And the winner is . . .

ME!!!!

I just about fell out of my chair when I saw the final triathalon results that were posted today.

"For I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need." - Philippians 4:13 (NLT)

Photo of the Week - February 22, 2009

My triathalete in training! Ian got "bit by the bug" at today's indoor triathalon. While I was running, Ian got on one of the extra bikes and took off. I was so proud of him for riding five miles! He hopes to train for next year's youth division!

"TRI"-ing again

Last year, I had such a good time running my first triathalon, the decision to do it again wasn't that difficult. In fact, my running time had improved so much since last year, I moved up in the heats and was in a quicker heat. I don't have the official results yet, but my total time was 38:35. I think it's close to 10 minutes quicker than last year.


The swim was my challenge area this year. I didn't feel as prepared for it as I did last year. I didn't want to overdo it in the first leg though and pushed at my own pace. It's really hard not to pay attention to others around you in the pool, but slow and steady wins the race I suppose. I was really glad to see that last lap sign though!


I really made up my time on the bike. I guess getting up every morning for those 5:45 spin classes does pay off! I did pretty good on my play list planning too because I only planned for two spinning songs - How Far We've Come by Matchbox 20 and This Is How A Heart Breaks by Rob Thomas. I also learned from last year and didn't bike in my running shorts so I could dry out before I put them on.


It was then off to the track. Since I've gotten to enjoy running more than any other part of the triathalon, I knew I wouldn't have a problem with the final leg. Still after swimming and biking, the legs are a bit heavy! I am just thankful to God for giving me the strength for the final push.



I also have to share this picture. Last year, just Rich came along as my counter but other kids were there to watch so we decided we would bring Ian and Kyra along to cheer. Kyra took the task of being my personal cheerleader VERY seriously. Before she went to bed last night, she had to find her pompoms and instructed that she would need to wear her "cheerleader costume". She did a great job but her favorite part by far was the complimentary refreshment table! Hooray for bananas, apples, bagels & cookies!

All in all, I am very pleased. I definitely have some areas to improve upon for next year and now it's time to prepare for the next event . . .

New Year/New Me

Wow! 2008! I remember when I used to laugh at high school letterman's jackets with '00 on the sleeve. It made my '92 seem like a breeze! Of course, now we're not quite but almost to the end of a decade. Time really does fly!

For the first time in ages, my new year's resolution does not involve losing weight. For the first time in my life that I can remember, I am actually in my "ideal" weight range for my frame size. Again, I never thought I'd see that day happen. Of course, some of my new year's resolutions are health related - I need to maintain my weight and tone up. I am not going to let this hard work go to waste.

Along with physical exercise, how about some spiritual exercise? I am making a consistent effort to study the Word every day and Ian and I have also started a family devotional which will hopefully help him develop great disciplines.

Oh, and I've also resolved to make real efforts to do things I have never before in my life. The first of these will take place on Sunday, February 24th. I will be participating in my first triathalon. Granted, it's an indoor triathalon, but who would have thought this former couch potato would ever have undertaken such an event. I'm training now and it is whooping my booty but I can't wait to cross the finish line!