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Monday, January 31, 2011
life is beautiful
Virtually every morning, on my way to drop Ellie off at school, I see this elderly couple walking. Hand in hand, they make their way up the street... I only hope that when I am of their age, I am still upright and moving.
I am so inspired by so many of my friends and acquaintances from the tri club, who either discovered the sport in the 2nd half of their lives, or even later... who have this amazing level of fitness and make the most of every day. It really makes me aspire to continue to maintain a lifestyle of activity, so that I, too, can be as awesome as them.
I turn 30 this year. However, 30 is the new 20... and I am certain that 50 is probably the new 30 :)
I am so inspired by so many of my friends and acquaintances from the tri club, who either discovered the sport in the 2nd half of their lives, or even later... who have this amazing level of fitness and make the most of every day. It really makes me aspire to continue to maintain a lifestyle of activity, so that I, too, can be as awesome as them.
I turn 30 this year. However, 30 is the new 20... and I am certain that 50 is probably the new 30 :)
Sunday, January 30, 2011
another great day
The morning started off right with a great ride around fiesta with Jax and Kara... followed by some house cleaning... a long trail run with Jax...and a bbq with a bunch of good friends...
The entire day was fantastic, though i could have done without the killer headache that I have no thanks to the Malibu shots. LOL
The entire day was fantastic, though i could have done without the killer headache that I have no thanks to the Malibu shots. LOL
Saturday, January 29, 2011
fantastic day :)
today I had a fantastic triathlon at the park with my kids and husband... swing, chase (while they rode their bikes), run (they wanted to run laps around the park)... we also cleaned up the yard, house, folded laundry, and just hung out... very relaxing.
Tomorrow I have a bit oftorture training planned. 1.5 hour bike ride, 2 hour run. Should be fun as I'm riding with Jax and Kara and running with Jax and Laura... this will all be followed up with a bbq... so ride, run, eat... another triathlon day. FANTASTIC.
Had a great conversation with Randi about my goals, my frustrations, etc... definitely made me feel better about some things.
Almost feeling excited about my workouts tomorrow... this is improvement.
Tomorrow I have a bit of
Had a great conversation with Randi about my goals, my frustrations, etc... definitely made me feel better about some things.
Almost feeling excited about my workouts tomorrow... this is improvement.
Friday, January 28, 2011
i declare....
... that I am taking tomorrow off.
YES, off.
Well, not entirely... but off from training. It will be the first Saturday in.... gosh, I can't tell you the last time I had a whole Saturday off from training... a very long time...
So we are going to do projects around the house and teach both girls how to ride their bikes without training wheels. Actually, Zoe pretty much KNOWS how, she just needs practice. She wants to learn so she can "get medals in triathlons like mommy." HAH... good thing she doesn't know they're "finisher's medals" and everyone gets them... but hey, whatever motivates.
Sunday, I'm swimming, biking, and running... then BBQing/eating with good friends and I'm really just looking forward to an awesome weekend with the people I care about.
I try not to feel guilty for not working out tomorrow... but I know I will. However, that's something I will have to accept and face.
Why do I feel so guilty?
Ah well... off towallow in self pity errr... be productive at work :)
YES, off.
Well, not entirely... but off from training. It will be the first Saturday in.... gosh, I can't tell you the last time I had a whole Saturday off from training... a very long time...
So we are going to do projects around the house and teach both girls how to ride their bikes without training wheels. Actually, Zoe pretty much KNOWS how, she just needs practice. She wants to learn so she can "get medals in triathlons like mommy." HAH... good thing she doesn't know they're "finisher's medals" and everyone gets them... but hey, whatever motivates.
Sunday, I'm swimming, biking, and running... then BBQing/eating with good friends and I'm really just looking forward to an awesome weekend with the people I care about.
I try not to feel guilty for not working out tomorrow... but I know I will. However, that's something I will have to accept and face.
Why do I feel so guilty?
Ah well... off to
Thursday, January 27, 2011
feeling the burn
...and no... it's not the burn of heavy training.
It's the candle of my motivation being blown out... I've burned the candle at both ends for far too long and it has caught up with me.
For this reason, I've made several important training decisions:
1) Only two main races this year
2) Everything besides these two races will be "for fun" and "for training"
3) Adding more "fun" into my training (paddle boarding, rock climbing, trail runs, mountain biking, etc)
Hopefully, this will help spark my motivation... or at least make me enjoy things more.
I got into triathlon "for fun" and had fun participating in these races...but when I started putting higher expectations on myself and setting "real" goals, it really took the fun out of this. I don't ever expect to make a career out of this -- so why am Iallowing it to take over my life letting it be such a focus?
Time to really reprioritize.
I spent the last few days hanging out with the kiddos, doing homework, and some minimal training... and yet it still feel guilty for not working out more... What gives??!?!
It's the candle of my motivation being blown out... I've burned the candle at both ends for far too long and it has caught up with me.
For this reason, I've made several important training decisions:
1) Only two main races this year
2) Everything besides these two races will be "for fun" and "for training"
3) Adding more "fun" into my training (paddle boarding, rock climbing, trail runs, mountain biking, etc)
Hopefully, this will help spark my motivation... or at least make me enjoy things more.
I got into triathlon "for fun" and had fun participating in these races...but when I started putting higher expectations on myself and setting "real" goals, it really took the fun out of this. I don't ever expect to make a career out of this -- so why am I
Time to really reprioritize.
I spent the last few days hanging out with the kiddos, doing homework, and some minimal training... and yet it still feel guilty for not working out more... What gives??!?!
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
some sound advice
I am fortunate enough to be surrounded by greatness. I live in the mecca of fitness and greatness... paradise... where it is 80 degrees in the winter and I can train play outside year round. We truly do live in an amazing place... I suppose it almost makes it worth the exhorbitant amount of property taxes that I pay.
I have many people in my life who I look up to. These people range from athletes, parents, scholars, etc... but lately, in my quest for answers, I've come to get some great advice from a variety of wonderful people.
One of my favorite statements, that I've really taken to heart is this:
"You don't want to haev regrets, you don't want to do everything half assed... as your kids get older you will have more time - but don't waste that time now - they are only this age once and that you can never get back. Triathlon is NOT going anywhere." -- so thank you!! I needed to hear this. Actually, this was an echo of something I was told during my ride on Saturday by yet another person I admire...
This really does answer a lot of my questions and reaffirms what I've been feeling lately... that it's truly time to reprioritize and enjoy the kiddos while they're still young enough to actually want to spend time with me.
I really appreciate the love and support from all of you.
I have many people in my life who I look up to. These people range from athletes, parents, scholars, etc... but lately, in my quest for answers, I've come to get some great advice from a variety of wonderful people.
One of my favorite statements, that I've really taken to heart is this:
"You don't want to haev regrets, you don't want to do everything half assed... as your kids get older you will have more time - but don't waste that time now - they are only this age once and that you can never get back. Triathlon is NOT going anywhere." -- so thank you!! I needed to hear this. Actually, this was an echo of something I was told during my ride on Saturday by yet another person I admire...
This really does answer a lot of my questions and reaffirms what I've been feeling lately... that it's truly time to reprioritize and enjoy the kiddos while they're still young enough to actually want to spend time with me.
I really appreciate the love and support from all of you.
Monday, January 24, 2011
is there a balance?
family
grad school
full time employment
training
friends
sleep
How do I find a good balance for it all?
How do I meet all of my goals that I've set for myself and still find the time and energy for everything else?
I don't think it's possible. I've come to the conclusion lately that I need to adjust my goals and expectations for myself so that I'm not living in a constant state of "could have" and disappointment... "I could have done better at my race" "I could have done better on my test" "I could have slept more..." etc... but what it boils down to with most of my "could haves" is that I just need to set more realistic goals for myself.
Instead of sitting down with my training plan and saying "Ok, I have 16 hours on the schedule, this is how I'm going to squeeze it into my life," I need to do is sit down and figure what I have going on in the week with my kids, my job, my school work, etc and say "Ok, I have 10 hours that I can spare for training this week" and work around that way. I need to be realistic abotu what I can and cannot do.
The same goes with racing... I need to set goals based on the time I have to train and with what resources I have. I have the tendency to set high goals for myself (whether on paper or in my head) and even though they're not always realistic (and I know this going into the race), I am still disappointed when I don't accomplish them.
I really just need to sit down and lay it all out. Next year will be different, though. That's for sure... but no, it won't be MORE training and racing. In fact, it will be less. But that's just in the works right now.
In the meantime, I am looking forward (already) to the weekend. I have a great afternoon planned for my family on Saturday afternoon. :D
grad school
full time employment
training
friends
sleep
How do I find a good balance for it all?
How do I meet all of my goals that I've set for myself and still find the time and energy for everything else?
I don't think it's possible. I've come to the conclusion lately that I need to adjust my goals and expectations for myself so that I'm not living in a constant state of "could have" and disappointment... "I could have done better at my race" "I could have done better on my test" "I could have slept more..." etc... but what it boils down to with most of my "could haves" is that I just need to set more realistic goals for myself.
Instead of sitting down with my training plan and saying "Ok, I have 16 hours on the schedule, this is how I'm going to squeeze it into my life," I need to do is sit down and figure what I have going on in the week with my kids, my job, my school work, etc and say "Ok, I have 10 hours that I can spare for training this week" and work around that way. I need to be realistic abotu what I can and cannot do.
The same goes with racing... I need to set goals based on the time I have to train and with what resources I have. I have the tendency to set high goals for myself (whether on paper or in my head) and even though they're not always realistic (and I know this going into the race), I am still disappointed when I don't accomplish them.
I really just need to sit down and lay it all out. Next year will be different, though. That's for sure... but no, it won't be MORE training and racing. In fact, it will be less. But that's just in the works right now.
In the meantime, I am looking forward (already) to the weekend. I have a great afternoon planned for my family on Saturday afternoon. :D
Sunday, January 23, 2011
question for all athletes
How long have you been doing what you do?
How much do you train per week?
Do you have kids?
Are you employed?
Have you ever taken some "time off?"
If so, was it due to burn out, scheduling, etc?
If so, did you still train? How did your workouts change?
Was it beneficial to your overall life/outlook/fitness?
Just curious... I mean, can you just keep nonstop training indefinitely without burning out? Do you take breaks? Is there a balance that can be found between reaching goals and being a good participand in the OTHER aspects of your lives?
How much do you train per week?
Do you have kids?
Are you employed?
Have you ever taken some "time off?"
If so, was it due to burn out, scheduling, etc?
If so, did you still train? How did your workouts change?
Was it beneficial to your overall life/outlook/fitness?
Just curious... I mean, can you just keep nonstop training indefinitely without burning out? Do you take breaks? Is there a balance that can be found between reaching goals and being a good participand in the OTHER aspects of your lives?
in today's news
Yesterday was the TCSD "celebrity" ride with some cycling and triathlon greats. It was also the same day as the Endurance Expo... we live in the mecca of amazing things. The ride was a lot of fun - I was in the company of John, Randi, Jax, Coach Andy, and others... it was social and a lot of fun. Afterwards, we hit up the Endurance Expo, which proved to be more like a "family reunion" with how many people we saw that comprise our "triathlon family." I feel so fortunate to live in a place that promotes health, fitness, community, etc. Afterwards, Randi and I had an awesome meal at Naked Cafe and finished out the day by adding an additional 22 miles to our 25.
... Today was the Carlsbad Half Marathon. In 2009, it was my very first half marathon. With Jax at my side, I trudged through the beautiful course in 2:18. Last year, it was my first solo half marathon... I trudged through the course in 2:15. This year, my coach had written a specific "workout" that was supposed to get accomplished... first third, easy... second third, race pace... third third... either easy or push it... Well, things were going as planned until about mile 5.5... it was then that the quad cramped like something fierce. It was all I could do to keep from crying but I trudged on, with Randi encouraging and prodding me to continue. It was not the race that I had hoped for... but I trudged through the course in 2:10. I guess I can't complain, I could have done far worse... but I probably could have done a lot better. Ah well, thank goodness for great friends, beautiful weather, and living in paradise.
In other news, Ellie has pneumonia and a double ear infection. Thankfully, it's "walking pneumonia" and she's hanging in there pretty well and is now on antibiotics and ear drops. Poor kiddo!!
I've also done a lot of thinking about future goals and activities and there will definitely be major changes coming in 2012. But for now, must keep trucking.
However, I will be planning something FUN for my FAMILY for this coming weekend. The last few weekends, I've been devoted 100% to training and spending so much time out of the house. Thinking of taking everyone pedal boating and paddle boarding on the bay, some picnicing, and teaching both girls to ride their two wheel bikes. Afterall, I gotta raise some triathletes, right?
... Today was the Carlsbad Half Marathon. In 2009, it was my very first half marathon. With Jax at my side, I trudged through the beautiful course in 2:18. Last year, it was my first solo half marathon... I trudged through the course in 2:15. This year, my coach had written a specific "workout" that was supposed to get accomplished... first third, easy... second third, race pace... third third... either easy or push it... Well, things were going as planned until about mile 5.5... it was then that the quad cramped like something fierce. It was all I could do to keep from crying but I trudged on, with Randi encouraging and prodding me to continue. It was not the race that I had hoped for... but I trudged through the course in 2:10. I guess I can't complain, I could have done far worse... but I probably could have done a lot better. Ah well, thank goodness for great friends, beautiful weather, and living in paradise.
In other news, Ellie has pneumonia and a double ear infection. Thankfully, it's "walking pneumonia" and she's hanging in there pretty well and is now on antibiotics and ear drops. Poor kiddo!!
I've also done a lot of thinking about future goals and activities and there will definitely be major changes coming in 2012. But for now, must keep trucking.
However, I will be planning something FUN for my FAMILY for this coming weekend. The last few weekends, I've been devoted 100% to training and spending so much time out of the house. Thinking of taking everyone pedal boating and paddle boarding on the bay, some picnicing, and teaching both girls to ride their two wheel bikes. Afterall, I gotta raise some triathletes, right?
Saturday, January 22, 2011
great day!!
started it off with a nice, easy, social 25 mile ride with the tri club and some pro cyclists... then followed up with the Endurance Expo... lunch at Naked Cafe...then capped off with another 22 on the bike (again, social and easy).
Carlsbad 1/2 Marathon tomorrow (which I have a specific "workout" for, as opposed to just smashing it as a race) followed by a 2 hour recovery ride...
Should be a fun day :)
Carlsbad 1/2 Marathon tomorrow (which I have a specific "workout" for, as opposed to just smashing it as a race) followed by a 2 hour recovery ride...
Should be a fun day :)
Friday, January 21, 2011
Thursday, January 20, 2011
ch-ch-ch-channnngesss :)
Always improving, forever changing... That's my life. But today I took some steps that will hopefully make a great (and positive) impact on my life. Stay tuned for more details... but only good can come from this.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
the dark side...
I keep thinking about making another blog for the darker side of me... stuff that I don't necessarily want to share for all the world... we'll see. My other idea is to start writing my life story out through my blog... we shall see how that goes.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Sunday, January 16, 2011
amazing weather
This weather has been phenomenal!! Got in some great training this weekend...looking forward to a great week... Off to Rehab United tomorrow for some strength work and a run...but get to spend some quality time with the family and write a paper (super exciting....)
Saturday, January 15, 2011
last year
What are some things that you did differently last year than previous years? Do you find that it helped?
For me, I started working with an awesome coach, Bryan Hill (http://www.rehabunited.com) in April. I had always thought that I wasn't good enough to have a coach, but after a few of my friends jumped on the coaching bandwagon, I realized that perhaps I really could benefit from having one. I was right. Last year was awesome - I pushed harder, ran faster, swam better, and biked stronger than ever before...and I attribute a lot of it to my coach having a good plan and really believing in me.
I think that one day I might like a USAT Certification... I'd love to help people who, like myself, felt that they didn't deserve a coach or weren't good enough/fast enough for one. Probably one of the best decisions I've ever made for myself.
It's been great having my workouts laid out for me, having someone to encourage me when I need it, or tell me (nicely) that I could have tried a bit harder. Overall, a fantastic experience and I highly recommend Rehab United everyone and anyone. Bryan's awesome - he's energetic and driven and a lot of fun. For anyone who has been to a class at RU, you know how awesome the workouts are...
In other aspects of my life... not much has changed...besides the ever present desire to besuperwoman better than the previous year.
For me, I started working with an awesome coach, Bryan Hill (http://www.rehabunited.com) in April. I had always thought that I wasn't good enough to have a coach, but after a few of my friends jumped on the coaching bandwagon, I realized that perhaps I really could benefit from having one. I was right. Last year was awesome - I pushed harder, ran faster, swam better, and biked stronger than ever before...and I attribute a lot of it to my coach having a good plan and really believing in me.
I think that one day I might like a USAT Certification... I'd love to help people who, like myself, felt that they didn't deserve a coach or weren't good enough/fast enough for one. Probably one of the best decisions I've ever made for myself.
It's been great having my workouts laid out for me, having someone to encourage me when I need it, or tell me (nicely) that I could have tried a bit harder. Overall, a fantastic experience and I highly recommend Rehab United everyone and anyone. Bryan's awesome - he's energetic and driven and a lot of fun. For anyone who has been to a class at RU, you know how awesome the workouts are...
In other aspects of my life... not much has changed...besides the ever present desire to be
Friday, January 14, 2011
how much fun would THIS be?
http://www.24hoursoftriathlon.com/24_Hours_of_Triathlon_2011/Home.html !!
Anyone? Anyone??? Not for this year (or next) but hey... sometime in the future.... distant future....? :)
Anyone? Anyone??? Not for this year (or next) but hey... sometime in the future.... distant future....? :)
the loves
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this was supposed to be a pic of the kiddos... I'll have to try and repost.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
my favorite part about me for the day...
...my kids... They are extensions of me. They are my DNA, my blood, sweat, and tears...they are a challenge more rewarding and difficult than any race. Some days, I think to myself "Holy Sh*t...I'm in charge of these kids!!" And what a responsibility it seems to be these days... oftentimes I feel bad for bringing them up in such a messed up world... so all I can do is smile, and bring my kids up in the best environment that we, as parents, can provide for them.
TOnight, Ellie told me that she was "listening with her eyes open." - Ok, kid, well... at least you're listening <3
TOnight, Ellie told me that she was "listening with her eyes open." - Ok, kid, well... at least you're listening <3
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
today I love...
As Jax sat in the sauna after a swim and hot tub, we discussed our daily "self like." Today... I like my brain... it has gotten me thus far and has provided me with a really interesting way of thinking... (Not always good)
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
loving myself...?
Today, my good thing is: MY EYES. I've always loved them. Even when the rest of my body has let me down, my eyes have always been there for me. ;)
Had a fantastic swim with Jax... a decent day at work...and the kids were pretty awesome, as usual.
My eyelids are getting heavy... so this will have to be short.
Had a fantastic swim with Jax... a decent day at work...and the kids were pretty awesome, as usual.
My eyelids are getting heavy... so this will have to be short.
Monday, January 10, 2011
good things, day 1
Jax and I are trying this "self project" thing and one of our daily tasks is to come up with something that we like about ourselves...
Well... I like my butt. Sometimes... in the right pants... on days that don't end in Y... ok, that's not helpful...but yea, I guess you could say that I like my butt.
Now, I'm adding... something I don't like about myself...but instead of just complaining about it... I'm going to say what I am going to do to change it...
I don't like my core/abs. So, I am going to incorporate situps, crunches, planks, and a few other exercises into my daily routine (I already do 50-100 pushups every day, so why not add a couple other daily rituals)
Why do I want a stronger core? Easy... EVERYTHING!! A stronger core will help my posture, my back, my shoulders, AND my athletic performance.
Well... I like my butt. Sometimes... in the right pants... on days that don't end in Y... ok, that's not helpful...but yea, I guess you could say that I like my butt.
Now, I'm adding... something I don't like about myself...but instead of just complaining about it... I'm going to say what I am going to do to change it...
I don't like my core/abs. So, I am going to incorporate situps, crunches, planks, and a few other exercises into my daily routine (I already do 50-100 pushups every day, so why not add a couple other daily rituals)
Why do I want a stronger core? Easy... EVERYTHING!! A stronger core will help my posture, my back, my shoulders, AND my athletic performance.
the "perfect beginning"
Today is 1/10/11.... any way you look at it... its 1/10/11 :) So, in keeping with my nontraditional ways, today is my New Year's Day. The beginning of the year is off to a fantastic start, but I've decided that today is the true New Year for me.
During our trail run on Saturday, Jax and I came up with several goals for ourselves... since, as I've mentioned before, I don't buy into the "resolution bandwagon," I'm not calling them resolutions but rather "Self Improvement Steps." --- and these do not involve anyone besides myself.... these aren't the type of resolutions where I promise to be a better wife and mom, because that's a given and a constant in my life. I do not need "resolutions" to remind me to strive to always be a better person :) However... I do like to have certain goals and decisions written out... so it's black and white... (besides always improving my relationship with my husband and children is non-negotiable. ;)
Here's what I've come up with (for accountability purposes):
1) No candy, soda, or fake sugar substitutes until February 11th (baby steps)
2) Follow the "blood type diet" until February 10th (and re-evaluate from there)
3) Attack each of my workouts with purpose and complete them as planned.
4) Weekly menu and grocery list. No random "stops to the store" to pick up "one thing."
5) Homework. On time. Everytime. No questions. This is my last class before my 3 month leave of absence... so I need to go big and take care of business with good grades.
We also discussed our 5-10 year plan. Among some of my further out goals include
1) Level 1 USAT certification
2) Ironman.
3) MFT certification and possibly Substance Abuse Certification
4) Nutrition certification/classes...
5) Triathlon program for disadvantaged and at-risk youth
I was also thinking about one day perhaps starting a "total body gym" -- meaning a gym that not only deals with nutrition and physical aspects of being healthy, but the emotional ones as well. Really cater to the WHOLE BODY approach to fitness and training. Have a special focus on those who have dealt with eating disorders and children... Obviously, this is a very distant future goal as I need capital, licensing, and certifications in various areas... but it's definitely a big interest of mine and I would love to be able to incorporate my academic background in psychology with my love of fitness and training...and my life experiences...into a job. Now to just be able to get there.
Perhaps I'll make a Pepsi Refresh proposal... all I know is that I really want to make a difference in the world... However, I also know is that change has to start at home, from within... and that I need to be the best person, parent, wife, friend, sister, daughter, student, athlete, aunt, cousin, employee, etc... that I can be...before I can even THINK to reach out and help anyone else.
Well... I'm sitting here eating my blackberries/blueberries/fage for breakfast and better get going on today's work. :)
Have a great day, everyone... make it COUNT!
During our trail run on Saturday, Jax and I came up with several goals for ourselves... since, as I've mentioned before, I don't buy into the "resolution bandwagon," I'm not calling them resolutions but rather "Self Improvement Steps." --- and these do not involve anyone besides myself.... these aren't the type of resolutions where I promise to be a better wife and mom, because that's a given and a constant in my life. I do not need "resolutions" to remind me to strive to always be a better person :) However... I do like to have certain goals and decisions written out... so it's black and white... (besides always improving my relationship with my husband and children is non-negotiable. ;)
Here's what I've come up with (for accountability purposes):
1) No candy, soda, or fake sugar substitutes until February 11th (baby steps)
2) Follow the "blood type diet" until February 10th (and re-evaluate from there)
3) Attack each of my workouts with purpose and complete them as planned.
4) Weekly menu and grocery list. No random "stops to the store" to pick up "one thing."
5) Homework. On time. Everytime. No questions. This is my last class before my 3 month leave of absence... so I need to go big and take care of business with good grades.
We also discussed our 5-10 year plan. Among some of my further out goals include
1) Level 1 USAT certification
2) Ironman.
3) MFT certification and possibly Substance Abuse Certification
4) Nutrition certification/classes...
5) Triathlon program for disadvantaged and at-risk youth
I was also thinking about one day perhaps starting a "total body gym" -- meaning a gym that not only deals with nutrition and physical aspects of being healthy, but the emotional ones as well. Really cater to the WHOLE BODY approach to fitness and training. Have a special focus on those who have dealt with eating disorders and children... Obviously, this is a very distant future goal as I need capital, licensing, and certifications in various areas... but it's definitely a big interest of mine and I would love to be able to incorporate my academic background in psychology with my love of fitness and training...and my life experiences...into a job. Now to just be able to get there.
Perhaps I'll make a Pepsi Refresh proposal... all I know is that I really want to make a difference in the world... However, I also know is that change has to start at home, from within... and that I need to be the best person, parent, wife, friend, sister, daughter, student, athlete, aunt, cousin, employee, etc... that I can be...before I can even THINK to reach out and help anyone else.
Well... I'm sitting here eating my blackberries/blueberries/fage for breakfast and better get going on today's work. :)
Have a great day, everyone... make it COUNT!
Sunday, January 9, 2011
weekend recap
Awesome weekend...lots of time spent with good friends and my wonderful family...I'd write more but it's late and I'm getting too old to stay up this late.
(Though had to get in my post for the day)
(Though had to get in my post for the day)
Saturday, January 8, 2011
the honesty trails
Today was an amazing 10 mile, hilly trail run with Jax. Not only was it the first long trail run of the season but it was our first "reflections of 2010" run in addition to our "goal setting 2011" run. We discussed some of the biggest "issues" of last year and concluded with a positive spin, and set goals and set the mission of the new year. All in all a phenomenal run. We discovered new trails (there are literally hundreds of miles of trail access from what's pretty much out backyard... a great new playground for the kids...and made self realizations that were necessary in order to begin the year on the right note.
This year, there will be a lot of changes in my life. This year, there will be great things to come.
During our run, we talked about who or what we were going to help...what we were going to accomplish...Jax said to me... "I think we need a project." Well, to us, a "project" is basically someone we wanted to take under our wing and support emotionally, with life, with training, etc.
My answer... "no, this year - we are our own projects. I have so many things that I want to accomplish, so much I need to change about myself...as do you." And so it started...the project.
Project US 2011... and anyone is free to join us in this quest, this "project." All you have to do is commit to make the changes in your own life. This year, I will be working on myself. (though, that's not to say I won't continue to make training plans for those of you who have asked, help support or encourage, or give advice to anyone who is wanting or needing it - and to some of you lucky ones - even when you're NOT asking for it... LOL)
Aside from the usual "lose weight," (and I really don't want to hear the standard "you're not fat" because per my PCM, I could stand to lose 15-20... ), "train smarter," "PR every race," "run faster," "swim more efficiently," and "ride like I stole it" - I have several goals on a more personal level - "finding the balance" "learning to love myself" "respecting myself as an ATHLETE" (and hell, while we're doing that, I should probably start SEEING myself as an athlete...)
There's just so much I want to find within myself this year. I want to go from being a self-proclaimed race defeatest (as in, when things don't go my way at a race, I basically give up - whether consciously or sub consciously) to being as resourceful at a race as I am in real life.
Do I have other goals? Of course. They involve my children, my husband, school, my friends, my family, etc... but that's not what this post is about... though I'll tell you this - I will no longer be the "pushover" with my children... though I will find effective and alternative ways to GENTLY discipline them and demonstrate proper behavior in the most effective way possible... but regardless, this post isn't about that... so I'll leave that for another day.
There was SO much more I wanted to write about... but it will have to wait for another day.
This year, there will be a lot of changes in my life. This year, there will be great things to come.
During our run, we talked about who or what we were going to help...what we were going to accomplish...Jax said to me... "I think we need a project." Well, to us, a "project" is basically someone we wanted to take under our wing and support emotionally, with life, with training, etc.
My answer... "no, this year - we are our own projects. I have so many things that I want to accomplish, so much I need to change about myself...as do you." And so it started...the project.
Project US 2011... and anyone is free to join us in this quest, this "project." All you have to do is commit to make the changes in your own life. This year, I will be working on myself. (though, that's not to say I won't continue to make training plans for those of you who have asked, help support or encourage, or give advice to anyone who is wanting or needing it - and to some of you lucky ones - even when you're NOT asking for it... LOL)
Aside from the usual "lose weight," (and I really don't want to hear the standard "you're not fat" because per my PCM, I could stand to lose 15-20... ), "train smarter," "PR every race," "run faster," "swim more efficiently," and "ride like I stole it" - I have several goals on a more personal level - "finding the balance" "learning to love myself" "respecting myself as an ATHLETE" (and hell, while we're doing that, I should probably start SEEING myself as an athlete...)
There's just so much I want to find within myself this year. I want to go from being a self-proclaimed race defeatest (as in, when things don't go my way at a race, I basically give up - whether consciously or sub consciously) to being as resourceful at a race as I am in real life.
Do I have other goals? Of course. They involve my children, my husband, school, my friends, my family, etc... but that's not what this post is about... though I'll tell you this - I will no longer be the "pushover" with my children... though I will find effective and alternative ways to GENTLY discipline them and demonstrate proper behavior in the most effective way possible... but regardless, this post isn't about that... so I'll leave that for another day.
There was SO much more I wanted to write about... but it will have to wait for another day.
Friday, January 7, 2011
the four agreements
I am reading a book recommended to me... it's called "The Four Agreements." To summarize from its facebook page:
" Ultimately, it is about finding one's own integrity, self-love, and peace by way of absolving oneself from responsibility for the woes of others. The Four Agreements are:
1. Be Impeccable With Your Word.
2. Don't Take Anything Personally.
3. Don't Make Assumptions.
4. Always Do Your Best."
In any case, I'm currently on the second agreement. A very good read and definitely worth following and making a part of your life. I'll write more on it later, but for now, I'm off to spend some time with the husband...
2 hour soul searching trail run with Jax in the morning. :)
" Ultimately, it is about finding one's own integrity, self-love, and peace by way of absolving oneself from responsibility for the woes of others. The Four Agreements are:
1. Be Impeccable With Your Word.
2. Don't Take Anything Personally.
3. Don't Make Assumptions.
4. Always Do Your Best."
In any case, I'm currently on the second agreement. A very good read and definitely worth following and making a part of your life. I'll write more on it later, but for now, I'm off to spend some time with the husband...
2 hour soul searching trail run with Jax in the morning. :)
Thursday, January 6, 2011
back to school, back to school
Winter break is over...which means I have homework due tonight. Somehow, I will fit that in between spending time with (which includes feeding, bathing, bedtime routine) the kiddos, making Zoe's lunch for tomorrow... oh wait, they are having a bbq tomorrow...SWEET... riding the trainer for 2 hours and doing strength training. Back to life as a work week single parent... should be an interesting evening to say the least.
In other news... I registered for the USAT Sprint National Championships today. This means that after my HIM, I am going to have to start hitting it hard with the speed if I want to qualify for Worlds... I doubt that will happen...but hey... I'm going to have to be able to look myself in the mirror and say "I gave it my all!!"
Here goes nothing :D
In other news... I registered for the USAT Sprint National Championships today. This means that after my HIM, I am going to have to start hitting it hard with the speed if I want to qualify for Worlds... I doubt that will happen...but hey... I'm going to have to be able to look myself in the mirror and say "I gave it my all!!"
Here goes nothing :D
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
in completely other news....
today we filed zoe's adoption paperwork. for those of you who don't know, jason is NOT zoe's biological father... however, he has been the most dad she's ever known, having been living with us for the last 5 years and married for nearly 4.5. The very first time that zoe met jason, she called him "daddy" and I will always say that SHE chose HIM. This has been a long time coming...and I will be so excited when the day comes that we can officially change her last name!! :)
inner struggles
so here's a picture of me ready to pop with my first pregnancy... i had a long struggle with anorexia/bulimia and when I got pregnant, my poor metabolism couldn't handle eating normally... so I packed on 80 lbs just by "being healthy." This monstrosity was the result:
So needless to say, having a healthy relationship with my weight has been a struggle... and I've really had a hard time finding the balance of one extreme and another. I've never been easily able to find the balance between good and evil, right and wrong, fast and slow, quiet or loud, lazy and crazy... starvation and overindulgence... to little or too much... I've just always been an "extreme" kind of person. One of my main goals for myself for this year is to find the balance... to meet myself halfway... to give a little, take a little, and most importantly - give myself a break.
I never really considered myself to be an athlete until I completed Barb's Race half ironman in July. That race truly showed me what I'm capable of (as if the 2 full marathons the prior year had not LOL) and really taught me some things about myself. But even to this day, I don't really consider myself to be a "true athlete." I know I've said that before, but it's just how I feel about things, and I'm hoping that 2011 will be the year I finally believe in myself.
I'm also a defeatest... if something's not going my way, it crushes me. Vegas 1/2 Marathon in December is a perfect example of it... the race wasn't going my way, and instead of pulling my head out of my ass and finishing strong... I felt defeated and essentially gave up. Even though my time was not what I had hoped and my heart rate was too high, and my pace had to be slower than I had wanted to maintain a lower heart rate, I should have pushed on. I didn't. And my time sucked.
But no more dwelling in the past. It's GO TIME. Time to kick some ass, and rock the new year, new season. At least I have some great company to join me (pics stolen from Jax).
So needless to say, having a healthy relationship with my weight has been a struggle... and I've really had a hard time finding the balance of one extreme and another. I've never been easily able to find the balance between good and evil, right and wrong, fast and slow, quiet or loud, lazy and crazy... starvation and overindulgence... to little or too much... I've just always been an "extreme" kind of person. One of my main goals for myself for this year is to find the balance... to meet myself halfway... to give a little, take a little, and most importantly - give myself a break.
I never really considered myself to be an athlete until I completed Barb's Race half ironman in July. That race truly showed me what I'm capable of (as if the 2 full marathons the prior year had not LOL) and really taught me some things about myself. But even to this day, I don't really consider myself to be a "true athlete." I know I've said that before, but it's just how I feel about things, and I'm hoping that 2011 will be the year I finally believe in myself.
I'm also a defeatest... if something's not going my way, it crushes me. Vegas 1/2 Marathon in December is a perfect example of it... the race wasn't going my way, and instead of pulling my head out of my ass and finishing strong... I felt defeated and essentially gave up. Even though my time was not what I had hoped and my heart rate was too high, and my pace had to be slower than I had wanted to maintain a lower heart rate, I should have pushed on. I didn't. And my time sucked.
But no more dwelling in the past. It's GO TIME. Time to kick some ass, and rock the new year, new season. At least I have some great company to join me (pics stolen from Jax).
since I've always done things a bit backwards....
I'm not doing New Year's Resolutions, as I stated. However, I will begin my "January 10th Resolutions" on Monday. Why January 10th? Because I can.
What do I intend to do?
I've gotten myself copies of the books Eat Right 4 Your Type and the "Type A Supplements and Foods List" and "Cook Right 4 Your Type." This week, I began implementing these things into my daily routine and diet... kind of as a "trial" period. Next Monday... it's the real deal. All meals and snacks must be "approved" and "on the list." Why do I want to do this? Well, last year, I had my bodyfat and all of that good stuff tested. Come to find... I have a slow metabolism... REALLY? I'm always hearing at work "you eat so well and you're always working out... you should be a twig." (gee, thanks!) but really, there's truth to it. Not only do I eat "well" (I mean, compared to the fast food frenzy of my office) I do workout a lot... but I also like to eat a lot... well, maybe not "a lot" but clearly more than my slow metabolism can burn. In this testing, I was told my "ideal body weight" (with consideration of my bone and muscle) should be around 125-135 lbs. I've NEVER weighed 125 (maybe when I was 10 lol) so in being a responsible athlete who has no desire to be a twig, have picked the "lucky number" of 135. Now, I've got less than 20 lbs to lose until I reach this "magic number" and I've given myself 12-16 weeks to accomplish it.
I think that should be sufficient. Here goes nothing!! :)
What do I intend to do?
I've gotten myself copies of the books Eat Right 4 Your Type and the "Type A Supplements and Foods List" and "Cook Right 4 Your Type." This week, I began implementing these things into my daily routine and diet... kind of as a "trial" period. Next Monday... it's the real deal. All meals and snacks must be "approved" and "on the list." Why do I want to do this? Well, last year, I had my bodyfat and all of that good stuff tested. Come to find... I have a slow metabolism... REALLY?
I think that should be sufficient. Here goes nothing!! :)
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
where oh where has my motivation gone?
Last week, I was super charged...energized... highly motivated. This week... not so much.
Maybe it was the super long hours I spent training... or Perhaps I left a bit of the hunger, the drive... out on the long ride on Saturday. Guess I better buck up and find it and finish the week strong.
School starts up again this week. I'm currently on academic probation... guess it's time to really step up and pay attention to my grades. The thing is, I'm not failing. I'm not getting D's... I'm not even getting C's... but for my current program, I need all B's and above. I graduated magna cum laude in my undergraduate program...so this is frustrating....
...now...off to do homework.
Maybe it was the super long hours I spent training... or Perhaps I left a bit of the hunger, the drive... out on the long ride on Saturday. Guess I better buck up and find it and finish the week strong.
School starts up again this week. I'm currently on academic probation... guess it's time to really step up and pay attention to my grades. The thing is, I'm not failing. I'm not getting D's... I'm not even getting C's... but for my current program, I need all B's and above. I graduated magna cum laude in my undergraduate program...so this is frustrating....
...now...off to do homework.
Monday, January 3, 2011
not much to report
It's amazing how perception can change EVERYTHING. How misunderstandings can breed such unhappiness... how everything in life is truly subjective. It's all about how you see it... or she sees it... or he sees it... just depends on which wheel is the squeakiest.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
2010 in Review!!
So 2010 definitely had it's ups and downs... but then again I guess the same can be said for any year. I think I definitely had more ups than downs, which is always comforting... but there's definitely room for improvement (isnt' there always?)
Highlights of 2010:
*Finishing my first official half ironman distance triathlon
*Making new friends and strengthening bonds with old
*Watching my children grow, learn, and change
*Spending quality time with my husband
*My husband completing his first triathlon and several other half marathons with me
*Watching my friends succeed in various areas
*Graduating Magna Cum Laude with a BA in Psychology
*Starting my MA program
*Taking an awesome trip to Palo Alto and exploring the Barb's Race Course with Randi
*Spending countless hours in the water, on the bike, and on my feet
I don't like resolutions. Simply because I feel like a person (myself) should always strive to better myself ALL THE TIME and not simply because it's a new year. Though the calendar says 2011... all the mistakes and choices that I've made in the past still affect who I am and what I'm doing. Therefore, I believe that change should be a constant, continuing process regardless of what my calendar is telling me. (Which is a huge reason why i hate going to the gym at the beginning of the year) but anyway... I have several goals for this year...
*spend less, save more
*attack debt with a vengence
*get the house, my car, my life more organized
*spend more time with the kids doing enriching and/or active activities
*plan a menu/shopping list for the week and stick to it
*cook more, eat out less
*teach Zoe to ride a bike without training wheels and get her and Ellie enrolled in swimming lessons once it warms up
*one date night with the husband per month (at least)
*train smarter, train harder
*put more effort into school
*maintain healthy diet
*mantra of the year: healthy body, healthy mind, healthy mind, healthy body...
*one girls night out or activity per month
*encourage and support orthers
Yes, lofty list... but I already do a lot of those things... I just want to put it out on paper, so that it memorializes it. I've been doing a lot of self improvement over the last couple years in particular... but I can do more. I WILL do more. I know that I can accompilsh so much more than I think even I give myself credit for... now only to be able to get that energy and effort into my racing mindset.
2011... I'm coming for you.
Highlights of 2010:
*Finishing my first official half ironman distance triathlon
*Making new friends and strengthening bonds with old
*Watching my children grow, learn, and change
*Spending quality time with my husband
*My husband completing his first triathlon and several other half marathons with me
*Watching my friends succeed in various areas
*Graduating Magna Cum Laude with a BA in Psychology
*Starting my MA program
*Taking an awesome trip to Palo Alto and exploring the Barb's Race Course with Randi
*Spending countless hours in the water, on the bike, and on my feet
I don't like resolutions. Simply because I feel like a person (myself) should always strive to better myself ALL THE TIME and not simply because it's a new year. Though the calendar says 2011... all the mistakes and choices that I've made in the past still affect who I am and what I'm doing. Therefore, I believe that change should be a constant, continuing process regardless of what my calendar is telling me. (Which is a huge reason why i hate going to the gym at the beginning of the year) but anyway... I have several goals for this year...
*spend less, save more
*attack debt with a vengence
*get the house, my car, my life more organized
*spend more time with the kids doing enriching and/or active activities
*plan a menu/shopping list for the week and stick to it
*cook more, eat out less
*teach Zoe to ride a bike without training wheels and get her and Ellie enrolled in swimming lessons once it warms up
*one date night with the husband per month (at least)
*train smarter, train harder
*put more effort into school
*maintain healthy diet
*mantra of the year: healthy body, healthy mind, healthy mind, healthy body...
*one girls night out or activity per month
*encourage and support orthers
Yes, lofty list... but I already do a lot of those things... I just want to put it out on paper, so that it memorializes it. I've been doing a lot of self improvement over the last couple years in particular... but I can do more. I WILL do more. I know that I can accompilsh so much more than I think even I give myself credit for... now only to be able to get that energy and effort into my racing mindset.
2011... I'm coming for you.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
new year :)
HAPPY NEW YEAR :) This year I plan to write every day... even if it's only a couple of lines :)
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