Hmmm. Where to start.
Our awesome, free spirit, intense Mack is now 8! We celebrated her birthday with a party at the local rock climbing wall. It was a huge hit with all of the kids. I loved that we had 2 hours to climb the walls, and the two employees were fantastic with the kids. Sorry, no pictures because our camera is MIA.
We've spent the month decorating, singing Christmas carols, baking cookies and visiting with family and friends. Shayna is home for winter break, and it's always wonderful to have her here. She got her first car this month too! Thanks to a friend, she now has a 97 Nissan Sentra, and seems very happy with it.
And, now Christmas is a mere 2 days away. The shopping is done. The stockings are hung by the stairs. Requests have been made to Santa. Although, neither Mack or Jack will go anywhere near the mall Santa's, so we rely on letters to him. Jack has been carrying the "Back to Basics" toy catalog around for a month, and is adamant that he wants the ride on excavator- he shows anyone who will look at the picture.
He has also asked for, "More friends. new friends. and better friends. Oh yeah, that and more toys!"
Mack's list consists of batteries and pistachio nuts.
My Christmas wish is for health and happiness for those I love.
Oh yeah- that and a bunch of Tri gear!
-Peace.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Friday, November 26, 2010
Bethlehem 1st Annual Turkey Trot
Yesterday was Thanksgiving,and I planned to start my day off by running the 1st Annual Bethlehem Turkey Trot. The goal was to take at least 4 minutes off the time of may last race, since I was really sucking wind that day.
Well, I didn't meet my goal. In fact, I added 4 minutes to my last race time. But, I don't care. No, really, I'm happy to have been slower than I was a month ago. Now, I know all you runners are scratching your heads, trying to figure out what the heck has gotten into me.
I can answer that in one word...Mackenzie! That's right. Mack ran the race with me! My seven year old finished her first ever 5k! With no official training. When I woke up yesterday morning, she said she wanted to go with me to the race. I explained to her how far the run would be, and she decided to give it a try!
So, off we went, to register and get our numbers!
She worked really hard to do her best. Here she is in the 3rd mile!
She finished strong, and was happy to see Kevin, Shayna and Jack there to cheer her on! Here we are in our post race excitement.
It was a great morning, an I'm so proud of her for running the race with me.She says she wants to do another one!I'm trying to keep my glee in check, but it's exciting to think she might be my future running partner!
Well, I didn't meet my goal. In fact, I added 4 minutes to my last race time. But, I don't care. No, really, I'm happy to have been slower than I was a month ago. Now, I know all you runners are scratching your heads, trying to figure out what the heck has gotten into me.
I can answer that in one word...Mackenzie! That's right. Mack ran the race with me! My seven year old finished her first ever 5k! With no official training. When I woke up yesterday morning, she said she wanted to go with me to the race. I explained to her how far the run would be, and she decided to give it a try!
So, off we went, to register and get our numbers!
She worked really hard to do her best. Here she is in the 3rd mile!
She finished strong, and was happy to see Kevin, Shayna and Jack there to cheer her on! Here we are in our post race excitement.
It was a great morning, an I'm so proud of her for running the race with me.She says she wants to do another one!I'm trying to keep my glee in check, but it's exciting to think she might be my future running partner!
Friday, November 19, 2010
7 Days without Soda
I am a Diet Coke Fiend. I have been since I was 18. Over the years, it has become almost exclusively, the only thing I drink. I accept no substitutes. If there is no soda in the house when I wake up in the morning, I run to the local Mobile to get some before Kevin leaves for the day.
Sure, I have water after a workout. And, occasionally I have a glass of wine. Rarely do I touch milk. And, I never drink juice. So, probably 98% of all fluid intake is Diet Coke. Over the years, I've tried to cut back every once in a while, but it never works for longer than a few weeks. At most.
Well, last Saturday, I decided that I'm done with Diet Coke. I bought a 20 ounce bottle around lunch time, and by the end of the day, still had about 8 ounces left. I haven't had any soda since.
Has it been hard? Not too bad. Only in the middle of the night when I wake up thirsty. Only during the work day when I hear the vending machine calling my name from the other end of the building. If the office is quiet, I am sure that I can hear those cans spinning around in their slots, waiting for me to come and liberate them from their prison. And it's only a little hard when I'm standing in line at the store, and the person behind me puts a 2 liter on the counter. I thought briefly of offering her $5 for her bottle.
But honestly, by today, it was okay. I only thought of DC 3 or 4 times. But, once I'm home from work, I'm safe. There's no soda here, and I don't want to go out to get any. So, I've made it a whole week!
Will I make it longer? I think so. I don't like to fail at things. And, I did find a delicious tea that has been saving my butt every afternoon.
When I think about getting a soda, I remember what a friend in recovery said to me, "You don't have to commit to the rest of your life. You just have to decide for today that you won't drink."
It's very much like a strategy I use for biking: I don't have to promise to ride up every hill, I only have to commit to the one directly in front of me at the moment.
How bout you? Have you tackled any personal hills lately?
Sure, I have water after a workout. And, occasionally I have a glass of wine. Rarely do I touch milk. And, I never drink juice. So, probably 98% of all fluid intake is Diet Coke. Over the years, I've tried to cut back every once in a while, but it never works for longer than a few weeks. At most.
Well, last Saturday, I decided that I'm done with Diet Coke. I bought a 20 ounce bottle around lunch time, and by the end of the day, still had about 8 ounces left. I haven't had any soda since.
Has it been hard? Not too bad. Only in the middle of the night when I wake up thirsty. Only during the work day when I hear the vending machine calling my name from the other end of the building. If the office is quiet, I am sure that I can hear those cans spinning around in their slots, waiting for me to come and liberate them from their prison. And it's only a little hard when I'm standing in line at the store, and the person behind me puts a 2 liter on the counter. I thought briefly of offering her $5 for her bottle.
But honestly, by today, it was okay. I only thought of DC 3 or 4 times. But, once I'm home from work, I'm safe. There's no soda here, and I don't want to go out to get any. So, I've made it a whole week!
Will I make it longer? I think so. I don't like to fail at things. And, I did find a delicious tea that has been saving my butt every afternoon.
When I think about getting a soda, I remember what a friend in recovery said to me, "You don't have to commit to the rest of your life. You just have to decide for today that you won't drink."
It's very much like a strategy I use for biking: I don't have to promise to ride up every hill, I only have to commit to the one directly in front of me at the moment.
How bout you? Have you tackled any personal hills lately?
Friday, November 12, 2010
The Dragonfly Adventure
Once again, the stars align and things in my life fall into place.
In early October, a high school friend and fellow triathlete, asked me if I have any interest in training for a marathon with her. My immediate response was, "well, YEAH!" I looked at the website of the race she is planning to run, an realized that it seems to be a for profit race. Now, that's fine for some, but if I'm going to enter a race, I want my money to go toward making the world a better place.
At the same time, these conversations were occurring, I have been following this blog. Ed Peck is a former teacher of mine, who had a significant impact on my life. Since hearing of his battle with Multiple Myeloma Cancer, I have been feeling the need to do something related to this disease in Ed's honor.
And, the stars align.
My friend and I talked about running the marathon in Ed's honor, and using it as a fund raiser. But, guess what? That's sort of frowned upon, if the race isn't alreay identified as a fund raiser for the cause.
That left me with one option: Create a half marathon in Ed's honor. I put the idea out on facebook, and within an hour, had several Tamarac Alumni voicing support and enthusiasm for the idea! I then contacted the Pecks for their approval of the idea, and they gave me their blessings to pursue the idea!
The next step was to develop an avenue to organize the event through. So, The Dragonfly Adventure was established.
So much work has gone into organizing this event, it's incredible.
The half marathon has evolved into a half marathon, a 10k and a community walk! Ed has identified the Capital District Cancer Resource Foundation as the organization that will receive all proceeds from the day. We met with the Brunswick Town Board last night, and were given preliminary approval to have the race on town roads.The Peck's are choosing a name for the race, and Tamarac teachers and staff have been told of the events.
Stay tuned for more information as this process unfolds.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Troy YMCA 5k report
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.
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.
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.
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