**Invalid Password???***

What tha shit??!?!?

I guess that's what happens when you don't log in for well over a year.  We all have our "go to" passwords that we use.  Mine rotate through 3-4 different ones with numbers and/or symbols.  To log in today I had to think back 1.5 years ago.  "BradLovesOneDirection14". What.....They were really popular in 2013....

So.....a lot has happened in the past year-ish.  2014 wasn't that big of a year.  The last half of the year, around the end of July was when it all changed for the better.  I got more serious in training and actually started more of a routine.  I was still spastic on the consistency and it wasn't beneficial, for my 2015 Ironman Goal.  In January, I buckled down a lot.  Eating, working out, focus, signing up for races.....I had to do something.  I've toned up and slimed down a lot in the past 4 months.  I've raced a sprint Tri and a 13.1 so far with a 10k next weekend.  These 2 races crushed my 2014 race total, since I did a total of 1 race last year.

I had planned on doing Redman Full with JFord but received a phone call  2 weeks ago from him.  He, unfortunately had to back out of the race, for a good reason (not because of was skurred).  I have made the decision to do it anyway.  I started IM training on Monday.  Full on, I-actually-have-a-plan-to-follow training.  With the help of my past experience, other people's experiences, a recommended book, luck, and motivation from everyone, I'll do A LOT better than my first IM.

I'll commit to you all to blog more.  Probably once to twice a week, usually on Mondays to do recaps, training totals, comiserate with others, brag, get humbled, laugh, cry, laugh while crying.....whatever.

While I haven't been on here, I have kept up with some of y'all via Blogs, IG, etc and even a chance meeting in person.  Some of you knew I was there.  Other times I was like the guy in aviator shades, a members only jacket, rolling around in a windowless van.   Straight Creepin' on ya.

So.....I hope to see you all around.  I'll be around.  Just training, doing the dad thing, keeping my head above water......the usual

Challenge......ACCEPTED

***Title said in my best Barney Stinson voice....be sure and pause an inordinate amount of time between words***

Challenges have been a part of history as much as anything else....

Christopher Columbus - challenged to be the first to discover new lands

Burr/Hamilton Duel - A fight to the death

JFord and Brads 2015 Redman Challenge...

All have been historical in nature and all will be talked about for years.

I am a little upset that I am the challengee....and not the challenger.  As an only child, I need to be the challenger.  But since I'm not, I'll need to make up for it with smack talk and subsequent excuses.

Lets back up a little bit.  I "met" James - Click here for his blog - and follow him -  on Beginnertriathlete.com a little over a year ago.  We mentored a group of true beginners together and both could commiserate, motivate, and lean on each other as we were both going through Ironman training at the same time.  As y'all know, I did IMTX in May and JFord did Redman in September.  The difference in IMTX and Redman is very slight.  They are both "140.6" distances and a side from that, there isn't much of a difference.  However....to hear me talk about it....Redman is A LOT easier for 2 main factors.  One...it's not an Ironman race and Two...it's not in Texas.  That right there makes it a ton easier.

So....when JFord crossed the finish line (and beat my time)....I sent him texts and FB posts congratulating him but he also received the "but it's not a real race" texts and posts as well.

Well....he's upped the ante and challenged me to Redman 2015.  Mano y Mano....same course, same date, same race, same start time......this will define who the better triathlete is.....and crown the best of all time. 

When I told my wife about this, she said "I thought you weren't doing another Ironman?"  To which I said "but I was challenged".  She just shook her head.  Pffft.....she don't get it....wimm-in....pssh.

Now....where are my shoes?  Are cobwebs normal on a bike?  These Reese's PB Cups look amazing....

EnduroPacks - 30 Day Review

If you recall from my post about 30 days ago, I was selected to be a Brand Ambassador for EnduroPacks, which is a new sports nutrition company for endurance athletes....which focuses on recovery.

I have to say that as a previous 'non-believer' in any supplements other than my daily multi and Gu/Calories on my runs and rides, EnduroPacks made me a believer.

Haven gotten the first shipment in around 20 days out from my half marathon....which was horrible and a race that I would LOVE to forget....I started taking the supplements as directed.  After the first week of taking them, I had a long run of 9 miles and my family and I went to the State Fair of Texas for a day of walking.  I figured I walked around 4 miles that day.  The next morning, I had a slight case of "heavy legs" but I had no noticeable soreness.  None, zip, zilch.  Pre-EnduroPacks I know that I would have had some soreness related to a 13 mile day but had none.

Post "horrible race" (as we'll now refer to it, going forward) I was not sore either....and actually began looking for a redemption race the next day.  The morning after a bad race or a race where it didn't come together, you normally wake up sore, wallow in your pity, and never want to see your shoes again.  While I did throw a pity party, I did so without the lactic acid funny walk.  (haha).  No soreness, no tenderness, nothing.  I was amazed and had actually told my wife that I had planned on skipping a neighbors party...but decided to go because I was refreshed.

I continued taking the supplements and using the electrolyte spray in bottles of water....sometimes on my off days just trying to get "topped off" for the next days activities....and have gotten to the end of the pack and can't wait for the next shipment to arrive.

While I still haven't picked a redemption race yet.....due to external factors....I am glad to know that I have supplements to get me to the level that I need to be.


Goal for 2013 'redemption race'......Sub-2 hour 13.1

EnduroPacks - First Impressions

As some of you know, I was selected to be a one month trial participant for EnduroPacks, which is a start up nutrition company for endurance athletes, focused on recovery.  That's a challenge for a lot of us, especially me, so when I saw they were asking for Brand Ambassadors, I jumped at the chance.  They are still accepting applications, so if any of my followers....or followers of my followers want to apply, you can go to their website and check them out and apply.

ENDUROPACKS WEBSITE

 



When I arrived home on Friday, there was a nice little treat waiting for me.....my Enduropacks shipment.  I opened it immediately waiting to see the goodness that a little white box held for me.  This was perfect timing as I had my longest run since IMTX on the books for Saturday.  The box was packed perfectly and the only glass bottle in there was the liquidmulti but it was wrapped in bubble wrap securely.  The first thing I did was, obviously, pop all of the bubbles.  That's a hard and fast rule.....if there is bubble wrap, it must be popped.

Inside the box was a nice, soft cotton T-shirt, Liquidmulti, electrolyte spray, amino patch, glutamine caps, and an instruction card.

see...no bubble wrap

As I was excited to get started, I put on the t-shirt and ran around the house for about 30 seconds, under the watchful eye of a 7 year old and a cat.  Both were confused, but I didn't care.

I put all of the items on my vanity and waited, somewhat impatiently, for 4:30am so I could get started.

Fast forward to 4:30am.....it go time.

First thing that I took was the Liquidmulti.  The taste wasn't horrible, but it wasn't the best either.  It does have a chalky taste to it, reminiscent of the Flintstone chewable vitamins that we all took as kids.  The instruction card said to take with food, but the only thing I eat, pre-run, is a Gu.  I was worried that I would "taste it" via burps once the Liquidmulti made it's way down, but I did not experience any negative side effects from it.

I got my water bottle and pumped 5 "shots" of the electrolyte spray and set off.  Around mile 2, I took my first drink and was surprised, for two reasons.  One....I didn't think that there would be a taste to the spray and Two....that it wasn't bad at all.  It has a citrusy flavor to it, similar to Nuun or Gu Brew.  It's not overpowering and it's pleasant.

After the run, I was instructed to put an amino patch on.  This is were I had an issue....the instruction card does not specify where to put it.  As it's a transdermal patch, I figured anywhere was as good as any so I put it on my stomach, close to my belly button.  Then, I went on the website and it recommended that it be placed on the inner-arm or the wrist.  Well, poop.  So I took it off and placed it on my wrist.  This was the first lesson in "what not to do".  Once the patch is on, it doesn't want to go back on anywhere else.  I placed it on my wrist, but within a few minutes it was starting to peel off.  I got another patch and stuck it on my wrist and it stayed there for a good 8 hours.  We went to a festival around 4pm and I took it off because it was starting to fold/crease a bit.  It was still on, but I figured 8 hours was good enough.

 

Patch size

 

 

 

Placement of Patch....

 

That night, I took the Glutamine caps about an hour and a half before bed, while I was finishing up the late football games.  I was worried, again, about the "tasting" of the caps so I took it early and if I was feeling it, then I'd be able to drink some milk and/or have a light snack.  The caps are just a little bigger than an Advil Gelcap and very easy to swallow.  I took both at the same time with a small glass of water.  I didn't feel any side effects from it.

The next morning....I woke up...and felt 100%....like I could have gone for another long run.  I had scheduled off on Sunday (and I'm a rule/plan follower) so I only took the Liquidmulti and I took the Glutamine caps at night. 

My first overall impression is a good one.  I'd give it a solid "B".  I would have given it an "A-" for first impressions had the instruction card been a little more clear on the patch placement.  After a week (next Monday), I'll give another review on how the first week with the product went and share my thoughts on that.

I'm super excited to get further into the trial and see this through an entire month (and hopefully more) while I wind down the 13.1 training and ramp up to 26.2 this winter.

Weekend Stuff

Happy Friday Y'all.....

This weekend is supposed to be a busy one, but due to the weather today, it may not be at all.

Tonight is J's volleyball practice and tomorrow she has a game in the mid-afternoon.  After her game, we're supposed to go to the Plano Balloon Festival.  It's an awesome event with a balloon launch, balloon glows, fire works, things for the kids, over-priced sno-cones and festival food, etc.  However....it's held in a park and it's all grass and one HUGE hill that everyone sits on.  Well....it's been raining since about 7:30pm last night.  It's projected to continue raining for most of the day and into early evening.  Rain + grass/hill + 10,000 people = MUD.  So....we may miss that.

I have a 8 mile run to get in at the crack of dawn.  I'm super pumped because the reason we have this rain is a "cold front" pushed down.  It's supposed to be in the low-60s.  Our lows have been in the upper-70's and humid....so this will almost feel chilly.

On Sunday, I'm going to do a 5 miler (recovery at 80%) to get the legs used to the mileage.

The run tomorrow will gauge if I'll be able to sniff a sub-2 in the Showdown Half (www.showdownhalf.com) or if it's just going to be part of the master plan of a marathon.

My boy....JFord....is going doing Redman Full (140.6) on Saturday.  Follow him on FaceBook (Daily Trainings) for live updates done by his wife.  His blog is http://memphishassumthin2say.blogspot.com

I should be receiving my EnduroPacks supply soon (www.enduropacks.com) and will post my initial thoughts on it as soon as I get it.  I cannot wait. 

I visited the Cooper Clinic on Wednesday for my annual physical.  They do a great job checking every crease and crevice (and I mean EVERY crease and crevice).  According to my doc I need to drop about 10-15lbs (duh) and do some additional strength exercises.  She's a former marathon runner....like Top AG'er and overall winner....so she's not just spouting off crap.  She said it's more for performance than it is actually for "health" (although being healthier is a side effect of that).


OK....calling all readers.  I need more followers.  Give me a shout-out, tell people to follow me, beg...do whatever.  I follow a ton of bloggers and some follow me back, but I want followers.  I am a people person.  I have people skills, dammit.......

I will be looking at/doing a give-away for followers in the near future.  I'm in the works now with some companies for discounts and products related to running and tri's.

Y'all come through for a brotha!

Running Randomness

Out for my solitary 4 miler this morning (which sucked butt, btw...more on that later).  When I'm about a mile and a half in, I see something in the grass.  Normally it's a rabbit and will scurry off.  And sometimes they'll run in the direction I'm running....then dart across the sidewalk....then back....then sprint ahead.  I'm all like "I'm not chasin' you lil' bunny fo-fo....just stop" but they don't seem to listen.

Anywho...in the grass.  I see something that appears to be crouched down.  I could tell it wasn't a rabbit and first thought was a bobcat kitten/cub as it was small.  Shortly there after, I got a little nervous as a kitten will have a momma near.  Now....being from the country, I know that if I'm not a little animal/rodent or a chicken....I'm fine.  But still, coming upon a bobcat isn't the most fun thing on a jog.  I did have a quick thought of "well....this can be my interval training".  As I get within 10 yards, it starts across the sidewalk and I hear *click-click-click....* and I realize that I'm coming upon an armadillo.  They're docile and more scared of you....and they are the worlds worst animal at getting across the street.  So....the armadillo realizes that I'm coming up and quickly heads back the other way.

That interaction and the thought of the senseless murders of armadillos every year on Texas streets by out of control cars and truck.....brought me back to a FB post I saw not too long ago.

The Balloon says "Get Well Soon"

Then....with the armadillo being the State Animal of Texas (actually the Nine-Banded Armadillo), I thought of all the cool facts of the armadillo that we were taught in school.


**Armadillos have four babies at a time, always all the same sex. They are perfect quadruplets, the fertilized cell split into quarters, resulting in four identical armadillos.

**Armadillos get an average of 18.5 hours of sleep per day.

**Armadillos can walk underwater.

**Armadillos are the only animal besides humans that can get leprosy.

**When an armadillo is frightened it jumps straight into the air.

**Armadillos can be housebroken.

**Armadillos have a very low need of oxygen. Even when burrowing they can stop breathing for 6 minutes by storing air in the trachea and wide bronchus.

**The name "Armadillo" comes from the Spanish explorers word meaning "Little Armored Thing"


So that was my morning.  Oh....and the run sucked because I ran slow and it was hot (80 degrees) and humid and no wind to cool the body down.  Ran 4.01 in 44:45.  That's absolutely horrible.

Hey There....remember me?

Well....this is awkward.  You know...we have our little fun, say we'll talk and hang out, never really do and then run into each other at the store.....

I feel like there's a lot that's happened, but I can't really think of much.  I'm into 13.1 training now and should be around the 9 mile mark for my long runs, but just completed 7 this past weekend.  I was shooting for a PR of Sub-2 for the race on 10/12 (the Showdown Half) http://www.showdownhalf.com/  but it's looking more like a good jump start to marathon training. 

I volunteered for a sprint tri over the weekend.  Saw some people I know, saw some familiar faces, and got to give back to the sport that's treated me well.

I also found out that I'm a finalist for a Brand Ambassador gig with EnduroPacks.  http://www.enduropacks.com/  I was interviewed over the phone last week and got an e-mail over the weekend that they want to send me a one month trial and have me review it, etc....and if they like my 'social interaction' on the web, I could possibly be a 3-month Ambassador.  Go check them out.  It's a new company.....focused on the recovery aspect of training....which is my nemesis.

Also....JFord is about to embark on an amazing 140.6 journey.  He's doing Redman in OKC this weekend.  You can follow him on FB and via his blog (http://memphishassumthin2say.blogspot.com/)

We have a lot going on these next few weekends.....lots of family things.  This is where we, as amateur athletes, shine.  We have to get our training in and balance the family time too....which if it comes down to it, I pick the family.  But.....I can get my azz outta bed at 4:30a and get it done before anyone even knows I was gone.

I'll be posting more....I'll be looking for new followers.

Spread the word on my blog....and get me some followers people!!!!!

Not in my 'Hood (and other things)

23 Days to IMTX.

Last night I had sooked Beef Stroganoff in the crockpot and the 7yo and the wifey both said "lets eat Rosa's tonight".  Rosa's is a fast food mexican joint....below a 'On The Border' but way higher than a Taco Bell....they make their own tortillas right there, fresh everything, fresh salsa, etc.  So, I caved and said okay.  As I was pulling out, I saw a solicitor and sent the wife a text letting her know to not worry about answering.  I go and get the food and come back.  Wife says the guy knocked.  So...about 15 minutes later, while eating.....*knock* *knock* *knock*.  It's him again.  Didn't answer.  About 30 mintues later.....*knock* *knock* *knock*.  Seriously dude......  So, I call the cops.  I attend meetings with, and regularly chat with, the deputy cheif of the McKinney PD.  He said anytime there are door-to-door people, call the non-emergency line and they'd come and make contact, ask for their permit - as requried by city law, etc.  So...I did.  I then set out for my 3 mile run.  I run the neighborhood loop 3 times and the sales guy is still in the area.  Then, I see the police.  He was making a U-turn and I stopped him and told him what's up.  He said he saw him and was going to make contact.  At that point, I had run for 10 minutes (and had 20 more minutes to go).  I continue to run and as I turn back into the 'hood, the cop is still there talking with the guy, the guys trunk is open, there is another cop there, and it's been 20 minutes......this had turned into more than a "let me see your permit" and "you can't be here, now leave" situation.    I was feeling bad after calling the cops because it was a guy trying to make a living......but apparently there was more to the story so I didn't feel too bad.


If you're keeping score at home and my story didn't bore you, you'll remember that I had Rosa's for dinner.  It's the perfect pre-workout meal.  And by "perfect" I mean "top 10 dumbest things you can eat before a run and swim".

3.2 miles in the books.....followed by a 25 minute swim. 

During my run and swim, I began to have the mind-wander....just random things in my head.  I was thinking about instagram and how you can hashtag pics.  Sometimes, I'll click on the hashtags to see what type of pics are there, view other pics (I'm a vouyer guy), etc.....well, one tag seemed innocent to me, but apparently others use it for self pics of body parts, subtle nudity, etc.....which got me thinking......have you or would you post subtle/openly nude pics of yourself on line or texted them?  I will be honest and say that I have.  I have done it as a joke and as a seduction technique.....I have done it while somewhat intoxicated to friends (which to me is the funniest because they're not expecting it)......

If I have your e-mail address or phone number, I promise that I will never send you pics of me.....and by "promise that I will never" I mean, you better be on the lookout after 5/18 because I'll have a lot more time to drink on the weekends. 

Tonight is a 2:00 trainer and 5 mile run.  Legs will be cranky but Friday is my off day so that'll be some motivation....

*Untitled* - Part 2

***I started this at 3:18pm yesterday (4/15) while the news was still poring in***

My last untitled blog was about Sandy Hook....and now another tragedy has hit.  I'm sitting here watching the news on my computer, getting updates from freinds on my phone, I have several message boards open and looking, and reading all the "thoughts and prayers" posts on FB.  In this age of social media and instant news on demand, I hope that what I'm reading and hearing is speculative and that some of it isn't true. 

I'm listening to the Boston PD radio scanner....still 2 hours after the bombs and there is still mass chaos.  You can hear it in their voices, you can sense their urgency. 

Clear out this area, report of a package, suspisious person, where are you, head over to Com. Ave, secure this area, why is this van here.......

Reports of people with missing legs, an 8-year old that was killed....100's injured.  What the hell?  This is a marathon....in Boston, not Baghdad......

Sensless....all FUCKING SENSELESS!!!!!  There wasn't a need for this.  If you want to make a political/religious/personal/whatever statement.....write a fucking blog, rant on FB, stand in a public area and yell....just don't kill people.  What the hell is wrong with people?  I've been pissed before.  Super pissed......but you know....I never thought "Imma go kill some folks".  Never.  Not once.

I just want to scream.

I started a hashtag on Instagram (#runners4boston).  For people to post their pics of them in their race shirts today.  I'm wearing mine.....are you?

In other news...the pool was closed last night.  Uggh.  Tonight, I was going to do a trainer ride, but instead, I'm going to run.  I don't know how far or how long....but I'm going to go out.  It could be 3 miles, 6 miles, 19 miles.....I don't know.  I'm just going to run.......

33 Days (and 3 is my lucky number)

33 Days....One month and 3 days (or one month and 2 days......or one month and 5 days if it was February....one month and 4 days if it was a leap year....or one.....nevermind...y'all get it)


This weekend was exciting.  I got up on Saturday and ran 9 miles, doing a 1 mile run, 30 sec walk.  I actually ran a little faster than I wanted to.  My pace, on race day, will be dictated by my body.  I just need to reign it in.  After that....J's first soccer game.  Now.....I'm not the 'sports dad' type of guy.  I want her to do good and I want her team to win....but really, I want her to have fun and enjoy what she's doing.  She had a blast and she did (surprisingly) well.  We took her to Chick-Fil-A for a celebration lunch.

Ssturday night was a fun filled "I'm hitting the sack at 8:45pm" night....got my set up for the trainer ride set with nutrition, hydration, and earbuds, then watched part of the Ranger game then the next thing I know, my alarm is going off......

 

After my 5 hour and 43 minute ride with a total of 96 miles.....it was time to stuff my face with mexican food....NOM-NOM-NOM......to the point of 'ah shit....I overate".

Got home and needed more recovery time....nap and beer....and let me tell ya....both were excellent.  I also wore compression pants the entire day and I iced my legs twice during the day.  I'm not as sore as I thought I would be.  Did I push hard enough?  Or was the recovery beer/ice/compression the magic formula?

 

 

Finally, the baby has hit the magical age of 6 months.  All the parents know that this is "baby food time".  This is absolutly hilarious.  They gag, they make faces, they get it all over......it's pure greatness!

Tonight is my recovery swim (wish it was more recovery naps and beer....but whatever) of 65 minutes. 

How was y'alls weekend?

38 Days....less than 1000 hours

In 37 Days, 23 hours, and 57 Minutes.....I'll have started IMTX.

That's not too far off kids....

One of my followers on Instagram put down "Less than 1000 hours until #imtx".  For some reason, 38 days sounds a lot further away than 1000 hours. 

I'm getting nervous.  I'm getting worried, I'm getting excited, I'm getting anxious, I'm getting happy, I'm getting........very emotional.  Other than simple adjectives, it's really hard for me to put down how I'm feeling without rambling for pages and pages.......

On Monday night, I swam 2800m.  Had a good time (both literally and figuratively) too.

Last night called for a 3 hour trainer ride.  I got in 2 good hours and a little over 36 miles.  Very happy with that too.  However....I should have moved my Wednesday workout to last night.  Because today, it's 40 degrees with storms all day and high wind.  Last night it was in the mid-70's (and that was at night).  What wacky weather we've been having.....

Tonight may be a treadmill night.  I do have a swim after that too.

We'll see.

The suck line

I listened to a great podcast put out by Endrance Nation on Friday (while at work....and on the way home) about 4 keys to finishing an Ironman strong.  The 4 main points were:

1) Race Day is about execution not fitness
     Apply the fitness that you bring to the race
     See your race as a video game.  You control you.

2)  Execcute 100%
      The goal for the first 2/3's of the race is to set up your run
      Nothing before mile 18 of the run matters
      The "suck line" will come....guarenteed.  The decision you make will either move the suck line closer to you or further away (goal is 'further')

3)  Dealing with the suck line with your box
      Urgency vs. Importance  -  your race is important.  Act out of importance not urgency
       This is your box.  You control what's in that box (fitness, nutrition, planning).  Stay in your box

4)   Why are you here (mantra)
       When the line hits, what will you do to keep going.
       Why are you here?  Why are you doing this race?  Why did you sign up
       This will keep you going until the end.  Don't pull this out until necessary



So....on Saturday....went to bed (well....fell asleep on the couch) around 8:30pm.  I moved to the bedroom around midnight.  Alarm set for 4:30a - check.  Alarm goes off at 4:30a - Check.  Snooze and sleep more becuase all I have is a 10 mile run.  Wake up and it's light outside.  Wait, what?  Snooze lasted a little longer that I thought.  Check the time......10:30am.  W.T.F???? 

As it's a little to late to start the run, I decide that I'll run tonight.  Fast forward to 8p (after drinking nothing but soda all day and eating like crap, I start out on my run.  Immediatly my heart rate jacks way up.  At mile .4 (yes.... *point 4*) I throw up in a neighbors yard.  This run is done. 

Go home, shower, go to bed......

4am alarm - check......alarm goes off.....next thing I know it's 5:30am.  Whew....day is not shot.  I get on the bike and start to go, go, go.  I got in 4:40 on the bike (which I figure is about 78 miles).  I then do a 7 minute "transition" and head out for my run.  I got thru 5.25 miles in a pretty qucik 57 minutes.  I was cooked......completly done.....

While I was happy with my distance (a breakout)....i got a little nervous.  How am I going to get thru 2 more hours on the bike....and 21 more miles on the run???? 

Here's to hoping that adrenaline and the crowd get me there!  
 

Tomorrow....Don't Turn Into This

We've all heard it and said it "I'll start tomorrow" or "I'll do it tomorrow".......

There are 7 days in a week and none of them are called tomorrow.

Get out and make it happen.

Last night I did a quick loop of 4.5 miles and then drove to the gym for a 2500m swim.  I did half of a mile for JFord and the last 100m was for him too.  He's been under the weather for a few days and I know it's eating him alive.  But he knows that rest is best.

Tonight is 3:30 trainer ride.  I'll probably shorten it to 3 hours and give some pushes and sprints and do some up/down drills too.

Tomorrow is Good Friday and the wife and kiddo's are off of school/work, so instead of having to get up and get everyone ready, I'll have some 'me' time.  The only debate is do I sleep in until around 6:45 and get additional rest or do I get up around 5:00, gym by 5:40, swim until 6:20, home by 6:45????  Hmmmmm......

Holy Crap it's Cold....and windy

Friday night....I decided to skip my swim.  It would have been nice to get it in, but we watched two episodes of Grimm for FMN and by the time they were done, it was 9:30.  Since the gym closes at 10p on Friday, there was no way I could have made it there for a swim.  I didn't beat myself up over it and, since I'm not worried about the swim, it was decidely okay to miss.....but lets not make a habit of this, I told my self. 

That afternoon I had dropped by bike off at the shop for a tune up, a freehub converter, and new cassette and chain to be put on my race wheels...and installed.  About an hour after I dropped it off, they called and said it was ready.  So after school, I picked J up and we went to get it.  Of course, she found some things in the Tri-Shop that she wanted....including an aero helmet for her "princess bike" and a pink carbon water bottle holder.  Helmet priced at $170 and the cage was $49.  LOL....she's already got "triathlete tastes".

C'mon daddy....I really want it.

Saturday morning, was up at 5:30am and ran 6 miles.  We had a lot going on and scheduled for the day....especially in the morning, so I wanted to get my run in.  Now THAT, I can't miss.  Running has been lacking in my plan as I'm focused on the bike...and the 112 mile sufferfest awaiting me.  I've done a marathon before (albeit very slow) so I know what it takes to get thru that.

On saturday night, I got everything prepared for Sunday's 4am alarm and 4:30am start time on the trainer.  Nutrition laid out, cages filled, extra water, clothes laid out for bike and run, shoes, headphones plugged in, Amazon Prime pulled up on the comuter and ready to hit play.  Start off with no stress or "looking for stuff" and it eliminates excuses.

 

The  ride was uneventful really, but the new components were great.  Could feel a hug difference in shifting and ease of peddling.  I got thru 5 episodes of Jericho, which was another recommendation.  Missed it the first time around on TV.  I ended up doing 3:40 on the bike....what I projected around 65 miles).

Then the run.....was planning on doing 10 miles and really felt good during the run.  I ended up with 6 miles and had some good times on the runs (9:45, 10, 10:18)......but the weather was Out Of Control.  A brisk northly wind that was whipping around.....like to the point of no matter how I was running, it was hitting me.  The temp was in the upper 30's and the winds were in the 30mph range....and that was sustained.  It was gusting up to 35-40mph.  I truly could have done more on the run, but was so miserable, that I stopped.

All in all....great weekend!!!!!

I'm boring...or blah....or both

I rode 2:35 last night....so about 42 miles.  I got bored on the bike.  I'm done with Firefly and didn't know what to start next so I just quit.  I really want to get out on the road, but I have no time during the week.  The past few weekends have either had family in town (and a small hangover) or the weather has been crappy.

5 mile run tonight and a 2100m swim (or about 37 minutes).  It's hard to keep count on the longer distances so I just swim for time.  I try to keep track, I really do....but my ADD kicks in and I end up singing songs, thinking about whatever.....

Enjoy a picture of my resemblance to Johnny "Football" Manziel.

Tailgating, Beer, Drunks, Running, Biking

Not necessarly in that order....

On Saturday morning, I was up and at'em at 5:30. I did 5.5 mile run (was supposed to do between 6 and 8) but wasn't feeling it. I've gotten that way lately and it's shown on the training volume. Yesterday was 60 mile ride but managed to do 25 because I didn't start until around 9pm and, frankly didn't want to do it at all. Since this is a new week, I'll hit it strong tonight with a 2000m swim.

Before I get into Saturdays festivities.....my totals for the month are:

Bike - 188.5 miles
Run - 16.82 miles
Swim - 9300m

So....Saturday.

We loaded up everything for the festivities and got to our area aroun 9:15am.  As the parade didn't start until 11am, we had plenty of time to hang, chill, eat, start drinking, and have fun.  There were an esitamed 110k people out for the parade and with temps in the mid-70's it was damn near perfect.

We had some friends meet us out there too.....and they brought A LOT of champaign. I figure that I had close to a whole bottle based on how I was feeling by the end of the parade.  All in all we had a blast.

Post Parade.....yup....

Floats

Floats and throwing beads

Seriously....already doing 'duck face'???

Cutiest family ever

So...my SIL and I were in a grocery store on Friday night and we walked passed a disply of Shiner beer.  Attached to this display was an awesome tin sign that would look perfect in my office.  So....we find a manager and he's like "I can't give it to you but maybe the manager can.  He's not here so you'll have to come back tomorrow".  I turn my charm on and was like "c'mon make an executive decision" and "no one will know".  He was stedfast....can't do it.

So....on Saturday, after the parade, I return to this grocery store.  I walk in, walk to the display, take the sign, walk out and put it in my car.  It was straight up Oceans 11 style operations. 

It's mah Baby Momma's burfday...

The light of my life, my world, my everything......she's lucky to have me.    HA.  I'm truly blessed to have her in my life and that she puts up with my shit.

She's been doing some pintrest projects and had a bunch of little wooden letters laying around.  I made this for her to wake up to this morning.

As it's her birthday, we are going to dinner tonight and I will probably over eat and then not want to workout.  So....I got up and did a 2 mile jog (had 4 on the schedule) and then swam 1600m (had 1800 on the schedule).  My time for the 1600m was 27:25.  I was flying today (not on purpose).  I was going through the water with ease, breathing was on point, smooth strokes.....it all came together.  It'll probably fall apart on Friday for my next swim....but today was what I needed.

My buddy and co-mentor JFord is giving away a hydration pack on his blog.  Click the big words to enter.  Tell em Brad sent you.  He'll know what you mean.

HYDRATION PACK GIVE AWAY

 

 

Also....last night, the 7 year old wanted to do her own "home improvment project".  I got 2 scrap 2x4's, cut them and made a "frame".  What we are going to do is mount it to the house, outside, and put little flowers on it.  It's like a plant frame.  She wanted it pink, so daddy went to Home Depot and got pink spray paint for it.  By the time I got home from there and finished it all up, it was 9p.  I was supposed to do 3:00 on the bike, but settled for 2:30.  Watched the movie Sinister.....HOLY CRAP!....and then watched another episode of FireFly...then called it a night since I was getting up earlier to 'Do Work' this morning.

 

 

Wood Filler

Sanding


 

 Painting

 

 

 



It's Been....One Week Since....

...you posted here.


Started a mileage challenge with my Mentor group on BT.  So I'm actually logging miles on BT now.

Monday I did 1400m in the pool before going on a road trip with my Leadership class to Austin to visit the Capitol, to meet our state and local reps, and to have some 'bonding' with the class.  Beer was consumed, so I'm glad that I worked out before.

Tuesday and Wednesday both my wife and I were beat down by allergies and the onset of them.  We were in bed both nights by 8:30 and asleep close to around that time.  I kept kicking myself for missing a bike, but looking back, I needed that rest.  Since my 'refocus', I've only missed a run so missing a bike isn't going to kill me.

Last night ran 3.87 miles.....at a very slow pace (43 minutes) and then changed, drove to the pool, and cranked out 1500m. 

Tonight is FMN.  Jilian really wants to see Wreck It Ralph....and so do I.  However, Redbox all over the area don't have it in as of yet.  Going to keep checking throughout the day.  If it's not there, J said that she'll watch Ironman 2.

Tonight I'm trying ribs in the crockpot for the first time.  Cornbread and veggies on the side.  hope it's good.  Also, after the movie tonight, I'm supposed to ride.  However, I also have a brick workout in the morning that I need to start about 4:30am (bike will be part on trainer, part on road) and I have to be done by 9am so I can get the kiddo to gymnastics.

What's on tap for my followers this weekend?

Another sick kid. :(

On Monday, after school, J was complaining about 'not feeling good'....which she always does until she finds out what's for dinner.  If she likes it, she perks up....if not, well then she's 'sick' and only nuggets or soup or tuna or hot dogs will help.  Well....she actually had a fever and passed out on the couch right when she walked in the door.  Gave her Tylenol and put her in bed and she slept the whole night.  Yesterday morning, her fever was low grade (99.4) so I gave her more Tylenol and we got ready for school.  I sent a "FYI" text to my boss to let him know.  Well....guess who I got a call from at 10:45????  Yup....she's got a 102 and she's complaining of a sore throat.  So, I go pick her up and bring her to my on-site clinic at work and she had a 'weak positive' for strep.  Amoxicillian 'script and rest is what the PA said.....so that's what we did.

Since I had to leave early, once Annie got home and we finsihed dinner, I had to finish up work stuff from home and run two errands for Annie since she'd be at home all day tomorrow....putting me back at home at 8:30-ish and on the trainer at 8:45.  I was supposed to do 2:15 on the bike but did 1:45.

Today was supposed to be a swim at lunch (which I had just typed out "Today I'm swimming at lunch", but deleted that as when I typed it, I realized that my workout bag is where I left it at home)......and tonight is a 4 mile run.  Depending on timing, I may get both in.  If I have to choose, I'll do the run as I'm still working out some soreness from Monday's swim.

Appointment Made!

Tomorrow (1/30) is my day at the TriShop in Plano!!!!  I'm having my components put on my bike, new wheels trued, and a Retul fit.  If you don't know what that is...check it out at the Tri Shop's Bike Fit site or at the RETUL website.  I'm hoping for the best fit for my bike and body and that it will help stave off injury and increase the comfort in the saddle.  Now....just have to get bike fit(ness).......

Last night was a 3 miler in the 75 degree heat and humidity (and crazy wind).  I ran last night at 8:30...and it was still that warm.  I was drentched after the run due to the high humidity and the wind at my back for the last mile.

Tonight is a 1:15 ride on the trainer......do work!