2 sliver medals for our household at the Incydeman Triathlon! Running away from the judgement and toward living my best life! Kicking out the previous 198 watt FTP to make room for the new 214 watt FTP.
February:
Finishing 1st in F40-49 and 4th overall female at the Rosy Cheeks 5K. Lunch, girl talk, and hugs with my Coeur Sports teammates, Jess and Courtney! The twins had a swim meet! Love seeing these two!
March:
Running in a new town…exploring new places and SHORTS!! Coeur team gear arrived! For me, 2020 is about courage, confidence, and celebration! Bring it! ***Little did I know what 2020 had in store for us all… Celebrating my birthday a bit early with one of my favorite food groups…sushi! So grateful for all of the strong AF, badass women in my life. The ones who lift each other up, support each other in life and sport, encourage each other to live their best life, inspire each other to dream big, and stand beside you through it all! I’m so grateful I got to share some miles with one of those strong AF, badass women today! Getting to travel with this beautiful lady! #safety first Grateful for these AMAZING ladies who sang happy birthday to me mid swim in the rain. It really filled my heart! Having fun running laps in SoCal! These two beauties are AMAZING!! I’m so grateful for everything Kebby (the founder of Coeur Sports) has done for women in sport (myself included). And Lisa…You my dear are beautiful soul inside and out! Thanks for the laughs (and photo bombing)!! After work, we adopted our new baby girl…meet Jersey! She is 1 year old and holds keys to all of our hearts. 1.25 recovery miles with Jersey It warms my heart to watch the dogs play ball! Grateful I don’t have to social distance from my favorite girl and for the 12 miles of time together! Do what makes you happy and be kind to others! We are all struggling right now. A happy heart and kindness go a LONG way.
April:
Play time! That slobber says it all…PURE JOY!! Enjoying sunshine, fresh air, and family time! “Hey mom, what is that thing?” ~Jersey Jersey made sure to find a space to snuggle while I was getting my recovery on with my Normatec recovery boots. We may not be able to connect in person, but we are finding ways to connect virtually. I’m so grateful to have landed beside this STAR when I was shooting for the moon! She shines SO bright and makes my heart happy! Playing LOTS of cards with my fave as we isolate. Race day hugs are on hold right now. Until we can hug in person, virtual race day hugs will have to do! I got to ride outside!! It rained on us a little bit, but I SERIOUSLY LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF IT!! Did a virtual race since racing isn’t happening right now. I miss racing in real life. Yay for more outdoor riding with my fave!
May:
Did a virtual 1/2 marathon…since they sent me the medal, I felt I had to run the distance. As a white female, I do not fear for my safety while running. I have ran many miles at o’dark thirty in the morning. I have ran countless miles by myself. I don’t run with music and am always very aware of my surroundings, but I do not run in fear. Sadly, there are many people who do run in fear for their safety. They face their fear as they head out the door to run because running is something that brings them joy. . Today we #runwithmaud because we are honoring a man we don’t know. Because hatred should not exist in our world. Because no one should ever be brutally murdered while out running and doing what brings them joy. Because he was a different skin color. Because racial injustice breaks my heart and angers me to the depths of my soul. Because it should not take an outrage on the internet to get action and justice. Because now more than ever we need to come together as HUMAN BEINGS, love each other, and spread kindness! Playing ball at the cross country course! Full and grateful heart! . I GOT TO run 5 miles with my girls just after sunrise! Full and grateful heart! . I GOT TO spontaneously ride 55 miles with my fav after running today! After 10 weeks away from the water, it is safe to say I missed it tremendously! The calm, quiet, meditative state the water provides is exactly what my soul needed! I was SO grateful to have the whole pool to just the two of us this morning. 3 keys to my heart! Today was a near perfect day in Iowa on two wheels…blue skies, sunshine, little wind, open roads, wind turbine farms for miles, fresh air, 85 miles of bike love with my fav…life doesn’t get much better than this! “Life is a journey. Enjoy the ride.” 60+ more miles with my fav on two wheels and the open roads really filled my soul today.
June:
What a perfect day for 100 miles on 2 wheels! Bluebird skies, gorgeous green foliage, golden glow, and no wind on the open roads/trails…doesn’t get much better than this! #1stcenturyof2020 I love the water! Today’s adventures on the water were the perfect recovery for my body, mind, and soul! See these smiles?! This is what happens when you ride with friends on the open roads on two wheels! #happyheart + pure joy!
July:
#smilesformiles with some AMAZING peeps today! Love life on two wheels even more when others join the fun! #2ndcenturyof2020 Oh what a beautiful morning! Oh what a beautiful day! “How far do you want to ride today?!” “I don’t know. Let’s see how we feel.” 85 miles later I think it’s safe to say we felt really good! Lost. I feel SO LOST right now. 2020 has forced me to slow down, step back, look at the big picture, and appreciate all that I had. And ya know what?! I don’t like it! I don’t like it one bit! It has left me feeling SO LOST! . I f*cking miss racing. I miss IN REAL LIFE RACING. I miss the motivation it provides me to push myself way out of my comfort zone. I miss the long days of swim/bike/run training to prepare for the big dance. I miss traveling to new places. I miss the race morning butterflies. I miss the hugs and high fives. I miss the race week and race day excitement. I miss meeting new people. I miss the spectators. I miss pushing and challenging myself in training so I can do and be my best on race day. I miss the volunteers. I miss the drive and focus. I miss overcoming obstacles. I miss problem solving on the fly. I miss Mother Nature throwing us race day curve balls. I miss the competition. I miss the race day exhilaration. I miss those finish lines. I miss the HUGE sense of accomplishment. I miss overcoming the impossible. I even miss the blisters and chafing…ok, maybe not. . Sure I get some of these things on occasion while training right now, but NOT like I do when training for a race and on race day. Solo training and virtual racing just don’t fill my cup. I miss IN REAL LIFEE RACING! . I’m ready for the 2020 dumpster fire to burn out. I’m ready for this lost feeling to make its exit. I’m ready to move forward into 2021 better, smarter, and more ready than ever to race safe, happy, and full of passion. This 2020 break from racing has lit the fire in my soul so big and bright for what is to come in future races! I want it! I can feel it! A run can change your mood, your day, your life, so the next time you have the opportunity, lace up and head out the door. You won’t regret it! “Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” ~J.K. Rowling . I’m so grateful for this amazing light! She has helped make the 2020 darkness so much brighter! Sometimes you have to let go of all expectations and just play in the rain and splash in the puddles.
August:
Rolling into August with a #happyheart + 100 miles of fun on two wheels with my fav! #3rdcenturyof2020 That family portrait…fun with friends on two wheels! A weekend with friends on two wheels enjoying life outdoors in Madison was exactly what my heart and soul needed! Today’s ride had a few detours and route adjustments due to Monday’s Derecho storm, which allowed for opportunities to climb hay bales and play! Today should have been Ironman #8 at IMMT. We rode 112 miles because…why the hell not?! The scenery in central Iowa looks nothing like Mont Tremblant, but any day on two wheels with my fav is a great day! Hopefully next year we’ll get to head back to MT for beautiful scenery and an epic day of racing! #4thcenturyof2020 Fun Friday fooleries at the poolery! Adding play is SO important and often overlooked. Don’t forget to play and play often! Morning miles with my girls was glorious! #sundayfunday was had helping my Collective Beat teammate, Courtney, build confidence on the bike. #sundayfunday included Jersey taking her maiden voyage on the SUP (we will work on standing when she doesn’t move around on the board so much)! A tired pup is a good pup!
September:
My heart is full! Happy 8th birthday Basil! Grateful for: -Jersey running 7 miles with me -cooler temperatures -longest run in a LONG time -endurance miles -smiling the whole way -SO MUCH JOY #fridayhappyhourswim is the best way to end the week! What SUP?! Being on the water makes me happy!! Truth bomb and lots of vulnerability coming at ya! . As a child I was sexually abused by our babysitter and have ridden the mental health roller coaster for decades. With the cancellation of all good things in 2020, I have spent more time in the valleys of the mental health roller coaster than up on the peaks. For the last couple of decades, racing has provided me with structure to help me cope with the mental demons. I really miss racing and the structure it provides me. . I tell you this because September 6 kicked off National Suicide Prevention Week. There is not enough emphasis and support placed on mental health. It’s time to change that! So today I put on a bright Coeur Sports kit, laced up my Newton Kismets, and ran 9.88 miles to raise awareness for mental health. . In the event of a physical emergency, people know to call 911. Starting in 2022, people can dial 988 in the event of a mental and emotional emergency.988 will automatically connect people to the Suicide Prevention hotline. 100 miles on two wheels with my favorite super hero as the colors start to indicate that fall is well on its way = perfect way to enjoy a day off work. #5thcenturyof2020 I got paid to ride my bike today! I found this $2 bill on my ride. And while it looks like fall has arrived with the changing colors and fields getting harvested, I was grateful for the summer temps! Do what makes you happy and brings you joy! For me this includes LOTS of time in the saddle. This has been my biggest bike year ever! Cycling puts my mind at ease during discomfort and uncertainty, it provides me with freedom from the chains of my past, and it untames my soul. I’m so happy to be riding through life and today’s 100 miles with my fav by my side! 6thcenturyof2020 Today we spread our wings and flew! The struggle (strong headwind) was definitely worth the reward (20 mph tailwinds pushing us home)! Grateful for 55 miles of freedom on two wheels with my fav!
October:
Running into fall! It’s #medalmonday! SO grateful to have these two help me run the Drake 1/2 Marathon on Saturday. They definitely earned this medal! Any day I GET TO ride 100 miles with my fav is a FANTABULOUS day! #7thcenturyof2020 You can find magic wherever you like. All you need is an open road, fresh air, and a bike. Cycling provides me so much freedom and clarity. Riding outdoors this time of year can be such a rarity. So I’m taking advantage of every last beautiful day…To get outside and be on my way! Just going to LEAF you with photos from our century ride today. #8thcenturyof2020 “Fall reminds us that change is inevitable and necessary for growth. There is beauty in change.” ~Rita Messing The temps felt like summer, but the colors definitely say fall is here!
November:
Family photos! Love these 3 to pieces! Photo credit: Captured by Heidi The keys to my heart are all in this pic! Photo credit: Captured by Heidi Looking forward to 2021 with my Coeur family in a new and special way! I’m SO glad these two love each other! This run was full of goodness! -62*F -sunshine -no wind -bliss -smiles -shorts + tank in November -freedom -joy Get out there and enjoy the goodness! Inhale…exhale… Run off the crazy… Trust the process… Do you… Jersey is SO good at yoga! Play! Today we played outside! Today we played in the sunshine! Today we played for 70+ miles of #bikelove with no wind! Today was all play! Today I am SO GRATEFUL that I GOT TO race for the first time since February. While I was very undertrained for this event, it was my first 1/2 marathon EVER that I ran the ENTIRE thing without taking one walking step. I kept reminding myself that #IGETTO do this and I have no idea when I’ll get to race again, so I was going to push myself even when it became uncomfortable. . Thank you to the race directors for putting on a SAFE race. -each athlete had to fill out a Covid survey online 24 hours before racing -masks were required before and after (I wore mine for the first 4 miles and every time I went through an aid station or if I was by others while running) -athletes were spread 6 feet apart in the starting “corral” that extended for an eternity -2 athletes started every 5 seconds to spread athletes out for social distancing -there was no medal distribution at the finish line (finisher medals were placed in a brown paper bag with a banana, cookie, and granola bar that athletes picked up off of a table) -spectators were not allowed to congregate at the start/finish area -I carried my own water for this race so I didn’t have to interact with volunteers at the aid stations . Bonus safety measure…Mother Nature provided us with 20+ mph winds so there was very little risk of droplets from others. On #muralmonday (November 9) I got to run in shorts + tank top in Iowa. I’m sure snow will be here before we know it, but for now I’m holding on to this weather for as long as I can! Running with a grateful heart today! It’s so much easier to run when I focus on gratitude…it feels effortless, I go faster, I smile more, my heart is happy! Our playground is open! Our playground is open! We love when the golf course closes so we can play all winter! Progressive miles + lots of heart on this #muralmonday run. . Progressive miles…do you love them or hate them?! Sometimes I find myself starting out faster than I thought and end up having to push SO hard in that last mile. I’m sure the grimace on my face is UGLY during that last mile! BUT the smile on my face when I’m done knowing I left it all out there and gave my best effort is HUGE! Snuggles with Jersey while recovering in my Normatec boots is the best! She LOVES the “pillows” that my recovery boots create for her! The fire in the sky during morning sunrises have been STUNNING lately! Here’s another gorgeous sunrise! “When you’re doing what you love to do, you don’t get exhausted. You get exhausted from trying to fulfill everyone else’s ideas and ideals about who you should be. When you do that, you’re not being true to yourself.” ~Oprah . Do what you love and be true to yourself! #sundayrunday with 2 of my favorite girls enjoying the sunshine, fresh air, and open playground! This is me rising up like a phoenix, stepping out of the shadows and soaring into the light…into my greatness! Vulnerability IS strength! Awww…these two snuggle bugs have two keys to my heart! Happy Thanksgiving! We took our family turkey trot through campus today with two of our favorite turkeys! . Why should you never put the turkey next to the dessert? . Because he will gobble it right up! Me: (serenading Tim to Brynn Elliott’s song) “Well if you don’t like girls that are stronger than you And if you don’t like girls who are faster than you And if you don’t like girls who are smarter than you Well then you might not like me, you might not like me” Tim: You’re loca en la cabeza! Keep practicing and you might get better at singing. . Disclaimer…holding a tune is NOT one of my strengths! Anytime I get double snuggles with two of my favorite girls, I’ll take it! Love these two to pieces! “‘Run to win’ isn’t about finishing first, but about getting the best out of yourself.” ~Meb Keflezighi . Always show up so you can get the best out of yourself! On this bonus vacation day, we braved the cold temps to enjoy the sunshine, fresh air + family time and get the best out of ourselves!
December:
I’m hoping that by November of 2021 we will be in a place where racing is happening again! SOOOO…I signed up to play in the desert! It is National Believe Week. I believe! -I believe Black Lives Matter. -I believe one person CAN make a difference. -I believe we CAN create change. -I believe the time is NOW! -I believe we need to keep educating ourselves. -I believe we need to keep stepping out of our comfort zones. -I believe we need to keep showing up for others. -I believe kindness always wins. . Do you believe? This morning’s ride was tough! I missed hitting targets on some intervals, but nailed an interval (on shredded legs) that I missed on Saturday’s ride. Moral of the story…keep showing up! You never know when the breakthrough will come! Sunshine, fresh air, and endorphins are good for the body, mind, and soul!! Go outside and get you some of your own today!! “Oh what a beautiful morning…Oh what a beautiful day…” Today’s choice…let the water wash over me as I continue to strive to get the best out of myself. . Choices…we all make them everyday. You may not agree with my choices, but you aren’t walking in my shoes. You don’t know all of the pros and cons that are weighed before making the choices and decisions I do. Just because you don’t agree with my choices doesn’t give you the right to shame me, belittle me, guilt me, or say/do hurtful things to try to make me feel small. Kindness, love, encouragement, compassion, empowerment…these all need to be spread like wildfire to support people living BIG! When I get an opportunity to run commute home from work on a nice winter day, I take it! Productive Failure…I’d rather try my best and fail, than not try at all. So what if I fall short of my expectations as long as I’ve given my all. This is failing productively. This is where we learn. This is how we get stronger. This is where we grow. This is where we move from the uncomfortable a little closer to the comfortable. This is where the magic happens! Keep failing, but fail productively! What month is it?! December in Iowa and we’re in shorts + tanks today. Say what?! Don’t worry…snow is supposed to be on the way this weekend! . Today’s weather had me dreaming about the future. Dream big so you can grown into the best version of yourself. Ignore the people saying your dream is too grandiose, that you can’t accomplish it, that it is unrealistic, or that your dream should be xyz. Don’t listen to them! They don’t know YOU! Dreaming outside your comfort zone requires you to consider all the possibilities and to choose courage over comfort. I choose to dream BIG! I choose to acknowledge my fears and move through them! I choose courage over comfort! I choose to chase my dreams with intention! I choose to grow into my best self! You can too! How lucky am I?! I got to run outside in December in Iowa in shorts + tank top two days in a row! I have a feeling tomorrow’s view is going to look VERY different. Walking (aka snowshoeing) in a winter wonderland!! More winter wonderland adventures!! 4 days ago I was running in shorts + tank top. Today looked and felt a bit different…all the layers, frozen snot, white all around, some slick surfaces…bring on the winter running! Rollin’, rollin’, rollin’ right past 7000 miles on the bike in 2020! This is by far the most bike mileage I’ve ever had in one year! How many bike miles will I end up with?!?!?! I reflected on 2020 A LOT today! Sure this year was HARD and NOT AT ALL what I had hoped or planned for, BUT 2020 gave me the OPPORTUNITY to slow down, appreciate all that I have, overcome challenges and GROW in so many ways! 2020 has helped me become an even better version of myself and I bet if you take some time to reflect, you are heading into 2021 a stronger, more resilient, grittier, more courageous, wiser, better version of yourself too! Giving the courage cave a face lift…making it bright, vibrant, and sunny no matter what the weather is like outside! Frosty Frolic I love her and her snuggles! Some MUCH NEEDED treatment! “Create your own sunshine!” . It may be gloomy outside, but it is bright and sunny in our courage cave! Merry Christmas 2020 style! Run Santa Run! Merry Christmas from our pack to yours! Sushi…mmmmmm Snuggling under the blanket with Jersey warms my heart! What are you chasing? Are you chasing the fire deep in your heart and soul? Are you chasing someone else’s dreams because you’re comparing yourself to others? Are you chasing something you feel you SHOULD be chasing, but doesn’t hold a key to your heart? . If you are chasing anything other than what sets your heart and soul on fire, you are wasting energy. Let go of all of the things that don’t serve you! Don’t let anyone tell you that what’s in your heart and soul isn’t worth chasing, because they are wrong! #doyou “Gratitude opens the door to the power, the wisdom, and the creativity of the universe. You open the door through gratitude.” ~Deepak Chopra . So grateful for a strong and healthy body, mind, and soul as we leave 2020 behind. Most of my everything is right here! Nature is so beautiful! A long sunset family snowshoe hike was the perfect adventure to close the door on 2020 and open the door to 2021! 2020 wasn’t all bad! 😉
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!!
“Happiness is letting go of what you think your life is supposed to look like and celebrating it for everything that it is.” ~Mandy Hale
I’m not really sure where to begin with this…the beginning, middle, or end. I guess it depends on what you want to hear, so the beginning is where I’ll begin. If you want the cliff notes version, skip to the end 😉
My focus word for 2019 is EXPLORE and when I picked this word, I had NO idea just where it would take me, but I’m so grateful for the journey it has taken me on this year. If you’ve been following my blog, EXPLORE is definitely the perfect word for my 2019 journey. I have changed careers, had some tough conversations with those that I love which has brought me so much freedom + space, and have created lots of amazing memories. Ironman Lake Placid did not disappoint as I #explored and #discovered so much about who I am and who I want to be to live my absolute best life.
Putting on the wetsuits! Photo credit: Neal Fedora
Ready for a big day! Photo credit: Neal Fedora
Love this man! So glad I get to do life with him by my side! Photo credit: Neal Fedora
Swim: 1:16:52 (1:59/100 m or 1:48/100 yards) PR
This sea of athletes is race ready!
The Iron Hippie and I lined up just behind the 1:21-1:30 finish time. As we approached the shore, the pro men were coming out of the water finishing their first 1.2 mile loop and heading back out for loop #2. When I crossed the starting mat, I had open water and was in very little contact with other swimmers during the first loop. I came out of the water right where I was aiming for at the end of my first loop.
Swim loop #1 complete! Photo credit: FinisherPix
As I entered the water for loop #2, I encountered a bit more physical contact in the water, so I made my way to the inside of the buoys where the water was much cleaner. I went outside of the two turn buoys on the far end of the course, and then back to the inside line for my return back to the shore. With the underwater cable, this was perfect for sighting and swimming a straight line! My second loop was a tad bit slower than I was aiming for, but with more physical contact on the second loop, I had to fight more to get around slower people in front of me.
That’s a swim PR! Photo credit: FinisherPix
T1: 8:05
As I entered the transition area, I saw a social media friend! Erin and I quickly exchanged hugs before heading into the change tent. Thank you for lifting me up in that moment Erin! ❤ I flew solo in the change tent as the volunteers were all helping other ladies. I briefly struggled getting my aero top on over my wet body, but quickly made my way to Mojo so we could head out on the bike and start our 112 mile journey.
Done with the swim! Photo credit: Neal Fedora
Bike: 7:48:38 (average speed = 14.34 mph)
This is the place where things changed. Not only did my legs feel like lead from the start, but my mind went back to those tough conversations and the freedom + space I’ve gained through having those conversations. When you ride 112 miles, it gives you A LOT of time to think, process your thoughts, and make sense of your true feelings. I asked myself multiple times “why” am I doing this? Not the superficial why, but the deep down to the depths of your soul why. I knew my superficial why, but this was not the answer I was truly seeking on this day. Ironman finds a way of stripping you down to nothing, exposing your true self, and helping you discover who you really are on a daily basis. As I was being stripped down to nothing during the 112 mile bike portion of the race, I came to the revelation that I have been using Ironman training and racing (and marathon training/racing before that) as a coping mechanism. Taking all of the negative energy I have been holding on to for 35+ years and putting that negative energy into something I could control. Something that gave me my power back. Something that taught me I am worth so much more than I have given myself credit for. Something that has taught me to believe in myself. Something that has taught me to obliterate self doubt that has been holding me back…not just in my athletic endeavors, but in all areas of my life. Something that has given me a gift…the gift to figure out who I am and who I want to be.
Out on loop #1 of the bike! Photo credit: FinisherPix
At about mile 50, the Iron Hippie went by me on the bike. By this point, I had already decided that I was going to pull out of the race at mile 56 when I got back into town. I had nothing left to prove; I realized I was racing Ironman and chasing someone else’s dreams for all the wrong reasons. Using it as a way to channel the negative energy that I no longer truly possessed was not the reason I wanted to be racing Ironman. The first 50 miles allowed me to open my eyes and heart. Racing Ironman distance triathlon is not something I truly want to do when it perpetuates those negative feelings. It is time to let go of the hurt and negativity. I knew I wanted to support the Iron Hippie and do whatever I could to ensure he had the best race possible and finished strong. His journey to the start line of Ironman Lake Placid has been less than ideal. I was planning to put my bike back in transition, turn in my chip, change clothes, and cheer him on from the sidelines. In those last 6 miles of the first loop on the bike before returning to town, I came to the realization that I needed to keep going so that I could finish with him and support him while being beside him. I knew I could catch him on the run as his longest run prior to this race was 10 miles (running 5 minutes/walking 1 minute) one week before the race due to having his knee scoped in February.
Finishing loop #1 of the bike! Photo credit: FinisherPix
So, I came into town, swapped out my bike bottles at special needs and headed out for loop #2. I felt so relieved knowing that this race was my Ironman swan song centered around negative energy and would no longer be used as a coping mechanism. I decided in those moments wasn’t going to do another Ironman unless I one day found a joyful, positive reason for doing it. I knew deep down to the depths of my soul that I really didn’t want to do another Ironman for all of the wrong reasons and this was my last one for all the wrong reasons. I kept pushing forward (even through the 10 minute heavy down pour). As I came back to town, the crowds carried us up the bears and into transition.
Finishing loop #2 of the bike! Photo credit: FinisherPix
T2: 7:49
I handed off Mojo to a volunteer (these volunteers are truly amazing!), grabbed my run bag and headed to the change tent where I again flew solo because all of the volunteers were helping other athletes.
Run: 6:17:00 (14:23/mile)
As I left T2, I saw our friend Carol and she told me the Iron Hippie was only 4 minutes ahead of me on the run. I talked with her for a few minutes telling her about the revelations I came to on the bike and then hunted down my fave!
Chasing down my fave! I see him! Photo credit: FinisherPix
I caught him between mile 2 and mile 3 of the run. As we continued to run/walk for a bit, I told him about everything I was thinking, the relief I was feeling about not doing another Ironman for all of the wrong reasons, and how I wanted to support him in whatever future races and adventures he decided to do. We saw lots of friends and family as we continued to make forward progress.
Not feeling it on the run. Photo Credit: Amy Farrell
Ready to conquer run loop #2. Photo Credit: Amy Farrell
As our run/walk became more of a walk, we talked about so many things. It was so nice to have this time together.
On the last loop of the run! Photo credit: FinisherPix
Finish: 15:38:24
Ironman Lake Placid was my Ironman swan song centered around negative energy and for all the wrong reasons. Maybe someday I will do another Ironman, but it has to be centered around joy positive energy, and for all of the right reasons. This is not letting go of a dream, but having the courage to let go of past demons and start on a new path where I follow my heart and live more freely. As I close this chapter of my life I am grateful for the freedom + space it has provided me and the lessons it has taught me. I’m not sure what the next chapter has in store for me, but I know it will still include swim/bike/run as I strive to find a better balance. I have learned lessons that have shaped me and will continue to do so in the future, and I am so grateful for every moment. I feel relieved. I will continue to be a part of Ironman as a volunteer and spectator. I love giving back to others, supporting them on their journey, and watching them cross the finish line. Ironman Lake Placid gave me a gift! It gave me the feeling of freedom! It gave me the awareness + focus to discover myself anew! It gave me an opportunity to recreate my “why”! It opened my eyes + heart, teaching me that it is time to live my life instead of survive it!
So glad to see Moira and Mike at the finish line! Photo credit: FinisherPix
Grateful for this finish line with my Fave by my side! Photo credit: FinisherPix
Grateful Heart!
I couldn’t have gotten where I am without help and support from others. It takes a village and I am so grateful to have an amazing village supporting me!
To my Coeur Sports family for their amazing support and for creating top of the line kits + gear!
To Sound Probiotics for keeping me healthy and ready to tackle everything that came my way.
To SBR Sports, Inc. for the best anti-chaffing lube on the market!
To Nick at Vitality Massage for helping to keep my body physically read to handle the next challenge.
To Chris with Team Chiropractic for helping to “fix” all of the nagging aches and pains; preventing them from turning into injuries.
To Coach Kelly with Ever Racing for customizing my plan and helping me become the fittest and strongest version of myself.
To my Dad, Aunt Linda, and Cousin Neal for making the trip to Lake Placid to cheer us on and photograph the day.
Our race day support crew! Love you Dad, Aunt Linda, and Cousin Neal! Photo credit: Neal Fedora
To my parents for their unwavering love and support in life and sport. I love you both more than you can possibly know.
To my Fave for always being by my side through the easy + challenging times; encouraging me, supporting me, and always helping me become the best version of myself. I love you to infinity and beyond!
I am SO proud of the Iron Hippie for his accomplishments this racing season! He overcame so many challenges to get to this finish line! Photo credit: FinisherPix
And with that, I am officially done teaching 8th graders!! I still have multiple days of professional development ahead of me, but the students are gone. It is bitter sweet!! You can read more about that here. It is time to start my next new adventure soon, but first, here is a look at what the month of May had in store for me.
Training:
I had another SOLID month of training!! I completed 10 minutes of core strength daily + 3 minutes of meditation daily + I’m still on the green streak in Training Peaks!! I have not missed one workout so far this year…22 weeks and counting!! BOOM!!
BOOM!! I think I grew gills and fins!! This is my fastest ever 100 yard pace!! 🙂
I love spending time on two wheels outside with my fave at my side!! 70+ miles on the most perfect weather day any cyclist could ask for!!
What?! I got to run with my fave!! WAHOO!! I’m so proud of his patience, strength, and focus on getting to the start line of #IMLP this July!!
Swim: 28,725 yards (16.3 miles)
Bike: 357 miles
Run: 83.6 miles
Strength: 10 minutes of core daily + various full body strength
Meditation: 3 minutes daily since January 1
Monthly Totals: 53 hours & 5 minutes
#explore:
Explore is my focus word in 2019 and I’m happy to be incorporating it into all areas of my life…including racing!! I’ve been talking with Coach Kelly about racing two IRONMAN races in one year and she was just as excited for me to give it a go as I am. So, on May 1, I decided to #explore with racing TWO IRONMAN races 10 weeks apart in 2019. I have officially registered for Ironman Lake Placid on July 28 AND Ironman Louisville on October 13. This will be my first ever experience in doing two Ironman races so close together. Am I nervous? Sure! Am I scared? A bit! Am I excited? MOST DEFINITELY! I am ready to push my limits and see what my body + mind can handle.
Ironman Louisville registration is complete! I am ready for another crack at you and hoping for much better weather this year!!
Listening to:
KonaKamps always has me inspired by some amazing peeps!! Megan Anley won Ironman South Africa in the W18-24 age group at her first Ironman. Congrats Megan!!
Rich Roll brought Jesse Thomas to his podcast recently. Jesse is not only an amazing professional triathlete, but he balances his pro triathlon career with a wife, kids, his own business, and fun. He is quite the inspiration and so down to Earth!!
Reading:
Finding my Voice by Mike Reilly is so inspirational!! “Finding My Voice is a series of deeply personal vignettes illuminating how profoundly the sport of IRONMAN touches both its participants and its fans. Written from Reilly’s unique insider’s perspective as the long-time World Championship race announcer and one of the most prominent personalities in the endurance sports field, it provides an intimate, revealing and entertaining glimpse into a fascinating corner of the world of endurance sports.”
Can’t Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds by David Goggins is a great read. He overcame so many obstacles in life and eventually became “the only man in history to complete elite training as a Navy SEAL, Army Ranger, and Air Force Tactical Air Controller. He went on to set records in numerous endurance events, inspiring Outside magazine to name him “The Fittest (Real) Man in America.” Through self-discipline, mental toughness, and hard work, Goggins transformed himself from a depressed, overweight young man with no future into a U.S. Armed Forces icon and one of the world’s top endurance athletes.”
Loving:
Our new Sleep Number bed!! While we have only slept in it for 3 nights, it has been three of the best nights’ of sleep in a LONG time!! As we continue to dial in our numbers, I can only imagine that out sleep will continue to improve!!
Basil loves our new bed!!
Leaning into:
My last week of my middle school teaching career. This change feels scary, but right!! I’m super excited to embark on this new career as a Teaching Laboratory Coordinator with the Physics and Astronomy Department at Iowa State University starting next week. After all, stepping outside of your comfort zone is where the magic happens!
Going out with a splash!! My last day with kids was super fun and wet!! Now for a week of professional development before starting my new adventure next week!!
Attitude of Gratitude:
Chaperoning my last 8th grade dance!!
Morning sunrises are the best way to start the day!!
Playing in the water with my fave!!
Recovering in my Normatec boots while watching the Kentucky Derby!!
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!! 🙂
I love fresh, homegrown veggies!! So grateful to get our garden planted!!
Grateful to get to reconnect with my mat!
Grateful for the time and nice weather to finally landscape around the house!!
Grateful to have these two amazing ladies show up and attend my triathlon clinic!!
So grateful that Shane, our UPS delivery driver, loves our girls!!
So grateful to have had some of the most AMAZING colleagues ever!! I will miss some of our shenanigans!!
How was your month of May?! What were you grateful for last month?!
As I roll into my last month of teaching, before changing careers, it is time to reflect on April. April has brought us some days of warmer weather, had me spending time with my Coeur sisters, crossing the finish line of another 1/2 marathon, and riding outside on the open roads with my fave. With all of these amazing things in the rear view mirror, I have high hopes for the month of May!!
Training:
I had another SOLID month of training!! I completed 10 minutes of core strength daily + I’m still on the green streak in Training Peaks!! I have not missed one workout so far this year…18 weeks and counting!! BOOM!!
14 Ironman finish lines amongst this #swimsquad and more to come in our futures!!
“Growth comes at a point of resistance; we learn by pushing ourselves to the outer reaches of our abilities.” ~Josh Waitzkin
Keep the focus and finish STRONG!! My 7th Drake 1/2 marathon is in the books!! You can read more about it here.
Swim: 38,700 yards (21.99 miles)
Bike: 282 miles
Run: 95.5 miles
Strength: 10 minutes of core daily + various full body strength
Monthly Totals: 54 hours & 40 minutes
#explore:
Explore is my focus word in 2019 and I’m happy to be incorporating it into all areas of my life…including training!! Before each race, I think back to key sessions that better prepared me (both physically and mentally) for the race I’m about to embark on. I even jot these key sessions down so that I know the dates to refer back to in my training log. On April 23, I had a key swim session that gave me the confidence that I can have a stellar PR swim this year! The workout…
Swim 100 at the 3rd fastest pace from the 4 x 100 descending above. Assuming that felt “right” for z3/mod hard type effort this will be your pace.
Swim as many 100’s as you can at this pace with :20 to :25 rest between. If using a tempo trainer, your rest is one beep cycle.
If off by 3 seconds, rest a full minute and try again.
If after 1 minute you cannot hold the pace you are done. Cool down.
Well…my 3rd fastest 100 was 1:38.7/100 yards. Could I really hold 1:39/100 yards for more than 5 intervals?
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
Apparently so! #befierce is the mantra for the Coeur Team in 2019 and it helped me crush my expectations and self doubt during this workout and I know it will help me with many more in the future!!
Tiger Team!! #beatiger
Listening to:
KonaKamps always has me inspired by some amazing peeps!! Keri Houston is an age group champ at Ironman New Zealand 2019. Michelle Enslin is the age group champion for the 50-54 age group at Ironman South Africa 2019 after coming back from surgery. Her gratitude is contagious!
Rich Roll brought Johann Hari on his podcast to talk about addiction and depression. “The opposite of addiction isn’t sobriety. It’s connection.” With the world at our fingertips (quite literally…that phone you’re holding is taking you away from making connections with the people around you, so put it down and make memories with those around you) we can disconnect from those around us just as quickly as we can connect with them by putting the technology away. “If you suffer from addiction or depression, this is a must listen. If you don’t, chances are someone you care for does. This conversation can provide the insight and tools for better understanding the struggle — because mental health truly impacts everyone.”
Reading:
Peak Performance: Elevate your Game, Avoid Burnout, and Thrive with the New Science of Success by Brad Stulberg and Steve Magness is amazing!! It kept me engaged and wanting to read even more!! The authors suggest “optimally alternating between periods of intense work and rest; priming the body and mind for enhanced productivity; and developing and harnessing the power of a self-transcending purpose.” There is so much useful information in here!! It was one that I struggled to put down so I could get adequate sleep each night!!
Leaning into:
Discomfort…I know that when we step outside of our comfort zone and embrace discomfort that we experience growth. As a result, I have been leaning into discomfort more in my personal life and am making huge strides. Discomfort isn’t easy and it takes a lot of work for growth to happen, but the rewards that come from it are definitely worth leaning into and embracing the discomfort.
Attitude of Gratitude:
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 for a strong body to put up some all time records during my most recent FTP test!!
Grateful to have Basil run by my side and the IronHippie back in the saddle!!
Grateful to Normatec Recovery for helping me bounce back from tough workouts so I can nail the next session!!
These two…so grateful for their unconditional love!!
Grateful for some girl time with Robin as we pound the pavement!!
Celebrating the end of the #batcapchallenge on January 1!
Ironman Louisville registration for 2018!!
Supporting our twin nieces at their swim meet!
My fave and me at home home!!
Me and my fave listening to Damon Dotson!
Snowshoeing adventures with my fam!
Lunch with the twins at school!
Winter wonderland with Dad + my fave!
Catching up with my “baby brother” at home home!
February:
My longest run since November and with this amazing sunset!
Snowshoe adventures!
Enjoying life with my fave!
March:
The biggest birthday card I’ve ever received! Thank you Laylah!
Warm enough for shorts?! YES!! Soaking up the sun + vitamin D!!
Making an effort, not an excuse!
Rolling out of 40 and into 41 like “Hell yeah! 40 was an amazing year! Cheers to an even better 41!”
Birthday lunch date with my #solesister
We are SO grateful to have SBR Sports, Inc. in our tribe this year! #sbrambassador
These two girls fill my heart with love and joy every day!
The girls playing tug of war with a stick in the yard while we shovel.
Listening to your gut instead of your heart can be REALLY tough! I’m confident we made the right decision not to race the 10K road race this morning and swim instead.
These kids! They engineered some very creative ways to protect their eggs when they dropped them from the balcony at school! #eggdrop
April:
3 of my favorite little bunnies!
Our winter playground is officially closed for the summer
I’m so grateful to have this amazing man by my side in life!
I’m so grateful for my #solesister!
Traci, we love you! So grateful to have amazing friends at work!
First race of 2018 is in the books! My finish time wasn’t as good as I’d hoped for, but it was better than I expected! #happygirl #mydrakerelays
CPR/AED recertification day!
SO happy to have this pretty lady back home in Iowa! #lovemyneighbor
Checking my gait while picking up our new Garmins! #therunnersflat
Being filmed for a video being put together for Team Chiropractic…what does it take to be an Ironman??? Many hours staring at the same walls! Desire, focus, determination, grit, tenacity, belief in yourself…just to name a few!
May:
Dance like no one is watching when you’re happy! So grateful there are only 35 days (including weekends) until summer break!
