Work Hard...Play Hard

New Orleans

2011-12-23T15:33:00.000-08:00

Since I haven't shared much about my life in New Orleans (other than the fact it was a tough year on a personal front), I figured photos could add some color (they also remind me of how lucky I am to have such great friends)

Mardi Gras 2011

Out on Lake P with the girls

Love playing dress up...

Oh yes, I did still find time to train, and race hard...

Still working on my run form. Project dont-run-like-a-dancer/breaststroker continues in 2012

I'm Back...

2011-12-04T09:04:00.000-08:00

At a very young age, my father told me an important lesson in fortitude: no matter how tough the going gets, you need to be able to hold your head up high, throw your shoulders back, look the world straight in the eye and say “You can’t hurt me.”

I’m working on following my dad’s advice.

It has been nearly a year since I last posted and life has happened and changed. It has been a tough year (to say the least) but it’s time that I turned it around, and looked forward to what the future will bring.

I’m training hard again, looking forward to racing, and having fun. I’m excited for 2012.

Bring it…

Pumped for 2011

2010-12-31T16:06:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe 2010 is almost over. It’s been a year of change in life (new city, new job, new friends), and a year of patience on the triathlon front (getting the hip through rehab).

Moving into 2011, I’m smiling. I’m loving New Orleans, my new job, have made some great friends and am really enjoying life. I’m also in a great place with my hip. The patience and persistence required to get where I wanted to be was much harder than I ever expected but it feels good to finally be back at it again and pain free.

So what’s in store for 2011 and triathlon? Good stuff…

I’m ready to race, still strengthening the hip….keeping up with the rehab exercises, and lots of TRX.

I started working with a running coach. His coaching philosophy seems to be working really well for me. He has me running more often than I have in the past, but not as long each time and each workout has a purpose.

I’m signed up for the NOLA 70.3 and going to focus on this as an A race. Other than that, I’m going to focus on the Olympic Distance triathlons this year. I like this distance, and hopefully with some running help, I can get better at it.

Cheers to a great 2010 and an even better 2011.

Breaking Out Of The Comfort Zone

2010-09-18T10:04:00.000-07:00

The title says it all. I've stepped out of my comfort zone both on the job and training/racing front. I highly recommend it.

After 7 years, I left my public relations/marketing job to work as a research editor for an investment bank. I'm a bit overwhelmed and there is a learning curve, but I'm thrilled to have this job. For the first time in years, I actually enjoy getting up each day for work.

On the training side, I decided it was time for me to try to ride with people faster than me again. No more riding solo. I found a great group that I can barely keep up with...really I suck wheel the whole ride. However, it's fun and it's making me stronger.

And, what I consider a HUGE comfort zone breaker...I raced a duathlon last weekend. I've always stayed away from races that didn't involve swimming (my only strength), but a bunch of my new friends were doing it, so I reluctantly signed up. It was hot and painful but I won my age group, and even better...in my first race since hip surgery, the hip was pain free. Yay!

This weekend I'm headed down to the Bayou to race...should be an experience.

ROADS...

2010-08-06T17:52:00.001-07:00

As a triathlete, I spend a lot of time riding and running down roads. Usually, the road just represents a means for getting me from point a to b.

However, as I was downloading pictures from our camera, I noticed that I had numerous photos of roads. They weren’t taken with any real purpose and none of them are particularly breathtaking. However, to me they are all meaningful.

You see each of the roads below represent a place that I’ve lived. Each is a piece of my life story:

The first road is Albuquerque, NM—the one I grew up on. It’s where I was born and raised. It’s where my family is and a place I can always call home. It’s where I made some of my lifetime best friends and it’s where my journey started.

The second road is San Diego, CA—the road that now feels like home. It’s also the road where I feel like I really began life’s journey. It’s where I was fortunate enough to go to college (and swim), work for amazing companies, get into triahtlon, and meet up with my now husband. It’s a road that challenged me, taught me strength and perseverance and was paved with good times and some of the most influential and amazing people in my life.

The third road is Akron, OH—the road I didn’t really want to take. It was a lonely road at first. It was a road paved with challenges and bumps…being so far away from family and friends. Constrained to the house after hip surgery. Dealing with the cold. It was made bearable because I was taking it with someone I loved…but it was tough in the beginning. However, somewhere along this road, it became bearable—even enjoyable. I met some amazing people and was able to see and experience a part of the U.S that I never would have. On this road, I learned that your journey is what you make of it.

The fourth road is New Orleans, LA—I don’t know what this road will mean to my life. I’m back on the job market (not fun). However, I’ve learned that change is good sometimes and after being with my company for seven years, maybe I need this change (that’s my positive thinking). I’m back into triathlon training injury free (finally!) and just enjoying the city and experience for what it is. I really do like it here. There’s just something about this city that makes you smile.

So, there are my roads. I hope that this list grows someday. I didn’t always feel this way. There was a time when change really scared me. Now, I’ve learned to embrace it. Each time I’ve had to take a new “road in life” I’ve learned a little more about myself and have been forced out of my element. Change is one thing I wasn’t always comfortable with but something that I’m finding to be part of what makes life exciting….

Fear of Running

2010-04-14T17:26:00.000-07:00

I think I'm officially scared of running. I'm hoping now that I've admitted it...I'll get over it because I realize this is ridiculous! Since I received clearance to start weight bearing on the hip I've been playing it safe. I went to see a running specialist and got a gait analysis; bought new shoes; have been working with a coach on a weight/core program to get myself prepared; and have a great 12 week running program to follow. Now that I've been told I'm actually able/safe to run...I'm freaking out.

Here is what went though my head on my run today:

"Do my shoes feel funny? Should I really be in a neutral shoe? Am I landing too hard? Is my hip flexor hurting, or just a little tight? Was releasing my illipsoas tendon bad for my running? Does my hip hurt or do I just think it hurts...it feels funny? Am I running too slow? Will I ever run fast in my life? Was running always this hard? Oh no, what's that I feel in my left hip? Great, am I overcompensating? Maybe I should stop?"

See...I have issues. By the end of the run, I needed a drink to chill myself out!
Kidding, but really, hopefully this gets easier.

Survivor...

2010-04-12T05:38:00.000-07:00

Winter is finally over here in northeast Ohio (fingers crossed). My Ohio cycling class presented this certificate to me last week.

We had a few laughs (and I’m pretty sure there were some eye rolls) as we recounted my inexperience with cold temperatures and snow.

You see, the first time we had a major snowstorm in Ohio, I had parked my car outside our apartment complex. At the time, we didn’t own an ice scraper and I was late for my morning cycling class at 5:40 am. So, I created a makeshift scraper…my gym card and credit card (one in each hand scraping). It kind of worked, but I pretty much stuck my head out the window as I drove to the gym.

I also didn’t own boots at the time and I proceeded to track snow all over the cycling room (oops, I missed the giant closet where you are supposed to drop off all your wet clothing before you go in). Anyway, the looks on my classmates faces were priceless as I explained my trip over (no visibility), and asked for some driving in the snow tips. I was gifted with an ice scraper very soon after.

So, I guess you can say I came to Ohio completely oblivious to what it was like to survive a real winter. Pat and I had experienced cold and snow, but it was nothing compared to this.

So, now that I’m officially a “survivor” here are some things that I know to be true:

*It is possible to not see the sun for more than a month.
*Single-digit temperatures, a wind chill and the lake effect = paralyzing cold...I can’t explain in words.
*Something happens to my circulation when it gets really cold. This is after I took off my gloves….so not okay.

*What I thought was a winter jacket back in August, will no longer be considered a real winter jacket.
*The fashion scarves I owned in California are absolutely worthless to protect against Ohio cold.
*Uggs aren’t as waterproof as they seem
*In the winter, people really do leave their cars running while they go inside stores
*Don’t get your car washed when it’s below freezing…doors do freeze shut.
*Locks and screen doors also freeze shut, so do pipes and…well, the list goes on and on.
*It doesn’t matter how many layers you wear, riding your bike in 35 degrees is awful. Water and snot freezing cold. I did it once and that was enough.
*Crutches aren’t made for the snow (yes, this one is obvious but they really should make something for people that need them in snowy places).
*People really do hibernate in the winter.
*Lake Erie really does freeze at the surface (see below)

*Making a snowman is not nearly as much fun as it was when you were a kid. It takes forever.
*Making and throwing snowballs is just as fun (or more) as it was when you were a kid.
*There is something euphoric about making a snow angel as snowflakes fall on your face.

My favorite winter solutions…

*Using a hairdryer on my body and then in my bed to warm the sheets
*Irish Coffee, hot chocolate and red wine
*Heating pads
*SmartWool Socks
*North Face gloves
*The sauna at the gym
*Occasional trips back to San Diego to keep me sane
*Hanging ocean and sun photos all around the house

This winter was fun, funny and frustrating. I'm glad I got to experience it once. For those of you that do this every year…you are amazing.

Yes! Spring is in the air!

Back at it...

2010-03-13T20:25:00.000-08:00

So, the blog has been neglected for a bit. I was feeling pretty negative for awhile and thought it would be lame to be a negative blogger. Who wants that?!

It was really hard for me to stop all activity for a few months. This, coupled with the fact that the sun did not come out in Ohio for 52 days in a row, created bad attitude Mary.

As hard as it was to stop and let my hip recover, I know it was the right thing to do. Now, I can come back healed, healthy, stronger and a bit smarter in how I train.

So, it’s official….after 96 days on crutches in 2009, hip surgery and 12 weeks off, I’m back at it again.

I’m swimming, I’m biking and…well, I’m walking. I want to say running but I’m not there yet. However, I’m working with an amazing running coach and he’s got me on a crazy strength rehab program….lots of core and leg/hip strength to get back into shape. Once I’m a little stronger, I’ll start running again.

The past three months have been a great time to focus on other areas of my life . I’ve made some progress on the work front; have been baking up a storm (I really want to be on Ace of Cakes); can play the guitar (not well, but I’m trying); and I’m getting certified in personal training (why?…not really sure, but why not?).

Overall, this whole process has made me realize that while triathlon is a huge part of my life and something that I really have a passion and love for, it doesn’t define me.

That said, it sure feels good to be back doing something that I love.

Patience

2010-01-08T07:26:00.000-08:00

Patience is not my thing. It never has been. However, right now I'm practicing patience. It's my New Year's resolution. I need more of it in my everyday life and now, I need it more than ever for my hip. I realize I can't heal overnight and I need to accept my daily progress and feel content with that. But, it's tough. There are days that I feel like I'm not making progress and days that I feel like I'll never get back where I want to be.

Right now, patience means keeping my mind distracted, so I'm taking on additional work projects, I'm studying for my APR (public relations accreditation) and I'm taking pottery classes. Oh, and I'm working on my snowman and snowball making skills.

If anyone has another good activity/distraction or cure for impatience, please share.

HOMERUN

2009-12-27T18:30:00.000-08:00

“I may not be there yet, but I'm closer than I was yesterday” -unknown

So the hip went under the knife on December 10. I flew into San Diego and then drove up to Los Angeles for the surgery. Dr. Matsuda was performing the surgery (he’s the best in the area for FAI/Labrum repair). My other ortho, Dr. Shoemaker, drove up from San Diego to be there as well. I felt pretty lucky to have two of the best doctors in the area there.

However, I was scared…very scared. Honestly though, I think the anesthesia scared me the most. Maybe it was the fact that during the pre-op the doctor that did the consult looked at me and said. “You’re high risk because of your high blood pressure and congenital heart defect and I need to also let you know, as I do everyone, that death can result.” AWESOME… way to make me feel comfortable and secure!

Pat calmed me down (seriously, he’s been a saint through all of this) and I put on a brave face as we arrived early Thursday morning for the surgery.

When Dr. Matsuda came to check on me, I was instantly reminded why I had traveled all the way back to LA from Ohio and why I waited this long to go under the knife He marked my hip before the operation, explained what he would be doing, and calmed my nerves with his confidence and kindness. After that, I just remember being wheeled into the operating room, seeing Dr. Shoemaker and saying hi or something like that and then I was OUT.

Woke up a few hours later in recovery. I felt extremely nauseous. It wasn’t long before the pain followed. It was shooting pain. The worst I’ve ever felt in my life. They hooked me up to the morphine pump and that helped, but it was a very LONG day and night.

I was pretty out of it for the first 24 hours or so. From what I've been told, I got really mad at the nurses for not telling me exactly what they did to my hip and when I could expect a full recovery.

Finally, I got some some answers and some pictures of the procedure (really cool but I don't want to gross everyone out). Anyway, my surgery went very well. In fact, according to my doctor, it was a Homerun...very necessary due to the amount of damage but they were able to fix everything, so I should have a full recovery. They shaved off bone spurs and reshaped my acetabulum and my femur and eradicated the impingement. They released my iliopsoas tendon and saved and repaired my badly torn labrum. I do have metal in my hip but it’s not an implant, just metal suture anchors.

The first few days were pretty painful and it was so awkward not being able to move my leg…all my motor skills were gone. I confirmed with the doctor and I guess the amount of work and releasing the tendon has this effect. I’ll pretty much have to retrain my leg/hip to do everything again but I confirmed it will eventually work again :)

Saturday (two days after the surgery), I went to the gym and got on the raised stationary bike (no resistance) for 10 minutes. It was not easy but it’s required as part of the therapy to reduce scar tissue build up. That day, I also took my first shower….not easy at all. Good thing Pat was there to hold me up when I almost passed out after seeing the size of my leg and the incisions and bruising.

Monday (four days post-op) I went off the pain pills and just took Aleve (I'm required to take two a day for a month).

One week after the operation, I was doing much better. Still having trouble with range of motion but making progress. The pain was minimal and riding the bike for a few minutes each day actually felt pretty good.

I got the stitches out a week after the surgery and hopped on a plane back to OH later that day. Traveling was not so much fun.

It's a little over two weeks today and I get off crutches in four days...just in time for the New Year and I’m thrilled. I’m sure Pat is too….poor guy has had to do so much for me and I’m stubborn as hell so I’m sure it’s that much more frustrating.

Anyway, my wounds are pretty much healed and the scars aren’t too bad. Tomorrow will be my first day in the pool (one thing I’m allowed to do over the next several weeks of recovery)

Other than that, it’s going to be a slow road to recovery but it’s all downhill from here. I’m looking forward to walking without that pain I've had for an entire year now.

One of my doctors is quick to remind me to be patient though. Sharing the email he wrote me:

“REMEMBER – we nailed that procedure but the scope of work was far greater than anticipated = remembering this in recovery. Your hip WILL be in top-notch shape upon a strict rehabilitation process. This is up to YOU AND ONLY YOU. To reiterate (as I do with all my athletes) – follow the plan discussed!!! You can think of this as a race--a long one and it’s with yourself. It may be the hardest one you ever do.”

So the plan he refers to... well it pretty much means I’m out of any impact activity (running, jumping, even walking on uneven surfaces) until around March. Lots of rehab, lots of baby steps.

That said, I’m ready for the road ahead. I know each day is another day toward progress. I’m slowly teaching myself how to use my hip again, regaining my range of motion and even did a sitting leg raise extension today and it felt good. Tomorrow, I think will be even better.

Cheers to progress and going into 2010 CRUTCH free J

Giving Thanks....

2009-11-25T16:07:00.000-08:00

I had the privilege of looking up random Thanksgiving facts for a work project. I had to share a few of my favorites:

·The average person consumes 4,500 calories on Thanksgiving Day.
·Turkeys can drown if they look up when it's raining!
·Californians are the largest consumers of turkey in the United States.

Pat and I are headed to New Mexico for Thanksgiving with the families… and plural is correct. Yes, my family and his family started the tradition a few years ago and do Thanksgiving together each year (yes, our families get along...a little too well at times :) Anyway, it's always a blast.

Last night, Pat and I were discussing how 2009 has been sort of a crappy (for lack of a better word) year. Between family illnesses, death, injuries and other struggles, let’s just say that we’re both ready for 2010. However, despite the rough times, we are still very blessed.

And, since tomorrow is Thanksgiving, I’m going to do something that my dad told me long ago “If you concentrate on finding whatever is good in every situation, you will discover that your life will suddenly be filled with gratitude.” So here are a few things that I’m especially thankful for right now.

· For amazing friends. Good friends are hard to find but I’ve been blessed with some people in my life--both old and new friends--that I know will be present in my life forever.
· For the opportunity to experience life in a place (Ohio) that I likely would never have even visited. It’s opened my eyes, strengthened my relationships with those near and far and provided me a chance to slow down a bit. It’s also brought new adventures and friendships that I’m grateful for
· For Top Chef, Mad Men, The Office and One Tree Hill (don’t laugh) and wine. They have made many otherwise boring Ohio nights a little more entertaining for Pat and I.
· That I have a job I love, an amazing boss (fro real) and the opportunity to work from home in Ohio. And…that my job has let me get back to California just when I needed to the most.
· That after nearly five years of marriage Pat and I still have fun together and he still makes me laugh every day.

These aren't as fun, but...

· That they caught the true cause of my hip injury before it led to permanent damage and that I’m fortunate enough to have one of the best hip surgeons in the US operating on me next month.
· That my family is fortunate enough to receive top-notch care and treatment for health issues they’re dealing with.
· That even though sometimes people’s life here is too short...I'm thankful for the times I did have with them.

I’m thankful and I’m blessed.

Happy Thanksgiving!

How's The HIP?

2009-09-29T06:27:00.000-07:00

Warning 1: this post is long and boring and all about what’s going on with my hip.

Warning 2: I’m beyond frustrated about my hip—the constant pain, the hoops I have to jump through to get this fixed and the time it’s taking. Therefore, my attitude is a bit negative.

So, for anyone that decided to keep reading, let me go back a bit in time...

In college, as a breaststroker (okay that sounds really bad), I had right leg adductor and hip flexor issues. I ignored them like any smart athlete would do... I got as many cortisone shots as they would allow and raced right through my four years of college. Looking back, not the smartest thing I could have done. Hindsight’s 20/20 though, right?

Anyway, after I stopped racing competitively the pain subsided. However, my right hip was always my problem area. I would feel the typical ache and pain after I put in too many running miles or did a long ride. I would typically rest it for a day or so, ice it and pop the advil. If it bothered me for a week or so, I’d go buy new shoes or try arch supports, get a massage, anything to mask the pain. In all honesty, I just kept thinking it’s one of those stupid injuries that I’ll always have to deal with—you know, the bad knees type thing.

The hip survived Ironman training (although it didn’t allow me to run as much as I would have liked) and racing. It was post-Ironman that the real issues began. In April, I started developing intense pain randomly when I ran, then it started occurring on the bike and even walking hurt. It finally got so bad that I knew I needed to see a doctor. It wasn’t just an “issue” it was a problem.

So, x-rays and an MRI later, I was told I had a stress fracture in the neck of my femur. You know the rest of this story…crutches from April to June.
As they were doing x-rays and follow-up tests to see the healing, through an MRI with dye, they discovered the real problem behind all this hip pain. I have a labral tear in my hip and a Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI).

Say what?

FAI is a condition of too much friction in the hip joint. Basically, the ball (femoral head) and socket (acetabulum) rub abnormally creating damage to the hip joint. In my case, damage (what they’re saying is a severe tear) has occurred in the to the labral cartilage (soft tissue bumper of the socket).

Since the final MRI results and x-rays, I’ve seen four hip specialists/surgeons and they’ve all told me surgery is my only option. Without the surgery to fix the FAI and labral tear, it’s very likely that I would have to have a total hip replacement in just a few short years.

So, I’m having surgery to get this fixed. However, given that this type of injury isn’t all that common,it’s taking WAY longer and is WAY more complicated than I ever expected. Here are the options I’ve been given.

Option 1: Get into surgery right away. This would be open hip surgery. The doctor would open up and dislocate my hip (so they can see the bones) and repair the tear and reshapes the hip joint, then puts it back into place. The recovery time for this is LONG. Many more weeks on crutches and it could be more than six months before I’m able to return to a “somewhat” normal level of activity. The reason I can get this right away is there are more doctors available that can do this type of surgery (it used to be the only method).

I’ve decided against option one and going with option two.

Option 2: Arthroscopic surgery using a camera and instruments inserted through small tubes. The surgeon applies traction to pull the joint open so they can work through tiny incisions. Recovery is usually quick – they say patients are back on an exercise bike in 24 hours, just a couple weeks on the crutches and back at it again in a few months. The hard part about this procedure is there are major nerves and vessels adjacent that can get damaged. There is a ball and socket configuration which is inherently round, but they're putting in straight instruments that have to travel deep through the body into that compartment. This is why there are only a handful of surgeons that can do this procedure. In fact, in the US there are about 5. Needless to say, even with not that many individuals needing this somewhat rare surgery, the waiting list for the arthoscopic procedure is LONG.

That said, I found a doctor in LA that is one of that handful. He’s AMAZING and has successfully performed numerous hip arthoscopic procedures. We’re working with the medical board to get me in quickly but as of now, it might be January/February before I can get this done. They were hoping for October/November but I’m not keeping my hopes up too much.

So, yes, I’m frustrated because I’m still unable to run. I can’t bike more than 40 miles without feeling the hip act up, walking is even a chore sometime and I’m still in pain 90% of the time. However, I feel confident about my decision to wait and do the less invasive procedure with a doctor I know has performed this on athletes in the past (his list includes NFL football players). The way I see it, even by waiting I’ll likely recover before I would have in the open hip procedure.

So, there is the hip update. It’s now a waiting game. I’ve learned several lessons in this process. Including the most important one—you’ve only got one body. Treat it right. Take care of it because even in your 20’s you can create damage that if not caught early enough might be irreversible. Pain is a signal that you need to slow down, or yes, even stop. So maybe it took me a long time to learn this…but I’ve learned.

Little fish in a big sea

2009-08-07T21:36:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite quotes is from Finding Nemo and it pretty much sums up the last few months for me: "When life gets you down do you wanna know what you've gotta do?...Just keep swimming, swimming swimming"

Swimming has always been such a HUGE part of my life. In fact, there have been times where swimming has been my life (i.e. during the intense part of college season and the time period where I was trying to make Olympic Trials). Swimming is something I feel comfortable doing. No matter how bad the day, no matter what the obstacle in life, swimming always makes me feel better. It's like an old best friend that just makes you feel good (strange as it sounds).

Anyway, with the hip getting me down this season, I've once again turned to my old best friend and have been swimming, swimming, swimming.

My "racing season" consisted of two local open water swims. I'll give a brief recap of both:

CORONADO ROUGH WATER SWIM (1 mile) on July 4: This was a riot. The water was 56 degrees and no wetsuits allowed (I know, something is messed up in my head to do this). I tried to think of it as a great 18 minute ice bath for the hip. Anyway, I survived and had a few good laughs. I did pretty well overall (although the overall attendance wasn't that great).

TOUR OF BUOYS 5-Mile Swim on August 2: This became my "A" race. I was terrified for two reasons. 1) It had been a LONG time since I swam 5 miles without stopping...okay like 8 years. 2) My kayaker was Pat...not that I doubted his ability (he was a pilot and has some serious navigation skills), but he did ask me the night before what we were supposed to do if he got tired out there? Funny! Anyway, it was REALLY fun! I know, my definition of fun is crazy/creepy but seriously it was. I felt so relaxed and at peace out there (until my shoulders and legs started hating me). Pat was a great navigator (we made a great team out there) and he helped me get second overall female. Finished just under two hours which I was happy about (not that I have anything to compare it to).

The tri club swimmer girls all placing top two in our age groups.

So, while it's been a tough year with the hip stuff, it's also been a good one. I've regained my love for swimming (and in open water this time) and I've met some great new swimmer friends (Nikee, Rachel, Erin, Jake, Steve, Carrie and more).

I've also been thinking back on how far I've come with open water swimming over the past 10 years or so (I was a pool swimmer my entire life). I still remember the first time I swam in ocean. It was the first week of school at USD (pre-season) and our coach made us do our Saturday work-out in La Jolla Cove. It was a bad day for a first swim. Crazy waves and the water temp was just under 60 degrees (note: no wetsuit..btw, I didn't even know people swam in wetsuits for swimming until I joined the SD tri club). Anyway, I still remember that first "open water swim". My body hit the water and I started hyperventilating from the cold. All of a sudden seaweed was touching my leg and there were just way too many fish. My eyes filled up with tears and I stopped...and started sobbing like a nine-year-old. I'll never forget my coach standing up on the cliff and yelling down on me "NEW MEXICO (like he didn't know my name) "What the hell are you doing? Cut the theatrics and swim". Wow, welcome to San Diego! I did swim to the 1/4 mile buoy and sprinted back (I wasn't sure if garibaldis bite). I don't think I've ever been so happy to get out of the water. I called my mom from my car crying and said I wanted to go back to the mountains...ahhh, good ole memories...thank goodness she told me I couldn't come home :)

I enjoy thinking about how I've evolved since that day. Today, the ocean is where I go to relax, unwind, destress, hang out with friends, smile, swim five miles and challenge myself. I still love the pool but the ocean was really the place I went to swim when life got tough this year.

So, that's a wrap to my season. Now, I need to focus on my hip surgery and getting back at it in the triathlon scene again soon.

I remember my friends Beth and Bethany both telling me when I first got hurt that sometimes injuries bring you friendships and experiences that you would have never had without them. Back in April, I just shrugged at this. Today, this makes total sense.

Fun times with old friends...

2009-07-03T17:44:00.000-07:00

For me, this blog is a journal of my triathlon-life adventures. It's fun to look back and remember the moments. However, since lately my life is a bit un-tri focused, this entry is just for fun... my hip entries were just getting depressing.

Ann, my best friend from college is getting married in August! So, we celebrated in a big way up in LA two weeks ago. It was a blast to get all the girls together again. My old roomies, college friends and post-college friends that I just don't get to see enough! I love these girls!

The highlight of the night was this woman who came and taught us how to "dance." It was pretty amusing (especially since I was trying to learn while on crutches). She gave us all sorts of fun props to dance with. See the pink arm sleeves featured in the below photo? The ones without the gloves. Well, my triathlon brain thought they might be nice arm warmers and I loved the pink color. So, I may or may not have kept a pair.

This was the end of the evening. I'm not sure why I'm the only one not looking at the camera (never mind the fact that I look wasted and about to fall on the bride-to-be)

So, next up was a wedding in Albuquerque. It was great to go home, see the family, eat New Mexican food and catch up with my high school friends. I forgot my camera, so I only have one fun picture from the wedding. Our friends Ian and Emily...so cute!

Doing what needed to be done...

2009-06-11T16:45:00.000-07:00

Well, still on crutches. So, with at least another week to go (pending another MRI next week), today I did what I really knew a few weeks ago that I had to do. I withdrew from my "A" race...Vineman 70.3. I'm bummed, but who wouldn't be? I'll still have a fun weekend in the wine country. I think I would have played the DNF card if I could bike by now...but I can't, so I'm out.

On that note, to make myself feel better, I did sign up for something else in the one sport I'm allowed to do. So this year, I'm making my big race a swim again...like old times. You'll now find me at the five-mile Tour of Buoys on August 2 in La Jolla. I think I've convinced my swimmer friends (Nikee and Rachel) that it's a great idea as well.

I better start learning to handle the ocean without my wetsuit. I'm a little scared of the cold...okay a lot scared. The swim is no wetsuit and I'm a total cold wimp.

Time to toughen up.

Cruises, Crutches and Chlorine....

2009-05-21T20:04:00.000-07:00

CRUISING: Pat and I had a BLAST on our vacation. We spent a few days in Puerto Rico and then boarded the Caribbean Princess for a seven day cruise. We hit up the following: Aruba, Bonair, Grenada, Dominca, St. Thomas and St. John. It's hard to say which island was my favorite. They were all so different and each equally amazing. We had a blast tanning at the beaches, snorkeling, drinking, eating, relaxing and laughing (mostly at the people on the cruise who just may have been filming 50+ gone wild...I won't even go there). Anyway, it was a perfect trip and I posted just a few pictures below.

CRUTCHING: Yep, I'm still on the crutches. Four and a half weeks and it's looking like another three or so (pending my next MRI/Bone Scan results...now there is some concern over the nerves in the head of my femur ). Anyway, I'm just taking it a few weeks at a time. It's taken a few weeks and some people putting things in perspective, but I've finally accepted that my triathlon season is over and have stopped having pity parties for myself (I was having a lot of them). I'll find some other ways to have fun this summer.

I do have some crutch crises and craziness that I need to share:

* I've fallen three times: once at the doctor's office, once at a client meeting (the rug had a bunch in it)and once after this photo was taken (should have realized cobblestone roads and crutches don't work well)

* I've had coffee end up on my clothes more times than I care to count (yay, Tide stain pen).

* I have burns on my sides, armpits and pain in my elbow...my arms don't seems to be getting stronger though.

* On my trip, I crutched nearly two miles around Puerto Rico, ditched my crutches to see a waterfall that was uncrutchable (is that a word), and crutched on more than 10 beaches.

Plus, I've accomplished some really cool things:

* I can open doors with my crutches

* I can carry a tall Starbucks' cup while I crutch. How? I put the top of the cup under the handle of the crutch and put my thumb on the lid and little finger under the cup.

* I can dance on crutches...really...and I may be better on crutches than off!

CHLORINE: I'm clear to swim so I've been doing lots of that. I've also found a new love for aqua jogging. It's really fun! In addition to a rock star friend (and totally being there for me through all of this), my buddy Beth is my aqua jogging coach. She's the best. Last weekend, I learned all about form and effort and I'm using her tips to kick my butt aqua jogging a few days a week. This week I got myself a 10-session pass to SDSU since they have more pools, a jacuzzi, and lawn chairs for my tan...very important things.

gimp...

2009-04-28T22:28:00.000-07:00

well, the hip issue turned into a big hip problem. I found out a week ago that I have a stress fracture in the neck of my femur = not good. So, I'm on crutches for a few weeks...the exact number is still TBD. It's at least until May 14th when I get another x-ray to see if any healing has taken place. The good news is that they caught it early. It's not displaced and no surgery required at this point...as long as I listen to the doc. and stay off it. Normally, I'm not so good at listening when I don't like the advice, however, I think the seriousness of what could occur hit me hard. So, I'm going to be a good girl and listen this time.

Anyway, I can't walk or run (obviously), can't bike and can't swim...well, I can get in the pool and use a pull buoy and no wall push offs (note: I've always HATED pulling but it's still something in the form of exercise, so I'm doing it).

So, it's been a long week...lots of tears and lots of frustration but I know that I'll get through it. I've been blessed with some amazing friends and family that are helping me! I'm going to use this time to take a little break, slow down, enjoy the non-triathlon life for a few weeks, and catch up some friendships that get neglected by weekend training.

When I can finally get back at it, I'm going to learn to train smarter!

Pat and I leave for Puerto Rico tomorrow and from there we're off for a seven-day cruise to the So. Caribbean. This was planned well before the injury and crutches, so actually comes at perfect timing. A week of eating, drinking and working on the tan. Although, it will be interesting trying to use crutches on the beach...

Anyway, that's the update. Could be better...could be worse...either way it still sucks but I'll get through it :)

My first road race

2009-04-20T21:30:00.000-07:00

This weekend I did my first road race-Devil's Punchbowl (in Pearblossom Calif.) I had a blast being a "roadie" for the weekend! Ok...I'm SO NOT a roadie. I think you have to be fast and way cooler that I am to be a roadie. Anyway, it was a 32 mile race which featured two 16-mile loops with 1500 feet of climbing per lap, sharp descent, uphill finish. In other words, an interesting first road race to select. However, I really just signed up for the company (see photo) and because I thought it would be really fun to do a road race for Moment Cycle Sport (the Moment crew is awesome).

Anyway, prior to the race, I was offered some advice by those that know their stuff. The talk included forgetting about the triathlete in me for the day (i.e. let the other girls help you, ride with them), don't let yourself ride alone, and some additional climbing, sprinting and descending in groups tips. I went in with a perfect strategy! Unfortunately, this strategy fell apart about two miles into the race when my concentration was lost for a second. I became distracted and lost the lead pack. I spent the next few miles trying desperately to catch them and soon everything I was told was thrown out the window. I did find another girl and we took turns pulling each other for a bit. However, I lost her at the end of the first loop and the competitor in me couldn't wait for her to get it together...so I took on the second loop alone. It was tough. Hot. Dry. Windy. Lonely. And Hard as Hell. I just kept trying to catch the lead girls. I never did catch them. In fact, I couldn't even see them by the middle of the second loop. I ended up finishing 6th. I was happy with that for my first one though. I even stood up and sprinted to the very end. Not because anyone was near me (because I was all alone) but because it looked fun and I had seen everyone else doing it :)

I'm not sure I'll be quitting triathlon to become a road racer anytime soon but it was a great experience and I think it will make me a stronger rider. Plus, I'm dealing with some major hip issues (that's a whole blog entry in itself but I'll spare you for now), so running is out (weight bearing exercises aren't liking me right now).

The rest of the weekend was relaxing and fun. Had a great coast ride with some awesome friends on Sunday and have some sweet tan lines to prove it.

supersealing...

2009-04-01T20:09:00.000-07:00

Life has been exciting! Lots of training, working and having fun!
However, I’ve been spending so much time reading all the other fun blogs that I haven’t been great at keeping mine updated. I figured with my first race of the season down (and first Olympic distance ever) it's time….

I think I might be going backwards in the world of racing. Most people start small/short and go big/long (i.e. Ironman) after some races under the belt. I’ve taken the opposite approach. My race history (before Sunday)consisted of only two triathlons under the 70.3 distance and they were both the Carlsbad Triathlon (love this one--long swim/short run). Anyway, this season I’m trying new things and putting together a full race schedule (this is still in progress, but I do know my big race is Vineman 70.3).

Anyway, back to my mini race report for Superseal Olympic (I’m not great with all the details so never will have a FULL really cool race report).

I was so nervous about this race. I think it was the combination of the FAST girls I knew doing the race and the fact that I had no idea how to race an Olympic distance. Well, I survived and actually had fun out there. I also learned a few lessons along the way...

Swim (18:32) - The swim course was a little confusing--way too many buoys. I'm still trying to figure out what the point in the buoy obstacle course they had us go through was? Anyway, my swim felt pretty good. I knew I needed to go out hard on the swim and get my lead there. After the swim, it was only a matter of time before I got dropped :) The worst part of the swim was when I was about halfway I looked next to me and there was a guy (in my wave) swimming backstroke just as fast as my freestyle...CRAZY and very odd. I lost him in the buoy mess but wish I could have met this guy. I'm still wondering if he turned over at all.

T1 (3:13) - Well, I was not expecting our local news station (KUSI) to be in the transition area. Let's just say that the reporter decided I would be his subject and he came over microphone in hand and started talking about the triathlon and filming my transition--announcing to me that he was live. Yikes...snot down my face, total awkward wetsuit removal with my shorts almost coming off with it. I wanted to tell him to get out of my face, but since I work in public relations and deal with the media on a daily basis I figured it wasn't the best move (always nice to have the media on your side).

Bike (1:08.53) - I've put in a lot more time on the bike over the past few months and I'm finally starting to feel stronger. There is still room to improve but overall I felt good and for once I didn't get dropped by too many of the girls in my A/G on the bike.

T2 (1:00) - I learned that this is too long for the bike to run transition...I came in to transition second in my age group and left third...oops.

Run (50.19) - I've been working on my run but I realize that I still have lots and lots of work to do. It can be hard to keep the smile and not feel defeated as you watch all the runners pass you. However, I do have to say that one runner that I was okay with passing me is Beth
..and she did...right around mile 5. If you're going to get run down it might as well be your good friend, right? I just may have started focusing on her race at that point and not my own. I saw how close she was to catching the girl in third and knew she could do it. It was awesome watching her run the girl down for a third place finish in our A/G. Beth's a crazy fast superstud and makes it look so easy! I finished feeling like I was about to throw-up or pass out (thankfully, neither happened).

So there it is, my first Olympic...good times and some pretty intense soreness.

25 random things....

2009-02-01T19:11:00.000-08:00

Well, I’ve been trying to figure out what to blog about in the off season. I owe thanks to Beth for tasking me to something. So here you go...25 random things about me. I’m tagging anyone reading this as well. However, most of you that read this are blog readers and not blog writers…still love ya though!

1) I hate that I sweat the small stuff.
2) I have a lot of acquaintances but just a handful of very close friends. I think you need both in life. Those that are my close friends seem to know me better than I know myself.
3) I’ve worked (in this order), as a lifeguard, a swim coach, at Jamba Juice, as a waitress, at a country radio station, a news station, for the San Diego Padres and for a PR and advertising agency.
4) My boss has been sick this year and I’ve been given a lot of responsibility at work. This scares me. Every day I have to make decisions and I have no idea if they are the right ones.
5) I’m working on my technical writing certification but I have no idea if it’s what I want to do.
6) I believe myself to be stubborn, indecisive, impatient and overly sensitive at times. I believe in miracles, forgiveness, choices, loyalty and hard work.
7) I have an addictive personality. For me, my addiction is exercise. Sometimes I even feel off if I only do it once a day. I realize this isn’t normal but of the list of addictions it’s one of the better ones to have. Actually, now that I think of it, I also have an addition to caffeine, frozen yogurt and candy.
8) I want to swim the English Channel some day but I’m terrified of being cold. I hope this doesn’t stop me.
9) I was very serious about all of the following activities at some point in my life: ballet, soccer and swimming.
10) I’ll try any food once. The only food I truly hate is yellow cheese.
11) I love dancing and singing karaoke. I am truly awful at both of these things.
12) I am left-handed but sometimes I kick and throw better with my right. It’s very confusing and the reason I’ve never been very good at sports that involve a ball.
13) I hate fake things: fake people, fake friendships and fake designer labels. What’s the point?
14) I wear my heart on my sleeve. This has been both good and bad at times.
15) I love wine, it’s my drink of choice. Red, white, pink…it doesn’t matter. I like it all.
16) Teeth: I only have four lower incisors. If you are wondering, most people have five.
17) I don’t have any regrets. I’ve made a lot of choice in life. Some good, some bad but they’ve all made me who I am.
18) I finished my first Ironman in 2008 and it won’t be my last. It was one of the most amazing experiences in my life.
19) My husband is a great cook, organizer, cleaner and planner…I am none of these.
20) I have a hole in my heart and high blood pressure. I take medicine every day.
21) The most scared I’ve ever been is when the doctor told my family my sister didn’t have much time to live and we should prepare. Fortunately, she’s survived the odds.
22) I missed Olympic trials in the 200 breaststroke in 1999 by no more than a fingernail (2/10 of a second). To this day I still remember that moment. It took me a long time to get over that lost dream.
23) At one point in my life I could chug a beer in about 5 seconds
24) My family is amazing. We’ve been through some serious stuff and it’s only made us closer. My in-laws are equally amazing. My sister-in-laws are on that list of close friends…all three of them.
25) I’m married to an incredible man. He knows how to have a good time (from his college days in New Orleans), he has fought for our freedom (as a navy pilot) and he's smart (just finished law school—while working— and is number one in his class.)

Tis the season continued....

2008-12-30T20:26:00.000-08:00

We had an ugly sweater party and bar crawl

Went back to New Mexico for Christmas. I have the best in-laws ever. I feel so lucky that my sister-in-laws are some of my best friends...here I am with some of the Haney girls!

Drank some beers with my brothers and celebrated my Dad's 60th B-day!

Good times, Good times!

As 2008 comes to a close, it's crazy to think of all that's happened this year. 2008 has been GREAT! There have been some bumps along the way but they've made me a stronger person. This best parts of this year: I've made some amazing triathlon friends (Beth, Tina, Mere, Jess, Elaine, Kevin, Don, Lorenzo, Chris...to name just a few...), I've achieved my lifelong goal of completing an Ironman, I'm healthy, and I've got a job (something to be thankful for in this economy). Pat's also had a great year...finishing his navy career, graduating law school and some incredible job offers.

Looking forward to bringing in 2009!

Tis the Season to be Mary....

2008-12-30T19:49:00.000-08:00

Okay, So I've been REALLY bad about blogging this past month! So I'm providing a photo update on what I've been up to post-Ironman. The off season has been a blast. Lots of friend time, family time and traveling.

Thanksgiving was awesome! We stayed in SD and enjoyed lots of food, wine, board games and great friends!

Post-Ironman night out downtown...great night...the next morning, not so much!

Pat and I took a weekend trip to Sonoma!

And Sarah, one of my best friends, who now lives in Dallas came in town!

I'm an IRONMAN!

2008-11-26T08:44:00.000-08:00

I'm back in SD an Ironman. I finished the race in 11 hours 32 minutes. The day was a long one both mentally and physically but an AMAZING one just the same. This is on the list of favorite lifetime moments…ever! I'll give a brief recap of the good, the bad and the ugly. A full race report will be in the future....

The Good: the energy out there on the course, the volunteers (they were awesome), seeing my friends on the course, meeting new friends along the course, thinking of all my friends back at home cheering me along, realizing at the 13 mile mark of the run that I was going to do this and do it much faster than I ever imagined, the pretzels they passed out during the marathon (best food I had ever tasted), seeing my family and Pat out there on various parts of the course! And of course…the best – heading into the finish shoot and hearing the words "From San Diego, California, Mary Haney you are an Ironman"

The Bad: the flat tire I had right out of transition (seriously, I had not even gone a ¼ mile – no idea how that happened), the moment I realized that the volunteers had taken out all my gels (food source) from my jersey before I left on the bike and replaced the pocket with sunscreen and a leg warmer???, the second loop where my chain dropped and I spent five more minutes on the side of the road trying to get it back on with shaky hands, the taste of bananas at mile 90 on the bike (note to self: five bananas is a bit much to process), the hill, heat and headwind on the last leg of the bike.

The Ugly: what I saw running down other athletes legs (I'll leave it at that), the blisters on my feet, the last 8 miles of the run (I went out a bit too fast for a marathon), the mixture of sports drinks, bars, gels, bananas and other "fake" food in my stomach (this leads to the really ugly below)

The Really Ugly: Mile 20-22, acid reflux kicks in, Mile 23 = Mary on the side of the road throwing up. (sorry folks, but I did feel better after that).

Anyway, I owe a HUGE thanks to Pat and my family. They stood out there for hours cheering me on and it truly meant the world to me. Also, thanks to The Haney's and other friends that tracked me all day online from afar…you guys were the best cheerleaders ever. Some of the messages on my voicemail were a riot! And to ALL my friends and family (those who get it and those who don't :) ). I felt so loved and supported (and still do). It truly means the world to me. I also raised over $1,000 (my goal) for my sister's foundation (vasculitis).

So what's next? Well, right now I plan to take a few days off and recover (the soreness is one-of-a-kind), eat some turkey (perfect timing) drink some wine, chill with friends. I'm looking forward to a full race season in 2009. I've only done a handful of triathlons so I'm excited to try to take it to the next level next year.

Counting Down...

2008-11-18T20:13:00.000-08:00

Well, two more days until I hit the road for IM AZ. I can't believe it's this weekend! My head is full of so many emotions right now! I'm totally scared and excited all at the same time. I know I've done everything I could to prepare for this but I also know that anything can happen (i.e. unexpected pain, flats, nutrition issues, etc.) and this really scares me. On the other hand, I'm so excited to get out there and truly experience the day. To do an ironman has been one of my lifelong dreams.

Time has flown since I first signed up for this race nearly a year ago. I can't really even remember what made me push the button and sign-up. What I do know is why I'm doing this (www.vasculitisfoundation.org/ironmanarizona - lists one of the many reasons) and what I've gained since that moment: an AMAZING group of new friends, more mental strength and courage and a whole slew of new tri gear and random knowledge.

I'm going out there Sunday and laying it all on the line. I'll fight with everything I have to get through the day. No matter what I'm not giving up.

That said, I want to thank all my old friends, new friends and my family. I couldn't have gotten where I am without you all and I feel so blessed to have such wonderful people in my life. Most importantly, I owe a huge thanks to Pat. He's put up with a lot over the past year. It's not always easy when only one spouse is involved in a hobby as time consuming as long-distance triathlon but he's been so encouraging and supportive through this all. I think he may make me take a brief distance training break post-ironman...but I can handle that :)

I've been asked numerous times over the past week what time I want to go. Truly, I don't know...don't have a clue. I guess that's the beauty of it being my first ironman. I have no time goals and my only expectation is to finish in the 17 hours required...anything better than that is icing on the cake and a PR :). I received this quote from a friend today when I was telling her about all the expectations I was feeling from my coach and others. I love this:

"Somewhere behind the athlete you've become and the hours of practice and the coaches who have pushed you is a little girl who fell in love with the game and never looked back... play for her. "- Mia Hamm

TAPER TIME

2008-11-12T21:20:00.000-08:00

So, it's taper time this week and this means I have much more down time. I've decided I'm not very good at this whole rest/cutting back thing. I keep thinking I need to train more and I'm super hungry. I have no idea if the increased hunger comes with the taper or if it's just me (might have to research this one)? I'm just hoping I can control the eating and not pack on too many lbs before next weekend. Anyway, I am very productive around the house right now. I better stop while I'm ahead though...I don't want Pat to like tapering Mary too much. Here's what it's making me do:
Laundry - tons of it
Cook - this has always been Pat's role..I know, I have a great husband, he loves to cook but I think he's enjoying the change...
Organize drawers and closets - I sort of got bored with this though so everything is partially organized.

Okay, off to bed. I need to start getting more sleep too!

Wind and Rain...not a fan!

2008-11-09T18:28:00.000-08:00

My ride today was awful (sorry, I realize that's a very negative way to start a post). I had to get in four hours at "race pace" so I opted for the Coronado strand--very boring but pretty solid riding...normally. I say this because normally there is a pretty mild headwind but it's a great place to just go and not worry about too much traffic or navigating. For me, it's perfect when I am riding solo. If I get in trouble out there my husband (or someone) can get there quickly (and find me easily).

Well, today was quite the experience. The headwind had been transformed to a "Wizard Of Oz" type wind. It was followed by an awesome tailwind going the opposite direction, but the speed and ease heading north was nothing compared to the pain going south. I think I was being pushed backwards, every few minutes I literally swayed from side to side (hello crosswind). This was all followed by rocks and sand that kept hitting my face. Just when I thought it was calming down, the rain came. Normally, the rain doesn't bother me so much, but today, it hurt. Mixed with the wind it created even more pain on my face, legs and arms.

The WORST part of the day was a toss up between dealing with the creepy guy that kept riding up next to me and talking about leg veins (he would not go away, I slowed down, he slowed down, I sped up, he sped up...and seriously...all he had to talk about were how he loved leg veins that popped out...GROSS). Also equally as bad was the song I had in my head for 2 hours...."And I would walk 500 miles..."

Okay, I feel much better, just needed to vent. I know it was good for me to deal with these "challenges" today. Makes me tougher, right? I'm ready for AZ...bring on the wind, bring on the rain--I'm secretly hoping for neither--but PLEASE someone give me another song to sing should this happen to come back to the brain on race day!

Laura

2008-11-05T21:43:00.000-08:00

I just received the best news! My best friend Laura is flying out for IMAZ!

Laura and I met in high school and quickly became best friends. Over a decade later, we still talk almost every day. In many ways we're as different as night and day (this comes in handy when I need fashion advice, great make-up and a good laugh from her teacher stories) but, despite our differences, she seems to get me...and my crazy hobbies better than most.

Her friendship means the world to me. Laura has always been the one person who can make me laugh so hard I cry, who knows just what to say when life is good and when life is bad, and my biggest supporter through every work, life and athletic endeavor.

She called me to tell me the exciting news: that she's flying out from Kansas on Sat. morning (11/22). I started crying when she told me (yes, I realize Ironman training is making me crazy emotional). I just feel so lucky that not only am I getting to go out there and try to achieve one of my life goals (completing an Ironman) but I'm getting to share it with my AMAZING husband, my entire family AND my best friend. I can't wait!

October in San Diego

2008-10-26T16:47:00.000-07:00

Sidenote to post: Yesterday, as I rode up the coast, I looked around at all that surrounded me and couldn't help but smile! The weather was amazing--in the high 70s--the sky was bright blue, the beaches were crowded and the water an incredible shade of blue. I'm so fortunate to live in such an awesome city!

Anyway, this was my last weekend of the very long Sat. ride and very long Sun. run until IM AZ. The next few weeks still include lots of training time, but a lot more brick workouts (for those non-tri readers this means swim then bike or bike then run). I guess this means I'm getting close (27 days close) YIKES!

Today was great. I woke up and did the Del Mar swim, which I haven't been to in awhile. It was so nice to get out in the ocean and just swim for an hour. With all the Ironman training, I've let my swimming slip a bit since I needed to focus more on the other two sports. Today I was reminded of how much I love to swim. It's so relaxing. I did realize that I need a better wetsuit before IM AZ. My current one is old, not very comfortable and gives my gnarly burns on my neck.

I followed the swim with a run and then spent the afternoon on the phone catching up with some friends. I normally hate talking on the phone but it was so nice to catch up with some of my girlfriends and talk about something other than triathlon for a bit :). Off to eat some fro yo and watch my shows that I missed this week!

Beat Up

2008-10-21T20:51:00.000-07:00

Yep, that's me! Offically BEAT UP. This weekend the 100 mile ride felt like 200 and my 18 mile run...well, let's just say my mental toughness was put to the test. Crazy how much better I felt after nearly the same exact schedule last weekend.

P.S. I'm stopping here for tonight--my blog is totally boring and lacking any substance tonight (my personality is trending in the same direction). I NEED SLEEP...BIG TIME!

2008-10-16T21:56:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was CRAZY...and FUN! Crazy because I swam, biked and ran more miles than ever before, and fun because I have the best training partners EVER!

Friday, swam 5,000 yards...haven't done that in one practice since the college days!

Saturday, I biked 100 miles...wind, hills and all. Great for the training progress...hard on the body! The best part was that I was able to hang out with Tina and Elaine all day. We had a great time!

Sunday, I ran 17 miles with Beth--wait, let me back up....I ran about 13 with Beth until I forced her to leave me...yes, my slow ass just couldn't hang with the superstar for the last few miles! We had a blast though...the best part of all this training is the great training buddies!

So I've gathered some of my favorite recent quotes from family and friends (that don't do triathlons) regarding Ironman and Ironman training...the remarks have been priceless and I had to write them down...

My husband "This is it, right? You go after this one and the Ironman bug is out????"

My best friend from high school Laura "What do you think about when you are out on a bike for that long? Don't you get bored? Oh my gosh, that's so fun. I'll start thinking of things for you to think about!"

My co-worker Bryan "I just thought about it and I don't think I drive as far as you run on any given weekend."

My co-worker Nicole "I love that you eat more than Tara" (FYI, Tara is 8 months pregnant)

My Mom "We're getting so excited for your marathon thing"

My Brother "Do you ever think that something might be messed up in your head?"

My best friend from college Ann "Seriously, when can we forget Ironman and do some Irish Car Bombs again!"

Gotta love them all! They are my bigget supporters and deep down they all just think I am crazy!

Reliving The College Days

2008-10-07T20:56:00.000-07:00

Or TRYING to relive the good old days is more like it!

I had my college alumni swim meet this weekend (and numerous activities surrounding it). About 20 alumni came back for the weekend. Seeing the girls brought back so many fun memories. The actual swim meet part of the weekend was a riot. Let's just say competitiveness is an innate biological trait and surprisingly, this allowed us to fare well next to the current team. The most impressive moment of the day...my alumni relay team beat the current team. Okay, so we only had to do a 50 each (it was the 200 medley) and I'm pretty sure we had some false starts and we seriously looked like death upon finishing, but heck, a win is a win, right? WRONG... I must admit that my win was overshadowed by an incredible groin strain. However, I have no one to blame but myself. When you haven't full-on SPRINTED breaststroke in six years (even if it's just a 50) pain is inevitable. I'm still having trouble walking and it's Tuesday.

So besides the fact that I can't swim like I used to, the "old girls" and I picked up a few other harsh realities this weekend:

Now that we've graduated the team is in a better conference (WAC) and has better team sponsors which equals better suits and better gear.
You only get that college swim body for four years of your life. Once it's gone...it's gone and you'll start to develop "desk butt" and "back fat". Wish I would have appreciated it more :)
Swimming (especially swimming fast) is MUCH harder than it used to be.
Finally (not swimming related), you'll never have the party skills or alcohol tolerance you had in college--yes, my recovery weekend was in full effect...last one I get until I taper for AZ.

Off to bed, I'm back in crazy training mode (and already missing my short recovery weekend).

P.S. I realize this blog would be WAY better with photos but unfortunately my camera has disappeared from my life! Time for a new one I guess. Pat are you reading this, hint, hint....

Two Months To Go...

2008-09-23T21:11:00.000-07:00

Yes, I deleted a few blog entries...(non-tri related) as I got a little nervous on the content and who may be reading. Anyway, on to a recent update...
Yikes! Two months until race day! This weekend was Crazy training (138 miles worth) I think my brain and body are still recovering.

I rode 100 miles on Saturday--up and down the strand in Coronado to help raise money for my friend Don's IM AZ cause (cardiovascular foundation). With the exception of a few laps where I chatted it up, a huge portion was spent riding alone and let's just say I was VERY bored with myself (I need to plan some things to think about at IM AZ). I followed the ride with a 40 minute fast run.

Sunday, I met one of my good friends who is learning to ride for the Tri Club beginner ride. We did an easy 18 miles and then I was off the bike (THANK GOD) and onto my long run...

Anyway....very strange things have been going on since my intense weekend ended.... I've fallen asleep sitting up reading a magazine, had multiple laughing attacks for no real reason (better than tears though), and have experienced some very new and random food addictions: an intense cravings for burgers and red meat and 7-11 Crystal Light slurpees (I've had four of these since Saturday).

Back to Tri...

2008-09-17T21:40:00.000-07:00

My last few blogs have been a bit non-triathlon related so I decided it was time for a training update!

Training is going well...a bit scary to think I'm only two months away now. I'm following a plan (provided by Coach Robert) . This calls for increasing my weekday training hours a.ka. waking up at 4:30 am. I'm also putting in some solid and VERY LONG weekend rides/runs.

The best parts: I'm having a blast! I'm meeting great new friends, gaining strength, and I'm finally able to hold 8 minute miles for up to 14 miles. Well, ok, the last few miles on my long runs have been more like 8:30, but that's still a huge improvement for me since I'm horrible at running (my feet turn out, my stride is out of control and it's truly mentally painful for me).

The worst parts: I am ALWAYS hungry and nothing fills me up. Seriously, I'm eating more than the pregnant girl in my office. My sweating has gotten out of control when I'm working out (I read that this is normal but seriously...gross).

Finally, I could not decide if this was good or bad, but my life officially revolves around my training. I guess it's a mix--good for preparation, but for my social life and friendships.

7 years later....

2008-09-11T22:01:00.000-07:00

Never Forget...those words were so prevalent seven years ago. We lost so much. I'll never forget where I was or the feelings I experienced on that day. However, my experience watching the towers fall on TV while interning at a radio station in San Diego was nothing compared to the experience of September 11 for others. Today, my blog has nothing to do with triathlon...it's just remembering a date in history that changed life as we know it.

Today, I pray for and remember all those that are no longer with us...heroes. I also thank those that are fighting for our freedom and protection.

Committed to Ironman

2008-09-02T18:50:00.000-07:00

"There are only two options regarding commitment, You're either in or your out. There's no such thing as life in between." Anonymous

Obviously, I'm in....however, part of the reason for starting this blog was to keep everyone updated on my "road to Arizona". That said, the road is a bit bumpy right now. I hate complaining, whining, etc., so I'll spare the majority of the details. I'll just say that I think the hours of training I'm putting my body through, outside work and other stresses and lack of sleep have left me feeling very BLAH (for lack of a better word)--I'm sore, I'm tired and worst of all, I'm moody (poor Pat)

I knew signing up for this that the training was going to be a major part of the journey. That there would be great times, as well as tough times...

Right now, the times are tough....but as my mom always reminded me "when the going tough, the tough get going"

Exploring New Land

2008-08-26T19:46:00.000-07:00

So my runs have been getting a bit boring. I know having a running partner can help this, but often I prefer to run alone. I like to keep my own pace, listen to music, relax and think about whatever goes through my mind. That said, I've been in need of a scenery change. Lately, I've been running around my neighborhood (nothing too exciting except some interesting characters) or running around my work (same situation). I LOVE running by the water but sometimes with traffic, etc. it's a challenge after work. So, today I decided to try Mission Trails Regional Park.
It's only a 10 minute drive from my work. I LOVED IT! 5,800 acres of hills, valleys and open areas. It's beautiful and very relaxing...a terrific escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. With the exception of a few hikers, the place was pretty desolate.It was also the perfect place for my very slow run....my legs are still shot from my 70-mile bike ride Sat. and 14 mile run Sunday.

Speaking of the weekend, it was basically the exact opposite of last weekend. I rode with two Girls (Tina and Jess). We rode up the coast. Definitely pushed it, but it was nice to get in some girl talk and not get dropped :) I love mixing it up with different friends and rides on the weekends...always an adventure.

On Saturday late afternoon, Pat and I went to a pool party at one of my triathlon friend's house. Yes, I finally convinced him to come meet my "tri-geek" friends....best part: he actually had a good time. As we left he said, "That was fun, they're are nice group" Did he actually think I would surround myself with people that weren't fun or nice???? My tri friends are the best, glad he finally got to meet some of the crew!

Boys Drop Mary

2008-08-18T20:39:00.000-07:00

Well, my headline says it all. This weekend I got dropped. Big time. My self-esteem is still recovering.... Looking back, it's my own fault. I knew it would happen riding with Trevor (a.k.a. endless ball of energy, who SLOWLY walked the last 13 miles at IM Placid due to a knee injury and still finished in 14 hours) and Lorenzo (a.k.a speedy lorenzo--I just gave him that name because he's just plain fast).

So, I guess I can't feel too bad about myself. At least they didn't "lose" me completely - they were always in eyesight (except when we went down a 9-grade hill and I literally thought I would die as my back tire wobbled and my breaks didn't seem to work. I white-knuckled it down at about 2mph (note: I really need to work on my fear of downhills.).

Anyway, 70 miles later of totally pounding it and dripping sweat, I made it back to the car....
proud of myself for just surviving.

I got home, took a quick nap (and I never nap), woke up, took a shot of espresso, and got dressed for my "girls night out" = great food and wine with some girlfriends.

Sunday I managed to crawl out of bed for my long run (these are the mornings I am jealous of my non-tri friends). I then spent most of the afternoon catching up on work (it's way too busy for my liking right now).

Anyway, now it's Monday evening and I think a mix of a tough day at work (is this a trend) and the tough training weekend have left me feeling sorry for myself and wishing I could take a vacation from my crazy life right now. I'm so jealous of Pat who is visiting friends on the east coast before he starts his final semester of school (I wanted to go with him so bad...dang work commitments ).

So, I am sitting here watching all the Olympic swim races I have on TIVO and missing my college swim days. The large frozen yogurt that I'm consuming is helping my mood though (If Pat was here I would get the THAT'S NOT DINNER comment...ha, ha...he's not).

That's all folks...nothing else to say!

It's A Great Day To Be Alive....

2008-08-08T15:33:00.000-07:00

Ummm, so yes, the title of my blog is a country song, but it's one of my favorites and I had to use it, since seriously....it's a great day (note my happy dance on the right..okay, yes, I am a dork).

WHY? Well, for a few reasons...

1. Pat got a job offer with the law firm he's been "summering" for. He's so thrilled and it's a huge weight off his shoulders. I'm so proud of the guy. He also got his class rankings back and is #1 in his law school class (again). Keep in mind that he was working full-time for the Navy and going to school at night--impressive--let's just hope our kids get his genes. One more semester left for him...piece of cake :)

2. Joe, my youngest brother, will officially be a marine officer after tomorrow. What a tough road he's been on. After finishing film school at Chapman, he decided to join the Marines (much to my mother's displeasure...she's turning around though). His first run at the 10-week intensive OCS school didn't go as planned. He was sent home mid-way--minor setback--but he didn't give up. They offered him the opportunity to come back and give it another shot (they rarely do this) and he did (after killing himself running, studying, etc. for a few months). Well, without getting into too much detail, tomorrow he will lead his platoon at graduation. Not only did he succeed but he's finishing with a bang...now that's dedication.

3. Nick, my other brother, just found out he passed his EMT class and is officially on his way to becoming a fireman...he's going to be a rock star at that job.

I can't tell you how excited I am to see all my favorite boys succeed in life. All three of them have been through a tough few years for various reasons and it's finally all working out for them...couldn't be happier.

My weekend is looking full of good food, lots of wine and great friends....oh, and yes, some serious training...

Am I crazy...

2008-08-05T21:59:00.000-07:00

So I met my friend Jamie at the cove today after work for a swim. As we approached the sand I noticed the yellow caution sign "bacteria levels exceed state standards" So what did I do? I got in and swam...okay thinking back...gross...but I had an awful day at work (see note) and swimming is my release. It always makes me feel better no matter what's going on in life. Note: i realize the economy isn't great and people are sensitive, but do they need to take out their anger on their PR person...REALLY? All we're tring to do is help here...

The swim was great, warm ocean water (no wetsuit for me today), sun reflecting off the water, great visibility (all the fishes were out :). That said, I swam in an area with high bacteria...is this Ironman training causing me to lose my mind?

Time Management

2008-08-03T13:47:00.000-07:00

I've always considered myself pretty decent at time management. It's something I was constantly challenged with in college with school, swimming and the social life :) It's a skill that has helped me juggle work, volunteer commitments, training, taking classes and still having time for fun! That said, Ironman training is really testing me...and I'm learning there is a difference between time management and over committed, and it seems my life is trending towards the latter at the moment. So an upcoming goal of mine is to figure out where I can cut back because I'm not sure 16 more weeks of life as below is going to work. We'll start with Wednesday...

Wednesday - up at 4:45am, in the water at 5:30 for some extra yardage before my class gets started. Teach the master's class at 6:00 (in the pool with them lately because I need the extra yards). At work by 8:00, leave work at 5:30pm with still way too much to do but have to get in a 45 minute run before my board meeting at 7 (this was interesting I showered in 5 minutes, got dressed and made it across town to the meeting wet hair and all by 7 on the dot). Home at 8:45pm - finish writing a news release for work that's due first thing in the morning. In bed by 11....

Thursday - up at 5:00, spin and weights before work. Work at 8:00 (work is CRAZY right now, boss is out of town=more on my plate). Rush out of work at 5 and head downtown for the YPC's annual Wine and Chocolate fundraiser (I'm the PR/Marketing Chair). After getting to hand out with some friends I haven't seen in awhile and of course, great wine and chocolate (not sure if this is all still allowed in the typical Ironman regiment but in my training plan it is--at least for now :). Home and in bed by 11...

Friday - up at 6:30 (slept in a bit..yikes, did I really just say that? 45 minute run before work. After work head to the cove and do a 2ish mile swim. Pat and I went to our local hotspot for a great dinner and in bed early by 10.

Saturday - up at 6 met some friends for a four-hour ride from Solana Beach--the ride was a blast. It's so beautiful here in San Diego this time of year, well always, but especially now. After the ride, showered at the beach (don't ask) and changed in the car and drove to my friend Diana's wedding shower. Ate a quick lunch, stayed for about an hour and had to rush out to head back down to Del Mar to meet Pat...his law firm was having Day at the Races....

Sunday - up at 7:30 - met some IM AZ friends for a 9 mile run (turned into a 12.5 mile run). Now I am home and blogging instead of doing some work that needs to get done. I am also EXHAUSTED....and supposed to meet some friends for dinner later.

Just writing this all down (sorry to bore you all) has reiterated that I need to slowdown at bit...

I'll keep ya'll updated on how that works out... :)

So...

2008-07-25T22:16:00.000-07:00

I've taken the plunge...entered the blog world...I guess it's about time (given that I work in marketing and am surrounded by a world of bloggers :)

Anyway...the real reason for starting this was because of a few requests from friends and my family (family photo above) that for whatever crazy reason are interested in following my progress as I train for Ironman Arizona in November. Something tells me that as I approach the next few months--full of training, working, spending time with Pat and some socializing in an effort to not lose all my non-tri friends (they keep me sane)--that it just might be easier to direct people here rather than continuing the "Crazy Mary email updates" as my college friends (especially those that live away) have coined them. Note: for those that are confused...these are short and they ramble..not really making sense but all end with xoxo - have to run, but let's chat soon.

That said, I guess my first official blog entry should begin with my reason for deciding to do Ironman Arizona - I'll fill in my triathlon history/blanks later on...

Anyhow...below is as serious and real as it gets....promise to lighten up this blog moving forward...:)

On November 23, 2008 I will take on Ironman Arizona. Swimming 2.4 miles, cycling 112 and then running 26.2 miles is nothing compared to the challenges those battling any type of vasculitis must endure. My little sister Alison was diagnosed with Wegener’s granulomatosis (see http://www.vasculitisfoundation.org/ for more info) in December 1997. We were told the outlook was grim. However, due to a relatively early diagnosis and the funding our family was provided, Ally was able to receive leading-edge treatment at the NIH. Today, Ally is in remission and is about to enter her final year of college. Others are not always as fortunate… I’ve never attempted an athletic endeavor of this magnitude before, but I am ready to see what I’m capable of. I enter this journey with the knowledge that it will not be easy; there will be pain and there will be struggle, but the challenge of an Ironman pales in comparison to the suffering those with vasculitis must endure—this I know for sure. When the pain is getting the best of me and I just want to quit, I’ll remember that I am racing ONE DAY for all those just like Ally with vasculitis disorders that are racing for LIFE. I look forward to racing in November in support of the foundation and ultimately finding a cure. To get what we've never had, we must do what we've never done! People with vasculitis don’t get to stop fighting so I won’t stop either …Ironman Arizona…here I come.