Lily on the Road

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-25T08:38:00.001-05:00

Keeping it real

2012-01-24T10:58:00.000-05:00

So, I'm sick, with a cold, a really BAD COLD. You know the kind, achy, chills, fever, running nose, coughing up gorp and for many a blessing because I've lost my voice. Pretty huh?

However, I'm living a conundrum. I'm sick and ~~sort of whiny,~~ no, a lot whiny and haven't seen my friend Bob in over a week because of this. We've been back and forth with email but it still isn't the same as a face to face conversation. Our last conversation was one of facing the reality of what he is living with. The bravado is now gone, fear and depression have set in as well as the overall feeling of doom along with being VERY sick because of the experimental chemo. He also expressed his fear of the timeline he was given...Three Months, it has been over a month since the diagnosis. Tick Tock.

What sort of friend am I to complain to him that I have a cold? I really, really feel as though I've let him down recently by being so busy with my dad and then coming down with this galloping gorp.

Other than investing in a Hazmat Suit, our visits will have to be put on hold. Sometimes reality bites.

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

An anniversary of sorts

2012-01-22T18:10:00.001-05:00

Today I am celebrating one year of being alcohol free.

Not that there was a huge problem or issue with my alcohol intake, but lets just say that when I decided to get a little more serious with my Half Ironman training, it just seemed the natural thing to eliminate from the mix (pun intended). You know when you get home from a craptastic day of work and you have a glass of wine, then pour another while you are preparing dinner, then have a glass of wine with dinner...before you know it...a bottle is gone. That is not good, well, it wasn't good for me. A year ago I woke up the morning of January 22nd and said "that's enough", if you are going to try to get your lazy, sorry ass in shape to tackle the Half then you'd better get a grip on some healthy living.

So, here is to ONE YEAR !!

CHEERS!

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Three Things Thursday

2012-01-19T13:23:00.000-05:00

All is not lost, after being ~~shamed into~~ encouraged to put some things down on my empty calender, I am happy to say that I am participating in the Walk for Memories hosted by the Alzheimer's Society on January 29th. I'll be walking for Memories with my 92 year old father. What is amazing to me is the support that I am receiving while fund raising for the walk. So far dad and I have raised $300.00.

The latest news is there WILL be a Rideau Lakes Cycle Tour this year! This is an awesome fun ride (weather permitting) which gives you several options for cycling distances. I've only ever done the 100k.

my first year riding Blizzard

The weather has been craptastic lately. Extreme cold, freezing rain, snow squalls, extreme cold (yes I meant to say it twice) along with power outages. Yesterday our power was out for quite some time, so much so a few of my tropical fish were affected. There were a couple of floaters this morning when I got up to feed them....RIP fishes.

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-18T09:31:00.002-05:00

Goals?

2012-01-17T12:14:00.001-05:00

Now that we are in mid-January, I'm continually being asked what my 2012 goals are for the year. Even my dentist asked me yesterday.

Well my calendar looks like this...

Pretty sad huh?

So far this year (don't forget, it is only mid January), I've had one DNS. Yup, Did Not Start. How sad is that? Call me what you will, you can call me a wimp, coward, unadventurous soul but when the temperature outside is -25C (-13F) but feels like -31C (-23.8F) with the wind-chill, trust me when I say...I'm not racing! Many of my friends raced the 30th Annual Richmond Road Race and had a great time. Bully for them!

This is not my kind of fun.

So, instead I hopped on my aptly named bike "Blizzard" and worked off a few anxieties for about an hour.

Blizzard on the trainer

Trying to fit in training while trying to manage all the rest of my angst, guilt and poor time management is just adding to the stress. So, I'll just continue to get to the pool when I can, sit and spin when I can, snowshoe and / or ski when I can and try not to take it to heart that I'm not able "do it all". I must remember that I'm only good to others after I'm good to myself.

I can honestly say I don't know how you get any training done if you have a young family. Believe me, to all my friends with kids, I now understand how sometimes (most of the time) your time in no longer YOUR time. Between driving to medical appointments, dental appointments, working full time, visiting, getting groceries, housework... the list just goes on and on. If there is mouldy bread in someone else's fridge, it isn't necessarily my problem, (yes, I got an email saying that their bread had gone mouldy and I understand they are not feeling very well and they are now in a depressed state), but I've got my own mouldy bread to deal with trying to fit all this other stuff in.

So I can say that possibly my goals for 2012 are just trying to cope with all the new stress and just do what I can for the time being.

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Honey Do List

2012-01-15T06:34:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was Saturday and of course all the mundane duties of owning a house;

shovel snow off the decks and then the driveway,
shovel snow again because the plough went by,
shovel snow because Canada Post can't reach your mailbox.
then on to dusting, cleaning and laundry, oh and take Lily to the vet for her annual check-up.
visit Dad,
pick up meds and groceries for Bob (his chemo treatment knocked the crap out of him this week), THEN cook up some meals for him, label them and put in his freezer.

I'm at the stage now where I need to write down everything otherwise, it becomes a sea of swirl and nothing gets completed, let alone started. Oddly, when I went to retrieve my "Honey Do List", my eyes didn't see any of the above to accomplish on this day...but eyes saw this apparition!

AWESOME!

That is EXACTLY what I needed to do to connect with my inner child!

So began the emails to some of my friends and we met up bright and early in the freezing cold temperatures and freshly fallen snow.

a freezing cold start

official greeter

deep into the woods

back to the bush for some warmth

met some skiers

my little chickadee

not a cloud in the sky

resting and texting...leave the electronics at home!

we're freezing so which way to go?

trudging along

where are my treats?

Speaking of treats, we'd been out for over an hour and a half , that was enough to get our tummies rumbling. We continued our good time while warming up with brunch and hot coffee! After many tales, much laughter and warmth, it was time to head back to reality.

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Anywhere but here

2012-01-13T10:34:00.000-05:00

Have you ever had a topic continually pop up in the strangest of places? Lately the topic that is haunting me is "where has your inner child gone"?

As I find myself losing my sense of HA HA while being burdened with grown-up stuff, it has occurred to me that I need to lighten up! I have to admit that I am a chronic escapist, continually dreaming of where I want to be instead of being content where I am. I scour tropical blogs and websites and cringe when someone tells me they are heading off to somewhere warm and sunny for their holidays. I'm not begrudging the fact that I have serious commitments to people that are relying on me, but sometimes I just need to get into a fantasy head-space to deal with their reality. Am I a bad friend? An uncaring daughter?...no, but I am wanting to be anywhere but here at the moment.

A few weeks ago I asked some of my Facebook friends for book suggestions to deal with some of the stresses I'm experiencing. I was flooded by their response and took it upon myself to order many of these books from Chapters on line. One of the suggestions was Crazy Sexy Diet by Kris Carr. Forgive me if I shouldn't link this but come on Blog Police...give me a break. There is a section to her book discussing the fact that even when we have real adult Sh*t going on in our lives we must take a look into our inner child and see if she would agree with the way you are treating yourself.

**Ask your inner 5 year old to take a good look at you and ask, are you happy?, are you laughing at yourself enough?, are you giving yourself credit where credit is due? Are you looking after yourself by eating properly, taking naps, hugging your cat, really listening to friends and sharing laughter while doing fun and crazy things? Are you getting enough exercise or enough sleep? Are you getting enough hugs in the day? If you answer no to anyone of these questions it is time to step back and reassess your life and yourself and your usefulness to anyone around you, because if your energy, outlook or attitude is anything but upbeat and positive, then you're not only toxic to yourself, you're toxic to those your are trying to help.

Find a picture of yourself when you were little and see what you looked like before all the adult stresses arrived, when you could sit down on the lawn and hug your dog. When it didn't matter if you had grass stains on your corduroy's, when you were loved unconditionally. When you fell down and you got yourself back up and laughed. When life was full of wonder and excitement. I bet your inner child would tell you it is time to take a time out in the corner and regroup. That's exactly what I'm going to do, I'm going to back up, regroup and see if I can find my inner child.

Laurel and Sport

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

** Questions I asked myself, not questions from Kris Carr's book.

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-11T06:01:00.001-05:00

Full Moon Snow-shoe

2012-01-08T08:50:00.001-05:00

All day the weather forecast was threatening freezing rain. Aggghhh!

My early morning trainer ride was spinning along all the while I looking out the front window at a cornucopia of weather right before my very eyes. Who needs TV, DVD or anything else for that matter, when you look out the window at rain, sleet, fog, sunshine ~ repeat! The weather was not looking promising for our get together.

When I threw out the idea of our snow-shoe, I included a Pot-Luck East Indian theme for the fare. What better way to get the creative juices flowing than by challenging everyone to come up with some delectable delights. So far, my procrastinating ways have not changed in 2012 but luckily for me, there is a new East Indian grocery store in the plaza where I work, so with ingredient list in hand I scoured the shelves looking for spices I've never even heard off. I picked up everything required to make the Mango Cucumber Potato Salad, Mango Salsa and I cheated and bought a very spicy Lime Pickle. All the while I was in town, it was in fact raining and sleeting, aggghhhh, all I could do was continue with my Full Moon chant and prayers to the weather Gods. During my drive home the weather and the wind was shifting, you could feel it getting colder and when I finally arrived home with my bundle of groceries it was starting to snow! YES!

While I was preparing the recipes I kept going to my back door and peering out I finally saw what I'd wished for all day!

The Moon Dance paid off!

It was so great to catch up with everyone! This was the group I'd met so many years ago when we all started running at the Running Room. Albeit they are much younger and faster runners, it is just amazing that we have kept in touch over the years. Running and Triathlons seem to make an unbreakable bond.

Our gracious host's beautiful Christmas Tree

Heading into the night

A quick regroup

it was getting colder

and colder

breaking a new trail

ski's are just fine too!

where I live is gorgeous

When we emerged from the bush it was really cold and very windy, many had thought that they'd over dressed for the event, but once we were back in the open everyone was scrambling to zip back up their jackets and pull their toques down further on their heads.

Once back at the house the food prep was in full swing! Every element on the gas stove was in use, the oven was on heating up nan bread, delicious aromas were wafting through the air and believe me, just hearing the laughter, the tales of first time snow-shoer's, toasting the new year and hearing all about their Ironman training made it all worth while. What a great way to kick off 2012! Wishing all of you great success while getting ready for Ironman Mt. Tremblant! See you out on the roads and at the pool!

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

almost the weekend

2012-01-06T09:41:00.000-05:00

it's Friday!

So that means back to the pool for lane swim and I can hardly wait! I love swimming and especially love how all my winter aches and pains just seem to slip away in the pool. Hopefully I'll be ready to tackle the 2012 Bring on the Bay in July. Registration opens February 1st!!

setting up the buoys for the 3k race

Rumour has it that this year will be the first year without the Rideau Lakes Cycle Tour. How can that be?

there are hundreds of cyclists

finding your bag isn't always easy

yes, there are hills!

but good friends can conquer anything together

So, between swimming today, preparing food for the Full Moon Snow-shoe and perhaps getting some cross country skiing in, it will be a busy, fun weekend. Hope yours is too!

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

There is a light at the end of the tunnel

2012-01-05T09:08:00.000-05:00

and it isn't just the train!

Even though I have all sorts of "real" life drama going on and I have most likely been subconsciously using it as an excuse to not set some 2012 goals, there are a few things on the horizon.

This weekend a group of friends are getting together for our Full Moon Snowshoe. We pile into a friends beautiful home with all of our pot-luck fare and then head out into the wilds for fun, laughter and a good workout. This year we will be doing the Full Moon Dance so that we can be certain the moon comes out to play with us. It won't be a late night of frivolity this year as a majority of the group are training for Ironman Mt. Tremblant.

Also included in my moderate goals for this year (so far), is the 30th Annual Richmond Road Race. I've learned from past experiences that this is one of the most fun races of the year. Considering the weather can be anything from -40C to +10C, I generally just run the 5k, after all I haven't been out running since Thanksgiving weekend in October!!

On a totally crazy whim, I stuck my name into the New York City Marathon Lottery. So far no word but if perchance I do get in, then with any luck, so will my friend Shelley from Born to Endure and we can have a blogger meet up! Wouldn't that be just awesome?

So, in fact there are a few irons (ahhemmmm) in the proverbial fire, nothing has been fully committed to just yet.

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-04T08:22:00.001-05:00

Winter Amarilis

If you look hard enough

2012-01-03T09:39:00.000-05:00

Yesterday's post sounded all doom and gloom and really I'm not in the throws of a meltdown. Truly, I'm okay. It is just that reality has jumped right up and then bit me in the ass. As I'm learning to cope with a parent and their old age, a best friends terminal illness and the general lack of planning for the future on my part, it has really taken its toll on me. It has been exactly like looking through the Looking Glass to see that measures must be taken as I ease into "old age". Financial planning and obtaining some sort of medical plan are top priority as we glide into 2012. Working on contract certainly has its advantages, but it also has many disadvantages...so procuring a medical plan is definitely top of the list.

Considering that I fling myself into wild and crazy adventures with gay abandon and put no real thought of possible consequences, having a back up plan is justified. One never knows but then again, if we worry about every possible scenario of injury well who on earth would do what we do...swim, bike and run!!!

3k Bring on the Bay finish 2011

Half Iron Cycle 2011

Olympic distance run 2011

As 2012 rumbles on, I'm learning to look more and more at the bright and cheery side of things, like spending quality time with good friends, seeking solace with nature and knowing that no matter what we do in life, none of us get out of this alive...

If you look hard enough...

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

A new year

2012-01-02T11:42:00.000-05:00

and I've got nothing to say.

My year is a clean slate, yet I'm not getting any inspiration for that. Odd...

I have been out and about, snow-shoeing, cross country skiing and spending time indoors on the trainer. Yet somehow I'm just going through the motions with no zing or vitality. Hopefully all this is temporary.

Blizzard on the trainer

I will continue to catch up with your blogs, I'm certain they will give me the spark of life I need at the moment.

Life's fun if you don't weaken

Lily

Wordless Wednesday

2011-12-28T08:26:00.000-05:00

it is the simple things

2011-12-27T17:39:00.000-05:00

Today I got to finally spend the day to myself, this is the first time in well over three months! Believe me when I say I took full advantage of it.

a friendly visitor

first snow of the season

winter red

a lovely new trail

I found the PERFECT new trail for our upcoming Full Moon Snowshoe!!

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

And so this is Christmas

2011-12-23T10:52:00.000-05:00

So much has gone on since my last blog post, some good, some not very good, but then again, that is what life is all about. Life has been extremely busy, challenging and complicated. Learning how to deal with a parent that has rapid dementia and a best friend with inoperable terminal cancer. God only gives you what you can handle.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS and a Wonderful, Happy, Healthy New Year. May all your wishes and dreams come true for you in 2012.

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-14T09:25:00.000-04:00

Half Iron Finisher - Got the Medal to Prove It

T-minus 2 Days

2011-09-01T09:28:00.001-04:00

Goals, dreams and THANK YOU's.

2008 Try-a-Tri

When I started back to running in 2001 my first 5k race was held in conjunction with the Somersault triathlon series, I got to watch swimmer's warm up in the St. Lawrence, I saw people in spandex and helmet's and I saw people staggering towards the finish line. I even volunteered the following year at a water station on the bike course. Who knew I'd get so interested in Triathlon's but my interest was truly piqued when a good friend of mine decided to become Iron. Although I was no where near ready, I tried to keep up with them during their training in 2009. Even though the running part wasn't too bad, I was NO where near ready to keep up with the Cervelo while I was on my old Norco bike "Ruby", needless to say I was dropped like a bad smell. Nonetheless, I continued buddying along for the runs until I blew out my knee while trying to do "too much too soon". I suppose it was all part of the "lessons learned" venue of multi sports but I was privy to playing sherpa at Lake Placid and I LOVED cheering everyone on and was in awe of the ages, shapes and determination!

2011 Olympic Tri

Fast forward to 2011, yes 10 years later I'm still in awe of Triathlons. When I decided that 2011 was going to be my year to "Tri", I hung motivational sayings on my mirrors, I hung the Banner for The Canadian on my fridge. Even though it is not under the "Ironman" label, it is still a qualified Half Iron Distance of 113K.

I've listened intently to my "Iron" friends, both real and virtual. It has been an Incredible Journey...

My emotions the past few weeks have been a total can of worms (hence my lack of blogging) ... from exhilaration while training, to fatigue and doubt and TOTAL anxiety this past week including "what was I thinking?". Well, with two days left all I can do is go out and do it.

I'm not a pro, I'm not young, I'm not going to be fast.

However, putting all those negatives aside, I'm going to do the best I can do, I'm going to live in the moment and enjoy every second of the experience and I'm going to be thinking of ALL of you who have helped me, encouraged me, guided me, told me I can do this and EVERY ONE of you will be with me on my journey to Half Iron...

THANK YOU ONE AND ALL!!

and mostly I'll be thinking of this.....

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Normally...

2011-08-17T10:13:00.000-04:00

...this would be Wordless Wednesday, but currently nothing in my life is normal nor wordless.

17 days and counting! The Canadian Half Iron 113K. I've linked this to the interactive map of the event(s).

I must admit I'm a tad nervous, which is extremely odd for me. I haven't been nervous about an event since I gave up competitive equestrian show jumping and at that time I was rightfully nervous as my living, lifestyle and my income depended upon my results. Now, I do not and will not compete against anyone other than myself, so I find all this training for the up-coming event fascinating that I feel the old instincts raising their head.

Currently, I am not following a specific "training plan" other than what I find "doable" for me at this stage of my life. At 58 years old I'm not going to go out and bust my butt with some hardcore plan, however, should I find that I really like doing this distance I will find a trainer to work with and get a little more serious in the future. Right now, I'm trying to stay in one piece and injury free, so far ~ so good.

Don't get me wrong, I am serious about this event, it is not a distance to toy with nor show any disrespect. I quit drinking alcohol in January, I've shed close to twenty pounds and started training with diligence in February ~ swimming, March ~ cycling and April ~ running.

I know I will do it, it might not be pretty, but it will be done!!

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

113km or 70.3 Half Ironman distance...

2011-08-12T10:07:00.001-04:00

...either way it is a long haul!

Most people start all this nonsense when they are much younger, but I have to say, that after totally trashing a full decade with over indulgence I'm now a full decade into health and fitness.

I started back running just over10 years ago. I was Very over weight, just out of an unhappy relationship and struggling on a single income and owning my first house. Not too much stress there! Needless to say it has been a long haul, but one that needed to be done and I've learned so many lessons about who I am and what I needed to learn about "owning" a positive life. Every day has been an adventure and for that I am and will be forever grateful. Having positive people in your life is so very important, and although I'm still single, still working (and will be until I'm freedom 90, due to front loading my life with way too much fun), still struggling with some major family issues, my life is the best it has been in a very long time.

A few years ago I tried my first Try-A-Tri and fell in love with the multi-sport. However, due to financial constraints I had to learn patience to be able obtain a suitable bike, I had to learn patience while recovering from a ruptured meniscus. I have had to learn patience for so many of life's experiences she is throwing my way lately. As I mentioned, I have had to learn a lot of things that most people learn at a younger age. Trust me when I say that when I wake up every morning I say a Great BIG Thank You to the Man above and to the Universe for giving me this opportunity to learn...

This year I decided to:

So I started training....

Early spring put me out on the road cycling getting ready for the Rideau Lakes Cycle Tour...then running getting ready for my season of tri's.

Swimming started in February in anticipation of the 3k Open Water Swim, Bring on the Bay.

Bring on the Bay

June saw the first Sprint Triathlon in Smiths Falls...

Age Group - Silver

On to July with the Olympic distance.

OLY Finish - Age Group Silver

Which brings us to four weeks until the Canadian Half Ironman Distance on September 3rd. Am I ready for it? Who knows, do you ever feel ready for such a big event???

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-03T09:02:00.000-04:00

Blizzard's first OLY

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-27T09:40:00.000-04:00

a day of 3k

2011-07-22T09:00:00.001-04:00

Last Saturday was a perfect day, hot, sunny and without a breath of wind, just perfect for the 3k Bring on the Bay. There is just no way to describe the day, so if you are on Facebook, you can see in photo's what the event looked like by linking to Bring on the Bay

the medals

the bags

a 3k finisher...guess who?

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Bring on the Bay has been and gone

2011-07-17T10:55:00.001-04:00

Nepean Sailing Club

Friday night was the kit pick-up and the club house was bustling with the regular "sailors" and their mates, along with the folks from Easter Seals who in conjunction with Bushtukah were hosting the Bring on the Bay as part of their regatta weekend. Tables were laden with the silent auction items and I must say, some of the items were to die for!

The kit bag is literally a bag! A fantastic swim bag which will be put to great use in the future.

I arrived bright and early (well, not that early) to the sailing club for my first ever 3k Open Water Swim. Many of the 284 swimmers were already there and awaiting the start. I met up with some friends, obtained my chip timer, gave my swim bag to one of the many helpful volunteers and made my way to the water. Most folks were in wetsuits but just as many were not. (I was not)

Since I really wasn't sure what to expect I seeded myself well to the back and off to the side as it had been suggested. (Note to self, you don't need to be that far back!). We waited for sometime in the water because they hadn't anticipated so many swimmers this year and it took forever for everyone to get their chips on and ready to go. There was a bit of delay but really it didn't matter...this event is for such a good cause and most folks were in party mode.

The gun went off, the sirens were shrieking and the on lookers were cheering. We were OFF

The course was well marked and well supported with kayaker's, catamaran's, police boats and other Emergency Rescue Boats. The really fast swimmer's were gone and I just started my swim. It was an absolutely gorgeous day. Hot, hot, hot and sunny, there wasn't a breath of wind. The river was so calm it was almost eerie. I've seen that river show her true self but today she was behaving. My swim was steady and peaceful, exactly the way I had wanted it to be.

When I arrived at the ladder to exit the swim, I felt around for the first rung to put my foot on and I immediately got a full leg cramp. Un-freeking-believable! I made the swim in an hour and eleven minutes and had to wait what seemed like forever to get up the ladder to stop the timer. A very kind gentleman said to me as I stood on the bottom of the ladder "great swim my dear, but you need to climb up to stop the timer"....I had several reply's rolling around in my head, but luckily not off my tongue. I politely looked up at him and smiled and said "I seem to have a leg cramp". Finally it subsided and I made the climb to the top to receive my medal....chip time 1:12.

to be continued...

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

This week...

2011-07-14T09:05:00.000-04:00

...has been flying by. I had to actually do a double take on the calendar this morning and when I didn't believe that it was already Thursday I checked my watch.

Last weekend was busy with training. I won't bore you with too many details but I am very happy to report "I OWN Stewartville Hill". Never again will this hill kick my butt while I'm on the bike!

Stewartville Hill

Tuesday night was the July Beaver Chase 4 Mile Race, man it was hot, hot, hot! I started off running with a couple of friends who ended up only running half of the course, so once they bowed out I continued on my own through the forest trails and ended up with a good negative split. Since I'm into some serious training I picked up the pace and even though I'm not terribly fast I was happy with the end result.

Tonight is our Running Room clinic night followed by a 5km run.

Friday night, I pick up my race kit and swag for the 3k Bring on the Bay swim race. I'm actually getting excited about this! My main concern, believe it or not, is whether I can climb the ladder to get out of the water at the end of the race! Hopefully my knee will be able to support me up the ladder.

If not, I truly hope they have a crane!

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

It has been Ages!

2011-07-12T09:00:00.001-04:00

It HAS been ages...

So much going on in real life, but also tons of things happening in my sports life...

Here are a few moments in photo's;

200k Rideau Lakes Cycle Tour - June

Switching over to Triathlon's;

Smiths Falls Sprint Tri - Age Group Silver

on to the Kilt Run and look who found me!

Andrew Opala - fellow blogger!

This weekend is Bring on the Bay, an open water 3k swim (with the fishes). Hopefully the weather gods will shine down on us.

And to finish up, training has been going well for the Olympic Distance Triathlon July 30th, how I feel after that will determine whether or not I sign up for the Half Ironman on September 3rd. That's all the time I have for now.

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Soggy says it all...

2011-05-15T07:51:00.000-04:00

after a very soggy ride

This has been an absolutely soggy week and there doesn't seem to be any change in the foreseeable future. If it was a warm summer rain, okay, I could take that, but no, it is cold, yes it has been cold enough to have the fireplace on yesterday, oh and did I mention windy???

Unfortunately I'm too stubborn to sit back and tell myself it is okay to bail on training. I just can't, the season is way to close and if I'm not ready for it,well let's just say I'm not ready to deal with injuries.

Monday was a recovery swim which I'm so grateful for. After pounding away running and cycling, being at the pool is a God send.

Tuesday was the first of the Beaver Chase series. It is a really fun trail run through the Monk Environmental Park, however our regular route has been modified due to a controversial situation of clear cutting the forest and endangering various species of plants, animals, amphibians and trees all in the name of progress. This is a really hot topic for me, so I won't continue on the subject.

Monk Environmental Park

Our run took us on two loops of the partial trail that is away from the heavy equipment used for clear cutting. A few of us ran together and got a chance to catch up and chat, much to the race directors chagrin. I'm sure that we were the last to cross the finish line and by the time we had returned from our little recovery run, the finish line and timers were already torn down, packed away and only the water station remained...okay, we promise the next time to actually race!!!

Wednesday, Thursday were cycling / running days. Have I mentioned the wind? Grrrrrrrrrr

Saturday's ride was soggy, soggy, SOGGY. After riding 30k in the pounding rain I said enough. I know that I have to HTFU on the bike but when it is raining so hard it hurts your face, I'd say that's a good time to stop. I quickly changed into some dry clothes and headed off to the pool for a coupled of km's of laps.

Today, I'm looking out the window at....you guessed it, rain and wind. Well, better go and get my running gear on...

HEY, at least it isn't snowing!!

Lily in the snow

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-11T09:14:00.000-04:00

Tuesday Tidbits

2011-05-10T09:28:00.000-04:00

Busy, busy, if this training doesn't kill me I might do all right this summer!

Friday was some much needed pool time. The pool had been closed for maintenance for the month of April, putting me really behind in my training. It felt great to be back, I never realised just how much I missed swimming!

Saturday was hill training on the bike. We upped the speed and cut out some of the rest breaks and hit the hills.

a cold spring ride out of Burnstown - UP the hill

Stewartville Dam Hill ~ yes it just keeps going UP!

I've found that the more you push yourself, the more you find out about yourself. I'm pleasantly surprised that I'm feeling more comfortable on the bike (not getting cocky), just more confidence. This was a good solid ride.

Sunday was spent on the bike again, however, it was as a backup for my friends running the 32k K2B run. It was a cold morning to be on the bike, but a perfect overcast, cool morning for the runners. This is the last long run they will do before the Ottawa Marathon on May 29th, and yes, I'll be there that day too ringing my cow bell!

Monday was back to the pool for more laps and some recovery in the sauna!!

Tonight is the first of the Beaver Chase Race series. A nice 4 mile trail run through the Monk Conservation area. Hopefully my running passion will resurface now that the temperatures are on the rise and we are starting to enjoy some blue skies. Tri season is quickly approaching, so I'd better get my running mojo back soon!

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

A quickie ~ post that is...

2011-05-06T08:50:00.000-04:00

Finally we are getting some warmer weather and sunshine. The SUN, I think that is what they call the glowing thing in the sky is shining brightly, it has been so very long since we've seen it, it is hard to tell.

Today starts the Tulip Festival in Ottawa, lets hope that Mother Nature gives all the bus loads of tourists some warm weather and dazzling sights! I'll be riding the bike to down-town on Sunday as it is the 32K run from the Running Room in Kanata to the Bank Street store. I have done this run before and it is an absolute blast! (it is the last long run before the Ottawa Marathon). There are several friends running the 32K K2B, so I want to be there for moral support.

This past week has been really rainy and cold, so no, I didn't get out on Blizzard, however, this weekend I'll be pedalling my ass off in preparation of the Rideau Lakes Century Tour.

preparing the sag wagons

Last year was an amazing journey down to Kingston, Ontario. The way home the next day, not so great...I'm not even going to think that craptastic weather will happen again this year.

cold, no, VERY cold and rainy

Saturday, Blizzard and I are off to tackle the Stewartville Dam Hill again, I'll take along the camera too.

Whatever you are up to this weekend, stay safe, have fun and be the best you can be!

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-04T08:57:00.000-04:00

Take two on coming back to blogging...

2011-05-03T18:46:00.000-04:00

Life has been busy with real life commitments. Things are settling down or should I say becoming more manageable.

As for getting any training done,well, it is happening between the cold temperature, the rain drops, rain storms, wind and major wind storms. Mother Nature is certainly showing us that she is in charge and won't be giving up winter like weather any time soon. Luckily I took a change in venue, I've rediscovered my love of swimming and because of this it has given me the chance to get out of the inclement weather and be inside swimming laps and enjoying the sauna. This has certainly helped me get a head start on the triathlons and swim events I've got on my 2011 TO DO list.

Blizzard has been out racking up the kilometres, lots of kms in and around home and weather permitting, a few of the Wooo Hooo's have been getting together for some hill rides "up the line", as it is affectionately called here, meaning heading deeper in to the Ottawa Valley.

Anyone who knows me, knows that hills on a bike are not my strength, but I've been working hard trying to HTFU about hills, what doesn't kill you only makes you stronger, right?

Burnstown Hill, Ottawa Valley

Well, here is a photo of one of my practice hills, and no I don't mean going down it!! This photo is obviously taken in the fall, but I promise to take one when we go out again this weekend. Believe it or not, this is the baby hill leaving Burnstown heading towards White Lake which takes us on to Stewartville. The Stewartville Dam Hill has been my nemesis for three years. I can happily report that I finally conquered that hill this past weekend again, I promise to take a photo of the Stewartville Dam Hill.

There is a lot to catch up on, but I'll close off for now.

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-02T10:20:00.000-05:00

ABC's of me

2011-03-01T19:23:00.000-05:00

Life's been busy ~ family stuff....

Busy on the training scene too. There is a Century ride in June, 8K Kilt Run in July, followed later in that month with a 3k swim race (I know I just get crazier as I get older). August may bring a Half Ironman, it depends on Life is busy ~ family stuff. September brings the Oasis Zoo Run and October the Prince Edward County Half Marathon. In the middle of all this Kate and Wills get married and I'm still waiting for my invite.

Since I've been gone for so long from blogdom, I'll leave you with this...

ABCs of me:

(A) Age: 58
(B) Bed Size: Queen
(C) Chore You Really Dislike: dusting \ vacuuming
(D) Dogs? none, but one cat - Lily
(E) Essential Start Your Day: Coffee!!
(F) Favourite Colour: I love green of any tone
(G) Gold or Silver? Platinum but will wear gold or silver
(H) Height: 5' 10"
(I) Instruments You Play: unfortunately none
(J) Job Title: Construction Cost Consultant Office Manager
(K) Kids: unfortunately none
(L) Live: Constance Bay, ON
(M) Mom's Name: my mother is deceased - her name was Jean
(N) Nicknames: none that I am aware of
(O) Overnight Hospital Stays? oh ya,
(P) Pet Peeve: insincere people
(Q) Quote from a Movie: "you can't handle the truth"
(R) Right or Left Handed? ambidextrous
(S) Siblings: 1 older sister.
(T) Time You Wake Up? ~5:30 am
(U) Underwear: maybe!
(V) Vegetable You Dislike: I'm a veggie, so I love all of them
(W) What Makes You Run Late: slow drivers
(X) X-Rays: multiple times each for knee, skull, fingers, elbows, ankles, teeth, spine, collar bone, (I love tough sports)
(Y) Yummy Food You Make: any veggie dish
(Z) Zoo animal, giraffes

So, there you go ~ I'm back!

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-16T10:54:00.000-05:00

not much going on here...

2011-01-30T10:42:00.000-05:00

Not too much activity happening, the weather outside has been frightful...well, not compared to other parts of North America, we have been given a reprieve at the moment from Mother Nature. I confess to being a total slug this week, my snow-shoes have been sitting patiently at the front door, but haven't seen a snowflake yet. Maybe later today.

Monday night I did however, go downtown to the Bytowne Cinema to see the Banff Mountain Film Festival. All I can say is WOW! The evening was action packed with independent short films of extreme sports and one feature film which left me in awe. Crossing the Ditch was the world's first Trans-Tasman kayak expedition from Australia to New Zealand. Take the time to read about this adventure, it will truly amaze you!

As I sit here reflecting on my quiet little life, there are those out there living their's. Sometimes you just need a little push to get out the door....don't waste a second of this life...it is a gift, not a given...

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-26T08:30:00.000-05:00

frozen eyeballs...

2011-01-24T11:53:00.001-05:00

Ottawa shattered a 41-year-old record Monday, when the temperature dipped to -28.6 C

You know it's cold when Calgary reports this...apparently a woman was skating on the Ottawa canal yesterday and had to be hospitalised because her eyeballs froze. I can't find anything to substantiate this claim, other than hearing it on the news this morning. I'm certain you'll be reading other folks blogs who write about running or skating or skiing is this craptastic weather, but you won't find it here. Me, I spent Sunday in my jammies with the fireplace on...

that's not really me, I don't look that good in a snuggie

The only time I went outside was to see what was blocking my gas furnace air intake, yes, in my jammies with my down coat & winter boots on, I waded my way through the snow at 6:30am to unplug said intake valve. Luckily for me, once the obstruction (a hunk of frozen ice) was removed, my furnace sparked up right away and it seemed as though it never shut off! Lily was quite happy to snuggle up and sleep in the sunshine while I read, napped, played on the computer, read, napped....well, you get the idea of me doing absolutely nothing!!

This week I start swimming, yes, I'm joining the Greyfish three days per week, to try to keep my cardio up.

I've also just registered for the Rideau Lakes Bike Tour. This year is the 40th Anniversary and they are offering (to purchase) a commemorative cycle shirt. You know me, I'm all about the bling...so I ordered one!

Well, there you go, a momentary frozen hiccup of doing nothing in the challenge of moving every day!

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Sometimes moving is hard to do

2011-01-21T09:14:00.001-05:00

This has been a sluggish week, that can not continue. I had promised myself that I would get to the gym and really make an effort to keep moving. Alas, no, the slug in me won this battle, but it will be the only one it wins! (unless, shovelling snow counts)

Last weekend was the Richmond Road Race, one of my VERY favourite races....

it was cold and snowy

suiting up for the race, not too sure who I'm talking with

Dave, The Duke of Richmond promoting the 2011 Kilt Run

There are several events that I'd like to do this year, but I can't seem to commit to them this early in the season. Have you ever done that? Registered for a bunch of events really early and then not be able to attend?

I really don't want to do the same races over and over again, my tiny little brain gets too bored with repetition and slowly shuts down, an event has to be fun, new, different and a challenge. A cycling friend sent me a link to the Warrior Dash in July...now THIS I might do!!!

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-19T08:35:00.000-05:00

I'M IN LOVE!

2011-01-16T15:59:00.000-05:00

Now before you go flipping the switch, calling for a wedding planner or throw yourself off a cliff, let me qualify why.

Today was the Richmond Road Race = Awesome!! It was flipping cold and windy, but really fun nonetheless. I've learned over the years that at this time of year, I'm loving the 5K run! It was an out and back on slippery snow covered roadways, but a really fun race and exceptionally well run by the Run Ottawa Club. You are greeted with pumping music, the smell of chili and homemade soups cooking, freshly brewed Tim Horton's coffee and a gymnasium full of 500 runners! (I think my race time was somewhere around 33 or 34 minutes...I forgot to turn off my garmin, total brain freeze).

Let's back up a little first. Friday night I met some friends at Dows Lake to skate what was open of the world's largest skateway. It was an awesome night, cold, crisp, -16C with little wind. You skate along past some of the oldest private residences in Ottawa, needless to say they are stately homes with wonderful landscaping and many still had up their Christmas lights. It was stunning just gliding along listening to the sounds of the other skaters whisking their way past us.

I have to admit I was nervous and tense but having fun nonetheless. We skated 5km and decided for the first time out that was going to be good enough considering we had to skate back for a total of 10K. It was when we turned to head back we realised we were head first into the wind. Brrrrr, that is when I realised that my long underwear were getting a little old and not doing their job quiet as well as they had in the past...fast forward ....

Saturday arrives to our first real blast of winter snow and I had an hours drive into Bushtukah where the Road Race kit-pick up was. I had volunteered to help out, so I couldn't let the other volunteer's down. Off I went. It was a busy spot what with 500 runner's picking up their race bibs and beautiful running shirts, aren't they GREAT?

After my shift was over, I had the opportunity of scouring the store to see all the products and items that are now on sale....so much to see, so little time.

This is where I started my love affair (shameless solicitation) with....Icebreaker Pure New Zealand Merino long underwear!!!

A very informed young man told me the pro's and con's, the this vs that and suggested that instead of purchasing the same brand I had been wearing for years I try Icebreakers....Well, I'm in LOVE! I purchased a lovely 260 long undershirt and 260 long underwear! Along with some matchy - matchy merino wool running socks....

All I can say is Winter, Look OUT! I'll kick your sorry arse this year!!!

Icebreaker even informs you where your wool came from by searching your special unique BAA Code (isn't that a hoot? A Baacode) on each item, it will direct you to which Sheep Station in New Zealand your items started off from. Well, those who truly know me, know it doesn't take much to entertain me, so once I got to see where my items came from, I'm hooked. My lovely new aubergine top came from Lindis Peak Stations, baacode. Amazing! Now I'm totally hooked and will likely purchase a few more items from Icebreaker before the end of this kickass winter because I'm in LOVE!!!

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-12T07:12:00.000-05:00

Movement is key

2011-01-10T09:48:00.000-05:00

Winter arrived this weekend, our first real taste of it in 2011. Also arriving was my first baulk at getting outdoors and doing my self committed resolution of doing something in the movement department for at least 30 minutes per day. Lisa, my New Mexico buddy left a Facebook message saying, "30 minutes, just move your body", thanks Lisa!! I ended up having to shovel my front and back decks and driveway, not once, but twice on Saturday, I'll take that as cross training.

Sunday was terribly windy and cold. Again, I could feel the pull of my couch and blankie, but no, I donned my long underwear and bundled up to make the trek outdoors. Again, I had to shovel the driveway and decks, then headed out for a brisk walk along the beach, however, I didn't make it as far as the beach when I had to double back to the house to get my inhaler. It was stupid of me to leave the house without it on a cold, windy day. (when I lived in Cairo, I ended up with what is known as the Bedouin cough. I was hospitalised in Cairo and then transported to Paris. When I was well enough to travel I was sent to The Tropical Disease Centre in Toronto for pulmonary physiotherapy and a sh*t load of good drugs). Ever since then I have trouble with breathing on a good day, but more so on cold winter days.

Once I got settled down and able to breathe, (I tend to panic when I can't catch my breath), out I went for a really nice, albeit cold walk. When all said a done, I was able to get out for more than an hour. Not quite the snow-shoeing / walk / run I wanted to do but I was still moving!!!

This coming weekend is the Richmond Road Race, I hope it isn't as snowy and cold as it was a couple of years ago!

2009 Richmond Road Race

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Saturday movement

2011-01-08T08:18:00.001-05:00

I'm kicking around some blogs this morning and came across Tricia from Endurance isn't only Physical and her Dad's BFF Adam/ the boring runner (this guy is hysterical) is hosting a virtual race today. Obviously I'm too late to sign up but what the heck. It is the motivation I need to get out the door on a snowy Saturday.

Maybe, just maybe, I'll get out the cross country ski's and see how much ice is under that fresh snow fall...hopefully I won't end up on my arse. Today may be just the day to hit the pool this afternoon. It is a 45 minute drive in either direction for me to get to a pool. Do I go into town or do I head up the valley to the Nick Smith Pool? So many choices, so much driving....

What are you up to today????

and finally

Good Luck to all my Goofy friends...today is day two of the Goofy...yesterday was the 5K, today is the half marathon and tomorrow the full marathon.

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Moving at a crawl

2011-01-07T09:42:00.000-05:00

The move every day thing is still going, albeit, not necessarily running. It has been busy at work and with every good intention of going to the gym afterwards just hasn't happened the past couple of days.

The 2011 season will consist of close to home events, smaller in distances but with more swimming and cycling in the mix. I'm looking forward to doing some triathlons this year, just to keep things interesting.

There are some pressing family issues which may entail that I do some events in Toronto, just to be closer to home.

2010 was a year of cycling. I put over 3,000K on Blizzard the Trek with stellar events such as The Rideau Lakes Century Ride, which was foiled on the return trip by inclement weather.

A 100K ride for the MS Society and the 100K Ride the Rideau for the oncology department at the Ottawa General Hospital.

There were day trips with distances anywhere between 60 - 100K and a monumental three day unsupported trip to Up State New York.

I also had three crashes...the first consisted of a friend who inadvertently lost their balance and fell, which in turn caused me to slam on my brakes and try to dodge slamming into her. Luckily I was able to stop in time before any major damage was done, other than scratches to the new Trek.

Second crash was just totally stupid on my part. I was stopped and talking with friends, forgot I was clipped in on one side....well, you get the picture. My arse looked like I'd been beaten with a stick.

The third crash was a little more scary. While on a day trip, chugging up a large winding hill, I got caught in the mix of cyclists ahead of me. Due to the sudden change in speed I wasn't able to clip out in time and fell onto the road while a huge tractor trailer milk truck was passing on the left. Luckily and I mean luckily some of the other cyclists saw what had happened and were able to collect me and the bike off the road before the rear tires of the tractor trailer came dangerously close.

On the running front, 2010 had some really fun races...

Now we are in the dead of winter and it is finally snowing, bring on Cross Country Skiing!!

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-05T08:29:00.000-05:00

work out, keep moving, run and blogging

2011-01-04T10:57:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was the final day of my Christmas vacation. It was an interesting vacation, days spent with family in Toronto, visiting friends far and near, along with catching my annual winter cold.

Now that I'm back to work and back to running, I've been visiting some of my favourite blogs (yes, you are all my favourites), but one struck me in particular. JoLynn at Single Track Junkie, hit the very cord of inspiration I was looking for.

Move every day!!!

Wow, that hit me like a ton of bricks...I had slipped into a very comfortable, non-motivated state that I call Slothdom. Now all that is gone. I've had two very comfortable 2.5 and 4K runs, which will prepare me for the first race of 2011. The Richmond Road Race. This is one of my very favourite races to kick off the new year!

2011 may not be a year of many races, there are a few family issues ensuing, which of course will take priority, but at least I'll make a point of moving every day!!

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Slowly but surely

2011-01-02T12:42:00.000-05:00

My last documented run was November 28th. How sad is that?

The New Year's Eve Resolution Run came and went with me lying prone on the couch nestled beside a box of Kleenex. Well, two days later I finally got my carcass out the door for an intended 5K run, however, a good solid 2.5K was logged into the books.

Not the best run I've ever had, but a comfortable run nonetheless. Let's hope this is the beginning of a fun, maybe not so action packed race year, but fun running with friends.

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

2010-12-31T19:35:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T09:19:00.000-05:00

Wishing you and your families a

VERY

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Laurel & Lily

Friday's Follies...

2010-11-26T13:34:00.000-05:00

My home computer is on the fritz, so I am only able to post while I'm at work and this is a very busy time of year for us. Hence the lack of communication. I'll try to post when I can.

Last weekend I attended a second orienteering event, albeit it was not quite as wild and woolly as the weekend before, it was still a really great workout. Just imagine yourself thrashing your way through thick bush, over hills and through streams in the name of fun....I just get crazier as I get older.

As mentioned it has been extremely busy at work, so some of my work-outs have gone by the wayside. I've been told that you will feel much better after your work-out even if you are really tired before you start it...well, NO, not in my case, I'm just plain tired, that's that. So, I'm becoming more of a weekend warrior than I want to be. Maybe once we get a bit more snow on the ground I'll be able to resume my after work cross country skiing, which in turn will invigorate me...one can only hope.

This weekend I am attending a "bra & panties" party. It is being hosted by a neighbour and we bring new "undies" which in turn will be delivered to a Woman's Shelter in our region.

For those of you who know me, the issues of Women's Rights and shelter's that bring protection and asylum for those women who leave their homes with absolutely nothing so they can find protection for not only themselves but for that of their children is is very, very, VERY important to me. Abuse against women and children is not only a global issue, it can be happening right under your nose and on your block, in your neighbourhood, to someone you know from your church, it could be happening to you. Speak up and don't be ashamed. You didn't "ask for it", you "don't deserve it" and certainly it should be stopped. Clean clothing, clean underwear and a clean place of refuge is the least that can be offered. I've actually stipulated in my will, once I die, that people should send charitable donations to women's shelter's in their area....

Whew, I get a little heated about this topic....

Anyway, I'm also attending a season wrap up party with a group of friends with whom I've had the opportunity at some point during the racing schedule to either run with, cycle with, volunteer with, well you get the picture. It'll really be fun to catch up and hear all about their Iron Adventures from Clearwater, Phoenix and beyond...

Have you begun your list for 2011????

Hope everyone south of the Border enjoyed their Thanksgiving with family and friends and that you are surviving your "Black Friday"....

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Wordless Wednesday

2010-11-17T06:51:00.001-05:00

Another 10

2010-11-16T10:10:00.001-05:00

We have been experiencing unbelievably stellar weather!!! WOW, what a great weekend to be outside and no, I don't mean raking leaves.

Saturday was spent on the Trek!! Who knew that our weather would allow me to be able to cycle from the beginning of March right through to the middle of November. I even had bike shorts on!! We cycled from the Kanata Town Centre along the bike paths to Britannia Beach. It is about a nice 45 minute easy cycle along the pathways through scenic woodland to the Ottawa River. We cycled in behind the National Capital Equestrian Centre and noticed a lot of activity going on, since we were just cruising we biked over to see what was going on....It was one of Eastern Ontario's cyclocross Ride with Rendall Hammer and Anvil Events, a two day event. How freaking exciting to finally get to see a CX in action! Wow, you guys who ride CX are awesome!

Sunday was another great day and I did something I've never, ever done in my life. I went orienteering! The Ottawa Orienteering Club was holding and event in the Gatineau's at the Mackenzie King Estates. What an absolute riot!

I met with friends Treena and Vlad and headed over to Quebec. The OOC had already set up and were getting individuals and teams on their way.

(the following is copied from the OCC, written by Rich Wendling).

A standard orienteering course consists of a start, a series of control markers, and a finish. Each participant is provided with a map, a control card, and a clue sheet. A control card is used to note the start and finish times, and to verify that the orienteer has visited each of the control markers on the course. The map is used to mark the start and finish locations, as well as the locations of each of the control markers.

Sometimes the maps are pre-marked, but other times the orienteer is required to copy the locations from a master map. The clue sheet has clues describing the placement of each of the control markers - the type of geographical feature at which the marker has been placed - and a "control code" which identifies the marker. Usually, the start times are staggered in order to reduce the tendency to follow other participants.

Once the course has been begun, each orienteer uses the map to navigate sequentially from control marker to control marker. Each control marker has an identifying control code and a "punch" that the orienteer uses to mark the control card. Different punches make different patterns on the card, thereby verifying that each control marker has been visited.

At the finish, the time is noted on the control card. Meet officials then verify that the correct punches are on the card, and calculate the elapsed time.

OMG, we were over hill, through dale and even beaver ponds, at one point we were faced with a huge ravine that we climbed (slid) down, forged the stream and climbed up the other side, then ran a couple of km or so to the finish line!! It was just such a rush! We ended up 8th in our division with a time of one hour and 18 minutes, if Treena hadn't been pulling me along, I'm certain she would have been in the top three or four! Hot apple cider, power bars, cookies and apples were waiting for us at the finish line...what a great time.

Once we tidied up a little we headed into Chelsea to a sweet little restaurant called Le Resto, it has a fabulous ambiance, even better food and they didn't seem to mind that we were a tad filthy.

All in all, I'd rate this past weekend a definite 10!!

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

is it just me...

2010-11-12T10:52:00.000-05:00

I've joined a 10K run clinic with two little fun runs as the target of my winter running madness. The Resolution Run on New Year's Eve and the Richmond Road Race in mid January. Both races are a ton of fun and no they aren't chipped, but who cares, I'm all about having a lot of fun. Since the real winter running season is hiding just around the corner, I decided to spiff up my clothing collection. After all, winter running pants can only last so long before they are able to run a race on their own...if you get my drift. Marlene mentioned that she was enamoured with a running pant from Lululemon, and yes, they are very cute, however, my old lady thighs and expanding abdomen just couldn't get use to the fact that the waistline is lower than what I'm use too and yes, I tend to yank my running pants up around my waist like Erkel, from the T.V. show, Family Matters. So I purchased a pair of Sugoi, MidZero Zap Tights. Hopefully these will take me up to at least January before I have to break down and get some SubZero Zap tights.

So, back to is it just me? Do any of you, when running with a group, make sure that no one is struggling or falling behind? On clinic night I started my run and was tooling along at my usual clip...when I caught up with a couple of the runner's who had left before me. I asked if they were okay and comfortable with their running pace, (like why would I even ask this?) anyway, later into the run I look behind me (it is now very dark out) and I can't see them...literally, I can't see them, not one of this little group of new runner's had any reflective running wear on. Me, I'm lit up like a Christmas Tree, so I stopped and waited until they caught up, not only were they struggling with the distance (6k), they were having difficulty figuring out a proper pace for themselves. Where was their group leader??

Well, I'm just so happy that they are out and running and really put in an effort to "just do it", I staid with them, set a comfortable pace and answered any and all of their questions about running. When we finished the run, we high-fived....no one had ever high-fived them before...they were just so excited! Isn't it interesting the habits we get into when we run with the same group over and over again, it is just second nature for my running group to keep an eye on one another, encourage each other and wait for anyone who is lagging behind. Training runs are just that, training, not a race.

However, oh yes, I just can't end it there...I emailed the clinic instructor with what had happened and I think I've stirred the pot....heck, I'm not even a pace leader this session and really why am I like the proverbial mother hen???

Is it just me....or when you run with a group do you look after one another???

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Lest We Forget

2010-11-11T06:32:00.001-05:00

1920 - And Still Going Strong!

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place: and in the sky
The larks still bravely singing fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the dead: Short days ago,
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved: and now we lie
In Flanders fields!

Take up our quarrel with the foe
To you, from failing hands, we throw The torch:
be yours to hold it highIf ye break faith with us who die,
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

Composed at the battlefront on May 3, 1915, during the second battle of Ypres, Belgium

By Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae

Wordless Wednesday

2010-11-10T06:34:00.000-05:00

Back in the groove

2010-11-08T10:03:00.000-05:00

Well, what a weekend. I'm back...

Saturday was busy enough, but I still managed to get a nice 10K walk done. Felt really good with no extra aches nor pains. Bring it on Sunday!

I'm registered...yes, even though it is only for a 10K clinic, it's all good! I ran a nice 10K with some of my friends from the Running Room along the Trans Canada Trail from Kanata to the eastern edge of Stittsville and it Felt GREAT! Tonight is clinic night...I'm actually looking forward to it, even in the dark and cold.

After the run on Sunday the group I ran with all scampered home to tidy up and regroup...yes it was going to be "the girls" afternoon at the Wine and Food Show at Landsdowne Park in Ottawa.

Cheers!

Talk about an absolute hoot and if you love people watching you'd be in heaven. I know I was! Obviously stiletto high heels and patterned stockings are all the rage as well as short, short skirts. (I have belts that are wider than some of the skirts I saw on the young newbies with legs up to their ears!). We all had a great time wandering around sampling wine and food. I even had a very cute man wander over to me with an oyster on a half shell. Too funny! I slurped it down and gave him a hug and asked him if I looked like I needed help!! Once the show was over for the day and for the year, we went off to the Taj Mahal Restaurant for dinner and more laughter.

Overall, I'd rate this weekend as a 10.

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Who forgot to change their clocks?

2010-11-07T07:24:00.000-05:00

not me, in fact I had changed them and before I went to be I changed them again!!

Anyway, I'm up and eating porridge, yes, you've guessed it, I'm back to running on Sunday's with the gang at the Running Room. Just the 10K clinic, but it will be the support and encouragement I need for now. Now I just need to find all my winter running gear.

My plan for the winter month's will be to continue to run, but no great distances just yet, do a lot of cross country skiing and go to the pool on Saturday afternoons. Because of my work schedule and money constraints this year due to having to put in a new well, fix the house, get a new gas fireplace, brakes for the car....yes, you get the idea, I'm tapped...so swimming will only be during the adult swim on Saturday's. Next weekend I'm going orienteering in the Gatineau's with a good friend of mine...what a riot, I'll let you know how it goes.

I'd better get a move on to get into town on time, then we are off the Wine and Food Show for the afternoon...now where are my winter running pants???

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Ottawa, the city fun forgot...

2010-11-05T09:40:00.001-04:00

I've never been overly enamoured with Ottawa and yes I've tried, after all I've lived here for 20 years. Yes, it is pretty, it is scenic and it is full of outdoor parks and areas of recreation. It is also full of boring, stuffy politics's and politician's who bleed our system and generally only look out for their own welfare.

The thought of stopping my blog had crossed my mind while I took my bloggy sabbatical, but I just would miss all of you too much. You have inspired me, certainly you have enlightened me with all you do and you have introduced me to sports which I would have never, ever known about.

Cyclo-cross for one. Between Judi and Blue, they introduced me to a sport that looks like such a blast, I'd consider doing it. This summer, while volunteering at the Canada Day Race I met a woman who is involved with Cyclo-cross here in the Ottawa area. I had mentioned that if they ever needed volunteer's to let me know. Well, I haven't heard from them, but ran across this today....no wonder I haven't heard from them yet...they have enough on their plate.

City pulls bike racing permits after park damaged

Yup, Ottawa, the city fun forgot....

Life's fun if you don't weaken

Lily

ps. I'll try to touch base with them to volunteer, who knows, maybe even try it!

Finally put into words...

2010-11-04T09:55:00.000-04:00

I've been having some motivational issues lately, not only in the running department, but in life in general, again this is contributed to my sensitivity to the dwindling day-light hours, I've been working very hard on it and finally with the help of Vitamin D, B12, copious amounts of Vitamin C along with Calcium and Magnesium, I know I'm going to make it!! Thanks everyone for your kind, informative, caring and motivational emails, I truly appreciate them.

So, nuff said, I'm back running! Yes, despite the periformis and S.I. joint issues I'm getting the kicks out of the box and onto my feet. I found that you can only beat yourself up for so long and after reading this article from Active.com , I've come to conclusion that it's great to be ME!! I don't have to go out and bust a lung every time I run, I don't have to go out and run till the sun sets, I can go out and run and actually have some fun!! Hey, isn't that what it's all about?? For me, right now, it is.

I'm joining the 10K clinic at our local Running Room and I'll take the attitude of gratitude that I'm able to "just do it". It will be fun to see new runner's training for their first 10K run and it (I'm sure of it), will ground me from my lofty "I'm a marathoner" demeanour, and who by the way made me think I'm better than any one else, hmmmmmmm? (well, for those who truly know me, I'm not like that in the least, but a good slap of reality never hurts).

Between the up-coming time change and bright winter days full of cross-country skiing, skating on the canal with wonderful friends, I just know my winter will be okay this year...you never know, I might just meet that special someone too!

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

(it's good to be back)

Inspiration from afar...

2010-10-18T12:42:00.000-04:00

...and you know who you are...so, I'd just like to say thank YOU..

Life has been hectic with every day craptastic stuff that you don't really want me to write about, let's just say you've all got your own, so need to read about mine.

I have been a little lax on running any grand distances since returning from Calgary, so to say I'm under-trained for the up coming 9 Run Run Half Marathon on Saturday would be an understatement. However, even though I'm totally not ready for this event I will go and walk / run and have a good time nonetheless. How could I not? There will be men in uniforms there!

So, I'll just strap on the kicks and .....

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-13T15:46:00.000-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-06T08:46:00.000-04:00

Ya, a month has gone by, but did you miss me???

2010-10-05T14:03:00.000-04:00

Can't believe a whole month has blown by since I last landed on LOTR.

So you ask, what's going on?? Well, I could say I was so busy I didn't have time to blog or I could tell you I just didn't have anything to talk about so I took a bloggy vacay....well in fact it has been a little of both. Way too much to talk about so here are some photo's!

100K Ride the Rideau at the end of September

And in no particular order, Melissa's Road Race, Banff, Alberta and meeting the ever lovely Ironman Leana!!!

off we go, Melissa's 10K Road Race

before the race, (it was chilly)

The Lovely Leana!!

Ironman Leana

hoofing it home

see those mountains? Gorgeous vista's

look up, waaayyy up!

The Rockies, just breathtaking!

So, there you go....I'm back!

Life's fun if you don't weaken,
Lily

Three Things Thursday

2010-09-02T09:55:00.001-04:00

Wow, crazy week, crazy weather and I can't believe we are already into September!

This past weekend was as busy as usual. Saturday was spent with friends helping a Wooo Hooo celebrate a milestone birthday! It was a gorgeous day spent on Allumette Island in the middle of the Ottawa River. BEvERages, bonfires, great food and live bluegrass music, what more could you ask for?

Sunday was the Share the Road ride in Ottawa. It was the first time being held in *Ottawa and it is a motorist and cyclist awareness ride. This is a fantastic ride, fully supported by the OPP (Ontario Provincial Police), Ottawa Police Services, paramedics and of course the many, many volunteers without whom we would haven't stayed hydrated due to the heat. There were three different distances 17km, 60km and 100km, with a barbecue and beverages at the end of it. It was hot, hot, hot and you really had to take advantage of any shady spots along the 60K route. We had a fantastic time and will definitely do it next year.

Getting my running in lately has been a challenge, between the extreme humidity and heat (which I'm loving) and back pain, well let's just say it has been minimal, but that is going to have to change soon! I'm way behind in my Half Marathon training and I've got a 10K race in 24 days! Yikes!!!

On side note, we've all been touched by cancer somehow, whether it is a family member, friend, acquaintance, or maybe yourself. Our doctor's and researchers' work tirelessly trying to find a cure as well as funding for this dreaded disease that has so many faces. I have volunteered to be a ride guide on a very important fund raising ride here in Ottawa by the name of Ride the Rideau. This is a fully supported 100Km cycle along the very scenic route from Ottawa's Landsdowne Park to Merrickville, where we will be greeted with a cheering section from the village and from researcher's and employee's from MDS Nordion, a major sponsor of the event, they will be there acknowledging the cyclist's of whom for some, this will be their first monumental ride. There will be music, food, massage therapists and yes, even a shampoo room for your tired bikes! I'm really looking forward to this 100K, 2010 has certainly been an epic year of volunteering and fundraising for causes I believe in. Giving back, paying forward, tithing, whatever you want to call it, sure makes you feel GREAT!!

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

*Share the Road was held in Sudbury, Ontario, on Tuesday evening. Unfortunately during the event one of the cyclists was hit by vehicle, luckily not killed. To date there has been no update as to their condition. You can read the newspaper article that was posted in the Sudbury Star. Stay safe everyone

"Bikes don't have Airbags"

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-01T08:37:00.000-04:00

Almost the weekend

2010-08-27T11:36:00.000-04:00

Our fall like weather is disappearing again, begone dark, rainy cool days and bring on the heat! This weekend is looking great with temperatures in the mid to high 80F's or as we say in Celsius 29C +. Bring it ON!

It will be a busy weekend what with getting my half marathon training runs in, as well as some social summer beach parties. Have I mentioned I love summer?!!!

Sunday will be spent "Sharing the Road". The Share The Road Cycling Coalition. 2010 will mark the 5th year for Greg’s Ride in Milton, Ontario, but this is the first year it is being held in Ottawa. I'm just cycling 60K with some friends and hopefully there will be a huge turn out for this awareness ride.

Share the Road for Greg Ride includes:

Routes - well marked, with ride marshals.
Water Stations along routes
A custom designed Share the Road Cycling jersey (Adults)
Organic cotton T-Shirts (Children)
SAR - Global 1 (First Aid Assistance)
Kunstadt (Roadside assistance for bikes on the 60K and 100K routes)
Post Ride BBQ
"Goodies" in each rider's bag
A chance to buy tickets to win a $500.00 gift certificate from Bushtukah.

It is looking like it should be a great day and weekend!! Enjoy what ever you are doing and stay safe.

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Three Things Thursday

2010-08-26T09:16:00.000-04:00

It is now Thursday and my last productive run was on Sunday, where does the week go? It was a nice 10K at a 7 minute pace. I'm trying to up my running pace on my long slow distances because I have found over the past several years my slow pace is way too slow. So, we will see how it all works out. I'm no gazelle but I don't have to poke along either.
My back is finally starting to feel a little better since I've been seeing the chiropractor regularly and I'm waiting to hear about my spine xray, hopefully it will shed some light on my pain. I'm also being more diligent with stretching and doing some yoga in the morning. Now, if I could just remember to get up, move about and stretch more often while at work things would be even better.
The days are beginning to get shorter (or as Ken said, the evenings are getting longer), I can already feel my slip into SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder), so I'm trying VERY hard to stay motivated. I've begun taking Vitamin D, Vitamin C, and B12. If I start early enough I'm hoping I'll be able to ward off this slide into winter depression. Oh and planning a winter get away to somewhere warm and sunny with a fellow blogger, turned real life friend is being planned, that will definitely keep my mood bright and sunny too!!!

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-25T06:20:00.000-04:00

It feels a little like fall

2010-08-22T07:20:00.000-04:00

Canada Army Run 2008

When I was out running yesterday I noticed some leaves on the trees already starting to turn colour...say it ain't so!!! They aren't quiet as far along as this leaf picture that I took in September of 2008, but getting close. Mother Nature it is only August!!
Today will be a nice 10K. I'm going to stay around the neighbourhood instead of driving in to town to run at the Running Room. I live is such a beautiful area, so I'd sooner see the forest, Ottawa River, Gatineau Hills and of course snoop at what everyone is doing to their gardens and home reno's. (just call me Gladys Kravitz).

My back is still very stiff and sore, this damp cooler weather isn't helping much, but I'm going to keep moving. I've increased my stretches before and but mostly after my running and I'm doing yoga for 20 minutes every morning right after I get out of bed. Tomorrow I'm having x-rays taken just to see what is going on and to see how far along the arthritis is progressing. I'm not keen on taking any pain relief but if I have to I will.

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

In Lieu of the Du

2010-08-20T09:23:00.000-04:00

The past few years the Wooo Hooo's have "competed" in the Wooo Hooo Du. A rock'n little event held at my place complete with Bling, swag bags and certificates of completion. Hey, we're not cheap and don't spare the expense!! This year however, due to family commitments and other such noteworthy happenings we won't be "doing the Du"

A few us will however get together for a nice cycle and mandatory adult BEvERages afterwards with a potluck lunch...hey, it's all about having fun!

bling and swag bags, nothing but the best

it's all about the bling

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Three Things Thursday

2010-08-19T10:37:00.001-04:00

I'm back running, yes, I've had the bike seat removed from my butt and I'm training for two races this fall. A sweet little 10K, Melissa's Road Race in Banff, Alberta, home of the legendary Canadian Runner Girl, Runner Leana, who by the way is in throws of beginning tamper madness before her Subaru Ironman Canada. Hop over and wish her good luck, because I just know she is going to ROCK it. Good Luck and Best Wishes Leana, I'm really looking forward to meeting you in September.
In October we have a brand new race in the area by the name of 9 Run Run. It is in benefit of supporting the services that support us by ways of the Ottawa Police, Fire Department and Paramedics. I can hardly wait, this will be my first long race since tearing my meniscus almost a year and a half ago.
They say things come in three's so I'm hoping it is over with. Three things that have happened to me in the last two weeks;

1. Mother Nature showed her strength and blew my patio furniture off my back deck and strew various items all over the backyard, luckily the only thing damaged was my lovely teak patio umbrella.

2. Mother Nature showed her strength again this past Sunday causing a large limb to snap from an oak tree which crashed through my metal slingback lawn chair, slicing right through the seat and impaling itself into the ground.

3. My car was hit in the parking lot at work, luckily it wasn't damaged but I had to listen to the guy who hit me rant on about the scratch on his BMW and ranting "did I not see him?" What? You hit me!!!

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-18T06:35:00.000-04:00

Tuesday's Tidbits

2010-08-17T10:51:00.001-04:00

The weekend after my epic bike tour in Up State New York was the Rona MS Bike Tour to raise funds and awareness for this incurable complex disease. It was fully supported with so many fantastic volunteers, sag wagon's, Ottawa Police and food. Have I mentioned the food? I think this has been the only cycle tour I've ever been on where I've most likely gained weight!

We left Carleton University for our 175 km two day bike tour to cheers, music, throngs of well-wishers and luckily great weather. The route was so scenic and flat, compared to the weekend before it was beautiful!!! There were "pit stops" along the way with tables laden with fresh fruit, cold drinks and clean port-potties (always a bonus). Half way to Kemptville we were guided into Rideau River Provincial Park where we stopped for an incredible barbecue picnic, complete with burgers, (veggie burger's for me), salad's, tabbouleh, hummus, pita breads, chips, cold drinks, and jelly beans!!! It was fantastic to get off the bike's and sit by the River and relax before we carried on our journey. Once we left the park we were on a stretch of rough road and yes, I had another flat tire. (six flats since March I might add). Luckily a very nice fellow stopped to see if I needed a hand and he helped fix the tire, then he sped off but not before I got his name.

As we continued our ride we were on beautiful, peaceful flat roads that took us through small villages were people were out at the end of their driveways, clapping and cheering and encouraging us along the way. We finally made it to Kemptville College. As we made our way up to this beautiful college there was music, cheers, a very helpful group at the sign in table. I could go on and on about this ride, it was incredible! Between the silent auction, the 50 / 50 draw, the bonfire, the food, have I mentioned the food?? Leaving on Sunday was a faster, different route than on the way down, which was wonderful as we were trying to beat the rain storm that was creeping up behind us. It was a most memorable ride and certainly one I would do again. I'd just like to say a GREAT BIG THANK YOU to all of you who donated to this worthy cause and supported me on my ride, THANK YOU!!! (unfortunately I do not have any photo's of the trip, silly me).

On a different note, this past weekend was just crazy weather. Saturday was beautiful, hot and sunny and Sunday the wrath of the weather gods were upon us. The storm started just after 4am and lasted over nine hours overhead. The lightening and thunder were relentless and the deluge of water unbelievable. So much so it washed out the main road where I live. Yesterday afternoon I was finally able to wade my way into my backyard to see what damage had occurred due to the heavy rains and strong winds. Luckily my new back lawn did not wash away, however,

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

So.........

2010-08-13T09:28:00.001-04:00

So, yesterday I spent quite a bit of company time creating my Three Things Thursday, just as I was getting ready to publish it an error came up on the page and kicked me out....Thanks Blogger!

So, I go to read some of the comments left on Wordless Wednesday and my good friend Judi had written, "whatssup with this once a week post shit? :0) " LMAO, I can ALWAYS count of Judi to keep me accountable!!!! I *heart* you Judi!

So, what I had almost posted was my adventure through Up State New York a couple of weekends ago which was Hot, HILLY and Humid. Three days of 280K full of fun, humility, learning and friendships.

So, instead of describing every little detail and have you nod off at your computer I'll just say it was Awesome, exhilarating, humbling and a huge epic experience for me....I just get crazier as I get older....

So, I'll leave you with some photo's;

Leaving Kingston Habour

Wolfe Island Ferry to Wolfe Island

Crossing Wolfe Island

Wolfe Island Bakery

Arriving in Sacket's Harbour

Half way up the hill coming out of Watertown

Unsupported, carry your own for 280K

A great time was had by all

Things I learned;

carry snacks, trail mix or something to give you energy, gum works too (luckily I had all of this with me).
carry powdered Hammer Heed, or something similar, you can generally find water from somewhere, but you can't find PowerAid.
SPF 30 sunscreen doesn't cut it when you are on the road for hours on end.
don't try to keep up with the speedy speedster's, cycle your own speed, even if you arrive 15 minutes later than the rest, you still get there! (believe me!).
know how to change your own tires, carry spares and tools, and if some one offers to help ~ take their help (yes, I got a rear tire flat 50K into the ride).
it's a tour not a race, stop and take photo's (which I will do more of next time).
practice, practice, practice riding with weighted panniers before attempting such a journey, thanks goodness I did...
there isn't a hill I can't walk. The hill coming out of Watertown was 2km long with an 800 foot elevation.
just like marathon training, you don't know yourself until you have to dig deep!!!
would I do it again? YOU BET....

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-11T06:43:00.000-04:00

Three Things Thursday

2010-08-05T10:09:00.000-04:00

We have been having some crazy summer weather here. It has been hot, hot, hot and humid. My kind of summer! For the past few days we have been having major thunderstorms in the afternoon and they are calling for another Boomer today. Yesterday I came home to find that my patio furniture had been blown right off the deck. Patio table, cast-iron umbrella stand, chairs, plants all scattered in various locations in my backyard. The umbrella was over the cedar hedge and broken. The wind even blew over my birdbaths! Ahhhhh, you've got to love Mother Nature.

Last weekend was the longest consecutive cycle I have ever done in my life. An unsupported 250K through Up State New York. We left from Kingston, Ontario taking a ferry across to Wolfe Island, cycled across the island to catch another ferry that would take us to the States. We cycled from Cape Vincent to Sacket's Harbour, around the peninsula then off to Watertown where we stayed over night. The next day was Watertown to Alexandria Bay. Day three brought us back to the ferry to cross out of the United States back to Wolfe Island and then to Kingston. Was I prepared for it? Kinda, sorta. What I wasn't prepared for was the speed of the other cyclists, the HILLS and not stopping for breaks every 20K, (that's for wimps). What had been advertised as a 21 - 24K tour pace, turned into the other cyclists averaging 28 - 34+Km per hour. Needless to say I was left in the dust, but what doesn't kill you only makes you stronger. I did it and I'm very proud of myself for digging deep and mustering through it. (report to follow).

This coming weekend is the ride for the MS Society of Canada. It is a fully supported 175K cycle tour and a cause which is close to my heart. A former work colleague who became a great friend has MS and I'm cycling for her. Having multiple sclerosis means that you may suddenly have blurry vision. Or that your memory will fail you for no apparent reason. Or that you may not always be able to walk, let alone ride a bike. The symptoms of MS are different, and devastating, for everyone - the only certainty is that it will affect yet another person every hour of every day.
If you find it in your heart to make a donation towards the MS Society of Canada, you can find my donation page here. I THANK YOU in advance.

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-04T06:26:00.000-04:00

Three Things Thursday

2010-07-29T10:50:00.000-04:00

Last summer on the long Civic Holiday Weekend, I spent the weekend chillaxing in the backyard sipping sangria.

This summer for the Civic Long Weekend, I'm pedalling my A$$ around Sacket's Harbour, Alexandrian Bay and locations in between.

It will all begin crossing over to the States from Wolfe Island, cycling to the next ferry that will take us to the border crossing and US Customs Office and then we catch the ferry across to Sacket's Harbour where we will begin our epic cycle.

280K over three days,

Am I nervous? ~ yes!!! I've never had to support myself on a long ride,

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-28T06:47:00.001-04:00

trying to stay young is sometime frustrating!

2010-07-26T20:31:00.000-04:00

What ever you do when you are young comes back to bite you in the .........back. Back in 2008 I posted about having continuing back issues and up until now, my back has been the least of my issues, between recovering from a torn meniscus, getting over my fear of cycling and just life in general, I've had a slow route to recovery and running, but lately my back is "back at it". It has been suggested that I swim more...easy to say, but the closest pool is 40km away.

I can't sit, I can't stand, I can't lie down, grrrrrrrr, and just this morning I was sent a picture tag on FB, trust me, it was NOT flattering, I was bent over, and I looked OLD...well, okay I was bent over at the registration desk at the Canada Day Race Day, and truly, I am old but at least I'm trying to stay fit.

What really ticks me off are people who sit on the couch smoking cigarettes or other flammables , drinking beer, eating potato chips and doing nothing in the form of exercise and they look younger and skinnier than me!!! GAH....

Anyway, who said ageing would be graceful? Certainly not me, and why should it be?
So this coming weekend I'm going to kick some A$$, I am cycling a mere 240+Km unsupported cycle tour in and around Up State New York over three days transporting my own ~ well, everything!!! Who knew cycling clothes could be so cumbersome and heavy when packed, where on earth can I find miniature dental floss? And how about packing that extra nutrition bar(s)? Trust me when I say my sandals take up half a pannier!

Seriously, It's going to be a blast ....

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Good Luck at IMLP

2010-07-24T08:08:00.000-04:00

Lake Placid Ironman is this weekend,

Best Wishes to all those who are competing,

supporting someone,

and volunteering!!

Last year I was a volunteer body-marker as well as being there to support a friend who was to become "Iron". It was one of the most incredible weekends of sights, sounds, emotion, tears and triumph.

You don't know yourself until you've trained for Iron. I started training to give moral support for my friend and injured my knee while doing it, so I can't say from first had experience what the WHOLE training is like, but I do know it takes a very special individual to dig deep and tough it out.

Recently I heard a fellow recreational cyclist slag Triathletes, interesting slant he has on them. I can hardly wait to meet with him and have a spirited conversation.

I took this photo of a fellow sporting this t-shirt at IMLP last year, and interestingly I received an email yesterday from a friend of mine asking the very same question. So, I'll ask you......

What will you do with your 86,400 seconds today???

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Three Things Thursday

2010-07-22T08:59:00.000-04:00

And I'm back.

I have to admit that I didn't realise the impact of losing two friends within a three month span was affecting me. Luckily I have my great friends to keep me grounded. They know when to be around, they know when to leave me to my own thoughts and yet somehow know when to lend a shoulder. It has been a rough patch, of which I wasn't cognisant of how I was dealing with it, but we all have a shelf life and when our expiry date shows up, we have to go to a higher place and rest in the arms of the Lord. So thanks girls, you just don't know how much our friendships mean to me.

On a lighter note, I'm training and I've been cycling. A LOT! On the running front, I've been trail running every Thursday night with a group who are really, really fast. There is no way on God's Green Earth that I can keep up with them, so I just do my best and have a blast. This brings me to ask the question, "if a trail runner falls in the forest, does anyone really hear them"?? Yes, I've fallen and to this date, I don't know what I tripped over! Other than some bruises, poison ivy and some cuts and scraps, I survived. I've also been participating in the monthly Beaver Chase Race Series of trail running and have taken well over a minute and a half off my race time. Yea Me!!! I'm currently training for two races this fall. The first race is Melissa's Road Race in Banff, Alberta in September and then roll into a brand new half marathon race in October called 9 Run Run. It is so nice to be back and have target races to goal towards!!!

Cycling has been great and I'm loving the long distance day trips. You really get to know every hill, dale and pot hole along the way. Since getting the new Trek 2.1 I've logged well over 2,000km and I'm loving it, mind you, when a grey haired 70+ year old lady can out ride you it can be a little discouraging, but hey, she rides everyday!

Next weekend I am riding a 225Km unsupported tour in Upper New York State. This will be the very first time I'll have to carry my own luggage and supplies. I've been practicing with my panniers and I can honestly say this will be an adventure and I will be taking a ton of photo's. I'm nervous, excited and ready to go!! I'm using it as a training ride for the MS Bike Tour the following weekend were I'll be cycling 175K to raise funds for MS. If, out of the goodness of your heart, would like to support me on my ride for this worthy cause, please find the link to my Rona MS Bike page, I thank you in advance.

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-21T07:01:00.000-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-14T06:10:00.000-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-07T06:25:00.000-04:00

Tuesday Tidbits

2010-07-06T09:31:00.000-04:00

Where is the time going? It had been a crazy spring for cold and rain, and now we are into summer, it feels as though time is just flying by. It seemed like it took forever to get some nice weather while training for the Rideau Lakes Cycle Tour and now that is over and we are well ensconced in a heat wave. The past few days have been hot and very humid, but I have to admit this is my kind of weather, you can keep winter. My house inside has been over 88(F), I refuse to get air conditioning for just a week or so of hot temperatures in the summer, I can live with the heat. I LOVE IT!

Don't you just hate when someone abuses? Whether it is drugs, their partner or just good old alcohol? I don't know about you but that sort of behaviour really makes me sick. Believe me, I've had my fair share of over the edge behaviour in the past, but you grow up and really who has time for that when you run, cycle and attempt to keep yourself in some semblance of good shape while sliding gracefully into old age. Don't you just hate drunk dialer's? Just because they've conjured up some alcohol fueled fantasy and are wallowing in a pity party, why do people assume you want to be a part of that? My life is busy and I've surrounded myself with active, positive minded friends who embrace their life just as it is, yes, we've all had "life" thrown at us, it is how you deal with it that makes you who you are. No one gets out of this life alive, so it is up to you to make the very most of what we are fortunate enough to have. Good friends who are positive people, a healthy lifestyle, keeping active and doing the very best you can do. That's what I'm happy with.............

And speaking of positive friends, the Wooo Hooo's had an absolute RIOT at the Perth Kilt Run. It was a hot, muggy evening, but way too much fun none the less. I have to say that this was one of the BEST races I've ever attended. Kudos to everyone involved and I'm certain that they will have broken the previous record of the most number of people running a race while wearing kilts. There were 1,210 of us running the 8K race ~ I'll keep you posted when we make it into the Guinness World Book of Records.

Next up, I'm back in the saddle training for the 175K MS Bike Tour which is being held the beginning of August. You can find my shameless solicitation for sponsoring me here. Thanks in advance, it is a cause very close to my heart and truly every little bit helps.

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Happy Birthday Canada

2010-07-01T11:35:00.000-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-30T05:14:00.000-04:00

Kilt Run ~ I look like Big Bird

2010-06-26T12:06:00.000-04:00

Three Things Thursday

2010-06-24T10:05:00.007-04:00

This has been one crazy week in good ole Ontarr-iiiaarriii-aaar-iooooo (Ontario), not only did we get a 5.0 magnitude earthquake yesterday that rocked not only Ottawa, but it extended from Montreal west to Toronto and as far up as North Bay down to Ohio . My friend Vickie reported it was felt as far away as Grand Rapids, Michigan. Office workers took to the streets in downtown Ottawa moments after the quake hit, even though it lasted maybe 30 seconds, when you're not a So-Cal girl, it seems like forever! Luckily minimal damage was done and life went back to normal a short time later.

Shortly after the earthquake, a tornado touched down in Midland, Ontario. Mother Nature is certainly showing us that she is not very happy with the way we have been treating her lately. Her strength and power far exceeds anything we humans can imagine.

After almost seven weeks, I have WATER! Nuff said, now maybe my life will get back to some semblance of order. This is a photo of the guys installing the submersible pump. Whoot, no longer a noisy pump in the basement

... and finally some running news!!! This Saturday is the Perth Kilt Run, yes there will be 1,210 kilted runners running 8K (5 miles) throughout the town of Perth, Ontario. Why you may ask? Well, as you know runners are crazy and well, we are doing this to get our names into the Guinness World Book of Records. This is the first year for the event, as it coincides the founding of Perth, Scotland (Perth, Ontario's twin city) in the year 1210, hence 1,210 kilted runners. Look for me, my kilt is yellow plaid!

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-23T06:46:00.001-04:00

Tuesday's Tidbits

2010-06-22T13:14:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I had started a post about receiving the You're going places baby award from Anne at Asthma and the Gift of Running when I received word about Wendy's sudden passing while visiting with her brother and friends in Grand Cayman. This was a total shock as I had chatted with her on Friday and we exchanged "blog words" on Saturday, that very morning just before she headed off for her Flowers Sea Swim. Wendy was a gentle spirit with a passion for life and all it could give her. I will miss her encouraging words, her curiosity towards life, her love for her family and for her "Boarder", aka, Onyx her cat and "for all things sparkly"...just knowing that Wendy was loving and living her life to the fullest and enjoying her time in the Caymans and so graciously sharing with us her photo's of her beloved underwater sea world makes me grateful for her time she shared with all of us, virtual and otherwise.

Wendy you will be sorely missed.

so back to blogging as Wendy would want,

I'm to tell you where I'll be in my life ten years from now:

I'd like to think that I'd be retired from working, but since I front loaded my life with fun it is highly unlikely!!
at almost 70, I'll still be cycling and going on cycle tours, look out Blizzard!
I'll still be running and most likely be doing a lot more swimming since it would be easier for my old bones.
I'd like to think that all my house renovations will be complete and I won't be "camping" in my own home.
I'll still have all the Woooo Hoooo's to walk, run, cycle, swim, ski, party and share life with.
Maybe I'll have met some really nice old single grandfather....with grand-kids that go home at the end of the day!
I'll continue to travel to places I've never been before, I don't have a "must to go" location, but there are so many interesting spots in this old world, I may just stick a pin in a map, that's a good way to start travelling.
Since I don't have children nor grandchildren, I'll continue to have pets, if I had the money I'd have a shelter farm for formerly abused animals ~ great and small.
Hopefully I'll get to meet more of my blogger friends in person and share a run / event / good meal and of course a mandatory adult BEvERage with them.
and finally, I hope to still have my health and a strong mind to continue to live life to its fullest.

What about you? Where will you be in ten years??? I won't tag anyone, but feel free to tag yourself....and share a little bit of what you see in your crystal ball for your future.

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

I will miss you terribly Wendy

2010-06-21T09:39:00.002-04:00

1959 - 2010

On June 19, after completing the Flowers Sea Swim, Wendy suffered a cardiac arrest.
She died shortly thereafter at the George Town Hospital, Grand Cayman.

Wendy touched many lives and will be greatly missed.

Wendy certainly touched my life and I will miss our chats, laughs and "cat stories". Rest In Peace Wendy, you have truly been an inspiration in my life.

Laurel

Friday's Follies

2010-06-18T10:52:00.001-04:00

Wrapping up the RLCT.

Upon arriving at Queen's University we headed straight to where our friends were sitting on the lawn that was strewn with bikes, helmets, cycling shoes and snacks. We enjoyed refreshing BEvERages and swapped stories of the ride. After a much needed rest, we headed off to our dorm rooms to shower and freshen up to meet up later with over 2,000 of our closest friends we've never met before in the huge cafeteria for dinner. The food was endless, choices fantastic and deserts to die for. The Ottawa Bike Club knows how to look after you.

After being sufficiently satiated in the food department, we all trundled off to try to enjoy a nightcap with some of the gang before heading off to catch some zzzzz's.

I woke up at 2am to the sound of pounding rain, grrrrrrr, and why was my room so cold???

I lay awake from about 4:30am on and listened to the rain and the hard core cyclists getting ready to leave for their ride back to Carleton University, 177K away. By 5:30 I was up, getting organised and packing up my bag, luckily I had packed my clothes in a large green garbage bags inside the sports bag, hey, Flight Attendant training came in handy because my bag was to sit outside in the pouring rain in Perth for a very long time!!!! By the time 6:30am rolled around I wandered down to meet the gang in the cafeteria for breakfast and to charge up my batteries with coffee and breakfast for the ride back to Perth. Again, the food was incredible, with every breakfast choice imaginable.

By 8:30am we were ready to go. We said farewell to some of the Woooo Hooo's who were driving back home, luckily I had thrown my cycling rain coat into the vechicle the day before....

As we headed out of Queen's my back tire felt a little iffy, so we headed back to the SAG wagon to have it checked, while waiting in line, we heard that it was 9 degrees Celcius, raining and the wind had picked up to gusts of 35K out on the roads. GAH!

Once the tire was pumped up we headed out...however, it still wasn't right, so back to the SAG wagon again to have the tube replaced...it was getting colder, wetter and windier. The fellow at the SAG wagon said that they were getting a lot of reports that some of the cyclists were bailing and that others were suffering from hypothermia, he also noted that if we ran into trouble again we were to flag them down and they would try to help us. With a big hug and a thanks we were off again, this time some of the Wooo Hooo's drove past us yelling encouragement out the van window and then they were gone.

We were head down and pedalling straight into the wind when it happened....another flat tire!!! You know when everything inside you just goes calm...there was nothing we could do about it. The SAG wagon was once again our guardian angel. While Lauren fixed my flat front tire, Elaine and I huddled around the exhaust pipe of the wagon to try to get some warmth, we were soaked, cold and when I looked over at Elaine she was shivering and turning blue. Keith strongly suggested that we give up our attempt to finish the ride, heck, we weren't even out of Kingston at that point!!! We could go back to the University to see if we could hitch a ride with other cyclists, we could cycle up to the Greyhound Bus Depot and try to catch a bus to Perth, but we opted to cycle to the nearest coffee shop and order a taxi that could manage to get two bikes and two sopping wet cyclists back to Perth.

Once we got back to Perth we had to find our luggage, our friend Donna went diving into the mix to look for hers! We helped cyclists who were suffering from hypothermia, another chap had major grit in his eyes, others were piling into the rest stop looking for hot coffee, thermal space blankets and their luggage so they could change into warm, dry clothes!!

Would I do it again??? YOU BETCHA!!!

Thanks Keith and especially Lauren who fixed not one flat, BUT TWO flat tires for me.

*glass in the tire = flat, flat, flat*

I'd like to extend a GREAT BIG THANKS to Chris Borzecki for **looking after all of us on Saturday and Sunday and a great big thanks to all of the volunteers.

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

** OBC ordered buses and taxi's to get people off the roads and safely back to their destinations, 2010 was certainly one RLCT for the books.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-16T06:55:00.000-04:00

thanks Jane!

Tuesday Tidbits ~ part one of the Rideau Lakes Cycle Tour

2010-06-15T09:58:00.005-04:00

Leaving Perth to ride to Kingston on our 100K Rideau Lakes Cycle Tour a couple of weekends ago, the weather was looking iffy, but we were going nonetheless. Many of us had been out on our bikes training for months in advance so we weren't going to let a little weather stop us. The ride on Saturday was amazing and eventually the clouds gave way and the sun came out, it was fantastic!

What I hadn't anticipated was the size and number of hills we were to encounter.

When they say rolling hills, they mean rolllling HILLS!!

The four of us stayed together pretty much together whole ride and it was fun to catch up with friends along the way. We caught up with friends Donna and Treena and had a lunch break with them. We knew that some of the Wooo Hooo's were ahead of us and we would see them upon our arrival. It was a great feeling of comfort to know that we had our Sherpa Extraordinaire Jen with us too, THANKS JEN!

Carrying on along the route, the larger peletons who had left from Carleton University in downtown Ottawa were catching up with us and just listening to the whir of wheels coming up from behind is just too hard to describe, fantastic and almost unnerving at the same time.

I have to admit that getting close to Kingston I started to get leg cramps, not in the usual place you'd expect, like your calf or foot, no, I was getting leg cramps in my inner thigh. I actually couldn't clip out at one point because the cramping was so severe let alone pedal, luckily I did get clipped out and I'm not ashamed to say I walked one hill. As in any long distance event, there were a few crashes, ambulances, motorcyle police spotting us, flat tires, people bonking, a few not so nice cyclists, many, many fantastic cyclists and so many GREAT memories.

Upon our arrival to Queen's University we met up with the rest of the gang and had our mandatory Adult BEvERages, swapped stories, checked in with the tour volunteers, collected our bags and headed off to our dorm rooms to freshen up.

For some reason I had been billeted in the men's dorm, so needless to say there was some initial excitement in the shower-room...I figure if you haven't seen it by the time you reach my age you're in deep trouble, but once we all got over the coed arrangements, we shared some very funny moments and even funnier stories!

Part two to follow.....

Life's fun if you dont' weaken,

Lily

Three Things Thursday

2010-06-10T10:21:00.000-04:00

Rideau Lakes Cycle Tour has been and gone. What a fantastic time!!! Hilly, hilly, HILLY! If someone tells you that there are just some rolling hills, don't believe them, because a roller coaster has rolling hills too!!! One hill I went down doing 52K per hour and on the up side I was down to 9K, there may have even been some swearing! Fantastic weather on the Saturday ~ Sunday not so good what with monsoon rains, gale force winds and a temperature of 9C. (a full report on that to follow).

Good friends, of course we never have any fun.

Because there were so many of us riding, I didn't get the chance to see some of the Wooo Hooo's until we got to Kingston, but they had a great time and stories of their own to tell!!!

Tuesday night was the second in the Beaver Chase Trail Run Series, I shaved almost a full minute off of last months race time. Whoot!!! Tonight is the second trail run with a group I joined. Holy schnitzzzz they are fast and over rough terrain. I hope I can keep up!!!

Hopefully they will come to dig my well next week, I'm still hooked up to my neighbour's house via garden hose. I'm on vacay this week and boy you just don't realise how much you depend upon clean, fresh, running water. I had prepared everything to make a nice vegetable soup and realised I didn't have enough bottled water to put in the pot!!!! So, I'm off to buy more water...

Life's fun if you don't weaken,

Lily

Blizzard has become a touring bike...

story to follow