TRYING A TRI and beyond

Clean Bottle Review and Giveaway

2012-02-15T16:52:00.002+11:00

Two words that seem to go together like water and oil - chalk and cheese - cyclist and triathlete....In all reality how hard is it to keep your bottles clean.

Nothing worse than waking up early in the morning , all bleary eyed to go and fill the bottles up with your favourite electrolyte drink to find that you have once again stored your bottles in the dark drawer only to find it has somehow grown a plethora of micro-organisms in the base, spout or rim. Now I can see you all cringing and getting the shivers but I know I am right. Why? Well I know what kind of a clean freak I am and how hard I work at getting those bottles to shine. But no matter how much i soak them in hot soapy water and then let them air dry - they still seem to want to produce those friendly little critters in the bits I just can't seem to get to.

That was until I was given the opportunity to test out the Clean Bottle.

I absolutely without a smidge of a doubt think this bottle is awesome. Upon first glance I thought to myself, it looks like an ordinary bottle apart from it's ergonomic shape. However, upon closer inspection and much to the females delight - I saw that this bottle came apart from both ends. I shrilled, yes shrilled with delight. I shrilled only the way a woman can when her life is made easier.

If you are a clean freak like me - you can see how this is every clean-a-holic's dream. no more trying to get into the bottom with a bottle brush - those day's were over. My time was going to be better spent figuring out which hill to climb next.

There is absolutely no part of this bottle I cannot get at. I will literally get a soapy sponge and give it a whirl on both ends of that bottle, rinse, give it a shake, let it air dry on the window sill - and Bob's your Uncle - I have a clean bottle.

It fits in my bottle cage as safely as my other bottles and comes out just as nicely too. My fear when buying bottles has always been "Will I struggle getting that puppy out of it's cage". But not this one. It slides right on out without any effort whatsoever and gets back in without any effort as well. Saves me of having to think of too many things at once. Lord only knows breathing, changing gears, breathing, getting out of saddle, breathing, pedaling requires more thinking than I care to think about. And if I add battling with my bottle to the mix, I could very well fall off my bike. The Clean Bottle has been a real nice compliment to my cycling kit and shares the drawer well with my other favourite bottles. There is no jealousy amongst them.

I also like the fact that when I go to have a drink I aqm not getting a measly dribble into my mouth. There is a good exchange of liquid and air which means I get an adequate mouthful of drink when required. And if I need a little extra the bottle is flexible enough to allow me to squeeze that extra bit when I need it. What more could I ask for.

So the next time you go to clean your bottle - just ask yourself this one question "Will it ever be as clean as the Clean Bottle?". And if you even have the smallest doubt then I suggest you get yourself the easiest botle to keep clean.

THE CLEAN BOTTLE.

GIVEAWAY: If you would like to enter a drawing for a chance at winning a Clean Bottle of your own, comment below or on Mike Neifert's Blog Review on Open Mikey. Additional entries up to 5 per person can be obtained by tweeting a link to this post with his username - @openmikey - and Clean Bottles username - @CleanBottle in it. You can also go to Clean Bottle's Facebook page and comment on their wall - just say "Open Mikey sent me. I want to win a Clean Bottle". If you do all of these things you will have a total of 5 entries. The drawing will be on February 22 at 5am CST. A BIG thankyou goes to Dave and Jesse at Clean Bottle for making this contest possible.

SORRY AUSSIE FRIENDS. THIS GIVE AWAY IS ONLY OPEN TO MY AMERICAN COLLEAGUES.

Tri Peak Performance

2012-02-14T21:51:00.002+11:00

Exerts from SPARTA PT and Tri Peak Performance - courtesy of Jen Brown, owner of Sparta & TPP.

Regardless of your sport - injury is the ultimate limiter of performance.
It limits how hard you can train.
It saps at your energy and will.

As an Age Group Triathlete you have many challenges.

You don't have the time money, money or access to health professionals (like massage therapists and physios) that professional Triathletes do.
You don't have the time to do all the things you know you should be doing - so things fall through the cracks.

Jen recently conducted a survey and found that 85% said that strength & flexibility was important, if not essential for people who participate in sport. And for core training it was over 95%.

It is little wonder that the survey revealed the 2 biggest challenges faced by most age group Triathletes were

TIME & MOTIVATION.

But it doesn't have to be that hard or take that long.

Tri Peak Performance is a fully online 6 week training program to help you time poor triathletes incorporate strength, core and flexibility into your already busy schedule.In a members only section, each week you will get 3 new videos showing you short, fast, effective and triathlon specific, core strength and flexibility plus a video to explain what we are doing this week and why.

Each of these programs takes you 15mins or less and requires no equipment.

As a bonus you will also get :

a series of videos showing you triathlon specific exercises which require equipment
written PDF programs
another series of videos showing you how to use a foam roller for myofascial release
support via Skype with Jen and online training buddies.

Registrations will close 6pm AEST on Saturday 18th February with the prgram kicking off the following Monday.

REGISTER NOW ON

http://www.1shoppingcart.com/app/?af=1425515

If I didn't have Jen living so close I would definitely purchase this program. She really does know her stuff. Jen will help you reach your goals and hold you accountable for doing so too. Her goal is to make your goals become reality.

Proceeds from TPP will also go to helping the CYCLING CEREBELLUMS. A charity committed to helping out children with Neuromedical & Neurosurgical conditions.Myself and ELissa are directors of this awesome organisation. We are thankful to Jen for being a great person and friend.

Lappo

2012-02-13T18:48:00.001+11:00

Is all mine. Yep you heard me right. That big old scary hill and I have become acquaintances - FINALLY. I don't think we will ever become real friends because I know that everytime I will get to the bottom - IT will do everything in it's power to defeat me.

Wednesday morning I joined the group again. Paul came along too to help me tackle that nasty hill at the end. As usual because I felt good I took off like a bull at a gate. And tackled the beginning of the Greendale hills with much gusto. But as I approached the hill that runs up past the dairy my usual flop happened and I dropped to the back of the line very very quickly indeed.

I really should learn to not smash myself early.

And things only got worse as I hit Chain-o-Ponds. But you got to give it to me, I'm a persistent little bugger. I get moving those legs over as slowly as it was - they helped me up the hills and before to long I was back in the comforting arms of my Northern road and the pack. Thanks for all your encouraging words everyone.

As we made our way back onto the M4 I remember saying to Paul that I was nervous. What happens if I have to stop? What happens if I can't make it? Jen, Trish, Paul and Nikki were heading up Lappo to help me. I couldn't let them down or me for that matter. So as I started rounding the corner and my gears started shifting to the smallest they could possibly go I whispered to myself "This is it. Whatever you do. Keep those legs moving and don't stop". Easier said then done.

As I made my way through that first little bitey bit and crossed over Lapstone's exit - I had to stop at the first little emergency stopping bay. After all I was facing an EMERGENCY - my heart was about to propel itself out my mouth and my legs were going into meltdown. All I wanted was a few seconds to breathe, and that's just what I did. Jen stopped with me and then followed me the rest of the way up the hill until we caught up with the rest.

Believe me I was happy to see everyone at the end of that hill. But practice makes perfect right? The rest of the way home was great - even though it absolutely teemed down on us as we made our way back down Mitchell's Pass. I know it's dangerous and all but I was having a blast. And there was really only one way to finish off such a fantastic difficult ride and that was with a great cuppa. Nothing tastes better and it surely cures all ills.

I will continue to meet Lapstone on a weekly basis. It won't finish me off - that I promise you.

Cole Classic 2012

2012-02-08T18:42:00.003+11:00

This time last year I entered the Cole Classic without any pre-conceived idea of what an ocean swim was like. I was all excited and very new to it all and just saw this as another step towards achieving my goal of my first Half Ironman.

This year I had a few failed attempts at ocean swimming to overcome and although excited about the prospect of doing this swim I was also hesitant in the fact that I could make it a habit of signing up and failing yet again. And I did not want this to be my reality.

I was pleased to say that I had an awesome night's sleep the night before and woke up fairly late for me - which is a real change of pace. Sarah came to pick me up and we made our way to Manly Beach with alot of laughs and giggles as only girls know how to do.

Now for anyone who know's what Manly is like with it's parking, it can be hard at the best of times to find a spot let alone when there is an event as big as the Cole Classic to contend with. Parking can literally drop to zero spots. But lucky us, just like last year we found a spot in almost the exact same spot - could this be a lucky sign? I think so.

This year the swim was an out and back from Shelley Beach due to big swell coming in on Manly. And believe me I was happy to find this out. The weather was absolutely perfect on Sunday. Bright blue skies, beautiful and toasty and slightly fresh water. Mind you if you had of seen me get in for the warm up you would have thought I was stepping into the Antarctic.

We caught up with Paul, Jennie, Louise & Andrew before our race, did our warm up swim and then before we knew it it was time for the start. I also caught up with Spot and Sarah as well from Bondi Fit who have helped me with my ocean swimming. It was nice to have Paul come over to the side and wish both Sarah and I luck and give me the support I needed.

As I lined up at the start line my mind started doing its normal thing - racing at 1000 miles per hour. Can I do this? What happen's if you fail again? Why do you do this to yourself? But as the hooter went off and I made my way to the ocean, I thought to myself "Stuff it, what have you got to lose. Atleast your trying". And with that I tacked onto Sarah from Bondi Fit's feet and hung on for as long as I could, which was only about 300m. As she swam away into the deep blue yonder she left behind her a mass of bubbles which slowly dissipated into nothingness. Much like what Marlin saw as the boat took off with Nemo.

And with that I was on my own till Sarah my friend popped up beside me and said HI inbetween breaths and gave me a wave. I felt safe again and just tried to hang onto her for as long as I could. As we headed back to the turn around and into a mass of oncoming waves I remembered Paul's words "Nice long strokes". I tried, I really did but with the swell and current I really wasn't getting anywhere fast and it seemed the turning bouy was on my right hand side for ages.

But I dug deep and kept pulling out big long strokes and then made my way home. With every wave I swam over I could see I was getting closer to the finish line and was feeling very proud of me and all that I had accomplished. I not once felt sick or scared in there and knew that this could very well be MY turning point.

Coming into shore I manouvered my way over rocks and there was no running at the beginning, just a very dainty walk so as not to fall over. But then once I hit the sand I tried to run up it but all I could get out was a slow waddle and then I saw Spot. He took what I hope is a shot of me looking chuffed with myself and then I crossed the line only to hug Sarah at the finish line and hear the congrats from Paul and Jennie as they came over and gave me a hug. I also saw Sarah K and she can 2nd.

I was smashed - TOTALLY. But free of any defeatist attitude that was left within me. I then saw Lou cross the line in style and then caught up with Andrew, Joey and Kristy at the end. Everyone did really well. We finished the Cole Classic. Some in the Top 10, some with soldiers wounds, others as angels in the swell. But all of us accomplished a huge deal that day. We swam 2km at the Cole Classic with over 4000 other participants. ANd I really don't think it would have been possible without all of my family and friends support.

My time was 38:09. Three minutes slower than last year but I really couldn't care less. For me I felt like I swam 10 minutes faster because of what I accomplished. I felt like Super Woman. Now it's time to get back on the band wagon and keep pushing myself.

AND BELIEVE ME I WILL.

Dare I say.

2012-01-31T16:56:00.005+11:00

But I feel my spark returning. I have had little flashes of it before but was still doubtful of it from day to day. My confidence is something that plays a major part in how I feel when out doing sports - and if I feel on top of it emotionally I feel like I can conquer the world. And I can feel that spark getting bigger and bigger again - much to my delight.

On my last post I do believe I mentioned that I was going to tackle Cobbitty. Well I am proud to say that I did. And yes it hurt but probably not as much as I had played it out in my head during the whole week. For all you out in Blog land who have not seen or ridden Cobbitty - it's the kind of ride that many of our Triathlete's here in our club use as a good strength ride and I guess as part of their regular training ride for Ironman training. It's a good mix of flats and hills - a real good test of how your training is going from week to week. However, for me it has always scared me - but not now. It's mine yet again.

And not only did I do Cobbitty but I also tacked on Greendale as well as having ridden in to meet everyone - so I am also happy to say that I completed my longest ride in one outing to date.

129km.

And I was stoked. I also had a sore right bottom cheek thanks to forgetting to use my Chamois Butt'r and I now have a sore about 4cm's in length where the chamois was rubbing - but it was a small price to pay for a HUGE accomplishment for me. Mind you I wasn't saying that as I ran around the shower screeching - I know visuals are too much - SORRY. But it wasn't just me who accomplished something on that day. We had other first time Cobbitty riders - who totally smashed it - Matt, Jane and Garth. They did AWESOME.

So how do I feel 2 day's post ride? Great. Legs feel fine just a little heavy but I am happy with my recovery. Feeling good about how I am progressing for this ride to Melbourne. And really I know that if I feel a bit/alot smashed then I will have all my friends helping me feel strong and better.

I went and saw the GP today about a few things I am feeling - so needing to have blood work done on Monday as it seems my medication could be reacting with sunlight. And if that's the case I need to be covering up when riding - or ride when it's dark or early hours of the morning when the sun is at it's weakest. I break out in a lacy splotchy type rash all over my arms and legs - that which is exposed to sunlight and I also feel like I am burning up. So he just wants to make sure it is not affecting anything else. Anyway - enough of me.

Anyway, my friend Mike who is owner of the wonderful Blog - The Shoes Made Me Do It - is holding a wonderful giveaway. Ever heard of Knuckle Lights? I hadn't till I read his blog. Jump on his blog and post a comment. Entry is open to US resident's only so make sure all my friends in the States get onto this ASAP as entry is closing on Feb 1st 5am your time. He is an early riser so make sure you don't miss out.

I also wanted to share my new do. I am so excited about it, I feel like a new woman. What do you think?

So how is everyone going?

Wake up.

2012-01-24T14:45:00.002+11:00

Yeah you heard me. It's time to pull back those covers, have a real good stretch and step out of your comfort zone. It's time to crawl out of your skin and feel uncomfortable.

WHY?

Because having a good crack at YOUR life means at times pushing yourself and feeling uncomfortable. Of course I don't mean being silly and doing things that would endanger you, but I do mean finding something that you are passionate about and going for it. Dive in head first and give it all you got. Coming out the other end of something which you first thought impossible it probably one of the most gratifying feelings in this universe. and doing it with people whom you love and trust just makes it all the better.

Getting back into cycling has been a real Godsend to me. Actually getting back out there in every sense of the word has been just what I needed. I have gradually been increasing my distances and time spent in the saddle and incorporating small amounts of swimming as recovery but not alot. When the kids head back to school I will be able to squeeze a bit more in. The middle of the days will be free for me to do more.

I have to do Cobbitty again though. I need to get the monkey off my back. That ride always plays mind games with me. It is one of the things that has me - and always has - scared. I have tried to break it down as why that route worries me and I think it's because I struggle so much with it and it never ever feels easier. The pain just plays mind games with me. I constantly talk to myself the whole way through that ride - PUSH PUSH, YOU CAN DO IT, GET OUT OF THE SADDLE, SIT BACK DOWN, GET BACK UP AGAIN, DON'T GIVE UP. My God, it's like having 10 people inside my head.

But I won't let it win. I will do Cobbitty this Sunday. Nice and slow - very slow to be precise but atleast it will get done. So if you happen to be out and about and see a de-shevelled shell of a human talking to themselves on the side of the road - tell me to get a move on......lol

I will be feeling uncomfortable.

But having a crack at it.

Happy New Year.

2012-01-03T09:28:00.002+11:00

Can't believe 2011 has already gone and we are into the New Year. Time sure does fly when your having fun. What an EPIC 2011. So many things to be thankful for - YES even those things that have tested us to within an inch of our very lives we should be grateful for having come out the other end a much stronger and resilient individual. I have learnt things about myself - some of which created a rocky path to overcome, however in doing so I realised that no matter how low you can get or feel that inner voice of hope and freedom will always get you back to the top - you just have to listen and give of yourself 100% and let the journey BE.

I know that I am capable of many things - great things, and for that I am PROUD. I always knew I was a lucky individual with my friends and family but everyday I try to make them aware of just how much. And just in cased you missed it - YOU GUYS ROCK.

And so with a new year upon me it is time to make some new goals. Create some new dreams, make some new paths and conquer some old fears. This year - 2012 - will be one to be reckoned with. I am sure of it. Lets see, where to begin.

Cycle to Melbourne with the Cycling Cerebellums - HUGE.
Yeppoon 70.3 - IT'S MINE.
Cole Classic - CAN'T WAIT
Ocean swimming - YES PLEASE. - no hesitation, this is a MUST.
Feel fit again.
Watch this space - to be continued I'm sure.

I'm excited. Now let's get some training started.

I'm trying.

2011-12-28T08:39:00.000+11:00

After yesterday's royal sleep in and totally missing out on the club Christmas ride, I decided it was high time to get my but back in the saddle again. Not for anything supremely long but just to get the legs accustomed to being worked everyday again.

So I took them back out for a Greendale loop. I sure hope one day that loop feels easier or I am in BIG trouble. But I know it's still early days and quite possibly I am expecting alot out of myself as I usually do - however you always want more NOW. Patience is a virtue I am quite sure I was not bestowed with. But -

I'm trying.

As I was out riding I kept thinking to myself of all the beautiful things I was going to be seeing whilst on this journey to Melbourne and all the great times - challenging times- unforgettable times that will be had with everyone. I could feel my heart start racing with excitement - or maybe that was just palpitations because I was climbing a hill - who knows. The fact is it will be the journey of a life time - shared with great friends for a great cause.

In trying to get myself to this journey I have started back on the nutritional supplements. It was a much needed part of my daily routine to be able to make it through all the training for Port and Yeppoon. I need my leg muscles to be nice and strong yet supple so as to avoid injury. Stretching is part of my day as well as I am starting to feel my quads, hamstrings and back tighten. God only knows I don't want my back starting to play up - so with that being said I cannot / will not forget my stretches.

I'm trying.

So today will do it all again - but first things first - shopping with my kids.

It's back.

2011-12-27T09:23:00.000+11:00

My spark that is. Loving getting back out on my bike and enjoying the freedom it gives me. Not to mention the fact that it is strengthening my legs again. I couldn't get over how quickly I lost all of that strength and stamina after only a few months of no activity. It takes so long to gain it yet how quickly your body forgets what you trained it to do.

However with only a few short rides under my saddle I managed to squeeze out a 92km ride out of nowhere. I was so proud of myself. All the self doubt I had got squashed on that ride. It took me 3hr 20mins and that was even with some some quick pit stops every 30kms to refuel with some gels. I really couldn't believe it - and even though I felt so very tired and sore I couldn't wipe the smile off of my face.

During that ride I had time to just focus on form and cadence - everything I had been taught for months to do for Port and Yeppoon. And when I got to the hills where I felt like I was going to die I kept saying to myself "After every uphill there is the glorious downhill run on the other side - so suck it up Princess". The ride to Melbourne will be no easy task and there will be many many hills to conquer so I MUST find as many hills as I can and ride them as many times as possible - and that is what I shall do.

I keep having these funny images of me with these MONSTER legs by the end of it all. And I can't wait. I love strong looking legs - they look amazing.

With the kids being on school holidays it will be a bit hard to get out and about on the bike so my trusty trainer will become a very good friend I do believe. But I have heard an hour spent on the trainer equates to 2 hours out on the road. And I have been using it quite regularly already. I have found a pretty cool spot out on the front verandah looking out into the paddock but having the benefit of my TV to scan through some good movies.

I feel very spoilt indeed. I can never get bored looking out at that beautiful view when it's all nice and green - watching the cows walk past and wonder what the hell this human is doing on a ridiculous contraption.

So with Christmas all said and done and a few extra kgs added it is time to get back on my bike and ride. I hope you all got spoilt rotten.

My new words.

2011-12-16T07:50:00.003+11:00

"SLOWING DOWN"

Seems to be what I am saying alot of lately as I make my way back into cycling - but not for long. On the downhills I am great - kind of funny that. But as I make my way up a small incline my legs have other ideas and one of them is not to go fast. In fact it is quite the opposite. Slowly but surely I get slower and slower till I have not other option but to yell out "Slowing down". Feels like I have started right back at the beginning again.

My body and all it's aches this morning is telling me "Girl, you's got a bit to go to feel like the old you". But I am so happy with being back out in the fresh air and taking time out for me in a positive sense that "I DON'T CARE".

I even backed up after cycling with Elissa yesterday afternoon doing the Greendale loop for which I am so thankful with her positive words to me and then did my regular Thursday night Sparta group. And let me tell you - last night I slept like a baby. Good to be feeling that kind of exhaustion again as weird as that may sound.

Number 1 goal is to get these legs ready for the long ride to Melbourne next year. Make sure you check our website - The Cycling Cerebellums - HERE. And scroll through all our tabs. You can donate directly on there or even purchase one of our fantastic bands or supporters T-shirts. These can be found on the "How to get involved" tab. We would love to have you on board.

We also have a blog, click HERE and become a follower. Follow our journey as we make our way to helping The Commercial Travellers Ward at the Children's Hospital at Westmead. The more the merrier.

I did it.

2011-12-12T07:31:00.005+11:00

Yesterday I got "back in the saddle" so to speak. And I must admit I was quite nervous. Nervous about numerous things. My ability, my determination, my strength - BUT - I thought, "you gotta start somewhere right ?".

And it was just the perfect day for it. All week we have been having this horrendously unpredictable weather yet yesterday it was almost as though the God's were laying out the red carpet just for me. And how could I not oblige by taking advantage of it.

It was great seeing everyone's faces this morning. I have missed them all so much and it really pepped me up beyond belief. And as we took off I took a deep breath in of that beautiful morning air and had trouble wiping the smile off my face. Loved hearing everyone's chatter - thats the great thing about riding with people - you are never short of someone to talk to.

Elissa and I had planned on taking in about 100km so as we got to the Northern Road we said "Adieu" to the pack and wished them a safe ride. Rommel joined us on our journey to the M7 and back and so the 3 amigos set off.

I was really impressed with myself on the way out to the M7. I kept thinking "Wow, this old girl hasn't lost too much strength". But as we turned around and started heading back home it was then that things started to systematically switch off. The mind was definitely a willing participant but the body had other ideas. Especially as we started to go up long slow rises which I would normally power up.

I couldn't help but giggle as I watched my speedometer reading slow down until I am sure I got to the point where I could have walked faster. I would yell out to both Elissa and Rommel "slowing down, slowing down" to which they both would back off the gas and join me in the land of "slow poke". Thanks guys.

As those last 15kms were trying to be reached on our way home I think it was just sheer determination to get back to the Coffee Club for a well deserved long black. Thankyou Elissa and Rommel for making my first ride back memorable and for getting my backside back in one piece. The target of 100km was not reached but 73km was - JUST.

And as I sit here typing I think my Yoga class tonight will be a Godsend. My hip flexors are quite sore as are my Trapezius. So welcome back Barb to the land of pain and fun.

Better late than never.

2011-12-07T18:46:00.005+11:00

Last Sunday was the day I was meant to conquer the Bondi to Bronte. Hmmmm, well that did not happen. Why? It's quite simple really - I got scared and freaked out. And I'm okay with it.

I didn't start off scared. I was really excited about wearing my new Bondi to Bronte cossie. I was even excited when we got to the beach. But that excitement soon changed as the wind started to pick up quite ferociously and the ocean started to get choppy. I could feel my anxiety levels start to pick up dramatically and no matter how hard I tried to squash them with positive affirmations - I just couldn't get over it.

Believe me I flitted from "I'm going to do it" to "No way, I'm outta here" more times than I would like to count. My cap went on and off equally as many times - but when push came to shove and it was time for the black caps to line up - the first thought that came out of my mouth was "I'm not doing it". And so it was there that my day ended.

So anyway, here is a very brief montage of my experience:

That is all.

Yoga and me

2011-11-29T19:24:00.007+11:00

Cant even begin to describe what an amazing experience I have had over the last 2 Monday's. It has come just at the right time - thanks Matt. You really have brought clarity to my life by introducing me to this wonderful art. It is something I have always thought about but never really engaged in. And I must admit - it seems I am a bit of a natural at this gentle yet challenging art.

I love how it makes my mind just be still and how I am forced to focus on my breathing and every part of my body. And as Eva talks I can literally connect with every word and get in touch with every cell within my body to help restore calm and tranquility. Quite a new experience for this flighty Piscean.

I never realised how flexible I still was. As a child I could pretty much contort into any shape I asked my body to get into but obviously age and life have their drawbacks, if you don't continue to stretch things get stiff. But it seems my upper body and lower back are still quite flexible.

This is now part of my weekly routine - one I will continue for forever and a day. I really think this was made for me. The one thing I have realised though is that I have absolutely no balance on one leg. Especially trying the eagle pose below.

It was like watching a tree being cut down by a lumberjack. Slowly but surely I would start leaning to one side and before I knew it I would topple over only to regain composure and try it again. I couldn't stop giggling.

At the end of every class we lay on our backs and relax for a few minutes and go through a series of meditation. Eva places this beautiful balm on our foreheads that smells like heaven. I feel at home. Can't wait till next Monday.

If you haven't tried Yoga. I suggest you do. You will never be the same again.

Express Glass Ocean Challenge

2011-11-27T18:04:00.011+11:00

Yep, that's my back. That looks like a typical swimmers V back but I am sure it's more the camera angle. Either way, I love my shirt and I earnt every thread, fibre in that shirt today. Why? Well, I overcame so much today and in the end came out of it a much stronger person emotionally. I beat those head demons for sure.

As usual I woke up super early but I did have a great nights sleep which is extremely unusual for me - as most of my friends know and my poor husband. I don't know why I wasn't super freaked out the night before but something inside me just felt at peace. I just kept saying to myself - Tomorrow will be okay. Believe in yourself and all will be good.

So when I woke up this morning, even though I was slightly nervous it was very different to other race day's. I knew there was nothing I could do to change the day - it was what it was and that was all there was to it. Breakfast went down easy too - I wasn't gagging or heaving to swallow my brekkie.

Arriving at the Coogee, I did start to get nervous. Thought's of Yeppoon came flooding back. I really didn't want this to be a repeat event. But I thought the only way to find out was to just go for it. Lucky I had my beautiful family there and can you believe it - no photo with my hubby. I felt so bad. But he later told me he was just happy to be there watching me do something that I love - swimming.

I quickly registered and got my arm marked with my famous "211" race number and sat around waiting for it all to start. I ran across Spot Anderson, as always that dynamic smile and personality made me feel comfortable and he told me not to forget about warm up with them and then Joey and Kristy turned up. So happy I was to see their smiling faces. So happy I was to be sharing today with them.

Pretty soon it was time to go and warm up but not before Kristy and I got a photo with Bondi Fit and Spot Anderson. It felt really nice to be included in their club shot. And then it was time to warm up.

WHOA, talk about freezing water. I think the water was 18.9 degrees but boy did it feel sub zero. It took my breath away and made my head feel like I had brain freeze. All I could think of was those poor people in the Titanic and how cold they must have felt. Yeah I know - strange thought - but it did cross my mind. And then I kept saying - just stay focused. It will warm up and if it doesn't - swim faster.

And then it was time to line up - Kristy and I wandered over and we gave eachother a hug and wished eachother luck. So glad she was there.

And then, we were off. I took off relatively slowly I felt and heard Spot scream out - "GO PANTHERS". With that I dove in and started swimming. Wave after small wave I swam through trying to gauge which way the current was taking me. But I couldn't feel any current, all I could feel was chop. And then I started to be pulled to the left as did everyone else. There seemed to be this cross current that we were battling so all I could do was keeping swimming on an angle to the first can.

I seemed to be doing pretty well in my breathing and timing it and kept remembering Spot's words "If you want more oxygen - breathe more", so I breathed every second stroke and then swapped sides when I fatigued on that side. I could just see that I kept passing people all the time and for once I didn't feel scared. I kept looking at the ocean floor and seeing it change from beautifully clear rippled sand to rocks with weeds to then total darkness as I hit the back end. The swell got a bit more intense and waves got messy and choppy and I just tried my hardest to stay focused on counting down the cans and then looking up to see how many purple caps were in front of me.

On the way back in there was this lady in a wetsuit beside me with a blue cap and I kept focusing on her to make sure she didn't slip too far from my view. I deemed her my pacer. So thankyou blue capper - you kept me on track. As we got closer I saw 2 purple caps start to overtake me - one was male and the other a lady. We stayed pretty much on par until the very last minute where they both got a wave and I missed it. I kept swimming until I felt sand at my fingertips and then got up and started trying to run up the bank. Before I knew it I got smashed by a wave from behind and found myself spinning in a pretty circle and then trying to redeem composure for my run up the sand bank through the finishers chute.

It was great to see the kids smiling faces waiting for me and then seeing Stephen and Joey's face up top waving as I went through. Not far behind me was Kristy - she did amazing and came out smiling from the surf too. Well done Kristy. Such an accomplishment.

As we both walked back to the boys with the kids - what a sense of pride and accomplishment I felt. I had done it and conquered that which I thought I may never. I was on top of the world. It was great to feel hugs from Stephen.

It was then Joey's turn to do the 2.4km swim. He is so brave - far braver than I. And he did amazing. Well done Joey - you too accomplished an awesome goal today. I think we will all sleep soundly tonight.

As we were driving home I asked Taillah to have a look at Multisport Australia for my time. What a shock I got to find out I came 4th in my age group.

WooHoo. Just what I needed today. It was a real boost to my self esteem.

Now my next challenge is Bondi to Bronte 2.4km swim next Sunday. That one may require more self control the night before. But here's to me for trying.

The Cycling Cerebellums

2011-11-25T06:18:00.002+11:00

To the right of my page you will notice a pretty cool looking logo. I can hear all the cogs ticking over in your minds about what it stands for.

Let me explain.

Over a year ago in the lowlands of Richmond on a training ride, Elissa and I decided we would like to do a big ride for a cause. With all the different charity rides there are around we wanted one that had a personal connection to one of us. So it was decided that we would fundraise for the ward I used to work on.

The Commercial Travellers Ward

The Children's Hospital at Westmead.

The Commercial Travellers Ward is a Neuromedical/Neurosurgical Ward that deals with a group of pretty special children and their families. Within those walls alot of care and love is given but also alot of pain and heartache is felt too.

It's truly amazing how this ride and it's cause were embraced. It quickly went from 2 friends with a thought to a total of now 17 friends with a complete dream.

The Cycling Cerebellums aims to fundraise a minimum of $10,000 for the ward and hope to bring a little brightness to the lives of the children, families and staff. With the help of the community, friends and families we know this goal is achievable. All we ask is that you spread the news. And if you are able to - DONATE.

Below are all our pages for you to peruse through and like, follow, tweet about.

We would love nothing more than to have you following us. Go on, you know you want to check it out. We are nothing more than a click away.

Working my way back.

2011-11-23T09:41:00.003+11:00

It's hard to know where to start. So much has transpired in the last 6 weeks that I kind of feel like it has all gone by in a blur. Probably good in a way - the mind has an innate way of shutting down to let you heal and look after yourself. It slows all processes down and gives you time to assess, prioritise, time to search and find yourself, time to feel and be again.

It is quite safe to say that even though during this time I was cared for immensely by family and friends for which I cannot even begin to find words that describe the magnitude of gratitude, I really felt quite alone. I wanted nothing more than to find me again and switch on the old me and get rid of that sadness and how low I was feeling but in the darkness I couldn't find the switch.

Eventually I felt hands grabbing hold of mine and leading me to that switch. And although the darkness was at first overpowering the light, the light has since started to shine again. Everyday that light gets stronger and stronger and everyday I am able to see a little more of me again.

There is still a lot to work on and I am ready to battle it out. I am clawing my way back - I deserve to smile again and with feeling. Not just a vacant smile but a smile that resonates from the bottom of my soul. A smile that truly displays and connects the mind, body and soul. I deserve to be me for me and my family.

And so it is here I find myself, back in my beloved Blog land. Looking after me and doing that which truly makes happy - writing, expressing, feeling, sharing. And I will get back to the sport I love - Triathlons, but in the meantime I have signed up for an 1km Ocean Swim this Sunday at Coogee.

So get ready to see me back. Hope you haven't missed me too much.

Beyond Blue - click HERE
Black Dog Institute - click HERE

TriShave Womens Triathlon 2011

2011-10-31T07:15:00.008+11:00

What a day. And what an awesome place for the TriShave event to be held. Welcome to the Sydney International Regatta Centre. So beautiful and serene at 6:30 in the morning. Absolutely flawless. And so was the day. I think PTC had about 20 of it's finest female Triathletes competing across all the distances and a large number of volunteers as well. We did our club really proud. Not only did our members all finish with a massive smile on their faces because of their amazing accomplishment but some of our girls even placed and won overall. I could hear the letters "PTC" being whispered everywhere as I walked around supporting our girls and being the Promotions Girl for TriShave.

My job on the day was to help promote a product I strongly believe in. From my very first TriShave Race I did last year I have been using the products. It saw me through all my training for Port 70.3 as well as Yeppoon 70.3. So it wasn't hard to speak about something I really love. Everyone, both female and males alike were receptive to what I had to say. I spoke to Naomi W's husband and he has been using the Males product for a year and absolutely swears by it. Says he hasn't had that post shaving rash since using it. When I used him as an example to the other men you could see them really focus on the product. Thanks Robert.

I really liked hearing how receptive people were to the texture of the UV body defense post shave moisturiser. I know how light and non-greasy it is but seeing people's face's light up when they applied it was priceless. I think when you tell people it has sunscreen protection in it they automatically think "GREASY & THICK" - but not this one. Not only is it well absorbed you get the great UVA & UVB filters protecting you. Great for protection against our Aussie sun. Combine this with the TriShave 3in1 Shave Creme and you will have beautiful skin all year round. Thankyou Larisa for giving me this opportunity and I look forward to many more days working alongside you.

Throughout all of my walking around and chatting with everyone I was able to see nearly all of my friends cross the line and give them a BIG hug on their AWESOME accomplishment. When the photos get posted on the TriShave page I will make sure to add them here for you all to see.

Yesterday was also a great day because a few of our other PTC members when to Huskisson for the Triathlon Festival down there. They all did amazing. WOW. Couldn't be prouder of them. They all accomplished an amazing thing and nearly all placed. How cool do they all look, so chuffed and rightfully so.

Their smiles say it all.

Your going to hear it again - PTC ROCKS. We really do. The club and everyone in it really are just something special to me.

Braveheart

2011-10-29T16:00:00.003+11:00

WOW, can't believe it has been that long since I last posted, and so much has gone on it is hard to know where to start. And I would love nothing more than to write about it all - heck I could get it all off my chest, but just at this present moment, whilst I am working through it all I think it better to just say that it got a bit DARK and HAIRY. And you have all probably noticed how I retreated, which seems to be my norm when I feel emotionally inept. But sometimes smiling when you feel so down is really hard work - so I hide.

So enough of that, and as I climb my way back to being BARBS, I have learnt a great deal of things. Mostly I have to listen to me and what my body and soul are telling me. And when it is getting stressed I need to stop and focus on me and do things that I haven't done in ages - or EVER. Things I have wanted to do and have never done for a barrage of reasons. Things that will nurture the soul and bring ME back. I think it necessary that we all get a chance to do that.

So, last week and this week I went into Bondi. Home of the BONDI RESCUE, and home of BONDI FIT. To say that I wasn't apprehensive would have been the biggest fib this side of the Southern Hemisphere. However, having been informed of Spot's knowledge and ability I have since felt so much better. I found out Spot won the Nepean Triathlon in 1988 alongside Louise Mackinley - then Bonham. To know that I am surrounded by such talented individuals is really humbling. Everytime I get around them I am learning a multitude of skills and tricks of the trade. My brain is soaking it all in.

Last week I think I was much more worried then I was this week. This week, I put my absolute faith, heart and soul into Spot's every word. And in doing so I swam so far into deep water that the only time I got really scared was when one of the surfer's looked at me and said "Oooooo, shark bait". I was like "You can't say that to me. Do you have any idea how much courage it has taken to make it this far". They all kind of smirked, but I then could not let my feet dangle 'just in case' some shark thought me a tasty morsel.

I got to see a pod of dolphins and a teeny weeny Port Jackson Shark and I also got to swim in swell up near the south end of Bondi that nearly made my hair stand on end. I am sure it was not that big BUT I found myself a few times having to pull out from catching a wave back into shore because I was scared it was going to dump me into the sand. YES, I am a chicken.

I also learnt how to dolphin dive well - check this out.

I'm so proud of me.

Last week there were a few more people who attended - Elissa and Clare from the club as well as others. But this week there was only myself and Barry as well as Alison and Alan who came to the beach with me to watch. Thanks so much for the company. It meant a great deal both times.

Then as I was heading back to see Alison and Alan after washing my wetsuit off in the ocean, Alison was like "What have you got on you". She said "Your dripping colour". Oh bloody hell, my hair dye was running even though I had washed it last night and I looked like I was dripping Orange Gatorade out of my head. It was hilarious. I was wondering why people were staring at me...... Spot probably didn't know where to stare whilst we walked from one end of Bondi to the other. Thats too funny. Here I thought it was because I looked fit....hahahaha.

I can't wait to go back. This is just what my soul needs. I am going to be an awesome ocean swimmer. I will not give in and I will learn to tackle anything mother nature throws at me. Barb will prevail.

Glad to be back.

2011-10-11T05:31:00.003+11:00

Boy was I glad to be back. It was hard to motivate myself to get back there, but thanks to Paul and one phone call, I made my way there and was so glad to see everyone. There were many new faces which was good to see and then there were the regulars who I missed so much. They made my return so much easier, felt like I had never left.

There were a few reasons why I stopped going. Firstly I needed a rest - nearly a solid year of training and I was toast - physically and emotionally. Then came the foot issue - something which made me stop dead in my tracks for a bit but most of all I think I was just lacking the drive. With the issues I needed sorting and the fact that I was going to use the remainder of the year to get them all fixed I couldn't really see why I still needed to get out there all the time.

But the truth of the matter is, it is so important and needed for my mental health to be out training, socialising. I get such a high from being healthy and out in the fresh air, it's not something I can compromise on. And sure there are hiccups along the way but I can still cycle and swim that is atleast until I get my hernia repaired and then I will have to stop altogether for a few weeks. But surgeon reckons I will be back out there cycling within 3 weeks which is great news, so I can stay focused on the task at hand for my bike ride to Melbourne.

And when the New Year starts I will start running again slowly. Things happen for a reason. I am a firm believer in this. Life has a way of making things happen.

So with last nights return to windtrainer it was interesting to say the least about how quickly one loses their stamina and endurance. Not only were my legs hurting so was my undercarriage. I couldn't help lift my bottom off that seat. It was on fire. I need more saddle time to get used to that feeling again. Either that or have a baby fire extinguisher at the ready.

Definition of Inspirational

2011-10-10T07:36:00.005+11:00

PTC Boys in KONA.

Never before have I been glued to a screen before for a sport. Ask my brothers and now my husband - whenever sport comes on - I'm gone. I think it's because as a child, and being the youngest - I never really got a say. It was always rugby league, rugby union, cricket or anything else that took their fancy. And with only one TV in the household it was either sit there and watch or make a compromise. And mine was if you make me a yummy salad I promise to sit quietly or otherwise I will pester you to till the cows come home - I was good at that.

Now as an adult I thank my lucky stars we have another TV or computer that I can submerse my head into for my husbands sake. I still don't really find those sports interesting. BUT, Ironman - now that's a totally different kettle of fish. And the fact that you can stream it live from Ironmanlive.com is even better still. You feel like you are there - in amongst all the hustle and bustle of activity and excitement. My dream is to hopefully one day be there - if not as a competitor - which I don't ever think I could qualify but to atleast be a part of that amazing day.

So after my bike ride yesterday morning - when I got home, it was time for a quick shower and then earphones in and eyes stuck on the computer to watch our boys cross that line. My heart was pounding so hard. I can only begin to imagine what their families were feeling and how excited and nervous they all were waiting to see them come through that FINISHERS shute.

I didn't get to see the Pro guys finish, but have since seen the photos and with a 1-2 finish for Australia Crowie/Jacobs - I cannot stop bursting into tears everytime I see this photo.

photo from Australian TriMag on FB

We also scored a 3rd Aussie male in the Top 10 with Luke McKenzie. Awesome work guys. We are all so proud of you here back at home.

Onto the women our very own Mirinda Carfrae fought like a true warrior to make up ground and came in a very close second to Chrissie Wellington. Again out came the Kleenex as I was a blubbering mess watching those 2 inspirational women hug at the finish line. If I was there I would have hugged them too - just for being the kind of women that they are.

But the proudest moment of all, for all of us back here at home was watching our 5 guys cross that finish line. All of them came in 10hrs and under. I am in AWE. Actually I think all of our home town did a little jig and drank a few beers on their behalf. You guys totally rocked it. It is now time to put your feet up and bask in the glory of what you have all achieved. And when you guys get back home I am sure there will be a party or two or more to commemorate the day you all raced in the HAWAIIAN IRONMAN.

Pick your time

2011-10-06T09:34:00.004+11:00

When to use pencil or pen. Sound weird? Here's my take. At the end of my last/first Tri season I went through the upcoming season - dates of proposed races and placed them into my diary in pen. If my last/first season was anything to go by, I was going to have a complete cracker. It's not that I was cockey, but when things go so good it's hard to see into the future and that things could go wrong or change for want of a better word.

That first season was everything I could have hoped for and more. Not just in terms of the races but training as well. Everything went smoothly apart from the occasional hiccups. So consequently I thought this following season would be an exact duplicate and I then went and placed all my races in pen throughout my diary.

What I am learning is that although this can make you very excited as you skim through your diary, it can also leave you feeling very flat when things aren't going as planned. Why? Well as things can/do change throughout the course of one's life - this neat little penmanship can turn into a big fat scribble as you have to start changing or deleting them completely from your diary. It leaves me feeling sad as I am missing out on things that I have so badly wanted to do. And have not been able to get to for one reason or another.

So my thoughts on this are that from now on I shall use pencil to update my diary knowing full well that things can and do change. If they are accomplished - I will do them over in indelible ink so they are forever etched in Barb's hall of fame. But those that are not attained shall stay in my diary marked in pencil. No scratching or erasing required - it is left in there for my next season to attempt and acquire and hopefully to one day be re-written in ink.

Shout out!!

2011-10-03T09:44:00.001+11:00

Five members of Panthers Tri Club have made their way over to Kailua Kona, Hawaii to participate in Ironman. For those of you who know how tough it is to get in and how hard it is to qualify - our club is stoked that 5 of them have made it through. They have been tirelessly training through the cold of Winter to get ready for this event and have even been spotted going for runs along the river dressed up in their trackies on our warm days trying to acclimatise or belting out hundreds upon hundreds of kilometres on their bikes. I am sure the same could be said about swimming.

We would love for you all to keep our boys in your prayers and wish them all the best as they tackle an ENORMOUS feat in the original homeland of Ironman.

Leigh Chapman #1606
Ben Scull #1408
Adam Dimech #1767
Tim Edwards #1342
Shane Thompson #1555

I cannot even begin to imagine nor fathom their emotions at the moment. But I could only liken it to a soda bottle which has been shaken furiously yet it's lid is still wedged tightly closed. Come 8th of October when that bottle top gets opened at the sound of the canon - our boys are going to take off (like an explosion) waving the PTC and Australian Flag proud.

Your families, friends, club and country is proud of each and every single one of you. And we know you will be giving it your all - that is all anyone can ask for.

GOODLUCK BOYS.

Just take a chance.

2011-09-30T16:58:00.005+10:00

What have you got to lose?

I used to be scared of taking chances. Always been cautious in my approach to things and really meticulous. It's not that I hated failing, it's just that I never wanted to lose that which I had worked so hard for.

I was never a person to have faith in my abilities and doubted my every step, even when I was really good at something. Ask my family, they will tell you. Everything I did took a great deal of coaxing from my family and closest friends. I am sure I was, and still can be totally annoying.

My inability to see the good in me I guess has always been my major flaw. However, this is something I have been working on.

It's been a real work in progress. Starting from my 35th Birthday. If I hadn't of taken a chance that day - I may very well be in a very different place to where I am now. I am more than 100% sure that I would have still been in pain, and living a life which was not authentic. I would have been hiding from the world instead of living everyday as though it were my last. And I do believe that the real "ME" would have died. She was very close to being emotionally and spiritually lost FOREVER.

But since learning to take chances - and not just in everyday situations but taking a chance on myself, things have looked so much brighter. I have encountered opportunities far greater than I ever thought imaginable. My life has gone from "grey & lifeless" to being a "rainbow". I mean at times I have to really pinch myself to make sure that everything that is happening is for real. Things like this have never happened to me, I have never been that special - atleast not to me.

But why couldn't things like this happen to me - or you for that matter!!! They happen to people like the Gates', Branson's, Packer's, Murdoch's, Winfrey's, so really - why couldn't magical things happen to the likes of you and me. They are no more special than you or I. Sometimes you just have to take a chance. I believe the Universe has a way of setting things straight.

An amazing thing that has happened to me of late is that I am now going to be working with Larissa - the owner/director of TriShave Australia. I will be helping on the day of the TriShave events starting with the TriShave Womens Triathlon the 30th of October. I will be helping with the promotional aspect on the day and help hand out samples and tell people all about this wonderful product and how it can help them. I love the products. Out of every sunblock/moisturiser on the market, it is the only one that doesn't react with my skin and it is light and refreshing too. It literally was in my pocket/bag on every ride/run I did for Yeppoon and Port.

I am sure you are all aware of the fact that my very first event EVER in this world of Triathlons was the TriShave Womens Triathlon. And I am sure you are all aware of how much I love the products - have been using their 3in1 UV Body Defense SPF 30+ Post Shave Moisturising Lotion since then. I even won a competition and was able to purchase my much loved GoPro

helmet camera with my winnings. Fantastic things can happen. I am a true believer. I cannot wait to be a part of it all. What an exciting adventure I will be on. My life is just AMAZING. Can you feel the excitement?

I guess what I want to say with this post is that great things can happen to you. By believing in yourself. By giving yourself every opportunity to succeed in this world. And sure taking chances can be scary - sometimes more so than other times.

But what have you go to lose?

Are you not worth it?

GO ON, TAKE A CHANCE.

The Cycling Cerebellums go for a swim

2011-09-28T20:01:00.001+10:00

Smooth seas do not make skillful sailors.

~ African Proverb ~

I absolutely love this quote and find it to be so true. If all we were faced with were the same old situations day in, day out - then how are we meant to adapt, adjust, progress, learn, overcome, rise above.

Life is all about growing - not just in the physical sense, but also emotionally, spiritually. I am a firm believer in this now. Instead of focusing on the many negative things which we are faced with on almost a daily basis, I now choose to focus on only positive things and what I can learn and get out of the negative.

Like for instance this foot thing - I could get all chocked up and SAD about not being able to run, but strangely enough - for once in my life I am NOT sad. I actually am looking upon this as quite favourable. This atleast gives me time to now focus on my cycling. Getting ready for this HUGE bike ride to Melbourne. That's where my efforts are being focused. I need health and wellness to make it to St Kilda in 7 days.

Will I miss competing in club events - without a shadow of a doubt but this is only short lived. And I will get great pleasure out of being a supportive member of our great cheer squad. This way I also get to share in each individual accomplishment in every sense. I love watching my friends race and accomplish great things for themselves. Nothing makes me smile more. Actually me racing makes me smile more - but cheering is a close second.

But in the meantime I shall swim and cycle like a crazy woman. And take loads of swimming and cycling footage. My GoPro camera rules.

This could take longer

2011-09-25T06:20:00.008+10:00

Than I am thinking to heal. No pain upon resting does not equate to being totally healed as I found out yesterday. Not that I did anything silly like running or cycling or swimming for that matter - I have been extremely diligent in that regards. However, I went for a brief shopping interlude with the family and it seems the foot hates being walked on or stood on for any length of time. And because it hates being walked on I then walk funny - like I am putting pressure more on my heel and then my heel starts to hurt. At this rate I should be walking like the "Hunchback of Notre Dame" in no time at all.

The pain I get is located where the Peroneus Brevis tendon attaches to the base of the 5th Metatarsal. And if I am not careful my little veiny foot will go back to looking like it has elephantitis again. Check out the before and after pic.

Quite a noticeable difference from one foot to the next I say. And even though the pain has settled remarkably, the foot still hates being walked on for any great length of time - even though I stilled have it supported with a thermal ankle brace. So, here's my thought's. I am out for the majority of this year I think in terms of races. And whilst I am out nursing this foot to health I may as well use the time wisely and get my other complaint looked into as well and have it sorted so I can get to my bigger goal for this year. And that is - my bike ride from Sydney to Melbourne in April of next year.

So this other ailment is the issue of an Epigastric Hernia I have. It's not big by any stretch of the imagination but enough that I can feel it everytime I touch my stomach. And the surgeon said that it won't disppear, if anything it will get bigger and I don't want it interfering with my cycling training. So it's time to get this baby fixed.

I asked the surgeon if he thought this hernia was related to the pain I kept getting everytime I ran up under my rib - and although he couldn't quite say that it was 100% related he didn't dismiss it either - considering everything else had been excluded. And seeing as my hernia still only has fat protruding through into it, he thinks that it could cause a pulling effect from the area thereby causing that stitch pain I get everytime I run.

He also said that because it is fairly small at this moment that they would normally fix it with a few stitches to close the hole, however because I am so active he is quite possibly going to use gauze to cover up the hole to make sure it never returns. But the even better news is that I will be able to return to cycling within 3 weeks of surgery - and so start my training. That's very good news indeed.

So when am I getting it done? Quite possibly within the next month. The quicker I get it done, the quicker I am back out there. And quite frankly I am going totally nuts waiting and not being able to do anything. Atleast by this Friday I should be able to go for a bike ride and see how the foot holds up. And if it holds up for cycling then I am very very happy. Atleast there is 2 legs out of the Tri I can do. And if I can never run again because of my foot - well then I really wont know what to do. And it's not something I want to think about right now - so I won't.

So in the meantime I shall let all of my other little projects consume my every thought and be happy with what I have happening in my life. And know that atleast I am mending and looking after me.

Just my thoughts

2011-09-23T05:55:00.003+10:00

When a defining moment comes along, you can do one of two things.

Define the moment, or let the moment define you.

~ The Tin Cup ~

Rummaging through quotes as I do on a daily basis to find one that best encompasses the mood I would like to reflect on the day, I stumbled across this one and it struck quite a chord with me yesterday. Not just because of everything that has gone on in the last week, but because of the many defining moments I have had in my life. Some were magic, ones that have left an indelible mark on my soul for all the right reasons, whilst others did the same in a painful, tragic sense.

At the time I can remember saying "Why me", "What had I done wrong". I mean, there are much more sinister people in the world but somehow life's events panned out that I should be stuck with a back condition that has been my affliction for 15yrs. I remember letting that moment define me when it was at it's very worst. I was not a happy camper - a total contrast to the person I am today. I never smiled, I was sad to the very core of my existence. When people asked how I was, it always revolved around my condition and how it was affecting my life. I was sick of living my life.

I got to the point where I became such a recluse because I didn't want to hear myself repeat that same damn sentence, those same damn words. It felt better for me to be on my own as it hurt so much to watch others do the things I wanted to do so badly myself. I wanted to and was doing a great job at letting the moment define me.

Finally it all came to a head and I realised or accepted for want of a better term my back condition. I spent years trying to fight it and emotionally I think it was destroying me more than physically. I knew that if I was going to move forward and get better (or atleast manage it) I had to grab the bull by the horns and dance the cha cha with it. I was never going to beat it but I was going to have to learn to live with it and be the best I could be with it. And so, after a few years of finding the right balance - I think I have finally got it nailed. And it's not to say I haven't had hiccups along the way and gotten sad and upset and frustrated - but I think I have pulled through each of the hiccups having learnt something new about myself each and every time.

Defining moments are placed in your way - to help you grow I believe. Even in the saddest of situations I do believe there is something we can all take from it. And it may not be right at that very moment, but when given the chance to reflect - I am sure there is something good that will have arisen from the dust. Whether that be the realisation that you are stronger than you have ever given yourself credit for, or that when you feel at your most alone there are the hands of many helping you to your feet, so that you too can one day be the hand that helps another. There is always something good.

Maybe it's me being an eternal optimist. But I now look at everything that happens in my life with renewed vigour. And if I can't do something for a while for whatever the reason - I find something I can do to replace it till I can get back out there. And if things aren't going quite right at that very moment, then there will be a time when they will. Till then I have to make the most of it. Things always have a way of coming good. It's what we do in the process that makes the waiting worth it.

Are you defining your moments?

Tough

2011-09-21T08:02:00.004+10:00

Whoa, it's been a tough few days. Wish it all was a bad bad dream and that I will wake up and it will all be back to the way it was - but I know that is all wishful thinking - and the reality is, it won't and our family has to cope the best way it know's how.

I think I posted some months ago about our little Foxy "Milo" when he got bitten by the brown snake in our yard and the ordeal we went through to get him back to health and wellness. We would have turned the world upside for him to have him back with us - and as it turned out we were very lucky that he survived that bite.

Sadly though, this Monday just gone - my poor Milo got bitten again by another Brown Snake. Only this time he was unable to fight the venom and he passed away. I tried so hard to get him to the vet on time - yelling and screaming at every slow car that was in my path, but to no avail. The venom was so strong and powerful that he was seizuring the whole way to the vets and panting so heavy, and by the time I got him there the venom had a hard grip on his little body and the antivenom they gave him was not able to help. Within minutes he succumbed to the venom and passed away due to a cardiac arrest.

It's hard to go outside into the yard and not see him running around or sunning himself under his favourite She Oak Tree. And even though his incessant barking at birds in the tree would at times get on our nerves, it's his bark I want to hear most. He knew if you were sad and would come and sit beside you and just stare into your eyes waiting for you to give him that scratch on his back and tummy that he dearly loved. But now he lies in his own very private spot in the paddock with our beloved horse (Nibbles) who passed away some years ago from Colic and our 9yr old chook (Henny).

Not sure if there will ever be another dog like Milo. He always had our safety and that of our home foremost in his mind. Such a brave little soul he was. We love you Milo. What I wouldn't give to have you back home again.

I have also been struggling since last Tuesday to walk properly on my left foot. Not sure what I have done to it, but the thing swelled up like a balloon some days ago and after and Xray showing nothing, I am now off today to have a bone scan. Check out the Humpbacks foot:

The swelling has gone down quite a bit today but there is still pain on the outer aspect of my foot. Hopefully the bone scan shows nothing and it is just a passing thing but until the results come back I am on crutches. No weight baring allowed. Thats hard going and I am missing my training like crazy. Not sure if I am going to be doing any club races, Womens' Sprint Tri or Nepean for that fact. I am really trying my hardest to stay positive but I feel a little upset and really hope it's nothing. Fingers crossed.

I just wanted to say thankyou to everyone for all of your care and concern with everything that has gone on in my life at the moment. You all make me feel so loved and cared for. THANKYOU.

What not to do.

2011-09-16T07:23:00.005+10:00

Since starting to ride my bike over a year ago now, I have been very VERY lucky to have not had an accident. I have crossed my fingers and toes every time I have gone out and although have had extremely close encounters I have never actually been injured.

I have been lucky that I have clipped out on every occasion and have never found myself on the ground. That was until Wednesday.

Wednesdays ride was awesome. Absolutely beautiful weather and company was to be had. I was initially going to go to a certain turnaround point and come back without taking in the hills, but how can I say NO to my friends when they asked me to come along for the whole ride. So with the commitment made - it was off to visit Greendale in reverse. I really do find going that way alot tougher than the other way, but what doesn't kill you, only makes you stronger. RIGHT?

As usual my quads scream at me. It never ever feels easier - or is it maybe that I am pushing a bit harder everytime the fitter I get. Whatever the reason, it still hurts. Actually my breathing still hurts as well. I am sucking in air like a lunatic heading through the hills but lucky for me I can still manage to talk. I think it will take alot more than that to stop me from talking, maybe when I do the Hawkesbury Lookout - which I have heard alot about, will I then be made silent.

Then as the ride was coming to an end is when the funny drama unfolded. I was slowing down checking over my right shoulder to make sure there was no cars coming so I could cross over to my car. I did this a few times and as I looked over my shoulder for the last time and turned to look ahead again I quickly realised that I had not slowed down quickly enough and I soon found myself almost mounted on Jen's back like a baby koala.

I slammed my brakes on and quickly unclipped - but not fast enough. Before I knew it I was coming down on my right hand side in what seemed like to me as slow as a scene out of the Matrix. I tried to shelter the impact by putting my right hand down but to no avail. My elbow buckelled and what was supposed to help me take the brunt of the impact ended up being the bit that winded me. My elbow came into hard contact with my ribs and then it was my knee, hip and shoulder making impact with the road.

As I lay there taking inventory of what hurt - everyone came hurrying back to see if I was ok. I couldn't really talk cause my ribs hurt as did my knee but as I looked to my left I heard Kate call out if I was okay and as she was looking over her shoulder to see if I was ok she fell down too. Thank goodness she didn't hurt herself. Once I realised what hurt and what didn't - I was kind of laughing about the whole thing. And the thing I realised most is that I probably ride a little too close to the person in front. Lesson learnt.

Will I be back out - you bet your bottom dollar. My knee is a bit sore and crusty so bending it is a bit difficult, and my ribs and hip ache a bit too. But all is good.

The week that was.

2011-09-10T14:49:00.007+10:00

Where do I start? What a week! A great week but busy nonetheless. I have been slowly getting back into things when I can fit them in and really enjoying the pace. The last couple of weeks before were really busy with the kids being sick with colds and Kurt fracturing his arm so haven't had much of a chance to do simple, easy training. Which in a way was good cause I needed to be resting.

This week I had a really enjoyable bike ride on the Wednesday. I felt fairly pleased with my cycling and think I am improving the more times I do it. The hills still hurt like crazy and at times I feel like my legs will implode BUT, obviously they don't and I seem to be managing them at a slightly faster pace. The 60kms we did, didn't feel too bad. And normally I feel really had it for days afterwards, but this time I only had a feeling of heaviness rather than pain.

I need to get back to my swim squad on Saturday. I think it's going to hurt though. I feel like I have lost alot of stamina and possibly a little confidence in myself, but will get back into it as of next week. With Nepean being a little over 8 weeks away, I want to be feeling fit. However, that being said, I need to get this hernia checked out next week. I have been procrastinating like crazy and am kind of scared that the Doc will say I need to have it repaired - and if thats the case, when do I fit that in?

Do I wait till after the Nepean? Then that only gives me about 4mths of cycling training for my bike ride to Melbourne. And if I do it now, then I miss out on a tonne of other races, like club ones, the TriShave Womens Sprint and the Nepean. Kind of torn in my decision. I guess it's probably better to do it sooner rather than later. Everytime I run now I end up with a stitch under my right rib which hurts like crazy and think it's because I have that weakness in my abdo wall. Sometimes it brings me to a grinding halt, and other times it is just this lingering sharp stitch that won't go away. So I think I have just answered my own question. It needs to be sorted out NOW.

Last night I participated in the Woodford to Glenbrook Night Run which was organised by the Blue Mountains Marathon Clinic. It is a 26km run through the fire trails and run by moonlight, obviously with headlamps on. I went with a few friends - Sarah, Cloe, Sonia & Paul and we caught the train from Glenbrook up to Woodford and the started out run back. At the end I met up with Ben who is the organiser of this run and his friends. Really great people.

I must admit I was nervous about this run. I really didn't want to trip and snap an ankle like I have in the past. That ankle twist plays heavily on my mind and to this day has left me with a constant swelling in the anterior aspect of my ankle. But the more of this run that I did, the more I enjoyed it. I really got to have all of my senses come alive. With impaired vision due to it being night time - my sense of smell, hearing and touch were on an all time high.

I loved it. And I got a PB in distance and time. With 26kms under my belt in 3hrs and 15min, I couldn't be more stoked. Might I add though - this morning, my legs are very sore and stiff. Check out the route and elevation map:

Would I do this run again, you bet. Here is some video footage.

I also have another Triathlete of the Month for you all: Click on his name.

Adam.

The rung of a ladder was never meant to rest upon, but only to hold a man's foot long enough to enable him to put the other somewhat higher.

~Thomas Henry Huxley~

The Cycling Cerebellums

2011-09-05T21:12:00.000+10:00

The Cycling Cerebellums

2011-09-05T21:10:00.000+10:00

Not sure if you were able to view the video's in the last post. I seem to have had an issue with Blogger. You can check them out here and on the next post.

I have a SPRING

2011-09-05T19:13:00.002+10:00

In my step - and yes because SPRING has finally arrived and not a moment too soon. I also have sooooo many new adventures in the wings that I am not quite sure which way to turn - and in a good way.

The Cycling Cerebellums is moving forward. We have our first meeting this Sunday and have a few things in the woodwork - much to my excitement. My folder is getting nice and full with information. It's mostly just random thoughts of what could potentially be needed for the ride, however I am sure that when we get to our meet-up this Sunday that there will be a bookload of info I didn't even consider. Am looking forward to picking everyone's brains - as there are a few who have actually done these EPIC long rides for other fundraising charities. So far everything is pointing in the right direction and looking very promising indeed.

I have also had the opportunity to do a ride with my GoPro HD Hero Helmet Cam. The photos are amazing and the quality of the video camera is second to none. That camera is so tiny, yet its capabilities are AMAZING. Should you happen to be asked "What do you want for Christmas or your Birthday" then please, don't go past the Go Pro HD Hero Helmet Cam.

Check out the footage:

We have also held our first Give-a-away and Mr Warry is the proud owner of 5 Satchets of Chamois Butt'r. Congratulations - this stuff is MAGIC.

I also have another Triathlete of the Month scoop for you: To have a read, press on this Triathlete's name.

TIM.

Tim is also fundraising for the John Maclean Foundation during his training for the Hawaii Ironman. The foundation raises funds to help improve the quality of life for young underprivileged wheelies. Should you wish to donate - please press here.

I have also managed to go out for a bit of a run today. Believe me, it was nothing to write home about, but gees it felt nice to be out and about on a beautiful Spring Day.

Panthers Tri Club - Part C

2011-09-02T06:52:00.007+10:00

If you have ever thought about doing a 70.3 in another country, then read Sean's

Thailand account here:

Sean.

Read how Kylie attempts another 70.3 not long after her first and conquers some

pretty tough conditions here:

Kylie.

If you choose to read Louise's account of her Memorial Triathlon

at Holbrook, then please press here:

Louise.

Want to read about James' PR doing the M7 Marathon with his

PTC buddy. Then press here:

James.

Read all about Corey here and why he misses PTC and PIS

so much here:

Corey.

Panthers Tri Club - Part B - Race Reports

2011-09-01T21:35:00.009+10:00

To read all about Fiona's Ironman Journey

press here:

Fiona

To experience Luke's Great North Walks

press here:

Luke

To enjoy Sarah's trials at the TriShave Womens Triathlon, press here:

Sarah

Want to experience Port Macquarie Half through the eyes of the Andrew, then press here:

Andrew

Stay tuned tomorrow for more Race Reports.

Hope your all enjoying the read.

Panthers Triathlon Club - Part A - Triathlete of the Months.

2011-08-30T13:57:00.008+10:00

I guess everyone knows how much I love my club - that's no secret. And if it is to some of you then please let me shout it out from the roof tops. I LOVE PTC. As part of my role within the club as Media and Public Relations Director I pick people to take part in our Triathlete of the Month segment as well as our Race Report segment. I want to share some with you. This will be a regular feature of my blog as I gain permission from the recipients. So drum roll please :

Number 1: Bob

Number 2: Kristy

Number 3: Rommel

Number 4: DaveNumber 5: Jen

Please make my friends feel welcome into the land of BlogVille. I am so proud to call them my friends. Make sure you leave a little comment on my blog making them feel welcomed. And stay tuned tomorrow. There will be a stack of race reports to follow.

Click on each segment and you should be able to enlarge each picture enough to read. Enjoy what PTC has to offer.

Thanks for the photo Kate.

To dream.

2011-08-30T06:24:00.003+10:00

"A series of images, ideas, emotions, and sensations occurring involuntarily in the mind during certain stages of sleep"

Or is it your minds way of playing tricks on you, a way for it to make you question that which is real to that which is nonsensical. I don't know how many times I have awoken to a dream of having won millions of dollars only to realise that this is not to be.

Last night's dream was different.And not sure why I dreamed it. Maybe I have some left over angst from Yeppoon, whatever it was - the dream was ODD. It's not like I'm training for anything at the moment. Or maybe I'm just tired and being up most nights for the last week with sick kids has made me loopy.

Whatever it was, my dream landed me "smack dab in the middle of transition" at Port. I was laying out my stuff and realised I had no drink bottles, my runners had laces, I had no High 5 gels and my rear tyre was flat. Needless to say I was a complete wreck in my dream. All I could scrounge up were 4 GU Gels (not my cup of tea) and one drink bottle that didn't even sit in my drink cage properly. As for the rear tyre I changed it with tears pouring down my face constantly repeating to myself "what were you thinking, you practised time and time again, how could you get this so wrong". Needless to say, I awoke in the midst of and anguished cry and couldn't stop at about 2am. Really, what were the chances of something like this happening - ZERO, but somehow my brain thought it a catastrophic enough event to have me go through it in the safety of a dream.

I guess if I was to take this dream to an expert they could pick it to bits and it would cost me a fortune for the appointment. I know what this is saying about me, I need to learn to go with the flow. That life is going to throw massive curve balls at you and you just need to adapt. It ain't that big a deal. Use each moment that does not go according to plan as a moment to learn, to grow, to analyse and move on. To not stay stagnant in one's thought's - patterns but to find ways to challenge yourself.

But most of all to know that This too shall pass. That nothing bad lasts forever. What have you overcome?

Here's an idea.

2011-08-28T14:20:00.005+10:00

I want to ride from Penrith to Melbourne - thats over 900km. Why? Well, it was an idea floating around mine and Elissa's cranium for a bit- like me she was super excited and couldn't wait to get cracking on it. Well that was some month's ago - and with training for Port and Yeppoon the idea was put on the back burner.

Well, now that I have no massive races apart from Nepean to focus, it is the perfect time to start organising this momentous ride with Elissa.

First things first - we wanted to fundraise for a worthy cause. Well, that was easy. But I can't disclose it yet till we get the approval on our submission. Just know that it has to do with Neurology. This is something near and dear to my heart and couldn't think of a better place I would like the fundraising money to go to.

Secondly - the name. This was slightly tougher to come up with. But it still only took a matter of 10 or so minutes to decide with Elissa. So basically there is a part of our brain that deals with fine movement, equilibrium, posture and motor learning. Without this part of our brain - our one passion and ability to do this ride - cycling - would be impaired. This part of our brain is known as the Cerebellum. So we thought it appropriate to be known as the "Cycling Cerebellums".

Now it's time to try and piece it all together. So much to think of. Route, accomodation, pit crew, nutrition, medical supplies and appropriate person for the job, sponsors, ABN, equipment, making appropriate authorities aware of the task at hand. I'm sure there are a squizillion things to think of and we will continue to write them down as they crop up.

But in the meantime, Elissa has been getting arty and drawing up some awesome designs for our cycling shirts. I think you are all really going to like these.

We have also started our own FB page - aptly named "The Cycling Cerebellums". If you are on FB please check out the page - HERE. I would love to have as many of you following this adventure as possible. And hoping that when we announce our fundraising cause - you might find it in you to sponsor us on this EPIC ride. Not matter how big or small it will be greatly appreciated.

In between all of this I am really enjoying getting crafty in the kitchen. Kind of nice to have time to spend thinking up yummy dinners.

WANT SOME?

Membership Day Enticer Duathlon

2011-08-24T06:03:00.016+10:00

I am so glad I did this even though it hurt more than words could explain. It hurt far more than my 70.3 in May and any of the hills going through Cobbitty - but in all honesty, I couldn't have cared less because I got to race and have fun in the process. And it also opened my eyes as to where my preferences lied in respect to distances. And I am 100% confident that my body likes the longer, slower kind. It has time to adapt and adjust and settle into a steadier rhythm, whereas with these short ones - it's on for young and old - literally.

I'm not sure I could contain my happiness about racing. It was really needed to help me overcome my sadness about Yeppoon. My legs were itching so bad to get racing - and I think most of my friends, if not absolutely everyone there could notice it too. I could never make a good poker player - my facial expressions totally give me away.

Felt odd setting my bike area up for a Duathlon, I felt like I was missing a whole heap of stuff. It was just my bike shoes, bike, PTC visor and helmet. I kept looking back at it thinking I was missing something - but I hadn't, just used to setting up for a Tri. I want to thank Andy from Panther Cycles for loaning me his cycling shoes as silly me lost mine at Yeppoon. Not sure where but I wasn't all with it after the race so where they have ended up is anyone's guess. So thankyou very much Andy, I am positive those babies made me cycle faster - your the best.

Pretty soon it was time to line up for the start, we got a group photo and then it was time to go. Having never done one - I was not sure of what to expect other than I knew it would hurt. But the speed at which everyone took off in left me in full sprint mod and when my Garmin clicked over for the first 1km - I nailed it in 4:42. WOW, I was running fast and having a blast at the same time. Boy, have we got a fast club.

Then on the second 1km it was time to slow it down a bit and I did that in 5:05 with a total time for the 2km - 9:47. I had no other option to slow down as my stitch that keeps haunting me at every run returned. It hits me right under my right rib and leaves me feeling bruised for days. More on that later.

Then it was time for a quick change into my cycling shoes, helmet on, grab my bike and GO. I was so glad to get on that bike. Can you tell?

I love my bike. And am liking more the fact that I am feeling somewhat stronger on it. It's a cool feeling when you see your speedometer not drop below the 30km/hr and still feel like you could push harder. Which I did, but then upon remembering I had to run again off the bike I laid of the accelerator a bit. As I was coming through the back stretch I hear this familiar voice "Hey Barb, how ya feelin". It was Paul. Boy does he make cycling look easy. His legs are like pistons and they make him move so fast. So as he sped off I tried to hang on but alas had to drop off - it's like trying to catch a Ferrari. So with 10km done my time was 19:46 and that was with both transitions involved.

Then it was back on with the runners and out for another 2km run. What was I thinking..... I think my heart rate didn't fall below 180 the whole way on this Duathlon.

The last 2km felt great apart from a pastie mouth. I had forgotten to have even one sip of my drink during the race and mouth felt like I had swallowed a bottle of Talcum powder. I was glad to see the finish and quite happy with my second 2km's at 9:43. Total time for Enticer Duathlon - 38.36. WooHoo. Not too shabby for my first one and potentially my only one.

After the race the club put on a massive feed and all the kiddies enjoyed face painting. There were also membership bags and cards given out to everyone who turned up. Absolutely awesome event. Glad I didn't miss it. I love catching up with everyone.

Thanks to everyone who took photos of me racing. It was much appreciated and I hope one day to be able to repay you all for such beautiful pics.

Then Monday I had to get a few things looked into. We get so caught up with trying to get fit and train for events that sometimes we either overlook a pain or chose to ignore it because you don't seem to have time to fit a visit to the Doc's in. Well, with no training at the moment there was to be no more excuses. So first thing was a little hernia that I noticed last Thursday at Core Class. Just above my belly button and a bit firm to touch. Doc wants that and my upper right abdomen pain that I keep getting everytime I run Ultrasound. Not sure if there is a relationship between the two but best to get them checked I say.

It was also time to get my sinuses checked into. I have had sinus issues for years due to allergies but this year they have been exceptionally bad. Always have cheek pain and forehead pain and headaches, so enough already. Lets get this body running in tip top condition. So antibiotics it is and an Xray. With these things in the process of getting checked out, that is another thing ticked off in my down time.

Then yesterday I went to visit a friends from the Tri Club's brother-in-law and brother at a place called Technogym. I have been looking into getting myself a treadmill for use here at home. And boy have I spotted the one I want in the future. It is so sleek looking and the quality of it really is beyond anything I have seen. It wasn't even the treddie that was beautiful, it was all of their equipment. Loved it.

Then after that I went to visit Jennie and Paul. And to my utter surprise I got spoilt to my hair being done and to a card that had the most beautiful of words written inside of it.

There are no words I can find to convey my true feelings about your gesture of love and kindness to me. You have made me feel so very special and I will never ever forget it. Just know that it is felt right down to the bottom of my heart. THANKYOU. And I love love love my hair. Thanks for a great day yesterday.

I have the best friends and family ever. Have I told you all that lately?

NEXT!!!!

2011-08-19T19:23:00.002+10:00

Wow, what an amazing few days I have had since my DNF last Sunday. The most important thing I learned out of this :

I can never go wrong

because

my family and friends

RULE.

You guys held me afloat better than any floatie device on the market. And I am more than 100% sure that I would not have come through this as well as I did ( well I think I did) if you had not all been in my life.

I don't think there is a measuring device BIG enough to demonstrate how appreciative I am of each and every single one of you.

I am already putting strategies in place to make sure that I have given it my best shot in making sure this doesn't happen again. I have already bought myself some Motion Sickness tablets - heck I bought those puppies before I left Yeppoon. So that was TICK No 1.

TICK No 2 - I am waiting to hear back from Surf Life Saving Australia to see what I can organise in terms of helping me learn to manage Ocean Swimming. If I can learn to manage rough swell and not choke on so much water then I may not get as sea sick. HOPEFULLY.

And, TICK No3 - getting back on that horse and doing a club race. Yep, this Sunday. I'm itching to use my legs. This will be my first ever Duathlon. Looking forward to some fun. I'm so glad to be back home.

So what am I looking forward to most now - catching up with friends, enjoying some down time, having fun with a few new adventures and then getting cracking on some more training for the Nepean Triathlon.

You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats,

so you can know who you are, what you can rise from,

and how you can still come out of it.

~ Maya Angelou ~

Sometimes.

2011-08-15T05:34:00.029+10:00

Even the best laid plans can come falling into a heap at your feet and there is nothing you can do to stop it. It's almost like watching a dramatic car crash on TV in slow motion and witnessing the whole damn thing frame by frame only you don't have the remote to stop it. You just have to sit and experience the whole thing as agonising as it is and then try to work through the aftermath as best as you know how.

Well, yesterday was like my car crash in a way. But before I explain let me say that I had the best car trip coming up here to Yeppoon with my husband. It was a 1400km+ car trip but one I enjoyed so much. I got to see places here in Australia that I never knew existed. Really beautiful places and some towns that were literally no more than say 2 houses. The mind boggles as to how long it would take them to get into any major town for a grocery shop - and what would happen if you run out of sugar (like we all have). You can't just say "Honey, I just popping out for a few minutes". The reality is that your drive for some sugar could be a 2-3hr turnaround. So I guess you would have to make sure you never run out of the essentials EVER.

The view in every direction was absolutely breath taking. Miles and miles of open land interspersed with hills and mountains as you crossed through the Great Dividing Range.

And then at times you were faced with earth that red in colour it almost made me feel as though I was in Central Australia near Ayers Rock.

We came across towns that if you blinked you would have missed them but we stayed overnight at a town called Miles and the hospitality given to us there at the Miles Motel will never be forgotten. They are such nice people and for all of you who live here in Aus and want a place to stay that is quaint and where you will be looked after - then the Miles Motel is for you.

We also stopped at a cute little town called Taroom for a cuppa and found this cute old abandoned house and I wondered about it's history and what stories lay inside it's walls.

Much of the drive went by quickly and it's good that on the way back I will get to see it all again and a few extra towns too. Can't wait to discover new little towns heading back home.

Heading into Yeppoon I could feel my excitement start to increase and I was getting super excited about my impending race. There was not an ounce of nervousness which I thought quite strange for me. I not once felt scared about what was heading in my direction and had total faith in all my training and abilities.

I took in a great ride with Sarah on the Friday and as always we constantly made light of every situation we find ourselves in. We even tried to make it appear as though we were riding tandom by forming a shadow with our 2 bikes. Totally hilarious.

And then on the Saturday we went for a run with Dave to take in one lap of the course - thanks Dave for showing us the way and giving us great tips and advice and then both Sarah and I went for a quick dip in the afternoon.

The ocean was great and I thought if it is like this I am going to nail my swim and hopefully come out with a PB or atleast something I should be proud of. Water temp was great and there was minimal swell - PERFECT. I was one happy little mermaid.

Then Sunday morning in the wee hours I was awoken to the sound of wind and rain. What the hell? Where did that come from? I immediately knew that if it didn't settle that this was going to make the swim a bit choppy. What I didn't bank on was how choppy.

Sunday morning I arose early - as I usually do pre race and set about getting myself ready. I had already had everything set out the night before so it was just about getting dressed really. I wasn't able to eat my breakfast as early as I may have liked because A) I dont have a kitchenette in my room and B) I needed to wait for breakfast to open at the restaurant in the resort. As 5:30am hit, I made my way down to transition to meet Sarah to check our bikes in and also to get our body marking.

Straight after that it was time for brekkie. And as usual I couldn't stomach it but forced myself to eat anyway. I thought i had done well this time containing my nervousness until race day only. For Port 70.3 I was freaking out for about a week before race day and on race day all I wanted to do was HURL. But this time I saved all my energy until race day.

Before I knew it, it was time to get my wetsuit on and make our way down to transition for the race briefing and then to start the 1.7km walk to race start.

I wasn't too concerned at this point of the water, but I could feel my anxiety levels rising - which for those of you who know me is nothing new. It wasn't until Sarah and I jumped in to do our warm up that I realised that what lay ahead was not going to be good. I remember diving into those waves and feeling mildly sea sick from the get go. I looked at Sarah and said "I'm not liking this, I feel sick". Her wise words helped soothe my nerves a little but feeling that queaziness in my warm up scared me. I won't lie.

Watching the Pro's take off it was clear to see why they are Pro's. They made it look so easy. They dolphin dove through those waves as though they were a hot blade going through butter. And then before I knew it I was standing at that starting line waiting for my countdown. Nick Munting - the race organiser was talking us through the remaining seconds prior to countdown and then we were left in the hands of the starter. And then the horn blew.

I took off running to those waves with as much BRAVADO as I could muster and thought to myself "C'mon Barb, this is your gig. Get going and don't think of the waves and how they made you feel, you can do this, this is what you have trained through Winter for".

Wave after wave I worked through and had to keep readjusting my goggles as I would come face to face with yet another wave. For the first 100m it was quite a battle just to make it to that first can, but once around the first can the tide did turn in our favour - which essentially should have made it easier. However, although in our favour my body still did not like it.

My nausea returned and for the first 200m-300m I was feeling like I was going to vomit absolutely everywhere. But I thought to myself with every stroke I took it would take me closer to the finish line. I could not get my rhythm in the water - every time I took a stroke I would come through the other side of the wave and face plant into the trough and swallow water and start coughing. Time and time again this happened which would stop me dead in my tracks. I was really fighting for every breath and every stroke and was starting to hate the swim. I have never hated swimming but on this very day I detested the water. I could feel it beating me.

I continued to push through and finally at the half way mark finally caught a steady rhythm - FINALLY. But it was short lived. The swell started to wreak havoc within me and my motion sickness returned with such force that I could barely see straight anymore. I remember looking up and out and not being able to see anything but waves and as I got to the crest of the wave I could see the Cans and a Surf Life Saver a bit in the distance and a Surf Life Saving Dingy. I was in two minds about whether to call for help but knew that if I didn't then the dingy would go past and I wasn't sure if the guy on the board would get to me on time - as by this stage I started to feel very dizzy and heavy in the water. I was scared. And I felt so alone and vulnerable.

So I reluctantly waved down the dingy with all intentions of just holding onto the side and trying to finish the swim after having a rest. But once I stopped, it intensified the height of the waves and my motion sickness grew in intensity. I couldn't believe I was in this position. Never before have I felt so torn. All I wanted to do was finish this race but my body was not letting me. It had decided for me. The next few words to come out of my mouth hurt more than anything I have ever experienced. I told the guy that I couldn't do this and that I needed to stop. I could feel my heart being ripped out of my chest and as I got pulled into the dingy I started to cry uncontrollably. Not just because I felt so sick and was relieved that I wasn't alone but because I felt like a failure and my dream was now gone.

I wanted nothing more than to jump back into that water but knew that I couldn't and with every wave I felt the dingy go over as my eyes were shut I knew that I could never go back. It was gone. I had given up and I had never given up before. I couldn't believe the choice I had made. I knew it was the right one but why did it feel so so wrong.

The guy did his best to console me by rubbing my back but I could not stop crying. I wanted to disappear and hide - I felt embarrassed, i didn't want all those people on the beach knowing that I had piked out and given up when clearly the rest had not. But what are you to do when you just feel so sick. I lay there in that dingy for what felt like eternity - unable to lift my head from the side as everytime I did the world would spin uncontrollably. I was also having trouble breathing and before I knew it I had an oxygen mask on my face which made me feel better after about 10 mins.

After feeling well enough to start walking so I could hand in my timing chip, I made my way across the sand dunes with another young chap who had struggled as well. I remember saying to him that I didn't feel well and him saying you dont look well and then he asked me to sit on the floor whilst he got an official. The world started spinning again and I had this irritating cough and my head was pounding. Before I knew it - Nick Munting and another official were there and then the ambo's arrived to check me out. I was taken to the medic building and asked to lay down to rest. And there I stayed for about 20mins with Stephen who kept holding my hand and telling me that this did not define who I was, that this was just an unfortunate thing and that there would be many more races in the future. He told me that he had spoken to Mum and the kids and that they were all sending me BIG hugs and kisses.

The care I received from each and every single of those people will never be forgotten. They really did care for me.

On making my way back to the room all I can remember wanting to do was get back under the covers and disappear from the rest of the world. I felt like somehow people knew I had quit - like I had been branded with a Scarlet letter. When the reality is no one knew - I was just feeling so sensitive about my decision and devastated that I did not get to finish. I had a knot in my throat that was trying to hold back the tears and it hurt so bad. I got to speak to Paul because I knew they would be tracking me from home and I could feel his sadness too but his words helped soothe my aching heart.

But even though I was feeling like such an insignificant speck at this point I so badly wanted to get out there and cheer my fellow PTC'ers on to the finish line. I knew that they would do the same for me. But it was such a bittersweet moment. I was so happy for them and excited in the fact that they got to get through that horrendous swim safe and sound and were now out on that bike, but at the same time I was very sad that I was not out there with them screaming out for water bottles, and being checked on by the draft busters. I wanted to experience it too, but it was not to be. So I pulled my BIG GIRL britches up and yelled and cheered for my friends. Even though they were in the middle of a race they still asked me if I was okay as they rode past - that meant so much and I will hold that in my heart for forever and a day. And I know they felt bad for me, I could see it in their eyes.

I tried my hardest to get some good shots of my FRIENDS on their bikes and as I made my way back to where the run was being held I looked to my left and saw Blanche and the girls and Karen and her son and daughter. They all looked at me and sent me hugs and kisses from the other side of the road - it meant so much and I remember just bursting into tears again. We later caught up near the run course and their hugs and kind words meant so much to me. THANKYOU. And there were more tears.

I remember putting up on FB and DM the fact that I had DNF'd and feeling so ashamed of it. But that was soon short lived when all the messages of care and concern started flooding in. I'm not quite sure why I was ashamed (maybe because it happened in my strong leg) but when everyone kept telling me that I had made the right decision and that my health was more important and that this didn't matter it was the journey that got me here that mattered I soon felt better. So I sucked up all my tears and yelled as hard as I could for PTC to bring it home strong. And they did.

I couldn't have been happier for them. I hugged each of them and cried with happiness for them. Yes, Im a crier if you haven't figured that out already.

When I finally caught up with Sarah not too long after she crossed her first 70.3 finishers line I cried with such happiness for her. I remembered that feeling and how overwhelming it was and hugged her and told her how proud I was of her. Her eyes were filled with tears and I knew she was feeling bad for me but I didn't want her moment to be dulled by my inability to finish. This moment was her's.

That evening we all got together and enjoyed a really nice dinner together and after a few (many) drinks I felt really good. We laughed and sang and made the most of our last evening together before everyone had to go home the next day. I know I keep saying it but I really do belong to the best Tri club out there. I have made the best friends that no amount of money in the world can buy.

Then the following morning I arose nice and early and went down to the beach to make peace with my Nemesis. I needed to see the ocean again, to find some solice and to come to terms with what had happened. I didn't want this event to be what BROKE me. So as I walked and cried I decided to send the ocean a message:

I wanted her to swallow that message and know that the next time I came up here I was going to kick her butt. I was going to be well practised in the art of ocean swimming and I was going to be so dosed up on anti sickness tablets that not even a hurricane was going to stop me from finishing the Capricorn Resort Ironman 70.3 Yeppoon.

Not being one to focus on the negatives for too long I thought I should finish this post off with some positives:

I made the right decision - first and foremost.
The organisers of this event and the Capricorn Resort did a fantastic job. A definite must for those of you looking for a 70.3 with a great feel to it.
I am blessed to have an amazing support network who love and care for me.
I am not a failure, it just wasn't meant to be this time.
One DNF does not define who you are.
Sometimes these things happen to help you learn something that was needed at that point in your life.
I will put strategies in place to help me overcome this so next time it does not happen again.
I am safe and well and able to move forward.

Yeppoon I will be back next year. YOU can count on it. We have unfinished business and the next time we meet it is I who will make you sick.

Lucky stars.

2011-08-10T06:02:00.011+10:00

I never knew in my wildest dreams when I got into this wonderful world of Triathlons, FB, Dailymile and my BLOG that I would be so blessed to meet (both in person & virtually) such amazing, talented, kind hearted, generous and supportive people. It's true, I have always been surrounded by such people with my family and friends BUT it has grown exponentially. For the love they hold in their heart could cure any ills, bring peace to any war, a feast to any famine and shelter to the masses. And I don't for one single moment take any of this for granted - for it is I who am the luckiest person for having you all in my life.

I am blessed to have the opportunity to be able to train with the most wonderful of friends and not only share in quality time with them but to learn from their individual talents. And in doing so I am able to relish in all there is to know about them and count my lucky stars that they call me FRIEND. After Sunday's bike ride I was treated to a beautiful afternoon tea with Clair and Sarah. Thankyou ladies - it was a special afternoon filled with a tonne of laughter. The previous Friday I got to have lunch with Tracy, Susan, Kylie and Karen. My social circle has never been so exciting. I'm spoilt rotten - I know. You girls are just the best.

Take yesterday for example. How could my day have gotten any better. I don't think it could of. I got to spend my morning with my family before they headed off for school. Then Sarah came over with her little ones and we had morning tea and lunch together. I was then treated to a special parcel in the mail by my friend Erin. Now Erin and I have not met in person - but we have met via FB through a mutual friend Logan whom I met through DailyMile. From the moment we accepted eachother's friend add - we connected instantly. It's kind of hard to explain but I am sure you have all experienced meeting someone and having an instant connection - well that is what my friendship is like with Erin.

Erin spoilt me to a really AWESOME present - and I find it really hard to express in words my gratitude. Just know Erin that my gratitude extends from the bottom of my heart and I look forward to the day that we will meet. Check out my awesome present:

I am going to wear this as I do a ride on my way up to Yeppoon. I love it. Fits like a glove too.

Then yesterday afternoon as I was waiting in my car to pick up the kids from school Kate pops up at my window and hands me a beautiful card with a gas cannister wrapped in a pretty pink bow. Thankyou so much Kate. I really appreciate the return of the cannister. And your kind words in that card meant alot to me.

Then to top the day off I popped over to drop some things off at Jennie and Pauls and I got treated to the yummiest cupcakes, best coffee and the most gorgeous of cards from Tahnee and Sienna. How spoilt and lucky am I. Thankyou girls, you have such BIG hearts and are a real blessing. Your smiles and beautiful cards made me feel very very special indeed. Thankyou Paul and Jennie.

I wish you could have seen the smile on my face last night when I went to bed. It was bigger than the Cheshire cats. I still don't know how it is I came to be so surrounded by amazing individuals. The way you all care about me will never ever be forgotten or taken for granted. THANKYOU.

So tomorrow is the day Stephen and I make our way up to Yeppoon. I am about to drop my bike off to the wonderful Panther Cycles for it's check up. Yes, my gorgeous baby needs a pre-race checkup. I am super excited about driving 14 hrs up to Yeppoon and getting to spend quality time with my hubby and I am also excited about wearing my helmet with my own personal name on it. Check it out.

You reckon I will stand out?

Wrapping up

2011-08-06T13:45:00.008+10:00

And heading into glorious taper. Oh how I am enjoying the easier sessions and relishing in making myself feel nice and fresh and relaxed. If I remember back to Port I was freaking out about going into taper as I thought I was going to lose all of my new found fitness, when the reality of it is, this couldn't be further from the truth. Our bodies need this down time to help repair our muscles. Have a read of this ARTICLE that I found which sums it up nicely.

I felt so fresh in the water this morning going for my swim with the squad. But I also felt strong and in total control of my breathing and stroke for a change when I was being challenged to maintain an even time over the course of 10 x 100's. My normal pacing over that sort of set seems to be about a 1:25 per/100 or slightly slower, however today I don't know what got into me but I was STOKED. I came in on each 100m in about 1:20/1:22 and then got plenty rest as we had to leave on 1:45. I couldn't believe it. I normally feel really fatigued and delirious when I push hard but this morning was a totally different kettle of fish. It's really exhilarating when something like that happens.

Then heading out for we were short one person - Sarah - we missed you. You did however retain the green sprinters jersey as the only thing we got chased by this morning resembled a hairy little rodent and did nothing more than than yelp and try to assert itself. Kind of funny watching a little dog try to act like a Great Dane.

And as always there were laughs to be had. I couldn't help myself - I had to have a ride of Jen's bike. I was suddenly transported into a feeling of being in a circus. My knees were touching my elbows in aero and I had to sit and pedal with my knees pointing outwards. It was so funny. Like watching a clown at the circus.

After all this fun on the bike it was then time to run. It's amazing how your perspective on a distance changes over time. When I first started running, the thought of running 8km's on it's own would seem so painful and so out of reach, let alone having to do it off the bike. But somehow over time and a few km's under my belt it doesn't seem like such a daunting thought anymore. I remember hearing people say "oh I only have to run 10km" and thinking to myself "My God, will there ever be a day when I can say JUST 10km's". And now I find myself saying the same. I never thought that day would come and it has. WOW. I feel so blessed that my body has allowed me to keep moving forward. I don't ever want this feeling to end.

This week has also been great because I won the TriShave 3in1 competition and scored myself $300 towards my next adventure. Well, having no idea of what my next adventure should be, all I could think was that I know I didn't want my current adventure to end. Life has been too much fun over the last year so the best way to capture life itself and all the riding I do was to put that $300 towards a :

GoPro HD Hero Helmet Camera.

I can't wait to get it. It's already been shipped. UPS tracking system says so. Imagine the awesome photos I will get out cycling without having to fumble with my iPhone. I'm excited. I could even get some cool shots on our club races. Mmmmm, the mind is working overtime.

Thanks TriShave.

Can't top it

2011-08-02T05:41:00.002+10:00

This weekend of training was absolutely FANTASTIC. There are days in your life when the planets align and everything just falls into place - and not for any particular reason, but just because. And when days like that happen I am always astounded by how wonderful it makes me feel. I feel like I can tackle almost anything on days like that and wish I could bottle them and store them in my Bento Box and have a swig whenever I am feeling sad and sorry for myself.

Let me explain. Saturday morning I woke up feeling very very tired. Eyes were so tired I could barely open them when the alarm went off at the ungodly 3:30am wake up call. I laid there procrastinating about whether to turn up to swim squad or not. And believe me, if it weren't for the fact that I am a stubborn mule, I may have just rolled back over and tucked those nice warm sheets around my head and gone back off into the bliss world of slumber. However, I have a goal and that thought alone made me roll my lethargic body out of bed and get dressed for what was to be another long, exhausting weekend.

However, once in the water I started to come to. Amazing what some good hard work in the pool will do to your brain. Sucking in good amounts of oxygen does wonders to the O2 depleted brain and body. As the session progressed I felt stronger and stronger in the water and was really happy with my efforts by the end.

1km Fr/s warm up in creasing speed over distance
5 x 200m Fr/s on 3:00 leaving on 3:10
10 x 100m Fr/s with paddles on 1:45
2 x 200m Fr/s kick for 50m, Bk/s for 50m
400m - 50 drill, 50 your choice.

I finally felt like I was on track in my swimming with 14days till Yeppoon. If I could maintain a 1:30 average give or take a few seconds for each 100m then I should be able to get a sub 30min 1.9km swim - excluding T1. Out of everything for this next 70.3 this is really my only main goal. I really was not happy with my Port swim and know that in my head this swim has to be better. I have to get in that front pack and not let the swarms converge on top of me like they did at Port. And if I can do that then I think - no I believe - that I will finish my swim very proud of ME.

After swim session we all converged at the regular coffee spot and had brekkie before embarking on our 2.5hr ride with 2 x 45min efforts in there. Was I hesitant about the efforts - YES, considering my previous weekend's painfulness. However I had dosed up on Ibuprofen and felt fairly good so it was just a matter of seeing how it would all pan out. With the first effort I sat at the back and drafted off the pack to see if my back would manage - and it did. So with the second I decided to hang on and push hard. I ended up finishing nice and strong and my back only felt slightly tight towards the end. It was my legs that hurt the most - but in a good way.

It was then time for the 10 x 1km efforts. I don't know why but everytime I have to try hard on the run I always become really hesitant. Like I doubt what I am capable of or quite possibly the thought of all that pain puts me of wanting to really push as hard as I can. However, for the first time ever - and I think this should make it into the history books, I nailed my 1km efforts. I felt so strong and really light on my feet. For the first time I actually felt like a runner. And I kept thinking to myself "So this is what real runners must feel like all the time". Every 1km effort felt as good as the last if not better and the first few I kept coming in under the 5min mark. I couldn't believe it. And that was off the bike. UNBELIEVABLE. By crikey, I think Barb may finally be getting the jist of it.

Then on Sunday we were up for another 5hr ride and took in the Short Punt again. That was yet again a great ride with fantastic people. And even though my legs were telling me I had had a great hard day the day before they still managed to ride 108km and then run off the bike for a nice easy 30min run. We had a new face (Alison) join us on our bike ride today and the regular shinannigans happened - only we had a new dog chase us and we learnt some more hand signals. No - not the ones your all thinking of....lol

I am going to miss my Sunday rides when I finish Yeppoon.

This one helped.

2011-07-28T06:51:00.003+10:00

And boy am I happy that I finally got it done. It was the one thing left on my training program before Yeppoon to attend to - and I finally got to tick it off. And it didn't feel as bad as I had anticipated that it would. I wonder if it had anything to do with the fact that the weather was absolutely spot on near PERFECT on Tuesday, well whatever it was it made for a perfect long run day.

It's not like I haven't done a long run before, it's just that it had been a while and with my silly niggles I was wondering if I was going to have to go to Yeppoon without doing one and wing it on the day.

As I set out I just knew I was going to NAIL IT. I could feel it in my bones. THe weather was absolutely perfect and there was nothing about the day that had trasnpired thus far that would make me think otherwise. So with Garmin, FuelBelt and Gels in hand - I set out to do my 1hr 45min run. And let me tell you there is nothing better than the feel of the sun on your body during a Winter's day.

The first 5km felt slightly ordinary - I don't think I averaged much above the 6:30min/km pace. Legs were kind of yelling at me from the previous night's Windtrainer class - thanks Zoe. But as soon as the blood had made it's way through every capillary in my legs - I felt this overwhelming sense of ease and it was as though my legs had decided to just take over the running and allowed my mind to just go along for the ride.

I think I was at the halfway point when I had this idea to see if my best friend Susan was still in town visiting her sister. I thought if she was maybe I could run all the way there and then maybe she could bring me back home seeing as we only live a couple of minutes from eachother. I struck GOLD. Susan was happy with that idea and I was ecstatic. I love doing point to point runs. Running back on myself can be a little disconcerting at times.

So as I made my way to our meeting point and I finally took the time to look at my Garmin I had ran 17.5km in 1hr 42mins - thats a 5:47min/km pace. That's unheard of in Barb's long run world. I wanted to do my own little version of the running man right there on the spot - BUT - it was peak hour traffic in town so thought best not. But inside I was pouncing around like a giddy 2yr old.

All I can say is thank goodness for good friends. Thanks Susan. We then did a spot of grocery shopping in amongst all the funny looks I was getting for my attire - I thought I looked fine but obviously wearing my Zensah calf sleeves in Coles Supermarket is not quite appropriate clothing. It was too funny. The lady at the front standing near the baskets looked at me up and down x2 and finally smiled when I said "Beautiful morning".

So with this run now under my FuelBelt - I can now venture to Yeppoon with my head held high in confidence that I can atleast finish it with a smile. I can't wait.

How can.

2011-07-25T05:55:00.010+10:00

Two days be so completely opposite. Like chalk and cheese, oil and water - the list is endless. That's what's this was all about. Feeling absolutely devastated and sad one day only to arise the next morning and it be as though that day had never transpired. This roller coaster ride of training can be very confusing and probably more mentally exhausting then the actual training itself. Not just for the you but for the people around you too. Especially because I am such an emotional person anyway. God help me and those around me when I start training for Ironman 2013. I shall supply you all with a good decent pair of industrial strength ear muffs.

Saturday started off feeling pretty good with the swim set. Although I do remember saying to Louise before we even got in the water about how tired I was feeling, but you kind of get used to being tired - feels like it has been the norm for almost the last year. Sarah and I had a different start to our morning swim with a 10min dry land warm up and then it was straight in for a 1500mTT - 23:31. Twenty seconds slower than my last TT but I am always like that. If asked to do it again it would have been faster. Nevermind, the rest of the session went well with all of my 5 x 200ms being on a 2:45 which is how I like them.

It was then time for our routine brekkie before taking off again for our ride with efforts. And start off well they did, but by the 4th one my back decided enough was enough. I wish I could describe in words how it feels, other than it starts off feeling like you are standing too close to a heater and then the heater gets closer and closer, hotter and hotter till eventually you are sitting on the heater and you cannot get off. The heat and pain gets so intense I have no other option but to stop. It forces me to stop. And I don't know what comes first (kind of like the chicken and the egg) is it the pain that starts first which then causes me to lose form and it compounds the pain, or is it that I start to lose form which then makes the back start to hurt. My legs felt fine and strong I could have kept pushing but my back doesn't give me warming, it just decides when it has had enough and no matter how hard I try to ignore it - it always wins.

Needless to say, I pulled off the draft line as did Jen (thankyou) and I shed a few (copious tears) behind my shades. Before everyone continued on they asked if I was okay and I told them to keep going for the last effort. When Jen and I eventually caught back up I was a de-shevelled mess. I think it's more the frustration of so many years of this issue that causes me to crack and cry. I feel like I do everything right - eat right, rest as much as possible, heck I am the fittest now than I have ever been in my whole life (even as a kid - and I was fit), and somehow it feels as though just as I get to the point of feeling absolutely fantastic my back goes "NOT TODAY". Ughhhhh, it makes me want to scream. But I guess I have overcome the hurdles it dishes out so many times that this time should be no different, however that being said I am always left with this lingering thought of "is this the time it knock's me on my A*** like the last time". It's a scary thought. I never want to go back there. EVER.

Anyway, by the time we made it back to the cars I was left with this aching bruisey feeling in my lower back but knew I still had some run efforts to do off the bike. It was meant to be 10 but I did 6 and the good news was that my back didn't hurt to run, it actually hurt to do the 1km walk more. When I got home, I took some Nurofen, had a very very hot shower and collapsed on the couch for the next 3 hrs till Elissa came over with some delicious Macadamia and White Chocolate cookies and Ice Cream. Mmmmm, perfect and thankyou for the great company. And thanks to my hubby Stephen, and the kids for mothering me when I really needed it. I also appreciate everyone's kind words of support when I feel down. You all pick me right up off the ground.

Then miraculously, I woke up without a single twinge (slightly bruised feeling) in my back. Mind you the dose of Nurofen and a nanny heat pack would have helped a tonne. I was totally gobsmacked considering I had not slept well and my usual morning routine after a bout like this is to lie there for a few minutes, sit on the edge of the bed for another few minutes and then try and walk. But not yesterday morning. I was able to move (slowly) but move nonetheless without pain. Another dose of Nurofen later with my breakfast sore to that bruisey feeling and I was good to go for my 5hr ride with the gang.

Sarah and I took off from the usual meeting spot at 8am after our much needed coffee. It was the perfect morning. Sunny, very brisk but absolutely gorgeous nonetheless. Sarah and I had a few close encounters with some very large dogs in the back streets and talk about 20km/hr to 50km/hr in a few seconds. Man, we were up and out of our saddle and peddling like absolute maniacs to get away from these beasts. By the time we met up with Louise, Andrew and Jen at Windsor we were well and truly warm.

This time we decided to head out towards the Punt, another new area for me so I was quite excited. It's amazing how you can only be a couple of hours from home but the scenery can change so dramatically. It's quite a beautiful part of the world. Nice rolling hills, a few uphill climbs which might I say for not being a climber whatsoever - I managed to tackle quite well. I even managed to surprise myself. My legs weren't hurting one bit and neither was my back, mind you that second dose of Ibuprofen that I took at the 2.5hr mark was probably helping. Whatever it was I was just so glad I was not having a repeat episode of the previous day.

I was so excited about going on this Punt. I have been on a punt before but never with a bike. It was a real special moment for me. In a strange way it made me feel kind of special. That I had managed to ride all that way with my own two legs and whilst everyone else apart from my friends who were also on 2 wheels the others were crossing over on 4 wheels. The looks we got as we offloaded from the motorists on the other side made me feel good. Kind of like "wow".

As we got off the Punt we stopped for a few minutes to have lunch and say "Bye" to Louise and Andrew. A few km's down the road Sarah and I said "Bye" to Jen and then we made our way back home. By the time Sarah and I had finished we did 108kms in 5hrs and took in some beautiful sights along the way with some great company. I can't wait to do it all again this Sunday. And to cap the day off Sarah and I ran off the bike and did 5.3km. With not long to go I am feeling slightly more at ease in that this next 70.3 will be something I can enjoy and maybe, just maybe do a little easier. We'll see.

Yesterday at my swim session with Jodie (my coach) from TopNotch I was quite happy with my swim efforts. I had 3 TT efforts. 600m, 600m, 700m. Done in 9:08, 9:10, 10:43 respectively. If I can stick to this with my 100's averaging around the 1:33 then fingers crossed I can hit a sub 30min 1.9km swim. However that being said - there is like a 150m run to T1 so my time may not be reflective of that. I will ask my hubby to time my actual swim.

So today I have my 1hr 45min run. Wish me luck.

Bucket list.

2011-07-22T13:11:00.005+10:00

There is nothing wrong with me - I promise. But as I was driving to my ART session this morning I was thinking about all the things I wanted to do in my life from this point forward. The thoughts came flying in faster than I could keep track and they were absolutely exciting. And I would like to see each of them come to fruition. So here goes - putting it out there into the Universe.

Velodrome - I have been stuck on this idea for a while now and can't quite shake it. After watching my friend Macca compete, it is something I really want to try. There is nothing quite like the sound of those bikes going around that track - the roar and vibration of the track underfoot is amazing. I think somehow my love for the sport is because of my Grandad's gene's. He used to ride at the Velodrome in Uruguay and was National Champion in his day.
Write a book - I know I have this blog, but I would love to write a book, a column even. I couldn't think of anything better than to write for a living. To be able to write and express yourself in my eye's is cathartic. And if it is able to shed some light on a situation for just one person then what could be better. You just never know how your word's or thoughts could influence another human being.
Cage diving - For those of you who know how afraid of sharks I am, this may come as quite a shock but it is something I want to do. Talk about coming face to face with with your fear. But I would also love to swim side by side with a Gray Nurse Shark and a Beluga Whale. I have seen documentaries on both and have wanted to since then.
Meet Chrissie Wellington and Mirinda Carfrae - these 2 women are amazing. The strength, determination, ability, tenacity and courage is beyond anything I can begin to comprehend. To spend one day learning from them would be my dream - mind you they would have to stop me from giggly like a BIG girl first. "Oh, Hi, what's your name?" My response ".....um.....er.....hehhhe"
Two week Cattle Droving experience - How much fun would that be? Watching the movie "Australia" and seeing all those great Australian Getaway deals has made me yearn to be out under the great Australian skies. Having a beautiful camp fire every night and just being at one with nature. Awesome.
Meet Alexander Popov, Geoff Huegill, Ian Thorpe, The Mean Machine, Cindy Lou FitzPatrick - ahhh, my dream. What AMAZING swimmers. Imagine sitting down to a great dinner with the likes of these people. Past and present legends all discussing their love for one sport. I would just sit and listen and take it all in.
Go on Dancing with the Stars - I love dancing. As a child I did Ballet and as an adult I did Tap and Funk. How much fun would it be to get all dolled up and learn a myriad of dance steps and get twirled around that floor like some princess. I think out of every sport I have tried in my life - dancing apart from swimming was the one that felt most natural.
Ride my bike - from Sydney to Melbourne with Elissa. Something we had been discussing for ages. What an amazing way to see our beautiful coastline.
And try to get on the AMAZING RACE with Sarah. Keep your fingers crossed people. Can you imagine! What a way to see the world. Another one of my dreams.
Oh and last but not least - visit the Maldives. Have you seen how white those sands are and how blue that water is. HEAVEN.

So what's on your bucket list? Do you have one? If not - get cracking on one. You may just surprise yourself with the things you get to do and see.

You can't crack me.

2011-07-22T07:51:00.004+10:00

Mother Nature. Atleast not all the way. Yet you do make it ever so challenging to get my butt out there. Each element on it's on - cold, wind, rain, I could deal with but stick them all together and I am using every cell in my body to stay focused. And sometimes I win and other times as you know, you win. What I am asking for though Mother Nature, is that atleast for the next 2 Saturday and Sunday's you please PLEASE just give me moderate weather so I can atleast feel that I have done my job in preparing for Yeppoon.

I feel ready for the swim, I feel totally ready for the swim. Yesterdays swim session cemented that for me. However, I now just need to be able to transfer that feeling into the open water. I would be ecstatic to hold my 1:20/1:25 per hundred in the open water however reality is - for me atleast, that I need to work on OWS more often and stay out of the pool in order for that to happen. So that is my goal for this upcoming season - to get Open Water ready. One session will be in a pool and the rest will be at the lakes. Anyone want to be my training buddy?

My running is well - moving along. Not quite where I want to be but I will take where I am at. I still have a few good weeks of training left so fingers crossed hey. I am still doing all my core strengthening stuff at home as per Jodie and Nick and attending Core & Strengthening class with Sparta PT. I feel as though I can feel my core muscles becoming more engaged now. Now I just need them to behave when I am running and riding.

Blue Steele visits Sparta PT.

The things you learn.

2011-07-19T06:02:00.005+10:00

Yesterday I learnt a few things. Not just about myself but about people in general. Everyone has such a unique story to tell. A story which if captured in words could leave you spell bound for hours like some intense novel which captivates and pervades your every waking thought. I love listening to people's life stories, their experiences, their up's and down's. How they have struggled and overcome adversity - it is a true testament of the human spirit. Yet because we are so busy in our own lives we often miss out in sharing in those moments. And I think everyone's moments are worth acknowledging. It is what makes us all such unique and special individuals.

I finally got to see the Port Macquarie Ironman Doco on ESPN yesterday and to say that I didn't shed a tear would be a MASSIVE lie. Not only because it brought back so very many memories for me, but listening to people's stories and seeing the footage of everyone's struggles and how they overcame them made me feel ever so proud to be a part of this amazing sport. There was even a story from a member of our club, Kane Towns- and I urge you - that if you haven't seen the documentary, to please find a way to watch it. I am in awe of the story and their life and of those I share the PTC banner with.

I also learnt that people of all shapes and sizes, race and religion are truly remarkable individuals and worthy of so much more than we give ourselves credit for. And I can't speak on behalf of you all, however if we are anything alike - the self doubt rides high. The If's and the But's come thick and fast. The human spirit and drive needs to be nourished in order to function at it's peak capacity, actually it thrives on it. And I have found that by surrounding myself with those who have "my back" and pick me up when I feel less than capable - I truly am capable of anything. My family and friends nourish every aspect of my soul. I am sure that every person out on that field had someone barracking for them personally and if they didn't, they had the masses rooting for them. What could be better.

I realised yesterday when I did my Tempo run that all the self talk about being a 5min/km pace runner and drumming it in so I can try to believe it almost came to fruition yesterday. I did an 8km Tempo run with Jodie and averaged a 5:15 pace. I was ecstatic. Yep, sure it hurt. Actually it hurt quite a bit BUT I did it. My average pace is getting faster. And I will keep searching for the elusive moment when running feels easier. This will not beat me.

So the next time you go out for that Swim, Bike or Run and those little inner voices creep in and make you think "oh, I can't do this" - just remember that you are capable of far more than you actually give yourself credit for.

YOU JUST NEED TO BELIEVE IT.

This is why......

2011-07-16T19:50:00.004+10:00

You shouldn't eat a massive meal before you run. I mean really, you think I would learn my lesson. But somehow a good meal can never be passed up - even if it means enduring the rhythmic peristaltic contractions of your lower colon. And it really doesn't tell you when it's going to start, it just kind of creeps up insidiously. Firstly you get that heavy bloated feeling and then BAM, full blown contractions which can at times bring back horrid memories of childbirth. It literally brings me to a grinding holt - ahhhh, why do I do it to myself. And it always happens when there are not toilets around.

Nevermind, I still got to enjoy a good trail run with Sarah, Cloe, Johnny and Gary. I think I am getting better at it too. I am trying to focus on lighter footsteps and relax my upper body so as to fall into the step. I am never going to be a graceful runner but if I can atleast lesson the impact I make on each step then I can possibly run for the rest of my life, but I would settle at this point being able to run for the next year. I was happy to have completed a 10km trail run in 1hr 5mins. Always good to run with faster people. And it was at the end of another long Saturday.

This morning it was back up at 0330hrs - not normally an issue but in Winter and the cold it makes it so much harder. I was very tempted to turn over and go back to sleep but guilt always gets the better of me as does the drive to make every session count.

‎4 x 100m F/s - F/s scull
200m Fr/s drill
5 x 200m F/s fast pace - 10 secs rest
6 x 100m Fr/s Negative split - 30 secs rest
4 x 100m Fins - 50 Hard - 50 Easy
10 x 50m paddles on 60
4 x 50m kick on 1:30
100m easy

Not a bad session this morning. I definitely didn't feel as strong as I did last week but it definitely wasn't my worst session. So for that I am grateful. Then after the usual great breakfast of Greek Coffee and honey on toast, it was time to head out on the bike into a a morning of cloud and drizzle with Sarah, Louise, Andrew and Jen. It wasn't as bad as first thought - yes it was wet, yes it was cold but a "burden shared is a burden lessened". We ended up riding for just under 2hrs and did 47kms. Nothing about the ride was hard. it was just a nice cruisey pace with loads of laughs and chatter. And tomorrow I get to do it all again - well the ride part that is. But first I will be going to watch the club Duathlon and taking photos. Clair - have fun on your first Duathlon. "GO YOU GOOD THING". You will have an amazing morning.

And the countdown begins

2011-07-15T08:04:00.004+10:00

With 30 days to go till Yeppoon it is time to start the official countdown. I did it with Port 70.3 and so the trend shall continue for Yeppoon. Thirty days out from Port I was almost having a conniption. I think 30 days out I got a sinus infection that almost made me feel like my head was going to implode. But, 30 days out from Yeppoon and there is no sinus infection in sight - knock on wood. Thirty days out I was questioning my ability to get through the race at Port - but 30 days out from Yeppoon I am not - even though I have had a few hiccups along the way.

It is quite exciting feeling the change within me. Having never been an overly confident individual in my abilities, more so I tend to underestimate and down play what I am capable of, I feel really excited about heading to Yeppoon. It is almost as though I am relaxed. There is no stress, no drama, just a knowing that this race is going to be fun. I am really looking forward to the warmer weather too. The cold is driving me nuts.

And talk about cold. Wednesday was absolutely atrocious. I think Penrith recorded it's coldest day in like 20 something years. It didn't hit much above 8 degrees celsius the whole day. I was meant to do an outdoor ride but being school holidays and all it made it impossible. My youngest stayed home with me whilst my twins headed off to play mini golf with their buddies. On the return home from dropping them off - Kyle and I hired some DVD's and a PS3 game and some lunch. I then set to doing an indoor trainer ride.

And then "Hey Presto" I wasn't cold anymore. If anything I was dripping in sweat in no time at all. Loved it. i felt nice and strong too. But nothing beat how I felt yesterday in the pool. I did my 500m TT in 7:12. My aim is to get closer to the 7min mark and to hold that pace in an open water setting too. God know's I am not the best open water swimmer. Oh well, just another thing to focus on and to get better at. That's the great thing about this sport - there is always something to improve on - with 3 sports rolled into one it's inevitable.

I have also continued to stay quite focused on my diet and have managed to put weight back on - which is good. I had continued to lose weight after Port and felt probably not as good physically so I feel much better now that I am at my ideal weight. Another good thing about focusing on your diet is that you get to experiment with your meals and get adventurous.

What delicious healthy meals have you come up with this week?

Could it.

2011-07-13T07:40:00.003+10:00

Get any colder? I hope not, however I fear this may not be the case. With still half of July and all of August to go I am dreading how much colder it could possibly get. Bike riding and running in this kind of weather is really hard work, not just on the mind but on the body. My nose goes a beautiful shade of cherry red as do my cheeks and even with thermal gloves on my fingers could still snap off, but then there is always that fine line of how much to wear because obviously as you start to work harder you heat up. I am gradually learning this fine art.

Monday night at windtrainer with Eliza was quite cold. Lucky it didn't take long to heat up and before we knew it we were stripping off. I love looking at the steam rise up off everyone during the winter months - looks really cool. My set was 3 x 8mins at race pace with a 3min easy spin and then at the end of the set I had to do a nice easy 3 lap run off the bike. Legs felt good, not heavy at all. My hammy didn't even bother me at all which I am so thankful for - mind you I have been behaving so why would it.

Then yesterday I did my first run in over a week. And of all days to choose to go out for a run - I had to choose the coldest day ever. Even inside the home with the A/C on I was still freezing. Oh well, what doesn't kill you will only make you stronger or atleast thats what I keep trying to tell myself. As I stepped outside I knew we were in the sub zero temps. My car and every blade of grass was covered in frost. I had immediate goosebumps - so much so I resembled a plucked chook - hilarious. I quickly started my car and set off to get the hose to wash off some of the frost. Well, when no water came out I thought "oh there must be frost in the hose, I will just give it a bend to try to loosen the ice crystals in there". Hmmmmm, that didn't work. I ended up with the nozzel in my hand and about 15cms of hose. The damn thing snapped in half - with the cleanest cut possible.

I haven't laughed that hard in ages. It was the funniest thing ever. Anyway needless to say I could now not use the hose to defrost the windscreen. Heading in to meet Susan at the CC the temperature gauge did not get much better. And as Susan and I set off to run face first into the rising sun we were trying to absorb every little bit of warmth we could get. I haven't felt that cold in ages but within 30mins of running I was toasty warm. The same couldn't be said for poor Susan's fingers. They were a lovely shade of "Beetroot". At the end of the run we were both nice and warm and had completed 10.4km in an hour. I was very happy indeed as I had absolutely no pain whatsoever in my hamstring. Not even a little twinge. WooHoo.

I think I should be good to continue my training as per normal now till Yeppoon. Not long to go.

I have found my way.

2011-07-11T06:44:00.006+10:00

Back to the keyboard of Blog World. Oh how I have missed thee. I promised myself way back over a year ago that I would never go more than a few days without posting and have the last two posts failed miserably at that. Not sure why I have neglected to get on here other than the thought has crossed my mind but I have just not had the right words to come up with to make a post that was worthy of publishing. But I guess to those who read my blog - you probably enjoy reading my antics and get quite a giggle out of some of the stories I tell - or better still I hope I connect with you on some level that makes you realise that if a housewife from the west can give it a go, then so can you.

This last week has been all about "mothering my hammy" and taking itsy steps to ensure that it behaves - and it has. There is no pain, some slight tightness but overrall, the old girl is behaving. I am stretching diligently and icing post activity and if yesterday's bike ride is anything to go by - I think I am GOOD TO GO.

Wednesday I went for my first test ride to see how the hammy would pull up. Paul and I did laps around near the Coffee Club at a nice easy pace and although my hammy didn't hurt, my back did. Damn back - it always tells me when I haven't done any exercise. but Paul stuck by me making sure I was okay and he sheltered me from the horrific winds which came howling down the roads in every direction imaginable. Paul is such a great friend, and not sure if I mentioned it before but Paul and I used to swim squads together at Guildford Aquatic Centre. It is such a small world. But so glad I have re-united with him and his beautiful family.

Then on Thursday evening I did more Core and Strengthening Class with SPARTA PT. I love coming to this class - not only is it heaps of fun but I get to spend it with some great people. Thanks for making the classes so much fun Jen.

I have had 2 really good swim sessions - both of which I have felt so strong in. The first was with Sarah on Thursday - we did some longer sets and we both came out quite happy from the session. I was happy to see that I was able to maintain a nice form throughout and hold my pacing really well. It's amazing how your body know's just what to do - especially when it finds a sport that it feels so comfortable in. Sure things hurt but it's a different sort of hurt - it's not one that makes you want to stop but rather that pain empowers you to keep pushing because you know you are getting better, fitter. The same cannot be said for my running. I am sure I was meant to grow gills - being in the water feels like being home.

The second one was with James at Nepean Aquatic Centre (NAC). If you haven't had a chance to get to this pool - then I suggest you make it a "To Do". It is a really beautiful swimming pool and the water is so clear you can see from one end of the pool to the other. I love it. This was our set:

3 x 200m - 50 Fr/s, 50 Bk/s, 50 kick, 50 Fr/s
4 x 100m Fr/s descending time on 2:00
8 x 50m Fr/s with pullbouy at ankle on 60secs
Then 3 sets of the following:
200m Fr/s firm on 4:00 - I managed to do - 2:55, 2:50, 2:45
4 x 50m Fr/s with paddles on 60 secs
4 x 100m Fr/s - 25m sprint/ 75m easy
Then:
8 x 25m kick with 10secs rest
100m easy cooldown

I felt amazing on Saturday in the water. My strokes were really long and controlled, I love feeling like that - brings back memories of my childhood when I was a really good swimmer. Makes me still feel like I can tackle almost anything.

Then after finishing the swim - the gang was at it again for a ride. I was unable to do the efforts so I sat back with Macca (who I hadn't seen for ages) as Sarah did her efforts from the program with Louise, Nikki and Andrew. Sarah is on fire with her program. Yeppoon is going to be an amazing day for her. But towards the end of the ride I decided to have a little go and hang onto them to test out the hammy and it behaved. Thank goodness. It is not allowed to misbehave - not after all the "molly coddling" I have been lavishing on it.

Then yesterday I did another amazing ride - only this time I felt on fire. Wow, I felt so very strong and ended up riding for just under 2.5hrs hours. And now that I have passed the hammy test - I am back in full swing with the training. I can now join Sarah on the remaining long rides so we can both make it to Yeppoon feeling strong and confident. Thanks guys for sheltering me from that horrendous headwind on the M4. If I hadn't of been able to slip stream behind you my feeling of STRENGTH could very well have been replaced with feelings of BLAH.

So bring on the remaining 35 days till Yeppoon. I'm excited. I am off for another PT session with Jodie today. No running but more strength and core work. The more core strength I get the better. I am surrounded by great people who all want to see me stay healthy and fit. Thanks everyone so much.

What a weekend.

2011-07-05T06:47:00.005+10:00

Of fun, laughter, hard work and a little drama.

Saturday morning apart from being one of the hardest swim sessions I have ever done since doing swim squads as a child, it was quite possibly the most fulfilling too. I remember walking in - my usual 15mins early and looking at James as we were standing at the side of the pool and saying "So, what's on the agenda for this morning". To which he quite casually replied " 3 x 1500's". To say that I now have a bruise under my chin because my jaw hit the floor that hard is no word of a lie. Oh ok, well the bruise is, however the look of "What the" quickly followed by "Your kidding right" is no word of a lie. James simply smiled and said "Off you go. 3 x 100's warm up". I was quite possibly staring down the barrel of my first major "fail" in the water. I was scared. But I was here now, and it would look silly and gutless if I said I couldn't do it. So I dove in and got started on the warm up.

First up was a timed 1500m Fr/s. I gulped and thought "oh boy, here we go - this is number one. He wasn't telling a fib at all". So as I set off I tried to just stay focused on form. Not speed or time but my form the whole way. Nice long, slow strokes trying to milk each stroke for what it was worth. I wanted each stroke to have purpose as I have noticed that when I get tired I short change my stroke and start getting very choppy. So whenever I felt myself getting tired and ineffective in the water I went through my own little checklist and corrected that which started to slip. My first 1500m I came in at 23:50. I was happy. Tired, but happy.

Then it was time to put our paddles on. 15 x 100's leaving on 1:45. Five with paddles, 5 without, 5 with paddles. By the time I hit the last 5 with the paddles on - believe me I was in sheer survival mode. I am not even sure my Fr/s looked like Fr/s anymore. I could feel the paddles starting to slip as I was obviously not using them correctly. Nevermind, number 2 was done and I was hoping that with just over 20mins left of the session the third 1500m was not going to happen. WRONG.

The last 1500m's was another timed effort. Oh holy mother of Mary. I was speechless - yep - Barbie was well and truly lost for words. This was news worthy. I had no energy and so when I was asked to set off again I did so expecting a massive flunk in my time. This last set really made me have to did deep. Not just physically but mentally. I was having to pull harder than I ever have and was starting to get very tired. When Kate drew closer to my feet I was happy to let her go past and I hung on for dear life. As I got to the end I looked up at James and he said 23:20. Oh yeah, even though I felt like I was going to die and my heart palps were coming thick and fast I still managed to swim 30 secs faster. WooHoo. With the cool down at the end I swam a whopping 4.9km that morning.

Then Sarah, myself and Louise Mackinley (4 time World Ironman Champion) before heading off for our bike ride sat down for a yummy and well deserved breakfast and delicious Greek coffee.

Sarah, myself and Louise.

Going out for a ride with them was so much fun. The chit chat never really stopped unless we were doing our efforts. And even still there was still a bit of laughter going on. Louise was giving us really good pointers and was telling us great stories - thankyou so much Louise. And thankyou Sarah for another great training ride. You are smokin' the training young lady. With 56km under our belt on the ride it was time to go home and have a rest before heading back out to do a trail run. The trail run was adventurous. There were lots of dogs to be seen but the one's that stopped Sarah and I dead in our tracks were off lead and one was very confrontational. Sarah and I grabbed a stick - I was ready to climb up a tree and Sarah was definitely the braver one shooshing it away in a very brave voice. I on the other hand refused to make eye contact and got ready with my fight or flight response to head up a tree in a split second. Very funny now when I look back.

Sunday was a great day apart from a sore hammie. I have a little tear which should heal but am having 2 days rest at the moment and have had my bars put up on my bike again to take the load off of my hammie - thanks Dave so much doing that for me so quickly. Your the best. The ride was great - I went with Joey, Kristy, Sarah and Louise and enjoyed another morning of laughter and stories. Sorry for some of the stories Joey. Rather girl focused so I hope we didn't scar you too much.

Then yesterday I was treated to some ART therapy. I was seen by Nick from Spectrum Health and had my body moved and rubbed and bent into positions I never thought possible. He was able to feel the small tear and and he worked on releasing all my wonderfully tight muscles in my glutes and hammies. Seems my back and core are still an issue even with all my training. Nevermind. It will come good. I am positive.

So looking forward to my nice easy ride tomorrow - thats if the winds let up. There has been some gail force warnings issued. So, how is everyone?

Haulin' Ass

2011-06-30T05:50:00.002+10:00

That's me this week and it's really only the beginning. Not liking my chances at feeling strong for the remainder of the week or even into Week 3 I might add. However, as my friends keep telling me "No pain, no gain".

Monday morning I had my first Personal Training session with coach Jodie. The hope is that she will be able to critique and improve my form not only in my run but in other facets of my Triathlon techniques. However, the Monday just gone was all about going for a run and then finding some hills so she could show me the technique I need to use when doing hill repeats.

We initially warmed up with about a 3km warm up and then it was time to tackle some hill repeats. And believe me, 4 was more than enough. The hill was only about 200m in length but was quite steep and the aim was to keep the same speed and form for all of them. Good in theory. However, come the 4th one and there was absolutely nothing pretty about it. All of a sudden it was like system shutdown. Core off - check, strong arms off - check, legs barely lifting off ground - check, make it to the top and heave - check, Lactic acid threshold reached - check. Wow, talk about being totally knackered. Anyway, making back to the gym wasn't too bad - the legs recuperated and then it was time to do some core work. Thanks for a great hour Jodie - hope I wasn't too painful.

Then Monday night it was back to the Windtrainer session with Eliza for some more strength work. It was much like last week only this time we had to do 3 x 9mins grinding big ring, hardest gear you can hold with a cadence of no more than 65 again. My legs were tired but not too bad, I was still able to talk and giggle through the class. We then cooled down with 3 laps of the oval. Sarah and I paced eachother quite well with the same tempo run and funny enough we wore almost the same clothes too.

Tuesday it was back out on the road for a run with hill repeats. This time my best friend Susan mentioned a stretch of road not far from the oval which has a good incline and is just over 300m in length. I was meant to do 8 but could only hit 6 - my left hip started to feel a bit dodgy and I had had it. In total with warm up and cool down plus hill repeats I ran 10.8km but by looking at my face you would have thought I ran 50km.

Yesterday was fairly ordinary. With totally trashed legs and a restless night's sleep - so much so I totally ripped the bed apart in my sleep, I had to do a 2hr ride with hill repeats. Not happening Jan. I had nothing and if it wasn't for my friends helping me along the way keeping me going - I would have liked to have gone home and back to bed. Thanks so much guys. I think I look a bit better this morning - atleast the luggage which had occupied the space underneath my eyes have disappeared a bit - leaving me only with a few handbags. The best bit about the ride was the coffee afterwards. Gees that hit the spot. I still managed to ride 44km in 1hr 40mins but it could have only been 10km if I had of had my way.

Well today is another day - and it is swim time and I am really looking forward to it. Lets see how this session goes.

Week 1 DONE

2011-06-27T14:08:00.006+10:00

And what a way to finish the week. I was in two minds about this weekend. Mainly because it heralded the beginning of an 8 week program which was going to hurt AGAIN. And I don't mind the pain, but I hate the anticipation of what awaits me. I always imagine things to be a million times worse and really never give myself credit for what I am capable of achieving - even after all the things I HAVE done. Ya think I'd get it by now.

So with Saturday being the beginning of a long tough weekend, it was time to hit the pool at 5am. Yep, you read right - 5am. I was not feeling the love at 3:45am when my alarm went off - and whilst you may question the necessity for me to get up so early considering I only live 25mins away, I am a creature who likes to eat breakfast before a workout and as such need some time for it to digest. So, I have to grin and bare the early rise in order to feel slightly more functionable for a session.

So this was the swim set and not in it's correct order. I have enough trouble trying to work out what it is I have to do when I am being told let alone 45mins after the swim when I log it on Dailymile.

4 x 100's Free - Up breathing every 5, down breathing every 7

4 x 100's kick

4 x 100's Fly,Free

4 x 100's Free and Bk/s

2 x 200's Free on 3:30

400 easy Free

6 x 50's Bk/s, Br/s

4 x 100's Free with pullbouy at ankle

So I finished feeling relatively good but now needed to rush and get things prepared to go and watch the kids play their tennis comp - which might I add they are absolutely AMAZING. I am such a proud Mum. Well when they finished their comp and had to then do an hour's training session, I left them with Stephen and Mum and got on my bike and rode 52km's in 2hrs and made my way back home. It was a good time to start breaking in my new saddle, however I had forgotten how sore things can get in the nether region - so I spent a bit of time with my bum in the air. Anyway, I still got my sets done but with a bit of a grimace on the face. It will get better, it always takes time to break things in when they are new. This is my new baby.

Then by the time I got home all's I had time to do was shower, eat lunch, put my feet up for a bit and then off I went for a run with Susan. Oh boy this was tragically slow - but I was so tired. Nevermind it was only meant to be at a Zone 2 pace, and well I think it was borderline walk, but 6.7km got done and my Saturday was done. I ended up seeing some of the boys from the club Paul, Bob and Ryan and gees they make running look easy. So graceful and boundy they were.

When it was finally time to rest my weary head and body I don't even think I remember my head hitting the pillow. I was STUFFED, but knew I had one more day to go and I was really half way through the weekend. And I could do this.

Sunday morning I woke up at 5:30am - yep, you guessed it - 2hrs earlier to eat breakfast and get ready. I really love the peace and quiet and the chance to just gather thoughts and prepare for the day ahead. However as I headed out the door at 7am I was greeted with a FROSTY -2. It was so cold that the skin on my cheeks hurt. I drove to the Coffee Club and ordered my Long Black and waited for Sarah to turn and then had another as she had her Hot Chocolate as we waited for the fog to burn off. It's amazing though how many people were out and about exercising - some even in singlets.

So as Sarah and I headed out we knew we were going to be in for a hard ride with hills and Dave from Panthers Cycle's had told me of an ideal location to head to - Bents Basin. Oh boy, as we headed out there I was already hurting - not just in the legs but in other parts and so there were a few pit stops along the way. Chamois Butt'r and I are best friends - that stuff is GOLD.

As Sarah and I were nearing the top of one of the hills at Greendale, we passed a lady running. We said HI and thought nothing more of it till we hit the top of the hill. Well we got off and thought this prime photo opportunity and then the lady comes bouncing past and say's "beautiful morning". I said "Wow, you made it up here fast" and she said "Not bad for a Grandmother of 4 and 60". Sarah and I looked at eachother as our chins hit the floor, and we were both speechless. We both could not believe it and let her know how in awe we were of her. She said her fair wells and bounced away and Sarah and I just shook our heads. I want to be like that when I am 60 - heck I'd be happy to be like that at 40.

We continued on our merry way and finally made it down to Bents Basin. The whole time I was heading down there I knew we would have to come back up and I was dreading it - my legs were already toast. So we made another stop, had a quick bite and then headed back.

Heading back wasn't as bad through Bent's Basin, it was more once we hit Chain o Ponds that I started getting quite fatigued again. Sarah was a total trooper doing all the hills in aero as instructed by Coach Jodie. After 70km and heading back to the Coffee Club we still had a 20min run off the bike to accomplish and with that done - WE had just done our first week of Yeppoon 70.3 training. I was so glad to be done. Sarah, you are a legend and one tough chickey babe. Yeppoon is going to be a breeze for you - I look forward to seeing you smash it to bits.

When I finally got home at 1:30'ish Stephen and the kids had a beautiful lunch waiting for me. I was so hungry - all I wanted to do was stop the Mr Whippy Icecream van down at the river on my way home and eat a Choc Top - but I didn't. I came home to a yummy BBQ with roasted vegies instead. I have the best family.

And so Week 2 begins.

And it has just started.

2011-06-22T20:05:00.001+10:00

Well Week 1 of my new training program has started. The hope is that I will be up to par (or atleast where I was at Port) for Yeppoon which is in another 52 days. Doesn't leave myself and my coach Jodie much time. So, because of that we have started this program with all guns ablazing. And believe me I am feeling it. However, that being said - I am ticking all my boxes - SO FAR, and happy to be back out there.

Monday was my first double session. A nice easy run - 5km, and felt good to be ticking those legs over. Then Monday night was my usual windtrainer session. Gee's I missed everyone, but there were a few of the regulars missing. The session was a tough one - slow, grinding and painful with sets of 7mins with a cadence of no more than 65 with 5min recovery x3. But I really liked it. Was good to see that I was able to keep form.

Then Tuesday it was back to my Long Run Tuesday. Obviously not as long as what I was doing before Port, but needless to say I was happy to score my first 1hr run and 9.5km. I was able to share the morning with my best friend Susan, her sister Melanie and their Dad.

Then yesterday was a mixed bag of feelings (physically). I had to do a 2hr bike ride and although I started off feeling full of ZING - within 40 mins I was ZINGLESS. I just could not keep up with the group and made the decision to turn around and head back to do my hill repeats. My wish is to one day be as strong as those who I ride with on a Wednesday. Their strength leaves me gobsmacked - and they can speak while keeping that pace too. I was just hanging on for dear mercy. Nevermind. There is always next week.

The hill repeats were well what can I say? HARD. PAINFUL. Yet I was PROUD of me for not giving up. Jodie had asked I find a hill that was about 600m in length and to go do out of saddle hill repeats - 10 of them. So I decided to hit Mitchell's Pass - just the bottom section as it is steep enough for me. To say that I wasn't scared would have been a lie. I am totally hopeless when it comes to hill climbing - however I keep hearing that they will make me stronger - so I just had to do it. I wasn't able to do all of them out of the saddle - however about 80% was done that way and when my legs fatigued towards the end of each hill I sat and grinded my way to the top.

On one of my downhill recoveries I saw a familiar face - Brendan. Brendan was the gentleman from the club and owner of Blaxland Day & Night Pharmacy and the gentleman responsible for my gift voucher. It was so nice to see him and thank him face to face as I was unable to on Saturday night. Thankyou once again - it was much appreciated.

So after doing all my hill stuff I clocked up 11.8km - 5.9km worth of climbing. And this morning although my legs are sore they are by no means dead. So I am now off for my first proper swim. Wish me luck. I think this one is going to hurt - ALOT.

Oh what a night!!!

2011-06-19T20:47:00.013+10:00

I had been looking forward to this night with great anticipation for months. And more so for the last 3 weeks. It was the Panthers Tri Club Ball for 2011 and this night was going to be BIG. I was going to get all frocked up and get my groove on. But I was also totally freaking about about putting my slideshow together as I wanted it to be just perfect for everyone there on the night.

The Committee had worked so hard to put this night together and boy did it come together beautifully. Every aspect was without a shadow of a doubt - simply perfect. It was great to see everyone enjoying themselves and mingling and just enjoying the night which had finally brought the season to a close. And I must admit - not that I am biased AT ALL, but I think our club is a good looking club. Everyone looked amazing.

My afternoon started off with making my way to Jennie and Paul's. They had kindly invited Stephen and I to stay the night and Jennie was also doing my hair. My hair turned out amazingly and I felt stunning - like a movie star. Thankyou Jennie.

As we made our way there, I knew my feet weren't going to last long in those heels. Being in them for just 20mins was already hurting. But for the purpose of the night I was willing to endure the pain - and let me tell you - there was and still is pain in my feet. Heck, I don't even remember having this much pain doing the 70.3. But it was well worth it.

As we arrived at the Club we made our way up to the Glenleigh room, it was time for me to get the DVD to Cloe and then start taking as many photos as I could. I didn't want to end up missing people but sadly I did. I hope they were able to get one's of themselves.

The table decorations and the whole layout of that room was so elegant. I haven't seen anything quite as beautiful. And as people started to make their way in it was such a joy to see their faces. This night was for them, for all of us. To celebrate a great club, great friends, great times and a great year.

And as the time approached for my slideshow to start I started to get really nervous. I so badly wanted everyone to enjoy it - it was my way of showing the club how much they all mean to me. How proud I am to be a part of it all and how much I appreciate everyone's welcoming arms - for I have never felt so embraced. I also wanted it to be a way for people to remember the year, not just the races but to have a real vivid recollection of the year that was. And for our family and avid supporters to be thanked as well.

So as the slideshow started my eyes were on everyone. I wanted to see what their reactions were. I wanted to see their faces light up - and they did. I could hear people saying things and smiling and Oooo'ing and Ahhh'ing. It was priceless. Just the reaction I wanted.

I have to thank from the bottom of my heart Elissa for loaning me her computer with the program to put it together and helping add the music to this slideshow and help cutting it onto a DVD. Without you Elissa, I don't know what I would have done.... That program is amazing. Elissa won the "Rookie of the Year" award. Congratulations my dear friend. And thankyou to all for emailing me photos and videos.

As the slideshow went on from focusing on individual athlete's to their families, then our Juniors it, then touched on our Ironmen who have either made it to Kona or who have qualified to go to Kona this year. I was given footage of Bob by his wife Kristen and knew that this was a highlight and integral part of the year. It had him crossing the finish line and as he did he pumped his arms in the air - the look of pride in his face was without a shadow of a doubt PRICELESS. I hoped you liked it.

I also had a sneaky surprise for Joey and Kristy. You see Joey proposed to Kristy at the finish line of Port Mac Ironman. This had to make an appearance on the slideshow as well with some other added footage I was given by his best mate Tim. The look on their faces when this played was UNREAL. I loved it. Just what I was hoping for.

Then as the night progressed the awards started and I was snapping away taking photos of each of the recipients. When the photos get put on our club website I will post a link for you all to see. There will also be a youtube link to the DVD to watch. The it came to an award for the Panther of the Year. Drew was talking and I was waiting to take a snap shot of the slide of the person whom we had discussed should be getting the award. Then all of a sudden MY name gets called and a photo of me comes up on the big screen.

To say that I was FLOORED is the understatement of the century. I think I almost dropped my camera. Everyone started clapping and I remember looking back at everyone and just seeing smiles and clapping and hearing people cheer. I remember seeing my husband and all the table I was sitting at standing up, but to tell you the truth I was staring through eyes that were filling up with tears. I have never been so overwhelmed. I can't even remember what I said but know that I am so proud to have been awarded this position. I love my position within the club - and I love PTC. You are all amazing individuals and I feel truly blessed to have you all in my life. I look forward to spending my prize money this Thursday. Hmmmm, what to spend it on. Will have to think, but I am in dire need of winter clothes - so that may be the go.

The remainder of the night went by beautifully. There was alot of partying to be had and my feet are still killing me. When it was time to retire home - well back to Jennie and Paul's, Paul made the yummiest coffee and it was time to sit and watch a DVD which a good friend Clair had made for me. It was all about my journey since entering the Tri World doing my first Enticer in March last year to my first ever 70.3 in May.

I loved it - thankyou Clair. It means so much that you took the time to do this for me. You are a special soul. Have watched it now 4 times and think there may be a 5th coming up shortly. And I didn't realise I was having my photo taken as I was watching it - Jennie.

The following morning Stephen and I got spoilt rotten by Jennie and Paul. We had the best breakfast laid out for us. Thankyou so much guys. You made our stay so welcoming - Stephen and I appreciate it immensely. Paul won the "Encouragement Award". Congratulations. You deserve it.

So it is now 2 days post ball, and I am still smiling. I even went out for my first 5km run back since feeling a bit BLAH and it was good. Got to get it all happening again as Yeppoon is fast approaching. And being the ever photographer I am - I had to get a photo to commemorate my comeback.

I'm BACK.

Be gone.

2011-06-13T15:06:00.009+10:00

To the the "low headspace" and the "physical fatigue". I hadn't wanted you around in the first place. You tried ever so hard to take a hold but it is with extreme jubilation that I say farewell to thee.

The last week was for me by far the toughest. Harder than any training session I had done. Harder than any race I have gone in. Atleast when you are training or racing you have an end in sight. The end of the tunnel is there and you can see it you just have to work to getting there. But when you feel so down in all sense of the word and really don't have a reason as to why - it is hard to stay focused in trying to stay in control.

Your mind is really good at playing tricks on you and makes you question your strength and resolve. The fatigue which is associated with it all feels downright depressing. I should have listened when my coaches, family and friends kept telling me to take a rest. But I felt so good and physically I felt on top of the world. However I guess my slump hit a month late and when it hit - it hit HARD. Even if I wanted to get out there - I just couldn't. And the more I tried to analyse why it was I was feeling the way I was, the worse I felt.

With all my sulking and momentary seclusion from the world I came across this really good piece of literature sent through from my coach. Everything on it is what I was and am still to some degree feeling. Click here to have a read. I have never been good at listening when people tell me to stop and rest but it seems I have no other alternative for now.

So now I am being forced to rest. I have had 90% of last week off and now all of this week as well and in a way even though at first I saw it as a complete imposition - I am now relishing in the rest. I have gone for some leisurely walks, spent some serious time catching up with my family/friends and have just come back from a wonderful night away in the hills with the family.

And we also got spoilt to some good food. I love cooking.

Have I missed training? Initially yes (like crazy) and then the need to train fizzled. But I am so happy to report that I am feeling the need to get back into it from deep down inside each and every cell. I am longing to get back out with my friends on the roads and tracks. I am yearning for that camaraderie and feeling of mateship.

I need to make sure I behave for this week as I have Yeppoon to train for and I need to be fighting fit for it. It seems the old Barb is resurfacing. She couldn't hide for too long.

Free your mind.

2011-06-08T11:06:00.004+10:00

"Surely there is grandeur in knowing that in the realm of thought, at least, you are without a chain; that you have the right to explore all heights and depth; that there are no walls nor fences, nor prohibited places, nor

sacred corners in all the vast expanse of thought"

Robert Green Ingersoll

It couldn't possibly be.

2011-06-06T12:52:00.003+10:00

Could it? This late in the game? Surely not! But not sure what else it could be. Could this post race slump happen so many weeks after an event? As it has never happened to me before after a swim event it has me quite stumped. For the last 3 weeks it has been and on again off again saga - one minute I feel okay and on top of the world and then the next I feel sad, tired and lacking of enthusiasm.

This has me very worried considering that as of next week I start my training again for Yeppoon. When I think back to how I was feeling for Port training - enthused, ecstatic, bubbling with excitement - this is NOT how I am feeling at the moment. Right at this very moment I feel - NOTHING. Actually, I lie - I feel overwhelmed. Engulfed would probably be a more fitting word.

This feeling seems to be having negative side effects on my emotional well being. I am normally a happy, cheery person who can tackle a million and one things and still come out on top, and somehow at the moment I feel like everything is coming on top of me. And it's probably not - actually if I was to look at it with non-judgemental eyes, it really isn't but it is the feeling of treading water that I don't like.

I like waking up and knowing that I am on top of everything and that I am in control. However, when I wake up feeling overwhelmed before the day has even started - that is not a good thing in my books. I think I need to cut me some slack and know that it's okay to not feel 100% all the time - day in and day out.

I was even working on a little project which I was excited about and have decided to not go ahead with it at the moment as it would just be something else to think about, and if I couldn't give that 100% the way I do everything else then I would feel disappointed. So, it is on hold. Till I am thinking clearer and back to being Barbie.

But I am still left to wonder - is this a delayed POST RACE SLUMP?

On the road again.

2011-06-01T19:35:00.005+10:00

Oh how I have missed my blog. It has been a full week since I last posted and that has never happened since I started in this Blogger world. It's not that I haven't had anything to write about - God only knows that to not be the truth - it's just that life has gotten so busy. And not really sure with what. I guess life just has a way of picking up the tempo for a bit to see if you have what it takes.

I am still doing training - and by training I mean not following a plan yet, but I am still getting out most days and enjoying just being out there. For instance - last Sunday I went out for our regular chick ride. It was good to be out with Cloe and Elissa and just enjoy the ride and eachother's company. I managed to get a little snap of us out on our ride:

We ended up riding just a little over 52km that morning and even though I didn't feel too crash hot as I have been giving my legs quite a workout I still was able to hold a reasonable pace. If I can still talk and laugh then I know I am doing good.

Then on Monday was our regular Windtrainer session with TopNotch. There was to be no run off the bike that night - talk about torrential downpour all day. It was a complete shocker. But the session was really intense. We ended up doing 4 x 10 mins set broken up into - 5mins small ring easy gear high cadence over 95, then 5mins big ring, gear which will maintain cadence over 95. I haven't worked that hard in ages. I mean I am normally quite quiet when I train(I know hard to believe) - but I don't grunt or make any kinds of sounds but Monday night had me sighing in pain on the very last set. Talk about burning legs. PHWOAR.

Then Tuesday I spent the morning enjoying a really nice swim with Susan and Melanie. Both are training for the new Tri Season. Melanie is going to tackle her first Triathlon - this is very exciting indeed. During this swim session I ended up swimming 2.5km broken into sets of 250's. Some of them were straight Fr/s whilst others were with pullbouy, paddles, flippers, Bk/s. I also got to use my new goggles - the Vorgee Tomahawk. I love the name - they sound fast. Better still they match my Tri suit.

Wednesday I headed out with the girls again for the usual bunch ride. What a great bunch of woman they are. We were also joined by one of their husband's who I found out knew my husband. What a small small world this is. I ended up riding 62.5km and loved every minute of it. And the best bit was that the rain held out right up until almost the very last minute when I got sprinkled on for a mere 5 mins.

Then yesterday I joined Genelle, Kristen and Bec for another trail run. This one hurt bad. I ended up running just shy of 12kms in 1hr 17mins but let me tell you - there was one hill in amongst it all that had me walking quite a bit. But with all my walking and lagging behind the girls would track back and collect me and make sure I was okay. Check out the elevation. This was by far the hardest challenge for me not just physically but mentally as well as that hill and road never seemed to finish. But I did it. And a year ago I never thought I could run - now look at me - I am a trail runner. How cool is that. I can see some new goals starting to appear.

How could I also forget to mention my first strength and core class with Sparta. I had an absolute ball. Haven't laughed that hard in ages. Aside from working very hard there were moments of complete hysterical laughter. Check this photo out:

This is me doing my very best impersonation of a Space Invader crossed with a crab and Sarah trying to shoot me down with the VIPR. Can't wait to go again next week.

Today is my rest day and I am heading out to find myself a dress for the PTC end of year ball.

Do you have days?

2011-05-26T18:02:00.014+10:00

My training hasn't even started for Yeppoon yet and I can feel the urge to get out growing ever stronger. I have taken up going for group activities with the girls from the club. Wednesday group rides and today I did my first trail run. But firstly lets speak about the Wednesday bike ride.

Talk about windy. The weather bureau had forecasted an extreme weather warning for Sydney with gusts of winds being recorded over 90km/hr coming from the South and heading North. Which meant if we were not going to get the full brunt of it atleast we were going to get a good taste of windy weather.

I was in 2 minds about going. Firstly because I don't like wind at all and secondly because it can pose some serious risk to your health if you are caught off guard. But when all the girls turned up primed and ready to go - I bit the bullet and went along, even though deep deep down I was nervous. Did I need to be nervous? No.

Yes, the ride was windy and challenging at times but it wasn't as bad as I had expected. The route that we took was chosen to provide maximum shelter from the wind and enhance the advantages of tailwinds on the way back. The route was about 60km in distance and one of the girls Kelly decided she would like to have a crack at the Greendale route. I remember my first time and fully understood how nervous she was and I did the hills with her. She conquered those hills with such strength, resilience and a smile and everyone was so happy for her in conquering such a mammoth ride. Well done Kelly - we are very proud of you.

Then yesterday I decided to have a go at my first ever trail run. WOW, what an amazing morning. Talk about exhilarating and challenging. For the first time ever I felt like a hard core runner. I felt like one of the pack - and I will never ever forget that feeling. It was my best friend Susan's first attempt at trail running too and let me tell you she totally nailed it.

Little did I know what lay ahead in challenges for me. As Genelle turned up, then her son and his friend and then Kristen - we headed off for a warm up run before the real trail running started.

Entrance to the trail.

As we stopped at this bridge is was time for a stretch and then we got cracking up my first set of challenges. STAIRS. This was not easy - whilst I saw them all bound up those stairs like gazelles I grabbed onto the rail and pulled myself up one by one until the steep stairs levelled out and it then became a bit of a slow slog up the rest till the top. This trail running business is definitely an art form.

Once it levelled out up the top and my heart rate dropped below heart attack range - Genelle sent her son and his friend to do stair repeats - OUCH. The rest of us went for a run - a run which I can only describe as glorious. The smells, sights, sounds made my senses come alive. The crackling of dry leaves under foot, the smell of eucalyptus was thick in the air and there were some strange scurrying sounds nearby which I knew could only belong to lizards or mice as it was too cold for snakes.

I tried really hard to stay focused on the ground in front of me as there was a myriad of rocks at every placement of my foot. Some were embedded deep within the ground, others were loose and laying on top. There were big rocks, little rocks, crushed sandstone, twigs, fallen branches, roots - you name it, and I needed to not be falling on any of them. I needed to make each of my footfalls light and try to stay on my forefoot as much as possible. It worked - thanks Kristen. But I must admit the mental concentration was starting to outweigh the physicality of it all. My goal was - don't twist your ankle.

Once at the top - this was the majestic view we had to take in.

And I got to share it with these wonderful women.

The thing I like about trail running is that it is not about speed but rather the amount of time spent running. I can see the physical benefits that you would gain from doing this once a week and how much stronger I will be as a result of it. I could feel my hamstrings and calf muscles really working overtime. You don't even really realise the distance you are covering because you are just enjoying what nature has to offer.

The remainder of the run saw us meandering through some more bush but then going through suburban streets and parks. We finished off down a nice stretch of sealed road which was totally closed off to traffic. The one thing I realised running down hill is how easy it is to get a stitch. I must bounce around too much and not hold my core firm. Oh well, was a good opportunity to stop and get a photo.

So we finished up running 10.6km in about 1hr 15mins. I was so happy and proud of Susan. This was not only her first time trail running but it was also her furthest distance running. She is trying to work her way up to Half Marathon distance and at this rate she could well run a Marathon before too long. Thanks for a wonderful morning ladies. Looking forward to next week already.

"You'll never discover new horizons if you're afraid to leave the shore"

What inspires you?

2011-05-23T13:33:00.004+10:00

Since starting on this journey of mine, the goal posts on many of my dreams have changed more times than I would like to count. The one's however that has stayed consistent through it all has been maintaining my fitness and to continue taking steps forward. These have been like the slab of a house - strong and sturdy throughout it all. Each step I take forward makes me stronger, healthier and happier - but it also takes me one step further away from the old me - the sick me of 2 yrs ago.

On Dailymile today one of the missions was to show other DM'ers what inspired you? And this is what I came up with?

And what inspires me is to continue setting goals consecutively so I can continue to move forward. I want to stay fit and healthy because it's what makes me happy. And aside from my family and friends whom I love dearly and who all have only my best interests at heart- nothing gives me greater pleasure than to work my way towards something which I never thought I could do. It proves to me that I am capable of whatever it is I set my mind to do.

"When you passion and your purpose is

greater than you fears and excuses

You will find a way"

I don't make excuses for myself anymore - there's no need to really. I have already proven to myself more times than not that I can and the only one who holds me back IS ME. And sure some things scare me and overwhelm me - like waiting to get into the water at Port, but allowing myself to enjoy each and every opportunity that come's before me whether they be easy or hard makes me realise more and more that life at this very given moment should be grasped with both hands and made the most of. Life is there for the taking - what have you got to lose?

This weekend was one such opportunity too good to miss. Not because I participated in the event but I got to be on the other side of the fence as photographer at our clubs first Duathlon of the season.

I loved cheering everyone on and taking photos - many were very bad (hence the reason I am not a paid photographer) however many others after some good editing turned out not too shabby. I was quite happy with my efforts - and let me tell you I was huffing and puffing running from one vantage point to the next to make sure I didn't miss out on anyone - which I am sure I still did.

Watching people riding inspired me to get more focused on my bike. To maybe change the set up on it and make it slightly more aggressive. Which is what I did this morning. Nothing is ever too much for the boys at Panther Cycles, Dave had me all set up in a jiffy and then I got to have a good chat with Blanche - that was nice. I'm looking forward to getting out this Wednesday with the girls and testing it out and seeing how it all feels. There is still more room to move with the bars should I feel I would like to come down further. But lets see after Wednesday.

So what inspires you?

Kickin' it.

2011-05-20T12:23:00.005+10:00

What an absolutely wonderful day today has been so far. Sore throat is settling thanks to Diflam and I got to go out for a run with my bestie Susan. What more could a girl want. Feeling kind of lucky and special that I get to enjoy the middle of the days like this.

Running with Susan today highlighted a couple of things:

My average pace per km has gotten faster. My 5min/km now feels easy. I wasn't ever expecting to feel that.
I even ran for a bit at 4:30 pace due to simply changing my foot strike. I am a notorious heel striker as well as hip wobbler, but today I got serious on my form and lo and behold my pace got faster. Funny that. And it didn't even hurt to run at that pace either.
Susan was looking to me to be her pacer as she wants to train up to a Half Marathon. Now anyone who knows my bestie Susan knows that she is a gun at running and runs like a gazelle. But she wanted me to show her a pace that could be sustainable for that longer distance. I felt honoured to be able to help - she has always been my sounding board on the running side of things.
I now feel comfortable to accept people's compliments when they say I am a runner. Mind you I still think I run funny.

We finished running 8km in 40mins. I was very very happy with this considering this is my longest run since Port 70.3. Looks like Winter training is going to go great. I should hopefully finish up my training for Yeppoon a stronger, much more competent runner - fingers crossed.

Today was also great because one of my blog postings made it on the Dailymile BLOG. Check it out here: CODE BROWN. I know this has happened to nearly everyone I have spoken to and thought I would share the love with you all with a little scientific knowledge behind why we need to go when we need to go. Hope it makes you giggle.

I also forgot to mention that I got a new hairdo on Monday by my friend Jennie. Absolutely love love love it. It had been months since I got a colour done - yes I'd had trims but a colour and some sprucing up is just what this gal needed.

We are already in discussions about the next DO. Stay tuned.

Good thing is the kids love it and so does Stephen. God only knows they have seen and tolerated my many different hairstyles which I change at a whim - but this one is definitely a STAYER in their eyes.

How has your day been?

Now off I go to finish my housework.

And some!!!

2011-05-18T20:12:00.005+10:00

Started off as a NOT MUCH week but has since progressed with speed into a THEN SOME. I have been wanting - actually YEARNING to get back into some form of training but know that I really don't have that long till it all starts up again so I should just enjoy the leisurely and really social aspect of just getting out.

So with that said I got back into Windtrainer Sessions with TopNotch and my buds and enjoyed a really good hour of doing intervals which focused on technique. It's amazing how a few off intense training and completing a 70.3 can really affect you. Even though I wasn't totally spent, I could feel my form start to drop much quicker which indicates fatigue. Nevermind - it shouldn't take too long to get back into the swing of things.

Then on Tuesday I went out for another ride - only this time on my own and just did 30km at a nice easy pace to flush out the old legs and to soak up the glorious rays. Our weather at the moment - although crisp in the mornings has been absolutely AMAZING during the days. I don't think we could be asking for anything better this time of year. After the ride I caught up with Susan and Melanie for a coffee and bite to eat. Haven't done that in a while with you guys - thanks girls.

Then yesterday I was invited to go for another bike ride with the regular Wednesday group of girls.

Thanks so much for a wonderful morning ride and coffee afterwards. You girls are totally inspirational - something I aspire to be like in the not too distant future. The strength in those legs is without a doubt AMAZING. I have been so lucky since joining PTC - every single person has been more than willing to have me jump on board. I thankyou all from the bottom of my heart and I look forward to many more Wednesday and Sunday Chick rides. Then in the afternoon I was treated to yummy cupcakes and coffee at D's house. YUMMO. What a day.

Last night though after a glorious day in the sun - my throat has decided to pack it in. It's scratchy, dry and feels like it has been scolded. Ughhhhh - maybe it was all the huffing and puffing I did trying to get up some of - actually all of those hills. Or maybe it's an infection. Off to the chemist this morning I go for some medication. I have to terminate the bugs existence before it try's to ruin my week.

Tonnes of stuff

2011-05-16T07:34:00.008+10:00

That's what this weekend had in store for me. It was jam packed with alot of good times, laughs and memories.

Sunday morning I woke up bright and early to head into the city with a friend from Dailymile Andrew. He and 12 others were competing in the Sydney Morning Herald Half Marathon representing not only themselves but also Dailymile. What an experience it was for me to be on the other side of an event - as a cheer leader. As an official cheer squad representing Dailymile.

The morning was a blast. FREEZING but so alive with energy, nerves, excitement - and that was just for me. I wasn't even competing and I was totally fuelled and ready to go. I could only imagine how everyone else was feeling. It was really nice to catch up with everyone - some whom I had met before and others who it was my first time meeting. Being part of this community - not only the Dailymile community but this fitness community is unlike any other. I am so happy to be a part of it all. I also spotted some friends from my Tri Club PTC, my training group TopNotch and my friend and ex-beautician who has since moved towns.

Then when I came home aside from the fact that I was still so very cold, I was welcomed home with the best lunch ever from my husband and children. Mum came to join us also.

This was absolutely divine - tasty and filling - just what I needed to warm up.

The only downer to this whole weekend is the fact that I just can't really seem to shake this sinus congestion. It's kind of lingered with me ever since that last infection and my head always feels full and slightly Neanderthal like. After Yeppoon it looks like there could be a possible trip to a specialist.

Could I be any prouder - I think not.

2011-05-14T18:38:00.007+10:00

My kids are just so inspirational. I cannot speak highly enough of them even if I tried. Last week they played their first tennis comp and totally ruled the courts. No matter how scared they were they went out onto that court and played with so much GUSTO that it brought tears to my eyes.

This week it was as though the boys had been playing since FOREVER. Taillah had a BYE but still helped out on the court. It is really nice as a parent to watch your kids do so well and work well as a team. I couldn't be prouder - even the parents of the children who my kids played against commended them on their behaviour and manners.

I look at my kids and feel honoured to be their Mum. They really are great kids. Even when all their self doubt started to surface last week, they still smiled their BIG smiles and kept at it - maintaining their cool. Me on the other hand totally suck at being a reserved tennis spectator. I must learn tennis etiquette and refrain from cheering from courtside. This is NOT a TRIATHLON. It is not cool to WooHoo when my kids score a point.

I am also terribly proud of my husband. He started back playing tennis after almost a 10yr hiatus and is such a naturally gifted tennis player it is a real pleasure to watch. I can't wait for him to start playing comp so I can go watch and try to behave courtside NOT. How can anyone not get excited or is it just that I get OVER EXCITED. Either way I may have to buy myself a muzzle so I can force myself to be quiet.

Sincerely yours.

2011-05-12T18:21:00.000+10:00

Dear Mr truck driver:

As I was riding my bike this morning, minding my own business but observing road rules, I had all hopes of having an enjoyable ride. It was sunny, brisk and a bit windy but nonetheless a really beautiful morning.

I am sure when you set out for work this morning you had all intentions of just doing your job and finishing the day with hopes of getting home after a hard days work safe and healthy. Those are my intentions everytime I go for a bike ride too. You see I have a husband and children whom I love dearly and look forward to being with everyday. I'm not sure if you have a wife and children, but I am sure you have some family to speak of who care about you too.

So my question to you is - Why do you chose to make decisions which could not only affect my life but that of yours too? Do you really not value another person's life or even that of your own and your family? You seriously cannot be that devoid of emotion!!!!!

Could you not see me? I was wearing a bright yellow vest - I thought it would stand out - clearly not in your eyes. I am always thinking of what to wear so I stand out. But still you chose to either ignore the fact that I require the same respect on the road as I give to you or you just couldn't care less or you were caught up thinking. If the latter is you - then I suggest you take a good hard look at yourself and realise the impact of your lack of decision making on another human life.

I know you probably wanted to get to your destination quickly, but seriously, would another 20 seconds have altered the outcome of your morning that much. It could have altered mine. It is lucky I ride cautiously, that I make myself as aware as possible of my surroundings. Had I have chosen to look down or have not been focused my morning could have ended differently. You made me grind to a holt because you wanted to get to your destination. You made me very scared. I could not believe what I was seeing before my very eyes.

So all I ask is - the next time you are out driving, please open your eyes. Stay focused on the road in front of you and realise that you are not the only individual using our roads. Exercise critical thinking and make sure your choices are appropriate - regardless of your schedule for the day. Know that your manners out on the road are highly regarded when you behave.

I want to look forward to my rides and I want to share the roads with you in a manner which benefits both you and I.

Sincerely yours

Barbie-tryingatri.

FROSTY

2011-05-11T19:34:00.004+10:00

Arghhhhhh, Winter has decided to come early and I wish it had of decided to have kept it's usual schedule of appearing at 1st June. I can't get over how cold it is. We got our first frost this morning and it was a doozie. It got me thinking -

This Winter training for Yeppoon is going to be hard stuff.

Hard because I can never seem to defrost. Last Sunday when I went for a ride with Elissa, it actually took me till midday from 8:30am (ride finish time) to actually defrost. My fingers and toes were a beautiful shade of beetroot for hours, but the actual cold I felt in my bones lasted for much longer. And I was all rugged up too. I wore - singlet, long sleeve, jersey, cycle jacket, wind vest, cycling shorts, long pants, 2 pairs of socks, headband which covered my ears, and gloves - AND I was still a frozen popsicle on the bike.

I wonder if I could invent a bodysuit that has an inner layer like an electric blanket that is pedal powered.

I would hate to be that frozen that I end up like this:

On a different note: Entries for Port Macquarie Ironman 2012 opened today and sold out within a couple hours. They are opening up another 100 entries tomorrow at midday. For all of my friends that did not get through - may you be one of those lucky 100.

Post 70.3 feelings and more race pics.

2011-05-09T08:22:00.013+10:00

So I am still waiting for this post race slump that I have heard about and can't seem to find it anywhere. In fact, I think I may have found this thing called the post race mania. I can't stop smiling, reflecting, re-living, wondering and even setting some more short, mid and long term goals. I never in my wildest dreams thought that I would get this drawn in by a sport. Actually I think it's the whole lifestyle associated with it. Not only is everyday varied but it is probably the most well rounded in terms of fitness for me.

I have found that I am able to recover each different muscle group effectively because you don't seem to be constantly repeating the same sort of activity. And it's this variety that keeps me interested.

Since the 70.3 I have seem to recovered really well. The first 3 days I waddled a bit like a penguin. My hips felt like they had be soldered and my quads ached so badly it hurt to sit, stand or anything for that matter. But after that I think I was fairly good to go. I went for a nice easy bike ride the Thursday morning following with Nicole as stated in the previous blog and although I felt good, I got to about half way through the ride and had absolutely nothing to give. So I quickly realised I wasn't that good to go.

Then on Sunday - Mothers Day, I went for a quick bike ride before my gorgeous family got up. Elissa and I rode for about 90mins and a really comfy pace and I felt amazing, except for the fact that it was 4 degrees celsius. Talk about being cold. My fingers and toes were frozen stiff and a beautiful shade of beetroot. Winter sure has made it's presence felt.

So I spoke about these short, mid and long term goals. Here is my plan up till 2013. I told you there was a long term goal.

SHORT: Yeppoon 70.3 August 14.

I would like to attempt to beat my time from Port, even if only by 2 mins. So I have looked at all my splits and think this could be possible. I need to get a little bit more assertive in the water and try to hold my ground and go out harder than what I did. The one thing I noticed is that nobody holds back and if they have to swim over you to get to where they want to get to - they will. So I need to stay ahead of that bunch.

When it comes to the bike, at Yeppoon it is a flat 5 lap course. So if all goes well I am hoping to hold a 30km/hr average. At Port they averaged my pace at 28km/hr. I think I can do this.

Now for the run, I have decided that I will not walk every aid station rather every second. I am hoping to hit a 2hr 21.1km. And if I can do that between the bike and the run, I have saved myself 15mins which should drop the 5hr 52mins to 5hr 37min.

Of course I know things can go wrong but in the perfect world this is what I am hoping to achieve.

MID: Port Macquarie 70.3 2012.

The only way to know in my head if I have improved for sure is to do the same race and same course. So when registration opens up for Port Macquarie 70.3 2012 I will sign up with much excitement and anticipation.

LONG: Port Macquarie Ironman 2013.

Oh boy, I have said it out loud. I have declared it to the world and am so happy. There was something about seeing all of my fellow team mates tackle that goal that made me want the same. 3 weeks ago on a ride with Cloe and Elissa the year 2013 was brought up as being the year that we would tackle that dream. I said YES but inside was scared. But now that I have tackled my first 70.3 I think somewhere deep down I have what it takes to finish the full IM. And I think by extending it to 2013 I am giving myself the best opportunity to realise that dream.

So with these wheels set in motion I look forward to reaching every single one of them.

Here are some more photos from Port:

These photos courtesy of Jeff Akers.

Team Barbie - you guys are just the BEST and I love you more than words can say. This day was made so much easier because you were all in it.

Mum, Ule, Elissa, Susan, Kyle, Me, Stephen, Taillah,Kurtis, Aunty June, Uncle George, Julie & my Father in law Barry.

My number 1 supporter and my love, Stephen.

I may be taller than my Mum - but she holds me up and supports me all the time.

LOVE YOU

My life - they are my everything. I love you beyond all measure.

My best friend/sister Susan. Love you.

My strength, my rock, Elissa. Love you.

Sometimes you just have to cut loose.

Stay tuned for more photos. They just keep coming!!!