December 1st was the start of my new training cycle and so far, I've been smashing it. Sure, I haven't done all the workouts or done all the workouts as assigned. I've been consistent, though, and it's making a difference. I feel confident, strong, and powerful. Bring on the new year!
Swimming - 15,550 yards
Biking - 43.42 miles
Running - 67.43 miles
Strength - 3.5 hours
YMCA Visits - 16
Cost per visit - $5.33
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Tuesday, December 30, 2014
My Super Cool Christmas Present
A few days before Christmas Dave said to me, "do we have any spray adhesive?" What?! And then a little while later, "do you know where you quilting cutter-thingy is?" "Do you know where your fabric mat is?"
What the heck are you doing??
I started to wonder if Dave had gotten one of our family pictures blown up for a gift and was doing something with it. What that something was, I had no idea.
The last present I opened for Christmas was the big one; the gift Dave had been crafting. It was a giant map of the United States.
What the heck??
Then he explained it to me. It was a map glued to a push pin board so that we could mark where we've raced. Yes, we have a goal to race in all 50 states.
So we started to mark it up. We used big-balled pins to mark our major races - red for my marathons, blue for Dave's marathons and ironmans, and white for major races we have both done. The smaller-balled pins are for more minor races like 5ks, half marathons, and triathlons. The picture doesn't make the pins very prevalent but it looks so much better in real life. I plan to hang it up in our entry way, with hopefully a homemade "Oh, the Places You'll Go and Race" sign so it's a great conversation piece for our guests.
In 2015 I will be picking up Wisconsin and hopefully Oklahoma. Maybe we can even find a race in Florida. I can't believe we don't have Florida. We go every.single.year!
How many states have you raced in? Do you want to race in all of them? Do you plan on becoming a 50 state marathoner?
What the heck are you doing??
I started to wonder if Dave had gotten one of our family pictures blown up for a gift and was doing something with it. What that something was, I had no idea.
The last present I opened for Christmas was the big one; the gift Dave had been crafting. It was a giant map of the United States.
What the heck??
Then he explained it to me. It was a map glued to a push pin board so that we could mark where we've raced. Yes, we have a goal to race in all 50 states.
So we started to mark it up. We used big-balled pins to mark our major races - red for my marathons, blue for Dave's marathons and ironmans, and white for major races we have both done. The smaller-balled pins are for more minor races like 5ks, half marathons, and triathlons. The picture doesn't make the pins very prevalent but it looks so much better in real life. I plan to hang it up in our entry way, with hopefully a homemade "Oh, the Places You'll Go and Race" sign so it's a great conversation piece for our guests.
In 2015 I will be picking up Wisconsin and hopefully Oklahoma. Maybe we can even find a race in Florida. I can't believe we don't have Florida. We go every.single.year!
How many states have you raced in? Do you want to race in all of them? Do you plan on becoming a 50 state marathoner?
Monday, December 29, 2014
Kalahari Fun with the Fam
My sister surprised us all for Christmas with an impromptu weekend getaway to Kalahari, an indoor water park in Sandusky. This place is massive and a little overwhelming - water slides, wave pool, kiddie areas, bars, restaurants, arcades and games, and a huge hotel. It was a little like Disney World on a smaller scale, but still, people EVERYWHERE!!! We started off the afternoon with some family fun. The older kids hurried to the water slides. Dave, Anderson, and I took our time with a little lazy river, wave pool, and kiddie areas. My mom held Anderson so we could take a trip down a water slide.
We went to dinner at Chet and Matt's (seriously the best pizza in Sandusky or maybe anywhere for that matter) and then everyone turned in while Dave and I hit up the water park again until it closed. In about 45 minutes we were able to do five water slides. My favorites were the ones with the individual inner tubes. You betcha, I slept well that night.
Sunday, yesterday, we got up, had breakfast and started all over again. Dave and I added some attractions to our list. He went down a body slide, while we both did the boogie boarding. Yeah, I got a lot of water up my nose with that one. And some serious wedgies!!! Most of the day was spent chilling with my homies and making sure Anderson didn't turn into a human Popsicle.
The ride home was quiet. Needless to say, we turned in early last night. I'm still really tired this morning.
We went to dinner at Chet and Matt's (seriously the best pizza in Sandusky or maybe anywhere for that matter) and then everyone turned in while Dave and I hit up the water park again until it closed. In about 45 minutes we were able to do five water slides. My favorites were the ones with the individual inner tubes. You betcha, I slept well that night.
Sunday, yesterday, we got up, had breakfast and started all over again. Dave and I added some attractions to our list. He went down a body slide, while we both did the boogie boarding. Yeah, I got a lot of water up my nose with that one. And some serious wedgies!!! Most of the day was spent chilling with my homies and making sure Anderson didn't turn into a human Popsicle.
The ride home was quiet. Needless to say, we turned in early last night. I'm still really tired this morning.
Sunday, December 28, 2014
Week in Review
I'm now four weeks into my new training plans, and I tell you, I've been working harder than I have in a long time. And consistent - I'm really trying to do things in order and do all the workouts. This week was pretty good, even with Christmas and a surprise trip out of town this weekend (more on that Monday).
Monday
Planned: 2300 swim with a long set in the middle; strength training
Actual: The long set of the swim was near the end and I was tired by the time I got to it. I really had to concentrate on my form throughout. 2300 yards; 30 minutes of strength.
Tuesday
Planned: track workout with a zillion 200s.
Actual: I felt like a rock star with this workout. My 200s were fast and consistent with all but one with the same time and that one was one second faster. Boom! 5.75 miles.
Wednesday
Planned: 2000 swim; 30 minute easy run
Actual: Unfortunately, I didn't get the swim in, but I did do an easy run on the treadmill. 3 miles.
Thursday
Planned: 45 minute bike; two different strength workouts
Actual: Yeah, I didn't get to the bike ride this week. I probably shouldn't be skipping my bike rides. I did do one of the strength workouts - short and sweet.
Friday
Planned: short run with hills
Actual: I just did an easy run on the treadmill as the long run I had planned this week was going to be plenty hilly. 3.5 miles
Saturday
Planned: Long run; strength training
Actual: I got to run with Amanda as she was home for the holidays. We ran at a local metropark that has a hilly, rocky trail. She and my friend Bridget really took it to Dave and me; I ran paces I haven't hit there maybe ever. I wasn't able to do the full long run, but did enjoy some social time with Amanda before heading out of town with the family. 5.72 miles; 30 minutes of strength
Sunday
Rest Day
Totals:
Swim - 2300 yards
Bike - 0 miles
Run - 25.23 miles (this included some extra mileage that was not part of the plan)
Strength - 1.25 hours
Monday
Planned: 2300 swim with a long set in the middle; strength training
Actual: The long set of the swim was near the end and I was tired by the time I got to it. I really had to concentrate on my form throughout. 2300 yards; 30 minutes of strength.
Tuesday
Planned: track workout with a zillion 200s.
Actual: I felt like a rock star with this workout. My 200s were fast and consistent with all but one with the same time and that one was one second faster. Boom! 5.75 miles.
Wednesday
Planned: 2000 swim; 30 minute easy run
Actual: Unfortunately, I didn't get the swim in, but I did do an easy run on the treadmill. 3 miles.
Thursday
Planned: 45 minute bike; two different strength workouts
Actual: Yeah, I didn't get to the bike ride this week. I probably shouldn't be skipping my bike rides. I did do one of the strength workouts - short and sweet.
Friday
Planned: short run with hills
Actual: I just did an easy run on the treadmill as the long run I had planned this week was going to be plenty hilly. 3.5 miles
Saturday
Planned: Long run; strength training
Actual: I got to run with Amanda as she was home for the holidays. We ran at a local metropark that has a hilly, rocky trail. She and my friend Bridget really took it to Dave and me; I ran paces I haven't hit there maybe ever. I wasn't able to do the full long run, but did enjoy some social time with Amanda before heading out of town with the family. 5.72 miles; 30 minutes of strength
Sunday
Rest Day
Totals:
Swim - 2300 yards
Bike - 0 miles
Run - 25.23 miles (this included some extra mileage that was not part of the plan)
Strength - 1.25 hours
Saturday, December 27, 2014
Christmases #2 and #3
Christmas #2 was at my parents' house on Christmas eve. It was CRAZY TOWN!!! I swear my sister's kids must have had 10 gallons of soda each! After the wrapping paper was flown and all the boxes were cleaned up, we had a great Christmas with the family. Dave and I were gifted a new chest freezer which is great because our 27 year old fridge/freezer doesn't exactly have a lot of room, plus we had to leave our previous freezer at our old house. We were also gifted six months of drinking water supply. Great gift! Personally, I got a new pair of Oiselle running tights. Anderson got a billion matchbox cars. The biggest surprise was a family trip THIS COMING WEEKEND!!! to a very large indoor water park. More details and pictures next week.
Christmas #3 was our personal Christmas with just the three of us - well, plus my parents who came over to watch Anderson open his gifts. I got a new reflective vest that also has flashing lights in it. I also got a new training log. And my coolest gift was a large map of the US. Weird? I'll explain next week. Anderson got some cool toys and lots of camping equipment. Yep, we're planning on camping this summer. Well, maybe. Maybe it will just be Dave and Anderson in the back yard. I got Dave a new tool for our renovations and an entry into a local half marathon. Is that a good gift? I would have loved it. I'm not so sure Dave was excited.
It was a great Christmas with fun family and cool gifts. I enjoyed watching Anderson open his gifts and get excited about his toys. Christmas has a whole new meaning with the little one. I enjoy it so much more. I hope you all had a happy holiday.
Christmas #3 was our personal Christmas with just the three of us - well, plus my parents who came over to watch Anderson open his gifts. I got a new reflective vest that also has flashing lights in it. I also got a new training log. And my coolest gift was a large map of the US. Weird? I'll explain next week. Anderson got some cool toys and lots of camping equipment. Yep, we're planning on camping this summer. Well, maybe. Maybe it will just be Dave and Anderson in the back yard. I got Dave a new tool for our renovations and an entry into a local half marathon. Is that a good gift? I would have loved it. I'm not so sure Dave was excited.
It was a great Christmas with fun family and cool gifts. I enjoyed watching Anderson open his gifts and get excited about his toys. Christmas has a whole new meaning with the little one. I enjoy it so much more. I hope you all had a happy holiday.
Friday, December 26, 2014
Foto Friday
Christmas was so awesome this year with Anderson. With each gift he figured it out more and more and was totally an expert by the end. I didn't take a whole lot of pictures because I wanted to experience Christmas with him, but here's a few I got.
Thursday, December 25, 2014
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
Christmas Grandma
We were part of one of the sweetest things last night at the local supermarket.
Of course, we were last minute Christmas shopping - presents for the dog. Yep, we're those people. Anyway, there was a sweet old woman in the dog treats area with lots and lots of coupons. She turned to us and said, "do you have a dog?" Why yes we do! She started going through her coupons and helped us pick out some treats and use her coupons. She said she was 83 (I love that old people brag about their age) and she didn't have a dog but she cut the coupons for her 89 year old sister who has two dogs. After we picked out our treats she said, "I know they don't like people to leave coupons for others, but I don't care what they think" and then she just left the coupons laying there for others to use. Beautiful. I might have cried.
Of course, we were last minute Christmas shopping - presents for the dog. Yep, we're those people. Anyway, there was a sweet old woman in the dog treats area with lots and lots of coupons. She turned to us and said, "do you have a dog?" Why yes we do! She started going through her coupons and helped us pick out some treats and use her coupons. She said she was 83 (I love that old people brag about their age) and she didn't have a dog but she cut the coupons for her 89 year old sister who has two dogs. After we picked out our treats she said, "I know they don't like people to leave coupons for others, but I don't care what they think" and then she just left the coupons laying there for others to use. Beautiful. I might have cried.
Tuesday, December 23, 2014
Chickened Out
Let's just say, I'm socially awkward. Well, socially-don't-want-to-participate? I have a friend who is the most BEAUTIFUL woman ever and has this very put together life and family and she used to invite me to everything. I would always accept and then find a million excuses to get out of it. I love to be invited to things, but I don't actually want to go. I figure I'm going to be awkward and weird and I'd rather just stay home in my sweatpants.
A few weeks ago, I contacted the local swimming masters program. I knew they met early in the morning, which would work for my schedule, and I knew that they were good and had good participation. I have been interested for years but never did anything about it. Over the weekend, I heard back from the group with a very detailed email. I was excited and returned the email with plans to attend this week.
Last night I was crazy tired. I had gotten up at 5:30am to work out; spent the day running around trying to get last minute Christmas stuff done; and then finished the day with yet another workout (seriously, am I training for a marathon or an ironman??). I was exhausted by 8:00pm and crawled into bed at 10:00. That's pretty early for me. I was so tired that I was like "well, if I wake up at 5:00, I'll got to masters at 5:30" but I did not set an alarm.
Wouldn't you know I woke up on my own at 4:45 this morning?
I didn't go. I don't want to go alone. I feel like that new kid at school and everyone's staring at you. I don't want to be awkward. Plus, I just can't justify the cost of it when I already pay a coach who writes swim workouts and have a Y membership where I do my swimming.
Do you all swim masters? Do you do separate swim workouts from your triathlon coaches? Do you have a separate gym membership in addition to your masters program?
A few weeks ago, I contacted the local swimming masters program. I knew they met early in the morning, which would work for my schedule, and I knew that they were good and had good participation. I have been interested for years but never did anything about it. Over the weekend, I heard back from the group with a very detailed email. I was excited and returned the email with plans to attend this week.
Last night I was crazy tired. I had gotten up at 5:30am to work out; spent the day running around trying to get last minute Christmas stuff done; and then finished the day with yet another workout (seriously, am I training for a marathon or an ironman??). I was exhausted by 8:00pm and crawled into bed at 10:00. That's pretty early for me. I was so tired that I was like "well, if I wake up at 5:00, I'll got to masters at 5:30" but I did not set an alarm.
Wouldn't you know I woke up on my own at 4:45 this morning?
I didn't go. I don't want to go alone. I feel like that new kid at school and everyone's staring at you. I don't want to be awkward. Plus, I just can't justify the cost of it when I already pay a coach who writes swim workouts and have a Y membership where I do my swimming.
Do you all swim masters? Do you do separate swim workouts from your triathlon coaches? Do you have a separate gym membership in addition to your masters program?
Monday, December 22, 2014
Christmas #1
Due to work and vacation schedules, we celebrated Christmas with Dave's side of the family this past weekend. We were excited to share this Christmas with our little guy as now that he is almost two we figured it would be fun to see his joy and happiness. Well, that lasted all of about three gifts and then we started to wonder away. Truly, I think our dog was more excited about the gifts than Anderson was. Regardless, Anderson got some fun stuff that he has been playing with. He got a miniature basketball hoop, a giraffe tricycle (starting him early in triathlon), and one of those popper vacuum-type toy. He especially loves that one which his momma can attest to is LOUD!!!
Myself, I got a lot of great running and triathlon stuff. I got a new bike helmet which was needed as mine has a crack down the middle and probably isn't very safe. I got a winter running vest from Saucony. I've never worn a vest while running but there are certainly days where I think "too warm for a jacket, not warm enough for just a long-sleeved shirt". I got a new pair of running shoes. Stockpile, baby. And I got a pull-up assist strap. I am going to learn how to do a pull-up!!!
Dave got some electronic stuff that I don't understand and he's already put it to work in the house, which I don't understand either.
Christmas #2 is Christmas Eve at my parents' house and then we will have a simple Christmas just Dave, Anderson, and me on Christmas morning. I hope your holidays are off to a good start.
Myself, I got a lot of great running and triathlon stuff. I got a new bike helmet which was needed as mine has a crack down the middle and probably isn't very safe. I got a winter running vest from Saucony. I've never worn a vest while running but there are certainly days where I think "too warm for a jacket, not warm enough for just a long-sleeved shirt". I got a new pair of running shoes. Stockpile, baby. And I got a pull-up assist strap. I am going to learn how to do a pull-up!!!
Dave got some electronic stuff that I don't understand and he's already put it to work in the house, which I don't understand either.
Christmas #2 is Christmas Eve at my parents' house and then we will have a simple Christmas just Dave, Anderson, and me on Christmas morning. I hope your holidays are off to a good start.
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
New Toy!
When I found out I qualified for USAT Age Group Nationals, I had a serious conversation with my coach. We discussed my thoughts on all the running goals I had and if I would still be able to go after those. For real, my running is my love. Triathlon is just a sometimes hobby. And then we discussed my suckage (it's a word) at biking. I suck at biking. SUCK!!! And I don't want to suck. I would love to be able to hold my own and then catch those chicks on the run. I shouldn't suck as bad as I do. Coach has been gently nudging me for years to get a powermeter so we can get down to the bottom of my biking suckage. A few years ago I saved enough money to get one and then spent the money on new carpet. Priorities. But this year I decided to get serious about this. I'm not going to go into Nationals and hope to not finish last. So on Cyber Monday I found a good deal and purchased a new powermeter. Yesterday it finally arrived.
After searching for tools for nearly a half hour, I was able to get the chainrings off my bike and onto the powermeter.
Unfortunately, I wasn't able to remove my crank as don't have the tools to do that, plus I wouldn't be able to install the new bottom bracket as I don't have the tools for that either. Now I have to figure out how to get the baby and my bike into the local bike shop today...
Monday, December 15, 2014
Monday's Menu
I'm on a quest to get healthy, fit, and fast! I would lovelovelove to get Whole30 a-go, but I've tried and tried and can't get past the first few days of cravings. I always cave and wind up with cake or a martini. So, I'm slowly starting to build my nutritious meals in hopes that some day I can actually make it through a whole month (and training cycle).
My new favorite breakfast is actually courteous of The Biggest Loser tv show and is Whole30 approved. It's very simple too (although clean up is a different story). Basically, you cut open an avocado, crack and egg into each half of it, and then cook it at 350 for 20 minutes. Then we eat it with salsa. It is so yummy!
As I've said, clean up is a different story. The egg usually gets all over the pan and then is baked on. Our dishwasher and terrible water does not do the job. I try to remember to immediately put water and soap into the pan and let it soak. Then I usually have to use a spatula to scrape it all off before actually washing. If someone has a better idea, please let me know.
What's your favorite healthy breakfast?
My new favorite breakfast is actually courteous of The Biggest Loser tv show and is Whole30 approved. It's very simple too (although clean up is a different story). Basically, you cut open an avocado, crack and egg into each half of it, and then cook it at 350 for 20 minutes. Then we eat it with salsa. It is so yummy!
As I've said, clean up is a different story. The egg usually gets all over the pan and then is baked on. Our dishwasher and terrible water does not do the job. I try to remember to immediately put water and soap into the pan and let it soak. Then I usually have to use a spatula to scrape it all off before actually washing. If someone has a better idea, please let me know.
What's your favorite healthy breakfast?
Saturday, December 13, 2014
Week in Review
I did better this week of getting the workouts done, although I still fell a little short. Baby steps.
Monday
Planned - 30-60 minute run with a few drills
Actual - 40 minute run; 4.62 miles in the dark. Only rolled my ankle once! I also made up last week's missing swim workout.
Tuesday
Planned - 2300 swim with a lovely progressive ladder in the middle of it; 30 minute basic strength
Actual - 2300 yard swim in 45 minutes; did one mile of run before strength and one mile after; 30 minutes of strength.
Wednesday
Planned - 45 minute track workout (30 second pick ups)
Actual - Hit the track at 6:00am in the cold and rocked out this workout. My picks varied from a 6:44 pace to a 7:06 pace. 5.35 miles.
Thursday
Planned - 2400 swim with lots and lots of drills; 15 minutes of core work
Actual - Unfortunately, I never made it to the pool but I did do the core work and made Dave do it with me. He loved it.
Friday
Planned - 40 minutes of biking with specific drills
Actual - I didn't get to do the drills as Dave kept talking to me and asking me questions and then my mom called in the middle of the workout. Regardless, I still rode my bike on the trainer for 45 minutes. 8.28 miles
Saturday
Planned - 55 minute long run with holding a sustainable pace after a short warmup; hip, arm, and ab strength
Actual - Rocked this workout holding a steady pace without using my Garmin as a guide miles 2-6 were 8:53, 8:53, 8:50, 8:46, 8:56. I call that consistency! 55 minutes, 6.13 miles. Unfortunately, I didn't get in the strength. Hopefully I can do some of that next week.
Sunday
Rest Day
Totals
Swim - 2300 yards
Bike - 8.28 miles
Run - 18.1 miles
Strength - 0.75 hours
Monday
Planned - 30-60 minute run with a few drills
Actual - 40 minute run; 4.62 miles in the dark. Only rolled my ankle once! I also made up last week's missing swim workout.
Tuesday
Planned - 2300 swim with a lovely progressive ladder in the middle of it; 30 minute basic strength
Actual - 2300 yard swim in 45 minutes; did one mile of run before strength and one mile after; 30 minutes of strength.
Wednesday
Planned - 45 minute track workout (30 second pick ups)
Actual - Hit the track at 6:00am in the cold and rocked out this workout. My picks varied from a 6:44 pace to a 7:06 pace. 5.35 miles.
Thursday
Planned - 2400 swim with lots and lots of drills; 15 minutes of core work
Actual - Unfortunately, I never made it to the pool but I did do the core work and made Dave do it with me. He loved it.
Friday
Planned - 40 minutes of biking with specific drills
Actual - I didn't get to do the drills as Dave kept talking to me and asking me questions and then my mom called in the middle of the workout. Regardless, I still rode my bike on the trainer for 45 minutes. 8.28 miles
Saturday
Planned - 55 minute long run with holding a sustainable pace after a short warmup; hip, arm, and ab strength
Actual - Rocked this workout holding a steady pace without using my Garmin as a guide miles 2-6 were 8:53, 8:53, 8:50, 8:46, 8:56. I call that consistency! 55 minutes, 6.13 miles. Unfortunately, I didn't get in the strength. Hopefully I can do some of that next week.
Sunday
Rest Day
Totals
Swim - 2300 yards
Bike - 8.28 miles
Run - 18.1 miles
Strength - 0.75 hours
Friday, December 12, 2014
Foto Friday
Dave took the day off work today and we took a family adventure. First we set out for COSI, our local science museum. Then we had lunch at the Spaghetti Warehouse (where my son ate every bit as much as I did). Finally we wrapped up the day at the Columbus Main Library downtown where we met some friends. There was a huge multi-level model train exhibit (remember, my son is OBSESSED with trains) in addition to a HUGE room for little kids where they could play with toys and read. We spent about two hours at the library just hanging out.
I didn't get to take many pictures as I was either carrying Anderson on my back in the Ergobaby or I was wrangling him like a herd of cats. These are my two favorite pictures of the day, though.
Both these pictures are from COSI, although the one with the trains was also what Anderson did at the library. COSI has a space just for small children where they can play and learn. Anderson loved the water and got mighty wet in the process despite wearing a smock. And then we found the train table and it was full-on meltdown when we had to leave there.
We had thought about ending the day at the zoo lights but we were all just too exhausted. It was fun to have a day to play as a family. I wish we could do this more often.
I didn't get to take many pictures as I was either carrying Anderson on my back in the Ergobaby or I was wrangling him like a herd of cats. These are my two favorite pictures of the day, though.
We had thought about ending the day at the zoo lights but we were all just too exhausted. It was fun to have a day to play as a family. I wish we could do this more often.
Thursday, December 11, 2014
Thursday Thoughts
We all have smart phones (except for my mom who refuses to get one) and we all have favorite apps that make our life easier or just more fun. So this week I want to know what your favorite app is?
One of my favorite apps is called Lose It!
Yep, I'm a calorie counter. Counting calories has been the only effective way for me to lose weight. I'm still on a mission to lose all those pregnancy pounds (seriously, it's been two years, are they ever going away?!). There are several things I love about this app. First, it works both on my phone and on my computer without ever having to sync anything.
Another thing, I love that I can just scan a bar code and it pulls up the nutrition information for me. One thing that bothers me, though, is that I don't think the calorie counts for exercise are entirely correct.
For example, if I run 6 miles at a 9:00 pace it tells me I've only burned like 400 calories. That's it? Really?!
I also have the obvious favorites in apps like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest, but LoseIt! has to be the one I use most often.
Help me out! I am always looking for apps that are going to make things easier or just make things more fun. What's your favorite?
One of my favorite apps is called Lose It!
Yep, I'm a calorie counter. Counting calories has been the only effective way for me to lose weight. I'm still on a mission to lose all those pregnancy pounds (seriously, it's been two years, are they ever going away?!). There are several things I love about this app. First, it works both on my phone and on my computer without ever having to sync anything.
Another thing, I love that I can just scan a bar code and it pulls up the nutrition information for me. One thing that bothers me, though, is that I don't think the calorie counts for exercise are entirely correct.
For example, if I run 6 miles at a 9:00 pace it tells me I've only burned like 400 calories. That's it? Really?!
I also have the obvious favorites in apps like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest, but LoseIt! has to be the one I use most often.
Help me out! I am always looking for apps that are going to make things easier or just make things more fun. What's your favorite?
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
Oh Black Water
It's been eye opening to have purchased an older home that needed some work. We have uncovered termites and mold and lots and lots of pink/peach paint. One of the hardest adjustments, especially for Dave, has been well water. I grew up on well water, but overall our water at my parents' home is/was pretty good. I remember my dad putting salt in the water softener but otherwise the water was good. Here, it's been a little different. We have put salt in our water softener but our water has continued to be disgusting. We have rust stains everywhere. I cannot keep the toilets clean no matter what I do. Our laundry has been ruined with orange rust. And the bath water for Anderson looks dirty and gross. A few weeks ago we discovered there was a filter in the water system. Dave took hours to figure it out and let me tell you, NASTY!!! We put in a new filter, it helped for two days, and then it was back to gross. Needless to say, I've been buying gallons and gallons of water for drinking.
As we've started the remodel on our bathroom, I've stated that I will not put in new fixtures until our water problems are solved. Dave is busy all the time, so I took it upon myself to contact Culligan to hear about our options. The Culligan Man checked out our equipment, smelled our water, looked at our fixtures, and inspected the back of our toilets (ick). Then he did a bunch of tests on the water, like hardness level, iron levels, and drinkability. As it turns out, our water is incredibly hard. And that's before and after the water softener. So basically, our water softener is doing absolutely nothing. The problem we're having with iron is not actually the iron level, it's the bacteria that feeds off iron (ick).
The recommendations were a new water softener, an iron-specific water softener type thing, and a reverse osmosis system since we drink so much water. Unfortunately, that totaled up to over $6K, something we don't exactly have sitting around. We've begun looking around at different companies and options and it looks like we may be able to do it ourselves for much, much cheaper. Hopefully it is something we can fix and fix quickly.
Any of you out there on well water? Anyone else have these same problems? Found any good solutions?
As we've started the remodel on our bathroom, I've stated that I will not put in new fixtures until our water problems are solved. Dave is busy all the time, so I took it upon myself to contact Culligan to hear about our options. The Culligan Man checked out our equipment, smelled our water, looked at our fixtures, and inspected the back of our toilets (ick). Then he did a bunch of tests on the water, like hardness level, iron levels, and drinkability. As it turns out, our water is incredibly hard. And that's before and after the water softener. So basically, our water softener is doing absolutely nothing. The problem we're having with iron is not actually the iron level, it's the bacteria that feeds off iron (ick).
The recommendations were a new water softener, an iron-specific water softener type thing, and a reverse osmosis system since we drink so much water. Unfortunately, that totaled up to over $6K, something we don't exactly have sitting around. We've begun looking around at different companies and options and it looks like we may be able to do it ourselves for much, much cheaper. Hopefully it is something we can fix and fix quickly.
Any of you out there on well water? Anyone else have these same problems? Found any good solutions?
Tuesday, December 09, 2014
Momma Drama
The boy is quickly approaching the age of two and with that "the terrible twos". He has certainly been asserting his independence and letting others know who is boss. While I am totally behind this (I am woman, hear me roar!), it has caused us a bit of drama that I haven't been prepared to handle.
We have been going to the library for Baby Story Time for several months now. The age groups are broken down from 6 months to 18 months and 18 months to 3 years. Anderson turned 18 months in the middle of this fall session. Even at 18 months, he was bigger than the other kids. The kid is a giant! Anyway, at the end of each story time the instructor gets out toys for the kids to play. As Anderson has gotten older, he's gotten a little more possessive of "his" toys. He will yell at kids and at times has even pushed or hit the kids.
Twice this fall another mother has gotten a little snippy with ME about this. This has been a bit of a surprise to me and I haven't known exactly what to do. Usually I tell Anderson no and then remove him from the situation. I've asked others for advice and so far, I guess I'm doing the okay thing. The interesting thing is, it is only at the library that this happens. At the Y he plays by himself despite there being often many kids in child care. And at home, he is very creative about keeping himself entertained.
Let's be real, Anderson is most likely to be an only child. I really don't see myself having another child. I feel complete with Anderson and I cannot imagine spreading my love to another child.
So moms I need your help. How do I teach my child how to share as an only child? How do I teach him to be polite to other kids and be giving? Any advice is appreciated.
We have been going to the library for Baby Story Time for several months now. The age groups are broken down from 6 months to 18 months and 18 months to 3 years. Anderson turned 18 months in the middle of this fall session. Even at 18 months, he was bigger than the other kids. The kid is a giant! Anyway, at the end of each story time the instructor gets out toys for the kids to play. As Anderson has gotten older, he's gotten a little more possessive of "his" toys. He will yell at kids and at times has even pushed or hit the kids.
Twice this fall another mother has gotten a little snippy with ME about this. This has been a bit of a surprise to me and I haven't known exactly what to do. Usually I tell Anderson no and then remove him from the situation. I've asked others for advice and so far, I guess I'm doing the okay thing. The interesting thing is, it is only at the library that this happens. At the Y he plays by himself despite there being often many kids in child care. And at home, he is very creative about keeping himself entertained.
Let's be real, Anderson is most likely to be an only child. I really don't see myself having another child. I feel complete with Anderson and I cannot imagine spreading my love to another child.
So moms I need your help. How do I teach my child how to share as an only child? How do I teach him to be polite to other kids and be giving? Any advice is appreciated.
Monday, December 08, 2014
Dear Santa
Yesterday we attended a family holiday party for Dave's work. It was crazy, loud, and crowded, but we still tried to have a good time. We started with brunch, did some crafts, and then got Anderson's picture taken with Santa. Anderson wasn't too cool with Santa this year. He didn't like being with someone he didn't know and he DID NOT want to sit on his lap. As you can see from this series of pictures, there was no trust with the old man.
And that's as good as it got. I don't think we'll be trying out "mall Santa" this year to see if we can do better. I think we'll leave this as a humorous memory and try again next year.
Sunday, December 07, 2014
Week in Review
Alright. First week back to training. I started so well with the week and kind of faded out by the end. There's a part of me that was so excited to get back to training and another part of me that was like, "uh, I just want to stay in bed." Really, I didn't do that bad, but I'll try to do better next week.
Monday
Planned - 40 minute run with drills
Actual - I was on the track by 6:30am in the rain/snow and no, I was not the only crazy out there. Got it done. I was home by 7:30am and still had to wake everyone up. 4.5 miles
Tuesday
Planned - 1900 yards swim with drills, pulling, and fast stuff; 30 minutes of basic strength
Actual - That was a rough re-entry to organized swimming. My arms felt like there were going to fall off. Loved the strength workout. 1900 yards and 30 minutes of strength with 1/2 mile warmup/cool down.
Wednesday
Planned - 45 minute easy run
Actual - Ugh! Some days you have it; some days you don't. I had procrastinated all day and didn't get on the treadmill until after dinner. I felt fat and slow and unmotivated. I only did 3 miles in 28 minutes.
Thursday
Planned - 2300 yard swim with lots of pulling; 15 minute core workout
Actual - Um, yeah. We'll move this to next week.
Friday
Planned - 30-60 minute spin
Actual - I'd better get used to riding my bike. There will be a lot of it in the next year. 45 minutes of easy spinning (8.34 miles) while watching "The Wonder Years" on Netflix.
Saturday
Planned - 50 minute progressive run; hip strength; ab strength
Actual - Again, lazy. I'll move this to next week too.
Sunday
Rest Day
Totals:
Swimming - 1900 yards
Biking - 8.34 miles
Running - 8.5 miles
Strength - 0.5 hours
Monday
Planned - 40 minute run with drills
Actual - I was on the track by 6:30am in the rain/snow and no, I was not the only crazy out there. Got it done. I was home by 7:30am and still had to wake everyone up. 4.5 miles
Tuesday
Planned - 1900 yards swim with drills, pulling, and fast stuff; 30 minutes of basic strength
Actual - That was a rough re-entry to organized swimming. My arms felt like there were going to fall off. Loved the strength workout. 1900 yards and 30 minutes of strength with 1/2 mile warmup/cool down.
Wednesday
Planned - 45 minute easy run
Actual - Ugh! Some days you have it; some days you don't. I had procrastinated all day and didn't get on the treadmill until after dinner. I felt fat and slow and unmotivated. I only did 3 miles in 28 minutes.
Thursday
Planned - 2300 yard swim with lots of pulling; 15 minute core workout
Actual - Um, yeah. We'll move this to next week.
Friday
Planned - 30-60 minute spin
Actual - I'd better get used to riding my bike. There will be a lot of it in the next year. 45 minutes of easy spinning (8.34 miles) while watching "The Wonder Years" on Netflix.
Saturday
Planned - 50 minute progressive run; hip strength; ab strength
Actual - Again, lazy. I'll move this to next week too.
Sunday
Rest Day
Totals:
Swimming - 1900 yards
Biking - 8.34 miles
Running - 8.5 miles
Strength - 0.5 hours
Friday, December 05, 2014
Foto Friday
It's going to be a random Foto Friday. I get so lazy in the winter about taking pictures; it's hard when there are days you don't actually ever leave the house. So, here's what I've got this week.
First up, the dog. In Anderson's first year, the dog and the boy were not really friends. Sloopy was insanely jealous of the baby. She would snap at Anderson and bark. I was so worried about it that I asked the vet for advice. The last couple of months, though, Anderson and Sloopy have begun to play with each other a little more. I'm not exactly sure Sloopy is really pleased about it, though:
Happy Friday. Have a great weekend, y'all!
First up, the dog. In Anderson's first year, the dog and the boy were not really friends. Sloopy was insanely jealous of the baby. She would snap at Anderson and bark. I was so worried about it that I asked the vet for advice. The last couple of months, though, Anderson and Sloopy have begun to play with each other a little more. I'm not exactly sure Sloopy is really pleased about it, though:
Doesn't this looks say, "Are you kidding me, mom?"
Finally, we put our Christmas tree up this week. Anderson "helped". He doesn't quite understand "look, don't touch". Most of our ornaments have migrated north. There's about a two-foot gap at the bottom of the tree with no ornaments on it. Maybe because of this:
Thursday, December 04, 2014
New Car!!
I didn't even have my Honda Element listed on Craigslist for three weeks when I sold it for nearly full asking price. Quickly, we found ourselves down to one car. It wasn't going to be a big deal. We live right next to Dave's work (seriously, he rides his bike in the summer) so I was going to drive Dave to work and then have the car in case Anderson and I wanted to go anywhere.
We had test driven everything - Toyota Rav4, Hyundai Santa Fe, Subaru Outback and Forester, Audi Q3, and the Honda CRV. We had narrowed it down to the Subaru Outback and the Honda CRV, but we had test driven the 2014 CRV and really wanted to check out the 2015 as it was starting to hit dealerships. Upon one test drive of the 2015, we were in love and knew we had to have that car. Because the car was brand new and the dealership only had a few colors and models of it, we decided to go the morning we were leaving for Chicago for the Naperville Marathon and check out the choices, make a selection, and put it on hold.
Five hours and thousands and thousands of dollars later, we walked drove out of the dealership in our brand new car. We didn't expect to have a new car that day, but oh my gosh, I love this car. I LOVE THIS CAR!!!
The best part? Somehow I roped Dave into letting me drive it every day even though he's the one that actually has to leave the house every day. I flippin' love this car!!!!
Wednesday, December 03, 2014
Isn't This Interesting?
Thanksgiving morning I woke up to this email:
You have got to be kidding me? I did ONE triathlon in 2014, which shouldn't even be eligible as a qualifying race, and I qualified for the national championships??? Well crap! This puts an interesting twist in my 2015 plans. I mean, how can I NOT do the freakin' NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS!?!?!
But, let's be real, I suck at biking. And for me to get acceptable enough to even make a decent showing at a national race, I am going to spend every day between now and the race on my bike. And even then, I'm still gonna suck at biking. This causes concern for me because I still have big running goals for 2015. Honestly, I moped around the house for a few days conflicted about all of this. I really want my running goals, but how can you not do the national championships? Finally, I sent an email to coach who straightened me out and let me know we can do both. So, for now, the age group championships is on the schedule. Guess you'll be seeing me on my bike a lot this year.
Tuesday, December 02, 2014
November Totals
After my marathon, I pretty much shut it down for the next couple of weeks. I think I only ran twice the rest of the month. To keep up my fitness, though, while giving my legs a break I got on my bike a couple of times and did some strength training. Here's how November shook out:
Swimming - 0 yards
Biking - 33.18 miles
Running - 49.7 miles
Strength - 1.5 hours
Visits to the YMCA - 12
Cost per Visit - $7.11
Swimming - 0 yards
Biking - 33.18 miles
Running - 49.7 miles
Strength - 1.5 hours
Visits to the YMCA - 12
Cost per Visit - $7.11
Monday, December 01, 2014
2015
I've taken a few weeks off from running, a few weeks off from blogging, and now I'm back. 2015 starts today. Well, training for 2015 starts today. 2014 was pretty good. I spent the year getting back into shape and throwing down some good races, but I was left a little unsatisfied. 2015 is going to be epic. I'm ready to give it my all and get after it! I want PRs, I want podiums, I want scary paces, and I'm ready to put in the work. 2015....I'll see you at the start line!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
