On Saturday Oct 30th, I ran the 5th annual Troy YMCA's Monster Madness 5k. Kevin and our friend Ryder joined us.Actually, Ryder roped me into this one. She hadn't run a 5k in 20 years, and wanted some one to plan to run with.
Hmmm. Great idea. Except that she kicked my butt and left me in the dust! She really did fantastic. The first half of this race is mostly uphill, with a few areas of flat grade. Ryder was smart and trained on the course, which paid off for her.
Kevin also did fantastic! He ran sub 9 minute miles, finishing in just over 27 minutes.
As for me, let's just say that I am motivated to run another 5k before the end of 2010. Because I really can't let my time in this race be my best time of the year. The uphills wreaked havoc on my ankle. On several of the hills, I had to walk, because it was locking up on me. When I heard my time at the 2 mile marker, I had to do some serious adjustments to my goals for the day.
The good news is, that I found a first annual Turkey Trot to take part in on Thanksgiving morning. The course is flat, and the flyer welcomes walkers, so I think it won't be super competitive.
Last night I drove over to Bethlehem after work and ran the course. I had the map in my pocket and had to stop twice to be sure I was going in the right direction. I truly have minimal sense of direction and was starting to convince my self I was going the wrong way, when another runner came by, saw the map, and assured me I was heading the right way.
Even after all of that, I took 1:20 minutes off of my time from Saturdays 5k! I'm feeling better already. It's amazing what a flat course can do for me.
In other news, I've been working diligently to organize a half marathon in my home town. I've been asked to present my ideas at the Town meeting next week, and once I have approval to go ahead with the plans, I'll give more details! For now, wish me luck.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Monday, October 18, 2010
Renewed Focus on Running
Since I broke my foot last March, my running has suffered. I've been hesitant to push too hard. I've allowed the slightest twinge of pain to be reason to stop and evaluate the situation. In short, I have lost my mojo.
Well, mojo or not, I'm being prodded to get my butt in gear. First, my closest friend in life has asked me to do a 5k with her. She hasn't done one in about 20 years, but she wants to do one on October 30. Of course, I said yes! Kevin is going to run it with us also. Let me clarify that: Kevin will be at the starting line with us. He will be eating his third banana by the time we cross the finish line.
Last week, my high school friend that does tri's, Andrea, Face Booked me and asked if I'd be interested in training for a marathon with her. At first I said yes, but upon further thought, I've decided to train for a Half Marathon instead. This has sort of taken on a life of it's own, since a few Tamarac alumni and I have discussed the possibility of organizing a 1/2 Mary as a fund raiser for a former teacher of ours, who is battling Myeloma Cancer.
I completed week one of the training program for the 1/2 marathon, this past Saturday. Week 2 is a repeat of the first week.
Sun- rest/ or bike
Monday- 30 minute run
Tues- bike
Weds- 30 minute pool jogging (to prevent injury)
Thurs- 30 min run
Fri- rest
Sat- 60 minute run.
That's not so hard. This seems like an obtainable goal.
Well, mojo or not, I'm being prodded to get my butt in gear. First, my closest friend in life has asked me to do a 5k with her. She hasn't done one in about 20 years, but she wants to do one on October 30. Of course, I said yes! Kevin is going to run it with us also. Let me clarify that: Kevin will be at the starting line with us. He will be eating his third banana by the time we cross the finish line.
Last week, my high school friend that does tri's, Andrea, Face Booked me and asked if I'd be interested in training for a marathon with her. At first I said yes, but upon further thought, I've decided to train for a Half Marathon instead. This has sort of taken on a life of it's own, since a few Tamarac alumni and I have discussed the possibility of organizing a 1/2 Mary as a fund raiser for a former teacher of ours, who is battling Myeloma Cancer.
I completed week one of the training program for the 1/2 marathon, this past Saturday. Week 2 is a repeat of the first week.
Sun- rest/ or bike
Monday- 30 minute run
Tues- bike
Weds- 30 minute pool jogging (to prevent injury)
Thurs- 30 min run
Fri- rest
Sat- 60 minute run.
That's not so hard. This seems like an obtainable goal.
Monday, September 27, 2010
A Combination of Things I love
My friend Julie shared this link with me on Face Book, and it amazed me so much that I decided to share it with all of you.
This video combines several things near and dear to my heart. Children, dogs, the ocean, and an incredible story of some one with a Traumatic Brain Injury doing something he clearly loves.
Enjoy this video
This video combines several things near and dear to my heart. Children, dogs, the ocean, and an incredible story of some one with a Traumatic Brain Injury doing something he clearly loves.
Enjoy this video
Sunday, September 19, 2010
The Winds of Change Aren't So Strong After All
Well, I thought the winds of change were blowing in my life, and I was hopeful.
But, it turned out to be more of a slight summer breeze, rather than the major change in weather pattern that I was hoping for.
I have learned a great deal in the past couple of weeks. About myself, my husband, and life in general.
I did meet with the man from the company I wrote a letter to, and I walked away believing it was a great meeting. We seemed to have similar visions for where things could go in this venture. He said that he had to meet with his accountant and put together some numbers. He said that he'd get back to me soon with the next steps in the process. I walked away from the meeting energized and excited.
I came home and shared the news with Kevin. As excited and enthusiastic as I was, he was equally anxious and fearful. There were too many unknowns for him, and he couldn't get comfortable with the idea of believing it will all be okay. As we were talking all of this out over a few days, I also had a job offer from my former employer.
Herein lied my dilemma: The company I used to work for wanted an acceptance or denial of the position by this past Weds. I hadn't heard from the other company by Wednesday night.
And, I was faced with some difficult decisions at the last minute. Do I accept the sure thing, or take the chance?
Continue to listen to my heart, or play it safe?
Do I chose My goals and dreams at the expense of my husbands comfort level?
Ultimately, I chose to accept the job offer from my previous employer. It is a job I know and like. I'm good at it. In today's economy, I was lucky to have three agencies to choose from. So, I chose the one I am most comfortable with.
The dust is still settling from the decision I've made and the events leading up to it. I'm not sure yet what the long term results will be from my decisions. I do know that I'll still pursue getting my USAT Tri Coaching certification. In the spring, I may look to start up another running club for girls, although I don't think it will be through Girls Inc. again.
And the Beat Goes On...
But, it turned out to be more of a slight summer breeze, rather than the major change in weather pattern that I was hoping for.
I have learned a great deal in the past couple of weeks. About myself, my husband, and life in general.
I did meet with the man from the company I wrote a letter to, and I walked away believing it was a great meeting. We seemed to have similar visions for where things could go in this venture. He said that he had to meet with his accountant and put together some numbers. He said that he'd get back to me soon with the next steps in the process. I walked away from the meeting energized and excited.
I came home and shared the news with Kevin. As excited and enthusiastic as I was, he was equally anxious and fearful. There were too many unknowns for him, and he couldn't get comfortable with the idea of believing it will all be okay. As we were talking all of this out over a few days, I also had a job offer from my former employer.
Herein lied my dilemma: The company I used to work for wanted an acceptance or denial of the position by this past Weds. I hadn't heard from the other company by Wednesday night.
And, I was faced with some difficult decisions at the last minute. Do I accept the sure thing, or take the chance?
Continue to listen to my heart, or play it safe?
Do I chose My goals and dreams at the expense of my husbands comfort level?
Ultimately, I chose to accept the job offer from my previous employer. It is a job I know and like. I'm good at it. In today's economy, I was lucky to have three agencies to choose from. So, I chose the one I am most comfortable with.
The dust is still settling from the decision I've made and the events leading up to it. I'm not sure yet what the long term results will be from my decisions. I do know that I'll still pursue getting my USAT Tri Coaching certification. In the spring, I may look to start up another running club for girls, although I don't think it will be through Girls Inc. again.
And the Beat Goes On...
Saturday, September 11, 2010
2nd Annual DACC Tri Report
Well, I'm not really going to give a report. I did terribly. It was the Worst race I've ever had. I've been in a bad mood all day because of it- beating myself up; thinking I shouldn't have even bothered to go.
And then, I got a big slice of humble pie, courtesy of this man.
I woke up this morning, and I felt sick. My husband and kids didn't come to cheer me on. My leg and foot went numb during the bike ride (and stayed that way for most of the run), and I was ridiculously slow in every leg of the race. But, I am healthy enough to be out there. My injuries and illnesses are not life threatening, and even though I woke up sick and injured, I chose to go to the race.
So, I'm working on changing the tapes that have been running in my head all day. I'm working to reframe the experience into something positive. And, I'm working on figuring out how to bounce back to race times that I can be happier with.
Then, I thought of my baby dragonfly. Early in the race, I looked down at my handle bars, and noticed a baby dragonfly hanging out for the ride. He hung on for the entire 10 miles. Some one said, "Hey- they're good luck!" and now I realize, I finished a race under less than ideal physical conditions. I didn't drown, fall off my bike or twist my ankle on the run. Maybe he did bring me good luck. Maybe that was the best I could hope for today.
And then, I got a big slice of humble pie, courtesy of this man.
I woke up this morning, and I felt sick. My husband and kids didn't come to cheer me on. My leg and foot went numb during the bike ride (and stayed that way for most of the run), and I was ridiculously slow in every leg of the race. But, I am healthy enough to be out there. My injuries and illnesses are not life threatening, and even though I woke up sick and injured, I chose to go to the race.
So, I'm working on changing the tapes that have been running in my head all day. I'm working to reframe the experience into something positive. And, I'm working on figuring out how to bounce back to race times that I can be happier with.
Then, I thought of my baby dragonfly. Early in the race, I looked down at my handle bars, and noticed a baby dragonfly hanging out for the ride. He hung on for the entire 10 miles. Some one said, "Hey- they're good luck!" and now I realize, I finished a race under less than ideal physical conditions. I didn't drown, fall off my bike or twist my ankle on the run. Maybe he did bring me good luck. Maybe that was the best I could hope for today.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Saturday's race
This Saturday is the second annual DACC Tri in Duanesburg. This is the race I did last fall, and the water was so cold, the race organizers would only say "Last week the water temp was about 55".
I hope it's warmer this year.
I will also note, that my training has been spotty and pathetic. So, although I'll post a race report, please do not expect any thing spectacular.
The good news is, the distances are completely manageable, so I should have fun!
I hope it's warmer this year.
I will also note, that my training has been spotty and pathetic. So, although I'll post a race report, please do not expect any thing spectacular.
The good news is, the distances are completely manageable, so I should have fun!
Monday, September 6, 2010
The Winds of Change
Last night I had a dream that I was facing a tornado. The funnel cloud was completely black and filled most of the sky. As I watched it come closer, there was an ominous feeling in the air. I stood in the window and watched it coming right toward me. My mom was there. So were Mack, Jack, and our Dog. Kevin and Shayna were not there, but intuitively, I knew they were safe.
In this dream, I was starting to panic. How will I keep my babies safe? What will we do if the tornado hits? Every thing will change, and life as we know it will never be the same.
And then my Mom took my arm and said, "take care of right now. It's scary, but every thing will be okay." And, I knew she was right.
Well, it doesn't take a dream expert to figure this one out. I've been facing some big changes in my life, and I'll fill you in.
First; work. And, this is a big one. As many of you know, I came to my current job over two years ago. I was recruited by the company to start the department up. Until recently, I loved my job. I felt that the company was working hard to become clinically sound, and to truly put people first in all decisions. I felt that upper management was working to shift the perspective of the company, and I was happy to be part of the shift. I loved going to work. I loved the team that I was working with. Then, sometime this spring, we got a new regional manager. He replaced our office manager with one of his golf buddies. They made it very clear that they see no value in my job- because it doesn't make enough of a profit for the company. They said it loudly, and in front of the entire office. The RM said, he'd like to eliminate the position in every office across the state. Well, that was the gust of wind, that set the stage for the impending Tornado.
Things progressed in a downward spiral from that day on. Finally, 3 weeks ago, I realized that the office I'm in, is the most unhealthy work environment I have ever been in. So, I resigned. I wanted to walk out immediately, but forced myself to be responsible, and gave a notice.
Ahh. The tornado.
I have no job lined up. I have three offers from other area agencies, to do the same job that I am doing now.But here's the truth: I don't know that I want to do it any more. And, in my career, if your heart isn't in it, then you shouldn't be doing it.
Some one asked me what my fantasy job is. It took me about a day to realize where my heart is truly at at this point in my life. The problem is, the career I want doesn't exist. At least not in this area.
So, I did some research, to determine if this area would support the career I want. And, I think it does. I drafted a letter to a local business owner, pitching my idea. He responded this week. He's been thinking along the same lines as me, and he wants to meet with me to see about joining his team!
I would be remiss if I didn't take the time to give a huge thanks to my friend/cousin Kathy, for being willing to read the letter and brainstorm with me about how to approach this idea. So, Thanks Kath! I also want to thank Ryder for taking the time to listen to me, and for walking with my while I started to sort the whole mess out in my head. And Shayna, for being so incredibly supportive of my dream. Of course, Kevin for being willing to listen to me complain about my current situation, before I got up the courage to resign. Finally, to Mary. She asked me what my dream job would be, and didn't laugh when I told her. Since then, she has sent me countless links and sources of information to help me out.
Seperate from that, I have decided to pursue getting my level one coaching certificate from USAT for Triathlon. This will be an extended process, as all the classes are full for the year. 2011 classes have not yet been posted.But, I'm doing some of the preliminary stuff to get going.
I should tell you that the dream ended with the tornado turning at the last minute, and every thing was okay. Different, from the experience; but okay.
In this dream, I was starting to panic. How will I keep my babies safe? What will we do if the tornado hits? Every thing will change, and life as we know it will never be the same.
And then my Mom took my arm and said, "take care of right now. It's scary, but every thing will be okay." And, I knew she was right.
Well, it doesn't take a dream expert to figure this one out. I've been facing some big changes in my life, and I'll fill you in.
First; work. And, this is a big one. As many of you know, I came to my current job over two years ago. I was recruited by the company to start the department up. Until recently, I loved my job. I felt that the company was working hard to become clinically sound, and to truly put people first in all decisions. I felt that upper management was working to shift the perspective of the company, and I was happy to be part of the shift. I loved going to work. I loved the team that I was working with. Then, sometime this spring, we got a new regional manager. He replaced our office manager with one of his golf buddies. They made it very clear that they see no value in my job- because it doesn't make enough of a profit for the company. They said it loudly, and in front of the entire office. The RM said, he'd like to eliminate the position in every office across the state. Well, that was the gust of wind, that set the stage for the impending Tornado.
Things progressed in a downward spiral from that day on. Finally, 3 weeks ago, I realized that the office I'm in, is the most unhealthy work environment I have ever been in. So, I resigned. I wanted to walk out immediately, but forced myself to be responsible, and gave a notice.
Ahh. The tornado.
I have no job lined up. I have three offers from other area agencies, to do the same job that I am doing now.But here's the truth: I don't know that I want to do it any more. And, in my career, if your heart isn't in it, then you shouldn't be doing it.
Some one asked me what my fantasy job is. It took me about a day to realize where my heart is truly at at this point in my life. The problem is, the career I want doesn't exist. At least not in this area.
So, I did some research, to determine if this area would support the career I want. And, I think it does. I drafted a letter to a local business owner, pitching my idea. He responded this week. He's been thinking along the same lines as me, and he wants to meet with me to see about joining his team!
I would be remiss if I didn't take the time to give a huge thanks to my friend/cousin Kathy, for being willing to read the letter and brainstorm with me about how to approach this idea. So, Thanks Kath! I also want to thank Ryder for taking the time to listen to me, and for walking with my while I started to sort the whole mess out in my head. And Shayna, for being so incredibly supportive of my dream. Of course, Kevin for being willing to listen to me complain about my current situation, before I got up the courage to resign. Finally, to Mary. She asked me what my dream job would be, and didn't laugh when I told her. Since then, she has sent me countless links and sources of information to help me out.
Seperate from that, I have decided to pursue getting my level one coaching certificate from USAT for Triathlon. This will be an extended process, as all the classes are full for the year. 2011 classes have not yet been posted.But, I'm doing some of the preliminary stuff to get going.
I should tell you that the dream ended with the tornado turning at the last minute, and every thing was okay. Different, from the experience; but okay.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Northern Columbia Triathlon
First, a disclaimer: The entry for my parent 50th anniversary is coming. I've had some challenges with the photos.
Race report:
August 8th was the 6th annual Northern Columbia Tri. It was the second year in a row that I competed. I knew that I was grossly unprepared for the run leg, but the race is for such a great cause, I couldn't resist entering. All proceeds from this race go to research for a cure for Cystic Fibrosis. Every one who works on this event volunteers 100% of their time.
I got to the lake at about 7:30, with a race start time of 8AM. I was in the first wave of swimmers- so all men and women from 35 to 44. That's a huge group of fast swimmers.The lake is pretty, and there aren't a lot of weeds until the end. Good news: I didn't get kicked in the head this year, and my time was a whopping 9 seconds faster than in 2009!
I knew what to expect in the transition this year. And I've learned how much a slow transition can affect your overall time. In this race, there is not transition times. Both swim to bike and bike to run transitions are included in the overall bike time.
This year I had a few successes on the bike. First, I took 8 minutes off my bike time from last year! Second, last year there were 3 hills that I had to walk a portion of. This year, I didn't walk any portion of the bike leg. I climbed all three hills. The only problem I had on the bike was that on the first major hill, my foot came out of my pedal as I was switching gears (about a 100 yards from the top). It threw me off the bike, and I lost about 3 minutes catching my breath and checking my foot that got twisted in the fall.
The run: YUCK! This is the part of this race that always makes me question my sanity. Most sprint Tri's end with a 3.1 mile run. Not this one! Oh no! That would be much to easy! The NCT finishes with a hilly 4.5 mile run! I knew that I was not prepared to run this whole race. I knew I'd need to take a few walk breaks. Really, the first 3 miles of this run are uphill. Part of it is a 7% grade. Because of my foot injuries from March, I have done minimal hill work in training. So, I told myself I'd keep this race fun, and if the run stopped being fun, I' walk.
Ummm- throwing up during a run definitely qualifies as not fun. Throwing up twice is even worse. So, I walked about 1.5 miles of the 4.5 mile run. That's less than half, but more than I wanted to walk. The other disappointing piece of this run, is that I'm pretty sure it's longer than the race lists it at. Both "Mapmyrun" and mapquest show it as 4.8 miles. Trust me, that extra .3 mile makes a significant difference after a hilly 20 mile bike ride. Overall, my run was almost 3 minutes slower than last year.
Overall- I improved my time by 5 minutes! Not bad for still having foot pain that is flaring up pretty regularly.
And today, every bone, muscle, tendon and piece of cartilage from my hips down is aching and demanding ibuprofen! I'd say it qualifies as a great race.
Next up: The 2nd Annual DACC Sprint on September 11th. As an added bonus, my 14 year old niece, Emma has voiced a desire to do the race with me! I'm excited to help her train.
Stay tuned for our adventures.
Race report:
August 8th was the 6th annual Northern Columbia Tri. It was the second year in a row that I competed. I knew that I was grossly unprepared for the run leg, but the race is for such a great cause, I couldn't resist entering. All proceeds from this race go to research for a cure for Cystic Fibrosis. Every one who works on this event volunteers 100% of their time.
I got to the lake at about 7:30, with a race start time of 8AM. I was in the first wave of swimmers- so all men and women from 35 to 44. That's a huge group of fast swimmers.The lake is pretty, and there aren't a lot of weeds until the end. Good news: I didn't get kicked in the head this year, and my time was a whopping 9 seconds faster than in 2009!
I knew what to expect in the transition this year. And I've learned how much a slow transition can affect your overall time. In this race, there is not transition times. Both swim to bike and bike to run transitions are included in the overall bike time.
This year I had a few successes on the bike. First, I took 8 minutes off my bike time from last year! Second, last year there were 3 hills that I had to walk a portion of. This year, I didn't walk any portion of the bike leg. I climbed all three hills. The only problem I had on the bike was that on the first major hill, my foot came out of my pedal as I was switching gears (about a 100 yards from the top). It threw me off the bike, and I lost about 3 minutes catching my breath and checking my foot that got twisted in the fall.
The run: YUCK! This is the part of this race that always makes me question my sanity. Most sprint Tri's end with a 3.1 mile run. Not this one! Oh no! That would be much to easy! The NCT finishes with a hilly 4.5 mile run! I knew that I was not prepared to run this whole race. I knew I'd need to take a few walk breaks. Really, the first 3 miles of this run are uphill. Part of it is a 7% grade. Because of my foot injuries from March, I have done minimal hill work in training. So, I told myself I'd keep this race fun, and if the run stopped being fun, I' walk.
Ummm- throwing up during a run definitely qualifies as not fun. Throwing up twice is even worse. So, I walked about 1.5 miles of the 4.5 mile run. That's less than half, but more than I wanted to walk. The other disappointing piece of this run, is that I'm pretty sure it's longer than the race lists it at. Both "Mapmyrun" and mapquest show it as 4.8 miles. Trust me, that extra .3 mile makes a significant difference after a hilly 20 mile bike ride. Overall, my run was almost 3 minutes slower than last year.
Overall- I improved my time by 5 minutes! Not bad for still having foot pain that is flaring up pretty regularly.
And today, every bone, muscle, tendon and piece of cartilage from my hips down is aching and demanding ibuprofen! I'd say it qualifies as a great race.
Next up: The 2nd Annual DACC Sprint on September 11th. As an added bonus, my 14 year old niece, Emma has voiced a desire to do the race with me! I'm excited to help her train.
Stay tuned for our adventures.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
comparison of rides
My brother in law is in town for a week. He brought his bike with him. Kevin, Paul and I took a great ride this morning. He took some great photos, so I'll let him give you a ride report. But, I used the ride as a training session for the tri. Here is the ride we did today:
In contrast, here is the bike course for the Columbia Tri!
I think I'll be okay.
In contrast, here is the bike course for the Columbia Tri!
I think I'll be okay.
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