Friday, July 30, 2010
oops - 2 rest days in a row
off to bed so that i can get up bright and early and make up for that...
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Rest Day
Today may amount to being a rest day. My body and I are analyzing the situation.
I ended up taking Terri's spin class last night. It is about 50 minutes of cycling. So I suspect that is close to 9 or 10 miles. It is interesting to see how the class and her approach impacts the heart rate. You can see it quite clear on the Garmin with the gradual increase of the heart rate and drop as you peddle through the "hill" routine. I had a good time.
The seat definitely is not as comfy as my own bike. I probably need to get biking shorts just for the class. Oweee... But the heart rate and the sweat rate was up there. I will surely add it to my normal routine.
From there I raced on over to the pool. OK not like transition pace race. But I did get on over to the pool and jump on in. I had a few minutes and all I wanted to do was get the swim in.
I was in the water for 10 minutes. I swam continually the entire time. I lost count but am pretty sure that I did 400 yards. It felt good to do a little bit of both. Although I must admit that I felt like the people in the pool were watching me and thinking - really that's all your going to do? Oh well.
So tonight I am supposed to meet a friend after work. However I did not get my list of things done yesterday due to a computer mishap at the office. So it may end up being a long day at work and cancellation of plans. If they do get cancelled then I think I will work in a hill run routine late this evening.
We shall see. I did open up by saying I think this is a rest day.
I ended up taking Terri's spin class last night. It is about 50 minutes of cycling. So I suspect that is close to 9 or 10 miles. It is interesting to see how the class and her approach impacts the heart rate. You can see it quite clear on the Garmin with the gradual increase of the heart rate and drop as you peddle through the "hill" routine. I had a good time.
The seat definitely is not as comfy as my own bike. I probably need to get biking shorts just for the class. Oweee... But the heart rate and the sweat rate was up there. I will surely add it to my normal routine.
From there I raced on over to the pool. OK not like transition pace race. But I did get on over to the pool and jump on in. I had a few minutes and all I wanted to do was get the swim in.
I was in the water for 10 minutes. I swam continually the entire time. I lost count but am pretty sure that I did 400 yards. It felt good to do a little bit of both. Although I must admit that I felt like the people in the pool were watching me and thinking - really that's all your going to do? Oh well.
So tonight I am supposed to meet a friend after work. However I did not get my list of things done yesterday due to a computer mishap at the office. So it may end up being a long day at work and cancellation of plans. If they do get cancelled then I think I will work in a hill run routine late this evening.
We shall see. I did open up by saying I think this is a rest day.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Bats in the Bellfry
It was a struggle to get up this morning and hit the pavement. I didnt have a hard time waking it was more of a problem to just get out of bed. I convinced myself to just get going and if I had to go a little shorter distance. Which is what I did. My focus was to get home and stretch a little longer than usual as my legs are feeling it today.
The storms last night def impacted the temp this morning. Only in the 70s. It was foggy. And I saw a bat.
Gonna try spin class tonight.
The storms last night def impacted the temp this morning. Only in the 70s. It was foggy. And I saw a bat.
Gonna try spin class tonight.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Football tryouts
Well I had it slated to do a trail ride and run this evening. When I woke up this morning I thought maybe I would defer. My legs were a bit stiff. I did the neighborhood loop but wasnt sure about the evening ride. Then a friend invited me to join her for some football tryouts for her son. Being that I am a football fan I decided that would be a bit more enjoyable than cycling. And something different to say the least.
So that's what I planned on doing. And did a good job at it until lightning started flashing in the sky when we were out on the field.
So I came home instead. I beleive it is still raining.
So I cleaned some. Kitchen counters. Kitchen floor. Vacuum downstairs. This is what I call boredom.
Perhaps it is the beginning of anticipation of the upcoming interrruption in training..
What to do next? Thinking some ab work? That doesnt require the outside.
So that's what I planned on doing. And did a good job at it until lightning started flashing in the sky when we were out on the field.
So I came home instead. I beleive it is still raining.
So I cleaned some. Kitchen counters. Kitchen floor. Vacuum downstairs. This is what I call boredom.
Perhaps it is the beginning of anticipation of the upcoming interrruption in training..
What to do next? Thinking some ab work? That doesnt require the outside.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Boot Camp
today i packed my gym bag with the best intention of a crazy busy workout...
besides the morning outing - which really was only about 30 minutes
i was going to go to a bootcamp training down the road at another neighborhood...
from there i was going to head back towards the Y to swim..
THAT HEAT is still kicking in... boot camp did not happen
instead i did 1000 yards in the pool and 6 miles on the stationary bike
so not as much cardio as i was hoping to get with my day
but a sense of accomplishment all the same
tomorrow i am going to attempt a trail ride on the bike
yes this means i will need to get home early to beat the daylight
i understand that so i hope it happens
besides the morning outing - which really was only about 30 minutes
i was going to go to a bootcamp training down the road at another neighborhood...
from there i was going to head back towards the Y to swim..
THAT HEAT is still kicking in... boot camp did not happen
instead i did 1000 yards in the pool and 6 miles on the stationary bike
so not as much cardio as i was hoping to get with my day
but a sense of accomplishment all the same
tomorrow i am going to attempt a trail ride on the bike
yes this means i will need to get home early to beat the daylight
i understand that so i hope it happens
About Face!
I have been saying this for a while but have not ever applied it. And I tell Miss SuSu all the time she should try it as well. And finally this morning I finally put my money where my mouth is. What is it?, you ask. Going the opposite direction around the neighborhood when going on a w/un. I normally come out the back door, turn left, down around the townhouses on the other side, left towards the gazebo, and left toward R&C's house, to proceed around the neighborhood in all its nooks and crannies in a counter-clockwise pattern. It seems the most natural for some reason. And everyone else that I run into while out there seems to take the same approach.
THIS MORNING - I went the other way.
Right out the door, right up the hill as if leaving the neighborhood, down and around the townhouses on the other side, and then clockwise around the neighborhood. The interesting thing. It felt like I hit a mile a lot sooner than the other way. Obviously a mile is still a mile and the time it takes me to get there is about the same. But for some reason it felt sooner. And the hills I chose to run down and the hills I needed to walk up - that all worked out differently as well. Maybe even a little better since it was different.
SO - I think I will go this way for a while with my new attempts to get out there first thing.
THIS MORNING - I went the other way.
Right out the door, right up the hill as if leaving the neighborhood, down and around the townhouses on the other side, and then clockwise around the neighborhood. The interesting thing. It felt like I hit a mile a lot sooner than the other way. Obviously a mile is still a mile and the time it takes me to get there is about the same. But for some reason it felt sooner. And the hills I chose to run down and the hills I needed to walk up - that all worked out differently as well. Maybe even a little better since it was different.
SO - I think I will go this way for a while with my new attempts to get out there first thing.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
running up that hill - revisited
crashing on the surface...
because of the clip in this post...
now whenever i get to a hill - either on wheels or foot - obviously not in water (i am not a salmon)
i think of kate bush - but mostly this...
http://anewtriangle.blogspot.com/2010/05/crashed-on-surface-of-your-love.html
and then the dialog in my head goes off on a tangent as i work my way through the workout
which is far better than thinking about running in these grueling temps...
i have to chuckle though because in the interview Tim says that Your Love is a very melodramatic song a number of times almost like this a departure from the norm.. hey TIM have you not listened to Bedshaped in a while?
because of the clip in this post...
now whenever i get to a hill - either on wheels or foot - obviously not in water (i am not a salmon)
i think of kate bush - but mostly this...
http://anewtriangle.blogspot.com/2010/05/crashed-on-surface-of-your-love.html
and then the dialog in my head goes off on a tangent as i work my way through the workout
which is far better than thinking about running in these grueling temps...
i have to chuckle though because in the interview Tim says that Your Love is a very melodramatic song a number of times almost like this a departure from the norm.. hey TIM have you not listened to Bedshaped in a while?
MMM - a day early
But I thought this wa so appropriate since I am SO struggling with getting myself into my car and down the road to the gym to swim and bike. I know it will feel SO much better once I am inside. And I suspect the indoor pool will be cooler than yesterday's hot tub... But I am just not feeling it with all this heat. So tomorrow's music muse today...
run down - 2 to go
Well I did it. Forced myself to hit the pavement and get a longer run that usual in. MAN is it HOT out there!!! I mean out of control hot. I like the heat but WOW! I was drenched all the way through when I got home. I dont normally get THAT hot. I did a little over 4 miles. Well really it was 4 miles and then the short distance to the back door and into the house.
I started with the loop around the neighborhood. I did the downhill runs - by Robert & Catherine's, from the culdesac, from the back culdesac, to the gazebo.
I was at a mile when I headed out of the neighborhood. And headed towards town. I was thinking another half mile out, half mile in. I ended up with a mile out. I ran ths shady area between Blythemill and the dog spa (of course that is as clear as mud given all the crazy dog spas in town). I got to the road closure and turned around.
I started with the loop around the neighborhood. I did the downhill runs - by Robert & Catherine's, from the culdesac, from the back culdesac, to the gazebo.
I was at a mile when I headed out of the neighborhood. And headed towards town. I was thinking another half mile out, half mile in. I ended up with a mile out. I ran ths shady area between Blythemill and the dog spa (of course that is as clear as mud given all the crazy dog spas in town). I got to the road closure and turned around.
I ran back down the hill by the clock shop to the diner. I guess. You know me, I start doing the self talk - OK start running at the top of this hill in the shade and run to the flag/sign/next shadow/driveway... whatever it is to get me going.
I walked again to the top of the hill at Blythemill and then ran down again.
The last runs were in the 3rd leg of the trip - the leave the neighborhood and go left mile.
I guess I got a good hill mix in. According to the Garmin I ran 10 times. Each time about a minute or so. And distance wise I would say it was about a 10th of a mile each time. So I wont complain. That would be a good pace if I could do 10 10ths at a minute a piece.
AHhh - I have hope.
saturday was busy...
i did the bike run swim bit...
then i went and gave blood... i have tried to hydrate since then but given my lack of bathroom visits - i suspect that is your best indicator - i would say that i have yet to succeed on getting more fluids in me
then i did ALL of my firm element and AML ce for 2010 - i was trying to do another set of ce but couldnt get the password
i ended up hanging out watching a movie and drinking a beer with JK
and now it is tomorrow... my alarm just went off
it is some 78F out there and I am slated to go for a swim bike run
but I am not feeling it.
thinking i may do a long w/un this morning and then hit the Y for the swim bike part
just not feeling the energy to go balancing on a bike just yet this morning
then i went and gave blood... i have tried to hydrate since then but given my lack of bathroom visits - i suspect that is your best indicator - i would say that i have yet to succeed on getting more fluids in me
then i did ALL of my firm element and AML ce for 2010 - i was trying to do another set of ce but couldnt get the password
i ended up hanging out watching a movie and drinking a beer with JK
and now it is tomorrow... my alarm just went off
it is some 78F out there and I am slated to go for a swim bike run
but I am not feeling it.
thinking i may do a long w/un this morning and then hit the Y for the swim bike part
just not feeling the energy to go balancing on a bike just yet this morning
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Hot Tub
KP and I swam this morning. We stepped into the pool. Neither one of us flinched. The water was warm. We got ourselves situated and did a warm up 100. By the end of the warm up my comment was - Man it is hot. I think I am sweating in the water. Now the theory is that you do sweat when you swim and it is hard to remember to stay hydrated because the pool water keeps you cool. And with all that water you dont really think to drink anything. But not today man. It was brutal. And it wasn't even 10oclock yet.
So we swam 1 fast set of 250 to try to gauge our time for seedining. Then we swam 2 250 at normal pace. KP's wasnt that much slower. Mine was definitely at a slower pace. Then we snaked the pool once for 250 to get ready for the craziness that is pool swimming in triathlons.
Overall it was a good workout. I consider myself done for the day.
I drove a potential new bike course. Have to say I wasnt all that excited by it. WHOAA hills. So I will have to give it some more thought.
Well I may go down the street and donate some blood. They are doing a blood drive at the church my friends go to and I havent donated in a while.
And Moes is sounding about right for lunch. Hmmm...
So we swam 1 fast set of 250 to try to gauge our time for seedining. Then we swam 2 250 at normal pace. KP's wasnt that much slower. Mine was definitely at a slower pace. Then we snaked the pool once for 250 to get ready for the craziness that is pool swimming in triathlons.
Overall it was a good workout. I consider myself done for the day.
I drove a potential new bike course. Have to say I wasnt all that excited by it. WHOAA hills. So I will have to give it some more thought.
Well I may go down the street and donate some blood. They are doing a blood drive at the church my friends go to and I havent donated in a while.
And Moes is sounding about right for lunch. Hmmm...
9 weeks to go - back at it
I went to bed around 10 last night. I am getting to the point where 11 just is too far away. I would have gone to bed sooner but I ended up watching White Collar instead. The early to bed idion does go hand in hand with early to rise. I cant say I know what time I really woke up but I was out of bed around that 5o'clock hour. Someone else has been hitting the pavement at that hour on the bike. With the sunrise slted for 6:26 in these here parts, I was not in any rush to get out there just yet. So I made some coffee. Plotted rides and distances and then hit the pavement a little after 615. I did one loop again this morning. With little side roads here and there. I should do a larger loop tomorrow.
AND I need to sync up my HRM and start wearing that again.
AND the footpod for the subsequent run.
The next Ramblin Rose is in 9 weeks. This race has a bit more of a hill to it on the bike and the run. So I definitely need to start adding some more hill work into both routines.
Sure sycling and running downhill is easy. It's the uphill I need to work on :)
Hope to swim later today.
AND I need to sync up my HRM and start wearing that again.
AND the footpod for the subsequent run.
The next Ramblin Rose is in 9 weeks. This race has a bit more of a hill to it on the bike and the run. So I definitely need to start adding some more hill work into both routines.
Sure sycling and running downhill is easy. It's the uphill I need to work on :)
Hope to swim later today.
Friday, July 23, 2010
not feeling it
it is 630 and it is now light enough to head out if i wanted to... just i dont really want to... one of the aspects i hate about traveling is eating out... even when i try to eat healthy i miss the mark... i just feel like i have ingested a whole bunch of salt over the past 2 days and that's doesnt feel good... my feet and hands seem to agree with me... so putting sneaks on at the moment just yuck...
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Morning Run
So I went to bed last night at a decent hour. When you arent much of a tv watcher and you are sitting in a hotel room, you find going to bed makes the most sense. So that is what I did. I heard my phone buzzing at some hour and was surprised that it wasn't as light here in ATL at that hour as it is in CLT. I rolled over and tried to go back to sleep for a bit. Then decided it was time for me to get up and get that workout in.
Getting up at that hour I was inspired by the ever present chess pieces. I remember the first time I came here for work and was told - see those chess pieces that's how you know that you are almos there. And I remember thinking to myself - really this is the sign? I need to look forward to this? And did the architect really mean for these to look like chess pieces when they designed them? So now, 6 years later I have bought into the chess piece land mark. And it is pretty neat to be lying in the bed right now typing and looking out at the chess pieces.
I put on my workout clothes and headed on out. I had plotted last night that if I went down the road and around the chess piece office complex I would be a little over 1 mile in my workout. That was the route I would take. Me and the guy and his dog that seemed to cross my path 4 times in the 25 minute workout. It was neat to take a jog over 400. And there were road workers already out at the hour. I was most pleasantly surprised at the landscaping around the complex. A little pond. How nice at the early hour.
And the sun started to come up. So why not, chess pieces from the other side.
And lastly there was a shady part of the of the path with ivy covered hills and trees. It turned out to be a rather nice workout. I hope to do it again tomorrow morning. My meetings start right at nine so I need to be on the ball with morning prep time. Hey - maybe if I go to bed now...
Getting up at that hour I was inspired by the ever present chess pieces. I remember the first time I came here for work and was told - see those chess pieces that's how you know that you are almos there. And I remember thinking to myself - really this is the sign? I need to look forward to this? And did the architect really mean for these to look like chess pieces when they designed them? So now, 6 years later I have bought into the chess piece land mark. And it is pretty neat to be lying in the bed right now typing and looking out at the chess pieces.
I put on my workout clothes and headed on out. I had plotted last night that if I went down the road and around the chess piece office complex I would be a little over 1 mile in my workout. That was the route I would take. Me and the guy and his dog that seemed to cross my path 4 times in the 25 minute workout. It was neat to take a jog over 400. And there were road workers already out at the hour. I was most pleasantly surprised at the landscaping around the complex. A little pond. How nice at the early hour.
And the sun started to come up. So why not, chess pieces from the other side.
And lastly there was a shady part of the of the path with ivy covered hills and trees. It turned out to be a rather nice workout. I hope to do it again tomorrow morning. My meetings start right at nine so I need to be on the ball with morning prep time. Hey - maybe if I go to bed now...readers...
i havent looked in a while... but it looks like i have had a few more readers over the past week..
hey - thanks for coming out..
hey - thanks for coming out..
HNT - treadmill
So of course when traveling, walking and running on the treadmill generally becomes a part of the regiment...
travel
I was about to post that one of the cool things about travel for work is the hotels are nearer to the locations than my normal commute. And that this allows for me to get a little more sleep AND squeeze in a morning workout. Truth be told - THIS is the only location where that remotely works. So I guess if that motivates me for today - GREAT! But come September when I am up at 4something to allow for remote location travel and shifts... The sentiment won't be the same.
I found a loop that's a little over a mile. Now to rev up and get out there...
I found a loop that's a little over a mile. Now to rev up and get out there...
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Akon not AON
I ended up having to walk/run on the treadmill in the hotel this evening. It had cleared up outside after dinner. I just wasnt sure where to go. PLUS I had convinced myself that a swim in the hotel pool would be most enjoyable. So technically I was dressed for a swim with my shorts and shirt over top. I hadnt thought about people playing around in the pool. I mean really? At a hotel pool? In the summer time? Kids playing? Why didn't taht cross my mind? Probably because the other hotel I normally stay at doesnt ever have anyone in the pool. SO I didnt swim. I went to the exercise room instead. I didnt feel like lugging everything else back upstairs and then finding my way around. So the treadmill it was.
There was a guy on the stationary bike when I got there. The treadmill was free - YAY. This is the first time I have been on a treadmill since Greenwood this past winter. Seriously. I dont think I have been on a treadmill in quite some time. I walked/ran for 45 minutes. Did a little over 2 miles. I didn't ramp up the speed all that much. I did practice some mid foot and toe landing. And I confirmed that on a treadmill the stance for a run - you know bent slightly forward at the hips, always feeling like you are falling a little bit into the stride - just doesnt happen. To run on toes you can do that at almost a snails pace. With the treadmill you really do end up letting it bring you through your routine instead of a proper postured road workout. At least that was my observation.
My other observation for the evening. There was soccer/futbol on. The new ManU shirts were Aon sponsored. It reminded me of a conversation recently about Akon. I was confused as I thought they meant Aon. Anyways I liked the new footies.
There was a guy on the stationary bike when I got there. The treadmill was free - YAY. This is the first time I have been on a treadmill since Greenwood this past winter. Seriously. I dont think I have been on a treadmill in quite some time. I walked/ran for 45 minutes. Did a little over 2 miles. I didn't ramp up the speed all that much. I did practice some mid foot and toe landing. And I confirmed that on a treadmill the stance for a run - you know bent slightly forward at the hips, always feeling like you are falling a little bit into the stride - just doesnt happen. To run on toes you can do that at almost a snails pace. With the treadmill you really do end up letting it bring you through your routine instead of a proper postured road workout. At least that was my observation.
My other observation for the evening. There was soccer/futbol on. The new ManU shirts were Aon sponsored. It reminded me of a conversation recently about Akon. I was confused as I thought they meant Aon. Anyways I liked the new footies.
Rain in Atlanta
I was telling a friend earlier today about not getting lost on a run while here in ATL. Some have been known to get lost when running on holiday. I have become quite fond of running from the hotel and around the greater vacinity over the years. This time - in my quest for frequent flier miles - I am staying at a different hotel. So I am not as familiar with the surroundings. But I was game to give it a try.
The other aspect I find ironic about today's conversation... The skies OPENED UP by the time I reached the hotel. BUCKETS of water. It has been ages since that has happened here. But let me say there was a period in time it always rained on me when I was here. So I laugh at the timing. So no run at this time. Instead - in true Wednesday spirit - sushi instead. YAY Goldfish.
The other aspect I find ironic about today's conversation... The skies OPENED UP by the time I reached the hotel. BUCKETS of water. It has been ages since that has happened here. But let me say there was a period in time it always rained on me when I was here. So I laugh at the timing. So no run at this time. Instead - in true Wednesday spirit - sushi instead. YAY Goldfish.
Garmin Edge 500!?!?
Really? THAT IS NOT FAIR!!! But why should I be surprised. You always have the better toys.I am happy with my measley FR60. I can only imagine the bike that goes along with it. As noted bike shop guy trying to get me to upgrade on that. But not this season. I have to say the distance/time was impressive. A good minute (ugh - or 2) better than mine. Keep it up and start adding some swim and run to the mix and you can join me in a race next year. Hahahahaha...
Monday, July 19, 2010
MMM - Tired Pony
I really love this song. I have raved to others about this already. Just havent put it out here. It is a compilation of Gary Lightbody and Peter Buck. Oh and a whole bunch of others. I suspect it does remind me in way of REM with Gary's voice. Yeh, I guess that's what it is. I suspect one of these days I should actually listen to the words and decide how I feel about that. I think Dead American Writer and I think Fitzgerald.
I made a bunch of CDs for Spencer yesterday. He has been talking about a lack of new music. Of course the CDs I made werent all that new. I would call them my 2000s essentials - Sting-Brand New Day; Chris Botti-Night Sessions; Seal-IV; Dominic Miller-Shapes; Keane-Hopes and Fears; Snow Patrol-Final Straw.
That takes you from 1999 through 2004. Then I hit a stumbling block. I truly couldnt think of what else I listened to from 2005 through now. Yes, the other Keane and Snow Patrol cds. The Stereophonics obsession got off in full swing somewhere in there. That Damien Rice cd I suppose. I know I purchased other music but none that resonate quite like the ones above.
So now I am on the quest for recent music for him. I have a list started. Now I am just trying to figure out how to pull them all together. Do you do a couple of songs of each of the newer artists or just one? Oh I did download the Florence album.
AND NO - I have not got a workout back in yet!
Saturday, July 17, 2010
motivation
my friend tracy completed an ironman triahtlon last sunday the same day that i did my little tri
probably why i struggle so much with the validity of the little triathlons is because i know there are others out there acomplishing much longer distances
she says i could do it. i would just need to put my mind to it and train. i think that is where i fall short - consistency with training. over the winter she was running in the snow and the yuck and i just dont think i have that in me. but we shall see
overall she was moving for a total of 7 hours. and i think to myself - 7 hours - what would i do for 7 hours and be OK with - i work for that long - yes but usually it is not all out physical activity - i have driven for that long but there is usually a potty break in there - i sleep for that long if i am lucky... and the only thing that comes remotely close (very remotely) is walking around Disney World. I could do that for 7 hours. But let's face it - that does entail the occassional standing in line for a ride and ultimately sitting down on the ride so that doesnt count either
so I will put it to thought but doubt i will be on the ironman game plan any time soon
OH, i also looked at her pace - her swim pace is about the same as mine - if course she is swiming for 1.2 miles in open water without a wall to grab and subsequently push off of... but that gives me hope
hah- the bike - lots to be said for a road race bike for sure - i am at around 10 to 12 miles and hour she is at 16 almost 17... NO - no matter how much someone tries to talk me into it I am NOT getting a new bike any time soon...
and the run - i will round up to make myself feel better about this - we will call it 13 minute miles even thought at 13.1 miles we know it is much more than that... i am luck if i get it below 15 minutes... and here is where my goals for the next race come into play...
this was leading somewhere - not just me rambling because i have more laundry than i know waht to do with and dont feel like vacuuming just yet...
I would like for my swim time to improve. I will be putting that I average 1:59 in 100 yards on the entry for the Charlotte race. Now I just need to get there. I need to work on swimming fast. I know i can swim long. Now I need to be able to swim fast. This will also entail - swimming fast and subsequently being able to RUN to my bike in the transition area. This next race will have a longer transition area and I need to keep that in mind.
For the bike - I would like to get that down to below 5 minutes per mile. If I could get close to 4 minutes I would be happy. Might not be physically possible with this bike and the weight of the rider. But we shall see.
As for the run. I guess 13 to 14 minute miles would be OK with me. It looks like I am somewhere in there already. I think this could be the area to shave off the most time if I could get my mind around the concept of running. I have friends that are trying to chi running bit. I am just not there yet. Still too obsessed with the total immersion aspect of the race.
so we shall see
probably why i struggle so much with the validity of the little triathlons is because i know there are others out there acomplishing much longer distances
she says i could do it. i would just need to put my mind to it and train. i think that is where i fall short - consistency with training. over the winter she was running in the snow and the yuck and i just dont think i have that in me. but we shall see
overall she was moving for a total of 7 hours. and i think to myself - 7 hours - what would i do for 7 hours and be OK with - i work for that long - yes but usually it is not all out physical activity - i have driven for that long but there is usually a potty break in there - i sleep for that long if i am lucky... and the only thing that comes remotely close (very remotely) is walking around Disney World. I could do that for 7 hours. But let's face it - that does entail the occassional standing in line for a ride and ultimately sitting down on the ride so that doesnt count either
so I will put it to thought but doubt i will be on the ironman game plan any time soon
OH, i also looked at her pace - her swim pace is about the same as mine - if course she is swiming for 1.2 miles in open water without a wall to grab and subsequently push off of... but that gives me hope
hah- the bike - lots to be said for a road race bike for sure - i am at around 10 to 12 miles and hour she is at 16 almost 17... NO - no matter how much someone tries to talk me into it I am NOT getting a new bike any time soon...
and the run - i will round up to make myself feel better about this - we will call it 13 minute miles even thought at 13.1 miles we know it is much more than that... i am luck if i get it below 15 minutes... and here is where my goals for the next race come into play...
this was leading somewhere - not just me rambling because i have more laundry than i know waht to do with and dont feel like vacuuming just yet...
I would like for my swim time to improve. I will be putting that I average 1:59 in 100 yards on the entry for the Charlotte race. Now I just need to get there. I need to work on swimming fast. I know i can swim long. Now I need to be able to swim fast. This will also entail - swimming fast and subsequently being able to RUN to my bike in the transition area. This next race will have a longer transition area and I need to keep that in mind.
For the bike - I would like to get that down to below 5 minutes per mile. If I could get close to 4 minutes I would be happy. Might not be physically possible with this bike and the weight of the rider. But we shall see.
As for the run. I guess 13 to 14 minute miles would be OK with me. It looks like I am somewhere in there already. I think this could be the area to shave off the most time if I could get my mind around the concept of running. I have friends that are trying to chi running bit. I am just not there yet. Still too obsessed with the total immersion aspect of the race.
so we shall see
good morning world...
ahhh - can actually say i am feeling back to myself again this morning... thank goodness... have tackled cleaning the house. man was that out of control. between being somewhat neglected in the last stretch to the triathlon to the stomach ailments last week boy oh boy did that just build up
so i got to that last night - dishwasher, counter tops, general straighten of junk
this morning is laundry - lots of that to tackle; vacuuming - my least favorite task; kitchen and bathroom floors. i should be done with those long before the laundry
i am also tackling the pile of stuff that has been accumulating on my dining room table
most of it needs a home and most of them may be roommates in the garbage pale - just need to double check what it all is - and when i get to the bottom of the pile I will find my RPA study books and add that to my list of things to do over the next 10 weeks before the next race and before the scheduled exam - yes i signed up for a work related career oriented exam... we dont need to talk about that it generally does not make me happy anymore it is just different institutions testing me on stuff that i am already familiar with... perhaps i need to find something outside the realm of my chosen career to take a test on - say cooking.. hah
anyways i digress... so that is the last of the things for today
and eventually with my day i will be working in a mix of workout stuff
lots that i want to do with my day now that i think about it..
why am i out here
so i got to that last night - dishwasher, counter tops, general straighten of junk
this morning is laundry - lots of that to tackle; vacuuming - my least favorite task; kitchen and bathroom floors. i should be done with those long before the laundry
i am also tackling the pile of stuff that has been accumulating on my dining room table
most of it needs a home and most of them may be roommates in the garbage pale - just need to double check what it all is - and when i get to the bottom of the pile I will find my RPA study books and add that to my list of things to do over the next 10 weeks before the next race and before the scheduled exam - yes i signed up for a work related career oriented exam... we dont need to talk about that it generally does not make me happy anymore it is just different institutions testing me on stuff that i am already familiar with... perhaps i need to find something outside the realm of my chosen career to take a test on - say cooking.. hah
anyways i digress... so that is the last of the things for today
and eventually with my day i will be working in a mix of workout stuff
lots that i want to do with my day now that i think about it..
why am i out here
Friday, July 16, 2010
punishment
so thanks to a nasty stomach bug i can safely say i hit that athena mark the other day... not exactly the way one would want to - for sure.... and it wont last... but i had to think of some positive way to spin the nasty aches and pains from tuesday and wednesday
everyone says i should have rested better with the triathlon
but i surely believe this was something other than physical exertion recovery
i hate to think that i picked up something nasty in the pool water or other stuffs but i suppose that is probably the case
gonna try to get in the water tonight and the bike...
we shall see how the day progresses...
everyone says i should have rested better with the triathlon
but i surely believe this was something other than physical exertion recovery
i hate to think that i picked up something nasty in the pool water or other stuffs but i suppose that is probably the case
gonna try to get in the water tonight and the bike...
we shall see how the day progresses...
Thursday, July 15, 2010
HNT - Marksalot
They like to write numbers all over you when you race... arms, legs, and age on the back of your leg- always a nice touch...
and the permanent marker smell is always so appealing at 6 am
and the permanent marker smell is always so appealing at 6 am
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
i am irritable...!!!
i did not expecct to be sore again today... my problem being is i am sore in places that i shouldnt be. ok, I think I shouldnt be. my back hurts the most. and then some of my arms. my legs feel OK. so I am still with the massage thought process. or worse yet what if i am coming down with something. i need to feel better by thursday i need to be up early to go on a client visit...
so i think tonight will not involve any house cleaning like i expected
i think it will be a long hot shower - really tired of the bath thing right about now - and curl backup into bed
the AC at the office has been on overdrive as well - i half suspect (and oh so hate to say this...) that the draft (yes, I said DRAFT) may be making me uncomfortable as the day progresses... maybe making my muscles tighten or something...
so i am going to try to recoup some more...
next time, maybe i wont do the massage as recovery method
next time is 11 weeks out!
so i think tonight will not involve any house cleaning like i expected
i think it will be a long hot shower - really tired of the bath thing right about now - and curl backup into bed
the AC at the office has been on overdrive as well - i half suspect (and oh so hate to say this...) that the draft (yes, I said DRAFT) may be making me uncomfortable as the day progresses... maybe making my muscles tighten or something...
so i am going to try to recoup some more...
next time, maybe i wont do the massage as recovery method
next time is 11 weeks out!
Monday, July 12, 2010
i am SORE!!!
I didnt think I would be this sore to tell you the truth. I want to blame it on the rain (aah, Millie Vanillie). Blame it on the barometric pressure. But might actually blame it on the massage. It is those finite aches around the neck and lower back that lead me to beleive that, Kelly, the girl and Hand & Stone yesterday did a wonderful job of finding the kinks and working them.
I drank lots of water yesterday.
Stretched.
Soaked.
Stretched again this morning.
I thought - I feel GREAT! I even packed my gym back with the thought of getting a small workout in.
Around lunch time I thought - well maybe I should take a break. That is the common practice. That was after a few people asked if I was working today or not.
And then the rain blew through. And not too long after that I started feeling achy. Yuck. I know it's a build up of lactic acid. Perhaps I didnt get enough water in me today. Highly likely. That happens a lot with work.
So the minor workout did not happen. I came home and have been on the couch for about an hour.
I think I might do another hot bath in those epsom salts to rid myself of some more kinks.
Tomorrow morning I will try to get that walk/run in.
I drank lots of water yesterday.
Stretched.
Soaked.
Stretched again this morning.
I thought - I feel GREAT! I even packed my gym back with the thought of getting a small workout in.
Around lunch time I thought - well maybe I should take a break. That is the common practice. That was after a few people asked if I was working today or not.
And then the rain blew through. And not too long after that I started feeling achy. Yuck. I know it's a build up of lactic acid. Perhaps I didnt get enough water in me today. Highly likely. That happens a lot with work.
So the minor workout did not happen. I came home and have been on the couch for about an hour.
I think I might do another hot bath in those epsom salts to rid myself of some more kinks.
Tomorrow morning I will try to get that walk/run in.
MMM - double shot
I yucked out my New Order cd - you know the best of CD I purchased way back in the 90s instead of replacing the various vinyl and cassetts I had of them... although those long play vinyls were such fun!
Anyways THIS song used to be categorized as my favourite for a long long time. I would even venture to say that it was only the release of Bedshaped and Dakota that knocked it out of the category. So in prepping for the race I was reminded - what a great song...
Anyways THIS song used to be categorized as my favourite for a long long time. I would even venture to say that it was only the release of Bedshaped and Dakota that knocked it out of the category. So in prepping for the race I was reminded - what a great song...
MMM - hmmmm
i changed the template yesterday and now thinking it is not working with some of my posts...
i wish i had the time and inclination to learn how to create my own template... but really...
i wish i had the time and inclination to learn how to create my own template... but really...
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Rock Hill Results
I have pulled up old times from the previous races to see how I did.
SWIM
2008: 0:07:23
2009: 0:05:53
2010RH: 0:05:55
My take away from this is I need to submit a faster swim time to the seeding site. I continually put in about 02:10. My swim time tallies - if I am doing the math correctly - is actually closer to 02:36. But when I look at how many people I pass when I am in the water - this time around I passed 2 and could have passed a third - I think that maybe I am undercutting myself while others are overselling themselves. I know that people passing me will make me feel defeated since EVERYONE passes me on the bike and run but.... I think for the September race I am going to submit a race time of 01:59. This is a time slot just faster than the stated average pace. Now maybe I should work to actually get to that pace.
One thig for sure - I am consistent with my pace so far.
T1
2008: 0:06:24 didnt understand the importance and impact of a fast transition time
2009: 0:03:37 tried to put transition to work for me
2010RH: 0:03:04 this felt slow and could warrant improvement next time around.. i know this looks to be an improvement but I think that had more to do with the size of race and the size of the transition area... I didnt have to run too far from the pool or with my bike.
Bike
2008: 0:43:59 (9 miles)
2009: 0:39:53 (9miles)
2010RH: 0:51:07 (10 miles) BUT I also think there was a difference in the grade of the road. There werent any large hills to climb on this ride. There also werent any large hills to roll down - which can improve pace just by the nature of gravity. I averaged a little over 5 minute miles at this ride. The others were around 4:30minutes. So even though I put new tires on the bike it did not markedly improve my ride time. I must admit that this somewhat disappoints me. But I have 11 weeks to work on that.
T2
2008: 0:02:58
2009: 0:02:23
2010RH: 0:01:18 - not much to say on this one
run
2008: 0:29:35
2009: 0:27:58
2010RH: 0:27:44 - Oh, come on now, you gotta be happy with this. Who would have thought this would be the area to see improvement. Your least favourite area. Now, I know same as the bike the terrain for this was different. The rolling path had little to no incline in comparison to the Huntersville location. But you managed to keep a consistent pace as well.
TOTAL
2008: 1:30:17
2009: 1:19:43
2010RH: 1:29:06 - I am happy with this time. It was within the 90 minute range I was shooting for given the smaller amount of time to train, the heat, the longer bike ride, and different terrain.
I will do this race again next year. It is nice. It is a smaller race.
Now I have 11 weeks to get my head around the next race.
I am seriously considering getting up and doing the Splash & Dash on Saturday morning. Just to get me out of the house and moving some more. I dont really need to improve from last year. I havent been prepping with that long of a distance.
I have also thought about the Dash for Divas that a few of my clients are signed up to do. It is supposedly a really fun race. We shall see. I would need to learn how to do an open water swim for that.
SWIM
2008: 0:07:23
2009: 0:05:53
2010RH: 0:05:55
My take away from this is I need to submit a faster swim time to the seeding site. I continually put in about 02:10. My swim time tallies - if I am doing the math correctly - is actually closer to 02:36. But when I look at how many people I pass when I am in the water - this time around I passed 2 and could have passed a third - I think that maybe I am undercutting myself while others are overselling themselves. I know that people passing me will make me feel defeated since EVERYONE passes me on the bike and run but.... I think for the September race I am going to submit a race time of 01:59. This is a time slot just faster than the stated average pace. Now maybe I should work to actually get to that pace.
One thig for sure - I am consistent with my pace so far.
T1
2008: 0:06:24 didnt understand the importance and impact of a fast transition time
2009: 0:03:37 tried to put transition to work for me
2010RH: 0:03:04 this felt slow and could warrant improvement next time around.. i know this looks to be an improvement but I think that had more to do with the size of race and the size of the transition area... I didnt have to run too far from the pool or with my bike.
Bike
2008: 0:43:59 (9 miles)
2009: 0:39:53 (9miles)
2010RH: 0:51:07 (10 miles) BUT I also think there was a difference in the grade of the road. There werent any large hills to climb on this ride. There also werent any large hills to roll down - which can improve pace just by the nature of gravity. I averaged a little over 5 minute miles at this ride. The others were around 4:30minutes. So even though I put new tires on the bike it did not markedly improve my ride time. I must admit that this somewhat disappoints me. But I have 11 weeks to work on that.
T2
2008: 0:02:58
2009: 0:02:23
2010RH: 0:01:18 - not much to say on this one
run
2008: 0:29:35
2009: 0:27:58
2010RH: 0:27:44 - Oh, come on now, you gotta be happy with this. Who would have thought this would be the area to see improvement. Your least favourite area. Now, I know same as the bike the terrain for this was different. The rolling path had little to no incline in comparison to the Huntersville location. But you managed to keep a consistent pace as well.
TOTAL
2008: 1:30:17
2009: 1:19:43
2010RH: 1:29:06 - I am happy with this time. It was within the 90 minute range I was shooting for given the smaller amount of time to train, the heat, the longer bike ride, and different terrain.
I will do this race again next year. It is nice. It is a smaller race.
Now I have 11 weeks to get my head around the next race.
I am seriously considering getting up and doing the Splash & Dash on Saturday morning. Just to get me out of the house and moving some more. I dont really need to improve from last year. I havent been prepping with that long of a distance.
I have also thought about the Dash for Divas that a few of my clients are signed up to do. It is supposedly a really fun race. We shall see. I would need to learn how to do an open water swim for that.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Music to run by
I have been posting some songs recently that I have been pleasantly reminded of. I have put the Snow Patrol and Damien Rice cds into circulation in my car. And then earlier this week and Volcano was drunning through my head I realised this is probably not the best type of music to have in my head as I try to race. Perhaps I should pick up the pace.
I now have Kylie Minogue, Danni Minogue, New Order, and Moby in the car. Kylie is winning out.
My co-worker in an effort to help motivate me gave me a cd of running music yesterday. I dont know if it is a mix he runs to, his daughters run to or what. I know my upcoming efforts with the Ramblin' Rose have been part of dinner time conversation. I told him his daughters should plan to do it next year. They are older and athletic. They would probably enjoy it. I am sure that is what prompted the CD. And as always I am sucked in by the choices people make with music and am always surprised.
So it starts with Let It Be... not a song I would pick for a running mix. But that is just because Long and Winding Road would be my Beatles choice. When I used to try to run as a kid with my friend, Lori, we would always say that first quarter mile as we started from her house warranted that song. From there - we had some Rockin the Suburbs with Ben Folds - a live version that gets out all the angst of middle age suburban angst. A Christian rock song surprised me... even more so that as I listened to it I realised I knew the song. But the surprising - right in the middle of it all song - Kate Bush Running Up that Hill... A.D.D. kicks in... Where did Night Train go? Where is that Tim Rice-Oxley song? It was a pleasant surprise. Kate will have to be yucked out soon and worked into rotation. From there - I kind of draw a blank as to what else was on the mix.
Overall I just think it is nice that someone thought to share some muisc with me in an effort to help me motivate for the race.
Today - I am currently listening to Kaiser Chiefs. They have a good tempo.
I now have Kylie Minogue, Danni Minogue, New Order, and Moby in the car. Kylie is winning out.
My co-worker in an effort to help motivate me gave me a cd of running music yesterday. I dont know if it is a mix he runs to, his daughters run to or what. I know my upcoming efforts with the Ramblin' Rose have been part of dinner time conversation. I told him his daughters should plan to do it next year. They are older and athletic. They would probably enjoy it. I am sure that is what prompted the CD. And as always I am sucked in by the choices people make with music and am always surprised.
So it starts with Let It Be... not a song I would pick for a running mix. But that is just because Long and Winding Road would be my Beatles choice. When I used to try to run as a kid with my friend, Lori, we would always say that first quarter mile as we started from her house warranted that song. From there - we had some Rockin the Suburbs with Ben Folds - a live version that gets out all the angst of middle age suburban angst. A Christian rock song surprised me... even more so that as I listened to it I realised I knew the song. But the surprising - right in the middle of it all song - Kate Bush Running Up that Hill... A.D.D. kicks in... Where did Night Train go? Where is that Tim Rice-Oxley song? It was a pleasant surprise. Kate will have to be yucked out soon and worked into rotation. From there - I kind of draw a blank as to what else was on the mix.
Overall I just think it is nice that someone thought to share some muisc with me in an effort to help me motivate for the race.
Today - I am currently listening to Kaiser Chiefs. They have a good tempo.
bmi table
WHOAA - that's still a ways to go... not sure about that!
thinking i need to get Robert back on that 6 pack ab quest
thinking i need to get Robert back on that 6 pack ab quest
scirocco
since we're on the topic of unique names... thought a great tongue in cheek name for my little ol' heavy bike would be scirocco... to inspire me when i ride it think i am like the wind....
more like winded but every little thing helps...
liking my new tires and new bottle holder
AND i am not going to succumb any time soon to upgrade the bike...
more like winded but every little thing helps...
liking my new tires and new bottle holder
AND i am not going to succumb any time soon to upgrade the bike...
athena
not really a topic i want to dwell on... but in the triathlete world there are classes for the overweight crowd.. i call it that because i cant think of a better way of putting it... so i just googled what else i could call it... they suggest that this category does also apply to the rather tall competitors and provides them with an opportunity to place in a race versus the smaller more petite athlete... so then i went to the dreaded BMI tables... the base athena weight is considered overweight according to the BMI tables unless you are 5'7" or taller... that's pretty darn tall for a female - granted i know woman that tall, it is not unheard of - but i dont feel that is what i come across in the athena category... and i am continually surprised that people calssify themselves as this when they register... i guess i am just weight conscious - not obsessed just conscious... and as of this morning I am about 2 to 3 pounds into this category and i had been hoping to knock it down and out of this topic by now... oh well...
the reason it has become a point of interest for me has more to do with the health aspect of physical fitness... you will find people that are physically active but still have a large % of body fat... and i dont want to become one of those people... i dont want to be 5% body fat like my friend's son - i suspect he would sink in the swim portion of the tri... but i dont want to fool myself into thinking that because i can compete in a triathlon i am fit... that is not necessarily the case - especially by that damned BMI table...
so i continue to find myself wondering about this athena category... are people fooling themselves into thinking they are healthy carrying a layer of fat around their muscles... have a strong heart but a fatty one? oh and then there is tht vision of the plastisized fat person from that exhibit... i just dont want my organs surrounded by layers of fat and looking like bacon...
which is why i circle and circle and circle around this topic
by the september race i am hoping to be in line with my BMI table and not even thinking about athena
the reason it has become a point of interest for me has more to do with the health aspect of physical fitness... you will find people that are physically active but still have a large % of body fat... and i dont want to become one of those people... i dont want to be 5% body fat like my friend's son - i suspect he would sink in the swim portion of the tri... but i dont want to fool myself into thinking that because i can compete in a triathlon i am fit... that is not necessarily the case - especially by that damned BMI table...
so i continue to find myself wondering about this athena category... are people fooling themselves into thinking they are healthy carrying a layer of fat around their muscles... have a strong heart but a fatty one? oh and then there is tht vision of the plastisized fat person from that exhibit... i just dont want my organs surrounded by layers of fat and looking like bacon...
which is why i circle and circle and circle around this topic
by the september race i am hoping to be in line with my BMI table and not even thinking about athena
Friday, July 9, 2010
1200 yards
in an non-eco-friendly approach to working out i did get to the Y this evening...
i left work a little early to get to the pool before heading to the bike shop to get my water bottle thingy...
only to realise that i did not move my lock to the new gym bag and hence would not be swimming at that hour...
i went to the bike shop instead - picked up the water bottle thingy and a new tshirt - and took the sugggested detour back to the Y
yes, i know this is probably more miles and more gas than is reasonable but i just wanted to go and get it done and relax some in the water...
i am glad i did - swimming can make for such a relaxing and sleep filled night...
i did not do anything else - i figure tomorrow i will work a bike and run - on a low level - into my day
go get my race pack at the tri store
and then go track my travel time from the house to the race site...
need some coconut water and a few other handy transition snacks as well
could use a few snacks right now for that matter...
i left work a little early to get to the pool before heading to the bike shop to get my water bottle thingy...
only to realise that i did not move my lock to the new gym bag and hence would not be swimming at that hour...
i went to the bike shop instead - picked up the water bottle thingy and a new tshirt - and took the sugggested detour back to the Y
yes, i know this is probably more miles and more gas than is reasonable but i just wanted to go and get it done and relax some in the water...
i am glad i did - swimming can make for such a relaxing and sleep filled night...
i did not do anything else - i figure tomorrow i will work a bike and run - on a low level - into my day
go get my race pack at the tri store
and then go track my travel time from the house to the race site...
need some coconut water and a few other handy transition snacks as well
could use a few snacks right now for that matter...
the home stretch
my day of rest did well by me, i think
i ended up hitting the gym on wednesday and doing the same 1000 yard routine in the pool
then i did 5.25 miles on the stationary bike in the locker room - not that exciting just something that needed to be done
yesterday i did another swim - 1100 yards - or maybe even 1150 i lost count... i did one longer run of swimming and i think that kind of threw me
or it could have been the BAD air quality yesterday
i didn notice the haze as i left for the gym... it looked like it could rain but not quite..
when i left the gym it just felt oppressive... i felt overly tired
it could be the cumulative effect of all the days of training
who really knows
so i came home - had my carb for the race - frozen pizza - and a salad
watched part of vampire diaries - i am really not that fond of repeats
and went to bed
the time was 904 when i looked at the clock last
i woke up a little after 4 and fell back to sleep
a good nights sleep in deed - love when that happens
gonna throw in some last workouts today and make tomorrow the rest day before the race
i ended up hitting the gym on wednesday and doing the same 1000 yard routine in the pool
then i did 5.25 miles on the stationary bike in the locker room - not that exciting just something that needed to be done
yesterday i did another swim - 1100 yards - or maybe even 1150 i lost count... i did one longer run of swimming and i think that kind of threw me
or it could have been the BAD air quality yesterday
i didn notice the haze as i left for the gym... it looked like it could rain but not quite..
when i left the gym it just felt oppressive... i felt overly tired
it could be the cumulative effect of all the days of training
who really knows
so i came home - had my carb for the race - frozen pizza - and a salad
watched part of vampire diaries - i am really not that fond of repeats
and went to bed
the time was 904 when i looked at the clock last
i woke up a little after 4 and fell back to sleep
a good nights sleep in deed - love when that happens
gonna throw in some last workouts today and make tomorrow the rest day before the race
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
day of rest
so today was my rest day
after the 3 days of total swim/bike/run i know i needed to work a little respit in
i had dinner with a client - we talked extensively about swim/bike/run which was nice
she is inspiring... she is pushing herself to some longer distances - which i havent embraced just yet
i need to pack my gym bag - to do the whole deal again tomorrow..
there is a narrow window of swim lanes in the Y pool tomorrow and i need to be on that
the bike will most likely be staionary
and the run? probably do the track
thursday back to the biker shop for some hydration assistance so i suspect my bike will be on my bike on a trail - others will be in mke - so a lunch swim may be in order as well... with a run in the neighborhood
OK just got a bit overwhelmed - guess i'll stop thinking on that
after the 3 days of total swim/bike/run i know i needed to work a little respit in
i had dinner with a client - we talked extensively about swim/bike/run which was nice
she is inspiring... she is pushing herself to some longer distances - which i havent embraced just yet
i need to pack my gym bag - to do the whole deal again tomorrow..
there is a narrow window of swim lanes in the Y pool tomorrow and i need to be on that
the bike will most likely be staionary
and the run? probably do the track
thursday back to the biker shop for some hydration assistance so i suspect my bike will be on my bike on a trail - others will be in mke - so a lunch swim may be in order as well... with a run in the neighborhood
OK just got a bit overwhelmed - guess i'll stop thinking on that
Monday, July 5, 2010
everyone is trying to upsell me
No seriously, they are...
So last week I go into EF for some food. It was when I was feeling the effects of dehydration etc. I go in specifically for some apples, a sandwich and a beverage. So my friend that works there - he's the one that pitches the coconut water. OK - not that much of a difference price wise but a difference none the less. he also up-sold me on my apples. I had fuji apples in had. He says - Oh, have you tried the jazz apples? No, I reply. Let me cut you one to see if you like it. I started to laugh right about then. I enjoy food. I enjoy food shopping. And now to have someone selling me stuff while I stand in the produce department. It made me chuckle. Shoot - if he followed me through the store who knows how much money I would end up spending. And YES - the jazz apples were good. I bought some this week :) and yes, they were a bit more expensive than the fuji apples.
This week I go in - for the coconut water - it was a good offset the past 3 days of my more intense workouts. I will be buying more before next Sunday. I get the coconut water. I get some jazz apples. I pick up a sweet potatoe. I figure that is the best source of carbs and fiber a few days before the race. I dont eat much pasta so that sounds tempting but it wont sit well. And here we go again... Have you tried the white sweet potato? And that is about what I said to him - Again, the upsell. He proceeded to describe them. I decided to stick with the normal sweet potatoe. However they did have turnips, rutebega and beets that caught my eye - but that will have to wait until some other time.
BUT the upselling continues... seriously... these men must not be able to tell that I am FRUGAL!!!! They must think - oh single American girl she must have money, let's try to sell her something. Or maybe it is just from my crazy attempts at hydration.
Today I went back to the bike store to change out my first attempt for a water bottle on the bike. It turns out the cage sat rather low and would have been diffcult to access. PLUS - it would have sat right where the bike rack bar on the car attaches to the bike. Instead I am getting something with velcro that is more user friendly. We looked at the seat racks but I feared my big fat a$$ would end up sitting on it - probably not a good approach for a 10 mile bike ride. He mentioned that you usually knock into the seat rack too when getting on and off the bike. And that the behind the seat placements also interfers with balance... Hello - the gymnast in me doesnt have that much of a problem with balance. But I dont want to take any chances. I dont know the cost of this velcro thing. It may or may not be the upsell. The upsell - and much larger than jazz apples and white sweet potatoes - well this will last you for this race season... and next year when you get a different bike.... NO?! Did he just do that?!? Did he not listen - next year is Ireland - I may not be here for the race... Well I am sure he recalls my cost and Vespa statement... If it costs too much it will need to have a motor :)
I will spend more on food. I love food. I love to cook. Spending more on a higher ticket item? Maybe not. My objective has been to use the bike more in an effort to justify upgrading. I didnt do that too much this off season. But I am enjoying it more at the moment. So I guess we will see.
( I have to laugh at my subliminal typing... whenever I type the word "fun" I always type the word "fund" and have to delete the D. Just now when typing the word "ticket" I typed the word "ticker" Occupational habits or hazards I suppose. And back to work tomorrow...)
So last week I go into EF for some food. It was when I was feeling the effects of dehydration etc. I go in specifically for some apples, a sandwich and a beverage. So my friend that works there - he's the one that pitches the coconut water. OK - not that much of a difference price wise but a difference none the less. he also up-sold me on my apples. I had fuji apples in had. He says - Oh, have you tried the jazz apples? No, I reply. Let me cut you one to see if you like it. I started to laugh right about then. I enjoy food. I enjoy food shopping. And now to have someone selling me stuff while I stand in the produce department. It made me chuckle. Shoot - if he followed me through the store who knows how much money I would end up spending. And YES - the jazz apples were good. I bought some this week :) and yes, they were a bit more expensive than the fuji apples.
This week I go in - for the coconut water - it was a good offset the past 3 days of my more intense workouts. I will be buying more before next Sunday. I get the coconut water. I get some jazz apples. I pick up a sweet potatoe. I figure that is the best source of carbs and fiber a few days before the race. I dont eat much pasta so that sounds tempting but it wont sit well. And here we go again... Have you tried the white sweet potato? And that is about what I said to him - Again, the upsell. He proceeded to describe them. I decided to stick with the normal sweet potatoe. However they did have turnips, rutebega and beets that caught my eye - but that will have to wait until some other time.
BUT the upselling continues... seriously... these men must not be able to tell that I am FRUGAL!!!! They must think - oh single American girl she must have money, let's try to sell her something. Or maybe it is just from my crazy attempts at hydration.
Today I went back to the bike store to change out my first attempt for a water bottle on the bike. It turns out the cage sat rather low and would have been diffcult to access. PLUS - it would have sat right where the bike rack bar on the car attaches to the bike. Instead I am getting something with velcro that is more user friendly. We looked at the seat racks but I feared my big fat a$$ would end up sitting on it - probably not a good approach for a 10 mile bike ride. He mentioned that you usually knock into the seat rack too when getting on and off the bike. And that the behind the seat placements also interfers with balance... Hello - the gymnast in me doesnt have that much of a problem with balance. But I dont want to take any chances. I dont know the cost of this velcro thing. It may or may not be the upsell. The upsell - and much larger than jazz apples and white sweet potatoes - well this will last you for this race season... and next year when you get a different bike.... NO?! Did he just do that?!? Did he not listen - next year is Ireland - I may not be here for the race... Well I am sure he recalls my cost and Vespa statement... If it costs too much it will need to have a motor :)
I will spend more on food. I love food. I love to cook. Spending more on a higher ticket item? Maybe not. My objective has been to use the bike more in an effort to justify upgrading. I didnt do that too much this off season. But I am enjoying it more at the moment. So I guess we will see.
( I have to laugh at my subliminal typing... whenever I type the word "fun" I always type the word "fund" and have to delete the D. Just now when typing the word "ticket" I typed the word "ticker" Occupational habits or hazards I suppose. And back to work tomorrow...)
Monday Music Muse - and i am on a roll
and another artist that i think people have missed out on... of course i find the songs truly saddening so i dont listen to him all that often... i bought this CD for the car ride to NJ when the little guy and I were headed that way for my dad's surgery... he never made it to the surgery, he died a week earlier... and this was what i had in the car to listen to... damn i am lucky i didnt drive right off the road.. still one of my favourite albums...
volcano, delicate, cannonball, blowers daughter... all very resounding
none of the songs really remind me of my dad...
OK - i take that back - and so it is, just like you said it would be, life goes easy for me, most of the time...
reminds me of my dad's underlying fear that as an only child i would be spoiled...
doesnt amount to much now though...
volcano, delicate, cannonball, blowers daughter... all very resounding
none of the songs really remind me of my dad...
OK - i take that back - and so it is, just like you said it would be, life goes easy for me, most of the time...
reminds me of my dad's underlying fear that as an only child i would be spoiled...
doesnt amount to much now though...
10 Cars
I made an effort this morning as I was riding to try to remember at least some of the things I keep saying I think and forget by the time I get to the computer. So off I went from my house at a little after 6 this morning. Left out of the neighborhood and down the hill.
The first thing I do is start to gage the car population. Does it look tolerable? 2 cars passed me in the first few minutes. Hmmm - that might not be good. Then I notice the temperature. The cooler air is nice but man do I feel it in my ears almost instantaneously. By then I am towards the bottom of the hill and wagering crossing the road to turn down Pine Oak. I have found crossing early and cutting through the parking lot of the karate parking lot makes it easier... from a crossing standpoint as well as hill standpoint. This morning one of the town's finest was testing the doors of the karate place. Really? Why would they do that? 6am on a Monday after a holiday weekend? Unless there was a reason wouldn't you suspect that everything has been battoned down safe and sound for a while now? Or maybe they sawy someone inside. Dancing and running around? Who knows. I said good morning. It is the polite thing to do.
Then the series of hills - up a little, down alot, up a lot. This up alot runs in line with the up alot in KP's neighborhood. I must be getting a little more comfortable with the up alot scenario because today was the first time - after 3 previous rides on this route - that I noticed/remembered the little old cemetery right there on the side of the road. Gives me a little hebegebes but not too too much. This up alot is the hardest of the hills in the loop. Out I came on the other main road and was going well...
RIFF RAFF?? at this hour? So I figure I left my house a little after 6 and I was on the road for about 18 minutes at this point. So let's call it 645 at the latest... And here come 2 boys dressed in their best almost goth skater type outfits... you know mostly black with shorts and sneakers... long hair like NP... the one boy did actually look familiar and I thought I must have seen him around with KP and NP... so let's call them 16 at the oldest... WTF are they doing out at that hour? They surely aren't looking like they are trying to break a sweat. And they dont look too rumpled for a walk of shame. So where are they going and what are they doing? Shouldnt boys that age be in bed? Being sleepy teenagers? I tell you they perplexed me and probably bothered me more than any cars that go by.
I ultimately did see a few more people out and about. Some hanging out in their driveway. A few on bikes.
I did see wildlife as well... The first being the feral chickens. OK, they may not be feral but in true Bermuda spirit I like to pretend they are feral. There were about 6 of 'em walking around along the road. Surely must be feral. I have heard them on some of the other rides. I had yet to see any until this morning.
The most startling of the wildlife was the deer. I came up the little hill and into town. Passed the bike store and all the other shops. It looks so quaint. Oh - the old firehouse is available for use - OH if only I had the money to open a Viking Cooking School franshise.... I would snatch that property in a heart beat. How cool would that be? (see this is how my mind wanders while out on the road)...
I went down around the old firehouse and take a back road out of town instead of the main road. And there on the side of the road... a deer. It was just standing there looking at me. Me looking at her. It was like it got really realy quiet for a few moments. And then she realised and I realised I was headed right towards her on my bike. She ran off into the field/woods.
I came back out to the main road... The traffic was picking up. 4 cars passed me on the last mile of the ride. I decided to bring it on home.
I ended up at 40 minutes which is probably close to 6 or 7 miles.
Now I am sipping some coffee and psyching myself up for some swim time at the Y.
The first thing I do is start to gage the car population. Does it look tolerable? 2 cars passed me in the first few minutes. Hmmm - that might not be good. Then I notice the temperature. The cooler air is nice but man do I feel it in my ears almost instantaneously. By then I am towards the bottom of the hill and wagering crossing the road to turn down Pine Oak. I have found crossing early and cutting through the parking lot of the karate parking lot makes it easier... from a crossing standpoint as well as hill standpoint. This morning one of the town's finest was testing the doors of the karate place. Really? Why would they do that? 6am on a Monday after a holiday weekend? Unless there was a reason wouldn't you suspect that everything has been battoned down safe and sound for a while now? Or maybe they sawy someone inside. Dancing and running around? Who knows. I said good morning. It is the polite thing to do.
Then the series of hills - up a little, down alot, up a lot. This up alot runs in line with the up alot in KP's neighborhood. I must be getting a little more comfortable with the up alot scenario because today was the first time - after 3 previous rides on this route - that I noticed/remembered the little old cemetery right there on the side of the road. Gives me a little hebegebes but not too too much. This up alot is the hardest of the hills in the loop. Out I came on the other main road and was going well...
RIFF RAFF?? at this hour? So I figure I left my house a little after 6 and I was on the road for about 18 minutes at this point. So let's call it 645 at the latest... And here come 2 boys dressed in their best almost goth skater type outfits... you know mostly black with shorts and sneakers... long hair like NP... the one boy did actually look familiar and I thought I must have seen him around with KP and NP... so let's call them 16 at the oldest... WTF are they doing out at that hour? They surely aren't looking like they are trying to break a sweat. And they dont look too rumpled for a walk of shame. So where are they going and what are they doing? Shouldnt boys that age be in bed? Being sleepy teenagers? I tell you they perplexed me and probably bothered me more than any cars that go by.
I ultimately did see a few more people out and about. Some hanging out in their driveway. A few on bikes.
I did see wildlife as well... The first being the feral chickens. OK, they may not be feral but in true Bermuda spirit I like to pretend they are feral. There were about 6 of 'em walking around along the road. Surely must be feral. I have heard them on some of the other rides. I had yet to see any until this morning.
The most startling of the wildlife was the deer. I came up the little hill and into town. Passed the bike store and all the other shops. It looks so quaint. Oh - the old firehouse is available for use - OH if only I had the money to open a Viking Cooking School franshise.... I would snatch that property in a heart beat. How cool would that be? (see this is how my mind wanders while out on the road)...
I went down around the old firehouse and take a back road out of town instead of the main road. And there on the side of the road... a deer. It was just standing there looking at me. Me looking at her. It was like it got really realy quiet for a few moments. And then she realised and I realised I was headed right towards her on my bike. She ran off into the field/woods.
I came back out to the main road... The traffic was picking up. 4 cars passed me on the last mile of the ride. I decided to bring it on home.
I ended up at 40 minutes which is probably close to 6 or 7 miles.
Now I am sipping some coffee and psyching myself up for some swim time at the Y.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Today's workout
to keep the dogs distracted as the fireworks go off i turned on some lifetime movie - really the movie is about dressage... goodness... and it is not working... man they are barking!
I got a late start this morning. It was so wonderfully peaceful and still and quiet when I woke up I just didnt' want to get on the bike and head on out. So I ended up at the park. I did the 10 miles on the bike at six mile creek. I was happy with the pace. Glad to just be out there riding for a bit. Then I did 2 miles walk run but it was mostly a walk... One day it is going to be mostly a run. Just dont know when.
As alwasy a gazillion things run through my head but I can never remember anything by the time I get back to my computer.
I went home changed slightly and headed to the Y.
I did another 1000 yard sequence like I did yesterday.
Gonna try to do it all again tomorrow.
we shall see...
one week to go!
I got a late start this morning. It was so wonderfully peaceful and still and quiet when I woke up I just didnt' want to get on the bike and head on out. So I ended up at the park. I did the 10 miles on the bike at six mile creek. I was happy with the pace. Glad to just be out there riding for a bit. Then I did 2 miles walk run but it was mostly a walk... One day it is going to be mostly a run. Just dont know when.
As alwasy a gazillion things run through my head but I can never remember anything by the time I get back to my computer.
I went home changed slightly and headed to the Y.
I did another 1000 yard sequence like I did yesterday.
Gonna try to do it all again tomorrow.
we shall see...
one week to go!
Happy FOURTH
So I did a good job of keepingmyself hydrated yesterday. Made a conscious effort to fill up the water bottle and lug it around with me. But this morning my up and at 'em isnt kicking in. It is kind of nice just sitting here with the windows open, a cooler than normal breeze blowing in, coffee in the mug, dogs kicking about. I decided maybe I would just take a moment and reflect on that before kicking into gear. The window of road riding opportunity is slowly closing. Pretty soon - as in 15 minutes - going out on the road will not be an option. Then it will be all trail options. Which wouldnt be too bad. I am wondering if the one trail that is always teaming with people would be busy today given the holiday weekend and all. That would be a 12 mile ride. That wouldnt be too bad depending on the crowds. Or I could do a brick at that other trail... it just takes effort to stay focused on the back and forth pattern there.
And when it is all said and done - I need to yuck myself out to the Y at noon to swim again. I need to get more pool time in between now and next Sunday.
NEXT SUNDAY! what the heck am I thinking???
I should take a ride out to the race site again. Maybe tomorrow (aahhhh)... Get my bearings about me.
Pick up my packet next Saturday. This time I will remember my license. And somewhere I need to find my bib # give me an idea of my starting time. There are only 500 people in this race so it shouldnt be as hectic.
One can hope.
And when it is all said and done - I need to yuck myself out to the Y at noon to swim again. I need to get more pool time in between now and next Sunday.
NEXT SUNDAY! what the heck am I thinking???
I should take a ride out to the race site again. Maybe tomorrow (aahhhh)... Get my bearings about me.
Pick up my packet next Saturday. This time I will remember my license. And somewhere I need to find my bib # give me an idea of my starting time. There are only 500 people in this race so it shouldnt be as hectic.
One can hope.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Hit A Wall
Not literally. And not the proverbial wall. But a wall of inspiration. I dont even know what I would call it. Where you get that rush and want to go further? I hit that today.
I did a 6 mile bike ride this morning. I wanted to go further but there was a parade in town so I decided to not do 2 loops. Fear that I would find myself in the midst of the parade organization or something.
I came home. Walked the dogs (I am dog-sitting). Had some coffee. And went out for a run/walk.
I did 3.53 miles on the run/walk. I did not have my HRM on but have synced the foot pod. I did 10 minutes of walking then I did another 10 mintues of walk 1 run 1. Then I hit some crazy inspiration... we will call it a good random selection of songs on the Stereophonics radio on Pandora... I dont know what prompted it but I started running longer and walking shorter. Bedshaped - Keane; Seaside - The Kooks; Pick a Part That's New - Stereophonics; Send Me On My Way - Rusted Root; 1901 - Phoenix... It turned out to be a great little run.
Then I spent a good amount of time stretching. I need to remember to do that more often. It felt so good to stretch out all the parts.
BUT WAIT - let's not stop there... In an effort to stay moving - I threw on my new bathing suit and headed to the Y to swim. I did a series - 100 breast stroke; 250 freestyle; 50 breast stroke; 250 freestyle; 50 breast stroke; 250 freestyle; 50 breast stroke... Total of 1000 yards.
I stretched again. Sat in the steam room a bit. Stretched some more. Showered. EarthFared.
Somewhere in there I thought - hey you know if I can ramp up my swimming over the next 2 weeks... I could do the Splash & Dash. Yes, I seriously thought this. Can you imagine? I am considering signing up for it and then going from there. I will see if there are still slots and the cost..
Insane!
I did a 6 mile bike ride this morning. I wanted to go further but there was a parade in town so I decided to not do 2 loops. Fear that I would find myself in the midst of the parade organization or something.
I came home. Walked the dogs (I am dog-sitting). Had some coffee. And went out for a run/walk.
I did 3.53 miles on the run/walk. I did not have my HRM on but have synced the foot pod. I did 10 minutes of walking then I did another 10 mintues of walk 1 run 1. Then I hit some crazy inspiration... we will call it a good random selection of songs on the Stereophonics radio on Pandora... I dont know what prompted it but I started running longer and walking shorter. Bedshaped - Keane; Seaside - The Kooks; Pick a Part That's New - Stereophonics; Send Me On My Way - Rusted Root; 1901 - Phoenix... It turned out to be a great little run.
Then I spent a good amount of time stretching. I need to remember to do that more often. It felt so good to stretch out all the parts.
BUT WAIT - let's not stop there... In an effort to stay moving - I threw on my new bathing suit and headed to the Y to swim. I did a series - 100 breast stroke; 250 freestyle; 50 breast stroke; 250 freestyle; 50 breast stroke; 250 freestyle; 50 breast stroke... Total of 1000 yards.
I stretched again. Sat in the steam room a bit. Stretched some more. Showered. EarthFared.
Somewhere in there I thought - hey you know if I can ramp up my swimming over the next 2 weeks... I could do the Splash & Dash. Yes, I seriously thought this. Can you imagine? I am considering signing up for it and then going from there. I will see if there are still slots and the cost..
Insane!
Friday, July 2, 2010
down to the wire
bought a cage for my bike yesterday
of course it doesnt look like it will work and i need to go back to the store
i am not going to do a camelpack but i may do a race belt so i could still have it handy during the run
my brain just isnt functioning around the whole race thing
i need to take this weekend to get my head around it
bed early, up early, swim/bike/run/stretch, hydration, nutrition, travel time to the race site, parking at the race site, what to have in my transition station...
and maybe i should clean the house while i am at it...
fun fun i suppose
of course it doesnt look like it will work and i need to go back to the store
i am not going to do a camelpack but i may do a race belt so i could still have it handy during the run
my brain just isnt functioning around the whole race thing
i need to take this weekend to get my head around it
bed early, up early, swim/bike/run/stretch, hydration, nutrition, travel time to the race site, parking at the race site, what to have in my transition station...
and maybe i should clean the house while i am at it...
fun fun i suppose
Thursday, July 1, 2010
HNT - muscle
I dont recall taking this picture. I dont know if it was intentional or something that just clicked on the camera phone. I have a few of those on both cameras. Clutzy not paying attention I suppose.
This one gets me because I cant figure out what the heck is going on with my leg muscle there.
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