Checking the List
I feel like Santa this week. I have been making lists and checking them more than twice all week. Although I haven't packed the first thing, my OCD and likeness for lists and post-it notes has made my desk look like an Office Depot has exploded in here. I have a trip list, a kitchen needs list, a list for both special needs bags, a list for the transitions, and a list that is a master list for the other lists. And even with all of my checks and balances in place, I'll still forget something ....
This morning marked the very last long brick workout in the training schedule. It was a freezing 56 degrees here in Central FL when I hit the trail this morning at 6am and at 20+ miles per hour, the temperature felt like it was closer to zero. The head wind and artic chill had me so uncomfortable, that I was forced to slow down and re-think my clothing strategy for next week. I even caught myself talking into my iphone during the ride workout making a new list! At the conclusion of this morning's ride, I was so bummed so see such a pitiful bike ride. It was without a doubt the slowest and most pathetic 3 hour ride I have ever done which quickly sunk me into depression and second doubting this venture. I blamed everything for this except the man in the mirror too. Once I was on the run, I forced myself to make up for the lousy ride by turning out the fatest run pace I have ever done coming right off the bike. So the day wasn't a total loss.
With the bike now at the Trek dealer being cleaned and serviced, I am able to cross that tid bit off the list. I was able to gain some useful knowledge regarding the 7 days nutritional needs prior to Ironman this past week during a last minute and very late webinar that I was tipped off about. Caffeine, alcohol, and anything sweet and fun is off limits while the body hydrates with water and fills the energy banks. I have to tell you that I am in need of inner spark sparkiness now more than ever since no caffeine and sweets has left me crabbier than usual. I guess I need to apologize now for anyone I offend or aggravate between now and next Saturday night!
I'll start putting things in seperate piles for the journey to Panama City in the coming days. But for now I'll study the lists, continue to jot things down as they come to mind, and try and stay focused, because next time I update this blog, I pray that it will be signed by an Ironman ....
