad stomach cramps forced me to walk the majority of the first couple miles until I found a bathroom. I was still run/ walking for a bit after that, but then was feeling better, so much better, that the last mile split I caught, was a 10:05!! The first two were over 15 min/mile.
Then, somewhere after mile 6, everyone was being shoo’ed into the corral- there was an impending storm (never happened) and they had called the race. I just pulled my hat down and started crying because I was feeling better and really trying to salvage what I could of my race.
I have no idea what my time was, how far I really ran, or where I placed.
I was telling my dad about it, and he offered to take me to another.
This morning I looked some up, found a few, called coach lady and asked for her suggestion. Then called Dad and he said he was down, so, here I am, booked for another half in 2 weeks.
Buffalo Springs 70.3 in Lubbock, TX on June 29th. Hopefully I can redeem myself there. Also, I’m super excited that I get to go with my dad. He’s really pretty much taking care of everything, and we’ve not done a tri trip before (usually motocross) so this is going to be really really cool!!!
Plus, I’ve never been to Texas for a tri, and this is going to be super hot, and super hard. Just the way I like ‘em!!!
posted @ 6/16/2008 11:32:49 AM (1) Comments
Friday, June 13, 2008
How Do You Measure Up?
June 13, 2008
Japan, Seeking Trim Waists, Measures Millions
By NORIMITSU ONISHI
AMAGASAKI, Japan — Japan, a country not known for its overweight people, has undertaken one of the most ambitious campaigns ever by a nation to slim down its citizenry.
Summoned by the city of Amagasaki one recent morning, Minoru Nogiri, 45, a flower shop owner, found himself lining up to have his waistline measured. With no visible paunch, he seemed to run little risk of being classified as overweight, or metabo, the preferred word in Japan these days.
But because the new state-prescribed limit for male waistlines is a strict 33.5 inches, he had anxiously measured himself at home a couple of days earlier. “I’m on the border,” he said.
Under a national law that came into effect two months ago, companies and local governments must now measure the waistlines of Japanese people between the ages of 40 and 74 as part of their annual checkups. That represents more than 56 million waistlines, or about 44 percent of the entire population.
Those exceeding government limits — 33.5 inches for men and 35.4 inches for women, which are identical to thresholds established in 2005 for Japan by the International Diabetes Federation as an easy guideline for identifying health risks — and having a weight-related ailment will be given dieting guidance if after three months they do not lose weight. If necessary, those people will be steered toward further re-education after six more months.
To reach its goals of shrinking the overweight population by 10 percent over the next four years and 25 percent over the next seven years, the government will impose financial penalties on companies and local governments that fail to meet specific targets. The country’s Ministry of Health argues that the campaign will keep the spread of diseases like diabetes and strokes in check.
The ministry also says that curbing widening waistlines will rein in a rapidly aging society’s ballooning health care costs, one of the most serious and politically delicate problems facing Japan today. Most Japanese are covered under public health care or through their work. Anger over a plan that would make those 75 and older pay more for health care brought a parliamentary censure motion Wednesday against Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda, the first against a prime minister in the country’s postwar history.
But critics say that the government guidelines — especially the one about male waistlines — are simply too strict and that more than half of all men will be considered overweight. The effect, they say, will be to encourage overmedication and ultimately raise health care costs.
Yoichi Ogushi, a professor at Tokai University’s School of Medicine near Tokyo and an expert on public health, said that there was “no need at all” for the Japanese to lose weight.
“I don’t think the campaign will have any positive effect. Now if you did this in the United States, there would be benefits, since there are many Americans who weigh more than 100 kilograms,” or about 220 pounds, Mr. Ogushi said. “But the Japanese are so slender that they can’t afford to lose weight.”
Mr. Ogushi was actually a little harder on Americans than they deserved. A survey by the National Center for Health Statistics found that the average waist size for Caucasian American men was 39 inches, a full inch lower than the 40-inch threshold established by the International Diabetes Federation. American women did not fare as well, with an average waist size of 36.5 inches, about two inches above their threshold of 34.6 inches. The differences in thresholds reflected variations in height and body type from Japanese men and women.
Comparable figures for the Japanese are sketchy since waistlines have not been measured officially in the past. But private research on thousands of Japanese indicates that the average male waistline falls just below the new government limit.
That fact, widely reported in the media, has heightened the anxiety in the nation’s health clinics.
In Amagasaki, a city in western Japan, officials have moved aggressively to measure waistlines in what the government calls special checkups. The city had to measure at least 65 percent of the 40- to 74-year-olds covered by public health insurance, an “extremely difficult” goal, acknowledged Midori Noguchi, a city official.
When his turn came, Mr. Nogiri, the flower shop owner, entered a booth where he bared his midriff, exposing a flat stomach with barely discernible love handles. A nurse wrapped a tape measure around his waist across his belly button: 33.6 inches, or 0.1 inch over the limit.
“Strikeout,” he said, defeat spreading across his face.
The campaign started a couple of years ago when the Health Ministry began beating the drums for a medical condition that few Japanese had ever heard of — metabolic syndrome — a collection of factors that heighten the risk of developing vascular disease and diabetes. Those include abdominal obesity, high blood pressure and high levels of blood glucose and cholesterol. In no time, the scary-sounding condition was popularly shortened to the funny-sounding metabo, and it has become the nation’s shorthand for overweight.
The mayor of one town in Mie, a prefecture near here, became so wrapped up in the anti-metabo campaign that he and six other town officials formed a weight-loss group called “The Seven Metabo Samurai.” That campaign ended abruptly after a 47-year-old member with a 39-inch waistline died of a heart attack while jogging.
Still, at a city gym in Amagasaki recently, dozens of residents — few of whom appeared overweight — danced to the city’s anti-metabo song, which warned against trouser buttons popping and flying away, “pyun-pyun-pyun!”
“Goodbye, metabolic. Let’s get our checkups together. Go! Go! Go!
Goodbye, metabolic. Don’t wait till you get sick. No! No! No!”
The word metabo has made it easier for health care providers to urge their patients to lose weight, said Dr. Yoshikuni Sakamoto, a physician in the employee health insurance union at Matsushita, which makes Panasonic products.
“Before we had to broach the issue with the word obesity, which definitely has a negative image,” Dr. Sakamoto said. “But metabo sounds much more inclusive.”
Even before Tokyo’s directives, Matsushita had focused on its employees’ weight during annual checkups. Last summer, Akio Inoue, 30, an engineer carrying 238 pounds on a 5-foot-7 frame, was told by a company doctor to lose weight or take medication for his high blood pressure. After dieting, he was down to 182 pounds, but his waistline was still more than one inch over the state-approved limit.
With the new law, Matsushita has to measure the waistlines of not only its employees but also of their families and retirees. As part of its intensifying efforts, the company has started giving its employees “metabo check” towels that double as tape measures.
“Nobody will want to be singled out as metabo,” Kimiko Shigeno, a company nurse, said of the campaign. “It’ll have the same effect as non-smoking campaigns where smokers are now looked at disapprovingly.”
Companies like Matsushita must measure the waistlines of at least 80 percent of their employees. Furthermore, they must get 10 percent of those deemed metabolic to lose weight by 2012, and 25 percent of them to lose weight by 2015.
NEC, Japan’s largest maker of personal computers, said that if it failed to meet its targets, it could incur as much as $19 million in penalties. The company has decided to nip metabo in the bud by starting to measure the waistlines of all its employees over 30 years old and by sponsoring metabo education days for the employees’ families.
Some experts say the government’s guidelines on everything from waistlines to blood pressure are so strict that meeting, or exceeding, those targets will be impossible. They say that the government’s real goal is to shift health care costs onto the private sector.
Dr. Minoru Yamakado, an official at the Japan Society of Ningen Dock, an association of doctors who administer physical exams, said he endorsed the government’s campaign and its focus on preventive medicine.
But he said that the government’s real priority should be to reduce smoking rates, which remain among the highest among advanced nations, in large part because of Japan’s powerful tobacco lobby.
“Smoking is even one of the causes of metabolic syndrome,” he said. “So if you’re worried about metabo, stopping people from smoking should be your top priority.”
Despite misgivings, though, Japan is pushing ahead.
Kizashi Ohama, an official in Matsuyama, a city that has also acted aggressively against metabo, said he would leave the debate over the campaign’s merits to experts and health officials in Tokyo.
At Matsuyama’s public health clinic, Kinichiro Ichikawa, 62, said the government-approved 33.5-inch male waistline was “severe.” He is 5-foot-4, weighs only 134 pounds and knows no one who is overweight.
“Japan shouldn’t be making such a fuss about this,” he said before going off to have his waistline measured.
But on a shopping strip here, Kenzo Nagata, 73, a toy store owner, said he had ignored a letter summoning him to a so-called special checkup. His waistline was no one’s business but his own, he said, though he volunteered that, at 32.7 inches, it fell safely below the limit. He planned to disregard the second notice that the city was scheduled to mail to the recalcitrant.
“I’m not going,” he said. “I don’t think that concerns me.”
Copyright 2008The New York Times Company
posted @ 6/13/2008 10:50:43 AM (0) Comments
Friday, June 13, 2008
Good Race, Not Good Luck
My friend Andrea just sent me this email. I thought I'd share because I agree with her!
YAHOO.Shortcuts.hasSensitiveText = false;
YAHOO.Shortcuts.sensitivityType = [];
YAHOO.Shortcuts.doUlt = false;
YAHOO.Shortcuts.location = "us";
YAHOO.Shortcuts.document_id = 0;
YAHOO.Shortcuts.document_type = "";
YAHOO.Shortcuts.document_title = "Good Race!";
YAHOO.Shortcuts.document_publish_date = "";
YAHOO.Shortcuts.document_author = "avillasi@kumc.edu";
YAHOO.Shortcuts.document_url = "";
YAHOO.Shortcuts.document_tags = "";
YAHOO.Shortcuts.document_language = "english";
YAHOO.Shortcuts.annotationSet = {};
I want to wish you all a "Good Race" on Sunday.
I don't want to say "Good Luck" because luck has nothing to do with it. We've put in the hours, weeks and months of training - luck is not going to get you through this - your training will.
That and your spirit...your inspiration...your motivation.
We all have our reasons for doing this race, or triathlon for that matter. For some of us, the purpose is self-discovery. Some of us want to see what we're made of. Some of us want to be one of the "cool kids". And some of us just want to have FUN!
What ever your reason, what ever drives you to do this "crazy" thing, go forward knowing that you control you - this is YOUR race - and ONLY you are responsible for the results.
GOOD RACE peeps! I hope I see you this weekend!
Andrea V
posted @ 6/13/2008 6:49:30 AM (0) Comments
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Miss Popularity
WOWZA!
I have had 972 hits since 10am yesterday. That's an awful lot.
Okay, who's the stalker? Is it you? Or you? Or...
Thanks for the visits! Keep coming back to see me!
posted @ 6/12/2008 7:57:08 AM (0) Comments
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Tag! A Running Q&A.. sort of.
I was tagged by GeekGrl, inadvertently. 1. How would you describe your running 10 years ago?Well. I set the middle school girl’s mile record. I think that was the first and last time I ran one mile straight, until freshman year of college. If I remember right, it was somewhere in the neighborhood of 7:42ish. That’s what happens when you’re 5’7 and 120lbs and, oh, about 12 years old. 2. What is your best and worst run/race experience?My best: Definitely the whole IRONWEEK from last year in Florida. The race was perfect, and I got engaged just days before while on the beach. It was amazing. My worst: HalfMax 2006. My first half ironman. Not only was I significantly undertrained, but I had no base whatsoever. I winged it, and just happened to finish. 3. Why do you run?Because some idiot decided that a triathlon would be swim-bike-run, versus my suggestion, of swim-bike-under water basket weaving while juggling on a unicycle. No seriously, if it weren’t for the running in triathlon, I never would have bought a pair of real running shoes.
I have realized, however, that when doing long distance running (i.e.: the later half of marathon training) my excess weight melts away. That’s nice since my next marathon (and first open marathon) is just two weeks prior to my wedding. 4. What is the best or worst piece of advice you've been given about running?“Pick up your feet.” It sounds so simple, but when you’re a heavy heavy heel striking shuffler, having your former track star boyfriend yell at you about your form is both simultaneously good and bad. Good, because, well, he was right. It’s like running with your brakes on. But, he was running next to me, up hill, BACKWARDS, at the same pace as I was going. 5. Tell us something surprising about yourself that not many people would know.I have circus toes. Ya know, in the movie Shallow Hal, and Hal’s friend dumps the super hot girl because the toe next to her big toe is actually longer than the big toe… well, I have that circus toe thing going on. It’s just not that much longer. 6. Tag Somebody.Robo, Rik Kirchner, Julie- this means you actually have to blog, Bree Five-0, Ron Hudnet , Dawn. You’re up. (PS Bree is racing IM Japan and Dawn is racing IM CDA in a few days- good luck!)
posted @ 6/11/2008 8:16:45 AM (0) Comments
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
In honor of the weekend
Please note the Jayhawk background in honor of this weekend's events in Larryville.
http://ironmankansas.com/
Swim Course - 1.2 Miles - 1 Loop
The swim is a semi-triangular course. Athletes will enter the the water on the southern tip of the beach, swim in a counterclockwise direction and exit on the northern end. They will then enter the northern end of transition and bike exit on the southern end of transition.
First wave starts at 6:40 AM - Limit of 150 per wave - 13 -14 waves at 5 min. intervals - last wave will start at 7:45 or 7:50 AM
SWIM MAP >>
Bike Course - 56 Miles - 1 Loop
Start: Bloomington Park Beach (south large parking lot)
Leave the parking lot of Bloomington Beach and travel west on 1190 Rd.
Turn Left (South) on E 550 Rd.
Veer Right (Southwest) on N851 Rd. Diagonal Rd.
Turn Right (West) 458 Rd. Take 458 (it veers North) to the town of Stull. Turn-around at Stull and return on 458 Rd.
Turn Right (South) on 1023 Rd. (N 851 Diagonal Rd.) through the town of Twin Mound veering left on E 100 Rd.
Turn Right (West) on 460 Rd. Turn around at the Douglas County Line. Return on the same course back to the intersection of 458 & 1023 Rd.
Turn Right (Southeast) on 458 Rd. Take 458 to 1029 Rd. Turn Right (South) on 1029. Take 1029 Rd. across Highway 56 turn around at the Douglas County line. Return the same way back to the intersection of 1029 & 458 Rd.
Return to the transition area via N851 Diagonal Rd. the same way exited.
Finish: Bloomington Park Beach
BIKE MAP AND PROFILE >>
Run Course - 13.1 Miles - 3 Loops
Athletes will exit Transition from the North end of transition and follow the marked path North towards the lower dock parking lot.
Runners will turn Left at the lower dock parking lot and follow the lower dock road clockwise until reaching 1190 N. Road.
Turn Right at 1190 N. Road. Follow 1190 N. Road westbound.
Turn Right at 700 Road. Follow 700 Road to the second entrance into Cedar Campground.
Turn Left into Cedar Campground. Follow outer road of Cedar Campground clockwise. Runners will make a complete loop of the outer road of the Campground before exiting the same location they entered.
Turn Right back onto 700 Road. Follow 700 Road back to 1190 N. Road.
Turn Left at 1190 N. Road. Follow 1190 N. Road eastbound.
Turn Left into the Sailing Club's entrance. (first entrance to the lower dock)
Follow the Sailing Club entrance road through the lower dock parking lot.
Follow marked run path across green space past Transition. Southbound.
Follow marked run path across Beach Parking Lot to bike path.
Follow bike path into Hickory Campground.
Turn left upon entering Hickory. Follow outer road of Hickory clockwise until completing the perimeter road.
Runners will exit Hickory at the same location they entered.
Follow bike path back to parking lot and return to Transition. This will complete one loop of the course.
3 loop course.
RUN MAP AND PROFILE >>
Gatorade Endurance Formula will be on-course at the 2008 Ironman 70.3 Kansas Triathlon!
Course Hydration
Each bike station will serve water and Gatorade Endurance Formula (orange flavor). This Gatorade Endurance will be served cold and given to athlete in the “Edge” bottle that is made for bike cages. Based on years of extensive research with elite and endurance athletes, Gatorade Endurance Formula contains a unique five-electrolyte blend including nearly twice the sodium (200mg) and three times the potassium (90mg) of Gatorade Thirst Quencher as well as calcium, magnesium, and chloride to help you better replace what you lose in sweat during longer and more intense active occasions. For more information about the Gatorade Endurance Formula, go to www.gatorade.com/endurance.
There will be 12 aid stations on the run course – approximately every mile. Each station will serve Gatorade Endurance Formula (lemon-lime flavor) and water. This Gatorade Endurance will be served cold and given to athletes in cups.
posted @ 6/10/2008 6:58:40 AM (0) Comments
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
87 at 72% Humdity for Race Day. :) oh joy.
Daily Details forLawrence, KS
Day
Night
Mostly Sunny
High87°FPrecip10%
Wind:
SSW 8 mph
Max. Humidity:
62%
UV Index:
10 Very High
Sunrise:
5:55 AM CT
Avg. High:
85°F
Record High:
101°F (1946)
Showers
Overnight Low66°FPrecip40%
Wind:
SE 3 mph
Max. Humidity:
72%
Sunset:
8:48 PM CT
Avg. Low:
65°F
Record Low:
50°F (1969)
Last Updated Tuesday, Jun 10, 8:12 AM Central Daylight Time
posted @ 6/10/2008 6:35:23 AM (0) Comments
Monday, June 09, 2008
Athlinks Link
Hey folks!
If you're a triathlete, runner, swimmer, etc., you NEED to have an athlinks account. It's like crackspace, but for endurance athletes!
Here's the link to my page--
http://www.athlinks.com/racer.aspx?rid=23719373
Now lets be friends!
posted @ 6/9/2008 8:06:27 AM (0) Comments
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
We're Friends, That's What We Do. -Child saves another from drowning!
6-Year-Old Saves 5-Year-Old Friend From Drowning
POSTED: 3:56 pm EDT June 3, 2008
UPDATED: 1:41 pm EDT June 4, 2008
FAYETTEVILLE, Ga. -- Adults didn't see a drowning 5-year-old, but his 6-year-old friend did.
Haden Stusak, 6, of Fayetteville is being called a hero after he dived into a pool to investigate a shadow on the bottom that turned out to be his friend.
Josiah Buddah, 5, and Haden are buddies. Haden is a good swimmer, but Josiah can't swim without his water wings.
On Sunday, Josiah took off his water wings and sank to the bottom of the deep end.
"I was scared, I was scared," said Josiah.
An adult spotted a shadow in the pool, but couldn't get to it. No one knew the shadow was Josiah. But Haden got curious and dove down to investigate. He had been practicing diving to the bottom. When he discovered Josiah, he grabbed him and pulled him to the surface.
VIDEO: 6-Year-Old Saves 5-Year-Old Friend From Drowning
"Well, I grabbed him like that; he was like unconscious. I grabbed him and I was swimming like this," said Haden.
"He jumped inside the water; he helped me get back up," said Josiah.
Two nurses and doctor started CPR.
"They took me to the hospital," said Josiah. "I was dead and couldn't breathe."
It all happened in seconds.
"I could have been burying my baby this week, so just to know that he's here, No. 1, is amazing, because to see your child lifeless for a few minutes, you think it's over," said Josiah's mother, Judith Buddha.
"So I called 'Help, help, he drowned,'" said Haden.
Haden's parents told Channel 2 they ask him not to talk so loudly and to keep his voice down. This is one time they're glad they heard his screams.
Josiah is doing well and is now swimming with a float suit. He will start lessons in a couple of weeks.
And in true hero fashion, Haden says what he did was no big deal.
"We're friends. That's what friends do," said Haden.
Courtesy Action News 2 wsb-tv Atlanta http://www.wsbtv.com/news/16479379/detail.html
posted @ 6/4/2008 11:22:24 AM (0) Comments
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
Holy Smokes!
Fuel tank blaze erupts as storms sweep area
A lightning strike apparently ignited a petroleum tank in Kansas City, Kan., this evening, sparking flames and billowing smoke that could be seen for miles.
The fire started about 7:30 p.m., when lighting hit the Magellan pipeline terminal at 410 E. Donovan Road, Kansas City, Kan., fire Capt. Stanley Castaneda said.
Magellan’s Kansas City, Kan., terminal handles commercial jet fuel, ethanol, diesel and various other types of fuel oil, according to the Magellan Midstream Partners LP Web site.
The burning tank contained unleaded gasoline, according to a Magellan spokesman.
Assistant Fire Chief Craig Duke said firefighters were pouring water on surrounding tanks to reduce the chance of the fire spreading.
“Our first concern was to keep the products cool,” Duke said of nearby tanks.
About 10 p.m., Duke said there were no issues with other storage tanks.
“At this point the fire is under control,” Duke said. He said firefighters would remain at the scene until the fire subsides.
Jon Jacobs, an area supervisor for Magellan, said the fire may have been caused by a lightning strike. He said two employees were working at the facility when the blaze erupted.
He said once the fire burns itself out, company officials will evaluate the tank and production for the facility.
The facility is one of about 50 Magellan terminals that connect petroleum products pipelines throughout the Midwest, according to the company’s Web site.
http://www.kansascity.com/news/breaking_news/v-print/story/648313.html
posted @ 6/4/2008 6:08:59 AM (0) Comments
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
Crazy Triathlete Brides
I don't *think* this was directed at me, but funny, none-the-less.
http://elizabethfedofsky.blogspot.com/2008/06/little-things.html
posted @ 6/3/2008 2:27:36 PM (0) Comments
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
Making the Rounds-- The Ironman Shadow
I'm not sure exactly who the original poster is (Dawn, and subsequently Julie, have both represented with this on their blogs), but this is so true.
My M-Dot tattoo, or hat, or bag, or my array of other gear have stopped people. They ask "Did you DO THAT!? ...ALL of it?" and "Which one did you do?" And then there's those that know the feeling. A nod, a hand gesture, and you see they've been there. Some are going there for the first time, others are veterans.
Without further a do...
"The Ironman Shadow"
Ironman It follows you everywhere. Like an ever-present shadow or an alter ego, and at times it can follow you like an annoying guilt-inducing time management stalker. But most often it follows you around as a confidence-inspiring best friend. Ironman is always with you.You realize in this crazy and dynamic sport that Ironman is not just a logo on the products that appear everywhere around us---on supermarket shelves, in clothing stores and bike stores. Ironman is not just a race or a goal. Ironman is a life-changing experience that irrevocably gifts you with intense lessons about yourself and a fitness level that is often unsurpassed.Whether you are training to race in your first Ironman, or you’ve finished nine World Championship Ironman races in Hawaii, this experience stays with you. When you mention the words of Ironman triathlon to other people, it changes things. It changes things in you, and it changes things in them. Telling someone you’re an Ironman or that you are going to do one commits you in a binding way. It has been said that when you fully commit to something or someone, you find it easier to tell other people. It’s also been said that once you are fully committed to something or someone, you are bound by your word and your internal commitment to yourself.Wearing an Ironman T-shirt opens the door for people to talk to you in airports, on the street, or in restaurants. And like a club with a secret handshake, when you see other people who have finished an Ironman, there is a silent understanding. Most relationships are forged with a common experience, and the bond of experiencing an Ironman is one that breaks conventional relationship boundaries. Just go to Kona---or Lake Placid or France---to witness people from all over the world with ultra-diverse backgrounds becoming part of a very special and supportive family.With the commitment to train and race in an Ironman, you’ve started along the yellow brick road that will present you with far more than the lions and tigers and bears of your own self-doubt and fear. Training gives you a strong heart, physiologically and emotionally. Racing will grant you courage. Finishing will give you dauntless confidence. This yellow brick road to Kona, Hawaii---or to any Ironman race worldwide---will be jammed with lessons. You’ll rapidly learn that biking shoes are like ice skates on the slippery floors of grocery stores and that a bike can seem just a few pounds lighter than your running shoes. You will also learn very difficult lessons that will shake and sort your priorities in life like a powerful earthquake, revealing the basic truths that support who is really important to you.If you’re not myopically focused on the size of your chain ring, or your finishing time, then Ironman just may teach you what you honestly value in your life. You will learn the basic lessons of what to eat, how to train, and how to run a marathon after being glued to your bike seat for more than 112 miles. You will learn that the wind, the rain, the heat and the struggle are often overshadowed, even forgotten, when you reach the last few miles of an Ironman and find the courage to break through your own boundaries. It is inevitable that when you watch an Ironman, or when you do an Ironman, the words never or never again will pass through your mind as you click your running shoes together at mile 15 of the run and say, “I wish I was home, I wish I was home.” But then you’ll realize that it’s within the Ironman experience that you just may find yourself more at home than laying in your bed on a rainy Sunday afternoon.Ironman may follow you like a shadow, but like all kids, you’re destined to find out that your shadow is a mere representative image cast by an object blocking illuminating rays. And that object is you, rebuilt with the adventurous fortitude of the Ironman experience. Let your running shoes click together in your next stride and glance down at your shadow. You’re home.
posted @ 6/3/2008 1:58:26 PM (0) Comments
Monday, June 02, 2008
Let's Say it Was a Learning Experience
So I learned quite a bit about myself, things, life, the country, etc. this weekend. Here's a bit of what I found out::
- I REALLY like going for bike rides by myself. I get to explore.
- On said bike rides I found that there is a buffalo and elk reserve less than 8 miles from my house. It houses hundreds of elk and buffalo. I had no idea it exsisted.
-It is smart to wear sunscreen and I shall continue to do so.
-Sometimes people can by civil for the sake of others.
-Wedding flowers are Ex-pen-sive.
-Buzz Lightyear is FINALLY going into space. This bit of knowledge is courtesy of my Dad.
-Potatoes take a very very long time to grill.
-Sunday's are best for sleeping in.
-It is possible for me to hold a baby for up to ten minutes with out it screaming, pooping, or dropping it.
-I will not be having children any time soon, thankfully.
-I want to live in Jenean's basement.
-Blue Springs is supposedly getting a Target and PetCo (yay!)
-Eric has very very vivid sleepwalking/ talking experiences.
-My hair is pretty much blonde again.
-There's some weird tradition in Detriot concerning throwing an octopus onto the ice during a play off game. It's kind of really gross.
-Alternating bricks suck.
posted @ 6/2/2008 5:37:58 AM (0) Comments
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Load 'em up- move 'em out! Buffalo Springs 70.3-- Lubbock, TX
Heading to Lubbock in the morning. First father/daughter trip. super pumped for trip and to see how I can fair just 2 weeks from my last half!
http://ironman.com/events/ironman70.3/buffalosprings70.3/?show=resultsTo follow me along during the race (to see how i'm doing and my time splits) click on the link above, then athlete tracker for 2008 (should be up saturday evening). Type in my name or number. If you don't know my name, dig around. Or look to the left. Wish me luck!!
About the RaceBuffalo Springs 70.3Open water lake swim. Wave starts (approximately 200 per wave), rectangular course counter clockwise, entry at beach area and exit on cement boat dock area, within 20 yards of the transition area.Bike course is a modified out and back, out of town farm to market roads, limited traffic, flat with 8 challenging hills, ranging from 2.9% - 8.9% grade and a quarter of a mile to 1.2 miles in length.Run is on asphalt, flat with 3 challenging hills, ranging from 10-14% (not the same hills as found on the bike course) grade. The hills are approximately 300 yards to 880 yards in length. Partially shaded, tough, scenic course.
posted @ 6/26/2008 1:55:58 PM (1) Comments
Monday, June 23, 2008
70.3 KS in a few more details.
Ironman KS 70.3 Recap June 15, 2008
Swim- 41:20
Long counter clockwise rectangle-ish. Start was really really good. Myself and Robyn were at the very front until the first buoy.
Then, I forgot my ability to swim in a straight line. Along with swimming in a zig-zag pattern, this was the roughest swim I can remember! Super choppy, big rollers. I don’t mid that so much, because I feel like I can deal better than others. But, I had to stop and “choke it out” at least twice. One of my favorite swim coaches used to say “do not breathe the clear blue liquid.” This time it was more like “Definitely do not breathe the milky brown, pudding looking substance.”
My watch said 39 something, and the clock says 41. So, two things: I know I wasn’t going blazing fast, but I was swimming more like a 33, not 39. The course was long (look at pro men’s results). Then, there was a 350 yard “run” to the transition area. Yikes!! That’s still about 12 minutes slower than my last half ironman in September 2007!! WOW!
T1- 1:50
I calmly gathered my things here. No huge rush when you’re going 70.3. This was pretty quick considering the size of the TA.
Bike- 3:44.12
Slow, steady. This course is really difficult. Very hilly, very windy. I thought I would average closer to a 16, but with the wind, I’m pretty pleased with the 15mph average. Slow, but, I felt pretty good.
This course has the “IronCross” which is a collection of 4 right hand turns in the same place. On the first section, at about mile 14 I saw a guy on a stretcher, and a guy that looked really hurt and dazed. Hearsay is that the two collided on the downhill (very very fast downhill section) and slammed into the Gatorade aid station and the bridge railing. I later learned they were life-flighted out.
I kept seeing Dawn yelling at the top of her lungs, and Alyson with the doggies all over the bike course. It was super motivational to see them!
On the last portion of the bike leg, headed back to the TA I saw my fiancé’s truck. I didn’t think he was going to make it out. Then, I saw two guys jumping up and down in thongs. Oh. My. God. That was my fiancé and brother. The funniest thing I have ever seen. My friend Alyson was there too, with her doggies. It was hilarious.
T2- 1:34
Again, I wasn’t blazing fast thru here, but I should have gone a little faster.
Run- ?
Bad stomach cramps forced me to walk the majority of the first couple miles until I found a bathroom. I was still run/ walking for a bit after that, but then was feeling better, so much better, that the last mile split I caught, was a 10:05!! The first two were over 15 min/mile.
Then, somewhere after mile 6, everyone was being shoo’ed into the corral- there was an impending storm (never happened) and they had called the race. I just pulled my hat down and started crying because I was feeling better and really trying to salvage what I could of my race.
As I crossed the “finish” line and was handed my “finisher’s medal” I looked up and saw Robyn. I could see she was bumming, but I was in no mood to commiserate. I found the closest tree, and went behind it. I dropped down on my knees with my head in my hands. I was sobbing. I just bent down there and let it out. I have never not finished a race. I know a few people have said that those that were forced off while still on the way to completion, should be considered finishers. I just can’t find it inside of me to agree. I heard someone come over to me, ask if I was ok, or if I needed medical help. I saw his shoes and bike tires, but I never looked up. I just kept saying, “I’m ok, I’m ok.”
Who ever that nice man was patted my back and said “I’m really sorry,” finally realizing why I was so upset. I still don’t know who he was.
I have no idea what my time was, how far I really ran, or where I placed.
I was telling my dad about it, and he offered to take me to another.
This morning after the race, I looked a up other 70.3 series races, found a few, called coach lady and asked for her suggestion. Then called Dad and he said he was down, so, here I am, booked for another half in 2 weeks.
Buffalo Springs 70.3 in Lubbock, TX on June 29th. Hopefully I can redeem myself there. Also, I’m super excited that I get to go with my dad. He’s really pretty much taking care of everything, and we’ve not done a tri trip before (usually motocross) so this is going to be really really cool!!!
Plus, I’ve never been to Texas for a tri, and this is going to be super hot, and super hard. Just the way I like ‘em!!!
Thank you::
Trisports.com, Fluid Recovery, Tropical Xtreme Tanz
posted @ 6/23/2008 7:41:20 AM (0) Comments
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Weight Watchers
Well, I jumped on board with Meggie Mac and GeekGrl to joing the Weight Watchers bandwagon.
There's a lot to explore on the site, and I'm just getting started. Alas, my biggest races for the year are either behind me, or withing days, so it won't have much affect on my racing- maybe for the sprints- but it will have impact on the marathon if I can successfully get the weight off, as I did for ironman (but it popped back on just weeks after the race. figures.)
Also, I seem to keep forgetting that I have a wedding in the upcoming months. My first alteration is in late August, so hopefully the gown will need a few nip/tucks. It fits pretty well now, but a little big (well, last I checked in mid April, so who knows now).
posted @ 6/17/2008 8:07:08 AM (0) Comments
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Finishing Place?
Well, the so called 'Results' are posted on www.IronmanKansas.com, however, I'm pretty sure that not only are they significantly inconclusive, they're totally wrong.
But, for the time being, I'm posted as finishing 4th. However, there's a girl listed below me, that I know beat me. So did I beat people in front of me? Did others behind me actually finish, or "finish" before I did?
Well, for now, we'll say I got 4th in my division, but it's subject to change.
posted @ 6/17/2008 6:23:31 AM (0) Comments
Monday, June 16, 2008
Teexxxxxaaaasss!
YEEEEHAAW!
So I'm pretty pumped about racing in Texas. I've swam there, but this will be my first tri there. Super Super exticited!!!
So, in honor of the Buffalo Springs 70.3 I have changed my background (again).
posted @ 6/16/2008 11:46:55 AM (0) Comments
Monday, June 16, 2008
Teexxxxxaaaasss!
YEEEEHAAW!
So I'm pretty pumped about racing in Texas. I've swam there, and gone to motocross races, but this will be my first tri there. Super Super exticited!!!
So, in honor of the Buffalo Springs 70.3 I have changed my background (again).
posted @ 6/16/2008 11:46:38 AM (0) Comments
Monday, June 16, 2008
IM Kansas 70.3, and a new race to the schedule!!!!
Ironman KS 70.3 Recap
Race only and in condensed version — will add more later.
Swim-
Long counter clockwise rectangle-ish. Start was really really good. Myself and Robyn were at the very front until the first buoy. Then, I forgot my ability to swim in a straight line, however, my watch said 39 something, and the clock says 41. So, two things: I know I wasn’t going blazing fast, but I was swimming more like a 33, not 39. The course was long (look at pro men’s results). Then, there was a 350 yard “run” to the transition area. Yikes!!
T1- 1:50
I calmly gathered my things here. No huge rush when you’re going 70.3. This was pretty quick considering the size of the TA.
Bike- 3:44.12
Slow, steady. This course is really difficult. Very hilly, very windy. I thought I would average closer to a 16, but with the wind, I’m pretty pleased with the 15mph average. Slow, but, I felt pretty good.
This course has the “IronCross” which is a collection of 4 right hand turns in the same place. On the first section, at about mile 14 I saw a guy on a stretcher, and a guy that looked really hurt and dazed. Hearsay is that the two collided on the downhill (very very fast downhill section) and slammed into the Gatorade aid station and the bridge railing. I later learned they were life flighted out.
On the last portion of the bike leg, headed back to the TA I saw my fiancé’s truck. I didn’t think he was going to make it out. Then, I saw two guys jumping up and down in thongs. Oh. My. God. That was my fiancé and brother. The funniest thing I have ever seen. My friend Alyson was there too, with her doggies. It was hilarious.
T2- 1:34
Again, I wasn’t blazing fast thru here, but I should have gone a little faster.
Run- ?
Bad stomach cramps forced me to walk the majority of the first couple miles until I found a bathroom. I was still run/ walking for a bit after that, but then was feeling better, so much better, that the last mile split I caught, was a 10:05!! The first two were over 15 min/mile.
Then, somewhere after mile 6, everyone was being shoo’ed into the corral- there was an impending storm (never happened) and they had called the race. I just pulled my hat down and started crying because I was feeling better and really trying to salvage what I could of my race.
I have no idea what my time was, how far I really ran, or where I placed.
I was telling my dad about it, and he offered to take me to another.
This morning I looked some up, found a few, called coach lady and asked for her suggestion. Then called Dad and he said he was down, so, here I am, booked for another half in 2 weeks.
Buffalo Springs 70.3 in Lubbock, TX on June 29th. Hopefully I can redeem myself there. Also, I’m super excited that I get to go with my dad. He’s really pretty much taking care of everything, and we’ve not done a tri trip before (usually motocross) so this is going to be really really cool!!!
Plus, I’ve never been to Texas for a tri, and this is going to be super hot, and super hard. Just the way I like ‘em!!!
posted @ 6/16/2008 11:32:49 AM (1) Comments
Friday, June 13, 2008
How Do You Measure Up?
June 13, 2008
Japan, Seeking Trim Waists, Measures Millions
By NORIMITSU ONISHI
AMAGASAKI, Japan — Japan, a country not known for its overweight people, has undertaken one of the most ambitious campaigns ever by a nation to slim down its citizenry.
Summoned by the city of Amagasaki one recent morning, Minoru Nogiri, 45, a flower shop owner, found himself lining up to have his waistline measured. With no visible paunch, he seemed to run little risk of being classified as overweight, or metabo, the preferred word in Japan these days.
But because the new state-prescribed limit for male waistlines is a strict 33.5 inches, he had anxiously measured himself at home a couple of days earlier. “I’m on the border,” he said.
Under a national law that came into effect two months ago, companies and local governments must now measure the waistlines of Japanese people between the ages of 40 and 74 as part of their annual checkups. That represents more than 56 million waistlines, or about 44 percent of the entire population.
Those exceeding government limits — 33.5 inches for men and 35.4 inches for women, which are identical to thresholds established in 2005 for Japan by the International Diabetes Federation as an easy guideline for identifying health risks — and having a weight-related ailment will be given dieting guidance if after three months they do not lose weight. If necessary, those people will be steered toward further re-education after six more months.
To reach its goals of shrinking the overweight population by 10 percent over the next four years and 25 percent over the next seven years, the government will impose financial penalties on companies and local governments that fail to meet specific targets. The country’s Ministry of Health argues that the campaign will keep the spread of diseases like diabetes and strokes in check.
The ministry also says that curbing widening waistlines will rein in a rapidly aging society’s ballooning health care costs, one of the most serious and politically delicate problems facing Japan today. Most Japanese are covered under public health care or through their work. Anger over a plan that would make those 75 and older pay more for health care brought a parliamentary censure motion Wednesday against Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda, the first against a prime minister in the country’s postwar history.
But critics say that the government guidelines — especially the one about male waistlines — are simply too strict and that more than half of all men will be considered overweight. The effect, they say, will be to encourage overmedication and ultimately raise health care costs.
Yoichi Ogushi, a professor at Tokai University’s School of Medicine near Tokyo and an expert on public health, said that there was “no need at all” for the Japanese to lose weight.
“I don’t think the campaign will have any positive effect. Now if you did this in the United States, there would be benefits, since there are many Americans who weigh more than 100 kilograms,” or about 220 pounds, Mr. Ogushi said. “But the Japanese are so slender that they can’t afford to lose weight.”
Mr. Ogushi was actually a little harder on Americans than they deserved. A survey by the National Center for Health Statistics found that the average waist size for Caucasian American men was 39 inches, a full inch lower than the 40-inch threshold established by the International Diabetes Federation. American women did not fare as well, with an average waist size of 36.5 inches, about two inches above their threshold of 34.6 inches. The differences in thresholds reflected variations in height and body type from Japanese men and women.
Comparable figures for the Japanese are sketchy since waistlines have not been measured officially in the past. But private research on thousands of Japanese indicates that the average male waistline falls just below the new government limit.
That fact, widely reported in the media, has heightened the anxiety in the nation’s health clinics.
In Amagasaki, a city in western Japan, officials have moved aggressively to measure waistlines in what the government calls special checkups. The city had to measure at least 65 percent of the 40- to 74-year-olds covered by public health insurance, an “extremely difficult” goal, acknowledged Midori Noguchi, a city official.
When his turn came, Mr. Nogiri, the flower shop owner, entered a booth where he bared his midriff, exposing a flat stomach with barely discernible love handles. A nurse wrapped a tape measure around his waist across his belly button: 33.6 inches, or 0.1 inch over the limit.
“Strikeout,” he said, defeat spreading across his face.
The campaign started a couple of years ago when the Health Ministry began beating the drums for a medical condition that few Japanese had ever heard of — metabolic syndrome — a collection of factors that heighten the risk of developing vascular disease and diabetes. Those include abdominal obesity, high blood pressure and high levels of blood glucose and cholesterol. In no time, the scary-sounding condition was popularly shortened to the funny-sounding metabo, and it has become the nation’s shorthand for overweight.
The mayor of one town in Mie, a prefecture near here, became so wrapped up in the anti-metabo campaign that he and six other town officials formed a weight-loss group called “The Seven Metabo Samurai.” That campaign ended abruptly after a 47-year-old member with a 39-inch waistline died of a heart attack while jogging.
Still, at a city gym in Amagasaki recently, dozens of residents — few of whom appeared overweight — danced to the city’s anti-metabo song, which warned against trouser buttons popping and flying away, “pyun-pyun-pyun!”
“Goodbye, metabolic. Let’s get our checkups together. Go! Go! Go!
Goodbye, metabolic. Don’t wait till you get sick. No! No! No!”
The word metabo has made it easier for health care providers to urge their patients to lose weight, said Dr. Yoshikuni Sakamoto, a physician in the employee health insurance union at Matsushita, which makes Panasonic products.
“Before we had to broach the issue with the word obesity, which definitely has a negative image,” Dr. Sakamoto said. “But metabo sounds much more inclusive.”
Even before Tokyo’s directives, Matsushita had focused on its employees’ weight during annual checkups. Last summer, Akio Inoue, 30, an engineer carrying 238 pounds on a 5-foot-7 frame, was told by a company doctor to lose weight or take medication for his high blood pressure. After dieting, he was down to 182 pounds, but his waistline was still more than one inch over the state-approved limit.
With the new law, Matsushita has to measure the waistlines of not only its employees but also of their families and retirees. As part of its intensifying efforts, the company has started giving its employees “metabo check” towels that double as tape measures.
“Nobody will want to be singled out as metabo,” Kimiko Shigeno, a company nurse, said of the campaign. “It’ll have the same effect as non-smoking campaigns where smokers are now looked at disapprovingly.”
Companies like Matsushita must measure the waistlines of at least 80 percent of their employees. Furthermore, they must get 10 percent of those deemed metabolic to lose weight by 2012, and 25 percent of them to lose weight by 2015.
NEC, Japan’s largest maker of personal computers, said that if it failed to meet its targets, it could incur as much as $19 million in penalties. The company has decided to nip metabo in the bud by starting to measure the waistlines of all its employees over 30 years old and by sponsoring metabo education days for the employees’ families.
Some experts say the government’s guidelines on everything from waistlines to blood pressure are so strict that meeting, or exceeding, those targets will be impossible. They say that the government’s real goal is to shift health care costs onto the private sector.
Dr. Minoru Yamakado, an official at the Japan Society of Ningen Dock, an association of doctors who administer physical exams, said he endorsed the government’s campaign and its focus on preventive medicine.
But he said that the government’s real priority should be to reduce smoking rates, which remain among the highest among advanced nations, in large part because of Japan’s powerful tobacco lobby.
“Smoking is even one of the causes of metabolic syndrome,” he said. “So if you’re worried about metabo, stopping people from smoking should be your top priority.”
Despite misgivings, though, Japan is pushing ahead.
Kizashi Ohama, an official in Matsuyama, a city that has also acted aggressively against metabo, said he would leave the debate over the campaign’s merits to experts and health officials in Tokyo.
At Matsuyama’s public health clinic, Kinichiro Ichikawa, 62, said the government-approved 33.5-inch male waistline was “severe.” He is 5-foot-4, weighs only 134 pounds and knows no one who is overweight.
“Japan shouldn’t be making such a fuss about this,” he said before going off to have his waistline measured.
But on a shopping strip here, Kenzo Nagata, 73, a toy store owner, said he had ignored a letter summoning him to a so-called special checkup. His waistline was no one’s business but his own, he said, though he volunteered that, at 32.7 inches, it fell safely below the limit. He planned to disregard the second notice that the city was scheduled to mail to the recalcitrant.
“I’m not going,” he said. “I don’t think that concerns me.”
Copyright 2008The New York Times Company
posted @ 6/13/2008 10:50:43 AM (0) Comments
Friday, June 13, 2008
Good Race, Not Good Luck
My friend Andrea just sent me this email. I thought I'd share because I agree with her!
YAHOO.Shortcuts.hasSensitiveText = false;
YAHOO.Shortcuts.sensitivityType = [];
YAHOO.Shortcuts.doUlt = false;
YAHOO.Shortcuts.location = "us";
YAHOO.Shortcuts.document_id = 0;
YAHOO.Shortcuts.document_type = "";
YAHOO.Shortcuts.document_title = "Good Race!";
YAHOO.Shortcuts.document_publish_date = "";
YAHOO.Shortcuts.document_author = "avillasi@kumc.edu";
YAHOO.Shortcuts.document_url = "";
YAHOO.Shortcuts.document_tags = "";
YAHOO.Shortcuts.document_language = "english";
YAHOO.Shortcuts.annotationSet = {};
I want to wish you all a "Good Race" on Sunday.
I don't want to say "Good Luck" because luck has nothing to do with it. We've put in the hours, weeks and months of training - luck is not going to get you through this - your training will.
That and your spirit...your inspiration...your motivation.
We all have our reasons for doing this race, or triathlon for that matter. For some of us, the purpose is self-discovery. Some of us want to see what we're made of. Some of us want to be one of the "cool kids". And some of us just want to have FUN!
What ever your reason, what ever drives you to do this "crazy" thing, go forward knowing that you control you - this is YOUR race - and ONLY you are responsible for the results.
GOOD RACE peeps! I hope I see you this weekend!
Andrea V
posted @ 6/13/2008 6:49:30 AM (0) Comments
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Miss Popularity
WOWZA!
I have had 972 hits since 10am yesterday. That's an awful lot.
Okay, who's the stalker? Is it you? Or you? Or...
Thanks for the visits! Keep coming back to see me!
posted @ 6/12/2008 7:57:08 AM (0) Comments
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Tag! A Running Q&A.. sort of.
I was tagged by GeekGrl, inadvertently. 1. How would you describe your running 10 years ago?Well. I set the middle school girl’s mile record. I think that was the first and last time I ran one mile straight, until freshman year of college. If I remember right, it was somewhere in the neighborhood of 7:42ish. That’s what happens when you’re 5’7 and 120lbs and, oh, about 12 years old. 2. What is your best and worst run/race experience?My best: Definitely the whole IRONWEEK from last year in Florida. The race was perfect, and I got engaged just days before while on the beach. It was amazing. My worst: HalfMax 2006. My first half ironman. Not only was I significantly undertrained, but I had no base whatsoever. I winged it, and just happened to finish. 3. Why do you run?Because some idiot decided that a triathlon would be swim-bike-run, versus my suggestion, of swim-bike-under water basket weaving while juggling on a unicycle. No seriously, if it weren’t for the running in triathlon, I never would have bought a pair of real running shoes.
I have realized, however, that when doing long distance running (i.e.: the later half of marathon training) my excess weight melts away. That’s nice since my next marathon (and first open marathon) is just two weeks prior to my wedding. 4. What is the best or worst piece of advice you've been given about running?“Pick up your feet.” It sounds so simple, but when you’re a heavy heavy heel striking shuffler, having your former track star boyfriend yell at you about your form is both simultaneously good and bad. Good, because, well, he was right. It’s like running with your brakes on. But, he was running next to me, up hill, BACKWARDS, at the same pace as I was going. 5. Tell us something surprising about yourself that not many people would know.I have circus toes. Ya know, in the movie Shallow Hal, and Hal’s friend dumps the super hot girl because the toe next to her big toe is actually longer than the big toe… well, I have that circus toe thing going on. It’s just not that much longer. 6. Tag Somebody.Robo, Rik Kirchner, Julie- this means you actually have to blog, Bree Five-0, Ron Hudnet , Dawn. You’re up. (PS Bree is racing IM Japan and Dawn is racing IM CDA in a few days- good luck!)
posted @ 6/11/2008 8:16:45 AM (0) Comments
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
In honor of the weekend
Please note the Jayhawk background in honor of this weekend's events in Larryville.
http://ironmankansas.com/
Swim Course - 1.2 Miles - 1 Loop
The swim is a semi-triangular course. Athletes will enter the the water on the southern tip of the beach, swim in a counterclockwise direction and exit on the northern end. They will then enter the northern end of transition and bike exit on the southern end of transition.
First wave starts at 6:40 AM - Limit of 150 per wave - 13 -14 waves at 5 min. intervals - last wave will start at 7:45 or 7:50 AM
SWIM MAP >>
Bike Course - 56 Miles - 1 Loop
Start: Bloomington Park Beach (south large parking lot)
Leave the parking lot of Bloomington Beach and travel west on 1190 Rd.
Turn Left (South) on E 550 Rd.
Veer Right (Southwest) on N851 Rd. Diagonal Rd.
Turn Right (West) 458 Rd. Take 458 (it veers North) to the town of Stull. Turn-around at Stull and return on 458 Rd.
Turn Right (South) on 1023 Rd. (N 851 Diagonal Rd.) through the town of Twin Mound veering left on E 100 Rd.
Turn Right (West) on 460 Rd. Turn around at the Douglas County Line. Return on the same course back to the intersection of 458 & 1023 Rd.
Turn Right (Southeast) on 458 Rd. Take 458 to 1029 Rd. Turn Right (South) on 1029. Take 1029 Rd. across Highway 56 turn around at the Douglas County line. Return the same way back to the intersection of 1029 & 458 Rd.
Return to the transition area via N851 Diagonal Rd. the same way exited.
Finish: Bloomington Park Beach
BIKE MAP AND PROFILE >>
Run Course - 13.1 Miles - 3 Loops
Athletes will exit Transition from the North end of transition and follow the marked path North towards the lower dock parking lot.
Runners will turn Left at the lower dock parking lot and follow the lower dock road clockwise until reaching 1190 N. Road.
Turn Right at 1190 N. Road. Follow 1190 N. Road westbound.
Turn Right at 700 Road. Follow 700 Road to the second entrance into Cedar Campground.
Turn Left into Cedar Campground. Follow outer road of Cedar Campground clockwise. Runners will make a complete loop of the outer road of the Campground before exiting the same location they entered.
Turn Right back onto 700 Road. Follow 700 Road back to 1190 N. Road.
Turn Left at 1190 N. Road. Follow 1190 N. Road eastbound.
Turn Left into the Sailing Club's entrance. (first entrance to the lower dock)
Follow the Sailing Club entrance road through the lower dock parking lot.
Follow marked run path across green space past Transition. Southbound.
Follow marked run path across Beach Parking Lot to bike path.
Follow bike path into Hickory Campground.
Turn left upon entering Hickory. Follow outer road of Hickory clockwise until completing the perimeter road.
Runners will exit Hickory at the same location they entered.
Follow bike path back to parking lot and return to Transition. This will complete one loop of the course.
3 loop course.
RUN MAP AND PROFILE >>
Gatorade Endurance Formula will be on-course at the 2008 Ironman 70.3 Kansas Triathlon!
Course Hydration
Each bike station will serve water and Gatorade Endurance Formula (orange flavor). This Gatorade Endurance will be served cold and given to athlete in the “Edge” bottle that is made for bike cages. Based on years of extensive research with elite and endurance athletes, Gatorade Endurance Formula contains a unique five-electrolyte blend including nearly twice the sodium (200mg) and three times the potassium (90mg) of Gatorade Thirst Quencher as well as calcium, magnesium, and chloride to help you better replace what you lose in sweat during longer and more intense active occasions. For more information about the Gatorade Endurance Formula, go to www.gatorade.com/endurance.
There will be 12 aid stations on the run course – approximately every mile. Each station will serve Gatorade Endurance Formula (lemon-lime flavor) and water. This Gatorade Endurance will be served cold and given to athletes in cups.
posted @ 6/10/2008 6:58:40 AM (0) Comments
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
87 at 72% Humdity for Race Day. :) oh joy.
Daily Details forLawrence, KS
Day
Night
Mostly Sunny
High87°FPrecip10%
Wind:
SSW 8 mph
Max. Humidity:
62%
UV Index:
10 Very High
Sunrise:
5:55 AM CT
Avg. High:
85°F
Record High:
101°F (1946)
Showers
Overnight Low66°FPrecip40%
Wind:
SE 3 mph
Max. Humidity:
72%
Sunset:
8:48 PM CT
Avg. Low:
65°F
Record Low:
50°F (1969)
Last Updated Tuesday, Jun 10, 8:12 AM Central Daylight Time
posted @ 6/10/2008 6:35:23 AM (0) Comments
Monday, June 09, 2008
Athlinks Link
Hey folks!
If you're a triathlete, runner, swimmer, etc., you NEED to have an athlinks account. It's like crackspace, but for endurance athletes!
Here's the link to my page--
http://www.athlinks.com/racer.aspx?rid=23719373
Now lets be friends!
posted @ 6/9/2008 8:06:27 AM (0) Comments
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
We're Friends, That's What We Do. -Child saves another from drowning!
6-Year-Old Saves 5-Year-Old Friend From Drowning
POSTED: 3:56 pm EDT June 3, 2008
UPDATED: 1:41 pm EDT June 4, 2008
FAYETTEVILLE, Ga. -- Adults didn't see a drowning 5-year-old, but his 6-year-old friend did.
Haden Stusak, 6, of Fayetteville is being called a hero after he dived into a pool to investigate a shadow on the bottom that turned out to be his friend.
Josiah Buddah, 5, and Haden are buddies. Haden is a good swimmer, but Josiah can't swim without his water wings.
On Sunday, Josiah took off his water wings and sank to the bottom of the deep end.
"I was scared, I was scared," said Josiah.
An adult spotted a shadow in the pool, but couldn't get to it. No one knew the shadow was Josiah. But Haden got curious and dove down to investigate. He had been practicing diving to the bottom. When he discovered Josiah, he grabbed him and pulled him to the surface.
VIDEO: 6-Year-Old Saves 5-Year-Old Friend From Drowning
"Well, I grabbed him like that; he was like unconscious. I grabbed him and I was swimming like this," said Haden.
"He jumped inside the water; he helped me get back up," said Josiah.
Two nurses and doctor started CPR.
"They took me to the hospital," said Josiah. "I was dead and couldn't breathe."
It all happened in seconds.
"I could have been burying my baby this week, so just to know that he's here, No. 1, is amazing, because to see your child lifeless for a few minutes, you think it's over," said Josiah's mother, Judith Buddha.
"So I called 'Help, help, he drowned,'" said Haden.
Haden's parents told Channel 2 they ask him not to talk so loudly and to keep his voice down. This is one time they're glad they heard his screams.
Josiah is doing well and is now swimming with a float suit. He will start lessons in a couple of weeks.
And in true hero fashion, Haden says what he did was no big deal.
"We're friends. That's what friends do," said Haden.
Courtesy Action News 2 wsb-tv Atlanta http://www.wsbtv.com/news/16479379/detail.html
posted @ 6/4/2008 11:22:24 AM (0) Comments
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
Holy Smokes!
Fuel tank blaze erupts as storms sweep area
A lightning strike apparently ignited a petroleum tank in Kansas City, Kan., this evening, sparking flames and billowing smoke that could be seen for miles.
The fire started about 7:30 p.m., when lighting hit the Magellan pipeline terminal at 410 E. Donovan Road, Kansas City, Kan., fire Capt. Stanley Castaneda said.
Magellan’s Kansas City, Kan., terminal handles commercial jet fuel, ethanol, diesel and various other types of fuel oil, according to the Magellan Midstream Partners LP Web site.
The burning tank contained unleaded gasoline, according to a Magellan spokesman.
Assistant Fire Chief Craig Duke said firefighters were pouring water on surrounding tanks to reduce the chance of the fire spreading.
“Our first concern was to keep the products cool,” Duke said of nearby tanks.
About 10 p.m., Duke said there were no issues with other storage tanks.
“At this point the fire is under control,” Duke said. He said firefighters would remain at the scene until the fire subsides.
Jon Jacobs, an area supervisor for Magellan, said the fire may have been caused by a lightning strike. He said two employees were working at the facility when the blaze erupted.
He said once the fire burns itself out, company officials will evaluate the tank and production for the facility.
The facility is one of about 50 Magellan terminals that connect petroleum products pipelines throughout the Midwest, according to the company’s Web site.
http://www.kansascity.com/news/breaking_news/v-print/story/648313.html
posted @ 6/4/2008 6:08:59 AM (0) Comments
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
Crazy Triathlete Brides
I don't *think* this was directed at me, but funny, none-the-less.
http://elizabethfedofsky.blogspot.com/2008/06/little-things.html
posted @ 6/3/2008 2:27:36 PM (0) Comments
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
Making the Rounds-- The Ironman Shadow
I'm not sure exactly who the original poster is (Dawn, and subsequently Julie, have both represented with this on their blogs), but this is so true.
My M-Dot tattoo, or hat, or bag, or my array of other gear have stopped people. They ask "Did you DO THAT!? ...ALL of it?" and "Which one did you do?" And then there's those that know the feeling. A nod, a hand gesture, and you see they've been there. Some are going there for the first time, others are veterans.
Without further a do...
"The Ironman Shadow"
Ironman It follows you everywhere. Like an ever-present shadow or an alter ego, and at times it can follow you like an annoying guilt-inducing time management stalker. But most often it follows you around as a confidence-inspiring best friend. Ironman is always with you.You realize in this crazy and dynamic sport that Ironman is not just a logo on the products that appear everywhere around us---on supermarket shelves, in clothing stores and bike stores. Ironman is not just a race or a goal. Ironman is a life-changing experience that irrevocably gifts you with intense lessons about yourself and a fitness level that is often unsurpassed.Whether you are training to race in your first Ironman, or you’ve finished nine World Championship Ironman races in Hawaii, this experience stays with you. When you mention the words of Ironman triathlon to other people, it changes things. It changes things in you, and it changes things in them. Telling someone you’re an Ironman or that you are going to do one commits you in a binding way. It has been said that when you fully commit to something or someone, you find it easier to tell other people. It’s also been said that once you are fully committed to something or someone, you are bound by your word and your internal commitment to yourself.Wearing an Ironman T-shirt opens the door for people to talk to you in airports, on the street, or in restaurants. And like a club with a secret handshake, when you see other people who have finished an Ironman, there is a silent understanding. Most relationships are forged with a common experience, and the bond of experiencing an Ironman is one that breaks conventional relationship boundaries. Just go to Kona---or Lake Placid or France---to witness people from all over the world with ultra-diverse backgrounds becoming part of a very special and supportive family.With the commitment to train and race in an Ironman, you’ve started along the yellow brick road that will present you with far more than the lions and tigers and bears of your own self-doubt and fear. Training gives you a strong heart, physiologically and emotionally. Racing will grant you courage. Finishing will give you dauntless confidence. This yellow brick road to Kona, Hawaii---or to any Ironman race worldwide---will be jammed with lessons. You’ll rapidly learn that biking shoes are like ice skates on the slippery floors of grocery stores and that a bike can seem just a few pounds lighter than your running shoes. You will also learn very difficult lessons that will shake and sort your priorities in life like a powerful earthquake, revealing the basic truths that support who is really important to you.If you’re not myopically focused on the size of your chain ring, or your finishing time, then Ironman just may teach you what you honestly value in your life. You will learn the basic lessons of what to eat, how to train, and how to run a marathon after being glued to your bike seat for more than 112 miles. You will learn that the wind, the rain, the heat and the struggle are often overshadowed, even forgotten, when you reach the last few miles of an Ironman and find the courage to break through your own boundaries. It is inevitable that when you watch an Ironman, or when you do an Ironman, the words never or never again will pass through your mind as you click your running shoes together at mile 15 of the run and say, “I wish I was home, I wish I was home.” But then you’ll realize that it’s within the Ironman experience that you just may find yourself more at home than laying in your bed on a rainy Sunday afternoon.Ironman may follow you like a shadow, but like all kids, you’re destined to find out that your shadow is a mere representative image cast by an object blocking illuminating rays. And that object is you, rebuilt with the adventurous fortitude of the Ironman experience. Let your running shoes click together in your next stride and glance down at your shadow. You’re home.
posted @ 6/3/2008 1:58:26 PM (0) Comments
Monday, June 02, 2008
Let's Say it Was a Learning Experience
So I learned quite a bit about myself, things, life, the country, etc. this weekend. Here's a bit of what I found out::
- I REALLY like going for bike rides by myself. I get to explore.
- On said bike rides I found that there is a buffalo and elk reserve less than 8 miles from my house. It houses hundreds of elk and buffalo. I had no idea it exsisted.
-It is smart to wear sunscreen and I shall continue to do so.
-Sometimes people can by civil for the sake of others.
-Wedding flowers are Ex-pen-sive.
-Buzz Lightyear is FINALLY going into space. This bit of knowledge is courtesy of my Dad.
-Potatoes take a very very long time to grill.
-Sunday's are best for sleeping in.
-It is possible for me to hold a baby for up to ten minutes with out it screaming, pooping, or dropping it.
-I will not be having children any time soon, thankfully.
-I want to live in Jenean's basement.
-Blue Springs is supposedly getting a Target and PetCo (yay!)
-Eric has very very vivid sleepwalking/ talking experiences.
-My hair is pretty much blonde again.
-There's some weird tradition in Detriot concerning throwing an octopus onto the ice during a play off game. It's kind of really gross.
-Alternating bricks suck.
posted @ 6/2/2008 5:37:58 AM (0) Comments
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
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
April 2008
April '08
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Construction Hardware 2, Tires 0
Last week, I was filling up my car and happened to notice a nail in my tire. My tires were fine, still holding air, no big deal.
Took it in Wednesday and was patched for $28.99. Ugh. Fine, whatever.
Today, Jmoo and I headed to lunch. We didn't get a quarter mile before we heard (and felt) chu-chunk-chink-cha-chunk-chink-cha-chunk-chink. OMG, is my tire flat? I thought. I pull over. No, we're good. Must be the road right here....
Then it continues. I stopped a couple times trying to figure out what the hell it was. Sally was driving just fine, no pulls, stutters, etc. We make it to lunch, about 1.5 miles from work. I get out, survey the car again. And then, there it was...
The culprit.
I'm pretty sure it looks like this:
Luckily, the auto shop folks said they think this can be patched, like the other. And because I'm such a valued (read: auto work magnet) customer they gave me $4.99 off. Provided there's no extra work to be done. I should see if these guys want to sponsor me!
Can somebody, anybody, JUST GET ME TO FRIDAY, AND GET ME ON THE PLANE, WITH MY BIKE, AND NO MORE TIRE ISSUES? Seriously!!!!!
posted @ 4/30/2008 11:17:33 AM (0) Comments
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
I'm Becoming an Airline Statistic!
ARGH!
Click Here:: This is the whole story and the discussion surrounding it.
Well, I just got off the phone with Delta. It's $100 each way to take my bike with me to WildFlower! meaning, $200 rt! YIKES! Ok, ok, sure.. I should have known better.. but, I DID! I Called before booking my flights (called 3 airlines, as $300 tickets aren't a good thing if it's $200 to ship bike, vs $380 tickets and $100 to haul bike). - side note, my tix were just under $400-I was told it was $50 each way, and $100 round trip. Great! One of the lesser quotes. I just called an hr ago to confirm since I was breaking my bike down tonight, and low and behold... They are now charging a firm $100 each direction. I asked when they started doing this and I was told "A couple months ago".. ok, I booked in January. I told them "I booked in January, so those older rates should apply." Shot down. Manager? Shot down. UGH!
Saga continues... I texted my sponsor that I'm staying with and told him situation. He said that wasn't right, call back. So I did. I get a slightly nicer person on the phone. Same conversation. He then asked if I had my bike case dimensions, as maybe there was something they could do. Well, h x w x l is 11x30x47. Guess what those numbers add up to? 88. The maximum "size" delta will allow on their plane is 80 inches. They told me my bike wouldn't be on their plane. Called Delta cargo. I'd have to arrange by curourier or freight frwd'er. I thought all of this was set back in January!!! I just happened to call to confirm! ARGH! And, yes, on top of that, I was told that my 2nd bag will be $25 starting May 5th-- the day I fly home. Jebus! Seriously, this is UNREAL.
read this.
http://forum.slowtwitch.com/gforum.cgi?post=1772469;sb=post_latest_reply;so=ASC;forum_view=forum_view_collapsed;;page=unread - unread
posted @ 4/30/2008 7:57:56 AM (1) Comments
Monday, April 28, 2008
A Triathlete’s Guide to Wildflower 2008
Friday, April 11, 2008
A Triathlete’s Guide to Wildflower 2008
By Nick Tuttle
For many triathletes, the Wildflower Festival weekend has served as the exciting and competitive start of the summer triathlon season for over 25 years. 2008 marks the 26th annual offering of the popular Central California race brought to life by professional and highly regarded organizer, Tri California. On the weekend of May 2nd through 4th, over 7000 athletes will flock to Lake San Antonio, just east of King City, to participate in one of the weekend’s many challenging races. Known for its challenging terrain and competitive field of racers, Wildflower is an event that every triathlete should experience in his or her lifetime because of several unique factors.Festival FunWildflower’s festival atmosphere sets it apart from other races throughout the world. A tent city of vendors, musicians and athletes is created overnight at the campgrounds surrounding Lake San Antonio. The vast majority of racers elect to stay at campsites adjacent to the transition area. Thousands of peers enjoy the atmosphere of the weekend together. Many friendships have been forged around a campfire or while waiting in line at one of the restrooms throughout the campground.Logistics & AccommodationsAnother unique aspect of Wildflower is the need to plan accommodations well before race day and how to get to transition on time on race morning. As is typical in a triathlon of this magnitude, racers need to arrive at least a day in advance to check in. In addition, campsites fill quickly and can be hard to find for a large group. One of the advantages of camping at Lake San Antonio is that on race morning, triathletes can bike easily down to transition. Staying in hotels in surrounding areas can lead to long commutes in and out of the park on registration and race days. It is much easier to avoid the car and bike directly to transition from campsites. Hitting the hotels also may lead to missing what so many people love about this race—the camping and camaraderie. There is nothing better than carbo-loading at a campfire with friends old and new.Nutrition & Tips: Another issue unique to Wildflower is preparing pre-race meals sans fridge, microwave or an assortment of local restaurants. Try to plan pre-race meals that can be grilled or prepared on a camping stove. With some careful planning, preparing the right meals should not be a huge issue. On the contrary, restroom availability on race morning can be. Restrooms can get busy on race morning and waiting in line should be the least of a racer’s challenges. Leave plenty of time and look for restrooms off to the side, and less crowded.Pre-Race Transition:
Tri California is a highly regarded, professional and organized race production company with everything running like clockwork including transition. One of the best things about Tri California events is that each triathlete’s transition spot is pre-designated by race number. There is no need to scramble looking for the best spot race morning or any spot at all. You will have an amply-spaced, designated spot to rack your bike and set-up your transition. With 7000+ athletes competing, this feat is impressive and makes for a super-sized transition area! It is crucial in Wildflower for racers to memorize their race numbers to find their spot quickly during the race. There are rows and rows of bikes to sort through. Typically, this transition offers nothing in terms of landmarks to help you find your spot as it’s in a huge, flat, concrete parking lot, so get to memorizing!Take note of the steep hill when entering transition from the main campground and gate. All race courses at Wildflower include this hill at some point during the race. This infamous hill gets the most talk but there are plenty of other challenges on this course. Just take a mental note of this one, since all athletes will either be going up or down it shortly.Before the swim start, racers should avoid putting on their wetsuit as long as possible. The event directors will call each wave down to the boat ramp well before it's time to go. Don’t feel rushed but don't sit around in a wetsuit for 20-30 minutes while you can continue to loosen up those limbs for the work to come.The SwimWildflower's swim is the easiest part of the day, and it's the only segment that is totally flat (hee hee). There are a few things to take note of for this particular swim. Unless you are in one of the first few waves, it can be challenging to get into the water before wave starts to warm up. Most likely age groupers will get 5 minutes or so just before each wave horn sounds to get in the water but this isn't enough for most people. This pre-race limitation makes land warm ups even more important including arm swings, shoulder rolls, breathing exercises, and anything else to prepare the body for the swim ahead.The first part of this swim is the most challenging. Leaving the boat ramp out into the lake, there is a very narrow channel to maneuver through and this creates a bit of a wrestling match amongst the swimmers. Either get out in front or sit back and wait so you can settle into your rhythm early. There is nothing like lost goggles or a good ole’ kick to the face to start the day. The swim course bears right out of the boat ramp and into the open lake for a clockwise swim around the buoys and back into the ramp. Upon exiting the water, prepare to hustle up the steep ramp and into transition. The ramp's rough concrete isn't the best on bare feet but the crowd cheering and adrenaline help get racers up and over to transition quickly.The Bike
Racers need to remember their transition spot and get ready for a great bike ride. It is very important to plan gearing out of transition ahead of time. For both the long and Olympic courses racers have a minute to shift but are climbing up some super steep hills quickly. This is especially the case in the Olympic where you are climbing the main hill out of transition within a minute of being on your bike. Make sure you are in the correct gearing--for most people that will be in the smallest ring in the front. Don't let your day be ruined by being in the wrong gear and trying to shift, only to have your chain not cooperate. Be smart and possibly consider putting your bike shoes on in transition for this race if you are used you having them attached you your pedals before mounting your bike. It will certainly save some possible frustration and only cost a few seconds.After the swim, folks are excited to get on the bike course. This makes for a crazy exit area at times so have your head on a swivel. When you do eventually reach the initial climb out away from the lake, settle into a rhythm and focus on steady, deep breathing to lower heart rate. These hills are long and steep, so it's not a sprint to the top. There is plenty of road ahead to hustle on, which will be hard to do if your heart is jumping out of your throat in the first few minutes of the bike. Conserve your energy stores for later in the race, as you will surely need them.After exiting the main gate of the park, you are still climbing a ways to the main road. From there it's a right hand turn and the next 30 miles are mostly rolling hills or flat for the Long Course. Enjoy this section and find a steady-state effort you can sustain for the bulk of the ride.One key to this race is how to handle your nutrition. This bike has the real hard work near the end, which adds to the challenge. For the Long Course bike, this makes eating early and often key. Each athlete should have a calorie target for the bike, which is easy to pace within the first 3/4 of the ride. Once at the uphills and the eventual downhills, racers don't have a lot of time to focus on nutrition. Emphasize taking in plenty of calories between the 20-40 mile marks. This will fuel your body for the hard work to come. The Olympic course is easier to take nutrition on as the hills are not quite as step heading home and there is much less technical descending.On the Long Course, “Nasty Grade”, (a 5 mile long climb that raises you up over 1000 ft) will come around mile 40. That's a serious climb on legs that have been enjoying ripping speeds for the last hour plus. Slowing down and finding a new rhythm can be hard psychologically and many people do not train specifically for this type of hill. One thing to consider with this climb is when you think you’ve seen the top, you haven't. At the top of the first peak, turn right and continue climbing for another few minutes. This knowledge will guard you against the shock that so many have had turning the corner seeing MORE hill! Once you peak the next summit, you are there for the most part. Having read this paragraph is enough to give you an advantage if you've never ridden the course.What goes up must come down. This is one fast downhill on the Long Course that will really benefit the technical cyclist. Lots of people sit up after this climb to take in nutrition, but there isn't a lot of time. Get a drink and get ready to focus on the downhill descent. Make sure to practice hills late in training rides and incorporate plenty of technical descending. The winds can be strong up on top of the ridge but know that you are almost home at this point. There are still some miles to log but they scream by while racers focus on spinning out to prepare legs for the run to come.Careful coming back into transition as the descent is steep back down the main hill. This applies to both the Long Course and Olympic as both use the main gate for re-entry into the park. Watch out for slower racers and runners finishing the run course as it’s a busy area.The RunThrow on your run gear and get ready for a doozy! The first few miles for both courses are rolling along the lake, mostly asphalt, but it turns to dirt and single track pretty quick. This is a tough run course, so runners need to stay fueled the entire day. Get some liquids early and stay on top of it. Calories should be 150-200 calories per hour but limit calorie amounts, to avoid gastric distress.The hills start around mile 3 to 4 as runners need to make it from the lake to above the main campground, which is virtually the same height as the hill you just rode down into transition. Once you start climbing, don't stop. Keep on trucking! Around mile 4 you will come across the famous "nude aid station" were several college-student volunteers are ready to cheer you on in the buff. I mention this only because it took me by surprise the first time I witnessed it and runners need to remember they are just starting a significant single-track climb.Make sure to have some hills in pre-race training. A workout like 5x1 minute hill repeats built into an hour run will increase hill-climbing strength. Once at the campground, continue through the grounds for several miles. Around mile 9 of the Long Course, feet will hit asphalt for the first time in a while and runners will be tempted to pick up the pace. Remember there are still 4 miles to go. By reaching the run turnaround at mile 10, runners are finally racing to the finish line as opposed to away from it. The last section of both courses can still provide some challenges back into the finish line.According to long time race announcer and publisher of Competitor magazine, Eric Gilsenan, the final downhill can be the most overlooked portion of the race. According to Gilsenan, several pro races have been won and lost within the last mile of the run due to pacing down the hill. A hard day’s work can be erased by the steep downhill grade if you are looking to podium in your age group. Pepper some downhill running into pre-race training in a controlled effort to strengthen the supporting muscles of the legs. Quick turnover is key on downhills. Strides are a great way to focus on leg speed and aim for 90-95 foot strikes per minute per foot. This will allow you to change leg support quickly while flying down this hill. Both Long and Olympic courses run down this main hill into the finish.Take the time to look around and enjoy the experience as the road flattens into the finishing chute. Listen for your name being called by the great Tri-California race announcers and cross that finish line in style. You just completed one of the most difficult Long Course or Olympic distance triathlons in the world. If you conquer this course, there isn't much that can stand in your way. Most likely you will push yourself past your comfort zone on race day so take some time to pat yourself on the back for completing one of these challenging races!Eat, Drink & Be Merry
Enjoy the post race festivities; cheer others finishers on and even stick around to watch the next day’s race. Soak in everything that has made Wildflower a destination weekend for so many around the world. Happy racing!
posted @ 4/28/2008 8:35:58 AM (0) Comments
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Banjo Wedding.. SO SO pretty. ;)
posted @ 4/24/2008 8:48:28 AM (0) Comments
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Ride Like -scratch that- In Lightning.
Text received
6:34 PM
From: Robo
To: Me
I don’t want to run, Corky.
Text response
6:37PM
From: Me
To: Robo
I’m in a f-cking thunderstorm on my bike. Not kidding. I’m sitting under a shelter. Get your ass outside, now.
Text response
6:45PM
From: Me
To: Robo
I’m not kidding. At all. You better be running right now.
**********
Yesterday I had the itch. Not the itch you get from Psi Chi frat boys, or the itch from a jock strap. I had the itch to be on my bike. I’ve had the hardest time getting motivated to be outside on my bicycle (see pretty much every post from February on). Yesterday, I decided, I would go for a ride and really enjoy myself.
There was a new route I was dying to try, but I didn’t want to give it a go on my own. I called Jimmy’s dad. Ok, his name is really Thomas, but for whatever reason someone called him Jimmy once and it stuck. Jimmy/Thomas works for Eric at the boat dealership. His dad, Dan, is a former triathlete thinking about getting back in the game.
Dan and I met up about 2 miles from my house at 6:00pm. The skies were very overcast, quite humid, and very (surprisingly) warm. When I left my house, the temperature was 78 degrees.
We took off towards one of the many lake areas, choosing Blue Springs Lake for our torture. I was sure to make note of how out of shape I am, almost immediately. For all you WildFlower chicks- I’d appreciate a push up the hills when you pass me. :)
Just as it started to drizzle, Dan got a flat. No big deal. But then came the lightning. BAM! It was close. Maybe one mile. Then in succession four more. Uh-Oh. The storm was moving fast and even if we headed back, we still wouldn’t out run it, and there would be no shelter, anywhere. After we remounted we decided to haul tush to the marina, about 3 miles away. There were several decent climbs in that time which slowed us dramatically. Soon, we were swallowed in a down pour of cold, hard raindrops. That’s when Dan spotted the open sided shelter. We pulled off the road and scurried on in.
Right at that time, I see the above text from Robyn. I’m soaking wet, freezing, and hungry. NOT a good combination. I start trying to call Eric. No awser. We decide we’ll wait it out. 50 minutes later the storm is picking up strength, and sitting on top of us. That’s when Thomas called, “My mom just called me. She said my dad left his phone at home. The weather is getting worse, where are you?” I gave JimTim the coordinates and hung up. In ten minutes, Pam, Dan’s wife, pulls up. Our Hero!!!
We loaded up the car, they dropped me off, and I got into the shower fully clothed- on purpose! I LOVE warm water.
Tonight: Lots of after work errands. :( Then 7 miles of half mile SLOW, half mile quick.
posted @ 4/24/2008 7:54:11 AM (0) Comments
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
What It's Like -- Meggie Mac
posted @ 4/22/2008 12:02:07 PM (0) Comments
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Great Expectations and How to Disregard Them
Great Expectations and How to Disregard Them
In December of 2007, I made the choice to enter this year’s WildFlower Triathlon. Through careful planning, I decided the Olympic distance would best suit me for the first race of the season. I expected to train solid through January, February, March, and April to arrive fit and rested in California.
Then life, weather, and apathy happened. My grandfather’s cancer took complete control of his body, ultimately leading to his death. Wedding planning began and I realized how much effort and time it actually does take up. The atmosphere was still throwing fluffy white shit on the ground until 10 days ago. I lost a beloved pet. I changed my priorities. I put my family and friends ahead of training, absorbing as much time with them as I could. I decided that a household project (or two) that I had put off for over years simply could not wait any longer, thus, I found myself elbow deep in paint, stain, and wallpaper stripper for nearly two weeks. I battled physical and emotion fatigue that, for weeks, only seemed to get worse, when rest and recovery should have made it better (see blogs dated circa 2/11/2008).
I had bronchitis that wouldn’t go away. I have a myriad of reasons and excuses. It’s a list of “here’s why” I’m not on top of my physical conditioning and mental abilities. There’s tons and tons of reasons why I won’t be performing at my best.
However, I did decided this. I’m going to go have a terrific time! I want to go meet all the cool Caly Poly/ Fluid tri club folks, and make some good gal pals. I want to get to represent TriSports.com, and watch some crazy age groupers go head to head with the best pros in both Half Iron and Olympic distance.
For this I am very excited. However, my expectations and I have reached an amicable agreement. I’m not going to win. Hell, even if was in tip top shape, I doubt that a top ten was ever in my future.
Please don’t consider my blog negative self talk. If it comes across that way, please understand it’s just of my way of outing my lack of preparation.
So, my brain and I reached a split decision.
My only expectation is that of enjoying myself, racing as best I can at the shape I'm in, and helping out my teams along the way!
posted @ 4/22/2008 7:05:12 AM (0) Comments
Friday, April 18, 2008
Gale Crutcher 1930-2008
Crutcher, Gale K.
View/Sign Guest Book
Gale K. Crutcher, 77 of Belton, Mo., passed away April 16, 2008, at the Hospice House. Visitation 9:30 to noon Saturday, April 19, at McGilley & George Funeral Home, 12913 Grandview Road, Grandview, Mo. Graveside service and burial at 3 p.m. after the visitation in Oak Lawn Cemetery, La Cygne, Kan. Contributions suggested to American Cancer Society, The LiveStrong Foundation or Kansas City Hospice. Gale was born on October 7, 1930, in Cass County, Mo., and was a lifelong Cass County area resident. Survived by wife, Norma, of the home; sons Gary Crutcher, St. Charles, Ill., and Jerry and wife Robin Crutcher of Belton, Mo.; brother Lyman and wife Priscilla Crutcher; sisters Nancy Baltinsky, Wynona Crutcher and Betty Crutcher; two grandchildren, Courtney Crutcher, Blue Springs, Mo., and Jeff Crutcher, Belton, Mo. (Arr.: McGilley & George Funeral Home, 12913 Grandview Road, Grandview, MO 64030, 816-966-0250.)
Published in the Kansas City Star on 4/17/2008.
Notice • Guest Book • Flowers
Susan Cagney 1961-2008
Cagney, Susan K. (Lambert)
View/Sign Guest Book
CAGNEY Susan K. Cagney, 47, Belton, MO, passed away April 12, 2008 at KC Hospice House. Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, April 19, at Mt. Moriah & Freeman Funeral Home, 10507 Holmes Rd. Burial in Mt. Moriah Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to KC Hospice House, 12000 Wornall Rd., Kansas City, MO 64145. Susan was born April 10, 1961 in Kansas City, MO, daughter of William Joseph and Harriet I. (DeGroff) Lambert. She graduated from Loretto Academy in 1979 and, received an associates degree in electronics from Electronics Institute in 1982. Susan was a member of the American Quarter Horse Association and was a member of the Protestant faith. She was preceded in death by her father William Lambert and grandmother Nora M. Maupin. She is survived by her mother and stepfather Harriet and Glenn W. Ladd; husband Robert Cagney of the home; son Justin Cagney, U.S.A.F.; brothers Jeff Lambert, Jack Lambert and John Lambert; stepbrother Marlon Smith; and stepsisters Stephanie Sample, Carla Pryor and Karen Schultz. Susan was a loving wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend who will be missed by all. (Arr: Mt. Moriah & Freeman 816-942- 2004)
Published in the Kansas City Star on 4/16/2008.
Notice • Guest Book • Flowers
posted @ 4/18/2008 7:47:23 AM (0) Comments
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Grandpa Update
Hey.I figured I'd give a little update, since I doubt I'll be logged on for a while to give another. Last night we rec'vd a call from the hospice hospital that a bed was available, so this morning around 11 a med team is coming to transfer him to the hospital. We discussed letting him stay at home, but my grandma was beginning to have qualms about being comfortable in her home if he passed away there. Also, this way she can have a bed right beside him in the hospital without worrying about having to do all of his medical needs. For about a week he was "eating" a half bottle of Ensure everyday, but on Friday morning he stopped that. He quit drinking fluids altogether on Saturday, and we've doing water drops to help keep his mouth and lips moist. Our whole family will be in town tonight, and thank God last week when he was coherent I was able to tell him how much he meant to me.Right now he's really not there mentally, and has pretty much stopped all verbal communication other than a 'yep' and 'nope.'Basically, the nurses have said he might make it to the weekend, but not to expect it. My cousin gets into town tonight, and she's the head hospice RN at a huge hospital in Phoenix, so it will really be great to have a family member that understands medically where he's at. --as a "woe is me"-- things have been exacerbated by a family f friend's death, from a similar fate, on Saturday. Her visitation and funeral services are Friday and saturday. If everyone could maybe send and extra goodwill vibe to her family that would be great. I want to thank you folks for your continued thoughts and prayers. It is all very very much appreciated.
posted @ 4/15/2008 8:43:30 AM (0) Comments
Thursday, April 10, 2008
99 Things You May or May Not Know, or Care to Know, About Me ... ... ... ...
99 Things You May or May Not Know, or Care to Know, About Me
I tan a lot
I have two pit bulls
I can’t stand TBone on the Johnny Dare Show (KC Radio)
I have 4 visible tattoos, but have received 5
I recently got into a bar brawl with against my best friend. We are still best friends
I am marrying on Halloween
We started dating on Halloween
He proposed on Halloween- on a beach, two days before Ironman
I’m really really bad with money. I like to spend it. All of it
I hate that I sit in a cubical for 8hrs + a day
I’ve only had my bike outside 3 times since Ironman
The weather in KC SUCKS this year
I’m pumped for WildFlower, but I’m not expecting a whole lot
I have a bridesmaid that lives about 100000 miles away but she is still quite up to date with all the wedding stuff
My fiancé looks like Travis Barker
Travis Barker is hot
I’m really really lucky
I used to have a rabbit but he died :(
There’s a woman at my work that drives me INSANE
I cannot survive without coffee
I cannot survive without Pope, Drewie, Freffy, Jmoo, or Robo (aka my bridesmaids)
I didn’t cry when I finished Ironman, but I did when I saw Julie finish
My weight fluctuates A LOT when I’m training heavy, but for whatever reason my body wants to “be” at a weight about 40 lbs over my ideal weight. Ugh
I have a girl crush on Desiree Ficker and Bree Wee (yes Bree, you)
There’s a new beer called Land Shark Lager that I LOVE
I really like cheap wine
My bike’s name is GoldMember
My fiancé made me cut up all my credit cards after I paid them off. I was mad at him but now I understand why he told me to. He’s so smart. Like I said, lucky
My first tattoo was a Mustang emblem
Yes, I drive a Mustang
My Mustang’s name is Sally and she has 150k miles on her now
I bought her my senior year of high school and I won “coolest car” in the yearbook
I paid her off in 11 months and refuse to get a new car because for over 5 years I haven’t had a car payment
I wear a size 9 shoe and a size 11 pant
My boobs *are* real
No you can’t see them
Eric and I have never broke up in almost 8 years
Both of my bosses are wearing pink and black today. One of them is a man. He is wearing the most pink
I am 5’10
I plan to wear a LiveStrong bracelet in my wedding
I have to wear glasses or contacts, even though my vision is supposedly 20/10. My optometrist one time told me that my eyes were fine. I challenged him to go for a ride down I-70 with me at night. He decided that maybe I did need glasses
I love penguins. I want one
I have never been to Las Vegas
I have visited over 10 countries out of the USA
My fiancé owns a boat dealership and a sports agency
No, we’re not rich
I dye my hair A LOT
I’m kind of snobby
I have lost toenails
My engagement ring is a trillion
My favorite color is black
I look best in bright purple or royal blue
I can’t remember how, but I’m a descendant of General George Patton
The year Carrie Underwood won American Idol, my cousin made the top 10
I met my fiancé at a motorcycle race
I used to have a beagle named Princess
Eric’s friends are also some of my very best friends
Perezhilton.com keeps me entertained from 7:30am-4:30pm Mon-Fri
I ordered my wedding dress Saturday. It will arrive June 30th
While I’m 70 inches tall, I actually have a wingspan of 74inches. That’s 6’2. No wonder I always looked like I would clean out the lane lines when swimming fly
I hold the high school girls swimming record in every distance and every event except the 100 yard breaststroke
I love the movie Fight Club
Johnny Depp is my favorite actor
Orlando Bloom is a very very close second
Eric and I have a saying that goes across the top of a wall in our kitchen “In For Life”
I won’t explain it if you don’t get it
I really like popcorn
I have a palm tree tanning tattoo
Every time Eric and I see a great big poufy palm tree we put our hands up in the air and say “Pouf” and do jazz hands
I couldn't keep a plant alive even if it was a money tree
Every time I ride by a cow on my bike I must moo at it
I was a cheerleader in high school
If I ever become a multi-millionaire I’m going to pay off my friend’s student loans and my family’s mortgages
I just had a random nose bleed while sitting at my desk
I do not do cocaine
I used to burn things in the oven
I now could maybe qualify for Hells Kitchen
I have really started to have a passion for cooking, and for making things from my own recipes, from scratch, on the fly
I occasionally will still burn things
Like an oven mitt
I’m not exactly Christian, not exactly Catholic, not exactly Buddhist
I write letters to people or companies if I find something in distaste or receive poor service
I am a foreclosure analyst at a law firm. It’s a fancy term for somebody’s bitch
I love my fiancé’s tattoos, I think they’re sexy
I have six piercings
My maid of honor hasn’t any tattoos or piercings
Tequila is a dangerous thing for me
Shots not good for my tummy
I have an abnormally long butt crack
I really enjoy do-it-yourself projects
I was voted “most organized” in high school
I have clothing scattered all of my bedroom and various items on my dresser, etc
I have a CHI hair iron and it is amazing
Skull and Crossbones are my theme
I can occasionally be really rude and snobby
I almost always feel bad about it
Anchorman and Talladega Nights are the best movies
I want to race the Hawaii World Champ Ironman before I’m 30
I’m considering doing an English Channel swim
I’m an overachiever
posted @ 4/10/2008 9:48:28 AM (0) Comments
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
I Got Nothin'
posted @ 4/9/2008 12:44:58 PM (0) Comments
Thursday, April 03, 2008
NEW SPONSOR!!!
H2O Audio http://www.h2oaudio.com/ Music can improve your mood, increase endurance, and bestow vital motivation. Would Rocky have been able to beat Clubber Lang (a.k.a. Mr.T) without "eye of the tiger" playing in his training montage. We here at H2O Audio think not. We also believe that the inspirational and spiritual power of music should not be reserved only for the Rocky Balboas and other land loving athletes of the world. As surfers, wakeboarders, paddlers, and swimmers we encourage H2O Audio users to experience their music in any element.
I'm super pumped about this. All you lap swimmers understand my pain! Will come in dang handy for that English Channel training! :)
posted @ 4/3/2008 11:59:53 AM (0) Comments
Thursday, April 03, 2008
Fred Phelps and the Westboro Baptist Cult, er Church
Westboro Baptist Church Cult
I want to take a moment to point out how disgusted I am with these people. I neary wish a harmful thought on another person, but this is terrible.
I was going to post the link to their page, but I'll spare my blogging friends from reading their biggotry. It's un-freaking-believeable.
If anyone reading my blog feels the same as those brainwashed people, please close out my page and never come back.
posted @ 4/3/2008 11:32:47 AM (0) Comments
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
Boy, Do I Have A Lot to Talk About.
S-O-R-E spells OUCH!
Yesterday, I had a kick butt run session (see the blog below). Then I lifted. Whew. That was really killer. I actually did not get in as much as was on my workout schedule, but I am glad because I’m feeling it today.
This morning I got up to swim but I knew I was toast before I even hit the water. I swam the warm up, the lead up, and one third of the main set. The rest of practice I watched my swimmers and gave some good feedback from below the water, an area that many swim coaches will neglect or do not understand because they cannot see it first hand, as I did this morning.
Umpa-loompa ump-idee-doo.
I would like to comment that I am afraid I have rubbed off on Eric. No, not a spray tan rub off, but one of a less healthy, slightly more brown-tinged rub. I got Eric to go tanning. Now, he is going quite often. We do have our engagement pictures this Saturday, and I don’t think he was wanting to look like Powder next to me. But dammit, after a few sessions in the oh so amazing Sunboard high-pressure bed at Tropical Xtreme Tanz (excuse my plug), he is now darker than me. Figures.
Were the Auto Insurance Elfs here last night?
Explain this. I get on the scale today expecting to see a certain number. Instead it’s almost 10 lbs. lower. What?! Whoohoo! But wait, that can’t be. I just lost 5 or 6 lbs a couple weeks ago, then gained back two-ish. So I was sure my weight would be around there. The weight this morning is ten lbs less- no way. Also, I took my body fat. Explain to me how I could lose almost 4% body fat in a week. Not possible. So I chalk it up to equipment malfunction.
I get to the gym and get on the medical scale. I have consumed only 6.75 fluid ounces and am wearing only a swim suit (I weighed in the buff at my home, of course). The number is 18 lbs HIGHER than what I just read at home. UMMMM… Ok, granted I don’t feel like I lost 10 lbs, but I sure as HELL did NOT gain eight! Either Robert Gouluet is out of the grave, or the Elves got me.
Did I Mention I’m Swimming the ENGLISH CHANNEL?
I am in talks with two old swimming gal pals about attempting a crossing next summer or in 2010. We have many things to hash out, but, we are very motivated. I have thought about this a lot since reading Lynne Cox’s books Swimming to Antarctica and Grayson. I really admire the woman. How amazing would it be to say you took part in crossing the English Channel under our own will power?!
Congrats, Max!
Not so sure if he ever reads this blog, but a very old friend of mine, Max Jaben qualified for the Olympic Games in swimming this year. He obtained dual citizenship in Israel, and will be representing the country in the Olympic Games! How very cool. Awesome job and good luck in August! Lieben ahf dein kepele! (“Very well done” In Yiddish)
posted @ 4/2/2008 10:50:36 AM (0) Comments
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
April Fool's
I am quitting blogging. Ok. you're right April Fool's. Here's some good ones from the past.
http://www.museumofhoaxes.com/hoax/aprilfool/
#1: The Swiss Spaghetti Harvest
In 1957 the respected BBC news show Panorama announced that thanks to a very mild winter and the virtual elimination of the dreaded spaghetti weevil, Swiss farmers were enjoying a bumper spaghetti crop. It accompanied this announcement with footage of Swiss peasants pulling strands of spaghetti down from trees. Huge numbers of viewers were taken in. Many called the BBC wanting to know how they could grow their own spaghetti tree. To this the BBC diplomatically replied that they should "place a sprig of spaghetti in a tin of tomato sauce and hope for the best."
• Read the full article about the Swiss Spaghetti Harvest.
Comments (62)
#2: Sidd Finch
In its April 1985 edition, Sports Illustrated published a story about a new rookie pitcher who planned to play for the Mets. His name was Sidd Finch, and he could reportedly throw a baseball at 168 mph with pinpoint accuracy. This was 65 mph faster than the previous record. Surprisingly, Sidd Finch had never even played the game before. Instead, he had mastered the "art of the pitch" in a Tibetan monastery under the guidance of the "great poet-saint Lama Milaraspa." Mets fans celebrated their teams' amazing luck at having found such a gifted player, and Sports Illustrated was flooded with requests for more information. But in reality this legendary player only existed in the imagination of the author of the article, George Plimpton.
• Read the full article about Sidd Finch.
Comments (30)
#3: Instant Color TV
In 1962 there was only one tv channel in Sweden, and it broadcast in black and white. The station's technical expert, Kjell Stensson, appeared on the news to announce that, thanks to a new technology, viewers could convert their existing sets to display color reception. All they had to do was pull a nylon stocking over their tv screen. Stensson proceeded to demonstrate the process. Thousands of people were taken in. Regular color broadcasts only commenced in Sweden on April 1, 1970.
• Read the full article about Instant Color TV.
Comments (78)
#4: The Taco Liberty Bell
In 1996 the Taco Bell Corporation announced that it had bought the Liberty Bell and was renaming it the Taco Liberty Bell. Hundreds of outraged citizens called the National Historic Park in Philadelphia where the bell was housed to express their anger. Their nerves were only calmed when Taco Bell revealed, a few hours later, that it was all a practical joke. The best line of the day came when White House press secretary Mike McCurry was asked about the sale. Thinking on his feet, he responded that the Lincoln Memorial had also been sold. It would now be known as the Ford Lincoln Mercury Memorial.
• Read the full article about the Taco Liberty Bell.
Comments (48)
#5: San Serriffe
In 1977 the British newspaper The Guardian published a special seven-page supplement devoted to San Serriffe, a small republic located in the Indian Ocean consisting of several semi-colon-shaped islands. A series of articles affectionately described the geography and culture of this obscure nation. Its two main islands were named Upper Caisse and Lower Caisse. Its capital was Bodoni, and its leader was General Pica. The Guardian's phones rang all day as readers sought more information about the idyllic holiday spot. Few noticed that everything about the island was named after printer's terminology. The success of this hoax is widely credited with launching the enthusiasm for April Foolery that gripped the British tabloids in subsequent decades.
• Read the full article about San Serriffe.
Comments (34)
Prankplace.com
FAKE TATTOO SLEEVESNow you can get "inked" by night and still keep your day job with our "tattoo sleeves". The tattoo is printed directly on the stretchable fabric sleeves fabric which is a machine washable nylon. They come in pairs; wear one or both.
#6: Nixon for President
In 1992 National Public Radio's Talk of the Nation program announced that Richard Nixon, in a surprise move, was running for President again. His new campaign slogan was, "I didn't do anything wrong, and I won't do it again." Accompanying this announcement were audio clips of Nixon delivering his candidacy speech. Listeners responded viscerally to the announcement, flooding the show with calls expressing shock and outrage. Only during the second half of the show did the host John Hockenberry reveal that the announcement was a practical joke. Nixon's voice was impersonated by comedian Rich Little.
Comments (24)
#7: Alabama Changes the Value of Pi
The April 1998 issue of the New Mexicans for Science and Reason newsletter contained an article claiming that the Alabama state legislature had voted to change the value of the mathematical constant pi from 3.14159 to the 'Biblical value' of 3.0. Before long the article had made its way onto the internet, and then it rapidly made its way around the world, forwarded by people in their email. It only became apparent how far the article had spread when the Alabama legislature began receiving hundreds of calls from people protesting the legislation. The original article, which was intended as a parody of legislative attempts to circumscribe the teaching of evolution, was written by a physicist named Mark Boslough.
Comments (73)
#8: The Left-Handed Whopper
In 1998 Burger King published a full page advertisement in USA Today announcing the introduction of a new item to their menu: a "Left-Handed Whopper" specially designed for the 32 million left-handed Americans. According to the advertisement, the new whopper included the same ingredients as the original Whopper (lettuce, tomato, hamburger patty, etc.), but all the condiments were rotated 180 degrees for the benefit of their left-handed customers. The following day Burger King issued a follow-up release revealing that although the Left-Handed Whopper was a hoax, thousands of customers had gone into restaurants to request the new sandwich. Simultaneously, according to the press release, "many others requested their own 'right handed' version."
Comments (55)
#9: Hotheaded Naked Ice Borers
In its April 1995 issue Discover Magazine announced that the highly respected wildlife biologist Dr. Aprile Pazzo had discovered a new species in Antarctica: the hotheaded naked ice borer. These fascinating creatures had bony plates on their heads that, fed by numerous blood vessels, could become burning hot, allowing the animals to bore through ice at high speeds. They used this ability to hunt penguins, melting the ice beneath the penguins and causing them to sink downwards into the resulting slush where the hotheads consumed them. After much research, Dr. Pazzo theorized that the hotheads might have been responsible for the mysterious disappearance of noted Antarctic explorer Philippe Poisson in 1837. "To the ice borers, he would have looked like a penguin," the article quoted her as saying. Discover received more mail in response to this article than they had received for any other article in their history.
• Read the full article about the Hotheaded Naked Ice Borer.
Comments (43)
#10: Planetary Alignment Decreases Gravity
In 1976 the British astronomer Patrick Moore announced on BBC Radio 2 that at 9:47 AM a once-in-a-lifetime astronomical event was going to occur that listeners could experience in their very own homes. The planet Pluto would pass behind Jupiter, temporarily causing a gravitational alignment that would counteract and lessen the Earth's own gravity. Moore told his listeners that if they jumped in the air at the exact moment that this planetary alignment occurred, they would experience a strange floating sensation. When 9:47 AM arrived, BBC2 began to receive hundreds of phone calls from listeners claiming to have felt the sensation. One woman even reported that she and her eleven friends had risen from their chairs and floated around the room.
posted @ 4/1/2008 12:45:46 PM (0) Comments
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
Choke it back.
Do not barf. Don't barf. Don't do it. Don't.. don't... ::bbaarrf:: Do. Not. Barf.
Ugh, and it's not even my leftover meat patty and salad from lunch... no, it's my phlegm. Choking, coughing, sputtering, PUKING my own phelgm.
Runner's phelgm.
UGH.
Well, here's to the fastest 3 miles I've done yet this yr. Mile 1.5 split 13:46.54 (wind at back), Mile 3.0 split 15:47.37 (wind at face split). Average mile time of 9:51.
I know, I know. Not blazing fast, hell, not even warm up speed for so many of you. But I'm working on it. I'm feeling a lot more comfortable with this new stride and techniqe even JMoo commented that I was moving faster. I beat her back! That is RARE!
Now, well, now I need a nap to recovery from a high quality high speed run with quick turnover and the 1.5 slices of Costco cake from the birthday party in my office. At least, AT LEAST, I can call that cake market research and no one will be able to comment!
Okay, I'm dozing, off to get some tea! YUM! (Yes Robo, TEA. T-E-A. The good stuff. The shiznit, the almost as good as a Scooter's Hazlenut coffee Stuff. TEA.)
My workout orginally called for a MORNING run with recovery before my lift session, but it was misting and about 38 degrees out- even worse than the conditions this afternoon, so I'll just fight my way thru it at the gym tonight.
Oh, here's today's route. Nothing special, but fun anyway!
http://www.usatf.org/routes/view.asp?rID=203410
posted @ 4/1/2008 12:42:51 PM (0) Comments
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Construction Hardware 2, Tires 0
Last week, I was filling up my car and happened to notice a nail in my tire. My tires were fine, still holding air, no big deal.
Took it in Wednesday and was patched for $28.99. Ugh. Fine, whatever.
Today, Jmoo and I headed to lunch. We didn't get a quarter mile before we heard (and felt) chu-chunk-chink-cha-chunk-chink-cha-chunk-chink. OMG, is my tire flat? I thought. I pull over. No, we're good. Must be the road right here....
Then it continues. I stopped a couple times trying to figure out what the hell it was. Sally was driving just fine, no pulls, stutters, etc. We make it to lunch, about 1.5 miles from work. I get out, survey the car again. And then, there it was...
The culprit.
I'm pretty sure it looks like this:
Luckily, the auto shop folks said they think this can be patched, like the other. And because I'm such a valued (read: auto work magnet) customer they gave me $4.99 off. Provided there's no extra work to be done. I should see if these guys want to sponsor me!
Can somebody, anybody, JUST GET ME TO FRIDAY, AND GET ME ON THE PLANE, WITH MY BIKE, AND NO MORE TIRE ISSUES? Seriously!!!!!
posted @ 4/30/2008 11:17:33 AM (0) Comments
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
I'm Becoming an Airline Statistic!
ARGH!
Click Here:: This is the whole story and the discussion surrounding it.
Well, I just got off the phone with Delta. It's $100 each way to take my bike with me to WildFlower! meaning, $200 rt! YIKES! Ok, ok, sure.. I should have known better.. but, I DID! I Called before booking my flights (called 3 airlines, as $300 tickets aren't a good thing if it's $200 to ship bike, vs $380 tickets and $100 to haul bike). - side note, my tix were just under $400-I was told it was $50 each way, and $100 round trip. Great! One of the lesser quotes. I just called an hr ago to confirm since I was breaking my bike down tonight, and low and behold... They are now charging a firm $100 each direction. I asked when they started doing this and I was told "A couple months ago".. ok, I booked in January. I told them "I booked in January, so those older rates should apply." Shot down. Manager? Shot down. UGH!
Saga continues... I texted my sponsor that I'm staying with and told him situation. He said that wasn't right, call back. So I did. I get a slightly nicer person on the phone. Same conversation. He then asked if I had my bike case dimensions, as maybe there was something they could do. Well, h x w x l is 11x30x47. Guess what those numbers add up to? 88. The maximum "size" delta will allow on their plane is 80 inches. They told me my bike wouldn't be on their plane. Called Delta cargo. I'd have to arrange by curourier or freight frwd'er. I thought all of this was set back in January!!! I just happened to call to confirm! ARGH! And, yes, on top of that, I was told that my 2nd bag will be $25 starting May 5th-- the day I fly home. Jebus! Seriously, this is UNREAL.
read this.
http://forum.slowtwitch.com/gforum.cgi?post=1772469;sb=post_latest_reply;so=ASC;forum_view=forum_view_collapsed;;page=unread - unread
posted @ 4/30/2008 7:57:56 AM (1) Comments
Monday, April 28, 2008
A Triathlete’s Guide to Wildflower 2008
Friday, April 11, 2008
A Triathlete’s Guide to Wildflower 2008
By Nick Tuttle
For many triathletes, the Wildflower Festival weekend has served as the exciting and competitive start of the summer triathlon season for over 25 years. 2008 marks the 26th annual offering of the popular Central California race brought to life by professional and highly regarded organizer, Tri California. On the weekend of May 2nd through 4th, over 7000 athletes will flock to Lake San Antonio, just east of King City, to participate in one of the weekend’s many challenging races. Known for its challenging terrain and competitive field of racers, Wildflower is an event that every triathlete should experience in his or her lifetime because of several unique factors.Festival FunWildflower’s festival atmosphere sets it apart from other races throughout the world. A tent city of vendors, musicians and athletes is created overnight at the campgrounds surrounding Lake San Antonio. The vast majority of racers elect to stay at campsites adjacent to the transition area. Thousands of peers enjoy the atmosphere of the weekend together. Many friendships have been forged around a campfire or while waiting in line at one of the restrooms throughout the campground.Logistics & AccommodationsAnother unique aspect of Wildflower is the need to plan accommodations well before race day and how to get to transition on time on race morning. As is typical in a triathlon of this magnitude, racers need to arrive at least a day in advance to check in. In addition, campsites fill quickly and can be hard to find for a large group. One of the advantages of camping at Lake San Antonio is that on race morning, triathletes can bike easily down to transition. Staying in hotels in surrounding areas can lead to long commutes in and out of the park on registration and race days. It is much easier to avoid the car and bike directly to transition from campsites. Hitting the hotels also may lead to missing what so many people love about this race—the camping and camaraderie. There is nothing better than carbo-loading at a campfire with friends old and new.Nutrition & Tips: Another issue unique to Wildflower is preparing pre-race meals sans fridge, microwave or an assortment of local restaurants. Try to plan pre-race meals that can be grilled or prepared on a camping stove. With some careful planning, preparing the right meals should not be a huge issue. On the contrary, restroom availability on race morning can be. Restrooms can get busy on race morning and waiting in line should be the least of a racer’s challenges. Leave plenty of time and look for restrooms off to the side, and less crowded.Pre-Race Transition:
Tri California is a highly regarded, professional and organized race production company with everything running like clockwork including transition. One of the best things about Tri California events is that each triathlete’s transition spot is pre-designated by race number. There is no need to scramble looking for the best spot race morning or any spot at all. You will have an amply-spaced, designated spot to rack your bike and set-up your transition. With 7000+ athletes competing, this feat is impressive and makes for a super-sized transition area! It is crucial in Wildflower for racers to memorize their race numbers to find their spot quickly during the race. There are rows and rows of bikes to sort through. Typically, this transition offers nothing in terms of landmarks to help you find your spot as it’s in a huge, flat, concrete parking lot, so get to memorizing!Take note of the steep hill when entering transition from the main campground and gate. All race courses at Wildflower include this hill at some point during the race. This infamous hill gets the most talk but there are plenty of other challenges on this course. Just take a mental note of this one, since all athletes will either be going up or down it shortly.Before the swim start, racers should avoid putting on their wetsuit as long as possible. The event directors will call each wave down to the boat ramp well before it's time to go. Don’t feel rushed but don't sit around in a wetsuit for 20-30 minutes while you can continue to loosen up those limbs for the work to come.The SwimWildflower's swim is the easiest part of the day, and it's the only segment that is totally flat (hee hee). There are a few things to take note of for this particular swim. Unless you are in one of the first few waves, it can be challenging to get into the water before wave starts to warm up. Most likely age groupers will get 5 minutes or so just before each wave horn sounds to get in the water but this isn't enough for most people. This pre-race limitation makes land warm ups even more important including arm swings, shoulder rolls, breathing exercises, and anything else to prepare the body for the swim ahead.The first part of this swim is the most challenging. Leaving the boat ramp out into the lake, there is a very narrow channel to maneuver through and this creates a bit of a wrestling match amongst the swimmers. Either get out in front or sit back and wait so you can settle into your rhythm early. There is nothing like lost goggles or a good ole’ kick to the face to start the day. The swim course bears right out of the boat ramp and into the open lake for a clockwise swim around the buoys and back into the ramp. Upon exiting the water, prepare to hustle up the steep ramp and into transition. The ramp's rough concrete isn't the best on bare feet but the crowd cheering and adrenaline help get racers up and over to transition quickly.The Bike
Racers need to remember their transition spot and get ready for a great bike ride. It is very important to plan gearing out of transition ahead of time. For both the long and Olympic courses racers have a minute to shift but are climbing up some super steep hills quickly. This is especially the case in the Olympic where you are climbing the main hill out of transition within a minute of being on your bike. Make sure you are in the correct gearing--for most people that will be in the smallest ring in the front. Don't let your day be ruined by being in the wrong gear and trying to shift, only to have your chain not cooperate. Be smart and possibly consider putting your bike shoes on in transition for this race if you are used you having them attached you your pedals before mounting your bike. It will certainly save some possible frustration and only cost a few seconds.After the swim, folks are excited to get on the bike course. This makes for a crazy exit area at times so have your head on a swivel. When you do eventually reach the initial climb out away from the lake, settle into a rhythm and focus on steady, deep breathing to lower heart rate. These hills are long and steep, so it's not a sprint to the top. There is plenty of road ahead to hustle on, which will be hard to do if your heart is jumping out of your throat in the first few minutes of the bike. Conserve your energy stores for later in the race, as you will surely need them.After exiting the main gate of the park, you are still climbing a ways to the main road. From there it's a right hand turn and the next 30 miles are mostly rolling hills or flat for the Long Course. Enjoy this section and find a steady-state effort you can sustain for the bulk of the ride.One key to this race is how to handle your nutrition. This bike has the real hard work near the end, which adds to the challenge. For the Long Course bike, this makes eating early and often key. Each athlete should have a calorie target for the bike, which is easy to pace within the first 3/4 of the ride. Once at the uphills and the eventual downhills, racers don't have a lot of time to focus on nutrition. Emphasize taking in plenty of calories between the 20-40 mile marks. This will fuel your body for the hard work to come. The Olympic course is easier to take nutrition on as the hills are not quite as step heading home and there is much less technical descending.On the Long Course, “Nasty Grade”, (a 5 mile long climb that raises you up over 1000 ft) will come around mile 40. That's a serious climb on legs that have been enjoying ripping speeds for the last hour plus. Slowing down and finding a new rhythm can be hard psychologically and many people do not train specifically for this type of hill. One thing to consider with this climb is when you think you’ve seen the top, you haven't. At the top of the first peak, turn right and continue climbing for another few minutes. This knowledge will guard you against the shock that so many have had turning the corner seeing MORE hill! Once you peak the next summit, you are there for the most part. Having read this paragraph is enough to give you an advantage if you've never ridden the course.What goes up must come down. This is one fast downhill on the Long Course that will really benefit the technical cyclist. Lots of people sit up after this climb to take in nutrition, but there isn't a lot of time. Get a drink and get ready to focus on the downhill descent. Make sure to practice hills late in training rides and incorporate plenty of technical descending. The winds can be strong up on top of the ridge but know that you are almost home at this point. There are still some miles to log but they scream by while racers focus on spinning out to prepare legs for the run to come.Careful coming back into transition as the descent is steep back down the main hill. This applies to both the Long Course and Olympic as both use the main gate for re-entry into the park. Watch out for slower racers and runners finishing the run course as it’s a busy area.The RunThrow on your run gear and get ready for a doozy! The first few miles for both courses are rolling along the lake, mostly asphalt, but it turns to dirt and single track pretty quick. This is a tough run course, so runners need to stay fueled the entire day. Get some liquids early and stay on top of it. Calories should be 150-200 calories per hour but limit calorie amounts, to avoid gastric distress.The hills start around mile 3 to 4 as runners need to make it from the lake to above the main campground, which is virtually the same height as the hill you just rode down into transition. Once you start climbing, don't stop. Keep on trucking! Around mile 4 you will come across the famous "nude aid station" were several college-student volunteers are ready to cheer you on in the buff. I mention this only because it took me by surprise the first time I witnessed it and runners need to remember they are just starting a significant single-track climb.Make sure to have some hills in pre-race training. A workout like 5x1 minute hill repeats built into an hour run will increase hill-climbing strength. Once at the campground, continue through the grounds for several miles. Around mile 9 of the Long Course, feet will hit asphalt for the first time in a while and runners will be tempted to pick up the pace. Remember there are still 4 miles to go. By reaching the run turnaround at mile 10, runners are finally racing to the finish line as opposed to away from it. The last section of both courses can still provide some challenges back into the finish line.According to long time race announcer and publisher of Competitor magazine, Eric Gilsenan, the final downhill can be the most overlooked portion of the race. According to Gilsenan, several pro races have been won and lost within the last mile of the run due to pacing down the hill. A hard day’s work can be erased by the steep downhill grade if you are looking to podium in your age group. Pepper some downhill running into pre-race training in a controlled effort to strengthen the supporting muscles of the legs. Quick turnover is key on downhills. Strides are a great way to focus on leg speed and aim for 90-95 foot strikes per minute per foot. This will allow you to change leg support quickly while flying down this hill. Both Long and Olympic courses run down this main hill into the finish.Take the time to look around and enjoy the experience as the road flattens into the finishing chute. Listen for your name being called by the great Tri-California race announcers and cross that finish line in style. You just completed one of the most difficult Long Course or Olympic distance triathlons in the world. If you conquer this course, there isn't much that can stand in your way. Most likely you will push yourself past your comfort zone on race day so take some time to pat yourself on the back for completing one of these challenging races!Eat, Drink & Be Merry
Enjoy the post race festivities; cheer others finishers on and even stick around to watch the next day’s race. Soak in everything that has made Wildflower a destination weekend for so many around the world. Happy racing!
posted @ 4/28/2008 8:35:58 AM (0) Comments
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Banjo Wedding.. SO SO pretty. ;)
posted @ 4/24/2008 8:48:28 AM (0) Comments
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Ride Like -scratch that- In Lightning.
Text received
6:34 PM
From: Robo
To: Me
I don’t want to run, Corky.
Text response
6:37PM
From: Me
To: Robo
I’m in a f-cking thunderstorm on my bike. Not kidding. I’m sitting under a shelter. Get your ass outside, now.
Text response
6:45PM
From: Me
To: Robo
I’m not kidding. At all. You better be running right now.
**********
Yesterday I had the itch. Not the itch you get from Psi Chi frat boys, or the itch from a jock strap. I had the itch to be on my bike. I’ve had the hardest time getting motivated to be outside on my bicycle (see pretty much every post from February on). Yesterday, I decided, I would go for a ride and really enjoy myself.
There was a new route I was dying to try, but I didn’t want to give it a go on my own. I called Jimmy’s dad. Ok, his name is really Thomas, but for whatever reason someone called him Jimmy once and it stuck. Jimmy/Thomas works for Eric at the boat dealership. His dad, Dan, is a former triathlete thinking about getting back in the game.
Dan and I met up about 2 miles from my house at 6:00pm. The skies were very overcast, quite humid, and very (surprisingly) warm. When I left my house, the temperature was 78 degrees.
We took off towards one of the many lake areas, choosing Blue Springs Lake for our torture. I was sure to make note of how out of shape I am, almost immediately. For all you WildFlower chicks- I’d appreciate a push up the hills when you pass me. :)
Just as it started to drizzle, Dan got a flat. No big deal. But then came the lightning. BAM! It was close. Maybe one mile. Then in succession four more. Uh-Oh. The storm was moving fast and even if we headed back, we still wouldn’t out run it, and there would be no shelter, anywhere. After we remounted we decided to haul tush to the marina, about 3 miles away. There were several decent climbs in that time which slowed us dramatically. Soon, we were swallowed in a down pour of cold, hard raindrops. That’s when Dan spotted the open sided shelter. We pulled off the road and scurried on in.
Right at that time, I see the above text from Robyn. I’m soaking wet, freezing, and hungry. NOT a good combination. I start trying to call Eric. No awser. We decide we’ll wait it out. 50 minutes later the storm is picking up strength, and sitting on top of us. That’s when Thomas called, “My mom just called me. She said my dad left his phone at home. The weather is getting worse, where are you?” I gave JimTim the coordinates and hung up. In ten minutes, Pam, Dan’s wife, pulls up. Our Hero!!!
We loaded up the car, they dropped me off, and I got into the shower fully clothed- on purpose! I LOVE warm water.
Tonight: Lots of after work errands. :( Then 7 miles of half mile SLOW, half mile quick.
posted @ 4/24/2008 7:54:11 AM (0) Comments
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
What It's Like -- Meggie Mac
posted @ 4/22/2008 12:02:07 PM (0) Comments
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Great Expectations and How to Disregard Them
Great Expectations and How to Disregard Them
In December of 2007, I made the choice to enter this year’s WildFlower Triathlon. Through careful planning, I decided the Olympic distance would best suit me for the first race of the season. I expected to train solid through January, February, March, and April to arrive fit and rested in California.
Then life, weather, and apathy happened. My grandfather’s cancer took complete control of his body, ultimately leading to his death. Wedding planning began and I realized how much effort and time it actually does take up. The atmosphere was still throwing fluffy white shit on the ground until 10 days ago. I lost a beloved pet. I changed my priorities. I put my family and friends ahead of training, absorbing as much time with them as I could. I decided that a household project (or two) that I had put off for over years simply could not wait any longer, thus, I found myself elbow deep in paint, stain, and wallpaper stripper for nearly two weeks. I battled physical and emotion fatigue that, for weeks, only seemed to get worse, when rest and recovery should have made it better (see blogs dated circa 2/11/2008).
I had bronchitis that wouldn’t go away. I have a myriad of reasons and excuses. It’s a list of “here’s why” I’m not on top of my physical conditioning and mental abilities. There’s tons and tons of reasons why I won’t be performing at my best.
However, I did decided this. I’m going to go have a terrific time! I want to go meet all the cool Caly Poly/ Fluid tri club folks, and make some good gal pals. I want to get to represent TriSports.com, and watch some crazy age groupers go head to head with the best pros in both Half Iron and Olympic distance.
For this I am very excited. However, my expectations and I have reached an amicable agreement. I’m not going to win. Hell, even if was in tip top shape, I doubt that a top ten was ever in my future.
Please don’t consider my blog negative self talk. If it comes across that way, please understand it’s just of my way of outing my lack of preparation.
So, my brain and I reached a split decision.
My only expectation is that of enjoying myself, racing as best I can at the shape I'm in, and helping out my teams along the way!
posted @ 4/22/2008 7:05:12 AM (0) Comments
Friday, April 18, 2008
Gale Crutcher 1930-2008
Crutcher, Gale K.
View/Sign Guest Book
Gale K. Crutcher, 77 of Belton, Mo., passed away April 16, 2008, at the Hospice House. Visitation 9:30 to noon Saturday, April 19, at McGilley & George Funeral Home, 12913 Grandview Road, Grandview, Mo. Graveside service and burial at 3 p.m. after the visitation in Oak Lawn Cemetery, La Cygne, Kan. Contributions suggested to American Cancer Society, The LiveStrong Foundation or Kansas City Hospice. Gale was born on October 7, 1930, in Cass County, Mo., and was a lifelong Cass County area resident. Survived by wife, Norma, of the home; sons Gary Crutcher, St. Charles, Ill., and Jerry and wife Robin Crutcher of Belton, Mo.; brother Lyman and wife Priscilla Crutcher; sisters Nancy Baltinsky, Wynona Crutcher and Betty Crutcher; two grandchildren, Courtney Crutcher, Blue Springs, Mo., and Jeff Crutcher, Belton, Mo. (Arr.: McGilley & George Funeral Home, 12913 Grandview Road, Grandview, MO 64030, 816-966-0250.)
Published in the Kansas City Star on 4/17/2008.
Notice • Guest Book • Flowers
Susan Cagney 1961-2008
Cagney, Susan K. (Lambert)
View/Sign Guest Book
CAGNEY Susan K. Cagney, 47, Belton, MO, passed away April 12, 2008 at KC Hospice House. Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, April 19, at Mt. Moriah & Freeman Funeral Home, 10507 Holmes Rd. Burial in Mt. Moriah Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to KC Hospice House, 12000 Wornall Rd., Kansas City, MO 64145. Susan was born April 10, 1961 in Kansas City, MO, daughter of William Joseph and Harriet I. (DeGroff) Lambert. She graduated from Loretto Academy in 1979 and, received an associates degree in electronics from Electronics Institute in 1982. Susan was a member of the American Quarter Horse Association and was a member of the Protestant faith. She was preceded in death by her father William Lambert and grandmother Nora M. Maupin. She is survived by her mother and stepfather Harriet and Glenn W. Ladd; husband Robert Cagney of the home; son Justin Cagney, U.S.A.F.; brothers Jeff Lambert, Jack Lambert and John Lambert; stepbrother Marlon Smith; and stepsisters Stephanie Sample, Carla Pryor and Karen Schultz. Susan was a loving wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend who will be missed by all. (Arr: Mt. Moriah & Freeman 816-942- 2004)
Published in the Kansas City Star on 4/16/2008.
Notice • Guest Book • Flowers
posted @ 4/18/2008 7:47:23 AM (0) Comments
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Grandpa Update
Hey.I figured I'd give a little update, since I doubt I'll be logged on for a while to give another. Last night we rec'vd a call from the hospice hospital that a bed was available, so this morning around 11 a med team is coming to transfer him to the hospital. We discussed letting him stay at home, but my grandma was beginning to have qualms about being comfortable in her home if he passed away there. Also, this way she can have a bed right beside him in the hospital without worrying about having to do all of his medical needs. For about a week he was "eating" a half bottle of Ensure everyday, but on Friday morning he stopped that. He quit drinking fluids altogether on Saturday, and we've doing water drops to help keep his mouth and lips moist. Our whole family will be in town tonight, and thank God last week when he was coherent I was able to tell him how much he meant to me.Right now he's really not there mentally, and has pretty much stopped all verbal communication other than a 'yep' and 'nope.'Basically, the nurses have said he might make it to the weekend, but not to expect it. My cousin gets into town tonight, and she's the head hospice RN at a huge hospital in Phoenix, so it will really be great to have a family member that understands medically where he's at. --as a "woe is me"-- things have been exacerbated by a family f friend's death, from a similar fate, on Saturday. Her visitation and funeral services are Friday and saturday. If everyone could maybe send and extra goodwill vibe to her family that would be great. I want to thank you folks for your continued thoughts and prayers. It is all very very much appreciated.
posted @ 4/15/2008 8:43:30 AM (0) Comments
Thursday, April 10, 2008
99 Things You May or May Not Know, or Care to Know, About Me ... ... ... ...
99 Things You May or May Not Know, or Care to Know, About Me
I tan a lot
I have two pit bulls
I can’t stand TBone on the Johnny Dare Show (KC Radio)
I have 4 visible tattoos, but have received 5
I recently got into a bar brawl with against my best friend. We are still best friends
I am marrying on Halloween
We started dating on Halloween
He proposed on Halloween- on a beach, two days before Ironman
I’m really really bad with money. I like to spend it. All of it
I hate that I sit in a cubical for 8hrs + a day
I’ve only had my bike outside 3 times since Ironman
The weather in KC SUCKS this year
I’m pumped for WildFlower, but I’m not expecting a whole lot
I have a bridesmaid that lives about 100000 miles away but she is still quite up to date with all the wedding stuff
My fiancé looks like Travis Barker
Travis Barker is hot
I’m really really lucky
I used to have a rabbit but he died :(
There’s a woman at my work that drives me INSANE
I cannot survive without coffee
I cannot survive without Pope, Drewie, Freffy, Jmoo, or Robo (aka my bridesmaids)
I didn’t cry when I finished Ironman, but I did when I saw Julie finish
My weight fluctuates A LOT when I’m training heavy, but for whatever reason my body wants to “be” at a weight about 40 lbs over my ideal weight. Ugh
I have a girl crush on Desiree Ficker and Bree Wee (yes Bree, you)
There’s a new beer called Land Shark Lager that I LOVE
I really like cheap wine
My bike’s name is GoldMember
My fiancé made me cut up all my credit cards after I paid them off. I was mad at him but now I understand why he told me to. He’s so smart. Like I said, lucky
My first tattoo was a Mustang emblem
Yes, I drive a Mustang
My Mustang’s name is Sally and she has 150k miles on her now
I bought her my senior year of high school and I won “coolest car” in the yearbook
I paid her off in 11 months and refuse to get a new car because for over 5 years I haven’t had a car payment
I wear a size 9 shoe and a size 11 pant
My boobs *are* real
No you can’t see them
Eric and I have never broke up in almost 8 years
Both of my bosses are wearing pink and black today. One of them is a man. He is wearing the most pink
I am 5’10
I plan to wear a LiveStrong bracelet in my wedding
I have to wear glasses or contacts, even though my vision is supposedly 20/10. My optometrist one time told me that my eyes were fine. I challenged him to go for a ride down I-70 with me at night. He decided that maybe I did need glasses
I love penguins. I want one
I have never been to Las Vegas
I have visited over 10 countries out of the USA
My fiancé owns a boat dealership and a sports agency
No, we’re not rich
I dye my hair A LOT
I’m kind of snobby
I have lost toenails
My engagement ring is a trillion
My favorite color is black
I look best in bright purple or royal blue
I can’t remember how, but I’m a descendant of General George Patton
The year Carrie Underwood won American Idol, my cousin made the top 10
I met my fiancé at a motorcycle race
I used to have a beagle named Princess
Eric’s friends are also some of my very best friends
Perezhilton.com keeps me entertained from 7:30am-4:30pm Mon-Fri
I ordered my wedding dress Saturday. It will arrive June 30th
While I’m 70 inches tall, I actually have a wingspan of 74inches. That’s 6’2. No wonder I always looked like I would clean out the lane lines when swimming fly
I hold the high school girls swimming record in every distance and every event except the 100 yard breaststroke
I love the movie Fight Club
Johnny Depp is my favorite actor
Orlando Bloom is a very very close second
Eric and I have a saying that goes across the top of a wall in our kitchen “In For Life”
I won’t explain it if you don’t get it
I really like popcorn
I have a palm tree tanning tattoo
Every time Eric and I see a great big poufy palm tree we put our hands up in the air and say “Pouf” and do jazz hands
I couldn't keep a plant alive even if it was a money tree
Every time I ride by a cow on my bike I must moo at it
I was a cheerleader in high school
If I ever become a multi-millionaire I’m going to pay off my friend’s student loans and my family’s mortgages
I just had a random nose bleed while sitting at my desk
I do not do cocaine
I used to burn things in the oven
I now could maybe qualify for Hells Kitchen
I have really started to have a passion for cooking, and for making things from my own recipes, from scratch, on the fly
I occasionally will still burn things
Like an oven mitt
I’m not exactly Christian, not exactly Catholic, not exactly Buddhist
I write letters to people or companies if I find something in distaste or receive poor service
I am a foreclosure analyst at a law firm. It’s a fancy term for somebody’s bitch
I love my fiancé’s tattoos, I think they’re sexy
I have six piercings
My maid of honor hasn’t any tattoos or piercings
Tequila is a dangerous thing for me
Shots not good for my tummy
I have an abnormally long butt crack
I really enjoy do-it-yourself projects
I was voted “most organized” in high school
I have clothing scattered all of my bedroom and various items on my dresser, etc
I have a CHI hair iron and it is amazing
Skull and Crossbones are my theme
I can occasionally be really rude and snobby
I almost always feel bad about it
Anchorman and Talladega Nights are the best movies
I want to race the Hawaii World Champ Ironman before I’m 30
I’m considering doing an English Channel swim
I’m an overachiever
posted @ 4/10/2008 9:48:28 AM (0) Comments
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
I Got Nothin'
posted @ 4/9/2008 12:44:58 PM (0) Comments
Thursday, April 03, 2008
NEW SPONSOR!!!
H2O Audio http://www.h2oaudio.com/ Music can improve your mood, increase endurance, and bestow vital motivation. Would Rocky have been able to beat Clubber Lang (a.k.a. Mr.T) without "eye of the tiger" playing in his training montage. We here at H2O Audio think not. We also believe that the inspirational and spiritual power of music should not be reserved only for the Rocky Balboas and other land loving athletes of the world. As surfers, wakeboarders, paddlers, and swimmers we encourage H2O Audio users to experience their music in any element.
I'm super pumped about this. All you lap swimmers understand my pain! Will come in dang handy for that English Channel training! :)
posted @ 4/3/2008 11:59:53 AM (0) Comments
Thursday, April 03, 2008
Fred Phelps and the Westboro Baptist Cult, er Church
Westboro Baptist Church Cult
I want to take a moment to point out how disgusted I am with these people. I neary wish a harmful thought on another person, but this is terrible.
I was going to post the link to their page, but I'll spare my blogging friends from reading their biggotry. It's un-freaking-believeable.
If anyone reading my blog feels the same as those brainwashed people, please close out my page and never come back.
posted @ 4/3/2008 11:32:47 AM (0) Comments
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
Boy, Do I Have A Lot to Talk About.
S-O-R-E spells OUCH!
Yesterday, I had a kick butt run session (see the blog below). Then I lifted. Whew. That was really killer. I actually did not get in as much as was on my workout schedule, but I am glad because I’m feeling it today.
This morning I got up to swim but I knew I was toast before I even hit the water. I swam the warm up, the lead up, and one third of the main set. The rest of practice I watched my swimmers and gave some good feedback from below the water, an area that many swim coaches will neglect or do not understand because they cannot see it first hand, as I did this morning.
Umpa-loompa ump-idee-doo.
I would like to comment that I am afraid I have rubbed off on Eric. No, not a spray tan rub off, but one of a less healthy, slightly more brown-tinged rub. I got Eric to go tanning. Now, he is going quite often. We do have our engagement pictures this Saturday, and I don’t think he was wanting to look like Powder next to me. But dammit, after a few sessions in the oh so amazing Sunboard high-pressure bed at Tropical Xtreme Tanz (excuse my plug), he is now darker than me. Figures.
Were the Auto Insurance Elfs here last night?
Explain this. I get on the scale today expecting to see a certain number. Instead it’s almost 10 lbs. lower. What?! Whoohoo! But wait, that can’t be. I just lost 5 or 6 lbs a couple weeks ago, then gained back two-ish. So I was sure my weight would be around there. The weight this morning is ten lbs less- no way. Also, I took my body fat. Explain to me how I could lose almost 4% body fat in a week. Not possible. So I chalk it up to equipment malfunction.
I get to the gym and get on the medical scale. I have consumed only 6.75 fluid ounces and am wearing only a swim suit (I weighed in the buff at my home, of course). The number is 18 lbs HIGHER than what I just read at home. UMMMM… Ok, granted I don’t feel like I lost 10 lbs, but I sure as HELL did NOT gain eight! Either Robert Gouluet is out of the grave, or the Elves got me.
Did I Mention I’m Swimming the ENGLISH CHANNEL?
I am in talks with two old swimming gal pals about attempting a crossing next summer or in 2010. We have many things to hash out, but, we are very motivated. I have thought about this a lot since reading Lynne Cox’s books Swimming to Antarctica and Grayson. I really admire the woman. How amazing would it be to say you took part in crossing the English Channel under our own will power?!
Congrats, Max!
Not so sure if he ever reads this blog, but a very old friend of mine, Max Jaben qualified for the Olympic Games in swimming this year. He obtained dual citizenship in Israel, and will be representing the country in the Olympic Games! How very cool. Awesome job and good luck in August! Lieben ahf dein kepele! (“Very well done” In Yiddish)
posted @ 4/2/2008 10:50:36 AM (0) Comments
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
April Fool's
I am quitting blogging. Ok. you're right April Fool's. Here's some good ones from the past.
http://www.museumofhoaxes.com/hoax/aprilfool/
#1: The Swiss Spaghetti Harvest
In 1957 the respected BBC news show Panorama announced that thanks to a very mild winter and the virtual elimination of the dreaded spaghetti weevil, Swiss farmers were enjoying a bumper spaghetti crop. It accompanied this announcement with footage of Swiss peasants pulling strands of spaghetti down from trees. Huge numbers of viewers were taken in. Many called the BBC wanting to know how they could grow their own spaghetti tree. To this the BBC diplomatically replied that they should "place a sprig of spaghetti in a tin of tomato sauce and hope for the best."
• Read the full article about the Swiss Spaghetti Harvest.
Comments (62)
#2: Sidd Finch
In its April 1985 edition, Sports Illustrated published a story about a new rookie pitcher who planned to play for the Mets. His name was Sidd Finch, and he could reportedly throw a baseball at 168 mph with pinpoint accuracy. This was 65 mph faster than the previous record. Surprisingly, Sidd Finch had never even played the game before. Instead, he had mastered the "art of the pitch" in a Tibetan monastery under the guidance of the "great poet-saint Lama Milaraspa." Mets fans celebrated their teams' amazing luck at having found such a gifted player, and Sports Illustrated was flooded with requests for more information. But in reality this legendary player only existed in the imagination of the author of the article, George Plimpton.
• Read the full article about Sidd Finch.
Comments (30)
#3: Instant Color TV
In 1962 there was only one tv channel in Sweden, and it broadcast in black and white. The station's technical expert, Kjell Stensson, appeared on the news to announce that, thanks to a new technology, viewers could convert their existing sets to display color reception. All they had to do was pull a nylon stocking over their tv screen. Stensson proceeded to demonstrate the process. Thousands of people were taken in. Regular color broadcasts only commenced in Sweden on April 1, 1970.
• Read the full article about Instant Color TV.
Comments (78)
#4: The Taco Liberty Bell
In 1996 the Taco Bell Corporation announced that it had bought the Liberty Bell and was renaming it the Taco Liberty Bell. Hundreds of outraged citizens called the National Historic Park in Philadelphia where the bell was housed to express their anger. Their nerves were only calmed when Taco Bell revealed, a few hours later, that it was all a practical joke. The best line of the day came when White House press secretary Mike McCurry was asked about the sale. Thinking on his feet, he responded that the Lincoln Memorial had also been sold. It would now be known as the Ford Lincoln Mercury Memorial.
• Read the full article about the Taco Liberty Bell.
Comments (48)
#5: San Serriffe
In 1977 the British newspaper The Guardian published a special seven-page supplement devoted to San Serriffe, a small republic located in the Indian Ocean consisting of several semi-colon-shaped islands. A series of articles affectionately described the geography and culture of this obscure nation. Its two main islands were named Upper Caisse and Lower Caisse. Its capital was Bodoni, and its leader was General Pica. The Guardian's phones rang all day as readers sought more information about the idyllic holiday spot. Few noticed that everything about the island was named after printer's terminology. The success of this hoax is widely credited with launching the enthusiasm for April Foolery that gripped the British tabloids in subsequent decades.
• Read the full article about San Serriffe.
Comments (34)
Prankplace.com
FAKE TATTOO SLEEVESNow you can get "inked" by night and still keep your day job with our "tattoo sleeves". The tattoo is printed directly on the stretchable fabric sleeves fabric which is a machine washable nylon. They come in pairs; wear one or both.
#6: Nixon for President
In 1992 National Public Radio's Talk of the Nation program announced that Richard Nixon, in a surprise move, was running for President again. His new campaign slogan was, "I didn't do anything wrong, and I won't do it again." Accompanying this announcement were audio clips of Nixon delivering his candidacy speech. Listeners responded viscerally to the announcement, flooding the show with calls expressing shock and outrage. Only during the second half of the show did the host John Hockenberry reveal that the announcement was a practical joke. Nixon's voice was impersonated by comedian Rich Little.
Comments (24)
#7: Alabama Changes the Value of Pi
The April 1998 issue of the New Mexicans for Science and Reason newsletter contained an article claiming that the Alabama state legislature had voted to change the value of the mathematical constant pi from 3.14159 to the 'Biblical value' of 3.0. Before long the article had made its way onto the internet, and then it rapidly made its way around the world, forwarded by people in their email. It only became apparent how far the article had spread when the Alabama legislature began receiving hundreds of calls from people protesting the legislation. The original article, which was intended as a parody of legislative attempts to circumscribe the teaching of evolution, was written by a physicist named Mark Boslough.
Comments (73)
#8: The Left-Handed Whopper
In 1998 Burger King published a full page advertisement in USA Today announcing the introduction of a new item to their menu: a "Left-Handed Whopper" specially designed for the 32 million left-handed Americans. According to the advertisement, the new whopper included the same ingredients as the original Whopper (lettuce, tomato, hamburger patty, etc.), but all the condiments were rotated 180 degrees for the benefit of their left-handed customers. The following day Burger King issued a follow-up release revealing that although the Left-Handed Whopper was a hoax, thousands of customers had gone into restaurants to request the new sandwich. Simultaneously, according to the press release, "many others requested their own 'right handed' version."
Comments (55)
#9: Hotheaded Naked Ice Borers
In its April 1995 issue Discover Magazine announced that the highly respected wildlife biologist Dr. Aprile Pazzo had discovered a new species in Antarctica: the hotheaded naked ice borer. These fascinating creatures had bony plates on their heads that, fed by numerous blood vessels, could become burning hot, allowing the animals to bore through ice at high speeds. They used this ability to hunt penguins, melting the ice beneath the penguins and causing them to sink downwards into the resulting slush where the hotheads consumed them. After much research, Dr. Pazzo theorized that the hotheads might have been responsible for the mysterious disappearance of noted Antarctic explorer Philippe Poisson in 1837. "To the ice borers, he would have looked like a penguin," the article quoted her as saying. Discover received more mail in response to this article than they had received for any other article in their history.
• Read the full article about the Hotheaded Naked Ice Borer.
Comments (43)
#10: Planetary Alignment Decreases Gravity
In 1976 the British astronomer Patrick Moore announced on BBC Radio 2 that at 9:47 AM a once-in-a-lifetime astronomical event was going to occur that listeners could experience in their very own homes. The planet Pluto would pass behind Jupiter, temporarily causing a gravitational alignment that would counteract and lessen the Earth's own gravity. Moore told his listeners that if they jumped in the air at the exact moment that this planetary alignment occurred, they would experience a strange floating sensation. When 9:47 AM arrived, BBC2 began to receive hundreds of phone calls from listeners claiming to have felt the sensation. One woman even reported that she and her eleven friends had risen from their chairs and floated around the room.
posted @ 4/1/2008 12:45:46 PM (0) Comments
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
Choke it back.
Do not barf. Don't barf. Don't do it. Don't.. don't... ::bbaarrf:: Do. Not. Barf.
Ugh, and it's not even my leftover meat patty and salad from lunch... no, it's my phlegm. Choking, coughing, sputtering, PUKING my own phelgm.
Runner's phelgm.
UGH.
Well, here's to the fastest 3 miles I've done yet this yr. Mile 1.5 split 13:46.54 (wind at back), Mile 3.0 split 15:47.37 (wind at face split). Average mile time of 9:51.
I know, I know. Not blazing fast, hell, not even warm up speed for so many of you. But I'm working on it. I'm feeling a lot more comfortable with this new stride and techniqe even JMoo commented that I was moving faster. I beat her back! That is RARE!
Now, well, now I need a nap to recovery from a high quality high speed run with quick turnover and the 1.5 slices of Costco cake from the birthday party in my office. At least, AT LEAST, I can call that cake market research and no one will be able to comment!
Okay, I'm dozing, off to get some tea! YUM! (Yes Robo, TEA. T-E-A. The good stuff. The shiznit, the almost as good as a Scooter's Hazlenut coffee Stuff. TEA.)
My workout orginally called for a MORNING run with recovery before my lift session, but it was misting and about 38 degrees out- even worse than the conditions this afternoon, so I'll just fight my way thru it at the gym tonight.
Oh, here's today's route. Nothing special, but fun anyway!
http://www.usatf.org/routes/view.asp?rID=203410
posted @ 4/1/2008 12:42:51 PM (0) Comments
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)