It's 4pm, obligations for 2010 are done at work.
It's 60+ degrees on 12/30/10.
My bike is here.
I'm riding my bike home.
Happy New Years!
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Last Post for 2010
Ahhhh 2010... what a love-hate year.
Stepped up the performances in races this year while missing out on more racing due to flats, weather and family medical issues than in years past.
Flatted in IM KS, missed some runs for hospital stints for family members, and missed IM Branson while Liam was in the NICU for the first week of his life.
I've definitely picked up some good training tips to improve my performance. Focused on swimming more and running harder instead of doing what I like to do best, ride.
Totals for 2010:
2541.50 miles cycling
721.38 miles running
333665 yards swimming (189.58 miles)
I'm not organized enough to have 2009 separated out to compare, but my overall training charts show I'm way ahead of 2009 totals. You can toss 2006 since that's when I started keeping track and it's only a partial year. Here's a shot of my average hours per week training.
Bested 2009 by an average of 4 hours a week.
Lessons:
1. Don't fall off the ledge during the off season - hit the water
2. Weight control made a difference. I figured out how to control it for the most part without going hungry and missing out on the treats.
3. More is more. Not overboard, but more.
4. Intensity. Get some.
5. Mornings. Hate getting up between 4am and 5am, but that's where the extra umph comes from.
Hopefully 2011 brings some more podium spots, more fun, less DNF's and DNS's, and NO MORE HOSPITAL STAYS! =)
Now, I just have to figure out how to fit in 2 bikes rides, 1 long run and a swim this weekend while watching the kiddos...
EXAMINER
Other IM's besides Ironman Branded
Lance Armstrong postpones Tri re-entry
Kansas City New Year's Day Run
Stepped up the performances in races this year while missing out on more racing due to flats, weather and family medical issues than in years past.
Flatted in IM KS, missed some runs for hospital stints for family members, and missed IM Branson while Liam was in the NICU for the first week of his life.
I've definitely picked up some good training tips to improve my performance. Focused on swimming more and running harder instead of doing what I like to do best, ride.
Totals for 2010:
2541.50 miles cycling
721.38 miles running
333665 yards swimming (189.58 miles)
I'm not organized enough to have 2009 separated out to compare, but my overall training charts show I'm way ahead of 2009 totals. You can toss 2006 since that's when I started keeping track and it's only a partial year. Here's a shot of my average hours per week training.
Bested 2009 by an average of 4 hours a week.
Lessons:
1. Don't fall off the ledge during the off season - hit the water
2. Weight control made a difference. I figured out how to control it for the most part without going hungry and missing out on the treats.
3. More is more. Not overboard, but more.
4. Intensity. Get some.
5. Mornings. Hate getting up between 4am and 5am, but that's where the extra umph comes from.
Hopefully 2011 brings some more podium spots, more fun, less DNF's and DNS's, and NO MORE HOSPITAL STAYS! =)
Now, I just have to figure out how to fit in 2 bikes rides, 1 long run and a swim this weekend while watching the kiddos...
EXAMINER
Other IM's besides Ironman Branded
Lance Armstrong postpones Tri re-entry
Kansas City New Year's Day Run
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Hump Day
Hump day between Christmas and New Year's doesn't require as much hump as usual.
It's been nice at work catching up while most of the office is out. Plus, kiddos are home doing well at the moment, but Emily is down for the count from this past flu. She's just having problems shaking it.
I was hoping to hit the roads today for a ride (mid 40's in KC today) but there's some fog and mist issues out there. So, I'll just have to focus on the to-do list over lunch. Tomorrow is forecasted at 61! I'll be sure to take advantage of that.
The big issue is whether to hit Target for a refill of slimfast or actually go out and eat somewhere... low supplies here at work. Dilemmas!
But the BIG NEWS is I won one of my fantasy football leagues!!!!!!
Mike Vick, Adrian Peterson and Roddy White didn't have enough mustard to get the 60+ points the guy needed to beat me! GO VIKINGS! I've won in the past but it's been a few years, 2006 to be exact. It's nice to know I can still stay on top with lower interaction than past years with the family and kiddos requiring more and more attention (not in a bad way, but in a truthful way). Maybe 3 for 3 next year??
It's been nice at work catching up while most of the office is out. Plus, kiddos are home doing well at the moment, but Emily is down for the count from this past flu. She's just having problems shaking it.
I was hoping to hit the roads today for a ride (mid 40's in KC today) but there's some fog and mist issues out there. So, I'll just have to focus on the to-do list over lunch. Tomorrow is forecasted at 61! I'll be sure to take advantage of that.
The big issue is whether to hit Target for a refill of slimfast or actually go out and eat somewhere... low supplies here at work. Dilemmas!
But the BIG NEWS is I won one of my fantasy football leagues!!!!!!
Mike Vick, Adrian Peterson and Roddy White didn't have enough mustard to get the 60+ points the guy needed to beat me! GO VIKINGS! I've won in the past but it's been a few years, 2006 to be exact. It's nice to know I can still stay on top with lower interaction than past years with the family and kiddos requiring more and more attention (not in a bad way, but in a truthful way). Maybe 3 for 3 next year??
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Fear the New Year
No, don't fear what the new year will bring... but rather all the New Year's resolution people at the gym.
I'm kind of on the fence until it gets out of hand.
On one side, I applaud people finding the motivation to break their bad habits, get off the couch and get a workout in. It's not easy and if a New Year's resolution is what it takes for some to get it on, more power to them.
On the other side, I have ENJOYED the desolate gym this week in the morning. Any pick of treadmills. One doesn't work? No problem, 4 more open. Belt slips on that one? No problem. Move over one. Want to swim after a run, no problem! Both lanes WIDE open! No stress, no hurry. I don't have to hit the pool first and then run to make sure I don't wait 15 minutes for a lane.
Come Jan 3rd, that's probably going to change. I remember last year walking in at 6am expecting to have a lane to swim in and NADA. 2 lanes, 4 people... waited 15 minutes. It's not the end of the world but I had to shorten my workout and the tiny locker room is bad enough and then add 15 extra people and it's PACKED and cramped.
So, I hesitate to be a Scrooge and be all mad at the resolution crowd, but it does suck to have to wait them out until the beginning of February when they fizzle out. And, it does happen. Who else has seen it? I'm not alone in this observation with this crowd.
I think I would have a different view if the resolutions were a life change and you saw the new people keep working out for the entire year.
Let the race rat begin! =)
PS - anyone else see the article about Obama calling the Philly Eagles owner congratulating him on signing Mike Vick? I'd rather he focus on health care, welfare, social security, taxes, economy, foreign relations, etc... Mike Vick while a nice story and props to him for righting his ship, is that something the leader of the free world should be taking time out of his day to be calling about? Ring ring... health care on line 2!
PPS - check out Pat Mahoney's new triathlete social site - Endurance Athlete Project
* disclaimer - this post is laced valid points lined with sarcasm, don't take me too seriously. =)
I'm kind of on the fence until it gets out of hand.
On one side, I applaud people finding the motivation to break their bad habits, get off the couch and get a workout in. It's not easy and if a New Year's resolution is what it takes for some to get it on, more power to them.
On the other side, I have ENJOYED the desolate gym this week in the morning. Any pick of treadmills. One doesn't work? No problem, 4 more open. Belt slips on that one? No problem. Move over one. Want to swim after a run, no problem! Both lanes WIDE open! No stress, no hurry. I don't have to hit the pool first and then run to make sure I don't wait 15 minutes for a lane.
Come Jan 3rd, that's probably going to change. I remember last year walking in at 6am expecting to have a lane to swim in and NADA. 2 lanes, 4 people... waited 15 minutes. It's not the end of the world but I had to shorten my workout and the tiny locker room is bad enough and then add 15 extra people and it's PACKED and cramped.
So, I hesitate to be a Scrooge and be all mad at the resolution crowd, but it does suck to have to wait them out until the beginning of February when they fizzle out. And, it does happen. Who else has seen it? I'm not alone in this observation with this crowd.
I think I would have a different view if the resolutions were a life change and you saw the new people keep working out for the entire year.
Let the race rat begin! =)
PS - anyone else see the article about Obama calling the Philly Eagles owner congratulating him on signing Mike Vick? I'd rather he focus on health care, welfare, social security, taxes, economy, foreign relations, etc... Mike Vick while a nice story and props to him for righting his ship, is that something the leader of the free world should be taking time out of his day to be calling about? Ring ring... health care on line 2!
PPS - check out Pat Mahoney's new triathlete social site - Endurance Athlete Project
* disclaimer - this post is laced valid points lined with sarcasm, don't take me too seriously. =)
Monday, December 27, 2010
Have I got the best holiday diet plan for YOU!
Do you dread the holiday weight gain?
Do you fear those chocolate covered peanuts, pretzels, and peanut butter balls??
Do you wish there was a regiment out there that would curb your hunger, result in weight loss and get you past all those tasty desserts and fattening main courses without working out more or changing your diet???
Then are you in luck! I have two simple words that could change your life!
Stomach Flu.
And it could be yours for 3 easy payments of $29.99.
For those small monthly payments, our scientists will have those infected cough in an envelop and mail it to your front door! YOU DON'T EVEN HAVE TO LEAVE YOUR HOUSE.... and once you get it, you won't want to.
So that was our Christmas.
Our 2 year old got it last Wednesday night. She only got sick once but her "tummy hurt" Thursday night. Thursday night my "tummy" started hurting and I was sick once that night but today is Monday and I'm just now feeling about 95% in the tummy department. Usually I stay at 180 for the holidays and this morning I was 171. I'm eating and drinking good enough, but I just don't have an appetite past the first bite of meals. I'm sure it will come back with time. Emily got violently ill Christmas morning and had to get IV fluids. She was still sick last night and hopefully feels better today. The 2 year old is still a little under the weather. Luckily we don't think Liam has been hit but I'm not holding my breathe.
So Christmas goodies, no thanks. Christmas dinner? Bowl of raisin bran. It's all I could take. I think Emily ate a gummy worm.
Not to mention to top it off we got to spend from 12/23 to 12/25 at the hospital again with Liam. Originally it was for a test overnight and then they decided he wasn't eating good enough to go home... until Christmas day at noon. So I picked him up while Emily was in the ER getting fluids.
We tried to scratch a Christmas together Christmas night but we weren't really feeling up to it and the 2 year old was in bed by 6pm.
Sadly it was a holiday to forget. It will undoubtedly be a measuring stick of future holidays... "oh you think this year sucks, remember Christmas 2010? Ya, THAT sucked."
I shouldn't complain. We are on the mend, Liam is home (although no closer to any answers) and it wasn't like we were on the streets or didn't have anything for our kiddos for Christmas.
It just wasn't what you think about when you want to give your kids as good of memories as you have of your holidays when you were a kid.
TRAINING
Ya... the bike, run and swim I had left kind of didn't happen as planned.
I got my 6.1 miles in for Operation Jack Sunday on the treadmill... but it was SLOW going so I didn't upset the applecart and get sick again.
32.7 miles biking
13.55 miles running
3500 yards swimming
FANTASY FOOTBALL
I lost the 3rd place game in CBS. Best finish ever in that league but fourth gets $0. Bummer.
I'm up by 60 points in the yahoo league for first place but the guy that I'm playing has 3 guys left to play and Mike Vick is one of them. MV can score 60 just by himself. I'm worried.
CHIEFS
Chiefs beat Titans. Bengals bear Chargers. Chiefs AFC West champs and guaranteed home playoff game! Who would have seen that coming after only scratching together 10 wins in 3 years and they get that in one year. I guess Todd Haley and Matt Cassel are for real! I'm still a little stunned. I want to enjoy it but I wonder what will happen when the schedule gets tougher next year.
Do you fear those chocolate covered peanuts, pretzels, and peanut butter balls??
Do you wish there was a regiment out there that would curb your hunger, result in weight loss and get you past all those tasty desserts and fattening main courses without working out more or changing your diet???
Then are you in luck! I have two simple words that could change your life!
Stomach Flu.
And it could be yours for 3 easy payments of $29.99.
For those small monthly payments, our scientists will have those infected cough in an envelop and mail it to your front door! YOU DON'T EVEN HAVE TO LEAVE YOUR HOUSE.... and once you get it, you won't want to.
So that was our Christmas.
Our 2 year old got it last Wednesday night. She only got sick once but her "tummy hurt" Thursday night. Thursday night my "tummy" started hurting and I was sick once that night but today is Monday and I'm just now feeling about 95% in the tummy department. Usually I stay at 180 for the holidays and this morning I was 171. I'm eating and drinking good enough, but I just don't have an appetite past the first bite of meals. I'm sure it will come back with time. Emily got violently ill Christmas morning and had to get IV fluids. She was still sick last night and hopefully feels better today. The 2 year old is still a little under the weather. Luckily we don't think Liam has been hit but I'm not holding my breathe.
So Christmas goodies, no thanks. Christmas dinner? Bowl of raisin bran. It's all I could take. I think Emily ate a gummy worm.
Not to mention to top it off we got to spend from 12/23 to 12/25 at the hospital again with Liam. Originally it was for a test overnight and then they decided he wasn't eating good enough to go home... until Christmas day at noon. So I picked him up while Emily was in the ER getting fluids.
We tried to scratch a Christmas together Christmas night but we weren't really feeling up to it and the 2 year old was in bed by 6pm.
Sadly it was a holiday to forget. It will undoubtedly be a measuring stick of future holidays... "oh you think this year sucks, remember Christmas 2010? Ya, THAT sucked."
I shouldn't complain. We are on the mend, Liam is home (although no closer to any answers) and it wasn't like we were on the streets or didn't have anything for our kiddos for Christmas.
It just wasn't what you think about when you want to give your kids as good of memories as you have of your holidays when you were a kid.
TRAINING
Ya... the bike, run and swim I had left kind of didn't happen as planned.
I got my 6.1 miles in for Operation Jack Sunday on the treadmill... but it was SLOW going so I didn't upset the applecart and get sick again.
32.7 miles biking
13.55 miles running
3500 yards swimming
FANTASY FOOTBALL
I lost the 3rd place game in CBS. Best finish ever in that league but fourth gets $0. Bummer.
I'm up by 60 points in the yahoo league for first place but the guy that I'm playing has 3 guys left to play and Mike Vick is one of them. MV can score 60 just by himself. I'm worried.
CHIEFS
Chiefs beat Titans. Bengals bear Chargers. Chiefs AFC West champs and guaranteed home playoff game! Who would have seen that coming after only scratching together 10 wins in 3 years and they get that in one year. I guess Todd Haley and Matt Cassel are for real! I'm still a little stunned. I want to enjoy it but I wonder what will happen when the schedule gets tougher next year.
Friday, December 24, 2010
Christmas Somewhat Derailed
It's great when your company gives you Dec 23rd and 24th off since the 25th is on a Saturday. Ahh a four day weekend... until you feel some tummy rumbles the night of the 22nd.
What we thought was an isolated instance of our two year old getting sick to her stomach was actually the stomach flu. She started Tuesday night and I followed Wednesday night. So, what was going to be a glorious day off of maybe a trainer ride in the basement early and a day to catch up around the house was a day spent in bed flopping around in discomfort. Today I feel 75% better but not good enough to do any training. I have just enough energy to do some chores around the house and keep up with our two year old. That's about it for today.
Maybe I can catch a trainer ride after Santa drops off his payload early tomorrow morning...
With that, I'll leave you with the following fantastic Christmas lighting set to KU theme courtesy of my Mother-In-Law who is probably more for MU than KU if it came down ti it. =) Enjoy!
What we thought was an isolated instance of our two year old getting sick to her stomach was actually the stomach flu. She started Tuesday night and I followed Wednesday night. So, what was going to be a glorious day off of maybe a trainer ride in the basement early and a day to catch up around the house was a day spent in bed flopping around in discomfort. Today I feel 75% better but not good enough to do any training. I have just enough energy to do some chores around the house and keep up with our two year old. That's about it for today.
Maybe I can catch a trainer ride after Santa drops off his payload early tomorrow morning...
With that, I'll leave you with the following fantastic Christmas lighting set to KU theme courtesy of my Mother-In-Law who is probably more for MU than KU if it came down ti it. =) Enjoy!
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Christmas Cards Are a New Endurance Event
Over the years the Christmas card list has grown and grown. I think we have like 25 or 30 people. Card, Christmas letter, stuff in envelope, seal, address, stamp and mail... 30 times. I need to train for this next year. And, there's nothing like mailing them out 3 days before Christmas. It's the thought that counts?
TRAINING
Good start this week. I'm not sure what the rest of the week will bring but I did get the go-ahead for running the Operation Jack satellite run Sunday morning. If you are doing a long run, consider signing up and helping a good cause!
That would take care of the 3rd run for the week, already have 2 rides... need another ride and swim at some point with 2 days to work with that I don't have to go to work on! Should be a slam dunk.
32.7 miles biking
7.45 miles running
3500 yards swimming
Since everyone else was posting year end totals, I'm looking at:
2530.5 miles biking
705.6 miles running
329,165 yards swimming, 187 miles --> upped that to focus on the weakest event
EXAMINER / CHIEFS
Caught wind of EveryManTri article talking about NFL QB's wearing wetsuits to play in the cold. Matt Cassel from the Chiefs was mentioned! Way to go, appendixless Matt!
FALKEE TRIATHLON
Dec 26th is the deadline for athletes to submit a request to join. 50+ people have sent me a note so that's encouraging! Hopefully I can get people picked by the new year and hook them up with the sponsors.
FANTASY FOOTBALL
I'm sweatin my games for 3rd and 1st in my two leagues I'm still alive. I keep flip-flopping who to start. Chad Ochocinco or Fred Jackson for a flex position? Will Ronnie Brown with the Colts show up like last week?? AHHH!!!!!
Sign up for the Falkee newsletter and get the inside scoop! Anyone that signs up will get a code for XTERRA trail shoes discount and Jelly Belly jelly beans discount! AND... wait for it... I'll resend the December 2010 newsletter to you so you don't feel left out! =)
TRAINING
Good start this week. I'm not sure what the rest of the week will bring but I did get the go-ahead for running the Operation Jack satellite run Sunday morning. If you are doing a long run, consider signing up and helping a good cause!
That would take care of the 3rd run for the week, already have 2 rides... need another ride and swim at some point with 2 days to work with that I don't have to go to work on! Should be a slam dunk.
32.7 miles biking
7.45 miles running
3500 yards swimming
Since everyone else was posting year end totals, I'm looking at:
2530.5 miles biking
705.6 miles running
329,165 yards swimming, 187 miles --> upped that to focus on the weakest event
EXAMINER / CHIEFS
Caught wind of EveryManTri article talking about NFL QB's wearing wetsuits to play in the cold. Matt Cassel from the Chiefs was mentioned! Way to go, appendixless Matt!
FALKEE TRIATHLON
Dec 26th is the deadline for athletes to submit a request to join. 50+ people have sent me a note so that's encouraging! Hopefully I can get people picked by the new year and hook them up with the sponsors.
FANTASY FOOTBALL
I'm sweatin my games for 3rd and 1st in my two leagues I'm still alive. I keep flip-flopping who to start. Chad Ochocinco or Fred Jackson for a flex position? Will Ronnie Brown with the Colts show up like last week?? AHHH!!!!!
Sign up for the Falkee newsletter and get the inside scoop! Anyone that signs up will get a code for XTERRA trail shoes discount and Jelly Belly jelly beans discount! AND... wait for it... I'll resend the December 2010 newsletter to you so you don't feel left out! =)
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Facial Hair is Key to the Offseason
Steve in a Speedo knows that facial hair is a off-season luxury. But, he shaved his off a little premature. I hear that's not the only thing he's premature on (some Steve humor - just a joke people!).
In all seriousness, I'm glad I grew the goatee. I only have one balaclava and it was already nasty from a run last week and hadn't been washed so I didn't have it for a lunch ride this week. Ya, that's right. It was around 46 degrees for lunch yesterday here in KC so I went for a bike ride! I had a stocking cap thankfully, but my goatee saved my face from the chill. If I didn't have to look "professional" for work, I'd let it all grow out all winter to endure winter runs outside. You guys could help me lose the day job by reading my Examiner articles and sharing with others... then I could look like a scrub year-round! I'm not sure how my wife would handle that, though.
TRAINING
Only got in around 6 hours last week. Liam being in the hospital took up mist of the free time so I squeezed in what I could in the mornings. Not bad, but hopefully I can keep up the trend this week and get pool time in.
Last week:
60 miles cycling
13.81 miles running
No swimming - sad
This week so far:
16.7 miles cycling
7.45 miles running
3500 yards swimming
I'm looking into running a satellite run for Operation Jack this Sunday. Check it out. If you are running anyway, sign up and run for the cause!
EXAMINER
Tips for Running in the Cold Part 1
Tips for Running in the Cold Part 2
EVENTS
I did it. I signed up for the Leadville 100 Mountain Bike race. Well, I signed up for the lottery. I'm pretty sure I won't make it in but who knows. Nice challenge, right?
HAMMER NUTRITION
Check out Hammer Nutrition. I'm using their Perpetuem for long rides and runs. If you order from me, you get 15% off your first order. Check it out. Anyone else use Hammer? How do you like it?
FANTASY FOOTBALL
Peyton Manning let me down in my CBS league, along with Fred Jackson, Vernon Davis... and more. Peyton did ok, but not good enough. I'm playing for 3rd place but 4th gets nothing so the pressure is on.
My yahoo league I'm now playing for 1st place! The other guy has Mike Vick and he's been an animal, and he's playing the sad sack Vikings. At least I get something for 2nd place...
In all seriousness, I'm glad I grew the goatee. I only have one balaclava and it was already nasty from a run last week and hadn't been washed so I didn't have it for a lunch ride this week. Ya, that's right. It was around 46 degrees for lunch yesterday here in KC so I went for a bike ride! I had a stocking cap thankfully, but my goatee saved my face from the chill. If I didn't have to look "professional" for work, I'd let it all grow out all winter to endure winter runs outside. You guys could help me lose the day job by reading my Examiner articles and sharing with others... then I could look like a scrub year-round! I'm not sure how my wife would handle that, though.
TRAINING
Only got in around 6 hours last week. Liam being in the hospital took up mist of the free time so I squeezed in what I could in the mornings. Not bad, but hopefully I can keep up the trend this week and get pool time in.
Last week:
60 miles cycling
13.81 miles running
No swimming - sad
This week so far:
16.7 miles cycling
7.45 miles running
3500 yards swimming
I'm looking into running a satellite run for Operation Jack this Sunday. Check it out. If you are running anyway, sign up and run for the cause!
EXAMINER
Tips for Running in the Cold Part 1
Tips for Running in the Cold Part 2
EVENTS
I did it. I signed up for the Leadville 100 Mountain Bike race. Well, I signed up for the lottery. I'm pretty sure I won't make it in but who knows. Nice challenge, right?
HAMMER NUTRITION
Check out Hammer Nutrition. I'm using their Perpetuem for long rides and runs. If you order from me, you get 15% off your first order. Check it out. Anyone else use Hammer? How do you like it?
FANTASY FOOTBALL
Peyton Manning let me down in my CBS league, along with Fred Jackson, Vernon Davis... and more. Peyton did ok, but not good enough. I'm playing for 3rd place but 4th gets nothing so the pressure is on.
My yahoo league I'm now playing for 1st place! The other guy has Mike Vick and he's been an animal, and he's playing the sad sack Vikings. At least I get something for 2nd place...
Friday, December 17, 2010
Brrrr... are you a fool like me?
Decided I couldn't make myself run the dreadmill. Ran over lunch today (30 degrees compared to 20 this morning) for my long week run. It was cold. I had enough coverage everyplace else but my hands. I had some dinky cotton gloves under some heavier athletic gloves, but it wasn't enough with the light wind we had over lunch. FROZEN DIGITS! I didn't heed my own advice...
Get some gloves! I need to find better options. I have good cycling gloves but with less mobility than I want when running.
We'll see what Santa brings me if I need to go get some better options.
But I have to admit that lunch time running wakes me up and makes the afternoon that much more bearable (as in I'm not as tired and wiped out feeling). Odd how that works. =)
Get some gloves! I need to find better options. I have good cycling gloves but with less mobility than I want when running.
We'll see what Santa brings me if I need to go get some better options.
But I have to admit that lunch time running wakes me up and makes the afternoon that much more bearable (as in I'm not as tired and wiped out feeling). Odd how that works. =)
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Oh the anticipation!
NEWSLETTER COMING OUT TOMORROW! Rain or shine! Don't be left out! VERY exciting!! Have I captured your curiosity? Don't miss out! Sign up over on the right ---->
Don't be that one reader that doesn't know what's going on! My newsletters will be unlocking the mysteries of the world! Want to know how the earth was made? Want to know the scientific formula for plexi-glass is? Ok, you won't get some of that on my newsletter but you will get some good deals from my sponsors and affiliates and recap of the good stuff I produce on the blog, Examiner and EveryManTri.
Ok, now that I have that out of the way.
Liam is home as of last night. He eats well and breathes a lot better. He's very fussy, though. And, in pain a lot. Not the Oxycontin pain, but need something stronger than baby Tylenol pain. Hopefully we find a fix for him so we can sleep (by we I mean Emily since she tends to him to let me sleep/train/do what I need to during the week to watch the kiddos all weekend).
Now... if I can just get to those Christmas letters so they don't become New Year's letters...
Don't be that one reader that doesn't know what's going on! My newsletters will be unlocking the mysteries of the world! Want to know how the earth was made? Want to know the scientific formula for plexi-glass is? Ok, you won't get some of that on my newsletter but you will get some good deals from my sponsors and affiliates and recap of the good stuff I produce on the blog, Examiner and EveryManTri.
Ok, now that I have that out of the way.
Liam is home as of last night. He eats well and breathes a lot better. He's very fussy, though. And, in pain a lot. Not the Oxycontin pain, but need something stronger than baby Tylenol pain. Hopefully we find a fix for him so we can sleep (by we I mean Emily since she tends to him to let me sleep/train/do what I need to during the week to watch the kiddos all weekend).
Now... if I can just get to those Christmas letters so they don't become New Year's letters...
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
I did it!
I got up for my morning workout, again! Not as early as I wanted, but I got a good 47 minutes of speed workout on the ole treadmill. Speaking of treadmills, here's my latest article on treadmill pros and cons. With the weather the way it is, better get used to running indoors unless you dress like an Eskimo!
TRAINING
Two days in a row making it up for morning workouts! Just need to keep it up to allow this weekend to be recovery while Emily is at work and I got the kiddos! Hopefully Liam comes home soon and I will be able to use lunches to get it in, too.
I'd list the stats but they are pretty anemic at this point, sadly.
TRIATHLON STORE
Check out the revamped TRIATHLON STORE I'm working on! Not all sites have been added, but the main swimming, running and biking sections have been posted! Consider checking them out!
EXAMINER
Treadmill Pros and Cons
Special note - I have been picked up by a special sponsor for my writing until March! Please help me out by checking out stories and sharing with friends!
EVERYMAN TRI
10 Swim Drills
FALKEE TRIATHON
New sponsor XTERRA WETSUIT added! Falkee Triathletes will be having a LARGE selection of sponsors to use and get great discounts! They keep rolling in!
We also added Endurance Athlete Project as a partner site. Pat Mahoney started the site, and for a new start-up, I find it very functional and comparable to other existing triathlete social sites! Check it out!
FAMILY
Hopefully Liam comes home today. We do not have a definitive answer why he is not 100% so we are guarded that we may have to turn right around and take him back in. Fingers crossed.
TRAINING
Two days in a row making it up for morning workouts! Just need to keep it up to allow this weekend to be recovery while Emily is at work and I got the kiddos! Hopefully Liam comes home soon and I will be able to use lunches to get it in, too.
I'd list the stats but they are pretty anemic at this point, sadly.
TRIATHLON STORE
Check out the revamped TRIATHLON STORE I'm working on! Not all sites have been added, but the main swimming, running and biking sections have been posted! Consider checking them out!
EXAMINER
Treadmill Pros and Cons
Special note - I have been picked up by a special sponsor for my writing until March! Please help me out by checking out stories and sharing with friends!
EVERYMAN TRI
10 Swim Drills
FALKEE TRIATHON
New sponsor XTERRA WETSUIT added! Falkee Triathletes will be having a LARGE selection of sponsors to use and get great discounts! They keep rolling in!
FAMILY
Hopefully Liam comes home today. We do not have a definitive answer why he is not 100% so we are guarded that we may have to turn right around and take him back in. Fingers crossed.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Heads Up!
Check out the box to the right to sign up for the Falkee Tri Newsletter! I'm aiming to get one out at the end of this week. Training tips, blog summary, shopping discounts and MORE!
NO SPAM! I swear!
Plus, sign up now and get a code for 25% off XTERRA trail running shoes. Did you know they made shoes!? Not just wetsuits!
NO SPAM! I swear!
Plus, sign up now and get a code for 25% off XTERRA trail running shoes. Did you know they made shoes!? Not just wetsuits!
Monday, December 13, 2010
Another cold one...
No, not another cold beer... another cold week.
Temps started in upper 30's Saturday morning and tanked from there. By 3pm we had snow blowing in at 30mph and by Sunday morning the temps were single digits and about of inch of snow blown around. Today started the same and only a high of 20 is the forecast. This week will maybe peak at 30 degrees at some point. So, the trainer and treadmill have become my friend.
At least I wasn't counting on the Metrodome in Minnesota for indoor running! Roof gave way to 17 inches of snow and now all the runners that used it when there was nothing going on have to find someplace else until it gets fixed!
TRAINING
I don't think I was outside at all last week. A. We have a sick kid that Emily is with and I have the 2 year old at home and there's no way I'm taking her out in this! B. It's just too cold. It doesn't go by as fast but I do find you can do more specific work knowing that you can control the treadmill speed and on the trainer you don't have to pay attention to traffic, turn, stop, etc... just spin. It has up sides and down sides.
Cycling - 56 miles
Running - 14.55 miles
Swimming - 3500 yards
Pretty much a half Ironman for the week!
FANTASY FOOTBALL
I made the playoffs in 2 of my 3 leagues.
I'm up by 55+ points in both going into tonight and either team I play only has one player to go. Peaking at the right time! Maybe I can win some money to offset medical bills! Woo hoo! You know you are an adult when medical bills beat out ZIPP wheels or anything fun.
Temps started in upper 30's Saturday morning and tanked from there. By 3pm we had snow blowing in at 30mph and by Sunday morning the temps were single digits and about of inch of snow blown around. Today started the same and only a high of 20 is the forecast. This week will maybe peak at 30 degrees at some point. So, the trainer and treadmill have become my friend.
At least I wasn't counting on the Metrodome in Minnesota for indoor running! Roof gave way to 17 inches of snow and now all the runners that used it when there was nothing going on have to find someplace else until it gets fixed!
TRAINING
I don't think I was outside at all last week. A. We have a sick kid that Emily is with and I have the 2 year old at home and there's no way I'm taking her out in this! B. It's just too cold. It doesn't go by as fast but I do find you can do more specific work knowing that you can control the treadmill speed and on the trainer you don't have to pay attention to traffic, turn, stop, etc... just spin. It has up sides and down sides.
Cycling - 56 miles
Running - 14.55 miles
Swimming - 3500 yards
Pretty much a half Ironman for the week!
FANTASY FOOTBALL
I made the playoffs in 2 of my 3 leagues.
I'm up by 55+ points in both going into tonight and either team I play only has one player to go. Peaking at the right time! Maybe I can win some money to offset medical bills! Woo hoo! You know you are an adult when medical bills beat out ZIPP wheels or anything fun.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
You do not talk about Fight Club
Is Fight Club appropriate Christmas movie watching? Probably not, however, it's what on while I wrap up some online work.
TRAINING
This week has been a little low on training with the Liam situation. He's not been cooperating like wanting to not sound like a goose while breathing, so his surgery has taken precedence.
I did manage almost 5 hours for the week. Hoping for a treadmill run tomorrow morning (bleh) as winter has finally come to town here in Kansas City. Temps in the teens, 30 mph wind gusts, snow (only around an inch expected). Plus I'm watching the 2 year old solo so I can't leave the house and running in single digit temps PROBABLY isn't a good idea with a 2 year old. =)
I am surprised at being able to hold 19+ mph on the trainer. I credit that to getting outdoor rides later in the year over lunch at work, keeping my bike legs.
EXAMINER
Moneyman Ironman
Bike Recall
Kansas City Events
FALKEE TRIATHLON
We have gained a new sponsor! The Regimen has been added. Falkee Triathlon members get a free month of Condition level membership to try out! Thanks to @KTFit on twitter!
We're up to 6 sponsors, and 2 more are pending! Very exciting! 40+ athletes have sent in requests to be a part of the inaugural season, and I'm narrowing it down to 10 total. Good competition out there! Hope to have the team narrowed down after New Years!
FAMILY
Liam, oh Liam. He's still having a rough time. I don't want to get too in depth but he could definitely be doing better. It puts a little bit of a dark cloud on the holiday season, training, work and life to have him and Emily gone so much. All you can do is pray and hope for the best.
Hope winter is treating everyone good out there!
TRAINING
This week has been a little low on training with the Liam situation. He's not been cooperating like wanting to not sound like a goose while breathing, so his surgery has taken precedence.
I did manage almost 5 hours for the week. Hoping for a treadmill run tomorrow morning (bleh) as winter has finally come to town here in Kansas City. Temps in the teens, 30 mph wind gusts, snow (only around an inch expected). Plus I'm watching the 2 year old solo so I can't leave the house and running in single digit temps PROBABLY isn't a good idea with a 2 year old. =)
I am surprised at being able to hold 19+ mph on the trainer. I credit that to getting outdoor rides later in the year over lunch at work, keeping my bike legs.
EXAMINER
Moneyman Ironman
Bike Recall
Kansas City Events
FALKEE TRIATHLON
We have gained a new sponsor! The Regimen has been added. Falkee Triathlon members get a free month of Condition level membership to try out! Thanks to @KTFit on twitter!
We're up to 6 sponsors, and 2 more are pending! Very exciting! 40+ athletes have sent in requests to be a part of the inaugural season, and I'm narrowing it down to 10 total. Good competition out there! Hope to have the team narrowed down after New Years!
FAMILY
Liam, oh Liam. He's still having a rough time. I don't want to get too in depth but he could definitely be doing better. It puts a little bit of a dark cloud on the holiday season, training, work and life to have him and Emily gone so much. All you can do is pray and hope for the best.
Hope winter is treating everyone good out there!
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Hump Day
Wednesday has a new meaning for hump day.
Our 3 month old son, Liam, has been battling issues with his health ever since birth. This has culminated in a double whammy surgery today to knock out two issues. We tried using medications and other means to control his issues, but he proved that he wasn't going with that plan.
So hopefully today is his hump day and it's smooth sailing after today. He went through the procedures with no problems and we await to see how recovery will go at the hospital and at home.
TRAINING
With family issues going on, I've been limiting myself to mornings only on the treadmill or trainer, saving lunches and after work for hospital visits and tending to the family.
If I was better about getting up on time, I'd have more done in the week. =) Dang snooze button. Gets me all the time and when it's 19 degrees outside, those covers are extra warm!
EXAMINER
Garmin 310XT Article
Kansas City Events
EVERYMAN TRI
Ironman Needs Revamping
FAMILY
Like I wrote above, kiddo had more surgery but the outlook is good so far!
FANTASY FOOTBALL
Yahoo League 1 - Went 6-7, missed playoffs.... Peyton did not pay off.
Yahoo League 2 - Went 9-3, 3 seed in playoffs.
CBS League - Went 7-6, 4 seed in playoffs.
Big weekend coming up!
That's all for now, short and sweet. Need to get back to the family. Thank you all for the well wishes and prayers, they have done the trick thus far! Keep em coming!
Our 3 month old son, Liam, has been battling issues with his health ever since birth. This has culminated in a double whammy surgery today to knock out two issues. We tried using medications and other means to control his issues, but he proved that he wasn't going with that plan.
So hopefully today is his hump day and it's smooth sailing after today. He went through the procedures with no problems and we await to see how recovery will go at the hospital and at home.
TRAINING
With family issues going on, I've been limiting myself to mornings only on the treadmill or trainer, saving lunches and after work for hospital visits and tending to the family.
If I was better about getting up on time, I'd have more done in the week. =) Dang snooze button. Gets me all the time and when it's 19 degrees outside, those covers are extra warm!
EXAMINER
Garmin 310XT Article
Kansas City Events
EVERYMAN TRI
Ironman Needs Revamping
FAMILY
Like I wrote above, kiddo had more surgery but the outlook is good so far!
FANTASY FOOTBALL
Yahoo League 1 - Went 6-7, missed playoffs.... Peyton did not pay off.
Yahoo League 2 - Went 9-3, 3 seed in playoffs.
CBS League - Went 7-6, 4 seed in playoffs.
Big weekend coming up!
That's all for now, short and sweet. Need to get back to the family. Thank you all for the well wishes and prayers, they have done the trick thus far! Keep em coming!
Monday, December 6, 2010
Made it up this morning!
So I actually got out of bed on time this morning for my trainer ride.
Yeah getting morning workout in.
Boo for having to ride inside on a trainer.
Boo for 17 degree mornings and no snow to show for it. Either snow and 17 degrees, or sunny and 75. Pick one, mother nature!
TRAINING
31.75 miles cycling
17.43 miles running
6500 yard swimming
7.4 hours
I got in a nice 9 miler Saturday (brrrrrrr) and rest was on tap for the weekend minus the soccer game Sunday. It's nice cross training and I think my abdominal injury from last year has heeled up as I don't have pain the day after soccer these days! Yeah for not being too old to play!
We are looking at 40+ degrees here in KC towards Wed, Thur and Friday. Hoping to get some bike rides and runs outside over lunch!
FAMILY / LIFE
It's not really family per say, but I just got wind that KDOT is looking to redesign a major highway interchange that I drive daily. As it stands right now, as long as I get out on the road by 7am, it's a smooth 15 minute drive. Past 7, it turns into 30 minutes.
When I come home, from 4pm to 6pm it's like a parking lot. 30 minutes easy. 45 on a bad day.
So if they fix it, that saves 15 minutes each way, 30 minutes a day, 2.5 hours a week! Think what training I could do with that extra 2.5 hours!!!!!!! Ok ok, MAYBE I'll use it to hang out with the family more. =) Kidding! But it would make life a little nicer not to waste 2.5 hours a week sitting in my car. Spending time with the Fam or working out would be an upgrade over car time.
Yeah getting morning workout in.
Boo for having to ride inside on a trainer.
Boo for 17 degree mornings and no snow to show for it. Either snow and 17 degrees, or sunny and 75. Pick one, mother nature!
TRAINING
31.75 miles cycling
17.43 miles running
6500 yard swimming
7.4 hours
I got in a nice 9 miler Saturday (brrrrrrr) and rest was on tap for the weekend minus the soccer game Sunday. It's nice cross training and I think my abdominal injury from last year has heeled up as I don't have pain the day after soccer these days! Yeah for not being too old to play!
We are looking at 40+ degrees here in KC towards Wed, Thur and Friday. Hoping to get some bike rides and runs outside over lunch!
FAMILY / LIFE
It's not really family per say, but I just got wind that KDOT is looking to redesign a major highway interchange that I drive daily. As it stands right now, as long as I get out on the road by 7am, it's a smooth 15 minute drive. Past 7, it turns into 30 minutes.
When I come home, from 4pm to 6pm it's like a parking lot. 30 minutes easy. 45 on a bad day.
So if they fix it, that saves 15 minutes each way, 30 minutes a day, 2.5 hours a week! Think what training I could do with that extra 2.5 hours!!!!!!! Ok ok, MAYBE I'll use it to hang out with the family more. =) Kidding! But it would make life a little nicer not to waste 2.5 hours a week sitting in my car. Spending time with the Fam or working out would be an upgrade over car time.
Friday, December 3, 2010
Friday is the New Sunday
You know that feeling on Sunday? The feeling that ya, today is a day off, but you know Monday is coming and you get to go back to work the next day? That's what my Friday's have turned into.
Let me explain. Emily has been working a lot of weekends as of late and I'm on dad patrol of a 2 month old and a 2 year old Satudays and Sundays. Those with kids know that they are a full time job, especially if it's one parent to two kids. So I have the day job, and the weekend job. ;0) Like most stay at home moms say, "I work full time and don't get paid".
While I love my kids and don't take for granted my wife watching them during the week, that's a tall order for a OCD gotta get stuff done person like myself. Most of my to-do's probably aren't life or death, but my personality is such that I like to check things off the list.
Two kids are full time action. But you could also say I'm lucky to get the one on one time I do. Just wish I had a little more sleep to work with. =o)
Wake up, eat, poop, finish eating, burp, sit around for 10 minutes, fuss, cry, hold him, sleep for 20 minutes, wake up and repeat... and that's just me! What?
TRAINING
Cycling - 32 miles so far
Running - 8.5 miles so far
Swimming - 6500 yards
Hoping for a trainer ride tonight before bed time and a long run tomorrow. We shall see if that happens as planned. =)
EXAMINER
Kansas City Events Early Bird Pricing
Kansas City Santa Run
Running at Night Tips Part 1
Running at Night Tips Part 2
EVERYMAN TRI
Get Faster On The Bike - Weight vs Gear
FALKEE TRIATHLON
Added Smartmount as a new sponsor on Falkee Triathlon!
Let me explain. Emily has been working a lot of weekends as of late and I'm on dad patrol of a 2 month old and a 2 year old Satudays and Sundays. Those with kids know that they are a full time job, especially if it's one parent to two kids. So I have the day job, and the weekend job. ;0) Like most stay at home moms say, "I work full time and don't get paid".
While I love my kids and don't take for granted my wife watching them during the week, that's a tall order for a OCD gotta get stuff done person like myself. Most of my to-do's probably aren't life or death, but my personality is such that I like to check things off the list.
Two kids are full time action. But you could also say I'm lucky to get the one on one time I do. Just wish I had a little more sleep to work with. =o)
Wake up, eat, poop, finish eating, burp, sit around for 10 minutes, fuss, cry, hold him, sleep for 20 minutes, wake up and repeat... and that's just me! What?
TRAINING
Cycling - 32 miles so far
Running - 8.5 miles so far
Swimming - 6500 yards
Hoping for a trainer ride tonight before bed time and a long run tomorrow. We shall see if that happens as planned. =)
EXAMINER
Kansas City Events Early Bird Pricing
Kansas City Santa Run
Running at Night Tips Part 1
Running at Night Tips Part 2
EVERYMAN TRI
Get Faster On The Bike - Weight vs Gear
FALKEE TRIATHLON
Added Smartmount as a new sponsor on Falkee Triathlon!
I also ordered my first shipment of Grease Monkey Wipes! I'm excited to get them in and try them out on my nasty garage and dirty bikes!
FAMILY
So far so good on the home front. Liam had an appointment yesterday and we are looking at options that include surgery for his reflux problems. I'm not a fan of more surgeries so we have a consult next Tuesday to find out more info. Hopefully we can get a good direction to go.
Hope everyone has a good weekend! Also, don't miss out on the email newsletter sign up and get your 24% off code for Champs Sports! If you tweet at me on twitter "I want some good stuff from XTERRA" I'll shoot you a code for 25% off XTERRA running shoes!
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Newsletter
Heads up!
If you join my mailing list between 12/3/10 and 12/6/10 you will get a discount code for Champs Sports for 25% off with no minimum (good between 12/3 and 12/6).
The newsletter will give you:
A. One Newsletter per month-ish
B. Highlights from the Blog
C. Highlights from Falkee Triathlon Developments
D. Highlights from EverymanTri.com
E. Easy to unsubscribe if it's not your bag, baby
Subscribe tab is over on the right under my profile.
Go on, sign up, you know you want to! Be an insider!!!!
If you join my mailing list between 12/3/10 and 12/6/10 you will get a discount code for Champs Sports for 25% off with no minimum (good between 12/3 and 12/6).
The newsletter will give you:
A. One Newsletter per month-ish
B. Highlights from the Blog
C. Highlights from Falkee Triathlon Developments
D. Highlights from EverymanTri.com
E. Easy to unsubscribe if it's not your bag, baby
Subscribe tab is over on the right under my profile.
Go on, sign up, you know you want to! Be an insider!!!!
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Some Baklava to Keep You Warm?
So lunch ride was COLD! We here in KC are in the middle of a little cold front and I was out at lunch like a nit wit riding. You have to get it in when you can and I'm not a huge trainer fan, so over lunch in near freezing temps it was.
Couple thoughts.
1. Wish I hadn't shaved down the goatee.
2. Wish I had brought shoe covers.
3. Glad I bought insulated work gloves from Westlake Hardware to use.
4. Sad I forgot some facial protection.
About #4, and the pun in my post title, I forgot to bring the one balaclava (not the tasty pastry baklava) I own. It was in the wash and I forgot to get it from the clean clothes pile. As luck would have it I stashed a stocking cap in my bag so I had that for my ears... and thought my face couldn't get that cold.
Wrong.
It's like when you lift and do new exercises and feel muscles you didn't know you had. I felt parts of my face I didn't think I had feeling in. It was a little painful at times but I made it. Is it any wonder I'm still trying to shake my cold leftovers? It's not the smartest move but like I said, I get out when I can.
I do know this, I'm buying more balaclavas asap!
Starting at $14.95 from AMAZON.com
Starting at $17.95 from TriVillage.com
Starting at $11.99 from Buy.com
Couple thoughts.
1. Wish I hadn't shaved down the goatee.
2. Wish I had brought shoe covers.
3. Glad I bought insulated work gloves from Westlake Hardware to use.
4. Sad I forgot some facial protection.
About #4, and the pun in my post title, I forgot to bring the one balaclava (not the tasty pastry baklava) I own. It was in the wash and I forgot to get it from the clean clothes pile. As luck would have it I stashed a stocking cap in my bag so I had that for my ears... and thought my face couldn't get that cold.
Wrong.
It's like when you lift and do new exercises and feel muscles you didn't know you had. I felt parts of my face I didn't think I had feeling in. It was a little painful at times but I made it. Is it any wonder I'm still trying to shake my cold leftovers? It's not the smartest move but like I said, I get out when I can.
I do know this, I'm buying more balaclavas asap!
Starting at $14.95 from AMAZON.com
Starting at $17.95 from TriVillage.com
Starting at $11.99 from Buy.com
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