Kier Does Tri

A note from my 10-year-old self

2012-02-08T19:38:00.000-08:00

While cleaning the basement the other day, I went through my old camp trunk which was filled with memorabilia from elementary school through college. I came across an autobiography I wrote in 1986. It was amazing how much parts of it resonate today.

"My Historical Perspective:
I can remember lots of historical events that have happened during my life, but one thing I remember is when President Reagan was shot in 1981. Anything and everything in the papers was about the attempted assassination.

The year of 1986 has probably been the most historical in my life. To begin the year, the space shuttle challenger exploded and killed six astronauts and Crista McAullife (the first teacher in space). This was caused by a faulty seal ring on one of the booster rockets.

In March, Corazon Aquino won the Philipines presidential election. Her opponent was Ferdinand Marcos.

In April, a woman bombed a TWA plane to Italy. The bombing killed 1 man, 2 women, and 1 baby. People think Qaddafi had something to do with it. There has been a lot more bombings this year, for instance when Reagan bombed Qaddafi's headquarters and killed Qaddafi's 2 month old adopted daughter. So far nothing else has happened."
(Amazing how so much has changed, yet so much has not)

"Remember Me:
I would like to be remembered as a person who cared and loved animals. I would really like to be remembered as the world's greatest equestrian. I would also like to be remembered as a person who helped other people. The last way in the world I would ever want to be remembered as a terrorist."

Ok...so maybe I'm not the world's greatest equestrian, but I did spend a year on the Equestrian Team at the University of Maryland, and I would say that working as an NP counts as helping people. My kids might call me a terrorist at bedtime, but otherwise I think I am safe.

:) Thanks for sharing my blast from the past.

30-Day Transformation

2012-02-06T14:56:00.000-08:00

Ok, so the title of this blog sounds like the title of an infomercial. There are no shortcuts, there are no free rides, and being successful in the sport of triathlon (or life in general) requires hard work.

After the ~~year~~ 16 months of crummy health issues (blah, blah, blah), I was so over all of it. I kept thinking if I could just maintain a positive attitude, I could get it all turned around. I was convinced that although my health issues were seemingly random (ectopic pregnancy, abnormal heart rhythms, hearing loss, etc.), there had to be something tying them all together. Nutrition? Emotional well-being (perhaps I hadn't allowed my self to grieve the loss of a pregnancy that was a surprise in the first place)? Bad luck?

Every time I thought I got a handle on things, something else cropped up.....my migraines got much worse, my hair was falling out. While it isn't good to rest too much on dates (i.e. "It will get better next year), I decided to try my hardest to make sure that my health was better in 2012 than it had been in 2011.

I had amazing support from family, friends, and teammates during all of my health issues. So it certainly wasn't lack of love and support that was exacerbating things. I decided to make two big changes.

1. After getting worked on by my friend Andree's chiropractor in South Carolina, I decided to try chiropractic and see if it made a difference in my health and my ability to train.
2. ~~I made the decisio~~n Carole Sharpless (team Rev3 "Mom" and awesome friend) offered to take me on as a coaching client. I hoped that working with a coach who "got" and respected my crazy life would help me achieve my goals successfully (primarily to train smart and train healthy).

Fast forward 30 days. I emailed Carole two weeks ago and said "I realized on a run today that I will run over 20 miles this week, and I got choked up". This time of the triathlon season isn't about distance or speed, but about building a healthy base. Holy cow! What I've done in the past month is more than I did practically all of last year, and I feel good doing it. She even has me looking forward to my swim workouts.

The other amazing thing? Two days after a 9+ mile run last week, I saw Dr. Ray Moss, my chiropractor and frankly my current BFF. I nearly bounced into his office, very excited to tell him that I had NO pain in my right sacroiliac joint (lower back). This was AFTER running 9+ miles. I should have been in a lot of pain, and stiff, and sore, and uncomfortable.... At least if my previous experience had anything to say about it. I am still in the initial phases of chiropractic, and have days where the arthritis in my pelvis does both me, but not nearly like it did before.

The month of January exceeded my wildest expectations. I still have a long way to go, and as I type this I am battling the sinus crud and am bummed that I missed a workout this weekend. But I'm also overjoyed with the progress I have made, and thankful for a new year.

I would be remiss if I didn't say thanks to everyone who has been on the roller coaster of my health the past year+. Tommy spent his share of time in waiting rooms and let me cry when I needed to, family members who made sure the kids were covered, Katy was there both times I needed to go to the Emergency Room (since we work at the hospital), coworkers who covered me, and my friends and teammates. Your encouragement and listening ears will always be appreciated. I'm not kidding myself that I might not need them in the future, but I'm hoping those moments come much less often.

Here is to an awesome 2012!!!!!!!!

Read this if you are a woman, or know a woman

2012-02-03T19:57:00.000-08:00

Today is national Go Red for Women Day. Before you think that you don't have to worry about cardiovascular disease, read on.

"A" was a 30-something mother of two when she suffered a massive stroke. Working at a local school one day, she became unable to speak or move one side of her body. A quick-thinking co-worker called 9-1-1, recognizing that "A" was suffering a stroke. EMS providers got her to the hospital quickly, where we gave a clot-busting medication. These medications work only if a stroke patient gets to the hospital within 4 1/2 hours of the onset of symptoms. "A" was healthy, and would never have expected to have a stroke. The clot-buster work, and she regained her speech and movement. Groundhog day was the 6th anniversary of her stroke. I am happy to say that now I see her on Facebook, rather than as a patient in our hospital.

Shari was a mother of three, who ran regularly with her good friend. On one of their early morning runs, she began to feel poorly. As they got close to home, she collapsed. Her friend Cathy began CPR and was assisted by their husbands. EMS providers arrived quickly, continued CPR, and were able to restore a normal heart rhythm. Shari did not wake up, and there was concern for brain injury due to lack of oxygen. We initiated a hypothermic state, chilling Shari to protect her brain. She made a full recovery.

So I ask you to take a minute on "Go Red for Women Day" to learn the warning signs of heart attack and stroke. You can save a life. Learn CPR. Know the warning signs. It may be the most important thing you do one day.

Warning Signs of a Stroke (Think "Fast")
Face- Smile (do both sides look the same?)
Arms- Raise both arms over the head (are they symmetrical?)
Speech- Say a Sentence (slurred? does it make sense?)
Time- Call 9-1-1 quickly!!!!

Warning Signs of a Heart Attack

Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of your chest. It lasts more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back.
Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort
Other signs such as breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness
As with men, women’s most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting and back or jaw pain.
If you have any of these signs, don’t wait more than five minutes before calling for help. Call 9-1-1...Get to a hospital right away.

The following two videos are funny, but convey a serious message. Both are made by the American Heart Association to raise awareness.

"It's Just a Little Heart Attack"

"Push Hard and Fast"

11 Things...my turn

2012-01-29T18:44:00.000-08:00

I thought I could escape the "tagging" by my teammates, but Laura got me. It must be retribution for the pictures I posted of her after our night at the Ulman Cancer Fund's Blue Jeans Ball. Since all of my teammates and the bloggers I follow have already been tagged, I am making this blog post a note on facebook and tagging 11 people there.

Here we go:

1. Post these rules
2. You must post 11 random things about yourself
3. Answer the questions set for you in their post
4. Create 11 new questions for the people you tag to answer
5. Go to their blog and tell them you’ve tagged them
6. No stuff in the tagging section about you are tagged if you are reading this. You legitimately have to tag 11 people!

11 Things about Me:

1. I have allergies and seem to always leave crumpled tissues in the bed. It drives Tommy CRAZY!

2. I tend not to forward chain emails, but I can't pass this one up as I have enjoyed reading everyone else's post. I think I shy away from the chain letters/emails, but to this day am a bit haunted by a childhood chain letter experience. A friend of my Mom's had a son younger than me (I was probably 10 or 12). He had Leukemia. I remember my Mom talking about him having low platelets, and me picturing little plates floating around in his blood. He sent me a chain letter at some point, and I put it in my desk thinking I would reply at some point. Mikey passed away before I replied, and at the time I felt horrible, since people always said breaking the chain brought bad luck. So I guess now I ignore them entirely because otherwise I would stress myself out about responding to EVERY chain email. (More thank you wanted to know, huh?)

3. I was on the Equestrian Team (a club team) at the University of Maryland for my freshman year of college.

4. I have been known to talk a LOT. When I get focused on a project, I get really quiet, and it tends to freak those around me out a bit.

5. I became a firefighter when I was 18 (yes- I actually rode fire engines and put out fires), and met Tommy at the firehouse.

6. I was fortunate enough to travel across the country twice with my grandparents in their Ford pickup and travel trailer.

7. I cannot pee on my bike. Many triathletes can do this, but I have never been able to accomplish it (I have no problems doing it in my wetsuit or while running, though)

8. I went to a High School with a graduating class of 18 people and a total size of 80 people.

9. Because of #8, I played softball (co-ed), soccer (co-ed), basketball, and ran track in high school. Yes, I was 5'1" and the point guard of our bball team!

10. I fell madly in love at 17, he dumped me at 19 (in retrospect the best thing that could have happened for us), back together when I was 22, married when I was 23, and at 35 I love him more than I did 18 years ago.

11. I think there is nothing better than the sound of my children giggling...even if it is 9:11 pm as I type this and they should be sleeping.

Laura's Questions:

1. What is your DREAM job?

This sounds dorky, but I LOVE my job. I love the "Nancy Drew" aspect of my job. Someone comes to the hospital with an ailment, and our job is to figure out what and why. Sometimes this is very difficult, and I love the feeling that comes with solving the mystery. I also love explaining things to patients and their families in understandable terms and helping them "get it".

2. If you could live ANYWHERE where would you go?

Cairns, Australia

3. Tell us your BIGGEST secret! ha.. okay a smaller one you are willing to share.

Hmmm...I'm kind of an open book. Not much to share...and I'm not telling you the really good ones.

4. How often do you weigh yourself?

Almost never...I can tell where I am better by how my clothes fit than what I weigh.

5. Do you keep up w/ politics and current events?

I read the front page, the Metro section, and the Obituaries in the Washington Post. I definitely keep up with local events, and watch the news when I can (hard with young kids around), but I would not say I am keeping up with politics. I will pay attention when the primaries roll around and the current pre-election dust settles. I read the obits because I often find out about patients who have visited our hospital at some point passing away that way.

6. What is your favorite time of day?

Morning. I love the promise of a new day, and I love the mornings when Tommy gets off work and comes home to greet us before we head out to work/school. I really look forward to him coming in the door those days.

7. How many hours do YOU sleep a night?

7ish

8. What is your BIGGEST lifetime goal//dream?

Ok- I am a bit dorky. Thanks to an amazingly supportive family, I have been able to cross a lot off my "bucket list"....honestly I don't have much of a bucket list because as things come I take them on. Most of all, I would like my kids to one day look back on their childhood and think that I was a good Mother.

9. Would you consider yourself a half empty or half full type?

Half Full. Almost disgustingly so. Have you heard of Polyanna. I honestly want to find the bright side in most situations, and want everyone to be happy. (Not to say I don't have negative moments, but I think when you work in healthcare you have a tendency to think "It could always be worse."

10. Do you reduce, reuse, recycle?

Our county is phenomenal about recycling, so they make it easy. They actually started charging for plastic bags at all stores to reduce pollution, so that has made me remember my reusable bags on a regular basis now.

11. Do you strength train?

Not lately, but core and yoga.

My Questions:

1. Beer or wine?

2. What is your favorite holiday and why?

3. If there is one famous person (celebrity, historical figure, author, etc.) you could meet, who would it be and why?

4. If you could be on a reality show (and have whatever talent required to be on that show), which one would it be?

5. If you could only have one artist on your Ipod, who would it be?

6. If you had to change careers, what career would you choose?

7. If you had to go back and re-live one year of your life, when would that be?

8. If you could be a professional in any sport, what sport would that be?

9. What is your all-time favorite book?

10. What scares you most: sharks, snakes, or spiders (or none of the above)?

11. If you could visit one place in the world that you have never been before, where would it be?

VLOG: Rockin' the REV3 "R"

2012-01-26T18:11:00.000-08:00

So my teammate Laura threw down a challenge to do a video blog about what the Rev3 visor means to us. So here goes. Enjoy!

"50/50" Why We Fight

2012-01-25T20:27:00.000-08:00

I just watched the movie 50/50 during a trainer ride. Disclaimer: I love Seth Rogen. "Knocked Up" is still one of the funniest movies EVER to me (I think because it came out after the birth of my second child and many moments resonated). "50/50" did not disappoint. It can't be easy to make a movie about cancer that makes you laugh, but it did. Humor aside, there were two things that struck me...

#1- Anyone entering (or already in) the medical profession should watch this movie. I would like to think that I am a good communicator, and explain things well to my patients. Watching this movie from the patient perspective (the physician blurting out a diagnosis using huge medical terms, not looking his patient in the eye, not providing support, a novice therapist in a teaching hospital) reminded me that some of the most skilled practitioners are crappy communicators. When I worked in cardiac surgery, the best surgeon had the worst bedside manor. I would have wanted him as my own surgeon if I ever needed it, but I can see as a patient/family member with no point of reference, this guy was an ass (plain and simple).

We ask our patients every day to trust us with situations that are potentially life or death, but we don't always consider the gravity of these conversations. We don't have time, we aren't good communicators, the patient or family is "difficult". Even the temperature in the physician's office, as you are waiting to find out if your chemo treatments worked, took on gravity in this film. (I was focused on the nurse's reaction at this point). So I think this should be required viewing for new med students, nursing students, pretty much anyone who works with patients. We can ALWAYS do better.

#2- Without saying it, this movie highlights the value of the cancer navigator role. What do cancer navigators do? Pretty much what it sounds like. They help a cancer patient navigate the system. They are an advocate, an ally, someone who is perhaps more aware of the resources available, and most importantly help an individual become a more educated advocate for themselves. Here is the goal of the Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults navigator program.

To improve the ability of young adults to manage their own cancer experiences and long-term cancer survival through:

access to support resources tailored specifically to young adults;
increased knowledge of their disease, treatment options and lifelong implications of treatment choices; and
effective communication with their medical care team

This is why Rev3 staff and Team Rev3 members are participating in the Run Across America. To raise $100K to support the navigation program at the Ulman Cancer Fund. So check out the Ulman Website, consider making a donation, and watch the movie.

Stand by Your (Wo)man

2012-01-11T18:04:00.000-08:00

I met my husband Tommy in December of 1992 while we both volunteered for the Fire Department (19 years ago...more than half of my life).

This is pretty much exactly what he looked like the night I met him.

We were good friends, helped each other through dating drama, and never imagined that with our 7 year age difference we would end up together. Fast forward, and we realized we were the best of friends and probably something more. Throw in college for me, a three year "intermission", and then the realization that we were meant to be together. (Ok, so I am sure you are thinking "blech...this is way to sappy"). I'm going somewhere with this....

We have been together for the better part of 16 years (if you don't count the intermission), and there is one amazing thing about Tommy that I don't think I thank him for often enough. He is unconditionally supportive. Here is the conversation in our house a week or so ago:

Me: "So, I want to ask you about something"
Tommy: (I'm sure thinking to himself "What crazy thing does she have going on now?")
Me:"So, did I tell you that Rev3 is doing a Run Across America? I was kind of hoping I could go for the last week."
Tommy: "As long as you can make it work with the kids and my work schedule."

In his head he might be saying "Is she freaking crazy?!?!?! Leaving us for a week to go running?!?!?!". But he NEVER says that I can't do something, or that I am unable to do something. He listens when I need to have a meltdown, and supports me unconditionally. We are far from perfect (he snores), but every year I come to appreciate more and more his support.

Rewind a bit. When I was 18 and applying to schools, he told me I should go wherever I wanted. He didn't try to keep me close to home, or push my decision. When I wanted to undertake a month-long intense firefighter training course that summer, he totally supported me. Plenty of men in the fire department thought a woman becoming a firefighter was ridiculous. I was smaller than the guys, but I went in prepared (I actually beat them all in sit ups and push ups). I struggled with the power saws (darn my Dad and that electric lawnmower). Tommy sat with me patiently, helping me learn to start the saw (despite a meltdown, or two, or ten). He encouraged me through the class, and was there on my first big fire. He never told me I couldn't or shouldn't do it.

An ad we did for a local restaurant.

So many times..graduating nursing school, going back to grad school, going on some fantastic adventures. I have been with him for most of my adult life, but he has always fostered my independence and my sense of adventure.

In 2005, when Hurricane Katrina hit, I had the opportunity to go and work in the field hospital in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. I was traveling with a co-worker (who Tommy knew). This came about in the course of a few hours, and Tommy never balked. He told me to be careful, made sure arrangements were made for our daughter (not quite 2 at the time), and sent me on my way. I was gone for almost a week, working in the field hospital and then taking care of police officers and their families in downtown New Orleans.

When I got home, the house was clean, my daughter was clean and happy, and Tommy even had a card waiting for me telling me how proud he was of me. Then there was the Marine Corps Marathon (he and the kids even got me a personalized trophy commemorating my accomplishment), countless triathlons, work adventures, trips with friends. He just never stops.

The day before the Marine Corps Marathon, 2008.

Over the past year or so, I have realized that I didn't reciprocate as unconditionally as he does. He asks about something that would take him away for a day, and I pause. Not because I mind, but because I'm running through a mental checklist (what else do we have going on?). So it seems like I mind. When he had the opportunity to go to the Fallen Firefighters Memorial in Colorado this year, I was really excited. He deserves some guy trips. He had a blast, the kids and I survived, and I hope he gets to do it again next year. The other thing I learned? When he is at work or off doing something fun, he doesn't need to hear about every single issue at home. The kids tend to act up more for me than him, and what I perceive as venting comes across as something else.

Tommy has also became a hockey ref last year, which means time doing something he really enjoys. The great thing is that tri season and hockey season don't conflict too much! If anyone is keeping score, though, he is due for about two months away from home. I hope that I don't take for granted his support, and thought I would take a chance to thank him publicly. Thanks to anyone who read this far!

I Had Forgotten.....

2012-01-06T19:50:00.000-08:00

I had forgotten...

....how it feels to have races on your calendar and a goal in sight

....how it feels to actually nail a week's worth of workouts

....how it feels to say "Yes I can" instead of "I wish I could"
....how it feels to REALLY be a contributing part of my team, rather than on injured reserve

....what it feels like to be motivated

Now I remember

I'm Running (Part of the Way) Across America

2012-01-04T19:41:00.000-08:00

Many of you know I have been a part of Team Rev3 (Formerly Team Trakkers) for the past 2 seasons. This upcoming third season is bound to be the most epic. I love Rev3 because they are family-friendly, and focused on what is important. They have supported the Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults (based out of Howard County, Md) for several years. This year, the Rev3 staff and team up stepping up BIG TIME to support the Ulman Cancer fund.

Rev3 Staff (including our fearless leader Charlie) and Team Rev3 members are RUNNING ACROSS AMERICA to kick cancer's butt! They will start in Oceanside, California. Over 21 days and 3,458 miles, they (we) will run to Washington, DC. The race will end at the Lombardi Cancer Center at Georgetown University Hospital.

I wish I could say I was running the entire thing. Unfortunately, I don't think my knees, my husband and kids, or my work would be too keen on three weeks away. The good news is that we had a family meeting, and I am going to run the last 7 or so days of the race. I will be running from Tennessee to DC. I am asking for your support. Not just for me, but to help fight cancer. You can read more about the run here (and donate if you so choose- on the second page you can choose a runner to donate under), and the Ulman Cancer Fund here.

Frequently Asked Question:

More than one person has asked "Will people be running the ENTIRE distance?"

No- this is a relay. There will be RVs shuttling the runners as people take turns on the road. The mileage will still be crazy, but it won't be nonstop running.

This will be an epic adventure....and we will kick cancer's butt along the way. I will keep you posted on updates, progress, etc. Thank you in advance for your support.

Thank You, Mom

2011-12-29T19:27:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is my Mom's birthday (40th, of course!). We got to have dinner together tonight (cooked by my sister who is only 6 weeks postpartum), and I was telling her a story from work I was reminded of how much of who I am as a nurse I owe to her. My sister and I are lucky to have an awesome Mom and Dad, but tonight's post is about our Mom.

Yesterday at work I had a patient in his 60s, with minimal cardiac risk factors, who came in with chest pain. His cardiac enzymes (which indicate heart attack) were negative, but his Electrocardiogram (ECG) was a bit abnormal. Since he didn't have any further chest pain, I reviewed the ECG with the cardiologist and we decided to proceed with the test. The patient had sneakers which looked broken in and muddy. He was slender and fit- low suspicion for heart disease. That being said, I prepped him before the test. I told him that his ECG was abnormal and that it might be significant or it might mean nothing. I told him that if he developed chest pain, it would be an indication we needed to stop the test sooner rather than later.

The test started well...we chatted, he walked. Less than three minutes in, he developed chest pain. His ECG began to change. It became the ECG of the patient who is having THE BIG ONE. This is the "Oh S#$t" moment that I've had only once before in 6 years of doing stress tests. This is the moment you wonder how you will handle...you prep for it but you never know. I went into autopilot. I calmly stopped the test, got him laying down, gave him nitroglycerin, and called the cardiologist. Thankfully I work with an awesome team and we got this patient back to being pain free. I prepped him for transfer for cardiac catheterization (an invasive procedure to find and repair blocked arteries), called his wife, stayed with him to monitor him, and breathed a sigh of relief. I was off of work today, but apparently he called to say thank you. He got a stent in one of the arteries in his heart and was discharged from the hospital. Because he listened to his body and his symptoms, and came to the hospital, he avoided a potentially fatal heart attack.

So I was telling my Mom this story, and she told me how proud she was of me. If only there were words to convey how much of who I am as a nurse practitioner I owe to her. At 16, I volunteered in her Emergency Room. I learned from her and her coworkers. Even before then, I learned that you never know when you are taking care of the family member of a friend. To treat everyone as if they are your family...no matter how difficult they are. I did CPR before I was 18. I dealt with things many people don't deal with until much later in life....and I learned the lessons that stay with me now.

-Be kind
-Talk to people...explain what is happening...sometimes that means more than anything.
-LISTEN
-Show respect
-Think critically, act calmly
-and when all else fails, call your Mom for advice

Most of all, I thank my mother for deciding at 22 (married and graduating nursing school) to work full time and embrace the daughter she hadn't quite planned upon. I am so thankful for all you and Dad have done for me.

Thank you, Mom. For being an amazing Mother, grandmother,role model, "What Would Kyle Do?" hotline, and wonderful friend.

Love, Kier

Bring on 2012

2011-12-28T19:14:00.000-08:00

So those who know me know that 2011 came in at a relatively low point for me, and has had it's share of crummy moments. Don't get me wrong- there have been some wonderful milestones with my children and my family (including the birth of my new niece). I have also been repeatedly reminded how many wonderful family members and friends I have. Tommy has lived up to the "in sickness" part of our wedding vows a lot this year. I was telling someone the other day that all of my crazy health issues have been these "flash in the pan" things. Something crazy happens (hearing loss, allergic reaction, exacerbation of my rapid heart rhythm), I go to deal with it, and it gets better or just fades into the background. Just in time for the next issue....

Late 2010/2011 by the numbers:
ER/Urgent Care visits 3
MRIs 3
Knee Surgery 1
Heart Procedure 1
Doses of steroids 4
Episodes of significant hair loss 1
Unexplained rashes 1
Meldowns- Countless
Whining blog posts- ?about 5

So I am OVER it. I figure I'm going to kick 2012's a$$ rather than the other way around. I am going to control the things I can, and stop stressing about the things I can't. Being in healthcare, we tend to look at things as "it could always be worse". I think the lesson I have learned is over the past few months is that it is ok to think things suck sometimes, but not ok to use them as an excuse to lose sight of your goals. So my plan for 2012 is to control the things I can:

- The 15+ lbs I have gained
- My dedication to training
-Optimizing time with my family
- Becoming a morning person again (this is one thing that really bums me out..I miss my time in the mornings.....need to start getting up early)

Goodbye 2011. Some awesome things have happened, but I am O.V.E.R you. I want to race, I want to run part of the way across the country, and I want to feel badass again!!! Is that too much to ask?

Meet My New Coach

2011-12-27T19:43:00.000-08:00

I didn't go into the planning for my 2012 season thinking I would have a coach. I thought I would use training plans and make it work. Sometimes things just happen at the right time, and for the right reason.

Enter Sharpie/Mama Bear/Carole. MB is our Rev3 "team Mom" (of course that makes her sound old and she is anything but). She is a very important facet of the "glue" that holds our team together. She is also a friend, and one of the toughest cookies I know. A schedule that doesn't fit mine = stress for me when I can't meet the challenge.

Sharpie top left, me bottom right.

My challenge in the past has been finding someone who understands my crazy life/schedule (full time work, kids, and husband who works shifts). Tommy's schedule is predictable, but makes a consistent training schedule require that much more creativity.

So why Carole? Like I said, she is the toughest cookie I know. She has made the podium multiple times in 70.3 and 140.6 races, and overcome some huge obstacles. Anyone can be an awesome athlete, but to also be one of those truly good people, who makes others laugh and supports everyone around her, is an entirely different story.

So why Carole?

She will kick my butt, but do so lovingly.

She knows what the past year has entailed, so will take that into account while kicking my butt.

Her blog is one of my favorite...she can make me laugh until I snort with one post, and cry with the next.

She is a fantastic athlete, and will help me become a better one.

Because the home page of her website says....

motivation

passion

drive

dream

strength

determination

I'm hoping she can help me with some of that....a tall order, but I think she is cut out for it and I am ready to work!

A Christmas Story

2011-12-14T18:31:00.000-08:00

We now interrupt your regularly scheduled triathlon blog.....

Everyone has "those" gifts they remember as kids. The "must have" holiday gift that you just had to have. My sister's was the "Hundred Dollar Car". It wasn't actually $100, but she asked for it and never got one. Years later, she bought one (complete with gas pump) for my daughter.

So one of my "must haves" was a Cabbage Patch Kid. This was the year they were the hot item to have (probably 1984 or so...I was 8). Apparently my parents had difficulty getting one, so they went for a substitute. Imagine Ralphie opening a Red Rider BeeBee Gun case to find a water gun inside...I got a "Cabbage Patch Kid" who was a few shades too pale, with a soft rather than hard face, and she was a bit bigger than the CPKs that my friends were getting. So here was the kicker....she came with a birth certificate. Like an authentic, green and white, signed by Xavier Roberts himself (the guy who discovered the cabbage patch) birth certificate. How is that possible? Of course everyone else knew she wasn't a real CPK, but I played with her and at some point down the road got a "real" CPK. The funny part? I still remember the name of my "Fake" CPK, but not the real one. (As I type this I realize CPK usually means "California Pizza Kitchen" around here).

Most Cabbage Patch Kids had names like "Abbey Olivia" and "Autumn Summer". Mine was named "Vanessa Munching". WTH kind of middle name is "Munching"? But I played with her...and almost 30 years later I still remember her.

Years later, my Dad told me the story. He borrowed the birth certificate from the legit CPK bought by the neighbor for my good friend Nadia, went to the store and Xeroxed it, whited out the name, copied it again, typed in the new name, and colored it in by hand. Whew! Guess what he was drinking while he did this?

Know who the bottler is? Van Munching and Company!!!! Hearing this story years later, I so wish I had saved that "Vanessa Munching" birth certificate.

Bigger Isn't Always Better........

2011-12-06T17:24:00.001-08:00

"The best things come in small packages"....
"The best perfume comes in small bottles"....
"Bigger isn't always better"......

Perhaps it is the fact that I am an imposing 5'1", and went to a High School with a graduating class of 18 people, and left the inner city teaching hospital for the small community hospital that feels like home.....I'm all about small (if only my hips and butt got the memo). (I did follow up the 80-person High School with 30,000 of my closest friends at the University of Maryland).

Where am I going with this? This past weekend was the Hot Chocolate 15K/5K at the National Harbor in DC. I DID NOT register. The appeal of loads of chocolate at the finish line were outweighed by the idea of dealing with traffic on the DC Beltway, parking permits, etc. Apparently this was a good choice. I wasn't there, so it is all secondhand, but I did read the letter sent to participants from the race director. It sounds like there were lots of logistical issues (parking nightmares, the race started over an hour late...you can read more about it here). The first year of holding the race in DC, and they went big with 20,000 participants. If it goes badly, it happens on a HUGE scale.

In contrast, a couple of weeks ago we held the first annual Don't Panic Foundation 5K. 196 people registered. It was a small race, but well-run, awesome sponsors (lots of firefighters, police officers, and Georgetown Cupcake, anyone?), and we look forward to growing it a bit every year.

This whole idea of "bigger isn't always better" is why I love Rev3 Triathlon and their races. Rev 3 does things on a big scale, but manages to make you feel like family. The race series continues to grow, but they keep that "small town" atmosphere. Awesome expo area (at the race site), huge finish chute, great volunteer support, and staff that work their tails off but do it with a smile and love what they do. Those are just a few of the things that make Rev3 fantastic. Finishing my first 70.3 holding my daughter's hand, one of the best memories a Mom/Triathlete could ask for.

"What counts is not necessarily the size of the dog in the fight - it's the size of the fight in the dog." Dwight D. Eisenhower

Motivation

2011-11-29T22:32:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking a lot lately about the sport of triathlon, and having "what it takes". I've not had it in the past year. I think competing (or even just racing for fun) requires several things:

- Determination
- Dedication
- Physical Ability
- Motivation

I've never been lacking in determination. When I joined the fire department and someone told me I couldn't be a firefighter, I had to prove them wrong. When I suffered a torn meniscus, I walked 6 miles of my 70.3 in Cedar Point, and 11 miles of 13 at the Half Full Triathlon. (Ok, the line between "determined" and stubborn is fairly blurred, but oh well).

Dedication is something I wish I had more of. My training has not been consistent for quite some time (more on that under "physical ability"). I've tried to listen to my body, and sometimes rest seems best, but not training makes me feel like a slacker (especially when you are friends with amazing, dedicated athletes who seem to make it work every day). The past few weeks...my dedication has been more consistent. I've been training 6 days a week, and slowly building my run mileage, but I have so far to go.

Physical ability has been my biggest issue this year. The list of medical issues is long (and sometimes quite random...ectopic pregnancy, torn meniscus, abnormal heart rhythm, hearing loss, hair loss, allergic reaction, blah, blah, blah). Regardless, my ability to consistently train or race this year has been nonexistent. For a long time I was pushing through, training despite not feeling 100%. Thankfully, just being able to exercise made me feel a bit better. Lately...exercise has been a coping mechanism and I have increased my physical ability. I have a long way to go, but I'm making progress.

Motivation. So this is where I've had a huge boost lately. I kept waiting for things this year to motivate me...trips to races, my desire to race, anything. It just wasn't there. Part of it was related to the health issues, but with more motivation I might have sucked it up a bit more often. In the past few weeks, the motivation has been abounding. It started when I went back to spin class. Sherri has been my favorite spin instructor since I started taking the class, but I took a hiatus when I thought it wasn't conducive to triathlon training. I've since discovered that it is a good way for me to get speed work in, especially because I feel like I can't push myself hard enough alone on the trainer. Our daughters became friends this year at school, and I have been attending her class pretty consistently. She has this ability to constantly remind you of the mind-body connection. It has helped me to find some serious focus while working harder than I have in a long time.

Then there are our new teams members on the Rev3 Triathlon Team. These are some crazy fast, really dedicated triathletes. I'm going to have to bring it in 2012.

Cookie the Wonderdog has been great motivation, too...she pushes me to be out there running even when I'm not feeling it. Today we ran after dark, with flashlights and a reflective vest, and I am so thankful for the motivation.

There are so many things that influence my motivation, but I am thankful for ongoing family support (and my husband who understands my endurance sport addiction even if he wouldn't do a triathlon himself), my friends (like friends who persist despite health issues, and Katy who is pregnant and still staying in fantastic shape!), my teammates, and my kids (who will soon be faster than me). Bring on 2012!!!!

"If you are hurt, whether in mind or body, don't nurse your bruises. Get up and light-heartedly, courageously, good temperedly get ready for the next encounter. This is the only way to take life - this is also 'playing' the game!" - Emily Post

(Mis)Adventures in Parenting

2011-11-28T18:19:00.001-08:00

As our children get older (5 and 9 in a few days), I realize how right everyone was when they tell you it doesn't get easier. I feel like we are constantly faced with moments where we have to respond to some question/issue/challenge with the kids, and you feel the weight of making sure you say/do the right thing. Sometimes I swear I could be in a cheesy movie...waiting for things to freeze and the narrator to debate various responses and their implications. Unfortunately, there often isn't a "correct" answer. I am thankful that Tommy and I have similar parenting styles, and that I have awesome friends and the "What Would Mama Kyle Do?" hotline at my disposal.

A recent example of one of these scenarios (but not the one that prompted this post...I'll get to that in a minute) occurred last week. My 9-year-old wants to still believe in Santa. Apparently some 4th grade boys at school were ranting about how stupid kids who believe in Santa are. I was in the shower, and she asked if we could talk. This question always makes my heart drop a little. I am so glad that she talks to me, but I'm waiting for the question that I can't answer, or the conversation that makes me sweat. Ok...you want to talk about Santa? No problem. (Movie narrator: "Say the wrong thing here, and you could totally ruin the holiday for your sweet daughter).

Me: "People get into wars because one group of people believes in something that the other group thinks is stupid."
S: "oh"
Me: "If you believe in Santa, it means that you believe in the spirit of the season. Christmas is all about giving, and caring, and being generous. That is what Santa is about, too."
S: "Ok"
Me: "Those are stupid boys- I can call them stupid, you can't. You should always stand up for what you believe in, but if you know they will tease you for believing in Santa, don't even talk to them about it. They aren't worth it....and they might get coal in their stockings. Does that help?"
S: "Yes...what is for breakfast?"

Ok, so that was an easy one. Maybe not therapeutic for me to call the boys stupid, but oh well! Today was the episode that has me more and more irritated as I think about it. One of the other Moms, we will call her Ms. X, often volunteers for recess and lunch duty.

S: "Today at recess, Ms. X told us all about the last Twilight movie since she knew I would not see it. She said it wasn't too bad, though. There was no s-e-x in it."

Me: .......................................................................(Crickets)

Excuse me? You are a parent of a 9 year old girl. Exactly when did it seem appropriate to talk to the girls about a movie that is not appropriate for their age, and to use/spell the word "s-e-x". The main character gets knocked up by a vampire, and then turned into a vampire. Totally appropriate for the girls!!!!!! I am not naive enough to believe they don't hear about it at school, but from ANOTHER PARENT????? If I thought the girls were discussing something like this (without parent participation), I would probably pass along to the other Moms so they can determine what they want to discuss with their child. I'm irked that someone who wants to be her daughter's friend rather than parent feels this is appropriate behavior with all of the other children. I appreciate the input from some of my go-to Moms (whose parenting styles and opinions I respect immensely), and will be following up on this.

No one said it would be easy, but it would be nice if other parents didn't make it any harder.

2011 Tri Season...In Pictures

2011-11-07T18:35:00.000-08:00

So I may not have raced as much as I would like, but I had some fun, volunteered, and sweat a bit two. Bring it on, 2012!

San Juan 70.3

Andree's Race Sherpa (A hard job but someone had to do it).

(There were Pina Colada's at the finish line!)

Rev 3 Knoxville

Mommy Road Trip with Laura.....Rocked the injured reserve with Kati!

(Yes, both of us had surgery not long before this race!)

Tri Slide Pit

Rev3 Quassy

Charlie really let me drive this! Only took 15 minutes to figure out how to open the gas cap!

Make a Wish Triathlon

Having my hubby there made my day...even if he laughed at me trying to pour myself into my TYR wetsuit!

MoCo Mojo Kids Tri

Rev3 Anderson

(The pic of Andree and I post-race is missing because I was covered in a rash....no pic was happening!!!!)

Many Thanks to My Sponsors!!!!!!!.....and to my Awesome, Fantastic, Supportive Family and Teammates

Rev3 SC: Relay Report

2011-10-13T19:12:00.000-07:00

Rev3 Anderson embodied all of the things I love about the Rev3 series, and the awesome support we feel as members of Team Trakkers/Rev3. I flew to Atlanta on Friday to meet up with teammate Andree for the drive to South Carolina. Tommy went above and beyond to make sure he was home from the firehouse in time to get me out the door to the airport. I slept like a rock on the plane, and arrived in Atlanta ready for the weekend. I was very excited to meet Andree's husband and sweet puppy Kaleigh.

The 2 hour drive to Anderson was relatively uneventful, until I started itching. It started as a vague itching on my neck and face, which I chalked up to my sensitive skin. We dropped our stuff off and headed to the race venue. It is always like old home week when hanging out with our teammates. Many of the Team Trakkers members were working the race, which made it that much better. The venue was nice, with the finish line, T2, and expo at the Anderson civic center. T1 was at Lake Hartwell, up the road.

My rash had other plans for the weekend. Despite benadryl, it got worse overnight. I ended up going to urgent care in Anderson as the hives were spreading and the itching becoming unbearable. No fewer than three people said "Bless your heart" to me at the urgent care center. Translation: "You look awful!". I got a steroid injection, and was back to the expo. The big celebrity participant was Ryan Sutter (and his wife Trista) from The Bachelorette. This was the one season of the Bachelor/Bachelorette I ever watched. I might have said hello, but I was covered in hives, looked ridiculous, and certainly wasn't going near any strangers.

Saturday morning- awesome!

Saturday night was mellow. Andree and I bowed out of dinner with our teammates since she was battling allergies and I was not very good company. Pre-race dinner at Outback, followed by an ART session with Andree's chiropractor from Atlanta. That alone was worth the trip. He worked on my SI joint and my shoulder, and neither have felt this good in ages. I didn't sleep well that night-poor Andree had to deal with my scratching. It was chilly at transition race morning. Since there was a Half Rev and the Oly, I had lots of time before the swim start.

I was initially supposed to race the Oly as an individual, but after my Oly in September I realized that I had a long way to go to get my fitness back. I put out an email to my teammates, asking if anyone wanted to race the relay. My teammate Kristin (who just competed in the Full Rev at Cedar Point), and teammate Kacie's husband George (who is prepping for Cozumel), both stepped up right away. George is a wicked fast cyclist, so he offered to do the bike. Kristin is training for a marathon, so that left me with the swim. Eek!!!! I'm doing the swim portion of the race????? As long as everyone is ok with not winning, I am fine with that. Of course what I think is being matter-of-fact sometimes comes across as self-deprecating. I want to be a fast swimmer, and tell myself I can be, but I'm still figuring out how to make it happen. I started Masters this month, and am working toward my goals (of course this is on hold until the hives are gone- chlorine is not my friend).

Pre-race with Teammate Kati (my race angel- she works the races and always looks out for me)

The pre-race vibe was incredible. Since it was a regional collegiate championship, there were 100+ college triathletes. They were cheering like crazy, chanting, hyping it up. It was so much fun. I felt good at the start, and hung tough until the first buoy. My lack of fitness just caught up with me. I told George that if I could be in the mid-30s, I would be happy. Since I didn't have to use my legs for the bike or run, and have been complimented by two Masters coaches on my breaststroke (while they told me that my freestyle kick was awkward and painful), I did resort to some breaststroke. I surprisingly held my own that way. Obviously not a good plan for next season, but it got me through, and within my time goal.

I sprinted out of the water into T1. Knowing I didn't have to do anything else, I ran hard. George was off like a flash. I came out of the water at the back of the relay teams, but didn't give George too much of a deficit to make up. Kristin and I hopped on the shuttle to meet him at T2. We knew he would be fast, but George came into transition more than 20 minutes ahead of the next closest relay team (he had the fastest bike time on the Oly course). Kristin ran hard- a 10K PR. George and I ran the finish chute with her, and our team took a solid first place. This was my first ever podium finish at a Rev3 event. The coolest part? The awards were hand-made by our teammate Anthony's mother.

Why do I look like I need to go to the bathroom? George, Kristin, and I.

The "Rev3 Rocks!" relay team with Josh, flashing the Rev3 "sign"

The finish party was great, as always. Once again, the collegiate athletes got things really amped up. We had a blast cheering on our teammates, and then headed back to Atlanta. Six days later and I'm smiling from a great weekend, but still have the hives. Apparently South Carolina didn't agree with me too much, but I will be back next year!

Make a Wish: The best of tris, the worst of tris

2011-09-25T18:39:00.000-07:00

This weekend was the Make a Wish Olympic triathlon. After a year of health issues (most of them bothersome rather than life-threatening), I was excited to compete in a race I had done two years ago. How would I stack up? I knew my fitness is seriously decreased. Leading into the race, I was dealing with six weeks straight of migraines. Literally a headache every day. I have battled headaches since I was 10, but having them this consistently was new for me. To top it off, I noticed that my hair is falling out. Not in clumps, but noticeably. Again- none of this is life-threatening, but the headaches seriously impacted training.

In the days leading up to the race, I learned that Heather ZG, a tri-club member who often had encouraging words for me on facebook, lost a tragically short battle with pancreatic cancer. Like unfair short. The thing that strikes me about Heather is her consistently positive attitude. While we weren't terribly close, I was struck deeply by the loss of a vibrant mother of two young girls. I decided that I would race this race for her. I would enjoy being able to race, and having my family there (only Tommy's second time seeing me race in person since he is usually working or on munchkin duty).

Tommy and I Pre-race

Pre-Race:
This was the "what not to do" of pre-race experiences. We left home at 3:30pm. Worst-case scenario, it would take us 4-4.5 hours to get there. It took us 4 hours to get over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge (usually a 1 hour drive). I was gearing up for a meltdown. Tommy and I were driving separate cars, and driving that long is a surefire way to get the arthritis in my sacroiliac joint flared up. Two hours into the drive, I was desperate for a potty break (all of the pre-hydration with First Endurance EFS and water...uuugggghh). We didn't arrive in Bethany until 10pm. The CEO of Make a Wish called me to tell me packet pickup was extended until 10:30 pm. We got the kids and dog dropped off, and I ran to get my packet. Pre-race dinner was one half of a chick-fil-a wrap (no dressing)...not my ideal scenario. I was in bed at 11pm, after some serious stretching and foam rolling.

Wake-up was 5:15. I was so thankful to be 2 miles from the race site. 1/2 a bagel with peanut butter. I got my bike numbers on, etc., in the back of my minivan, and then headed to transition. Tommy was already there to meet me. I was so happy to have him there, especially with my Grandparents watching the kids so they could sleep in. All of the women were in the back of transition...less than ideal but at least we were all on equal footing. The numbering was messed up, so there were issues with the rack. Got everything set up, then went to talk to Tommy. I happened to go back to my transition spot, and noticed my helmet was gone. G-O-N-E...as in nowhere near my transition. In a wavering voice I asked loudly where it was. Thankfully someone near me had seen it on the ground (when someone moved to our rack, they knocked it down, apparently), but they just picked it up and put it on the closest bike. I'm so thankful I went back. That would have been a bummer. Worst pre-race nightmare, only I didn't forget the helmet.

Tommy enjoyed watching me struggle with my wetsuit. While he isn't a triathlete, he has known me for almost 19 years and always knows what to say (even if it was in between laughter about my wetsuit antics). I was fortunate to be racing with a team of Montgomery County Firefighters (two of whom are in the top ten fundraisers each year for the race). We all walked down to transition. Yes- I peed in my wetsuit, and when I hit the cold water I was thankful I had!

The Swim: (50-some minutes for 0.9 miles)
They told us before the swim that the current was in our favor. This was not exactly true. The swim was much more challenging than in 2009. Granted- my swim fitness leaves something to be desired. This was one of my more comfortable swims. No freak out moments....just feeling like I didn't have a fast gear. The challenges? Being in a wave with bright yellow caps when all of the buoys were yellow- not helpful when you are at the back of the pack. Getting moved around by the current. Finally- trying to get out of the water with a serious undertow and some decent sized waves. The good news was if you breathed to the left you could see the high rise buildings near the finish. It made for a good landmark (though they didn't get close for what seemed like eternity). Then as I kept plugging along, I breathed to my right. The day was grey (to say the least), cloudy, and foggy. For a brief time, the sun shone through a break in the clouds. It was absolutely beautiful. I thought of Heather, and reminded myself that it was about celebrating my ability to race, no matter the time.

I ran out of the water and past Tommy. I believe I yelled "that freaking sucked!". I knew I was 20 minutes slower than 2009. Slower by 8 minutes than my 1.2 mile swim last year. Wow- I knew I was out of shape but SERIOUSLY?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?

Transition wasn't bad (so thankful my helmet was there).

The Bike (25.5 miles, 18.5mph pace)
I have been waiting for this bike course on my Kestrel Airfoil Pro. The bike was made for a flat, fast course like this. I got a new computer installed this week, and tried to keep my speed >20mph. I played leap frog with another woman (I swear she was drafting for a while). I caught a few in my age group, but definitely felt the lack of fitness. When my computer said we had 3.5 miles left, I passed a volunteer who said "5 miles to go!". What?!?!?!? It was then I realized my computer was set for 700 wheels, not 650. Crap!!!!! I was much slower than I thought.

Oh well. The woman who I had been leap-frogging with passed me toward the end, but I hammered to catch up with her (and for the record totally beat her out of transition and on the run...I did compliment her on her bike as we passed in opposite directions on the run). Tommy and the kids were there as I rode in, and to cheer me as I went out on the run. My heart totally swelled. I was so happy to see them. They cheered for me like crazy.

The Run: (9:40 pace/10K)
The run was tough. My fitness just isn't there. It is an out and back, so you really get to see where you stack up. The first place female finished as I started (always a bit demoralizing, since we stared in the same swim wave). I must have pulled a lat muscle on the swim. I had pain when I took a deep breath near my left shoulder. I walked some and tried to stretch it out. Walking was fine, but every breath when I ran was painful. I was walk-running. for a bit. The volunteers were awesome. I tried to run more than walk, and the pain started to subside. I hit the turnaround, and by that point realized I wasn't as far back as I thought. There were a lot of women behind me (we were all in one wave, so you knew exactly where you stood). For some reason, after the turnaround I started to think about Heather, and about having my family there at the finish. I realized that I can't cry and run. I made a few awful sounds and then decided to suppress the tears. As my teammate Andree told me during my pre-race meltdown....I needed to let it all out on the course. So I did. I thought of Heather and her family a lot. Again, we weren't super close, but it could have been any of us, and her amazing spirit touched so many. I thought of all Tommy and I have been through this year, and gave thanks for being able to race (no matter how slow). I thought of seeing my kids at the finish. About 2 miles from the finish, I actually got lost in my thoughts. I had to remind myself I was in a race. Being rather competitive, this doesn't usually happen. My pace picked up toward the end. I got near the finish chute, and saw my family. I looked back to make sure there was no one close to me (so that we didn't get in their way), and then put out my hands for the kids to join me. They raced to the finish with me (there were two awesome volunteers there waving us on), and both got medals. The finish time was not pretty (30+ minutes slower than 2009), but a victory nonetheless. I did find out from several other triathletes (including the second place female swimmer), that the swim was slower than years past.

Post-Race:

Make a Wish puts on a great race and party. It is so nice to hang out with the Montgomery County crew, and they have a child/adult who was granted a wish as the guest of honor. The woman who spoke this year received a heart transplant as a child, and a second transplant at 14 years old. Listening to her talk was another reminder that it doesn't matter if you win, just that you are there and can actually participate. I started this race hoping I could beat my previous time, and ended it thankful just to be there. By far, my slowest Olympic but my most meaningful race ever. Many thanks to Tommy and my Grandparents for making the weekend possible, and to Andree and other good friends for the pre-race pep talk.

"Teach your parents well..."

2011-09-19T20:05:00.000-07:00

As a parent you spend so much time teaching your children...hoping you are teaching the right lessons. I was reminded this weekend that my kids teach me a lot, too. It was to be a jam-packed weekend. I got a little Mommy time at the University of Maryland vs WVU game, and then we settled in for a busy (and fun) day Sunday. The kids were participating in a tri early in the morning. S had convinced her friend C to join in the fun, so that made things even more exciting. Of course I had a bit of a Mom freak-out because of the swim. My kids learned to swim more competitively this summer, but it definitely isn't their strength (they got that from me). We found out the pool was an outdoor swim, in an unheated pool (temp in the 70s). The ambient temp was 50 degrees. Parents were in fleece/sweatshirts (some in gloves and scarves) encouraging their kids to swim. I decided it wasn't worth D not enjoying his first tri (especially since the 25 yard swim is still something he is working on at 5 years old). About 90% of the kids did the swim (which was optional), and I give them total credit for getting in the water and doing it. I doubt 90% of the parents would have. C braved the swim, and went on to become a tried and true triathlete, which is so awesome.S has had a great attitude about her two races this summer. "I don't need to win. I just want to have fun." She had a smile on her face, and a great attitude. As D came back into transition, She was finishing, so I got to cheer her on. (I ran with him on the bike and run- he was a total crowd favorite as the smallest guy there). She finished, got water, and then ran back to finish with her brother. She cheered him the whole way, and ran with him down the finishing chute. Then she went to find C, who was in a different wave, and cheered her on. I was so proud of her for displaying such support and sportsmanship....she definitely gets what this sport is all about.

Later that afternoon, the girls went to the University of Maryland to practice for "Youth Cheer Day". This is a chance for girls ages 6-14 to cheer at halftime at a University of Maryland football game. S took dance when she was 4, but nothing since. Unfortunately, I have the rhythm of a fruit fly (though they flap their tiny wings rhythmically, so they sadly have more rhythm than I). More unfortunately, this seems to be hereditary. What would I have done as a child (or adult) presented with the same opportunity? I might not have even attempted it. S was given the option to attend, and she knew there would be girls with cheering experience, but she wanted to go for it. I was worried that she would get frustrated during the clinic, but glad that she had a buddy there. We went to drop the girls off, and it was evident they were some of the youngest girls there. They got bows for their hair, and headed for warm-ups with the UM cheerleaders. I left S learning how to grapevine in the warm-ups. I next saw her a few hours later when she got back from the practice. She was totally glowing. Not only did she have a blast, but she and C are going to be the "Flys" during the stunts.!!!!!!

As in the girls at the top of the stunt. Pretty freaking cool. So take that, doubting Mommy.....never underestimate the power of your determined Mini-me

Race Report: Luray Sprint

2011-08-15T16:09:00.001-07:00

Ok- this race was a long time coming, and I wasn't sure it would ever happen, so this will be a long race report. It has been a rough year. Some of you know all of my medical issues and injuries, which have been frustrating and emotional at times. Ultimately, I am just thankful that I could race this season.

Goal for the race: Finish (Being someone who needs a more concrete goal, I wanted to finish within 2 hours)

Things I knew going into the race:
1. My swim fitness is not anywhere near where it needs to be, but I will get there.
2. I was really looking forward to rocking my new Kestrel on the bike course.
3. I needed to win the mental game on the run.

Pre-race:
The weather forecast was not good (50% chance of thunderstorms all morning). It was overcast and raining when I left home at 4am for the 2 hour drive to Luray. The rain was intermittent, but the fog going up over the winding mountain road was enough to get me nervous.

I checked in and got racked. (I was at the far end of a rack in a less-than-optimal spot). I had a trash bag to set my gear on (folded in half so I could cover my gear if it rained and at least keep my shoes a little dry). It was during transition set-up that I realized the value of those pre-race "I forgot my [insert important item here]" dreams. It lets you work out all the anxiety. I didn't have any pre-race dreams, and therefore was really worried I was forgetting something.

I think I was the only person praying the race wasn't wetsuit legal. I have an incredible TYR Cat 5 wetsuit, but hadn't ever tried it on (after all of my issues this year, I wanted to get back to "fighting weight" before trying it on). Wouldn't you know- wetsuit legal race. I got the most fantastic pre-race pep talk from Tommy (who was headed home from working a 24 hour shift). He reminded me that this season should be about determining what I need to work on for next year, and not about finishing fast.

I got into the wetsuit, and it fit like a glove! My only race injury was self inflicted, when I punched myself in the jaw while pulling up the sleeve of my wetsuit (slippery sucker).

The Swim:
750m- 18:57 (28/39 AG)
Yes- that was a horrendous swim. Thanks to my awesome teammate Andree, I just finished reading "I'm Here to Win" by Chris McCormack (2010 Ironman World Champion). One of his phrases (my favorite from the book) is "embrace the suck". Essentially, there is a part of every race that sucks. Know it, and embrace it.

My first 25-50 meters seemed great. The wetsuit was fantastic, I was swimming along, but there was lots of contact. Then I felt this incredible fatigue in my arms. I know I haven't been swimming long distances, but what the heck?! I was ready to quit before the first buoy. Then I started breast-stroking. Not leisurely breast-stroking, but I'm going to hunt down some slow freestylers kind of swimming. Periodically I tried to swim freestyle, but for some reason it didn't work. I knew I was fatiguing my legs, and by the last leg of the triangle-shaped swim I was doing all freestyle. I don't know what happened here, other than the fact that I need to get my act together and swim A LOT more. I think the swim time included the run across the beach and up the stairs to transition, but I'm not sure.

T1(2:28, 11/39)- I was exhausted from the swim, and honestly had a hard time getting my legs out of the wetsuit. After that, I got my helmet and shoes on quickly and ran out on the bike (I was about as far from the "bike out" as you could get).

Bike 17 miles (1:03:42, avg 16mph, 11/39)
I raced the Luray Olympic two years ago, so I knew the course. The bike has a lot of false flats, and a couple of good hills. It also has some fantastic flats and downhills that were awesome on my tri bike. I passed several of the women in my age group, and no one from my AG passed me, so I considered that a "win". I don't have a computer on my tri bike yet, so I was going purely by how I felt, and estimated distance/time. The last hill is wicked (and I am learning how to tackle hills on a tri bike vs my road bike), but having Team Z there cheering everyone on was a huge help. I passed one girl right before the turn back into the park. I felt a little bad about this, but it wasn't an unsafe pass and I didn't think I should hold back just because we were nearing the end of the bike.

T2: (1:35, 21/39) Not sure what took so long here, except a long run with my bike in transition, and getting used to the laces on my Avia Bolts.

The Run: (28:44, 18/39)
The run is where I tend to lose the mental battle. It is an out and back, with a few decent hills in each direction. I told myself I would not walk. I pushed hard to the turnaround. I pushed up the hills (thinking of Andree's feedback when we ran together in Puerto Rico). I knew I was on target to make my goal of completing under 2 hours. I made it to the turnaround, and past the two mile mark. I had First Endurance Liquid Shot with me for a little oomph. One on of the hills, I felt something in the bottom of my shoe (I thought a stone). Stopping was the biggest mistake EVER. I had to fight hard not to walk after that, as my right glute (which gives me trouble because of arthritis in my pelvis) kept tightening up. I did walk a couple of short sections, and wished I had never stopped. Again, the crowd definitely motivated me. At 2.9 miles I thought I was going to vomit or pass out for sure, then at 3 miles I made the last turn and something clicked. I sprinted the finish (I actually passed a woman right before the finish- she was 1 second behind me in the results). It was nice to see Ashley (awesome Rev3 staffer) and Krista from She Does Tri at the finish. :)

It wasn't pretty, but I definitely embraced "the suck". I was glad Tommy was home watching the kids, but definitely wished he was there for a hug at the finish line. He has been by my side through so much this year, and finishing this race was huge for me. I almost cried, but instead plopped down in one of the kiddie pools they had filled with ice. :) This is a great race. (Small town feel, minimal swag, but nice venue and nice people).

Final Result: 1:55:23, 13/39 in my age group, and gloriously happy to have been able to race in 2011.

Cardiac Arrest During Triathlons

2011-08-09T18:17:00.000-07:00

With all the buzz about the two tragic deaths at the NYC Triathlon this weekend, there have been a lot of emails going around our triathlon club. Working as a Nurse Practitioner in Cardiology, this is obviously my area of specialty. That being said, the following blog is my insight (based on medical expertise), not meant to diagnose anyone. If you have cardiac symptoms, stop sucking it up and SEE YOUR DOCTOR.

This year there have been several tri deaths/cardiac arrests.

In May, a man competing in a tri in Florida collapsed. A nurse who was competing in the race stopped, resuscitated him using a defibrillator from nearby police officers, and finished the race. (She saved his life, by the way). Read the story here.

Also in May, this time in Colorado, a father and daughter were running the marathon in Fort Collins together. Her goal was to qualify for Boston. She came upon a man in cardiac arrest and stopped to help. She then realized it was her father. Thankfully, he did well. Read about it here.

So while the highest number of deaths are during the swim (less opportunity to identify/help people in distress), endurance sports in general are dangerous to people with diagnosed and undiagnosed cardiac illness.

The good news? (Yes- there is good news). Regular exercise significantly reduces the risk of sudden cardiac death.

So now for my cardiac insight:
There are three different areas of cardiac issues (and I use this same analogy with my patients):

Plumbing Problems: Coronary artery disease (blocked arteries). This is what causes your traditional "heart attack".

Modifiable risk factors for CAD (things you can change- most of these aren't an issue for triathletes):
-Tobacco smoke
-High cholesterol
-High blood pressure
-Physical inactivity
-Obesity/overweight
-Diabetes
-Alcohol
-Stress

Non-modifiable Risk Factors:
-Increasing age (63% of people with heart disease are 65 or older)
-Male gender
-Heredity

Warning Signs of CAD (from American Heart Association):
- Chest discomfort (this may be pressure, fullness, or pain)
- Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
- Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.
- Other signs may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.
Not everyone has chest pain with a heart attack! I can't tell you how many people I see with vague symptoms like fatigue, weakness, nausea/vomiting, and NO chest pain!

"But I'm a triathlete who trains 6-7 days a week and I don't have any problems". By definition, triathlon is "painful". Sometimes vague symptoms of cardiac problems can be masked by all the wonderful things we feel during training/racing. (Who hasn't felt nauseated, short of breath, fatigued????) In an article outlining 19 years of the Marine Corps Marathon, there were 4 deaths. 2/4 had run marathons before. On autopsy, 3/4 had significant coronary artery disease but no previous symptoms or diagnosis.

"Electrical" Problems
These can be abnormalities in the way the electricity travels through the heart, or arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms- either too fast or too slow).

Too Fast- Some of these rhythms can be non-threatening (read about my own experience with Supraventricular Tachycardia here), while others can be life-threatening.

Too Slow- Yes, most endurance athletes have slow heart rates, but some abnormal heart rhythms (such as heart blocks where not every electrical signal goes through the heart)can be dangerous. I have a friend in her 30s with such a problem. She is on her second pacemaker and runs marathons (much faster than I do!).

Causes of Abnormal Heart Rhythms:
-Congenital abnormalities
-Underlying cardiac problems
One of the conditions we see most often in otherwise healthy people is Cardiomyopathy. This is an enlarged, weakened heart. Heart attacks can cause this, but also viruses, pregnancy, alcohol, and sometimes idiopathic or unknown causes. I have taken care of two alcoholics recently who were diagnosed with severely reduced heart function (both young), and previously unaware. This is the condition which is most often implicated in the deaths of younger athletes who suffer sudden cardiac death.

-Substances
-Alcohol
-Illicit drugs
-Over-the-counter and prescription medications

Risks of Serious Arrhythmias:
-Sudden cardiac death (these patients may not have warning or symptoms prior to the cardiac arrest)
-Stroke

Symptoms of Arrhythmias (From American Heart):
- Arrhythmias can produce a broad range of symptoms, from barely perceptible to cardiovascular collapse and death.

- A single premature beat may be felt as a "palpitation" or "skipped beat."
Premature beats that occur often or in rapid succession may cause a greater awareness of heart palpitations or a "fluttering" sensation in the chest or neck.
- When arrhythmias last long enough to affect how well the heart works, more serious symptoms may develop:

-Fatigue
-Dizziness
-Lightheadedness
-Fainting (syncope) or near-fainting spells
-Rapid heartbeat or pounding
-Shortness of breath
-Chest pain
-In extreme cases, collapse and sudden cardiac arrest

Structural Abnormalities
Valvular (“heart murmur”)
Congenital
Hypertrophy/Cardiomyopathy

Why are there more issues on the swim?
-Cold water (This may induce some abnormal heart rhythms. Treatment for one of the rapid rhythms in the Emergency Department used to be sticking the patient's headin a bucket of cold water).
-Sudden surge of adrenaline (This can increase heart rate and blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart attack or arrhythmia).
-Inexperience/ Inability to stop or ask for help

What should you do as an endurance athlete?
Have an annual physical.
It is reasonable to ask for an annual ECG (electrocardiogram). This will not necessarily show CAD, but may show an enlarged heart or other problems).

If you have symptoms, see your physician. The phrase "better safe than sorry" is definitely appropriate here. What can they do?
- A cardiac stress test to look for CAD, blood pressure changes with exercise, abnormal heart rhythms with exercise
- An echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart) to look at the heart structure and function
- An event recorder or home monitor to capture abnormal heart rhythms

Again- none of this is meant to replace the advice of your physician, but hopefully it sheds some insight.

DOES EVERY TRIATHLETE NEED A STRESS TEST? NOT NECESSARILY!!!!! See your physician, assess your risk factors, and go from there.

The #1 thing I think all of us can do as athletes? LEARN CPR. CPR can save lives (as indicated by those two stories at the beginning of this post). It may not be another athlete you save, but a friend, family member, or complete stranger. If I haven't bored you completely, this is a very cool video about a patient I took care of whose life was saved by her running buddy. The neatest part about this? We were at a swim meet this summer and Tommy was timing two lanes from Shari. He recognized her and said hello. There isn't much in life more rewarding than seeing someone who was so sick doing so well!

I Had a "Good Mom" week

2011-08-07T19:59:00.000-07:00

I don't think I could put this out there if I didn't know several (dozen) other Moms who feel frazzled and unprepared some days. I feel like there are so many days when I am not fully present for my kids, or don't have enough patience. I'm not saying that hasn't happened in the past few weeks, but I feel like the past week or so has been wonderful.

My son capped it off by saying "Mom, you are a good person". We had a wonderful family vacation last week. We crossed off all of our vacation "bucket list" items, and added more:

- A day at Kings Dominion (no one melted in the heat, the lines were short, and my daughter rocked on the roller coasters with the bigger boys). D-man also held his own on the kiddie rides.

- Bay kayaking at the beach (many thanks to my brother-in-law for this suggestion). We had a blast splashing, paddling, and laughing.
- Waterslides at the beach (it is so nice now that the kids are old enough for us to watch them but give them a little leeway, too)
- The Boardwalk at Rehoboth (ice cream, video games, cheesy stuffed animals)

Even when Tommy worked, I took the kids to Target for school supply shopping and we made it out unscathed. We also got to meet my newest "sibling" (my Mom's new horse "Razzle"). The kids helped brush the horses, muck the stalls, and take Raz for a walk. (Of course then my son said "I love shoveling poop!"). I love the moments when I can just be present, listen to what they have to say, and enjoy the time with them. Don't get me wrong- they still argue, and I still yell sometimes, but this summer has been fantastic!

"Surviving" Swim Team

2011-08-07T19:24:00.000-07:00

This summer brought about big changes in our family schedule. The kids are starting a new school in the fall, so Tommy held "Camp Dad" on his days off. To get some regularly scheduled exercise, improve their swimming, and introduce them to friends from their new school, we signed the kids up for swim team.

Whew!!! I tip my hat to all of the parents who have done this year after year. As a parent, you literally "dive in" to the swim team season. Practice every day (when the kids weren't at daycare), volunteer responsibilities (in which we were delinquent due to scheduling), even getting our head around all of the details was overwhelming. (Swim team veterans are laughing at me right now).

When I was a kid, we were total pool rats. We played sharks and minnows for hours, but there was no formal swim team (which haunts me now as a triathlete).

So here I am, with one on the swim team and one on pre team. The season was a blast. Cheering my daughter and son on was even better than racing in a triathlon myself! Tommy and I definitely learned some lessons (he made an awesome timer, and also rescued a girl in distress during the pre-team meet), but I think we will do it all over again next year. I'm very thankful for my "parent buddies" who helped us learn the ropes!

I Have a Race Schedule!

2011-08-07T18:11:00.000-07:00

After months of seemingly random (but perhaps somewhat connected) health issues and injuries, I have actually been training somewhat consistently. I am not fast (my former "easy" pace now pushes me to the limit), and I am not going far (I told myself I would not do longer than a 10K run this season), but I am out there. My "fat" pants are loose again (thank goodness!), and I'm starting to feel my body getting more athletic. It is amazing what these changes do for your state of mind.

The most important race I have registered for isn't mine, but for my daughter. It is her first ever Kids Tri. Of course she is learning tri rules early. Her birthday is December, so she is 8 but will race as a 9 year old. This means she has to swim 100 meters rather than 50. We also have three weeks to get her over her fear of biking without training wheels. I'm seriously crossing my fingers. She is eager and enthusiastic, though.

The biggest omission from my own race calendar is Rev3 Cedar Point. Racing the 70.3 there (healthy), and with a tri bike, will be a huge thing for me. It looks like 2012 will be the year for that. I am so excited to race with my Trakkers teammates in Anderson, SC at the Rev3 race there in October.

So my schedule is a bit about going back to my "roots". I'm doing two of the races I did my first season as a triathlete (they are both local and familiar), and then ending with Rev 3 Anderson. Even though it is in SC, the Rev3 crew makes it feel like home!

Sunday, August 14 Luray Sprint Triathlon
Saturday, Sept 24 Make-A-Wish Olympic Triathlon
Sunday, October 9 Rev 3 Anderson

So I have a plan. Next week will be the test. I am excited to pack a transition bag, to toe the line, and to see where I stand with my fitness. I'm also excited to race my new Kestrel. She is raring to go!

What Triathlons and Disaster Preparedness Have in Common

2011-07-18T19:05:00.000-07:00

While on a short deployment July 4th for the Maryland Disaster Medical Assistance Team (DMAT), I got to thinking about how much being on the DMAT and being a triathlete have in common. I am fortunate enough to be part of the MD-1 DMAT (part of the National Disaster Medical System), and Team Trakkers/Rev3.

Preparation
"A winning effort begins with preparation." (Joe Gibbs- Former Washington Redskins Coach)
In triathlon, you train for the known and the unknown. The distance is known, but you also prepare for the unexpected technical or physical difficulties(flat tires, muscle strains, GI distress...). In disaster medicine, there is a huge element of unknown. We train, review the equipment, but never know what might happen during our "on call" months, or when. Regardless, preparation is key. Prepare for the unexpected and practice how you would respond to the unexpected.

Team
Triathlon is often an individual sport, but there is a huge sense of camaraderie among athletes. For me, Team Trakkers/Rev 3 is like a second family. In the same sense, my DMAT teammates are people I quite literally may have to trust with my life. My teammate Lee and I have been fortunate enough to train together and deploy to DC on July 4th. We have become friends, and gotten to know each others strengths quickly. It makes a huge difference to have support in a stressful situation (even just a familiar face out there on the race course or in a disaster to give you some strength and confidence). Having friends to laugh with helps some days, too!

The Gear
This is what really struck me. We could dedicate an entire room in our house to the gear required for triathlon and the DMAT (plus Tommy's fire department and hockey gear). For the DMAT, you need a 72-hour bag (which can be carry-on baggage on a plane), as well as a two-week bag. For triathlon, there is the transition bag, the bike gear, the running gear, the swim gear.

The Bags:
For DMAT it is a large duffel (with wheels), and a smaller hiking backpack.

For Triathlon, it is a tad cooler...my TYR sport backpack.

The Footwear:
Once again, the footwear for tri is much cooler than for the DMAT. I get to rock my Avia Bolt IIIs for racing, but wear big black boots for the DMAT. They keep my feet safe, but running in them isn't nearly as comfortable!

Transportation
Triathlon wins the award in this category for sure. Transportation for the DMAT involves a lot of big white vans. In triathlon it means my awesome Kestrel Airfoil Pro ("Lucy").

Nutrition
Nutrition/hydration is actually a big focus for both tri and the DMAT. With tri, a successful race involves a carefully thought-out nutrition plan. For DMAT, a deployment can sometimes mean hours in the heat, without ready access to food. First Endurance EFS is great in both situations for hydration, and electrolyte repletion, and it doesn't taste gross when warm. I'm wondering if Ultragen (awesome for recovery from hard workouts) might be a good option on deployments where food is scarce. I think I will have to talk to the First Endurance folks about this.......

Hygiene
They warn you in the DMAT that you may be functioning in an "austere" environment. (aka...no toilets, no showers, etc.). Thankfully so far we have had showers for our training and deployments, but I have a shower bucket and a chamois towel just in case. SBR sports Tri Swim products (especially their sample sizes) are awesome for travel and deployment (not to mention chlorine).

Recovery
I have decided that Recovery Pump needs to market to healthcare providers. While I love using my pump before and after workouts, I love it even more after a long day on my feet at work. It makes going back for more the next day even better.

At the end of the day, you hope that the preparation is in place, the equipment is there, and you are able to do what you set out to do on a given day. It certainly doesn't happen without the support of my wonderful husband, children, and family.

Meet Cookie: Canine Burn Survivor

2011-06-26T16:06:00.000-07:00

The amazing thing about dogs is their ability to love unconditionally and their ability to forget horrible things that have happened in their past. Tommy and I both swore that it would be a long time before we got another dog, but then we found Cookie. (Disclaimer: some of the pictures below might be bothersome, but I promise the story has a happy ending).

(Excerpted from the Dawg Rescue site)
Cookie was found tied inside an abandoned, burning home. She was lifeless and presumed dead. The wonderful firemen took what they thought was Cookie's body outside and discovered she was alive! Cookie was rushed to an emergency vet for burns and smoke inhalation. DAWG heard about her and knew we had to help. Animal Control officers drove her to DAWG's animal hospital, where she started treatment immediately.

What looked like burns "here and there" -- especially on her head and inside the ears -- changed. Cookie's skin started to peel off, and unbelievably she lost most of her skin!

January 1, 2011

Cookie started the new year with her usual sweet playfulness, but damaged skin now covered most of her body. Cookie's wonderful veterinarian, Dr. Kim Beck, decided to look into specialized burn treatments and discovered that South Paws in Virginia offers Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) to accelerate healing in burn victims. So she took Cookie to her first treatment on January 4. Treatment was daily until Cookie showed substantial gains in her condition. Thanks to South Paws for pulling out the stops for Cookie. These are pictures of Cookie's skin as she embarked on her HBOT treatments:

Cookie didn't seem to notice, even when she started wearing a body bandage and a t-shirt. She just greeted everyone wagging her tail and giving kisses.
To see Cookie on YouTube at this stage, click here.

February 10, 2011

Cookie's back after a month of HBOT treatments at South Paws! All that's left of her burned skin is a raw area on her back, roughly the size of a hand. The rest of her burned skin is a healthy pink, with bits of fur growing (not that she'll ever have a "fur coat").

Thank you to South Paws and Cookie's many friends there, who cried as they said good-bye. There's something special about Cookie...she touches everyone she meets!

Cookie on March 20, 2011

Lovin' life and the joys of spring!
(Click here)

Cookie on March 27, 2011 (Click Here)

Cookie visiting at the April 2 Beltsville Petco adoption show.
No more bandages, just protection of her healing skin.
Note Cookie's custom-designed outfit, courtesy of her veterinarian!

Cookie meeting our son

Cookie at our house for an adoption interview last week

We can't begin to say how thankful we are for the Dawg volunteers, all of the veterinary providers, and most especially Cookie's foster Mom Kathy and her family. There were daily dressing changes, weekly visits to the vet, and immense amounts of love dispensed. I almost feel guilty that we are getting Cookie after so many others put so much effort into her survival. The most amazing part? She acts like any other 15 month-ish puppy. She needs some leash training, but sits, plays with the kids, (chews on stuffed animals...BeeBee beware), and is going to be an amazing addition to our family. Her only issue is that she has to wear a shirt when she goes outside. No biggie!

Cookie comes to us Thursday evening for good...I can't wait to take her for a walk around the lake Friday morning.

"I think her name is Lucy..."

2011-06-26T15:53:00.000-07:00

After two months of sitting in my house (with a seat that was way too tall for me)...I took my Kestrel Airfoil pro to get a Retul Fit. Steve at Bike Doctor in Arnold, MD was awesome. All of the pros and kick-butt age groupers on Team Trakkers/Rev3 who I talked to said a Retul fit was the only way to go. Steven at Kestrel also gave some insight into the fit process. (Thanks everyone!)

It really was amazing. On top of the fact that I have a mini-bike (a 47 with 650 wheels), Steve had to cut the seat post three times to get a really good fit. (I think he couldn't believe I needed it THAT short!). Through the fit process, he could tell me that I rotate one hip forward more than the other to compensate for my sacroiliac joint arthritis. When that was corrected for, my right knee position during my pedal stroke was much more consistent. I am hoping this really solid fit helps me fend off further injuries this season. The crew at Bike Doctor finished my bike build while I was on vacation, and I picked her up yesterday.

I initially had a name picked out for the bike, but then decided she needs a theme song to go with her name (inspired by teammate Laura). Having grown up listening to the Beastie Boys, somehow the song "She's Crafty" stuck in my head. Of course this is a song about a "loose" woman who steals things, but the chorus works:

"She's crafty - she's gets around
She's crafty - she's always down
She's crafty - she's got a gripe
She's crafty - and she's just my type
She's crafty"
(You can hear the rest here)

Perhaps a bit non-traditional, but it works for me! (No, my bike is not a hussy, but I hope she seriously gets around at some races later this season).

I got to ride her on the trainer yesterday, as this is my first time riding aero. I can't wait to get out on the road!

35 and Giving Thanks

2011-06-15T18:37:00.000-07:00

I turn 35 tomorrow. When you take care of people in their 90s every day, age is relative. I'm not bothered by my age. The only bummer is I "age up" in the sport of triathlon to the 35-39 age group. Those are some seriously fast women!

I had a bit of a pity party the other day(s), as the bummer things that happened in the past 10 months or so caught up with me. I am a Polyanna ("someone with an optimistic outlook"). I try to see the best in every situation ("It could always be worse"). I hate feeling "blah". Tommy knows immediately when I'm feeling down because I get quiet. (That NEVER happens). So as I sat feeling down, I thought that I have so much to be thankful for, and I need to recognize those positives. A couple of days later, I am out of the funk and am going to say thanks.

I am thankful for.....

Tommy
I have known Tommy since I was 16....19 years this December. I've known him more than half of my life. He knows me better than just about anyone, and he GETS me. He knows how to motivate me (and on rare occasion how to push my buttons). The most amazing thing...he has never told me I can't accomplish something. He just stands by and supports me. Triathlon? Go for it! Grad school? Go for it! Going to volunteer in a field hospital after Hurricane Katrina (and leave him with the 2 1/2 year old for a week)? Go for it! He is so encouraging. Of course we have our moments (and he allegedly snores), but he is the best partner in parenting and the best friend I could ever ask for. He has been with me for a lot this year, and we've come through even stronger. What more could a girl ask for? (Not just saying this because he gave me the most awesome bday present ever).

Our Kids
The two munchkins who can make me smile and scream in the span of 5 minutes. I am amazed by their love, their capacity to learn, their enthusiasm.... I am so fortunate to have these amazing offspring. Watching my daughter in her first season of swim team, and my son learn and grow is truly a blessing.

Spanner and Spridel
Almost fourteen years with these two amazing pups. They were wonderful to us and our children. Every day I think of the little things I miss, but I also give thanks for having them in our lives.

My Family
Who comes to the ER at a moment's notice when you call? Who takes your kids when you need help at the last minute? Who laughs and cries with you? and argue about centerpieces and seating arrangements the day before the wedding? Who supports your hobbies and dreams even if they don't understand them? I have amazing family!

Incredible Friends
I know I've mentioned in past blogs that I was not a popular kid. I got along with people, but never had a "group" that I fit in. I had great neighborhood friends, but it wasn't until college and beyond that I made more lifelong friends. These ladies make me laugh, are there when I cry, and are such an important part of my life. I'm leaving out names because I will forget someone important. I have to call out the Hidden Garden Book Club. These ladies can rally to deal with a crisis, or plan a wedding in 3 weeks.

My Triathlon Friends and Team Trakkers Family
So I don't feel like much of an athlete these days (ignore the bike set up on the trainer in my living room), but I'm getting back there. I would never have imagined myself as a "Sponsored Triathlete". I think they could have scripted a reality show about our Team Trakkers "casting". Carole and Charlie did an amazing job putting together a team of grounded, dedicated, truly kind people. I had known them only months when stuff hit the fan for me medically. The support was amazing. These people have become a family to me, and seeing them at recent events has really been rejuvenating for me. Just being able to volunteer at recent Rev3 events has been so rewarding. I have made so many longtime friends through this team. I have met so many wonderful people through this sport, including some awesome people in the Mid Maryland Tri Club.

I Love My Job
I love what I do. I love taking care of patients, explaining their illness and treatment, teaching new nurses. It wears me out some days, but I couldn't imagine what else I would do. I work with great people, at the "Cheers" of hospitals. Everybody knows your name (but there isn't any beer).

I know I am missing important people and things in my life, but I just had to say thanks. Call me Polyanna, but I will take it. Come on 35....lets kick some butt!

Rev3 Quassy Part 2: Pit Stop

2011-06-09T17:25:00.000-07:00

When Trakkers Mama Bear Carole asked me to help with the TriSlide Pit Stop in Knoxville, I had to say yes. I love TriSlide! I spray my ankles, wrist, neck, feet, and any other hot spots. It helps get my TYR Cat 5 wetsuit on and off, and prevents chaffing. I also use it to protect my feet when going sockless by spraying my feet before the swim and spraying the inside of my shoes.

The goal of the "Pit Stop" was to spray people down before the race (if they so chose). It wasa great chance for them to try the product, and my Trakkers teammates and I had a blast. Of course we had to repeat the event in Quassy. I was designated as the unofficial "Tri Slide Crier" (perhaps my big mouth), so I did lots of yelling. I'm sure some people were annoyed, but if you catch people as they are going into transition, they are likely to stop by the pit on the way out.
"Stop by on your way out of transition to get your TriSlide! Spray your ankles and wrists to get your wetsuit on and off more easily, and your neck and anywhere else you chafe!"
The word "chafe" got old, so it changed to "anywhere else you irritated", and my eloquent teammate Kelly evolved the phrase to "any other hot spots".

In Knoxville, Laura and I learned that you shouldn't spray TriSlide anywhere near the transition area, as it can make the ground/mats a bit slippery. In Quassy, we got smarter. The TriSlide Pit Stop was right next to the porta potty line (across from transition). People got sprayed while waiting for their turn in the porta potty, or on their way to the beach. We also wiped down goggles with Foggle (another awesome SBR Sports product).

Big thanks to Susanna, Kacie, Joshua and his awesome Mom Samantha, and Kelly! You guys are the best.

Rev3 Quassy Part I: Volunteering for the Revolution

2011-06-06T18:34:00.000-07:00

It was't until last week that I made the final decision to travel to Rev3 Quassy. As my teammate (and friend) Kati mentioned, going to Rev3 events is like going to see your second family. I have gotten to know my Rev3/Trakkers teammates well, and with each event I get to know the Rev3 staff a little better. I look forward to seeing LJ smiling in the volunteer tent, Charlie and Eric in three places at once around the venue, and of course our Mama Bear Carole. The Rev3 crew is great. Despite little sleep in the days surrounding the race, their attitudes are resoundingly positive. You know that feeling you have when you see a family member or dear friend who lives far away? That is how I feel about my Rev3 family.

Of course these weekend trips to races wouldn't be possible without my first family. Tommy never complains, never balks when I ask to go to a race. As long as the kids are covered when he works, he is beyond supportive. I am so very fortunate in that respect.

I road-tripped to Quassy with my tri club friend Robin. Of course I was eager to get to the venue, and reunited with my teammates. I saw some of them a few weeks ago in Knoxville, but there were also teammates I hadn't met before. Meredith T. has become a great friend this year, and I finally got to meet her and her adorable son Soren. One of the great things about our team is the support of one another. My kids were home, well taken care of by Tommy, so it was easy for me to offer to watch Soren for a bit while Mer got her bike fixed and got settled. We had a team dinner (minus several of our teammates who were still working at the venue), which was a great chance to get to know some of our newer teammates and hang with good friends. What could be better than a team dinner? A team slumber party of course! Laura was still working at the park when 6 of us showed up at her house to "check in" for the weekend. Thankfully they have a huge basement with lots of sleeping space, and her husband Tom was a gracious host despite just returning from a trip to China. Thank you, Laura and Tom!

Hanging with Soren pre-race
This weekend I graduated from JV to Varsity in the triathlon volunteering arena. Laura was coordinating volunteers with LJ, and still needed someone to drive sweep for both races. (This essentially means going behind the last cyclist/runner and picking up anyone who won't make the time cutoff or is broken down. It also means releasing all of the volunteers/police on the course and thanking them profusely for their help). Hmmmm....so I have to drive slowly, smile, and say thank you a lot. Seems right up my alley. I was excited but a bit freaked about driving the Rev3 Suburban. (I did not want to wreck Charlie's car). It was interesting perspective to be in transition until the very last athlete was out.

One of the cool things about Rev3 races? They designate a last place finisher. Someone volunteers to finish the swim, bike, and run last. That way, no one who is out there fighting to finish the race has the stigma of being last. For the Olympic, Pastor John from Multisport Ministries was the last place finisher for the race. He stuck with slow swimmers in the water, and showed immense patience on the bike (the last biker was really struggling). The challenging thing about being the sweep is deciding when to pull people off the course. You want to give them the benefit of getting a shot at things, but also don't want to hold course marshals and police out on the course for two people who aren't going to make the cutoff. I ended up pulling two people off the course, and driving Pastor John to catch up with the last place runner. I hate upsetting people, so I was worried about telling anyone their race was done. Thankfully the two ladies were very nice, and just happy for what they had accomplished to that point. Awesome attitudes! Pastor John was so patient and he ran the last two miles with the last runner. I only pulled one runner off the course, and she was amazingly positive. This made up for the woman in transition who came back in after a few minutes off the bike.
Athlete: "I got a flat"
Person who shall remain nameless: "You know you can fix that"
Athlete: "But if I'm not going to win, why race?"
Hmmm...because you should finish what you start...because it is a good training event...because sometimes maybe not winning is better for you than winning...because you are a BIG OLD SPOILSPORT! (rant.over.)

In the end, I didn't wreck the Suburban, I figured out (after 5 minutes and asking the gas station attendant) how to open the gas door to put gas in the car, and I "swept" the course successfully. When I say I graduated from JV to Varsity, I was getting calls from Eric the race director and being trusted to pull athletes at the appropriate time, etc.

I got to spend some time hanging in the Recovery Pump tent, and helped with odd jobs around the venue. After another team dinner, I crashed HARD.

Team Trakkers (Mark, Kelly, and Kel) hanging in the Recovery Pump tent.
Another early wake-up, and time to work the Tri Slide Pit Stop. (I've got another blog post cooking on that experience). There were more racers for the 70.3 than the Oly, and I watched the bikes slowly thin out in transition. Pastor John was again the last place swimmer, and Stephanie (Charlie's wife) was to be the last place biker and runner. Sweeping was definitely more challenging in a longer race. This bike course is HARD. Stephanie hooked up with one of the last cyclists and rode with her. I did pick up an athlete who blew out two tubular tires (on 650 wheels so few options for replacement). The volunteers at the water stop and along the course were awesome. One of the motorcycle state troopers was kind enough to help with the sweeping. When we got to mile 40, it was apparent that several athletes wouldn't make the cutoff. It was harder to give the news on this day. Unfortunately the athlete riding with Stephanie went off course a bit and eventually had to be pulled off. She was really bummed, and we both felt badly for her. Our last cyclist on the course didn't make the cutoff, but he pushed hard. He was one of the last out of the swim, so he was at a disadvantage on the bike.

I did get yelled at by a Connecticut trooper on the bike course for being on the phone...when I explained it was to pick up a stranded racer he lightened up on me. (It was much better to have the Rev3 Suburban when sweeping the course- no one questioned my purpose, but it was needed to lead the pro race). The funny part? Several of the calls I got while driving were from the police Command Post. So it is illegal to talk on the phone while driving, but you are going to call me when I'm driving to ask me questions...funny. In the end it all worked out. I misjudged the ability of a few racers to finish in time, but got them off the course before it closed. It was an amazing experience, and new perspective on all that it takes to put on a race.

The Rev3 crew is AMAZING. It was an awesome weekend with my teammates, with so many great moments that I can't fit into this post. I feel privileged to know such a great group of people, and to be affiliated with these incredible events. If you you are a triathlete and have never volunteered, you should. You get a chance to give back and get new perspective on the course. If you aren't a triathlete, but have a friend or family member who competes in triathlon, it is a great way to pass the time.

You can see a great video review of the event here, including the pro race.

Almost Heaven, West Virginia

2011-05-30T19:04:00.000-07:00

This weekend, the kids and I set out for another holiday adventure at "Camp Rob". This is my nickname for the amazing home my Uncle Rob and Aunt Marianne have in West Virginia. They live in a beautiful community about 20 minutes from Shepherdstown. My sister and I have made a tradition out of spending Labor Day/Memorial Day weekends at Rob's whenever possible. We love this place so much that my sister got married there last October.

I call it "Camp Rob" for two reasons:
1. It is like summer camp for kids and adults alike. (Swimming, fishing, biking, checking out the alpacas and horses in the neighborhood, cycling, bonfires, etc.)
2. Visiting Rob and Marianne generally turns into a great tri training weekend for me. This was my first outdoor ride since October, the pond is great for swimming, and their neighborhood has rolling hills for running.

Of course weekends in WVA begin with a stop at the outlets. (The only store-specific credit card I have is for The Children's Place....I always clean up for the kids there). The kids were troopers, and we had my cousin Marie along for the trip. They did find some fun along the way.

Of course the outlets have nothing on "Camp Rob". Did I mention that the meals are incredible? We all pitch in with prep and cleaning, but Rob and Marianne cook amazing meals when we visit. Even burgers taste better in WVA.

(My daughter helping with breakfast preparations)

Sunday, after a wonderful breakfast, Rob, Marianne, and I set out for a ride. (After I oogled Marianne's SRAM shifters). The scenery there is beautiful. We rode through historic Civil War areas, beautiful countryside, and into historic Shepherdstown. There was one really "nice" hill, and lots of rollers. My quads burned like they hadn't in ages. I was thankful for First Endurance EFS and my super comfy Canari cycling shorts to keep me from bonking.

It felt so good to ride. I MISSED that feeling. It has only been in the past two weeks that I felt the spark to train and compete again, and this ride totally fueled the fire. The post-ride cool-down was a swim in the pond with the kids. (This meant me swimming and pushing them around on rafts, plus a serious water fight).

I got in a little Mommy time, too. I love to read, and it is something I don't get to do much of. While icing my knee, and enjoying an adult beverage, I got to finish The Paris Wife. (A fantastic read, I must say). My son kept me company, very content to do his own thing.

It dawned on me yesterday that it was the first time in a VERY long time that I wasn't planning or prepping for the next thing. I was just enjoying BEING with my children and my family. Of course I missed Tommy, but I am glad he got to enjoy some "down" time (he didn't get to relax a whole lot between home improvements and a softball tournament). It felt so good for me to really be "in the moment". I wish I was better at doing that more often.

What better way to end a wonderful day than with a bonfire. I can't stand milk chocolate, so I modified the traditional Smores recipe to include dark chocolate..... Y-U-M!

I am so thankful to have awesome family, and a heavenly place to spend a holiday weekend. Thank you Rob and Marianne (and Mere, Trevor, and Marie for helping with the kids so I could ride and run).

Rev3 Knoxville Volunteer Report

2011-05-26T17:31:00.000-07:00

After being sidelined by injury for the first part of the season, my "race" plan has changed repeatedly. Last year I missed out on Rev3 Knoxville, which was the first meeting for our team. I didn't want to miss out again this year. When I realized I wouldn't be racing in May/June, the trip became more of a possibility. Even better- my teammate Laura was driving down from Connecticut, so we could travel together.

The weekend was bittersweet for me. Our dogs were sick and I had a lot of guilt about leaving. They had been declining for months, so this wasn't particularly new, but it still tore at my heart to leave them. At the same time, I knew seeing my teammates would be good for my soul, and my amazing husband never said a word about keeping it all together at home. I am so thankful for his support of this crazy tri habit (and everything that has come before).

In true Team Trakkers style, my first in-person meeting with Laura M. was as we left for our 8.5 hour drive. Thankfully, our team is full of amazing people. Laura and I got to know each other well on the drive...and while waiting for "fast" food (and coffee)on the way down. I don't think my endless rambling drove her too crazy...she has twin 5-year-olds, so she can handle me!

We were rooming with Laura W., who arrived earlier in the day. Saturday was up early for the practice swim. It was like a reunion seeing so many good friends, and meeting new teammates. Thanks to social networking, the ice had been broken months ago. My dear friend and teammate Kati and I hung out while everyone else swam. Kati was awesome to babysit for Jill's kids, and I got to hang with them for a bit during the swim. Of course Kati and I did a little goofing off, with the munchkins egging us on. All I can say is thank goodness I jump higher than her, because she definitely swims, bikes, and runs faster than me! ;)

At the expo, we checked out the Recovery Pump booth with "Recovery Pump Doug", and met Trakkers Pro Courtenay Brown at the Kestrel Booth.
On to Volunteering
I got to volunteer packet pickup with Laura M., Colleen, and Kristin. I managed to elbow, er, work my way to the pro line at registration. It was a lot of fun checking in a mix of pros and age groupers. I got to tell Julie Dibens how much I enjoy following her on twitter. Laura and I got to goof off a bit, too.

Dinner was great, with Mike, Laura, and Laura. Nothing like some good Southern BBQ. Then Laura x2 and I wandered looking to get some coffee for the next morning....no such luck. Thankfully it was there in the lobby when we woke up.

Sunday brought the Tri-Slide Pit. Team Mom Carole asked if we would help spray athletes down with Tri Slide in Transition. Hmmm.... let me think....spray down a bunch of triathletes with lube...including some very fit men...I'm in! (Of course it really wasn't quite that exciting, but tons of fun). Being the vocal one, I did lots of yelling to encourage people to come visit us. Lesson learned: don't spray 9 cans of TriSlide near the black transition mats...thankfully we fixed that problem. It was great to encourage teammates as they got ready for their races, and promote a great product.

Teammates Mike Moore and Jeff Vanis
The next stop was the finish line. I think this was seriously the coolest part of volunteering. Yes, I got to see the pros finish, but my favorite part was even neater than that. I worked at the beginning of the finish chute, making sure spectators didn't cross in front of athletes. Once the age groupers started coming in, I had the pleasure of helping kids connect with their athlete family members to run to the finish line. This is why I LOVE Rev3.

There were two incredibly inspiring moments at Rev3 Knoxville:
- The first was a wife whose husband passed away three weeks prior. They were supposed to complete the race together, and she chose to continue in his honor. She finished with several family members, and the race announcer had the crowd worked into a frenzy for her.
- The other amazing group were the Owen family. They founded an organization called Caroline Can! Caroline suffered a traumatic brain injury, and her family works to raise funds and raise awareness. Caroline and two family members completed the race as a challenged athlete relay team. The spirit of their team and all of their cheerleaders was amazing!

Laura and I had to pack up before the end of the race, but it was an awesome weekend. I am so thankful to be on a team with such amazing people. I look forward to seeing them like I look forward to catching up with an old friend. Did I mention our teammates have awesome spouses, too? (Emily, Michele, Paul.....all of the Team Trakkers family members rock!).

Knoxville was awesome. (There was even a great Farmers Market up the street from the host hotel on Saturday). The drive home, not so much fun. After sitting in traffic for 90+ minutes (literally parked for a period of it), we passed this sign.....

You think?

Laura was an awesome travel buddy (though she is a super healthy eater so I was worried about being the "bad" one). Thankfully, she has a dark chocolate habit. I knew I liked her!

Next up...Volunteering Rev3 Quassy

Goodbye, Sweet Boys

2011-05-16T18:12:00.000-07:00

Today was a very hard day. We had to say goodbye to Spanner and Spridel, our beloved companions for almost 14 years. When we grieve, we remember, so today we are thinking about them. We got out a lot of old pictures, which has brought a lot of laughs and reminiscing.

Tommy and I began dating 18 years ago, but took a three-year "intermission". During a phase where we weren't speaking, we both got dogs (literally within weeks of one another). Tommy rescued Spridel from a woman in Virginia who advertised the puppies but had them flea-ridden and in bad shape. He also bought Spridel's sister. Both dogs came down with Parvo, but we always joked that Spridel was too stubborn to succumb. Tommy trained Spridel, and he was always a great listener. Spridel got his name from the cartoon "Speed Racer", and was nicknamed "Sprinkle" for his tendency to lose control of his bladder when he was a puppy and got excited.

I hadn't planned on getting a dog, but then my friends Catherine and Larry had a pregnant Golden Retriever. I was there when the puppies were born on July 4, 1997. Some time later, the dogs did not all have homes. I became the proud owner of Spanner (aka Star Spangled Banner, aka Sir Spanner of Ashton, aka Spanks), a reddish Golden Retriever. He went to formal puppy school, and never listened nearly as well as Spridel.

Spridel and Spanner became brothers before they were a year old. They were very different dogs, but spent their lives together. Spridel loved his personal space, but was never mean. Spanner thought he was a lap dog and would try to sit all 90+ pounds in my lap on a regular basis. Spridel loved to smell everything (especially as his hearing went). Spanner had breath you avoided smelling at all costs. Spridel had his ear cut by the tooth of another dog while playing. Spanner had belly surgery after eating a tin can.

When we had our children, Spridel and Spanner welcomed the onslaught of crumbs on the floor, and were always very mild-mannered. We will miss our boys terribly, but they gave us so many wonderful years. Their time had come, and they are no longer in pain. I am so thankful that they passed peacefully, and together, after spending so much of their lives together. Rest in Peace, sweet boys.

San Juan 70.3 Race "Sherpa" Report

2011-04-18T17:58:00.000-07:00

While I like to think of myself as spontaneous, I am also a HUGE planner. When we did personality testing at work, my strongest trait is "Structure". I LIKE IT! I have pre-typed packing lists in my computer (hey-whatever works when you are packing for three people). There is one for trips to Florida to see the "Greats", one for the annual trip to Nags Head, one for my annual nursing conference....you get the picture. So after a rough few (six) months, one of my awesome Trakkers Teammates invited me to join her in San Juan for her 70.3 race. It went something like this:

Andree: You should join me in San Juan, no pressure though

Me: My passport is expired

A: Puerto Rico is a US territory, I don't think you need a passport

Me: Oh, good point [Checking my work schedule, weighing the pros and cons]

Three days, twenty-seven checks of airtran flights later, one conversation with my EXTREMELY supportive husband, and an early birthday present from my grandparents later, I was IN! My kids were awesome- they helped with the dogs and drew awesome pictures for me to take on my trip.

A note to readers- while Andree and I email often, we have never actually met in person. This might be sketchy if we weren't Trakkers teammates and didn't know lots of people in common. Of course I showed my husband several pictures (since Andree is pronounced the same as Andre- didn't want him to think I was pulling a fast one).

I arrived in San Juan on Thursday at 10pm. I was a little nervous about catching a taxi that late, but my friend Hector (from Mid Maryland Tri Club) assured me that I would be fine. I felt even better when I had a female taxi driver. I arrived after 11pm. There was a key for me at the desk. Andree was sound asleep (as she should be), so I crawl into bed. We both woke up around midnight, and chatted for a while. Again....we still hadn't officially met.

Friday: Andree and I finally met on Friday morning. Our room had a view of the water and the sun was shining (meanwhile 30 degreees at home). While Andree did her pre-race routine, I checked out the resort. It was BEAUTIFUL, and in an ideal location for the race. Pools, swim-up bar, ocean, gorgeous views, and walking distance to swim start and transition. They had several restaurants in the hotel, and the pool bar was the site where the Pina Colada was invented. Yum! The hotel gym was really nice, with a view of the water, so we got in a great workout.

We checked out the expo, and hung out with Doug from Recovery Pump. It was fun to chat with him about the medical science behind the recovery pump. We also got to hang for a bit with Trakkers Pro Amanda Lovato. For lunch? Mahi mahi tacos (and a mojito) for me. Yum. Andree had some mechanical issues with her bike after her flight (thank you, TSA). To ensure her gearing was ok, she took a spin in the hallway (I ran interference).

For pre-race dinner we ended up going to the Italian restaurant in the hotel (I told Andree it was her race and her choice...I can do some sympathy carb-loading anywhere). I might have exaggerated slightly when I told my husband "It was the worst service EVER." The Puerto Rican people were so welcoming, and so kind, but there was definitely an island attitude toward service. One great thing about Puerto Rico- an island feel but cell phone service at no extra cost. It was great to stay in contact with my family while having a great trip.

Saturday: This was the first time EVER I have attended a triathlon I am not racing and not volunteering. It was also my first "Ironman" event. I love Rev3 events, so I already know that if my body ever lets me complete a 140.6 race it will be at Cedar Point. That being said, I was looking forward to seeing what the hype is about. I got up with Andree, and hung out people-watching at transition. I was so excited to see Hector (my tri club friend from Maryland and a native of Puerto Rico). Transition was in an old sports stadium. It added to the race-day atmosphere. Walking into transition, you had to walk the gauntlet of body markers. I have never seen so many body markers...all smiling at 5:30am.

The walk to the swim start was a hike from transition (the run from the swim finish to transition was quite a HIKE). I met up with Andree, who was not feeling well. (You can read her race report here). She said she would do the swim and see how she felt. I got to know her husband at this point, texting him. He told me she would finish if she started (a girl after my own heart). We saw Hector before the swim start, and he looked totally hyped.

As soon as the pro gun went off, I race-walked the mile+ from the swim start to transition. Whew! This sherpa stuff isn't easy. It was fun to cheer for Trakkers pros Amanda Lovato, Richie Cunningham, and Chris McDonald (I got a few crazy looks when screaming "Go Big Sexy!"). When Andree and Hector came through transition, I yelled like crazy!

T1: T1 for me meant breakfast (breakfast #2 since the Starbucks was open at 4:30 am- awesome!). The breakfast buffet was outstanding, and the service impeccable. They even had fried cheese (I steered clear of that one, though). I finished breakfast and made it back in plenty of time for T2. I didn't know the area well enough to be out on the course, so I figured transitions and the finish would be good.

T2: I never realized how hard it is to keep track of the athletes when spectating. I was trying to tweet about the pro race, and sometimes you can't see the race number, or it has rubbed off their arm. New respect for the people who do this on a regular basis. The fans were great..especially when there were Puerto Rican athletes going by...they cheered like crazy. My favorite volunteer? A twenty- or thirty-something woman who had her T shirt tied in a knot and low-slung pants. Shakira's "Hips Don't Lie" came on, and I swear this woman could give Shakira a run for her money. She was cheering and dancing like nobody's business. She embodied the spirit of the volunteers there. I was surprised by how quiet the crowd was at times, though.

Once again, I cheered on the pros and then Andree and Hector. Watching the pro finish was really cool. I'm usually hours from finishing when they cross the line. Important spectator scoop for this race- there is a local bar just feet from the finish. When the clock struck noon, I purchased two bottles of water and (very large) pina colada. (All for $9). Definitely a nice spectator perk. I can be a bit chatty (you think?), so I met several people, including a man who went to high school with my Mom (small world!). The biggest bummer to me about the finish was that people kept getting sternly reminded that they would be DQ'd if they finished with their children. Finishing with my daughter was my favorite moment at Rev3 Cedar Point.

Hector finished waving the Puerto Rican flag, with a huge smile on his face. It was really a neat moment. His father, who had never seen him race, was there. The whole family had "Team Garcia" shirts.

Andree came to the finish looking tired but determined. I cheered like crazy, then ran to the "catch" area of the finish. When she came through the crowd, she was being supported by two volunteers and saying she needed to go to medical. (Keep in mind that feeling like crud she finished in the time it would normally take me to finish...she is one tough cookie). The benefit of bringing a (bossy) nurse practitioner with you to your race is that she will recount your medical history in the medical tent. I was texting Andree's husband, getting Hector his stuff, and crossing my fingers that IV fluids would work. After just a little fluid, she looked like a different person.

For the rally of the century, Andree hung at the pool bar with me later that afternoon. We caught up with Kelly Williamson (pro triathlete, winner of Rev3 Costa Rica and San Juan 70.3, and Recovery Pump athlete) and Recovery Pump Doug. Kelly is very cool (and a crazy fast runner). I'm always amazed by how down-to-earth most pro triathletes are. We might have (allegedly) sampled the mango mojitos (or was it classic mojitos??). The post-race party that night was probably the biggest disappointment of the evening. The ticket cost must have gone toward the entertainment, as it was a cash bar and no food. The bar inside was actually much more entertaining (there we met up with Doug, Team Trakkers pro Amanda Lovato, and some other age groupers).

Sunday: Recovery day. Lots of time by the pool. It was overcast, but relaxing. We ran through Old San Juan (beautiful, and lots of restaurant choices to explore next time) in the morning, and saw a rainbow over the old fort. If my body cooperates, I would definitely race this myself (and make it a diving trip for my husband). I am very thankful to Andree for letting me tag along!

Perspective

2011-04-17T18:34:00.000-07:00

So this evening, while I am folding laundry, our daughter asks us "What is the difference between half full and half empty?" My answer? "Perspective". Then Tommy and I had to explain perspective to her.

I haven't blogged in over 3 weeks. This is a triathlon blog, and I have awesome sponsors and incredible pro and age group teammates, and I'm not sure if I can be a triathlete this year. I have put off racing until August (but will be there to cheer my teammates on at Rev3 Knoxville). My knee started hurting suddenly on a run two weeks ago. It feels exactly the same as my torn meniscus did. I saw the ortho, who suggested the symptoms don't sound like a torn meniscus. Since they are exactly what I had before, I'm not so sure. I rested the past couple of weeks, and did a lot of strengthening, and it still hurts like crazy if I do the wrong thing. Even swimming and deep water running hurt it. So I will get an MRI this week and try to figure it out.

This brings me back to my daughter's question. I seem to be a magnet for non-life threatening medical issues this year. I am frustrated as all of my tri friends and teammates blog about their training and the start of race season, but at the same time there is a feeling of acceptance. I fully realize that I have SO MUCH to be thankful for, and I am. So while I am putting it out there right now, I know whining gets old.

I was laughing to myself the other day as I told a friend about reading other blogs where friends/teammates/fellow bloggers post their training numbers (swim/bike/run distances logged). My training is virtually nonexistent (though thanks to teammate Andree I am ready to begin my pro career as race sherpa).

Here are my 2010/2011 numbers so far:

- MRIs - 2 (soon to be three)

- CT scan-1

- Ultrasound-1

- Blood draws- 7

- Hearing tests-3

- Little round scars after attempted ablation- 3

- Little round scars on left knee- 3

- Courses of oral steroids- 3

- Courses of antibiotics- 2

- 2x normal (size my foot was after swelling up in reaction to a foot spray)

- Expletives uttered after recent knee injury (too many to count)

- Reasons to suck it up and get over it- countless

Maya Angelou said it well.

"If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude. Don't complain."

How Does a Professional Athlete Get a Pulmonary Embolism???

2011-03-22T18:52:00.000-07:00

Upon hearing that Serena Williams got a Deep Vein Thrombosis(DVT), it was easy for me to call on my medical knowledge and understand how this happened. I teach a lecture on DVT and Pulmonary Embolism (PE- a blood clot in the lung) for nurses new to critical care. This is my thing. Though I work in cardiology, I take often take care of patients with PE. When the lungs are impacted by a large blood clot, the heart is under stress. This can cause symptoms similar to a heart attack. So I figured I would write a blog on the topic since what is obvious to me might not be to those in other lines of work.

Disclaimer- I am a Nurse Practitioner, and work in cardiology, but the purpose of this blog is not to provide diagnosis. I am happy to provide references for any of the information provided. If you have any of the symptoms listed, please contact your medical provider or go to your local Emergency Department if they are severe.

Understanding the terminology:
DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis)- a blood clot in a deep vein, usually in the leg or arm, which obstructs blood flow. This eventually causes impaired circulation and swelling.
PE (Pulmonary Embolism)- a DVT that dislodges and moves to the lung. This often causes difficulty breathing, and in instances of massive PE can cause cardiac arrest.
VTE (Venous Thromboembolism)- the "catch phrase" for DVT and PE

Some alarming statistics:
- 900,000 people in the US have an initial or recurrent DVT or PE each year
- An estimated 200,000-300,000 people die each year from PE
- 25% of PEs present as sudden cardiac death
- PE has a "Golden Hour". In 2/3 of fatal PE cases, cardiac arrest will occur in the first 1-2 hours
- PE causes more deaths each year than AIDS, breast cancer, and motor vehicle collisions combined

How does someone develop a PE?
Three major risk factors (Virchows Triad) predispose people to DVT and PE:

1. Venous Stasis (aka poor blood flow)- anyone who has surgery, illness, is on bedrest, is hospitalized has venous stasis. Even prolonged periods of inactivity can lead to venous stasis. It isn't just long plane flights, but also long car rides, and periods of immobility at your desk or on your couch.

2. Hypercoaguability- I always think about this as "sludgy blood". Things that dehydrate you make your blood thick, as well as some other factors. Dehydration, oral contraceptives (ever wonder why they tell you not to take birth control bills and smoke? Huge increase in DVT risk), pregnancy, tumors/cancer, blood clotting disorders are among the causes of hypercoaguability.

3. Vascular Damage- Surgery, trauma, burns. Anything that damages the blood vessel walls increases the risk of clots.

What are the symptoms of DVT/PE?
Symptoms of DVT include:
- Pain/discomfort in one or both of the legs (or arm)
- Swelling/Redness/warmth in one or both of the legs (or arm)
- Reduced ability to tolerate walking/exercise

Symptoms of a PE are often difficult to diagnose. When the PE is small in a healthy person, the symptoms are vague. When severe, the symptoms can mimic a heart attack.
- Sudden onset of shortness of breath, pain associated with breathing fatigue, decreased tolerance for activity, cough (sometimes coughing up pink foam).
- Massive PE may lead to low blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythms, and
- Again, the presentation can be vague. It is often the patient history that provides a hint to the diagnosis.

How are DVT/PE diagnosed?
Ultrasound of the affected limb is used to diagnose DVT.
CT Scan of the lung is used to diagnose DVT/PE. A different scan called a "V/Q Scan" can be used to diagnose PE in patients who have contraindication to CT Scan.

How are DVT/PE treated?
Patients are given blood thinners. These prevent further clot formation and allow the body's natural clot-busting system to do its job and break up the clot. This does not happen quickly. The body may take several weeks to dissolve a clot. In some instances of massive PE, patients may be given a clot-busting drug (similar to those given for strokes and heart attacks).
There are also surgical procedures for patients who cannot receive blood thinners or clot busters. A filter can also be placed to "catch" the clot before it gets to the lung in some patients.

How can you prevent DVT/PE?
- PE is the leading cause of preventable death in hospitalized patients. If you are hospitalized, ensure you are ambulating regularly, or ask what you are being given for DVT prophylaxis. You may receive shots in the abdomen, or "leg squeezers" (pumps that mimic the circulation changes with walking) to prevent DVT.
- If you are going on a long trip, hydrate, get up and walk around at least every two hours. Remember that this includes car trips. You can also use compression socks, and pump your legs if you aren't able to get up and walk around.

So how does a "healthy person have a DVT"?
I am not privy to Serena Williams' medical records, but from listening to interviews it is easy to figure out.
1. She gets a cut on her foot. Vessel Damage
2. She travels a lot. She is also at an age where she might possibly be on oral contraceptives. Venous Stasis

Listening to her interview on the Today Show, she thought she was just out of shape. Her symptoms were vague.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

She was eventually taken to the Emergency Room and diagnosed with PE. To treat this, she was placed on a blood thinner (shots in the belly). As a result of the blood thinner, she developed a hematoma (collection of blood) in her abdomen. Who would have thought????

David Bloom, the NBC reporter, died of a PE after ignoring the symptoms of DVT. He was embedded with troops in Iraq, spending lots of time immobile in a tank. He described symptoms of a DVT to physicians, who urged him to get treatment. He was driven to continue with his work, and suffered a fatal PE.

Whew- a long post! So what is the point? While hospitalized patients are at higher risk, healthy people who suffer injury (or even just travel a lot)are at risk, too. So if you took a minute (or ten) to read this, perhaps it will come in handy if you or someone you know have these symptoms.
Thanks for reading.

No Answers...Time to Move Forward

2011-03-13T19:05:00.001-07:00

So I write this post knowing that in comparison to what is going on in Japan, my health issues are completely manageable. Completely. I'm glad it is me and not a member of my family, and so far nothing is life-threatening. That being said, I haven't blogged in several weeks. There have been a couple of (very random) things going on for me.

Hearing Loss
I woke up three weeks ago with sudden hearing loss in my left ear. It feels like I am hearing under water. There is no infection/fluid/pressure in the ear. The hearing test two weeks ago showed that I lost hearing at the highest pitch in my left ear. They aren't sure what is causing it. The leading diagnosis is a viral infection of the nerve in my ear. I saw a Neurologist who is also an Ear/Nose/Throat specialist. No answers there- just orders for an MRI, a CT scan, and two more hearing tests.

As treatment for a potential nerve infection, they put me on steroids. It took about four days, and then I made the Energizer Bunny look lethargic. I was downright manic for two days. Both my sister and my partner at work wanted me to stay on the steroids (Mere so I can help her paint her walls, and Patricia because I was a data-collecting fool at work). Tommy was probably ready for them to stop! (I talk a lot to begin with...me on steroids annoyed even me!). Unfortunately, the steroids didn't fix the hearing loss. I continue to feel like I have water in my ear, challenges with hearing in noisy places, and intermittent ringing in that ear. In the grand scheme, I will deal with it, but definitely frustrating.

SVT (Supraventricular Tachycardia)
Since the hearing issue is out of my control, Today was my EP (Electrophysiology) Study. In preparation (as only a nurse would do), I painted my toenails (who wants skanky toenails when you are in a hospital gown?!). You can read more about the procedure here (if you are really that interested). The bottom line is, they put three catheters in the vein in my leg (ok-groin) and tried to induce the abnormal heart rhythm. My bartender (aka anesthesiologist) was incredible. He had me asleep before they even stuck my leg with a needle. Of course they had to wake me up during the procedure because they were having trouble inducing the rhythm.

When I run hard, my heart rate (normal rhythm) is in the 190s. With Isuprel (a medication) and a pacemaker, they were only able to get it up to the 170s-180s, and they couldn't cause the abnormal rhythm. I coughed, which was the only thing I could do. If only they had let me run on the treadmill or bend over and stand up...hard to do with huge catheters in the groin. They know I have two pathways for electricity, but couldn't burn on of them without inducing the rhythm (if they got the normal one, I would end up with a pacemaker). So from here I think it is just watch and wait. See if and when it happens again (frustrating because it isn't predictable), and consider a different medication. The first medication I was on (a beta blocker) really made me fatigued and down...I could not tolerate it for more than a week. (Of course I was on this the week before the steroids, so I went from loooow to hyper).

So no answers on the ear or the heart. I am a planner...I have pre-printed packing lists, and calendars, and like to PLAN. Apparently someone is teaching me a lesson. I'm going with the flow. I don't know if my hearing will come back, and I don't know if I will end up on another medicine for my heart rate. Again, in the grand scheme these are not insurmountable. They are just annoyances, and beyond anything I need to keep perspective. I said I would have my pity party today and then suck it up and move on.

I am so thankful for my husband, for never complaining about my issues and picking up my slack. He truly is my best friend. I'm also thankful for my wonderful family, friends, and teammates, who give me a boost when I need it (and sometimes a kick in the pants!). I got a nice email from my teammate Ryan today. His business motto is always at the bottom of his emails, and today it definitely resonated. "Don't look back....forward motion is everything." Time to move forward.

Monday Rundown Part 2: Be Still My Beating Heart

2011-02-20T17:24:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I don't want my heart to be still, but it could slow the heck down. I have a naturally fast heart rate. My "resting" heart rate when awake is in the 70s. Most athletes run in the 40s-50s. When I did my VO2 max testing, we found that I don't get anaerobic when running until a heart rate of 192. My target heart rate during a race is in the mid-190s. Bottom line, my heart is fast.

Several years ago, I was seen for palpitations. I wore a monitor, and was found to have periodic early heart beats called PVCs (Premature Ventricular Contractions). They are not dangerous, but can be annoying. Each beat after one of these abnormal beats tends to be more forceful, and in people who are symptomatic there is the sensation of your breath being taken away.

Once every six months or so, starting in 2005, I would have a brief episode of SVT (Supraventricular Tachycardia). This is a heart rhythm that is more annoying for me than dangerous, but becomes an issue if it impacts your lifestyle. Once every six months isn't really an issue. Mine was always happening during or after exercise, and always when I bore down or had a "vasovagal" (i.e. bending over to untie my shoes or to stretch). The second I stood up, I went into a rapid heart rhythm.

Working with cardiologists, I have the benefit of running things by a doc. I had decided that it wasn't worth medication or intervention yet. Things went downhill a bit in the past 6 months. It started with IronGirl in August. While treading water waiting for the swim start, I emptied my bladder. (This sounds gross to non-triathletes, but to the rest of us is totally natural). Just the act of bearing down a bit while exerting myself (basically it splits a heartbeat into two heartbeats) caused me to go into SVT. My heart rate went from 120 to the 190s. I had to decide then and there whether to race or not. I decided to try, taking it easy on the swim. Eventually the rhythm "breaks", going back to a normal rhythm. It broke midway through the swim and I was able to keep going.

I had several more episodes this fall and winter....
- Once while doing planks at the gym after a workout. I stood up and there I went. I feel fine in the 190s when it is a normal rhythm, but absolutely crummy when it is abnormal.
- On the treadmill in the gym at work (I was a dummy on this one, because I didn't get an ECG while it was happening even though I was in the hospital. It would have helped me identify the rhythm).
- Christmas Eve while sitting at dinner (after some wine). This is the only time it has happened when not exercising, and took longer to break than usual.
- Once while walking briskly from my car back to my office

This past Wednesday, I went running with my marathon buddy Katy. It was going to be an easy 3.4 mile run outside (it was a beautiful day). We got to the halfway point, 1.7 mi away from work. I had a cramp in my toe, so I put my foot up on a post to stretch. When I put it back down and took a few steps running, my heart was off to the races. Again, I was in the 180s while running and felt like I was pushing it but felt fine. Suddenly I was 208 and felt awful. I tried to jog and hope it would break, but then my arms got heavy and I felt like I could pass out. We walked for a few minutes, then I tried again. I tried to bear down and break the rhythm, but I couldn't. Eventually I decided that I would rather stay in the rhythm and actually get an ECG. We walked/jogged back to work, and I went straight to the ER. I told the ER doc (a friend of mine) that I needed an ECG right away, and then she could register me. I wouldn't sit down until they were ready for the ECG- I actually walked in place to keep it going. (This sounds crazy perhaps, but I hit the point where I needed an answer). So we got the ECG. My heart rate had slowed down to 147, but it was still an abnormal rhythm. We had an answer, and the cardiologists I work with thought they would need to give me medication to convert the rhythm. Thankfully the rhythm broke (which I knew it would). Of course the ER staff was awesome to me, which makes all the difference in the world. Have I mentioned that I love the people I work with? (Thank you Emily, Angela, UJ, Paula, and of course Darcie!)

So I've hit the point where I have to do something. While this isn't life-threatening it is impacting my quality of life. The choices are medical therapy or ablation. I meet with an electrophysiologist (cardiology version of an electrician) who I know and like on Thursday. He is moderate in terms of aggressiveness, which I appreciate. This will be a big decision to make.

Medication: (Beta Blocker)
Pros: Non-invasive, relatively inexpensive each month, relatively effective, may help with my migraines though did not work when I had them as a child
Cons: Cost over time, Being on a cardiac medication indefinitely, lowers the heart rate and the ability of the heart to respond to exercise- this means my heart rate zones may change and it may affect my endurance (other side effects include fatigue, decreased libido, etc....as if being a Mom and working full time doesn't already cause these).

Intervention: (Ablation)
Pros: 95% effective at getting rid of the arrhythmia, No medications needed, curative rather than treatment
Cons: Invasive procedure (a catheter is placed into the femoral vein and fed up to the heart, the irritable tissue is ablated), 1% or so risk of needing a pacemaker (lower risk in people under age 45). I don't know yet what the recovery time is for the procedure, and what it would mean for racing.

So I have a lot to think about. I'm composing my questions for Thursday, and I may give the meds a month before I make any decisions (I started the Beta Blocker last week). Since this isn't life-threatening, just bothersome, I have time to make a decision. Trying to stay upbeat (no pun intended) about this one. I am so thankful for Tommy being supportive through all this, and for Katy who I know was mortified I might drop during our run on Wednesday but didn't get freaked out. Of course I'm doing a crummy job in terms of my "Healthy in 2011" goal, but what can you do?

Monday Rundown: Things That Go Fast

2011-02-20T12:15:00.000-08:00

This week's rundown is inspired by some new finds, and the past week's events. On Wednesday I ended up in the ER for my rapid heart rate (6 times in 6 months). I'm doing a whole separate post on this so that I can share some fun stuff. Things that go fast.....

The Athletes at Rev3 Costa Rica:

I can't wait to hear more about this weekend's races in Costa Rica. I have been living vicariously all weekend through the Rev3 live coverage. It sounds like it was a hot weekend, but a great race. Congrats to all the finishers! Trakkers Teammate Andree won her age group in the Sprint, and I am waiting to hear about her Half Iron race today. Trakkers/Rev3 pro Courtenay Brown won the Sprint race overall, and Brian Fleischman and Richie Cunningham has 3rd and 4th place finishes in the Olympic race.

My New Blender:

Inspired by my teammates, I got a blender so I could start making smoothies. My favorite smoothie includes frozen bananas, chocolate protein powder, peanut butter, skim milk, and a cup of spinach. My husband and kids are completely grossed out by the last ingredient, but you honestly can't taste it. I just need to figure out something to eat about two hours later because I am always hungry again.

My New Avia Bolt IIs:

I can't wait to try these out. They came last week on the day I ended up in the hospital, so I didn't have a chance to test them out. I am hoping for a good run this week. They are really lightweight, with a high back to allow you to get them on easily in transition. They are also an awesome red color.

My son's cars on his new carpet:

Many thanks to my dear friend Kathi for "repurposing" some of her sons old toys. My son is loving driving them around...especially because there is a police station, firehouse, and hospital.

How fast I put on my new Recovery Pump when I get home from work:

The Recovery Pump is an awesome compression system which promotes venous blood flow during recovery. It helps with the removal of metabolic waste and lactic acid after exercise. They have been particularly awesome this week after some very long days at work. (This picture was taken during the first use, before they were inflated).

"What Would You Do?"

2011-02-20T11:32:00.000-08:00

There is a show on ABC that uses a hidden camera to asses what people would do in an ethically challenging situation. (These include witnessing bullying, having underage kids ask you to buy them alcohol, etc.). I don't generally watch the show, but I feel like our week has been one long "What would you do?". Work was crazy all week- the full moon and lots of sick people led to ridiculous numbers of patients. Some of them were interesting cases, so that made it stimulating.

I blogged last week about our experience coming home from a birthday party and coming up on an accident. We stopped and helped with a little girl who had a bad laceration on her face until EMS and Fire arrived.

Later in the week, Tommy had an experience where he went to pick the kids up from school and saw another father banging on a car window. Tommy went to help. The two of them could not wake up the man in the car (doors were locked). Tommy was ready to break into the car (which was running) to get the man out, when he woke up. When he rolled down the window, it was apparent he was under the influence. He was checked out by EMS to ensure that there wasn't an underlying medical condition (some things like Diabetes can mimic a drunken state), and the police were called. The school administrator was asking Tommy's opinion on what to do. Should they call the mother to get the child. He let them know that under no circumstances should she go with her father. The police dealt with the situation (who knows how many times this might have happened before?!), but I told Tommy how thankful I am to be married to someone who acts rather than walking by. Talking to my good friend (also a Mom at the school), we discussed the fact that we are usually so distracted (thinking about what to make for dinner, getting laundry done, work stuff, etc)that we might not have noticed anything out of the ordinary. I would like to hope I would have seen the guy sleeping in his car, but I don't know. I'm glad someone did, and that hopefully he gets the help he needs.

Then yesterday, we witnessed a road rage incident that could have gone really badly. I was (allegedly) sleeping while we drove home from the playground and lunch. I woke up when Tommy made some comment about someone driving erratically (he said the Mustang ahead of us had passed him "like I was standing still"). Then the guy cut across three lanes to the left turn lane. He was at a red light, and the guy he cut off pulled behind him and threw open his door. The Mustang driver saw in his rear view and jumped out of his car. They were in each other's faces yelling, but jumped back in their cars when the light changed. Thankfully there was no physical violence. Meanwhile, I had my phone out ready to call 9-1-1. Tommy joked that I was ready to tape the fight for Youtube. I can't say I would have jumped in to break up the fight, but at least reported it to the police and let them deal with it.

The full moon has definitely led to some crazy happenings. Last week I mentioned a book that I really enjoyed reading called "The Unthinkable: Who Survives When Disaster Strikes and Why". The main premise of this book is that in a crisis, 10% of people do the right thing, 10% of people do the wrong thing, and 80% freeze. If your brain has never encountered the situation or a similar one before, it doesn't know how to react, and gets stuck cycling through your memories to figure out what to do. It is why people stayed in their staterooms on the Titanic...they didn't know what to do so they froze, why Capt. Sully was able to land his plane so amazingly on the Hudson...because he had practiced what to do. I can't say that I would react in every situation, but I think that Tommy's job as a firefighter and mine as an NP lend themselves to us being more likely to respond. We are used to crisis mode. (Or perhaps it is your personality that causes you to get into a job like that). Regardless, I would like to think we did the right thing when needed this week, and I hope we aren't tested anymore in the coming week. I met a new friend (over a beer with the girls on Friday) who is a teacher. I was decompressing about the week and she said that she would be more than happy to jump in if someone needed an "Emergency Tutor", but aside from that she didn't have much to offer. Sometimes just getting the right help there is the best thing someone can do.

So next time you witness a situation that doesn't seem right....do you respond or do you walk away?

Monday Rundown: A Few of My Favorite Things

2011-02-14T17:43:00.000-08:00

In honor of Valentines Day, I thought I would share a few of my favorite things. Some of them are pretty darn obvious, but some are random things that make my life easier, or just plain make me happy. One of these days I need to do a blog of all my favorite tri things (especially after I try out some of our new sponsors' products this season). For now, this is a pretty random smattering.
My Family:

What can I say? My whole family rocks! (I will post all about our Florida vacation soon). Tommy and I agreed years ago not to go overboard on Valentines Day, but the cards from him and the kids make me happier than any gift ever could.

My Team:
Team Trakkers and Rev3 Tri are amazing. I can't wait for another season with these folks. My teammate Andree said it best in her blog: " My teammates?? Hands down the greatest group of people, and your support and encouragement has meant so much to me. It is cool to think that I may never have crossed paths with many, but now can call them close friends." I completely agree. We race together, email and tweet a LOT, and they were there for me through some rough times this fall. I can't wait for the season to start. Rev3 puts on the most family-friendly races out there...I can't wait to check out Knoxville and South Carolina, and head back to Quassy and Cedar Point.

The Hidden Garden Book Club:
This awesome group of women got together ten years ago (starting with a group of people living on Hidden Garden Lane), and we have been having a blast ever since. I am fortunate that my Mom, Sister, Aunt, Daughter's Godmother, and lots of other awesome friends are in the group. Did I mention these ladies helped plan my sister's wedding in 21 days? They are incredible (Laura cooked the rehearsal dinner with my Uncle Rob), Beth baked the cupcakes, Joanne helped with flowers, Nermin interviewed caterers and found the dresses with us, my Uncle Rob and Aunt Marianne hosted the whole thing..... This group of ladies has been there "for better or worse, in sickness and in health", and I love them! (Even if we spend more time drinking wine and eating than actually discussing a book!). Yes, the Cow Hat is an honorary book club member. At the wedding, anyone wearing the hat was sporting "Haute Cow-ture".

My Stylist Tracey:
This chick rocks, literally. She has a side gig as stylist to several of the "hair bands". Her stories are awesome. If you can deal with someone who tells it like it is, Tracey is a blast. My hair is the bane of her existence (as Tommy once described, it is "fine and limp"...we had a conversation about the fact that "limp" isn't a word you use to describe your significant other). It doesn't do ANYTHING. Once a year or so, she gives me the curly look (only she can get my hair to hold curls for more than an hour). I was fortunate that after my cut and highlights this Saturday, she curled it for our tri club banquet. It is fun to have sassy hair once a year! You can check out Tracey and Salon 4 here.

The Unthinkable:

This book may seem morbid, but my co-worker and I actually used this book as a springboard for a disaster preparedness conference at the hospital. I can say with confidence that I think this book is one of the few that might actually save your life. It addresses the science behind why people survive in a disaster, and gives lots of good tips (peppered throughout the text). Did you know that just reading the safety card (no matter how often you fly) on every flight, and counting the number of rows between you and the exit, can increase your chance of surviving a plane crash dramatically? Our book club read it, and I gave it as a Christmas gift to just about everyone one year. Read more about it here.

Erika Robuck:

Erika is a local author. Her first novel, Receive Me Falling, is great historical fiction alternating between modern-day Annapolis and the island of Nevis at the end of the slave trade. She actually came to our book club and discussed it with us. Cooler still, she asked us to pre-read her new novel, Hemmingway's Girl, and provide suggestions. It is another amazing book, and I can't wait until it is officially published.

Washington Post Columnist Petula Dvorak:
Every time I see Petula Dvorak's picture on the front page of the Washington Post Metro Section, I get excited. She is the Carole Sharpless of columnists. Like Carole (my team Mom and fellow blogger), what she writes either makes me laugh hysterically or cry. Petula has kids, and I can ALWAYS relate to her columns about being a Mom, wife, woman.... You can read today's very entertaining column about Valentines Day here.

Wonder Woman:

I've mentioned Wonder Woman's comeback in our house this Winter. The kids got seasons 2 and 3 on DVD for Valentines Day. I love that there is no blood and gore, no foul language, and Wonder Woman is an awesome role model for girls. Can't wait to start watching Season 2!

My Kipling Wallet:

This one seems random, but when my good friend Catherine visited last year I HAD to have her wallet. I ordered one for myself, and absolutely love it. Plenty of space for things, and easy to move from my purse to backpack to wherever. (I've even carried it by itself- the side pocket is large enough for my phone, which is the size of a small laptop). I seriously recommend this wallet for everyone who can't seem to cram their stuff into a tiny one.

Bathroom Dance Party/ Pajama Jammie Jam

Nothing says family bonding like dancing and singing like no one is watching. We have a blast. Now that the kids are getting too big and too old to shower together, we have evolved from Bathroom Dance Party to the Pajama Jammie Jam. We laugh, we dance, we sing (I try). Last night, Tommy was boasting that he knows the boy and girl parts to "Gotta Go My Own Way" from High School Musical 2. At least he owns it. ;) Our favorite song of late is Pink's Raise Your Glass. Watch it here.

Ok...that was more than a few. After a very long and stressful day at work, it was fun to think about some of the people and things that make me happy. I hope everyone has had a wonderful day!

Wow- What a Weekend

2011-02-13T18:52:00.000-08:00

This weekend has been chock-full of some awesome moments and a few sad ones. It has been quite a roller coaster, but I'm very thankful to have spent wonderful time with my family. On the Eve of Valentines Day, I was reminded of what I hold dear. Some friends and family are going through very rough times, so they are weighing heavy in my thoughts.

On Saturday, I went to the memorial service for a patient of mine who passed away. He spent a lot of time in the hospital over the past several months, and we got to know him well. His memorial was a relaxed yet amazing remembrance of his life. He was a joker. Once, when he was ill enough to be in Intensive Care, I asked him how he ended up in Maryland after growing up in New York. His response? "Prison". While I hated to see him in the hospital because it meant he wasn't doing well, I enjoyed visiting him every day. His friends and family shared wonderful memories and laughed a lot. I was glad to learn more about him and the man he was. I feel fortunate for the patients I meet and who often touch my life in more ways than they know.

Today was a roller skating birthday party. My husband was a competitive roller skater as a kid, and I love watching him skate on wheels or blades. I can hold my own, but he makes it look effortless. They allowed bikes on the rink, so our son got to ride while we all skated. It was a harder workout than my trainer ride this morning, but we had a great time.

Heading home from skating, I asked Tommy to swing by Target (of course my list of 5 items turned into 25). We got on route 50 (an eight-lane highway) to head home. This wouldn't be our normal route but we rerouted on our way to Target. After just a few minutes, we saw a sea of brake lights. We came upon an accident (a woman had swerved to miss something in the road, smashed through the guardrail, crossed 4 lanes, and hit the Jersey Barrier). No EMS/Fire were on the scene yet, but there was a State Trooper. Tommy kept driving slowly, and then we saw someone holding an injured child. It has been 14+ years since the days when Tommy and I rode the ambulance together, but watching him with children even back then showed me his compassion and his kindness. So today we stopped. The little girl was 7. She was ok, but had a major (and I mean major) laceration to her face. We worked with other bystanders to take care of her until EMS got there. Another bystander was holding her, and kept telling her that the doctors would use "butterfly glue" to make her better. When Tommy and I talked later, we felt badly that while this person was being helpful, she honestly set her up to feel disappointed when she got to the hospital. Unfortunately, she was facing a lot of stitches.

Another bystander was kind enough to talk to our kids (who were safe in the car)while we were busy. They had a million questions on the ride home. We talked a lot about what would happen if we were in a similar situation, and how if we were ever in an accident and had to go to the hospital in separate ambulances, we would ALWAYS find them. They just need to trust the healthcare providers and police/firefighters to take care of them until we get to them. For the parents out there, this is a good conversation to have with your kids if the opportunity presents itself. (Of course you hope it never happens). Passengers in a car are often separated for transport to the hospital after an accident- letting your kids know that they can trust those taking care of them is vital, especially in a stressful situation.

To decompress this evening, we held one of our favorite activities....the Pajama Jammie Jam. The kids sang and rocked out to everything from Pink ("Raise Your Glass"), to John Denver ("Country Roads"), and Miley Cyrus ("The Climb"). Of course my son was dancing in his Batman cape and his underwear. I am so thankful for the moments when I can just be totally absorbed in my family, and laughing with Tommy about their latest antics.

Whew! Thanks for letting me share....

Monday (Tuesday) Rundown: Trakkers 2011

2011-02-08T18:04:00.000-08:00

Ok, this rundown is all about my team! Have you ever been a part of something where you look around and think "Wow, I am so lucky they picked me!"? (I actually think that often about my husband, too. He was "the one that got away", and I got him back). Anyway, I digress (and no steroids anymore to blame it on). This team is amazing. Our pros are incredible! You can read all about them here. What always amazes me most is how Charlie Patten and Sharpie manage to create such a team when we are all over the country. Our newbies are incredibly enthusiastic. I am getting awesome tips on training, healthy eating, and lots of motivation from my awesome teammates. So what is new in 2011?

Rev3 partners with the Ulman Cancer Fund:
This is really cool. The Ulman Cancer Fund and Team Fight work to support young adults with cancer. Even cooler, they are based in Maryland. Ulman actually put on the Half Full Triathlon (my 70-mile race this past October). Many of my tri club friends race for Team Fight, and I'm so excited that we get to support them as part of the Rev3 family. Rev3 Provided the timing, bike racks, and other support for Half Full, but they are extending even more support through fundraising, etc. The enthusiasm around this with our team and Rev3 is incredible.

Rev 3:
On top of amazing philanthropy, Rev3 puts on incredible races. I CAN'T WAIT to race and volunteer. Thanks to my awesome teammate Laura, I am planning some serious road-tripping this season.
We are driving to Knoxville in May, and Anderson, SC in October, plus Laura's home turf for Quassy (CT) in June. (Not to mention my road trip to Cedar Point in September). Lots of driving and lots of fun. (Many thanks to my hubby for supporting these adventures).

New Kicks:
Our team shoes will be from Avia this year. They have some seriously snazzy running shoes. I ordered my first pair of Avia Rhythm running shoes to test out as a training shoe (I am long overdue, and while I found great racing flats last year I didn't ever find an ideal training shoe).

My Training:
This is still a slow-but-sure process. Off of the steroids I was taking (think "sinus infection", not "doping scandal"), my knee is starting to ache some. I'm thinking I pushed a little too much when I was on the steroids and feeling great. I got in my first swim in two months today, I'm up to 120 minute indoor trainer rides (though it was a bit more painful this weekend), and 4-6 mile runs. It still isn't as consistent as I would like, but I am making progress. I went ahead and registered for Rev 3 Quassy, Cedar Point, and SC, so I'm hoping things continue to progress.

Monday Rundown

2011-01-31T06:04:00.000-08:00

I type this as we are all getting "our wits about us" (a favorite phrase of my Mom's), and thinking about heading home to Maryland tonight. Our trip to Florida has been awesome, but I will post more later when I have good pics. I will share a pic of our house in Maryland and one of the orange tree at my Grandparents' house (fresh juice every morning)....you decide where you would rather be! We are very thankful to have missed the 12-hour commutes and power outages that the storm brought!

Rest in Peace, Woody:While on vacation (my sister was with us while her husband stayed back for work), we found out that her beloved horse Woody died. He was 30 (old in horse years), and getting thin, but my Mom rode him Tuesday evening and he was fine. When she went out Wednesday morning to feed him, he was laying down "asleep". I told my sister that after years of working with sick humans, creatures seem to have some semblance of control over when they go. I'm sure he waited until she was out of town so that she wouldn't find him. He also wanted to get the heck out of dodge before the snow came...because animals know such things. He was a great horse and will be missed.

Mere and Woody

Girls Rule
After the downer portion of my post, I have to share a little humor. We have gotten into a battle of the sexes in our family, often beginning with the statement "Girls rule, boys drool." This is sometimes reversed, or sometimes becomes "Kids rule, parents drool." It always makes us laugh. The retirement park where my grandparents live in Florida has a bath house of sorts (they have showers but not big hot water tanks at their house). The other day, the girls were in one bathroom and the boys in the other, with conversation trickling through the ducts. So my daughter and I counted to three and yelled "Girls Rule, Boys Drool!". The next thing you hear is my 4 1/2 year old son yelling "I don't hear anything. Daddy, do you hear anything?". We decided to take it to the next level. The bathrooms have a lock on the inside and one on the outside. I told my daughter to get dressed quickly, and then we locked the boys in their bathroom. Of course I was waiting there to open the door before Tommy busted it down, and then the girls ran like crazy, laughing all the way. Anyone over the age of 8 would think this was a stupid prank, but I've decided it is awesome mother-daughter and father-son bonding. As long as it isn't spiteful, a little teasing and a lot of laughter makes our family that much better.

Editorial note: my husband walked by as I was typing this and made some mumbled comment about girls vs boys....he is just mad that we got him! ;)

Training:
Since this is my triathlon blog and I haven't mentioned anything triathlon related yet, a quick update. I ran 6 miles the other day and am slowly working myself back up. It feels incredible. (Not to mention running in shorts and a T-shirt). I can't wait to get back in the pool now that my sinus infection is clearing and seriously gear up for 2011. I actually feel like I can start planning for the season now. Look for a Team Trakkers post soon!

Monday Rundown

2011-01-24T18:08:00.000-08:00

Disclaimer: I am taking all kinds of meds for this month-long cough and now ear issues. These include steroids, which make me ramble even more than usual. (I know, is this really possible?). The good news is my house is tidy, laundry is done....I'm like a Mom on speed! (Kids- this is not condoning "juicing". Steroids are bad...but if I'm going be sick and on meds at least the house is clean!)

The Good News: I ran/walked 4.5 miles on the treadmill yesterday. It felt awesome! It was mostly running, with some walking in there (trying to build myself up and not push it). Of course my heart rate was definitely higher than normal but I figure my body has been through a lot. It felt good to sweat that hard-earned, I'm pushing myself kind of sweat.

Team Trakkers 2011: Lots of cool happenings for our team. The Team Trakkers Elite have a video out introducing themselves. It is fun to get to know our pro teammates. You can check it out here.

One of the most exciting new additions to the Trakkers Elite team is Kathleen Calkins. Kathleen was one of our age group teammates last year when she earned her Professional Triathlete status. She raced as a pro at Rev3 Cedar Point. Her husband Shane was super supportive, cheering on Kathleen and the rest of us during the race. I also met her son, who is the same age as mine and also has a total obsession with firefighters. The boys have become cross-country pen pals. I can't wait to follow Kathleen's journey and the rest of the Team Trakkers Elite.

Rev 3 on Blog Talk Radio: Rev3 is resuming the Blog Talk Radio shows this year. These were a blast last year. You can listen along to the show, and participate in the online chat. It is great to hear from the pros and hear specifics about the Rev3 races. Click here to listen. The show is on this Wednesday at 8pm Eastern. I will be visiting with family but hoping I can make it online!

I'm Not a Prude, but.....

2011-01-21T18:29:00.000-08:00

I joined the fire department when I was 16. I was able to hang with the boys pretty well and not be offended by the moments of locker room humor. I consider myself laid back, but as a Mom I think my tolerance for certain things has changed a LOT. For some reason, some of the television programming for pre-teens and teenagers out there seriously befuddles me.

Before I sound "high and mighty", I have to disclose that my guilty pleasures include the "Real Housewives" (New Jersey, Atlanta, BH...). When I was sick, I watched a Jersey Shore marathon during a sleepless night. That being said, I'm 34 (not to mention a married, "boring" Mom). I think I am beyond the impressionable phase.

Once upon a time, I loved "Beverly Hills, 90210" and "The Real World" (like seasons 1, 2, 3...). When the new version of "Beverly Hills, 90210" came out, I watched the first few episodes. Those who admit to watching the original series remember that it was a BIG deal when someone drank or did drugs, and Donna Martin deciding whether or not to sleep with David Silver consumed episodes. It wasn't "The Brady Bunch", but by today's standards the subject matter was lame. I watched the first few episodes of the new version. Holy cow...drunk texting, sleeping around, the 1990s version on crack. I know times have changed, but if my daughter was 13 she would not be watching the show.

Apparently, it gets worse. During the aforementioned "Jersey Shore" marathon, I saw commercials for the new MTV show "Skins". Talk about blatant promiscuity, drugs, drinking, sex. None of these things seemed to be taboo or risky, either. Just normal teenage behavior. So The Washington Post published an article yesterday about the show. (You can read it here). Normally I would probably scoff at critiques by the Parents Television Council, but this one seems to be spot on.
In the 42 minute premier, there were 41 visual and spoken references to drugs and alcohol. This doesn't include the sex.

"On January 17, the Viacom-owned cable network MTV aired a teenager-based drama, 'Skins.' The episode included all manner of foul language, illegal drug use, illegal activity as well as thoroughly pervasive sexual content. Moreover, future episodes promise much more of the same," PTC said.

So maybe I am turning into my mother, who I had to beg to let me see "Dirty Dancing" in 6th grade because there was...ummmm....dirty dancing in the movie. I wasn't a perfect teenager, and I definitely tested the boundaries, but do we need our pop culture making it so ok for kids to engage in these risky behaviors?! My 8 year old has already come home singing Ke$ha songs she learned on the playground (in the days when I refrained from letting her hear such songs on the radio). How do you explain that it isn't ok to brush your teeth "with a bottle of Jack"?

Ok, so perhaps this is a rant. Perhaps a Mom trying to figure out how to empower my children to make good choices, and wishing that society made it a little easier!

Monday Rundown

2011-01-17T18:31:00.000-08:00

This will be a quick one...I'm wiped!

Tubes- D got the tubes in his ears last week. He was a total trooper. Not a tear was shed. Since he had the procedure done at my hospital, the recovery room nurses all commented that they now know what I am like after two glasses of wine. He did great, and was back to school the next day. Here is hoping there are no more ear infections!

Family Movie Night- Thanks to my Dad giving us a larger-than-life television when he moved out of his apartment, we have started a "family movie night" tradition. Once a week, we all pile on the couch and watch a movie (or an episode of Wonder Woman). We have really had a blast with it. We do lots of reading, playing games, etc., but something about showing the kids some of the movies that we liked as kids is a blast. We watched "Ghostbusters" this week. We were reminded how far special effects have come in the years since the movie was made, but we had a great time laughing at the movie. Of course our little one was obsessed with the fact that the Ghostbusters lived in an old firehouse.

Party on- This weekend was the party for my sister and her husband to celebrate their wedding in Philadelphia. It was a great chance to see his hometown and meet friends and family who couldn't make it to the wedding. Of course what are the odds that at a party with 90 guests, someone would be wearing MY dress?!?! I say that jokingly- I could care less and we looked nothing alike, but it was funny. The best part was that it was a Ralph Lauren dress that we both got for super cheap at TJ Maxx.

Training- This cold has been kicking my butt! I feel like crud still, and cough like crazy in the mornings. I haven't been in the pool because I am so congested. I am trying to run (woohoo!) and get time in on the bike, but I'm not feeling the swim just yet. I'm hoping for this week! The one thing I have been focusing on is a lot of strengthening, and core work...trying to get stronger for 2011.

Supper club- I have been inspired by my teammate Jessi to start a supper club with some of my working Mom friends. We are still figuring out the details, but I spent most of today cooking. I made stuffed shells, my enchilada bake, and mac and cheese. (Not all super healthy meals, but mac and cheese was chosen for being kid-friendly).

Team Trakkers- It is great to get to know the new round of teammates. There is a lot of enthusiasm, and I am really looking forward to the races this year. I am hoping to volunteer at the Rev3 race in Knoxville and be ready to race by Quassy.

2010: Lessons Learned

2011-01-09T16:02:00.001-08:00

I feel like I've done so much reflecting in the past couple of months. As I said in an email to a dear friend today, I feel like I've just been rolling with the punches and thankfully none of them has been a knockout blow. During a follow-up visit with my GYN after my ectopic pregnancy, we were discussing how surreal the whole experience was.
Me: "I just keep telling myself there must be a lesson in all this."
Dr. A: (I'm paraphrasing) "You know, I think sometimes crappy things just happen for no good reason"

Of course that made me think a lot. What I came to realize is that maybe there isn't a lesson, but I can learn from how I respond to situations, and how I come away from them. While I don't care to repeat the last few months of 2010, I have learned some powerful lessons. Among them...

- Even after 18 years, my dear husband will drop everything to be there for me when I need him.

- Homemade soup from your Mom makes a sick day much better, even when you are 34.

- I can never take for granted time with my children, even if they are fighting.

- I am fiercely determined.

- It is ok to sometimes let others take care of you without feeling guilty.

- Never take for granted that the person who seems happiest is really happy. Sometimes that is the person who needs your help the most. I wish we had learned this lesson sooner.

- My little sister can be almost as bossy as me when it comes to planning her wedding.

- I am truly fortunate to have such wonderful friends and family, and to be a part of a team that encompasses so much more than a bunch of triathletes.

- I am also fortunate to love my job. I was reminded today that I am so fortunate to do what I do.

- I don't have a race schedule for 2011, and that is ok...I'm going with it...letting my body tell me what I can handle. I am a planner. This is new for me.

One post can't sum up what a year 2010 has been, but I'm thankful to have regained my "pep" and looking forward to getting stronger (and maybe a little faster) in 2011.

Progress

2011-01-05T19:04:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was Day 18 post-knee arthroscopy. I went to physical therapy yesterday. I worked my way up to 111 minutes on the bike this weekend, so I felt pretty good going into therapy. Thanks to my husband and teammates, I resisted the urge to go for a jog over the weekend.

At therapy, I did my required exercises (including a whopping 8 minutes on the bike). The therapist working with me put me through the paces, and then said "Do you really think you need to see us anymore?" Of course I didn't think so, but I didn't think it was my place. I'm paying them to tell me what I need to do and how I'm doing, right? One of the lessons that I learned the past few months is that I can't always be in control.

So the therapist put me through the paces, and told me she didn't think I need them anymore. I can always call with questions, and I shouldn't run for 1-3 more weeks, but I am discharged. YES! My new office at work is literally steps away from our cardiac rehab area (which doubles as the employee gym). I can do a lot more rehabbing there than I can driving back and forth to PT.

After what feels like months of setbacks and unexpected illness/injury, this feels like a giant leap forward! I am sore today from PT yesterday, but I'm thinking it is a good sore. Bring it on!

Monday Rundown

2011-01-05T18:46:00.000-08:00

Inspired by some of my teammates with great blogs, I have decided to start a new weekly post for some of my random training updates, thoughts, and happenings for the week.

- Throwback: For Christmas, I asked my kids (aka husband) for the first season of Wonder Woman on DVD. I love Wonder Woman. I had Wonder Woman Underoos as a kid. My sister and I used to pile the couch cushions on the floor and then jump onto them from the couch, pretending we could jump as far and as fast as Wonder Woman. My husband and I now realize that she got knocked out a lot with Chloroform, but that is a small detail. We have been watching the episodes with the kids, having a blast. I am reliving my childhood, and still think Wonder Woman rocks! The cool part is that Lynda Carter lives in our area, and frequents the firehouse near her house to thank the firefighters. Tommy hasn't see her yet, but maybe one of these days (and hopefully he can get me, I mean the kids, an autograph).

- My poor munchkin gets tubes in his ears tomorrow. He has been a trooper. He doesn't even complain when he gets an ear infection, and we often only find out because his ears start draining. It is a brief procedure, but you hate to see your pumpkin go through anything. After a busy day at the doctor (and then home on a sick day with Daddy)last week, he fell down on the job a bit....

- Our pups: Our firstborns often get neglected in blog posts because our human kids are so darn entertaining. These guys Spanner (short for Star Spangled Banner, born on July 4th), and Spridel (ever seen "Speed Racer?") are both 90+ years old in people years. Spridel has cancer so we have enacted doggie advance directives, but he is stubborn and remains comfortable, so we are happy to have him hanging with us. Both dogs are stone cold deaf. Spridel got out tonight and got several blocks away. This is the first time this has happened. They have a tendency to go outside our split rail fence and come back in. It was totally my fault as I had put the dogs out, let Spanner in, and got distracted. I am so thankful that someone called us, and thankful that I was able to find him after she let him get away. I'm thinking he will be on a leash from now on. I now know I can run on my knee because I ran around looking for him (don't tell my ortho- desperate measures). Below are pics of Spanner keeping me company on the trainer and Spridel wiped out after his adventure.

- Family Fitness: We got the kids the Xbox Kinect for Christmas. This is really a great workout. Can I just say that my kids and husband beat me in all of the games (and I can't blame my knee---I just don't have the hand-eye coordination). We were playing this game that reminds me of "Pong", but with your body instead of a paddle. My husband said I look like and Orangutan playing it. He was right! Here are the kids giving it a go.

-Training: Ah, yes, training.... I actually have picked up a somewhat regular regimen. There isn't a training "plan" yet, just what my knee feels up to on any given day.
Cycling (Indoor Trainer): 3hrs 8 min
Core: 30 min
Strength: 95 min
Walking: 30 min
Running after the dog: 15 min

Have a great week!

Speechless

2010-12-31T16:03:00.000-08:00

I love my job. Not in a brown-nosing, hope my boss reads this sort of way, but in the truest sense. There are days and moments when it is rough and I get frustrated, but there are other moments that make it totally worthwhile. On the list of things I am thankful for this year, my job is definitely there. I love interacting with my patients (I had a guy this week who was in the Army stationed in the Dominican Republic when Castro tried to take over- he told me all about it), love helping them and their families understand what is going on (sometimes "Translating" doctor-speak into layman's terms), and sometimes actually walking away feeling like I saved a life. Not only that, but I feel valued by the hospital where I work.

I work with 12+ doctors, and equate dealing with them to dealing with my kids. Not any comment on their maturity- just on the fact that they all have different personalities and different preferences in their medical treatment of patients. (Just like I know which of my children won't eat mushrooms or drink milk, I know which cardiologist prefers which medication in a given situation). It takes some work to get them all figured out, but after 5 years I feel like the code has been cracked.

There are the mundane daily moments, but then there are the moments that make my job so incredibly rewarding. These are the moments when I couldn't imagine doing anything else. I had a conversation with one of our ICU nurses the other day. We were talking about patients at the end of life. In our hospital, we see a lot of elderly patients (if I don't see three people age 90 or older in a given day, it is an unusual day). Many of them live independently, and are very functional. At the same time, many have "DNR" (Do Not Resuscitate or Allow Natural Death) wishes. In light of the odds of a successful recovery after CPR at age 90+, this is pretty reasonable for most of our patients. This means that we deal with a lot of patients at end of life, many of whom have very peaceful passings. We fight as hard as we can up until the point they opt for just care, or the point where their bodies tell us it is time.

In our conversation, we talked about working with patients and their families during end of life. Sometimes they can be challenging. Then you step back and remind yourself that this is our daily experience, while this is the biggest event/crisis in this family's life at this point in time...perhaps ever. Sometimes you can help them through it with compassion, but without getting emotionally attached. Occasionally, there are those patients and families who find their way into your heart. You stop by to check on them one last time before you go home for the day, you go home thinking about them, your heart sinks when you find out they have passed away. Even though the clinical part of your brain knows that it was their time, you feel immense sadness that you couldn't do more.

I met Mr. B two years ago. Without sounding cocky, I helped as a part of our team to save his life. It was a group effort, and he was in the hospital for over a month. He could be very opinionated, but for some reason we clicked and he was always wonderful to me. He never gave me a hard time. I got to know his family very well, and came to look forward to seeing them. He was back a couple of times over the past two years, but never quite as sick or for quite as long. When I saw his daughter last week in the elevator, she told me it was time. Instead of walking to my car, where I was headed, I went to see him. He was awake, his vital signs looked decent, and his first comment was "You changed your hair since last time I saw you." (Really? He noticed that?) I was able to check in on him a couple of times a day, and he declined a bit between each visit. I went home thinking about him and his family every day. My husband was extremely supportive when I came home one day particularly down because he and his family were weighing on my mind. I was saddened to hear of his passing on Christmas Day, and even more disappointed that the stomach flu kept me from his funeral this week. If we were affected in this way by every patient, we could never do our jobs. Though if this didn't happen every once in a while, we wouldn't be good at our jobs.

So to the speechless part...I got a phone call at work on Monday from a co-worker to make sure I read Mr. B's obituary. I had been looking for it anyway to get details on his funeral arrangements. After the information about his wonderful family and the memorial service, I was floored to read this. "In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in honor of Kiersten Henry's dedicated friendship and care to St. Luke's Episcopal Church" In the face of all his family had to deal with, they were thanking me for the small part I played in his care. Yes, I checked in on him and looked out for him, but his family was there day and night with him, surrounding him with love. Moments like these remind me why I love my job- because sometimes a kind word and some compassion make all the difference in the world.

Kids Say the Darndest Things

2010-12-22T18:53:00.000-08:00

Today I was standing in the greeting card section at the drug store. I have a tendency to be a bit of a sap (read: I cry at EVERYTHING). So I'm standing there looking for a card for my husband, getting all choked up as I read them. I don't think it is that the cards are so amazingly well-written, they just articulate feelings I already have. So I'm standing amidst the tinsel and getting choked up. Did I mention I am a sap?

On that note, I had to share a very funny exchange that occurred last night after my 8 year old and I went to the grocery store. To set the context, my kids have been watching "The Santa Clause" movies this week. In the movies, the fireplace stretches magically to allow Santa to get into the house, then snaps back to its original form. Pretty cool.

So here we are in the car...
S: "Does it hurt to have a baby?"
Me: "Well, it was a lot of work, but totally worth it."
S: "Oh"
Me: "Do you understand how babies come out of their Moms?" (We've talked around this before, but never broken out the diagrams. My Mom once explained it and my son piped up "Ewwwwww.that is esgusting!")
S: "They come out your bellybutton" (Uh oh, here we go).
Me: "Not exactly. Do you understand how babies are made?"
S: "Blah Blah Blah (relatively accurate and detailed explanation)...Sperm...Blah blah blah"
Me: (Did my 8 year old just use the word sperm?????? Next she will be spelling "gestation" for me!!!) "That is about right. Where did you learn all that?"
S: "I read it in a book."
Me: "Really? What book?"
S: "I don't remember. It was at the church book sale."
Me: (Thinking to myself "You can't make this stuff up!"). (Provide explanation of where babies actually come out of the body)
S: "How does that work?"
Me:"Well, the bones move, things stretch, and then they go back to where they belong."
S: (Ponders.....) "Oh, like Santa coming through the fireplace in the movie. Got it. Can I have dessert when we get home?"

How come these conversations never happen for Tommy?????

Keeping the Christmas Magic

2010-12-20T18:43:00.000-08:00

I feel thankful this year that my 8-year-old still believes in Santa. I can tell she is fighting hard to keep believing. She is a smart cookie, and she knows there are some inconsistencies, but she keeps on believing. Even in the face of friends who tell her that they don't believe in Santa, she keeps believing. I tell her "I guess they won't be getting a present from Santa, then."

Where is "Myths and Fables and Good Parenting for Dummies?" when you need it? We were watching the Santa Clause 2 last night, and my 4 1/2 year old was quizzing me about the tooth fairy. "Is our tooth fairy a Boy or a Girl?" "Where does our tooth fairy live?" and on....and on.... The pressure of answering these questions is almost as bad as worrying about your kids growing up to be fine, upstanding citizens one day. No one wants to ruin all the little hopes and dreams these guys have. The upside is, I'm confident my daughter will help keep her brother believing once she finds out Santa is more a spirit than a person.

So this brings me to the seasonal struggle. My children are fortunate to have a home, food, a good school. How do you balance allowing them to enjoy the magic of the season, without letting them get spoiled by all of it? I would like to think we do a good job, but I did jump on Amazon.com last night for the "one last thing" that I heard both of them mention. There are no tantrums, no demands, just nicely printed lists and requests. (My daughter's list was only 3 items so she could help ensure that she got what she wanted).

To keep the spirit of the season in mind, we have always donated toys to local charities. The kids see the toys, help pack them up, and understand where they are going. I hope this instills them with the idea that Christmas is just as much about giving as it is about receiving. This year, a friend of mine has been very involved in the Toy Drive for children hospitalized at Children's National Medical Center in Washington, DC. Her own son went through multiple surgeries there after his birth last year, and now she is paying it forward. We got to hand off our big bag of toys to one of her elves yesterday, and hope they bring lots of smiles to the kids at CNMC. Thank you Leigh-Ann for being selfless (I don't know how you find the time for this, but I'm glad you did).

So what is the right answer? My kids will have the gifts they hope for under the tree this year, but I hope we have helped them to see that there is so much more to this season. I guess only time will tell. (So far, they are both on the "Nice" list).
Happy Holidays!

Road to Recovery

2010-12-18T11:29:00.000-08:00

The last couple of months have been a bit rough. Even as I type that, I know that friends are going through much "rougher", more life-changing events right now. I've had some crappy moments, but they are all in the "this too shall pass" category. All things that I can see to the other side of. Will they shape the fabric of my life from here on? Of course. (Do I sound like a commercial for cotton? maybe). Have I really processed my ectopic pregnancy and the loss that went with it? I don't think so. It was such a surreal experience from start to finish that it seems like it happened to someone else. For me, being open about things helps tremendously. Others prefer to keep things to themselves, and I fully respect that.

When I felt good enough to get back on my bike/in the pool/ out for a run, I realized my knee was still a problem. So here I sit, ice machine flowing, after arthroscopy to fix a torn meniscus. It was torn in three places. No wonder it freaking hurt!

I also sit here looking forward. I look forward to starting PT tomorrow. I look forward to thinking about my first race. I have kept my 2011 schedule very open, so that I can see how recovery goes. I am thankful to have an orthopedist who gets athletes, and knows I want to be back out there.

Even more, I am thankful for all the love and support from friends, family, and teammates. I am on the road to recovery, and I can't wait to pound some serious pavement.

Angels

2010-12-15T20:38:00.000-08:00

When you use the word "Angel", sometimes the stereotypical, ethereal being with halo and wings comes to mind. To me, an angel can be someone who comes along at the right moment, just when you need them, to lend a hand. It is simple as the woman who stopped a few years ago when my son was having a meltdown in the parking lot and carried my pizzas to my car for me. This allowed me to pick up my son (who was trying to lay down in the road), and not deposit my pizzas all over the asphalt.

Being home after surgery has led to a lot of reflection. A lot has gone on in the past few months, but I feel like I am in a great place. One of the reasons for this is that I have so many wonderful people in my life. There are those who we probably take for granted. My husband Tommy is amazing. There is a reason I married him. He is my best friend, and has been there at every moment when I've needed him. Even if we weren't quite on the same page, we were trying to get there together. He dropped everything at work to be there for me when I was unexpectedly in the hospital. (In his field, dropping everything is a little more complicated than some).

There are people in our lives that we probably take for granted. Our spouses, parents, siblings (their spouses)...they jump in when you need them most. My family has been amazing. I'm so thankful for their love and support.

Sometimes the "angels" are those people who come to lend a hand at an unexpected moment, from an unexpected place. A wise woman I know told me recently that sometimes people are put in our lives for a reason. I was totally overwhelmed by the unexpected people who reached out to me when I needed them. People who shared their own stories, those who sent me notes or an encouraging email (or a "something borrowed" to help me get through), those who brought me food in the hospital (who knew Nerds would be the one thing that helped my nausea?), those who made dinner despite dealing with so much in their own lives.... I only hope that I can return the kindness one day.

My experiences of late have given me greater appreciation for...
Random acts of kindness
My family
Taking a moment to do something that might seem small, but will brighten another person's day
The little things

Family

2010-12-10T19:31:00.001-08:00

While it is very cliche, I think we would all agree that families come in all forms. I am fortunate to have a wonderful "biological" family. In addition, I have wonderful friends I consider my family.

Some of them are new friends. I am so excited to get to know the new members of the Team Trakkers family (more on that to come soon). Through work and the sport of triathlon, my extended family has grown.

This week I was reminded that sometimes the closest friends aren't those we necessarily talk to on a regular basis. Nadia and I grew up together. I was 3 and she was 2 when we met. We lived on the same court, and literally had the run of a large neighborhood for over a decade. We were complete "pool rats" in the summer (endless games of Sharks and Minnows, and hide and go seek when the pool closed). There were countless sleepovers (including the time she and I camped out on her kitchen floor when my Mom was in labor at the hospital with my sister Meredith). She has a large family, and I was considered one of the gang. I was always at family functions, and her uncles teased me just as much as they did her.

April 1981 (Ages 4 and 5)

(1994)
We saw each other less in our teenage years, but were fortunate to reconnect as adults. We have daughters who are actually two weeks apart in age. It has been so great to get together with our girls, which is like looking back 20 years. This week, I had the occasion to see Nadia's family every day. Do you ever have that total feeling of warmth and "home" when you see someone who brings with them fond memories? Seeing all of these people who were like a second family to me is like going to a reunion. I can't do the feeling justice, but it just feels reassuring. A lovely reminder that some bonds are stronger than time, the hectic pace of life, or anything else. I'm so thankful for such wonderful people in my life.

The next generation

Today ROCKED!

2010-12-03T16:49:00.000-08:00

5:15 am- The alarm goes off so I can swim
Motivated Me- "Get up, Sleepy Head"
Unmotivated Me- "There is a reason they invented the snooze button. You can cycle
on the trainer tonight."
Motivated Me- "When have you EVER felt like a workout on a Friday evening?
Fridays are always crazy at work."
Unmotivated Me- Saaahhhnooooozzzzzzeee
7 minutes later...Motivated Me wins out.

90 minutes later, after a glorious 30 minute swim (my first in over a month), I'm showered and pulling up in the driveway. Crap! The same lights are on as when I left. Are the kids still sleeping??? (Insert stress here). Tommy was going to get them up. I walk in the door and there are my awesome kids. They woke up for their alarm, are both dressed and getting their shoes on. I can talk, cajole, yell, stomp my feet, and it never happens this smoothly. Not only did they get themselves up and dressed, but they also got their Dad up. (He is a fan of "Snooze", too).

Work was great. Fridays are always crazy, but I was reminded that I have so many awesome friends, and I love my job! I think the workout this morning just seriously altered my perspective. Even the call from the orthopedist saying I have a torn meniscus and need surgery didn't put me in a bad mood. I'm hoping it will fix my pain and I can be back stronger in 2011 (my physician colleagues said I should ask for bionic parts while I am at it).

Murphy's Law on Fridays is that we will get lots of cardiac patients in the Emergency Department at 3pm. True to form, we had three. We got through them, had a nice time working with our ED staff, and I got out to buy birthday balloons for my daughter (am I seriously old enough to have an 8 year old???).

Dinner tonight was the Bday girl's choice...so we went to Sakura (the local Japanese Steakhouse). We had a blast, the kids were great, and there was cheesecake with a candle and "Happy Birthday".

It doesn't get better. Sure, my knee will hopefully get better, my fitness will get better, but LIFE. IS. GOOD.

Rev 3 Portland

2010-12-02T17:25:00.000-08:00

Want a family-friendly 70.3 race on the West Coast? Check out Rev 3 Portland. After racing Rev3 Quassy and Cedar Point, I can attest to the fact that Rev 3 puts on an awesome race!

Bring on December!

2010-11-30T16:42:00.001-08:00

I've started about five blog posts in the past couple of weeks, but have never actually posted. My perkiness and pep are still escaping me (though I see a glimmer every know and then). I have tried to exercise, but the knee injury that started late this summer flares every time I try a lower body workout (run, elliptical, bike..). I am always one for "sucking it up", but apparently I need to see an expert...tomorrow I see the orthopedist.

November sucked on many levels (considering I started the month with a very unexpected stay in the hospital). At the same time, November included my sister's wedding which was a wonderful event filled with family, friends, and good times. On this last day of November, I am tired, I am grumpy, I am seriously missing exercise! Reading all of the race reports lately just makes me realize how much I miss it!

So how to break out of this funk? (*It isn't depression, definitely just an irritable state). I've realized I need to break it down into things I can change and things I can't, and look forward to the awesome things to come in December. I can't change that I was ill, that my knee is a wreck, or all of the things at work that are out of my control. I CAN suck it up, put on a smile, stop eating total junk, stop sweating the small stuff, work on getting my knee better, figure out a race calendar for 2011, start getting in workouts somehow, and enjoy my awesome family!

So bring on December. I am ready!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

An awesome time at my sister's wedding.

Where is my pep?????

2010-11-17T18:37:00.000-08:00

Anyone who knows me well would probably agree that I am a relatively perky person normally. Perhaps a little bit Polyanna, glass is half full, try to make the best of it, but perky nonetheless.

This leads me to feel EXTREMELY frustrated that I have absolutely no pep these days. I know I am coming off of an illness, and that I have to give it time. Monday was my first day back at work after two weeks off (the first of which I pretty much spent in a supine position, on meds for pain and nausea). For the past three days, I have carried my gym bag into work, hoping for a short run at the end of the day. For the past three evenings, I have carried the back back out to my car without opening it. I worked later than planned on Monday, but each day have left work completely exhausted. Yes, we have been busy at the hospital, but not the busiest we've ever been.

I know I need to listen to my body and give it time. I keep reminding myself that just going to work and being on my feet all day is more exercise than I've had in two weeks. I still don't like it, though.

So enough whining, but if you find a little extra pep or perkiness lying around, would you please send it my way?

How to Plan a Wedding in 3 Weeks

2010-11-07T17:40:00.000-08:00

The setting: Uncle Rob's awesome log home in West Virginia (near Shepherdstown)
The Event: Girls Weekend, Taking a walk before lunch

The Conversation:
Meredith (My younger sister): "Trevor says maybe we should just save money and get married here."
Me (thinking to myself "Didn't we talk about this as a location MONTHS ago?) : "How about November 13th?"
Meredith: "That could work"

Three hours later, we were walking into David's bridal. The salesgirl never knew what hit here. In one hour, we had the perfect wedding gown, my dress, my daughter's dress, and the MOB dress for our Mom. This is what happens when the girls go to "relax". We also got wraps at Macy's since it will likely be chilly.

Fast Forward two weeks, t-minus 6 days from the wedding. My energy level is really frustrating....I can't do nearly the amount to help my sister that I thought I would be able to. If it involves physical labor, I am out. Thankfully she has lots of awesome friends and family to help. I am just hoping to be able to stay vertical for the wedding. It is amazing how everyone has pulled together to make this happen, and I know it will be beautiful.

Relinquishing Control

2010-11-04T05:21:00.000-07:00

"Control is never achieved when sought after directly. It is the surprising outcome of letting go." James Arthur Ray

If you asked most people who know me well, I like to have control. I like to have a plan. Surprisingly, my job often involves very dynamic situations. We have to react quickly to changes in patient condition, and I manage to handle those crises pretty well. I like a plan, though. When my sister decided to plan her wedding in three weeks, she knew that I would be more than happy to be very involved in the planning process.

Over the past four weeks, I have been frequently reminded that sometimes life doesn't go according to plan. It just doesn't. Sometimes the changes are minor (a sick child, a car problem), and sometimes they are life-altering. They say that God doesn't give you more than you can handle, but I definitely think sometimes He tests your limits. I have commented before about people who "overshare" on their blogs, but I have come to realize lately that getting my thoughts on "paper" is healing for me (so this is me oversharing).

I found out last week that I was pregnant. We have two beautiful, amazing children. Lately, we have been enjoying the fact that our youngest is becoming more and more independent at 4 years old. We hadn't planned on a third, but apparently that plan was going to change. I selfishly thought about the things that I would put on hold for a few years. No triathlons in 2011... "Ok, I'll shoot for 140.6 when I turn 40" (that would give me 6 years). No more disaster medical team.... "Ok, that can be put on hold. I can still attend the trainings and keep up my skills." "We can't afford three kids in childcare...Ok, we will revise our schedules to eliminate before and aftercare for the two older kids." In a week, I had come up with a potential plan. It was a rough week. A lot of crying. A lot of guilt, for being shocked by this pregnancy when I know there are so many people who are trying so hard to have children. I felt tired, and nauseated, but tried to push through. Of course I started to become attached to this new little one.

On Monday, I started to feel uncomfortable. Pregnancy can make you uncomfortable, so I prescribed myself a dose of "Suck it up". Hours later, the pain was intense. (It should have been a sign when I put my jacket on the floor of my office and lay down for a few minutes trying to get comfortable). Eventually, my OB sent me to the ER. I was an emotional and physical disaster. I always feel fortunate to work with such amazing people, but even more fortunate to experience their skill and compassion when I needed it most. It took a ridiculous amount of pain medicine to get me comfortable, but they did. Tests showed that the pregnancy was ectopic (it was taking place in the fallopian tube rather than the uterus). This can be life-threatening, but thankfully they caught it in time. They were able to give me medicine and avoid surgery. It took an overnight stay to get the pain and nausea under control. The medicine (methotrexate) is a chemotherapy agent. It stays in my system for over a week, and causes nausea and other symptoms. I still have a fair amount of discomfort, but it gets a little better every day.

Three days later, I don't think I've begun to process it all. I went from thinking about how life would change with a baby, to not being pregnant in a week. I know I need to grieve, but I think I am too emotionally exhausted to be there yet. I do know that I don't have control over when it will happen, and just have to let things come as they may.

Above all, I am thankful for the love of my family and friends. Tommy has taken time off to take care of me, the kids have kept their fighting to a minimum, and everyone has been so wonderful with their offers for help. I couldn't ask for more. I am sure there is some lesson in all of this for us, I just don't see it yet.

Perseverance

2010-10-30T18:44:00.000-07:00

I have this quote hanging in my office at work. I've had it for over a decade. I walk by it every day, but re-read it again yesterday. It sums up my 2010 race season (I finished my last two races injured because I was too stubborn, I mean persistent, too give up), and life in general right now.

“Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful people with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan "press on" has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race"
Calvin Coolidge

My 2010 Season in Pictures

2010-10-21T18:51:00.000-07:00

Trakkers Gear!

Post-its from Jenn at HQ...always appreciated

Meeting Teammates

My first race sporting Trakkers Gear

My Daughter's First Race

Columbia Tri

Rev3 Quassy: Trakkers Tent

Rev3 Quassy

Half Rev Quassy

Working the Quassy Water Stop

Iron Girl Pre-Race

Pre-Race with Trakkers Teammate Kelly

Irongirl

Rev3 Cedar Point- Trakkers & First Endurance

Rev3 Cedar Point: My First Half!!!!!!!

LOVE the Rev3 Bike Racks!!!!

Cedar Point- Hotel Breakers

Waiting, waiting, waiting for mommy

Finally!!!

Finishing my First 70.3

Finishing with My Daughter!

The Best Support Crew!!!

The Best Support Crew!!!

Half Full Tri: Pre-Race

The Minds Behind Rev3 Timing

T1 Here I Come!

Love those hills!

Finishing 70 miles after a knee injury and walking 11 of 13.1 miles

Saying Farewell

2010-10-11T18:39:00.001-07:00

Many of us have been lucky enough to know one (or maybe more) of "those" people. A person who will seriously do anything for anyone. They will be there to listen, to make you laugh, in this case to fight a fire with you, to answer the phone when you call 911..... I hope that my children will come to make good friends like this.

(circa 1995)

This was my first big fire "riding the line" (in charge of the hose nozzle, actually responsible for putting the fire out). Dome is the one breaking in the door.

This week we lost a dear friend, and Montgomery County Fire Rescue lost a great man. We are all left wondering what we could have done, but all we can do now is remember. I met Dome when I was in Jr. High and he was in high school. We ran track together, and my most fond memory was him daring me to hurdle a metal gate. I tried and the gate won. The aftermath was ugly, and 20 years later he still teased me. When we met again in the fire department a few years later, he was always looking out for me. He and Tommy became fast friends, and teased each other mercilessly. In the fire department, he was known as Poon (after way too many people mispronouncing Poonjumnern). There aren't really words to explain him, but the words I keep repeating this week are kind, selfless, and totally freaking hilarious.

The scope of his friendships is evidenced by his Facebook page. He was an avid photographer and the pictures show you his view of the world. His very tragic, very unexpected death became known to many people through Facebook. Working in healthcare, I've always been aware of the sensitive nature of revealing bad news. In this age of social networking, many people found out via email, text, or Facebook. It is good in the sense that people who might not otherwise have known were aware in the initial days and could attend the funeral, but it is a crummy way to learn such news. There is some solace in reading all of the posts from his friends, knowing how much we all miss him, and reading some of the very funny stories that are actually fit to print.

The fire department gave Poon a wonderful send-off this weekend. I am thankful to have so many wonderful friends who share fond memories of him. I still struggle with getting back to normal. I can't bring myself to post a "normal" Facebook status update yet, out of respect for him, or to tweet about all the silly things my kids did this weekend. Poon touched our lives in so many ways, and his passing has left a gaping hole.

A co-worker made an amazing tribute video.

William Penn wrote this, but Dome "Poon" lived it. "I expect to pass through life but once. If therefore, there be any kindness I can show, or any good thing I can do to any fellow being, let me do it now, and not defer or neglect it, as I shall not pass this way again."

I hope we can all learn a lesson from him.

Half Full Race Report

2010-10-05T20:49:00.000-07:00

Pre-race:
I knew Half Full was just about finishing for me (my non-triathlete husband, who knows me so well, reminded me on Saturday morning that it was just about finishing, not about time). My knee injury was still lingering (but improving), and I had pretty much been in a taper since Cedar Point three weeks prior. I figured whatever happened would happen, and I would give it a shot. I contemplated the Aqua Velo, but had signed up for the full 70 miles and wanted to give it a shot.

Races in Columbia are always like home team events. It is so nice to see so many faces at the expo and on race day (not to mention the Mid Maryland Tri Club tent). This race was made even better because Trakkers and Rev3 timing were there. I got to have a pre-race dinner with Trakkers Teammate Kati and her husband Paul (who knew PF Changs had such an awesome Gluten Free menu?). I saw Krista from Team Trakkers and lots of MMTCers at the expo and transition (thank you to Missie for coordinating the small army of volunteers).

Race Day:
It was c-c-c-cold! My feet were frozen before the swim. I got to spend a few minutes in the Rev3 trailer with Kati, Charlie, and the rest of the Rev3 timing crew. (Thank goodness for their space heater).

Swim (39:45- ouch)

Heather B. and I were hanging out before the swim start, and suddenly realized our wave was all lined up. We got in line, and got ready. It was the most calm swim start EVER. (I really like the time trial start). My swim was slow and steady, but on the last leg I found it hard to stay straight (the finish buoys were smaller than the others). I was all over the place. The swim time was my worst this season, but again it was just about finishing.

T1 (2:06)
My time wasn’t too bad. Kept on the tri suit and just went with arm warmers. Sockless without issues thanks to TriSlide. Came out of T1 with Heather B.

Bike (3:52:48)

Heather and I leapfrogged the first 6 miles or so, and I felt pretty decent. Shortly after mile 6 (when Bob Reid passed), my left knee started to hurt. Not just nag, but hurt. I had to let Heather go (not that I “let” her go, but I couldn’t keep up). I found myself maintaining rather than attacking, trying to save something for the run. On flats after downhills, where I would normally pedal, I coasted to rest my knee. I didn’t chase down people in front of me like I normally would, just tried to keep going. On the second loop, I stopped to use the porta john. I would never have stopped if I felt ok, but I had to go and knew I couldn’t go on the bike. At least three times during the run, I talked myself into a DNF (and cursed myself for not switching to the Aquavelo). Looking at the results now, I would've been third among the aquavelo females. Go figure! I told myself I could pack it in at Transition, but would finish the bike before I gave up.

T2 (2:25)
Couldn’t run up to the transition area. I told myself I would rack my bike, change my shoes, and be done. I racked the bike, changed the shoes, put on my big knee brace, grabbed my stuff, and headed to the “Run Out”. For feeling like I had nothing left, my T time wasn’t too bad.

The Run (aka the walk) (2:59:10)
I started with a run-walk plan. Made it about three miles that way before the walk became longer than the run. I was passed by lots of people and tried to cheer everyone on as they passed. I got lots of encouraging comments, too. The volunteers were AWESOME. Having your name on your bib is nice, and to a person they pronounced my name correctly (that never happens, and I don’t really care, but I noticed and appreciated it). I got hungry on the “run”. This never happens to me during a race, but when you are mostly walking and it has been 9 or 10 hours since you ate, I guess it does. (You don’t have the elevated heart rate and shunting of blood from your stomach). I was starving, and there was no food aside from Gu Chomps on the run. The support was great…I just could’ve gone for pretzels or a cookie. I continued to try and run. I kept telling myself “You don’t get to DNF against cancer and you can’t DNF this race”. When I got tired, I just kept saying “I am NOT A QUITTER”. I didn’t want my family and friends tracking me to see me DNF, I didn’t want to face my fellow MMTCers and Trakkers teammates with a DNF. I figured a DNF is reserved for serious injury or getting pulled off the course.

So I walked. It was lonely. There was a woman I could’ve walked with, but she struck me as very negative and crass, and I didn’t want to spend that much time with her. I actually mustered up a jog to get away from her a bit. I saw MMTC friends on the course, and Chip who encouraged me (unfortunately my knee had nothing left). I walked/ran until mile 8, and then it was pretty much walking. I knew I could make the cutoff, but would have a time of about 7:30. Exiting Centennial Park, I was passed by Dave from the Challenged Athletes Foundation. He was pushing a challenged athlete in a jogging stroller (he had pulled him in a raft and cycled with a special bike). He asked if I was hurting, and I said yes, but that I would finish. I told him that I thought he was amazing, and he said “I am just blessed”. If that wasn’t motivation, I don’t know what is. So I kept walking. The volunteers all cheered for me (along with the other racers), though I didn’t feel like I deserved it since I wasn’t running. I got to mile 12, the rain held off, and I knew I would finish.

We turned back into Centennial park, and you could hear the finish line. I saw some of Team Fight, and they told me I had to run when I rounded the bend. I had nursed my knee just enough that I thought I could run the finish. My RoadID reads “Finish Strong”, and I didn’t want to do anything but. So I jogged around the corner, and then sprinted the finish chute. Susie was there to catch me. She put my medal on, gave me a huge hug and said “I waited for you”. Then she got water for me. Missie gave me my finisher’s shirt, and Kati was there (just like at Cedar Point) to congratulate me (since she works with Timing, she knew I was walking the run). This was by far the hardest race I have ever done mentally (and a pretty challenging course). I always say I need to work on my mental game, but I think I won the mental game on this one. I couldn’t give up. This wasn’t the fight against cancer, just a race, but a race embodying optimism. Two days later, my knees ache, but I’m so thankful for all the support out there.

I think the Finishers shirt sums it up:
“Half Full is having hope and optimism in the face of adversity. Whether it is a triathlon or the fight against cancer, HALF FULL is having the determination and positive attitude to get to your finish line. One mile at a time, we will finish this race, but more importantly – WIN this Cancer Battle. “