Zone 3 Zen "You Can do It All Day Long"

I hope everyone had a fantastic weekend! The weekend was swell here. I am getting used to this waking up early and getting the bulk of the workout in before the majority of people awake.

Saturday I had a ride of 25-30 miles in (z2-z3) on the schedule. I met some of the strive team out in The Woodlands. We had some crazy bitch honk at us and try to run us down. She insisted on just letting half of us (8) through at the turn then drive between us. Tommy called her a skank then went and had a little convo with her while some of us were in the restroom. She told him she rides too. To which I think, funny then you should know better, skank. I laughed so hard when I heard skank. It is just one of those words that is a classic in "The Vocab of Viv".

Sunday was a 7 mile run in (z3). This was painfully slow for me at first. I am so used to just running hard all the time, but I am learning that there is great rhyme and reason to all this zone stuff. After the run headed out to Twin Lakes and met Tiggs for an open water swim. She is a doll! I enjoy meeting the blog buds, for some reason we all have this common denominator between us, huh?

In the evening Shane and I went to a surprise party for one of the strive teammates, Greg. We had a lovely evening at Vino 100 full of tasty wines, delicious food, and wonderful company.

We did get a chance to look at some tri bikes. Here are my top three contenders. Let me know if you have any opinions on it. Be honest, and really tell me carbon or aluminum? Right now the longest distance I am thinking is half Ironman, but ya never know.

Trek Equinox WSD (aluminum) it was heavy. Or maybe I just did not get that loving feeling from it because of this whole Lance Armstrong turning his cold Trek shoulder to me with this Kate Hudson thingy. If you are into bike drama check out the LeMond/Trek drama.

Thanks for the visual Marcy

Quintana Roo Chicqilo (aluminum). It was so pretty and looked like my kinda girl with the pink accents.

Quintana Roo Seduza (carbon). It's tag line is sex on wheels. Whoa, that could actually be worth taking a better look at.

Saturday's Workout:

Bike 27.66 miles 1:42:46 (16.1mph) AVG HR 130

Sunday's Workout:

Run 7 miles 1:38:49 (14:07) AVG HR 143

Swim approx 800+ yards Open Water 30:15 AVG HR 129

Monday's Workout:

Teach Cycle class 1:00 AVG HR 119

Swim 2200 yards total 1:26 AVG HR 133

*Down 2lbs*

The Calm Before The Storm

I may be blogging more just because I really have to document my tri training stuff. If you are busy or whatever it does not hurt my feelings if you skip over some *Not all of them* of my posts. I still love you blog buds!

Last night I met some peeps from the tri training team. Most *all* of them were on the HIM schedule so they had to do an extra loop with a longer run off the bike. We went out to Woodlane, a nice neighborhood with probably the few rolling hills you can find in our neck of the woods. I really wish I could attach a camera to my helmet to show you guys some of the things I encountered.

1. Horse drawn carriage with a couple my parents age strolling around.
2. Family of deer ran across the street right in front of me. Xenia this is where I could really appreciate your post, except it would have probably been my blood.
3. Big dog with the hugest balls ever ran right in front of my tri sis Gena. Poor thing had to brake hard.
4. Damn teenage boy full of testosterone in a big truck insisted on riding on my back tire hard till finally deciding to go around 3 inches from my left side. To then sit at the stop sign chatting with his friend. I had to unclip at the stop sign lower my shades and give him the eye.

Gena was beyond awesome to me. The first loop she hung back with me and had me draft her. She wanted my front tire 6 inches behind her back tire *I try not to be 6 in. from anything too long, they tend to crash into each other* Gena would tell me to listen to her gearing and follow suit when we would take hills. She also told me to start loving those hills. Once I really love them I will work with them and not against them. It made sense, the more I continue to fear the hills and let them conquer me the hills will get me every time. I told Gena for the first time it really feels like I am riding my bike. I felt like one with the road. I can't thank Gena enough for hanging back with me a loop. With all the awesome people I have encountered sharing their wealth of knowledge; all I can do is to pay it forward while continuing to let them know how much they are appreciated.

I did a 15 minute run off the bike and I felt the calves really tight with a slight burn in the quads. Not a enjoyable run but done. Today is a DOR, which I will enjoy to it's fullest because the weekend training schedule is loaded!

Shane and I were talking at the breakfast table this morning and he said we can go look at tri bikes this weekend. He will take my Baby Girl. He wants to do a super sprint tri in September just to beat my sister's boyfriend. LOL! I love when that competitive side he hides from my ego shows on him. Oh yea, might have to come off the DOR this evening and seal the deal ;-)

Thursday's Workout:

Bike 19.4 Miles (15.3mph) including 2x 8 min recovery

Run off 15 minutes (11:31)

May need to have this installed on the bike.

Some of the tri team at the track Tuesday. Tri sis Gena is to left of my Coach K who is digging in her bag o' tricks.

I have like a million chins, and don't get me started on the arms. Trying to stay positive Miz...I do however see some leg definition coming about.

So Whatcha, Whatcha, Whatcha Like??

All right Ladies & Gentlemen, I need your suggestions. I am looking for music to put a few routines together for indoor cycling/SPIN class. I now have a 3rd class to teach and it may even jump to 4. So, I need to really put some stuff together. Even if you don't attend an indoor cycle/SPIN class I am sure you run, and if you run you might run with an iPod or be connected to some music source.

What really gets you pumped ready to thrash out some fast miles?

What keeps you focused with the hills?

Gentlemen I really need you opinions too. I will also be teaching at a gym where there is lots of guys in the class and I have no idea what you guys like. To tell the truth I am still stunned you can run with your "stuff" anyhow?!

Ladies give it to me. What gets ya going? Even gangsta Marcy, & Rockband Rocker Jess give me the edit version of whatcha like ;-)

Then think about what the "older" you would like to jam to. If you are older that is a plus, but I'm not calling you old. I have a couple of ladies my Mom's age or older and they are some hardcore chicks. I put that "Love Man" by Otis Redding from Dirty Dancing and they were pedaling so fast I thought they were going to break the cranks.

Thanks a bunch in advance! It also gives me a chance to get inside your mind when you workout. Ummm.. ok that sounded stalkirish. If you have never commented on my blog before this is me asking you to come outta the lurking mode, please.

Wednesday's Workout:

Swim Total = 1500 yards

Cycle Class 1 hr.

Track 1 Astros 0

Independence Weight Loss Challenge Week III Updates Click Here

Hey you guys thanks so much for the comments on what I thought was a shotty tri. Just when I want to put my bottom lip up, you all manage to give me that little nudge on the jaw as to say keep at it.

I went today and got Baby Girl *bike* fit for me, yes finally. The guy at the shop confirmed what I had suspected; Baby Girl is too big for me. Here is the thing 8 months ago when I didn’t know I would fall in love so hard with riding and the sport of triathlon I Shane didn’t want to spend a bunch of money for a bike to sit in the garage with other things that I had jumped the gun on. Baby Girl has been good to me. She has let me take her from 11mph average rides to 17mph average rides. How many girls you know are willing to let you move that quickly without a long term relationship commitment? The sweetie has never even given me a flat tire. *I still need to learn how to change a flat*. The guy at the shop did his best to get me in the best position possible, but there is only so much he can do when the frame itself is just too large. He was even kind enough to take ½ off the fit fee since he felt he could not get me where I needed to be. He did adjust my aero bars so I wouldn’t have to obscenely reach and get that eating asphalt feeling. I took Baby Girl around the neighborhood and she does feel much better. I did put my eye on this hot little Felt number, and we hit it off right away. I could totally see us being BFF’s in sexy stilettos, drinking martini’s and dancing on bars together in cycling shoes, drinking Cytomax and going on great rides together.

I was going to be sickly nervous tomorrow since I was teaching my first cycle class. Well, I didn’t have time to be nervous when a fellow instructor called me this morning and asked me to sub her 9AM class. At first I was a little scared since the whole class was just quiet. Then I started hearing the whoohoo, and Oh God. Oh yea baby, that means I am doing my job. I got a few compliments on the class so I hope they enjoyed it in addition to getting a great workout. I know I pushed really hard to let them know this chubby chick is hardcore.

Tonight, I had track workout with the tri team. After a mile warm up I did 3 miles at my 80%-85% aerobic threshold. *As I learn all these groovy terms I will throw them around to pretend I am an official triathlete*. Just when I had two laps left I started caving in and about to walk. A team mate ran past me and said, “Great job, Viv keep going.” That was the push I needed. I picked it up, even bringing it back to my earlier pace. I love the ladies on this team they are tough and sweet all at the same time. My Coach, yea I *heart* her! I may post some pics later. Coach Bill was in full force paparazzi mode. I think he got some video of me running. So, if some make me look miraculously thinner and nothing jiggling *odds are slim to none* I will post them.

That is all I got for now. I just soaked in the tub with Epsom salts. I am going to pass out while the guys are at the Astros game. Yes, I missed a baseball game for a track workout…...

Monday's Workout:
Swim Total = 1700 yards

Tuesday's Workout:
Cycle Class 1 hr.
Run Total = 4.5 Miles
3 mile pace (11:17)

Independence Weight Loss Challenge Week III Updates

Here are the updates for this past week on the challenge. If you don't see your name and are certain you emailed me your weight by this past Monday at Noon(CST), email me. I will search my Outlook by your name and locate the email. The finish line is near. This is the last week and you actually have a couple bonus days so keep working hard! You guys have really been doing great. Even if you have managed to hang on to your starting weight you are obviously not overdoing the stuffage and balancing the exercise to keep your weight steady. As always if you see in error in you weight percentage, contact me via email. I will look into it. I might inadvertently enter your weight incorrectly in the spreadsheet and cause a miscalculation.

*Important Info*

The challenge officially ends on Tuesday July 1st. I will not except weights after Wednesday July 2nd at Noon (CST). If you need to send your weight to me a couple days before due to races, traveling, or anything just email me.....as you know I am officially flexible.

#= your rank in the challenge Name

X = percentage of weight loss this past week

X = cumulative percentage since challenge commenced

1-Java
-1.16%
-5.56%
2-Jodie
-0.78%
-5.44%
3-Eric
-0.26%
-4.66%
4-Nanc
-2.53%
-4.64%
5-Swimfan13
-0.46%
-4.41%
6-Melinda
-2.19%
-4.28%
7-Emily
-0.82%
-3.97%
8-S L B
0.66%
-3.71%
9-Eileen
-0.72%
-3.50%
10-Tammy
-1.68%
-3.30%
11-Delane
0.28%
-3.11%
12-Mendy
-1.23%
-3.01%
13-Sam
-0.28%
-2.83%
14-Melissa B
-0.23%
-2.69%
15-Christy
-1.20%
-2.63%
16-Viv
0.00%
-2.62%
17-Margo
0.49%
-2.39%
18-Stacy
-0.27%
-2.23%
19-Christy C
-0.80%
-2.11%
20-Xenia
-0.75%
-1.97%
21-Kari
-1.96%
-1.96%
22-Kristen
-0.21%
-1.86%
23-Kathy
-2.47%
-1.71%
24-Beth
0.00%
-1.66%
25-Al
0.00%
-1.64%
26-Pokey
0.00%
-1.38%
27-Nat
-0.27%
-1.35%
28-Greg
-0.45%
-1.35%
29-Sarah
-0.62%
-1.23%
30-Jenny
0.00%
-1.19%
31-Che
-1.75%
-1.18%
32-Robin
0.00%
-1.14%
33-Allison
1.71%
-1.03%
34-Amy
0.84%
-1.01%
35-Leana
0.00%
-0.93%
36-Elysia
-1.84%
-0.66%
37-Bev
0.00%
-0.65%
38-Laurel
1.18%
-0.58%
39-Anna
0.44%
-0.55%
40-Calyx
-0.50%
-0.50%
41-Bob
0.28%
-0.28%
42-Paige
-1.17%
-0.22%
43-Jess (FL)
no body fat just guns
0.00%
0.00%
44-Lana
1.17%
0.00%
45-Jess (PA)
0.00% 0.06%
46-Jessica (ME)
1.38%
0.27%
47-Mel
0.66%
0.55%
48-Liz (HI)
0.00%
0.69%
49-Carly
0.10%
1.00%
50-Kevin
0.00%
1.42%
51-Yas
1.49%
2.26%

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.

Austin Belterra (Super) Sprint Triathlon Race Report

Austin’s hills chewed me up and spit me out. It used and abused me. It beat me like a red headed step child. Do you get the picture yet?

race course pics

I picked up the race packet Friday and was stunned to find a bib and a latex cap, not even a map. Really, that is all I get for my 70 bucks?! Can you throw a girl a sample of anything? How about a tee shirt? Are they not aware that race tees is how I show everyone that this chick tri-s her darndest to swim, bike and run.

I got there a little after transition opened. There was a kid’s tri first, but they really did not state if and when the transition area would close so I was there super early. I hung around for a couple of hours and watched the kids. I thought about getting Lil Buster registered a while back but I knew the 50 meter swim would be a little much for my chunkster. I saw a 5 year old tri rockstar. This kid would put his cycling shoes while on the ride. He looked at me and said, “Where is the mount line?” At 5, I was looking for my Barbie’s shoes.

Shane busted me checking out some tri guys legs

Swim 300 meters 9:18.3 (3:06/100m)
I was nervous about the pool swim, being that I had no idea how pool swims work out at a tri. At 9AM they started getting the sprint group to the pool. It was already getting into the 90’s, but it is cool. Remember I believe I am officially acclimated (Using the words of the month in combo format. How ya like them apples?) Our bib numbers were in ascending order of swim times. Needless to say I was one of the last ones in the pool at 9:26AM. The swim went down pretty much as I expected, consistently slow. I got passed once and passed one person.

Transitions were timed into events

Bike: 9 miles 44:31.8 (12.13/mph)
My time looks like I was enjoying a Sunday leisurely ride on a cruiser by a beach boardwalk. I wasn’t too thrilled with running my bike up a steep driveway to the mount line. The hills were everywhere along the course, small rolling hills, long rolling hills. steep inclines, short inclines (I can do the Bubba Gump shrimp types here all day). I struggled the whole ride. Each time I would look at my pace and got disgusted. I think I saw a 4mph on one hill. Many people around me (meaning they were about my level) were walking their bike up the hills. I just couldn’t do it. I would be chapped at myself for enjoying the downhill without really earning it. It was a short race. I did not have to save my legs for a ½ marathon or more distance it was a nice sweet 3 miler. I was going to meet the hills head on no pussy footing around them. I met them and then they would have their way with me.

Run: 3 miles 35:11.9 (11:43)
I just knew I was just disappointed with myself after that bike. I even started walking the run?! Oh yea, Viv that is the way to make up some time. The paparazzi (Shane) caught me on the run out. It is hard to understand, but I said “Don’t tape me honey. I expletive suck today.” Shane said, "Come on babe." Me, "No." I love the paparazzi! It is like Britney not going to Starbucks anymore, it just isn’t natural.

I started running after a 1/10 of a mile. I really had it out for this poor lady (we will call her Danskin. While waiting for the swim she kept telling me, at Danskin they did this and at Danskin they did that). If I did not catch Danskin it would have killed me. I caught Danskin a little before the water stop and then Danskin picked up the pace. I guess she had it out for me too. LOL! At the water stop I turned off wrong and took the kid’s route. Duh! They yelled,” Ma’am, wrong way!” I came back, and Danskin had taken the lead (at this point in my head it was just me and Danskin, baby!) I picked Danskin out shortly after.

Total Time: 1:29.02

Overall, the swim is what I expected from myself. I am terribly disappointed with the bike leg. The run, not too shabby. Those Tuesday nights at the track are doing sumfin to me Coach Bill, trust me.

Going to chillax the rest of the weekend and prepare myself for the next 18 weeks of serious training. I am looking forward to working hard while guided by an amazing Coach K!

They handed out the tee shirts when you crossed the finish line. Do you think it will let others know I do tri's? LOL!

Heading To The Hill Country

I am leaving to Austin today for a tri tomorrow. It is a super sprint but the only thing that makes it super is that it cuts off 1 mile off the bike to make it super. I would have preferred the extra mile and it be a regular sprint. To top it off it is the hill country. I live in Houston where everything is flat except my boobs. Well, when I have the Enell on the flat uniboob is customary. I am not feeling to great about this tri. It is a pool swim, which is new to me at a race. *Note: I am no expert even though I talk like a seasoned triathlete. It is only my 3rd tri and sprint is the furthest I have gone. So really, I have only been to first base in the tri world. I only registered for this race since my sister wanted to do a sprint that was a pool swim. Now, she is not doing the race due to several issues. She will still be part of the Team Viv paparazzi cheer squad just not doing the race. Ah, well I will quit bitching it is Austin and Austin is always awesome! *Note: There is a local womens race this weekend with the similar distances and pool swim. I guess the sis missed this while researching.

Thanks for all the wishes on the audition. I got the job! I will have my own class on Mondays & Wednesdays. It is nice that I jumped right to having my own class since most gyms make you be a sub first. The only thing that has me pouting is that the tri training team does coached swim workouts on Wednesday evenings and I will miss out. If you know my 3min/100m swim you would know how much I need a coached swim workout. Maybe, I can swap classes with another instructor every three weeks or so to get in a coached swim occasionally.

I am stoked to start OLY tri training next week!! Remind me of this sentence when I come here crying like a girly man from getting my ass kicked. My amazing, *Note: Even though she will coach 19 others I still call her mine. Coach K took first in her age group this past weekend at IM70.3 Kansas! I am so excited to be coached by someone I have admired this past year. *Note: I just got my first couple weeks training schedule that starts Sunday. I have no idea what some of the stuff means; decreasing, descend, accelerations, TT effort, sustained pulls. Holy shit, I am so lost!

*Note: I am not on first base in the tri world. I am definitely sitting in the dugouts.

Legally Licensed To Instruct The Bike That Goes Nowhere

Click here for Independence Weight Loss Challenge Week II Updates

I did it! The Spinning cert class was loaded with so much information. I was there for 9 hours, which included 3 hours of time on the bike. Even during the most intense rides the master instructor was still filling our brains. The high level instructors are labeled masters. I thought that was funny. Anywhoo, I still have to send in a written test, but it is open book. I already have an audition lined up for tomorrow at the gym I currently go to. Keep the good mojo coming for a job offer, please. My cycling instructor Kelli has been awesome networking me. She also stayed after class last night with me for an hour to go over things and allowed me to show her my audition routine. I can not thank her enough! As much as I love to talk you would be shocked how my trap closes as soon as I get to the front of a class.

I really have been so lucky to find some awesome people who help me out. From blogging buds, coaches, friends, and family who support me and offer advice. The list is really endless.... OK drunk hug, time to move on, mushiness is something I don't like to do often. Sorry, I have been sporadically catching up with you all. I have just been so busy riding around in Lil' Buster's Escalade.

I have not done Random Thought of The Day in a very long time around here. It is time to bring it back since I have few random things.

Random Thoughts of The Day:
I don't know why I am having such a problem with Lance hitting all the Hollywood hotties. Could I secretly love/lust him?? If Kate doesn't work out I would be thrilled to tandem with you. I'll ride bitch on the bike.

Why are manufactures making products smaller? Today I saw a 40oz. Tide and on the bottle it states new lower price. Hello Procter & Gamble that bottle used to be 50oz.

Wednesday's Workout: Swim 1x100/1x300/4x25/1x100 Total 600 yards

Thursday's Workout: 3 mile Run (11:40)

Friday's Workout: DOR

Saturday's Workout: Spin bike for 3 hours, my booty was sore

Sunday's Workout: 3 Mile Run (11:46) attacked by a bird on mile 3. It was scary, the damn bird dived straight into my head.

Monday's Workout: 1 hr Spin class

Tuesday's Workout: Track workout 2.5 mile Run/Walk

8X300(1:42, 1:41, 1:42, 1:41, 1:39, 1:40,1:39, 1:25)

pushed by big tri sis Gena on the last 300

Independence Weight Loss Challenge Week II Updates

Here are the updates for this past week on the challenge. If you don't see your name and are certain you emailed my your weight by Monday at Noon(CST), email me. I will search my Outlook by your name and locate the email. Everyone is doing great! Some people had huge losses, some hung on, and some continue to tough it out. Keep at it :-)

Next week if some participants continually have a weekly 3% loss I may ask for a picture of your cute toes on the scale. Please, do not be offended it is just a way to keep the stakes honest. Next weigh in is due on Sunday June 22 to my email. I have a tri in Austin this weekend and will be out of town till Sunday evening. Posting of the update may be a day late next week.

#= your rank in the challenge Name

X = percentage of weight loss this past week

X = cumulative percentage since challenge commenced

Please check the math since I might have inadvertently entered your weight in the spreadsheet incorrectly. Email me if there is a concern with what I have posted for you. Thanks for participating in the challenge.

1-Jodie
-3.38%
-4.70%
2-Java
-1.15%
-4.44%
3-Eric
-2.01%
-4.41%
4-S L B
-3.23%
-4.33%
5-Swimfan13
-2.68%
-3.96%
6-Delane
-1.95%
-3.38%
7-Emily
-1.21%
-3.17%
8-Margo
-2.87%
-2.87%
9-Eileen
0.00%
-2.80%
10-Allison
-3.07%
-2.69%
11-Viv
-1.59%
-2.62%
12-Sam
-1.37%
-2.56%
13-Melissa B
-1.73%
-2.46%
14-Nanc
0.00%
-2.17%
15-Melinda
-1.08%
-2.14%
16-Stacy
-0.13%
-1.96%
17-Amy
-0.83%
-1.84%
18-Mendy
0.00%
-1.81%
19-Laurel
-1.17%
-1.74%
20-Beth
-0.56%
-1.66%
21-Kristen
-2.33%
-1.65%
22-Tammy
0.00%
-1.65%
23-Al
-1.47%
-1.64%
24-Andrew
-0.86%
-1.48%
25-Christy
-0.79%
-1.45%
26-Pokey
-1.38%
-1.38%
27-Christy C
-1.32%
-1.32%
28-Xenia
0.00%
-1.22%
29-Jenny
-1.81%
-1.19%
30-Lana
-1.16%
-1.16%
31-Robin
0.00%
-1.14%
32-Jessica (ME)
0.00%
-1.09%
33-Nat
-3.17%
-1.08%
34-Anna
-0.55%
-0.99%
35-Toni
0.00%
-0.99%
36-Leana
0.47%
-0.93%
37-Greg
-0.09%
-0.90%
38-Bev
0.00%
-0.65%
39-Sarah
-0.49%
-0.62%
40-Bob
0.56%
-0.56%
41-Dan
0.43%
-0.26%
42-Kathy (kiwi)
-0.54%
-0.22%
43-Mel
-0.55%
-0.11%
44-Calyx
-1.72%
0.00%
45-Jess (FL)
0.00%
0.00%
46-Kari
1.32%
0.00%
47-Suba
0.00%
0.00%
48-Jess (PA)
0.39%
0.06%
49-Audrey
-0.15%
0.30%
50-Che
0.59%
0.59%
51-Liz (HI)
0.69%
0.69%
52-Erin
0.00%
0.75%
53-Yas
0.00%
0.75%
54-Kathy
1.19%
0.79%
55-Carly
0.90%
0.90%
56-Paige
0.11%
0.97%
57-Elysia
0.70%
1.21%
58-Kevin
1.76%
1.42%

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.

Open Mic Tagging

I have been tagged by a few people this week with questions regarding running. I had the full intention of posting them today till I was contacted by the lovely Amy at Runners' Lounge. I was asked to do Open Mic Friday at the Lounge. I am so excited!! A real interview where I would not be in a quarrel with Barbara Walters like this interview.

Please go check it out the interview if you have a minute by clicking this link.

I mean how much more could you really find out about me. I spill my guts here like that little chubby boy on "The Goonies".

I have the Mad Dogg SPIN certification class tomorrow for 9 hours. So, please send me some good mojo if you can. I will catch up with you guys later today. I have been a little busy...

Have a fabulous weekend!!

Challenge participants please remember to send your weights via e-mail to me Sunday June 15. The cutoff off time is Monday June 16 at Noon(CST). Be strong over the weekend :-)

Move Off The Track, Grandma

If you are here for the IWLC week one updates click on this link.

I did a track workout close to noon today so it was 90 degrees. I am really getting used to it, and being careful to just stop to get a drink when needed. The blacktop did give me that egg in a frying pan sensation. Half way through the workout a the high school football team came out on the track. They were probably wondering who is this old, fat lady and can she move. Well, I am pleased to say that on the last 300's I took some of those bigger linebacker boys down! Following the track workout I did an hour on the chillax recumbent bike since I was too sleepy for spin class this morning.

I got home from the concert at close to midnight. Then stayed up till 2:30AM entering every one's weight for the challenge, and generating the post. It was a great show, but being a semi fan I did not know all the jams. My sister, Mel is the huge fan but gave me her tickets due to a graduate class she had in the evening. Shane, said it looked like I was going to a picnic. Once at the concert I noticed I dressed inappropriately prepish.

The Cure -- Fascination Street The loud scream you hear at the end is my big mouth

I am spending the late afternoon with my dearest friend, Rita today. That is the great thing on not being on a tough training schedule, I have time for a small social life again. Well, Lil Buster will be back from Grandma's tomorrow so the party is over. LOL!

The track splits are below. I hope I did it right. Coach Bill was awesome to email me the workout since I will not be at the track tonight. I finally figured out how to set up the workout on the Garmin then I learned I could put time targets on the intervals as well. I am excited to be using the advanced features on the Garmin. No wonder people *heart* their Garmin.

Tuesday's Workout:

3 Mile Run/Track

Mile 1 easy (12:11)

Mile 2

4 x 300/0.19 miles (1:40, 1:40, 1:34, 1:37) Recovery 100's (15:19)

Mile 3 easy (14:41)

1/2 Mile Cool Down Walk

Recumbent Cycling

1:06 15 Miles

Some pictures from this past weekend at Shane's company picnic at the water park. We had a blast, especially Lil' Buster! I finally wore a bathing suit this year.

If you are still not sick of the family pics, here is Lil' Buster(white tee) dancing at the picnic.

He loves to dance, so my child.

Independence Weight Loss Challenge WEEK I

Congratulations for all of you that stuck with it even if you had a small gain, remained the same, or had a loss! You did wonderful, and it will only get better. The challenge got a little smaller due to lack of weigh in's. You still have hope if not just by process of elimination.

If you do not see your name, and are sure you emailed me your weight this past Sunday or Monday before Noon leave a comment or email me. I will search your name on my Outlook if I do not see your name, "You Are Out" to quote Hedi on Project Runway.

The next weigh in will be due Sunday June 15 or at the latest of Monday June 16, by Noon(CST)

The names are listed in order starting with the highest percentage lost and so on. If there is a n/c under you name that states no change Please check my math. The spreadsheet has the correct formula, but I could easily have a typo error. I usually have do the challenge stuff in my free time, which yesterday meant 2AM. I am human, and I do the best I can guys :-)

If you feel there is an error, please contact me.

1--Java -3.33%

2--Eileen -2.80%

3--Nanc -2.17%

4--Emily -1.98%

5--Stacy -1.83%

6--Mendy -1.81%

7--Tammy -1.65%

8--Delane - 1.46%

9--Leana -1.40%

10--Jodie -1.36%

11--Swimfan13 -1.32%

12--Kari -1.31%

13--Xenia -1.22%

14--Sam -1.21%

15--Robin -1.14%

16--S L B -1.14%

17--Bob -1.12%

18--Beth -1.10%

19--Jessica (ME) -1.09%

20--Melinda -1.07%

21--Viv -1.05%

22--Sub6 -1.04%

23--Amy -1.01%

24--Toni -0.99%

25--Greg -0.81%

26--Tans -0.79%

27--Melissa B -0.75%

28--AB -0.74%

29--DBH -0.74%

30--Dan -0.68%

31--Christy -0.66%

32--Bev -0.65%

33--Andrew -0.62%

34--Laurel -0.58%

35--Helen -0.53%

36--Anna -0.44%

37--Kathy -0.39%

38--Kevin -0.33%

39--Jess (PA) -0.32%

40--Hot Nerd -0.30%

41--Al -0.18%

42--Sarah -0.12%

43--Carly
n/c

44--Che
n/c

45--Chrisy
n/c

46--JD
n/c

47--Jess (FL)
n/c

48--Lana
n/c

49--Liz (HI)
n/c

50--Margo
n/c

51--Pokey
n/c

52--Suba
n/c

53--Kathy (kiwi)
+0.32%

54--Allison

+0.38%

55--Mel
+0.44%

56--Audrey
+0.45%

57--Elysia
+0.50%

58--Jenny
+0.63%

59--Kristen
+0.69%

60--Erin
+0.75%

61--Yas

+0.75%

62--Paige
+0.86%

63--Calyx
+1.75%

64--Nat
+2.16%

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.