Monday, I'm In Love With 10

I hope everyone had an outstanding weekend!
Congratulations to Bob on the 100K and getting yourself the best kettle ever!

I got a swim workout and a spin class over the weekend. I had to time trial a 300 meter swim(9:27) for the tri coming up. It went ehhh. I think the pool is a little longer than 25 meters in length, so I will do it again with the Garmin this week. I am an unbelievably slow swimmer. Well, I don't have to tell you. It is obvious that I am slow at all 3 disciplines just swimming feels extra slow with people lapping me in the next lane. I ended up swimming a consistently slow 1000 meters. I could have probably done a few hundred more, and that reminds me that I do not push it in the pool like I should, even with the 50 meter sprint drills. I was reminded today that Coach Kim wants us to take it easy till training begins at the end of the month so ummm, yea that is why I was so slow in the pool.

Today, I got in a 15 mile ride. I took Lake Woodlands so I would be forced to clip in/out on the all stop signs. I got brave and raised up the seat, and I wanted to get comfortable with the new position. I thought about trying to get in the aero position, but I am still scared. I have aero bars that are mounted on my bike to pretend I am a triathlete. I did a 3 mile run off the bike, which I did at a new time record for me see below. I wasn't even pushing myself. I just ran at a comfortable pace in the 90 degree heat. I think acclimation is starting to take place.

I will post the IWLC week one updates tomorrow at Noon. I had another 2 lb loss this week. So, just like my swimming I keep it slow and steady, which after all it is healthy weight loss rate. I have a Cure concert tonight with Kari. Yes, The Cure since we are two mommas who party like it's 1985. Thanks Mel for the tickets. I will catch up with you guys later tonight if I am not all trippy. Just kidding.

Monday's Workout:

15 Mile Bike 59:36 (15.1 mph)

3 Mile Run 32:59 (10:59)

Mile 1 (11:05) Mile 2 (11:16) Mile 3 (10:38)

Feeling The Burn

I have pushed myself pretty hard this week, burning over 4000 calories. I am exhausted! The week is not over yet with a planned spin class tomorrow, and swim. After the week is done it will be about 4500+ calories. I have been extra good nutrition wise staying on WeWa and keeping my daily intake of about 1300 calories. I am the President of this IWLC so how would it look if I did not do well, besides I want to do well for myself anyhow.

How did I burn 4000+ calories?

-Spin class 5 days in a row. Tomorrow will be the 6th day.
-2 mile track run with intervals
-3 mile run off the spin bike on the TM
-3 swims at 750 yards each
-5 mile leisure bike ride on Baby Girl

(She was getting jealous of that stationary spin bike)
-7 mile run off Baby Girl (word “run” used very loosely)

I did my long run today since Lil’ Buster was going to be with Grandma. Man, was it HOT. It was in the 90’s again and unbelievably humid. It had been 3 weeks since I had done anything over 3 miles, and was not sure if I could do it. I thought I would go out there listening to my heart. Not my heart rate, but my heart rather than stare at the Garmin. I would run at my own pace at my comfort zone. Well, that was all good and dandy except my legs felt like cylinder blocks. I assumed it was the heat or just way too much on the legs with all the spinning.

Whatever, kept going it was now about mile 2, and I felt negative about the whole run. Dark clouds began to roll in, followed with a huge rain fall with no thunder or lightning just a steady shower of rain. It was like God’s way of saying, my dear child take this shower to cool off since you are not too bright trying to acclimate in the heat and humidity from hell. That got me to mile 3.44. Yes, I remember the exact distance that I began to feel more negative. By that point the sun came blazing back with full steam ahead. I was getting close to my turn around point when I saw a maintenance man go by on a golf cart on the trails picking up trash. I contemplated hitching a ride with him back to my car. Here is where some serious walking commenced for a good mile. I was OK with walking all the way back. Then the voice of reason set in.

VOR: Are you really going to walk the rest of your long run?
Me: Yes, I am not training for any long distance runs right now. It is all about listening to my heart, and it wants to walk.
VOR: Do you know how long it will take you to walk back?
Me: You are right. The sooner I can get home; I can shower and indulge in an afternoon nap. Geez, why do you always have to be so damn reasonable?

I was trudging along at about mile 5ish , and I let out a huge startled scream. I thought I had found my first dead body like the Pearl Izumi ad states real runners find. Great, I thought now I could be a real runner without putting out the fast miles. (I kid, I kid..I joke, I joke) It was one of the workers installing the street lights taking a nap under a tree. Just his legs were hanging out on the trail. Needless to say my scream finished up his nap time. Sorry guy, thought you were dead, now get back to work.

I begin to pick up my run a bit after that. I just wanted to get to my shower and bed at home. At mile 6 it was like God, gave me that lil’ punch on the jaw as to say, go get ‘em kid. The cloud cover came back over and the rain cooled me all the way till the Garmin read 7 torturous miles, in a way too long time of 1:39, and an obscene (14:12) pace.

It wasn't pretty, so much for listening to my heart. What made me think of that listen to my heart run crap!?! I got home to a sweet shower. I even indulged in the powder and body sprays. I put on some cozy pj’s, pulled the curtains to make it pitch black in the room, and laid in the bed. Within minutes I was back out of bed. The damn kids next door were playing basketball outside my window jamming to “Back That Ass Up”. Yep, school is out now for sure.

**Please Note**

Acclimating to the heat can make you believe God adjusts the weather for your run, in addition to making you believe you have conversations with the Voice of Reason

Back To All About Me

I have been so warped in the Independence Weight Loss Challenge that I have barely talked about me. I have had a few things going on to make me a chipper chick! If you don't care about me and just the challenge click here for the latest IWLC updates.

• I had a 2lb loss last week.
• I have a new snazzy masthead from the great people at The Masthead Factory. Ya dig it?
• I PR'd on my Saturday's 5K, by that hair on my chinny chin, chin. Ewww.. I don't have any hair on my chin. If I did I would wax those puppies off!
• Coach Bill was kind enough to invite me to The Woodlands Running Club social on Sunday afternoon. Everyone I met was so nice. I loved it so much that I am now a Woodlands Running Club member.
• I had my first track workout Tuesday on the kind invite again of Coach Bill. I saw a few of the people from the social, and they were so welcoming.
• On the track we did 2 miles with 8X200. Doesn't it seem like I know what the hell I'm talking about?!? It was hot like 91 or so. I didn't feel terrible so I might just be acclimating to the heat. I told you it was my word of the month.
• Coach Bill said some of the most flattering things I have ever heard. Such as, you have a great stride, your form is so efficient. Wow! I rather hear that kinda stuff instead of your hair is sexy or that dress is hot on you.
• I love spin class! My closest friends and family know that I have been wanting to be instructor for months now, but wanted to lose more weight based on appearance issues. Anyhow, one of the instructors was sick last Friday. The gym manager put on a CD and said do your own thing on the bike. The class nominated me to go up to the front and lead them through some routines. Everyone, in class said I did great. The gym manager asked when am I going to get certified. Kelly, Rachael, and Becky the instructors (can you tell how often I go to spin class that I know all spin instructors at the gym) have been pushing me to get certified for a couple months now. I know I am ready now. The ladies in the class reminded me that we all can't be a size 2, that I am fit, and best of all motivating. All this week different instructors have been letting me lead the class through one or two songs.
• I have the Mad Dogg Cycling instructor certification training on the 14th. It is 9 hours, and from what I hear it is very intense. I am so excited! I still am shocked! That me, big ol' couch potato Viv has the possibility of being a spinning instructor?!? OMG!
• I have been keeping up with workouts. Just at a maintain level now for the super sprint tri in three weeks. I begin a full on tri training schedule at the end of the month for my first olympic distance tri.
• A few pals are coming to Houston to run the 1/2 in January!!
• My PIM running coach pal, Trish is going to run San Antonio 1/2 with me!
• I will be joining Kim Hager's Strive Tri Training program. I will be coached by one of my favorite female athletes starting at the end of June!

Oh yea, life just feels great right now. Things are just falling into place, and I am very grateful...

** Editors retraction**

I posted over the weekend that the Nitmos's theory was more of a hypothesis. The theory works if you can do math above a second grade level, and not spend quality racing time cutting down your spouse/running partner. Not Fit To Run regrets, and apologizes to Nitmos for the miscommunication of the information.

Independence Weight Loss Challenge Updates

This just in...another sponsor has stepped up to help out with the Independence Weight Loss Challenge. Overton Fitness , will be sponsoring a wonderful Spibelt! Small Personal Items Belt is sleek, expandable, secure and does not bounce. Can hold an iPod™, Blackberry™, cell, keys, up to five GU™ packs, and other small personal items. The SPIbelt does not bounce, ride or shift while running or doing other activities. They also sell hooks on their site to double as race number belt. I purchased my SPIbelt at the Cleveland Marathon Expo, and love it!

We have another prize sponsored by our friends, Amy & Tom at Runners Lounge. They will be donating three Runners Lounge tee shirts! We all love Amy & Tom! If you have never stopped by the lounge please make time to do so. There is plenty of great runners tips and wonderful people with inspiring, motivating stories.

I have also created a forum lounge at the Runners Lounge website. We can chat with other participants, and exchange health tips, recipes, general questions, butt kicking for those slacking, and even boasting on how awesome you are doing.

Click here for the Independence Weight Loss Challenge Forum

Here are answers for some issues addressed thus far:

1- Is it too late to join the challenge? Yes, it is I am sorry.

2- When do we e-mail you our next weigh in? On Sunday June 8. I will not chase you down for your weight. I will cut off all weigh in's on Monday June 9 at NOON(CST). No weight, no challenge for you. I have things to do as a SAHM like watching Maury, yelling at kids all day, and most importantly going to Wal-Mart barefoot to stock up on the cartons of Marlboro's. Catch my drift, I am busy sometimes.

3- Can you change my name on the challenge so my first name is not out on the World Wide Web? This is a popular one. Please e-mail me and tell me your www name, and how I have you listed in addition to how you would like to be addressed. The trick is always sign your weight e-mail with your web name. For example, if your name is Vladamir Smirnoff, and you like to go by "Racing Russian", when you e-mail me and your from name on the e-mail is Vladamir Smirnoff please sign the e-mail: With Love, "Racing Russian".

Again, big thanks to all of you for joining the challenge! I hope everyone is doing well. It is only day 4 so ya better be...

Huge THANK YOU to the sponsors:

The wonderful Meridith from Brooks Running will be sponsoring a complete outfit of one of the winners choice. That's right a top and a mathcy matchy bottom! Brooks® Sports, Inc. is a leading running company that designs and markets a line of high-performance men's and women's running shoes, apparel and accessories in more than 40 countries. Run Happy!

Robert, has been very generous by sponsoring $50,$30,$15 gift certificates to his store. If you have never visited RunJunk.com head over there. They have everything us runners/triathletes need. I have purchased from them before, and he always throws in some great samples of other products. Robert, has also been so supportive by giving a 5% discount to all participants through the month of June using this promo link in addition to a free hat or visor on purchases over $100.

Wigwam will be sponsoring 6 pairs of their fabulous Ironman Pro line socks. I love and use these socks on every run. The Wigwam® Ironman Pro running socks feature the pro-rated and patented moisture control system that helps keep your feet cool, dry and protected from blisters during your run.

Ms. Overton, at Overton Fitness will be sponsoring a SPIbelt which is a sleek, expandable, secure and does not bounce. Can hold an iPod™, BlackBerry™, cell, keys, up to five GU™ packs, and other small personal items. The SPIbelt does not bounce, ride or shift while running or doing other activities. Racers SPIbelt doubles as a race number belt. Just add the hooks to your order on the checkout page
Runners Lounge will be sponsoring 3 groovy Runners Lounge tee shirts. Runners' Lounge is a friendly meet-up space for runners to connect with other runners, talk about running, and share running resources. Create your own profile, form groups, share your running and race stories, pick up some tips, and leave some advice and encouragement for other runners.


Running Knitter, has lovingly offered to knit some custom made cozy socks for lounging in after a long run.

Independence Weight Loss Challenge CLOSED

The challenge is now officially closed to new participants. I like to sound so official by saying officially often throughout the challenge. Thank you to everyone for joining. Remember, weekly weigh in's are due on Sunday to my official e-mail address. If you have a special circumstance such as a race or something just email me. I am officially flexible. The participants are listed below. If you sent me an e-mail and do not see your name listed, then e-mail me again since you are not officially in the challenge. I am happy to report another new official sponsor. Look below to see sponsor list.

76 Participants
AB
Al
Allison
Amy
Andrew
Andria
Anna

Arin
Audrey
Beth
Bev
Bob
Calyx
Carly

Che

Christy
Chrisy
Dan
DBH
Delane
Eileen
Elysia
Emily
Eric

Erin
Greg
Helen
Hot Nerd
Java
Jenn
Jenny
Jess (FL)
Jess (PA)
Jessica (ME)
Jodie

Kari
Kathy
Kathy(kiwi)
Kevin
Kristen
Lana
Laurel
Leana
Leslie
Liz (HI)
Margo
Mel
Melinda
Melissa B
Mendy
Michelle
Nanc
Nat
Nicole
Paige
Pokey
Robin
S L B

Sam
Sarah
Stacy

Sub6
Suba
Susan
Swimfan13
Tammy
Tans
Taryn
Tommy
Toni
Viv
Wine Dog
Xenia
Yas

Huge THANK YOU to the sponsors:

The wonderful Meridith from Brooks Running will be sponsoring a complete outfit of one of the winners choice. That's right a top and a mathcy matchy bottom! Brooks® Sports, Inc. is a leading running company that designs and markets a line of high-performance men's and women's running shoes, apparel and accessories in more than 40 countries. Run Happy!

Robert, has been very generous by sponsoring $50,$30,$15 gift certificates to his store. If you have never visited RunJunk.com head over there. They have everything us runners/triathletes need. I have purchased from them before, and he always throws in some great samples of other products. Robert, has also been so supportive by giving a 5% discount to all participants through the month of June using this promo link in addition to a free hat or visor on purchases over $100.

Wigwam will be sponsoring 6 pairs of their fabulous Ironman Pro line socks. I love and use these socks on every run. The Wigwam® Ironman Pro running socks feature the pro-rated and patented moisture control system that helps keep your feet cool, dry and protected from blisters during your run.

Running Knitter, has lovingly offered to knit some custom made cozy socks for lounging in after a long run.

Dirt Off Your Shoulder Astros Race For The Pennant 5K Race Report

It was a hot morning. It was in the 80's at 7:45AM. They really need to start these races in the summer earlier. It really isn't summer yet but it feels like it. After, I got my chip I was doing a warm up jog. I jogged past this chick, who I am guessing was walking since she made this comment as I jogged past her. "I hate runners!" Whoa, was she talking about me?!? If so, THANKS! Little did she know calling me a runner was flattery in the highest form to me, well second to calling me a triathlete. hehehe! I asked Shane to run it with me at the last minute to help pace me to a PR. Oh man, I was getting queasy after the first hill at about mile 2. Shane kept saying, "come on, Viv you can do it!" I think that is when I gave him quite a cussing, and told him to run on. He didn't but we ran the rest bumping elbows. Once, we finished:

Me: I think I beat my last 5K time.

Shane: (silence)

Me: Are we not speaking?

Shane: After all those things you said to me. I may never run with you again.

Me: Hey, that's the field out there. We leave that shit on the field.

I ran up the stadium stairs ahead of Shane, and grabbed him my best attempt of an apologetic beer. And we're good again, think of us as The Honeymooners. Anyhow, totally missed my Nitmos Theory time of 33:25 and got 35:14(11:20), which makes it my new PR by 43 seconds. I will be adding some speedwork as part of my regularly scheduled program, in effort to make this so called Nitmos hypothesis an official theory.

Sorry, I am a little behind catching up with you guys. This challenge has my BlackBerry blowing up. It's cool though, I look all important with my phone constantly zipping up emails. That or I am really annoying to those around me.

Speaking of the challenge, please remember I MUST have all your starting weigh in's by 11:59PM Sunday June, 1 in my inbox. My email address is the the contact section on the left side margin of the page. Thanks for joining! Huge THANK YOU to the official sponsors:

The wonderful Meridith from Brooks Running will be sponsoring a complete outfit of one of the winners choice. That's right a top and a mathcy matchy bottom! Brooks® Sports, Inc. is a leading running company that designs and markets a line of high-performance men's and women's running shoes, apparel and accessories in more than 40 countries. Run Happy!

Robert, has been very generous by sponsoring $50,$30,$15 gift certificates to his store. If you have never visited RunJunk.com head over there. They have everything us runners/triathletes need. I have purchased from them before, and he always throws in some great samples of other products. Robert, has also been so supportive by giving a 5% discount to all participants through the month of June using this promo link in addition to a free hat or visor on purchases over $100.

Running Knitter, has lovingly offered to knit some custom made cozy socks for lounging in after a long run.

Acclimating To Fire / Independence WL Challenge

I got through the 3 miler test run. It was a blazing hot 91 degrees. It was the hottest time of the day, but it was the only time I could run today. I am trying to acclimate. Everywhere, I read they speak of this acclimate. I went to Luke's Locker after the run, and asked them what I could take before or during my runs since I was sweating like a (insert you favorite phrase here). The lady at the store recommended a few things she uses, and then she dropped the magic word. You have to acclimate to the heat. Acclimate is the word of the month for me. Then just when I acclimate, it will get damn hotter!

I am sure now the Astros Race For The Pennant 5K is a green light for me this Saturday. What is my goal for the race? So glad you asked. Well, to beat my 5K PR time of 35:57. I ran 3 miles today at 36:18. If I incorporate the Nitmos Theory , I am looking at a 33:25 + some change for the additional .1. That seems a little optimistic to me. Good thing I'm an optimist.




I want to thank all of you who have decided to join the challenge! Marcy, thanks for the plug on your blog. P.O.M. a big thanks for setting people straight, then plugging the challenge. HAHAHA! A big chunk of participants made their way over here from P.O.M.'s blog. Pokey, thanks for being my lovely assistant!

A HUGE THANKS to the generous sponsors who have stepped up thus far. I still am working on a couple that may pull through before the end of June.

The wonderful Meridith from Brooks Running will be sponsoring a complete outfit of one of the winners choice. That's right a top and a mathcy matchy bottom! Brooks® Sports, Inc. is a leading running company that designs and markets a line of high-performance men's and women's running shoes, apparel and accessories in more than 40 countries. Run Happy!

Robert, has been very generous by sponsoring $50,$30,$15 gift certificates to his store. If you have never visited RunJunk.com head over there. They have everything us runners/triathletes need. I have purchased from them before, and he always throws in some great samples of other products. Robert, has also been so supportive by giving a 5% discount to all participants through the month of June using this promo link in addition to a free hat or visor on purchases over $100.

Running Knitter, has lovingly offered to knit some custom made cozy socks for lounging in after a long run.

To confirm your in'ness I must have your starting weight e-mailed to me by Sunday - June 1, 11:59PM. My e-mail is in the contact section on the left margin. You can click it and be forwarded to your mail server or place the cursor over it and you will see it at the bottom left of your screen. Please include a link to your blog in your e-mail since I might not know you by your real name.

I must receive your starting weight by e-mail. It just makes it easier than hunting down your weight in the comments section. I don't want to be such a stickler with this, but it will make it convenient for me. I have had a couple people with special circumstances on Sunday. If you are one of these participants, and I replied to your e-mail I've gotcha covered.

Here's the skinny: I trust that everyone will take a smart healthy approach to this. Please don't starve yourself or go on some crazed liquid diet. It is a one month challenge. So, for some of you it will get you to a healthy weight range. For, a few it will get a couple pounds off that they want to shed. For others,(cough, cough) it will kick start your weight loss back into gear. If you you need healthy tips go back to P.O.M.'s healthy tips they are an ideal set of guidelines to follow. Have fun, after it is all said and done we should all be a little lighter.

Flashback Weekend Confessions

You may have noticed not much running talk going on here. I have a confession to make, my right achillies has been giving me a difficult time since the 1/2. I was able to brick a mile on Saturday after spin class, but that was all running that was had by me since Cleveland. I got a neuromuscular therapy massage on my legs Tuesday, and it has seemed to help in addition to the anti inflammatory pills twice daily. As of now I am on the, P.O.M. "No plan, plan" so not stressing about it too much. I am feeling better and hope to set out for a tester 3 miles later today. I have a 5K on Saturday, and if I am not feeling it I will start my Cosmo's & Sex and The City girls night out at sunrise.

I had a weekend wrap up post lined up for Tuesday, but was waiting for my Mom to send me some pictures to post with it. Furniture stores keep extending their "Memorial Day Sales" so, here is an extended Memorial Day post.
This past weekend my Mom asked me to play racquetball with her. Cut to, me burning some calories chasing a blue ball on Saturday. We played pairs on Sunday with my sister and her boyfriend, and that was a blue ball fest. I think we all got nailed by the ball a few times, and it felt like a bee sting. By, Monday morning my right forearm was sorer than a 12 year old boy.

When we got in the car Saturday the easy listening station was playing, "Should've Known Better" by Richard Marx. Man, did it take me back. It is always amazing to me how one song can place me somewhere in my life... It was June 1987, I was 14 and we were moving from Miami to Houston since my Dad got a job transfer. My Dad and my sister were in one car leading while my Mom and me followed in her car. That car was so cool to me! It had a gazillion buttons, and to this day if a car has more knobs than a cockpit it is fancy to me. I bought a Richard Marx cassette at a vending machine at one of those stops along the Florida Turnpike. I was playing with the buttons on the radio and discovered a repeat button. I put on, "Should've Known Better" and after listening to it about 10 times I fell asleep. I awoke in Georgia somewhere with the same song playing. My Mom gave me this distraught look and said something like this, mind you it has been 20 years so it may not be verbatim but I remembered it like it was yesterday when I heard the song.

Mom: (in Spanish) Can you turn that song off! I have heard it at least 100 times!
Me: (smartass, in English) You could have turned off the radio.
Mom: (in Spanish) I don't know how to turn it off.
Me: (smartass, in English)You should have woke me up.
Mom: (in Spanish) I didn't want to wake you.

Snazzy shot of the family in Texas. It felt like a whole other country to me. If you have ever been in Miami you will get the whole other country feeling as well. I am on the left. I look tall it must be those groovy Jesus sandals I had on or the big hair.

How sweet! Back then I was like whatevas lady! I now look back at that moment, and think my Mom listened to a song 100 times just not to wake me from sleeping in the middle of the afternoon. I love you Mom for putting up with me all those torturous teenage years. I would not trade the close relationship we have now for anything in this world. We still can push each others buttons, but it is probably cause we are two of a kind.

Is there a song to this day that can take you back so vividly to a time in your life???

We had a wonderful weekend hanging at my parent's casa this weekend. My parents have pretty much created a backyard oasis that is meant for serious chillaxing, and great times with the familia. This past weekend fell nothing short of that!

There is still time to join the Independence Weight Loss Challenge. We have had some sponsors come through with some pretty great prizes.

Independence Weight Loss Challenge

Hear ye! Do you have some pounds you would like to shed?? How about a friendly virtual one (1) month challenge with your fellow bloggers? This will all be based on an honor system, and if you cheat you are only cheating yourself right?! If you are at an ideal weight, share this with your readers. I wouldn't say something like, your fat you should do this challenge. I would go with something along the lines of, check out this blog it’s a groovy way to lose a few pounds. I know I still have plenty o' pounds to lose, but this will keep me focused when it's so easy during the summer months to make unhealthy choices. All right, truth be told I can make unhealthy choices anytime of the year. Here are my summer excuses, the kid(s) are home from school, road trips with the easy bad choices along the way, baseball games, refueling after a long hot as hell run, vacations, beer filled barbeque's and the list could go on for me anyway. I am working with my lovely assistant Pokey on rounding up some sponsors for prizes that runners, endurance athletes or anyone will enjoy. The more that join the merrier. The longer the list the more you can boast, I lost more weight than all those people. Anyhow, being a loser in this challenge still makes you a looser in the positive sense. Below are some guidelines of how it will go down. If you have any questions leave them in the comments or please feel free to e-mail me. My e-mail is in the contact section to the left margin. Even, if you have never exchanged e-mails or comments with me before go ahead, I usually don't bite unless I'm hungry.

• E-mail or comment that you are interested in joining the challenge
• It will be based on weight percentage lost so it is fair to all participants
• The challenge will begin Sunday, June 1 - 2008
• If you think this challenge is for you e-mail me your starting weight on June 1, but not later than June 2
• I will never ever post your weight for the World Wide Web to see. It's our secret, and trust me I am sure I weigh more than you or did at some point this past year
• If you are still uncomfortable sharing your weight with me, we can kick it old school and do a "I'll show you mine if you show me yours"
• Every Sunday or Monday during the challenge e-mail me your weigh in
• I will post your percentage loss weekly, so we can see whose butt we need to kick
• The challenge will end Tuesday, July 1
• All final weights must be received in my inbox by 11:59 PM Tuesday - July 1st to keep you in the running for the prizes

So, come on join us on running lighter this Independence Day!

Check the latest post for updated information.

Narcissistic Interview

Before we start this interview, I wanted to thank everyone who commented or emailed me. It meant so much to me. Every thumbs up felt like a virtual high five! A Sincere Thank You!

So, now what you have a big medal and you're too much of a big shot to post?
--No, not at all I was letting the race report “sit” as Nanc would say, for a while and make sure everyone on the World Wide Web has had a chance to read it.

What have you been doing to recover?
--I take morning and afternoon walks mixed in with some chillaxing recumbent bike cycling. I also have scrubbed every nook and cranny of the house that I have neglected while training. I took in a musical, "The Drowsy Chaperone" with blog buddies, Timmy & MOF. I did one more ice bath, but now am doing the warm bath with Epsom salts. In a fair trade agreement of me not spending money on a massage, Shane throws in a complimentary massage every evening with the stick and an anti-inflammatory concoction I got from my Dr. Mc Dreamy.
*Editors Note: this stick, Marcy

When will you run again?
--I plan on a spin class this weekend with low resistance and a swim. I am hoping for a run on Memorial Day pending that it feels decent.

Why are you being such a “pussy” with the recovery? There are runners who can run a ½ every other weekend?
--Who are you calling a pussy, biatch?!
Seriously, the legs were feeling a little tingey(is that a word) during taper, and I want to be sure after pushing myself that the legs are 100%. I don’t want to have to wear that sexy orthopedic boot that is in my closet for 6 weeks. It just does not go well with my summer wardrobe.

On the video you posted when you were crossing the finish line, did you add a sound byte of crowd cheering ?
--No, as much as I would like to say that all those people were cheering for my fat ass to get to the finish line. It was actually the first place women’s hand wheel division marathon winner coming in right next to me.
Exhibit A below:


So, when are you going to stop being a little bitch and do the full marathon?
--Whoa, what is your problem lady? I am out of here you slut! I don’t have to put up with this smart ass ho talking to me like that. Let me tell you something Ms. Barbara Walters home wrecker… (Viv begins to get up, but the producers coax her into finishing the interview with a nice cup of Starbucks) no wonder Star couldn't stand your old ass.
---OK to answer your question you nagging hag. I am going to keep getting my feet wet so to speak with a few more ½’s while I continue loosing weight. I am thinking, San Antonio, Houston, and ideally Surf City, the eye candy would be a sweet 13.1 oops, I mean the surfboard medal would be sweet! I would just feel more umm..”comfortable” doing the marathon thinner. So, to answer your question full marathon next year possibly taking up Maria on her running Cleveland side by side, at my pace of course.

What is your top played jam on the iPod right now?
--“Mean to You” by Rocket

Do you have any goals or aspirations for the rest of the year you would like to share?
--I would like to continue my weight loss, and lose another 45 pounds or so. Make a dedicated effort to keep up with strength training even when tri training is consuming all of my free time. I’d like to do an Olympic distance triathlon at the end of this tri season. Also, at years end I would like to get my spin instructor certification, I really enjoy spinning and would love to motivate others by giving them a kick ass class.

Thanks for reading through my narcissistic interview, LOL!
Have a fabulous holiday weekend! Get out there, and enjoy it!!

Why Cleveland? Rocks N' Runs 1/2 Marathon Report

Photo & Video Slide Show

That was the question I got from so many. On the course, friends and family at home, hell even strangers. It started back in November when I told an online We Wa pal, Maria I had the desire to do a marathon, but I wanted to start with a ½. She encouraged me that I could do it. I did not even know how to start to train for something of that caliber. Maria, took the time to make me a fantastic training schedule with 3 days of running since running consecutive days is a no-no from the Doc. Maria, would check up on me, and I would text her when I would hit monumental mileage. It was awesome to have someone take me under their running wing.

As, this race neared I never really got nervous. I felt prepared, and excited. That is till race morning. It started out really cold, high 40’s and raining. I am from Texas people where that kind of weather makes for a Blockbuster night, with the fireplace going, and flannel pj’s. I had made sure to charge the iPod, but when I got to the start line I looked at the iPod. I had left it on all night so it was dead. I handed it to Shane pouted for a second, and he said, “Are you really going to freak out about that.” I can do short runs without music, but 13.1 miles and 3 hours of running seemed intimidating without musical encouragement, or a musically induced comma.

Miles 1-4: I ran about 2 miles with a brother and sister. We talked, and of course they asked the mandatory, “Why Cleveland?” I started feeling good, the legs were warming up and we parted ways. Then came some hills, and even a freeway entrance ramp. WTF? I hate driving up a freeway ramp with a stick shift much less my legs! I remember what Coach Joan from PIM said, walk through the aid stations no need for me to miss my mouth while drinking water or sucking GU.

Miles 5-9: I was still feeling good. The course had flattened out, and the sun was coming out. I would keep looking for Shane, but never saw him. I never really talked to anyone through these miles, just taking in the scenery of a new city. They did have a few rock n roll stations and each represented a decade of music. At, the Motown section I remember doing a little shimmy to “Baby Love” with the lady next to me. I only made it to the 70’s since it followed the rest of the marathoners. So, I got some Eagles “Take It to The Limit” action that I love.

Miles 10-13.1: I was starting to feel tightening of the legs. There was one smaller incline to go. North Bridge, but I had looked at my clock and I knew I was making good time so why the hell would I slow down now?! I ran next to this man at the beginning of 10 who told me, “You’re huffing.” I replied, “I will huff and puff till I blow this ½ out.” I guess I get smart asstastatic when I get tired. I finally saw Shane at 11ish, it was a big pep up that got me through 12 easily. I am not going to lie though, I felt terrible at 13. It was tough, and I looked like it was tough. My stomach got into some weird knot, and my legs were wound up tight.

I still am proud of myself. I accomplished something I worked hard to do. I made my mind up that I would see this through and gosh darn it I did. I set a realistic goal for myself to do it under 3 hours, and I thought 2:45 would be terrific, but when I saw 2:42:23 I said, hellyeamuthafuckas!! I did my longest run during training of 12 miles at 2:58:17. So, now you understand why less than 3 hours would have made me very happy.

I did fall walking on our way back to the hotel. I saw the uneven concrete, and thought I lifted my foot. I guess I did'nt.

I felt miserable for about 3 hours after my shower. My stomach was just a tight knot. I could not hold down any food. It finally went away, and I am good now. The flights home left me feeling tighter. I will continue streching, and some walking tomorrow. I will catch up with you guys tomorrow. I hope eveyone had a great weekend. Looking forward to some other reports.

Why Cleveland ?
At, first I was going to Cleveland to run a ½. What it turned out to be was a fabulous weekend with great people, and I just happen to run a ½ Marathon.
Why NOT Cleveland.

Official Results:
Distance
HALF MAR /13.1 Miles /21K
Chip Time
02:42:23
Overall Place
2892 / 8007
Gender Place
1483 / 3942
Division Place
254 / 629
Age Grade
83.9%
Pace
12:23.1

Garmin Splits :
Mile 1 (12:18)
Mile 2 (12:30)
Mile 3 (13:11)
Mile 4 (12:06)
Mile 5 (11:44)
Mile 6 (12:42)
Mile 7 (12:16)
Mile 8 (12:24)
Mile 9 (13:26)
Mile 10 (11:45)
Mile 11 (12:17)
Mile 12(11:58)
Mile 13(11:52)
Mile .18 (11:06)

Things To Do...

1. Charge all GPS tracking, music, computation, telephonic devices and pack
2. Pack the "Fierce Fuschia" and back up "Look At Me Lime"
3. Pack Enell, and another sports bra for double the support.
4. Cook a delish, healthy Honey Rosemary Pork Tenderloin dinner.
5. Pack enough beauty supplies for a Vogue shoot.
6. Mani & Pedi since everyone will be looking at my nails as they zoom past me.
7. Double check I packed EVERYTHING.
8. Get in my standard hysterical mode before a trip.
9. Get into one good fight with Shane stemming from my hysteria.
10. Good nights sleep, with the help of a Valium.
11. Get up at a early 5 A.M.
12. Go for a 2 cancel make that 1 mile run to loosen up.
13. Write my left leg a strong worded memo. To The Leg This May Concern: Get your shit together, we have a 1/2 marathon to do.
14. Pack instant ice packs to nurse leg on plane ride.
15. Eat a nice breakfast with a big cup of coffee.
16. Shane giving me the look cause we will our flight.
17. Wishing luck to Lisa!! Go be the best Oly Java you can be!!!
18. Wishing luck to Jess for her 1/2 in a cool Colorado!
19. Wishing luck to Wes!! You have put in endless hard training hours, now go be an IM!!

To those of you who know my last name, and want to stalk me out on the course here is a link for athlete updates. My goal for this race is to finish. It would be sweet if the clock said under 3 hours.

With The 1/2 Days Away....

I must think about the important stuff like....What do I wear?? The weather is looking like low 50's, a wind of about 10mph & a 30% chance of rain. I hope the rain chances & wind will diminish by Sunday. I thought I really want to have a part of you, my blog buddies running with me. So, I'm throwing up a little poll a la' Marcy, and let you guys pick my outfit. I have worn all these during long training runs. That means no worries on all the things that can go wrong with the outfit. Yes, I am O.C.D. matchy, matchy like this.

The dress up doll, Viv.

I love when Java does the head replacement pics.

The Looks

"Livestrong" "Barney"


"Pretty in Pink" "Fierce Fuschia"

"Bonita Baby Blue" "Look At Me Lime"

"Teal Trekker"

Opinion Polls & Market Research

Ironbabe Race Report

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend. Sorry, it took me a bit to get the report up, but I wanted to include some of the I am still SO fat video clips and pics. It is a long post, but I will shutaupamyface for a few days.

I am laughing my Dr. Evil laugh over here since yesterday I titled the post preliminary Ironbabe race results, and had over 150 hits from people Google searching Ironbabe results. Gotcha suckers, no race results here just me!

I actually saw a few peeps at the tri I knew. I guess this tri world is smaller than I thought. I saw my spin instructor. I saw Jennifer from Lonestar (the chica who said I got her through the run last time), and a few others.

Boy, I am animated for 6ish


The morning started out with thunderstorms moving through the area with some crazy winds that hung around just to annoy. I was cool with whatever the day would bring. I was ready for this tri. I had lost my tri virginity so I kind of knew what goes on this time. I was going to enjoy it, have fun, and try to be better at it. Yes, still talking about tri's. LOL!

Swim 200 yards(7:39.9): The water was choppy! This picture made it look calm. The wind had stirred it up good. I started out mid pack and worked very hard to swim in form. Every time I tried to breathe I was greeted with a nice spank of water to the face. They had noodles lining the course and some people opted for doing a towing the line versus a swim. I heard people screaming, help me! I try not to panic, since I think to myself. If I go under what better time than with a bunch of people around me and life guards watching. I did an open water last weekend with 20 yards more distance and did it in 6:29. Lesson to me, water conditions play a big deal of how the swim will go down.

Swim Start(I am center closest to dock)

T1(1:49.3): I knew I had to work on this from last time. I still got out of the water a little disorientated, but gave forth my best woggle over to transition. I got my stuff off as I woggled, other stuff on, and took off.

Bike 8 miles(29:00.6): It took me a little longer than I wanted to clip in. My legs were having the shakes. The ride went well, pushed hard. I am seeing my speed increase. In 6 months I have gone from 12mph average to 16.5mph average, which makes Momma happy! The course was a little curvy, and windy in sections. I tend to like the straight aways. Looking at this still image reminds me I need to raise that seat. I think I have gotten over the tough times of rib contusions to loosen up and RAISE that saddle. It also reminds me that I have more rolls than a bakery, shiz!

Coming back on the bike

T2 (1:18.7): Grabbed a GU threw my stuff down and racked the bike back on the super crowded rack.

Run 2 miles(22:11.1): It was a slight incline on the way out which is not the best thing to run into outta transition. I remembered Wes's comment from the other day telling me to get myself a PR run. That is what I tried to do. Being that I have never done a 2 mile run in a race, it's a PR :-)

Coming back in on the run

I would try to go a little faster but my breathing would get all crazy. I knew the iPod always served a great purpose for me. I can't hear myself huffing and puffing. HAHAHAHA!

Total time 1:01:59 Division Rank 24/47

It was wonderful to have my family there. My Lil' Buster screaming, "Go Mama" while ringing the cowbell. Shane chasing me with the camera like I was Britney Spears going to Starbucks. My Mom and Dad completely in awe that anyone would even get in that lake. I think my Mom also grew very fond of giving cowbell. LOL! My sister, Mel was actually doing her first tri. She was excited that she found some snail socks to wear for the event. Give her some love in the comments if you can. I am really proud of her for tri-ing!! In less than two weeks she has completed her first 5K and a triathlon after 11 weeks of training. I think this running, cycling, swimming bug we carry also gets passed on to others. Her boyfriend, Greg was there as well to cheer us on.

Shane & Lil' Buster

Lil' Buster dancing on the table. Where ever would he learn such behavior?!?

Weight Loss: Down 1 lb since last weeks weigh in.

Off Topic Corner:

1.What is it with John Mayer? Seriously, I am sitting here watching Inside Edition and Jennifer Aniston is all over him. There is a numerous amount of hot women this dude has been linked to. Is it me? I just don't see what it is about him?!?

2. I was super excited with my Mother's Day present. A brand new Blackberry to replace my banged up dinosaur version Blackberry. Then I read the news and look what is being released in a few months. The sweet new Blackberry 9000..Bastards!