I Am a Swimmer.

I found this very motivational.  

I participated in the 1-hour Postal swim earlier this year. I look forward to re-discovering my athletic self this year.  

The Sail Beneath My Wings

This weekend, my plan was to participate in the Cascade Lakes Open Water Swim at Elk Lake, an event that other obligations have always prevented me from taking part in the past.  This year looked to be no different ... I struggled for awhile with the decision whether to attend my high school reunion or swim at Elk Lake.  In the end, I elected to swim as those I was closest to were not able to attend the reunion.

I volunteered to bring bagels up on Saturday morning which come to find out, assured me an awesome parking space near the day use area where the races would take place.  I arrived early which allowed me time to take everything in and visit with my teammates as they began to arrive (they had all camped the night before and had walked over from Little Fawn Campground to the day use area).  As we talked race strategy and caught up with one another - I hadn't been able to swim since Monday so we hadn't talked in a while.  They were captivated by my story of calling 911 and the paramedics coming to my home the previous morning (my neighbors 13-month old had had a seizure in reaction to a high fever - apparently relatively normal for young children - and she had come to me in panic).  As a result, I had opted to stay home on Friday to help with her older children and allow her time to attend to her youngest. I thereby didn't swim on Friday as I had planned.

This picture shows the course for the 500m time trial ... each buoy was 25m apart.  From shore, they seemed much closer than they were once we were in the water.  I swam an easy 200m or so as a warm-up about 40 minutes prior to the start.  As our start times were seeded 20 seconds apart, I didn't begin until 31 minutes after the first swimmer.  Earlier in the week, I had purchased a rash guard but discovered the morning of the swim that because it had 1mm of neoprene, it constituted as a wetsuit. Coach said, "Hey! You might even be in contention for age group wins because of it!"  It was a little too large and since it was a shirt and not a full body suit, it created a lot of drag.  I noticed this right away and could feel the pull and the flap of the fabric all along the course.  

The 500m race began on shore just beneath the sign shown in the photo and upon the word 'go' each swimmer ran out approximately 20-25m before the water was deep enough to actually swim.  In doing so, I went out too fast.  By the time I had swam about 200m, I was out of breath.  I swam a few breast strokes and tried to find my comfort zone.  Having difficulty breathing brings upon a bit of a panic feeling and in turn breathing is difficult again - making it nearly impossible to recover.  I tried swimming a little backstroke as well after I had gone around the last buoy.

I was being passed left and right ... somehow my seed time was 8:25 for the 500m - I doubt I could swim that in the pool let alone open water.  I don't know how I got seeded so high.  My comfort level doesn't abate when I see my team mate pass me on the right, knowing she had started nearly 2 minutes behind me.  I'm not enjoying this.

Somehow or another, I manage to make it to shore.  With relief, I stood up as soon as my hands touched bottom in the down stroke.  I was upright ... I was running.  Relief!  I crossed the finish strong and recorded a 12:13 finish.  Because I was the only one in my age group wearing a wetsuit, I got first. All I could do was chuckle.

As I sat on shore contemplating the next swim ... the 1500m ... I knew I wasn't up to swimming 3x the distance with which I had already struggled. I opted to scratch and headed home to pack up for the evening - the plan now was to return to Little Fawn Campground - the kids would get to play with their friends and I'd get to visit with my girlfriend.  The following day, I would swim the last swim in the short series - the 1000m.  I don't give up easily.  I wanted to give it another go.  This time I would go out slower ... and sans wetsuit or rash guard.

This didn't work out either.  One thing after another ... plans were derailed. Cold night. Shivering.  Didn't sleep well.  Depressed. Blah blah blah.  Come Sunday morning, I didn't have it in me. 

Swimming & Stroke Work

The past couple of weeks, as I have swam with Masters, I have tried to pay more attention to my stroke.  Today was no different.  After an 800m warm-up (400m w/fins), we began with a 12 x 25m butterfly drill set.  Fins were optional and of course, everyone opted for them.  Everyone but me, that is.  I swam half of the drill set without fins for assistance.  I've been working on the fly perhaps more than any other stroke so this was good practice. 

We then moved into the main set which was done in rounds.  150m freestyle focusing on breathing techniques (3 lengths breathing every 3rd stroke, 2 lengths breathing every 5th, and 1 length breathing every 7th) followed by 3 x 50m not freestyle.  I've never been successful breathing every 7th stroke but I'm getting more comfortable with every 5th.  For the 50s, we alternated between back and breast. In the end we completed 4 rounds which brought my total distance for the day to 2300m.  My comfort zone.

There was a lot of medley work today ... coincidentally, I also completed a Squidoo lens on Swim Strokes just this morning.  Jump over and take a peek!

To Swim or Reunite ?

I have a dilemma.  My 20 year class reunion is this summer ... in fact, I have an opportunity to attend 2 different high school reunions.  Both reunions are on the Oregon south coast and on consecutive weekends.  It is thereby not really feasible to go to both as that would constitute a lot of travel.  I considered staying through the week but that conflicts with our county fair.  The fair is important to the kids as they have been working on projects to enter in Open Class all year.

To further complicate matters, COMA hosts the annual Cascade Lakes Swim Series the same weekend as North Bend's reunion. I have been wanting to participate each year since I started swimming but something always seems to come up.  A number of my teammates are swimming this year - including my best friend.  It would be so fun to camp up there and revel in the comraderie of competition.

I am, honestly, on the fence.

To give a little background, I attended schools in Bandon from preschool through 9th grade.  After my freshman year, we moved to North Bend, where I graduated.  While attending NB, the summer after my sophomore year, I met a guy who I started dating.  He was a couple of years older than me and was a freshman at the local community college.  I spent most of my free time with him ... in fact, we even worked together at Safeway and later at a video rental store.  Coincidentally, he had also graduated from NB so we knew many of the same people.  We continued to date through college and eventually married.  Through him, I have developed numerous friendships and acquaintances from his graduating year.  I even attended his reunion last summer.

As is true for many, Facebook has enabled me to re-connect with many of my friends from high school and even elementary school.  I have even developed new friendships with several spouses with whom we share many common interests (running, homeschooling, etc.).  In some respects, I feel I am building stronger friendships because of Facebook with friends from Bandon than from North Bend.

So - what would you do?

P.S.  A teammate says ... Swim!  Coach says he's conflicted because reunions are important to him and he has never missed one.  Speaking of which - I didn't attend my 10 year reunion either as I had had an opportunity to take part in an all-expenses paid teacher training at NASA. 

I Set a Goal

OSN :: 2100m (400m warm-up; 400m w/fins; 12 x 25m free drill w/fins; 4 x 25m fly; 4 x 50m breast; 4 x 75m back; and 4 x 100m free)

Elevation DOES Make a Difference :: 1 Hour Postal Event

For the past couple of years, I have been participating in the USMS Postal Challenges. The objective of the One Hour Postal in January is to swim as far as possible in one hour in any pool you choose that is 25 yards or longer. Some people do the One Hour Postal event for competition, while others do it for fitness. To gauge my level of fitness is my primary reason for participating. Additionally, the team also earns points for participation so coach always urges us to take part. Throughout 2009, I had been in a training slump. Brought on my injury and possible burn-out, I wasn't able to run much last year. I know this has affected my swimming. I was curious to know just how much.

Before I go into detail about yesterday's swim, I'll recap quickly the previous Postal Challenges I have participated in years past.

Nov 2008 - 3000m - 57:36
Jan 2009 - 1 hour - 3160 yards
Nov 2009 - 3000m - 57.29.99

Going into the swim today, I was feeling very comfortable. I just wanted to swim. My goal, of course, was to exceed 3000m. I had hit that mark in under an hour in November (3000m Postal Challenge) - I felt confidant that I could do it again.

I swam the second heat - recording splits and timing for my swim partner, Scott. He, too, had hopes of exceed 3000m. He started out strong and though his pacing was solid... it was just a little too slow. In the end, he hit 2975m when the horn sounded.

Foreshadowing what would happen to me. I started out strong - my first 100 split was 1:41 (50 and 51 sec each 50m). Faster than what I generally swim during the repeat 100s that we swim regularly on Fridays. For the next 300m, I was solid at about 58 sec per 50m. From that point on, however, my pace slowly declines. Solid 1:00 splits for the next 500m then I slipped to 1:04 which is where I stayed for most of the swim. Urgh! At the horn, I was just a smidge shy of 2900m which equates to 3171.478 yards. Slightly farther than last year. I'm okay with that.

When I swam it last year - we were at the coast so I swam the event in my home town pool nearly at sea level. This was an older pool and was constructed at the more common 25 yards. I feel very strongly that the pool length and the elevation played a big part in my performance. Next year, I may very well make plans to be on the coast again.

Next month, the Tualatin Hills Barracudas is hosting a February Fitness Challenge. An annual postal fitness swimming event held during the month of February to promote fitness through swimming by encouraging individuals to swim regularly and track the results during a one month period. I'm already tracking my swimming meters for Go the Distance. I am now wondering if I couldn't swim at least 500m each day ?? A 28 day swimming streak? Probably too overzealous.

Why We Swim

Why do you swim? Simple. Plain. Easy. Right?

Most of us know why we swim, but when asked to communicate these reasons, many of us struggle. To some, the question begs an answer larger than "to stay fit" or "because I do triathlons." Compiled here are a number of responses collected by U.S. Masters Swimming.

"I swim because I feel more connected to who I am and awake for the day."

"I swim because in this technological age, the pool is one spot where the phone doesn't ring, email ding, nor children SING my name at the top of their lungs!! It is one of the last bastions of quiet in a crazy, hectic world ... (the longer the distance, the better!)."

"I am a swimaholic. I tell myself it is a good addiction. However, my hair is wrecked, my skin is dry, I get too much sun, I'm tired by 4:00 in the afternoon, and I itch. I smell like chlorine when I sweat and my shoulders hurt if I lay on my side at night. I look forward to my workout before I get there and I think about how great it was when I am done. It is my time. I swim because I can and I will keep swimming until I can't. I do it because I love it."

"I swim because it's the ‘sanity' in my stressful life. When I am in the water I am in the present moment. Swimming is the thing I love doing the best in my life. I am safe and at peace in the water."

"To stay alive for my kids. I got married very late, have three young children and would love to see them all graduate at least from high school."

"You ask why I swim? It began when a friend invited me. I went because I have always loved the water. It continued because it calms me and helps me to sleep at night. It's my meditation time just for me and I love it!! I love the opportunity to improve with the help of coaches. One serendipity is that I have lost three sizes due to the swimming."

"When you dive into the pool and the water washes over you it washes away everything else that is going on in your life. That first rush invigorates your body, mind and soul. The water offers you the quiet solitude that keeps you sane. Masters is the place where you make friends with people you would otherwise have never met. You become a network of support for each other. You will form bonds that go way beyond the pool. Your coach will push you to go farther and faster than you ever thought you could, simply because he believes in you."

"I swim because I love the water. I was a diver and loved the adrenaline rush associated with falling, flipping and twisting with a grand finale of slicing through the cool water. It's funny, when you are standing on top of a platform, no matter how many times the announcer says, "Please remain quiet for the competitors," the pool and its surrounding area is composed of a million little sounds and noises, but the minute you enter the water there is an immediate quiet that has the power to separate you from the rest of the world. When I finished my diving career, I never thought I'd experience that feeling again. I was terrified that I'd lose the memory. Well, I did experience the power of the water again and it happened in my first Masters meet. I stood on the block and I could hear everything from the ticking of the clock to the person on the pool deck opening a granola bar wrapper. There was noise all around me, but as soon as the beep went off, I dove in and it was quiet, still. I do like staying in shape, but my love of swimming is the initial plunge into the water. I continue to swim because I long for that feeling of the loud chaos of life mixed with nerves quickly quieted by the cool calmness of the water. Sometimes I find it at practice, other times it takes a race. Swimming, to me, is like living in a memory. Whether it is my memories from diving or being 7 years old at the old country club, I love to dive into the water and "be" wherever and whenever I choose. Swimming takes me out of noisy reality and places me in my most favorite places and times."

So, this seemingly straightforward question is no longer as simple as originally intended. The responses remind us that there is not one single reason that we all swim. We each have our own motivation, reasons and purpose for doing what we do.

So, why do I swim?

I swim because it challenges my mind, body and spirit. It enables me to work off the stress and demands of parenthood... of homeschooling... of life. I am a better person because I swim; because I stay fit. I am a firm believer in life-long learning and if I want my children to do the same, I must embody it myself. I want to be a good role-model for them. Besides, it's fun!

Why do you swim?

Breaking Through

Though I haven't been running, I have been swimming. However, the past few months I've felt like I have been hitting a wall. Two of my fellow lane-mates have recently jumped over to Lane 3 and I'm being left behind. Yes - I'm feeling sorry for myself.

Much of my frustration stems from the fact that I haven't been happy with my performances in the water. Not in practice and certainly not in competition. First there was the Eel Lake Open Water swim - 1500m - in August. To state that I swam terribly is an understatement!

Then there was the 3000m postal swim in November. I felt pretty strong throughout the swim but only managed to improve my time over last year by a few seconds. I didn't even bother to blog about it but thought I'd post my splits now... just for kicks. You'll need to click on the image to enlarge it. The numbers in the margin on the left indicate the number of strokes I took per length - obviously, my form began to suffer as fatigue set in.

Based on my splits, it is apparent that I should be having more success during practice. Particularly during Bob's predictable 30 minutes of 100s on alternate Fridays. In Lane 2, our interval with the obligatory 10 seconds of rest is 2:05. I'm lucky if I can get in 4 or 5 hundreds before I need to sit out a 50. In the end, I complete about 12 hundreds. A 2:30 interval - Urgh! So frustrating!

So the past two weeks, my buddies Deb and Scott have been swimming in Lane 3 and I have been left in Lane 2. I have been feeling really strong though and have been leading most of the workouts. So - when Bob asked for a few people to move over on Friday to even out numbers - I immediately jumped.

The plan was 20 minutes of 1oos followed by 8 minutes of 50s. All freestyle. The interval for the 100s in Lane 3 was 1:50. Yikes. I was a little nervous but Scott said, "You'll do fine. Just take it easy." I thereby followed behind, making a promise to myself that I was going to keep up. I can do this. I can maintain this pace for 3000m ... for an hour. I darn well can do 20 minutes with rest breaks!

The first few were a little fast... 1:45ish. The middle few were 1:50ish. The final few were 1:55ish. All the while I felt great! Finally... breaking through the wall!

Though I was successful on Friday - today I returned to my comfort zone and dove into Lane 2. I got in a solid 1050m warm-up before the drill set 3 x (4 x 25 freestyle fists/catch-up). The main set that followed was a medley mix: 5 x 25m fly, 5 x 50m back, 5 x 75m breast and 5 x 100m free. I led on the back and free rounds and felt solid throughout.

Back to back workouts. 2600m. I'm feeling good. Now to start running again. My kicks are calling me.

Brute Squad Postal Challenge

One thing I know about me is that in order to exercise regularly - with any level of intensity - I must have a goal or a challenge in front of me. A race I've registered for or a new distance to run. Just getting out there for the sole purpose of exercise doesn't cut it. To lose a few pounds has never really appealed to me - I've never been too caught up in body image. For me - there has to be an added bonus. To be able to say to myself - 'Wow! I did it!'

My next marathon isn't until April 25th of 2010. I need to build a base between now and January. I haven't really started running regularly yet - I have barely been swimming. The past few weeks I've wondered where I was going to find that carrot to dangle in front of me. As of today - I need look no further. I have found my new challenge... the Brute Squad Postal Challenge.

At Masters today, I had arrived early and after swimming 400m freestyle warm-up, I thought to myself, "I should swim a 100 IM and then follow up with a 200 IM so I can check it off my list for the Check Off Challenge. The 100 was pretty straightforward - we've done those in practice in the past so I wasn't too concerned. My lane mates still had not yet arrived so I proceeded forth with my plan to swim the 200.

The second 25m of the fly was gruesome. I started to lose rhythm but pushed through and reached the wall just as Roger stood up on the hull and says to me, "Starting out with the fly?! Float like a butterfly... sting like a bee!" I laugh, "Something like that. I wanted to check off the 200 IM - just to say I've done it!" "You go girl!" It was a good thing he engaged me in conversation - the little reprieve was needed.

When I touched the wall after the backstroke, Roger and George were both there cheering me on. "Half way there! Woo hoo!" On to breaststroke - my form really began to decline. Then freestyle - finally home free. When I finished, George pointed out that my turns and kicks weren't legal - had I been in competition, I would have DQd. Oooh. So, does that not count for the Check Off Challenge?

Bob says I need to do it again. In fact ... he goes on ... you should do the Brute Squad Challenge in November. He goes on to give a few details (essentially I need to swim a 200m fly, 400m IM and a 1650m free within a 24 hr period) and says, "That is exactly why we have this challenge. For people just like you!" Ahhh. That is just the thing to say to inspire me - to challenge me. How do coaches know this?!

My plan to accomplish this...

• Practice butterfly stroke everyday I swim.
• Swim 3x week.
  
• Get individual instruction in butterfly.
• Practice turns at each wall for the IM - 7 different turns (fly to fly, fly to back, back to back, back to breast, breast to breast, breast to free, and free to free).
• Core training with Kyle.
• Run! Build up my aerobic base!
  

The swimmer who says it can't be done, is passed by the swimmer doing it.

Eel Lake Open Water Swim

This past summer has been quite unusual in that I haven't been training (not swimming... not running... not lifting... ) as often as I have in the past. In the month of August, I swam just 3 times before the open water swim at Eel Lake on the 22nd. It is no wonder things didn't go as planned.

We drove over to the coast on Friday afternoon. Still not yet recuperated from the previous weekend in NYC, DH and I were on edge and we started out with a nasty argument over my planning skills - er lack thereof in his opinion. I'm usually on top of things but on Friday, things fell apart as I was trying to do too much. Therefore, everytime I recalled something I had forgotten, he'd poke me again. Come Saturday morning, my mental preparedness was simply sour.

DH drove me up to the lake and dropped me off (he and the kids would come back a little later for my swim - no sense hanging out during sign-in). I arrived in the midst of the 3000m swim. It was a little intimidating to see the swimmers come in after the first loop and then continue out again for the second and final loop.
I checked in right away and my number was written on my shoulder (the only moment I thought to take picture). While I waited on shore, I talked with Coach a little - he gave me a few pointers about sighting (as from the water surface the first buoy wouldn't be visible). I was increasingly nervous though I didn't know why. I just didn't know what to expect, I guess.

A moment later, a man approached me and asked, "Eva?" I knew immediately it was Jon, a friend from grade school who I hadn't seen since college. We both attended OSU and ran into each other a couple of times - but otherwise our circles didn't cross - I had moved after 9th grade and we'd lost touch. Facebook had brought us back together and the swim meet sealed the deal. We talked for a little while - not long enough. I hope to get together again next time we're over.

My girlfriend arrived a little later and we discussed strategy... not that I had any. She, on the other hand, planned to stick to another lane mate. They are both stronger swimmers than I - I knew it was in my best interest not to even attempt to do the same.

The first swim was a 500m mystery swim. My plan was to use the 500 as my warm-up for the 1500m. This worked out well and it definitely helped get the nerves out. We lined up in number order - this meant I swam 9th - with 10 seconds between each swimmer. A couple swimmers thereby passed me but I wasn't concerned. The 500 was in a little cove of the lake and we began by swimming parallel to the shoreline to the first marker - a pole on which a cow bell hung. We were to stand and ring the bell loud.

We then proceeded to the second marker, a cooler, in the middle of the cove. From there we were to retrieve a lanyard with a number marker - not to worry, all the lanyard float - and then to the finish where we would exchange the lanyard for a grab bag prize. My lanyard was #46 and my prize (as was everyone's) was a couple of coupons and a Cranberry Sweets lemon pie candy. My girlfriend was #12 and she finished right behind me - I knew then I wasn't having a good swim day.

The 1500m was a mass start... across the lake to a buoy 700m out. Round the buoy on our left side, swim around the point (or, if we chose, we could walk across the shallow area - so long as we were splashing / stayed wet) and into the cove to the second and final buoy. The start was good - there were about 60 swimmers so there was a comfortable space between each of us. At first I was behind a young man with fins - I thought to myself, "Wouldn't it be sweet if I couldn't stay in his wake?" But I knew this would have been foolish, "He's got fins for Pete's sake!" There was no way I was going to keep up with him.

I wanted to stay in the middle of the pack. I'm comfortable there. As we got farther from shore, however, and as I was passed by more and more swimmers, I soon realized that I was far from the middle of the pack. I was lucky if I wasn't the last swimmer. This really bothered me.

The wind had really picked up as well and it was very choppy. Many times I took in a mouthful of water. I started to get disoriented and felt a little dizzy. I was zig-zagging all over. I panicked a little and turned over to do back stroke. "Calm down! It's just a swim... you can do this!"

Just before the first buoy, I swam into a wall of lake weed. It was about a foot below me and I panicked again. I started to breast stroke. I was concerned my freestyle stroke would cause me to touch it. "Calm down! It's Elodea! You use this in science... nothing to be afraid of."

I rounded the buoy beside two other swimmers - an older man I didn't recognize and an older woman on the COMA team who swims in Lane 1. After the buoy, the both picked up the pace and left me in their wake. My competitive side kicked in and I thought to myself, "There is no way I am going to let her finish before me. I can't. It would kill my ego." I thereby did my best to pick it up as well.

At the point, I was just 10m or so behind her. I opted to jog across the shallow point - hoping to shake out the legs and make up a little time. It was muddy and very slippery. I couldn't run as much as I had hoped. I dove back in and as I did so - I felt the water wash off the frustration and anger. My kick had not forsaken me. I rounded the last buoy and managed to pass her just 10m from the finish. When it was too shallow to swim, I stood up and ran in under the banner to the finish.

DH was there with a towel. I covered my eyes and allowed him to hold me as I shook off my tears and allowed myself to gain control of my emotions. I was very disappointed in my swim. I don't yet know my time - and I really don't care. This swim was a HUGE learning experience for me.

On the drive home DH said to me, "If you were so scared and panicky, why didn't you just turn around?" "Turn around?! Quit?!" There was no way I was going to do that. I had to finish. I described to him the scenario that all little kids experience - "When you fall off your bicycle, do you simply walk way? No! You get back on and continue forth. You try again." There is no way I am going to let this be my final open water swim. I know I can do better.

Photo courtesy of Toni Brown

COMA won the Large Team Oregon Association Open Water Championships. Coach says, "Although our fastest swimmers present scored some big points, this was a truly a team triumph—this win really belonged to the swimmers who usually swim in lanes one, two, and three; who showed up in force, swam great races, and provided the difference between first and second. Brava and Bravo! Thanks for being there and making it happen again!" Okay. That makes me feel better. Lane 2 rocks! :D

Practice Cut Short ...

First swim in nearly 2 weeks as Sweetie has been sick and we had guests... The first 100m (long course) and I thought to myself, "Boy. That seems long." I shook it off and proceeded with my warm-up not aware of the planned workout for the day as I neglected to look - sometimes it is better not knowing.

Managed to get in 800m (500 m mixed stroke and 300m w/ fins) before Coach Bob stopped us for announcements. We did 4 x 50m backstroke drill and then proceeded with the main set. There were a lot of swimmers today - tri season is definitely here!

The main set was all freestyle: 400m, 300m, 200m, and 100m. I went out a little fast on the 400 so I stopped after 300 to let a few swimmers past me. Thereafter, I found my niche and felt good behind Scott - good bubbles. :) As we approached the half-way mark on our 200, I caught Scott's feet so I happened to look up and saw a bunch of swimmers getting out. I thought, "How odd! Why is everyone getting out?" Scott kept going but as I touched the wall, the others indicated we needed to get out on account of lightning.

Darn! Just when I was getting into the comfort zone. Proof that a solid warm-up is a good idea before any swim or run!

In the end, I completed 2000m - I'm pleased. Now I just need to stay focused and stick to a plan! I think I need to register for something to keep me honest.

So Hard to Get On Track Again

It has been a long time since I was following a training plan of any sort - nearly 10 months! It is thereby very difficult, even though I am still working out semi-regularly (2-3 days a week) to get on track again. I've gotten involved in several other venues that take a lot of my focus - specifically writing a science curriculum for homeschoolers, Science Logic.

May started off strongly - two swims and a strength training session with a trainer each week. Then last week, I stayed a few days with my family in the valley and I did nothing more than shop, visit and eat... I swear I gained nearly 6 pounds!

This week, I vow to get back on the wagon. To begin training in earnest. For zest and variety, though, I will be using a tri plan - even though I have not yet committed to any particular race or venue.

My first swim of the week was a doozy. Long course (Olympic distance 50m pool)! Which at first glance is a little intimidating but once I get going, I think I prefer it to the short 25m pool length. After an 850m warm-up (350m w/ fins) and a drill set of 6 x 50m breaststroke, the main set was two rounds of : 300m / 200m / 100m progressively faster.

I tried to keep track of my splits but without a waterproof Garmin (which would enable me to simply hit 'Lap' and then pull the data up later) it was difficult to keep all the numbers in my head. The first 300 was completed in 6:08. It felt like a good pace. However, I wasn't able to knock of 5 seconds per 100 on the 200... which I completed in 4:06. I nailed the 100 at 1:43.

Based on my first 100 - the 200 should have been swam in about 3:36. The 300 in about 5:39. Alternatively, using the initial 300 as the baseline, I should have swam the 200 in 3:56. The 100 in 1:53. Let's just say I suck at pacing in the water. The second round was worse. 6:42. 4:?? and 1:56. Obviously fatigue and a week of gluttony reared its ugly head. Grand total = 2350m

A New Kind of Soreness

Friday afternoon, I worked out with my trainer for the first time. I suppose I wanted to make a good impression so I really pushed myself to do as many reps as I could of every exercise he wanted me to do. From our initial consult, he knew that my biggest goal is to qualify to run Boston. To do that, first and foremost, I need to build a stronger core.

I did a 1/2 mile easy run on the treadmill to warm-up as Kyle finished up with another client. He then had me start out doing some lateral movements, jumping in and out of a series of hoops on the ground. We then moved on to a variety of exercises that alternated the use of the kettle ball, medicine ball or body weight (squats, lunges, etc.). I used a machine for only 2 exercises, one of which simulated the motion of cross-country skiing. Balance was also a key to many of the exercises so I was either on one leg or on a balance ball. Fun stuff!

The best part, for me at least, is that the space is very open - not much equipment - and they are very accepting of children. In fact, he has twins the same age as my little guy. As I was not able to find a sitter - he was cool with allowing the kids to play with much of the same equipment that I was using. It was fun to strength train right along side them.

That evening, though I hadn't really run in nearly 4 weeks, my right heel really flared up. I massaged & iced it periodically throughout the evening. By morning it was still tender but I could walk. By Saturday evening, however, I started to hobble and moan with pain - not from my heel (that remained the same - about a 1-2 on the pain scale) but from the rest of my body. I got so sore!

I stretched as often as I could - though I am certain, not enough. I rested. By Sunday, I was able to go for our usual family walk but not comfortable enough to do a strength training workout as Kyle had suggested. I told myself, tomorrow.

Tomorrow came. Still quite sore. I went to the pool for my usual Masters swim and it felt great! The aerobic workout really helped to get movement back and get the blood flowing. I had hoped to find time in the evening to do some strength training, but a las, it didn't happen again.

Today, I plan to go for a run with Buddy in the jogger while Sweetie is in Mandarin class. The other mommies will be joining me - I'm hoping we make it a regular thing as their class meets 2x a week (TR) for 90 minutes right now. Come June, the class will be 3 hours so we'll be able to get in a solid, moderate to long run. I even borrowed a single jogger from a friend and will be selling my double, as Sweetie prefers to accompany me on her bike now and occasionally (depending on the length of the run) in her own running shoes!

OSN: The pool was set-up on long course - always intimidating at first glance but I actually prefer it this way, particularly for long sets. 400 m warm-up, 400 m w/ fins, 4 x 50 m backstroke drill, 3 x 300 m free descending, 100 m backstroke cool-down ==> 2000 m total

Competition Builds Friendship

This weekend has been so much fun! For the first time ever, I competed in a swim meet, Oregon Masters Swimming Association Championships. I had only a vague idea of what to expect, having previously participated in only 2 all-comers meets. I was actually surprised by the number of swimmers!

The 3-day event began on Friday evening with just two events, the 400 yard IM and the 1650 yard freestyle. I was entered in the 1650. Having completed two postal events in the past few months (3000 yard postal in November and the 1 hr postal in January), I was confidant that I would be able to complete the distance. My goal was to exceed my seed time (predicted time) of 29:00.

I started off the block and wouldn't you know it, my goggles slipped off slightly. I tried adjusting them mid-swim but that didn't work so I stopped at the wall and made the necessary correction. From then on, I was pretty steady according to my teammates. I have a hard time getting the feel for my pace when I am swimming. I am pretty consistent running and can generally gauge my pace pretty well - but not in the water. I finished in 29:08.25 - good enough for 3rd place in my age group (note, however, there were only 3 entries in my age group). I felt so much better with the first swim behind me. I don't know why I had been so nervous.

I didn't compete on Saturday as we had a number of other obligations. One of which was the Sons of Norway social where I finally had the opportunity to get my picture taken with Priscilla Welch. She was inducted into the National Distance Running Hall of Fame in August. She holds several masters' women's records at a variety of distances, including the women's masters' marathon with a time of 2 hours, 26 minutes, 51 seconds.

Sunday morning, my girlfriend picked me up and we arrived at the meet early. One of the best parts of the weekend was getting an opportunity to meet Jeff of Oregon Adventures. I love how the internet brings people with shared passions together. Without my blog, Jeff and I would likely never have met otherwise. Having a buddy there made the event even more enjoyable.

I naively didn't sign up for many events on Sunday. In retrospect, I wish I had done the 500 yard freestyle - I'll know next time. As it was, as each event passed, my anxiety level grew. I was getting quite antsy so I opted to jump in and warm-up earlier than I initially planned. I was glad that I did - the events preceding mine (the 200 medley relays) went by much quicker than I had anticipated. Originally I thought I was going to compete in one ... but in the end 2 other swimmers had to scratch and coach had to pull our entry. Bummer.

My performance in the 100 yard back far exceeded my expectations. Based on my performance in the all-comers meet, I had predicted to finish in about 1:55. I spent a lot of time the past couple of weeks though working on my flip turns and I think it made all the difference. I nailed all 3 turns and finished in 1:38:56 (5th place of 6 entries) ... I was delighted! Thankfully, Jeff was there at the finish and helped to lift me out of the pool - I was just too tired to climb out on my own. As I swam in lane 5, I didn't have time to move to the side of the pool and the next heat was nearly on the blocks.

The best part of the entire weekend was the opportunity to watch my teammates swim and cheer everyone on in their respective events. It was fun to watch the elite swimmers - it is so amazing to watch their form and a good opportunity to learn where I can improve.

I'm looking forward now to competing in an open water event this summer and potentially a triathlon. We'll see how the calendar falls out when DH and I can sit down together.

An Evolution... of Sorts.

It has been a long time since I have blogged here. I haven't done a lot of running. I am still plagued with a sore right heel - plantars faciitis. It has prevented me from starting a new training plan. I've run only occasionally with a friend. A day here. A day there. A few miles. A few more.

Mostly, I have been swimming. Not any more than usual - generally just 2 days a week - though I am feeling as though I have made some huge improvements in my stroke. I have also learned how to do a flip turn (free and back) and though I don't always execute the turn properly, I know, at least, what I should have done.

It must be pretty amusing to watch my progression poolside. There have been numerous occasions when I got so disoriented that I discovered myself on the bottom of the pool! Last week, I was swimming in lane 3 (I normally swim in 2) and was making an effort to practice a flip turn at every wall. When practice was over, Scott (a swim mate in Lane 2) asked if I had lost my necklace. He could not figure out what I was doing submerged at the bottom so frequently. We had a good chuckle over that!

I've also become a little self-conscious. I started this blog as a means of documenting my training... a record of how I felt after particular workouts, etc. In reading the blogs of other runners and triathletes, I learned tips for hydration, overcoming injuries and racing. It has been a joy to read of the personal victories of others. To share in their enthusiasm. As the years progressed, the bloggers I have followed and those that follow me have become an extended family. We share a common passion.

I've come to learn, however, that people outside of my extended 'running/training' family - those that may know me in real life - look upon my blog as a means of self proselytizing. About a year ago, I received a rather snotty comment that prompted me to no longer allow anonymous comments. I don't recall the exact wording but essentially it stated that I should spend more time on my family... that I was essentially selfish.

I know I shouldn't let what others think bother me - but despite this - it hurt. At the time, I had my suspicions about who left the comment. I had a strong feeling, though I couldn't prove it, that the anonymous comment was left by a woman who called herself my friend. I suppose it doesn't really matter, but a few weeks ago, in a conversation with a mutual friend, my earlier suspicions were confirmed.

On a few other occasions, friends have made reference to my blogs, training, homeschooling endeavors, etc. to the point where I have felt uncomfortable. I'm still struggling with how to respond to these comments but all the while, I have pulled away from blogging. Then today, I discover that another runner/blogger that I've come to know has announced her retirement from blogging. When I read this, I immediately considered doing the same.

The more I contemplated it, however, I realized that I am not ready to do that. I enjoy the comraderie of sharing. I don't know many people personally that share my passion for running. Where else can I ramble on about my races to an audience that is truly interested in my fuel intake? What flavor gels I prefer? How I felt after my tempo run?

I need this forum. I need each of you.

OSN: 600m warm-up, 200m kicking w/fins, 8 x 25m back drill, 350m free, 250m free, 200m free , 100m free, and 100m back easy cool-down. Block start drill. 2000m total

More Swimming... Nothing More

OSN 2/25: 600m warm-up; 200m w/ fins; 12 x 25m fly drill; 4 x 75m back; 4 x 25m free descending; 4 x 75m breast; 4 x 25m free descending; 100m cool-down = 2050m

OSN 2/24: 600m warm-up; 200m w/ fins; 9 x 50m freestyle drill; 4 rounds of (25m fly, 50m back, 75m breast, 100m free) = 2250m

It's All About The Swim

I participated in my first swim meet today... a local COMA All-Comers Meet (the first of three in preparation for the Oregon Masters State Championships). I've competed in many track & field events in high school so I had a vague idea of what to expect. I wanted, though, to try several all-comers meets before participating in the state meet coming up in April - mostly to help determine which event I would be best suited.

We arrived early and I thereby had ample opportunity to warm-up. I did 600m warm-up (mixed stroke) and then got out to allow time to visit with the family before the meet started. I had signed up for the 200m freestyle and the 50m backstroke so I had a little time to wait before and after.

The freestyle went very well - though I was little delayed off the block. I'm not used to being able to go immediately after the gun (in this case it was a whistle). In a half-marathon or marathon, I typically stand there for a moment and slowly begin to jog... not getting to pace for a couple of minutes. Agonizing! Today, in the pool, the start was much different. I opted, too, to start from the deck, rather that the starting block - I'll have to practice that a little before next time. DH didn't realize I had brought the camera - so no pictures of the freestyle. Sweetie was cheering loudly though - I could here her! I finished in 3:26:17.

The 50m back was much different. Again, I was a little delayed off the start. I didn't get down as far as I would have liked and thus my body dolphin was a little shallow. I was still able to get about 1/3 way down before I surfaced though. My pull on the right side is off though, so I ended up hitting the divider. My turn stunk.... and I thereby didn't get much of a kick off the wall. I finished in 51:71.

OSN Sun 2/22: 600m warm-up; 200m free fast; 50m cool-down; 50m back fast; 50m cool-down = 950m

OSN Thr 2/19: 600m warm-up; 200m w/fins; 10 x 50m free drill; 5 x 150m (odds - free / evens - back) = 2050m

OSN Mon 2/16: 600m warm-up; 300m w/fins; 6 x 25m back drill; 300m free; 3 x 50m breast; 200m free; 5 x 50m back/breast; 100m free; 7 x 50m breast/free = 2400m

Common Merganser ~ Nature Study

Long absent from my regular postings...

Nature Study on the Run

I ran along the river trail this afternoon - my favorite course in Central Oregon for the proximity to the river and thereby the wildlife. It is also a rather hilly course and in some sections, the footing is a little tricky so it adds a bit of a challenge.

At the four mile mark, just after I had made the turn at Farewell Bend, I came across two birdwatchers observing a flock of ducks in the river. Two I recognized immediately as an assumedly mated pair of Mallards. The others I was not familiar with so I inquired and being allowed to borrow their scope, was informed the brown headed ones were Mergansers.
From our distance, there was one other duck that had a dark head and back in the same color pattern as the two pictured below. We assumed it was a different species... however, upon my return home and in my attempt to find more information about Mergansers in general, I now believe it too, is a Merganser. A large diving duck with a long thin bill, the Common Merganser is found along large lakes and rivers across the northern hemisphere. The long bill has toothy projections along its edges that help the duck hold onto its slippery fish prey. Males are boldly patterned with white sides, black back, and green head. Females are dull gray with reddish head and white chin.

They nest in tree cavities, either those made by large woodpeckers or from where a limb broke off. They will also use a nest box. Infrequently a Common Merganser might make its nest in a rock crevice, a hole in the ground, a hollow log, in an old building, or in a chimney.

The young leave their nest hole within a day or so of hatching. The mother protects the chicks, but she does not feed them. They dive to catch all of their own food. They eat mostly aquatic insects at first, but switch over to fish when they are about 12 days old.

ORN: 6.4 miles at average pace of 10:25 min mile (several large stretches of ice whereby I opted to walk as I didn't bring the Trax).

OSN: 400m warm-up; 250m w/ fins; 4 rounds of 4 x 25m IM speed work; 10 x 75m freestyle drill (50m fists/25m palm); 6 x 25m freestyle fast (w/fins); 50m cool-down = 2000m

What Have I Done Lately?

To satisfy my curiosity?

I have been reading a lot lately. So many different avenues... Most recently I have finished Stubborn Twig - which has led to an interest in learning more about WWII and Asian Culture (predominately Chinese in an effort to cultivate my daughter's passion). I am currently reading Animal Vegetable Miracle - and though I am only about 2/3 complete, I am already questioning my own food choices. We will definitely be making some changes and eating more locally. I'll be posting more on this soon.

I have also recently come across a great website that enables readers to document the bunny trails or as they call them, Reading Trails, that we tend to follow as one book leads us to another and so on. I have started 2 such trails and look forward to adding to them as I proceed in my self-education. I encourage you to check it out. Here are the links to mine: Asian Culture & Immigration and Mindful Healthy Eating.

To feed my passions?

I have many passions. They ebb and flow. I teach. I read. I run. I swim. I write. I blog. I scrapbook. I learn. I grow.

To express my creativity?

I continue to express myself creatively by scrapbooking. However, I haven't done much scrapbooking lately - I am very behind. My girlfriend and I are embarking on another challenge - whom ever scrapbooks the least pages buys the other lunch! We start on the 10th - I'm looking forward to the challenge as it always motivates me.

The kiddos and I do a lot of art projects, however. We recently explored a new medium - polymer clay. It is time consuming but very fun. I look forward to doing more.

Additionally, I hope to express myself more in the kitchen - inspired by Barbara Kingsolver's Animal Vegetable Miracle. I would like give cheese making a try - as well as increase my forte with canning my own fruits and vegetables. My mother did a lot of canning when I was little. I have a pressure canner - I just need to jump in. :)

To put my skills to the test?

On Saturday, I participated in the 1-Hour Postal Swim Challenge. How far can you swim in 1 hour? A few months ago, I did a similar challenge (3000 Postal - Check!) and I completed it in just under an hour. Therefore, my goal for the 1-Hour was to hit at least 3200 yards. As we were out of town this past weekend, I wasn't able to swim in my regular pool... with my friends and teammates. Rather, I swam at a different pool - outdoors no less - with another team.
DH came along to time me and record my splits. It was great to have him along - an opportunity to see me swim competitively (with myself, anyway), to swim for health and fitness rather than for recreation at the lake or beach.

Unlike my home pool, I was able to see the clock each time I took a breath on the south side. This was certainly helpful in some respects... at the 30 min mark I asked, "What's my distance?" He replied, "1600." I then knew that if I maintained pace, I would hit my mark. The last minute or so, I gave it my all - really pushing to finish the last 50+... I touched the wall and stopped. Everyone yelled, "You got 5 seconds! Keep going!" I was out of steam. I thereby backstroked/breaststroked until I heard the cowbells ring.

I was delighted when DH told me I had just made it! Phew!

~~~

We ask this of our children, but what about ourselves?

Are we living the lifestyles we want for our children?

And if not, then what are we telling them with our example?

Your thoughts?

New Goals & A New Focus

Last week I posted a little insight into my woes & frustrations. I wanted to thank each of you that took the time to respond with positive feedback and support. Your words provided comfort and perspective, allowing me to come to terms with the change in direction my training has taken.

I do not want to give up running. I haven't lost my passion. I absolutely love running. I look forward to every opportunity I have to get out there and pound the pavement for an hour or so. I just don't have the desire to go for 3+ hour runs in the cold of winter. I know - I'm probably a wimp. Yet there are demands upon me - granted these are demands I have put in place myself - but they are expectations and goals that are more important in the long run than whether or not I qualify to run Boston.

My children are young. I homeschool. I want to provide the best possible education I can for them. I want to be there when they read their first words. Multiply fractions. Overcome frustrations and ultimatley reach their goals.

It is not that my goal to run more marathons... to hopefully qualify... is not important. But until the kiddos are self-sufficient - the time required to put in the training is difficult. Not impossible, but difficult.

I want to show my children that you can achieve anything if you set your mind to it. If you desire it strongly enough. Yet at the same time, I also want to show them that there is a time and a place. That we occasionally need to make sacrifices. That we don't have to push ourselves ALL the time. We can also take time to relax. To just be.

So - I am not giving up on running. I am just going to put off the longer distances until they are older. I may still run a 30K or a marathon this year - but during a time of the year when training in freezing temperatures isn't necessary. When the kiddos can accompany me on their bikes. When I can rise before my family for my long runs and yet not require a head-lamp to light my way.

~~~~

OSN: 400m warm-up; 8 x 25m backstroke drill (on the 5th, I torqued my left shoulder); 6 x 25m freestyle sprint w/fins; 20 minutes of --> 150m freestyle, 100m IM, 50m choice (breast). As I finished the 50m, Coach Bob took a seat on the starting block. I remarked to him, "I did exactly what you warned us NOT to do during the backstroke drill." He inquired about where the pain was exactly and then advised me to get out. "Sit in the sauna and take it easy," he suggested.

As I am planning/hoping to swim on Saturday (1 hour postal) - I took his words to heart and followed suit. Tonight, I'm icing and took 400mg ibuprofen.