I love looking back and thinking about all of the amazing things that I’ve accomplished and all of the challenges I’ve overcome! I’ve reflected for the last 10 years and now it’s time to reflect on 2023! You can look back at my previous posts if you’d like: the best of 2013, the best of 2014, the best of 2015, the best of 2016, the best of 2017, the best of 2018, the best of 2019, the best of 2020, the best of 2021, and the best of 2022. 2023 was full of a lot of darkness, but I am not going to focus on that. Instead, I am going to reminisce my favs from 2023.
Best adventure?
In September I visited family + friends and got to experience Lake Tahoe for the first time. What an absolutely amazing place! It is a place I will definitely go back to and one that now holds a special place in my heart!
feeling small next to the vastness of Lake Tahoe
Best swim?
OMG…did I mention I got to spend Labor Day weekend with my sister and her family in Lake Tahoe?!?! As a result, I got to swim in Lake Tahoe (more than once) and it was seriously the most amazing swim(s) EVER! The water was so crystal clear (you could see FOREVER) and was so refreshing (hint…cold). If we had the time, I would have swam here for hours at a time without getting bored!
Look at how crystal clear this water is!
Best bike?
Biking from Mom and Dad’s in Okoboji up into Minnesota with my fav. The roads up in Minnesota are so peaceful with little traffic and smooth surfaces. It is definitely one of my most favorite routes!
riding from Iowa into Minnesota
Best run?
Getting to run with Isabella for her first ever 1/2 marathon! There were highs and there were lows, but the grit and determination she displayed was so inspirational! We are all already signed up for next year!
We did it!! Isabella’s first 1/2 marathon!! SO PROUD OF HER!!
Best finish line?
I decided spur of the moment (literally 3 days before race day) to race the Okoboji Triathlon. I love racing at home-home, but getting to cross the finish line with family and friends surrounding you is the BEST! Oh…and then finding out you won your age group and were in the top 5 overall female finishers was icing on the cake!
Friends make the world a better place!
Best race-cation?
Sadly we didn’t travel far this year for races, but we did take a week off work and spent it at home-home with Mom and Dad to relax, swim, bike, play on the water, and enjoy life.
swimming with our baby girl
Best moment out of my comfort zone?
This was the first time ever racing two 70.3 races one week apart. It definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone and challenged me in new and different ways than ever before! I raced Ironman 70.3 Des Moines on Sunday, June 11 and then followed it up with Milkman 70.3 on Sunday, June 18. You can read more about the double challenge here.
Making my way home with the Capitol building in the background!
Best enCOEURaging moment?
The Ames Triathlon was so fun!! It is always great to see people achieve their goals and do things they once thought were impossible. The absolute best part of my day was creating an opportunity for first time athletes to complete their first triathlon ever. If you want to experience the Ames Triathlon for yourself, come to Ames in June 2024! You won’t be disappointed!
Race directors having fun at the Ames Triathlon!
Best new gear?
Coeur Sports recently started producing the Merino Wool Long Sleeved Run Top which has become a clear fav for fall/winter/spring running. This shirt is super soft, light weight, warm, and has amazing moisture wicking capabilities. If you live in a cooler climate, this is a MUST HAVE!
loving the fall weather running 💙
Best help with perimenopause?
Acupuncture…this year has been rough with the symptoms of perimenopause, but I was able to finally get some relief with acupuncture. I have since been sleeping better, experiencing fewer hot flashes, and overall feeling more and more like “myself.”
getting acupuncture to try to help my foot…thankfully it is helping perimenopause symptoms 🥰
If you could sum up your year in a couple of words, what would they be?
challenging, dark, ebb, lost…2023 was a rough year, but even in the darkest of times, there were times of light that shone through and that is something to be grateful for.
Tell me about your 2023 year!! What are your “bests” from 2023?!
Last week was race week…it’s like Groundhog Day, BUT this time I wasn’t racing…I was one of the race directors for the Ames Triathlon. It is always SO MUCH FUN to have put together the triathlon and see the rewards of having people race in our hometown! So many first timers, friends getting together to race as a relay, and people who have been in the sport for years get to challenge themselves at a sprint triathlon. We are so grateful to all of the athletes, the volunteers, medical team, USAT officials, spectators, and everyone who helped make this the best year yet!
“The person who starts the race is not the same person who finishes the race.”
~unknown
Swim highlights: 2406 yards
We practice mass swimming for the triathlon/open water swim for those racing.
Bike highlights: 3.14 miles
These were bike commute miles…otherwise there were no bike miles logged last week.
Run fun: 0 miles
There was no running last week…unless you count all of the running around we did in preparation for the Ames Triathlon
15 minutes of core strength only a couple of days…OOPS!
Attitude of Gratitude:
Being on the water makes my heart happy. Jersey loves it too!! 🐶🥰
So grateful to this crew for helping to set up transition for the Ames Triathlon!
It was a beautiful evening setting up transition
Congratulations to Coeur Sports teammate and pro triathlete, Jess Smith, on her overall win!
Race directors having fun at the Ames Triathlon!
Our 3 professional triathletes! Congrats to all who raced and had a blast (quite literally thanks to the STRONG winds 😜)!
Last week started off with catching up on sleep. Having only gotten just over 3 hours of sleep on Saturday night before the Ames Triathlon, I was in dire need of sleep. Thankfully by about Wednesday I started to feel more rested and ready to get back into a structured training routine. After taking 2 weeks away from structured training post IMDSM, it was time to get back into the groove again and create my next level!
Quote of the week:
“Here’s to getting back into the groove.”
~Unknown
Swim highlights: 5400 yards
I really enjoy swimming outdoors in the sunshine! It makes my heart happy!
Warm up:
200 swim
4×50 drills
200 swim
100 kick
Main Set:
9×200 (20 sec – 3x easy, 3x moderate, 3x fast)
300 pull
Cool-down:
200 any stroke
Swimming outdoors surrounded by fresh air with the sun on my back is my favorite! 💙 #attitudeofgratitude
Bike highlights: 100 miles
Saturday I got to ride with friends and it was EXACTLY what I needed!
My heart is so full! Thank you Courtney and Jess for smiles, miles, laughter, all the mulberries (see the last pic), girl time, conversation, fuel, and an all around AMAZING day! 🚴🏻♀️💙
Run highlights: 6.15 miles
I had 2.5 weeks off of running with Wednesday being my first run back post IMDSM. It wasn’t long, it wasn’t far, it wasn’t fast, and it was hot (96F heat index), but Wednesday I gave up putting it off for another day.
According to Vanessa Faye Foerster I was at the “last chance trash” and it was time to put on the running shoes and run for the first time post IMDSM. ⚡️
SUP highlights: 2.55 miles
Being on the water is so peaceful. It was a great way to decompress from an amazing and successful weekend for the 3rd annual Ames Triathlon race!
Strength Training: 15 minutes of core strength daily
Weekly Totals: 11 hours & 21 minutes
Attitude of Gratitude:What were your highlights from week 26 of 2022?!
All clear for another year! Breast cancer screening complete!
All the snuggles! 🐶🥰
Found gas for super cheap!
Life is full of distractions, but you have choices in how you handle them. • Do you let them take control over you OR do you decide ahead of time that you are going to do your best to stay the course? • I am committed to doing and being my best, having fun, and maintaining an attitude of gratitude as I create my next level! #LFG ⚡️
Last week was race week for the Ames Triathlon. This is a different kind of race week for me as I am not a participant, but rather one of the race directors for the race. There was still lots of preparation and planning going into the race, but instead of relaxing more during race week, there is more hype and activity.
Quote of the week:
“Race week anticipation is having belief in your race and trust in the process to get you to the start line.”
~ME
Swim highlights: 4953 yards
I kept my swims unstructured this week and did what felt good…playing in the water and enjoying every moment!
I love the water! 🥰
Bike highlights: 57.0 miles
Wednesday the weather was a 10/10 according to our local meteorologist, so I took the afternoon off and set out on the open roads on two wheels. It was so freeing and enjoyable…exactly what I needed to decompress a bit!
Sometimes all you need is ⚡️ the freedom of the open roads ⚡️ two wheels ⚡️ sunshine ⚡️ fresh air ⚡️ blue skies ⚡️ a bit of a challenge ⚡️ time with your own thoughts 😜 and a little smell of country animals
Run highlights: 0 miles
I stuck to my commitment to myself and didn’t run last week.
Strength Training: 15 minutes of core strength daily
Weekly Totals: 6 hours & 30 minutes
Attitude of Gratitude:What were your highlights from week 25 of 2022?!
This girl LOVES her snuggles! 🐶🥰
So peaceful! 🐶🥰
Look at Basil fly! 🐶🥰
Title IX was signed into law 50 years ago on June 23. Thank you to all of the people who climbed the mountains before me so that, as a woman, I have the opportunities and privileges that I have today. Let’s keep climbing mountains for future generations! ⚡️💙
The sky was on fire Saturday night while setting up transition! 🔥
We got transition set on Saturday night and were ready for Sunday morning!
We are SO proud of our friend who completed her FIRST EVER triathlon at the Ames Triathlon on Sunday. She did this almost 10 years post paralysis. ⚡️🔥
Jersey was not going to let me out of her sight on Sunday after the race. She just wanted all the snuggles. 🐶🥰
It is SO HARD to swim with a merman on your back!!
I’m so grateful our twin nieces and my sister came to visit for the twin’s swim meet!
I’m so grateful for morning runs with my favorite girl! #basillovesrunning
WOW!! Magnificent sunsets are amazing!!
Running in the snow is SO HARD, but I loved every minute of my 8+ mile run in the sun!!
Basil loves to play in the snow and help shovel!!
Snowshoeing at dusk with my faves!!
I have some of the best people in my village!! Thanks Ruth for the reminder to #explore in all areas of my life this year and always! You’re the best! ❤
February:
I’m so ready to “explore” in a new career!!
Carving my glass heart!
The finished product! I think they turned out pretty awesome!
These 3…I love them all!! So grateful for their unconditional love!!
I’m so grateful to be on #tigerteam19!! My Coeur Sports teammates help me to feel empowered, inspired, connected, loved, and full of joy!!
Mother Nature’s sense of humor is a bit different than mine, but I am grateful for the 4 seasons…even if the snow drifts over one of our favorite trails. #driftedsnowiswaistdeep
I am so grateful for my Normatec recovery boots…especially after 14 solid treadmill miles!!
March:
Double medal race day at the St. Paddy’s 1/2 Marathon where I got 2nd place in my age group!
So grateful I got to see these two beautiful faces…even if it wasn’t for the happiest reason.
So grateful for girl’s night out playing board games with these beauties!! #needtodothismoreoften
The first time in my 16 years of teaching that I was given flowers from a student.
Love my mama! She’s still the boss even after 42 years!! 🙂
I am grateful that the weather is nice enough to rake up all the leaves and play in them with my favorite girl!!
Love you more and SO glad you’re back in the water!!
So grateful for spring weather so I could wear the same Coeur Sports “Not Today Cancer” kit for my bike + run! Oh…and super grateful for my favorite girl who loves to run!! #basillovesrunning
After a tough run (1100 feet of climbing over 7 miles), I was so grateful to find a way to use my Normatec Recovery boots in the car since I had to be there for a few hours post run.
Grateful to meet the Iron Hippie’s parents for lunch!
So grateful that I got some run love with Robin! I’ve missed my girl time!
April:
“Growth comes at a point of resistance; we learn by pushing ourselves to the outer reaches of our abilities.” ~Josh Waitzkin
Grateful for the support of SBR Sports, Inc. SBR is my go to for chlorine removal + blister prevention + easy wetsuit removal. Use KEPL19 at checkout for 20% off your next order of these amazing products!!
Grateful for the warmer temps + sunshine as I put my feet up with a good book while the dogs enjoy their bones!!
WAHOO!! Grateful that the IronHippie is seeing green in Training Peaks again post surgery!!
Grateful for the yoga mat + some vitamin D!!
Grateful to have Basil run by my side and the IronHippie back in the saddle!!
These two…so grateful for their unconditional love!!
Grateful for some girl time with Robin as we pound the pavement!!
14 Ironman finish lines amongst this #swimsquad and more to come in our futures!!
3 cheers for 3 Drake 1/2 marathon finishers!! Grateful to cross another finish line!!
Grateful for freedom on 2 wheels on the open road with my fave!!
100s Z3 effort until failure for breakfast…goal pace = 1:39/100 yards with 20 sec recovery between each; failure = 1:42/100 yards Self doubt told me I could only maintain my goal pace for 5×100. Self confidence told me I was strong and could crush this pace for at least 10×100. Giddy!! That’s how I felt when I successfully completed 20×100 at 1:3x.x + nailing 21×100 before failure!! #explore #befierce #beatiger #believe
May:
Chaperoning my last 8th grade dance!!
Morning sunrises are the best way to start the day!!
Playing in the water with my fave!!
Joining some friends for a spin class!
Our neighbor, Marjorie, came home from Arizona. We are so happy she is here to stay!!
So grateful my favorite girl loves to run!! 13.2 miles later, we were both ready for some food and a nap!! 🙂
BOOM!! I think I grew gills and fins!!
I love fresh, homegrown veggies!! So grateful to get our garden planted!!
Grateful for the time and nice weather to finally landscape around the house!!
I love spending time on two wheels outside with my fave at my side!!
Walking into my classroom for the last week of school with kids.
Grateful to have these two amazing ladies show up and attend my triathlon clinic!!
Going out with a splash!! My last day with kids was super fun!! Now for a week of professional development before starting my new adventure next week!!
So grateful to have had some of the most AMAZING colleagues ever!!
June:
Riding in Minnesota, but the lake to my left is in Iowa. Love this route!
Basil is checking out the Roomba. Each day she gets less and less afraid of it.
Sometimes it takes a little encouragement to complete a tough workout!! High fives all around!!
Today marks the last time I’ll run from the middle school as my place of employment.
Grateful to spend my last days of teaching with my colleague and friend! I already miss seeing her everyday!
Post 100 mile ride playtime! So grateful to have my fave by my side through this roller coaster ride of life!!
So grateful to be starting my new gig in Physics Hall on ISU campus!!
I’m grateful I got to spend a few hours with the Iron Hippie’s family
So grateful we were asked to be on the radio to promote the Ames Triathlon!
WOW!! Early morning runs with sunrises like this are TOTALLY worth it!!
Thank you to Kyle at Kyle’s Bikes for always keeping Mojo ready for race day and for getting me into some new bike shoes!!
So grateful these kids came to Ames to have dinner with us…ok, they really came to race the Ames Triathlon!! LOL!!
Watching the downtown crit races was so much fun with these peeps!!
We had a great day at the Ames Triathlon and couldn’t have done it without all of you…the athletes, volunteers, spectators, other race directors, sponsors, partners, medical support, photographers…YOU!!
Three Cheers to Allen Bierbaum and Dr. Chris Feil for helping one of our para-athletes in and out of the water at the Ames Triathlon on Sunday!!
Who’s ready to race the Ames Triathlon?! These two!! So glad my Coeur Sports sisters came to race in the inaugural Ames Triathlon event!!
July:
Grateful I got to see my twin nieces…even if the circumstances weren’t the best.
Grandma got most of the cousins together, but she wasn’t able to get me into Hawkeye apparel.
Yep…we are strong and ready to race!
Knocking out the last really big training day before #IMLP!!
Grateful to score this sweet treadmill from friends that moved to the Bay Area.
Grateful for the first ripe homegrown tomato from our garden before leaving on vacation!
SO GRATEFUL we got to enjoy a few days with some of our favorite people. Only wish we lived closer together and got to spend more time with Erika, Rob, and their girls!
Running along Niagara Falls was a real highlight! It isn’t everyday you get to run along the falls!
Grateful to play tourists for a day! Taking the boat tour and getting up close and personal with the falls was fun!
Grateful to celebrate 9 years of marriage to this wonderful man exploring Niagara Falls!
Celebrating 9 years of marriage with a high class dinner (this was my first time ever eating at a place with a restroom attendant).
Getting to stay on the 39th floor above the falls provided some amazing views and a perfect place to watch the evening fireworks.
We made it to Lake Placid in time for a short shake out run before the sunset.
We made it to Lake Placid! Love this place!
Swimming in my favorite place makes my heart happy!
Mirror Lake is the best place to swim…EVER!! It makes my heart happy!!
So grateful to ride the Ironman Lake Placid bike course with my fave!
So grateful for this amazing Coeur Sports Sunset Strip kit. The colors stand out!
Grateful I got to play lots of cards with my fave!!
Exploring some falls off of the Ironman Lake Placid bike course.
Grateful I get to do life with this guy! Happy 40th to the Iron Hippie!
Having fun running down Main Street Lake Placid
The Ironman Lake Placid Underpants Run Participants
Grateful for Amy Farrell! What an amazing human being!
So happy to be on the open water! You can take the girl out of the lake, but you can’t take the lake out of the girl!
So grateful we got to spend some time with two of our favorite people! Can’t wait to spend more time with you in September!
I missed my baby girl while on vacation SO MUCH! I am so grateful she missed me too!
Grateful for a BEAUTIFUL evening to listen to our friend play live music at our local Coop!
Grateful for BEAUTIFUL morning sunrises!! #redskyinthemorningsailorstakewarning
Grateful for pool shenanigans with these two peeps!
Grateful for time with family!
Grateful that the big “kids” still like to play and have fun like little kids!
Grateful for the Heritage Farm recognition at the Iowa State Fair. The family farm has been in the same family for 150 years.
“Smile for the camera, Traci!” Grateful to race with my dear friend! Photo Credit: Dave Mable
3rd place age group on a FUN day! Congrats to Bradie for 2nd place in our age group!
Meeting up with my Coeur Sports Teammate, Jess, always brings multiple smiles to my face! Love this girl!
So grateful to my Coeur Sports Teammate, Steena, for this Fellow Flower!! “Living my truth!!”
Truth: I rode 32 miles after work. I had lots of time to think. I realized just how much I REALLY do LOVE to ride my bicycle when I do it my way. I love the open roads, the wind in my face, the sun on my back, and the freedom I feel!
Truth: I ran 6 miles this morning…3 solo miles followed by 3 miles with Robin. I REALLY do LOVE running, but I love it even more with friends! I love the early morning sunrises, the fresh air, the conversations, the community, the sounds of feet hitting the pavement, sweating together, and the hugs at the end!
Grateful for the lunch date at the food truck with my fave…one of the many advantages of us both working on campus!!
Grateful for time on the water with some of my loved ones!
Grateful for time picking berries with loved ones!! Fresh fruit…YUMMMM!!
This was my favorite run so far this year! I found peace, freedom, and oh so much joy on the trails. I couldn’t stop smiling! It is exactly what I needed!
September:
Grateful to see the early morning painted sky!
Grateful to get to reconnect with my mat on the lake with my fave + my Dad.
SO GRATEFUL to run with my faves at home home! Love them and the lake!
I absolutely LOVE swimming at home home! So grateful for this magical opportunity!
Grateful to spend time with our twin nieces and play in the water!
Riding with my fave on one of my favorite routes brings me pure joy! I am in Minnesota and he is in Iowa in this picture.
Love these 3!! I’m so grateful they love to have fun + eat ice cream!
I am truly blessed to have my 2 favorite running buddies run with me at home home by the lake!
Love my girls! Happy 7th birthday to my baby! Love you Basil!
Bluebird skies + lots of sunshine + no wind + 2 wheels on the open roads = EXACTLY what my heart needed today! #happyheart #livingmytruth
So grateful for such a magical playground!!
Grateful that my fave and I got to spend a long weekend in Madison!
Grateful to have Mike Reilly sign our copy of his book, “Finding My Voice”
The rural Wisconsin views always make my heart happy!
Happy to be giving back to a sport that has given so much to me!
So grateful to all of these volunteers (+ many, many more) for helping to make dreams come true at Ironman Wisconsin for so many athletes.
Happy to be donating my hair to Wigs for Kids.
Grateful that my fave loves to have fun on this roller coaster of life!
Grateful that my fave loves to play around and enjoy life with me!
Grateful to branch out and go to trivia night, which was a bit uncomfortable as I am clueless when it comes to trivia.
I’m so grateful to have lots of time with my favorite girl to think and process my thoughts. She’s such a good listener!
This is the first time I have relaxed in the Normatec Recovery boots since IMLP in July. It felt truly amazing and I was grateful to have the neighbor’s dog snuggle up next to me.
Grateful for the bright colors of this Coeur Sports Liberty kit! It made me so much more visible riding on the open roads!
Intention: Gratitude I started to incorporate intentions before each workout during the middle of the month and it has really served me well. During this swim, I kept focus on the gratitude and was so thankful to my body for allowing me to push it.
Thank you Ruth for thinking of me and being one of my biggest supporters!
I’m glad to have reconnected with my mat and have Basil coaching me through the moves.
Grateful to have a solid double digit run where my body felt so good I decided to run a little longer than planned and of course celebrate with a dance party post run! “If you like piña coladas and getting caught in the rain…”
SO GRATEFUL for spontaneity in riding cross bikes with my fave after work!
Grateful to see some “friends” on my 11 mile run!
Grateful for 70+ miles on two wheels with my fave on new terrain!
Grateful to Robin and Basil for running with me!
Grateful to my Coeur Sports sister, Jess, and her family for having us over for dinner and enjoying each other’s company!!
October:
Grateful for a dog that loves to run and is sad when I run on the treadmill.
Grateful for my reminder to believe in myself and what I am doing!
Grateful for my body to allow me to push it even when I have ALL. OF. THE. EXCUSES. TO. NOT. SHOW. UP!
Grateful to have my CECs done for my personal training certification!
So grateful to have such an amazing running buddy! Basil is my girl and she definitely LOVES to run!
Grateful we got to meet up with our Coeur Sports sister, Erin on the bike course! #IMLou
Grateful my fave enjoys having loads of fun! Our outfits got lots of laughs and cheers from the athletes! #IMLou
Go Rob GOOOO!!! Keep MOOOVING forward!! #IMLou
Rob getting chased by my fave in his second costume of the day. #IMLou
Looking strong Mikki! #IMLou
Happy birthday Kristin! #IMLou
Encouraging Kristin to finish strong! Congrats on your 1st place AG and Kona qualification! #IMLou
Ironman Louisville from a new perspective. What a fun day! Congrats Rob on your amazing race! #IMLou
Grateful for the beautiful fall colors that showed up a bit later than normal.
Intention: Gratitude 15 miles for my Friday happy hour in 30+ mph winds. Some of my gratitude thoughts while running: *I’m grateful for a strong body + mind. *I’m grateful for warm temps + sunshine. *I’m grateful for completely new running routes. *I’m grateful for a job that I love. *I’m grateful for Halloween decorations to keep me entertained. *I’m grateful to have my long run done before the rain shows up this weekend. *I’m grateful for the beautiful fall colors.
I’m so grateful for friends that like to try something new. Glass blowing is so much fun and I got to make a beautiful pumpkin for fall.
Thank you to Robin and Basil for 8 BEAUTIFUL fall, morning miles with me!
Grateful for Triny and the #itcouldbeme campaign to help make roads safer for everyone!
Grateful that our girls love to go to the parade and enjoy the socialization.
Grateful for my babies, beautiful fall colors, and fall walks!
Grateful for fall campfires…even if the fall season was EXTREMELY short this year!
Life is a roller coaster ride full of highs and lows. I’m grateful for good people to help lift me up and run with me when I’m at a low. 6 beautiful fall/early winter miles this am with my faves!
Grateful to connect with my mat and the intention of fear.
Grateful to reconnect with my inner Arial.
Grateful for early morning rides with my fave!
Grateful for some easy miles off the bike to start my day!
November:
I’m beyond grateful, humbled, blessed, and honored to be a Coeur Sports ambassador for my 6th year! 2020 is going to be amazing!
So grateful for Friday happy hour swims with my fave!
I’m so grateful for a strong body + mind so I can do what I love!
Another Hillbilly Hike 1/2 marathon is in the books!
So grateful to be getting back to the weights and strength training the entire body!
Grateful for the opportunity to ride the horse carriage at Snow Magic.
So grateful to get to run with these rad ladies at the Coeur Sports women’s run in Des Moines.
Looking for a way to make squats (or wall sits if you don’t have suspended straps) more challenging?! Add a dog to the mix! Basil LOVES to “help,” but sometimes her version of helping creates more of a challenge for me. Grateful for her unconditional love and support!
Grateful for some time with my mat!
Grateful to get to cheer these two on at their swim meet!
So grateful for my Coeur Sports teammate, Triny, and the work she is doing to make roads safer for everyone!
Grateful for time on my mat with Robin by my side!
Intention: WIN (the day) After being away from the water for two weeks, it felt so amazing to get some #chlorinetherapy today! #wintheday
Grateful for a morning run with my fave!
Crushing bike intervals + spending time with my fave = pure joy!
Grateful for time to PLAY in the water!
I love sushi! So grateful for this yummy goodness!
So grateful that Mom came down to join us for an evening of joy + entertainment!
Wow! This was a great show! Grateful I got to experience it!
Grateful for this girl’s friendship! Morning miles + girl talk are icing on the cake! What a perfect start to the day + week!
“Follow your heart. Life is too short to be sidetracked by the things everyone else wants you to do.” ~Unknown My heart speaks swim/bike/run! It brings me calm, it brings me joy, it builds self confidence, it often teaches me something new, it breeds discipline, it connects me with others, it forces me to be more courageous, it allows me the freedom to mess up & still end up ok, it provides me an outlet, it makes me stronger – physically and mentally, it fills me with gratitude, and SO much more! What does your heart say?! Do you listen?!
I love digging deep and feeling the accomplishment of overcoming obstacles and achieving something that once seemed impossible! I’m so grateful my body allows me to push it!
So grateful for these peeps (and Basil) to run with before devouring all of the yummy Thanksgiving food!
Friendsgiving! SO grateful for my framily!
Now that Thanksgiving is over, the tree is up. I’m grateful for making all of the 2019 memories (that are documented with medals on our tree) and the bright lights that remind us to always shine bright and give our best in everything we do!
Intention: I get to It isn’t always easy. Mother Nature threw down some 38-40*F temps, rain, and winds (hello IMLou 2018 weather). She likes to think that she holds the power, BUT SHE’S WRONG! I hold the power when I keep the mental chatter positive!
December:
I’ve decided to step out of the box I’ve been in and experiment with self coaching in 2020. I’m excited to try new things knowing that some of these things may not work for me, while other things may be the best thing ever for me! I’m grateful for the opportunity to think outside of the box, experiment with trial and error, the freedom and control to do it my way, and the excitement with trying something new!
So grateful that I can spend time with my mat while rehabbing my back.
LIVE! Every. Damn. Day!
So grateful to be spinning on the bike…even if it is an easy ride!
Grateful for our new Tuff Mutt hands-free running leash from our Secret Santa. We can’t wait to enjoy all of the miles together with this!
I’m grateful for Dr. Chris Feil at Team Chiropractic and Rehabilitation of Ames for helping get me back on track this month.
These beautiful December days with unseasonable temperatures are amazing!!
The girls are so glad that Dad is home after being gone for a week.
Glad to be rolling again!
Wow!! Grateful for beautiful sunrises!!
Grateful for Kyle at Kyle’s Bikes to help me get my Wahoo Kickr ready to ride!!
Grateful for framily and matching PJs!!
First run all month!! Grateful to be nearly fully recovered from my back sprain and enjoying fresh air + sunshine + time with my faves!!
Grateful for these love bugs!! “Give me all the treats!!”
Sushi for Christmas dinner…YES PLEASE!!
Today I had all the excuses for not moving… -I didn’t pack warm enough gear for the drop in temperature today. -I should just go home and try to get Zwift working. -I’m still not quite 100% after my back sprain. -I don’t have a coach, so I can run tomorrow or this weekend. -I’m tired. I should just go home and rest. I ignored all of these excuses, put on my sweatshirt, and ran home from work. I celebrated every step, every breath of air, and every drop of sweat. And yes…I was reminded why I don’t wear cotton when I workout!!
Chris Chapman with Movewell Iowa is helping me get my muscles to properly fire and keep me injury free.
Friday night happy hour miles + quality time with my 2 faves! My heart couldn’t be happier!
First official Zwift ride…yep, I think I’m hooked! Lots to learn, but I can see how this will help me get faster + stronger in 2020! #grateful
Grateful that yoga is a family affair in our house!
So grateful to have worked out to the point that the Normatec Recovery boots got some use!
Burning the sh!t I want to let go of as I prepare for 2020. I am so grateful for the Athlete Mastermind program that Jenny Hayes is putting on.
Sending 2019 out in style! My FTP test indicates a loss of fitness in the off season, but that’s what the off season is for, right?! Time to get to work as I chase my dreams in 2020!!
I love looking back and thinking about all of the amazing things that I’ve accomplished and all of the challenges I’ve overcome! 2019 was full of opportunities to #explore, challenges to overcome, accomplishments to enjoy, and SO MUCH FUN!! I’ve reflected for the last 6 years and now it’s time to reflect on 2019! You can look back at my previous posts if you’d like: the Best of 2013, the Best of 2014, the Best of 2015, the Best of 2016, the Best of 2017, and the Best of 2018. Now its time to reminisce my faves from 2019! 🙂
Best race experience?
Bluff Creek Triathlon where I competed with my girl, Traci, and had an absolute blast! We started the swim together. I waited for her in T1 and then followed her on the bike (don’t worry…I followed the drafting rules and rode far enough back). We had a mechanical issue on the bike, but we made it back to T2 and headed out on the run. Despite the mechanical, Traci had a PR! It was so much fun to cheer her on and encourage her every stroke and step of the way!
“Smile for the camera, Traci!” Photo Credit: Dave Mable
Best run?
St. Paddy’s Day 1/2 Marathon in March was SO. MUCH. FUN! Not only was I prepared for it physically and mentally, but I was able to race it and come within 3 minutes of a 1/2 marathon PR. Oh…and did I mention that I walked away with not 1, but 2 medals for that race?!
Double medal race day at the St. Paddy’s 1/2 Marathon where I got 2nd place in my age group!
Best bike?
Riding with my fave from Iowa to Minnesota and back to Iowa! I absolutely love this route and the company! Any chance I get, I ride this route from Home Home!
Riding with my fave on one of my favorite routes brings me pure joy! I am in Minnesota and he is in Iowa in this picture.
Best swim?
Swimming in Mirror Lake for IRONMAN Lake Placid was my best IM swim to date! Swimming with the underwater cable to sight off of created an exceptional swim experience and allowed me to set an IRONMAN swim PR!! I was super pumped about it too!!
That’s a swim PR! Photo credit: FinisherPix
Best finish line?
IRONMAN Lake Placid! This was a very special finish line! It wasn’t planned for the Iron Hippie and I to finish together, but half way through the bike portion of this race, I made it my mission to catch him and finish with him. It was a long marathon, but we made it to the finish line TOGETHER!
Grateful for this finish line with my Fave by my side! Photo credit: FinisherPix
Best training weekend?
Getting to train in Lake Placid with my fave before IRONMAN Lake Placid! We swam in Mirror Lake multiple times, rode one loop of the bike course, ran a good portion of one loop of the run course, and experienced Lake Placid! OH. SO. MUCH. FUN!!
Swimming in my favorite place makes my heart happy!
So grateful to ride the Ironman Lake Placid bike course with my fave!
Wrapping up my last “long” run in Lake Placid on the Ironman Lake Placid run course. So beautiful!!
Best training compass?
Myself! At different times in 2019 I was in the deepest valleys and on top of the highest mountains…I had some really high highs and some really low lows! Listening to my heart and allowing it to guide me in 2019 opened the door to so much more fun, joy, and “get to” experiences! I can’t wait to see where I take myself in 2020!
“Follow your heart. Life is too short to be sidetracked by the things everyone else wants you to do.” ~Unknown My heart speaks swim/bike/run! It brings me calm, it brings me joy, it builds self confidence, it often teaches me something new, it breeds discipline, it connects me with others, it forces me to be more courageous, it allows me the freedom to mess up & still end up ok, it provides me an outlet, it makes me stronger – physically and mentally, it fills me with gratitude, and SO much more! What does your heart say?! Do you listen?!
Best moment out of my comfort zone?
The Underpants Run at IRONMAN Lake Placid! This was so much fun, but I was way out of my comfort zone! Who runs in a swimsuit (or underpants) down main street exposing their flaws for all of the world to see?! Apparently a lot of crazy people!!
Having fun running down Main Street Lake Placid
Best enCOEURaging moment?
The inaugural Ames Triathlon! It has been many years in the making, but we FINALLY got the approval for the Ames Triathlon in March of 2019 and within a few months were able to pull off the best race we could have asked for! If you want to experience this race for yourself in 2020, head to Ames in June. We look forward to seeing YOU on June 28!
We had a great day at the Ames Triathlon and couldn’t have done it without all of you…the athletes, volunteers, spectators, other race directors, sponsors, partners, medical support, photographers…YOU!!
Best nutritional find?
Orange Mud double barrel pack for carrying my hydration + nutrition is the best way I’ve found to carry enough nutrition on long runs without having to really plan my route to make sure I get enough hydration on those hot days. I was worried that it might chafe me in various places, but alas…15 miles with ZERO chafing!
Intention: Gratitude 15 miles for my Friday happy hour in 30+ mph winds. Some of my gratitude thoughts while running: *I’m grateful for a strong body + mind. *I’m grateful for warm temps + sunshine. *I’m grateful for completely new running routes. *I’m grateful for a job that I love. *I’m grateful for Halloween decorations to keep me entertained. *I’m grateful to have my long run done before the rain shows up this weekend. *I’m grateful for the beautiful fall colors. *I’m grateful for this Orange Mud pack to hold all my hydration + nutrition and so much more!
Best new gear?
Coeur Sports running shorts and tights. The pockets in both of these are AMAZING! I can hold SO much in each of them. They are even flexible enough for me to carry a water bottle in the pocket if I want. They don’t move or chafe no matter how wet you get. These are a MUST HAVE!!
Intention: I get to It isn’t always easy. Mother Nature threw down some 38-40*F temps, rain, and winds (hello IMLou 2018 weather). She likes to think that she holds the power, BUT SHE’S WRONG! I hold the power when I keep the mental chatter positive!
Best recovery tool?
Our Sleep Number bed! This has made a world of difference! I sleep so much better and I wake up without back pain. If you aren’t getting good quality sleep, you are compromising your health. I highly recommend the Sleep Number bed. It is definitely worth the investment!
Basil loves our new bed too!!
Best time saver?
The Roomba! I can do one of at least a 1000 other possible things while the Roomba vacuums the house. The dogs aren’t too keen on it when it appears to be chasing them around the house, but they are adjusting to it and try to stay out of its way while it does its thing!
Basil is checking out the Roomba. Each day she gets less and less afraid of it.
Best supportive role?
Heading to IRONMAN Louisville to cheer athletes on instead of racing myself. This was a REALLY TOUGH decision, but it was the right one. The weekend was full of laughter, fun, and friends! It was EXACTLY what I needed to help me figure out what I want from this sport and where I want to go with it in the future!
Ironman Louisville from a new perspective. What a fun day! Congrats Rob on your amazing race!
Best way to stay healthy?
Change careers! My mental stress has dropped SUBSTANTIALLY and I am no longer exposed to all of the germs from middle schoolers. Sure I am still exposed to germs at Iowa State University, but I’m not confined to a classroom and I’m not around the students much. Changing careers has been one of the best decisions for my overall health that I could have ever made!
So grateful to be starting my new gig in Physics Hall on ISU campus!!
Best piece of racing advice you received?
Have fun! I’ve heard this from so many different people, that I can’t pinpoint just one individual to give credit to. If we can’t have fun racing, then why are we doing it?!
Most inspirational athlete?
There are so many that I can’t pick just one! Everyone is on their own, unique journey and I am inspired by them all. My Coeur Sports sisters inspire me EVERY. SINGLE. DAY! I’ve also been SUPER inspired this year by friends who finished their first IRONMAN. By friends who attempted their first IRONMAN, but didn’t meet cutoffs. By friends who did their first triathlon this year. By people who have survived an accident and are still training + racing. By people who fight disease and keep training + racing. By people who challenge themselves and try something new. By people who don’t follow conventional training methods and SMASH their goals out of the park! By people I haven’t met yet and people I see everyday! There are far too many people who inspire me to pick just one!
Best support crew?
Hands down…Dad, Aunt Linda, Cousin Neal, and a dear friend Carol! These four pushed me through during some VERY dark times at Ironman Lake Placid. They were up EARLY on race morning. They cheered, photographed, and spread their love to me and so many other athletes throughout a REALLY long day! There are not enough hugs and kisses for each of you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Love you all so much! I couldn’t have gotten to this finish line without your unwavering encouragement and support!!
Our race day support crew! Love you Dad, Aunt Linda, and Cousin Neal! Photo credit: Neal Fedora
Grateful for Carol! Love her to pieces!
If you could sum up your year in a couple of words, what would they be?
Explore, strong, courage, brave, fun!!
Tell me about your 2019 year!! What are your “bests” from 2019?!
PushMyLimits 