So, we have been here for about 2 days now, and I finally have a moment to sit down and tell y'all about what we have been up to now that we have arrived in Louisville. The drive here actually wasn't so bad, but my hopes of stopping and enjoying some of the sites along the way were halted when I realized that Justin would not leave the bike alone on the rack for fear that something would happen to it. Ugh! With that being the case, we scratched the idea of staying the night in Nashville and continued on our way to Louisville. However, I did get a really quick glimpse of Nashville and it totally looks like a fun city- so I've added that to my bucket list!
In all actuality, arriving in Louisville a day early was great! The boys (and me) got to sleep in the next day and I think we were done living out of the car. Justin's brother, Paul, arrived at midnight that night, so we were able to spend a whole extra day with him as well. And, Josh and Bailey arrived early the next day.
I have to admit the whole hype surrounding the IronMan here in Louisville is pretty cool. Everything was really organized and check in for Justin and Paul was a breeze. They also got a chance to buy some IM memorabilia. In fact, I had to stop Justin from being THAT guy. Between the T-shirts, iphone cases, stickers, body tattoos, cowbells, car stickers, underwear and shoes I can see where people get really caught up in buying everything with the IM logo on it!
Today, along with Bailey (Josh's girlfriend) I took my boys to the Squire Boone Caverns for some exploring and to get them out of the hotel room. We had a great time exploring the underground on Indiana and getting a chance to cool off in 54 degree weather in the caves!
I haven't really seen Justin much, which I know was to be expected. I'm trying not to get annoyed, but it comes through sometimes. I just keep reminding myself that this is something he has worked for and we are almost at the finish line.
With Sunday just around the corner, I need to start planning my routes and spectator spots so I can get a couple of views of the brothers during the race. Its going to be a long day, but Leslie has taught me well on how to be prepared spectator, so I know I'll be ready!
Friday, August 24, 2012
Sunday, August 19, 2012
Thank you's
This summer has flown by! Fortunately for me, I don't work (much) over the summer so I was able to spend a lot of time with my boys. I realized when I logged in today that I haven't written anything since the beginning of the summer. Honestly, nothing had really changed. Justin's work outs intensified, but luckily, nothing crazy or extraordinary happened. And actually, because Justin didn't work this summer, his training really didn't interfere too much into our daily lives. For those spouses who Ironmen and IronWomen work full time and are in intense training mode- I don't see how you do it! I can see how relationships can get strained during this period.
When this whole journey started, I was worried that this would hurt our relationship- possibly tear us apart because of the time away and different mind sets that we were both in. Luckily for me, my relationship with my husband was and still is a strong relationship. We support each other in our endeavors, whatever they may be. Also, I believe that it is important to surround yourself (whether you are the widow or the triathlete) with people who support you and are genuinely rooting for your success. I have been really fortunate in this aspect because of my wonderful family and amazing friends.
My number one outlet is my sister, Sandra. I don't know where I would be without her much appreciated ability to listen and be my sounding board. She's been great at being there when I needed her, on the phone, via text, over a glass of wine- whatever the case may be. She is not only my sister but my best friend. Thank you Sandra for being there for me! I love you!!
Thank you to my other IronMan widows- Tricia, Bailey, Leslie and Tracy. Its an awesome feeling to be able to pick up the phone and call someone who is going through the exact same thing you are. I've had so much fun with you ladies making fun of our men who shave their legs more often than we do. Honestly, you all are the best thing that has come out of this 10 month training period for me!
And thank you to my Savannah Ladies- you know who you are! Thank you for allowing me and my boys to crash your houses when I couldn't stand the sound of the bike on the trainer anymore. Thank you for allowing me to share my frustration and my excitement with you! Thank you for the many nights of laughter. I am so lucky!
I am so blessed to have so many people supporting Justin and I. And believe me, Justin and I are both excited about the nights that he won't have to go to bed at 9 pm because of a 4 am swim, bike ride, or race the next day!
Throughout the journey, I don't think I ever "lost" my husband. In fact I gained a man who is more dedicated to his success and his family that I ever thought possible. He has told me often that he is doing this for us, and I believe him. So thank you Justin, for being a role model to our boys and me. You have shown us that through hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
We start our trek next week to Kentucky. A 13 hour road trip with an 8 yr old and a 5 yr old. Maybe I'll make myself my own medal at the end of all this ..... if I survive the car ride!
When this whole journey started, I was worried that this would hurt our relationship- possibly tear us apart because of the time away and different mind sets that we were both in. Luckily for me, my relationship with my husband was and still is a strong relationship. We support each other in our endeavors, whatever they may be. Also, I believe that it is important to surround yourself (whether you are the widow or the triathlete) with people who support you and are genuinely rooting for your success. I have been really fortunate in this aspect because of my wonderful family and amazing friends.
My number one outlet is my sister, Sandra. I don't know where I would be without her much appreciated ability to listen and be my sounding board. She's been great at being there when I needed her, on the phone, via text, over a glass of wine- whatever the case may be. She is not only my sister but my best friend. Thank you Sandra for being there for me! I love you!!
Thank you to my other IronMan widows- Tricia, Bailey, Leslie and Tracy. Its an awesome feeling to be able to pick up the phone and call someone who is going through the exact same thing you are. I've had so much fun with you ladies making fun of our men who shave their legs more often than we do. Honestly, you all are the best thing that has come out of this 10 month training period for me!
And thank you to my Savannah Ladies- you know who you are! Thank you for allowing me and my boys to crash your houses when I couldn't stand the sound of the bike on the trainer anymore. Thank you for allowing me to share my frustration and my excitement with you! Thank you for the many nights of laughter. I am so lucky!
I am so blessed to have so many people supporting Justin and I. And believe me, Justin and I are both excited about the nights that he won't have to go to bed at 9 pm because of a 4 am swim, bike ride, or race the next day!
Throughout the journey, I don't think I ever "lost" my husband. In fact I gained a man who is more dedicated to his success and his family that I ever thought possible. He has told me often that he is doing this for us, and I believe him. So thank you Justin, for being a role model to our boys and me. You have shown us that through hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
We start our trek next week to Kentucky. A 13 hour road trip with an 8 yr old and a 5 yr old. Maybe I'll make myself my own medal at the end of all this ..... if I survive the car ride!
Monday, May 21, 2012
Lessons I've learned so far...
This past weekend Justin completed the X50, a triathlon that consisted of a 1 mile swim, 40 mile bike ride, and 9 mile run. I am so proud of how well he did, especially in the swim. I know how important his improvement is to him, and its wonderful that all that time training is paying off. I also got to use this opportunity as a chance for me to prepare for the IronMan as a spectator as well.
Some important lessons I learned to be a successful spectator include:
1. Be prepared at least 24 hours in advance: The night before, I was feeling pretty yucky. Before I was able to get anything together for this race, I took Benadryl. Huge Mistake- I fell asleep at 7:30 pm so nothing was ready to go the next day.
2. Always carry extra clothes with you for the children: I woke, packed up the car, got the kids up, dressed them, and seat belted them in. I was so proud of myself that we were out the door at a reasonable time. (Now, keep in mind, I never planned on getting there to watch the start- it just wasn't going to happen. The race started at 7 am and was about and hour away. Justin was well aware of this and I think OK with it.) About 25 minutes into the hour drive, I hear Joey say "Uh, Mom, somethings wrong with Jake." About that time, I look in my rear view mirror and see Jake start to throw up all over himself and the seat. I did NOT plan for this, therefore, I did not pack any extra clothes. So I had to turn the car around and head 25 minutes back home to clean up the car and Jake. We did it, no problem, and on our way we were again.
3. Bring extra snacks and drinks, especially if you have growing boys: In the 3.5 hours that I was there, my kids managed to eat a whole can of pringles, a whole bag of goldfish, drink 4 sprites, and 4 packages of cheese sandwiches. And, I was left starving and thirsty. Thank goodness for the Powerade booth.
4. Always bring a swimsuit (for the kids): You know there is going to be a body of water around, so you know kids are going to want to swim. My kids made due with their shorts, but apparently the sand was lodged into places that was not comfortable.
5. Bug spray: Texas humidity and a body of water nearby, need I say more?
6. Remember what clothing your triathlete is wearing: Everyone looks the same out there. I have tons of pictures of random triathletes. Next time I'm going to put a bright orange piece of duck tape on Justin so he stands out a little more.
7. Attend these events with friends: I am lucky to be able to share most of these experiences with a friend and neighbor, Leslie Ball. Her husband will also be participating in IM Louisville in August and I am excited because we always have a good time together. A lot of the time can be spent standing around waiting for your triathlete to pass by, and having someone to pass the time with really makes it more enjoyable. I also made some new friends this time around as well. Yay me!
8. Know your triathlete's estimated finish times for each event: This made it much easier to guesstimate when Justin was going to pass by. So, I planned bathroom breaks etc.... around this.
I know I probably learned a lot more lessons, and with each event will continue to learn more. But, watching Justin this past weekend really got me excited about what's in store in August for us.
I was able to take a picture of Justin while he was at Mile 21. yes, I was driving and taking a pic, but I couldn't pass up the opportunity!
Jake still not feeling 100% when we first got there
Jake and Joey playing at the beach- obviously whatever Jake had went away
Justin coming in at the finish
Congrats guys!
Congrats Me!
Some important lessons I learned to be a successful spectator include:
1. Be prepared at least 24 hours in advance: The night before, I was feeling pretty yucky. Before I was able to get anything together for this race, I took Benadryl. Huge Mistake- I fell asleep at 7:30 pm so nothing was ready to go the next day.
2. Always carry extra clothes with you for the children: I woke, packed up the car, got the kids up, dressed them, and seat belted them in. I was so proud of myself that we were out the door at a reasonable time. (Now, keep in mind, I never planned on getting there to watch the start- it just wasn't going to happen. The race started at 7 am and was about and hour away. Justin was well aware of this and I think OK with it.) About 25 minutes into the hour drive, I hear Joey say "Uh, Mom, somethings wrong with Jake." About that time, I look in my rear view mirror and see Jake start to throw up all over himself and the seat. I did NOT plan for this, therefore, I did not pack any extra clothes. So I had to turn the car around and head 25 minutes back home to clean up the car and Jake. We did it, no problem, and on our way we were again.
3. Bring extra snacks and drinks, especially if you have growing boys: In the 3.5 hours that I was there, my kids managed to eat a whole can of pringles, a whole bag of goldfish, drink 4 sprites, and 4 packages of cheese sandwiches. And, I was left starving and thirsty. Thank goodness for the Powerade booth.
4. Always bring a swimsuit (for the kids): You know there is going to be a body of water around, so you know kids are going to want to swim. My kids made due with their shorts, but apparently the sand was lodged into places that was not comfortable.
5. Bug spray: Texas humidity and a body of water nearby, need I say more?
6. Remember what clothing your triathlete is wearing: Everyone looks the same out there. I have tons of pictures of random triathletes. Next time I'm going to put a bright orange piece of duck tape on Justin so he stands out a little more.
7. Attend these events with friends: I am lucky to be able to share most of these experiences with a friend and neighbor, Leslie Ball. Her husband will also be participating in IM Louisville in August and I am excited because we always have a good time together. A lot of the time can be spent standing around waiting for your triathlete to pass by, and having someone to pass the time with really makes it more enjoyable. I also made some new friends this time around as well. Yay me!
8. Know your triathlete's estimated finish times for each event: This made it much easier to guesstimate when Justin was going to pass by. So, I planned bathroom breaks etc.... around this.
I know I probably learned a lot more lessons, and with each event will continue to learn more. But, watching Justin this past weekend really got me excited about what's in store in August for us.
I was able to take a picture of Justin while he was at Mile 21. yes, I was driving and taking a pic, but I couldn't pass up the opportunity!
Jake still not feeling 100% when we first got there
Justin coming in at the finish
Friday, May 18, 2012
Phone call
Every Thursday night from the hours of 6:30-8:30 pm, I know not to expect a phone call from Justin because he's riding. He rides with a large organized group, which I like because I know he's not by himself out there. If my phone rings during that time, and Justin's name pops up, I'll know that something's wrong. Last night I did get a call at 7:45 pm from his phone. My heart nearly jumped out of my chest. Luckily, he was OK and it was him on the other line telling me that he had gotten a flat and something was wrong with his back tire and it couldn't be fixed. Grateful that he was ok, I packed up the kids and went to find him and pick him up.
I want to make a note before I start this next paragraph: I was wrong in my last blog, the group is not with Richardson Bike Mart. I'm not too sure of the name of the group and I am not going to name the group either.
I like the fact that he rides with a group because there is safety in numbers. As a cyclists in a group you know that you will have a buddy- or at least you should. According to Justin he got the flat and started pulling back from the group, and no one stopped- which Justin says they normally do. The group left a fellow cyclist on the side of a two way street nearing dusk. I don't know what the rules are for the group, but common decency for your fellow cyclist would dictate that you don't leave them behind- at least I would think so. I'm mad. Unfortunately, I don't have anyone to aim my frustration at because I don't know anyone from that group. Although, when I dropped Justin off at the meet up place to get his car, the group president did see Justin get out of a car and asked him what happened. Hopefully, the president will make mention of this occurrence to make sure it doesn't happen again.
So again, everyone keep safe out there!
PS For those of you concerned, yes, Gwyneth is ok as well. She had a few loose screws and those will be able to be replaced, just in time for Justin's Tri he has this weekend. :-)
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Justin has joined a riding group with RMB (Richardson Bike Mart) and every Thursday night he rides about 20-30 miles with a group of fellow cyclists. Although it has totally ruined my Thirsty Thursdays, I don't mind him leaving for 2-3 hours because I know that he will be riding in a big group and there is safety in numbers.
However, I still worry. I worry that some teenager is going to be too busy texting their boyfriend while they are behind the wheel and not notice that their car is veering into a group of cyclists. I worry that someone of an older generation may have forgotten their glasses and fails to stop at the stop light while a group of the cyclists ride by. And, I worry that my husband can't unclip his shoes fast enough in order to stop his bike in time, therefore losing control and falling over.
Luckily, the only accidents Justin has had are of his own doing. And, thankfully, no major injuries have occured that a bandaid (for Justin) and black paint pen (for Gwyneth, the bike) can't fix.
I decided to do some searching for a Cyclists Prayer, because it never hurts to have the Big Guy on your side. There are several out there and this one rang so true and made me laugh:
O Lord give me titanium
For the lightness that it brings
And carbon fiber, and 11 cogs
And new suspension fork springs
And disc brakes, and custom wheels
And two hundred dollar chainrings
And see me through my bankruptcy
When I buy too many things
For the lightness that it brings
And carbon fiber, and 11 cogs
And new suspension fork springs
And disc brakes, and custom wheels
And two hundred dollar chainrings
And see me through my bankruptcy
When I buy too many things
However, this one seemed more along the lines of what I was looking for:
Lord, protect us from harm as we go on this bike ride.
Guide us away from accidents.
Instill in us a level of awareness to thwart others who are inconsiderate to our vulnerability on the roadways.
In your name we pray...
Amen
Guide us away from accidents.
Instill in us a level of awareness to thwart others who are inconsiderate to our vulnerability on the roadways.
In your name we pray...
Amen
(written by Bert -no last name provided)
So, I am asking you, please be careful when driving out there. Share the road with the cyclists. Remember, those men and women are important to someone in this world!
.
.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Its been a while
Ok, I know its been a while since I have written on here, but the honest truth is that I haven't written because I am trying not to be a whiny bitch about everything. The other day Justin said I need to keep writing on my blog but he also said I need to be supportive with what I write. So, I haven't written anything because its so freaking hard to be supportive! I know he's not even into the heavy training for this IM, but I already feel left out, fed up, and annoyed!
He got to go out of town in March for 4 days to Seattle to hang out with his brothers, I got stuck at home...thank God for my Savannah girlfriends or I would have gone crazy that weekend. He gets to stay out late riding his bike or running almost every night, I get to stay home and make the kids dinner and bathe them---- don't be jealous. (Really, don't be jealous, its really not that much fun)
I really don't think he understands the sacrifices I am making for all the training he is doing. I used to be able to make plans on the weekends for the both of us, now I have to ask permission or make sure that he doesn't have a race or tri to do that weekend. I shouldn't have to plan what I do on the weekends around his training schedule! And, I shouldn't have to give up being with my friends because of his training schedule!
I'm trying hard to being the single married girl on the weekends. I am trying hard to be the single married woman on the weekdays too. I love my husband and try so hard to be supportive, but I really think he sometimes needs to be supportive for the sacrifices I make as well. Its my life too, not just his. Its my sacrifices I make, not just his.
All I ask is that he understands that sometimes I want go out with my friends, feel like laying in bed and let him put the kids in bed, or even just want to have some time to myself in the middle of the day. He gets his mental free time, I feel like I should get it too. Just because I don't think my mental free time should include getting my heart rate up does not mean that I should be denied that time!
Again, most of you will probably say I am a whiny bitch , and that's fine, I dont' give a f*ck. Get used to it because this is what this blog is going to be about for a while.
He got to go out of town in March for 4 days to Seattle to hang out with his brothers, I got stuck at home...thank God for my Savannah girlfriends or I would have gone crazy that weekend. He gets to stay out late riding his bike or running almost every night, I get to stay home and make the kids dinner and bathe them---- don't be jealous. (Really, don't be jealous, its really not that much fun)
I really don't think he understands the sacrifices I am making for all the training he is doing. I used to be able to make plans on the weekends for the both of us, now I have to ask permission or make sure that he doesn't have a race or tri to do that weekend. I shouldn't have to plan what I do on the weekends around his training schedule! And, I shouldn't have to give up being with my friends because of his training schedule!
I'm trying hard to being the single married girl on the weekends. I am trying hard to be the single married woman on the weekdays too. I love my husband and try so hard to be supportive, but I really think he sometimes needs to be supportive for the sacrifices I make as well. Its my life too, not just his. Its my sacrifices I make, not just his.
All I ask is that he understands that sometimes I want go out with my friends, feel like laying in bed and let him put the kids in bed, or even just want to have some time to myself in the middle of the day. He gets his mental free time, I feel like I should get it too. Just because I don't think my mental free time should include getting my heart rate up does not mean that I should be denied that time!
Again, most of you will probably say I am a whiny bitch , and that's fine, I dont' give a f*ck. Get used to it because this is what this blog is going to be about for a while.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Gwyneth
Gwyneth. She's starting to bug me a lot. She's always around, and doesn't seem to know her place. When she first started coming around, I was promised that she would stay away, that she wouldn't constantly be in our lives. But, that was all a lie. If I'm eating dinner, her prescence is felt. If I'm watching TV, I can see her from the corner of my eye. She's all he talks about. Right now, he only has eyes for her. That sleek, slender frame of hers is always taunting me.
I can hear her in my head, "He buys me new accessories every week, what does he buy you?" "He takes care of me, makes sure my bruises are tended to when I fall, does he do that for you?". And worst of all, the one thing I just can not get used to is that HE RIDES HER FOR HOURS ON END EVERY WEEKEND!
Most wives would not put up with this type of love affair going on right under their own noses, in their own home. But I know that she is not a permanent fixture in our lives. There will be one day when he will trade her in for a newer, sleeker, younger model. So, Gwenyth, don't get to comfy around my house. And remember, I am the number one woman in this house!
Wrong Gwyneth
Gwyneth enjoying a night by the fire, I hope her tires melt
I can hear her in my head, "He buys me new accessories every week, what does he buy you?" "He takes care of me, makes sure my bruises are tended to when I fall, does he do that for you?". And worst of all, the one thing I just can not get used to is that HE RIDES HER FOR HOURS ON END EVERY WEEKEND!
Most wives would not put up with this type of love affair going on right under their own noses, in their own home. But I know that she is not a permanent fixture in our lives. There will be one day when he will trade her in for a newer, sleeker, younger model. So, Gwenyth, don't get to comfy around my house. And remember, I am the number one woman in this house!
Wrong Gwyneth
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