For those of you who don't know, I will be spending the next 5 weeks in Columbus, Ohio while on rotation at Grant Medical Center. A classmate and I are staying in a furnished 2 bedroom/2 bath apartment provided by the hospital, which is quite nice, actually. It's managed by a corporate housing company, so it's not exactly homey...it feels like a nice extended stay hotel. The only problem is...there were no signs of Christmas cheer here when I arrived yesterday.
So, today I went out and bought a nice big red Poinsettia, a small wooden sleigh (think counter-top nick-nack), and a candle that smells like Christmas cookies. I also bought an apple-cinnamon air freshner for my bathroom. Granted, many of you are decorating elaborate trees and hanging lights, garland, and wreaths, but this little corner of Ohio where I temporarily reside now has just enough holiday cheer to get me into the mood to Christmas shop. Now, what did I do with that list?.....
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Brrrrr, already.
This week I'm on vacation relief in Lawrenceburg, TN. Basically, I'm covering for a classmate who's on vacation. The hospital is 1:45 away from my house, so they provide us a house to stay in. It's a decent little place, and it's got everything one needs...heat, washer/dryer, hot water with good water pressure, cable, internet connection...you know, the basics.
Today I got out of the hospital at 1pm after doing 11 cataract cases. Yep, I did 11 cases in under 5 hours. Our team today was the model of effeciency to say the least. With an entire afternoon to myself I figured I go for a ride. It's important to mention that it snowed here yesterday and many school districts in TN were closed d/t weather today. So, I had mapped out the nearest portion of the Natchez Trace and decided I'd try to add a few miles onto the end of the furthest point to which I'd ridden while training for the century. In effect, I'm piecing my way down the Natchez trace, which is over 440 miles long! It would be ~20 miles north to my furthest point, and 20 miles back to the car, and I should be able to make it by sunset - that was the plan. Well, I started riding north and had gone 15 miles before I realized that I wasn't going to make it back to the car before sunset, so I had to turn around. I finished just before the sun went down, but the last 5 miles were basically in the shade where it was 38 degrees!!!
All told I rode 30 miles in 2:18 and I never stopped once!!! I was absolutely frozen on the drive back to the house; I never realized I could stand my car heater at 90 degrees for any length of time, but today it was hardly hot enough. When I made it back to the house, the super hot shower with great water pressure was wonderful...it was actually probably better than I would've had at home.
While I'm glad that I got out, rode, cleared my head, and challenged the elements....what was I thinking? It's freaking cold out there, people!
Today I got out of the hospital at 1pm after doing 11 cataract cases. Yep, I did 11 cases in under 5 hours. Our team today was the model of effeciency to say the least. With an entire afternoon to myself I figured I go for a ride. It's important to mention that it snowed here yesterday and many school districts in TN were closed d/t weather today. So, I had mapped out the nearest portion of the Natchez Trace and decided I'd try to add a few miles onto the end of the furthest point to which I'd ridden while training for the century. In effect, I'm piecing my way down the Natchez trace, which is over 440 miles long! It would be ~20 miles north to my furthest point, and 20 miles back to the car, and I should be able to make it by sunset - that was the plan. Well, I started riding north and had gone 15 miles before I realized that I wasn't going to make it back to the car before sunset, so I had to turn around. I finished just before the sun went down, but the last 5 miles were basically in the shade where it was 38 degrees!!!
All told I rode 30 miles in 2:18 and I never stopped once!!! I was absolutely frozen on the drive back to the house; I never realized I could stand my car heater at 90 degrees for any length of time, but today it was hardly hot enough. When I made it back to the house, the super hot shower with great water pressure was wonderful...it was actually probably better than I would've had at home.
While I'm glad that I got out, rode, cleared my head, and challenged the elements....what was I thinking? It's freaking cold out there, people!
Saturday, November 22, 2008
El Tour de Tucson
My report of the most amazing ride I've ever done will be forthcoming, I promise...pictures and all. Hang in there; it will be worth it.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
50+, again
Today Roger and I rode 50.9 miles from ACME multisports in Goodlettsville. It was no greater than 48 degrees all day...and we had a vicious a headwind, again. We did quite well in my opinion, 4:06 cycle time; 4:18 total ride time. We rested very little, and with the wind chill we couldn't afford to rest much...it was just too darned cold. The last time our team rode this same route we did 51.2 miles in 3:52 cycle time; 4:45 total ride time. Considering the conditions and the lack of rest time, I'm quite proud of us.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
No Guts, No Glory
How many times have we heard the phrase, "dig deep"? It makes it into many of those inspirational based-on-a-true-story movies about underdog high school basketball teams winning the state title or inner city after-school program kids learning to swim as champions. I understand it's supposed to be motivational, an encouragement to find something within yourself that will push you to rise to said occasion and perform as you never imagined possible. Today it was directed at me. "Why?" you may ask. Grab your bag of popcorn and settle in for a bit of drama with an inspirational twist.
This was the day of the Long Ride. My cycling team was due for our longest ride before the El Tour de Tucson on Nov. 22nd and the plan was 85 miles (or so I thought). The day started out strangely for Katherine (coach) with a flat tire, then at mile 26 Jerry (teammate) blew 2 spokes on his back wheel. Since he couldn't finish the ride Katherine rode back to the car and drove to pick him up and take him back to his car. In the meantime Roger (coach), Graham (mentor), and I continued the ride. It was along about mile 52 that I hit it...the wall...that great big impedance that you hear about people hitting during endurance events. It's often due to poor hydration or nutrition during the event, or can be due to over-training, lack of proper rest/prep, or something beyond your control. For me it was likely that Roger and I had ridden 78 miles just 5 days ago, and that I felt run-down all 5 of those days.
There I was on the Natchez Trace, Katherine was with Jerry, Roger and Graham had ridden on ahead of me. I couldn't muster up enough energy to pedal faster than 10mph (pretty slow), I hurt everywhere (my seat, knees, quads, hamstrings, elbows, neck, back, shoulders, hands...everywhere), and I was exhausted. Mad as a hornet that I couldn't push myself harder, and distraught that I was alone, I began to cry. And cry. I called my husband (yes, I was on the bike...but only going 10 mph!). He did a great job after I told him he had to talk to me. He helped me see that I had to stop crying and wasting that energy, and that I had to be able to focus on making a decision...crying wasn't going to allow me to do that very well. "Are you going to quit? Are you going to rest for a little bit? Are you going to ride 10 more miles and reevaluate? Only you can decide what you're going to do, but you've got to stop crying so you can focus on making a decision." I stopped crying, decided to keep going (for now) and hung up the phone.
Roger and Graham were waiting on me at our turn-around point and rode with me until we met back up with Katherine (she had ridden back out to catch up with us....CraZY!!) She was updated on my current mental and physical condition and for the next 16 miles all three of them rode quite slowly (for them) so we could ride as a team. That meant so much to me. We stopped to rest and stretch with only 14 miles to go. Katherine looked at me and said this is where I had to Dig Deep. I could've strangled her...I was in no mood for peppy words of encouragement. I just wanted to go home. Keeping that in mind, we headed out. Graham "pulled" me for miles, allowing me to draft off him. THANKS GRAHAM!! Roger hung behind me, so I was never left behind. THANKS ROGER!! At 4 miles out Katherine sang another verse of "4 miles left to go on the road, 4 miles left to go...." It was at that point I realized not only that I was going to make it, but that I actually had some reserve of energy. I DUG DEEP and kicked it into high gear. "There she goes," Graham said. A man sitting on his front lawn even shouted something about me kicking it up right at the end. Katherine said, "It's what she does." I knew I could make it, I just knew it, and I pushed myself as hard as I possibly could, reaching over 22 mph and a heart rate of 190 bpm. (I'm lucky I didn't have a heart attack!!!) While I'm certain my team let me finish first, given the horrible day I'd had, right before I pulled into the parking lot everything in me gave out. Katherine was right behind me and encouraged me to finish strong, that I was almost there. THANKS KATHERINE!!
TODAY I RODE 90 MILES!!! (Total time: 7:57, ride time: 6:57, avg: 12.9 mph) I couldn't be any more proud of myself; I'm especially proud that I'm known for riding hard at the end and pushing myself to finish strong. Words cannot express how much I appreciate my husband and my teammates for bringing me to this incredible milestone. There is no possible way I would've made it without them. WAY TO GO TEAM!!! and thank God I'm home. I've sat in a tub of ice and Epsom salts; I've showered; it may be time for food soon. But I'm most certain it's nearly time for bed. Love to you all!!
Me and Roger at the end! Notice my cool Arizona Jersey and Roger's El Tour de Tucson jersey from last year.
This was the day of the Long Ride. My cycling team was due for our longest ride before the El Tour de Tucson on Nov. 22nd and the plan was 85 miles (or so I thought). The day started out strangely for Katherine (coach) with a flat tire, then at mile 26 Jerry (teammate) blew 2 spokes on his back wheel. Since he couldn't finish the ride Katherine rode back to the car and drove to pick him up and take him back to his car. In the meantime Roger (coach), Graham (mentor), and I continued the ride. It was along about mile 52 that I hit it...the wall...that great big impedance that you hear about people hitting during endurance events. It's often due to poor hydration or nutrition during the event, or can be due to over-training, lack of proper rest/prep, or something beyond your control. For me it was likely that Roger and I had ridden 78 miles just 5 days ago, and that I felt run-down all 5 of those days.
There I was on the Natchez Trace, Katherine was with Jerry, Roger and Graham had ridden on ahead of me. I couldn't muster up enough energy to pedal faster than 10mph (pretty slow), I hurt everywhere (my seat, knees, quads, hamstrings, elbows, neck, back, shoulders, hands...everywhere), and I was exhausted. Mad as a hornet that I couldn't push myself harder, and distraught that I was alone, I began to cry. And cry. I called my husband (yes, I was on the bike...but only going 10 mph!). He did a great job after I told him he had to talk to me. He helped me see that I had to stop crying and wasting that energy, and that I had to be able to focus on making a decision...crying wasn't going to allow me to do that very well. "Are you going to quit? Are you going to rest for a little bit? Are you going to ride 10 more miles and reevaluate? Only you can decide what you're going to do, but you've got to stop crying so you can focus on making a decision." I stopped crying, decided to keep going (for now) and hung up the phone.
Roger and Graham were waiting on me at our turn-around point and rode with me until we met back up with Katherine (she had ridden back out to catch up with us....CraZY!!) She was updated on my current mental and physical condition and for the next 16 miles all three of them rode quite slowly (for them) so we could ride as a team. That meant so much to me. We stopped to rest and stretch with only 14 miles to go. Katherine looked at me and said this is where I had to Dig Deep. I could've strangled her...I was in no mood for peppy words of encouragement. I just wanted to go home. Keeping that in mind, we headed out. Graham "pulled" me for miles, allowing me to draft off him. THANKS GRAHAM!! Roger hung behind me, so I was never left behind. THANKS ROGER!! At 4 miles out Katherine sang another verse of "4 miles left to go on the road, 4 miles left to go...." It was at that point I realized not only that I was going to make it, but that I actually had some reserve of energy. I DUG DEEP and kicked it into high gear. "There she goes," Graham said. A man sitting on his front lawn even shouted something about me kicking it up right at the end. Katherine said, "It's what she does." I knew I could make it, I just knew it, and I pushed myself as hard as I possibly could, reaching over 22 mph and a heart rate of 190 bpm. (I'm lucky I didn't have a heart attack!!!) While I'm certain my team let me finish first, given the horrible day I'd had, right before I pulled into the parking lot everything in me gave out. Katherine was right behind me and encouraged me to finish strong, that I was almost there. THANKS KATHERINE!!
TODAY I RODE 90 MILES!!! (Total time: 7:57, ride time: 6:57, avg: 12.9 mph) I couldn't be any more proud of myself; I'm especially proud that I'm known for riding hard at the end and pushing myself to finish strong. Words cannot express how much I appreciate my husband and my teammates for bringing me to this incredible milestone. There is no possible way I would've made it without them. WAY TO GO TEAM!!! and thank God I'm home. I've sat in a tub of ice and Epsom salts; I've showered; it may be time for food soon. But I'm most certain it's nearly time for bed. Love to you all!!
Me and Roger at the end! Notice my cool Arizona Jersey and Roger's El Tour de Tucson jersey from last year.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Surviving the Elements
Today's plan: ride 80 miles on the Natchez Trace.
Today's forecast: high 50 degrees, winds 10-15 mph, clear and sunny.
Today's outcome: my coach Roger and I rode 78 miles. It took us 6:05 bike time; 7:20 total ride time. And we TOTALLY FROZE!! It never reached above 56 degrees (in over 7 hours!!), and those "winds" ended up being head-winds over 80% of the time we were on the bike. We looked at each other when we got out of the car at the parking lot where we started and bluntly told each other we were rediculously crazy for even thinking of riding in these conditions. But for me, the bottom line is that my mom didn't get to choose to have cancer, or select which grueling side effects of chemo she would prefer, so I can't let the conditions around me dictate whether or not I will complete the training for this century ride.
At our 50 mile rest stop we actually had people comment to us that it was a beautiful day for a bike ride. WHAT??? It was a beautiful day to look out your kitchen window while sipping hot tea and see the bright sun and "breeze," but there was nothing beautiful about riding a bike in that weather. The best part...it was the coldest day so far this fall, and the temp tomorrow is supposed to be in the 60's. Let's hear it for life and schedules dictating your life and schedule. (I'm certain some of you will understand what that means.)
Just so you have a true respect for what I went through, here's a photo of me at the end of the ride. No, I'm not wearing scuba gear. Please note the long thermal pants, full-finger gloves (with hand warmers beneath), the wind-resistant/water-proof red exoskeleton jacket, and the black skull-cap with ear flaps under my helmet.
What you can't see is the long-sleeved jersey below the jacket.
A word of advice: these conditions take a toll on your ears, and I was given the tip to use the waxy-type ear plugs (think swimming gear) to block the wind from entering your ear canal. Holy Mackrel, what a difference ear plugs make. Anyway...gaze at my brilliance!
Finally, forgive my strange smile, I'm undergoing dental reconstruction and have issues with my smile...remember that the camera adds 10 lbs...and give me serious credit for posting a photo of myself wearing spandex!!!
Today's forecast: high 50 degrees, winds 10-15 mph, clear and sunny.
Today's outcome: my coach Roger and I rode 78 miles. It took us 6:05 bike time; 7:20 total ride time. And we TOTALLY FROZE!! It never reached above 56 degrees (in over 7 hours!!), and those "winds" ended up being head-winds over 80% of the time we were on the bike. We looked at each other when we got out of the car at the parking lot where we started and bluntly told each other we were rediculously crazy for even thinking of riding in these conditions. But for me, the bottom line is that my mom didn't get to choose to have cancer, or select which grueling side effects of chemo she would prefer, so I can't let the conditions around me dictate whether or not I will complete the training for this century ride.
At our 50 mile rest stop we actually had people comment to us that it was a beautiful day for a bike ride. WHAT??? It was a beautiful day to look out your kitchen window while sipping hot tea and see the bright sun and "breeze," but there was nothing beautiful about riding a bike in that weather. The best part...it was the coldest day so far this fall, and the temp tomorrow is supposed to be in the 60's. Let's hear it for life and schedules dictating your life and schedule. (I'm certain some of you will understand what that means.)
Just so you have a true respect for what I went through, here's a photo of me at the end of the ride. No, I'm not wearing scuba gear. Please note the long thermal pants, full-finger gloves (with hand warmers beneath), the wind-resistant/water-proof red exoskeleton jacket, and the black skull-cap with ear flaps under my helmet.
What you can't see is the long-sleeved jersey below the jacket.A word of advice: these conditions take a toll on your ears, and I was given the tip to use the waxy-type ear plugs (think swimming gear) to block the wind from entering your ear canal. Holy Mackrel, what a difference ear plugs make. Anyway...gaze at my brilliance!
Finally, forgive my strange smile, I'm undergoing dental reconstruction and have issues with my smile...remember that the camera adds 10 lbs...and give me serious credit for posting a photo of myself wearing spandex!!!
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Sunday, September 21, 2008
69.7...we'll call it 70, ok?
Yep, that's right, I finally reached the 70 mile mark. And in typical fashion, I started hurting around mile 57...10 miles (or so) before the finish. BUT, I did finish!! (5:39 total ride time; 5:11 cycle time). We rode a portion of the Natchez Trace Parkway, and what a hilly experience! I take comfort in knowing how flat Tucson will be in comparison to these rolling hills of Middle Tennessee.
Thankfully, my husband cleaned the tub for me and I was able to soak in Epsom salts when I got home. I truly believe that's why I'm able to function so well today.
My recommitment date for the El Tour de Tucson event is 9/26/08, and I will absolutely be recommitting. Thanks to each of you for your prayers and donations. I would not have made it this far without each of you.
Thankfully, my husband cleaned the tub for me and I was able to soak in Epsom salts when I got home. I truly believe that's why I'm able to function so well today.
My recommitment date for the El Tour de Tucson event is 9/26/08, and I will absolutely be recommitting. Thanks to each of you for your prayers and donations. I would not have made it this far without each of you.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, to ME!!
Yesterday I turned *#. (Yeah, I'm not telling you.) It was another day. I got out of the OR a bit early, as a birthday gift from my preceptor, and took Riley to the dog park. The day was gorgeous...80 degrees and slightly breezy. We met our friends Gwen (who encouraged me to go to anesthesia school); Luke, her 6.5 week old son; and their dog, Molly, at the park and had a wonderful time of conversation and friendship. On the way home I rubbed my eyes, and set off a really bad allergy attack. That basically ruined the rest of the day for me (sniffle, sneeze, moan).
However, I got many birthday wishes via email, facebook (who would've guessed), voicemail, and texts. Thank God for technology!!! I even heard from my high school youth pastor. His daughter was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma last year and is now in remission, and he is a cyclist as well. It was great to catch up with him.
Today I got some belated wishes via voicemail songs from my friend, Sarah, an opera soprano; and from my sweet nieces. So, despite the early blooming of ragweed that tried to ruin my birthday, I have been blessed with many wishes and love from family and friends.
Who could ask for a better birthday?
However, I got many birthday wishes via email, facebook (who would've guessed), voicemail, and texts. Thank God for technology!!! I even heard from my high school youth pastor. His daughter was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma last year and is now in remission, and he is a cyclist as well. It was great to catch up with him.
Today I got some belated wishes via voicemail songs from my friend, Sarah, an opera soprano; and from my sweet nieces. So, despite the early blooming of ragweed that tried to ruin my birthday, I have been blessed with many wishes and love from family and friends.
Who could ask for a better birthday?
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Great News from my dad, Dale
Great news!
Today, 9/10/08 we spoke with Dr. Rufo in Sedona, and he read the results of Debbie's bone marrow and PET scan tests."No indication of Lymphocites (Lymphoma) in the body."!!! Almost no (much less than 1%) cancer cells in the bone marrow!!! WOW! What a mighty God we serve!
Dr. Rufo was quite surprised and very pleased.
God is so faithful and merciful, often beyond our greatest hopes and prayers.
Debbie will now be on a "maintenance" program for the next two years, where she will receive one drug (Rituxan), once a week for only two weeks every three months. No other chemo drugs for at least two years! Needless to say, we are VERY happy.
Thank you all for your faithful and obviously effectual prayers. And thank God!
Dale and Debbie
Today, 9/10/08 we spoke with Dr. Rufo in Sedona, and he read the results of Debbie's bone marrow and PET scan tests."No indication of Lymphocites (Lymphoma) in the body."!!! Almost no (much less than 1%) cancer cells in the bone marrow!!! WOW! What a mighty God we serve!
Dr. Rufo was quite surprised and very pleased.
God is so faithful and merciful, often beyond our greatest hopes and prayers.
Debbie will now be on a "maintenance" program for the next two years, where she will receive one drug (Rituxan), once a week for only two weeks every three months. No other chemo drugs for at least two years! Needless to say, we are VERY happy.
Thank you all for your faithful and obviously effectual prayers. And thank God!
Dale and Debbie
Saturday, September 6, 2008
61 miles...can I get a wheelchair?
Today I completed a 61 mile ride in 4:24 (cycle time)/5:05 (total ride time). It was a much hillier ride than last weekend in Clarksville, so the increased time is to be expected. We averaged 13.4mph versus 15mph last weekend.
Here's the problem...I hurt. A lot. Everywhere. I struggle getting up the stairs because it feels like my legs have done 1000 squats and lunges and like they're sunburned on the inside (what in the world?). I can't open jars or bottles because my hands don't have any grip strength. My left elbow doesn't straighten out without feeling like there's an ice pick in the joint. My lower back is stiff, my upper back is sore, my neck is tight, my seat...well, let's just say it doesn't like sitting. If I could just sit in a wheelchair on one of those donut cushions and get pushed around for a few days...I might recover. Oh, wait, I have patients to take care of, laundry to do, food to cook, etc.
Even so, I'm confident that I will recover, someday.
By the time I have to ride this distance again, I'll be a year older. I can only hope I'll get stronger at this and feel better during these rides.
The coolest part of the whole day...I finished ahead of my entire team. Granted, it was only by a bike length, but I did beat my pro-triathelete coach. The fact that she has a race tomorrow and was likely taking it easy isn't the point. Help a girl out, here.
Here's the problem...I hurt. A lot. Everywhere. I struggle getting up the stairs because it feels like my legs have done 1000 squats and lunges and like they're sunburned on the inside (what in the world?). I can't open jars or bottles because my hands don't have any grip strength. My left elbow doesn't straighten out without feeling like there's an ice pick in the joint. My lower back is stiff, my upper back is sore, my neck is tight, my seat...well, let's just say it doesn't like sitting. If I could just sit in a wheelchair on one of those donut cushions and get pushed around for a few days...I might recover. Oh, wait, I have patients to take care of, laundry to do, food to cook, etc.
Even so, I'm confident that I will recover, someday.
By the time I have to ride this distance again, I'll be a year older. I can only hope I'll get stronger at this and feel better during these rides.
The coolest part of the whole day...I finished ahead of my entire team. Granted, it was only by a bike length, but I did beat my pro-triathelete coach. The fact that she has a race tomorrow and was likely taking it easy isn't the point. Help a girl out, here.
Friday, September 5, 2008
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MOM!!
Today is my mom's *#th birthday!! (No. I'm not going to disclose her age. Do you think I'm crazy??) It's so exciting to be able to celebrate this special day with her. We cannot be more thankful that my mom is doing so well after her chemotherapy and that we have her with us to celebrate her birthday!!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!! 
(mom and Gracie, her eldest granddaughter)
WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!!
It was no coincidence that today, mom's birthday, was my personal fundraising deadline for the Team In Training century ride. Therefore, with the celebration of her birthday in mind, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those, anonymous and named, who have donated to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to honor her and to support me on the century ride. I am 3/4 of the way to reaching my fundraising total. Your generosity has touched both me and my family. We continue to pray that the research done by LLS and others will find a cure for blood cancers, including hers, and that we will have many great birthday celebrations for years to come. Saturday, November 22nd will be one of the great experiences of my life as I ride across the finish line and see my mom and family. It is because of each of you that I will have this great opportunity. Words cannot express how honored I truly am - thank you. May God bless each of you and yours.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
The Metric
Yesterday I rode the Clarksville Labor Day Classic and completed the metric distance...62 miles. Cycle time 4:05, total ride time 4:41. That's an average of 15 mph for over 4 hours. I feel I have accomplished the largest athletic feat of my life, and I have many more weeks of longer rides to go. Weariness overcame me yesterday, and I slept most all day. Soreness has plagued by body today, but I am confident that I will recover. Rich and I are scheduled to hit the gym this evening; we have scheduled our lifting around my riding schedule. This week is our first go at it. I'll let you know how it works out.
Thanks again to all who have given to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society on my behalf. My mother is feeling quite well. She is back at school and teaching, which is her great passion. She has had an ECHO of her heart, which revealed no current injury to her heart, which her chemo can cause. She has had other tests done, but we are awaiting results.
Please continue praying, the Lord is definitely listening!!
Thanks again to all who have given to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society on my behalf. My mother is feeling quite well. She is back at school and teaching, which is her great passion. She has had an ECHO of her heart, which revealed no current injury to her heart, which her chemo can cause. She has had other tests done, but we are awaiting results.
Please continue praying, the Lord is definitely listening!!
Saturday, August 23, 2008
When you just don't have it.
Today was the HOT (heart of Tennessee) 100. The plan was for me to ride 66 miles, but by the first rest stop it was apparent that I just didn't have the energy and stamina to complete a 66 mile ride. So, after discussion with my coaches, Kat and Roger, I opted to take the 33 mile leg instead. By the time I finished (2:25 ride time) it was difficult to walk and I was absolutely exhausted. I think there were 2 reasons for my lack of energy.
1. I only rode twice since my 51+miler 2 weeks ago. 30min of hill sprints, and 60min of the greenway. Not enough to prep me for 66 miles.
2. I spent the last 2 days in Atlanta helping to take care of the precious triplets my best friend, Ginny, gave birth to 3 months ago. Yes, I haven't been down there since they were born. WOW! What a life. They have their hands full, but Maggie, Evie, and Josh are so sweet. They make the work so enjoyable. It was so enjoyable to spend time with the babies. We also got to have dinner just the two of us; we sat outside, enjoyed the beautiful weather and caught up on life. It was great, and definitely worth the trip!! Visit their blog at: http://www.rajandginny.com/blog/.
Next weekend I will give the 60+ mile distance another try at the Clarksville 62 Mile Labor Day Classic.
I'll keep you updated. Please consider contributing to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. I am riding to raise money and awareness about blood cancers like my mother was diagnosed with this year. Click on the photo of mom and I to learn how to contribute. THANKS and God bless.
1. I only rode twice since my 51+miler 2 weeks ago. 30min of hill sprints, and 60min of the greenway. Not enough to prep me for 66 miles.
2. I spent the last 2 days in Atlanta helping to take care of the precious triplets my best friend, Ginny, gave birth to 3 months ago. Yes, I haven't been down there since they were born. WOW! What a life. They have their hands full, but Maggie, Evie, and Josh are so sweet. They make the work so enjoyable. It was so enjoyable to spend time with the babies. We also got to have dinner just the two of us; we sat outside, enjoyed the beautiful weather and caught up on life. It was great, and definitely worth the trip!! Visit their blog at: http://www.rajandginny.com/blog/.
Next weekend I will give the 60+ mile distance another try at the Clarksville 62 Mile Labor Day Classic.
I'll keep you updated. Please consider contributing to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. I am riding to raise money and awareness about blood cancers like my mother was diagnosed with this year. Click on the photo of mom and I to learn how to contribute. THANKS and God bless.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
SEE
I'm taking the SEE (self-evaluation exam) today. It's a computerized exam given to all student nurse anesthetists across the nation as they complete their first year. I think it's mostly so the schools can see how their students rank, since it has no bearing on my certification later on. MTSA (my school) has decided, however, to award 7 points on our comprehensive exam (I take it on Sunday) if we score higher than the national average. Some incentive, granted, but since I'm so stressed over Comps this only adds to it and it's hard to get too excited and motivated for this one. Oh well. Prayers please, I'll need em.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
51.2
So I'm not very creative with my titles and my posts are mostly about riding, oh well. It's as much a diary for me as a report for you. I rode 51.2 miles today (3:52 cycle time; 4:45 total ride time), and here's the crazy thing...it wasn't as bad as I expected!! It seems that with each successively longer ride I get tired about 8-10 miles before the end which means I'm now getting tired at the 43ish mile distance I did last week during which I got tired about the 35ish mile mark. I don't exactly understand it, and I wonder if I'd just not get tired if I rode 51 miles again. Who knows. Yeah me for 51+ miles!!!
Please cheer me on from time to time, even if I can't hear you. It's these little cheers I like to conjure up in my head when I'm dying 7 miles before the finish. "You can do it. Be strong. This is nothing compared to chemo. Just imagine how much easier it gets each time. It's not really THAT hot." Things like that. Thanks.
Please cheer me on from time to time, even if I can't hear you. It's these little cheers I like to conjure up in my head when I'm dying 7 miles before the finish. "You can do it. Be strong. This is nothing compared to chemo. Just imagine how much easier it gets each time. It's not really THAT hot." Things like that. Thanks.
Monday, July 28, 2008
42.8
42.8. That's how many miles I rode on my bicycle on Saturday! Until then my max distance had been just under 32miles. As could be expected, at about mile 35 my seat started hurting quite a bit. I chose to stand and pedal every few minutes, or so, which helped. But, WOW! I never realized how sore you could get from riding a bike!! My neck, shoulders, and hands were all quite sore as well. And yet, I know that the pain I was experiencing is only a minor discomfort compared to what mom has had to go through with chemo. I couldn't help but think of her during those times when I was so hot, sore, and worn down. There was no way I was stopping. I even found the will deep down to hammer at the end and try to catch my coach. I didn't catch her, but I proved to myself that I had more in me than I originally believed. That's likely been the case all along, I've just never pushed myself to find out!!!
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
The last hoorah!!!
Today was mom's last chemotherapy treatment! PRAISE GOD!!!
Over the course of the next 6 weeks or so she will have more testing done to see if any cancer cells remain. We have been told that follicular lymphoma (mom's version) does not go into remission; instead it is a slow-growing lymphoma that takes years to become a nuisance and get to the point of needing further treatment. I am believing in faith that we will not need further chemotherapy treatments...ever!
If, however, cancer cells are seen on the follow-up tests, she will be given Rituxin (monoclonal antibody) treatments every 3 months until further notice [read 'years' here]. Up until today, mom's Rituxin was given at the beginning of her chemo treatments. However, it was given at the end of her treatment today, and mom is having a lot of nausea despite the meds they gave her to prevent it. Mom doesn't do well with nausea, so we've been lucky that she hasn't had any thus far. Each treatment has brought with it some strange symptom - visual changes, nose bleeds, joint/muscle aches - but nausea has been avoided until now. At least we know that may of these symptoms are short-lived and pass fairly quickly over the first week after treatment. We are praying that the nausea passes even more quickly.
Please keep her in your prayers as we await tests and test results, as she fights with this nausea, and as we wait on the Lord for full healing - should that be his will!!
God bless,
Amanda
Over the course of the next 6 weeks or so she will have more testing done to see if any cancer cells remain. We have been told that follicular lymphoma (mom's version) does not go into remission; instead it is a slow-growing lymphoma that takes years to become a nuisance and get to the point of needing further treatment. I am believing in faith that we will not need further chemotherapy treatments...ever!
If, however, cancer cells are seen on the follow-up tests, she will be given Rituxin (monoclonal antibody) treatments every 3 months until further notice [read 'years' here]. Up until today, mom's Rituxin was given at the beginning of her chemo treatments. However, it was given at the end of her treatment today, and mom is having a lot of nausea despite the meds they gave her to prevent it. Mom doesn't do well with nausea, so we've been lucky that she hasn't had any thus far. Each treatment has brought with it some strange symptom - visual changes, nose bleeds, joint/muscle aches - but nausea has been avoided until now. At least we know that may of these symptoms are short-lived and pass fairly quickly over the first week after treatment. We are praying that the nausea passes even more quickly.
Please keep her in your prayers as we await tests and test results, as she fights with this nausea, and as we wait on the Lord for full healing - should that be his will!!
God bless,
Amanda
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Thanks donors! (revised)
I would like to thank my brother and sister-in-law for their generous donation to my TNT fundraising efforts. I know mom and all those fighting blood cancers thank you, too.
WAY past due
Rich and I have been discussing hiring a cleaning service for monthly up-keep on the house for almost a year now. He and I are just way too busy, and when we're not we sure don't want to vacuum and dust! This leads me to not clean much at all, hoping to have a service very soon. Well, one of his co-workers in Chicago had an unfortunate mishap with her cleaning service (she was robbed) and Rich is hesitant about having a stranger in our home. In addition, my husband is allergic to the world, it seems. His allergies have been particularly awful this weekend.
Today he left for a client meeting in Bethlehem, PA (as in "O' little town of"), and being the dutiful wife I am, I decided to vacuum the top and main floors of our townhome while he was gone in order to spare his allergies. (I did the basement last week.) By the way, there were visible lint balls and dog hair clusters on the front of the couch. AaaCHOO!!
Here's the gross part; brace yourself. Only proceed if you're truly braced: I filled up the entire canister on our Dyson vacuum JUST DOING THE STAIRS, 1 FLIGHT OF STAIRS!!! That's when you know the cleaning is way past due. Please pray that we will be able to hire a service, even if I have to be home when they come. I know that sounds a bit strange, but we obviously need the help.
Today he left for a client meeting in Bethlehem, PA (as in "O' little town of"), and being the dutiful wife I am, I decided to vacuum the top and main floors of our townhome while he was gone in order to spare his allergies. (I did the basement last week.) By the way, there were visible lint balls and dog hair clusters on the front of the couch. AaaCHOO!!
Here's the gross part; brace yourself. Only proceed if you're truly braced: I filled up the entire canister on our Dyson vacuum JUST DOING THE STAIRS, 1 FLIGHT OF STAIRS!!! That's when you know the cleaning is way past due. Please pray that we will be able to hire a service, even if I have to be home when they come. I know that sounds a bit strange, but we obviously need the help.
Saturday, July 5, 2008
"You're in unchartered territory."
I rode just over 31 miles today in 2:56min. That's at least 7 miles longer than my longest ride 2 years ago, and 9 miles longer than my longest ride during this training. When I asked coach Roger about our distance during the last portion of our ride he said, "You're in unchartered territory." What a proud moment. I am bushed, but have a true sense of accomplishment! I learned I can battle through exhaustion and finish the ride, that endurance sports are as much mental as physical, and that I should've gone back and gotten my gloves when I realized I'd left home without them. My hands would be better off had they been covered and padded for those near 3 hours.
The great news is that my numbness wasn't so pronounced today. I still had hot spots in my right foot, but, thanks to my new pedals, I was able to change the angle of my shoe in the pedal and got the hot spots to diminish. It took constant effort, which was part of my battle today, but I succeeded and look forward to my next ride.
On the schedule tomorrow is a "recovery ride" - an easy 10-15miles. I haven't done one yet, but I think it's about time.
My adage for the day: Gloves - never leave home without 'em.
Until next time...
The great news is that my numbness wasn't so pronounced today. I still had hot spots in my right foot, but, thanks to my new pedals, I was able to change the angle of my shoe in the pedal and got the hot spots to diminish. It took constant effort, which was part of my battle today, but I succeeded and look forward to my next ride.
On the schedule tomorrow is a "recovery ride" - an easy 10-15miles. I haven't done one yet, but I think it's about time.
My adage for the day: Gloves - never leave home without 'em.
Until next time...
Friday, July 4, 2008
Because cycling is a 'sexy' sport
Yesterday I was able to finally get "fitted" to my bike. Basically, this entails a bike fit specialist, (Adam at the bike pedlar), taking all the same measurements as a tailor measuring a man for a suit. Then he does some calculations and has you sit on your bike and pedal for a few minutes. BTW I had to wear my bike shorts for this...my Lycra/spandex tight-fitting, chamois-containing bike shorts. (A chamois is basically a pad built into the shorts for cushioning and comfort; when not on the bike, it feels a bit like wearing a diaper! ) Then he makes adjustments. I regret not having any pictures of this process...OK, maybe I don't regret it too much. Here's a great image of how it feels, though: http://www.bicycle.net/wp-content/uploads/2007/08/cycling-shorts-women.jpg 
Oh, before we did the fitting, I had to try on my new shoes and choose new pedals.
Check out my new shoes. These are considered "road shoes" because they have a very stiff sole (mine is carbon fiber..ooh!!) and no tread. Bottom line: it's like walking around in glass slippers...literally. I had to buy covers for the cleats, which are the metal gadgets attached to the sole of the shoe. This is what clips into my new pedals.
That's right, the little round metal opening on the bottom of my shoes fits around the pedal that resembles a pretty pink lollipop. So, while I'm riding my shoes are locked into the pedals. WARNING: stopping is an art. You have to "clip out" of your pedals in order to put your foot down on the ground. If you don't do it in time, you fall over while still attached to your bike. I've done it twice, it's not pretty. Here's my current battle wound from the most recent incident.
That's right, the little round metal opening on the bottom of my shoes fits around the pedal that resembles a pretty pink lollipop. So, while I'm riding my shoes are locked into the pedals. WARNING: stopping is an art. You have to "clip out" of your pedals in order to put your foot down on the ground. If you don't do it in time, you fall over while still attached to your bike. I've done it twice, it's not pretty. Here's my current battle wound from the most recent incident.
Do you have the whole mental picture now? Me in bike shorts with my gnarly bruised leg, walking around in road shoes that could kill me if I wasn't walking on carpet. Then, put all of that on a bike sitting atop a platform being watched by a 25year-old guy...and paying for it!!! This is why cycling is a sexy sport.
So, if you haven't yet contributed to my fundraising efforts with Team in Training, please do so now, if no other reason than sheer pity. Some may also wish to contribute to ensure that I will have to be in seen in public at the El Tour de Tucson in my sexy cycling garb. I accept that, that's OK with me. The whole point is to raise money for cancer research and save some one's life...like my mom's. She's worth it.
All of this was done so I would stop losing feeling in my feet. Tomorrow we have a 40mile ride scheduled...I'll let you know how it goes!
Saturday, June 28, 2008
If it's not one thing...it's another
Alright, so hills are not the total bane of my existence. I did hill repeats last Tuesday evening...10 of them...not 20-25 as recommended. But, apparently they paid off.
I went on a 20 mile ride today with my training team. We rode the Shelby Street pedestrian bridge in downtown Nashville and it wasn't so bad! Another hill leading to the Cumberland River pedestrian bridge hardly phased me. Coach Katherine was quite encouraging that the hill repeats had paid off.
However, I have a new obstacle to overcome. My right foot seems to be going numb about 15miles into my rides. Today the numbness led to cramping in my right calf and then seemed to spread to aching and tingling in the right side of my groin where I contact the saddle. I had to quit the ride early, instead of completing the 30 miles originally scheduled. We tried to adjust the cleats on my shoes, but to no avail. So, apparently, I need to do some stretching and maybe some yoga. I'll also be visiting a local bike shop to get their input on what may be causing my numb, cramping, irritating foot, calf, and bum.
Any suggestions? I'd love to hear them!! Well, I'm off to practice facing downward like a dog, posing like a child, or something.
Our next ride will be an "easy" 10-15mile out & back from Belle Meade Boulevard (where Al Gore's house has a monthly carbon-footprint the same as the yearly average of most Americans...akin to a wooly mammoth versus a wolf) to Radnor Lake, one of the most serene places within the city limits of Nashville. What beautiful dichotomy. I love Nashville.
I went on a 20 mile ride today with my training team. We rode the Shelby Street pedestrian bridge in downtown Nashville and it wasn't so bad! Another hill leading to the Cumberland River pedestrian bridge hardly phased me. Coach Katherine was quite encouraging that the hill repeats had paid off.
However, I have a new obstacle to overcome. My right foot seems to be going numb about 15miles into my rides. Today the numbness led to cramping in my right calf and then seemed to spread to aching and tingling in the right side of my groin where I contact the saddle. I had to quit the ride early, instead of completing the 30 miles originally scheduled. We tried to adjust the cleats on my shoes, but to no avail. So, apparently, I need to do some stretching and maybe some yoga. I'll also be visiting a local bike shop to get their input on what may be causing my numb, cramping, irritating foot, calf, and bum.
Any suggestions? I'd love to hear them!! Well, I'm off to practice facing downward like a dog, posing like a child, or something.
Our next ride will be an "easy" 10-15mile out & back from Belle Meade Boulevard (where Al Gore's house has a monthly carbon-footprint the same as the yearly average of most Americans...akin to a wooly mammoth versus a wolf) to Radnor Lake, one of the most serene places within the city limits of Nashville. What beautiful dichotomy. I love Nashville.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Hills...I hate hills
So last night I went riding with my neighbors, Stephanie and John (I think), who have been riding together for over a year. Needless to say they rode away from me on many a hill. In fact, they had to wait for me as I walked up more than one of them. I have decided that when my heart rate gets to 198, it's time to stop and walk before I have a heart attack right there on the side of the road.
It was recommended that I do 20-25 hill repeats in our subdivision on nights I don't have time for a full ride. He said to sprint as hard as I can (on the bike) up the hills and ride easily down; do over and over and over. It's great that I can do these so close to home in case I do have a coronary. I love getting advice from others...especially when I'm totally clueless about the issue. It should help me train and build my strength and endurance on hills.
They were so gracious and patient with me; I am greatly appreciative for it. Stephanie has even invited me to go again, only this time we'll do a bit of a flatter course.
I'll let you know how I do on my hill sprints. Ugh!!
It was recommended that I do 20-25 hill repeats in our subdivision on nights I don't have time for a full ride. He said to sprint as hard as I can (on the bike) up the hills and ride easily down; do over and over and over. It's great that I can do these so close to home in case I do have a coronary. I love getting advice from others...especially when I'm totally clueless about the issue. It should help me train and build my strength and endurance on hills.
They were so gracious and patient with me; I am greatly appreciative for it. Stephanie has even invited me to go again, only this time we'll do a bit of a flatter course.
I'll let you know how I do on my hill sprints. Ugh!!
Monday, June 23, 2008
My first donation!!!
Today I received the first donation toward my Team in Training fundraising efforts! A generous anonymous contributor gave $50. Thank you, anonymous, for your gift to kick-start my way to $4000 raised!!! You have made my day!
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Harpeth River Ride
Today was my first riding event, the Harpeth River Ride. I willingly arose at 5am on a Saturday in order to be at the event on time by the 7:30 start (which I was; that's a big deal for me). There were probably 300+ riders of all ages and skill-levels. The event provided distances of 22, 42, 64, or 100 miles. I chose to ride the 22mi leg. Now that may not sound like a very long distance, but let me tell you, if you've never ridden...you have no idea.
Not only is 22 miles not a little jaunt for a fairly inexperienced rider, the event was in an area of Middle Tennessee known for its rolling hills (actually, much of Middle TN is rolling hills. I don't know how the civil war soldiers trudged up and down them all day). I was cruising along with my heart rate in the 170bpm range (that's bad), when I met the meanest hill I've seen since I started riding 2 years ago. It was about mile 8; I started up it in my "granny gear," the best gear for hard hills, and as soon as my heart rate hit 198bpm (that's horrible) and I became far too short of breath, I walked it. Yep, that's right, I got off my bike and walked it up a hill! Pretty sad, eh? Actually, there were many riders ahead of and behind me who did the same thing! One woman rode past me as I was walking and said, "Don't worry, I'm not going much faster than you are." While she was right, she still had the strength and conditioning to ride that hill!
The 13 mile rest stop, "The Last Chance Watering Hole" as it was called, came just at the right time. Since this is my first riding event, I didn't know what to expect. What a spread! PB&J sandwiches, chips, watermelon, bananas, fig newtons, pretzels, Gatorade, water, port-a-potty, paper towels, hand wipes, and lens cleaner. Knowing I was quite tempted to just sit down and enjoy a nice lunch along a TN country road, I opted for a quick Gatorade/Water 50/50 refill, 2 fig newtons, a bite of watermelon, a quick hand wipe and paper towel face cleaning, and I was off again. Les, one of the men at the rest stop asked how I was liking the ride, to which I favorably replied...save that big nasty hill. He said one of the men he rides with has a favorite quote, "I've never met a hill I was too proud to walk." I loved it and have adopted it for this training program. That was just the boost I needed to finish the last +/- 9 miles. The smaller hills I came across seemed to barely catch my attention, and I finished the ride well.
I learned a few great things about riding events today:
1. Hills Suck. I need more conditioning to ride hills well, and I will proudly walk any one that really stands in my way.
2. Great food. Not only was the "watering hole" well stocked, the post ride meal was custom-made burritos, chips/salsa, drinks...apparently that's not uncommon.
3. JellyBelly makes jellybeans high in carbs specially designed for athletes to use mid-workout. They taste nothing like JellyBellies when you're not riding and sweating like a pig...but they are remarkably tasty, sweet, and refreshing at mile 9 after a hill kicks you in the tail!
4. Oatmeal and milk are a great race-day breakfast for me; and fig newtons and JellyBellys sit well on the course. (I know it sounds like I'm focused on food, but endurance nutrition is apparently a fine art; eat the wrong thing - you can't perform and you end up "bonking" or "hitting the wall", or vomiting. Eat the right thing and you don't think endurance nutrition is all that hard to figure out.)
5. Don't put an opened pack of "goo" or "gel" (again, a carb source) into the pocket on your jersey...or you'll be as sticky as fly paper. Oh, and most of them taste nasty anyway.
6. Drafting saves your energy. I often ride with a friend and we draft from time to time. She was working today...I really missed her.
7. Chamois Butt'r is a necessity. Again, if you've never done an endurance event, you can't fully understand. You put this creamy buttery lotion in any and all locations that may chafe - the sad part is there are many places that may chafe. What a difference!!! I may buy stock in the company.
8. The people are great. Everyone I met was so kind and friendly. I also saw people lending others their tire pumps (thanks, Roger) and sharing tips about the course (thanks again, Roger). Roger is my Team in Training coach and he did 60+ miles today...way to go Roger!!
9. Most importantly...I can do this!!! There is no reason for me to believe that I can't accomplish riding a century (100 miles) by November. Not only that, but I may actually be able to anticipate a finish time. If my pace today were any indication (22mi. in 1:46), it will be about 8 hours. I'm hoping to beat that time into the ground.
Please check out my Team in Training website. I'd love your support as I go through this crazy process. After a much needed nap, I have refueled. Maybe my husband wants to go on a date tonight?
Until later...and until I can walk straight again.
Not only is 22 miles not a little jaunt for a fairly inexperienced rider, the event was in an area of Middle Tennessee known for its rolling hills (actually, much of Middle TN is rolling hills. I don't know how the civil war soldiers trudged up and down them all day). I was cruising along with my heart rate in the 170bpm range (that's bad), when I met the meanest hill I've seen since I started riding 2 years ago. It was about mile 8; I started up it in my "granny gear," the best gear for hard hills, and as soon as my heart rate hit 198bpm (that's horrible) and I became far too short of breath, I walked it. Yep, that's right, I got off my bike and walked it up a hill! Pretty sad, eh? Actually, there were many riders ahead of and behind me who did the same thing! One woman rode past me as I was walking and said, "Don't worry, I'm not going much faster than you are." While she was right, she still had the strength and conditioning to ride that hill!
The 13 mile rest stop, "The Last Chance Watering Hole" as it was called, came just at the right time. Since this is my first riding event, I didn't know what to expect. What a spread! PB&J sandwiches, chips, watermelon, bananas, fig newtons, pretzels, Gatorade, water, port-a-potty, paper towels, hand wipes, and lens cleaner. Knowing I was quite tempted to just sit down and enjoy a nice lunch along a TN country road, I opted for a quick Gatorade/Water 50/50 refill, 2 fig newtons, a bite of watermelon, a quick hand wipe and paper towel face cleaning, and I was off again. Les, one of the men at the rest stop asked how I was liking the ride, to which I favorably replied...save that big nasty hill. He said one of the men he rides with has a favorite quote, "I've never met a hill I was too proud to walk." I loved it and have adopted it for this training program. That was just the boost I needed to finish the last +/- 9 miles. The smaller hills I came across seemed to barely catch my attention, and I finished the ride well.
I learned a few great things about riding events today:
1. Hills Suck. I need more conditioning to ride hills well, and I will proudly walk any one that really stands in my way.
2. Great food. Not only was the "watering hole" well stocked, the post ride meal was custom-made burritos, chips/salsa, drinks...apparently that's not uncommon.
3. JellyBelly makes jellybeans high in carbs specially designed for athletes to use mid-workout. They taste nothing like JellyBellies when you're not riding and sweating like a pig...but they are remarkably tasty, sweet, and refreshing at mile 9 after a hill kicks you in the tail!
4. Oatmeal and milk are a great race-day breakfast for me; and fig newtons and JellyBellys sit well on the course. (I know it sounds like I'm focused on food, but endurance nutrition is apparently a fine art; eat the wrong thing - you can't perform and you end up "bonking" or "hitting the wall", or vomiting. Eat the right thing and you don't think endurance nutrition is all that hard to figure out.)
5. Don't put an opened pack of "goo" or "gel" (again, a carb source) into the pocket on your jersey...or you'll be as sticky as fly paper. Oh, and most of them taste nasty anyway.
6. Drafting saves your energy. I often ride with a friend and we draft from time to time. She was working today...I really missed her.
7. Chamois Butt'r is a necessity. Again, if you've never done an endurance event, you can't fully understand. You put this creamy buttery lotion in any and all locations that may chafe - the sad part is there are many places that may chafe. What a difference!!! I may buy stock in the company.
8. The people are great. Everyone I met was so kind and friendly. I also saw people lending others their tire pumps (thanks, Roger) and sharing tips about the course (thanks again, Roger). Roger is my Team in Training coach and he did 60+ miles today...way to go Roger!!
9. Most importantly...I can do this!!! There is no reason for me to believe that I can't accomplish riding a century (100 miles) by November. Not only that, but I may actually be able to anticipate a finish time. If my pace today were any indication (22mi. in 1:46), it will be about 8 hours. I'm hoping to beat that time into the ground.
Please check out my Team in Training website. I'd love your support as I go through this crazy process. After a much needed nap, I have refueled. Maybe my husband wants to go on a date tonight?
Until later...and until I can walk straight again.
Monday, June 16, 2008
STOP RUNNING!!
Well, at least I can say I had good aspirations and intentions. I gave the 1/2 marathon training program the "old college try". But to no avail. My left knee insisted (make that insists) on causing me pain during and after my runs, (and, really, all the time now) as well as giving off this great grinding sound when I sit, stand, ascend or descend stairs, breathe...you get the idea. Given this unfortunate turn of events, I have withdrawn from the 1/2 marathon. BUT WAIT, fear not! I am still training. Thankfully my knee rather enjoys pushing my foot down onto the pedal of my bike, so I have switched to the century ride.
For those who are unfamiliar with cycling events (I was until about 1 month ago), a century ride is roughly 100 miles! That's right, you thought it was hard to sit in an office chair all day? Try sitting on a bike seat (or saddle, as they are called) for anywhere up to about 10hours. The great news about the century ride is that I will still be raising money for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society with Team in Training. Not only that, but the century ride is in Tucson, Arizona the Saturday before Thanksgiving (Nov 22). Mom is planning to come down and see me ride, and we will try to get the family together for an early Thanksgiving. We have so much to be thankful for this year (and every year, really).
So that's the latest. I will try and be more consistent about posting. Right now it's after midnight and I have 2 exams tomorrow (today) that I need to go study for.
God Bless, Amanda
For those who are unfamiliar with cycling events (I was until about 1 month ago), a century ride is roughly 100 miles! That's right, you thought it was hard to sit in an office chair all day? Try sitting on a bike seat (or saddle, as they are called) for anywhere up to about 10hours. The great news about the century ride is that I will still be raising money for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society with Team in Training. Not only that, but the century ride is in Tucson, Arizona the Saturday before Thanksgiving (Nov 22). Mom is planning to come down and see me ride, and we will try to get the family together for an early Thanksgiving. We have so much to be thankful for this year (and every year, really).
So that's the latest. I will try and be more consistent about posting. Right now it's after midnight and I have 2 exams tomorrow (today) that I need to go study for.
God Bless, Amanda
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
My fourth and final quarter!
This week I started my last quarter of CRNA school (at least the didactic/classroom part). Once this quarter's over I'll simply work upwards of 50 hrs/week for free until graduation November 2009. It can't come soon enough.
Yesterday I had the rare and joy-filled opportunity to have oral surgery. You see, I was riding my bike at the tender age of 9 and somehow managed to wreck said bike, knock out my front "adult" tooth, and sustain a beauty of a black eye. Since then it was in and out of dentists/periodontists/orthodontists/yada-yada dontists in order to ultimately make me look like I really had a tooth where the previous real tooth lived. As of the age of 16 I have been wearing a Maryland Bridge (I have NO clue why it was named after Maryland. Was he the inventor, did it resemble bridges in the state of Maryland? I have no idea) and about a month ago I noticed it was loose. (Surprise, surprise I was grinding my teeth at night, likely from school stress. For those of you who REALLY know me, this is not a stretch). So, it was time to replace the bridge. If you've never had a post drilled into the front of your mouth and a bone graft to help make it stay, I thoroughly recommend running quickly in the opposite direction should the situation present itself. Needless-to-say I only eat soft mushy stuff, can't brush my top front teeth/gums, take antibiotics and pain-killers every few hours, oh, AND attend classes. Run away! Run far, far away. By the way, the periodontist had to replace my bridge after the implant went in, so I don't even have the appearance of a newer, prettier tooth. BOO.
Hopefully, I will feel well enough in the next few days to run again. I wonder if my dog thinks I'm punishing her for something by not taking her running? Speaking of running, the first group training session (GTS) for the 1/2 marathon training is this coming Saturday. I'm looking forward to meeting my teammates and coaches. They are having a little seminar as well, so that ought to be interesting. I will keep you posted. Remember, to link to my sponsorship site below...Racing to save lives...
Last week I was able to spend vacation at home with my family. I will write more on that later as well. Right now I'm nodding off and should probably sleep. Amanda
Yesterday I had the rare and joy-filled opportunity to have oral surgery. You see, I was riding my bike at the tender age of 9 and somehow managed to wreck said bike, knock out my front "adult" tooth, and sustain a beauty of a black eye. Since then it was in and out of dentists/periodontists/orthodontists/yada-yada dontists in order to ultimately make me look like I really had a tooth where the previous real tooth lived. As of the age of 16 I have been wearing a Maryland Bridge (I have NO clue why it was named after Maryland. Was he the inventor, did it resemble bridges in the state of Maryland? I have no idea) and about a month ago I noticed it was loose. (Surprise, surprise I was grinding my teeth at night, likely from school stress. For those of you who REALLY know me, this is not a stretch). So, it was time to replace the bridge. If you've never had a post drilled into the front of your mouth and a bone graft to help make it stay, I thoroughly recommend running quickly in the opposite direction should the situation present itself. Needless-to-say I only eat soft mushy stuff, can't brush my top front teeth/gums, take antibiotics and pain-killers every few hours, oh, AND attend classes. Run away! Run far, far away. By the way, the periodontist had to replace my bridge after the implant went in, so I don't even have the appearance of a newer, prettier tooth. BOO.
Hopefully, I will feel well enough in the next few days to run again. I wonder if my dog thinks I'm punishing her for something by not taking her running? Speaking of running, the first group training session (GTS) for the 1/2 marathon training is this coming Saturday. I'm looking forward to meeting my teammates and coaches. They are having a little seminar as well, so that ought to be interesting. I will keep you posted. Remember, to link to my sponsorship site below...Racing to save lives...
Last week I was able to spend vacation at home with my family. I will write more on that later as well. Right now I'm nodding off and should probably sleep. Amanda
Friday, May 23, 2008
Update on mom/Debbie - New Diagnosis!!
What a crazy month it's been! Mom has successfully started chemotherapy and is tolerating it well. A few weeks ago she had a repeat CT scan that showed ALL of her nodules/masses have decreased in size, some 30-50%! And that's only after 2 treatments! Praise God for that!
Yesterday she had her 3rd treatment and found out that her diagnosis had changed. Originally, she was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's large B-cell lymphoma. But after her lymph node biopsy and bone marrow biopsy results were reviewed by the lymphoma pathologist at City of Hope, it was decided that she has Non-Hodgkin's follicular lymphoma.
For mom/Debbie, new news kinda throws her off kilter a bit. She was prepared for how to handle her initial diagnosis, and then things changed. The great thing is that follicular lymphoma is a better diagnosis! Follicular lymphoma is slow growing and responds very well to chemotherapy. So well, in fact, that she may not need all 6 treatments originally planned. Also, there will be NO need for a stem cell transplant! Follicular lymphoma tends to reoccur every 5-7 years at which time she will simply be treated again. This cycle may continue for the rest of her life, but that sounds much better than a 5 year survival rate that diminishes after 10 years.
We could not be happier about the change in prognosis, even though we have some research and reading to do on the new diagnosis.
Please continue to pray for mom/Debbie and dad/Dale. Thank you to the friends and family who continue to bring food and help around the house. For information on how you can help please click here. You will be asked to log-in and list how you are connected to this community. Mention Debbie's name to start the process. A web coordinator will respond to your request for 'membership' in the community.
With Love,
Amanda
PS: I have signed on with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Team in Training (TNT) to train for the Nike Women's 1/2 marathon in October. Please see my team page for more details on my training and fundraising progress: http://pages.teamintraining.org/tn/nikesf08/zooga. If all goes well with this training and fundraising, I plan to sign on to run with TNT for the PF Chang's Rock-n-Roll marathon in Phoenix January 2009. Mom will be able to be at this race, which excites me greatly!!!
Yesterday she had her 3rd treatment and found out that her diagnosis had changed. Originally, she was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's large B-cell lymphoma. But after her lymph node biopsy and bone marrow biopsy results were reviewed by the lymphoma pathologist at City of Hope, it was decided that she has Non-Hodgkin's follicular lymphoma.
For mom/Debbie, new news kinda throws her off kilter a bit. She was prepared for how to handle her initial diagnosis, and then things changed. The great thing is that follicular lymphoma is a better diagnosis! Follicular lymphoma is slow growing and responds very well to chemotherapy. So well, in fact, that she may not need all 6 treatments originally planned. Also, there will be NO need for a stem cell transplant! Follicular lymphoma tends to reoccur every 5-7 years at which time she will simply be treated again. This cycle may continue for the rest of her life, but that sounds much better than a 5 year survival rate that diminishes after 10 years.
We could not be happier about the change in prognosis, even though we have some research and reading to do on the new diagnosis.
Please continue to pray for mom/Debbie and dad/Dale. Thank you to the friends and family who continue to bring food and help around the house. For information on how you can help please click here. You will be asked to log-in and list how you are connected to this community. Mention Debbie's name to start the process. A web coordinator will respond to your request for 'membership' in the community.
With Love,
Amanda
PS: I have signed on with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Team in Training (TNT) to train for the Nike Women's 1/2 marathon in October. Please see my team page for more details on my training and fundraising progress: http://pages.teamintraining.org/tn/nikesf08/zooga. If all goes well with this training and fundraising, I plan to sign on to run with TNT for the PF Chang's Rock-n-Roll marathon in Phoenix January 2009. Mom will be able to be at this race, which excites me greatly!!!
Because, "It is what it is"
It's official...I'm a blogger!!
The title of this blog is an ode to life. It is a phrase often used by my husband, and one adopted by my mother and aunt during my grandmother's unfortunate passing. I find myself saying it quite often, and it has become quite a comfort for this rather type-A personality.
I highly recommend it to any stress-prone people out there. Just take a deep breath and say it, "It is what it is." Chances are you can't control "it" and you can't change "it"; you just have to accept it for what it is, whatever "it" is.
The title of this blog is an ode to life. It is a phrase often used by my husband, and one adopted by my mother and aunt during my grandmother's unfortunate passing. I find myself saying it quite often, and it has become quite a comfort for this rather type-A personality.
I highly recommend it to any stress-prone people out there. Just take a deep breath and say it, "It is what it is." Chances are you can't control "it" and you can't change "it"; you just have to accept it for what it is, whatever "it" is.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
