all day in my bed
flannel sheets keep cold outside
cozy here i'll stay
flannel sheets keep cold outside
cozy here i'll stay
megan
Wednesday, December 12
Sunday, November 11
The start-
Hey Folks!~
It's been a week and I am still on a marathon HIGH from last weekend. I borrowed an idea from a friend I ran Chicago with last year, I took a disposable camera with me and got photos of each mile marker. Taking pictures kept me focused on just making it to the next mile marker, rather than the 25.2 miles to the finish line.
There are interesting things I captured from the first three / fifths of the race:
Mile 1. Verazanno-Narows Bridge, worlds largest suspension bridge. Burrow 1. Staten Island, the pre-start line hang out.
Mile 2. Welcome to burrow two, Brooklyn!
Mile three, and Jen the woman I started the race with.
It's been a week and I am still on a marathon HIGH from last weekend. I borrowed an idea from a friend I ran Chicago with last year, I took a disposable camera with me and got photos of each mile marker. Taking pictures kept me focused on just making it to the next mile marker, rather than the 25.2 miles to the finish line.
There are interesting things I captured from the first three / fifths of the race:
Mile 1. Verazanno-Narows Bridge, worlds largest suspension bridge. Burrow 1. Staten Island, the pre-start line hang out.
Mile 2. Welcome to burrow two, Brooklyn!
Mile three, and Jen the woman I started the race with.
KEEP SCROLLING DOWN-
TO GET ALL THE PICTURES UP I HAD TO POST MULTIPLE TIMES.
TO GET ALL THE PICTURES UP I HAD TO POST MULTIPLE TIMES.
Mile 4 through 7
Lots of water at mile four.
tiny little mile five sign.
One hour and fifteen at mile six- it's not Boston qualifying time, but it's a sunny cool fall day to run!
Mile seven, and some stranger doing something strange.
Mile 8 and on
Mile eight
Mile nine
Mile- oh my, well there weren't enough port-a-potties. As a user of port-a-potties, I think that they could have used a good cleaning by the time I got to them.
Mile 10 through 14
Mile ten coming from Brooklyn into Queens.
Hey! It's me!
An un-impressive bridge in Queens where the half way point was,
Mile 16 & The Queensboro Bridge
This is the start of the bridge- we ran through it, which was dark, cold, and errie. One can sorta see the 15 mile marker ahead.
A view of Manhattan from the bridge.
Mile 16! So what does Manhattan look like? How about the Bronx? Or even photos of the remaining 10.2 miles- sorry ran out of film - I'll have to do this again to show you the finish line (or you could join me!)
Soundtrack for this race was provided by Andrew's iPod, seeing as I never actually put any music on Matt's podcast full nano. Thanks Andrew- but Mmm bop! really?
Thank you Toyota for Such a great experience! Also, they aren't pictured but thanks to all my Team Toyota friends for making this such a great event. I ran with Amy for a while before the 13.1 marker, and by mile twenty I found Denis and we finished the race together! There is a special place in my heart for the people who help drag my butt across the finish line, Thank you!
Monday, November 5
New York Rocks
I finished! Pictures to come, New York was great- I'm still achey and sleepy- but I would do it again in a fully recovered from this marathon heartbeat. Plus I finished this race thirty minutes faster than last year- but Katie Holmes still beat me.
(I rounded my times to easier numbers- because I hurt from head to toe and everything in between right now)
NYC 2007 time: 5:45
Chicago 2006 time: 6:15
Thank you Andrew and Laura for trekking all across the country to come out for the race!
(I rounded my times to easier numbers- because I hurt from head to toe and everything in between right now)
NYC 2007 time: 5:45
Chicago 2006 time: 6:15
Thank you Andrew and Laura for trekking all across the country to come out for the race!
Wednesday, October 24
i do run run run I do run run
Okay folks, It's that time agian- where I ask you to give me suggestions for songs to put on matt's iPod Nano (that is if he lets me borrow it) for the NYC marathon. My only requirements are that the music is up beat! Choose NYC related songs, good running songs, or just your favorite so I can think of you during the five-ish minutes it's playing!
Tuesday, October 23
running
I had a wonderful run in Iowa with Andrew this weekend. Scenic and rolling landscapes welcomed us- as we hoofed through beautiful neighborhoods, and their lovely running paths. Paths took us by streams, rivers, ponds, and lakes-- as this watery portion of the run was also in the last half of the course- I lasted FOREVER! We had a lovely cool day, and Des Moines is far lovelyier that I imagined.
On a similar note, I am attempting to eat my last cookie for the next 11 days. For my sanity and love of cookies I will qualify that statement by saying any ohey goody cookie type substance that is over 100 calories shouldn't cross my lips until I cross the NYC marathon finish line. An eleven day cookie fast, shouldn't be soo bad. All these refined sugars really slow me down when I run- so here's to a better race. Wish me luck.
On a similar note, I am attempting to eat my last cookie for the next 11 days. For my sanity and love of cookies I will qualify that statement by saying any ohey goody cookie type substance that is over 100 calories shouldn't cross my lips until I cross the NYC marathon finish line. An eleven day cookie fast, shouldn't be soo bad. All these refined sugars really slow me down when I run- so here's to a better race. Wish me luck.
Wednesday, October 17
endurance
RUNNING:
I received an e-mail today proclaiming that there are only 18 days remaining until the NYC marathon! Really? I can't believe it's so soon. Granted when I've trained for other events, it was six months from the race day, and this time I opted to start training maybe two and a half months before the race. After this weekend's last long run, I will offically begin my taper. For the first time in recent history I've been doing the majority of my training alone. While I enjoyed training with Mr. K this summer- I do enjoy the long runs alone. But if you ask me during that run, I may disagree with you. So this weekend rather than do a twenty-mile run alone, I'm going with Andrew to Des Moines. Where we have both registered for their marathon. Only I'm just going to run twenty miles, and let Andrew run the full 26.2. I'll get the crowd, the benefits of being in a race (water and Gatorade- I hope), and perhaps my only chance to do a marathon with Andrew.
SURVIORSHIP DUES:
I went in for my regular six-month poking from my oncologist (short story, all is good I'm okay, but annoyed). I've heard other cancer survivors refer to these visits similar to seeing a parole officer. I've never been on parole, but I imagine that it could be as annoying as the blood taking, the repeating medical history to the new intern so he doesn't have to read my chart, and then getting poked and prodded. This will only be aggravated by the huge medical bill I'll receive in three months for the fifteen seconds I actually saw Dr. Chen- and the ten or so words he may have spoken to me. What a rip off. Plus none of this will ultimately indicate to anyone if I've relapsed- a good ole' CT scan will. I'd like to skip my Dr. Chen visit and just get the CT scan, then have my radiologist, Dr. Minn give me the results - he's far more personable.
I received an e-mail today proclaiming that there are only 18 days remaining until the NYC marathon! Really? I can't believe it's so soon. Granted when I've trained for other events, it was six months from the race day, and this time I opted to start training maybe two and a half months before the race. After this weekend's last long run, I will offically begin my taper. For the first time in recent history I've been doing the majority of my training alone. While I enjoyed training with Mr. K this summer- I do enjoy the long runs alone. But if you ask me during that run, I may disagree with you. So this weekend rather than do a twenty-mile run alone, I'm going with Andrew to Des Moines. Where we have both registered for their marathon. Only I'm just going to run twenty miles, and let Andrew run the full 26.2. I'll get the crowd, the benefits of being in a race (water and Gatorade- I hope), and perhaps my only chance to do a marathon with Andrew.
SURVIORSHIP DUES:
I went in for my regular six-month poking from my oncologist (short story, all is good I'm okay, but annoyed). I've heard other cancer survivors refer to these visits similar to seeing a parole officer. I've never been on parole, but I imagine that it could be as annoying as the blood taking, the repeating medical history to the new intern so he doesn't have to read my chart, and then getting poked and prodded. This will only be aggravated by the huge medical bill I'll receive in three months for the fifteen seconds I actually saw Dr. Chen- and the ten or so words he may have spoken to me. What a rip off. Plus none of this will ultimately indicate to anyone if I've relapsed- a good ole' CT scan will. I'd like to skip my Dr. Chen visit and just get the CT scan, then have my radiologist, Dr. Minn give me the results - he's far more personable.
Tuesday, October 9
it was snowing at last year's marathon!
First of all watching Andrew run in horrid conditions on Sunday along with countless other runners was shocking. I was at mile 8, 10, and mile 17. The first time I saw Andrew, he told me there was no water at the first two water stops, and promptly drained my water bottle. A handful of runners had gotten off the course at that point. Prior to proceeding on to my next spot to find Andrew, I filled my backpack with bottles of water and gatoraid.
At mile ten I missed seeing Andrew, but at this points sirens became a steady sound, and I saw two runners hit the ground. Lying on the pavement unable to move, or just sitting on the sidewalk waiting for a medic.
I was at mile 17 when the race was canceled, waiting for Andrew to pass. He was only minutes away when an ambulance rushed towards us, and stopped the steady flow of participants. A police officer gathered the crowd around and announced the hospitals were filling up with too many runners, and that the race was canceled.
I saw:
• At least four runners laying on the sidewalks,
• Handfuls of participants walk off the course at mile 8
• Sirens echoed from 10 AM until I took Andrew home at 2.
• Runners fetching their own water from corner stores!
As soon as I got to the runners fire fighters were opening hydrants that shot steady arches above the quite streets teaming with exhausted runners, and spectators searching for their friends and family. I moved towards the crowd of former runners, and after about a mile of searching found Andrew. Once I handed him and his running friends the water and Gatoraid, and followed them back to the start line. It was crazy! Ambulances were everywhere, volunteers didn’t look like they knew what was going on, and the crowds we’re hot, smelly, and unrelenting.
At the Team In Training tent, we witnessed a team member nearly pass out from heat exhaustion while waiting for over a half hour for medics to arrive.
I did an 18 mile run on Saturday in similar heat, but I carried my own water, and started about two hours earlier than the marathon did.
At mile ten I missed seeing Andrew, but at this points sirens became a steady sound, and I saw two runners hit the ground. Lying on the pavement unable to move, or just sitting on the sidewalk waiting for a medic.
I was at mile 17 when the race was canceled, waiting for Andrew to pass. He was only minutes away when an ambulance rushed towards us, and stopped the steady flow of participants. A police officer gathered the crowd around and announced the hospitals were filling up with too many runners, and that the race was canceled.
I saw:
• At least four runners laying on the sidewalks,
• Handfuls of participants walk off the course at mile 8
• Sirens echoed from 10 AM until I took Andrew home at 2.
• Runners fetching their own water from corner stores!
As soon as I got to the runners fire fighters were opening hydrants that shot steady arches above the quite streets teaming with exhausted runners, and spectators searching for their friends and family. I moved towards the crowd of former runners, and after about a mile of searching found Andrew. Once I handed him and his running friends the water and Gatoraid, and followed them back to the start line. It was crazy! Ambulances were everywhere, volunteers didn’t look like they knew what was going on, and the crowds we’re hot, smelly, and unrelenting.
At the Team In Training tent, we witnessed a team member nearly pass out from heat exhaustion while waiting for over a half hour for medics to arrive.
I did an 18 mile run on Saturday in similar heat, but I carried my own water, and started about two hours earlier than the marathon did.
Thursday, September 20
Weekend Warrior lives on
Last weekend I did my last Tri of the season, the Devil’s Lake Challenge in Baraboo WI. This was a remarkable event for various different reasons;
a) Mr. K & I camped in the Devil’s Lake State Park the night before the race (it got to a snuggly 30 degrees overnight!)
b) Ma & Pa K trekked over to watch the event- that started at 8 a.m. on Saturday.
c) More Paquette’s came that I could shake a stick at—these guys are my Dad’s cousins, and an all round good time!
The race was small. I am learning that small races mean that my finish time won’t be as impressive because I’m outnumbered by super thin and fast gym rats and hard bodies. The swim was a warm quick quarter of a mile (the water was 72 degrees, the air closer to 50). The bike was a grueling 15 mi ride, with some of the hardest inclines I’ve tackled in a long time. I was wishing I spent more time working on cycling outside of flat Chicago. The run was a simple and easy 5k, where I accomplished a personal best of the summer with a ten-minute mile!
After the race I met up with my personal cheerleaders! Mr. K and I took down our camp, and then headed over to the Paquette’s cabin, for quality family time, laughs, stories, food, and one of the best showers I have ever taken! We also were treated to a duet of my Great Aunt Janey and her dog Lady singing (seriously! The dog sang. ) “Row, Row, Row Your Boat.” It was awesome!
All and all the race was nice, but the camping and the family time were top notch. Would I do it again? Only after some more time working on riding up hill, and if it meant more time at the Paquette cabin.
So I’m done swimming, cycling, and running for now. I’m training for the NYC marathon (Thanks Toyota!). I didn’t think that I would attempt another marathon so soon, but this was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. In preparing for the race I’m hoping to shave about an hour off of my finish time from last year’s Chicago marathon. After a summer of running with speedy Mr. K and ‘Sweetie’ I’ve had to get faster, or eat their dust (no thanks). This may also mean returning to that diet I was working on in the spring. Why diet now? To avoid knee pain- last year my knees really hurt going up stairs after all the running, and one of the best ways to lower the impact of running on joints is to take off the extra pounds. I want to reduce the impact on my knees. So I should be returning to ‘Fatties No More’ soon, once I swallow my pride- reports to follow.
a) Mr. K & I camped in the Devil’s Lake State Park the night before the race (it got to a snuggly 30 degrees overnight!)
b) Ma & Pa K trekked over to watch the event- that started at 8 a.m. on Saturday.
c) More Paquette’s came that I could shake a stick at—these guys are my Dad’s cousins, and an all round good time!
The race was small. I am learning that small races mean that my finish time won’t be as impressive because I’m outnumbered by super thin and fast gym rats and hard bodies. The swim was a warm quick quarter of a mile (the water was 72 degrees, the air closer to 50). The bike was a grueling 15 mi ride, with some of the hardest inclines I’ve tackled in a long time. I was wishing I spent more time working on cycling outside of flat Chicago. The run was a simple and easy 5k, where I accomplished a personal best of the summer with a ten-minute mile!
After the race I met up with my personal cheerleaders! Mr. K and I took down our camp, and then headed over to the Paquette’s cabin, for quality family time, laughs, stories, food, and one of the best showers I have ever taken! We also were treated to a duet of my Great Aunt Janey and her dog Lady singing (seriously! The dog sang. ) “Row, Row, Row Your Boat.” It was awesome!
All and all the race was nice, but the camping and the family time were top notch. Would I do it again? Only after some more time working on riding up hill, and if it meant more time at the Paquette cabin.
So I’m done swimming, cycling, and running for now. I’m training for the NYC marathon (Thanks Toyota!). I didn’t think that I would attempt another marathon so soon, but this was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. In preparing for the race I’m hoping to shave about an hour off of my finish time from last year’s Chicago marathon. After a summer of running with speedy Mr. K and ‘Sweetie’ I’ve had to get faster, or eat their dust (no thanks). This may also mean returning to that diet I was working on in the spring. Why diet now? To avoid knee pain- last year my knees really hurt going up stairs after all the running, and one of the best ways to lower the impact of running on joints is to take off the extra pounds. I want to reduce the impact on my knees. So I should be returning to ‘Fatties No More’ soon, once I swallow my pride- reports to follow.
Monday, September 10
Feeling Beautiful
When was the last time that you felt beautiful?
When is the last time you knew you were beautiful and that damned voice in the back of your head didn't argue with your knowledge?
Sunday could have started better, I was grumpy with Mr. K and almost forgot to feed the cat. Training this weekend meant getting a 14-mile run in, so I opted for 13.1 and did the Banco Popular Half marathon instead. Now I've relaxed from running after last year's Chicago marathon. Yes the tri includes a run portion but in the races I've done all the runs are about five miles (okay six) training for six miles is nothing like training for twenty-six!
The run was great, I found some team and training friends in the crowd, the weather was awesome, and the course was in a new neighborhood away from the tired Northside lakefront path, and away from downtown (read, Southside!). The run itself is always takes a good deal of mental effort to keep going, and I hurt like hell today, but once the race was over I felt beautiful. I was stinky, coated in salty film of dried sweat, stretching in the grass, eating a banana, lying there just knowing without a doubt that I felt beautiful.
When is the last time you knew you were beautiful and that damned voice in the back of your head didn't argue with your knowledge?
Sunday could have started better, I was grumpy with Mr. K and almost forgot to feed the cat. Training this weekend meant getting a 14-mile run in, so I opted for 13.1 and did the Banco Popular Half marathon instead. Now I've relaxed from running after last year's Chicago marathon. Yes the tri includes a run portion but in the races I've done all the runs are about five miles (okay six) training for six miles is nothing like training for twenty-six!
The run was great, I found some team and training friends in the crowd, the weather was awesome, and the course was in a new neighborhood away from the tired Northside lakefront path, and away from downtown (read, Southside!). The run itself is always takes a good deal of mental effort to keep going, and I hurt like hell today, but once the race was over I felt beautiful. I was stinky, coated in salty film of dried sweat, stretching in the grass, eating a banana, lying there just knowing without a doubt that I felt beautiful.
Wednesday, September 5
What's next?
Well the Big tri has past. I spent the last two weeks of training mulling over what I would do next. Lucky for me the day after Matt & I finished the triathlon Toyota gave me the opportunity (which I am taking) to run the New York Marathon. I'm hoping that the tri training will help with some of the really long runs that go into to training for a marathon. My goal is not to be fast, but just to do this event for fun (and reamain injury free!)
for the labor day weekend I put in a 7 mile run on the country roads surrounding LaRue, it was great!
This comming weekend I'm running the Banco Popular half marathon (13.1 miles), the following week will be a Sprint Tri in WI. After this marathon season, perhaps I'll join the Evanston Masters Swim team for the winter season.
We spent the long weekend in LaRue celebrating my father's 60th birthday. Like all good weekends in Ohio, there was an excessive amount of food, drinking, family, friends and pranks. Family from CO and OK flew in, and my nieces 7 and 6 mos from SC arrived. I had a great time teaching little Miss R all the fun of pranking, and showing some of the kids down the street how to TP a house. Perhaps the most important lesson learned from this trip was that fussy 6 month old babies should NEVER EVER be separated from their Mommy for more than 6 hours, and never 48 hours. It's good to be home.
for the labor day weekend I put in a 7 mile run on the country roads surrounding LaRue, it was great!
This comming weekend I'm running the Banco Popular half marathon (13.1 miles), the following week will be a Sprint Tri in WI. After this marathon season, perhaps I'll join the Evanston Masters Swim team for the winter season.
We spent the long weekend in LaRue celebrating my father's 60th birthday. Like all good weekends in Ohio, there was an excessive amount of food, drinking, family, friends and pranks. Family from CO and OK flew in, and my nieces 7 and 6 mos from SC arrived. I had a great time teaching little Miss R all the fun of pranking, and showing some of the kids down the street how to TP a house. Perhaps the most important lesson learned from this trip was that fussy 6 month old babies should NEVER EVER be separated from their Mommy for more than 6 hours, and never 48 hours. It's good to be home.
Tuesday, August 28
Chi Tri
We did it! Special thanks to all who supported us in our fund raising for Team in Training, and for listening to us talk about swimming, biking, and running all summer. Below are photos Andrew took on race day.
Quick Summary
We woke up at 3:00 am to get all of our stuff into transition and ready to go. Matt's swim wave started at 7:30 and he was off of the course (done swimming, biking, and running by the time I got on the bike). My wave started at 9:30, and we both finished with nearly the same time of 3:30.
Results
I was 3:26 with an class rank of 180/256, sex rank of 810, and an overall of 3135 of 3928 (swim 35:50, bike 01:29:40, run 01:12:03). Matt 3:30:29 overall rank 3249 of 3928, class rank 432 of 484, sex 2390(swim 35:52, bike 1:34:50, run 1:02:28). In looking at our results both of us are blow away by how the four minutes between our finishes made such a huge difference in our ranks!
Photos
We did it! Special thanks to all who supported us in geting
Quick Summary
We woke up at 3:00 am to get all of our stuff into transition and ready to go. Matt's swim wave started at 7:30 and he was off of the course (done swimming, biking, and running by the time I got on the bike). My wave started at 9:30, and we both finished with nearly the same time of 3:30.
Results
I was 3:26 with an class rank of 180/256, sex rank of 810, and an overall of 3135 of 3928 (swim 35:50, bike 01:29:40, run 01:12:03). Matt 3:30:29 overall rank 3249 of 3928, class rank 432 of 484, sex 2390(swim 35:52, bike 1:34:50, run 1:02:28). In looking at our results both of us are blow away by how the four minutes between our finishes made such a huge difference in our ranks!
Photos
We did it! Special thanks to all who supported us in geting
Sunday, August 19
Long over due photos
In case you were wondering, this summer I did take stop training long enough to share in these spandex - free moments:
This weekend we bought four new tires! Only after getting a flat on the expressway. We got the tire half way changed but had difficulty getting the old tire off. Good thing we finally took Sharon up on that offer to get us AAA.
Anniversary # 2 in Wisconsin.
Cherry Pickin'
Mr. Skitters not feeling guilty at all about the expensive trip he took while we were on vacation.
This weekend we bought four new tires! Only after getting a flat on the expressway. We got the tire half way changed but had difficulty getting the old tire off. Good thing we finally took Sharon up on that offer to get us AAA.
Anniversary # 2 in Wisconsin.
Cherry Pickin'
Mr. Skitters not feeling guilty at all about the expensive trip he took while we were on vacation.
Tuesday, August 14
Wednesday, August 8
Toothless Wonder
Yesterday I got an e-mail laced with hints of juicy family gossip from Mom (she is sooo bad). Of course, I had to call (I couldn't resist), and I was surprised to hear the syrupy sweet Southern seven-year-old drawl of my niece.
"Aunt Meg! I lost my top tooth!" proclaimed the toothless wonder. She rattled on about all the teeth she has lost, how she will need dentures soon, how she just called Mommy so the Tooth Fairy would be ready, then fun she's had at Grandma’s house, then she filled me in about the play that she was in several weeks ago. This toothless wonder is always filled with enthusiasm, excitement, and it's often difficult to get a word in edge wise.
Now, I'm far from the best Aunt in the world, and I don't call or visit as often as I should- but being able catch the excitement of 'The toothless wonder' really made my day.
Nothing much to report this week, the hubby is at camp. I'm sans car for the week which is fine, but getting to all the training locations is much more difficult (that is when I decide to try and swim in a pool, or have to make it to a group swim downtown). We have less than 20 days until the Tri (and about $350 more to raise-- thanks for your help)! I'm only mildly scared- we'll see how it goes.
Mostly, I'm aware that the Tri is the last weekend in August, and the end of summer (BOO HISS!). While I've been able to spend a lot of time out doors, and enjoy the longer days- I am trying to get myself mentally prepared for the fall. After an entire year of job hunting, I may throw in the towel. Last week I was approached to help lead a team in doing a read for the Reading Department. It’ll secure my position until at least January, and if all goes well there is a possibility of getting hired on.
"Aunt Meg! I lost my top tooth!" proclaimed the toothless wonder. She rattled on about all the teeth she has lost, how she will need dentures soon, how she just called Mommy so the Tooth Fairy would be ready, then fun she's had at Grandma’s house, then she filled me in about the play that she was in several weeks ago. This toothless wonder is always filled with enthusiasm, excitement, and it's often difficult to get a word in edge wise.
Now, I'm far from the best Aunt in the world, and I don't call or visit as often as I should- but being able catch the excitement of 'The toothless wonder' really made my day.
Nothing much to report this week, the hubby is at camp. I'm sans car for the week which is fine, but getting to all the training locations is much more difficult (that is when I decide to try and swim in a pool, or have to make it to a group swim downtown). We have less than 20 days until the Tri (and about $350 more to raise-- thanks for your help)! I'm only mildly scared- we'll see how it goes.
Mostly, I'm aware that the Tri is the last weekend in August, and the end of summer (BOO HISS!). While I've been able to spend a lot of time out doors, and enjoy the longer days- I am trying to get myself mentally prepared for the fall. After an entire year of job hunting, I may throw in the towel. Last week I was approached to help lead a team in doing a read for the Reading Department. It’ll secure my position until at least January, and if all goes well there is a possibility of getting hired on.
Wednesday, August 1
Dynamic Duo? Us!
http://www.windycitysports.com/article/?Guid=ffbcb9da-2e87-44bc-af7a-5ab078360c20&Page=10
Matt and Megan Hutchinson Krings, dynamic duo
You could almost say that it was love at first sight. At least that’s true for Megan Hutchinson Krings—and later her husband Matt—when she signed up for the Team in Training program at the 2006 LaSalle Bank Shamrock Shuffle. “It was at the expo that we saw the Leukemia & Lymphoma’s Society’s Team in Training booth,” Megan explains. “We talked to the folks staffing the booth, I all too quickly confessed, ‘Lymphoma! That’s what I have.” Matt and I shared our story, and I knew that once I was completely finished with treatment, I’d be joining the team.”
One month before Megan and Matt’s 2005 wedding, Megan was in a 15-passenger van rollover accident. As if that wasn’t enough, doctors discovered a baseball-sized mass in her chest later diagnosed as Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. She had to begin treatments two weeks after returning from her honeymoon. Not the best way to break into being newlyweds as Megan describes how she became more lethargic with each round of chemo and faced weight gain from the steroids she took for lung damage. “Pre-cancer I had always been really active—century bike rides, swimming, teaching water aerobics—but during treatment I was weak, restless and stressed out,” she says.
She started off slowly by walking the Shamrock Shuffle and then trained to finish the 2006 LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon as a TNT member. But the marathon wasn’t enough and Megan had another goal she wanted to accomplish: the triathlon. “I’ve spent most of my teens and 20s as a swimmer and a cyclist, I felt I needed that season of running to become a runner,” she says. “I think I made it a goal when I was 19 to do a tri but the time I hit 30—I’m 29, and I’ll do four tris this year.”
And Megan’s bringing her husband along for the ride, first as her support crew and now as fellow racer. “I have never completed a race,” he says. “This is my first.” After speaking with the Team in Training staff at an expo in April while Megan registered for the team, Matt decided he could complete the triathlon, too. “I chose triathlon because I feel that the cross-training nature of the sport makes it an endurance event that I am less likely to suffer injury from,” he says. “I also really like spending time training with my wife.”
As for Megan’s health, she attributes last year’s marathon training to help her regain most of her lung capacity and doesn’t feel the disease inhibiting her as much—she had to run/walk the marathon. Her training is her therapy. “Now I use the disease as a motivation. I think about how relieved I am to be out of treatment.”
Matt and Megan Hutchinson Krings, dynamic duo
You could almost say that it was love at first sight. At least that’s true for Megan Hutchinson Krings—and later her husband Matt—when she signed up for the Team in Training program at the 2006 LaSalle Bank Shamrock Shuffle. “It was at the expo that we saw the Leukemia & Lymphoma’s Society’s Team in Training booth,” Megan explains. “We talked to the folks staffing the booth, I all too quickly confessed, ‘Lymphoma! That’s what I have.” Matt and I shared our story, and I knew that once I was completely finished with treatment, I’d be joining the team.”
One month before Megan and Matt’s 2005 wedding, Megan was in a 15-passenger van rollover accident. As if that wasn’t enough, doctors discovered a baseball-sized mass in her chest later diagnosed as Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. She had to begin treatments two weeks after returning from her honeymoon. Not the best way to break into being newlyweds as Megan describes how she became more lethargic with each round of chemo and faced weight gain from the steroids she took for lung damage. “Pre-cancer I had always been really active—century bike rides, swimming, teaching water aerobics—but during treatment I was weak, restless and stressed out,” she says.
She started off slowly by walking the Shamrock Shuffle and then trained to finish the 2006 LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon as a TNT member. But the marathon wasn’t enough and Megan had another goal she wanted to accomplish: the triathlon. “I’ve spent most of my teens and 20s as a swimmer and a cyclist, I felt I needed that season of running to become a runner,” she says. “I think I made it a goal when I was 19 to do a tri but the time I hit 30—I’m 29, and I’ll do four tris this year.”
And Megan’s bringing her husband along for the ride, first as her support crew and now as fellow racer. “I have never completed a race,” he says. “This is my first.” After speaking with the Team in Training staff at an expo in April while Megan registered for the team, Matt decided he could complete the triathlon, too. “I chose triathlon because I feel that the cross-training nature of the sport makes it an endurance event that I am less likely to suffer injury from,” he says. “I also really like spending time training with my wife.”
As for Megan’s health, she attributes last year’s marathon training to help her regain most of her lung capacity and doesn’t feel the disease inhibiting her as much—she had to run/walk the marathon. Her training is her therapy. “Now I use the disease as a motivation. I think about how relieved I am to be out of treatment.”
Tuesday, July 31
Mystery reader, you can cure cancer.
Dear Mystery Blog Reader--
Thanks for your continued interest in me, and my rantings. While I think I may know most of you who read this, my mother keeps reminding me that there are many many more of you than I am aware of. In that case, I'm making a plea to you; please make a contribution to Team in Training. Matt & I have less than a month to our event, and about $900 more to raise. Your donation goes directly to Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Team In Training- and will be spent on cancer research, or go to help people battling the disease. All donations over $50 will get a great photo of Matt & I in wetsuits, all donations over $100 will get a snazzy T-shirt.
Thanks!
http://www.active.com/donate/tntil/tntilMHutchi1
Again, Thanks to all those who have already given!
Now that the commercial portion of this blog has been addressed-- you can read about our vacation.
Thanks for your continued interest in me, and my rantings. While I think I may know most of you who read this, my mother keeps reminding me that there are many many more of you than I am aware of. In that case, I'm making a plea to you; please make a contribution to Team in Training. Matt & I have less than a month to our event, and about $900 more to raise. Your donation goes directly to Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Team In Training- and will be spent on cancer research, or go to help people battling the disease. All donations over $50 will get a great photo of Matt & I in wetsuits, all donations over $100 will get a snazzy T-shirt.
Thanks!
http://www.active.com/donate/tntil/tntilMHutchi1
Again, Thanks to all those who have already given!
Now that the commercial portion of this blog has been addressed-- you can read about our vacation.
Lets do that agian!
Matt & I had a swell weekend in Door County. We stayed with the Green Bay Krings Friday- and had a wonderful dusk dinner on their patio. It was great to see them!
The next morning we got up and drove up the Door County Pensula, stopping to see Al Johnson's famous grass roof - complete with four real live goats who live on top, and keep the grass trimmed. We also stopped to pick ripe 'sour' cherries on our way to Washington Island. After a ferry ride to the island, we set up camp at the only campground on the island after a ferry ride to the island. We made a yummy vegan dinner of 'hobo packs' with Setain and stewed freshly picked cherries!
Sunday morning, we went on a long run to the East side of the Island where we were greeted by flocks of egrets and cranes. Once we returned to camp we streched, ate, showered, then left for an afternoon of hikeing. We caught another ferry to Rock Island where we hiked for the afternoon, and toured their lighthouse. After an afternoon of activity we found the local bar, and sat down for happy hour. Get this, beer was 50 cents!!! (well it was happy hour from 3 to 6- we were very happy). Plus the bar sat next to the wheat feild that produced the grain of the brew we were consuming! Had Matt 'watered' the feild the way he wished, the wheat would have completed it's circle of life!
Yesterday we sadly packed up and headed home- tired, but happy!
Pre Vacation note-- a half hour before we leave the cat starts howling and acting like he is in great pain. We - like the responsible pet owners we are- to the furry thing to the vet for the weekend..
Post Vacation note-- It cost FOUR times as much to spring the kitty from the vet. (Anyone want a cat?)
The next morning we got up and drove up the Door County Pensula, stopping to see Al Johnson's famous grass roof - complete with four real live goats who live on top, and keep the grass trimmed. We also stopped to pick ripe 'sour' cherries on our way to Washington Island. After a ferry ride to the island, we set up camp at the only campground on the island after a ferry ride to the island. We made a yummy vegan dinner of 'hobo packs' with Setain and stewed freshly picked cherries!
Sunday morning, we went on a long run to the East side of the Island where we were greeted by flocks of egrets and cranes. Once we returned to camp we streched, ate, showered, then left for an afternoon of hikeing. We caught another ferry to Rock Island where we hiked for the afternoon, and toured their lighthouse. After an afternoon of activity we found the local bar, and sat down for happy hour. Get this, beer was 50 cents!!! (well it was happy hour from 3 to 6- we were very happy). Plus the bar sat next to the wheat feild that produced the grain of the brew we were consuming! Had Matt 'watered' the feild the way he wished, the wheat would have completed it's circle of life!
Yesterday we sadly packed up and headed home- tired, but happy!
Pre Vacation note-- a half hour before we leave the cat starts howling and acting like he is in great pain. We - like the responsible pet owners we are- to the furry thing to the vet for the weekend..
Post Vacation note-- It cost FOUR times as much to spring the kitty from the vet. (Anyone want a cat?)
Wednesday, July 25
VACATION!
for the first summer in two years matt and I are actually getting a vacation that doesn't involve a wedding. We love weddings, we love going to, being in, and all the other lovely events that surround weddings. This summer we can actually get out of town and camp. In all the time I've known Matt, we've spoke about how much we enjoy camping. But we have never actually gone camping. A fact that became more pronounced as we moved all our un-touched camping crap for the second time.
We're headed up to Dork County (that's Door County Wisconsin) staying on Washington Island, and doing some hiking on Rock Island. Three nights of 'car camping' and a lot of not being at work! Whoo hoo--
We're headed up to Dork County (that's Door County Wisconsin) staying on Washington Island, and doing some hiking on Rock Island. Three nights of 'car camping' and a lot of not being at work! Whoo hoo--
Wednesday, July 18
Tri photos
Here are some long over due photos-- With the lack of photos on my blog I feel a little more like a Luddite.
So much for second thoughts, after last week's weekday swim in Lake Michigan, our weekend training required one open water swim for a mini tri, and a brick workout of swimming and biking. Because of our proximity to the lake we opted to do the brick outside on Sunday, and had what I would call an excitng swim without a lifeguard- but perhaps a little too exciting for Matt. It seams that if one wishes to swim in water that isn't knee high, the lifegaurds will haul ones butt back to shore. Other beach goers recomended a nice private beach where we could get a decent swim in. I loved it, but the whole idea of swimming in deep, open water without a guard alarmed Matt. (I am well versed in all the reasons not to swim alone- and there is no excuse-- but it was fun, and a good swim). So in one weekend I managed to spend more time swimming in Lake Michigan than I have in the entire six years I’ve lived in Chicago!
Thursday, July 12
Second Thought City
Training Update:
For training yesterday we swam 1/2 a mile in Lake Michigan. Still on a high from last weekend I thought that this would be just as easy. WRONG.
It was cold. It was really cold. The waves kept pushing me off course, deeper into the lake, and occasionally into other swimmers. To add insult to injured pride, when I got out of the water I was smelly.
After last weekend's adventure, I'm realizing it's a little over a month to the Chicago Tri- and it's double the distance, with a swim in the great lake! Umm, so much for living in the second city, I think I’ll be spending some time in second thought city.
This weekend we're doing a 'min tri' with the team. We'll be getting our wetsuits, too - THANK GOD!
Fundraising Update:
Matt and I are almost two thirds of the way to our fundraising goal! Thanks everyone! Our deadline is quickly approaching. If you've been planning on giving, but haven't done so yet - now is the time!
With your generous donation you'll be earning our un-dieing gratitude, bragging rights, and shared status as a Cancer Ass Kicker.
Please see the Matt & Meg Training link to the right of your screen if you wish to donate online, otherwise shoot me an e-mail.
Thanks!
For training yesterday we swam 1/2 a mile in Lake Michigan. Still on a high from last weekend I thought that this would be just as easy. WRONG.
It was cold. It was really cold. The waves kept pushing me off course, deeper into the lake, and occasionally into other swimmers. To add insult to injured pride, when I got out of the water I was smelly.
After last weekend's adventure, I'm realizing it's a little over a month to the Chicago Tri- and it's double the distance, with a swim in the great lake! Umm, so much for living in the second city, I think I’ll be spending some time in second thought city.
This weekend we're doing a 'min tri' with the team. We'll be getting our wetsuits, too - THANK GOD!
Fundraising Update:
Matt and I are almost two thirds of the way to our fundraising goal! Thanks everyone! Our deadline is quickly approaching. If you've been planning on giving, but haven't done so yet - now is the time!
With your generous donation you'll be earning our un-dieing gratitude, bragging rights, and shared status as a Cancer Ass Kicker.
Please see the Matt & Meg Training link to the right of your screen if you wish to donate online, otherwise shoot me an e-mail.
Thanks!
Monday, July 9
My first tri
WOW! As a cancer survivor and a first time participant I was honored to start in the second wave of the Danskin Chicago-land Triathlon. IT WAS AWESOME! Lining up in the gates with other survivors was powerful. My eyes overflowed with tears as I looked at the swim course ahead of me, felt the strength within my body, and recalled that it wasn’t that long ago when an event like this was just an out of reach goal.
As the countdown to the swim finally began, I pushed the tears aside, shoved my goggles on, and dove in. The water was calming, clear, and cool, wonderful on such a hot morning. I was amazed that the lake wasn’t a crowded with swimmers as I feared it would be. Carefully I stroked on ahead of other swimmers with great ease, soon my goggles clouded and navigating the straight swim across the lake became more difficult. I was able to find one tiny spot in my left goggle that wasn’t clouded and used that spot to find the way to the end.
My transition from swim to bike was quick, and easier than I anticipated. I dried off my feet a dusted off the sand then shoved them in socks, pounded on my shoes, threw on gloves, helmet, sunglasses, and grabbed a power gel. I ran my bike out of transition and hopped on for the ride.
The course had a couple slight inclines and tight corners, but what no course map could predict were the strong winds. Cross-breezes and headwinds blew against my wheels with every mile. Shifting down to an easier gear helped me sped through some of the hardest winds. Each two miles a marker would appear with some great encouraging slogan. The mile two markers read “I ride for those who can’t” reading it filled me with strength. I thought of when I couldn’t ride due to the fatigue of treatment, those doing treatment now, and those who have recently been diagnosed. As my ride finished up and I drew closer to the transition area a powerful tailwind pushed me all the way to the end of the bike route.
As I climbed off my bike and walked it back to my spot, I was feeling aching in my quads, and a burn in my lungs, so I took my time racking my bike and taking off my gear. I slurped down another gel with water, and walked to the run start line. My run felt like a heavy trod as I smiled through mile one. I walked for a small section of mile two, then found a runner who I could keep pace with until I got back into my groove and sped into the last half of mile two and sprinted across the finish line!
I’m happy that I finished, and was impressed when I found my times latter that day.
Swim: 15:56 (rank 833! That's the top quarter overall!)
T1: 2:49
Bike: 45:10 (17.2 mph!)
T2: 4:54
Run: 33:31 (about an 11 minute mile)
Total 1:42:22
Overall rank: 1140 / 3919
Age group rank: 171 / 363
(I completed in the top half of both groups! - not bad for a first timer!)
Looking ahead, this sprint tri has me excited about the longer distance Olympic Tri I’ll do in August. My training plan will have lots of brick workouts that include biking then transitioning to running- exactly what I want to work on!
As the countdown to the swim finally began, I pushed the tears aside, shoved my goggles on, and dove in. The water was calming, clear, and cool, wonderful on such a hot morning. I was amazed that the lake wasn’t a crowded with swimmers as I feared it would be. Carefully I stroked on ahead of other swimmers with great ease, soon my goggles clouded and navigating the straight swim across the lake became more difficult. I was able to find one tiny spot in my left goggle that wasn’t clouded and used that spot to find the way to the end.
My transition from swim to bike was quick, and easier than I anticipated. I dried off my feet a dusted off the sand then shoved them in socks, pounded on my shoes, threw on gloves, helmet, sunglasses, and grabbed a power gel. I ran my bike out of transition and hopped on for the ride.
The course had a couple slight inclines and tight corners, but what no course map could predict were the strong winds. Cross-breezes and headwinds blew against my wheels with every mile. Shifting down to an easier gear helped me sped through some of the hardest winds. Each two miles a marker would appear with some great encouraging slogan. The mile two markers read “I ride for those who can’t” reading it filled me with strength. I thought of when I couldn’t ride due to the fatigue of treatment, those doing treatment now, and those who have recently been diagnosed. As my ride finished up and I drew closer to the transition area a powerful tailwind pushed me all the way to the end of the bike route.
As I climbed off my bike and walked it back to my spot, I was feeling aching in my quads, and a burn in my lungs, so I took my time racking my bike and taking off my gear. I slurped down another gel with water, and walked to the run start line. My run felt like a heavy trod as I smiled through mile one. I walked for a small section of mile two, then found a runner who I could keep pace with until I got back into my groove and sped into the last half of mile two and sprinted across the finish line!
I’m happy that I finished, and was impressed when I found my times latter that day.
Swim: 15:56 (rank 833! That's the top quarter overall!)
T1: 2:49
Bike: 45:10 (17.2 mph!)
T2: 4:54
Run: 33:31 (about an 11 minute mile)
Total 1:42:22
Overall rank: 1140 / 3919
Age group rank: 171 / 363
(I completed in the top half of both groups! - not bad for a first timer!)
Looking ahead, this sprint tri has me excited about the longer distance Olympic Tri I’ll do in August. My training plan will have lots of brick workouts that include biking then transitioning to running- exactly what I want to work on!
Thursday, July 5
Danskin Sprint Tri Sunday
My first triathlon will be this weekend! I'll be participating in the Chicagoland Danskin Women's Triathlon.
As a novice, I feel like I'm getting treated like a pro!
Let me share just a couple of the perks I've recieved for this event:
- As a cancer survivor I am invited to a race day eve breakfast (free meal, nice).
- On race day I get to join the survivor's start. The second wave of swimmers that starts the race (there should be more than 20 waves).
- Due to all of the things I mentioned above I get a really low race number! It doesn't mean anything, typically the numbers I get for races are typically in the thousands, and for this race I am 56! (Cool, but I recommend getting a low number the easy way, by getting a trainer and working your butt off to become a competor in the sport).
- I was invited to join Team Toyota, beacause of this race. So Saturday I'll do a Toyota Meet & Greet, and pick up all kinds of free stuff too!
- A fellow Team in Training member is letting myself and a friend stay at his condo, 20 minutes from the race for free. Phew, no pricey hotel!
As a novice, I feel like I'm getting treated like a pro!
Let me share just a couple of the perks I've recieved for this event:
- As a cancer survivor I am invited to a race day eve breakfast (free meal, nice).
- On race day I get to join the survivor's start. The second wave of swimmers that starts the race (there should be more than 20 waves).
- Due to all of the things I mentioned above I get a really low race number! It doesn't mean anything, typically the numbers I get for races are typically in the thousands, and for this race I am 56! (Cool, but I recommend getting a low number the easy way, by getting a trainer and working your butt off to become a competor in the sport).
- I was invited to join Team Toyota, beacause of this race. So Saturday I'll do a Toyota Meet & Greet, and pick up all kinds of free stuff too!
- A fellow Team in Training member is letting myself and a friend stay at his condo, 20 minutes from the race for free. Phew, no pricey hotel!
Friday, June 29
corperate sponsor?!
I have been approached to by a car company to be one of 160 a sponsored athletes. This is normally an honor that is reserved for the most elite athletes, not weekend warriors like myself. I won't be getting a big check, fancy car, a personal DJ, or any other really lucrative rewards stars receive, but for every media appearance I would make I'd get paid. I'd need to do 4 tri's this season (by October 31) . In exchange I'd get some free stuff (pricey tri apparel & a little more), plus the honor and privilege of being among the elite (the folks who will readily run over my ass when the start gun is fired).
Is this selling out? Selling my story? I can read the bi-line now, hometown girl on her way to becoming the next Lance Armstrong. All for a moment of glory.
I'd be endorsing is hybrid cars (who's against that!?)
I’m pretty excited by the possibility, and I’m trying to contain my enthusiasm until I can figure out if I'm really up for the challenge.
Is this selling out? Selling my story? I can read the bi-line now, hometown girl on her way to becoming the next Lance Armstrong. All for a moment of glory.
I'd be endorsing is hybrid cars (who's against that!?)
I’m pretty excited by the possibility, and I’m trying to contain my enthusiasm until I can figure out if I'm really up for the challenge.
Wednesday, June 27
stop it.
A good friend's husband just got diagnosed with brain cancer.
I am so mad that it happened again.
I'm mad it happened to them.
I'm sad that they have to go through all the crap I did.
I want to wrap my arms around them and tell them it will be okay.
I want to protect them,
I want to give them everything I learned.
Most of all I want for them never to have to go through any of this.
Suddenly becoming like the couple that helped us get through cancer makes sense to me. They were a couple from church who just went through breast cancer. Their passion, compassion, and wisdom helped us through the foggy roads we went down. I think this has got to be what survivorship means.
I am so mad that it happened again.
I'm mad it happened to them.
I'm sad that they have to go through all the crap I did.
I want to wrap my arms around them and tell them it will be okay.
I want to protect them,
I want to give them everything I learned.
Most of all I want for them never to have to go through any of this.
Suddenly becoming like the couple that helped us get through cancer makes sense to me. They were a couple from church who just went through breast cancer. Their passion, compassion, and wisdom helped us through the foggy roads we went down. I think this has got to be what survivorship means.
Tuesday, June 26
The Learning Curve of Gratitude, Mary Chapin Carpenter
Weekend Edition Sunday, June 24, 2007 · I believe in what I learned at the grocery store.
Eight weeks ago, I was released from the hospital after suffering a pulmonary embolism. I had just finished a tour and a week after returning home, severe chest pain and terrible breathlessness landed me in the ER. A scan revealed blood clots in my lungs.
Everyone told me how lucky I was. A pulmonary embolism can take your life in an instant. I was familiar enough with the medical term, but not familiar with the pain, the fear and the depression that followed.
Everything I had been looking forward to came to a screeching halt. I had to cancel my upcoming tour. I had to let my musicians and crew members go. The record company, the booking agency: I felt that I had let everyone down.
But there was nothing to do but get out of the hospital, go home and get well.
I tried hard to see my unexpected time off as a gift, but I would open a novel and couldn't concentrate. I would turn on the radio, then shut if off. Familiar clouds gathered above my head, and I couldn't make them go away with a pill or a movie or a walk. This unexpected time was becoming a curse, filling me with anxiety, fear and self-loathing — all of the ingredients of the darkness that is depression.
Sometimes, it's the smile of a stranger that helps. Sometimes it's a phone call from a long absent friend, checking on you. I found my lifeline at the grocery store.
One morning, the young man who rang up my groceries and asked me if I wanted paper or plastic also told me to enjoy the rest of my day. I looked at him and I knew he meant it. It stopped me in my tracks. I went out and I sat in my car and cried.
What I want more than ever is to appreciate that I have this day, and tomorrow and hopefully days beyond that. I am experiencing the learning curve of gratitude.
I don't want to say "have a nice day" like a robot. I don't want to get mad at the elderly driver in front of me. I don't want to go crazy when my Internet access is messed up. I don't want to be jealous of someone else's success. You could say that this litany of sins indicates that I don't want to be human. The learning curve of gratitude, however, is showing me exactly how human I am.
I don't know if my doctors will ever be able to give me the precise reason why I had a life-threatening illness. I do know that the young man in the grocery store reminded me that every day is all there is, and that is my belief.
Tonight I will cook dinner, tell my husband how much I love him, curl up with the dogs, watch the sun go down over the mountains and climb into bed. I will think about how uncomplicated it all is. I will wonder at how it took me my entire life to appreciate just one day.
Eight weeks ago, I was released from the hospital after suffering a pulmonary embolism. I had just finished a tour and a week after returning home, severe chest pain and terrible breathlessness landed me in the ER. A scan revealed blood clots in my lungs.
Everyone told me how lucky I was. A pulmonary embolism can take your life in an instant. I was familiar enough with the medical term, but not familiar with the pain, the fear and the depression that followed.
Everything I had been looking forward to came to a screeching halt. I had to cancel my upcoming tour. I had to let my musicians and crew members go. The record company, the booking agency: I felt that I had let everyone down.
But there was nothing to do but get out of the hospital, go home and get well.
I tried hard to see my unexpected time off as a gift, but I would open a novel and couldn't concentrate. I would turn on the radio, then shut if off. Familiar clouds gathered above my head, and I couldn't make them go away with a pill or a movie or a walk. This unexpected time was becoming a curse, filling me with anxiety, fear and self-loathing — all of the ingredients of the darkness that is depression.
Sometimes, it's the smile of a stranger that helps. Sometimes it's a phone call from a long absent friend, checking on you. I found my lifeline at the grocery store.
One morning, the young man who rang up my groceries and asked me if I wanted paper or plastic also told me to enjoy the rest of my day. I looked at him and I knew he meant it. It stopped me in my tracks. I went out and I sat in my car and cried.
What I want more than ever is to appreciate that I have this day, and tomorrow and hopefully days beyond that. I am experiencing the learning curve of gratitude.
I don't want to say "have a nice day" like a robot. I don't want to get mad at the elderly driver in front of me. I don't want to go crazy when my Internet access is messed up. I don't want to be jealous of someone else's success. You could say that this litany of sins indicates that I don't want to be human. The learning curve of gratitude, however, is showing me exactly how human I am.
I don't know if my doctors will ever be able to give me the precise reason why I had a life-threatening illness. I do know that the young man in the grocery store reminded me that every day is all there is, and that is my belief.
Tonight I will cook dinner, tell my husband how much I love him, curl up with the dogs, watch the sun go down over the mountains and climb into bed. I will think about how uncomplicated it all is. I will wonder at how it took me my entire life to appreciate just one day.
thanks for warming out house
Wow! What a weekend, it’s Tuesday and I still feel like I’m recovering. It was a whirlwind. Thanks to folks who came out to our open house on Saturday, I had no idea that we could fit so many people into our one bedroom condo. We love entertaining, and Sunday morning I couldn’t help but start thinking of our next significantly smaller shindig. We had a great mix of old friends, new friends, work friends, and special others joining in the fun.
While I’m thrilled we were able to pull of the largest party we've thrown (second to our wedding) in our condo—I am pleased that the event provoked the completion of our bathroom repairs & projects! We now have towel racks, a chair rail, and a toilet paper holder along with some great art! Both Matt and I are really impressed at how well everything turned out. Especially considering every single step of the way we had serioius doubts. The party also forced us to hang art – something that we had done sparingly prior to the event and has really made the space feel homey. Finally, after much work, money, time, and nail biting, I think I’m a little house-proud. (Kitchen, take warning. You’re next!).
Additionally, through the generosity of our friends we have made it to the half- waypoint of fund razing for Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Team In Training $2000! Whoo Hooo! Thank you everyone!
While I’m thrilled we were able to pull of the largest party we've thrown (second to our wedding) in our condo—I am pleased that the event provoked the completion of our bathroom repairs & projects! We now have towel racks, a chair rail, and a toilet paper holder along with some great art! Both Matt and I are really impressed at how well everything turned out. Especially considering every single step of the way we had serioius doubts. The party also forced us to hang art – something that we had done sparingly prior to the event and has really made the space feel homey. Finally, after much work, money, time, and nail biting, I think I’m a little house-proud. (Kitchen, take warning. You’re next!).
Additionally, through the generosity of our friends we have made it to the half- waypoint of fund razing for Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Team In Training $2000! Whoo Hooo! Thank you everyone!
Cool Quotes from our Tri Coach
You gain strength, courage and confidence by every
experience in which you really stop to look
fear in the face. You must do things that you think you can not.
- Eleanor Roosevelt
Nothing is particularly hard if you divide it into small jobs.
- Unknown
Nurture the dreams that allow you to go beyond your limits.
- Unknown
Be faithful to that which exists within yourself.
–Andre Gide
Never measure the height of a mountain until you have reached the top.
– Dag Hammerskjold
experience in which you really stop to look
fear in the face. You must do things that you think you can not.
- Eleanor Roosevelt
Nothing is particularly hard if you divide it into small jobs.
- Unknown
Nurture the dreams that allow you to go beyond your limits.
- Unknown
Be faithful to that which exists within yourself.
–Andre Gide
Never measure the height of a mountain until you have reached the top.
– Dag Hammerskjold
Thursday, June 21
I love my cat.
Perhaps my cat is psychic, or he knows when just a little bit of revenge might make me feel better. It’s been said before that he is a spiteful, mean, and vile creature, so perhaps he can tune into my energy and sense when he could help provide a suitable punishment.
As a part of wedded bliss that is typically unspoken, occasionally very loving couples have misunderstandings. Such misunderstandings can often lead to one party sleeping on the couch. When said party opted to sneak back into the shared bed, Mr. Skitters (now known as the best cat ever) was so moved that he tossed his cookies right into said parties' open sock drawer.
Somehow just a little bit of cat puke (even if I had to clean it up, he still is my cat) managed make this party feel much better about all the previous day’s transgressions.
As a part of wedded bliss that is typically unspoken, occasionally very loving couples have misunderstandings. Such misunderstandings can often lead to one party sleeping on the couch. When said party opted to sneak back into the shared bed, Mr. Skitters (now known as the best cat ever) was so moved that he tossed his cookies right into said parties' open sock drawer.
Somehow just a little bit of cat puke (even if I had to clean it up, he still is my cat) managed make this party feel much better about all the previous day’s transgressions.
Monday, June 18
MATT'S HOME
YAH!
He arrived home safely yesterday with the 40-something others that he led back and forth to ASP and home. They did good work, kids had a great time, and adult volunteers had some really positive things to say when I saw them unloading.
Now that Matt's home we can work on getting things ready for our open house (see ya there!).
He arrived home safely yesterday with the 40-something others that he led back and forth to ASP and home. They did good work, kids had a great time, and adult volunteers had some really positive things to say when I saw them unloading.
Now that Matt's home we can work on getting things ready for our open house (see ya there!).
619
I woke up super early on Saturday and made it out to the Splish Splash Dash, my first dualathon. The entire event was fantastic, the two highligths for me were when they wrote my number on both of my arms in thick black marker, the other highlight would be finishing (not because I performed badly, but I always have such a high after finishing anything with a real finish line, and meeting personal challenges always brings tears).
I was amazed! The water was warm in clear. We had an open start, which means all the swimmers line up in the water between the bouys that mark the start line. Here is always where I make my most fatal mistake, I like to line up near the front (must have something to do with overestimateing my ablity), but as soon as the "GO" is shouted I get run over. Never fails, on foot or on bike being passed by crowds is nervewracking, but not life treatening. In the water, being passed by schools of swimmers is scary. I didn't warm my arms up well, so the feeling of being stampeeded brought on a slight anixty arm cramp, and I really wondered if I would finish. Once I powered through my nerves, aches, and let the speedy folks get out of my way I did fine. As I've noted in previous blogs, this was my first open water swim in several years, the swim course had us go clockwise through the lake. As a trainied lap swimmer I don't swim in circles well, and I struggled with staying on course throughout the swim portion of the race. While fun, I was happy to get out in run.
The 5 K (about 3 miles) traced through a lovely residential area, filled with small rolling hills. I ran most of the course, but walked up all the steep hills (chicago is flat, so I didn't want to risk injury going to hard over the hills). The most impressive part of the run, was watching the other athletes as they passed me. My goodness, these folks are good shape! Some men were running in only their Speedos, some women ran only in their Tankini's -- I threw some shorts and my TNT singlet on with my shoes.
Overall, for my first dualathon I didn't do so badly, out of a total of 67 entered in my event I finished 59! In my age group I finished 7 out of 9 with a time of 1:20 *(about 25 minutes faster than I anticipated).
I look forward participating in anothter dualathon, which isn't on the books yet, but I sure do feel better about the Sprint Tri coming up in 2 (gulp!) weeks.
I was amazed! The water was warm in clear. We had an open start, which means all the swimmers line up in the water between the bouys that mark the start line. Here is always where I make my most fatal mistake, I like to line up near the front (must have something to do with overestimateing my ablity), but as soon as the "GO" is shouted I get run over. Never fails, on foot or on bike being passed by crowds is nervewracking, but not life treatening. In the water, being passed by schools of swimmers is scary. I didn't warm my arms up well, so the feeling of being stampeeded brought on a slight anixty arm cramp, and I really wondered if I would finish. Once I powered through my nerves, aches, and let the speedy folks get out of my way I did fine. As I've noted in previous blogs, this was my first open water swim in several years, the swim course had us go clockwise through the lake. As a trainied lap swimmer I don't swim in circles well, and I struggled with staying on course throughout the swim portion of the race. While fun, I was happy to get out in run.
The 5 K (about 3 miles) traced through a lovely residential area, filled with small rolling hills. I ran most of the course, but walked up all the steep hills (chicago is flat, so I didn't want to risk injury going to hard over the hills). The most impressive part of the run, was watching the other athletes as they passed me. My goodness, these folks are good shape! Some men were running in only their Speedos, some women ran only in their Tankini's -- I threw some shorts and my TNT singlet on with my shoes.
Overall, for my first dualathon I didn't do so badly, out of a total of 67 entered in my event I finished 59! In my age group I finished 7 out of 9 with a time of 1:20 *(about 25 minutes faster than I anticipated).
I look forward participating in anothter dualathon, which isn't on the books yet, but I sure do feel better about the Sprint Tri coming up in 2 (gulp!) weeks.
Friday, June 15
+.4 and holding
I waddled in to weigh- in again yesterday. I spoke with the leader about my endurance sport weight loss concerns. She said exactly what everyone else said—don’t worry about trying to loose weight right now, but focus on not gaining. In August post triathlon, focus on loosening the extra lbs. Phew—I was a little worried about what she would say.
I was also encouraged to realize that my healthy weight range (who determines that by the way?) is a lot closer than I had originally thought. So perhaps there is a change that I can be in that range prior to my b-day.
For the moment I’m putting the weight loss topic on hold, dear bloggers I'll find other things to say. But I will return to that topic post triathlon. Again, I am really enjoying training, and finding it far more enjoyable than the marathon (which I found healing and I also enjoyed).
This weekend’s open water swim is at some small man-made lake near Wisconsin. Hopefully it will be cleaner and warmer than the Great Lake in my front yard.
Happy Weekend!
I was also encouraged to realize that my healthy weight range (who determines that by the way?) is a lot closer than I had originally thought. So perhaps there is a change that I can be in that range prior to my b-day.
For the moment I’m putting the weight loss topic on hold, dear bloggers I'll find other things to say. But I will return to that topic post triathlon. Again, I am really enjoying training, and finding it far more enjoyable than the marathon (which I found healing and I also enjoyed).
This weekend’s open water swim is at some small man-made lake near Wisconsin. Hopefully it will be cleaner and warmer than the Great Lake in my front yard.
Happy Weekend!
Tuesday, June 12
Gotta stop blogging or I’ll talk my self out of it. . .
Super pumped— until I see what I signed up for.
So I’m single this weekend, I have a date on Friday and Saturday (with Andrew, and Shelley respectively).
On going journey of waking-up-earlier-on-the-weekend-than-I-would-dream-of-waking-on- weekdays, today I signed my Saturday morning away for an one mile open water swim, followed by a five-k run. It’s an event called the Splish Splash Dash at Lake in the Hills, IL (Hi, Tim!).
Note: I don’t have my wet suit yet, so this swim I’m doing with a Speedo and some skin (brr). I’m hoping the goose bumps will keep me going after that first half mile.
Also, I haven’t done a ‘real’ open water swim in about 8 or so-years (Hello college --remember when I used to lifeguard for Delaware Dam? Yeah, it’s been that long.) Wooo HOOO~!
Sure, I’ve been swimming with TNT, we did ½ mile last week. umm...
I think that this is some kind of sickness—seriously, even though I have plans to hang out with great folks all weekend, I can’t wait to swim, and I’m interested to see how a 5 K will feel afterward. This really is becoming my idea of a really good time.
So I’m single this weekend, I have a date on Friday and Saturday (with Andrew, and Shelley respectively).
On going journey of waking-up-earlier-on-the-weekend-than-I-would-dream-of-waking-on- weekdays, today I signed my Saturday morning away for an one mile open water swim, followed by a five-k run. It’s an event called the Splish Splash Dash at Lake in the Hills, IL (Hi, Tim!).
Note: I don’t have my wet suit yet, so this swim I’m doing with a Speedo and some skin (brr). I’m hoping the goose bumps will keep me going after that first half mile.
Also, I haven’t done a ‘real’ open water swim in about 8 or so-years (Hello college --remember when I used to lifeguard for Delaware Dam? Yeah, it’s been that long.) Wooo HOOO~!
Sure, I’ve been swimming with TNT, we did ½ mile last week. umm...
I think that this is some kind of sickness—seriously, even though I have plans to hang out with great folks all weekend, I can’t wait to swim, and I’m interested to see how a 5 K will feel afterward. This really is becoming my idea of a really good time.
Monday, June 11
Snack Attack (+1 lbs)
Okay, so at weigh in on Thursday I was up another pound! The first five pounds I lost I swear melted off, getting to ten has been one uphill climb. Plus so many of the Team in Training coaches and staff LOVE to remind us that when training for an endurance event, it’s not a great time to loose weight; one, because muscle weighs more than fat, two, because you need to eat more to fuel your body for the exercise. So I’m proving all of my coaches’ right, I really can’t seem to loose weight right now.
A good pal recommended taking measurements and monitoring those rather than using a scale—good idea! I just need to find that darn tape. But it was exciting to try on clothes one size smaller this weekend.
I have made a few changes – not only am I packing my lunch everyday, now I’m packing my snacks too. My office snacking is way out of control, so I needed to address it and use those snacks as ways to get more fruit and veggies. So I’ve started combining things like soy cheese sticks with apples, crackers with grapes, a 100-calorie bag of microwave popcorn with pears, my cup of coffee with one measured serving of a high fiber cereal.
Here’s my diet question this week, how do you handle office snack attacks?
In other non-diet related news, Matt is at ASP this week. Lucky for me, old and new friends have gathered around to keep me busy.
A good pal recommended taking measurements and monitoring those rather than using a scale—good idea! I just need to find that darn tape. But it was exciting to try on clothes one size smaller this weekend.
I have made a few changes – not only am I packing my lunch everyday, now I’m packing my snacks too. My office snacking is way out of control, so I needed to address it and use those snacks as ways to get more fruit and veggies. So I’ve started combining things like soy cheese sticks with apples, crackers with grapes, a 100-calorie bag of microwave popcorn with pears, my cup of coffee with one measured serving of a high fiber cereal.
Here’s my diet question this week, how do you handle office snack attacks?
In other non-diet related news, Matt is at ASP this week. Lucky for me, old and new friends have gathered around to keep me busy.
Thursday, June 7
yet another nutrition clinic
Yes, Yes, Yes, Muscle weights more, way more, than fat. So I'm not expecting to drop any lbs this week, but my old size 12's have got some extra room, and I'm feeling pretty buff going sleeveless today.
matt and I did, yet another, TNT nutrition clinic for endurance athletes. Things we learned:
1) Eat a rainbow of fruits and veggies every day (that doesn't mean candy).
2) Eat 6 small meals a day to keep metabolism up
3) Drink lots of water, and the week before the event carb up by eating 50 to 80 bananas (that is if you're not a banana-hater like mr. matt).
4) When eating pasta to carbo load the night before the big event, keep in mind that some pastas 'come up' easier than others-- so stick to those! (gross! gross! gross! I, for one, have never hurled while doing endurance sports or enduring chemo-- but for those with weaker tummies this could be something of importance to know).
Mr. Matt is leaving for ASP on Saturday (for his 7th or 8th time)! Send him warm happy thoughts next week, and prayers, I'm sure he and the 40 odd teens and parents with him will need it!
matt and I did, yet another, TNT nutrition clinic for endurance athletes. Things we learned:
1) Eat a rainbow of fruits and veggies every day (that doesn't mean candy).
2) Eat 6 small meals a day to keep metabolism up
3) Drink lots of water, and the week before the event carb up by eating 50 to 80 bananas (that is if you're not a banana-hater like mr. matt).
4) When eating pasta to carbo load the night before the big event, keep in mind that some pastas 'come up' easier than others-- so stick to those! (gross! gross! gross! I, for one, have never hurled while doing endurance sports or enduring chemo-- but for those with weaker tummies this could be something of importance to know).
Mr. Matt is leaving for ASP on Saturday (for his 7th or 8th time)! Send him warm happy thoughts next week, and prayers, I'm sure he and the 40 odd teens and parents with him will need it!
Monday, June 4
Thinking of Linda *(laura’s mom)
In a diet related / domestic duty this weekend I attempted to gather about 10 or so really good fall back recipes for dinners. A task that was sparked from WW meetings and the TNT nutrition clinic. The dietician at the clinic recommended having a back up of ten or so recipes, and keeping most of those ingredients on hand.
So I looked at the notes in my cookbooks (something I learn from Grandma), and went about making a list of really good healthy things. Keeping in mind the standard things that we receive from our co-op. (The majority of what I eat anymore is determined by the organic co-op Matt and I joined and LOVE! I’m sure if you’ve read this blog long enough, or spoken to us you’ve heard us rave about this!) Happily the task was much easier than I anticipated, and there is now a list on the frig of dinner ideas.
On a regular basis we get greens like kale, spinach, swiss chard, and beet greens—things I didn’t grow up eating! So in looking for recipes I’m looking for things loaded with veggies, spice, that don’t need a lot of cheese. This weekend I discovered kale with polenta, and a baked curried tofu with cauliflower—both yum!
What made the list?
Simple things like:
Canned soup (non-cream based), Salads, Quesadas, Rice and Beans, Bean Burritos, & stir-fries.
More Complex things like:
Curries with tofu, Sautéed Greens, enchiladas, pastas with pesto,
What's not on the list?
take out menus, heat and serve frozen stir-fries, easy mac, anything breaded that has to be baked, other items that are so loaded with preservitives that mold won't eat it, white rice, and white pastas.
Do you even have one?
What’s on your list (or menu)?
So I looked at the notes in my cookbooks (something I learn from Grandma), and went about making a list of really good healthy things. Keeping in mind the standard things that we receive from our co-op. (The majority of what I eat anymore is determined by the organic co-op Matt and I joined and LOVE! I’m sure if you’ve read this blog long enough, or spoken to us you’ve heard us rave about this!) Happily the task was much easier than I anticipated, and there is now a list on the frig of dinner ideas.
On a regular basis we get greens like kale, spinach, swiss chard, and beet greens—things I didn’t grow up eating! So in looking for recipes I’m looking for things loaded with veggies, spice, that don’t need a lot of cheese. This weekend I discovered kale with polenta, and a baked curried tofu with cauliflower—both yum!
What made the list?
Simple things like:
Canned soup (non-cream based), Salads, Quesadas, Rice and Beans, Bean Burritos, & stir-fries.
More Complex things like:
Curries with tofu, Sautéed Greens, enchiladas, pastas with pesto,
What's not on the list?
take out menus, heat and serve frozen stir-fries, easy mac, anything breaded that has to be baked, other items that are so loaded with preservitives that mold won't eat it, white rice, and white pastas.
Do you even have one?
What’s on your list (or menu)?
Friday, June 1
The shameful weigh in.
I gained 1.6 this week.
Lesson learned: Even if one does ride their bike 80 miles in a week (Bike the Drive, plus 2 days of bike commuting) that doesn't give me a free pass to eat or drink whatever I want.
I really want to believe that my activity levels are high enough that I can eat whatever I want-- but hell, I believed that even when I was thinking 'Hmm, these pants are snug, I should loose weight.'
So Megan Myth of Weight-loss, proven here for you, even if you work out (a lot) you still can't eat whatever you want.
This week I've got my activity planed, but I don't have my menu together for the week-- I just have a really good idea of what's in my frig. Menu planning tends to happen on the weekend. I'll let you know where I'm at on Monday.
So hopefully the shame of tracking my success and shame here on the blog will help me this week lose my goal of 2 lbs.
I hope that this self improvement stuff is interesting to read, on the bright side I'm posting more so even if it isn't all that interesting, it changes.
Lesson learned: Even if one does ride their bike 80 miles in a week (Bike the Drive, plus 2 days of bike commuting) that doesn't give me a free pass to eat or drink whatever I want.
I really want to believe that my activity levels are high enough that I can eat whatever I want-- but hell, I believed that even when I was thinking 'Hmm, these pants are snug, I should loose weight.'
So Megan Myth of Weight-loss, proven here for you, even if you work out (a lot) you still can't eat whatever you want.
This week I've got my activity planed, but I don't have my menu together for the week-- I just have a really good idea of what's in my frig. Menu planning tends to happen on the weekend. I'll let you know where I'm at on Monday.
So hopefully the shame of tracking my success and shame here on the blog will help me this week lose my goal of 2 lbs.
I hope that this self improvement stuff is interesting to read, on the bright side I'm posting more so even if it isn't all that interesting, it changes.
Thursday, May 31
an admission
I’m going to admit something here for all you blog readers. Nothing too shocking, nothing monumental, but something that can be shameful, and something that everyone is always talking about; I am on a weight loss plan. (Not a diet, a diet would be that I’m a vegetarian, a diet is the food I eat daily, not the food I don’t eat because it’ll make me look chubby).
Yup. I’ve re-enlisted with Weight Watchers way back in February. I was doing WW way back pre-wedding days, and then well suddenly my weight wasn’t my highest priority.
Because I believe that my long-term health is dependent upon being at a lesser body weight- I’m forking over cash to the weight loss industry, to help me.
Thus far I’ve lost 9 pounds (25 more to go). (Weigh in is this evening, lets see how much damage I did with the Memorial day Weekend eat-and-drink-a-pollozia).
Typically I would want not to tell folks I am trying to loose weight. With the hopes that when I see you blog readers, you’d notice my success. BUT I think I just need to ask for your help. I need the accountability of using this space to talk about the struggles of taking this on. Plus I think that the battle of the bulge is something most folks can relate to. Through cancer, and through marathon training I realized that the hardest things I have to do require far more mental energy than physical effort. I believe that this to is a ‘mind game’ and that anything truly worth having is work. Thanks to you guys, this blog has become a space for me to think about how to tackle the hardest things I’ve faced.
So if you will, join me on this journey from size 14 relaxed fit jeans.
Yup. I’ve re-enlisted with Weight Watchers way back in February. I was doing WW way back pre-wedding days, and then well suddenly my weight wasn’t my highest priority.
Because I believe that my long-term health is dependent upon being at a lesser body weight- I’m forking over cash to the weight loss industry, to help me.
Thus far I’ve lost 9 pounds (25 more to go). (Weigh in is this evening, lets see how much damage I did with the Memorial day Weekend eat-and-drink-a-pollozia).
Typically I would want not to tell folks I am trying to loose weight. With the hopes that when I see you blog readers, you’d notice my success. BUT I think I just need to ask for your help. I need the accountability of using this space to talk about the struggles of taking this on. Plus I think that the battle of the bulge is something most folks can relate to. Through cancer, and through marathon training I realized that the hardest things I have to do require far more mental energy than physical effort. I believe that this to is a ‘mind game’ and that anything truly worth having is work. Thanks to you guys, this blog has become a space for me to think about how to tackle the hardest things I’ve faced.
So if you will, join me on this journey from size 14 relaxed fit jeans.
Tuesday, May 29
the Tuesday after a Long weekend,
OUCH! it is hard to be at work. It's actually harder to do work at work. My eyelids are struggleing to stay open. Memorial Day weekend was a good time, great to see old friends, make new ones, and build stronger relationships with everyone in between. Propsective Chicagoians came to veiw the many possible places to live in this 'city of nieghborhoods.' I was floored by how graciously hospitable fellow chicagoians are! Now all the prospective residences have to figure out is where they'll find jobs (best of luck, and hopefully we'll see you in the 'hood soon).
We spent an evening with a cousin of Matt's. I had a great time, we went to more bars than I recall, and we were taunted by a Nunn.
somewhere in the middle of all that I was one of the thousands of bikers who took over Lake Shore Drive this weekend, and rode darn near close to 40 miles on my bicycle - just to claim for a couple hours a major chicago road for bikes! We skipped a BBQ we really wanted to go to, then talked Andrew into hosting one at the very last minute. And got some minor house projects done.
Summer in Chicago, I wouldn't miss it for the world-- it nearly makes the 6 to 9 months of hibernation and isolation worth it.
We spent an evening with a cousin of Matt's. I had a great time, we went to more bars than I recall, and we were taunted by a Nunn.
somewhere in the middle of all that I was one of the thousands of bikers who took over Lake Shore Drive this weekend, and rode darn near close to 40 miles on my bicycle - just to claim for a couple hours a major chicago road for bikes! We skipped a BBQ we really wanted to go to, then talked Andrew into hosting one at the very last minute. And got some minor house projects done.
Summer in Chicago, I wouldn't miss it for the world-- it nearly makes the 6 to 9 months of hibernation and isolation worth it.
Wednesday, May 23
I heart training
I really enjoy training for the tri. I get outside, I get to spend time with my honey, I get to meet new folks, I get to challenge myself, and perhaps the best part it just feels good (physically, and mentally). This stuff rivals therapy in its effectiveness.
Sure training buddy and I are getting up just as early (if not earlier) on Saturday. But there is always a nap involved later in the day. Plus tri training is something different every weekend-- new route, new activity (biking, running, etc), so I'm not experiencing some of the boredom I felt training for the marathon.
Today is Wed, swim day with the team. Seriously, I feel like a kid again. The former lifeguard in me yells, "don't run!" But I can't wait to get into the pool, to smell the chlorine, to feel the water between my fingers and toes. All day I'm squirmy sitting in my cube wondering, is it time to go to the pool yet. Luckily, my inner adult intervenes and says, "no, not yet. But lets' blog about how I feel."
As a way of training, and a way to avoid my not happy public transit commute, I have biked to work twice. Originally I was really scared that the high traffic roads with suburbanites in their SUV's would run me over. {They haven't come close yet.} I feel so smart, because my commute on 2 wheels doesn't cost $3.50 a gallon, and it takes me just as much time to go just as far (ten miles one way, takes me between 35 to 45 minutes).
Last week I signed up for the Danskin Women’s Triathlon in Pleasant Prairie WI. The event is to raise support for a really great breast cancer organization. When I filled out the entry form it asked some really odd questions, like is this your first tri? (Yes). Are you a cancer survivor? (Who wants to know? Yes!) Because I answered truthfully (which, I sometimes hesitate to do with a big C question), I will get to start in the second wave of the race! It’s a privilege that I probably won’t ever get again, but I think some of those big time tri ladies may just swim over my butt!
For those who like to remind me that i am proofreader not a proof reader, this quote sums up my job, and my feelings about it. (but hey, it's paying the bills.)
Devotees of grammatical studies have not been distinguished for any very remarkable felicities of expression.
- Amos Bronson Alcott
Sure training buddy and I are getting up just as early (if not earlier) on Saturday. But there is always a nap involved later in the day. Plus tri training is something different every weekend-- new route, new activity (biking, running, etc), so I'm not experiencing some of the boredom I felt training for the marathon.
Today is Wed, swim day with the team. Seriously, I feel like a kid again. The former lifeguard in me yells, "don't run!" But I can't wait to get into the pool, to smell the chlorine, to feel the water between my fingers and toes. All day I'm squirmy sitting in my cube wondering, is it time to go to the pool yet. Luckily, my inner adult intervenes and says, "no, not yet. But lets' blog about how I feel."
As a way of training, and a way to avoid my not happy public transit commute, I have biked to work twice. Originally I was really scared that the high traffic roads with suburbanites in their SUV's would run me over. {They haven't come close yet.} I feel so smart, because my commute on 2 wheels doesn't cost $3.50 a gallon, and it takes me just as much time to go just as far (ten miles one way, takes me between 35 to 45 minutes).
Last week I signed up for the Danskin Women’s Triathlon in Pleasant Prairie WI. The event is to raise support for a really great breast cancer organization. When I filled out the entry form it asked some really odd questions, like is this your first tri? (Yes). Are you a cancer survivor? (Who wants to know? Yes!) Because I answered truthfully (which, I sometimes hesitate to do with a big C question), I will get to start in the second wave of the race! It’s a privilege that I probably won’t ever get again, but I think some of those big time tri ladies may just swim over my butt!
For those who like to remind me that i am proofreader not a proof reader, this quote sums up my job, and my feelings about it. (but hey, it's paying the bills.)
Devotees of grammatical studies have not been distinguished for any very remarkable felicities of expression.
- Amos Bronson Alcott
Thursday, May 10
boyance
Yesterday was our second swim practice. After the first I was tapped to be on the 'purple team' with two other experienced triathletes. I was thrilled! All those years of not being on swim team, but just swimming on my own had me psyched into thinking maybe I couldn't do this.
After suiting up, and getting in the pool I noticed that the other two swimmers on the 'purple team' were two hairy bigger guys-I kept up, no problem. In the lane next to our were slower swimmers, but they were all a bit more shall we say 'trim.' Just another reminder that fat floats, and in this leg of the triathalon, it's good to be buoyant!
After suiting up, and getting in the pool I noticed that the other two swimmers on the 'purple team' were two hairy bigger guys-I kept up, no problem. In the lane next to our were slower swimmers, but they were all a bit more shall we say 'trim.' Just another reminder that fat floats, and in this leg of the triathalon, it's good to be buoyant!
Wednesday, May 9
The grass is greener!
The last band-aid just fell off. My port was removed last week, and today the bandages fell off revealing a slit of a scar that runs the diameter of a red-ish purple circle that for two years held the instrument to inject chemo in to my body.
I am SOOO glad that the port is gone, I can deal with scars and scabs. It's magnificent to be on this side of the fence, and I admit the grass is much much greener.
I am SOOO glad that the port is gone, I can deal with scars and scabs. It's magnificent to be on this side of the fence, and I admit the grass is much much greener.
Wednesday, May 2
Tri one on!
It's coming . . . 30. While I wasn't yet in my twenties I hoped to do a triathlon before I was 30. So about decade has passed and what once was a far away age are closer, and such an un-attainable goal doesn't seem so far away any more. In fact compared to the marathon training of last summer, my new training regimen doesn't seem so bad.
I've re-enlisted the help of my pals At Team in Training, even more exciting good ole' Mattila opted to give it a tri (get it?) too! So far, believe it or not I'm doing shorter workouts than last summer, but training nearly daily. I'm excited to take on this new challenge, but I'm expecting lots of blisters, sunburns, and aching muscles.
I'm super proud of Matt, for signing up to taking on the tri. Training has just started, and it's been a lot of fun to do this together. We also have fund raising goals to reach in doing event with TNT, so I'm shamelessly plugging our up coming garage sale, open houses, and websites.
If you want to give, or learn more about what Team in Training is all about check out this link:
www.active.com/donate/tntil/tntilMHutchi1
Thanks guys!
I've re-enlisted the help of my pals At Team in Training, even more exciting good ole' Mattila opted to give it a tri (get it?) too! So far, believe it or not I'm doing shorter workouts than last summer, but training nearly daily. I'm excited to take on this new challenge, but I'm expecting lots of blisters, sunburns, and aching muscles.
I'm super proud of Matt, for signing up to taking on the tri. Training has just started, and it's been a lot of fun to do this together. We also have fund raising goals to reach in doing event with TNT, so I'm shamelessly plugging our up coming garage sale, open houses, and websites.
If you want to give, or learn more about what Team in Training is all about check out this link:
www.active.com/donate/tntil/tntilMHutchi1
Thanks guys!
Tuesday, April 17
VA Tech Shootings
And I don't care what people think, to the left or to the right, there are too many guns in our society. Too many children have lost their lives in this great country.
Mayor Daley
Mayor Daley
Thursday, April 12
We're IN!
A belated BIG THANK YOU to all the friends and family who have gotten Matt and I into our new home. Painting, packing, cleaning, and moving none of it would have been possible with your help!
It's been nearly two weeks in the new place and we've managed to sort through the cardboard jungle and find the things we need, and a lot of the things we don't need.
We can't find the digital camera, so we can't post photos yet (and when we do find it, it's debatable if it works-- too many youth retreats).
Again thanks!
It's been nearly two weeks in the new place and we've managed to sort through the cardboard jungle and find the things we need, and a lot of the things we don't need.
We can't find the digital camera, so we can't post photos yet (and when we do find it, it's debatable if it works-- too many youth retreats).
Again thanks!
Wednesday, April 4
Office Space
The highlight of my workday consisted of a co-working thanking me for stealing his red Swingline stapler.
Tuesday, March 20
Thursday, March 15
the new place
This are photos of the new place. Consider this out 'before' pictures. We have windows all along the East side, so some photos are dark.
The living room.
bathroom-- the vanity, mirror, lights, and wall paper are on there way out.
living room
Master Bedroom--
The building
the kitchen -- consider this out 'before' pictures.
The kitchen
The kitchen,
dineing room-- check out that 70's light fixture.
The living room.
The living room.
bathroom-- the vanity, mirror, lights, and wall paper are on there way out.
living room
Master Bedroom--
The building
the kitchen -- consider this out 'before' pictures.
The kitchen
The kitchen,
dineing room-- check out that 70's light fixture.
The living room.
Friday, March 9
Pack-a-polluza
Behold the wonder of moving. Everything that I forgot I have or have recieved has multiplied like bunnies in the three years it's habbitated at the current Casa Del la Krings.
I am spending my weekend purgeing the deep corners of all our closets. Thus far I have produced four large bags for donations all from my closet. Mattilla has already purged his wardrobe- which led to about two to three large bags. I have gone through the edible products in our pantry and donated a box of items to the food collection at the church. I'm a little scared to take on the hallway coat closet, and the rest of the pantry. Partially because I know what they hold, and partially beause even opening the doors or shifting objects in said spaces is taking ones life into their own hands.
We close on the condo on Thursday. We're getting the floors done the following week. Which will give us a weekend to paint, if I could decide what color to paint anything. Un-like my fav traveling salesman I have NO idea what to paint the majority of the rooms. I may have the bathroom and the bedroom figured out, which fortunately for me, is where most of my time at home is spent. I'm not feeling like it's a huge rush to decide paint colors, but I will be the first to admit the artist in me has way too much fun looking at the pretty colors, to bother imagining what they would look like in a room in varrious types of light with all our crap in it.
Manual labor requests are being made now for help painting, packing, and moving. Shoot Mattilla or I an e-mail for details. Food and adult beverages will always be provided.
I am spending my weekend purgeing the deep corners of all our closets. Thus far I have produced four large bags for donations all from my closet. Mattilla has already purged his wardrobe- which led to about two to three large bags. I have gone through the edible products in our pantry and donated a box of items to the food collection at the church. I'm a little scared to take on the hallway coat closet, and the rest of the pantry. Partially because I know what they hold, and partially beause even opening the doors or shifting objects in said spaces is taking ones life into their own hands.
We close on the condo on Thursday. We're getting the floors done the following week. Which will give us a weekend to paint, if I could decide what color to paint anything. Un-like my fav traveling salesman I have NO idea what to paint the majority of the rooms. I may have the bathroom and the bedroom figured out, which fortunately for me, is where most of my time at home is spent. I'm not feeling like it's a huge rush to decide paint colors, but I will be the first to admit the artist in me has way too much fun looking at the pretty colors, to bother imagining what they would look like in a room in varrious types of light with all our crap in it.
Manual labor requests are being made now for help painting, packing, and moving. Shoot Mattilla or I an e-mail for details. Food and adult beverages will always be provided.
Sunday, February 25
crazy little things
Oh beloved blog readers, I believe that I may have just written my final rent check! As far as things appear now (and they probably will change) but I looks like on the Ides of March Matt-illa the Hun and I may become property owners. Thus making March the last month of renting!
In sad news, the first Krings-mas was called off on account of poor weather. We were looking forward to seeing family, eating, drinking, and making merry. Weather forcasts predicted death if one were to go to Milwaukee and attempt to return to Chicago a mere six to eight hours later. So Matt-illa and I stayed home and celebrated Krings-mas alone. While we were very sad not to be spending Krings-mas with the fam but we sure did get a lot done around the house. Essentially the first day of Krings-mas gave us the gift of time: one more day to pack, clean, chill, and sell things on Craig's list (no takers on that crock pot yet, darn!).
(Just trying to keep the blog politically relevant and visually stunning)
Tuesday, February 13
crock pot anyone?
Just to keep things similar in the blog-mosphere, Matt & I had our offer accepted for a nifty little condo in Evanston (photos to follow)! The entire decision to buy has been such an ordeal. Our saintly mortgage broker, Jeff held our hand and found the right mortgage for us. We just have all the super fun stuff to do now like; inspections, closing on the 16th of March, two weeks to paint (Yeah! no more apartment white walls), refinish floors, pack up our stuff, and haul it about five miles north. I think a Craig's list 'garage sale' may transpire soon (football shaped crock pot anyone?)
Chicago land has officially become an Arctic tundra this month. After zero and sub zero temps last week, we've been treated to 20 degree to 30 degree highs with blowing snow and potential blizzard conditions (depending on the weather person). At least Matt's ski trip won't be canceled this weekend due to lack of snow and 50 degree temperatures (like the one he had booked for January).
Chicago land has officially become an Arctic tundra this month. After zero and sub zero temps last week, we've been treated to 20 degree to 30 degree highs with blowing snow and potential blizzard conditions (depending on the weather person). At least Matt's ski trip won't be canceled this weekend due to lack of snow and 50 degree temperatures (like the one he had booked for January).
Tuesday, February 6
Even if the sun comes out tomorrow, it’s too cold to go outside.
Chicago is in an icy abyss, and the depressed Bears fans cannot be avoided. We’ll be okay as long as Lake Michigan doesn’t become a quick moving glacier. Groundhog’s day promises spring, (depending upon who you’re favorite weather predicting rodent maybe). My top Earth rat is Buckeye Chuck, who did not see his shadow, so much to my relief an early spring is being called for.
I have spring fever. I believe that the perpetual state of anticipatory waiting for this crap to be over maybe the lesson that the Universe has been trying to teach me in this season of my life.
The hubby and I have been waffling on purchasing a condo. I kid you not, to date this is the hardest decision we’ve ever made together. (Stay tuned on that drama).
Sunday, January 21
Job Interview
I have a job interview tomorrow at the Museum of Science and Industry; the position would be the Coordinator of Membership and Community Affairs. I’d be a go- between the Membership and Community Affairs departments, problem solving, event planning (fund raisers, trips for members, and assisting with board meetings), publication reading and writing. The tasks are a great mix of all the skills I’ve honed in the last several years, and a great chance to get my foot in the door in the Museum circuit of Chicago!
My temp gig is going well, but it’d be nice to be in a place with a little more security (not to mention benefits)!
So Nine A.M.- Noon, Monday send some good vibrations my way, or just cross your fingers!
It’s taken most of the folks I went to school with about six months to find a ‘real’ position after graduation—my six months is nearing a close, so I should be due to land something, but one never can tell.
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