Bye For Now

  The Lord has given me a week since I posted my last blog to really see and hear some things to make me think.  God has shown me things that make me so thankful and so gracious for being in the position I am in. It has taken some time for me to realize how much I should be grateful for and how blessed my family and I are.

  Let me start where I left off on my last blog. Have you ever dreamed a dream? Have you ever wished you were capable of accomplishing something pretty cool, something that seemed out of reach and so far away? For years now I have watched and re-watched the Ironman World Championship races that take place in Kona, Hawaii. There are so many inspirational stories of the athletes that take part in the day. The best triathletes in the world compete in Kona for the coveted title of being the world champion Ironman!! It can be incredibly hard for some people to qualify for Kona. Some have tried for years and are still trying. Just recently I read a story of a guy who has been trying for 13 years and he finally got in this year. Some people will pay up to $40,000 on eBay to register. Some qualify through a legacy lottery. In order to enter a legacy lottery you have to have done at least 12 Ironman races. Some never qualify. It’s the Olympics of Ironman. It’s an honor to compete at Kona. I respect every athlete that tries to qualify or that has a goal to qualify. It’s an amazing accomplishment. I understand how much work is put into training, how much effort it takes to qualify. I always dreamed of qualifying and I trained like I was going to but deep down inside I never actually thought I would.

  Monday morning after the race Jamie and I went to the Olympic Oval to celebrate the 3^rd place finish God blessed me with. While there we decided to head up to the high school just to see if I qualified for Kona. I didn’t think it was possible but figured it would be fun to check out. There were only two slots in my age group and they went to the first two finishers. I was the 3^rd finisher so it appeared as though I just missed it. We were advised to go to the roll-down meeting though because there was a good chance the first place girl wasn’t going to take one of the open slots since she probably already qualified. Jamie and I had a quick discussion and decided we would accept the Kona invitation if it was offered to me. They instructed us at the roll-down meeting that they would say our name 3 times and if we did not accept the roll-down immediately it would go to the next person. My name was the first one called up in my age group. I had, in fact, qualified for Kona. I can’t begin to describe how I felt.  I just felt like I was in a dream. Never, ever did I think I was going to be able to participate in the World Ironman Championship. What an honor. I was so excited to go to Kona and represent the blessings God had granted me, to represent my family and my support crew, to represent MTC and Maine. Mentally and physically I felt ready to go. I would rest up a bit and then hit the training hard. I wouldn’t want to let anyone down with my performance. My head was spinning; I couldn’t believe what was happening. Seriously, I just can’t even describe the feeling. I still can’t believe it and my stomach still gets butterflies thinking about it. Oh, what I would do to go to Kona!!! Jamie and I thought about the flight over, we thought about being in Hawaii and vacationing a bit. We were so excited!!!

  Jamie and I embraced each other and thanked each other for the hard work we had both put into this accomplishment. Jamie was such a strong force behind the scenes. We both felt like God had blessed our efforts and was rewarding us with a sweet little vacation to Hawaii. Wow, what a treat!!! We could only dream of going to Hawaii. I was ready to do another Ironman too. Things were about to change drastically in a matter of minutes though.

  After I handed over my credit card and registered for the Kona race, which was about $800, and after I signed my life away we left the building and headed down to the Olympic oval to celebrate our 3^rd place finish. After celebrating the podium finish my dreams were all of a sudden dashed. I was informed that the Kona race was on Sabbath (Saturday). That was it. I was expected at that very moment to pass up the opportunity, throw the golden ticket away without second thought. I was expected to forget about the World Championship and never look back. How could I even think about accepting the qualification? Well, let me tell you what, when you put so much hard work into so many months of training, when you feel like God is blessing and leading, when you feel like God actually gave you the opportunity you can’t help but consider the offer. Maybe some would NEVER have even considered but please don’t judge until you are in the very position I was in.

    All of a sudden I started having a lot of people telling me what to do. People were immediately judging me (us). People were putting pressure on my shoulders to both compete in the race and to not accept the offer. I had some people tell me that if I decided to go to Kona they wouldn’t support me and then I had some people tell me that no matter what I decided they would support me. Man, I never knew how tough things were going to be regarding this whole Kona thing. What a mess. I learned a lot of things during this time. We noticed that some people don’t like to see other’s succeeding. Some people have a hard time being happy for others.  Then there are others that are so generous and so gracious. I had some wonderful people give Jamie and I beautiful bouquets of flowers and massages. We were so grateful and felt so undeserving. Still others (even some people in my training club) had to try hard to act happy. Some haven’t said a thing. Please understand I don’t believe I deserve much but one can tell when they are being kind of snubbed. None of them knew the turmoil that was going on behind the scenes. I guess I was looking for their support since I wasn’t getting it in other areas of my life. You see, I started to feel sorry for myself. I’m ashamed to admit it but it’s true. For so many years I had finally accomplished something surreal and it was hard to choke down the rejection I got from some people. I was looking WAY too much to myself and to people. My eyes weren’t focused on God and God alone. I was confused and a bit bitter. I wasn’t bitter at God and I wasn’t bitter about the Sabbath, but I was and still am fighting bitter feelings toward some people and how they treated me (us). Lesson number one learned: You cannot, EVER, look to people!!! Keep your eyes on Jesus and nothing else. It’s a lesson I am still trying to practice.

  Let me take this opportunity to explain why the Sabbath is so important to me.  God set aside the 7^th day to rest, to spend time with Him, to care for others, to reach out to the poor, the needy, and the lonely. The Sabbath day should be spent with God and for His honor. I am such a competitive person that it would be impossible for me to participate in Kona and not compete. I would be in race mode. No part of me feels comfortable racing on the Sabbath day. I will be the first to say that I don’t keep the Sabbath the way I should. There are so many different things I should do but I try to make some good decisions regarding the Sabbath.  I firmly believe that in the end times the Sabbath will set apart God’s people. It’s of utmost importance that we stay firm in our beliefs and that we follow God’s will. My muscle to stay firm for God and to do what I feel like God is impressing me to do is weak and needs to be strengthened.  Thus, I decided, with God’s help, that I must not compete in Kona. I do not judge other people and the decisions they make regarding the Sabbath. God works in different ways. But let me just remark that God impressed me not to compete in Kona and I must listen. I decided not to listen to what everyone was saying around me.  I had to listen to God and that’s what I did. But to this day I am left with some emotional baggage. I am still confused about some things and I don’t totally understand why everything happened the way it did. With blind faith I chug along the path of a Christian waiting for the day that God will make everything clear to us. I am sure I will have much harder decisions to face ahead and I just pray that this challenge will make me stronger. It’s pretty cool to be a strong’ish athlete but its way cooler to be a strong Christian. There is no other greater satisfaction but it can be hard to remember that.

  Because going to Kona has been a dream of mine for years and years I am still having a hard time just forgetting about it. It may seem stupid but I have shed many tears over not being able to go. Every time I think about Kona my stomach does flips and gets butterflies.  I still think about ways that it would be possible to compete. I still wish that there was a way I could go. For some reason I still have a lingering hope that it will work out. Hope is everything. If only they would move the race to Sunday but I feel assured that’s not going to happen.  Every bike ride I have been on since Lake Placid I have shed tears about the whole issue. I shed tears not only because I’m sad about not going to Kona but also because I am hurt and upset in so many ways.  You see I feel like I made a big sacrifice (so small compared to God’s sacrifice but big compared to a lot of people around me) to respect the Sabbath and to listen to my heart; a sacrifice I don’t regret. But then I see people around me, who were quick to judge me, making decisions about how to spend the Sabbath that aren’t necessarily that much different than racing in Kona. I see people doing things on Sabbath that I think is no different in the long run. The Lord states that breaking the Ten Commandments is breaking the Ten Commandments no matter if you don’t keep the Sabbath day holy or if you murder someone. It’s all a sin. Obviously there are greater consequences for murder (rightfully so) but a sin is a sin. Why have people expected me to make the right decision about the Sabbath when they aren’t making any effort to respect the Sabbath like God would want? I know the answer!!! The answer is you can’t look to people!!! You can’t look to people!!! You can only look to God. Keep your eyes on Jesus!! Even though I know the answer I still have an awful hard time with how I was treated. Those who so easily judged me have no problem going on their marry way doing whatever they want. It’s hard to let go; very hard.

  I can honestly say that NONE of this has turned me off from my religion. None of this has made me bitter at God or the Sabbath; quite the contrary. It has made me realize that ONLY God is consistent. Only God makes complete sense and stays the same. Only God is faithful, fair and forgiving. Only God is gracious, loving and supportive. Only God knows your heart and only God has the best intentions for you.  I have learned that God is the only one I can count on and the only One that matters. I feel as though this whole experience has made my relationship with God more real. I love Him and I am so thankful for the Sabbath. Now God has to help me forgive and forget my hurt feelings, my bitterness and my anger towards people.  It’s going to take some time but hopefully soon I can let it all go and just move ahead.

  Some of you may wonder why I was so confused about whether to or not to go to Kona. Well, let me tell you a little more of the story. First of all, I am very thankful for my overall Ironman time but it was not a Kona qualifying time. If you check out the past three years of Lake Placid results you will find that I would have been in the top 10 or 12 but not 3^rd place. I honestly feel like God really blessed me this year with the right athlete field, perfect weather and enough energy to actually place. It was literally a miracle that I placed, let alone qualify for Kona. I did work hard and trained with all my heart but I never would have placed 3^rd without God. So that would be miracle number one. Miracle number 2 is it was quite amazing I was able to finish with the time I had considering the fact that I trained the minimum amount each week. The average athlete trained anywhere from 18-30 hours per week for Lake Placid. I trained, on average, only 12 hours a week; goes to prove that God did, in fact, give me strength on race day. I also didn’t have the equipment that the top placing gals had. No race tires, no race helmet, etc. Miracle number 3 is that I actually got a roll-down spot for Kona. They are rare and few between but not only did a get a spot I was first on the list. Wow, what a blessing from God. Miracle 4: Jamie and I knew that we couldn’t afford to pay for plane tickets to Hawaii, housing, and all the other hidden costs of a trip but we were informed that a big group of people had already started a Trott Kona fund. I feel so underserving and yet so honored to have such supportive friends. Wow, I’m blown away still to think about how generous people are. I thank each and every one of you for your readiness to help Jamie and I make it to Hawaii. Financially the trip was coming together and looking possible. Miracle 5: we had several offers from friends who were willing to fly to Hawaii and split the cost of housing. An athlete we met in Lake Placid sent me info and contact information of a place we could stay (on course) for only $100 a night.  I kept wondering if God was making this all possible. I kept wondering if God was leading me to go to Kona. Was there a ministry in it? Jamie and I wanted to make sure we did God’s will so we were considering every option. The whole time though I just felt uneasy and felt deep down inside that I was not to go. In the end, I have no regrets about my decision. I feel at peace and being at peace with God is the best feeling; far more satisfying than anything this world has to offer. I think as time continues I will realize that even more. I have a lot of growing to do and a lot of learning to do.  But I pray that this experience will make my family and me stronger. 

  My golden ticket to Kona has slipped out of reach but God’s hand has grasped mine and promised not to let go. When I fight my feelings about this whole ordeal God gives me peace and reminds me of His love.

  Just within this past week I have seen so many people fighting for their lives mostly due to illnesses. I have seen people who would do anything to be in my spot. Kona is such a small challenge in comparison to what some of my friends are experiencing. It makes me sick to think about how much I have struggled with this issue when I see my friends praying for another year of life. I apologize for my shallowness and self-pity. I apologize for my selfishness and for feeling sorry for myself. I have nothing to feel sorry about. My family and I have much to celebrate. We have much to be thankful for.  August 29 (last day to get a partial registration refund) will come and go but until that day passes I don’t think I will give up on a little hope.  What’s wrong with hoping? I can’t wait until Oct 13 has passed because then it will be all over and behind me. Until that day my human heart aches to race. My type A personality desires to compete. But, thank the Lord, my desire to please Him and to listen to Him is MUCH stronger and much more determined. Doing God’s will and following His instructions is going to be the hardest and greatest race I will ever run. Can I do it? No. But, I know God can carry me when I get weak. I know, without a doubt, that through God ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE!!!!! That’s what I have learned!!!

  Good bye Kona. Your image has been too much of my focus. God must be my primary desire and my primary focus. Health and fitness are important but neither are possible without God’s help and blessings. I still plan on racing and I still plan on doing another Ironman but to God be the glory.

  So this closes my Ironman journey. Not sure if I will continue to blog since my only purpose of this blog was to talk about my Ironman journey. The journey has come to an end. My family and I are entering a new chapter. It promises to be full of many more adventures, challenges and learning experiences. May God lead us to His heavenly gates. I hope to see all of you there.

  Good bye my dear friends. Thank you for your support and for following me during this Ironman journey. I appreciate you all!!

Lake Placid Ironman, The RACE!!!

Beep, beep, beep, beep, beep. My alarm went off at 4am on July 22. It was time to get up, gear up and go. I was nervous as expected. For worship that morning I asked God to calm my nerves and to speak soothing words to me. I opened my Bible randomly and the first verse I looked at said: “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed” Proverbs 16:3. The second verse I read said “In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps” Proverbs 16:9. I quickly bowed my head and committed the race to the Lord once again and took comfort in His Words. I repeated the verses in my head the entire race and it gave me so much peace!!! After worship I was able to barely eat a banana and a bagel. Once my race attire was on and my gear bags loaded I was out the door and headed up to the Olympic Oval. (Thank you Jamie for waking up with me, praying with me and driving me up to the hub-bub.) First thing I did was pump up my bike tires, load my bike up with fuel and drink. Thankfully I noticed that my Sigma bike computer battery was dead and I came prepared with an extra battery. I changed the batter, took some pictures with my phone and then head to the body marking area. After marking my body I dropped off my special needs bags and then waited 30 minutes in line to use the outhouse. After lots of work I managed to get my wetsuit on just in time to cross through the swim gate and strategically place myself in the water for the swim start. The pro’s started 10 minutes ahead of the rest of us. Somehow I was able to find Matt H. in the water and we placed ourselves far right and about a foot behind the start flags. It was a perfect spot.

  BAAAM!!! The gun went off it was time to start the race of a lifetime. We had trained so long for this moment and I couldn’t believe it was time to put it all together. The first part of the swim was crazy but thankfully I never did get kicked in the face, pulled under or trampled on. I had a couple people actually grab my ankle which was the only time I would purposefully kick a little bit letting them know they better not grab my ankle, ever. Haha!!! It’s one thing to hit me or something but there is no need of grabbing. During the entire swim I stayed a fair bit right. Every time I came close to the cord I slowed down due to all the people. By staying far right I was able to keep moving with a clear path ahead of me. It might have cost me a little bit of time to swim wide but I would totally do it again. In no time at all the first lap of the swim was complete and I found myself running on the beach and heading out for my second lap.  I was so thankful for another lap, otherwise it would have been over way too soon. I wasn’t totally sure how to pace myself but I just listened to my body. I tried to move along at a good little clip without going anaerobic. It worked great. Next thing I knew I was out of the swim and laying on the ground with the strippers yanking off my wetsuit. (I love strippers. It would have taken me several minutes to get my wetsuit off). 

  The bike was next. I ran into the transition tent and quickly got my gear on. Volunteers were waiting at the end of all the bike racks ready to hand you your bike. I grabbed my bike and ran it to the mount area. Lots of people were watching, including my family. It was so wonderful to see them in the crowd wearing the awesome red support shirts Jamie made. I jumped on my bike and headed out. Once again I wasn’t totally sure how to pace myself. I knew I wanted to at least maintain an average pace of 17mph but was hoping I was capable of an 18mph pace. During the entire race I listened to my body and did what felt good at that moment. On the hills I was going anywhere between 6-12mph, on the downhill I was going 43-46mph and on the flats I was going anywhere between 20-25mph. The first loop of the bike I was surrounded by other racers. It was a battle not to draft. I saw several teams that were totally drafting off each other for much of the first loop. I did my best not to draft but at times it was really hard. Every pedal stroke I was just trying to soak it all in. Honestly, I was in my glory and just loving every minute. Before I knew it I was entering town and coming close to the different spots my family said they would be. Tears filled my eyes for so many reasons. First of all I couldn’t believe I was actually racing the Ironman. I missed Tucker and Jamie and knew I would be seeing them for a split second very soon. Also I was just really touched with how many people came to support Matt H. and I. One of our childhood friends, Lori S. flew up from Tennessee to support us. It was amazing. The crowds were yelling, screaming and cheering us all on. The energy was unlike anything. I just wanted to pause that moment for a really long time and enjoy every second. After making a sharp corner into town the very first thing I saw was a really blond headed boy on his daddy’s shoulders, both wearing the red shirt. I knew it was Tucker and Jamie and I just fell apart again. Soon after seeing Tuck and Jamie I saw Lori cheering me on and my mom and Jamie’s parents and Matt and Mariah and everyone else. I started to cry at this point, not just tear up. I was so touched. Then I reminded myself that I was losing precious sodium through my tears and told myself to stop. Haha!!! I was so thankful for a second loop on the bike. Never once did I wish the race to be shorter. Never once did I dread going out on a second lap, whether it be during the swim or bike or run. I thrived on every mile, every minute, every second. The second loop on the bike was a bit lonely. People had spread out at this point but I found myself still having to be careful not to draft. Unfortunately at one point, on the straights, I found myself behind a whole row of bikers. I knew I had two choices, either pass them all or slow down. Well, I didn’t want to pass them all because then I would be too tired heading into the hilly section of the race. I also didn’t want to slow down because that goes against every ounce of my competitiveness. While I was thinking through my strategy a good old motorcycle pulled up beside me and told me that I was getting penalized for drafting. He gave me strict directions to pull over in the next penalty box for a totally of 4 minutes. The next penalty box was 30 miles away so I had some good riding to do before I had to stop. The motorcycle worked his way forwarded nailing a bunch of people. At first I was totally bummed about the penalty but then I decided to use it as a strategy. I would push through the next 30 miles a little harder than normal since I would get a nice break 2 miles out from the marathon start. By the time I made it to the penalty box I was ready for a little break. It was actually a welcoming sight. Once I stopped though it was killing me watching all the bikers’ wiz by. Uuuuggg!!! I just wanted to go. After a long 4 minutes the referee told me to mount my bike and get ready to roll. He counted down the final 10 seconds and off I went. I only had 2 miles left until I dismounted my bike and head into the run transition. Near the end of the bike I felt great but was slightly concerned with how little fuel I was consuming. I ate some gummies but that was it. I didn’t touch any of the fuel tapped onto my frame and my Bento-box was still mostly full. Would I have enough energy to get through the run? At the dismount area I handed my bike off and immediately grabbed my run gear. My family was standing close to where my gear bag was hanging so I was able to talk to them for a quick second.  

  In the run transition tent I swear I just stood there while the volunteers did everything. They put my belt on, my watch on, my shoes on, sunblock on and so much more. I literally just stood there. It was amazing. I kept telling them over and over how awesome they were. In no time at all I was running through the run out gate starting the marathon. Once again I spotted my support crew who gave me a great boost going into the run. The first thing I noticed on the run was how I looked like a runner’s buffet. I had Gu bulging from my pockets, pinned to the outside of the belt, in my jersey pockets and everywhere else. The stuff was so annoying I actually started throwing it out. Glad I did too because I ended up not able to eat anything but 3 small pretzels, 5 grapes and 4 orange slices on the entire run. Thankfully I was able to drink though, which was my saving grace. I saw a lot of people walking and throwing up on the side of the road. Some athletes were screaming in pain as they worked through leg cramps, while others lay, what seemed to be, lifeless on the side of the road. I was so thankful for every step of progress I was able to make. I was concerned I was going to run out of steam at some point since I ended up doing my swim and bike faster than I thought and since I wasn’t able to eat much. The calories from my morning banana and bagel were long gone. Mentally though I wasn’t anywhere close to being done. Again I repeated Proverbs 16:3 to myself and kept praying that the Lord would give me strength. He sure did too!!! I was able to run the entire marathon without any trouble. I had nausea the entire run but never bad enough that I had to throw up. I never had any cramps and the blisters on my feet were minimal. I was worried because I was running on new shoes that had never been run in before. (It’s a long story but I don’t recommend buying new shoes right before an event and running in them for the first time during a race).  As I climbed back into town the crowds, once again, were yelling, screaming, and cheering us all on. I felt like the crowd and my support team reloaded my mental energy box and I was ready to head out for my final 13.1 miles. At this point I wasn’t dreading the last loop, instead I couldn’t believe how close I was to being done. I didn’t want to be done. It was all passing by like a flash. Thirteen miles was nothing compared to all the training I had done and all the miles I had covered already that day. Thirteen little miles was all I had left and I just wanted to soak in every step. Before I knew it I was at the run turn around farthest from town and found myself running toward the finish line. About 4 miles from the finish line I ran past our Inn where the Harlow gang was cheering us on. Eric S. ran beside me briefly and informed me that I was placing. Now, Eric S. knows his stuff and is one amazing athlete but I figured he must have been mistaken. There was no way I was going to place. Surely my time wasn’t that good. It’s important to note that I wasn’t looking at the clock at all that day. I knew if I saw how long it was taking me to finish the different legs of the race I might get discouraged. I just needed to run my race without any pressure and feel good. So I ignored the clocks, watches and timers. I just listened to my body. Anyway, I was shocked to hear that I might be placing. Unfortunately I didn’t have much to give. I had thoughts that I would just have to miss out on placing if I saw someone from my age group pass me. I didn’t have much left. The hardest part of the run was the second to last mile. But even that mile wasn’t bad. I was on my final mile and everything seemed surreal. I couldn’t believe that I was getting ready to run into the Olympic Oval and under the finish line. I started thinking about being able to place and decided I would never forgive myself if I slowed way down during the final mile and let a competitor pass me. I picked it up that final mile and before I knew it I was running around the Olympic Oval. I could see my support crew and I could hear all the people yelling but then I heard the words “Alicia Trott, from Topsham Maine, YOU ARE AN IRONMAN!!!!! I fell into the arms of a volunteer after crossing the finish line and all of a sudden I felt like I got hit by an eighteen wheeler. My tummy hurt so bad, I had no idea how sick I was on the run until I stopped. I knew I had nausea bad but drinking the flat Coke on course seemed to help me avoid throwing up. Thankfully the volunteer that caught me was Sue C. a friend and mentor from Brunswick Maine who was volunteering at the finish line. Sue has done several Ironman and was such a big help during my training. She was such an awesome sight. She escorted me to through the finish line, got my hat, and shirt, took me to get my picture taken and got my finisher medal. She helped me walk out the race legs and took me to my family. GREAT BIG thank you to Sue!!!  My tummy was in turmoil and nothing I did relieved the pain and discomfort. My family told me I looked green. It took a solid hour before I finally started to feel better. Once my tummy pain went away I was up and at it and ready to roll. Physically I felt great and mentally I was just high. What an experience. What a day!!! What an amazing group of volunteers and I’m so thankful for the best support crew ever!!! My final time was 11 hours, 47 minutes and 28 seconds. My goal was to finish the race somewhere between 12 hours 40 minutes and 12 hours 20 minutes. God gave me strength and a little speed. God helped me finish the race in much better time than I thought I was going to. God gave me such a smooth race; one that I will NEVER forget!!! What happened after the race is another story. We did find out that I actually did place 3^rd in my age group. I was in shock and had no idea that was possible. I wish I had basked in the glory that Ironman night more than I did because everything was about to get tough and agonizingly hard the next morning. To this day I am still crying over what happened next and can’t wrap my mind around why things had to happen the way they did. It might all seem minor to you all but it’s kind of a big deal to me. I haven’t been able to blog about it yet and am not sure when I will but soon enough you will learn about the hardest part of the entire Ironman. My feelings to this day are raw. I don’t want to talk about the race, I don’t want to talk about the Ironman and I can honestly say I haven’t been able to enjoy having finished the Ironman since that Ironman night. BUT my heart is at peace with what happened and I know that in the end what happened was the right thing. To be continued…

Starting to Pack

The packing has begun. Transition bags, special needs bags, bike gear, and so much more. 

Do Not Run Aimlessly

  One week, one day; the nerves are getting high. Life has been so busy lately but when I am reminded of the upcoming event I freak out a bit and my tummy churns. For me it's normal. I always get nervous. Doesn't matter if I am getting ready to race a 5k or an Ironman, I still get nervous.

  The above verses are in my heart to remind myself of several things. First of all to do my very best July 22 and to run the race with everything that I have. I am in no way going to come close to winning a prize like the verses say, that is not what I am implying, but I will run "in such a way to get a prize (hopefully a finishers medal).  It also reminds me not to run aimlessly but to run for God. The Ironman is a hobby, it's a sport, I know, but I can still stroke, pedal and run for God; God can be my focus. All day long I can pray for His strength and His wisdom and His mercy. It will be good practice for life, as we all need to pray for God's help every day of our lives. We need to daily ask for God's strength, wisdom and mercy.
  Most importantly the verses keep me grounded and remind me that life isn't just about Ironman or any of our other hobbies. Life is about God and His children. The verses remind me of the bigger picture, what we are really doing on earth. We are not hear to aimlessly charge here and there; we are here to prepare for eternal life with God. What greater race is there?? The race of life eternal with the most loving, forgiving, patient Father. I certainly do not want to get disqualified from this short life on earth and I don't want any of my family or friends too either.
   Imagine heaven where there will be no pain, no suffering, no death, no sorrow, no arguments, everyone will be able to see, hear, walk, run, dance, speak, everyone will be equal, everyone will be richly blessed, everyone will be friends.  Why don't we all desire it more? Why don't I get nervous about my spiritual life and the race that is determining my eternal future?
  "As Christians, we are running toward our heavenly reward. The essential disciplines of prayer, Bible study, and worship equip us to run with vigor and stamina. Don't merely observe from the grandstand; don't just turn out to jog a couple laps each morning. Train diligently--your spiritual progress depends upon it."Commentary in the Life Application Study Bible.
  The Ironman training has taught me discipline like never before. No matter what, I was determined not to miss a day of training. And when I trained it was with purpose, meaning and with a goal in mind. My spiritual life must be even more diligent and self-disciplined. God help me!!!!

Going to Miss IM

 
   Sunday I did my last longish bike. As I was driving to Gray to bike I was just reminiscing about the entire training season. So many memories, so many people, so many miles covered. Goodness, I'm going to miss it!! I cried in the car on my way to my last longish bike ride. I am full of apprehension about this thing being over. We have been thinking about kiddo number two and I know when that happens it's going to be very hard for me to do any type of training. Selfishly I have worked so hard to be at the point I'm at that it's hard to just see it all disappear. My family is more important to me but I am definitely trying to figure out a way to keep up my sport without totally going by the wayside. As you can see I'm going to have a hard time giving it up. Phew!! You might wonder why I enjoy it so much. Here is a list:

1.      I have met some great people during my training; Rich and Tina two of the most wonderful people, Swim Coach Russ, Jilly Bean, The Totman, Marianne, Seaweed Tom, Krazy Kathy, Marathoner Mark, Jim and Mark, Hot Mama Dominique, Little Powerhouse Jerry, Ta The Cyclist, Po Po Erik, Charlie the Great, Val and Walt, Andrew the politician, Anne and Roy, Mike the Brilliant, Mike the Chaser Racer, Doug, Holly and Jim, Jerry the Guy, Nicole, Energy Bunny Sue, Erica, Steve, Steve and Bob, Heather, Courtney, and the list goes on. I know I forgot someone which is not intentional.

2.      Some wonderful family and friends have supported my every effort (all the above names belong here too): Jamie, Tuck, Mom, Dad, Matt C., Mariah, Grandpa Gerald, Child Gang, Jill and Matt H., Greg S., Lori The Gimbel, Aunt Donna, Uncle Mike, Rick, Cheryl, Jessica, Jenn, my Couch to 5k Class, Greg T., and the list could go on and on.

3.      It has made me stronger not only physically but also mentally.

4.      We have trained in all weather conditions: snow, negative degree temps, hot temps, light rain, pouring rain, thunder, high wind days, gusty days, hurricane like days, cloudy days, sunny days and everything else in between.

5.      I have trained in many physical conditions: healthy, tired, sick, exhausted, overtrained, undertrained, injured, healing, painful, sore, stiff, with viruses, without viruses, with flu, without flu, stomach problems, throwing up; I think that's pretty much it.

6.      I have trained in many mental conditions: motivated, mentally exhausted and tired, hyper, unmotivated, aimless, goal oriented, happy, upset, excited, sad, teary eyed, maybe a bit grumpy :-), super stoked, but ALWAYS determined!!!

7.      Training for Ironman is the closest thing yet that I have done that requires perseverance, unwavering determination, relentless training, and no slacking. My training for other tri's was not nearly as planned out and if I missed a week here and there it was no big deal. Over 7-8 months time (6 of which were all out training months) I missed a total of 6 days due to being very sick. I trained when sick except when I had a high temperature or I was throwing up. As I mentioned in an early blog the training has been kind of like my Olympic games. It's the biggest athletic event I have ever done and I have figured out it is no laughing matter. Lots of focus.

8.      Sleep and recovery are so important and you have to make it part of your schedule. For the first time since I can remember I have been napping and enjoying it. My napping days are nearly over and I will miss them.

9.      Food, food, food. I haven't focused enough on race weight but I sure have taken advantage of eating like a horse. Goodness, I can eat alot of food. I have a feeling that's going to have to change drastically when this is all over. Yikes!!! Probably won't change until I gain lots of weight. Now I understand why some retired athletes gain weight. Totally makes sense.

10.  Countless mornings my alarm went off at 4am and even as early as 3:30am. Those early mornings were hard at first and then I just started to get up like a robot not even thinking about it. Believe it or not there is something special about early mornings.

11.  Countless nights I went to bed at 8pm and even as early as 7:45pm. Soon as Tuck went down for the night Mama would collapse.

12.  We got to welcome the day by exercising so early in the morning. We had many swims, bikes and runs that started in the dark and while training we got to enjoy the sunrise. I have so many beautiful images in my head from different sunrises I got to enjoy. Just beautiful!!!

13.  It's been alot of fun being out there training beside and racing with pro marathoners and triathletes. Karen Smyers probably wants to kill me since I yelled at her every time we passed each other in Lake Placid. We have passed by Joan Benoit out for her morning runs here and there too (We were on bikes. Only way we would have passed her). Then there have been a number of pro's at the races. Not many sports allow the average athlete such as myself to compete in the same race as the professionals. It's pretty cool.

14.  Never before have I thought it okay to take a day completely off of exercise. Sabbath has always been my day off planned training but I still usually walk or do something outside in the fresh air. There are some things that I feel comfortable doing on the Sabbath, such as hiking and taking walks. We, as a family, enjoy being active on Sabbath but I like to take the day off any planned training. Rest is just as important as exercise, nutrition, stress management, etc. You have to incorporate all of it. Sabbath is an important day to spend with God and to rejuvinate my spiritually thirsty soul. The day off leaves me feeling refreshed and ready for another busy week. God blesses us for observing His Holy day as well.  For nearly a year of Ironman training there have only been two days that I actually got on my bike and did a ride on Sabbath. In both situations I had mixed feelings thinking I sholdn't have gotten on bike and yet felt like it was fine considering the situation. I was not motivated by weather or working on killing myself.  I felt like I wasn't doing it for the wrong reasons. It's a fine balance for me to know what activity is okay for me to do on Sabbath and what isn't okay. It also matters who I surround myself with and what our conversation is. Hiking can be very strenous but I find it okay to do on Sabbath because being outside, and especially on mountain tops makes me feel as close to God as it gets.  I have run on Sabbath too but not as part of my training plan, instead just as a way to refresh my mind and get some fresh air. It's not about mileage, time or calories. Competing on the Sabbath is a big no-no for me though. I, personally can not compete and think on Sabbath thoughts at the same time. I pray during competitions but my mind is in a very different place while competing. So, long story short, I don't think it's a sin to run, swim or bike on the Sabbath but personally I'm having to be very careful about doing any of those three activites on Sabbath since they put me in race mode and make me think about the big event I have coming up. The ironman takes up too much of my thought already. I need to protect the Sabbath and keep it as a day to think about God, family, friends and those in need.

15.  For the first time in a long time I have become a little more versatile in the time of day I train. I still prefer to exercise in the morning but I have found out its okay to exercise at different times of day. I have had to swim late morning, bike in the afternoons, run in the evening. That's big for me since I use to only exercise in the morning. If I didn't get it done in the morning it wouldn't get done. With Ironman training you don't have a choice. I didn't have enough time to do everything in the morning or afternoon. Often I had to split it up and do some training in the morning then again in late morning and afternoon. I still MUCH prefer to run in the morning though. Running is the only exercise I despise doing any other time of day. :-)

16.  Gear, gear, gear. Although I don't have top notch stuff or hardly everything that is available to triathletes I have definitely accumulated pretty great stuff. Jamie and I (mostly Jamie) have researched great deals and gotten most everything with discounts.

17.  I am madly in love with my maintenance man. He is my tech man, my maintenance man, my gear man, my go-to-man for all equipment I own. Every once and awhile he even gives me a kiss or two. My maintenance man is the best in Maine and I have him all to myself. I share him with no one. He is the best kept secret. Thanks Jamie for all the changed tires, pumped tubes, seat adjustments, gear adjustments, water bottle adjustments, bike tune ups, and so much more. You are my right hand man and nothing you do goes unnoticed.

18.  Gear educator. Only Jamie knows how much I hate to change tires!!! Thanks babe for making me practice even though you had to listen to me whine and whimper. We still have some more practicing to do.  I wouldn’t have a clue how to change a tired if it wasn’t for you. Wish I could pack you up and bring you along on race day to change all my flats and fix all my problems.

19.  Free babysitting with the best sitter ever is another best kept secret of mine. My babysitter even comes with perks. He bakes bread, has been known to make dinner, picks stuff up, gardens, fixes my car, feeds my boy, loves my boy, changes my boy's very poopy diapers, takes Tucker to some fun places, puts Tuck down for naps, reads to Tucker, plays with Tucker and exceeds all expectations a mother might have for a babysitter. The cool thing is he is my maintenance man. What a handy man. Man of many trades. Love you Jamie.

20.  Backup babysitters!! Yes, I even have back-up babysitters who are totally amazing. My mom and dad have watched Tuck a number of times while I trained or raced. When I'm racing I have to have my maintenance man with me so Tuck gets to spend quality time with his Grampy and Grammy. They are so good with him; fun, active and consistent. Sometimes Tuck misses his naps when he is with Grampy and Grammy though. :-)

21.  Most importantly:

Every stroke, every pedal, every step are given to me from God. He is the reason my body is able to do any of this. He deserves all the credit. God is so loving, selfless, and patient. He has for some reason given me this opportunity. Somehow I hope this experience will glorify Him and Him alone. God is great. I don't totally understand why He has allowed me to do such an involved sport. Any way you look at it, it has definitely taken time away from God. I prayed before every bit of training so we were never separated but our one-on-one quite time was limited. I don’t' like it and I understand it's the most important thing for me to do daily. For some reason God has been patient with me and has given me the strength to do this crazy event. Some day it will all make sense. To God be the glory. I am but a feeble, mortal human who is nothing without God. God has watched out for me every step of the way and has protected my very fragile life in the water and on the road. For that and many other reasons I am so grateful.

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart...Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. " Hebrews 12: 1-3 & 12

One week from now I will be packing up and getting ready to head to Lake Placid. Dear Lord please grant my family and me safe travels, healthy body’s and spiritually rich souls. Lord give me Your strength on race day because it’s the only hope I have in crossing the finish line. You and I God; I want to be on your team, God. It’s all that matters; being on Your team!!!

Peaked

  Today marked the end of my most strenuous training. The past 3 weeks have been my peak weeks with the highest miles. Matt H. and I biked the entire Lake Placid course which was 112 miles, we ran 20 miles. The following Sunday I biked 120 miles and Monday ran 20 miles, yesterday I biked a wicked hilly course for a total of 80 miles and ran another 20 miles this morning. Phew!! That's it!! Now I start to taper for race day. It's shocking that I am already starting to taper. Not long ago I had a year to train for this beast, now what's done is done and there is nothing more I can do. No matter what I do from here on out I will not get stronger or faster. If I'm stupid and push too hard though I could get slower and weaker. Now I have got to use my head and start to really listen to my body. This coming week-end I have only a 4 hour bike followed by only a 16 mile run planned. June 15 I plan on biking for only 3 hours and follow it by only an hour run or so. That will put me into pre-race week in which my training will really die down. If all goes as planned I will start to feel like a caged bear, full of energy and raring to go! It's a feeling that drives triathletes crazy. You want to train, get your energy out or race but you can't. You have to bottle it all up until race day. It's kind of a funny feeling. These next 3 weeks will be full of training but my big, long training days are complete!!! It feels good!!! Now I just need to focus on staying healthy, eating right, getting lots of sleep and tapering. 

  What a road it has been. Jamie and I were talking about it this morning and we both agree that this Ironman business will have to be put on hold for quite awhile since it takes so much time to train. We are both exhausted and ready for some normalcy. It's been hard this past year having to plan week-ends around my training, or having to go to bed wicked early to get up at the crack of dawn to train. We have missed out on alot of social times, trips, and other fun activities. I did my best to not affect my family too much with the training but it's impossible. When I first started writing this blog I mentioned how my goal was to train in such a way that my family was not neglected. Well, I wouldn't say they were neglected and I feel like I did my best but when you hit the last several months of training the family is affected and lots of time with the family is sacrificed in order to be on the bike for 6-7 hours or running for 3-4 hours. It all adds up quickly. Jamie has felt the stress too and is equally exhausted. 

  I had a sweet friend over the other night and it was so nice to be social. I haven't been able to hang out with her hardly at all but it was so much fun. I haven't been able to hang out with many people at all because I am either training, taking care of Tuck, taking Tuck to his activities, working, cooking, working, cleaning, working or sleeping. 

  I will never forget this year though and feel like it's kind of a peak year for me. Kiddo number 2 is planned for the very near future and then I have this feeling my body is going to fall apart. Haha!!! Actually, it's honestly a true fear of mine. I have every intention of getting back into shape after the pregnancy but not to this degree. This is it. Time will never be the same. Tuck keeps us so busy, I just can't imagine two kids yet. Wow, it's going to be busy, exhausting and yet wonderful. 

  Well, that's about all I have to say for now but I will continue to post before, during and after Lake Placid Ironman 2012. 

Lake Placid Training Camp

   One month from today; GAME ON!!!! Yesterday I found out my bib number is 476. When I saw my number for the fist time I got butterflies in my tummy. I can't believe this whole thing is coming together and I will actually be doing an Ironman. I keep thinking something might happen that will put a kink in the whole thing but so far the Lord has blessed me with a great training year and a great support crew. I honestly, feel like I'm living in a dream; never thought this was going to be possible.

If all goes well, one month from this very moment I should be done with the event that I trained an entire year for. All that hard work comes down to one day. I am sure during the bike and run I will have feelings of thinking it will never end but I also know it will go by in a flash. I want to savor every minute, every stroke, every pedal, every step. Not sure when I will be able to do anther Ironman.

Even though an Ironman is not a big deal to some it is to me. Figuring out how to train, be a mommy, wife, take care of the house, work many jobs and everything else in life has been very challenging. Most people train about 18-30hours a week for the Ironman but I am lucky to get in 12 hours a week. With my limited time to train and life duties this adventure has proven to be one heck of a ride. It's my Olympic event, it's my one big chance. Jamie has made it very clear that I am not to do this again for a very long time so this is it. With that in mind it really puts extra pressure on me to make July 22 successful some how. Lots of things can happen leading up to that day and lots of things can happen on that day so I pray hard the Lord will grant me a smooth race day. There is alot at stake for us. We have invested alot of time, finances and hard work into this adventure. Ironman stuff is not a poor mans sports and we are poor. :-) So, yes, we have alot at stake. Knowing that I don't have the luxury to just do another one if this one doesn't go well really adds the pressure. Some how I have got to channel this "pressure" to work for me not against me.

I guess because so much hard work and so much support from other's is invested in this Ironman distance there seems to be alot more emotions that go along with Ironman distance races as opposed to any other distance I have done. It's a funny thing. This last month leading up to race day is not only crucial physically it's also an emotional roller coaster. I am so excited about race day, so ready for it to be here and yet part of me wants to freeze time. I don't want it to be over either. Half iron distance races and shorter I know that if I have a bad race it's okay. I can sign up for another one and try again. That's not the case with Ironman. This is my one chance. This is my one shot, at least until I'm 50 or so. Haha!!! Poor Jamie on the other hand just can't wait for this whole thing to be behind us (for his very understandable reasons). Race day will only be sweet to him but I'm afraid for me it will be very much so bitter sweet. I will be one of those athletes that crosses the finish line (assuming I cross the finish line) crying like a baby. I apologize ahead of time. :-) I have had some real amazing supporters during this whole adventure and I can't thank them enough for constantly encouraging me, giving me words of wisdom, pushing me when I didn't want to keep going, holding me back when I was overtraining, and the list goes on. I will forever be grateful to you. You know who you are!!! One month away my friends; couldn't have done it without you.

This past week was the peak training week for the Ironman. Some wonderful friends of ours invited Jamie and I to come stay with them at an apartment they rented in Lake Placid. We gratefully accepted their offer only if we could provide the food. To make the trip easier my parent's offered to watch Tucker and my brother and his beautiful gal offered to watch our puppy. So with the car packed with food, bikes, Jamie's motorcycle and lots of gear we were off to Lake Placid. We arrived in Lake Placid late but got some good sleep before the training adventures began.

We started the training with a 56 mile bike. We did the bike course once and even experienced one flat tire. My friend, Matt, unfortunately got a flat but it was very educational for me. I was sorry it was an extra expense for Matt but I was very grateful for the tutorial. Our ride was successful and was followed up by a swim. The plan was to swim the entire 2.4 mile course but we ended up swimming 3.6 miles. Matt and I didn't know where to turn around and we ended up following the rowing course. We knew something was off due to time but we went ahead and did two loops of the rowing course anyway. Hey, if we can swim 3.6 miles than surely we can swim 2.4. Haha!!! The swim felt great and it was awesome being able to follow the cord underneath the water. I hardly looked up at the buoy at all. Race day I probably won't be anywhere close to the cord but I enjoyed the luxury during practice. The rest of the day we enjoyed lounging and eating a little ice cream. That night I went to bed fairly early so my body would be rested up for the next adventure.

 The next day we were off on our 112 mile bike ride. We did the first loop under 3 hours and we felt good but I knew it was a little too fast for me. I would have to go a bit slower race day in order to have a fresh marathon. After the first loop we re-fueled and road out of town for the second loop. About 10 miles away from town on the second loop I started to feel really hot. I felt like I really didn't drink enough and I know I didn't eat enough. Something to remember on race day. Otherwise the 112 miles went very well and we felt good. I was very pleased with my bike, my saddle and my attire. After the bike ride we changed into our running shoes and did a t-run from the apartment to the lake. Matt and I quickly took our shoes off at the lake and promptly dove it. It was the best feeling!!!! The cool water felt so refreshing and helped wash away the hours and hours of salt plastered all over my legs, arms and face. Once we got home, showered and ate dinner, it was time for bed.

The next morning we geared up and headed out the door for our 20 mile run. We did one and a half loops of the running course. Some how our legs didn't feel too bad after the long bike. We were able to cover the run course without any trouble and finished feeling tired but good. Now we just have to put everything together all on the same day. Yikes!!!

This past week has given me a confidence boost. Having done the course and knowing I have covered every mile of it is comforting. I know how to pace myself a bit better, I know how to fuel a bit better and I came up with a different hydration set-up on my bike which is MUCH better. I know the course, the hills, the downhills, the flats and everything else in between. Next time I'm in Placid I just have to put it all together which is going to be a whole different beast.

There are several things I have got to practice between now and July 22. I have to practice changing my tires, repairing my tires and pumping my tires. There is nothing more that I hate then a flat tire. My hand strength is so weak and it takes me forever to get a tire on and off the rim. It's so frustrating. So, I must practice for hours how to change my tire until I can do it in minutes instead of in hours. :-) I also need to practice my transitions and figure out exactly how to work quickly and efficiently. I also need to research special needs bags and figure out what to put in them.

Jamie and I want to send out a great big thank you to Matt and Jill for making this past week possible. It was alot of fun, alot of hard work and just a great experience. We also want to thank my parents for giving Tucker an exciting, fun filled time and we thank Matt and Mariah for taking care of the puppy. It takes a crew to prep for such an event!!! Wouldn't be possible without my team!!! Thank you everyone.

Sub 14 Would Be Okay...I Guess

  Ever since I started this Ironman adventure I have had alot of friends ask how long it will take me to complete the Ironman. Great question!! Wish I knew the answer. Wind, sickness, bike issues, swim issues, run issues, cramps, too many bathroom breaks, weather and so much more are all variables that can and probably will affect my time. Let's just say I have smooth sailing (which is rare) my time would be, well, I want to say 12 hours and 30 minutes BUT NO. That's only wishful thinking. Honestly I would be really happy with anything sub 14. Being a mom, working several jobs, and having limited time to train will definitely play a major role on my total race time. I'm heading to Placid to put my body to the test (especially mentally) and as long as I see that finish line I will be VERY happy!!!
  There are cutoff times for the Ironman. The swim has to be completed within 2 hours and 20 minutes. The bike has to be completed within 10 hours and 30 minutes and the run must be completed within 17 hours of the start. Realistically I will probably do the swim around 1 hour 20 minutes, the bike around 7 hours and the run around 5 hours. In my dreams I would love to do the swim in 1 hour 17 minutes, the bike in 6 hours 30 minutes and the run in 4 hours 30 minutes. The closer I get to race day the more reality is sinking in. I am becoming continually excited about just finishing the thing even if it takes 17 hours. You just never know what could happen. I totally wouldn't be surprised if it takes me much longer than I think. (Jamie is going to cringe when he hears the next part.) The problem is if I have some sort of unpredicted issue and my time is off big time then I will be dying to do another to prove to myself that I can finish an ironman in a descent time. Let's just pray really hard that things go somewhat smooth and I can at least accomplish this beast within 13:59:59 or less!!!! Sub 14 would be okay, I guess. Not exactly what I was hoping for when I first started this adventure but it is quickly becoming my reality. Could take longer but one thing is for sure no matter how long it takes I have to remind myself that few get to experience such a thing and it will be amazing just to finish!!! God give me strength!!

Some Truth and April Training

Hello Once Again!! April training is over and May training has started. April went pretty well, although I did get sick again. I missed two days of training which wasn't too bad but two days missed is two days missed. I am realizing that ironman training is very hard health wise. I am not willing to compromise my faith, my family time or my work. It's getting harder and harder and usually what goes first is sleep. There is no doubt that I am missing out on some family time too. Thankfully pretty much the only time my family notices that I'm gone is on Sunday’s when I have to do long bike rides followed by a t-run. It could be worse.

Jamie has been such a wonderful support!!! I often can't believe how selfless he is. He is truly the most amazing guy on this planet!! Jamie is helping me fulfill a dream that is only mine. Somehow he is willing to see me through it and often I have no idea why. This leads me to another point...

Ironman training is NEVER about just the athlete. Everyone is cheering the athletes on when we are on course racing but I honestly wish my family and friends could stand up on a platform and get the recognition they deserve!! This sport takes a team. When July 22 comes I want my whole support crew to get a medal. They deserve it so much more than I do. I have never felt so selfish in my life then I have during this training. So much time is scheduled around my training. Feeling selfish is a horrible feeling. I would like to thank some people by name (you can get the idea how many people it takes to train for an Ironman. Every single person has played a key role in my training): Jamie, Tucker, Dad, Mom, Rick, Cheryl, Mike T., Matt, Mariah (mac recipe), Greg T., Aunt Donna, Russ, Mike C, Jill W., Kathy, Tom, Rich, Tina, Matt & Jill H., Jerry H., Greg S., my grandparents, my couch to 5k group, my students, Rachel S., other MTC members, Sustainable Athlete, and many more.

 I want you all to understand that I do love the challenge and I am looking forward to race day but I am trying to be very open about the whole process. It's not all bliss and fun. I hate to be a Debby downer but hear me out. First of all it's incredibly hard to balance life with training. I am constantly fighting exhaustion. Weekly events have to be scheduled around my training. I can't go out with friends Saturday night or any other night of the week or I end up sleep deprived. As soon as Tuck goes to bed I have to go to bed (otherwise we all pay because I get sick) so Jamie and I have limited time together. There have been no date nights. I miss it so much. There have been training days that end in tears due to duration, intensity and/or exhaustion. I am not much of a crier but sometimes I feel like everything has been taken out of me and I am just totally drained. Training for an Ironman is not easy! Jamie often asks me if I had fun after a long ride and I'm not sure how to answer him. It's true, I have put myself in this position and it's my choice but it's not always fun. It's alot of hard work that includes alot of sacrifices. All of my long rides have been alone too which really adds to the mental battle. Last year I was able to do alot of long rides with my team mates who made it fun and enjoyable but this year it's just not working out with my schedule. Riding alone for 4 to 5 hours can be daunting and overwhelming physically and mostly mentally. Thankfully I have been able to do my long runs with a friend which has been a big help. Another thing I have noticed about this Ironman training is my health has been the poorest it's been. My good friend, Tom, said you can be fit but not healthy. SO TRUE!!! I have been sick at least once, sometimes twice, every month this winter. It's partly my fault because I have trained at too high an intensity but it also down to sleep deprivation. I am concerned about my health and am hoping to make a visit to the doctor soon to get some advice. I have cut out all desserts but it doesn't seem to be helping. Bottom line, Ironman training is thrilling and an amazing experience but it doesn't come without its challenges. There are alot of sacrifices that have to be made not only by the one training but by the entire family and friends.

Upside: the experience seems surreal and I still can't believe that I will be an athlete at the Lake Placid Ironman. It really blows my mind. It's also a great feeling to not feel intimated by long distance swims, bikes or runs. It becomes part of your identity. It gives you great confidence. It boosts my mood and helps me be a better mom (when I'm not exhausted). I have gotten jobs due to my triathlon experience and Jamie and I can use every red cent we can get. I have gained alot of experience and have learned so much about triathlons. I have also learned alot about myself and what's important in life. I have learned even more about how amazing Jamie is and how much I adore Tucker. Most importantly I have learned that imbalance is dangerous. God has to be my focus. Ironman training takes alot of time but mental training even takes more time away from God. It's playing with fire. Don't let anyone kid you. I tend to learn things the hard way. But I will tell you, God has blessed me so much during this training even though I feel like I don't deserve it. God is great!!! He gives me every breath, every step, every minute of my day and I am so thankful. God is allowing me to do this Ironman for some reason and it's a privilege. To God be the glory!!!

  April training has included 3,500-4,000 yard swims, bike rides have maxed at 4 hours outside, and runs have included anything from 7 mile runs to 20 mile runs. I had one very hard run due to only 5 hours of sleep the night before and due to what time I ate supper. It was a 16 miler which half way through resulted in me feeling very sick and dead. After a little bit of walking I was able to pick it back up and push through. What a mental ride!!! It’s not fun to run any distance feeling extremely sick. But once it was over I was SO thankful I finished the run. Great Ironman practice, so I hear!!

  May has already started and it started out great with an amazing 4 hour bike ride in Mass followed by a 4ish mile t-run. At first the bike ride was frustrating since I didn’t know where to go but it ended up great. Half way through the ride I rode up Mt Wachusett which was beautiful!! I felt pretty good on the run. Part of me felt fresh and almost as if I never biked but I did fight a cramp from the food I ate on the bike. I will have to work on that.

  Currently I am on my second day of sitting on a lazy boy with the flu. I’m hoping it ends soon since I am getting behind in my training. So, yes, I got sick in May too, already. Aaaaaa!

March Training is Over...Just About

   It was early in the morning, probably around 4:45a.m. I had 5 hours of spinning ahead of me, indoors, alone!!!  I hadn’t had my worship yet so I spent the first hour listening to a sermon. The sermon was great and spoke to my heart but once the sermon was over reality hit and I realized I still had 4 hours of spinning left. Immediately thoughts of doubt started to creep into my mind.  I started asking myself if I really needed to do such a long spin, the answer was an emphatic YES. Next I started to think of all the other things I could be doing and should be doing, but then I reminded myself that I had signed up for the Ironman and I better be getting my hours in on the bike. My next struggle was sleepiness!!! I nearly fell asleep, while pedaling, three different times. It wasn’t a good feeling. It was kind of like the feeling you get when driving a car tired. You know you can’t sleep but you would do anything to be in bed. After two hours of spinning I beat the fatigue and was able to keep pushing through. Now I only had 3 hours left. I had done 3 hours many times so I knew I was capable. I had to get my mind in the right place, focused and determined!! Focusing on each set and repetition helped the time go by pretty fast actually. Next thing I knew I only had 2 hours left. Jamie and Tucker came to the spin club to visit me which gave me a boost. It was really helpful to see their wonderful faces and to feel their support. The last hour and a half I spent thinking about race day. I imaged myself experiencing the whole event. I thought about the spectators, the brutal swim, the rolling bike hill course and how I would feel when I first started the marathon run. All of these thoughts got me pumped. I was able to finish my 5 hour spin and do a 30 minute t-run in the pouring rain. I felt great during the run which was an added bonus. The 5 hour spin marked the end of my March training.

  March has been a good training month but has definitely had its challenges. I have done a lot of long spins topping out at 5 hours. I have done two 15 mile high elevation gain runs and some other long runs. I am now swimming 3,500 yards twice a week and doing t-runs 2-3 times per week. On a typical training week I am running every day of the week which is good since my run needs some strengthening. I have been doing long runs, negative split runs, hill runs, etc. Bikes have included long distance, turbo, high cadence, gear grinding hills, etc. My swims all include technique, distance and some speed work. My family and I have gotten sick twice during March which is not good. Lack of sleep is doing it to me, I swear. I have to get up early to get my training in every day of the week except Saturday. Often I can’t get to bed when I want to because of work, grading, cleaning, house work, laundry, sick baby, etc. I feel exhausted more than I should.  My goal has been to do most of my training early morning so that I don’t interrupt my family’s schedule. I have been doing pretty well at it until lately. Now the runs and bikes are getting so long it totally interrupts the family. Either I am gone or I am home but tired. Only because of my fight for sleep do I look forward to the Ironman finish line other than that I don’t want to see it come to an end.

  There is so much preparation that goes into such a long distance race; so much time, energy, and mental prep. I can feel race day approaching so quickly. Before I know it the day will be over; a whole year’s work over in one day. It makes me a bit nervous. I feel like July 22 is going to be such a “high” and when it’s all over I’m not going to know what to do with myself. Several of my training buddies told me to have something to work towards after the Ironman. For the past couple of months I have been thinking about what I would like to do next, something that is challenging and yet won’t take so much time away from the family. So…my next goal is to qualify for the Boston Marathon. For the first time in 20 years they have shortened qualifying times by 5 minutes in each age category making it a bit harder. I would need to run a marathon in 3:34:59 and not even one second slower.  Running is not my strength so this would be a great accomplishment for me. I am excited to try and keep trying until I run Boston!!!! I was 8 minutes too slow during the Maine marathon this past October so I need to cut at least 8 minutes off my total time.

  The other thing that I am looking forward to after Ironman is baby number 2!! We will be ready to extend our family and add another little munchkin into the family. Once kiddo number 2 comes along my family has asked me not to train for Ironman for awhile since it takes a lot of time away from the family. I will listen to their wishes BUT someday I want to do another ironman and someday, even if it’s when I’m 70, I would love to qualify for Kona!!

  Even after kiddo number two I hope to continue to do half-ironman distances every summer and a several marathons each year. This will help keep me in some kind of shape and will feed my need for exercise.

  April training here I come!!! April, May, June and July!!! Little less than 4 months left and each one needs to count BIG time!!! I will keep you posted.

Happy training, Alicia

Personality: Jamie vs. Alicia

So I was looking up this athlete personality site trying to determine the difference between Jamie and I. We are complete opposites which works out perfect for us. As an athlete I am an introvert. I like training with other people and am getting to the point where I won't train any other way BUT I am still a lone athlete. If I have to swim, bike or run alone I don't have a problem with it.  I am swimming in my own lane or at my pace and relying on no one else to propel me forward, while biking or running I am pacing according to my own abilities, no one else is doing it for me. I am part of a club and I consider them my team. We do most all of our training together and we are a great support to each other but we carry our own weight. On race day it is survival of the fittest, you are own your own!!! I enjoy long bike rides just thinking and working hard. I don't need to be talking to others the whole time and often find that I work harder when I'm not talking. I prefer not to have a team rely on me. I have a great fear of letting other's down. As a triathlete you don't let anyone down but yourself.  Jamie on the other hand is an extrovert. He likes to surround himself with people while working out. He needs people to motivate him. It can be hard for him to get out the door unless someone can accompany him. Team work is important to Jamie and he is a good team player. He plays hard and plays well with other's. He likes having other's around so he can help and be helped. Jamie doesn't have a fear of letting other's down; he has confidence in his team abilities. Jamie likes to talk to people while workout and often prefers it. Jamie would rather compete with a group, as a team, then alone. It is far more rewarding to him. I definitely see the details of exercise and tend to spend alot of time organizing the details. Jamie see's the big picture and doesn't harp on the details. He is out to have fun and do his best but isn't worried about every second of his performance or training. Jamie is a thinker and bases his decisions on facts and logic. He researches things to get the big picture and then does what makes the most sense. I am a feeler. I base my athletic decisions alot on people and emotions. If someone is ahead of me I must try to catch up no matter what. If I'm feeling good I'm going to go for it. I also don't want to disappoint anyone and will often push just to meet expectations. I will often train harder when I'm in a certain mood too. I hate to admit that because women are known for being emotional and part of me hates that. Jamie perceives. He structures his workouts so they are adaptable and fun-oriented. Jamie loves to exercise but prefers to have fun while doing it. He loves volleyball, racket-ball, mountain biking, etc, all of which are fun and not just grueling. I am very much so a judger. My workouts are controlled and work-oriented. I am out there to work hard no matter if it's fun or not. My workouts are planned and structured. If I have to run 18 miles it doesn't matter if it's raining, snowing or freezing cold, I have to do it. It probably won't necessarily be the best time I have ever had but it's rewarding to me. Honestly, I love my work-oriented workouts. They can be intense, long, tedious and sometimes boring but I love to push my body to it's limits. It's hard for people to understand this mind-set but there are more people out there that are like me then you might think. Some are actually 10X more intense then I am. We are all different and enjoy life differently. We see things differently. We experience things differently. I am so thankful for Jamie and his differences. I wouldn't want to live with another "me". Jamie is the best thing for me. We help balance each other. 

Run...Anything is Possible

Several years ago if you told me I was going to run from Rangeley to Oqussoc or that I was going to run from the camp to Saddleback Mountain and back I would have laughed. Both routes are about 15 + miles and have some good climbs. Now, 15 miles on a bike doesn’t sound bad at all; sounds doable, easy in fact, but running 15 miles? Wow!! I would have never dreamed of running either route even 2 years ago. The routes aren’t a huge deal but running 15 + miles was out of the question a couple years ago. Something I never thought I would be able to bike is now something I can run. It just goes to show that anything is possible. We are capable of more than we imagine! God created our bodies to do amazing things. Sometimes when I am running I just look down at my big old feet and my little legs plodding along and am so thankful for the opportunity to run!!! There are a lot of people out there who would do anything to have legs to run; God has blessed me with my short stocky legs and I hope to take advantage of them.

   Long distance running never use to appeal to me but now I love it. Part of me didn’t think I was capable of doing long distance runs. I also thought it sounded like physical and mental torture. With training it’s not that bad. Having said that I must admit, I still cannot fathom running anything longer than a marathon. Maybe 30 miles but that’s it!!  These ultra-marathoner’s blow my mind!! I have no idea how they run so far. To them 15 miles is merely a warm-up. That’s sick (and I say that with respect).

Jan- Feb Training

My intentions are to document each month of training and hopefully add some extra blogs in between my monthly summaries. January was not an actual training month so I do not have a separate blog entry for January. I will just include it in February’s blog. January was an intro training month. I biked and ran and went swimming but I didn't focus on time, distance, or anything. I was doing it to get daily exercise not really to train. I tweaked my training schedule in January to fit around my family and work. After switching several things, adding things, deleting things I pretty much got my training schedule figured out and ready to go for February. February was when the real training started!!! And boy did it ever start. Wow, the first week was a push for me but I have since gotten use to it and love the challenge. I developed my schedule by using the book Start to Finish Ironman. The book has been a big help but several of my Ironman training buddies have also shared their past training plans with me which I have used as well. Every plan has helped me develop my own personal plan. Now it’s going to be interesting to see if my plan works or not. I have posted some blogs in the past of my training plans but I will share with you my up-to-date plan. It’s all I can do with the time I have.  It looks something like the following:

Sunday: Long run (which will switch to Monday once the sun shines a little earlier)

Monday: Long bike (which will switch to Sunday once the sun shines a little earlier)

Tuesday: Run, swim, core training

Wednesday: bike followed by a t-run, and a long swim

Thursday: Run hills or threshold run, core training

Friday: Bike followed by a t-run

Saturday: OFF

In a month or two the above plan will change yet again due to longer distances, longer t-runs, earlier sun rise, later sunset, warmer weather, etc.

 February training went really well. I am starting off doing 2 weeks on and 1 week off. Soon it will change to 3 weeks on and 1 week off. I also take 1 day off per week. I am documenting each day of training on TrainingPeaks.com. The site has been very helpful. There is a free package and then upgrades for a fee. I am only using the free package right now.

February Gear Update: I finally bought a GPS unit and LOVE it!!! I need to return it because we don’t have the money for it but it is SO nice!!! Just with a quick glance I can tell how far I have gone, how fast, what my current pace is, what my heart rate is, max heart rate, average heart rate, calories burned, lap times, and so much more.

February Swim Update: Swimming is always going to be my weakness. I have been working on technique and distance this month. I don’t like technique days because they are so slow and I don’t feel like I’m accomplishing much. Goodness, I am in need of better technique though. It would be helpful to find someone to video my swim so I can actually see what I look like. It would be an eye opener for sure. Distance days are more fun. Currently I have built up to 3, 500 yards in the pool.  

February Bike Update: Since taking a break from training I have once again built back up to a 3 hour ride on the bike. It feels good but is boring on the spinner. I am using my old bike on the spinner so I really miss my tri bike!!! I am trying a new saddle right now. I like it but am not completely sold on it yet.

February Run Update: I started out doing my long distance runs on Monday evening. What a mistake!!! I hate running at night. I am such a morning person. I quickly re-schedule my long runs for Sunday mornings; so much better!!! Slowly I have built back up to 16 miles on my distance days. Tuesday and Thursday mornings I am running 7-8 miles. My focus on Tuesday and Thursday changes but includes threshold runs, hill runs, easy runs, etc. My t-runs feel great!!! I love t-runs for some reason. My longest t-run so far is 3 miles. Soon I will be focusing more on time then distance.

February Fuel Update: Well, I have failed in this section. I haven’t thought about fueling yet. I am watching what I eat the day before a long run and I only eat dessert on the week-end but that’s about it. I haven’t been using anything other than water during any of my workouts. I will have to start practicing my fueling soon.

February Rest Update: Somehow I am surviving. Except during recovery days I am awake before 4a.m. or at 4a.m. every morning. I have been trying to go to bed by 8 or 9pm. One good sign is I usually get up in the morning before my alarm goes off. If I wake up before my alarm usually I am getting enough rest. Once a week and if I’m lucky twice a week I take a nap while Tucker naps. These naps give me a much needed boost.

February Worship Update: Thanks to the good Lord’s help I have been doing better than ever on my personal worships. Usually I have my worship first thing in the morning; sometimes mid-day. Worships are a must for me. God gives me my daily bread, talks to me, answers prayers, loves me and gives me strength to be a mommy, wife, worker and athlete. We are so blessed!!! I am so thankful. None of the above would be possible without God helping me. He alone deserves all the credit for any of my accomplishments.

February has been a good training month. Currently I am in recovery. My next training block starts February 27. Yahooo!!!!