WE have a lot of power to do good things. OTri-Adventures will share perceptions from the eyes of an Occupational Therapist Tri-athlete. OT takes human performance to the next level. OT and Tri promote healthy lifestyles through balance of mindful participation in meaningful activity. Hopefully others will feel motivated to explore occupations, unleash potential, increase appreciation and learn about OT. Keep your goggles nearby, hold onto your handle bars and strap on your fuel belt folks...
Baby it's cold outside. That just means it's a good time of the year to read, so why not catch up on some of those books that everyone 'should read'. There are lists of books and lots of opinions...but this one...this one I'm about to share with you should be read...and that's just my opinion. Someone told me to read it and the title almost scared me away. Zen and The Art of Motorcycle Maintenance is about so much more than just motorcycles and it is amazingly related to several aspects of life. I've also learned there is so much more to motorcycles than I previously thought. The book makes you challenge your thoughts. The book makes you aware. The book makes you understand. The book is a gift...at least that's what I think.
Classic verses romantic understanding is what the message is about so far. Much more to go...but this concept is how far I've made it.
"A classical understanding sees the world primarily as underlying form itself. A romantic understanding sees is primarily in terms of immediate appearance."
"The classic mode, proceeds by reason and by laws-which are themselves underlying forms of thought and behavior."
"The classic style is straightforward, unadorned, unemotional, economical and carefully proportioned. Its purpose is not to inspire the unknown known. It is not an esthetically free and natural style. It is esthetically restrained. Everything is under control."
"The romantic mode is primarily inspirational, imaginative, creative, intuitive. Feelings rather than facts predominate. It proceeds by feeling, intuition and esthetic conscience."
"Persons tend to think and feel exclusively in one mode or the other and in doing so tend to misunderstand and underestimate what the other mode is all about."
I could go on quoting the book...but that would make reading it yourself not much fun. So I'm going to just throw an idea out. The idea of challenging oneself to consciously think about everything as both classic and romantic.
Look at something basic as the Ohio River Roebling Bridge below. Imagine all of the man made material, budgeting, precise planning and measurements that made the structure be....but feel the beauty of splashing through those puddles and running alongside a magnificent piece of art created by humans over a body of water that has provided life to the Ohio River Valley.
Now I'll go on and point out the aspects of life that romantic verses classic schools of thought may impact...
Government
Sports
Career
Talents
Financial
Relationships
Recreation
Food/nutrition
Homes
Physical health
Mental health
Since this is a triathlon blog, just think about the sport overall. The structured workouts, heart rate monitoring, speed drills, tire pumping, chain cleaning, nutrition planning, route mapping. swim form precision and open water sighting. On the other hand think of the feel of the warm air, wind in the face, splashing of the water and being part of the blue skies, open roads and wooded trails.
Maybe I want to be the best I can be and I believe I can...I visualize it...I believe it...but it would not be successful without the underlying training. In a way...it is about bringing forth an awareness, acceptance and appreciation of classic and romantic understanding:)
Music...notes, beats, rhythms and feelings...another perfect example of how both classical and romantic understandings are important. There would be no Mozart without thought of numbers and attention to feelings.
There would be no realistic ideas without imagination and there would be no structured concepts without passion. Of course the discussion could go on and on...round and round…
Gonna ride around in style...gonna drive everybody wild. That's what Johnny Cash once said...and I did listen to his crazy stories all the way from when I left KY till I made it to the Atlantic coast. On the way south, I drove past lots of places that sparked my curiosity. Lake Junaluska hot springs, Biltmore Park, KY Music Hall of Fame and KY Fried Chicken Museum. Apparently Ashville, NC has some of the most beautiful country side road biking...
While driving, I asked myself, why haven't I explored more of this beautiful land? No answer. So, before October is over I want to visit all of the KY Bourbon Distilleries and hit up some of the horse farms. By the end of November I want to explore hidden paths wherever I end up, hike in the Smokies and go line dancing crazy in Nashville, TN. Lots of ideas start floating around when in the car for 12 hours alone.
So, back to the tri-part of this adventure...
This past weekend, marked the end of 2011 triathlon season. My parents joined me for the weekend, which was much appreciated. We followed eachother to the beach and back. As I did my warms ups, checked in and organized my gear, my parents were able to hang out on the beach all day long. They rented a beach wheelchair, which was awesome and my mom was able to touch the ocean water for the first time in many many years. I smiled as I walked out on the balcony, looked down to the ocean and saw my parents having fun in the sun. It reminded me of the last time our family had a beach vacation all together which was over 15 years ago. I was happy and I joined them for a little bit before I had to go back to the Marina Inn for the athletes briefing.
After the athletes briefing, I figured I should gather some supplies for a pre-race dinner. Many of the restaurants in the area offered up fast food, fried food, sushi, pancakes, steak, pizza.... I wanted to play it safe, so I went to the market for a piece of fresh salmon, a sweet potato and salad. The seafood man was very friendly. He shared with me that he recently came back from Florida. He went down to visit his sick brother who passed a few days after their visit. He mentioned that he cried while watching Monday night football last week because last time he was watching Monday night football he was with his brother. He mentioned that he was very grateful to be able to spend those last few days with his brother, enjoying eachothers company, doing what they liked to do. We actually had a meaningful conversation with the buffet of iced seafood between us. He thought I was crazy for wanting to cook salmon in the microwave...but with fat free Italian dressing, plastic wrap cover, 5 min on high and 5 min sit...we get a perfectly cooked piece. I organized everything after dinner and was sound asleep by 10pm.
I woke up at 5am, took care of morning business and was in transition area with Dad by 6am. Prior to race day, my dilemmas included: race wheels vs no race wheels and wet suit vs no wet suit. Final decision was to keep the double 808 Zipps on and leave the wet suit behind in the tri bag. My swim wave wasn't scheduled to start until 7:49, so I had plenty of time left to wonder around, stretch, hydrate. Dad and I walked down to the swim start and waited for the gun. I realized then, that I was the only female and one of the few athletes overall not to be wearing a wet suit...oh well.
My wave is called to enter, I jump in. It was an in the water start...so we had a few minutes to tread. First thoughts were brrrr and the water is the same color as the Steelers! Well...mostly black with just a hint of gold near the top. Oh! And it smelled like gasoline! So, we swam. We swam against tide and then turned around to swim back to down for total of 1.2 miles. I sure was happy to get out of that water. Made me appreciate the good ole' Ohio River. Moving on to the bike. It was a windy ride on the highway. Two loops of the course to equal 56 miles. Double 808 race wheels were difficult to control in the cross winds...which means more upper body tension and increased use of energy. Most of the time the course had either head wind or tale wind though. So after getting beat up by the wind, it was time to run! I was actually excited to get off my bike and have my feet on the ground. The run course consisted of 3 loops to total the 13.1 miles. During the middle/end of bike and in T2, I was feeling frustrated due to my swim/bike times, the wind and lack of sweat (meaning increased bathroom usage). I was getting out of 'the zone' because things weren't going my way. Fortunately, I was able to snap out of it and remember how awesome it was that I was able to be there doing this race. I fluctuated between frustration, worry and appreciation during the first 4 mile loop and then thoughts improved. I took in the aide station fluids and my Perpetuem (which treats me better and provides more stability than gels). I started to sweat and smile once again and finished out strong to meet my parents at the finish line. My overall time was 5:38 + a 4 min penalty = 5:42. Yes...I also got my first penalty...which I of course disagree with. The distance of 3 bike lengths is so subjective. I was thinking of a different time, but it doesn't matter...the situation worked out to my advantage and placed Spain on the Tri-Adventure map for 2012.
We stayed at the Sands Resort, which was about a 5 minute drive to the host hotel/race site. The host hotel was the Marina Inn at Grande Dunes, located next to the Atlantic Inter Coastal Waterway. Athlete check in, meeting, start, finish and transition areas were all located on Grande Dunes property. If I'm going to the beach, I want to stay on the beach of course, so we stayed at Sands. It ended up being a good choice. Post race recovery involved watching a beach volleyball tournament that was at the resort. Sands was also a pet friendly resort, which means lots of cute puppies running around. On top of all that...Sands Resort has an entire conference room in honor of the US Military. The room is titled the 'Hall of Heros' and includes military memorabilia from current and past wars, the traveling Vietnam Wall and several other tributes. The resort also offers discounts to active service members and Veterans. How ironic the hotel I pick to stay at ends up having this entire hall dedicated to those who have served our country. Props to Sands Resort for their appreciation, dedication and service of giving back.
Post race, we had a good seafood dinner, a walk under the almost full October moon and the night ended with sitting on the balcony watching the greatest triathletes of the world cross the Kona Ironman finish line. We spent most of Sunday on the beach and near the pool. The adventure continued with my first 911 call. A man went down at poolside and his wife yelled someone call 911. By the time I called and got over to them he was alert. He stayed on the ground until the paramedics arrived, which was about 5 minutes later. He ended up having heart arrhythmia so they went to the hospital. Not the best way to end a vacation, but at least he was alert and breathing. Anything can happen at any moment...so all moments, souls and bodies should be treated as precious. Enjoy the October sky this month wherever you may be and always take care,
According to Mr Webster, pleasure is a sensual gratification, a frivolous amusement, a source of delight of joy...a super simple definition for such a subjective, desired, strong and influential experience. The more I think about it...the more complex it becomes in my mind...and the more I want to understand about pleasure. Pleasure has power and intelligent use of pleasure can give us power...power to feel positive and power to impact others. Pleasure is related to positive emotional feelings and positive sensory input. External and internal information exchange between our bodies and our surrounding environment. What kind of sensory stimulation do you prefer? How do specific sights, touches, noises, scents, tastes, movements (or lack there of) impact your feelings, thoughts and actions? Do you avoid sensory input or seek out as much input as you can? Are you deprived of stimulation or are you over-stimulated?
I know this might be a shocker; however I have came to the conclusion that I am indeed a sensory seeker. I came to this conclusion not only because I truly enjoy Ironman distance races; but I also have a need for loud rhythmic and dynamic music, intensely flavored foods, 'straberry:)' scented lotion, messy painting or cooking and beautiful sun sets. Pounding on pavement calms me and makes my thoughts sharp and clear. Flying down a hill on my bike and jumping out of a plane (as I just learned today) exhilarates me, creates a large smile and makes my thoughts risky, confident, dreamy and grateful. Diving in the ocean, taking a warm shower, drinking tea, getting a massage, paddling on a board and stroking through the water 'grounds me' and makes my thoughts flexible and accepting.
down hill with cam attached to speakers...yay for water bungie cords, speaker shelf and cam attachments
This past weekend was an intense and full of emotions. It was one of those go, go, go type of weekends. The nervousness associated with lots of first time experiences occurred this weekend. It was in fact a 'sensational weekend'. Friday involved a bit of dating excitement...trying to include more of that aspect into the adventures. Saturday started out with myself and two colleagues presenting on the topic of sensory strategies for mental health at an occupational therapy association state conference. This topic constantly has me contemplating, not just about the topic alone; however how it's complex relations with EVERYTHING else...much more than able to discuss in a single blog. So, Saturday continued on with an evening bike towards the sun and a run to speedy bpm tunes with Tiesto transitioning from light to dark sky with bright city lights and cars rushing by as I was sweating to the warm air, feeling my rhythmic HR, chewing my mint gum, being cautious of my body position on the uneven sidewalk, smelling the food being cooked at restaurants, smiling, observing positive interactions of families and couples and being grateful for amazingly talented musicians. It was sensational. Next time you swim, bike or run, (or anything) I challenge you to think more about what you see, hear, smell, taste and feel (not just touch...but how your body feels in relation to it's movement in space). Saturday ended by slowing down and celebrating quietly with some friends. Sunday was a wake up, run in the cold, bike in the cold transition to warm, run in the warm, shoot 12 gauge riffles and jump out of a plane kind of day. Oh...and not to leave out an all you can eat pasta dinner at the Olive Garden with friends. I did come to find out that I enjoy the sound, push back and aiming involved with shooting huge riffles. I also came to find out that I REALLY enjoy free falling out of an airplane and floating in the sky while looking down at earth. It was my pleasure and a pleasure that I shall desire again and again in the future. Same 'free' feeling as flying down a hill on a bike or snow skis but 1000000x more intense. I mean our faces are absolutely not able to accomplish this on earth....
terrified, trusting, free, perfect, amazed
reaching for the clouds and creating a new facial expression with my awesome instructor
Sensory preferences, pleasures, ideas, life adventures and tri-adventures are all connected...just like everything and everyone is connected to a point. I know what sensory input I like and want. I know this input provides me with the ability to become more aware, help others, create solutions, live my dreams and believe that anything is possible. It's possible to experience 'out of this world' pleasure through healthy and safe experiences. Anything is possible. A cure for cancer, a world record Ironman time, a 70.3 triathlon PR on October 8th, an end to violence, enough food and water for everyone and unconditional love for each other. Do you think cavemen ever thought humans would be flying? Step out, soak it in, appreciate it and keep on truckin'.
What goes up must come down
The sun, the sky and the sensational flying Menace and Spike
Everyday as I walk down my steps to head out the door I tap a quote written on the wall, "Go Confidently in the Direction of Your Dreams". Many dreams change just as we change and the world around us changes. Some dreams are more consistent...peace, happiness, love...and those dreams have the potential to be lived internally at any given moment no matter whats going on externally. Those dreams should be lived in all moments. Living out those simple dreams can unlock other undiscovered potential and dreams one didn't know even existed. So, as I walked out the door on August 26th, I high-fived my wall and set out confidently in the direction of one of those ideas I had back in April. The 'idea' to do Louisville Ironman in under 12 hours.
Friday: Athlete check-in, dinner and briefing with other Cincinnati peeps.
Saturday: Sleeping in and skipping the swim to avoid chance of catching some virus from the river right before the race. Watching others swim and being happy that I was on a bridge above the water. Riding bike to Race Day Wheels to replace my wheels with Zipps. Organizing gear and special needs bags. Meeting an inspirational hero from TriSoldier Project. Easy spin out ride with TriSoldier and Gabby. Microwavable rice, bailey and lentils mix and dandelion leaf salad with berries for lunch. Trip to the Ironman Village. Meeting and getting a tip from Michellie Jones...'live your dreams':) Walking bike and gear/needs bags to transition area for check in. Being in transition area. Visualizing transitions. Walking back to hotel to meet mom and dad for pre-race dinner at Proof on Main. Salmon, quinoa, avocado and rye oh my. Back to room, compression socks and night splint on. Discussing spectator tips with the parents. Opening pre-race good luck cards. Rhythmic breathing and positive thoughts of appreciation and care as I drift off into sleep.
SUNDAY: Wake up 4:30am. Warm up shower and stretch. Oatmeal, chia seeds, coffee, Rise and Shine Vitamin Water. Final prep of morning gear bag. Trisuit, compression socks, jacket and extra pair of running shoes on. Dad and I walk about 10 min to transition area. Can't get pump to work on the new tires...start to get worried...locate and place last minute items in gear bags...load bike with nutrition. Meanwhile, Gabby figures out a trick to the tire pump situation. Crazy thankful for that win. Dad gets the pumps and we all walk to swim start area. Then we wait. While waiting I make sure to drink lots of a water with a pre-workout mix. Oh, and I also tried a salt tab for the first time. We wait from about 6am till 8:45 until we run over the start line and jump off the pier to begin our day of fun! Together we sit and stretch and laugh and wait. Once we cross the start line and jump in the water we're on our own and free to just go. Free to keep keep moving. Free from distractions. Free to be in the moment. Free to smile under the blue skies.
SWIM: First of all...I was pretty excited to be wearing a PINK Ironman swim cap. Matched my pink goggles and nail polish perfectly. The goggles stayed on as I jumped in the water. The water was warm. I breathed every 3-5 strokes and constantly peaked up before me. Lots of kicking going on in that water. The goal during the swim is survival and navigating through the mass of people without being kicked in an organ or hit on the head. Flutter kick splashes I see coming, it's those breast strokers that really surprise kick me. I managed to not get knocked out though. Luckily sighting straight ahead was easy. Stay between the island and the mainland going upstream. Swim towards the big red roof while going downstream. Going downstream was a lot less congested of people than going upstream was. There was a little choppiness in the main part of the river; however nothing bad. As I turned my head to breath I could see the sun rising behind me. The closer I got to the swim finish, the harder I kicked to get the blood flow back into my lower extremities. I'm sure I swallowed OH River water during the swim. Water was trapped in my right goggle lens so every time I turned my head, I got a little eye rinse which started to sting after a while. It's been almost a week and I'm Aok. There were volunteers helping us pop out of the water.
1:06:23 (about 3 min faster than FLIM, 2010)
T1: 7:01 (about 8 min faster the time spent during T1 at FLIM)
BIKE: I kept the computer on cadence and didn't touch it the entire race. I found my 'feel good' position and was able to keep the legs loose and spinning rather than 'mashing'. Monitored my cadence, HR and replaced fluids at each stop. Dumped water in the aero bottle and PowerBar on the frame. I consumed about 300 cal an hour between PowerBar fluids and bars. I stopped once to chug a V8 out of my special needs bag, but I kept one foot clipped in and stayed on the saddle. Gotta get those veggies. I knew the course pretty well, was straight out happy to be moving along fast on the roads and those thoughts of being limitless were flowing. I felt good spinning into T2 and wanted to check my mph...but refrained.
5:48:45 (19.27mph/about 50 min faster than FLIM)
T2: 7:59 (about 3 min faster than T2 at FLIM)
RUN: I was nervous about the run, considering the longest long run I had was only 15 miles, run workouts were minimal and my right foot was still constantly in some pain. I was also nervous about running the full marathon in my Kinvaras, since I was advised by several people to only wear those for shorter runs. They feel good and they look good...so I figured I'd take the chance and wear them. I also figured that I would be in pain regardless of what shoes I had on. I made the right decision on that. I also couldn't decide if I should wear the compression socks during the run as I did in FL. I made the decision not to wear them. I did have pain in my right foot, but I ran with the pain. The most intense pain was from the blisters on the lateral sides of my baby toes. That's what happens when you run through sprinklers and squeeze wet sponges all over you...wet socks and shoes for 26.2 miles. Not sure how to fix that. Unless I find some good tri-shoes. I took in Perpeptuum, water and PowerBar drink for the first half (about 150 cal/hour). I started to feel a little sick...like some of that might come back up. So I switched to water, ice chips and chicken broth for the sodium. I also had gum. I felt better and had a HoneyStinger shot around mile 22. Crossed the finish line.
4:30:39 (about 14 min faster than FLIM)
OVERALL: 11:40:47 (1 hour 17 min faster than FLIM, 2010)
I was focused on the details...the preparation, the nutrition, hydration, heart felt thoughts, heart rate...all were part of the 'present moment' during different moments. I followed through with the idea I had in April for a sub-12 hour Ironman...which also means that I now get to follow through with the idea of participating in the USAT Long Course National Championships in Myrtle Beach this October. Thanks to Veritas Endurance Coaching (Bob and Cody) for my awesome workouts. Thanks to Mom and Dad Spike for being the best Ironman Support Crew a girl could ask for. I also was able to follow through with the idea to raise funds and awareness for TriSoldier Project...and this idea will continue being part of the adventure. Thanks to the TriSoldiers and other Veterans for being my inpirational heroes. Recover week was over as of Friday. Training for MB 70.3 started yesterday. Riding under an old fighter plane near the airport and dodging lit firecrackers thrown out of vehicle windows on my fav country route. The adventures never stop. New tri-adventure performance specific ideas to be determined...
Two days till Louisville IM! I'm going to keep this short and sweet (just like my workouts this past week).
Tapering per MACCA "achieving the feeling of freshness."
"Don't panic. Be comfortable. Be confident. Don't try to squeeze any last minute workouts in."
Tapering per SPIKE "getting the mind and body in sync."
Sleep as much is needed.
Short workouts.
Prepare and eat meals slowly.
Being in the present moment.
Practice the art of nothingness.
Observe.
Listen.
Smile.
Imagine the impossible.
Expect nothing.
Sleep some more:)
roasted kale, portabela and veggie burger
Sunday smile breakfast watching "The Peaceful Warrior". Highly recommended movie by the way. About the physical and mental training of a USA gymnast going for the Olympics. Other recommended movies during taper---Soul Surfer, The Miracle, The Flying Scotsman
protein banana pancakes (1/2 oats, 1/2 FF cottage cheese, vanilla)
aruggggala and swai with tomatoes from my roof plant
floatapering
spending quality time with loved ones...getting swim energy from Jack
more swai with rooftop spices, zucchini, mashed cauliflower and cycle zin!
"No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted."
cauliflower curry and dogfish head
bokchoy, soy crumbles, peppers from roof top garden, green tea
Yesterday was yet another important day of training for the Louisville Ironman. The morning started with sunrise speed work on the track. Running felt good and I was thankful for that. The day ended with a great appreciation for friends and family that came to support The TriSoldier Project. We ended up with more than enough money to cover an Ironman race entry for a TriSoldier...and some of us know how expensive those are!
I'm thankful that others had the opportunity to read about some awesome triathletes that have served our country and overcame injuries.
I'm thankful for the people who came to show support, even if they had a car accident on the way or were lost on the unfamiliar KY highways.
I'm thankful for the friends and family that brought and made food to share with others.
Oh, and I'm thankful that my mom is an awesome cook.
I'm thankful for The Fort Thomas Pub for letting me have the place and the happy hour specials.
I'm thankful for the local Fort Thomas businesses for donating items towards the cause.
I'm thankful for the strangers I met and for the stories they shared.
I'm thankful for the story Drill Sergeant J shared. He happened to be in the pub before the happy hour started. He read the TriSoldier stories and we talked about supporting the troops. "My soldiers and I were in a Starbucks working on our laptops because that's where we could get Internet access. From out of nowhere, a man comes up to each one of us, shakes our hands, tells us 'thank you for your service' and gives each one of us a $15 Starbucks gift card. That touched my heart and really meant a lot. People don't know how much their appreciation and support means to us. What you're doing here is great. Thank you."
I'm thankful for Mr Trout for starting TriSoldier Project.
I'm thankful for those who have served and are serving our country.
Appreciation can make a day, even change a life. Your willingness to put it into words and actions is all that is necessary.
2 WEEKS till Ironman. This is when the anxiety and nervousness start to creep in a bit. I’ve been busy following my training schedule, working, thinking, organizing, eating, etc. I’ve been busy moving, moving, moving….physically and mentally.
A little over a week ago, a tragic event happened to a soldier I know and it stopped me in my tracks. Suicide. Instead of my typical optimistic, hopeful, happy feelings, I felt shocked, confused, helpless, angry and sad.
Then I got on my bike for one last full 112 mile ride in Louisville before race day. I thought of this soldier throughout my 7 hour bike ride. My initial feelings of anger and sadness turned into thoughts of the bigger picture. Why is this happening? How can this stop? With record number of suicides occurring in our world due to war, these questions are not that easy to answer. Research is happening, programs are being developed and actions are being taken...but everyone should remember these questions during daily interactions with people. Be kind.
When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace. ~Jimi Hendrix
LaGrange Loop, KYIM Course August 6
The more people that come together to share ideas, the more people the stop making judgments, the more people that show love, the more peace the world will embrace. Wear ballet shoes around the house, throw a skip in your jog every now in then, belly laugh, turn the music up, cry, fist pump, jump, yell because you can while walking in the woods, sing in the shower, and whistle while you work. Don’t be afraid to be yourself, but make sure to be true to yourself. Sometimes, when we get so wrapped up in performance, we miss out on 'being'. Triathlon has given to me. Socialization, physical health, self-confidence and mental clarity amongst many other benefits. And in return, I can be a productive member of society and give to others. We participate in healthy activities that treat our minds and bodies good, we feel good, we do more and continue to balance our actions. People are starting lots of great programs, so let's spread the word. I vote for TriSoldier Project, Wounded Warrior Project, Team River Runners, Project Healing Water, and frequent expression of love and support, not just for military, but for everyone.
So, back to 2 weeks from today. Louisville, Ironman 2011. Three thousand athletes from all walks of life and from all parts of the country moving in peace in one city on one day. That's what it comes down to. These athletes have trained hard and some have overcame more challenges than others. One particular athlete that will be racing in 2 weeks was injured during combat leaving his arm shattered, collar bones broken, skull fractured and additional injuries. Triathlons help him overcome the potential mental thoughts of 'being broken'. During another soldier's last deployment to Iraq, he suffered a traumatic brain injury which causes seizures. He also suffers from post traumatic stress disorder. He says that riding a bike is "a prefect escape from everything. I have a great time doing the triathlons and I am looking forward to competing in more this season. The goal is to complete and Ironman in 2012." Triathlons helped. It's so much more than swimming, biking and running.
The fact is death happens in all sorts of ways. We can dwell on how it happens. We can celebrate the honorable life those Soldiers and Veterans lived. We can miss them. We can learn from them. We can continue on living and working for peace in their honor. We can love one another more often and stop judging, hurting, criticizing and fighting one another. We should be in peace both dead and alive.
Bikers eye view of moving in peace on the Louisville Ironman course for one last 112 miler
Here I sit….at the Sagebrush (Champagne) Cantina in Calabasis, California. It’s now 1:30 and I’ve been here since about 9am. I dig this place. Apparently there is a tie in L.A. between here and the Hilton in Westlake for the best brunch of the city. This place has everything you could imagine and more…plus they keep your drink glasses full at all times…and there is a live (friendly) mariachi crew for a few hours, then a live band for the next few hours. What more could you ask for at a Sunday Brunch? Last time I was here was in 2009 (I think). It was just as good then as it is now. It’s re-assuring to know that some good places of business remain the exactly the same…good. There is an ever changing society out there and sometimes it’s nice to witness a little stability. There are new owners of the Sagebrush, new staff (besides The Beast) and new patrons revolving in and out; however some of the same keep returning Sunday after Sunday. This afternoon I ate/drank a lot; enjoyed the great outdoors and good conversation. The best conversation was with two gentlemen who have lived here all their life. They were both in the entertainment industry and expressed they could immediately tell that I was a ‘good soul’. Interesting how fast people can pick up on that out here. They asked if I would like some company, sat at my table and we got to know each other a bit. I learned about their thoughts and they learned about mine. The best part was that we all agreed that life was about these moments of connecting with other people from random walks of life and learning about their stories rather than looking the other way and staying in our ‘own self-absorbed worlds’. I feel happy to be here re-connecting with a childhood bff. The funny thing is that even though we haven’t hung out in a few years…it feels the same as the last time we were together. Plus it’s always nice to re-cap on those CRAZY high school memories…The ‘Beast’ is not really a beast…but more of a pretty and positive young lady who I’m blessed to know and happy to have as a close friend and happy to spend the next few days with. It’s funny how we find those few people in our lives that we connect with, smile ear to ear and make whatever we do a fun time. Two words make this easy…POSITVE ATTITUDE.
And here we go with the live band playing…
Yeeeaaah…that’s why I’m easy…easy like Sunday morning….yes I’m easy…easy like Sunday morrrrnnning. Why in the world would anybody put change on me?
Everybody wants me to be what they want me to be. I’m not happy when I try to fake it.
I want to be free…just me.
Wow. I love these gentle reminders of what life is about. So Saturday…I raced Mucnie 70.3 Ironman. Had that idea of qualifying for USAT nationals in Myrtle Beach. Did it happen? Nope. Qualifying time is 5:40 and I had a 5:42:29. It wasn’t meant to be I guess. I learned what I did wrong and I hope to change some of that. I didn’t let my Garmin run it’s entire course and instead I re-set it for each discipline. My watch also expressed I was going faster than I actually was per race results. I ended up getting off course on the swim because the sun was in my eyes. My swim time was slightly slow. My trainsition times were pretty ridiculous. Five and four minutes for a half iron distance? Really? What the heck was I doing? Deoderant, sweet pea splash, chocolate soy milk and sunscreen might not be necessary if I’m trying to make a specific time. My bike was ok. The wind bothered me a bit. My run…not so good. My foot hurt and my HR was out of control. It’s never been over 200…ever. I did drink a Blue Sky energy drink prior to the run and my Cliff bar had caffine in it. I walked, I ran, I walked according to the HR. The difficult part of all this was the non-coherence. My legs felt good, my brain wanted to go, but my R foot was on fire and my HR was off the charts. So, I listened to the parts of me that didn’t want to go all out. I was in conflict. Some parts of me wanted to push and some did not. I was able to get my HR down to 150-170 at 10min per mile pace, so that’s where I stayed.
After contemplating further, to me, this represents conflict in general. We all have conflicts in life. To do something, to not do something, to listen or not listen, to talk or not talk, ect. I find it’s good to contemplate the conflicts and give them some attention; however not dwell on them. You never know what life if going to throw at you.So, it’s not about impressing the others or impressing yourself as much as it’s about listening to the others and listening to the self. There is so much to notice, be aware of and appreciate and it is so easy to get wrapped up in our own ideas and goals. Now I remember, I train and race to push myself to remind me of others that push themselves through life obstacles and not to make myself better...because who really cares about how awesome or not awesome I am? Really…nobody. Those that truly care about you, will care about you whether you’re in jail, under the bridge or running for president. So, lesson in short, my time for the triathlon doesn’t matter AT ALL. It’s just an idea. What does matter…I used my dad’s 1970’s pop up tent, he spent time showing me how to put it up, I met new friends, I experienced Muncie, I used my energy, I appreciated the sunset the night before the race, I appreciated the clean glass like water in the reservoir, I appreciated the water I drank, the volunteers that gave me the water and the sponges to cool me down. I noticed and listened to my HR and my body parts. I watched others push themselves and wondered what they were thinking. And now I listen to the beautiful sound of real people playing real instruments and playing with their voices right in front of me. Life has soooo much to offer…so much to appreciate…bring life on.
Finally
Fall in love with as many things/people as possible.
This past week my legs felt tight and slow. My PF is biting me more and more, even when I walk. I haven't put a complete halt on running yet; however I did give in and call Wellington Orthopedics. This means Tuesday I'll get to see the doctor and he'll most likely tell me to give the running a rest.
Today the plan was open water swim, run 30 min, bike 3 hour, run 30 min. I met some other tri-athletes at Ceasars Creek around 7:30am. The water felt good, the run felt good since it was mostly trail and the bike was just ok today. As I turned the corner to end the run a torrential rain came pouring down. Jumped in the car till it let off a little. Collaborated with some others with the consensus being to head back to Cincy area and try later or tomorrow. I knew a few others were out on the bike trail and even though there was lightening and more storms ahead according to the radar, I wanted to be out there with the others. The three hour bike was stuck in my head and it was going to happen. I waited about 30 min, the rain stopped, I jumped on my bike and went in search for swimmer boy and belayer playa. I never found them, because apparently I took the wrong turn on the bike trail.
So I biked solo out to Xenia, back to Corwin and around the olympic tri loop. And this is what happens when you spend too much time alone on the bike...a little bit of thinking, talking to yourself, smiling, laughing to yourself, pretending and singing. Some general actions that might cause others to wonder. When you're out in nature and the oxygen is flowing, the ideas in the mind start leaking out of the box too. Imagination, creativity, freedom. Making up songs and singing to oneself. It was rather pleasent lalala'ing in the tunnel of trees. I sang several variations of 'On the Bike Trail' to the tune of 'The Horse with No Name'. Some were better than others, but I only had the chance to get one on camera...so I guess I'll share. When the sprinkles started again, I came up with some other songs to the tune of 'Ain't No Sunshine When it Rains'. Those were pretty good too...actually better...but no documentation of those. I know...so disappointing.
The nice thing about doing an Ironman race close to home is the opportunity to actually practice on the course and get to know it's ups and downs. This past Saturday was an official KY Ironman group practice through iAmTRI. I woke up at 5:15am Saturday morning to the pouring rain in northern KY. The option was to crawl back in bed or go forth to Louisville. The radar called for showers and storms all day. The rain would probably make the Ohio River more polluted and the bike ride slick. Lightening could potentially cause great harm and group training to be canceled. The thought of not going crossed my mind for about 2 seconds and that's it. I jumped in my tri shorts, made some coffee, gathered all of my gear, my bike and nutrition. My friends Dr Rush and Nurse Peanut Butter decided to come along for the big training day too. So if anything should happen on the course, at least I'd be surrounded by medics. Around 6:15am our caravan hit the rainy highway to Louisville. As we traveled closer to le 'ville the rain let off, the sky opened and the sun greeted us for a good morning.
We arrived just in time to meet the group and walk down to the swim start. There were maybe 30 people present for the open water swim practice. Two other Ironchicks, Lady Leonard and Ms K, from back home also made it down for the day. During the swim clinic we learned that we will be swimming in one of the most polluted areas in the country. We were warned not to come down and practice by ourselves, especially after big rains. We were warned to keep our mouths shut and be plenty hydrated before the swim. We learned that it would be a good idea to keep our strokes short while swimming up stream and to kick harder towards the end while swimming downstream to prevent our legs from cramping up. We learned to arrive super early and get in line for the self-seeded start. The start will be time trial style with two athletes entering the water every few seconds. *Note to self bring a bottle of water to sip on while in line. We put our goggles on and jumped off the short pier into the Ohio River. We swam upstream along the side of Towhead Island. We turned around at the end of the island and swam back downstream. It was nice swimming between the island and mainland because it was like a giant lap lane which made sighting easier. During the actual race we will swim around Towhead Island out into the main part of the river. We were told to use the red roof of the Galt House Hotel for sighting on race day. We did not wear wetsuits today since the race is wetsuit illegal every year due to higher temps. The water was comfortable. My goggles stayed on as I jumped in the water, I breathed every three and both up/down stream felt good.
These two piers are where we will jump into the water
for the swim start. We will swim to the right upstream
first.
We will swim in the channel between Towhead Island
and the mainland. We'll take a left and swim around the
island when we reach the end.
We will swim downstream in the main part of the river and exit at Waterfront Park
"The Yellow Lot" where all of the group rides start close to
Tumbleweeds on the river
The guys re-fueling around mile 60 and thinking about
80 vs 112 miles
Time to bike. I was determined to do the full 112 bike course today. Nurse PB didn't really think it was a good idea...but we drove together so he kind of had to do the full. Dr Rush wasn't quit sure what he was going to do. We were almost finished with our first loop around Lagrange and there was some complaining about the hills all over and head wind on Rt 42. When it was time to make the decision between 80 and 112, they both made the right (actually left) turn for the second loop around Lagrange. No turning back...we were all in for the full 112 at that point. The fantastic people from iAmTRI had aide stations out about every 15 miles throughout the course. My chain dropped once as I switched gears at the beginning of a climb. It was stuck and I had a hard time fixing it. I drank about 10-12 bottles of fluid throughout the course and did not pee till we were finished. I ate 3 energy bars, a banana, peanut butter, half of a frozen orange and one packet of perpeptum. I chewed gum most of the ride. Keeps my mouth moist and it's fun to blow bubbles. This was not a chatty social ride. Although nothing is off limits to talk about on our bikes, we talked minimal today. Dr Rush ended up missing a turn towards the end and had a side adventure of his own. We all made it back (eventually) and Nurse PB and Dr Rush did their first centuries (plus) today!!! (with very good times for a hilly course) 112 miles, 17.7 mph ave, 6:18 time, Ave HR 145, Max HR 180. So my goal for race day is to be faster than that. More training, taper, race wheels, aero helmet, weight loss will all hopefully help. I will be mentally prepared that anything could happen...good or bad...on race day.
Post ride, I ran. I was excited to get off Strawberry Fields, put my feet on the ground and run. Yes, my right foot PF hurt but other than that it felt good. There is a nice park along side the river to run through. I ran under the bridges, through the park and downtown, past the Galt House Hotel and turned around a little past 4th St. So now I saw where I will be staying IM weekend, finishing the race and celebrating afterwards.
The Galt House, host hotel for KY IM
'fabulous' as the waiter would have said 100x
Post run, we hit up the riverside Tumbleweeds. Nothing like chips, salsa and a margarita to replenish those sodium levels. Mmmmmm...salt. Then we drove home, jamming to Jack Johnson and Cake. Straight to bed Saturday night and up bright in early again Sunday for Ride Cincinnati. Thousands of bike riders started on the Purple People Bridge to support breast cancer research on Sunday. This course was out and back on Rt 8. I opted to do the 45.2 for an easy recovery ride. There were a couple other options and lots of friendly faces out there on the ride.
What gives it the green light? Situation and Creation
What keeps it going? Determination
What makes it go further? Education
What makes it successful? Preparation and Care
It's a complicated equation
Tomorrow is a day of preparation. Since my last update, I've taken a few more steps deeper into the situation. First of all, I have seeked out a coach. The past two weeks I have followed my coaches plan, I have pushed a little harder, kept track of my heart rate, modified my diet and encouraged more sleep. I went back and forth on if I needed a coach or not. We can do things ourselves and we can be successful; however with the support and push of others we might reach higher points we never thought we could. If I was going to get a coach...of course it would have to be the great Bob D. of Cincinnati. http://veritasendurance.com/
First step of the program was field testing and power testing to determine breaking points. There is something satisfying about pushing yourself to your breaking point and seeing what's really inside on any given day (which is variable). The human potential might be more powerful than most of us think and then most of us try to reach. Why? What stops us? There are legitimate barriers; however there are other barriers (and excuses) that stop us and maybe shouldn't. Injuries, illnesses, financial problems, lack of support, emotional hurt and attitude can all keep the drummer from kicking...make it harder to kick...or they can fuel the drummer to kick harder.
Ice/Epsom Salt Bath
Darco Body Armor Night Splint
So my power test on the bike was not bad at all...actually it was a lot better than I thought it would be. Maybe my expectations were too low. My swim is ok so far. My running is inconsistent. This week in conclusion has provided me with higher expectations for the bike and frustrations related to the run. PLANTAR FACIITIS! It has attacked my right foot and it will not subside. I've tried stretching, icing, different shoes and a tad bit of rest. Have I done everything I can? Of course the answer is...no. I'm determined to kick back and fix it. This is where the discipline comes into play. PF is nothing compared to the obstacles and barriers other people run into. The fight against PF is going to include water bottle icing 2x/day x15 min, ice bath with Epsom salt 1x/day x20 min, magic ball massage 1x/day x5 min, night splint wear, step stretching 5min/2x day and anti-inflammatory nutrition. In addition to that, my running mileage will most likely be slightly limited and I will start focusing on small amounts of barefoot running and small muscle strengthening. So let's see if all this works...and how patient I can be...to let the kicker heal. This is all part of the preparation. Just like all other parts of life, some parts of preparation are more enjoyable than others. For instance, my pre-big training day rest and meal tonight put a smile on my face. Today was a rest day. After work, I went to the closest beach with waves, took my time planning a meal, listened to Ziggy Marley sing about a beach on Hawaii, made a meal that was all natural and enjoyed every bite of it as the lightening and thunder danced outside.
Mango, Pineapple, Cranberry and Red Dandelion Salad
Mango, Pineapple and Pine nut Couscous
Salmon with Trader Joe's Island Soyaki
M-Dot liquid anti-oxidant
We have so much power to create our habits and routines. We have more power than we think to control our bodies, brains, feelings and change the world. These past two weeks, I have pondered the concepts of careful preparation and letting what happens to just happen. I'm prepared and I'm ready to see what happens tomorrow on the Louisville, KY Ironman course. Goodnight!
