Holidays and Hopes

As the year 2009 draws to a close, I once again find myself looking ahead to the coming year with anxiety and anticipation of the goals I have set and hope to accomplish.  Briefly, this is what a portion of 2010 may or may not turn out to include...

January, 2010
1.6.2010 - Colin leaves for the BCS National Championship Game in Pasadena, California
1.8.2010 - Colin's 15th Birthday - OMG, he can get his driving permit...
1.16.2010 - GWTC 15K/30K
1.29-31.2010 - ATAC Short Course Invitational

February, 2010
2.7.2010 - Tallahassee Marathon and Half - Hoping to qualify for Boston 2011 here......
2.18.2010 - Mom-in-luv (Nancy's) Birthday!
2.21.2010 - 26.2 with Donna (3rd Time's the Charm) or Hope to qualify for Boston 2011 here......
2.25-28.2010 - Short Course Florida Swimming Senior Championships

March, 2010
3.6.2010 - TRBC 10K
3.7.2010 - Seaside Half Marathon - I most likely will not make this race, but who knows.
3.27.2010 - Springtime Tallahassee 10K
3.28.2010 - Blue Line 100 Century Ride


April, 2010
4.17-18.2010 - TOSRV Double Century Ride
Rose City Run (10K)

Small Quizzes - Just as Important as the Tests

Well, Thanksgiving has come and gone and its wake left two minor quizzes  with a Passing grade.  Every Thanksgiving for last seven (yes, 7) years I get up early, usually with Colin, and head to Southwood for the annual running of the Tallahassee Turkey Trot.  In the beginning I ran the 5K with my friend Cathy and we worked our way up to the 15K where we have settled in the last 4 years.  This year's "Trot" was a personal challenge in two ways:  I wanted to beat last year's time which was phenomenal (then), and I had a time goal in mind.  That is something I very rarely do - set a time goal.  However, I have begun setting them for the shorter distances to see just how long I can hold onto that elusive Boston-qualifying pace that I need in a couple of months.

So, off we went with me a bit more nervous about 9.3 miles than in the past.  Colin sees friends right off the bat and falls into place with them, knowing that he will see me at the finish when I am done ... some 30 minutes after he completes the 10K race (which he did this year in 41:57 - a personal record by more than 3 minutes).  I chat with some friends and other runners as nearly 3,600 of us wait for the gun to sound and be on our way.  Better late than never, the horn sounds and we get moving.  Gosh, it takes a while to get out and around the crowds who didn't follow the corralling directions, but soon enough I am in my own bubble clipping along at a nice pace.  I guess about Mile 1 or so, Robin Safley eases up behind me and then next to me, and settles in with me for the next 8+ miles.  We chat a good bit until about mile 7, and then the conversation gets really one-sided:  only me talking.  I don't know if Robin was trying to give me a hint, or if we were at that point in a run where only one us should be talking at a time - not enough oxygen for both of us...  Ha!  Robin is one of those athletes who even when she is about to die on the course never looks like she is in distress, or working hard, or even sweating.  It can be somewhat disheartening if you let it get to you.  Thankfully, Robin is bubbly and fun, and chatty (most of the time) and always appreciative of company on the course - even when it's me.

We go on to put up two personal records (PRs) in fabulous style and we are both in great spirits when we finish.  It is always amazing to me to know that a running partner can make all the difference in a so-so run and a fantastic finish (1:17:55 for a 15K+).

Speaking of running partners, Monday morphed into the long run day this week by virtue of the holiday preceding it.  Family, turkey, football, church they just don't leave a lot of room in the day for an 18-mile jaunt down the St. Mark's Trail.  Nor should they.  So, after getting both the boys off to school, I zipped down to the south-side of town to meet my running buddies, Maggie and Michelle.  We started off in the cool, not quite 50 degree misty morning for our latest endurance test.  I knew that 18 was a long way, and I needed to be conservative, but not too slow, in my miles.  Michelle was just out because she and Maggie got a bug in their panties last weekend and decided to run the Tallahassee Marathon in February.  We had a great run:  18 miles at just about 9:10 pace and a bit better in some places.  I was happy because I can see that it might actually be a reasonable goal for me to attempt that whole Boston Qualifying thing in February.  Lots of prayers, and with God's grace I will get there.  Woo Hoo!

For Everything, A Season

You know the e-mail that floats around spouting  on and on about how friends come into our lives for a reason, a season, or a lifetime?  I sat in the mall this morning with the newest addition to my "lifetime" of friends.  I say she is the newest of my "lifetime" friends, because I can simply tell that she (her name is really Michelle) is "gonna be around for a while, honey."  I just love her.

In the picture to the right she is the one in the black triathlon get up.  This was taken about two miles into the 26.2 mile run portion of Ironman Florida on November 7, 2009.  She was racing her first Ironman, and boy did she do a bang up job.

Anyway, back to friends who flit and float into our lives.....

I don't have a ton of "lifetime" girl friends.  But those that I do have, I cherish and hold near and dear to my heart.  These are my friends that no matter how long it has been since we last saw each other or spoke on the phone (or even "Facebooked" each other) we immediately fall back into that comfortable togetherness of being with a friend.  It is a blessing to know that on any given day, I could call one of them or show up in their driveway and I would be as welcome as if I had only been there the night before at the school play.

We are beginning the Advent season which, by divine planning, always includes Thanksgiving.  What a blessing to have friends of all kinds to share with me and our Lord the wonder, beauty, and majesty of Thanksgiving which then gives way to the glorious season of CHRISTmas.

Test Number 1 is a PASS!!!

When I originally "came out of the shoe closet" and told my little world that I was going to try "for Boston," I knew there would be hurdles and tests along the way.  The first "quiz" was the Red Cross Hurricane 5K in September (Labor Day).  I managed to pass that one okay.  But, I knew it was a very small step on the journey to 26.2 miles.  The first "real" test (not exam) was going to be the Boston (Georgia) Mini Marathon.  This small Georgia town hosts a half marathon race on the last Saturday of October every year.  Just for me to run near my birthday .... Ha!  Anyway, as in the last few years, I had planned to run this race.  It is scenic; well attended; fairly well supported; and not so far away from home that I can't get there, run, and get back all before lunch.

So, at 6:00 a.m. off I went to the little burg of Boston.  I arrived at "the" Presbyterian church where the out-of-towners park a bit before 7:00 a.m.; met up with my friend and training partner Cathy; and walked to the Community Center to retrieve my race number and shirt.  We walked back to the car(s), gathered our gear, and headed back to the center of town to be closer to the starting area.  The temperature was a bit warmer than I would have liked, but one of the few items I cannot control during a 13.1 mile race, therefore I vowed to just deal with it.  I pulled up my big girl panties and got ready to run.  After the invocation and the singing of the Star Spangled Banner the pack started out...  In the last couple of years the field has been between 200 and 250 runners.  I will be interested to see how many turned out this year for the race.  I know I finished 62nd over all because that is why my chute card said on it.  I don't know which place female I was or how I may (or may not) have placed in my age group, but I know I was less than the 15th female as Cathy said that was her.

My official finish time was 1:51:24 for what Boston measures at 13.1 miles (Garmin Forerunner 305 says 13.18 miles, but who is counting?).  That puts me at roughly 8:27 minutes/mile.   That makes my pace a full 20 seconds per mile FASTER than I need for a Boston Qualifying time in the 26.2 distance.  Not to mention, that is a personal best (a.k.a. PR) by more than 6 minutes (last year's time 1:57:10).  Hooray!

I did learn an important and very valuable lesson on Saturday:  I do not find it hard or difficult to run 13 miles.  I did find it challenging to run 13 miles in what is a FAST time FOR me.  Yikes!  I definitely needed the off day Sunday to rest and walk.  No strenuous anything was going on with these legs.  Today, however, is a different story.  I will be on the bike soon for about 35-45 miles depending on time.  Gotta love it!

Blessings!

Not So Random Thoughts

I spent last weekend serving on a team for the Big Bend Walk to Emmaus Community (Women's Walk #54), and it was fabulous.  As such, I was away from my computer, e-mail, cell phone, TV, radio, newspaper, and family for the duration of the walk.  It was GREAT!  The women who participated on this walk were truly blessed by their experiences.  I was culling through my e-mail, and the Runner's World Quotes of the Day had stacked up considerably.  There are three that I think quite worthy of archiving and sharing and I thought this would be a good forum in which to do that.

Without further adieu, here they are:

Friday, October 23:  Spirit has fifty times the strength and staying power of brawn and muscle.

- anonymous

Monday, October 26:  We all have dreams.  But in order to make dreams come into reality, it takes an awful lot of determination, dedication, self-discipline, and effort. - Jesse Ownes, American track and field athlete and four-time Olympic gold-medalist

Tuesday, October 27:  You train best where you are the happiest. - Frank Shorter, American distance runner and Olympic gold-medalist

Looking Back ... and a Bit Ahead

Well, September was busy, busy, busy. And, October is looking to be more of the same. High school swim season began, peaked, and has started the slide into October and championship meets. Colin swam in Orlando again this year with our friends the Ayers bringing home several new best times: 200 Free, 400 IM, 100 Free, 200 Back, and the 50 Free. Aidan is making great strides in the third grade while loving his new teacher: Mrs. Jones; who, by the way, was Colin's third grade teacher as well. Mike continues to "catch" the bad guys and keep all of Tallahassee safe and on the straight and narrow. I love him for the job he does, and because he is him.

I ran, and rode, and ran, and rode, and ran some more including a 5K personal best time. September also say the accomplishment of reaching 3,000 training miles for the year (to date). Yes, you read correctly. I have run/ridden more than 3,000 miles so far this year. Woo-hoo! I'm loving it!

So now that we are "officially" into marathon season, here is the outlook - revised in some places - for the season. Taking note that things for me are ALWAYS subject to change.

October, 2009
10.3.2009 - Atlantic Coast Triathlon (70.3)
10.3.2009 - Pine Run 20K
10.17.2009 - Spaghetti 100 (ride)
10.17.2009 - Big Bend High School Swimming Championships
10.28.2009 - District High School Swimming Championships
10.31.2009 - Boston, GA Mini Marathon

November, 2009
11.5.2009 - Regional High School Swimming Championships
11.7.2009 - Ironman Florida (volunteering on the course - Way Cool!)
11.8.2009 - Kids Tri 2 (kids' sprint triathlon in Panama City)
11.13-15.2009 - State High School Swimming Championships
11.22.2009 - The Women's Half Marathon To Benefit LLS (St. Petersburg, FL) - will not be running this race, though it is for a fabulous cause, and I am going to be damn depressed about it - really wanted to run this. Oh, well.
11.26.2009 - Turkey Trot 15K

December, 2009
12.5.2009 - GWTC 10 Mile Challenge
12.4-6.2009 - Gator Swim Club Winter Invitational
12.20.2009 - Jacksonville Marathon? - I don't think so...
12.19.2009 - Jingle Bell Run with the boys

January, 2010
1.8.2010 - Colin's 15th Birthday - OMG, he can get his driving permit...
1.16.2010 - GWTC 15K/30K
1.29-31.2010 - ATAC Short Course Invitational

February, 2010
2.7.2010 - Tallahassee Marathon and Half - Hope to qualify for Boston 2011 here......
2.18.2010 - Mom-in-luv (Nancy's) Birthday!
2.21.2010 - 26.2 with Donna (3rd Time's the Charm) or Hope to qualify for Boston 2011 here......
2.25-28.2010 - Short Course Florida Swimming Senior Championships

March, 2010
3.6.2010 - TRBC 10K
3.7.2010 - Seaside Half Marathon
3.27.2010 - Springtime Tallahassee 10K

High School Swimming and Running a PR

In order to get a couple of thoughts "out there" this afternoon, I am combining topics. First and foremost, Colin swims in his first HIGH SCHOOL swim meet this evening. Yes, that rug rat has grown a bit and aged a few years to become a full fledged freshman in high school - at Lincoln High School to be exact. Tonight he swims two of his favorite events: the 200 yard Freestyle and the 500 yard Freestyle, along with at least one relay. We, being his parents, are anxious and excited to see what he has hiding under his swim cap for the other competitors tonight because we KNOW it isn't hair.

Correct, no hair. He shaved his head completely bald last night for the beginning of high school swim season. I will keep you posted on how long it lasts, and how long it takes to grow out, AND on whether or not he chooses to keep it this way. I am thinking it will grow out for winter training.

Then, lastly, I ran a little bitty (619 runners) 5K on Monday to benefit the Red Cross - yes, my father-in-law is just thrilled. I ran ... drum roll, please ... 3.1 miles in 24 minutes and 23 seconds. YAHOO! FYI, that averages out to 7:46 minutes per mile. WAAAAAYYYY faster than I have ever run anything longer than one mile in my life. I was so excited. I was fourth in the Masters Women division (40+) and would have been first in the 40-44 age division if awards had been given for that. The only pictures are horrible, but I have put one here just to show that I did indeed run the event.

By the way, have a great week!

A Garden in Full Bloom

I sat in the backyard of my friends The Crutchfields yesterday afternoon watching countless children, teenagers, and adults have an absolutely fabulous day of "summer time" fun. It wasn't anyone's birthday. There wasn't a wedding going on; nor was this a back-to-school celebration. All of these people had gathered to celebrate everything good about being young, having friends and family, and enjoying life. It was a perfect day: clear skies, gentle breeze, moderate temperatures, a grill, car loads of coolers, and more food than necessary. Life, my friends, is truly a gift. It can be snatched away from you without warning and in the mere blink of an eye. I kid you not.

It has been a year since we, and I say this from the heart when I say we, lost Mac. It was the worst of all scenarios and conditions. Nothing positive can come of rehashing what really happened. Nothing good can come of dwelling on the moment, the hour, the day, the weekend. Let it suffice to simply say, that Mac is gone. The lucky ones among us are granted a glimpse of him every now and then in our mortal and every day lives. I swear I saw him just the other day (as an egret if you recall). Coach Terry has seen Mac as an Eagle. Jean and I agree, and anyone who listened and watched yesterday will have no choice but to also agree, that Mac was there with all his friends. I could hear it in the laughter and see it on every face in the bright eyes, and generous smiles. No one spoke a harsh word. There was no arguing, no fighting, no "Girl Drama" and calm and peace prevailed as the dominant attitude. Savannah seemed more like herself than I had seen in a long time. Charlie, bless the strong and silent ones, appeared to be comfortable with the gathering and the attention showered upon him and his family. Maggie was, well... Maggie was in her element. The kids all love her. There was not a child present who didn't feel as if they were Maggie's favorite. She just exudes that emotion onto them. They calm down; they begin to glow; they love her and she them.

Maggie and Charlie have taught me a great deal this past year. How I should be stronger in my faith. Without their faith and God, they would have been lost and swallowed before the first 24 hours had even passed. They, Maggie especially, have taught me how to better embrace each moment and cherish it. You truly never know when the last time will be that you lay eyes on your child. I believe as a part of that lesson God gave me a summer of unemployment to spend with my boys. I may never again have time with them like I did this summer. It was wonderful. I would not trade it for the most lucrative job on the planet. I learned that it's okay to not answer a phone call or an e-mail until you are ready and can handle the response. But, I also learned not to stop calling or texting or e-mailing just because there has been no response. Sometimes the message just needs to get there, now answer required. Yes, I have learned a lot. I can only hope that it makes their loss a bit easier to know that someone outside the immediate took something positive away from the tragedy - if that could be...

Last year, a friend of Maggie's told her that her job was not over. She had been given a garden to tend, not just two plants. Her job was now to tend her garden (of children) not just the flowers of her two children. Her garden was in full bloom yesterday. Not one of those flowers will ever forget yesterday.

Track Flats, Pink Hats, and Blueberry Pancakes

So, just exactly what do track flats, blueberry pancakes, and pink hats have in common? Well, they are all important pieces of a successful Breakfast on the Track in Tallahassee, Florida, in August.

Every August, just before school begins, the Gulf Winds Track Club hosts a unique event which is attended by all walks of life - literally. The Breakfast on the Track event is a one mile run. That's it. One mile. "Once" per person. For time and ranking. Last year Colin, Aidan, and I all ran this for the first time. This year Aidan passed the run up for the opportunity to go fishing with Mike while Colin and I sweat the morning away waiting for our respective heats. It was a great morning for everyone, runners and fishers alike.

The morning started out cool and a bit breezy, but not cold. Overcast skies made the humidity a bit more bearable than normal for mid-August. Colin and I arrived at Maclay School about 7:15 a.m. turned in our registration forms; received our embroidered aprons (in lieu of t-shirts); signed in for the appropriate heat (based on predicted finish time); and waited for our friends to arrive. Maggie and Savannah, her daughter, and Alex - a swim buddy of Colin's - arrived very soon after that. We all ran our warm-up laps and sat back to wait it out until our heat(s) were called. Colin was signed into Heat 4: predicted finish times of 6:05 - 6:35; I was signed into Heat 6: 7:00 - 7:25; while Maggie, Savannah, and Alex had all signed into Heat 8: 9 minute miles. These choices were very reasonable based on last year's times (Colin - 6:21, Me - 7:20) and with our training during the year we were curious to see where we would fall.

Colin ran a 5:50, placing 10th in his age group (10-14) for which he claims he has a "teeny tiny trophy" in his swim locker, and I turned in a 7:00 which was fast enough to put me 2nd in my age group (40-44) and earn a PINK running hat. Placing at this event is a big deal as it earns you Grand Prix points for the year, with 10th place and under earn the highest number overall. Yippee for us! Not to mention, those times were great improvements over the times run in 2008.

Below Left: Colin as he screams into the finish area.
Below Right: Me, as I huff and puff to pass the girls that Colin has "instructed" me from his position in the infield: "Pass them! Mom, pass them now!"

Maggie turned in a PR Mile time at 8:05 and Savannah finished her first timed mile in 9:17! Outstanding on all fronts. Alex won the "Chef of the Event" award for running his mile in his apron and long, long shorts. He cracks me up, that kid. Once we had all five run our heats it was time for watermelon and pancakes. After all, this was the Breakfast on the Track event - it includes home made pancakes: buttermilk and blueberry, and lots of Georgia watermelon. Yummmmmmmmy!

Below: Savannah Crutchfield (center) with her two "adopted big brothers" Alex Dehner and Colin Abbey as she comes into the finish area of her mile run.

Above: Me and Maggie Crutchfield (Savannah's mom) as we approach the finish of Maggie's mile run. She PR'd by the way.

After the run, we all came back to our house and the kids took off on their road bikes for a short neighborhood jaunt. Not really like a Triathlon transition, but still a brick work out for the day. It was fabulous without a doubt; hands down. Mike and Aidan did have a great time out on the water even though they caught nothing of note. It would not have mattered anyway if they did, they simply enjoy being out there on the balmy briny sea.

Coming Out of the Shoe Closet

When someone divulges a long held secret, I am told it is called a "coming out" or sometimes "coming out of the closet." While I shy away from sharing this particular secret in dread that it will never take place, I have decided to let you in on my "little secret." Shhhh, don't tell anyone...

Remember the girl who said she'd "never" run a full marathon? I do. Remember that same girl said that "going Goofy" was just that - GOOFY? I do. Do you remember that same girl running Goofy and then 5 weeks later running 26.2 with Donna (in a P.R. time)? I do. Remember that girl saying that "going Goofy" once was more than enough? I do. Do you also remember her running Goofy AGAIN and "Donna", again? I do. What you probably don't remember, or maybe didn't even know was that this same girl, once upon a time, said that "qualifying for the Boston Marathon was not important" to her. Well, that silly, dain-bramaged girl has changed her mind, as is the prerogative of a girl, and now plans an attempt at qualifying for the 115th Boston Marathon (April, 2011).

Whew, I said it! The cat's out of the bag. My hope is to train and cross-train adequately, safely, and in a smart, well thought out way with the goal of running a Boston Qualifying (BQ) time (3:50:59 or better) at either the Tallahassee Marathon (2.7.2010) or 26.2 with Donna (2.21.2010). God willing and with His blessings, along with the love and support of my family, the help and support of great friends, and some much-needed coaching I will be more than ready to make that goal in 6 months. If, and that is a VERY, VERY BIG "if", I can run a BQ time in February of 2010, my goal would be to then run the 115th Boston Marathon in 2011.

I guess it's not much of a secret anymore. But, not EVERYONE knows...yet. I hope to be able to run Boston. I think maybe then I could put aside the ongoing craziness of marathon training. Make no mistake, I am giving up running or Half Marathons (I LOVE-LOVE-LOVE that distance), but I could maybe give up marathons. Maybe...

I hope to be able to run Boston, and all my events, with the light of Christ shining from me and the wings of God's eagles carrying me to the finish line.



I Corinthians 9:24-27
²⁴Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. ²⁵Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. ²⁶Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air; ²⁷but I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.

The 2,000 Mile Mark

The summer has been busy, busy, busy on the run and bike. By mid-July I had "traveled" more than 2,000 miles in training rides and runs. WOW! That's all I can say. My summer training plan has seemed to work very well. I have been able to manage 3 days of riding and 3 days of running that includes one LONG run and a very LONG ride. As the school year approaches I feel I should, yet again, reevaluate the dreams and goals for the upcoming "season" as it were...

August, 2009
8.15.2009 - Breakfast on the Track 1 Mile Time Trials
8.18.2010 - Dad-in-luv (Stuart's) Birthday
8.22.2009 - Tri States 100 (Dothan, AL)
8.24.2009 - Our 18th Anniversary!!!
8.29.2009 - Miller Landing Madness (8K)

September, 2009
9.2.2009 - Daddy's Birthday
9.19.2009 - Women's Distance Festival 5K
9.30.2009 - Mike's 46th Birthday!

October, 2009
10.3.2009 - Atlantic Coast Triathlon (70.3)
10.3.2009 - Pine Run
10.17.2009 - Spaghetti 100 (ride)
10.31.2009 - Boston, GA Mini Marathon

November, 2009
11.22.2009 - The Women's Half Marathon To Benefit LLS (St. Petersburg, FL)
11.26.2009 - Turkey Trot 15K

December, 2009
12.5.2009 - GWTC 10 Mile Challenge
12.13.2009 - Jacksonville Marathon?

January, 2010
1.8.2010 - Colin's 15th Birthday - OMG, he can get his driving permit...
1.16.2010 - GWTC 15K/30K

February, 2010
2.7.2010 - Tallahassee Marathon and Half - Hope to qualify for Boston 2011 here......
2.18.2010 - Mom-in-luv (Nancy's) Birthday!
2.21.2010 - 26.2 with Donna (3rd Time's the Charm) or Hope to qualify for Boston 2011 here......

Because I Knew You ... For Good ...

I'm limited
Just look at me - I'm limited
And just look at you -
You can do all I couldn't do, Glinda
So now it's up to you.
For both of us - now it's up to you.

I've heard it said
That people come into our lives for a reason
Bringing something we must learn
And we are led
To those who help us most to grow
If we let them
And we help them in return
Well, I don't know if I believe that's true
But I know I'm who I am today
Because I knew you...

Like a comet pulled from orbit
As it passes a sun
Like a stream that meets a boulder
Halfway through the wood
Who can say if I've been changed for the Better?
But because I knew you
I have been changed for Good...

It may well be
That we will never meet again
In this lifetime
So let me say before we part
So much of me
Is made of what I learned from you
You'll be with me
Like a handprint on my heart
And now whatever way our stories end
I know you have re-written mine
By being my friend

Like a ship blown from its mooring
By a wind off the sea
Like a seed dropped by a skybird
In a distant wood
Who can say if I've been changed for the Better?
But because I knew you ...

Because I knew you...

I have been changed for Good...

And just to clear the air
I ask forgiveness
For the things I've done you blame for

But then, I guess we know
There's blame to share

And none of it seems to matter anymore

Who can say if I've been changed for the Better?
I do believe I have been changed for the Better.

Because I knew you...
Because I knew you...
Because I knew you...
I have been changed for GOOD

One of my favorite songs from the Wicked: A New Musical soundtrack is "For Good." Elphaba (Wicked Witch of the West) and Glinda (Good Witch of the North) are about to part ways after having been thrown together as roommates in "college" and discovering that they could actually be friends. The lyrics are magical and sentimental and bring tears to my eyes every time I hear them.

Yesterday I rode to "Mac Land" most commonly known as Georgia for my training ride. I was about mile 8 or so when I looked up and saw a gorgeous, grand, majestic white egret - one of the BIG ones. I frequently see water birds along this route but they usually fly out of the bushes or the marshes and get away from me very quickly. Not so this bird - and I will call it a boy now. He stayed fairly close to me for quite some time. He never got closer than 15 or 20 feet, but he wasn't further away than 30 feet or so. He circled and flew "with" me for nearly two miles before he turned south and left me to the rest of my ride. I realized that I had not been fully enjoying the scenery and splendor of God's world until he showed up so I made a note to be more aware as I continued the rest of my ride.

As the egret left my peripheral vision, "For Good" began playing in my ears via my iPod. I knew then that it was Mac. People who knew Mac have said that he "visits" them and almost always as a bird, although usually and eagle or a hawk I think. As I listened closely to the words I took to heart that it had to have been Mac. I don't believe in coincidence, only in God-incidence. I reached the Florida/Georgia state line and called Maggie. She needed to know. I believe that Mac was the egret to show me - just me in my weak human neediness - that after nearly a year away from us he is happy, comfortable and BEAUTIFUL with his new life. Heaven must be "the bomb" for Mac to show up on my ride as a snowy white, perfectly crafted egret. AWESOME!

Thank you, Mac for coming into our lives however briefly. Our lives have been changed for GOOD because we knew you and because we are blessed to still have your family in our lives today.

The Most Awesome Parents ... EVER!

For those of you who don't know Mike's and my parents (Colin's Grandparents), they are absolutely wonderful, awesome, supportive, generous active people who are TRULY experiencing athletics vicariously through their grandsons. Mike's parents do their best to see the boys compete when the competitions are close or "at home." They time when asked, and they follow the boys' progress and success in the water nearly religiously while always cheering them on from afar when they are unable to be present on the pool deck.

My parents have been at BOTH of Colin's trips to the Junior Olympics: February, 2009, in Gainesville, Florida; and July, 2009, in Fort Myers, Florida. They have flown into where ever the competition is being held for a total of maybe an hour's worth (not even that much) of competition time. Make no mistake, they have watched several of Colin's teammates grow-up, and they enjoy watching those "kids" nearly as much as they do Colin and Aidan. Nonetheless, they travel to small southern towns like Dothan, Alabama, to watch the boys swim; to feed them endlessly; and to meet new people and make new friends and camp along the way. They suffer through hard bleachers ("bench butt"), standing around for hours, chlorine gas at indoor pools (Dothan and Gainesville), blazing sun, cold, rain, storms, and what I swear were the hottest 4 days in Fort Myers history! They sweat buckets alongside all the other parents; they follow the heat sheet; and they cheer for all ATAC swimmers at all times. They truly are among the best out-of-town ATAC support team.

Below are my parents "sweating it out" under the tent waiting for one of Colin's events at the Summer 2009 Long Course Florida Swimming Junior Olympics held just this past weekend in Fort Myers. Did I mention that it must have been the hottest four days in Fort Myers' history?

At Last - The Florida Swimming Junior Olypics

Last week marked Colin's second trip to the Florida Swimming Junior Olympics. He and I made the 6+ hour drive to Fort Myers, which is officially considered "South Florida" for the 4-day competition. This time around he had posted qualifying times in the 50 Meter, 100 Meter, 200 Meter, 400 Meter, 800 Meter, and the 1500 Meter (aka The Metric Mile) freestyle events. He was also chosen/assigned as the Anchor leg in the 200 Meter and 400 Meter Medley relays as well as the 200 Meter and 400 Meter Freestyle relays. This means he swam 10 events total - ALL freestyle stroke.

Above, Colin is spotting his "hand-off" swimmer as he readies for the last leg of the 400 Meter Medley Relay.He held his own for most of the meet; swimming personal bests in the 50 M and the 1500 M events. He also swam personal bests in the relay events. All-in-all, a good experience for him. Below, Colin is well into the 1st 50 Meters of his relay leg: 100 Meters Freestyle in the 400 Meter Medley Relay.

We were fortunate enough to be able to stay with friends of ours while we were there. Let me tell you, that made the entire heat and sun filled trip a bit more relaxing. Not-to-mention, my parents flew in for the competition and were able to spend a lot of quality time with us and all of Colin's team mates and their parents. It must have been the HOTTEST 5 days in history in Fort Myers. And, I joke that I am still suffering from the effects of heat stroke and sun poisoning. Not in reality, but definitely in my mind. Oh, my gosh, I literally sweat buckets upon buckets this weekend.

What a Weekend and My New Motto - Maybe

I have had a great weekend with my family!

It all kind of started Thursday on a "date" of sorts with my awesome hubby. We were able to squeeze in a ride (Mike Style on the mountain bikes) before he left for TAC practice that afternoon. It was really nice to ride out with him while the boys were otherwise occupied, and it didn't cost much: the entry fees into the state park and the calories burned to pedal up and down and up and down and through the muck and mire.

Friday dawned with the temperatures near 70 instead of 80. I had not planned a run, but I simply couldn't pass up the great cool weather. So, off I went for a "short" 5K jaunt. 25 minutes later I was home. WOW that felt GREAT! Aidan had his last day at Camp Bark-ly and a little skit presentation for the parents. It was very cute, and a lot of fun to see him enjoying camp so enthusiastically.

Saturday was good. Started early with a 10+ mile run with some of my favorite running buddies EVER. We ran in the same state park I had ridden in on Thursday. It is a completely different feeling on foot. But, it was very enjoyable and the fellowship was wonderful. I spent the remainder of the afternoon and evening playing board games with The Boys; practicing piano; and grilling dinner with Mike. We lounged on the new deck; sipped adult beverages; and in general just enjoyed being home and together.

Today began with a bang as Colin and I headed to the St. Mark's Trail for a 32-mile ride on the Rails-to-Trails path with one of Colin's swim team buddies, his parents, and my Sunday ride partner. 32 miles, one bagel sandwich, a cup of coffee, and a great deal of sweat later, we were on our way home to see what the rest of the weekend has in store for us besides 2000 yards of swimming for Colin, a lengthy trail ride for Mike, and some time with friends for Aidan.

This coming week holds in store Colin's second (and final) trip to the Florida Swimming Junior Olympics. Stay tuned for those updates. Hopefully to come regularly from Fort Myers.

I borrowed this from my rockin' friend Lisa's Facebook page. I just loved what it conveys to those who might be behind me. That doesn't happen too often as I am usually the one behind the crowd. But, I liked it nonetheless.

Freedom Springs Triathlon Results

I just love race directors who are on top of their "game." Terry Edwards, race director Freedom Springs Triathlon, has already e-mailed the results of yesterday's event to the participants. Colin finished NINTH (9th) over all if you don't count the relay team that came in first. And, Aidan finished with a smile on his face.

2009 Freedom Springs Triathlon
Cumulative Results
Adult Race: 1/4 Mile Swim, 10 Mile Ride, 3.1 Mile Run

Name - Gender or Relay - Time
Robida, Bowman, & Bowman - Mixed Relay - 0.53.22.40
1. Brecht Heuchan - Male - 0.55.07.60
2. John Seppala - Male - 0.55.49.90
3. Scot Ewing - Male - 0.56.51.70
4. Mike Bonn - Male - 0.58.20.70
5. Travis Blanton - Male - 0.58.44.30
6. Christopher Thorn - Male - 0.59.24.00
7. Alan Swigler - Male - 0.59.42.50
8. Brian Bowden (16) - Male - 0.59.48.60
9. Colin Abbey (14) - Male - 0.59.51.40
10. Chris Coutts - Male - 1.00.00.30
11. James Phillips - Male - 1.00.17.09
12. Steve Gandy - Male - 1.00.29.40
13. Gary Cox - Male - 1.00.33.10
14. James Stinson Male 1.00.47.80
15. David Shaw - Male - 1.01.05.60
16. T. Alan Cox - Male - 1.01.31.20
17. Jerry Armstrong - Male - 1.01.42.10
18. Christine Bosau-Slater - Female - 1.01.42.60 - First Female Overall
19. Andrew Howard - Male - 1.02.10.50

2009 Freedom Springs Triathlon
Cumulative Results
Kids Race: 100 yard swim, 3 mile ride, 1 mile run

First Timer: Aidan Abbey (8) - Male - 31.29.70

Celebrating One's Independence

Wow!
Can it possibly be the Fourth of July already?
Where did June go?

Truthfully, I thought June would be much more laid back and relaxed considering I was (am still) unemployed. It seems, however, that June turned into a summer storm of fun in the sun for me and all of The Boys.

We kicked it into high gear right away with two-a-day swim practices for Colin, the Pre-Senior swimmer, and one-a-day practices for Aidan. Colin is coming quite into his own in the pool and the rest of "them boys at JO's" better just buckle up. It is going to be one hellacious ride before August rolls around. Tuesday evenings hold ATAC Developmental Swim Meets for Aidan, and he has been performing quite well while improving each time he dives off the blocks. Colin's big show of skill and talent fell during the last weekend of June at the annual ATAC Long Course Invitational Swim Meet. He earned three more time qualifications toward competing at the Summer Florida Junior Olympics: 400 meter Freestyle, 800 meter Freestyle, and the 1500 meter (The Metric Mile) Freestyle. He has now qualified for a total of six events that he may compete in at the Junior Olympics in 12 days in Fort Myers.

I have been earning a bit of what I call "Happy Meal" money by doing some summer camp driving for an organization here in town (The Oasis Center for Girls). It is only girls that I get to hang with for a couple of times a day, three times a week. So it is VERY different from being at home with my Boys all the time. In addition to the driving, I have been trying to be very committed to my training schedule (I know, I know it has not been updated here in weeks. I'm sorry. It will be current from now on....). I am running mid-distance two days a week and getting in one long-ish to truly long run on the weekends. I have been pretty good about logging two 20-35 mile rides during the week (off days from running) and getting a 40 miler in on the weekend. It is all good. So far the heel and hamstring and ankles are good and nearly almost always pain free. They twinge occasionally, but I slow down or change stride and that usually manages to solve the problem.

Aidan has been to two Vacation Bible Schools and loved them both. Friends abound where Aidan is concerned. He is the child who has the ability to make friends with the rocks. He can arrive at any location and leave having just met his "new best friend." God Bless Him! Next week he is off to Camp Bark-ly run by the local 4-H, where he is sure to make countless new friends and beg for yet more needy creatures to become members of our family. What was I thinking? Dain Bramaged, I am, I swear it.

But, getting back to celebrating one's independence. This is the third consecutive year that we have begun our Fourth of July celebrations with a healthy dose of triathlon. Yes, I know, some of you may think that is just about the farthest thing from healthy one could get, but we - yes, we - love it. This year I was "The Mom" rather than the athlete. I stood on the beach waiting for Colin; ran him into T1 (transition from swim to the bike); and then cheered madly until he came back through the finish chute after the run leg. This year his goal was to finish in under an hour. Based on previous years (2007 - 1:17:48, 2008 - 1:06:34), and his drastic improvements overall, this was very doable from the start. He was FIRST out of the water for the 1/4 mile swim today and I am pretty sure was in the top 10 returning from the 10 mile bike ride. I don't know exactly where he finished overall (full results to be posted soon), but he hit his goal with a finish time of 59:50 and 2nd in his age group by only 2 (yes TWO) seconds to a boy nearly a year older. I am estimating based on my Seiko watch that his swim time was floating around the 6 minute mark; his bike time was pretty darn quick at 31 or so minutes; giving him roughly a 22 minute 5K run time. The run happens to be his weakest leg, but after his fabulous swim and bike I'll give it to him. Way to go my boy!

Aidan launched his triathlon career today with the kids' version of the Freedom Springs Triathlon. He made friends along the way - how unusual - and finished running strong with a smile on his face and a big brother beaming proudly from behind him as he ran him down hill into the finish chute. Mike was able to go this year and witness all the hype. Many of his friends and/or co-workers and their spouses were competitors. Not-to-mention, I don't think he could have been any prouder of The Boys ever.

We shall see what July has in store: Camp Bark-ly; Summer Junior Olympics; visits with grandparents; visits with friends who have moved away; and more swimming; more swimming; and some job searching.

Stay Cool, it's hot out there!
Blessings!

Since Friday

Well, I had a list of things that I would miss persuant to leaving The Alzheimer's Project. Here are a few that I don't miss (at all):

The toilet in the hall bathroom: no more holding the handle to get it to flush
The A/C and heating system: no more dramatic (menopausal-like) temperature fluctuations
Spiders on the window sills: James, they are all yours now my friend.

Okay, that's it. Pretty pathetic if you want to know the truth. But, that's all I have..."there ain't no more."

After Friday

While I have been trying (really hard) to not be sentimental about leaving this job, it has grown more difficult by the day. Truly, though, I think "leaving" this job began in August when Liz left for similar reasons (budget and funding) and then reared its ugly head again in October when Cathy resigned. I suppose that I held out hope that I would still be here when the tide began to turn. However, such is not the case. So, you see, I have a growing list of things that I will miss after Friday. In no particular order...

Coffee in the kitchen with Bill and Recie.

Tomato and sprout sandwiches with Recie.

Staff meetings where we get so side-tracked that we laugh until we cry.

Support group meetings and Jim Jordan and Anne Baxter.

Teal Benoit. What else can I say?

Cathy.

Inukshuks.

The sqeaky, hand-me-down copy machine.

Brooks coming in late looking like the cat just spit him out.

James and his kilt. Not to mention his fabulous hugs.

The sun streaming into what used to be my "office."

Liz.

Walking Colin to school from the office.

Secret chicken biscuits with Bill.

Bob Goins and his never ending list of "Thank You's."

Recie, Bill, James, and yes, Brooks.

I know the list will grow for a while longer. But, I wanted to put some of it down before I forgot all of them - they change daily. And, sometimes by the hour.

Chasing "My Youth"

I wish I had pictures of yesterday's "Memorial Day" ride taken by someone riding behind me. It is important to note that the pictures would have had to have been taken from behind me so that one would also be able to see "My Youth" in front of me. "My Youth" in this instance would be my teenage son, Colin, who just so happened to be riding with the lead group along with yet another Youth (ATAC team mate Colby Allen) on yesterday's 33+ mile bicycle road ride. Last year I "hooked up" with this very same group for a wonderful ride early in the morning of Memorial Day. I had a great time, and the ride was followed by a BBQ at home of one of the rider's. This year Colin was able and allowed to accompany me on the ride, but I should have known...

Youth and ignorance will cause pain in the parent. Yes, I still feel the need to keep him in my line of vision even as he nears the age of 15. So, as he was climbing hills with apparent ease, and flying along the scenic, rural back roads of Leon County at 20 or so m.p.h., I was sweating and huffing and mashing on the pedals just to keep in him in sight. Never mind that he was not even within shouting distance or recognizable as an individual other than a cyclist. Thankfully his riding "kit" is a brightly colored jersey with lots of red and yellow, and his cycling shorts are a matching bright red. I knew if I saw red there was better than a 50/50 chance that it was Colin and Colby (also wearing red) and not necessarily the blood from an aneurysm in my brain.

Thank you to Lee S. and David K. for imparting some of your extensive riding knowledge and experience upon him. Thank you George for "hosting" the ride and showers and brunch. Thank you Kathy and Mike, Mandy and Sean, and Robert and Karin and Mike for putting up with a "snot" such as "My Youth." He did have a great time and is looking forward to another ride with all of you or perhaps Freedom Springs....

Today's Twilight and the Coming Dawn

In the twilight of a career, does one stop to ponder the dawn of the next, or merely the pending darkness of that which is passing?

I hope that I have adopted the attitude of looking forward to the dawn and not back to the darkness. It is always a challenge to rely on one's faith and God when things are not so positive as well as being able to remember to give thanks when things are GREAT. I have enjoyed four and half years of wonderful experiences during my tenure with The Alzheimer's Project, Inc. I have seen many things develop and flourish, and many things come to fruition that I never expected to see. As my final day approaches and I begin to feel more and more the saddness that is inevitable, I hope that I will be able to focus on what may become rather than on what has been. This, for me, is difficult. I grow attached to things like super co-workers, and comfortable surroundings; like flexible hours and convenient locations; like understanding supervisors and sympathetic friends.

More and more I have come to appreciate that environment and companion-like co-workers are EVERYTHING in the job setting. I know I will not find a group such as this anywhere else I go, but I can do what is within me to make my new job as wonderful for those around me as I can.

Just for fun...

Yes, it is a sad state of literary affairs when I have nothing more interesting to post today than a picture of Aidan at the annual ATAC Awards Banquet and Teen Dance. He "loves (truly) him some Coach Amanda" and boy is he hamming it up with her in this picture.

April Is Freely Flowing into May Flowers

April was VERY good to the Abbeys, I have to admit. Colin had a splendid showing at the Red Hills Triathlon again; all four of us got to see Wicked: The New Musical during Easter weekend as well as visit with my parents; we hired a wonderful contractor (Lone Wolf, Inc.) to begin work on our deck/french doors/hot tub/screen porch remodel project; and Colin earned two new Junior Olympic time standards (100 and 200 Freestyle Long Course) in Panama City where he placed 10th in the 13-14 Boys age group; and Aidan has really begun to enjoy swimming with ATAC 3 or 4 days a week in the Novice program. He even "won ribbons" a couple of weekends ago at a "practice meet."

Above: Chillin' (with a minor showing of attitude) in the shade between events. Below: Warming up for the 200 Free.

The deck is looking mah-velous. It is somewhat semi-circular (sort of half of an octagon) with benches and railings on two sides. It will also have some very nice lighting, furniture and hot tub/spa when completed. The french doors are ordered and on the way. The entire project should be finished in under a month - total time from first post hole to filled up hot tub. I can't wait.

Above, I have included photographic documentation of the current state of the deck-building, a couple of pictures of Colin at Panama City Long Course meet in what he is calling his "fast pants" and a video (sideways - Sorry) of Aidan swimming the breast stroke on April 18th.

Marvelous Milestones

Not much in the way of excitement happened around here this week. Aidan had a little "practice swim meet" where he bested two of his times: 25 yard free style and 25 yard breast stroke. He really needs to learn how to NOT "pinball" his way across the pool during the back stroke, but it will come - I have been promised. Colin had a great swim practice on Saturday while Mike made phenomenal strides in his continuation of "taming" and landscaping the back yard.

The only thing I did of note, besides being the mom, was to crest the 1000 mile mark in training for the year. As of Saturday evening, I have logged 1,062.37 miles of running and riding for the year 2009. I sort of, kind of, set a goal of 2,000 miles riding this year, and I am at about 900 right now and could actually achieve that goal if I keep going at the rate I am currently. I don't plan to ramp up the running beyond maintenance and shorter runs/races until August or September when I start looking at marathon season. Right now, I'm happy with where I am and how I feel and how the feet are. Yippee!

More later .... See you on the streets.

Red Hills Pictures

I have "borrowed" these from BB Action Photo (.com) because I have also purchased them to hang on my wall next to last year's wonderful photographic documentation. Enjoy!

And, remember to subtract 3 minutes from the finish time shown for being in the second swim wave.

Triumphant Return to Red Hills Triathlon

More of a complete run down later, but let it be common knowledge that Colin finished 17 minutes faster this year than last year (1:38:06 in 2008), and that the winner finished in 1:09:35. The future is very attainable for Colin. He is already talking about next year and upcoming 70.3 relays and the possibility of an Olympic Distance Tri (.9 mile swim, 25-40 mile ride, 10K run). Yikes!

Final results of the Red Hills Triathlon 2009: 1/3 mile swim 16 mile bike ride 5K (3.1 mile) run

Overall Finish: 31st of 245 finishers

#211 Colin Abbey age 14 from Tallahassee, FL

Finish Chip Time - 1:21:44

8th overall in the swim - 8:07
Transition #1 - 0:42
64th overall on the bike - 49:13
Transition #2 - 0:52
44th overall on the run - 22:51

Colin's swim team mate Colby Allen finished 20th over all with the times shown below.

#212 Colby Allen age 17 from Tallahassee, FL

Final Chip Time - 1:18:14

Swim: 3rd 7:36

T#1 1:40

Bike: 36th 46:18

T#2 1:03

Run: 22nd 21:39

Revising the Dreams and Schemes

March was busy, busy, busy on the bike - I logged more than 400 miles last month. I am darn impressed with myself. My plan now that I am back to running is to manage 3 days of riding and 2 or 3 days of running until my body is back on track with the whole running plan. Once I am back in "the zone" running wise I am hoping to successfully juggle 3 days of riding and 3 days of running. We shall see what we shall see. With that in mind, below is a somewhat revised goal and dream calendar up through Donna 2010.

April, 2009
4.24-26.2009 - Panama City Long Course Meet (ATAC event)

May, 2009
5.16.2009 - Missionette 10K (Cairo, GA)
5.16-17.2009 - GPAC Distance Invitational (ATAC event)
5.17.2009 - Red Hills Kids Triathlon
5.20.2009 - Momma's Birthday
5.30.2009 - ATAC Long Course Developmental

June, 2009
6.6.2009 - Capital City Ride for Hope (100K)
6.11.2009 - Tanya's Birthday
6.16.2009 - Aidan's 8th Birthday!
6.21.2009 - Father's Day! Look out Mike, we have big plans...
6.26-28.2009 - ATAC Long Course Invitational

July, 2009
7.3-5.2009 - Dothan Summer Swim Meet
7.4.2009 - Freedom Springs Triathlon
7.16-19.2009 - Long Course Junior Olympics (Fort Myers, FL)

August, 2009
8.1-2.2009 - Area 1-4 Championships
8.15.2009 - Breakfast on the Track 1 Mile Time Trials
8.18.2010 - Dad-in-luv (Stuart's) Birthday
8.22.2009 - Miller Landing Madness (8K)
8.22.2009 - Tri States 100 (Dothan, AL)
8.24.2009 - Our 18th Anniversary!!!

September, 2009
9.2.2009 - Daddy's Birthday
9.13.2009 - Assault on Sugar Loaf Century (Clermont, FL)
9.19.2009 - Women's Distance Festival 5K
9.30.2009 - Mike's 46th Birthday!

October, 2009
10.3.2009 - Atlantic Coast Triathlon (70.3)
10.10.2009 - Spaghetti 100 (ride)
10.17.2009 - Race for the Cure 5K (Birmingham, AL)
10.31.2009 - Boston, GA Mini Marathon

Just before the Boston Mini Marathon - 10.25.2008

Diana Hunter, Kay Posey, Me, Jodi Chase,

Rhonda Cooksey, Jennifer Winegardner

November, 2009
11.22.2009 - The Women's Half Marathon To Benefit LLS (St. Petersburg, FL)
11.26.2009 - Turkey Trot 15K

December, 2009
12.5.2009 - GWTC 10 Mile Challenge
12.13.2009 - Jacksonville Marathon

January, 2010
1.8.2010 - Colin's 15th Birthday - OMG, he can get his driving permit...
1.16.2010 - GWTC 15K/30K

February, 2010
2.7.2010 - Tallahassee Marathon and Half
2.18.2010 - Mom-in-luv (Nancy's) Birthday!
2.21.2010 - 26.2 with Donna (3rd Time's the Charm)

Red Hills 2009 and An Ultra or Two

Yes, you heard correctly, "The Toughest Sprint Triathlon in Florida" runs this weekend - April 4th at 7:30 a.m. from Maclay Gardens.

And, yes you also heard correctly that The Youngest Competitor in Event History (2008) is returning to race again - faster than before! Go Colin!!!

The many returning athletes from years past in addition to the new faces and names promise to serve up an athletic competition like no other yet this year. Colin Abbey and his ATAC team mate Colby Allen are joined this year by two new youngsters: Tim Venable and Taylor Knight. Another ATACer, Patrick Shropshire, is making his Red Hills debut on the 4th. Lots of "the gang" from last year's group and the Ironman C'ouer d'Alene training group are back: David Bigoney, Mike Boll, Frances Gilbert, Emma Good, Marguerite McCauley. Robert Palmer and numerous others. New faces include Sean Hudson and Jerry Lewis along with what appear to be several families all signed up for a spring morning of fun and healthy competition.

I know it's early to be up on a Saturday morning, but think how appreciative Colin and 300+ other triathletes will be to see you along the bike route and the 5K run route cheering them on to the finish. I suggest picking a spot along Thomasville Road (on the Maclay Gardens side of the road) between Bannerman and Maclay for the safest viewing of the cycling route; maybe along Bannerman where the sidewalks are between Meridian and Thomasville. The 5K is run inside Maclay Gardens along the Overstreet Trails and it is a beautiful run.

Remember once the race starts cars won't be allowed in - not that there will be any spots left by that time. Parking at the Sunshine Credit Union and in the Fresh Market lots are strongly recommended.

Not to be forgotten are two trail runs (one of ultra distance). Since this race is usually over by 10 a.m., you will still have plenty of time to grab a snack; hop in the car; and head to Torreya State Park to see nearly all of the Draggin' Tail 25K/50K Ultra which starts at 8:30 a.m. and has at least 10 Tallahassee Runners participating including our very own Robin Adams in the 50K Ultra and in the 25K: Kay Posey, Chuck Davis, Pam Breza, Jennifer Winegardner, Brian Corbin, Kristen Baggett, Judy Alexander, Joe Brannon, and Sterling Bryant.

Hope to see you out on Saturday. Swim Fast! Ride fast and safe! Run even faster!

March Madness - Continued...

Good Morning!

The Blue Line 100 (Ride for Those Who Died - Police Unity Tour) fund raising century ride was awesome! The head winds were wicked, and the hills...well they were the Havana Hell Hills, but the ride was great. All of the soreness and fatigue that I took into the ride from the previous days' runs are gone now. Who knew that 60+ miles would work that all out. Not a bit of tightness or soreness remains. The neck is a bit stiff, but that I can live with. So, maybe if I can get out, it's back on the bike today.

More later when I have some pictures to post.

Have a great final two days in this mad, mad month we call March.

March Madness

No, I have not become obsessively compulsively addicted to viewing the Sweet Sixteen college basketball teams battle it out for the "number 1" ranking in the NCAA Tournament. I do mean not running for 31+ days in order to allow an appropriate healing and rehabilitation of feet, ankles, hamstrings, and Achilles tendons to heal after two back-to-back marathons.

I now know why I have never done this before ... it is madness! Sheer madness. If it were not for my bicycles I would be insane - Insane I tell you! I knew on February 15 that I would impose a one week mandatory "no-run" period just for the sake of allowing muscles and feet and ankles and such to rest and recover. I ran one 4 miler, slow and easy, 8 days post-Donna and discovered that indeed a longer recovery was truly necessary this time around. So, I declared to the world as I know it: "I am taking the month of March off from running." And, so hopped on the road bike 4-5 times a week and the mountain bike a few times in order to keep the fitness level boosted until I would return to pounding the pavement.

This past Thursday, 31 days into my self-imposed running moratorium, the weather promised it would not hold out long enough for me to get in my regular ride. What to do know? I am thinking to myself: March is not yet over; the Blue Line 100 ride is Sunday; I really want to rest on Saturday; and yet I can't ride today, maybe not tomorrow or Saturday... So, I say to myself, "Self, we will hit the streets a few days early, and see what we shall see. We will keep it easy and short for the first run out of recovery, and that is what we will do."

I have to tell you, the run itself was GRRRREAATTTTTT! I put in about 3 miles at a wicked good pace (8:42/miles) and felt good afterwards. Friday morning was a completely different story. Thank goodness the Achilles was not plaguing me as I was worried it might. But, can I tell you, creaky creaky. That same old left hamstring reminded me that yes siree bob it is still connected, and the quads spoke up and voiced their opinion of maybe a slightly too ambitious pace for the first time in a month. So, as I am again faced with the weather dilemma today (one day before a 100 mile ride) I ask myself: "Self, do we run a short run? Or, do we rest and ride hard tomorrow?" I will probably run short and slow to stretch out a bit, and then ready myself for the Hills of Havana Hell tomorrow. Truly, I am looking forward to tomorrow's ride. It is an anniversary of sorts - a year since my first century (The Blue Line Metric 100, March 2008). It will be an awesome morning.

I'll let you know how March finishes out. Who knows, maybe 31 days is just enough of a recovery if you do it right. ;-)

Doin' The Twist

I have a friend whose philosophy on birthdays is that everyone gets their "birthday month." Now, I have to tell you, as a die-hard proponent of the "week long birthday fest" for some years, I could very easily completely adopt her theory on celebrations. Anyway, moving on. This past Wednesday, four days AFTER her actual birthday but well within the parameters of the Birthday Month, the neighborhood "witches" and I gathered to celebrate with her.

There are only four of us neighborhood witches (The Witches of Killearn), and every time we get together I visualize a new and improved scene from the movie Practical Magic (Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock are the witches...). In the original scene the two women awake to the sound of a blender and immediately know it is time for "Midnight Margaritas!" Yes, there is a song, and a congo line and lots of laughing.

We don't make "Midnight Margaritas" but we do have a blast every time we "circle up" for fun. The other night we did in fact have Margaritas - Pink Lemonade Margaritas, YUM! - and awesome chicken enchiladas. And, of course we laughed, and danced (see the Twist below) and celebrated another year of joy, health, happiness, and friendship.

Happy Birthday! Uga Chucka!

Yippee! Another Reason to Run!

New Half Marathon for Women

LLS and Women's Running magazine have joined forces to create The Women's Half Marathon To Benefit The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, in St. Petersburg FL. This brand-new event will take place on the weekend of Nov. 21-22, in St. Petersburg, FL.

It's that city's first women-only half marathon, and it is expected to draw athletes from around the country. Participants can train to run or walk the half marathon through LLS's Team In Training (TNT), the world's first, largest and best charity sports training program. With TNT, participants join a group of supportive teammates and get four to five months of training with certified coaches. In return, they raise funds to support blood cancer research and patient services.

"LLS wants to thank the officials of St. Petersburg for granting us the opportunity to put on this great event," says Nancy Klein, LLS's chief marketing and revenue officer. "This will be an exciting weekend, giving participants the chance to take on an athletic challenge while also making a difference in the lives of thousands of people fighting blood cancer."

The 13.1-mile flat, fast race course will wind along the scenic downtown St. Petersburg waterfront, through quaint communities, past historic buildings and museums.

For more information about TNT, including the upcoming summer season, please visit http://www.teamintraining.org./

What's The Plan, Man?

I know I have done this already, but here is a much updated "race" and dream schedule:

March, 2009
3.7.2009 - TRBC 10K - if my heel an ankle are 100%
3.14-15.2009 - Area 1-4 Championships (JAX - ATAC event)
3.28.2009 - Springtime Tallahassee 10K
or
3.28-29.2009 - Tour de Big Bend Cycling Festival (Double Century Ride)

April, 2009
4.24-26.2009 - Panama City Long Course Meet (ATAC event)
4.25.2009 - Rose City 10K

May, 2009
5.16.2009 - Missionette 10K (Cairo, GA)
5.16-17.2009 - GPAC Distance Invitational (ATAC event)
5.23-24.2009 - ATAC Long Course Developmental

June, 2009
6.6.2009 - Capital City Ride for Hope (100K)
6.26-28.2009 - ATAC Long Course Invitational

July, 2009
7.4.2009 - Freedom Springs Triathlon
7.16-19.2009 - Long Course Junior Olympics (Fort Myers, FL)

August, 2009
8.1-2.2009 - Area 1-4 Championships
8.15.2009 - Breakfast on the Track 1 Mile Time Trials
8.22.2009 - Miller Landing Madness (8K)

September, 2009
9.19.2009 - Women's Distance Festival 5K

October, 2009
10.3.2009 - Atlantic Coast Triathlon (70.3)
10.10.2009 - Spaghetti 100 (ride)
10.17.2009 - Race for the Cure 5K (Birmingham, AL)
10.31.2009 - Boston, GA Mini Marathon

November, 2009
11.22.2009 - The Women's Half Marathon To Benefit The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, in St. Petersburg FL
11.26.2009 - Turkey Trot 15K

December, 2009
12.6.2009 - Rock-n-Roll Las Vegas???? C'mon now, it's an inaugural event
or
12.13.2009 - Jacksonville Marathon

February, 2010
2.21.2010 - 26.2 with Donna (3rd Time's the Charm)

The Harder They Fall

Have you ever heard the saying, "The bigger they are, the harder they fall"? Well, if you adapt it for Sunday's 2nd Annual 26.2 with Donna: The National Marathon to Fight Breast Cancer you could very well describe my dream of a 4:00 or so marathon. However, several things, not the least of which being the grace of God and the blessing of running with a dear friend, all lined up with me at the start to change the plan for my morning run through Jacksonville Beach and other "beach-y" towns to the north.

Saturday, 14 February 2009:
The rains water down on us nearly the entire way from Tallahassee to Jacksonville. Even as we leave the Race Expo it was still drizzling and beginning to cool off a bit. But, we have our packets, numbers, timing chips, post-race shirts, lots of freebies from the expo and we are off in search of a carbo-loading yummy dinner. We check into the hotel before dinner and then cruise up A1A just a bit to a beach-y type plaza that had the look of awesome local fare. We duck into a joint called Al's Pizza and have a marvelous meal: chorizo sausage pizza, pesto chicken penne, calamari, and the requisite hydration. Post dinner showers, and "chick" TV prep us for an uneventful night of sleep.

Sunday, 15 February 2009:
About 5:00 a.m. the internal alarm in my head goes off and we are up! We are dressed; bagels peanut buttered; and skipping out the door for the shuttle to the starting line. The Runners' Village is mostly dry in spite of the rain all day Saturday, and the volunteers seem happy to be there and are thanking all of the athletes for being there and running for the cause. We wander just a bit, then check our gear. All athletes are corralled based on predicted finish time and our race bibs are color-coded to indicate which corral. Here we split and find our respective color-coded corral(s). I head off to find the 4:15 pace group per my plan. Along the way I see runners from our Tallahassee Running Group, and then I find Maggie and Jaqui. Hugs an good luck wishes all the way around, and we are all off on our own paths again.

In the starting area I find the 4:15 Galloway group and get my Garmin turned on and locked in. The runners in the group chat briefly and share a bit of why they are there and why this pace, and their history. It's going to be a great morning. There is still a bit of chill in the air which will work well with the extreme humidity to keep us from running in sauna-like conditions. We can see the jumbo tron screens from where we are, and Donna Hicken, and the woman who sings the National Anthem. The the gun sounds and pink confetti blasts out at us from both sides, and we are running!

Things go well for the first 3 miles, even though that includes all of the hills (the bridges and overpasses from the Mayo Clinic to Jacksonville Beach proper). Somewhere between miles 3 an 4 I side slip a bit on the road striping, and step down "just wrong" on a reflector or raised piece of asphalt. I come down "just wrong" on my right foot - the one that has been ailing and haunting me since Disney. And, that pretty much is all she wrote. I move off to the side and walk a bit in hopes that it is "one of those twists" we all endure from time to time. After a bit of walking, I pick it back up running and quickly realize that, "No, this is not one of those twists or turns," and go back to walking.

I know that all of my friends and running buddies who are doing the half marathon are still behind me. So, as much as I agonize over the decision while still trying to run, I decide that this is my new, adjusted plan for the morning: I will walk until one of them comes up behind me, and then I will continue on for the remainder of the half with her - whomever she may be. And, if I have to back off again, then I will walk, and repeat the process until I get to the finish line. I mentally go through the ladies I know behind me: Ana, Vicky, Maggie, Jaqui, Ann, Patty, Lynn, and a couple others. Now I settle in to wait for who gets there first.

Not too long after I have made my decision, Maggie and Jaqui come up from behind. They are moving at an easy pace that I think I can hang with and not be in much more pain than I am currently experiencing. We immediately fall into that easy chatter of women who know each other and have a lot in common. Oh, yeah, we all three are swim moms; we are all runners; and we all have boys. We have LOTS to chat about for the next 9 or so miles. And, away we go. In a short while, Jaqui leaves us to run her own race - good for her; and Maggie and I head to the beach portion of the run. Her goal is to make it to mile 7 running, and then run walk to the finish. My goal at this point is just to finish - my heel an ankle are way pain inducing by this time. We discover that as we talk we speed up, and then we have to concentrate on returning to pace and being mindful of the overall goal. We slow up just a tiny bit so that I can ease the tension on my heel some, but the chatter never slows.

It is a good run. I, from the purely selfish side, get to spend this time catching up with Maggie who I don't see as often anymore because of Mac. And, that's okay. I explain to her that I miss her being around, and that I think of her often - which explains the cell phone calls at all absurd times of the day. We talk about Colin and Aidan, and Savannah and Mac. It is good that she can talk about Mac - especially to someone who has a boy near his age. She is nearly as excited as I am that Colin is finally going to the Junior Olympics, and she has promised him she will be there to see him swim. I know that it will be extremely difficult for her to be there, but (again, selfishly) I am so happy that she will be there for Colin. It means a lot to him that she be there.

Anyway, we talk about a lot of things and sometimes nothing at all. And, after about 2 hours we realize we are almost there, and in not too shabby of a time either. She is pleased to be under 2:30 and most definitely under 2:20. I am happy to not be on the medical cart that we saw not too long before mile 11. Yippee! There will be some awesome pictures from the beach and along the way. Hopefully the one at the finish line will be as grand as we felt when we got there.

I kicked myself mentally for a while after I decided to not finish the full yesterday. I'm still questioning whether or not I could have done it. I know I could have, but what would it have cost me? One thing I know without a doubt is that it would have cost me those two hours with Maggie and all that we now share from that experience. I would not trade that time with her for anything. It is a memory I will always have and cherish.

Same time, same place NEXT YEAR. I'm already registered. I must be crazy!