Summertime Blues Triathlon Race Report

It was an early wake up call at 4AM. For some reason I thought Freeport was closer to my parents home in Clear Lake. When I pulled it up on the GPS last night I was shocked to see a 59 mile drive. We left early since Shane drives all Miss Daisy with me to forgo any yapping of, slow down, is your blinker on, watch that car, speed up, turn your wipers on, is that a dog in the road; I just can't help it every day I am becoming more my Mother's clone.

Swim: 500 yards 13:14.5 (2:53/100M 2:38/100Y)

I was in the last wave which was only 9 minutes after start time so primo. The wave included athenas, clydesdales, and men under 29. There is nothing like a wave with people that may be hungry or high level testosterone driven guys, maybe both. I positioned myself towards the back left side to be on the outside of the buoys knowing my swim pace. The water was like my Epsom salts baths, hot and salty as hell. I was little panicky and lost my form a few times...OK OK more then a few. I know I need to work on calmness, and staying true to form for TX Man OLY in a couple weeks. That is me right in the center and I actually have my head down... Whoa!

T1: 1:33.5

I actually didn't feel like I had been in a washing machine for 15 minutes.Thanks for the tip, Strive team mate Doug. I woggled my way over to the last rack and put the cycle shoes on minus socks. I am trying the whole sockless thing (not topless, Marcy cause I know you will go there momacita). They usually end up soaking wet anyhow and it's my contribution to myself to feel all triathletic. I am hard to miss below in the Strive green tri top that I am busting out of all Incredible Hulkish.

Bike: 15 miles 54:49.9 (16.4mph)

The bike was a windy out and back course meaning I hit the intercoastal bridge going out and coming back.

It was challenging, but I remember what my tri sis told me, use those gears. I did and I didn't get that chewed up spit out feeling I got in Austin.

You guys know I sometimes might let one person work my nerves. I tried not to but this kid was killin' me smalls! He was just all over the place, staying on the left too long, passing people on the right at times in non called for situations. We will call him Dennis the Menace. So, Dennis and I keep playing cat and mouse on the bike. Every time I would try to pass him he would pedal his heart out and I would have to back down. Luckily, no refs were around. After the 4th time yes 4th time I went though this with Dennis this is what happened.

Me: Kid, your killing me!

Dennis: Yea, so what!

Me: So, what?! We are not in the same age group ya know.

Dennis: Eat my dust, lady!

Oh no he didn't.....I passed Dennis but a couple miles later he passed me. Argh, I will getcha Dennis and your little dog too (does Dennis even have a dog?) I did pass this guy that was in my Total Immersion swim clinic a while back. Tiggs, do you recall the guy who was getting on my nerves at the workshop cause he kept hogging the coach in my lane. Yep, unfortunately I can find people to work my nerves just about anywhere, you think it is me...nah!

T2: 1:03.3

I really need my tri sis to teach me that flying dismount thingy. She will probably say, learn how to change a tire first ;-)

Run: preliminary time 34:22.7 (11:27)

I took off sockless in my running shoes. The first mile is always brutal as the legs are getting into the run. I started slowing down in the first mile and this chica was passing me. She said, "Hey don't slow down on me now after you kicked my ass on the bike." Aww, that is one of the sweetest things I have heard on the run. It can either get worst after mile 1 or get better. It got better. I was feeling pretty good and I am pretty sure I had my cheesy run smile going.

Total Time: 1:45:03.9

Overall, my times are better compared to my last race and well any sprint distance I have completed. I have to admit it comes from smart coaching, thanks Coach K. My team mates who inspire and motivate me, especially tri sis who has just taken me under her wing. My friends, bloggity buds, Shane who sacrifices a lot of our time for my training and work. Lil' Buster who gives me cowbell then while I am gone makes his own fun. My sister who does these early wake up calls often to support and give me cowbell out there. Not to mention all the little people who I have stepped on and I am no lightweight... just kidding, but since I was going overboard!

So, my previous post, How Bad Do I want It ?

How Bad Do I Want It....

I want to do beyond well in this race

I want to go out there and give this race all I have

If I want it

I have to get it

Summertime Blues Sprint Triathlon - 8/31/08 Freeport River Place
Three challenging bridges!
500 yard open-water swim in the Old Brazos River Harbor
15 mile bike over the Intercoastal Waterway Bridge, into the Village of Quintana, back over the ICW bridge and back to RiverPlace
3 mile run around the Old Brazos River, over Velasco Bridge, over the levee, and back to RiverPlace

I hope everyone has a safe & fantastic Labor Day Weekend!

I leave you with this hilarious fight clip....

Living Dead Girl Saves "Get Out of Jail Free Card"

Hope everyone enjoyed their weekend! I wanted to thank everyone for the insight on nutrition. I got some great advice in the comments and by email. This week I will be implementing multi small 200-300 calorie meals through out the day. I bought light vanilla soy milk and fresh organic berries to bring smoothies into the mix. I still can't believe that Viv has those reusable grocery bags, does yoga, buys soy milk, and organic fruit?!? (talking in the 3rd person is totally Suede's fault from Project Runway )

This weekend was tough on the training front. On, Saturday I had a 40 mile ride with some of my strive team mates, whom I adore. It was my longest ride ever...I have an expiration date after tough workouts. I am good for about 4 hours after the shower and then crash and burn, baby. Shane said, I moaned myself to sleep that night.

On Sunday, another early wake up call for a 9 mile run. The first 6 miles were at Z2 with the last 3 miles at tempo. I made it back to the house in time to grab more G2 & GU and head out to teach a 9AM SPIN class.

I had a 1900 swim on the schedule as well. However, I was pretty much dead while breathing if that is possible. I put in the training database to my Coach that I was skipping the swim. I was well into my 4 hour expiration time moaning and groaning on the couch when I got an email on the BlackBerry from my Coach. (dayum BlackBerry) I will post some of it, since anything you say or send me may and will be used against you on the blog. just kidding

Hey Viv,
OK...will give this a pass...but only b/c you have these extra spin classes to teach...otherwise, because it is a swim...I would NORMALLY encourage you to get in the water.If after 15 minutes you still feel like crap then stop the workout. If you feel OK after 15 minutes, I'd have you keep going for the yardage but hold back on intensity. Sometimes we feel like crap but once we get going we actually feel better. My best swims typically follow a long run for me. I don't feel like always going and I never know what to expect (some days are BAD!).
But, for this time...because of the extra spin classes-don't worry about the swim. Next time, though...just get in the water. Try it. If after 15 minutes you still feel tired, then get out.

After an email like that what is one to do??? I get my living dead girl self off the couch and head to the pool. The first 20 minutes were tough, but I did a 1700 swim. Times like that in my mind is what defines an athlete. The times when you are faced with the decision to do or not to do, and you do. That is a lot of do's, reminds of that song by The Police, "do, doo, do, ahh, dah, dah, dah" . I am probably a little delirious now, but you know what I mean though.

So, thanks Coach but I will save that "get out of jail free card" for when I really need it. Like, being rolled on a stretcher kind of situation.

To the best tri sis any girl could have!!

Deep Thoughts by Viv Edition I

The second feature I am adding to the blog to appear randomly is Deep Thoughts by Viv. Does anyone remember Deep Thoughts by Jack Handy on Saturday Night Live back in the day? They usually were neither here nor there while playing inspirational like music in the back round. Here is a sample one:

"When you go in for a job interview, I think a good thing to ask is if they ever press charges" by Jack Handy

My deep thoughts will sometimes be deep or pose a question. Like, whoa that Viv is truly an intellectual brain child, so wise beyond her young looking 33 years. Some of the time they will be like, whoa what primo stuff is Viv smoking over there?! ( "The Hills" is back, which means I begin my excessive use of the word like. I hear in California it is perfectly o.k. to start a sentence with the word like. Since Surf City is almost a sure thing for me I am implementing the word in my immature vocabulary regularly)

I am working out about 16-21 hours per week. Am I 100 pounds? Hell to the no! I know I have to start focusing on better nutrition. Usually when my training hours are less my healthy food choices come natural. When my training hours are in excess (not my Coach's fault. It is all the extra work hours at the gym. I am still trying to find a balance of work and training.) I tend to make bad food choices. Like, not because I think I have burned x amount of calories I can eat that kind of thing. It is more like that tuna, salad, veggies (insert healthy options here) is just not appetising to me at this juncture. I have to consciously make a hard effort here to get the rest of this weight off.

Another thing I think about is recovery nutrition. I sometimes have three workouts in a day. Is there something I should be eating right after workouts to prepare my body for the next workout to properly replenish the body to aid in recovery?

To use recovery nutrition or not?

If so, what works for you?

That is the question??????????

Viv's Corner Edition I

I am going to try two additions to the blog. I already have "Random Thought of The Day" that appears randomly so I am going to add two more, if I may be so bold to call them features.

Viv's Corner is the first new addition, which will just be bits of, hmmmm if I may be so bold to call them news worthy information in my world.

Has anyone seen this show?? "Million Dollar Listing" on Bravo. The guys on it are primo annoying and totally arrogant. I of course found it halirious. This dude and his mushroom hair, and the other with permanent guy liner made me laugh thinking are these dudes for real?!?

Did you know that Alanis Morissette has completed a triathlon? Isn't that ironic, don't ya think a little too ironic, yea I really do think. It's like rai-in on your wedding day. It's the free advice, you just didn't take.......OK I will stop now.

Remeber, this post I did about JLo back in July thanks to my buddy Marcy, A.K.A. the next Perez Hilton. HAHAHAHAHA!!

Well...... JLo is full on training for the Malibu Triathlon. The biatch is even blogging about it and sharing tips. LOL! Like, what Gucci sunglasses go best with your Versace helmet and which length of fake lashes go best with the Olympic and Sprint distances.

You know who else will be doing this race???? Last years Kona Ironman winner, Chris "Macca" McCormack.

Ryan Lochte (on the left), amazing HOT swimmer, might be a little bimboish. I still *heart* him. Hello, there is no talking necessary in swimming is there?! HEHEHEHEHE! Click here for bimboish interview

Please note: words or phrases highlighted in yellow are words or phrases I am bringing back just like Justin brought sexy back.

Strong To Quite Strong

I hope everyone had a great weekend. Congratulations to Tiggs & Kelli on solid finishes at Ironbabe & my(ok I share her with the rest of the team, but my blog my coach) Coach K for a first place overall female finish at DeGray Lake Half Tri.

I had a strong to quite strong (name that movie line) training weekend and some fun social events (reads drinking). Of course a recovery week on the training front that's why I come out like a champ. LOL! Bike ride was scheduled Saturday for 25 miles pulled out 22 miles at 16.9mph due to my lower gears not working I cut off a few miles. I had to take every "hill" out of the saddle to gain momentum. It was rough on my fatigued quads that have worked 6 SPIN classes this week. I worked everyday sometimes twice a day except Friday since last Sunday in addition to my tri training.

I dropped off SOW at the bike shop and of course Ken, from Bike Lane was all over it. He will also put one of those thingys I can drink from on the aero bars with SOW's small frame it only allows room for one bottle. Ken is so awesome! This place is like the "Cheers" of bike shops. Let me tell you, he just knows my name and has a cold one waiting for SOW and I every time(ok I exaggerate at times). I let SOW spend the night since I don't need him back till Thursday.

I did my long run of 8 miles Sunday morning at Z2. There was no pain but my Z2 pace has slowed down a plenty since pre injury. I do not fret it, I am sure it will come back. Besides if I got all depressed over slow miles I would be on antidepressants, no doubt. After the run rushed in grabbed a G2 with a granola bar and off to work for a 9AM SPIN class. In the afternoon Shane and I went to a movie, "Cristina Vicky Barcelona". My widely famous movie review to come this week (again, only famous in my mind).

Random Thought of The Day:

Is a direct quote from Lil' Buster, "Turn on the air Mom, I'm sweating my balls off."

Where does my 5 year old Lil' Buster learn such things?!?

Movie Line is from,

"Meet The Parents"

Kevin(Owen Wilson): Are you a homeowner, Greg?
Greg(Ben Stiller): No, no, I rent.
Kevin: Oh.
Jack(Robert DeNiro): So, things are going real, real well for you, aren't they, eh, Kevo?
Kevin: Gosh, things have been going so great lately. I got in early on some wireless I.P.O.s, and the stuff just skyrocketed from there.
Greg: Wow.
Kevin: What about you, Greg? What line of work are you in?
Greg: I'm in health care.
Kevin: Yeah, so you know what I'm talking about. There are a lot of Benjamins to be made now with biotech stuff. I don't have to tell you that. How's your portfolio?
Greg: I'd say strong...to quite strong.

I'm So Tight!

Not in that, whoa that Viv has some tight lil' body like Kerri Walsh sort of way either. It's tight along the lines of my leg muscles are so tight. I can't touch my toes tight! I decided to bring yoga into my plenitude of workouts. I went to yoga on Wednesday with my pal Kelli. She can probably vouch for all the grunts, groans, and a low key WTF she heard coming from my mat. The yoga instructor had to make a special announcement, " If you can't reach you toes use the band to pull yourself forward." I was the only one who reached for my band. It was good for my tight muscles. Yoga will be squeezed into my week every week to aid getting these muscles loose and help avoid injury.

Speaking of injury, my stress injury was that of a stress reaction. When I went to McDreamy for my follow up the x-ray showed no calcification on the fifth metatarsal indicating no fracture healing, hence meaning no fracture.
(whew, I am exhausted from that long coma spliced sentence) It felt good to walk on and I was cleared to run, bringing it back slowly. For track this week I did a total of 2 miles with no pick ups just comfortable pace. My legs and feet felt comfortable with the run, but my lungs need to get used to the running again. Not to mention I lost my acclimation that I worked so hard to achieve with high noon runs, bastard! So, back to the drawing board with running. I have my first long run back this weekend so we shall see....

Best of luck to my chickies doing Irobabe this weekend, RACE HARD!

Happy Friday, and have a wonderful weekend!

Lack of Sleep

To Whom it May Concern at the Olympic Committees:

Please consider moving up the swimming to a decent hour. I find myself staying up very late waiting for the hotties to make their way into the pool. I have to get up early the next morning and seeing these inappropriately revealingly dressed fine young things at such a late hour makes it difficult for me to go to sleep.

It ends up being midnight and I am all hot and bothered. Then the cougar in me is on the prowl trying to awake the hibernating bear next to me. Maybe if they wore something as shown below I could handle this much better. I would appreciate your help in this matter.



Sincerely,

Viv

Hiatus, Not Hernia

Blogger Guilty Conscious & Gems

I feel bad guys...Lately, I am just so busy with things that I have fallen behind on catching up with you guys. I am finally caught up this evening but it felt almost stressful and that is not what catching up with you guys should be to me. Anywhoo, so I am in a conundrum thinking that maybe I might need a blogging vacation.

Training has been going strong with pool running, cycling, swimming, teaching spin classes, aqua aerobics...huh? WTF? Seriously, Viv?

Yea, My boss at the gym has encouraged me to think about instructing aqua aerobics. So, I took a class and it went pretty well. Not much of a calorie burner but I think I was focused on learning the movements since I am already jotted down to sub a class on the 21st.

GEM 1: The Aqua instructor telling the class during a little active part of the class, "Check your neighbor, make sure they are breathing."

GEM 2: I counted 4 bottles of Matrix So Silver conditioner bottles on the pool deck.

Training this weekend has been welcomely interrupted by a 2 day swimming workshop, Total Immersion. I have been luckily filling in for Tiggs husband, who had a work circumstance that did not allow him to attend this costly workshop. Forever grateful and thankful to Tiggs for allowing me to fill his spot. I swear I owe her cupcakes for life. I am learning so much about swimming. Basically from step one, which is what I need a step by step guidance.

GEM 3: I don't know if I am a sick puppy, but the older coach at the swimming workshop wears these inappropriate Speedo Jammers. It just does not support his schlong. So, he is floating about, talking on deck and that thing just keeps staring at me. It makes it hard to hear the words coming out of his mouth. I hope he wears different Speedos for tomorrows workshop.

I got these two awesome TYR tri tops on clearance for $11 each at my local swim shop. They did not have shorts to match which really concerned me. Hello, you know me....matchy matchy! Well, not to worry I found the matching shorts (solid grey & navy blue) from the TYR 2007 collection on EBay and in my size. I won the aution this evening for both shorts, $17.98, SCORE!

Does Cleaning Count As A Workout??

I used to be in complete control of my life. Being a control freak, my life is harmonious when I feel everything is under control. Keeping a spic and span home took priority over me, and now it has changed. I was so spent from my workouts yesterday, and taking Lil' Buster to a childrens play that I was ready to soak in the tub except it was so nasty I had to scrub it first. Ewwww!

With training, working(which is more working out), keeping Lil' Buster entertained during the summer, vacations, being a wife, friend, blah blah... the house has been at the bottom of my list every time. Chaos...Yea, I know WAAA WAAA!
So, today is Viv the cleaner day with some pool running at night mimicking a track workout.

Random Thoughts of The Day:

Why as a big chick, I still fear certain workout equipment. Besides, this one does not look very lady like.

New York Post; A "very large lady" at the New York Sports Club was "sling-shot" off equipment known as the "abductor" - and had to be hauled from the gym in a rescue basket by firefighters, authorities said.


Instead of continuing the same trend of decreasing fuel demands I have topped off my gas guzzler every day this week. On my way back from the gym last night, I was like holy shit $3.66/gallon let me top off this bad boy it could be back at $4.00 tomorrow. I think I am becoming a scary gas hoarder.

San Francisco Chronicle; This year's record-shredding spike in gasoline prices has finally ended, with prices throughout the country falling by more than a penny per day. And American drivers can thank themselves for the drop.Gas prices are dropping from lack demand decreasing.

Monday's AM Workout:

1:00 SPIN Class

0:43 minutes pool running

Monday's PM Workout:

Swim 1:07 Total 2250 yards

You Don't Even Know...Back To Training

I hope everyone had an outstanding weekend. I am so sorry that I am behind on catching up with so many blogs....but I will try to play catch up this week.
Saturday AM--
I had to hit the bike sola since my schedule did not coincide with the group this weekend. I was scared for the first 20 minutes then relaxed, and said to myself what is the worst thing that could happen out here? Oh yea, I could become a big pile of road kill, duh! I had a 55 minute tempo bike ride z3-z5. I have a hard time getting into zone 5 on the bike, it never happened. I am still learning how to play nice with SOW and the shifting. I gots to make time to put SOW on the trainer and practice shifting.
15.2 miles/53:00/17.2mph
* I was comfortable in the aero position and I can not say enough about my new glorious saddle. I believe Wes reviewed this saddle a while back and I will back it up for the ladies saying it kept all my 'soft tissue' very happy. It was comfy sitting up and even comfier in aero.
Saturday PM--
Got in a 30 minute open water swim with some of the tri group at Twin Lakes. The water level is low and some of those hardcores did like a military crawl over some of the lake mush. Viv, not so hardcore, made a bee line turnaround to bluer'er seas.
Sunday AM--
Taught SPIN class at the new gym I am working at. It went well, and got a few compliments after class. That always makes me feel all tingly inside.
Sunday PM--
I was supposed to get in 1:30 in of deep water pool running in, but after 1 hour I began to feel clinically insane in the membrane. I am still trying to figure out what to put on the iPod for those deep water runs. I was thinking like an audio book or something that can take my mind off the run. Or if anyone wants to volunteer to be at the pool and chit chat I am up for it, call me. LOL! I can't thank tri sis Gena enough for hooking me up with her deep water running belt, a waterproof case and earphones for my iPod. I am publicly stating here that I *heart* her. She has all this faith in me to make it to New Orleans IM70.3 and is always helping me out.

ok ok boring post I know I must have left my mojo in the pool somewheres....

"I almost numchucked you man, you don't even know!"

I used that line this weekend with the tri group. Yes, I talk like an goofball in real life as well, not just the blog. It was killing me that I could not remember what movie it was was from. Hit me like bricks while running myself crazy going nowhere in the pool. "Wedding Crashers" The line was, "I almost numchucked you, you didn't even realise." So the, "you don't even know" is all my orginal creation.

WL Update:-2lbs this week

Back To Your Regularly Scheduled Programming

I want to thank all of you for your support and belief in me. So many of you had such wise positive words, like having my own personal Dr. Phil's minus the annoyance. I am eating better, feeling better, and getting back to tri training minus the running which will be subbed with deep water pool running for now. I had morning after thoughts about deleting the previous post, but it keeps me in check right now. I will leave you some miscellaneous tidbits. Catch up with you guys after my ride tonight.... Have a fabulous weekend!

Iron Girl Las Vegas will air on NBC Saturday 2:30PM EST

Check you local listings, and DVR it

I love when sports have their tiff's especailly when it's chicks

Race track chick drama

Basketball chick drama

As My World Turns

OK a little dramatic on the title but I just have some things going on with me. It is hard for me to even notice when I am dealing with issues. It just eats away at me for a period of time till I step back, think things over and change what is bothering me. This is going to be a very long post and more about me then you probably want to even know. If you want to skip it, no offense taken. Caution there will be profanity and more grammatical errors then ever since it took me a bottle of wine to sit down and think what's got me in a funk.

Eating

I have gained a whopping 10lbs over the month of July and yep check your calenders the damn month is not even over. I am coming to terms with it and adjusting the pounds dropped widget in the left margin. I worked so hard to lose those 10 pounds all the month of June, even hitting my lowest weight in 6 years. It started with the Florida trip over indulging in everything. When I am I going to learn that I can't do that to myself. How many fucking times in my life do I have to go all the way up and down the scales to learn? I came home on the 13th to continue in this downward eating spiral. I am talking dessert after every glutton fat filled dinner that kind of shit which is just not necessary for anyone. That is just excessive and I am obviously trying to fill some void I am feeling in my life at this time.

Family

Is great! Shane is home every night in contrast a year ago when he would spend 6 weeks in Africa and 2 weeks home for the first 5 years of our marriage. Who knows how the hell I even got pregnant. Lil Buster could not be happier having his Dada home. I, after 5 months adjusting to having him come home every night, actually having to tell someone what I'm doing, where I'm going, leaving Lil Buster with Grandma and having too many G.N.O.'s. I am now not just living my life as I pleased but as a partnership. I have found a very happy place in my marriage and family life. I feel as we are all one happy unit. I still have a life don't think I'm one of these Suzie Homemaker's whose hobbies are that of whatever my family wants them to be (barf). I just try to make time for it all, Lil Buster's football practice, date night with Shane, girls night out martini's. In turn they understand me working on a Wed evening, Sunday & Monday mornings while they have breakfast, track on Tuesday, bike ride on Thursday and Saturday, my runs, and swims. We just make it work happily most of the time. We are at a wonderful juncture in our marriage and family life.

Friends

My friendships have suffered a little bit. I used to be right on, knowing every thing going on with my friends. Making sure I checked on them on a regular basis even if just sending some text love. I have just become busier but my close friends are very supportive and totally understanding of these changes in my life. Some people I used to consider friends have faded from my life. Maybe they don't understand the changes I have made in my life. How I find choosing a nice scenic long run over pizza and a reality show. I still love me 2 or 3 shows which I DVR and watch when life allows. Maybe it is that our common love and comfort we found in food no longer takes priority in my life. Except in times like these. There is also the friends in your life who come and go based on their needs of you. That is also starting to become unacceptable in my life. Then there is the new acquaintances I have met through the new things in my life such as, running, blogging, triathlons, and Weight Watchers. The majority have been a great source of support from advice, to laughing, to training partners or just acquaintances blossoming into friends. There has also been some people who are just competitive assholes. You tell them your excited cause your breaking through on your running and they say, oh yea I keep getting faster; or you are bummed cause your swimming sucks and they say, I just swam a mile today no problem. Everything you tell them turns into they have done it and do it better. Just super assholish. Shit, if I open up to you don't turn the fucking thing about how damn awesome you are. If I had an acquaintance who suffers with something I tell them let's work on it together if I can help. If not I support you as best I can and we accomplish our weaknesses together. When one of my buds is breaking through with their running and I am virtually seeing them go from 12 min miles to 10 min miles. I am thinking, come here ya let me give you a hug and buy you a beer biatch! I figure we're all in this together for the most part. I'm not trying to beat your ass to get a purse. Let's face it I'm just a squirrel trying to get a nut out on the race course.

Training

I feel I have been failing myself on the training from this past month. I don't know if at all stems from the food and it just become a vicious cycle. I am training with a great group of people on a training team. Most if not every single one of them is way more advanced than I am. Sometimes, I feel it gives me something to strive for work harder to eventually be like this person. Then there is the tough ass in me who says, Viv work harder to beat yourself you know better. It is not about working hard to be like Buffy And Jodie but to be the best fucking Viv you can be. It will not happen for me if I set myself up for failure by just slacking on important workouts. I missed 10 days of training while in Florida that included several break through sessions that impact my performance. I can't get those back, yet I continue to dwell on all the missed training. Those races I set out to do are very important to me. It is about me setting out goals and working extremely hard to achieve them. To better myself every single time. I really didn't do that well at Jeff & Brede's triathlon on July 13. Yea, my swimming and cycling were better then they have been, but my running was back to basics. I averaged in the mid 12's when I know I can do better. Yea my legs were tight, I had just gotten off a plane the night before, and probably pushing so hard is what got me this injury I am dealing with now. Excuses to me have no room in my life. They truly are like assholes we all have one and you know what they all stink. That is the irony in my blogs title. Excuse #1 I'm not Fit To Run....It is me making a mockery of every person that has an excuse for not doing something their heart desires. I have a big (pun intended) excuse. I am built like an 18 wheeler not a compact Smart car, but I keep pushing every run yearning to be the runner I always dreamt I could be. Now, I have to turn that focus into all 3 disciplines. If I want to be a better swimmer, than SWIM and focus on swimming correctly. If I want to be a faster cyclist, then CYCLE. Learn it, read it, study it, find out what can make me a more efficient cyclist. Running, I am happy where I am at right now, well pre injury. I have started running with purpose. I have different workouts that Coach puts together to mold me in to a better runner. I used to just run all out every run. A while back it worked I was just learning to run, now I need direction to improve. I have a sprint triathlon on Aug 31 right over 6 weeks, which is how long I will be off from actual land running. I am determined to make it a strong comeback and keep up with my training to get me to my first Olympic Tri in September.

Goals

Starting tomorrow, stay in my daily caloric requirement. No weekend passes nothing. I need to regroup and focus to get me to my goal weight.

Stop the vicious cycle. Eat to live not live to eat. Eating better will make me feel better, in turn making me want to train better in conclusion helping my overall state of being.

Kick people that bring me down out of my life. I do not need the drama, I am not on The fucking Hills.

Train Train Train....deep water running on running days. No skimping on the swims. Hit all scheduled rides and stop being such a pussy with the hills(after injury recovery). Put the bike on the trainer do some of the optional trainer workouts in. Start becoming the triathlete I need to be to get me to my goal dream IM70.3 race hopefully in New Orleans.

Bringing Sexy Boot Back

I went to Dr. McDreamy yesterday. Sorry ladies I felt weird taking his picture but I go back in 3 weeks so maybe I will take one of those scenery shots that happens to include him. I did that in Jr. high one time to this guy I was crunching on and he caught me. Anyway, totally digressing.

They took some x-rays of my foot after I showed him where I have been feeling the constant pain that shoots up my calf. The diagnosis which he can not completely confirm without an MRI, is a stress fracture of the fifth metatarsal on the left foot. (I have a high deductible insurance that I would have to pay for the MRI which gave me serious sticker shock) He said, given my history of stress fracture on the tibia last November he would bet on my diagnosis. The calf, is a slight strain from compensating for the foot. He recommended some PT for stretches and massages. McDreamy said, "even if it was a stress reaction and not a stress fracture the treatment would be the same at this point".

Caddy, (tri to be funny) I know you like my pink flowered cotton lingerie.

He put me in a walking boot for 3 weeks and asked if I still had my boot; I replied yes and that I had bedazzled it. (Thanks Kell, stole the bedazzling line from your hand basket) McDreamy said, "you are always so funny" and we both laughed. What a moment we shared, like a Tom Hanks & Meg Ryan movie moment...LMAO! I can still cycle with low resistance or minimal hills, still can swim, and can do the ever fun deep water pool running.

I am trying to stay positive, but I know how I get when I don't get my outside runs in. I get depressed. I went back and read posts from when I had the stress fracture on the tibia it was depressing not to mention the 10 lbs it cost me.

Today is Track Tuesday and I will miss this......

The Gimp's Movie Review

I hope everyone had a sweet weekend! The leg is being very troublesome. I was not able to do any much needed training this weekend. I tried taking the bike down the block Saturday morning while packing it up for the ride and I could not handle it. I decided to continue nursing it with a couple of days off. This morning I went to teach a SPIN class and it was barking at me the whole time. I kept the resistance to a bare minimum. It hurts along the calf but the targeted pin point pain is at the bottom of the foot and it shoots up to the calf. I do not have a good feeling about this one. It has been a long while since any real injury has come about that caused a major sit out. I have an appointmet with Dr. McDreamy later this morning.

The Gimp @ the movies with ice pack and Ace bandage

"The Dark Knight" 3.75 stars out of 4 (always room for improvement with anything)
What can I say except the hype this movie is getting is well deserved. I felt from the first second I was strapped into a ride and it did not stop till the credits rolled. Heath Ledger was amazing, and I don't know if his untimely death added to the creepy factor but he had the Joker character nailed with the gestures and quirky movements.

"Mama Mia" 3 stars out of 4
I love the stage version so I thought it would be hard to please me. I really enjoyed it though! I think what I enjoyed most was watching my sisters face, who is not into musicals. Her face would cringe when they would break into song. LOL! Meryl Streep reminded me of what a strong actress she truly is during the most intense "The Winner Takes It All".

"Wanted" 2.5 stars out of 4
A Little over the top but fun. Some scenes had me saying.....umm yea right whatever. It did include a great cast, and I am a sucker for James McAvoy's brilliant blue eyes since "The Last King of Scotland". You may want to wait till it is a rental or dollar cinema then check it out. It had this curve bullet thing that had me rolling(see below). Jess, you can skip the video since I am sure I did a fine job of acting out the scene for you. LOL!

Random Thought of The Day:

While watching "The Dark Knight" if you want to get three rows of people turn around and give you a dirty look make sure to scream out, "Oh my God, is that Anthony Michael Hall?!?"

My love for 80's movies is undying.

Mini Massager

I skipped out on my hill repeats on the bike last night on the sound advice of my lovely Coach K. She reminded me how more is not always mo' betta (not verbatim) and with all the cycle classes this week, coming off a race, and a tough track on Tuesday it may be in my best interest to rest and ice the calf. It is weird it is like I have a knot on my calf, just like I did in the achillies after Cleveland that only got better after a few massages.

I asked Shane last night for a massage, but it becomes this whole massage trade off that ends up putting me in a compromising position with no real solid massage on my troublesome spot. So, who better to solicit then the massage therapist I created in my womb. Lil' Buster does well and he already volunteered charged me $2 for his services again this morning. Surprisingly the knot is beginning to dissipate. I will continue with the rest today and hopefully there is an empty seat in front of me at "The Dark Knight" tonight so I can keep the leg elevated. Then 30 mile ride Saturday morning in Z1-3 then leg elevation again while taking in "Mama Mia". Capping off the weekend with a short long run in Z2 followed by chillaxing at the parental oasis.

I will be back with my famous (in my mind) movie reviews on Monday. I have not given my review on "Wanted" yet so I will include that one in the mix. I hope you all have a fantastic weekend full of training and fun!

Random Thought of The Day:

Brought to you by homegirl Marcy

Is this the face of a future triathlete????

click for the story

JLo let me know what saddle you find to be the most comforting I really need to replace mine.

Humanoid Species & Zombies

I had to look up Vulcan. I knew it was what this tri labeled their women 150lbs+ division but I always heard of it referred to as Athena. (no secret here that I am not 115 lbs.) Vulcan; humanoid species, Star Trek reference.....umm cool I guess if you are into Star Trek. It was not a popsicle stick in fact it a is a very pretty etched glass plaque. It has been rotating rooms in the house. Yesterday was the fireplace mantle today it is in the living room.

I am on a recovery week which does not feel like recovery. My tri training schedule is on the ease up but my work schedule is not. I have had 3 spin/cycle classes in two days one of my own and subbing 2 other classes. I had a class last night and the majority of the class was dead, dude. I saw like no life in their eyes, nada, zero, zilch. Just glazed over eyes staring at me waiting for me to say sumfin magical maybe?!? I left the class feeling dissatisfied and a slight feeling of failure to my students. Maybe I am just too much of a people pleaser, it was a full moon, they really were zombies, or a little bit of all the above. I will suck it up as part of dealio in making a little cash to support my tri expenditures.

I am really tired and my left calf muscle is truly tripping out. It has been really tight since the tri on Sunday. At track on Tuesday evening it was pretty much unbearable. Coach cut off a mile of my 1 mile cruise intervals and tonight I have hill repeats on the bike. I will again suck it up as part of the delio of achieving my tri goals.

Sorry, if this sounds like one long bitch post. OK it doesn't sound like it. It is a bitch post.

Random Thought of The Day:

Is brought to you by my Mom, who
after 33 years still puzzles me with her statements.

Mom: What is on your feet.

Me: I think it's athletes foot. (yea I know, gross)

Mom: How will you wear flip flops the rest of summer? You really need to stop running.

Me: *staring blankly, completely speechless*

Jeff & Brede's Triathlon Race Report

I was a little hesitant of doing this tri since I flew in the night before from FL. I felt I was not prepared as far as tapering correctly, hydration, not swimming a yard or cycling a mile in 10 days, even riding SOW that had not mile one of quality time with Momma. Shifting on SOW (tri bike) is different then Baby Girl (road bike) shifting.

Pre Race I got all those doubtful feelings I always get. Shane, is no help in that department. He is like fine get your bike and go home if you don't think you can do it. LOL! It is the tough love this chica needs most of the time. I hope this is something that will begin to fade over time. Especially when you wait so long to get in the pool. It is seeded beginning with #1 based on swim time. I was #381 so I was waiting around quite a while.

Luckily, I had such great cowbell with me that kept me entertained chatting while waiting. Thank you so much, Ana, Frank, B, Greg, Mel, T & the gang for getting up early and being there for me. Knowing you guys are there after each leg makes me push a little harder even though the numbers didn't show that for me this time.


I did get to meet Coach Liz since she was out there volunteering and gave plenty o' cowbell! It was so great to finally meet her... Did I mention the chickie is built to race.

Swim: 300meter 8:33 (2:51/100m)

It was a PR swim for me. I still have no idea how. I worked on focusing on the form I learned at coached swim, but would get tired and go all crazy form again. I was not stunned to see I was seeded by people who walked the lanes. Is that legal?! Here are some pics so you can see my all wild form....

Keep that head down!! Lower.... Lower...

Is the ostrich neck really necessary??

T1: 2:13
Have to work on it. I refuse to give excuses they are like jackholes ya know. (honorary word by, Wes)


Bike: 12miles 43:03 (16.7mph)

It was an open course so there were a few cars. I just had fun out there getting to know SOW. I have the feeling over time we will get some higher mph averages. Of all things there was a turtle crossing the road that made me swerve a bit.

• The standard QR saddle was brutally painful
• Also need to get Ken at Bike Lane to bring up the aero bars a little, my neck was hurting
  
  

SOW getting hit on

T2: 1:44
Disappointing, I know I can do T2 faster.

Run: 3miles 37:46 (12:35)

NO COMMENT.....

Total Time: 1:33:17

Overall, I will admit I was disappointed in myself. I know I can do better and there could be a long list of reasons why I didn't. I had fun and honestly I can't beat the love and support I get from my friends and family.

Here is the zinger

I usually stick around to wait for the preliminary results and watch people get their awards and live vicariously through them. I was super tired though and only hung out for overall winners then left. Guess, what I find out today when looking up the results. I don't know if my Athena rivals decided to sleep in Sunday morning or what, but I placed 2nd in my division!! WTF?! Me, Viv! I emailed the race director to see if there was a way I can pick up my hardware. It could be a popsicle stick with the #2 on it and it would still mean the world to me.....