We're almost ready to head out on vacation. I can't wait to get on my bike again. I took 2 rest days (Thursday and Friday) and the body is feeling like poopie again. A nice 25 mile ride at Hatfield should do the trick to snap it back to reality.
A couple hours and a few more items to pack and we should be set to go.
A quick update on April for all those who have asked and sent her well wishes. She saw the DR Wednesday. Sounds like the broken bones should heal themselves without any surgery. She was also told she couldn't do any more damage so she can get to backing as the pain permits her to. Of course if you know April at all, you won't be surprised in the least to find out after the doctor told her that, she headed home and sat on her trainer for 30 minutes.
Best wishes to April for a speedy recovery!!
See you all at Eau Claire!
Friday, June 27, 2008
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Preparing for vacation
We're heading out this weekend for a week and a half long camping vacation. I'm very much looking forward to sitting on my butt and being "bored". Of course, as it always goes, there's just so much to do before we go. Not only preparation for the trip, but work things as well. Then try and keep your training up on top of that and it leaves one just a little overwhelmed. That's how I feel today.
I did get out for a ride. . . . .body felt like poop. But I logged some miles none-the-less. I pretty much expect to feel like poop most of the time right now. Sooner or later the body will toughen up again, I just have to hang in there until them.
The dog desperately needs a walk, she's walking around the house nudging me and requiring my FULL attention all while whining an absolutely annoying whine. I put her out on her chain and she cries. I put her in the garage and she cries. I bring her in the house and she cries. She's wearing on my LAST nerve.
I still have to finish a few files at the office before we depart, sign our ads up for next week, finish some brochures and deliver them. On top of that I have all the grocery shopping and packing for the week, race prep times two (we're doing the WEMS race at Hatfield), re-stocking the camper, after some time this afternoon I THINK most of my clothes are packed. Still have to do some laundry Friday AM for the last minute items. Then of course I have to pack all of Thunder's things, including food for the entire time we're gone. Thankfully she eats twice a day now. . . .so I shouldn't have to pack AS much. Add to that all the misc packing like books to read, dvd's to watch, games to play. . . . . . .lots of stuff.
All these things to do and all I want to do is sit on my butt. I'm so tired and drained, I can't focus there's so much to do, I just want to take a nap! I don't have the energy to walk the dog, and I'm SO tired of getting eaten alive by the mosquitoes. Two days and we'll be pulling out. . . . . . .I hope I can pull it all off. If I don't end up being "checked in" somewhere I'm sure I'll get it done. I always do. And if I don't? Well, then we leave a little later and I get help.
So it's all good I guess. The week and a half of "me" time will be worth it I'm sure.
I did get out for a ride. . . . .body felt like poop. But I logged some miles none-the-less. I pretty much expect to feel like poop most of the time right now. Sooner or later the body will toughen up again, I just have to hang in there until them.
The dog desperately needs a walk, she's walking around the house nudging me and requiring my FULL attention all while whining an absolutely annoying whine. I put her out on her chain and she cries. I put her in the garage and she cries. I bring her in the house and she cries. She's wearing on my LAST nerve.
I still have to finish a few files at the office before we depart, sign our ads up for next week, finish some brochures and deliver them. On top of that I have all the grocery shopping and packing for the week, race prep times two (we're doing the WEMS race at Hatfield), re-stocking the camper, after some time this afternoon I THINK most of my clothes are packed. Still have to do some laundry Friday AM for the last minute items. Then of course I have to pack all of Thunder's things, including food for the entire time we're gone. Thankfully she eats twice a day now. . . .so I shouldn't have to pack AS much. Add to that all the misc packing like books to read, dvd's to watch, games to play. . . . . . .lots of stuff.
All these things to do and all I want to do is sit on my butt. I'm so tired and drained, I can't focus there's so much to do, I just want to take a nap! I don't have the energy to walk the dog, and I'm SO tired of getting eaten alive by the mosquitoes. Two days and we'll be pulling out. . . . . . .I hope I can pull it all off. If I don't end up being "checked in" somewhere I'm sure I'll get it done. I always do. And if I don't? Well, then we leave a little later and I get help.
So it's all good I guess. The week and a half of "me" time will be worth it I'm sure.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Doubling Up
Well, I thought since I really didn't have anything to lose, I might as well try racing the Grafton Criterium on Saturday. . . . .the day before the "marathon race" at Suimaco. After all, it's all training, right?
Saturday had me remembering why I strongly dislike road racing. The women's Cat 4 race was only 20 minutes, so it was balls to the walls full ON. They sent us out with the juniors, so there looked to be a fairly decent size crowd. They "rolled" the racers out and once everyone got clipped in, it was ON. My total race time was about 26 minutes, AHR of 184. I held on as long as I could, but the main pack spit me out all too soon. After a few laps on my own, I finally caught up to Amy, who had also been spit out and we worked together to bridge a gap up to the next gal. Her and her teammate sucked our wheel and when we hit the final stretch, it was a sprint to see who'd end up where. I jumped too soon and couldn't quite hold it and the other gal caught me. I barely held off Amy and we finished the race out in 10th and 11th. I maxed my heart rate out for that sprint finish at 196. I crossed the line and thought I was going to be sick. I was dizzy, my chest burned and I was so VERY glad to be done. A bit harder effort than I thought I'd get. Oh well, too late now.
After hanging to watch the Pro race for a bit I headed back home to try and get some shut eye. Hit the pillow at 10:00ish, only to sleep absolutely terrible. It was so incredibly hot, I felt sticky and sweaty, even though I had showered. I tossed and turned and finally fell asleep only to awake to the birds chirping soon after 4:00am. I knew the alarm was set for 4:40 since we had to get an early start and pick up a couple peeps. I just wanted another 4 hours of sleep in a nice, chilled room. No such luck.
We arrived at the WORS scene in plenty of time to get Arin registered for her race and set to go. Chatted with some peeps, registered ourselves, ate an early lunch and then it was time to get ready. Warm up was a bit tough. I was concerned that my legs felt awfully tired. . . . .but again, it was too late to worry about it. All I could do was give it my best.
Don yelled GOOOOOOOOOO!!, the gals took off and I hung on the wheel of Amelia down the first open stretch. My legs were tired, but I had high hopes they would loosen up and let me put out some serious effort. We weren't but about 2/3 of the way to the first set of single track when the comp guys flew by like we weren't moving. At that time, I was already off the back riding my own race. I knew I would hit the single track amongst the comp guys. . . . . .great. Again, I rode the single track like I've never ridden it before. My heart felt like it was going to explode, I was hyper ventilating, but somehow I kept it out of the trees and I got the HELL out of their way. Finally an open break to recover. Then time to do it all again, and again.
By the end of the first lap most of the comp guys had gotten by me. Again, I was all alone. Keeping my motivation wasn't an issue. I was able to ride at a relatively hard heart rate, although down a notch from where it usually is. Then came the sport boys. They're not the best at passing. I think they don't usually get to pass people. . . . .so calling it out and/or waiting for a good spot to pass wasn't their strong point. A few didn't give quite enough time before they cut back in, thankfully I have "skills" so it was all good.
Nearing the end of lap 2 the twinges started to set in. I quickly scanned my watch going under the start line, and it looked like my first lap was about 58 minutes. My second lap must have been about 1:02, it looked like I was at about 2:00 crossing through. I knew the last lap was going to hurt. I was right. The first two laps were fun. Even though I thought I was going to die in that single track I had to ride it so freakin' fast, it was still fun. Lap #3 HURT. A LOT!
I managed to suck down about 1/3 of my camel back, but then also got 2 bottles down as well. 2 packages of cliff blocks (could have used one more), completed my intake for the 3:05. How I made it back to the finish chute during that last lap I'm not quite sure. I literally cried while I was riding, the pain and cramping was so intense. I fidgeted on my seat as to not let the cramps set FULL ON. The knot in my shoulder was huge, my back hurt SOOO bad I was just waiting for it to completely seize up, and my legs were not only cramping but they were simply running out of energy.
"Just finish, just finish" I kept hearing in my head. I think it was April that was saying it. Every time I passed the tree that she tangled with I pushed myself harder. I had to push beyond the pain and finish in as good of time as I possibly could because I knew she was at home, in pain, wishing me enough courage, energy and motivation to do so. . . . . . .because she couldn't.
While I faded that last lap, I amazingly finished. I didn't get lapped by the Elite boys, I didn't get lapped by the Elite women, and I wasn't dead last. I didn't hit my target of finishing in under 3 hours. . . ..but I was only 5 minutes off. Considering I wasn't sure I'd even GET to the finish line, I'm ok with being 5 minutes off my "goal".
So I do believe I've learned that an intense, high heart rate workout the day before a WORS race is a bad thing. I've also learned that I should probably take just a little more food with me when I'm going to be out there so long. AND I've learned I need to focus on long training rides at the moderately high heart rate so my body doesn't freak out after 2 hours and decide it wants to shut down.
But it was still fun. I could have done without the cramps and all the damage that has done now. . . . . . . .and honestly the last lap was a little less than fun. . . . . . .but overall, it was fun. :-) Sweet.
Saturday had me remembering why I strongly dislike road racing. The women's Cat 4 race was only 20 minutes, so it was balls to the walls full ON. They sent us out with the juniors, so there looked to be a fairly decent size crowd. They "rolled" the racers out and once everyone got clipped in, it was ON. My total race time was about 26 minutes, AHR of 184. I held on as long as I could, but the main pack spit me out all too soon. After a few laps on my own, I finally caught up to Amy, who had also been spit out and we worked together to bridge a gap up to the next gal. Her and her teammate sucked our wheel and when we hit the final stretch, it was a sprint to see who'd end up where. I jumped too soon and couldn't quite hold it and the other gal caught me. I barely held off Amy and we finished the race out in 10th and 11th. I maxed my heart rate out for that sprint finish at 196. I crossed the line and thought I was going to be sick. I was dizzy, my chest burned and I was so VERY glad to be done. A bit harder effort than I thought I'd get. Oh well, too late now.
After hanging to watch the Pro race for a bit I headed back home to try and get some shut eye. Hit the pillow at 10:00ish, only to sleep absolutely terrible. It was so incredibly hot, I felt sticky and sweaty, even though I had showered. I tossed and turned and finally fell asleep only to awake to the birds chirping soon after 4:00am. I knew the alarm was set for 4:40 since we had to get an early start and pick up a couple peeps. I just wanted another 4 hours of sleep in a nice, chilled room. No such luck.
We arrived at the WORS scene in plenty of time to get Arin registered for her race and set to go. Chatted with some peeps, registered ourselves, ate an early lunch and then it was time to get ready. Warm up was a bit tough. I was concerned that my legs felt awfully tired. . . . .but again, it was too late to worry about it. All I could do was give it my best.
Don yelled GOOOOOOOOOO!!, the gals took off and I hung on the wheel of Amelia down the first open stretch. My legs were tired, but I had high hopes they would loosen up and let me put out some serious effort. We weren't but about 2/3 of the way to the first set of single track when the comp guys flew by like we weren't moving. At that time, I was already off the back riding my own race. I knew I would hit the single track amongst the comp guys. . . . . .great. Again, I rode the single track like I've never ridden it before. My heart felt like it was going to explode, I was hyper ventilating, but somehow I kept it out of the trees and I got the HELL out of their way. Finally an open break to recover. Then time to do it all again, and again.
By the end of the first lap most of the comp guys had gotten by me. Again, I was all alone. Keeping my motivation wasn't an issue. I was able to ride at a relatively hard heart rate, although down a notch from where it usually is. Then came the sport boys. They're not the best at passing. I think they don't usually get to pass people. . . . .so calling it out and/or waiting for a good spot to pass wasn't their strong point. A few didn't give quite enough time before they cut back in, thankfully I have "skills" so it was all good.
Nearing the end of lap 2 the twinges started to set in. I quickly scanned my watch going under the start line, and it looked like my first lap was about 58 minutes. My second lap must have been about 1:02, it looked like I was at about 2:00 crossing through. I knew the last lap was going to hurt. I was right. The first two laps were fun. Even though I thought I was going to die in that single track I had to ride it so freakin' fast, it was still fun. Lap #3 HURT. A LOT!
I managed to suck down about 1/3 of my camel back, but then also got 2 bottles down as well. 2 packages of cliff blocks (could have used one more), completed my intake for the 3:05. How I made it back to the finish chute during that last lap I'm not quite sure. I literally cried while I was riding, the pain and cramping was so intense. I fidgeted on my seat as to not let the cramps set FULL ON. The knot in my shoulder was huge, my back hurt SOOO bad I was just waiting for it to completely seize up, and my legs were not only cramping but they were simply running out of energy.
"Just finish, just finish" I kept hearing in my head. I think it was April that was saying it. Every time I passed the tree that she tangled with I pushed myself harder. I had to push beyond the pain and finish in as good of time as I possibly could because I knew she was at home, in pain, wishing me enough courage, energy and motivation to do so. . . . . . .because she couldn't.
While I faded that last lap, I amazingly finished. I didn't get lapped by the Elite boys, I didn't get lapped by the Elite women, and I wasn't dead last. I didn't hit my target of finishing in under 3 hours. . . ..but I was only 5 minutes off. Considering I wasn't sure I'd even GET to the finish line, I'm ok with being 5 minutes off my "goal".
So I do believe I've learned that an intense, high heart rate workout the day before a WORS race is a bad thing. I've also learned that I should probably take just a little more food with me when I'm going to be out there so long. AND I've learned I need to focus on long training rides at the moderately high heart rate so my body doesn't freak out after 2 hours and decide it wants to shut down.
But it was still fun. I could have done without the cramps and all the damage that has done now. . . . . . . .and honestly the last lap was a little less than fun. . . . . . .but overall, it was fun. :-) Sweet.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Quote
"It takes as much energy to wish as it does to plan."
-- Eleanor Roosevelt, Former First Lady
Hhhhmm, is that really true? Sometimes when I'm "wishing", I think I AM "planning".
This morning I RE-REGISTERED for the Grafton Crit. They screwed up the categories earlier in the week, so when I registered for the "Juniors & Cat 4 women", it actually put me as a Junior. They couldn't fix it, so I had to RE-REGISTER, so now instead of the $10 I was told it cost to race that one, I'm actually spending the $32.80 to on-line register, PLUS the $2.40 for the fees I incurred for my first registration. Supposedly there will be a $10 refund waiting for me when I sign in, for the cost of the actual junior's race. So at least I won't have to pay THAT money as well (hopefully).
$35.20 is a lot of money to pay to race 20 minutes. They better have some pretty sweet prizes for those top girls. That's more expensive than a 2+ hour mountain bike race. No wonder I pick the mtb scene. Definitely more bang for your buck.
BUT, it's a short race and I'm not doing a pre-ride. . . . . . .so the effort put out should just about equal out. HOPEFULLY. I can't really afford to be tired going into Sunday. That's going to be a LONG race. That's ok. I need a long "training ride". :-)
-- Eleanor Roosevelt, Former First Lady
Hhhhmm, is that really true? Sometimes when I'm "wishing", I think I AM "planning".
This morning I RE-REGISTERED for the Grafton Crit. They screwed up the categories earlier in the week, so when I registered for the "Juniors & Cat 4 women", it actually put me as a Junior. They couldn't fix it, so I had to RE-REGISTER, so now instead of the $10 I was told it cost to race that one, I'm actually spending the $32.80 to on-line register, PLUS the $2.40 for the fees I incurred for my first registration. Supposedly there will be a $10 refund waiting for me when I sign in, for the cost of the actual junior's race. So at least I won't have to pay THAT money as well (hopefully).
$35.20 is a lot of money to pay to race 20 minutes. They better have some pretty sweet prizes for those top girls. That's more expensive than a 2+ hour mountain bike race. No wonder I pick the mtb scene. Definitely more bang for your buck.
BUT, it's a short race and I'm not doing a pre-ride. . . . . . .so the effort put out should just about equal out. HOPEFULLY. I can't really afford to be tired going into Sunday. That's going to be a LONG race. That's ok. I need a long "training ride". :-)
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Tangle with a tree. . . . .and the tree always wins
We found that out first hand today.
Spent some time in the saddle at Suimaco with some peeps today when a tree jumped out and grabbed one of them. She bounced off one tree, only to throw her back SMACK into another one. After a few hours in the ER she finds out she's cracked 3 bones in her back.
Why the F do the trees always have to win? My heart goes out to her. Unfortunately I know all too well how she's feeling. It's hard to sit by the sidelines and watch people do what YOU love to do. BUT. . . .on the brighter side of things. . . .6 weeks is a drop in the bucket of life. And before we know it, she'll be rockin' it out again, stronger than ever.
Get well soon April. REALLLLLLLY soon. :-)
Spent some time in the saddle at Suimaco with some peeps today when a tree jumped out and grabbed one of them. She bounced off one tree, only to throw her back SMACK into another one. After a few hours in the ER she finds out she's cracked 3 bones in her back.
Why the F do the trees always have to win? My heart goes out to her. Unfortunately I know all too well how she's feeling. It's hard to sit by the sidelines and watch people do what YOU love to do. BUT. . . .on the brighter side of things. . . .6 weeks is a drop in the bucket of life. And before we know it, she'll be rockin' it out again, stronger than ever.
Get well soon April. REALLLLLLLY soon. :-)
Beechwood Fun
Yeah, I still like to ride my mountain bike. I guess I just don't like to "race" it right now. But I'm working on that.
Beechwood was a blast. If you're looking to find your fitness, that's a good place to start. We got a "modified" lap and a half in, which was perfect. Hit the hills hard, at least I still have short bursts in me. I didn't wear my heart rate monitor, which was strange. I'm not sure I can race without it, because it's too easy to ride "easy". It keeps me honest. If I hear it beeping (which it does when I drop back into endurance) I know to take it up a notch cuz I'm not trying hard enough. I think my ride last night had me trying hard as much as I could. . . . . which is ok, except in a 2+ hour race I'm going to poop out if I'm pushing that hard for the entire time. We'll see.
Off to ride at Suimaco today. Get some more endurance miles in. I'm working on that fitness kids. Slowly but surely. Then maybe I'll stop bitching on this blog. :-)
Beechwood was a blast. If you're looking to find your fitness, that's a good place to start. We got a "modified" lap and a half in, which was perfect. Hit the hills hard, at least I still have short bursts in me. I didn't wear my heart rate monitor, which was strange. I'm not sure I can race without it, because it's too easy to ride "easy". It keeps me honest. If I hear it beeping (which it does when I drop back into endurance) I know to take it up a notch cuz I'm not trying hard enough. I think my ride last night had me trying hard as much as I could. . . . . which is ok, except in a 2+ hour race I'm going to poop out if I'm pushing that hard for the entire time. We'll see.
Off to ride at Suimaco today. Get some more endurance miles in. I'm working on that fitness kids. Slowly but surely. Then maybe I'll stop bitching on this blog. :-)
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
My horoscope for the day
"This is a terrific time for you to start some sort of physical activity that takes you out of the house and gets your blood pumping, dear Cancer. Don't think that this means you need to join a tennis club and suddenly become the star player. A simple walk around the block every morning may be all that is needed for you to feel the boost in physical and mental energy that this kind of activity will grant you. Note also the clarity of mind that comes when you get your body moving and increase your rate and depth of breathing."
Hhhhmmmm, I guess I need to go ride my bike!
Hhhhmmmm, I guess I need to go ride my bike!
Monday, June 16, 2008
Animal Diary
DOG'S DIARY
8:00 am - Dog food! My favorite thing!
9:30 am - A car ride! My favorite thing!
9:40 am - A walk in the park! My favorite thing!
10:30 am - Got rubbed and petted! My favorite thing!
12:00 pm - Lunch! My favorite thing!
1:00 pm - Played in the yard! My favorite thing!
3:00 pm - Wagged my tail! My favorite thing!
5:00 pm - Milk bones! My favorite thing!
7:00 pm - Got to play ball! My favorite thing!
8:00 pm - Wow! Watched TV with my people! My favorite thing!
11:00 pm - Sleeping on the bed! My favorite thing!
CAT'S DIARY
Day 983 of my captivity.
My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little dangling objects. They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while the other inmates and I are fed hash or some sort of dry nuggets. Although I make my contempt for the rations perfectly clear, I nevertheless must eat something in order to keep up my strength.
The only thing that keeps me going is my dream of escape.
In an attempt to disgust them, I once again vomit on the carpet.
Today I decapitated a mouse and dropped its headless body at their feet. I had hoped this would strike fear into their hearts, since it clearly demonstrates what I am capable of. However, they merely made condescending comments about what a "good little hunter" I am.
Bastards!
There was some sort of assembly of their accomplices tonight. I was placed in solitary confinement for the duration of the event. However, I could hear the noises and smell the food. I overheard that my confinement was due to the power of "allergies." I must learn what this means, and how to use it to my advantage.
Today I was almost successful in an attempt to assassinate one of my tormentors by weaving around his feet as he was walking. I must try this again tomorrow -- but at the top of the stairs.
I am convinced that the other prisoners here are flunkies and snitches. The dog receives special privileges. He is regularly released and seems to be more than willing to return. He is obviously retarded.
The bird has got to be an informant. I observe him communicate with the guards regularly. I am certain that he reports my every move. My captors have arranged protective custody for him in an elevated cell, so he is safe. For now...
8:00 am - Dog food! My favorite thing!
9:30 am - A car ride! My favorite thing!
9:40 am - A walk in the park! My favorite thing!
10:30 am - Got rubbed and petted! My favorite thing!
12:00 pm - Lunch! My favorite thing!
1:00 pm - Played in the yard! My favorite thing!
3:00 pm - Wagged my tail! My favorite thing!
5:00 pm - Milk bones! My favorite thing!
7:00 pm - Got to play ball! My favorite thing!
8:00 pm - Wow! Watched TV with my people! My favorite thing!
11:00 pm - Sleeping on the bed! My favorite thing!
CAT'S DIARY
Day 983 of my captivity.
My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little dangling objects. They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while the other inmates and I are fed hash or some sort of dry nuggets. Although I make my contempt for the rations perfectly clear, I nevertheless must eat something in order to keep up my strength.
The only thing that keeps me going is my dream of escape.
In an attempt to disgust them, I once again vomit on the carpet.
Today I decapitated a mouse and dropped its headless body at their feet. I had hoped this would strike fear into their hearts, since it clearly demonstrates what I am capable of. However, they merely made condescending comments about what a "good little hunter" I am.
Bastards!
There was some sort of assembly of their accomplices tonight. I was placed in solitary confinement for the duration of the event. However, I could hear the noises and smell the food. I overheard that my confinement was due to the power of "allergies." I must learn what this means, and how to use it to my advantage.
Today I was almost successful in an attempt to assassinate one of my tormentors by weaving around his feet as he was walking. I must try this again tomorrow -- but at the top of the stairs.
I am convinced that the other prisoners here are flunkies and snitches. The dog receives special privileges. He is regularly released and seems to be more than willing to return. He is obviously retarded.
The bird has got to be an informant. I observe him communicate with the guards regularly. I am certain that he reports my every move. My captors have arranged protective custody for him in an elevated cell, so he is safe. For now...
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Subaru Cup
It just wasn't there. The heart rate was too high which makes me sloppy in the technical sections, my stomach felt like someone punched me in it, and I just wasn't having fun. It hurt, I was so far behind everyone else I probably would have gotten lapped twice, and I felt the need to double up in pain. So, I pulled the plug.
There aren't any excuses really. I simply don't have the fitness I need to be racing elite. When there's that much of gap, and you're suffering that much, it just isn't fun anymore, even if you really want it to be fun. I realize that's difficult for most people to understand, because most of you haven't been in the shoes I'm in right now. Yes, I understand I'm the one who put myself here. . . . .but now that I'm here I just need to figure out how to go on and make the best of it. Get back to having fun. I'm not sure I know how to do that after this weekend.
Day by day I guess.
There aren't any excuses really. I simply don't have the fitness I need to be racing elite. When there's that much of gap, and you're suffering that much, it just isn't fun anymore, even if you really want it to be fun. I realize that's difficult for most people to understand, because most of you haven't been in the shoes I'm in right now. Yes, I understand I'm the one who put myself here. . . . .but now that I'm here I just need to figure out how to go on and make the best of it. Get back to having fun. I'm not sure I know how to do that after this weekend.
Day by day I guess.
Friday, June 13, 2008
SUN. . . . . .please
No more rain please.
How about some sunshine? We don't need any more puddles for this thing to play in while we're camping.
How about some sunshine? We don't need any more puddles for this thing to play in while we're camping.
Although the weather people are painting a little different picture than I think we'd like to see right now.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Oooooooopppps!
I remembered the birthday, but forgot the birthday SHOUT OUT!
Happy Birthday (yesterday) to Squirt (and the Stunt Double)!!
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Floods, Floods, Floods
I don't WANT any more rain. How am I supposed to focus on my training when all the trails are under water?
I took the road bike (her name is Sydney) out yesterday. .. . . . .yeah, I think it had been a month since I had been on it. Looks like her and I will be getting to know each other again this month. I'd rather be on the dirt. . . . . but I'll take what I can get right now. Maybe I should take up kayaking?
Tonight is my last yoga class. That means next week I'll have the option of riding with my peeps at Beechwood. Yeah, if it's not under water.
Mt. Morris should be interesting. I guess it really can't get much worse than the Sport/Citizen race last year!
I took the road bike (her name is Sydney) out yesterday. .. . . . .yeah, I think it had been a month since I had been on it. Looks like her and I will be getting to know each other again this month. I'd rather be on the dirt. . . . . but I'll take what I can get right now. Maybe I should take up kayaking?
Tonight is my last yoga class. That means next week I'll have the option of riding with my peeps at Beechwood. Yeah, if it's not under water.
Mt. Morris should be interesting. I guess it really can't get much worse than the Sport/Citizen race last year!
Monday, June 09, 2008
WOW!
How the "F" did I get SO out of shape???
Crap.
Hhmmm, so I need twice as long as I took off to get back to where I was?? Well, I guess that means I should be ready for WORS 2009.
Double crap.
Baby steps, I know. :-)
Crap.
Hhmmm, so I need twice as long as I took off to get back to where I was?? Well, I guess that means I should be ready for WORS 2009.
Double crap.
Baby steps, I know. :-)
Sunday, June 08, 2008
Woman's Dirt Retreat
Two words. . . . . . .FREAKIN' AWESOME.
Despite the less than perfect weather, this weekend was worth every penny. The Mad FORCS & Renee Callaway sure know what they're doing. They organized a first class event. From the delicious sandwich & salad lunch, the pasta & pizza dinner, the tasty Sobe drinks and the yummy breakfast spread to the awesome raffle prizes to the patient and knowledgeable instructors to the absolutely awesome Allison Dunlap. Each and every aspect was incredible.
If you would have told me 5 years ago that some day I'd be attending a dirt camp retreat and not only learning from one of the WORLD'S best mountain bikers, but hanging out and talking with her, I would have laughed in your face. But that's exactly what I did this weekend.
If you've ever met Allison Dunlap, you know what I'm talking about. This woman is one of THE nicest people you will ever meet. It's hard to believe she's one of THE world's best mountain bikers when you meet her. She's so down to earth and pleasant. She's a wealth of knowledge and this weekend she sat back and let us draw upon that knowledge. We fired question after question at her and she gladly answered each and every one of them and overloaded us with information.
She also spent one on one time with each of us, teaching us a few technical skills and watching each of us to assure we had picked them up. She even went out on the trails with us and did some technical riding. . . . .until the tornado sirens sounded, the rain started pouring and we were summonsed to head back to safety.
I would rate this weekend as one of the highlights of my "biking life". To spend that much time with someone that important. . . . . .and learn the things I did from her, was priceless.
NOW, it's GO time. Time to batten down the hatches and REALLY train. I'm motivated, I'm ready and I'm excited. After all. . . .it's never too late, even for someone like ME. Sweet.
Friday, June 06, 2008
It's almost Dirt Retreat time!
Yes, I'm going HERE this weekend.
I'm sure I'll learn SOMETHING. How can one NOT learn SOMETHING from a two-time Olympian, former World AND National Champion?
I guess if I can't hang out with Lance Armstrong any time soon. . . . .this is the next best thing.
Cool.
I'm sure I'll learn SOMETHING. How can one NOT learn SOMETHING from a two-time Olympian, former World AND National Champion?
I guess if I can't hang out with Lance Armstrong any time soon. . . . .this is the next best thing.
Cool.
Thursday, June 05, 2008
Birthday Shout Out
Happy Birthday Captain.
He's not 40 yet. . . . . .but he IS another year closer!
A second b-day shout out goes out to this handsome fellow.
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
Over Worked
Over worked, under paid. . . . . ..time to shift the priorities.
In the end, WHAT really matters?
Whatever that is. . . . . .is probably what you should focus on. For many, it's their kids. For some it really is "work". For some it's preparation for their future, setting the future for their kids, helping others, making more money, gaining that promotion, being in the best shape of their lives. . . . . .etc, etc, etc.
With the big "39" a bit over a month away, perhaps it's time to once again figure out what is important for ME again. It's easy to lose sight of what makes YOU happy when you spend most of your time helping others be happy. Some of us are just prone to taking TOO much on, and losing what's important to them in the process (eg RIDING MY BIKE). While helping others does ultimately make me happy, if it isn't done carefully that "happiness" can come at a high price.
With that said. . . . .it's back to being all about me again, at least for a little while. I seem to be best for others when I have my OWN balance and am happy myself. So let's try that for a while. Back to the bike, back to training, back to spending time with friends & family, watching what I eat and saying "No" to others once in a while, when I truly don't have the time.
In the end, WHAT really matters?
Whatever that is. . . . . .is probably what you should focus on. For many, it's their kids. For some it really is "work". For some it's preparation for their future, setting the future for their kids, helping others, making more money, gaining that promotion, being in the best shape of their lives. . . . . .etc, etc, etc.
With the big "39" a bit over a month away, perhaps it's time to once again figure out what is important for ME again. It's easy to lose sight of what makes YOU happy when you spend most of your time helping others be happy. Some of us are just prone to taking TOO much on, and losing what's important to them in the process (eg RIDING MY BIKE). While helping others does ultimately make me happy, if it isn't done carefully that "happiness" can come at a high price.
With that said. . . . .it's back to being all about me again, at least for a little while. I seem to be best for others when I have my OWN balance and am happy myself. So let's try that for a while. Back to the bike, back to training, back to spending time with friends & family, watching what I eat and saying "No" to others once in a while, when I truly don't have the time.
Monday, June 02, 2008
Wausau
The new camper was great. . . . much nicer than the old one. The tear down needs a bit of work. . . . .it seemed to take us a lot longer to pack up.
The race was ok. I've decided I'm very disappointed in myself in general. . . . .but such is life. My goals for this race were simple. Finish the race, don't hurt myself, stay out of the way. I accomplished them all. I really wasn't sure how racing 2+ hours at a high heart rate would go for me. . . . .since the last ride I had done (before pre-ride) was Monday's ride at Suimaco. But I survived an average heart rate of 181 for 2:20. . . . .so that's a good thing. My laps were even somewhat consistent (45 min, 47 min, 48 min - roughly), so that's good too I guess. I got off my bike a few times to let comp riders pass through. . . . . .but I also rode my ass off a number of times through the single track as well, just to stay out of the way.
I can't believe we've already finished the 3rd race of the season and instead of ramping up my training, I'm finding excuses to do other "more important" things. I think this is what a lot of women contemplating elite must go through. I know we've seen a number of them come and go over the years, bounce back and forth from Sport to Elite and back again. I think honestly there is just SUCH a big gap in the very small woman's elite field, it makes those of us finishing at the bottom wondering why even bother? It's not like I can pull 20 or 30 minutes out of my ass at a race. . . . . .even if I hire a professional coach and start training 8 hours a day. It simply isn't going to happen. Can I gain a few minutes? Sure. But that still leaves me towards the bottom. . . . . .so does it really matter? Why not do other things I enjoy?
These aren't really questions I'm looking for answers on, these are just things that float around in my mind. Obviously if I train 3 or 4 hours a week I'm only going to continue to lose more fitness. . . . . .but going back to the 8-10 hours a week I used to do seems like a lot of work considering I'm only going to gain a couple minutes at best.
So I guess it once again all boils down to fun. So far, I'm still having fun. I'm discouraged because I'm "out of shape". . . . . .but being out there riding my bike is still fun. Wausau left me feeling very impressed with the support and kindness of the other riders out there with me. I can't even tell you how many people encouraged me to keep going, complimented me on my single track skills, told me I was doing great. . . . . .those comp and elite boys were simply nice as well as all the "screaming spectators".
It's a different world out there, racing among people where YOU are now the slowest. It takes a little adjustment, a lot of motivation to keep pushing, and a bit of humility. It's easy to judge when you're not wearing the shoes. I guess right now I'll be happy that I'm even trying to wear the shoes. Who cares if they don't fit? At least I'm trying. :-)
The race was ok. I've decided I'm very disappointed in myself in general. . . . .but such is life. My goals for this race were simple. Finish the race, don't hurt myself, stay out of the way. I accomplished them all. I really wasn't sure how racing 2+ hours at a high heart rate would go for me. . . . .since the last ride I had done (before pre-ride) was Monday's ride at Suimaco. But I survived an average heart rate of 181 for 2:20. . . . .so that's a good thing. My laps were even somewhat consistent (45 min, 47 min, 48 min - roughly), so that's good too I guess. I got off my bike a few times to let comp riders pass through. . . . . .but I also rode my ass off a number of times through the single track as well, just to stay out of the way.
I can't believe we've already finished the 3rd race of the season and instead of ramping up my training, I'm finding excuses to do other "more important" things. I think this is what a lot of women contemplating elite must go through. I know we've seen a number of them come and go over the years, bounce back and forth from Sport to Elite and back again. I think honestly there is just SUCH a big gap in the very small woman's elite field, it makes those of us finishing at the bottom wondering why even bother? It's not like I can pull 20 or 30 minutes out of my ass at a race. . . . . .even if I hire a professional coach and start training 8 hours a day. It simply isn't going to happen. Can I gain a few minutes? Sure. But that still leaves me towards the bottom. . . . . .so does it really matter? Why not do other things I enjoy?
These aren't really questions I'm looking for answers on, these are just things that float around in my mind. Obviously if I train 3 or 4 hours a week I'm only going to continue to lose more fitness. . . . . .but going back to the 8-10 hours a week I used to do seems like a lot of work considering I'm only going to gain a couple minutes at best.
So I guess it once again all boils down to fun. So far, I'm still having fun. I'm discouraged because I'm "out of shape". . . . . .but being out there riding my bike is still fun. Wausau left me feeling very impressed with the support and kindness of the other riders out there with me. I can't even tell you how many people encouraged me to keep going, complimented me on my single track skills, told me I was doing great. . . . . .those comp and elite boys were simply nice as well as all the "screaming spectators".
It's a different world out there, racing among people where YOU are now the slowest. It takes a little adjustment, a lot of motivation to keep pushing, and a bit of humility. It's easy to judge when you're not wearing the shoes. I guess right now I'll be happy that I'm even trying to wear the shoes. Who cares if they don't fit? At least I'm trying. :-)
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