My lightbulb moment . . . . . .

I've been thinking lately about why I struggle mentally on my bike.   I think the trouble started when my neck started hurting on the long rides and then it progressed to just a bad attitude and negative thoughts about cycling.  Honestly, it got to the point where I dreaded riding at all.  In the last month I have really enjoyed cycling and realized my neck is still uncomfortable but my attitude has changed.  That was my lightbulb moment!! 

It's really simple when looking back but it's impossible to see when you're in the middle of it.  I fully expect to have good and bad days on my bike, but I feel strongly that my mental attitude will take the drama out of my rides.

Now that I've made friends with my fantastic Felt bike, I think it is time to name her . . . . . maybe it is actually a year overdo!!   I got my bike right before my dear mom passed away, and I've just had a block on naming her.  I wasn't able to physically pick up my bike from the bike shop for a few weeks out of heartbreak for my mom, and that has stayed with me all this time.  Grief is an interesting thing.

I don't know yet what I'll name my bike, but when I hear it, I'll know it is right!

"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal."

I miss you, mom. 

The First Post

Well, if you're reading this, you're probably pretty surprised that I'm doing another Ironman, especially one this year.   I have a plan . . . . . (I hear Sandy and Julie snickering at my now infamous saying) . . . . .  but I really do have a plan.   Since all my favorite runners are training for the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, D.C. this October and I can't do that race because I'm doing the Miami Half Ironman on the same weekend, I am going to do IMAZ and be able to train with them.  My plan also involves focusing on running for 2011 and taking a break from triathlon, at least the long distances.  Another reason I'm doing IMAZ (Ironman Arizona) is I really NEED to do another Ironman, after my disaster training for Ironman St. George - that is another blog for another day how that messed with my head.   Bye - I guess that's how you sign off . . . . . .