What has happened to all the hours in the day?? And how do I seem to use them up so easily?? Back in January when Stewart and I were reviewing our year and discussing things we liked, didn't like, things we would change etc ( we also did this with the kids and related it to our 2 years of marriage and it was so fun) but anyway .... I said that I Just wanted MORE time! I felt like I didn't have it anymore and could not figure out why? I was not even training for anything but just felt completely overwhelmed. We begin to talk about ways I could get more time added back into my day and unfortunately it seems to be going the other way.
My work life is crazy busy - I basically do two full time jobs at once. I teach PE and wellness classes and coach and then throw in being lower school AD. I love it but let me tell you there is NEVER enough time in the day. Each day just flies by and I think to myself REALLY? We are done? I try so hard to never bring work home so each day is always an adventure going from one project to the next.
My Life is Crazy busy - hmm.. 5 kids... someone always needs something. Even my biggest who is out of town. I often joke to Stewart that the kids are always wanting to be fed, talking, or taken somewhere. I have decided that with Riley's upcoming wedding, Noah's senior year and college visits, and Morgan Hopefully Hopefully making pom that my life is going to be even more insane. Throw in Richard, Molly and Stewart's schedule and we are on the move. My van alone drove over 1000 miles last month and most of those were in Memphis!
Then we have my fun life... no matter how busy I make it a priority to spend time with Stewart, the kids, and friends in extra stuff. I try to never miss a happy hour with friends or a chance to chill out with Stewart and the kids. I also belong to book club and Stewart and I belong to a couple's uhm drinking club - lots of fun! I always try to throw some travel in as well because traveling with Stewart may rank up there as being one of my all time favorite things. I need this time to unwind and relax
So the only thing I have left to try and fit in with all of the above is my training and I have to tell you for some reason it has been hard. I have never felt so undertrained or out of shape in my life and left me questioning did I even want to race this season. After 11 years of the sport, the intensity and the time I need to spend on it just can't be the same. I sit in my office and look at my huge bookcase and wall full of medals, trophies, and awards and just can't imagine being there again. Then I got sick and let me tell you I was pretty sure I had something seriously wrong with me. At times, I felt like I was in a middle of a brain aneurasym and the next thing I was going to see was darkness. Training and triathlons became the farthest thing from my mind. I think I missed like 10 days of physical activity and never once did I even come close to thinking about my work outs or how out of shape I was getting. Triathlon and training was the farthest from my mind. I just wanted to feel and be healthy. Something that has been missing lately!!
What I did think about was how lucky I was. When I was able to get on the bike and ride 3 miles with Noah around a path, I thought about how lucky I was to have such a great son. What I did think about as I laid in the sun and read a book was how lucky I was to be able to get outside and enjoy the sunlight and the day. Even waking up and going into the kitchen and getting a cup of coffee made me stop and think how grateful I was for all that I had. I can certainly see how people with major illnesses or accidents get a whole new perspective on life. I sure did just after spending 10 days feeling like holy hell. I still have another doctor visit and after scans, blood work, and some other tests not sure what caused what but a lot of my doctor explaining why. I trust her and believe her so I have to go with it. Now I am finally feeling better and I realize triathlon is no big deal. Something I love but If I race undertrained, it is going to be ok because I am out there DOING IT! If I race with an all time personal worst, it is Ok because I am out there DOING IT! If I decide I don't want to race at all this year, that is OK too. This alone has been really hard for me to come to terms with as triathlon has always been such a big part of my like. For the remainder of the school year, my "training" is going on the back burner. Workouts will be minimal or non existent. I may even race on these minimal work outs and it will be ok.
As I have searched for time these last few months, I HAVE realized is that there will never be enough time. What I have realized in the last two weeks (when just getting through work and my parenting duties was sometimes too much) is to relish every bit of time that I have. That all of the above are so important and that I really need to be in the moment and enjoying the moment. Just like I tell my kids if you are going to take the time to do something, make sure you are doing your best.
Tuesday, April 12, 2016
Wednesday, March 23, 2016
Where oh where has my motivation gone??
As I enter my 10th or maybe 11th year of triathlon, I begin to wonder if it is my last. I know I say that every year but this year motivation is at all time low. I am just not sure where it has gone. I sit here and watch Stewart getting fitter by the minute and more and more motivated and I am just blah. He blames it that I haven't picked any races for the season so I have no goals or nothing to train for. He may be right. I do plan to do Rebelman even though I haven't registered for it. I am waiting to see if it will be cold. Those days are OVER! Even knowing rebelman is on the horizon doesn't have me motivated. I have ran 3 miles this week!! Sunday I put on my running clothes for a long run and wore them all day but never made it out to run. Story of my life lately.
The thing is I just can't figure out what to do without triathlon. I have been doing it so long just not sure what could fit in its place. I keep hoping that something will come along but not sure. I also hope that I may race a race and that will be just what I need to light my fire.
Sure I am training some but nowhere where I need to be. Life just seems to always get in the way and daylight savings has really rocked my world! Where is the time gone? The other day I was finishing up dinner at 8:45 and realized that it was not 6:00 like I thought and my night was pretty much over. And I sure wasn't having a late dinner because I was training!
Track has also rocked me over into a new universe, I am school late and traffic has sucked! Getting home is an adventure in itself and by the time I get there I don't want to do anything. I also don't want to do anything before work because it is dark once again in the morning. Staying in bed has been optimal. Maybe I will take up knitting.
Yesterday I tried Bikram yoga. I was really hoping to fall in love! Unfortunately I did not but I did like it and I will go back. I do know I am super sore today and for the first time in a week my foot does not hurt and my calf feels loose. Maybe that has to do with the fact that I only have ran 3 miles but I hope it is the Bikram. I think yesterday was just a shock! I walked in and it was HOT!! My first thoughts were it is hot as a MF in here. I am surprised they didn't come out of my mouth. At first I began to doubt myself and wonder if I was going to make it but I told myself you are an Ironman - you can do this. That is the great thing about completing an Ironman, I feel like once you do that you can use that to measure up to anything. I also wore a watch into class which is 90 minutes long by the way! An hour and a half for the math challenged like me! When it beeped on the hour I was told by the instructor watches were not allowed. What?? If I would not have had a watch on I maybe would have had a mental breakdown. At times I felt like the only thing that kept me going was saying you have 30 minutes left, you have 5minutes left, etc. No watch is going to be a huge mental challenge but one I probably need. I am not sure I have ever sweat that much in my life even on a hot July run. I am going to buy the introductory package so the good thing is if I do get motivation back I will have a jump start on heat training. And not only is it hot but you can only drink when they let you and you pretty much can't leave. If you are having issues, they ask you just sit there and breathe which is no small feat. At times I felt like I was at max running heart rate while laying on a mat!
So - please tell me how do I find this motivation?? I want to race - I want to get in shape but unfortunately I have found laying on the couch wrapped in a blanket or hanging out I want more.
I may toe the line on April 3rd. I can be over confident and undertrained. The good thing is I am now 45, I can just use my age as my excuse.
The thing is I just can't figure out what to do without triathlon. I have been doing it so long just not sure what could fit in its place. I keep hoping that something will come along but not sure. I also hope that I may race a race and that will be just what I need to light my fire.
Sure I am training some but nowhere where I need to be. Life just seems to always get in the way and daylight savings has really rocked my world! Where is the time gone? The other day I was finishing up dinner at 8:45 and realized that it was not 6:00 like I thought and my night was pretty much over. And I sure wasn't having a late dinner because I was training!
Track has also rocked me over into a new universe, I am school late and traffic has sucked! Getting home is an adventure in itself and by the time I get there I don't want to do anything. I also don't want to do anything before work because it is dark once again in the morning. Staying in bed has been optimal. Maybe I will take up knitting.
Yesterday I tried Bikram yoga. I was really hoping to fall in love! Unfortunately I did not but I did like it and I will go back. I do know I am super sore today and for the first time in a week my foot does not hurt and my calf feels loose. Maybe that has to do with the fact that I only have ran 3 miles but I hope it is the Bikram. I think yesterday was just a shock! I walked in and it was HOT!! My first thoughts were it is hot as a MF in here. I am surprised they didn't come out of my mouth. At first I began to doubt myself and wonder if I was going to make it but I told myself you are an Ironman - you can do this. That is the great thing about completing an Ironman, I feel like once you do that you can use that to measure up to anything. I also wore a watch into class which is 90 minutes long by the way! An hour and a half for the math challenged like me! When it beeped on the hour I was told by the instructor watches were not allowed. What?? If I would not have had a watch on I maybe would have had a mental breakdown. At times I felt like the only thing that kept me going was saying you have 30 minutes left, you have 5minutes left, etc. No watch is going to be a huge mental challenge but one I probably need. I am not sure I have ever sweat that much in my life even on a hot July run. I am going to buy the introductory package so the good thing is if I do get motivation back I will have a jump start on heat training. And not only is it hot but you can only drink when they let you and you pretty much can't leave. If you are having issues, they ask you just sit there and breathe which is no small feat. At times I felt like I was at max running heart rate while laying on a mat!
So - please tell me how do I find this motivation?? I want to race - I want to get in shape but unfortunately I have found laying on the couch wrapped in a blanket or hanging out I want more.
I may toe the line on April 3rd. I can be over confident and undertrained. The good thing is I am now 45, I can just use my age as my excuse.
Monday, February 1, 2016
LIFE at 45....
I wish I had something great to report or blog about. I love to write the blog because it is like my diary and I love to go back and read it. I had a blog previously and it had some great entries about my sweet little Zeus, Ironman, Ragbri, events etc and due to ( not sure how I want to word it) unforeseen circumstances these were wiped out, deleted, gone forever and it still really bothers me today. I am not good on documenting or organizing so I use the blog to record memories and I use facebook to store pictures. Stewart laughs because I can spend hours going back and just looking at pictures on facebook. Yes! These are my family albums and such an easy way for me to keep track of things. So... yes that does explain why you see countless pictures from me constantly! Only way to keep them around.
So back to the blog. I have nothing exciting to say but want to record something as I approach my 45th birthday. 45 as a number seems really old to me, in person I feel really young despite not being able to read and remember things. I have become that person that has to shine her flashlight on the menu and hold far away to even see it. I did try on readers the other day and then progressed to the walker and cane just for fun. I looked like a little old lady as I shopped around Walgreens.
40 was a big shock to me and I felt like I was pretty much doomed. I never believed in a mid life crisis but after hitting 40, I do believe. The feeling of anxiousness and the thought of my youth being over was crazy. Luckily 45 does not feel like that and I have learned to appreciate every day that I have! Yes, I would like to have a few less wrinkles on my face and maybe that twenty something year old body but those are just window dressing. I really would not want to go back and live through all that again. It was a great time but the memories are enough and 45 is going to be great I think.
45 is also bringing some changes... Riley is getting married and Noah is approaching his 18th birthday! I loved those kids as babies but I have to say I really love my adult kids. I love the conversations and the times we can spend together. I can't believe they are getting so big so fast with little priss right on their heels. I can not wait to go through this Wedding experience with Riley. She knows exactly what she wants, how she wants it, and wants it all to be perfect. I am going to just sit back and enjoy the process. I told Stewart I was not going to offer many opinions as I know Riley wants to do it just like she wants to do it. We sat down to dinner the other day and the first thing I said was " I hope for your wedding... " and Stewart started dying laughing because he said so much for no opinions. But the good thing is I don't care if she takes them, I won't get upset but decided it is great food for thought. We did find a beautiful wedding venue this weekend so Riley will have this completed like by next week. :)
As for the training front - I am low key and bare minimum and it is awesome. Not sure what I am racing or when. Stewart has his whole summer planned and constantly asks are you doing this? My honest answer is I don't know, ask me the week of? Everything I am doing is low key and I love it. I love working out and training but I really love not having to do something, goals to meet, or a race that I need to be training for. The crazy thing is I am swimming the best I have ever swam. It all of a sudden feels right and natural and I LOVE it! I LOVE SWIMMING! Never thought I would say that! And I love that I put on my fins and may spend a whole set doing IM instead of actually doing the set to send coach data.
Running has been my least favorite lately and I haven't been doing much of it. I won't lie, I have been spending most of my running training sessions on the treadmill running 45 mins and watching hulu. I can catch up on the Bachelor, American Idol, Biggest Loser, etc. It is awesome! I may never run outside again!!! :) I did get in a trail run yesterday in Monteagle which about killed me but I have no REAL ( as in training with an actual goal) races on plan so I figured the treadmill is not bad. I do throw in some 400's and some hill repeats so it has to be all good. I may make an appearance at the Mike Cody this weekend for some outside time!!
I am loving lifting weights and going to 9 rounds. Both of these I could maybe do constantly! Usually Noah does these with me and getting to spend time with him is great too. The other day he thoroughly kicked my butt in a " rowing " race at the gym. Could not wait for him to get to the finish so I could just quit.
The bike is just the bike... it is one of those things I use to ride. Sometimes it gets on the trainer. This weekend Stewart had an easy ride on his plan and I talked him into renting the $8.00 bikes in downtown Chattanooga and we spent all day riding everywhere! Those things are clunkers and I told him he was getting in some training. I did have a moment of embarrassment as I walked it up a hill while wearing an Ironman jacket but hey things happen. Rumor has it that I may do a race in about 4 weeks that involves 45 miles of biking. That is going to be a fun experience. I feel like I have years of bike fitness behind me - it can't be that bad.. I really want to do the race but I really don't want to train for it so It will be an adventure.
And I guess I can't end this post without mentioning Stewart. Not sure what I did to have him end up in my life but if you believe in karma - I must have really good in my past life. I am not sure I have every met a more moral, loving, caring guy. I just am amazed everyday by his actions, by his willing to help people, by the way he cares about people and the way he loves people. Sometimes I feel like I really need to get my act together. Beside he is just fun! We spend countless hours just acting like kids and playing and he usually lets me have my way which we all know is a big plus! :)
And the kids... they are great and fun and challenging and loud and keep us busy! All of them have a million activities at once. Sometimes I joke to Stewart and say all they do is eat, talk, and want to be driven somewhere but watching them become these little mini adults is so fun!!
So as I enter this 45th year, I can't wait to see what it brings and I have a feeling it is going to be a good one.
Life is good as I enter this 45th year and can't wait to experience it!!
So back to the blog. I have nothing exciting to say but want to record something as I approach my 45th birthday. 45 as a number seems really old to me, in person I feel really young despite not being able to read and remember things. I have become that person that has to shine her flashlight on the menu and hold far away to even see it. I did try on readers the other day and then progressed to the walker and cane just for fun. I looked like a little old lady as I shopped around Walgreens.
40 was a big shock to me and I felt like I was pretty much doomed. I never believed in a mid life crisis but after hitting 40, I do believe. The feeling of anxiousness and the thought of my youth being over was crazy. Luckily 45 does not feel like that and I have learned to appreciate every day that I have! Yes, I would like to have a few less wrinkles on my face and maybe that twenty something year old body but those are just window dressing. I really would not want to go back and live through all that again. It was a great time but the memories are enough and 45 is going to be great I think.
45 is also bringing some changes... Riley is getting married and Noah is approaching his 18th birthday! I loved those kids as babies but I have to say I really love my adult kids. I love the conversations and the times we can spend together. I can't believe they are getting so big so fast with little priss right on their heels. I can not wait to go through this Wedding experience with Riley. She knows exactly what she wants, how she wants it, and wants it all to be perfect. I am going to just sit back and enjoy the process. I told Stewart I was not going to offer many opinions as I know Riley wants to do it just like she wants to do it. We sat down to dinner the other day and the first thing I said was " I hope for your wedding... " and Stewart started dying laughing because he said so much for no opinions. But the good thing is I don't care if she takes them, I won't get upset but decided it is great food for thought. We did find a beautiful wedding venue this weekend so Riley will have this completed like by next week. :)
As for the training front - I am low key and bare minimum and it is awesome. Not sure what I am racing or when. Stewart has his whole summer planned and constantly asks are you doing this? My honest answer is I don't know, ask me the week of? Everything I am doing is low key and I love it. I love working out and training but I really love not having to do something, goals to meet, or a race that I need to be training for. The crazy thing is I am swimming the best I have ever swam. It all of a sudden feels right and natural and I LOVE it! I LOVE SWIMMING! Never thought I would say that! And I love that I put on my fins and may spend a whole set doing IM instead of actually doing the set to send coach data.
Running has been my least favorite lately and I haven't been doing much of it. I won't lie, I have been spending most of my running training sessions on the treadmill running 45 mins and watching hulu. I can catch up on the Bachelor, American Idol, Biggest Loser, etc. It is awesome! I may never run outside again!!! :) I did get in a trail run yesterday in Monteagle which about killed me but I have no REAL ( as in training with an actual goal) races on plan so I figured the treadmill is not bad. I do throw in some 400's and some hill repeats so it has to be all good. I may make an appearance at the Mike Cody this weekend for some outside time!!
I am loving lifting weights and going to 9 rounds. Both of these I could maybe do constantly! Usually Noah does these with me and getting to spend time with him is great too. The other day he thoroughly kicked my butt in a " rowing " race at the gym. Could not wait for him to get to the finish so I could just quit.
The bike is just the bike... it is one of those things I use to ride. Sometimes it gets on the trainer. This weekend Stewart had an easy ride on his plan and I talked him into renting the $8.00 bikes in downtown Chattanooga and we spent all day riding everywhere! Those things are clunkers and I told him he was getting in some training. I did have a moment of embarrassment as I walked it up a hill while wearing an Ironman jacket but hey things happen. Rumor has it that I may do a race in about 4 weeks that involves 45 miles of biking. That is going to be a fun experience. I feel like I have years of bike fitness behind me - it can't be that bad.. I really want to do the race but I really don't want to train for it so It will be an adventure.
And I guess I can't end this post without mentioning Stewart. Not sure what I did to have him end up in my life but if you believe in karma - I must have really good in my past life. I am not sure I have every met a more moral, loving, caring guy. I just am amazed everyday by his actions, by his willing to help people, by the way he cares about people and the way he loves people. Sometimes I feel like I really need to get my act together. Beside he is just fun! We spend countless hours just acting like kids and playing and he usually lets me have my way which we all know is a big plus! :)
And the kids... they are great and fun and challenging and loud and keep us busy! All of them have a million activities at once. Sometimes I joke to Stewart and say all they do is eat, talk, and want to be driven somewhere but watching them become these little mini adults is so fun!!
So as I enter this 45th year, I can't wait to see what it brings and I have a feeling it is going to be a good one.
Life is good as I enter this 45th year and can't wait to experience it!!
Friday, December 4, 2015
The Foot....
Oh... the foot. Not really sure what I can say about this foot. Years ago, I would make fun of people who said they couldn't run because of plantar or because their foot hurt. I secretly thought they were wimps and just needed to suck it up. Well... then karma appeared to bite me in the ass and I found myself walking the walk of shame from Breakaway on Germantown pkwy all the way back to the visitor center at Shelby Farms. I literally could not run another step because of the pain. I called everyone I knew in between fits of stomping my feet and cussing to pick me up but no one answered. Karma was laughing. It was also laughing when I went from there to a boot. Not once but about a year later that sweet foot ended up in a boot again. Sigh...
So, fast forward a few years - after I really have shown true sympathy for people with foot issues I find myself there again. As Dr. Croft says I spend a lot of time on my feet that I don't consider when not running. I also spend it in weird combinations of shoes. You would think working in athletics with work out gear on, I would just wear a running shoe and be done. Nope, you can find me in keens, uggs, rain boots, crappy shoes, etc.
So... let's go all the way back to April and the Boston Marathon. I was hurt... surprise... being over zealous and lots of hills tend to do that to me. I thought I had a stress fracture in my hip ( I didn't) but leading up to the race, I quit running. I had not ran in about 2 weeks or more. As luck would have it, I had just bought a new pair of shoes that I had never ran in. New brand, new type everything. I figured race day couldn't be worse so I wore said shoes and HATED them! And FYI - not sure race day could be any worse. I really disliked everything about Boston. I use to say Hate but over time I guess I have mellowed. I returned these clunky heavy shoes and asked for the lightest thing they had and thought I loved them. I took some more time off to recover from the race from hell that left me for dead and to heal the injury and I started running in these shoes and they were great. This was around May.
In June, I became sick with pneumonia and was put on an antiobotic that was told after the fact, athletes should NEVER take. I developed tendonitis in the top of my foot and it hurt like a bitch. Dr. Croft prescribed my best friend ( a steroid) but it did not really do the trick. I was in the middle of Ironman training and I just had to suck it up. I also made sure I never ran back to back and if I could get a longer recovery time to baby my foot, I could manage it. Even though it did and still would keep me up off night with pain. We did spend a TON of time working on my tight calves. I am sure if the school PT guy would bill me, I would owe him my next two years of paychecks!!
Made it through Ironman, took time off, back to running - yep pain is still there. This time we try steroid ( YES) and 3 weeks of vimovo. First we think it is really working but then not so much! GRR... I am now ready to get back at it. I feel fat, sluggish, and no sense of purpose. I decide to train for the Wynne 25k in Jan. I decide to just run 3 days a week, lower mileage - higher intensity. Sometimes I am not sure if I am going to make it there. Sometimes I feel like I am one step away from a boot.
So I constantly think about this foot. It is always in the back of my head. My ankle is tight with not much mobility, the top of my foot is painful to the touch, and sometimes just taking my shoe off hurts. But... I am still running. I am brilliant - right? Well, I began to wonder if maybe the medicine was not the problem but the new shoes? They were kind of close together in time range. So - yesterday, I had mile repeats. Decided to go with my racing flats instead of my usual shoes and YES the foot did hurt some, and yes it woke me up last night, and yes I did have to start my morning rolling my calves but it really feels better. It really feels like the pain is not like it usually is a day after the run. So I begin to think, could it be the shoes that I have bought 3 times now because I LOVED them and they were my favorite? Please don't tell me they are the culprit?? Have I spent months on meds and PT and in pain when all I should have done was switch a shoe? Yep, I am a slow learner so I will hit Fleet Feet before my long run.
Praying that these shoes are the culprit. Wouldn't that be sweet? Who would have thought?? I do love a simple solution!
Happy Running!
So, fast forward a few years - after I really have shown true sympathy for people with foot issues I find myself there again. As Dr. Croft says I spend a lot of time on my feet that I don't consider when not running. I also spend it in weird combinations of shoes. You would think working in athletics with work out gear on, I would just wear a running shoe and be done. Nope, you can find me in keens, uggs, rain boots, crappy shoes, etc.
So... let's go all the way back to April and the Boston Marathon. I was hurt... surprise... being over zealous and lots of hills tend to do that to me. I thought I had a stress fracture in my hip ( I didn't) but leading up to the race, I quit running. I had not ran in about 2 weeks or more. As luck would have it, I had just bought a new pair of shoes that I had never ran in. New brand, new type everything. I figured race day couldn't be worse so I wore said shoes and HATED them! And FYI - not sure race day could be any worse. I really disliked everything about Boston. I use to say Hate but over time I guess I have mellowed. I returned these clunky heavy shoes and asked for the lightest thing they had and thought I loved them. I took some more time off to recover from the race from hell that left me for dead and to heal the injury and I started running in these shoes and they were great. This was around May.
In June, I became sick with pneumonia and was put on an antiobotic that was told after the fact, athletes should NEVER take. I developed tendonitis in the top of my foot and it hurt like a bitch. Dr. Croft prescribed my best friend ( a steroid) but it did not really do the trick. I was in the middle of Ironman training and I just had to suck it up. I also made sure I never ran back to back and if I could get a longer recovery time to baby my foot, I could manage it. Even though it did and still would keep me up off night with pain. We did spend a TON of time working on my tight calves. I am sure if the school PT guy would bill me, I would owe him my next two years of paychecks!!
Made it through Ironman, took time off, back to running - yep pain is still there. This time we try steroid ( YES) and 3 weeks of vimovo. First we think it is really working but then not so much! GRR... I am now ready to get back at it. I feel fat, sluggish, and no sense of purpose. I decide to train for the Wynne 25k in Jan. I decide to just run 3 days a week, lower mileage - higher intensity. Sometimes I am not sure if I am going to make it there. Sometimes I feel like I am one step away from a boot.
So I constantly think about this foot. It is always in the back of my head. My ankle is tight with not much mobility, the top of my foot is painful to the touch, and sometimes just taking my shoe off hurts. But... I am still running. I am brilliant - right? Well, I began to wonder if maybe the medicine was not the problem but the new shoes? They were kind of close together in time range. So - yesterday, I had mile repeats. Decided to go with my racing flats instead of my usual shoes and YES the foot did hurt some, and yes it woke me up last night, and yes I did have to start my morning rolling my calves but it really feels better. It really feels like the pain is not like it usually is a day after the run. So I begin to think, could it be the shoes that I have bought 3 times now because I LOVED them and they were my favorite? Please don't tell me they are the culprit?? Have I spent months on meds and PT and in pain when all I should have done was switch a shoe? Yep, I am a slow learner so I will hit Fleet Feet before my long run.
Praying that these shoes are the culprit. Wouldn't that be sweet? Who would have thought?? I do love a simple solution!
Happy Running!
Tuesday, October 13, 2015
Off Season...
Off Season - oh how I love you!
You started out a little precarious. I was depressed, sad, and lost without my ironman training. Race day was so great ( best ever) that I was just on a huge high let down. I was stressed and thinking what can I do next? I also felt nervous because Stewart has already registered for NOLA half ironman and Wisconsion full ironman. I knew better to sign up for anything at this time because I had so many emotions but it was hard not to. I even toyed with signing up for Louisville.
The first week was bad, I was grouchy and cranky. I was not sleeping through the night. I may have yelled at everyone unnecessarily if you could believe that. I was shocked. Why was I missing training so much? There were times when I was sure I hated it and never wanted to see my swim bag or bike again. Second week got better, still a little lost, still not sleeping through the night. Third week... you are awesome. I love the off season!
I had a great girls weekend and never did I have to worry about what training I was missing or what fitness I may be losing. I did do one run just because it was a glorious beautiful day. I was going to run 30 minutes and then decided to extend. It was great. No plan. Just run what you want. I am still having some foot issues but was super happy to see this run went well.
I have joined back up with 9 rounds and going to doing xtreme fitness bootcamp. I am going to try to attend one or the other 5 days a week ( if I feel like it) to build some strength. Running and biking when I want. It is amazing how your body can be so fit one way but so weak in others. I went to xtreme fitness for the first time and was so sore for two days. A couple of times during the hour work out I was wishing I was back on the ironman course. It had to be easier. Yesterday I attended 9 rounds and my booty is sore like no other. Last year - Riley did tell me 9 rounds was giving me a J-Lo booty so I guess I am on my way.
Hoping the foot will hold out so I can do Wade's big adventure as it is my all time favorite race! It may be my slowest time ever but those days when I race when I am fit and ready are over. It is all about the fun for me.
I am leaving for Vegas tomorrow so I doubt much of anything will get done. I may hit the gym a few times to sweat out some alcohol but so looking forward to doing nothing.
I would love to get to Yoga but can't find classes to fit my schedule. I may need to get my dvd's out and return to my yoga at home. I do love some Bob Harper.
I still love racing and not ready to retire yet. Even though many days this summer I thought I would do just that. Noah and I have talked about doing a mom and pop half ironman together this year. He has joined the swim team to start his prep. He did not get his swim gene from me. He has not swam since his 6th grad year and came home and told me he did his 25's in 14 seconds and his 50's in 38. Oh to be young again and just hop in the pool and do that. I have never seen those times and more than likely never will. I love that he is returning to the pool.
See you on the flip side.....
You started out a little precarious. I was depressed, sad, and lost without my ironman training. Race day was so great ( best ever) that I was just on a huge high let down. I was stressed and thinking what can I do next? I also felt nervous because Stewart has already registered for NOLA half ironman and Wisconsion full ironman. I knew better to sign up for anything at this time because I had so many emotions but it was hard not to. I even toyed with signing up for Louisville.
The first week was bad, I was grouchy and cranky. I was not sleeping through the night. I may have yelled at everyone unnecessarily if you could believe that. I was shocked. Why was I missing training so much? There were times when I was sure I hated it and never wanted to see my swim bag or bike again. Second week got better, still a little lost, still not sleeping through the night. Third week... you are awesome. I love the off season!
I had a great girls weekend and never did I have to worry about what training I was missing or what fitness I may be losing. I did do one run just because it was a glorious beautiful day. I was going to run 30 minutes and then decided to extend. It was great. No plan. Just run what you want. I am still having some foot issues but was super happy to see this run went well.
I have joined back up with 9 rounds and going to doing xtreme fitness bootcamp. I am going to try to attend one or the other 5 days a week ( if I feel like it) to build some strength. Running and biking when I want. It is amazing how your body can be so fit one way but so weak in others. I went to xtreme fitness for the first time and was so sore for two days. A couple of times during the hour work out I was wishing I was back on the ironman course. It had to be easier. Yesterday I attended 9 rounds and my booty is sore like no other. Last year - Riley did tell me 9 rounds was giving me a J-Lo booty so I guess I am on my way.
Hoping the foot will hold out so I can do Wade's big adventure as it is my all time favorite race! It may be my slowest time ever but those days when I race when I am fit and ready are over. It is all about the fun for me.
I am leaving for Vegas tomorrow so I doubt much of anything will get done. I may hit the gym a few times to sweat out some alcohol but so looking forward to doing nothing.
I would love to get to Yoga but can't find classes to fit my schedule. I may need to get my dvd's out and return to my yoga at home. I do love some Bob Harper.
I still love racing and not ready to retire yet. Even though many days this summer I thought I would do just that. Noah and I have talked about doing a mom and pop half ironman together this year. He has joined the swim team to start his prep. He did not get his swim gene from me. He has not swam since his 6th grad year and came home and told me he did his 25's in 14 seconds and his 50's in 38. Oh to be young again and just hop in the pool and do that. I have never seen those times and more than likely never will. I love that he is returning to the pool.
See you on the flip side.....
Monday, September 28, 2015
It is over...... Thanks Chattanooga Ironman! You were awesome!
Well... it is done. I could do a long race report but 144.6 miles is a lot to cover. I am going to briefly hit the high points.
What I do know is I feel kind of sad, lost, and wondering what do I do now. After training since January, following a plan, and planning work outs around family time, work, coaching, etc. It seems so weird to just have nothing. I was actually relieved when I looked on training peaks and saw that Liz had scheduled some recovery bikes and swims this week. This feels normal. As much as I hated many of the early mornings and the long days, it is sad to be done. I know I will quickly get in the spring of things or the fall of things. I LOVE fall and can't wait to spend mornings drinking coffee and reading on the porch, doing outside stuff with the kids, yoga, bootcamp, and trail runs and mountain biking. I also have a girls trip planned for next week and Stewart and I have a trip to Vegas for the week after but today I feel maybe a tiny bit depressed. The HUGE high and build up of last week and yesterday is just over - just like that but you do have some great memories. Some of those best memories were having all of the kids ( only Noah has seen me do an Ironman before) and family cheer me on. They were such a welcome bright spot every time I see them. Hearing your kids call you your hero and say I am so proud of you lets you know that you are doing a great job of being a wonderful role model and example for them. I know many people think training takes away from family time but if you do it right, it really doesn't and it provides your kids with so much more. I love that my kids see me as so much more than mom but someone who goes after what she wants, is not afraid to go after my dreams, never backs down from a challenge and has my own hobbies, desires, and dreams.
Chattanooga was just awesome. It is one of my favorite places to be and getting to go there on Thursday and spend time with Riley before the race made it that much more special. The town knows how to put on an ironman and the crowd support was wonderful . I think this was the first time that I ever ran with someone setting fireworks off over my head.
I knew that I wanted to be in the 12 hour zone and I wanted a PR. I knew that the swim would be a PR - regardless of current, I was swimming down a river. I was super excited to PR my bike and my run as well!!
As I jumped off the dock, the man yelled at me " You ready to have a PR swim" and yes I was!! This was also the first time I have ever done an Ironman without a wetsuit which was a huge accomplishment for me! Although I am still not a super fast swimmer, this summer I really became confident in my swim. Beside not being able to swim straight the swim was uneventful. After seeming like we stood in line forever, we were running down the dock to jump in. Stewart still had not put on his cap or goggles so I turned around to see if he had jumped in. I didn't see him again until about 25 minutes later when I saw a foot with red tape under me - I yelled at him, we talked for a moment and then swam on. Neither of us knew we were even by each other and we were super excited to exit the swim ladder 3 seconds a part! The only time I was going to see him that day and I loved it! Both of us not being strong swimmers were celebrating being out of the water. Loved having the kids waiting on us and thought about seeing them the whole 2.4 or more as I weaved my way down the river.
The bike was great! I loved that I had biked it a couple of times so I knew where I was all the time. I also knew it was a beautiful course in the valley of the mountains so I made sure I took the time to enjoy the scenery. Liz and I discussed me riding steady and easy on the hills. My goal was to be in the 6 hour range and I was. I stopped at the 60 mile mark to grab my bag and chat with the family ( so much fun again) and stopped one more time to fill my bottles but the rest of the time was all go. So this summer, I did a lot of solo riding as Liz often had me riding on Sunday and nobody rides on Sunday or I rode solo because I was always behind Stewart. Paid off huge yesterday as mentally I was good the whole time! I was use to being alone and enjoyed the few conversations that I had with my fellow racers. In fact, the time seemed to go by really fast.
I started the run and felt good, was hoping to run steady enough, walk through the aid stations and average close to 9 minute mile. This worked for awhile and then I hit the hills! Holy Hilly! It was crazy! After the first 13 miles, I decided I didn't care if I met my goal, my new goal was to enjoy it, soak it in, and get to finish. Somehow I managed to get a PR from previous ironman runs but I seemed to be walking more than running. Before I knew it - I was rounding the corner to hit the finish line.
I have said it before and I will say it again. There is nothing like an ironman finish line! Just thinking about it brings me to tears. This is where all your training, dedication, hard work come together and it is so emotional and so amazing as you run through crazy screaming fans to bright lights, music, people cheering and giving you high five and your family there waiting!! After 12 hours and 41 minutes all my hard work this summer and the day was over! You can not imagine. I am so thankful that I have a body and mind that allows me to do this! I was once again reminded what a lucky girl I was!
Finally saw Stewart and saw that he had a great day and did an 11:52 on his first ironman even after possibly biking too hard ( surprise) and running like a crazy person with a 6:52 first mile. I was so proud of him and do not think I quit smiling the rest of the night!
I do have to brag - although he beat me by an hour - I beat him in the swim by 3 seconds and on the run by 15 minutes. Sorry baby... it wouldn't be right if I didn't throw that in there.
We went to mellow mushroom but I really couldn't eat and then we went to the finish line and brought home the last finishers. Truly inspiring! The last finisher made it with a minute to spare.
I couldn't sleep at all because my foot was killing me and my appetite finally returned so I found myself up before 5:00 and walking to waffle house for a quick snack.
So... for now - not sure what my plans are going to be. I am definitely taking some time to just be but I may have a half ironman in the future, race a half marathon, run sylamore and finally break my 6 hour time goal after being so close for two years, do ragbrai, or just become a sprint specialist. I do know that Stewart is more than likely going to sign up for Louiville Ironman. That I think - I mean I am pretty sure I am going to pass. I will just concentrate on my Sherpa skills starting with the NOLA 70.3... can't think of a better place to Sherpa and just as much as I hate riding in the heat - I really hate riding in the cold
Thanks Chattanooga Ironman!! You were awesome!
What I do know is I feel kind of sad, lost, and wondering what do I do now. After training since January, following a plan, and planning work outs around family time, work, coaching, etc. It seems so weird to just have nothing. I was actually relieved when I looked on training peaks and saw that Liz had scheduled some recovery bikes and swims this week. This feels normal. As much as I hated many of the early mornings and the long days, it is sad to be done. I know I will quickly get in the spring of things or the fall of things. I LOVE fall and can't wait to spend mornings drinking coffee and reading on the porch, doing outside stuff with the kids, yoga, bootcamp, and trail runs and mountain biking. I also have a girls trip planned for next week and Stewart and I have a trip to Vegas for the week after but today I feel maybe a tiny bit depressed. The HUGE high and build up of last week and yesterday is just over - just like that but you do have some great memories. Some of those best memories were having all of the kids ( only Noah has seen me do an Ironman before) and family cheer me on. They were such a welcome bright spot every time I see them. Hearing your kids call you your hero and say I am so proud of you lets you know that you are doing a great job of being a wonderful role model and example for them. I know many people think training takes away from family time but if you do it right, it really doesn't and it provides your kids with so much more. I love that my kids see me as so much more than mom but someone who goes after what she wants, is not afraid to go after my dreams, never backs down from a challenge and has my own hobbies, desires, and dreams.
Chattanooga was just awesome. It is one of my favorite places to be and getting to go there on Thursday and spend time with Riley before the race made it that much more special. The town knows how to put on an ironman and the crowd support was wonderful . I think this was the first time that I ever ran with someone setting fireworks off over my head.
I knew that I wanted to be in the 12 hour zone and I wanted a PR. I knew that the swim would be a PR - regardless of current, I was swimming down a river. I was super excited to PR my bike and my run as well!!
As I jumped off the dock, the man yelled at me " You ready to have a PR swim" and yes I was!! This was also the first time I have ever done an Ironman without a wetsuit which was a huge accomplishment for me! Although I am still not a super fast swimmer, this summer I really became confident in my swim. Beside not being able to swim straight the swim was uneventful. After seeming like we stood in line forever, we were running down the dock to jump in. Stewart still had not put on his cap or goggles so I turned around to see if he had jumped in. I didn't see him again until about 25 minutes later when I saw a foot with red tape under me - I yelled at him, we talked for a moment and then swam on. Neither of us knew we were even by each other and we were super excited to exit the swim ladder 3 seconds a part! The only time I was going to see him that day and I loved it! Both of us not being strong swimmers were celebrating being out of the water. Loved having the kids waiting on us and thought about seeing them the whole 2.4 or more as I weaved my way down the river.
The bike was great! I loved that I had biked it a couple of times so I knew where I was all the time. I also knew it was a beautiful course in the valley of the mountains so I made sure I took the time to enjoy the scenery. Liz and I discussed me riding steady and easy on the hills. My goal was to be in the 6 hour range and I was. I stopped at the 60 mile mark to grab my bag and chat with the family ( so much fun again) and stopped one more time to fill my bottles but the rest of the time was all go. So this summer, I did a lot of solo riding as Liz often had me riding on Sunday and nobody rides on Sunday or I rode solo because I was always behind Stewart. Paid off huge yesterday as mentally I was good the whole time! I was use to being alone and enjoyed the few conversations that I had with my fellow racers. In fact, the time seemed to go by really fast.
I started the run and felt good, was hoping to run steady enough, walk through the aid stations and average close to 9 minute mile. This worked for awhile and then I hit the hills! Holy Hilly! It was crazy! After the first 13 miles, I decided I didn't care if I met my goal, my new goal was to enjoy it, soak it in, and get to finish. Somehow I managed to get a PR from previous ironman runs but I seemed to be walking more than running. Before I knew it - I was rounding the corner to hit the finish line.
I have said it before and I will say it again. There is nothing like an ironman finish line! Just thinking about it brings me to tears. This is where all your training, dedication, hard work come together and it is so emotional and so amazing as you run through crazy screaming fans to bright lights, music, people cheering and giving you high five and your family there waiting!! After 12 hours and 41 minutes all my hard work this summer and the day was over! You can not imagine. I am so thankful that I have a body and mind that allows me to do this! I was once again reminded what a lucky girl I was!
Finally saw Stewart and saw that he had a great day and did an 11:52 on his first ironman even after possibly biking too hard ( surprise) and running like a crazy person with a 6:52 first mile. I was so proud of him and do not think I quit smiling the rest of the night!
I do have to brag - although he beat me by an hour - I beat him in the swim by 3 seconds and on the run by 15 minutes. Sorry baby... it wouldn't be right if I didn't throw that in there.
We went to mellow mushroom but I really couldn't eat and then we went to the finish line and brought home the last finishers. Truly inspiring! The last finisher made it with a minute to spare.
I couldn't sleep at all because my foot was killing me and my appetite finally returned so I found myself up before 5:00 and walking to waffle house for a quick snack.
So... for now - not sure what my plans are going to be. I am definitely taking some time to just be but I may have a half ironman in the future, race a half marathon, run sylamore and finally break my 6 hour time goal after being so close for two years, do ragbrai, or just become a sprint specialist. I do know that Stewart is more than likely going to sign up for Louiville Ironman. That I think - I mean I am pretty sure I am going to pass. I will just concentrate on my Sherpa skills starting with the NOLA 70.3... can't think of a better place to Sherpa and just as much as I hate riding in the heat - I really hate riding in the cold
Thanks Chattanooga Ironman!! You were awesome!
Monday, September 7, 2015
Trust your training - trust your coach- trust yourself
Trust your training- trust your coach- trust yourself. This will be my mantra for the next 20 days. Now is the time when I began to become afraid and question everything. Did you do enough? Did you do enough quality? Everyone seems to be doing more or less than you and possibly doing smarter and more quality work outs. This weekend especially as Stewart had a longer bike than me and all the doubts began to creep in... I should be doing more, maybe I will abandon my plan and jump on his but then I have to remember I pay and hired Liz cuz she is a smart lady. She knows what she is doing and she knows me. She just sent me an article about racing and fear and it had such great points.
Fear makes you realize that something is worth it. What fun would it be to do everything perfectly and know no one could beat you. The fear and the challenge is what makes it worth it and what makes the win meaningful. I definitely not going for a win at ironman but I would like a well executed day with a PR at the end. Fear has set in. I biked the course and it seemed harder than I remembered. The wind seemed extra fierce and all the doubts begin to creep in. I need to remember what I tell my cc kids everyday. The mind controls the body. I constantly make them tell I am a beast while doing hard work outs. I want them to think that instead of thinking I dying. Today I will start thinking I am a beast and will continue until I hear Mike Riely yell you are an ironman!! Just the thought of those words can bring me to tears and still give me chills. They have been repeated in my head during many of long training days. Taper is here but not really, I still have a pretty hard week but that just gives me more time to trust in myself
This weekend I raced a sprint and there is nothing like a sprint to remind me why I live triathlon. The great thing about IM training is it relaxes me. I am too busy and too tired to stress about a race. Race morning my race wheel had a piece of glass in it. After two attempts of changing the tire, we just stuck my training wheel back on. Did I hate it? Yes, stress about it ? No. Due to all my early wake up calls, I had no trouble getting to the race early which gave me extra time to talk and meet many of those around me. Much to Stewart just shaking his head. I did do a very short warm up and felt great in the water
Started the race with the female winner behind me and she was from Germantown. Funny to come out of town to meet a hometown triathlete. Based on her swim time, I knew she was faster. My plan was to hold her off as long as I could. She did catch me and I was kind of relieved because know I could draft. Unfortunately we only had 25 yds left. I did not pass anyone else but she was the only one to pass me. Although my swim was still slow as crap, it was faster for me!
We came out of water together and I made what I think the first mistake that could have cost me the win. We had a long run back to transition and for some reason, I became confused and ran under the taped area we were suppose to run in and entered transition from the wrong side. I knew I screwed up and looked around, saw what I was suppose to do, ran back out and corrected it. Although this cost me some time, what it did cost me was leaving transition with the first place girl. She only outbiked me by about 40 seconds and it makes me wonder what I could have done if we left head to head. I pushed hard on the bike abs repeated catch that group over and over in my head as I saw those in front of me. It was s hilly ride and I was pleased with my average. I have also gone from an all water drinker to a lover of scratch ( just a side note). I caught the then 2nd place girl with about a mile left and she did catch back up to enter T2 together. I know this is not always right but based on the fact that she outweighed me, I was planning on being the faster runner. T2 is my specialty- I was in and out and searching for the 1st place girl. The course was winding and hilly and you couldn't see who was in front of you. It was also hilly as hell. I knew the run would be my struggle. I need speed work and fast foot turn over to even attempt to be fast. I have had neither in IM training. 7:40's are fast for me these days. Not surprisingly my run pace was 7:30 ish. My second mistake was not taking a guy when I left T2. I felt so bonky but had no water until turn around to take mine and what a difference it made. So I am still looking and chasing and we did a little loop behind the school so I missed first place girl. And I begin to give up in my head. I settled for 2nd place. I knew 3rd was not close. I ended up beating her by 6 minutes! 1st outran me by 20 seconds!!! I did what I always tell my cc kids never to do! Don't give up and don't settle!! Stewart said later he heard them yell - here comes 1st girl and was sad it was not me. The great thing is I would have loved to win- who wouldn't but the days are beating myself up are over. I did what I could and I had a great time doing it!
Stewart has just turned into a beast. He was 5th or 6th overall and after good swim for him, a killer bike, he managed to run that hilly course with a 6:30 pace on legs that were trashed from ironman. It is amazing to see his improvement. He has already signed up for NOLA half and has his eye on another IM for next year - not me! I plan to be Sherpa extraordinaire and sprint race master. I also have requested that Stew take private swim lessons. He gets that swim fixed, he is going to be a beast
As we are 20 days out from Ironman and Stew begins his packing list. I am stressing over my underwear for the underwear run. They need to be perfect as well as the shirts that our awesome friend Liz is designing for our spectators
I have also started my post ironman list...
sleep in and lay around drinking coffee
Go to boot camp!
Go to yoga!
Girls weekend
Trip to Vegas with big daddy
Read
The possibilities are endless!!
The big dance is almost here ....
Fear makes you realize that something is worth it. What fun would it be to do everything perfectly and know no one could beat you. The fear and the challenge is what makes it worth it and what makes the win meaningful. I definitely not going for a win at ironman but I would like a well executed day with a PR at the end. Fear has set in. I biked the course and it seemed harder than I remembered. The wind seemed extra fierce and all the doubts begin to creep in. I need to remember what I tell my cc kids everyday. The mind controls the body. I constantly make them tell I am a beast while doing hard work outs. I want them to think that instead of thinking I dying. Today I will start thinking I am a beast and will continue until I hear Mike Riely yell you are an ironman!! Just the thought of those words can bring me to tears and still give me chills. They have been repeated in my head during many of long training days. Taper is here but not really, I still have a pretty hard week but that just gives me more time to trust in myself
This weekend I raced a sprint and there is nothing like a sprint to remind me why I live triathlon. The great thing about IM training is it relaxes me. I am too busy and too tired to stress about a race. Race morning my race wheel had a piece of glass in it. After two attempts of changing the tire, we just stuck my training wheel back on. Did I hate it? Yes, stress about it ? No. Due to all my early wake up calls, I had no trouble getting to the race early which gave me extra time to talk and meet many of those around me. Much to Stewart just shaking his head. I did do a very short warm up and felt great in the water
Started the race with the female winner behind me and she was from Germantown. Funny to come out of town to meet a hometown triathlete. Based on her swim time, I knew she was faster. My plan was to hold her off as long as I could. She did catch me and I was kind of relieved because know I could draft. Unfortunately we only had 25 yds left. I did not pass anyone else but she was the only one to pass me. Although my swim was still slow as crap, it was faster for me!
We came out of water together and I made what I think the first mistake that could have cost me the win. We had a long run back to transition and for some reason, I became confused and ran under the taped area we were suppose to run in and entered transition from the wrong side. I knew I screwed up and looked around, saw what I was suppose to do, ran back out and corrected it. Although this cost me some time, what it did cost me was leaving transition with the first place girl. She only outbiked me by about 40 seconds and it makes me wonder what I could have done if we left head to head. I pushed hard on the bike abs repeated catch that group over and over in my head as I saw those in front of me. It was s hilly ride and I was pleased with my average. I have also gone from an all water drinker to a lover of scratch ( just a side note). I caught the then 2nd place girl with about a mile left and she did catch back up to enter T2 together. I know this is not always right but based on the fact that she outweighed me, I was planning on being the faster runner. T2 is my specialty- I was in and out and searching for the 1st place girl. The course was winding and hilly and you couldn't see who was in front of you. It was also hilly as hell. I knew the run would be my struggle. I need speed work and fast foot turn over to even attempt to be fast. I have had neither in IM training. 7:40's are fast for me these days. Not surprisingly my run pace was 7:30 ish. My second mistake was not taking a guy when I left T2. I felt so bonky but had no water until turn around to take mine and what a difference it made. So I am still looking and chasing and we did a little loop behind the school so I missed first place girl. And I begin to give up in my head. I settled for 2nd place. I knew 3rd was not close. I ended up beating her by 6 minutes! 1st outran me by 20 seconds!!! I did what I always tell my cc kids never to do! Don't give up and don't settle!! Stewart said later he heard them yell - here comes 1st girl and was sad it was not me. The great thing is I would have loved to win- who wouldn't but the days are beating myself up are over. I did what I could and I had a great time doing it!
Stewart has just turned into a beast. He was 5th or 6th overall and after good swim for him, a killer bike, he managed to run that hilly course with a 6:30 pace on legs that were trashed from ironman. It is amazing to see his improvement. He has already signed up for NOLA half and has his eye on another IM for next year - not me! I plan to be Sherpa extraordinaire and sprint race master. I also have requested that Stew take private swim lessons. He gets that swim fixed, he is going to be a beast
As we are 20 days out from Ironman and Stew begins his packing list. I am stressing over my underwear for the underwear run. They need to be perfect as well as the shirts that our awesome friend Liz is designing for our spectators
I have also started my post ironman list...
sleep in and lay around drinking coffee
Go to boot camp!
Go to yoga!
Girls weekend
Trip to Vegas with big daddy
Read
The possibilities are endless!!
The big dance is almost here ....
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