So Now What...

Well, I am no longer "Attempting Ironman Wisconsin". I am an Ironman!

However, random things still happen and I just feel the need to share. But, I can't use this blog any more because I am no 'attempting' any more. This part is over and I am ready to move on...

Life After IM Moo

(my new blog in case you didn't notice the link)

The Glorious GLORIOUS Finish

People say there is nothing like it. And it's true, it is a feeling I have never even come close to having.

Kristin and Lauren got me up to State Street. I told them to turn right around the capital and wait for me at the finish. I had to go left, and would start running at the Walgreen's. More cheering, high 5's, and I was grinning ear to ear, still kind of in a bit of disbelief. I am talking to one guy from Mexico, his first Ironman too. He takes off on a run to finish. I hear Mike Riley's voice - the voice of Ironman, music, the crowds and it's better than I ever imagined.
2 people pass me and there are a few behind so I knew if I wanted the moment to my self, I had to run, and run now. So I did. I hear everyone cheering "GO AMANDA!!!" I keep looking, not sure who I know and who is just cheering, caught up in the energy that is an Ironman finish. So I keep running with a permanent smile. I see Jess, some other Teal shirts, and I just keep running.

They are playing "Shout" and I hear it.

"29 year old Amanda Chadwick from Washington DC, YOU ARE AN IRONMAN!" I really don't know how I didn't break down right there. What a moment. I hold the banner for a picture (as Ryan instructed me to know what to do when I crossed) and this is close enough. I keep running and see Erin ready with my medal. Give her a huge hug. My 'catcher' can't really keep up... She does get my shirt, hat and sliver blanket. My picture is taken. Am offered a Coke/Sprite, told where the food and medical tent are located and released.

After all of that, I finally get to see my Teal supports. Huge hug to Mom and Dad. And EVERYONE else, and the tears just come down. I know there is a totally kick butt group picture, but I am not sure who has it.

What a feeling. Really. I know I just said that, but really. Wow.

I think back to this year. And the day. It was better than I could have ever imagined. And to share it with those who love and care about me, more than I can put into words.

Many parts through out the day I knew I would finish, others I didn't think I could. I mentioned I had pain I had never felt before. But I also felt support I have never felt before. For every negative thought, feeling, moment I had, there were about 10 positive ones (NOTE - I do realize this is being written a week after the race...)

I was told it would be a day you do on your own. As much as that is true, I have to disagree, and I am so lucky to say that.

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU. You have all made this dream come true.

13.1 and 13.1...

Running 26.2 miles is too much to think about it. Again, 13.1 isn't too bad. So as I am biking up the helix, that is all I am thinking about. Just a 13.1 mile run after my 16 mile ride.

I knew Erin was in T2 so after a volunteer took Blain, I grabbed my bike to run bag, ran into the woman's change room and looked for Erin. She calls me right over and it was so great to see a friendly face. I change fast, thank her, tell her I will see her at the finish, and head out.

I see Mom and grab a hug as she takes a picture - too funny not to post. Get a bit more sunblock and start to head out.
I see a DC Tri jersey in front of me and it's Tony!!
We chat and he is gone before I hit the timing mat on T2. I have time for a few more hugs to people in teal and head out on my 13.1 mile jog.

I want to stick to my plan, 1:1 for the first mile, 2:1 later if I am feeling good. But on State street, for that first mile, there is no walking. You just can't. EVERYONE is cheering, and it is just awesome. My name is on my number so EVERYONE is yelling "Go Amanda", "Go Ironman Amanda" and I am slapping hands, waving, cheering - for those first 10 minutes, I feel light as a feather with no pain.

I start to steady my pace, enjoying my 1:1 and decide it's best to stick to that plan. My stomach is cramping, Accelerade and Gu aren't sitting, so pretzels, orange slices, grapes and water is all I take. I am fading, but trying to stay positive. Then the LARGEST HILL EVER comes and I don't even try to run. I see a guy 'littering' on the side who says he needs help. I talk to one guy who is barley walking due to his hamstring. Not good when I am only on mile 6.

Heading to the path around Lake Mendota, my legs start to tingle, then go numb. I don't know what is happening but all I know I am trying to just keep moving forward. This is the second time I don't know if I will be an Ironman.

But I started talking to this woman Gina. We have been leap frogging and getting to know each other in a way you can only truly understand when in this type of 'race' situation. It keeps me going and then I see signs ahead. My parents said they made one, so that is my new focus for the next mile or so, enough to take my mind off my numb legs.

Around mile 10 I see Rose. I tell her about my legs, not taking in calories and I was worried. She reassured me to just keep moving. Don't run, I will be fine and will be able to finish if I just keep moving. Oh, and Coach called and said to "stay strong". Come on, where is that "You rock, great job, so proud of you..." But that isn't the way Coach is and "stay strong" is actually what I needed.

Unfortunately, Dad was there about that time and I didn't notice until it was too late. I only say that because another note from Coach was to not "let your family see if you are in pain. They will be worrying enough, just smile and say how great and strong you are feeling". I had been doing that, but missed this one.

Anyway, around mile 12 you are back toward State Street, still crowds, and TEAL. My mom, Suzie, Rick, Bob. Teal is SOOO my new favorite color. I hit the turn around, see Kristin and Lauren, and stop at my special needs bag. Pop some Tylenol 8 hour and Gina and I keep going.

It gets instantly dark. I try to use the bathroom hoping it will help. It doesn't. I am trying to run to catch back up with Gina. Everything hurts. We see my dad around Camp Randall, smile, and run for the picture. I know that will be the last time I run for awhile - at mile 15. I do the math, even at 20 minute miles, walking, I will finish in time. So I walk.

Somewhere Rose shows up to walk. Right before that hill, Jess is there. We all haul our butts up, thinking we will now have an Ironbutt in addition to being Ironmen. Yes, we are getting a bit loopy.

Just keep moving foward. Rose and Jess leave me for ice cream (a few hand gestures and words are spoken that are not suitable for blogging). But Suzie, Rick, my parents, everyone is around. One more (successful) bathroom stop and I am feeling good - even though I can no longer feel my right foot. I smile for the pictures, give high 5's, cheer and woot - trying to mask my pain. Deep down, I know I will finish. There is something stronger than I know keeping me moving forward.

Suzie walks with me. I lost Gina at my last bathroom stop. Jess and Rose are back. I know I am not supposed to have outside help, but really, I needed it. Stay strong. Dig deep. Just move forward. Then it happens, the rain. Stupid Mother Nature!! God and I have a chat, the rain stops. Thank you!

Mile 20. A 10K left. I can do 6.2 miles. More chicken broth, cola, water, that is all that is keeping me going. And becoming an Ironman. I start talking to my self, even though Jess, Rose and Suzie are all there. They can't tell when I am talking to them vs. myself. I see a woman being carried. I see my sign again. I think of everyone there in Madison, watching on the Internet, sitting with their phones waiting for a text message update, and I keep moving. It's enough am good to go on my own for awhile.

Mile 24 I see Kristin and Lauren. We share stories of the day. Cheer and thank the volunteers. And then I make that turn on State Street one more time and I see the Capital. So close. So much pain - nothing I could have imagined. But I am going to do it.

I am about to become an Ironman

Just 112 Miles

But not once did I think about biking 112 miles. It was 16, 40, 40, 16. That was the blessing of the Madison course. 16 miles out, 2 40 mile loops, 16 miles back. That doesn't sound so bad, does it. Well, I didn't think so and it seemed to be the best way to approach the bike portion.

During T1 (the first transition) I was going through all the notes in my head. One of Ryan's major tips was to take your time, it's a long day on the bike and make sure everything feels right. So, I took my time, got sunblock, arm warmers, stopped in the port-o-potty and went go find Blain. A volunteer had him waiting for me as I jogged to my row. During this, I hear people yelling "Mandy!!", I look up, see teal and blow kisses to my friends and family. I am L-O-V-I-N-G every moment.

I clip in and start to head down the helix.

The first 16 miles out of Madison are going well. I am getting passed a ton, but knew that would happen and didn't let it phase me. I just looked for people I knew, interesting outfits, and Blain look-a-like's.

35 minutes in I am passed by Jeff, Tony's brother. He is looking speedy!! 20 minutes later, I hear "is that Blain I see!!" It's Tony. I pedal hard to keep up for about 5 seconds before he blows by me too. A guy passes me with about 6 Snickers bars in his back pockets and am SOOO wishing I trained with Snickers bars.

I hit the first loop and convince myself I am on a 40 mile bike ride and start looking for groups of teal shirts. It's the great thing about not knowing where anyone will be, it gives me something to do, other than pedal the hills. There were a few places with people in teal and I was so mad when it wasn't my group. How dare other people wear teal on MY Day!!

Anyway, my first loop kicked butt! I did way better than expected. The hills were killer, but I was still feeling good. Really good. I see a van go by with the timer, so I knew the lead biker was close. He flew by me in a flash. A woman comes up to me and says "Was that the leader?" I say "I think so. But he did have a 15 minute head start."
She gave me this look like I just said my next Ironman will be on Mars. I thought I was funny.

Then loop 2. Oh, loop 2. I am going to quote someone else's race report because I couldn't have put it better myself. "As we came around for the second loop, a headwind had picked up. This came as a real mental blow for me, because I dropped several mph and felt like sh*t. It wasn’t a gusty wind, just steady, so it was hard to know it was so strong. Consequently, it got into my head a lot, and I was really worried that I had gone out way too fast"
Yup, so true. It was the first time I thought I wouldn't be able to finish. Now I knew I was still above my goal, and if I could just keep pedaling, I would be fine. But around mile 70, you aren't thinking very straight. Or at least I wasn't.

But then I saw teal and felt better. I stopped at a few water stops - including my FAVORITE at mile 40/80 sponsored by the Chicago tri club. It was PIRATES!! That was just the pick up I needed before the 3 large hills.

Then it happens, the hills are done, I am feeling okay (some stomach cramping but stopped taking Gu and Accelerade which helped), and my Ironman dreams come so close to an end. What was it... A BEE!!! Yes, a bee flew up my bike glove, my left thumb, and stung me. Now, thank goodness I am not allergic, but it HURT! Luckily there was a vision of teal coming quick so I pulled over. Erica and all her nature all knowing-ness and Suzie and her hospital knowledge (a kick butt PT but close enough to a doctor for our group) looked and didn't see anything. Some swelling, but the stinger was out so I pedaled on. Stupid bee! Stupid Mother Nature!! Stupid "Circle of Life"! Bah!

I make the left turn for the 16 miles home and start talking my self into the fact I am only on a 16 mile ride. It starts to work and I am feeling good. I take one more Gu, with a lot of water, and it is sitting okay. I attempted to use the bathroom around mile 90 so I think that helped too. I hit the overpass, a volunteer tells me last hill until the helix, I thank him and keep going.
Then I see it. Monona terrace, the helix, the end of my 16 mile bike ride. I am on John Nolan drive and I hear "Go Ironman" from the cars stuck in traffic and it hits me. This might happen. It's about 4 pm, I have until midnight. Oh my gosh, I am going to do it - I AM GOING TO BE AN IRONMAN!!!

I hit the helix, give my self a pep talk that I can make it up - I didn't walk 1 hill, I can do a helix. It wasn't too bad and then I see more teal and "YAY MANDY". I wave as I go around, and as I go around again.

When I finished, I feel as if I just won the race - and to me, I did.

6:40 a.m. and a 2.4 Mile Swim

Now I knew going into the swim that this was my most comfortable event. But, I have never had a swim start with about 2,207 people.

There is the beautiful sunrise, I start to put my ear plugs in, head into the water about 6:40 and I hear “are you Attempting Ironman?” I turn, and say “Why yes I am”.
“We read your blog!!” It was the sisters from Chicago whose blog I have been reading!! I couldn’t believe it!! We chat for a few moments, figure out what we are wearing on the course to look on the bike and run course, wish each other luck and head into the water.

I picked my position, just to the left of the ski ramp, a few people back. I am careful not to look behind me and see the number of people. That would freak me out. The pros are off, everyone is just floating around and I am just trying to stay calm. The National Anthem is sung, I get a bit choked up and look at the tons and TONS of people around Mononoa Terrace. This guy starts talking to me and he has an Australian accent so I am not sure what he said (was lost in the cuteness) but it was both of our first Ironman attempts, we high 5, and the canon goes off.

WOW – I have to say a HUGE thanks to my water polo coach John. If it wasn’t for him and all the practice swimming over each other (I played on the men’s team at times) I would have freaked out. But, to my surprise, about half way down the first length, I found some open water. Things were going well until that first turn. Swimming in a washing machine is an understatement.

I had a swift kick to the rips, but managed to keep going. The rest of the swim was good, really good. A few kicks to the face, more shoving, and one head dunk. That made me mad and maybe my elbow came up a bit high into his chest. But really, if you feel your hand on my head, the swim cap with a big bump of hair, wouldn’t you move your hand and not push it down… I am just saying…

Somewhere I managed to check my watch on lap 2. 11 seconds. Obviously it was kicked and stopped so I had no idea my swim time. Oh well, just keep swimming, staying strong, not too hard - it's going to be a long day. After the last turn, I start mentally preping for the bike.

I run out, feeling so good, but missed the clock. As I head to the wet suit peelers "strippers", I asked the time.
"Hour 10" says the guy.
"HOLY $HIT!!" I shout, really loud. Followed by "Sorry Kids!" as I look around and see a bunch of kids looking at me. I was just so shocked at my time.


I start to run up the helix looking for teal blobs. Finally I see some, continue up the helix, a few more. The cheers were so great!

I was so fast, I don't have any pictures of me running up the helix :-) No one had time to get the cameras ready. Woo-Hoo!! (Or at least of the pictures I have so far.) The day was starting off really great.

4:20 Wake Up Call

When doing an Ironman, you know it will be a long day with a very early start. Somehow poor Rose and Erica got stuck in a room with me so they were up early too.

Get dressed, make toast, drink coffee, eat a banana, pull out water bottles from the freezer, get ice, pack special needs, check - re-check - triple check all my lists, all while trying to stay calm. I don't have the "I forgot something" feeling, so figured I am doing okay. Around 5 we all head out to Monona terrace.

I am still feeling pretty good and overall, just excited. I am trying not to think about what I am about to do, just living in the moment, thankful for the opportunity and support I have around me.

I get to Blain, pump his tires, drop off the water bottles, and head inside to add last minute things to my swim to bike and bike to run. Then I notice something, people are body marked. Totally forgot! So, off to get body marked.

As I am being branded with 1975, I meet my first blog reader, Erin, who is volunteering. So great!! The other picture I have of the 2 of us, my eyes are closed. Sorry!! Anyway, we chat, I learn she will be in T2 and the finish so I know where to look.

By this time, the sun is raising and I need to head towards the water. I say my final "good bye's" and "thank you's" to everyone as they are taking their positions on the helix or with me to the water.

Jess and Rose come with me to the start and it's the first time I let my nerves show. Up until now, I have been trying to have fun and remember each moment, without freaking out. Hopefully I fooled everyone. But Rose and Jess have been at most of my races and know how to handle me when the intensity gets to be too much for me to handle. So, I let a few tears flow, some uncertainty of the day come out, and let my confidence come and go wondering if I can or can not do this. But the day is turning out to be beautiful, I am nothing but lucky, say goodbye to them and head to the water...

Where to Start...

Wow - I don't even know where to begin.

The obvious answer is the start. But I don't even know where the start is.

So, what I decided to do is a separate post for each portion of the race. That way I can focus on each one and not worry about how much detail I am giving.

But even before I start there, I have to say it again...

THANK YOU!!! Without the support of everyone who was at the race, watching on-line, sent positive thoughts through out the day - I could not have done it without you.

Time keeps getting away from me and I am heading back to DC soon, so... you will all have to keep checking to see when I write about the 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, and 26.2 mile 'run'.

I AM AN IRONMAN!!!

More pictures and race results/report to come. But I wanted to post.

Something like 15 hours and 40 something minutes. Totally beat my wildest expectations of a race.

Congrats to all who participated in any way shape or form.

I just really wanted to post this :-)

Night!

One More Post

One of the great things about having this blog is how easy it is to see what you have been doing. I started this mainly for my self, to stay motivated, keep me honest, and to share funny stories - or at least stories I think are funny.

A lot has happened this year that had nothing to do with my training.
Some good - weddings; friends having babies

Some not so good - the passing of my grandmother; having my tonsils removed

Some that were even too personal for me to blog about at the time - the realization that it's over with a very personal relationship; masses growing on parts of my body where masses should not grow.

But through it all, I kept training. Kept swimming, biking and running. This allowed me to focus, distract from whatever else was going on around me. And everyone has stood by me during it all.

Training for this Ironman has done so much more for me than my physical fitness. More than I can put into words.

I have said it before, but I don't quit. There are 2 options tomorrow. I cross the finish line an Ironman or someone from NA Sports will have to chase me down and cut off my timing chip – but I will still probably continue.

Tomorrow - it's on.

Thank you all for being apart of this journey.

Race Meeting

I just got back from the race meeting and there were many times I wish I had recorded what was said - just really funny things. One of the guys had a sense of humor I greatly appreciated.

As I was walking out, I saw all this M-dot drawings everywhere, welcome triathletes, Good Luck Ironman Wisconsin. It just made me realize that no matter what happens, I am apart of this. I am apart of the 2008 Ironman Wisconsin. Finish or not. Woo-Hoo!!

Yes, this is one of those 5% of times where I am really excited.

And Merissa and Rose are here. Jess, Lauren and Kristin are on a plane on the way here. I have had many phone calls and texts, all wishing me luck and really good advise. I am so lucky and so happy.

Thanks Everyone!!!

In Madison

Well, I am finally here in Madison. And it is all the sudden - real.

It took a bit longer than expected for my dad and I go get here: pot holes and stupid people - never a good combination. But after talking to Roxanne, she said I should still be able to swim, even if the Gatorade sponsored stuff was over. So, after finding parking, we rushed to Lake Monona. I get on my wet suit and hop in the lake. Now, in all this rushing there was no time to stop at a bathroom. And I have never been able to "go" in a wet suit. Well, this weekend is a first time for many things. I will leave it at that.

My swim was okay. I am pulling to the right when I breath on my left side, but it did get better on the way back. When I finished up, Dad was waiting (holding my stuff) and we ran into Tony and Jeff. It was so good to see a familiar friendly face. We chatted for a bit and moved on to what we each had scheduled next. Mine was long registration lines. At the end I received my official bracelet and everything seemed more - well, real.

And the hotel - SOOO nice!!!

My Parents are SOOO Great!!

I knew they had something planned, I just didn't know what. They finally revealed the shirts they had made for everyone.
Front and back. So, anyone who sees these on Sunday, you know they are with me!

AND - there is more. My mom makes Chex mix that I think she mixes with a sprinkle of crack. It is extremely addicting and when she makes it, I don't often share. However, everyone has had a taste and requested some for Sunday. Mom and Dad, going above and beyond, didn't just make a bag, they made a bag for everyone, in a little hand decorated tote bag. How cute!!! Thanks Mom and Dad!!

Who Knew Gustav Would Affect My Workouts in Milwaukee!?!?!

Seriously!?!
I am so glad the hurricane was not as bad as expected and everyone seems to be okay. But being in Wisconsin, I shouldn't have to worry about a hurricane. Who knew?!?!

When I woke up, this is what was on the radar. Nothing but green. Boo!! But, I had enough time to get in a 30 minute jog before the rain got too bad. So, no biking today. Blain is not going in the rain unless he must.

Rest of the day is just resting, picking up last minute stuff and trying not to freak out.

Back Home!!

Marcus is great. He did such a good job with such a long drive. And Blain was very happy in the back of the car instead of on the bike rack, especially the last 20 miles in Ohio. It went from bright, sunny, with the temperature reading 96 to dark, 70 and down pouring in about 1o minutes. Dang!! There was some hydroplaning, couldn't see the semi's in front/behind me - not the best for about 30 minutes. But it passed, or I drove through it, and the rest of the drive was pretty uneventful.

I do have to say, I am pretty surprised I haven't received a recording contract and a Grammy. My singing in the car is SOOO GOOD! Really, it is. AND, I dance. Sitting of course, but my shoulder, head and arm movements - flawless.

It's Still Summer

Even if it's after Labor Day, the end of summer, you aren't supposed to wear white shoes, it's still hot. Something I momentarily forgot, especially as I went out for my 'easy' 30 minute run. I started off feeling great; thinking how much I love a taper. Then I hit the Mall, in the sun, no breeze and start sweating like a... a.... well, a lot. After the turn around I check out my HRM, 180!!! Oops! Remember me just last week commenting on how nice it was to not have to worry about my HR any more... Oh well. Just a gentle reminder that weather plays a huge part on I am feeling during a workout. I was very spoiled by August and forgot what it feels like to run in 90 degree heat.

Tomorrow, the long drive home. Plenty of time to think.
Overall, I would say about 90% of the time, I am fine.
But 5% of the time I am scared $hitless, freaking out, wondering what in the world I signed up for and have been doing the past year.
The last 5% of the time, I am super excited and can't wait to for the cannon to go off.

That is my take on how I am - those around me might have a different breakdown

Now This is a Taper!!

I got my last week of workouts from Coach. In addition to telling what workouts to get done, there was a lot of information on what to do race day, and the days leading up while I am in Madison. Tips to keep in mind, no tear jerkers this time - Okay, I did shed a tear but it was more because, this is actually happening. I am actually going to attempt this Ironman. Everyday it gets closer, something else makes it more real. I have all my clothes laid out. Clothing options based on weather. All my random stuff laid out. The piles and piles make things a bit more real.

Anyway, back to my taper. This morning was my ride. A nice easy 60 minutes at Beach drive. And, I pulled into the parking lot to see Diane just finishing up her ride. It is always inspiring to see others up on a day off, doing what you are doing - it makes me feel slightly less crazy for the goals we all set.

The rest of the week is a few runs, 30 minutes. A swim (or 2) in Lake Monona. 1-2 more rides, 60 minutes, one in Madison. And a lot of rest, saving energy for Sunday. So today, I took a 2 hour nap.

5 days. I can't help but laugh. There really isn't much else to do.

A Good Day Off

I loved this picture!Happy Labor Day and I hope you all have the day off!!
And my heart and thoughts to out to those in New Orleans and the surrounding are. Kristin, Scott and the girls, Brian, I am thinking of you all. Please stay safe.

Good Ride, Good Brunch

Is there any other way to spend a Sunday morning?? I don't think so.

I met up with Brooke and Diane (formally known as D - but she said I could use her name). Nice and early at 7, but it was an amazingly beautiful morning. We get started, I look down to not hit a pot hole, but also ride over something that was dead. GROSS!! I make a squealing noise and Brooke and Diane weren't sure how to react. When I try to explain I rode over something dead, gray-ish and gross, they just kind of laugh at me, and thankful they didn't see it (but Brooke did on the way back). Anyway, it was a nice, easy casual ride. Since I am tapering, I didn't want to push to hard, or do too many hills. That's my reasoning anyway.

After we headed to brunch and I had the great french toast/egg debate. Eggs won. But it was nice to just enjoy the day (we sat on the outside patio) chat about non-tri stuff, and talk about the Ironman in 6 days. Just a really good morning.

Now I am off to pack. I am bringing a TON of stuff. Be prepared - I know how Wisconsin weather can change last minute, especially in September. Right now weather dot com says 72, partly cloudy and 20% chance of precipitation. Perfect - I really hope it stays that way!!

Typical August Day in DC

Today was a good day.

This morning started with a swim clinic. I figured some last minute pointers would do me some good before the 2.4 mile swim. It wasn't exactly what I was expecting, but I could see where it was beneficial for others. I think I have just been swimming for so long, when I hear things I shouldn't do, but they work for me (breathing out my nose vs. mouth) - I will just stick with what I know. I will take the fact that he didn't comment directly on my stroke - that I am perfect.

I got home, changed and headed out for a run. I saw Jess on the way and met up with Kristin and Lauren at the end. I remember back in the day were we would all run together and K would look for the most uncoordinated outfits - just to get me to blog about her. Anyway, we all headed to Dean and Deluca for lunch, took it to go and headed to a park by the Potomac.

What a perfect afternoon. 3 great friends, tasty lunch, beautiful day (in the shade where the heat/humidity didn't bother us too much), and 2 workouts. After about an hour, we were just laying in the grass watching the people and super cute puppies.

1975

My new lucky number!! I knew the numbers were being assigned today, but for some reason, that makes this all seem so real. I have been counting down for so long, 1 year, 6 month, 90 days, 15 days, 8 days. But when you get a number - it changes everything. This is actually happening. I am actually going to participate in an Ironman... Wow!

Today we also got a message from NA Sports - which had a lot of similar information as the athletes guide.My favorite line is in the running section
"No form of locomotion other than running, walking or crawling is allowed."
Good to know crawling is allowed.

It Must Be the Tan Lines

75 degree and cloudy is cold when swimming in a 50M outdoor pool. Really, it is.
But, I made kick butt time getting to the pool - still loving this August in DC, and there were 4 people lap swimming. 4!! I get to a lane and about to hop in and this guy looks at me a says "triathlon?" I say yes. I mean really, who else is going to be at a pool on a cloudy, drizzly Thursday evening if they weren't training for something. But then I look down at my legs and notice the blinding white that is my thighs - above my shorts line. After I got a great tip on sunblock, things were getting better - or so I thought. Oh well.

After my swim, I hopped on Blain for a quick ride. My body still isn't reacting great to chlorine, so I had some good snot rocket practice. But, it didn't go so well.

• First one - Somehow did this funky U turn up and I think onto my helmet.
• Second - Smack on my right shoulder
• Third - My chain fell off again (boo) so I took the non-wind opportunity. Smack on my left shin.
• Fourth - Good out of the right nostril
• Fifth - tried to stay in aero, which was successful. But, it landed on my arm, so not successful
  
• Sixth - On the back of my glove.

Stopped counting after this. 1 out of 7 was good enough.

But over all, it was a good 2 workouts. I am still not feeling that gloriously restfulness I was hoping for - but maybe in the next 9 days.

Ha! 9 days!!

I Am SO Lucky!

I don't know what to say, I don't know what I did in a previous life to deserve... well everything.

Tonight was a carbo loading pasta dinner put on by some amazing friends. Everyone came to support me and my goal that will be in 10 days. They are insanely supportive and so positive about what I am attempting to do. They have put up with me and constant Ironman talk for over a year, and still threw me a dinner!!

You may be wondering what is that yellow thing I am holding. And you may look at it and say "that looks like a cow bell. But I read Amanda's blog and know she H-A-T-E-S the cow bell."
Well, if that is what you thought, you are right. It is a cow bell. And I still despise the cow bell. BUT, Jess, Kristin, Lauren and Merissa (not pictured but there in spirit) took a cow bell (from when I did the Musselman half), spray painted it yellow - to match Blain, AND took out the clapper thing!! They also wrote notes on the sides, drew a picture of a toaster, and an "Oh Geeze!" is written on the inside. So great.

But, there is one more. I have been eyeing an item for close to 2 years. But, they didn't make it in my size and I figured there was little I could do. So, I posted about it, printed a picture and taped it in my cube. Little did I know that Jess called the designer, had one made in my size, and did a special order. I can't believe my friends did something this amazing for me.

Really, how did I get so incredibly lucky... I just don't know. I took about 27 pictures of the ring on my hand but couldn't the lighting/flash right so this will have to do.

It's Dark at 6:15 am

And how do I know... Because I actually rolled out of bed and got my self down to Hains Point to go biking. Yay me!! Right as I started, there were swarms of mosquitoes! Yuck! I haven't really noticed them too much out there. Not nearly as bad as they are in my Minnesota/Wisconsin days. But, they were still munching on my leg so that got me moving a bit quicker.

So I am biking around and I notice a sign "Wet ahead - National Park Service" - or something like that. Now I thought that was strange because on the news they were just saying we have only had a half inch of rain in the past month. So pedal pedal pedal and I see something up ahead... on no... a sprinkler. But not just one, they lined the entire side of the road. I spent the next 1.5 or so miles ducking, twisting, trying to maneuver around the water.

Good times. Not really... I didn't need more practice biking in wetness.

The morning finished with a 35 minute run. Remember the days when I complained about my high HR? Well, I could not get my HR up at all this morning. Biking, or running. I guess this just means my fitness level is so much better. Or I am not working hard enough...

Stupid Job!

Man, today was not what I expected. The alarm went off at 5:45. My quads were still tingly from the weekend and the L-A-S-T thing I wanted to do was sit on Blain. Even though I knew I should, sleep won, once again. But I know I have time to make it up later this week.

I go to work, typical morning. But I am 'acting' as my boss is out. Usually it only involves making sure everyone is in the office, and the occasional 'decision'. So when an issue arose around 10, and I was still in meetings, making calls, and researching the problem by 12:30, I was so happy to take a break and go for a run.

I come back, more issues. Around 4 someone came looking for me to solve another problem. At 5:30, another person had an issue that NEEDED TO BE SOLVED RIGHT NOW. Blah! I wanted to leave at 4:45 to hit the pool - which closes at 7 :-( So at 6:15, I walked out, not prepared for tomorrows meetings, not having that satisfied feeling. AND, no swim. Boo!

But the plus side is I made dinner - out of a box but it involved veggies. Will do my dishes (that haven't been done since last week...) fold laundry (won't say how long that has been lying around), hopefully finish my book (20-ish pages left) and go to bed early.

Tomorrow a brick.

Coach and I Have Different Views on Tapering

When I saw my workouts for the week from Coach, my first thought was "Wait, I thought I was tapering". Definitely different views...
For example on the tempo run. Normally it's 45 minutes with 6*5 minutes hard
Me, no tempo - Coach, 35 minutes with 3*5 minutes hard
Long run. Normally 4.5-6 hours
Me, 90 minutes - Coach, 3 hours
So, I still have 10 workouts to get in which include a 3 hour ride, 90 minute run, and a brick. And where am I supposed to fit more sleep in...

The good news is I went to Conte's tonight and once again - they proved to be the best. I walk in (with cookies of course) and had the co-owner (who I saw at the ride yesterday and wondered why I didn't say something about the falling chain there), manager and head mechanic all chatting with me about Blain within 5 minutes. He was swept up and being worked on before I could finish explaining the issues.
He seems much better and will do my best to crawl out of bed tomorrow and have a proper ride.

Oh, and I don't know when this happened, but the 2008 IM Moo Athlete's Guide is out. I don't know how they did it, but they made cows artsy and really cool looking!!

4655

First of all, don't tell Coach what I am about to write...

Today was the Reston Century Ride, a recreational tour of Virginia. I signed up for the century (104 mile) ride and had full intentions of doing the entire event. Coach had me just doing a 5-6 hour ride, yesterday (and we all know I can't do 104 miles in 6 hours. This is why you can't tell him!!). Rule number 1 was to never do more than he said...

So I pull into the parking lot, start getting Blain ready, and this guy starts talking to me. Now it's about 6:30, I have had zero coffee, about to do 104 miles and not feeling up to chatting. But he starts to comment on the amount of liquid I am taking (3 bottles of Accelerade and my aero drink filled with water). I explain that I am training for IM Moo and this is my last long ride so am treating it like I would the bike portion of the race. He goes off about how every 10 pounds adds 30 minutes to your bike time, I should have trained with the Gatorade they provide on the course, or I should just add protein powder and it's the same as Accelerade. HELLO!?!?! Why are you telling me about what to do on my Ironman that is 2 weeks away!!! I try to be polite and tell him I have a sensitive stomach, this is working for me, and I don't want to do anything new on race day. He proceeds to say I should just bring powder, mix it with water, and only carry 1 bottle - the time difference would be better that way.
Oh, and I was bringing too many Gu's.
And my Hammer electrolyte pills were a waste.
AND if I wanted real advice, I should talk to other tri clubs, not DC Tri because they are ALL nuwbies and I should look into his club. I am not a violent person but was SOOOO close to punching this very annoying guy, kicking his shins, poking him in the eye - even, dare I say, hurt his bike.

I mean really, just because you parked 2 spots way from me does not make us friends.

So, buy the time I got to the REALLY LONG registration line, I was fuming!! Poor Brooke had to calm me down, remind me it was just a relaxing ride, but I was just so mad. Ahh, annoying!

Anyway, Brooke, M, D, T (I didn't ask if I could use their names on the blog so initials it is) and I headed out - and we were hoping to see Rose on the course. Pretty soon it was Brooke, T and I, then T and I. After the first rest stop, my chain popped off (again!! Boo, taking it to Conte's tomorrow to hopefully get it checked out) I was on my own. Brooke waited up for me and when we got to the main rest stop T was there. T decided to try the 104 with me and we headed out. Unfortunately, we (I) missed a turn. When we saw M and D, I knew we (I) missed something. So we turned around and headed back. That loop was to be 28 miles, and we did 14, so close enough.

We headed out to the other loop and half way my right knee really started to hurt. After we got back to the rest stop, I was really happy we (I) missed the turn for the loop with the big hills.

On the way back, we were on a trail with ZERO shade and the sun was sucking the life out of me. The last 12 miles killed me! I understand the sun is good and all, but not this afternoon. I did luck out with little humidity and not too much wind... but still, 90 degrees at 2 in the afternoon is just hot.

But I finished a good ride for me. No falling, no broken chain (unlike Brooke), no broken water bottle cage (unlike D and M). Just some sore knees and a fat lip because I decided to drink from my aero water bottle just as I was going over a bump - oops.

As my last long ride, I am slightly concerned with my lack of hill training. But there is nothing I can do about it now. Who is to say if I would have done all hills, my knees would be working and I could still continue. There are more than a thousand possibilities, what if's, out there and I just have to be happy with what I have done and what is meant to be will be.

Oh, and the 4655 subject line - the number of calories I burned today according to my HRM. Cheese steak for dinner!