tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310551732024-03-12T17:42:18.263-07:00She Tri's"No matter who or what made you what you have become, that doesn't release you from the responsibility of making yourself over into what you ought to be." -Ashley Montagukathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.comBlogger111125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-41204496914068805462008-10-20T10:07:00.000-07:002008-10-20T10:35:12.317-07:00Mother Warriors<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaqQb82lqLET-aINv59ua7D84jHsVT4gP1rU8Hac_KAcEAQwHtP7Ni2swcz252AZi-OXyu56u-mZxsM4AuPDMboui1uU1UsYpB78iPOQYdxgNu5yVztqpzvzhg7_kax2j7csPF8g/s1600-h/DSC02969.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259290054158940610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaqQb82lqLET-aINv59ua7D84jHsVT4gP1rU8Hac_KAcEAQwHtP7Ni2swcz252AZi-OXyu56u-mZxsM4AuPDMboui1uU1UsYpB78iPOQYdxgNu5yVztqpzvzhg7_kax2j7csPF8g/s400/DSC02969.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center"><strong>TO YOU, my fellow “Mother Warriors”<br /></strong><br />(my new favorite word) !!!<br /><br />I am generously privileged and blessed to be on the receiving end of a daily devotion that one of my favorite “un-conditional friends” husband sends out each day to his family/friends. Today he shared a quote within his story that ROCKED my world/heart so intensely that I just had to pass it on.<br /><br />Let me say first that I love and admire you for your Commitment and Dedication in taking on the roll of Parenting with Seriousness/Dedication/Passion. It is one of the things that I love about you and connects me most to you.<br /><br />Sadly for some; parenting can be their biggest nightmare, I regret that; but for those who are whole heartedly invested/unconditionally committed/consistent with plan/and present at all times……..Parenting can be the most AMAZING experience one could hope for.<br /><br />MOTHER: Webster says – (A female parent)<br />PARENTING: Webster says - (the process of raising and educating a child from birth until adulthood)<br />WARRIOR: Webster says – (someone engaged in warfare)<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259290067596577570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFpynhHE6IB697RwRhMM-tdueDn_145wczKhF79KJj27erNYBh8oeVsik4r0fbVLBMk-oF-GhyphenhyphenKduyF1SQHBvAomWsJpYbIBBYihejhrHdmAZQtORZOeyXa-QxB14meNTQ5iXoEg/s400/DSC02974.JPG" border="0" /><br />To me the title of “Mother Warrior” means so much more than that. It is something very special and something that no one can really explain with the perfect words. It is a Passion that burns deep within ones heart and soul that produces an unwavering commitment to purpose. When I think of trying to put it into words here are a few things that come to mind:<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259290083231993954" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp2Q2kP-wvo4JsJ6kkFrrsh7BGC42XWLfFEAtysPBg23FymOPzRLCA-wJXOD_ATCg5vck44s-0rB6NNeqk6axjOBIBfYeJq2AQhv9Sj7U3Z6XwaWoKYXsEhLrrII8rRTRAt70mFg/s400/bikeflat+noah2+013.jpg" border="0" /><br />~Someone who is deeply devoted to all aspects of parenting, the joy, pain and sacrifice<br />~Someone who’s love is unselfish, endless and unconditional<br />~Someone who is committed to helping their children discover and pursue their hopes and dreams with no personal agenda or time line<br />~ Someone who is present and supportive through every obstacle that comes along<br />~Someone who is patient and forgiving<br />~Someone who cares enough to give and take feedback<br />~Someone who has a life long commitment to selflessness<br />~Someone who’s love never falters, even through the heart breaking times<br />~Someone who focuses on giving more than receiving<br />~Someone who not only listens but hears<br />~Someone who’s love and commitment is always present and dependable<br />~Someone who’s commitment to parenting has no end<br /><br />For those of you who know me well have no doubt heard me say this more than onceJ….that if you do it right…..all the small precious first accomplishments of growth that fill us with joy, and make us want to have more….. (the first smile/tooth/steps/birthday/kindergarten/team sport/recital/crush//school dance…etc). All pale in comparison to the JOY experienced when you have a GREAT relationship with an ADULT child that INSPIRES you! It is a greater blessing than I could personally ask for and fills my life to overflowing daily.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259290076032780882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjuDOm3QuxvTvSpQpn-zNPDa_bF1v7s5hiUe6lRJQ1MWsdPFT9mFhW_z5dB_dv9dsfJmXjqARODuchEuppij47gZe_VNsQ3wz30P71TgTu81ZMyxjwdgbc3JX-vPAk6YeINZlDnA/s400/DSC02980.JPG" border="0" /><br />My greatest goal as a parent was to help my kids navigate through all the speed bumps of childhood/adolescence/adulthood with skills/tools that will leave them with the least amount of permanent mental/emotional/physical damage/injury and to facilitate their journey as they ultimately discover their innate giftedness and passion for their life. To have the strength of character to honor that giftedness and to be unconditionally supportive of that process as they put forth the effort to find the Career/Path of their Dreams. Almost one down, and two to go for me!<br /><br />I was gifted this analogy from Scott Jones who was gifted it from Cory Withrow, so I hope it will be a double blessing to you:<br /><br />“The road to success is not straight<br />There is a curve called Failure,<br />a loop called Confusion,<br />speed bumps called Friends,<br />red lights called Enemies,<br />caution lights called Family.<br />You will have flats called Jobs.<br />But, if you have a spare called Determination,<br />an engine called Perseverance,<br />insurance called Faith,<br />a driver called JESUS,<br />you will make it to a place called Success.”<br /><br />I believe that Concerned parents become Powerful and Confident Parents! Imagine if everyone parented their children with only this analogy?? WoW! That would be so powerful!<br /><br />I love and respect you for your commitment and dedication to be a “Mother Warrior” for your children. This is a tough world to navigate through and we are in challenging times. We need to equip our children with good and effective Amour to set them up for their opportunity to successfully navigate their way to their own success in this world.<br /><br />Love you Tons<br />Kathi Proud “Mother Warrior”<br /><br /></div>kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-67080822943977460272008-03-15T12:52:00.000-07:002008-03-15T13:07:27.402-07:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCA7bgISvzXq2aoU6JpVwzmZjPe4AwJP_gD9btq1m-CXpHa2S5AmMu90NFeqlQ_NpVGaKP0RxybOhHyleiqpe6BKFy4y95EOQSvRMRD4IsJgQeggqDCLlXiH6lvWw6xKvhdksJMw/s1600-h/first+triathlon+052.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5178061737977193058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCA7bgISvzXq2aoU6JpVwzmZjPe4AwJP_gD9btq1m-CXpHa2S5AmMu90NFeqlQ_NpVGaKP0RxybOhHyleiqpe6BKFy4y95EOQSvRMRD4IsJgQeggqDCLlXiH6lvWw6xKvhdksJMw/s400/first+triathlon+052.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div>Subject: From the mouth of babes<br /><br />No scripture today. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Just a lesson from my son.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>If you didn't hear his team won the PAC 10 Championships, they think with the most points every scored in this event. They qualified 9 guys out of 10 for the NCAA national championships next week. Levi qualified, his only loss coming to the #1 ranked guy in the nation. His coaches and teammates have done an excellent job in getting this team ready for their peak performance at the end of the season. When they got back to campus they immediately resumed their training schedule. They arose at 5:30 am for their regular morning workout. They pushed sleds and lifted weights just like they have done all year. After their best performance in the history of their school, they went right back to work in preparation for the next level of competition.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The lesson: Levi usually calls after a practice to give me an update, my daily wrestling fix. He describes practice and gives me an evaluation of his performance. We talk about what technique he worked on; who taught him; who he drilled with; and who he went live with that day. Some days are better than others. College wrestling is an amazing grind on your body, mind, and emotions. They have been training 2-3 times per day since August. Well he had a tough go with Adam Hall yesterday. Adam simply got the best of him early on in their live matches.</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Any time that you are getting beat, you notice the fatigue more; you think the room is hotter than normal; you naturally start to hope the clock would speed up and the whistle would blow to end the session. Some days in the training room a 3 minute live match can go for 5-10 minutes, easy if the coach gets a bit distracted watching a good battle. They had 8 such matches to battle through. Adam Hall was ranked in the top 15 in the nation earlier this season. He was the #1 ranked wrestler in the nation coming out of high school and wrestles at 149. Needless to say he is tough. So is Levi and every other guy in their line up for that matter. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Part of learning to be a champion is learning to get back up after a tough match or a tough day in the room. Levi bounced back today with a dominating performance in his room. He has always been good at getting back up after a tough lesson. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I needed that today in my professional life. After my masters degree, I pretty much had retired myself from anything more than the occasional clinic or collegiate educational seminar. I really didn't think that in my 40's, I would be tackling one of the most challenging college courses in my career. Actually nine of them. Well, today I failed an exam (received less than 75%). I just got back to the office, feeling rather mad at myself for not dedicating enough study-time, when Levi called with his update. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>God spoke -- get back up and prepare. Prepare in such a way that you win. Prepare in such a way, that a single defeat will not knock you down for good. Losses can be humbling experiences.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>However, it is usually in the midst of our greatest challenges in our life, that we find out the most about who we are. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>It is also the point at which we get to make the critical decision of whether or not we will get back up to WIN. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Most importantly, given that we are going to get back up, is what we are going to change so that we don't get knocked down again. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Lord, thanks for the lesson. Thanks for talking to me through Levi. Help me to get back up to perform well. Help me to learn from my mistakes and allow me to work in such a way that I become stronger because of them. You work in wonderful ways.<br /><br />Amen. Scott<br /><br />Good Morning Scott,<br /><br />WOW! This was a sweet gift to my heart today. You Scott Jones the man, the father and the friend have such an amazing heart. YOUR passion in life and your pursuit of excellence in everything is truly inspiring, to me this is what “LIVING” is all about, your journey on this planet blesses my life.<br /><br />Congrats to Levi what an amazing experience for him. Paisley and Mead High School Dance team just came home from Nationals where they competed 4 dances and they brought home a 4th, a 2nd and two 1st Place Champion titles, plus earned a #1 National Ranking for Dance Drill. They are still on a high, great experience to work so hard and be rewarded, so your story was close to my heart today.<br /><br />For me personally I have been struggling with motivation to gear my MIND up for my 2nd trip to Ironman, the first time was fun and new and this 2nd time seems more difficult to get my mind in the right place, knowing the overwhelming mountain of training mentally and physically that lie ahead of me. The 1st time my fears were would I even be able to finish, this 2nd time my fears are will I do better on not, concerns about other peoples expectations of me and not wanting to let them or myself down by not getting a better time or not having a good day, your message was heard loud and clear….<br /><br />Kathi Get back up and prepare….prepare to win….prepare in a way so as not to knock myself downJ…and in the midst of the great challenge I need to look at my 2nd trip to the starting line in a positive way…. So today …I will reframe the journey for my self ….rather than be un-motivated my fear or overwhelm…. I will embrace the OPPORTUNITY so that in the midst of this great challenge in my life…I will have opportunity to learn more about myself….I will choose to WIN….what every that means in this journey.<br /><br />Thanks for the blessing<br />Kathi<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5178061746567127666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPGP6eQDUxLzJA-hQIpt_J4FW3Jme1INNm9bEdDRs8WeAvxd0ifTH4c5YmajeX45EWUAyaNjUXv34Anp1qpfUXreAiAe12DCN0F_L7SeqzkVCmG092yL7OkMsJRwOpspyZfS7qxQ/s400/first+triathlon+068.jpg" border="0" /><br />Kathi - you are really amazing. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Finishing is winning. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Training is winning.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>To me, watching you get in the water is amazing and a huge win. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The example you set for others is a big win. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>You have already WON in so many ways. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Enjoy! Scott</div>kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-38610182860047067962007-10-17T20:08:00.000-07:002007-10-18T01:10:19.696-07:00Kona Trip<div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtiEGo8nRp8PYK511b5l6N6IS-yZN9PIC6ZXZEznTAYnGhdaqhXoK3_c4BqiWH_tiuST7HGq9LthEO3eAmmImOC4fKRgez8fGMr1KfaQk9DX0QFGOxIaueVvit_9VT4fzrrjr3tw/s1600-h/TT2.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122532242546874226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtiEGo8nRp8PYK511b5l6N6IS-yZN9PIC6ZXZEznTAYnGhdaqhXoK3_c4BqiWH_tiuST7HGq9LthEO3eAmmImOC4fKRgez8fGMr1KfaQk9DX0QFGOxIaueVvit_9VT4fzrrjr3tw/s400/TT2.gif" border="0" /></a> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122532633388898178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp-v0cBQLzG2ZxWTbLeXb3BZ1RBf1_KemA4gxCsuGZy3DYqiInRdCbS1i1izkkM-IpBGglwVFQtL9lD_jSMv-e70s-cgBhsmyvXkJGp713dTL_yYkjKUTR6DA6eugvqUxfGQ53_w/s400/YADCASBJNFTCABLKOP1CANX04GSCAOAJHMGCA7QSX3TCALNSY33CA4VQT56CAJ15WX8CACCHWMVCANRT2S2CAWFU1FICA47N4UVCANW5POHCAD12AD0CA9F4B0LCAFY98EKCAXOTNG0CA1DA02XCAD1IAT2.jpg" border="0" /> <div><div><div><div><div><div><div><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">13 of my Favorite Things from this Kona Hawaii Trip</span></strong><br /><br />1) Quality Time with Kevin, talking, shopping, sight seeing, people watching, snorkeling, checking out different beaches and resorts and sharing sunsets</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122510114875364866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUCKPWdUEMQvEJA9202_8VdUawUnrCkJOSoxe1tWWF4K7HHXCC78TygIfVnPQIe4DkEN67QTHXeyZmB7KFPdzEeXpAuxiGs7o0eY218edLGnEl6TaAE2gnOK15GrRNczTHpcWkgQ/s400/MF0CAS4JXONCAD2XFATCA2HKQY6CAMJ7L6UCAFVRXH8CAV8ZA3ZCA2FQB8WCAEVNS5TCAQMLG2CCAMXI931CAME71N8CAU6V3Q4CAMIDQWSCAKMXY0WCARQ9DY2CAHYR7AHCAGBDZTYCA0XQ3VYCAP73V7T.jpg" border="0" /> <div>2) Quality Time and good conversations with Kim! Quality Time, catching up, and sharing a good long belly laugh with Jessi! Sharing some good times and getting to know Martin/Vicki & Mark/Daryce better!<br /><br />3) Participating on the Ironman Fundraiser "Underpants Run"! Having Tri Fusion make the effort to pull together matching Team Apparel, of course in Red and Black!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122527938989643506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJywASGDjbBWipwirlrsTOjfFPpsg8KAcSZg5Um3CBB8JwpWe-kLtIAhwsT6bkhABk_X06d2VU54kXEHZuKHMFTVolW2DYuIiztj4__sbJN-ECqOtExdiyINwPfiaft1rk_sF3mg/s400/Hawaii+2007+004.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><div>And meeting Andrew Baldwin "The Bachelor, an Officer & a Gentlemen"..... GO NAVY!!!</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122527951874545410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_sOSreMGFvfltF5tHonREBOI0gP8fwdfCHz8D93mgunwAT2g0Hmu0H7UCLvVv-_9YCKsQyxhB8GfQPdsqs2eDWKvYOtj1fuYoDhb4LPEtHNz6hfia9tCP95m7rHLUnK1sVkbNHg/s400/Hawaii+2007+010.jpg" border="0" /> And Cheering on Andy as he was between Roger and Ben for most of the race. Roger ended up beating him by 1 minute at the finish!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122530820912699218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Rhhyphenhypheni2mvziX1HhlcYp0ggKuVDAPAzqGk3Z0fFQvcbNA_z5FzRb1GeF5Cxj3TQ9LdeR1ypuDhY0lzTNTBP5Xj17xA-qA-aZk-8VmHEHXavXICupea1pl5N12pIJVQwlbaDPATjA/s400/Hawaii+2007+072.jpg" border="0" /> 4) Watching the Navy Seals enter the Ironman Swim Course with an amazing Patriotic Statemtent. Sky Diving from Coast Guard Airplanes to enter the water, it was chilling!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122527960464480018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZi4G7Vlslj1fzipAmASpHtAUWquI4qRkdWfGtK8QisMeJgZFxoxKq2fJs0bDmj8JP_Sf_AY0nnXpfEnX2lFHTtFvEYLItCcLTKhYxpRd4e9FIrd4tkfg7zYpbnKJJV-mYIcBDPw/s400/Hawaii+2007+052.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>5) Snorkeling with my own Snorkel gear that fit..... <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122510681811048050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqngMQqsaNPPM8q4ssVn5Uz1-jDeGwPV8DhK_Zv3rBrjMxUg7KOcKNSxxrDlT3HnleXgcoqHvxrQPU0ywhv3jiDXnSeA-fvbYCaDXiE4IVZJSJ5EWoh_1becRPRJiXfKSC11jEWg/s400/ZV5CASGYOHECARO92S9CA02D2ODCA6AV1Q4CAQXHCRPCA6FLD4FCAUTMRU8CAAKVGP8CAPC123HCA2DAFEDCA8WITGPCAEBUUAYCANAWGJLCA3BPB6KCAJIX4YZCAS9FIR0CACR0GWFCAERARJ5CASY0POH.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Seeing more than 40 kinds of fish.....</div><br /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122512936668878514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjsGUe-tZ8gVU1igVdJ_Qvtwrv345Vu2yye0J534yx5dY3gxd3A9Fw0FOvzFf1A2RAt7yrAueol9O09LzANCB11iO1Of12oAPdWtnmh2-Sy7MKSydODd7g34af9xS9YxXKKnfBqw/s400/tropical%2520fish.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>Lots of Sea Turtles.....<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122510114875364898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw9Mn2VR-WRUc41VWjyuvmaQBeici7eoaTD-B6RXsjLsUrg6oZJqGsYyua2Hxsa-iFShTiSjijl2XXYAOxASjdLN3mdIHtYzDWnJ1ca2hfqS10ktPxs0G_bsfWyci7vXjyktcZFw/s400/ShaneTurtle.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>An Eel..... <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122510123465299506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdnUIggJiz8LjqneNnjT0X0lIJQhshmEVkXJeXqw_KXuIvoAoz_EwVppmHq95qCA5Mp7b4NZ4HPrctUaFvIXAEYRMZY8UW1yVJe_4v9k3StxXIXIQbRBOc_KbrNh61S84oHvjKaA/s400/spotmor.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>And a Sting Ray!</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122509367551055346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTc6JcOXo2BMjpj1ABOjJsd3_nVovcyLWn6eoBzIKc8j36nZMLBybD0-tSYBlQUoi6XZzzl4WPAzDZL4uul9r6RlWWmTfKRAZPfXbWN17Afi6lPIp5rUuuOkTwCPVFv2zatHyayQ/s400/JYKCAD9YZBOCAJYW0NOCAX5G08RCAREVAGBCAU7FFHKCARCT2AQCA52OSYGCA7XI5JKCAA3ZLHLCAUT3AZICAIO7RYMCAYDOB5RCAIJWVR9CA2CS27SCAGA9WUBCA3ZJXG4CABIDQX6CATHJ5OXCAJ6RWBN.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>6) Having 3 good experiences swimming the Ironman Swim Course<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122527969054414626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4K_Wb_-KLgBHFHROdCukGDRjvsARIPEtMF4irJDxHBL1XS_cTwus52FSrdDGpeORs8lW4u4QTmkohpA9OCyU9-woFctl__rje9Nt0lGEiUyY_L3Mp6JZWgg_llN57bf1bB2vqHw/s400/Hawaii+2007+057.jpg" border="0" /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122510681811048082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNaFEIzLDiMmpAHvT415vHrvgVSIi6qxz3GYEybZovhp0rEYTAY-v2UtVhM0pi-6USr6_LWdcTAiZwT5iScA8M5V4gdtZMEab3FgwUKQ3u8J0GhqaTg2_PCa0r1MpIOAB5a9tmuQ/s400/women-swim-start_art.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>7) Being able to Text back and forth with Adam, Noah and Paisley to keep in close touch with their activities and the events of their days!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122510123465299522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBU3BczJviVoOllCxL995zcMYp_SIruG8K6cGrgVEfSm7O4hjApN2slM3qY3Iuk-JZ1cRQuITu39mTdqTjEY_SAZDSJDSPfQ5VwdWMBph1KwPX-KXMO7hobqna1JX5jSsNEVqh7g/s400/text.jpg" border="0" />8) Running up and down Alii Drive during the pre race week with all the Elite/Pro World Champion Triathletes, it was an honor and inspiration at the same time!</div><br /><div>9) Sharing Dinners with the Group different nights and enjoying different cuisines and venues and hearing about all the different things people did during the day. Leni and Jessa did an over the top meal putting on a full on Luau! It was absolutely Scrumptious!</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122510677516080722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWQdiU6Fp48dfFt9FlHRoVwYstKvLTWvoZhFdWKrpoojLB1EHAtAUfO3udfWRJXjBqO1yfk6NxbSQtDCh4jet2eIl7mlk35vcjIpwyQHF3Y2O3wCkiK2HyIU3sV_Do14DXqY7U8g/s400/U58CA4K7CZ2CAT0O6CYCAJP6CEICAANIHMDCA67EWUSCAARO07JCAETKT32CAP8VTLBCA3BCT5GCAC6QTFQCAH1H4XECA3HR7NVCAK80C60CA96FLDMCACA9WO7CAJ03LQECALPIWD0CASPBDSACANA46PH.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>10) Being part of the “Hard Core” Cheer Squad for Roger, Ben and Jeff!!!</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122527981939316530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5tE1vQnnpPYKdymIBS2sOBKFLUB1y59oumVZB50I9TEc287N3-gTbYKvTCAMe6r8n76IOx8qvSTw-7sdVdytOJvTBIq_IIvwLHC1V9oUo7sh3gw7hKuZovsYCGm88hfS9iSWCGQ/s400/Hawaii+2007+065.jpg" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122530812322764610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJT-Z5RcEaSiuNcXpCJJ88z9CNzxFhnEU7y5fy_SuKAFuqwuPLcCKN-I0Bu-39ATH8hTEQ94J5EF484ZneYIpaK8YQMxTY26BgVOsaQIZ2ITZhB3FktYWjQ9o_DoK72QdJuV2d6w/s400/Hawaii+2007+071.jpg" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122530825207666530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_HmvX71DYo_c7o8i8ZcK_OygHFIazWUoUrRkzSKNUMygxbX_yb5WteFRmOjsxMqR4Eg2sfEmoM_Cpg6yzu-xircvc-yFmhBCIzmWIe6qq2mqh8Y8hiM22DvsWUBMr2MkW5etKIA/s400/Hawaii+2007+084.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>11) Waiting at the finish line to Cheer for Jeff, soaking up all the inspiration of of the finish shoot with the accomplishment shared by all the finishers and having the opportunity to share some meaningful conversations with Jeff.</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122509363256088018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb4a-Dt18ZSxHA8ETmUiU_3Cjro-1PVVxK-aFZS4nZMFKcXAfkIg7dadJRZAUs9T7pT79qAO8xIhIrH0DEW7kKFHw941a6dvmY5xIfrs6vCM-NCsT_jNxSgclFj5ruAZye14soxw/s400/Iron+Finish.bmp" border="0" /><br /><div>12) Meeting “Pat the Body Walker” enjoying a session myself, bringing several others to enjoy it and being taught and unofficially Certified by Pat to be a “Barefoot Body Walker”</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122534716448036754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLwO8cknP_WhVycwRWZls-tg2qI3SABq6tzArPdi08qu-0j0LMY7RowSpwZmjbtT-aFFTnzANyOv9gFs3PMB73hAxfU3nZ6_Pqych3ZkYwpNxQUUmJZP00d4D24zUnpsypfOLlJA/s400/Hawaii+2007+023.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>13) Sharing our vacations last meal with Leni enjoying the ocean VIEW seating, palm trees, sunset, awesome conversation and amazing seafood meal <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122509358961120690" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVFD5qX__wwmouBzzbDbLtoZbLoMsC3-R8nbN-vtNAHcX7sDcYrjiEyjLEcy0ptM6n5SA_I3LmEe1cdFw1jsfSPjOM4vSx4JQzh7nDa5DoxK6VmKZ5jJkyiO7wfVSzZzIFGG1Mjw/s400/5N2CA1XA269CAO89076CAX8BWWOCAUSP318CA7B55MQCAIOHFU1CA471OKDCAHW8RM9CAPM34MSCABAAZWRCALV3BEYCAQOB786CA2KUNWPCAXZDEABCAOY4VKHCA51W365CAY39076CAPBCQNECARPT3Z5.jpg" border="0" /></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-51785555889692058772007-09-30T20:51:00.000-07:002007-09-30T21:32:55.297-07:00Test Anxiety<div>Running Test Score<br /><br />F+<br /><br />F… for execution<br />+… for effort<br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5116212743631656322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioVDrwkwCuYGjkI-bUKPR816LB4wE5lbfpeeCpniKL-wZgi7R_kHZJI9OH8S9p4ICElHfopiHLQO1njWlWG1lKksgy0LBxdBV_6JU_NnZmUY2ktzjYtZlk7WIpGeL367Z7NQwPCw/s400/report_cards.jpg" border="0" /> Last Thursday was an important training day. I was scheduled to do a Steady State Running Test!<br /><br />This is not just something you spontaneously run out the door to do. There is a lot of planning that goes into preparing for an athletic test. It is really no different than an academic test as far as preparation.<br /><br />I was purposeful about what I ate and drank for 72 hours before, mindful of getting proper sleep. Focused on having a good attitude about it and mental enthusiasm to rise to the challenge and perform well.<br /><br />My test would require 55 minutes of actual running time, so I scheduled to fit it in between clients.<br /><br />The Test was a Tempo Time Trial, 3 miles around a track with my HR steady at 162-163.<br /><br />I was concentrating all morning on the timing of my nutrition, hydration and supplementation.<br /><br />My plan was going along smoothly, its 30 minutes before I head out the door, and I take my Delta-E and Energy-ease!<br /><br />I return a few e-mails, and then head up to get my running clothes on.<br /><br />Go downstairs and get my heart rate monitor on, pick the right sunglasses for the weather, and put my iPod on, fast forward to an up beat inspiring song, get my shoes on and head out the door to Kick Ass on my test. I wind my way through my neighborhood on my way up to Mead High School Track, Go Panthers!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5116211966242575650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQQRdt8KuERR_d9v4osWyH11rN1KIRhlaFZNScU4719h5qcnsNUDmgXxZKvyDuRzPYQtfwF55puwGGlRDGZEmD66GJGMBeBcx9fTbs9s29RZRacTvGLb7B1rhxMQkvv1CW2y_pYg/s400/gsl-mhs-2200-ryl.jpg" border="0" /><br />It is a beautiful day, I have a smile on my face, I feel strong and ready to take on a test and perform well. I weave through the neighborhood to get in my required 15 minute warm up, I work hard to get my HR up to the required 162 to start the test. I run up into Mead High School, across the parking lot and I am feeling amped and ready to tackle this test. As I get closer to the road that goes up to the track I hear myself say out loud…<br /><br />“You have got to be kidding me”! I am shocked and heartsick that there is a PE class of about 50 boys out on the track.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5116211961947608322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic0rs8Lgtv9jJnfBw10SsjIWZgVQtTR2htKE2PJ53ItTep-QmjmilGChJfr-zliZ7eBQf3mmg3_NteltomHpMFuLhkgfwvB5BqB6QIc6q5wjCzcEiXRYjhHvUAZ4_lwr5CbNjoDQ/s400/EOLCABT1GT8CA1QNRW3CA5GR0BDCA92EBG0CAIF5QI2CATOPA5ICASKB9TPCAYY0PPRCA30BYGUCALXYF6GCAAFGFAGCACJLTYOCAA05KZFCA3G9CMFCAUQ1675CAKJPF5CCAXYGYXXCAOKNRNZCAX380GC.jpg" border="0" /><br />I have 100 thoughts going through my head at lightening speed:<br /><br />-this can’t be happening, I look again<br /><br />-but I am so perfectly prepared<br /><br />-maybe I should I just go up and do the test anyway<br /><br />-oh my gosh how embarrassing<br /><br />-I do not have the guts<br /><br />-well I will just do a hard effort run then<br /><br />-I wonder if the timing of this test is critical for my Coach for my training goals<br /><br />-I will just do it tomorrow<br /><br />-wait, I do not have time tomorrow<br /><br />-where is another track<br /><br />-do I have time to run to Northwood<br /><br />-will I get back in time to pick up Paisley from school as agreed<br /><br />-what if I run all the way to Northwood and there is a PE class on the track<br /><br />I decide because I am to psyched and prepared for this test that I am going to chance running to Northwood.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5116211970537542978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglvsNVKjvJuSgGFkFroMuDDEL18-QGVeSTiqCR8I5X0nGIXGXLLnNfEC2T7Xa5arha0xWhfN69dOIWI3pcCggwW2Dy2ADhWfQGlBot9TUKs4VvAB7WE-gHZBfUVFn5-_DA1E3fMg/s400/nwlogo2.jpg" border="0" /><br />I get to Northwood and am thrilled that there isn’t a PE class on the track, there is a lawn maintenance guy on his riding lawn mower on the grass in the middle of the track, I decide to try to act like he is not there and press on to do the test.<br /><br />I get on the track, work on getting my HR at 162-163 again. I once again pick a good tune on my iPod, I find a starting line on the track and begin my watch for my 12 lap test.<br /><br />I am feeling really good, the temperature is perfect 63 degrees and sunny. I am cruising around, knocking off the laps one at a time, feeling strong, breathing well, getting into a rhythm, slightly challenged to keep my HR steady with only a 2 beat variation.<br /><br />I am concentrating so much on HR and counting my laps that the time flies by. Before I know it there is only 2 laps to go, I feel challenged to maintain self control to keep my HR fixed at 162-163, when what I really want to do is sprint to the finish line!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5116211970537542962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDYPqoDGHFkC0rqLNrMlRpLeq88avuzuXCXdlKtCh7R4cZVq6YwSnah9-JCubPjx775kSty9_19G_HnFVAUsYSwYHZM1fuU_YrOqJ0hGqEO5TwVn9wheMkCr_itrHnMJv6CrQjSA/s400/high_school_track.jpg" border="0" /><br />But I am feeling great and quite pleased with myself that I stayed determined to get this test done, even with the initial obstacle!<br /><br />As I round the far end of the track to the straight away to my 2nd to the last lap, I hear myself say “you have got to be fricking kidding me”!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5116212743631656306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsO5iRr6dkhUl5-0UOAB_fEtr3kHIAwnYC2uQ2rALNIZB0M2CcTdfoKE02HsQvtEuj7FblT02fUR3IrV7Fsjt-qRxk2BuC6JUX01mGmhZbxzXgooeZwH0uL8iy0oCneYRVDN9EjQ/s400/Windsor%2520High%2520School.jpg" border="0" /><br />I look towards the school and like a swarm of bees here comes this huge mass of kids all running out from the school towards the track. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5116215526770464146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF874ifGVQluAuAFC8bknM7GQKnQRm-c3rVSqFudNAGZyJHALqad8FXQxpbqJGQlGhvPp7SjSiiZEBrZC62m88YlcYKTndE388Xbz3lLKGHmzB2W1MDDF-69LceqKUcruUqs1reg/s400/swarm7_detail.jpg" border="0" />My heart starts racing and I am thinking<br /><br />-oh my gosh<br />-I only have 2 laps to go<br /><br />-this is not happening<br /><br />-oh yes it is<br /><br />-how frustrating<br /><br />-after all this am I going to have to do this test over again<br /><br />-but I am so close to being done<br /><br />-why couldn’t they have come out 4 minutes later<br /><br />-can I please just finish my last 2 laps<br /><br />-do I dare keep running<br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5116211966242575634" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-oZHHCzBWmfAVN3BM-dIdv3OG2GjS_Bvi-YeRy7Wt06Fq0eKx2eefHZNc_CMxbxrl5qMwdrNMxgh7TWHycXoNwYKwqrzrtaarPIP6P7bWtclCo4haTLE7Fn7L5yQQesRIdW9uLA/s400/failure.jpg" border="0" /><br />-I did not want to fail this test</p><p>-I don’t want to have to start all over again</p><p><br />-but I am so close to having this test in the bag </p><br />-the kids are staring at me<br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5116212739336688978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN5MXQKrWt2Rc98_BEcp97tmBQzcgSsNP8J5g9Dmqzh0XOH7RWTIxjF5y7ESeiob5j7gL1eMWrToXn4jLzhBK0zuLO8xGcS76HQgpaxu7yuZB2VK9Do4QR672S7yPGREodQRshFw/s400/Track-3.jpg" border="0" /><br />-oh my gosh this is so embarrassing<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5116220277004293538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6s_pMbHn1wSNFgYTD4kvADGVfeI33H1r_mLUT0cNBgC6jxIhvbG94t4Q_QETJ8mQ9CXQcxZsSWmKlsyzr40Y8tBxHwT5hjHALDvfuuHIyrqa2Gc3TzkGfnbIcWMVu3YMEr_FDwA/s400/amelias-most.jpg" border="0" /><br />-my HR starts going up </p><p><br />-I look at my watch and my HR is 166 </p><p><br />-I glance at the kids, they seem to be organizing something on the grass inside the track, moving cones, picking teams, some are putting on blue mesh penny’s </p><p><br />-I am trying like crazy to get my HR down but it is up to 167 </p><p><br />-I wonder if I can finish this lap and then run out the gate and just figure my last lap by time </p><p><br />-but what if I am off and that screws up my whole test </p><p><br />-geez I am so close </p><p><br />-now here come the PE teachers</p><p><br />-they look like they are walking straight at me </p><p><br />-My HR is 168</p><p><br />-I pull my earphone out to get ready to plead with the PE teacher to finish this last lap </p><p><br />-I start to say, “I………) </p><p><br />-the PE teacher interrupts me and says, “No problem, you are fine”</p><p><br />-I am relieved that he is not mad </p><p><br />-however I am very uncomfortable and feeling very out of place as 100+ kids are all around me</p><p><br />-I cannot wait to get my last lap done and get out of there </p><p><br />-I am sweating a lot and I wonder if it is effort or anxiety </p><p><br />-I finish, lap my watch to record my time for the Tempo Test</p><p><br />-I could not get out of there fast enough.<br /><br />I head out of the track area and away from Northwood. Get back out onto Farwell Road that will take be back home. I am running, enjoying the weather, good tunes, high on the fact that I completed my Damn test and hoping I will make it back home in time to pick up Paisley at 2:30pm as planned!<br /><br />About ½ mile from home, I had to stop at the Stop Light Intersection on 395 and as I was waiting form the “walk” sign to illuminate, I had a moment of Mental Clarity!<br /><br />Oh Gosh, I think my warm down was suppose to be done in Zone 1, which for me is a HR of 145 and realizing that I has been running at a pretty good cruising speed with a HR of 155-158! Oops! Well I’ll pay for that later this week in my training I am sure!<br /><br />As I was getting close to home and thinking of sending my test data to my coach, I was literally laughing out loud! Thinking the Poor guy, Roger probably had no idea what he was getting into when he said yes to coaching me.<br /><br />He is so technical…I am so not </p><p><br />He is so accurate….I am so not </p><p><br />He is so data driven…I am so not </p><p><br />He is so talented with technology…I am so not<br /><br />Knowing his sense of Humor and his appreciation of funny stories, I will try to wrap my not so technical or accurate, test data in humor in hopes that I will get some extra credit points for effort. If not I will have to offer to do some special favors!<br /><br />You all are so warped, I mean like help him grade papers or mow his lawn! Tee Hee </p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5116212739336688994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil_xqbvXAVwiPu70EpIVRZMJc9SLqPk4NttjVBqUmXTiYQWpvG6Fjvotdkvl_P7Uz71MS-wvql1uxrzsN1JduNjuqqpKDSbxTxQkv7S6Y8FuAcAkWf8g6EFmy5Sc22pKtcD_AJTA/s400/UEVCADCU3FOCAU2P817CAETQEFPCA0GUTT0CABTT5K2CAPNBQQLCAY9K0QNCAHCLPEMCAG2RQTQCAGNAGXHCAT4146HCAMBGN3WCA26618QCAW9UU3VCABNQBSWCAN03FVYCADLTDAXCAK8GA2ZCAYDN7HH.jpg" border="0" />Fortunately for me my Coach gave me a thumbs up for a passing grade! Whew!!!!kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-80301964276591088792007-09-27T09:12:00.000-07:002007-09-27T18:01:41.148-07:00"Coming Out"<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZBzPK92gdIvGquCvoHn3HNT6SOIf8B2Ruqpa1FRc8gNH7gKV10Y2u-utSrapIPm8XvbQdcH4ZNETy7WsjCdpc1KY-Spn01LlZTcnCf0m_K9hZXW6o7NZjiE6TbCc-eYB9e1_7Fw/s1600-h/5.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114961026952844530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZBzPK92gdIvGquCvoHn3HNT6SOIf8B2Ruqpa1FRc8gNH7gKV10Y2u-utSrapIPm8XvbQdcH4ZNETy7WsjCdpc1KY-Spn01LlZTcnCf0m_K9hZXW6o7NZjiE6TbCc-eYB9e1_7Fw/s400/5.gif" border="0" /></a> <div>It has been really hard for me to make myself blog lately. Partly because my little triangle of the world has been so over full that I haven’t had the time.<br /></div><div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114956306783786114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhnjb-yBwCxuxwy32c1BgfDJJKSe2rqvzBUlD5MRrqEK-4T0qziasDHfyS7SqcR-0EeEsT3OvIBDAIEAR7mAD_Kr8Nz1fQqX8UVVf2A59ckJm2SqxCf_rQyQYZYhRE003jOfVKuw/s400/triangles%2520pernrose%2520borromee.gif" border="0" /> Partly because it takes inspiration and energy for me to get my words and thoughts out in an organized and meaningful manner.<br /><br /><div>And partly because I have been living with and struggling with an internal demon every since my Ironman in June.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114945973092471810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_14udNm6IjboqnaiMA_UUO6CbYBXsYSrFix1y3MkBEGwojH6YEdcVJPsffm1dLDCcJeouqLkMxvbCu0DVE-c61uXW51r88EV_slrGxkwdtttdS2c-Z0MxkqKtcLt0wLDHLZrZjQ/s400/post_t1.gif" border="0" /></div><div>I hope you will sense the seriousness of this for me but also the fact that I am choosing to have a sense of humor in some aspects of it as well. I am a Frontal Right and my brain needs to find fun somewhere in this process of attempting to overcome a Fear!</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114919297050596226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK1KL785-Vu6zOSzLgnQ3GQnxo6ia1CAu9CX0rxHjigf4XJDN02ZI8Cwv4CNbMzokMjkuAi4V0Max6VzW3Z_g0aLgSdf40V7jKm_57ttvshY2vEf3bhTCMp31n45EkGIns95hsLQ/s400/fear.jpg" border="0" /> You might think that once a person has obtained the status of Ironman, that they have mastered the sport or that they have arrived at a level of fitness that allows them to experience nothing but smooth sailing from here on out……</div><div><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Think again …</span></strong><br /></div>I am going to be vulnerable here<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114959716987819202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNMPVZ2XaqjLSEDZJ3RkvLp3Yrp6NClTPE3ikwHDZTSqSrmAQOxdfl635uplRE5nUwvtaB-56Q7GNpm7Xl7kg-zv1UQb-fLYq6GKWcDxqE8xDwbNjefSe872XWZx7SeDyQyokSPQ/s400/ist2_671496_vulnerability.jpg" border="0" /></div><div>and expose my Ironman insides in an attempt to begin to move forward and grow through a big obstacle in my in my path on my journey to my second Ironman.<br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114959716987819234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_B2KByMShaP-a3ulu0X3OMzUGzcC5wmS8Tffkc0wge_Ixphe9uYl7CYPDnqVaBZ4iKo8wbYr5G8y2IdhgRxFAkK7GouXM8zFGxHU1poI3LTQNYmoIo9Da4QQ93NR15TW-BnypJQ/s400/swimstart.jpg" border="0" /> 1) My name is Kathi Best and I have serious PTS from my Ironman swim<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114959716987819218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqVzGAWEc4MfTse-rRacNdZr0YpVVEDE4du3Z3-XAGvkZmWdtnPNQ9inWTwNCdX8ByTWJ0FlcAwpAqkoCBZmtCoHmu08Huf7tvtGLlUstmVSzFwt3YmyRdgi8GFK_NSFlYgrH-oA/s400/jlo0037l.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114951492125447234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK5ZbaLrKS3vLC-zrkG7q4fK2_UdWEuVXWT6g5ywzKlLItY-wP-3hyphenhyphen31OXgEomht_frnuCVYdxQCpJpGVPbBmguGTPpmskuz3ZkTQDSYyuB7cL51SOyC_SWR28BTxpWJv1FPlZVg/s400/DSC04743.JPG" border="0" />2) I guess my issues regarding swimming are greater than I thought; I am tired of keeping the seriousness of my fears inside, putting on "The Face" and struggling in silence.<br /><div></div><div><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">I have an intense fear of anything that denies me the opportunity to breathe, so being under water is not easy for me period, and then being under water in a combative environment intensifies the fear for me!<br /></div></span></strong><div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114918747294782290" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjlCVgBxIwSkKdEEup2oQTX1e6aA38yzaXtuSufTUHjM4_zSrIlGj8uXDcE0Jvl16Wls-qnHkFzisU6zX_45W-F07-YMVHH5dxWkuWhJR2P-7rkHoJ1FlcPRqm_XYSToWGqkWnNA/s400/9321.jpg" border="0" /> Confession Time:</div><div></div><div></div><div>-I have not been in the pool since 3 weeks before Ironman</div><div><br />-I have done limited open water swims</div><div><br />-I did 3 races after Ironman and I had such severe anxiety about the swim, I hated the fact that I was signed up, I was mad, edgy, moody and short fused. </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114945968797504498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmzUj_JgiySi5zNCuwhIS2QOPSx8jlfa1YqtkTOCQsDLt2lnDPCETZUO-1-S1nL4K_7g60vNG82gkHfinFfwX9lujl6ryigyZOxJHrMtsOOLbsGwuyCyaOdTtyDMZCZNWZD-jdHw/s400/J2JCAISMV8LCAPJOT44CADLU1R8CA4S26BSCA9NUW17CA2OTE7HCASPR117CA1WMCS7CA2NDVNCCATBXI8DCAW2SI0WCAOV01B5CAFSV7G4CAT4716JCAMXCZ3WCAN4ICKTCA79XK1KCAQ2WTAMCA82C58U.jpg" border="0" />I dreaded the race so much that, well pretty much I was a “Bitch” the week before each race.<br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114918738704847666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix4tr61RUu9GYgHMwTLntxTLFdgQHOveZXi6hPAr8JRp2sjaI8Q0AB1Q-Ua3XWURGVldWbEN7Awb5A4OoJhIlDbWY1qfdHhSUYDdjgn_XfaKbl5J3yDZERfqWqoABNG4HP0ZN0Rg/s400/24JCA0QMY3LCA024F2DCA3QC6JGCAGVTKA6CAPXJ0C4CAZHXCYCCA97CH2CCA24HHPKCALFGT44CAD8RJDCCAV9D44TCAO02GS3CAGKKW4LCAEOWZ1XCAYQL8M0CAMD9DGOCAPRNUKACAY56D9FCAZYE4CJ.jpg" border="0" />-I have skipped so many of my swim workouts</div><div><br />-I dread getting in the water so much I get a stomach ache</div><div><br />-I have come up with the lamest excuses not to go swim </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114959712692851874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYWJ1kp_Huyzfa1WWN0NRNmd5fKdevKltvjjUuU1tztqKO66GUi7IPWYrMzPf7HbHlpNhQ36IwqO3z-lc8DpkZ4gammHjMZ2R-YTdaCYcJ_Mab0zjHNRgrevWb7BP_3pcuEusFiA/s400/095_lg.jpg" border="0" /> <div>-I have avoided any type of water speed work, skipped all my scheduled swim tests, or any part of a workout that makes me be out of breath or hypoxic in the water<br /><br />3) I haven’t really said much to anyone, not seriously anyway, and I haven’t communicated the intensity to my husband nor have I told my coach and I haven’t wanted to post because I want to be authentic and it has been hard for me to be authentic with my words because to do so I would have to talk about:<br /><br />-how fearful I am </div><div><br />-how I feel like a failure in this area</div><div><br />-how frustrated I am that I am here again<br /></div><div>-how I do not like to be a wuss, but I feel like one</div><div><br />-how I hate to be a complainer, but if I talk about it I feel like one<br /></div><div>-how I know no one likes to hear negative, but if I talk about it, it sounds negative</div><div><br />-how I fear people who have heard the story and are sick of it</div><div><br />-how I fear what people are thinking, good grief just get over it</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114959712692851890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPcLUc-5kBFpV2J2ZIPkzHpOJMCj_Mu0CJWEl6kV_1Xb-xLZN-gjK_RLbtxQy5j0agRqy2ZToyJwbYL18Z7XFTXaY0HTTWEnQX8luExo1b3tIrX31gxNegyIM-WV0NAccBbOtggA/s400/17272.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>-how so many were inspired by all I overcame and now I feel like I have backslid</div><div><br />-how none of this is inspiring or uplifting<br /><br />4) But wait I am an Ironman, so I cannot be a wuss </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114919301345563586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAZz00yg7_MDFA7BERQqLED2wjcBWtPzJ-YiovOEBAScroe-evFzeUX5Z1vq5PtEzJyYAU7QHc8LSeTU_-g6mApOiOj0EXcwSUy_vHZ7ffF_aywVgGqUMsb0n8AFRjGtrntCM-cA/s400/ironman.jpg" border="0" /> 5) I am an Ironman, they don’t complain </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114956302488818770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdCEiuJvTVdsGgRexy9bhMX_WVW-27AioWvw8y11RrUCn2Q-0WZ3TYKudGtWoVkZh8JgivLGBKlRVsJwNCJuX0tVMINrC5IuUuO5B9XFVsQvslZYKW9U7XZfTEWy6PYuYkKNWPHQ/s400/ironman_new_poster2.jpg" border="0" /> <div>6) I am an Ironman, I can push through anything</div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114918742999814978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkSb0jByl1B5FtfPA6uSO29VafLjZElHMgevhmBBLa_llY7kMCJqfUP4hYrqrEJ3LsfZ3YmMwycf9UPxPHape4yBvlIP82Hy6B0AbHf2yOcdfV-7ssM-spVA4N9R5ja6hz9E7wAA/s400/51DZE2XFERL__AA240_.jpg" border="0" /> 7) I am an Ironman, I am physically and mentally tough<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114919301345563570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcM1vMiAsbmBMxReC_PBiPW8nL1hi_PraeP0B7DUNuJW3UTDScSMnmr-uwn5p7wo0GhXfZpL-KvXkqFrQHRBT2Mgx0ULaL2X2msUfPOjbUBWPMqnCHi66zIY9yWkS57Fe5PvKCJQ/s400/fears.jpg" border="0" />8) And all of those statements are true… but guess what?<br /><br />9) Even an Ironman can have issues, I am proof </div><div><br />10) Even an Ironman struggles with motivation, I am proof </div><div><br />11) Even an Ironman needs to be re-inspired, I am proof </div><div><br />12) Even an Ironman has things to learn and issues to overcome</div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114918747294782306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghigXmeUiXf_fNWL82eUizHqcuyhTa3HqIt5NH6b_cag75yGGWXHorl9sW7BjQQ39iBBhorlaYbfy-OqcCI8JZWDMlxtG81AYc6435bTOJLlAFUqBS2KydUA3E0s5yJtmsnFqEcw/s400/BLICA0QCHE3CASK5QNKCACP816VCAWQ06HJCARJDTKVCAPHL9WWCAITI844CAVEZH2PCAA3GP62CA9VXRF0CAMQTKHDCA2X3BJCCADUNF2ICAHY8385CA8EXSAHCA1VY11WCAP9DIZBCAJEP601CAZAISP6.jpg" border="0" /><br />13) <strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Mine is the swim<br /></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Yes</span></strong>… I survived my 1st Ironman<br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Yes</span></strong>… I had a great race<br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Yes</span></strong>… It was an overall life transforming experience for me<br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Yes</span></strong>… I completed it and actually finished 1 hour sooner that what I had hoped for<br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">But</span></strong>… I was traumatized<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114918747294782322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLC_OJ9HTePvREbxVhMOSz0jFpZDnXdVE74vokz2JYy-e3Oyp1XS25WrjTaCLxsNNaOJmIkQvK4fEFr4IQqjElaH96Du1Un_Dbw6p58_ElbEK1dpDde4yW6ZJP2IRhzCA5JnVzaA/s400/cgr0283l.jpg" border="0" /> The swim was such an intense, fear/panic stricken experience for me, if they had given me my Ironman Medal after surviving that swim I would have felt like an Ironman! <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114951449175774242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGZuxlqF47KqZis_qCY7iR_zkr11gZRpa92R91AOoCGEG6rNkf43LXjrOtVlvnyprKAx8M8la8KFBfR-FR13_WQt2GVcEmY8SzIyOssUCkeFiufSWf04b33BHYqTSMg2qZ26KgDA/s400/DSC04774.JPG" border="0" />The pictures taken of me coming out of the swim tell that story better than I can tell it in words! <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114951470650610738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTVVcoD2gRceA0OVpG5z9QuiDGFaY-NunE4gkYX8O-ZT_y8UPKpGCoG44NJqYL3HxJO7JMP7o27tg1w3ykI0go4mNvawK7RfoPWLdehDUs0skPkyQI3R6PsZK0ShrZrLyCqHezUA/s400/DSC04775.JPG" border="0" />This is going to be another transforming journey to the starting line<br />For this time, I know what lies ahead<br />A lot of Physical, Mental and Emotional Work<br />Regardless, it is going to be a lot of HARD work.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114919301345563554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3nbq8Vv-PyMsUeXi1cF9iCtVqpPIexfVOdKu7FnKRpTvjm8C76GUwsYjRchW2QytgTzeFvYEj-P-hYanr1t6dcQOKWFMwq9U3QpmCrj0-Iq4baX-Tn2sY7PzJ81XmJ6mNOW9Dng/s400/fear+%26+security.jpg" border="0" /><br />To be honest…..<br />I am scared !<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114956302488818786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzDm61q8VRbAazF31xbxC9sAISCEMVJ84hna7NNU4VS5sX-Yuz5HX8jws25XCvkUwOa-okkY-e2JRxFgXaNeEf6edwmoB439eaOwAHyaJGRqqvYNYOzx119DBsfikhW_90w1BcQ/s400/scared1.jpg" border="0" /><br />Fear of failure?<br />Maybe….<br /><br />Fear of HARD work?<br />Possibly….<br /><br />Fear of Mental/Emotional Work?<br />Probably<br /><br />The “New Love” Phase of Triathlon is over for me<br />Now the “Tough Love” Phase begins<br />I have a lot of work to do before next year<br /><br />Ironman Coeur d’ Alene 2008…..<br />Bring it on…<br />I think?</div></div><div>I want to be...</div><div>An Ironman</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5114956302488818802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT-a16EFyxARlJaZzSAGbs0r69fQcq4HuTWVWGlADjH7HSV0Rd4B3nB3DQuXgrEbPs02azpWL5tod9Cx-x-KbyQ8XKBVAtlEWFaQNPgS_8Cjh9vt9whOqu66kQSV5m5geVMuabjg/s400/65JCASSJT2ICAGK95R0CAC47LLUCA11Z0O7CAWCX874CA4ON443CAICCEZRCAWZEHY2CAWJ1A1HCA4EC9MMCATQ8AVNCAUT7W3DCADHYXOACATRZHWYCAXJ4CDKCAIFQK4DCA76PMMGCAIURR2ICAP6GIBE.jpg" border="0" />kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-60196751830602486302007-09-08T09:05:00.000-07:002007-09-08T09:32:48.725-07:00Friday's "BRAIN FEAST" Food!<div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;"> ~Appetizer~</span></strong> </div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center">Using only one word, how does grocery shopping make you feel? <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107869457061904450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZYkB5gTB_e63xYG_dFj8zCxATiaRqRVtOk985NhEFctN-QNWX4_yh8qhzRkZUvQzqCRIp9JSzrpuQInkMc_LUFOdNnRjbl30jFV2WHJhB7VBl0yX0ytbHYwW6X8szyUAZ53zagg/s400/0AFCADMK93ICA433G4OCAJ81S32CAZA2B6ZCACI5M7CCA2I09ZVCANCAGA0CA49PAW6CAO4G75CCARQ2XTUCAVSHQQXCAMS8D10CA0HOSFVCA28D0UHCAFBRK98CAULU4Q8CAC5YOKICATXG2ZLCAX95H71.jpg" border="0" /><strong><span style="font-size:180%;"> ~Soup~</span></strong> </div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center">What is your favorite part about the season of Autumn? <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107869461356871762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2lgEW07FB-pbKrzhTftyJEu0a-bbxU-SWpibqLPtLZFYtQeEeaTMCKmfkP03M0eCEgiGzC2u4urW40f7A7FhWdVI01uMgHrg9pSP8ihHaRWINDPHHdprsK5aMk80aZsMymHrrYA/s400/images.jpg" border="0" /><strong><span style="font-size:180%;"> ~Salad~</span></strong> </div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center">Have you ever had any bad experiences online? <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107867756254855122" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNiVNO_Ipdifeg7oHm84RdZPL9H3prKtgDMv7oMZPACwwPa8Frs31Vw2lesP-P5yFSVNr-b6DdE1qkc7ztJHS6d33euKw8ja18I6iIrFg5YT4uEcnm0gDLRIb5nqICzZMZWjtFbw/s400/computer-frustration.jpg" border="0" /><strong><span style="font-size:180%;"> ~Main Course~</span></strong> </div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center">Name three things that make you happy daily? <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107867764844789762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgntjodSNeS2AZi50YbKr5EEUqacuIR68Up27O7_YnRhfyZOj0m2H2UY2betf1wgajHQBC5T8jbAOYJZDAqikGwOG8f20X4xGrj3J7ph9Tmf46s_rW0RW06C5gfiSjx6rMA-EDkJQ/s400/CDA+IM+07A+085.jpg" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107869426997133330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNc_AsbS1MN57r-i9bi7NC7vyDln02Nq9JSYugxRNKzH0npO_HZ8YN9UGSPhHfCmyP02INVgTEkUjlYcdf_dQl4Dkb1DF0WktjiavQ2Mq_lddrCAvSvskWuK7ISPbPkMGOQc3RVw/s400/CDA+IM+07A+086.jpg" border="0" /></div><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107871325372678242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRDnySmxqDE5Am6Hak3LZUhiNr526mVZ4ePJApX0Km_p_qu3LMxaxRq8rnYe8fQxXKGCizjxGSDmO_hFXyThH7Q2DvAybHMLvQnsEnxxbKZHdyLbt0Rv3Gy5LkVxo5-p21nzOO-w/s400/DSC04868.JPG" border="0" /></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107869444177002530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmhUP-8J_LPFiXU1WFHiTjFdn_1YH8khzgLRIU4dmfv-y9i1yNzYB5gbY8kmowdoewMRaKeN9wn2_zMdD05MMkwV-oRconDYtg2mQ3hFWRQDQD007dfK4bXRHBHxiJWZX1nKIqvQ/s400/DSC04920.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107869457061904434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0kB0K9GFFm8d-LVnXjb0DBdcloSC7rMsPLfjZzOB_gULDFrBHIFn13YXQq0txsQJrmZH2R3JbOyFX9f3SLjU-jPPenpseNJ2q-tVVGW5KasdRep7jo94TWdVp6IJ9YAFDNuTzmw/s400/troika+2007+045.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="left"><br /><strong><span style="font-size:180%;"> ~Dessert~</span></strong><br /></p>What one household cleaning or organizing item would you not want to be without? <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107867751959887810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv_NbQCnCGtrgz6X9VAhHlAcZIueiNVfWdB5ICdtXN3FySv0n4XIt3QEhqhKQnd-FrTPn5W_DBlC7xv7MHoJNhO92BkgTL9x5v-2Tj2sHeTO7SxB4dQCjYjjUxKwoDPDkr5GKXCQ/s400/1188519955.jpg" border="0" />kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-52871662038610861822007-09-06T07:38:00.000-07:002007-09-06T08:20:04.192-07:00Shooting Stars<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRTj9mB1uB77Bo64-B1Ld7f60xLU2JAbeO9BKZD08AR_VMAAvTnt-kRNktFF7Ow_m3Jo3sNDfUbGwbNlElCjtS5E0O7MGNWwejFUAv7xFUrqVqMSDhXyQEaPywWxbp3XV5wpQrJQ/s1600-h/TT8.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107108358792281986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRTj9mB1uB77Bo64-B1Ld7f60xLU2JAbeO9BKZD08AR_VMAAvTnt-kRNktFF7Ow_m3Jo3sNDfUbGwbNlElCjtS5E0O7MGNWwejFUAv7xFUrqVqMSDhXyQEaPywWxbp3XV5wpQrJQ/s400/TT8.gif" border="0" /></a> <div><div>This week has been action packed with so many things going on and so many things that I am planning and organizing. My mind has been in constant motion and it has been hard to shut it off, which makes for some overwhelming days and some sleepless nights.<br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107101138952257266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcdiU06KwvpV18lEEfsJJfjeXq_eqgW6VJKDiPh3MxThx4hMU2n7B5RZwjedWBhjqNxup_3WhBipMo8Yvc0VCdYVytbxXypYnw50fyEnNz7YGPbzRCTP51hrU3xzFJ3VRmPL0y3w/s400/1000.jpg" border="0" /> Last night as I was trying to sort out the 1,000 thoughts...............</div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107110424671551378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2SZBIeHnBvm0euZT6fbw5YYBFHdD526Qly4hX5LgBi-JQioiw9sxmA9N6nTWyJaLBMzA7RwoQVP7m7Fg1ltIcSPlFjdDw4e6lX5ejlXDTncXmDNa99YubcRmaIA0WDOX1vsfDOg/s400/shooting+star.jpg" border="0" /></div><div>That were moving through my brain like shooting stars, I had an idea for my Thursday 13 this week. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107108354497314674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-oeNx0PZdNsybaRl3l-sLRUn8k7qdlYaw9JY8kqGt_KqS40NLNbsCNgpKwvtT0Hy3IaiEAzfaxfijDsEz-M_Oaa7AnHkEzlAgZZkosQhrXFcVxWVPT_KWmoV5bV9x1lDHuwyo7g/s400/sstar.jpg" border="0" />So here is a glimpse of a small fraction of the thoughts from the last 24 hours!<br /><br />Random Thoughts by Kathi Best……………..<br /><br />1) I need to remember to order those balloons <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107101169017028386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlOb42Kju3SYpbbm-osGcf5NF3ud5bPzAlZTfCRYcRgoMwu55G25eUuFj15P3XVa5pNXFqPMj26uzqaTcHA82feHCmSlW9w1wydtrofX3FchNhh6H2qTN-wNc5A_6XQKH5SBpwnw/s400/balloons.gif" border="0" /><br />2) It is rewarding to know when your life has a positive affect on someone else<br /><div><br />3) I wonder if it is the beginning stages of Alzheimer’s or menopause as I reminded myself 3 times to send out an e-mail and forgot twice, it did get sent</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107110428966518690" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKK2jDjZfN4vFoEUrxsOTqTzoWip4ALn9nnJTt-MDreO1HYqe8_68v9U-q1aQ3awp5SWUDgmsvXTGKFrKywZPno9neLO0MrV8lifJkVl1ObfzMHwi6n6IE8jnSw5UypwWvswtZ_A/s400/menopause.jpg" border="0" /> <div></div><div>4) I am at Mommy Joy knowing that the boys are together and having fun in Seattle, I recognize how much that blesses me </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107101164722061074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR9GGX8exVRITywqYZXKYHPKw1cIYg8I7eMUpJPa-okEH5ZnITnD4YaBtESDnYOLScV-PhMFgW5856W3xrpb9z5EuT01Kf1suHB-KHBc6DR_Z9tLAinfI5OxisTbfyiZ20jCSOhg/s400/23991.jpg" border="0" />5) Remember to tell Kevin about the message on the home line</div><div><br />6) Having a productive day gives me energy </div><div><br />7) Can’t wait to hear how Paisley’s 2nd day of school went </div><div><br />8) My intuition is good at sensing the roots of emotional pain </div><div><br />9) Amazed that we bought a car spontaneously </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107108354497314658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnCMqMiJDFTO4ABlHf1zER2Ws-IJnzW1nVcwWe7cJpqfbduIGMEgezJQU9Q8Xa_Y3B5Px4_0CBPTPDKcHgvw_jWJc1D760evrml9RxMTs-0xKjYUVbEOOoJ4F8ZhwM4rJA0Nqiig/s400/RK6CAW38L27CA9Y33S0CA9KTEXOCA4LTYH9CAPGA4X0CAI7RST3CAUSWETFCAP3J7VECAP1G52FCAXVMPC9CAR0SIX3CAW8NPTOCAW1SN8NCAF09JZ4CACIP01RCABAVJ0ACAOTQO6ECABPGKP7CAZHGJTS.jpg" border="0" /><br />10) Quality Girlfriend time is a GIANT cup filler for me<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107101143247224578" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSMW8xB8Jh5mA8NnEVmRJSchMnhpI_E_Vyt1pXwj8fBPTwLXWKXhPxIJB-O-al4EyxKKEECb7Xwr3sZn6sCkg3KyWPYbIvTuR-LbNblhyphenhyphenV0iEEjBKT4jflFb6iHTyX55hrKD-K_g/s400/23965.jpg" border="0" /><br />11) Why am I struggling so much with swimming issues again<br /><br />12) Thinking and LOL to myself of the perfect example of how crazy my week was, I might have to dedicate a blog post to just this! <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107101173311995698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn3F08wqyA0iYmSYGuoW1OytnhoK8YapvffTsgr9ZIy2Q05V5wZ8v9xqsu3WQdkC31U7vOvnMXORafSTUpk5kAYeD14vgrUyeVjCjoHVLpXYAInvIArl7Qc3fiLUc6kpD3KSsKZA/s400/Joseph's-goat.jpg" border="0" /><br />13) I worry about the things I care the most about when they are unsettled <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107108350202347330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7BIWo791_vjlE7QQrtJvy-clMvxLyhxbsRIvjpOrp-WuJ8UB3l5-9zJD65sZJsW6fYptHPWlun-RxuJNgl1aZ0sgAIWFPJ9wbguZ_IypDGtc0akgxh1PVNluGwHpqllUUtodnCA/s400/es.jpg" border="0" /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Like I said.....Random</span></strong>kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-74562467816212173292007-08-25T08:41:00.000-07:002007-08-25T10:08:52.839-07:00Penticton Day #2,#3We hosted a Tri Fusion BBQ Potluck Thursday night at our "Shotel" (as Emma calls it)!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuJnlbKKks0t2mZy5Khb9EPNPZusgxIB5vMT49m4K59XjQlhfzu_wjahNtPm4W-9Aam_x-RhH6Jp8ktM7SYy9HTBsuTenVXjim3gM3KjmizUawmCcsaGYa0jmqenGh0nVId77q3g/s1600-h/P1070749.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuJnlbKKks0t2mZy5Khb9EPNPZusgxIB5vMT49m4K59XjQlhfzu_wjahNtPm4W-9Aam_x-RhH6Jp8ktM7SYy9HTBsuTenVXjim3gM3KjmizUawmCcsaGYa0jmqenGh0nVId77q3g/s400/P1070749.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5102670656848133698" border="0" /></a><br />We all enjoyed some delicious food and fellowship and laughter, and with 6 families packed in our Shotel I think we got close to breaking the noise ordinances a few times.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuzH-L9BGuJvVxvdLDPB_fLYYpX3JwaR6aPDStHvcxa0ijh1-WMkn8azgyIOenzrb0LA9RhVPNZ_ILQezB_vwuuOtlIZNz9Yfu2HK4BLLNvaJBaMqiQMp2uVrI9vl6CTnGxFm0Mw/s1600-h/P1070783.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuzH-L9BGuJvVxvdLDPB_fLYYpX3JwaR6aPDStHvcxa0ijh1-WMkn8azgyIOenzrb0LA9RhVPNZ_ILQezB_vwuuOtlIZNz9Yfu2HK4BLLNvaJBaMqiQMp2uVrI9vl6CTnGxFm0Mw/s400/P1070783.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5102682725706235554" border="0" /></a><br />Friday morning was the Ironman Famous "Underpants Run"! Last year Roger talked Jessi and I into doing it and because we didn't agree until the last minute we were scrambling for underpants the night before.<br /><br />Being veterans, this year would be different. We planned and shopped for our Underpants race attire and decided on going with a color theme of Black and Red in honor of our Tri Fusion Teammates we will be cheering for on Sunday!<br /><br />Here we are before the race, it took Jessi and I a few minutes to coax Tanya and Daryce into taking off their warm-ups!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB0cMLZjMupfaTiN2CM0pST_eURXLKeHNv-kn1-v8THkoDCItui3X5tVfrq_kuHjL1bMiStfm9vAMlHg_cQ69RwVhUxlngdBoVmWRhjCQdLhUW6xsYI0MRFhDxK_T-ZqG73WEVdA/s1600-h/P1070811.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB0cMLZjMupfaTiN2CM0pST_eURXLKeHNv-kn1-v8THkoDCItui3X5tVfrq_kuHjL1bMiStfm9vAMlHg_cQ69RwVhUxlngdBoVmWRhjCQdLhUW6xsYI0MRFhDxK_T-ZqG73WEVdA/s400/P1070811.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5102672404899823202" border="0" /></a><br />These are 2 Ironman Canada participants from who decided to go all out with the Drag Queen theme!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaFnC3rGKoGs6cLXPZEprPo8RWUg_a9EB59XzHV1kGTz2tw7Xvxwzgx9rtZkXW_bYdyo0lJJU0IZx_iemoG30GZABfykVFTKEjkroSS8az5pvhkYue2_TS8STt2cOHWeaaFdfoRA/s1600-h/P1070817.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaFnC3rGKoGs6cLXPZEprPo8RWUg_a9EB59XzHV1kGTz2tw7Xvxwzgx9rtZkXW_bYdyo0lJJU0IZx_iemoG30GZABfykVFTKEjkroSS8az5pvhkYue2_TS8STt2cOHWeaaFdfoRA/s400/P1070817.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5102672413489757810" border="0" /></a><br />Here is a mommy to be who was proudly showing off her baby bump in honor of the group she would be cheering for!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-2YIH0JDPKpQZwFF0uHdJTt5QzYj2_fVj4UKZVYp9uJ-UrYF-ns-PvrSjE_gQE2BUQPoJXwBR3Dpj8pVgzpNGl2ww69TMWt_L_R4OeVne8J3M9I50HX4crmbiKxgE7xYHqQ2AAw/s1600-h/P1070829.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-2YIH0JDPKpQZwFF0uHdJTt5QzYj2_fVj4UKZVYp9uJ-UrYF-ns-PvrSjE_gQE2BUQPoJXwBR3Dpj8pVgzpNGl2ww69TMWt_L_R4OeVne8J3M9I50HX4crmbiKxgE7xYHqQ2AAw/s400/P1070829.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5102672422079692418" border="0" /></a><br />After lunch Jessi and I went on a 2 hour bike ride. Kevin and Roger joined us for the 1st 30 minutes, we tucked in tight behind Roger and drafted our hearts out as Roger was doing an "easy" ride to just spin his legs out!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDlb8I5E3itwX9spq6eERK2lKK6okMH1t-TLCRnSZ70_QYAVUqVUWw8-A2xGxDnuXWcYVf0lSwmHokf7NCZe9PkwgaqL4WOSkckGRTgyPFEOoI9LYtrRt3yYI-A5GvrpJlEA8rOQ/s1600-h/P1070875.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDlb8I5E3itwX9spq6eERK2lKK6okMH1t-TLCRnSZ70_QYAVUqVUWw8-A2xGxDnuXWcYVf0lSwmHokf7NCZe9PkwgaqL4WOSkckGRTgyPFEOoI9LYtrRt3yYI-A5GvrpJlEA8rOQ/s400/P1070875.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5102683730728582834" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKlG6TiaOi8OTvCrxaV0-yeD5Hm55rRn654-a0QeNQ_ZfpRQ3T0tnxS1SDqqc3IkjGTZdPwH3zLgbShQBjxC4E2dgTlcmtBvc3-V38_cmZWFgVET37F9uukCr9kghtfpe5f7XGuQ/s1600-h/P1070874.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKlG6TiaOi8OTvCrxaV0-yeD5Hm55rRn654-a0QeNQ_ZfpRQ3T0tnxS1SDqqc3IkjGTZdPwH3zLgbShQBjxC4E2dgTlcmtBvc3-V38_cmZWFgVET37F9uukCr9kghtfpe5f7XGuQ/s400/P1070874.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5102684456578055874" border="0" /></a><br />The afternoon was filled with visiting local farmer fruit stands, we purchased fresh peaches, nectarines, apricots, blackberries and several varieties of plums, all mouth watering delicious!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWJX6j-ml7G__Nr-2moMJXvQ85Oyet4EiDpZbh0HcsPaWLyL-k_YJ6rTnsAkE3znDUPAiRDWj7G_jM9MR5CVOXom8lcnuUGyoWfjPRYXKX-3rJNY8kTIMYnEcmDRyIFOfpG0wy-g/s1600-h/P1070879.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWJX6j-ml7G__Nr-2moMJXvQ85Oyet4EiDpZbh0HcsPaWLyL-k_YJ6rTnsAkE3znDUPAiRDWj7G_jM9MR5CVOXom8lcnuUGyoWfjPRYXKX-3rJNY8kTIMYnEcmDRyIFOfpG0wy-g/s400/P1070879.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5102684911844589266" border="0" /></a><br />We topped that off by visiting some more local wineries for wine tasting.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrbxIEdGzwqPm65AllfPrDwsBBeoHaPSXVpClA3Y6Avlixf7oFU2agoFauF9uzLOr1qKP3-eXDtkGgI9FfvO1T4P0e0-mSV2QpndcBaU71FHK8aL3P-0j062lQni_77eW5yZJvAw/s1600-h/P1070745.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrbxIEdGzwqPm65AllfPrDwsBBeoHaPSXVpClA3Y6Avlixf7oFU2agoFauF9uzLOr1qKP3-eXDtkGgI9FfvO1T4P0e0-mSV2QpndcBaU71FHK8aL3P-0j062lQni_77eW5yZJvAw/s400/P1070745.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5102685684938702562" border="0" /></a>kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-21448266473975996212007-08-23T11:52:00.000-07:002007-08-23T13:16:45.734-07:00Tri Fusion Support<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0WtR55gKY518Tz50gvvSNypDgZs8RAzROC3ILxlUYdpd2mXqbfBJXlIVsJgF_as-eiVzLqDw935UsYWAHr6oNDQcy3dGHGEp-5TmKJ6UH0qFnauNQZpCqSeXupINNb_Luf91mOQ/s1600-h/06canhomepage_01.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101986176500104722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0WtR55gKY518Tz50gvvSNypDgZs8RAzROC3ILxlUYdpd2mXqbfBJXlIVsJgF_as-eiVzLqDw935UsYWAHr6oNDQcy3dGHGEp-5TmKJ6UH0qFnauNQZpCqSeXupINNb_Luf91mOQ/s400/06canhomepage_01.jpg" border="0" /></a> <div><div>One of the benefits of being part of a team is support! Support can be a powerful thing in life but becomes like a drug in athletics! It can cause you to dig deeper than you ever thought that you could, it can create energy inside you to go faster than you ever thought you could go!<br /></div><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101982418403720642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhINIRfmr6M7OitlrIHj5ABVHKhZgwyi2wu6JxT1oNAlfPvFSAwogdnsFr9zKt1ZOzRiKgmDe7GUl1wM91jfecddjnESxk4KFASTSNOpdZqgGERR1twX323y4mKeIyBaDUd7nskNA/s400/IMG_0570.JPG" border="0" /> <div>Part of the "Power" from a team comes from the synergy derived from having passion for the same thing. Knowing without words what it means for the other person because you have personally experienced it for yourself.</div><div> </div><div>Support for Triathletes becomes like a drug, one that you crave, because the "high" is so amazing! Support is very affirming and can give you "wings" that can carry you through the difficult times!</div><div><br />We even had a large cheer squad show up at the Coeur d' Alene Kids Triathlon which several of our club members kids were racing in! Go Tri Fusion-The next Generation!<br /></div><div></div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101988792135188002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuB0Rihn_C_m1bLDFrUp99NVSqjnF1bVlXHGSm9w5uWoXI2p6_SQehyxthQgFZewq-tod9XG-0OwCIvio-fGwg9D-Itn5SULh5Z_mHco2KVwv5RIiz4H7j2Dnb_97hxyWlTgJNKw/s400/P1070092.jpg" border="0" /> <div>If you have ever been supported in a race by the Thompson or Best family...you know you felt the love in a big way! When we formed our Tri Fusion Club we modeled that kind of support from the beginning. Now as the entire club follows that lead, the support within the team and for the team is electrifying and you cannot help but notice and feel the energy!</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101982452763459042" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgexI4jmvhmwzsOyFaVwvJjfi8Vs1bCflkDojJdxGkKOXULoWRCUa48ES5jhoJDhwC0xdQZJSNZhJPvxA8UHFRv1dfTo_-auUnjH5yDMwQTu1IKA1AummpRY2yOGLMwyFNd5vjcBA/s400/Aug+2007+spaday+056.jpg" border="0" />Here is some major guy support at Wunder Woman Women's only Triathlon last week! This support gave Rachael and Mary the "wings" they needed to finish their first Triathlon in the 60-65 year age group, WOW!<br /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101982478533262834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzLH_Mvbql3hY9_5gLb7NFJhm3XFHlA7Si3b26vEmR1Dww0Um2tD0mGM151RVG9zQLYZqFPjX8Abxp7O0M2kwRgoIwc64Gzt2Jv6qo8DtULMVdycrZGAr3FDuAeX1-Z2ygCei7YA/s400/Aug+2007+spaday+057.jpg" border="0" /> <div>So here we are in Canada, 4 days before Ironman Canada and we are already planning out cheer and support stradegies! We will be cheering for 8 Tri Fusion teammates and the people who are riding or running around them will be blessed by the overflow of cheering! </div><div> </div><div>Several of our teammates are hoping to qualify for Ironman World Championships in Kona Hawaii, so we have pulled out all the stops to make sure they are supported and "feeling the love" big time! Jessi and I even got "Tri Fusion" Pedicures, now that is support over the top!<br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101982439878557138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigIoCYa3-zTKnnPpuk0XKLLlFTFlBCUcCRGneXWrvL5LIkxhtDdHehBbavJO8dtWO-BVs7ALy9-SaWSUP4JR9NG5kV-4CcUOh6npy9fSP5QXygaNgaGerwuI6URkfl4pZKX2mn7A/s400/Aug+2007+spaday+054.jpg" border="0" />Jessi just got back from her swim and had the perfect story to give you a clear vision of what I have been trying to say. </div><div><br /><div>As she was walking back to the Hotel in her wetsuit she met Jorge from Portland from the local Gecko Tri Club and he was sharing with her how this would be his first Ironman. Then he asked Jessi if she was doing the race and she said no, that she did Coeur d' Alene Ironman and that she was here cheering for some of her teammates. He asked Jessi where she lived and when Jessi said Spokane WA, Jorge said: "Oh you guys have that club, "The Tri Fusion"! We saw you guys at Blue Lake Club Championships, ya you guys were the ones with the cool Jerseys and all the cheering! Jessi flashed her beautiful big smile and said, "YES"!</div><div></div><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div>kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-90577383451340707292007-08-22T21:39:00.001-07:002007-08-23T08:11:05.756-07:00Penticton Day #1<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Qd_A1QKdvTS3KkJpUF5sRVBq-Bkx4JHY8ggbYo8_7xCmC-DAvfMBMUIRX5vsHH4f2mo7of6xYcYgZkX5SfyJ9lzZhjuJmaE5NemtUw_OJKovHOhxEgfFps_WnJBLiduLRxJ4Ng/s1600-h/Penticton.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101765651404291506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Qd_A1QKdvTS3KkJpUF5sRVBq-Bkx4JHY8ggbYo8_7xCmC-DAvfMBMUIRX5vsHH4f2mo7of6xYcYgZkX5SfyJ9lzZhjuJmaE5NemtUw_OJKovHOhxEgfFps_WnJBLiduLRxJ4Ng/s400/Penticton.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">Our first day in Penticton was fabulous. We started it by sleeping in, which was like a little piece of heaven on earth. Then we enjoyed our favorite coffee drinks in our own room, because we brought out espresso machine with us...Shut up Josh (smile)!<br /><br />Then we took a walk down to the Ironman Village and checked out the Ironman Canada Apparel. Wow we scored the jacket to beat all jackets, Roger spotted it in someone's hand about 3 seconds after we entered the tent and he, Jessi, and I all purchased one. It is soo cool looking, red and black with a big Iroman M-dot on the back!! Kevin found the perfect T-shirt for himself with the graphics of "Iron-Fan" on it!<br /><br />Then Jessi and I went for a nice long run, along the lake at 12:30 in the heat of the day and had an amazing 2+ minute negative split. Whahoo!!<br /><br />Then we had some amazing lunch, followed by some even better pool time, life was feeling really good. We felt on a mission to try to even up a few of our tan lines from all our different lengths of running and cycling shorts.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFv9suMw9kAiiXtTB1JlyKt4W3erZHaVe31cbN0RJgcvK3L3AOBkE0_d3X0YMgsTd4J5di97rBc7GEZvOgxE6-UC1ttLAXPBKN_-h3xYhDYTUUwMHXfXMq79KicynsVIzW2NYOvg/s1600-h/redrooster.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101751031335615842" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFv9suMw9kAiiXtTB1JlyKt4W3erZHaVe31cbN0RJgcvK3L3AOBkE0_d3X0YMgsTd4J5di97rBc7GEZvOgxE6-UC1ttLAXPBKN_-h3xYhDYTUUwMHXfXMq79KicynsVIzW2NYOvg/s400/redrooster.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Kevin and I took off and visited one of our favorite Winery's, did some wine tasting and purchased a case of various delicious and award winning white wines from Red Rooster Vineyards.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_7nvDAttYqKs8u5rMgYYUelnEBMriaVfMet6JIr1vP1TtIPyeNHG58G7Tvu9qlP2Fa4qDbJJ6JJxWcGbBLkRG1jm44d0GW4sVks0WwOii7dDITy9_nXbqoIy_FXiPUwhaiiWdwg/s1600-h/whitewine.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101765282037104034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_7nvDAttYqKs8u5rMgYYUelnEBMriaVfMet6JIr1vP1TtIPyeNHG58G7Tvu9qlP2Fa4qDbJJ6JJxWcGbBLkRG1jm44d0GW4sVks0WwOii7dDITy9_nXbqoIy_FXiPUwhaiiWdwg/s400/whitewine.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Followed that by eating one of my favorite dishes that Jessi makes called Thai peanut chicken pasta, yum yum!<br /><br />Then of course we had to top that off with a 2-scoop ice cream cone from the nice lady from South America down at the ice cream shop!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfIrbwSx8jd6ni9CUQlpWM2Z_m2PxTqCr2zEQW-e25LOeYIFVxoPuAC0qIl_HRYR11Iu4JKAlGYhZkVfUglyA4hdAwVQ55mc36H0y0gNLx1nmMzE_c8eJY1mqmHmyDKLZ9ZxLWuA/s1600-h/icecreamcone.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101763645654564226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfIrbwSx8jd6ni9CUQlpWM2Z_m2PxTqCr2zEQW-e25LOeYIFVxoPuAC0qIl_HRYR11Iu4JKAlGYhZkVfUglyA4hdAwVQ55mc36H0y0gNLx1nmMzE_c8eJY1mqmHmyDKLZ9ZxLWuA/s400/icecreamcone.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Ended the day by having Jessi help me give my Blog a new face lift, I love it and look forward to hearing your thoughts!<br /><br />Vacations are Gifts to my Soul, Attitude & Mental Clarity!<br /><br />Nite....Nite.....<br /></div>kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-53620538292058935112007-08-21T07:42:00.000-07:002007-08-23T08:24:17.255-07:00There is no "TRY"<strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:180%;">You either "DO"</span></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:180%;"></span></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:180%;">or you "DO NOT" </span></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:180%;"><br />There is no "TRY"!</span> - Yoda<br /></span></strong><br />This is a life wisdom that I learned before I completed my 1st Triathlon. It is the philosophy of the person who was my initial inspiration to become a participant in the Sport of Triathlon.<br /><br />I had been spectating and cheering for this person and kept feeling this inner longing that seemed to be drawing me toward this sport. And the first time I expressed interest “out loud” in possibly attempting to do a Triathlon I said something like this “ya, I'd like to TRY one some day” and the person I had been cheering for said to me, “You will either DO one or you WON’T, there is no TRY”!<br /><br />That person would eventually become my Coach (Roger Thompson) and that Philosophy would eventually become mine and that paradigm shift got me moving in the direction of taking the actions necessary for me to prepare me for my first Triathlon!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101180427750472994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDESuJ9Qh1ozxipyXtpJE88nlS_e-Jy9QwbrlRgdefUlKtvYadw_R90zS6NHqQebFlVNkdNLWsc9xFwGB-pP0BcLcEQFMCmQznI1D_FABe03_iE5367qLhNV1MeZSleD8MlZ5QvA/s320/CDA+IM+07A+092.jpg" border="0" /><br />That philosophy has also become an integral part of how I live my life and how I mentor those close to me to live theirs! Here is a beautiful example of what that looks like in action.<br /><br />I got a new client about 6 years ago, her name was Rachael Norton. We had an "immediate" and “trusting" connection, I knew it-got it and I knew why! Rachael, although she sensed something, was unaware of what specifically was happening and the fact that she was a flaming Frontal Right who’s life had collided with another flaming Frontal Right! It has been very entertaining, and rewarding journey over the past several years to have Rachael be open to learning about the Innate Giftedness of her brain and to watch Rachael as she has learned to use this information to live her life by design, and move forward each year with more joy, energy and efficiency in her life.<br /><br />Rachael and I share the same Brain Lead and therefore we like a lot of the same things and are inspired by a lot of the same things. Back in the day Rachael ran Marathons, which use to be an important part of her life and health. Then an unfortunate injury to her knee prevented her from running. Life goes on and a gradual loss of fitness snuck into her life. In 2003 Rachael Norton came across the love of her life, became Mrs. Rachael Michaels and her desire for health and fitness and longevity began to rekindle.<br /><br />She has been living vicariously through me as she has followed my entire journey from running my 1st Marathon all the struggles and growing pains I experience getting into the sport of Triathlon! Her interest in my journey was continually a gift to my life. She was always encouraging me, filling my cup with words of affirmation, coming to cheer for me in races, sending me notes of encouragement, standing in the rain to support me, interested in hearing every detail of my trainings and races. Rachael has been a great supporter of me all along.<br /><br />Over the past year I could see her interest peak about the sport and her health and fitness in general. I kept planting small seeds of “participation” in her and continued to fertilize them every chance I got. Sometimes we never know how our actions, words or experiences affect the lives of others. But on this day Friday December 29th 2006, I would know! I did a post on my Blog about “Training vs Working Out”<br /><br />This post ignited the "fire" within Rachael. She e-mailed me and told me in very passionate and determined words that she “Got It”! And she was no longer going to be “working out” but rather that she was going to be “training”! She told me she went to her fitness center, passionately imparted her new revelation to the women in the fitness center, recruited 2 of them and to sign up as a team with her to do their first Triathlon! And this was because she got that when you are “Training” for something, it gives “Working Out” a purpose!<br /><br />You have a GOAL, you have a DATE, therefore you have a PURPOSE!<br /><br />What an event...hopefully, her transforming story will come through as inspiration for you, in some area of your life................ "enjoy".<br /><br />Here is where it all started, as told by Rachael..................<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101176832862846226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9h_-tdaT2bQbs9APVhWtnYLiHmW_9Ac1UVLmrFijDosxotSu4aqmRC7m12dfOxXuUXQEayg9MyI_-O_z_TYMRWZam9Zrha-gGBwCDz8i5dTEd6eEe2iZbZUTrqfgao4EjI_LTmw/s320/untitled.bmp" border="0" />Mary, Kathi and I before the start of "it" all.<br /><div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101176566574873858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZE4592A-OCRle2ob_ZlYfsEcn6y2W_MXHNLs-NsZ058rqUKbgB1FW52zZr7uUafx9953yYZUO44rXSHzD4PjNkKrfwMTPMib4gkSwirfmFcg4T19kFrk8nEMImgKP4LfM1ty8-Q/s320/WW3.bmp" border="0" /> Here are the 500 women at the begin of the 0.25 mile swim.<br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101166902898457762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPhSlDfwRbA6mEPJR9_kCpG6RiBb1b1oLN0CXcad_RupumNcTS-BcNs733JeTP-vRTEMH2yKnm51ar7JKHj6Wxx0kAgKEqLJUTSJcJ9DepSmL3DrNgBnqfCXwbjjF_ft3-XbNf6Q/s320/WW2.bmp" border="0" /> Kathi giving me some calming words of encouragment before the start of the swim.<br /></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101174410501291186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggCVlYlQgDgN174frkGKlav5zpN814-_kIUZMvkx428SZafiA-J7NMntsboIP-RDH38EMfZhBfo6Y-qqRUnwiSYHC21IXSAzfCrmzG5adQ_ttIV_FIQBLeQeDZNJAXv_Xxp69Y2g/s320/WW15.JPG" border="0" />I am last in the swim...but not forgotten!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101166387502382162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMxdGEc4VljQ_iWi6aAvpncK8SSYPyMRr1jRNbeYcnb2SBJtOsylLMzLz92XCOmDx_V9ajFYxHkDP_CWNmfp-RYvga_yAy7ozf71fJLI8K3PQMJiUPC9PILcvqxAHsXX2o0j8NCg/s320/WW4.bmp" border="0" /> Here I am starting the bike part of the triathlon, 12 miles.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101174414796258498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTtFiHI_ch4xx5JSVrClp8oyQSXZNonDMmP9mFRMWnqRqmCV9bA5JrnTk7D14M_h_EvgpAu2zFsmIWKpSgJ20qfoLTgF7e5fiOTgOp4aEg0GBUDVlaH0tyoYzLdSgFNdiNte8qHg/s320/WW14.JPG" border="0" /> Here I am at the end of the bike, very happy, Kathi was impressed that I got a police escort<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101174419091225810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg66NPtcopH6UW-7AZIgrrFWO11t1tAdU0pMIt4uVku9_ghuftIDG-U5WjoW4Py_YwT18YB_a6ouC20YUx8CYa3NW8mKbWCwuroI_GMKar7MydVQ6qXiYfhGpa3FZRzitCKDjZ6rA/s320/WW13.JPG" border="0" /> Here is the transition area for the swim to the bike.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101174419091225826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY7rtYHTWeNuJX1Jby6s1iWwUgE9Xt-KQA0h96fZ6cNA3RDYDTeHmuA-wo_vJz1yqkPhBWhUxGQTapFt5z-T35w32uObqyhf1twZ5iW_ZzE4JS7P4UuIgM3mS7GmLSW6K2ifQWLA/s320/WW7.bmp" border="0" /> Here is my #1 fan, welcoming me back from the bike ride.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101174423386193138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbOaicEw0222WoaxFr3Kc1Tm3ZSI9Yao8IA5WXsqR2pRWxej5SzH9HqwqkHrNdvgwcSJbOIKNIOSII6GtirNdR8LyJIuu0a5OHWL9dw49WFcQOKPYQKgVrwncwu1gJgKRyFjHz8A/s320/WW8.bmp" border="0" /> Of course, this picture doesn't need any explanation.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101166391797349506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIuet4djfyw5j2bS_1SAHteWoM6vP85yI1Z6OQZoIZmIm4wfiRr-xvjrQX6UVtdX0FDapQh1ub_5uTe6r1yKxIYHkZL6cvQgD20T5f8B9F-Np1NN71hvEXlv7zoqLtND6-DqiT0g/s320/WW10.bmp" border="0" /> Mary and I at the end of her fabulous walk/run - she was absolutely fantastic.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101166396092316818" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih2JHYL7ZZ1dbLoBLhoxIpK0Vhh8SYNyT73RN-mGF3vp0jIYhWoMWUS9efVdzLbK8qm3R579eTCKD0XWoL9ArExu72RiyxMW9oJz0ELVoLHd5DVwXRX6od-jRMB0xsUm61ERbBhw/s320/WW12.bmp" border="0" /> Mary, Kathi and I - Kathi was my awesome coach and wanted to "coach" Mary too, not allowing me to do the ride along or for Mary to walk alone.<br /></div><div>Life was an extreme trial for Mary and I, but we had wonderful support from our husbands and our family, friends that we knew and made on Sunday, Ironman/men who told us we were fabulous, doing our first triathlon, and then, there was Kathi, riding her bike while I was on the course and walking with Mary...<br /><br />We had ample amounts of support from the volunteers and other competitors, but our family and friends showered us with great love - they carried us through the rough spots. Wish you could have been with us for this momentous occasion. I believe that Mary and I were the second and third oldest women there - I saw only one woman older (71) and she was doing the entire event on her own - talk about inspiration.<br /><br />Enjoy - Love, Rachael </div><div>Triathlete</div><br /><div><br /><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">You either "DO" or you "DO NOT"...There is no TRY!</span></strong></div><strong><span style="font-size:180%;"></span></strong><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;">Rachael and Mary chose to "DO" and that decision will transform their lives forever.....................</span></div><div><span style="font-size:180%;">I am so proud of them and inspired by them............</span><br /><br />That Philosophy I desire to apply to every area of my life and I find the more I apply it and allow it to permeate my life the more productive and rewarding my life becomes!<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong><em>There is no TRY in life….. </em></strong></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong><em>you either "DO".....</em></strong></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong><em>or you "DO NOT"!<br /></em></strong><br /></span>~You either “Take Action” or you DO NOT<br /><br />~You either “Make Progress” or you DO NOT<br /><br />~You either “Learn” or you DO NOT </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>~You either "Have Faith" or you DO NOT<br /><br />~You either “Loose Weight” or you DO NOT<br /><br />~You either “Move Forward” or you DO NOT </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>~You either “Save Money” or you DO NOT<br /><br />~You either “Forgive” or you DO NOT<br /><br />~You either “Change” or you DO NOT </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>.....and the list goes on....................<br /><br />Maybe I have just given the words “I DO”<br />a rebirth to a greater meaning (smile)</div>kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-87300377726302283072007-08-16T11:26:00.001-07:002007-08-16T12:36:58.837-07:0013 Things I Value in a Friendship<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg49XGY1o6f2NjGHMGLmlM14X1cw2ipBZiPhVFKXESvi84ZR7JqY5LENPD3US5RSPJNEw8Gfi0thvHQV02VST6ul7l8_1v-_NtPtoRXmTpfKP2t_yJ2FCGT4vMjPWipcySetrlL7Q/s1600-h/thursdaybanner14.png"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5099383512218074162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg49XGY1o6f2NjGHMGLmlM14X1cw2ipBZiPhVFKXESvi84ZR7JqY5LENPD3US5RSPJNEw8Gfi0thvHQV02VST6ul7l8_1v-_NtPtoRXmTpfKP2t_yJ2FCGT4vMjPWipcySetrlL7Q/s320/thursdaybanner14.png" border="0" /></a> <div>1) Having a relationship that is Loyal No Matter What<br /><div><div><div><div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5099367496285027250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3zB7HM9_h3o8GLvbl1f52x33GhgU3KpWhJSfJViDuzVgu53yPWs5sLRIq1BDw8o1COrifDamjovmetPo6rFaCPQmAOq00D_RN9gw1VgIPCfYac8VzSux16-gcyIKvm2FnMEfkng/s320/loyalty_rewards_dog.jpg" border="0" /> 2) Willingness to be Spontaneous in Different Ways<br /></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5099382034749324306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggjGEZ1ncpoZNp3YTq0-34Ty3XrHGPgoRLKzGKFDPr6j26u5Twc2Oh56cGLW1CVF9pUBdDfN83p53qEk3gF1XkDBh5c5CBvk7cbPrVJoL-r6rvzLhvEP2cdDXeAHKDHE760BfIuQ/s320/ironman+canada+06+069.jpg" border="0" /> 3) Integrity that is Strong enough to be Honest At All Times<br />4) Having a Sense of Humor that is Shared<br /></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5099375854291385314" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMfh5V9N4YY9HGLQwyixUuIqzGpwO9YKv1Tj8h8awYgQXUY_TJkqP6mYg7ve4iqrGVn0UfRqztcBbSmJcOUBmwP0ORl5pULu2NLxW0NcdiOyl2Swqt8TlsMP-SOQP2xt0kBdwNyg/s320/wheredoesicecreamcomefrom_1.jpg" border="0" />5) Being Generous with Compassion, Understanding and Grace<br />6) Knowing when to be Supportive and when to Allow Space </div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5099383160030755874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ydtBcrtrjhFsGSyijMAFriqYv_leHSS3A5Am9mhJM5c6e2MjTdLpSgTdCLRGwepbVJXY2MIL4r-N-IjxUlZI6BLO2bBVVm6HGndJRlbiypIruidCKfPhWJMDia1s9fdY87mCqA/s320/DSC05137.JPG" border="0" /> <div>7)The Connection of two Innate Brains that Defies Adaption<br /></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5099375858586352626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyf1Qap_W8pvaIWwWE7LfIS8uc43vItDfNCegTHDVj76r050utLZSsfHnBMx3qfGg62dEEjdQ6C1UIoOi-lQTeXXr31ytfosQEnctfa6Z1qz_0jytgM-Menp1yYCtjBHoA7B6wiQ/s320/wrap_your_brain_around_this.gif" border="0" /><br />8) The Gift of Sharing & Valuing Quality Time<br />9) Being Invested and taking Genuine Interest in one another’s life<br />10) Dependability<br /></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5099367491990059938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjohGiBbUx3IfIT6ZAmPaCG6XGPMrXLlNB2JcLk3FYgHV7VtyIs6t70k4aLKm4TRgrAyKi51j3xnMg2K09xOyr_ekkz9GEkLitx2z1Qhvuu0NXzLMBTNukykUSShYVIi6i_UuFAmA/s320/uinta_reliability_dependability.jpg" border="0" /><br />11) Not keeping Score about Anything<br />12) Having Enthusiasm, Optimism & Passion about some common things </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5099377069767130114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOQxFhQW5RNSV05mK_aWoYqZG74LM9JMyhAvqU2se_KyjD3jk-YCTA9EVEfFyrDge771jh3hGnpcXId7-cn94G786Z477IuTuQgbKaqRoEPPZrIO4yeoLzvVp-bC8qFEuw4PZbkA/s320/enthusiasm4FINAL1.gif" border="0" /> 13) Feeling Safe enough to be Vulnerable to allow for Mutual Teach Ability </div><div> </div><div><strong>Above all those 13 would be.... <span style="font-size:180%;">Authenticity</span></strong></div></div></div></div></div></div>kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-35196684566361929472007-08-13T06:49:00.000-07:002007-08-13T07:29:59.364-07:00I've been tagged!<strong><em><span style="font-size:130%;">I have been tagged by Kimmie...................</span></em></strong> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipXo6XYE5lpOVUKxFjEtrs3PmcNAjC7NrOH3qvwxFJdOVEj0g1bLp9d4-ZSUF9r8Ng3I7_dKkGvPLJLC-yD4-C2ZUqkYtEDT5g8he99aknC69XR_FUZzylLhiELcQKfuLhFw4dkQ/s1600-h/aisle_w500.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5098188897914110322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipXo6XYE5lpOVUKxFjEtrs3PmcNAjC7NrOH3qvwxFJdOVEj0g1bLp9d4-ZSUF9r8Ng3I7_dKkGvPLJLC-yD4-C2ZUqkYtEDT5g8he99aknC69XR_FUZzylLhiELcQKfuLhFw4dkQ/s320/aisle_w500.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div><div><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Jobs I have held:</span></strong></div><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></strong><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><div><br /></span></strong>-Babysitter<br />-Receptionist<br />-Dental Assistant<br />-Mother to Adam, Noah & Paisley<br />-Domestic Goddess<br />-Stained Glass Instructor<br />-Japanese School Bus Driver<br />-Japanese Pre-school Conversational English Teacher<br />-Systemic Health Consultant<br />-Massage Therapist<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Movies I can watch over and over:</span></strong></div><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></strong><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><div><br /></span></strong>-Most all of them recently because I seem to never remember that I have watched it?<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">My Guilty Pleasures:</span></strong></div><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></strong><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><div><br /></span></strong>-I choose not to feel guilty about the choices I make, if I make a wrong choice it was my choice to make and I see it as a valuable learning experience<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Places I have lived:</span></strong></div><div><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></strong><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></strong>-Eugene OR<br />-Roseburg OR<br />-Florence OR<br />-Springfield OR<br />-Corvallis OR<br />-Sacramento CA<br />-Merced CA<br />-Yuba City CA<br />-Okinawa Japan </div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5098188889324175698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd_rdtvyI9cxgphF7Sas38Az6j-wyw8BLcukKBKIA_QSbB8bUDVnAsB9LQL4cU6LhtaLRowP0GG_KtFOB1YfNOqoCDFMZPIZU6csKybtLVAZKy-LcoRI_XHL75QB-hManZ9ACNaQ/s320/6HQCAGYJ9TMCAOUXRZFCAR65LQPCA7NAUXACA5QJ9ATCA0E6149CA563DWSCAC7O9BFCAQMPYHUCA1AEQ3TCAOEFB0FCAFBKEB2CAHVBPFSCARQQQTVCAA023HQCA7GJIOXCAIE90T6CAR8VQM1CA41LC0L.jpg" border="0" /><br />-Montgomery AL<br />-Spokane WA<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Shows I enjoy:</span></strong> </div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5098190822059459074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSEEqtXDsFK4HVlCaQG5J2764s-taaBZPWUWMT8aOSbLd_Cty2Yh7mZk66dKLP-OudxE-bScCI3wBhKyTuVl6Dy50yMePjEgJi5beOjv6Al5GKstzmlRXmpz1quWfxCykAq3jacg/s320/tv_homepage.gif" border="0" /><br /><br /><div>I am assuming this is referring to T.V., but for the record I would prefer any kind of “live” show over anything on T.V! <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5098189353180643746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw3AORusFLLVlsSNgGF5JWdPahV_l2H_7DuoMZDO1Ck2QNhLU-J8AvOnlkZKrRhIIRVwZXlLZBOmlsdpRaChetWm_MEI9Ztlc038OzTjkmdRgDHhI1pg5ynqHiFRZtVQ3vBOZyEw/s320/ftgrease109.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />-The Office<br />-Thank God you’re here<br />-So you think you can Dance<br />-24<br />-Entertainment Tonight<br />-American Idol<br />-The Bachelor<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Places I have been on Vacation:</span></strong></div><div><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></strong>-Disneyland<br />-Oahu Hawaii<br />-San Diego CA<br />-Aspen CO<br />-Sun River OR<br />- Tijuana, Ensenada, & Cozumel Mexico<br />-Florence, Newport, Cannon Beach and Tillamook OR<br />-Salt Lake City UT<br />-Cleveland & Northfield OH<br />-Purdue Indiana<br />-Birmingham AL<br />-Disneyworld<br />-Fort Walton Beach FL</div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5098189357475611074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXPd8BiIvBb5NrYlfOT5To-F_gmWJydEAQAjSbnuwgezTrWAuYi02RBtXBHAw2caEt6ub97P2ox_y01VBNZbGV3MYorqiG1WN0ydatbo5OEA9MrVmwkGo5CEdy0aop54Jg0b4c7Q/s320/korea-palace.jpg" border="0" /><br />-Korea<br />-Maui Hawaii<br />-Philippines<br />-Hong Kong </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5098190830649393682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBC1FSaUuCb6Kxiqccq_TT4QcwQay7YwiXzBYbnLcxU_BMqeiNKNHpEqBAkY8ZnkWpq_4CIdnazc5ASAGEUSGIjPiwVH9Ly_RYEasuvLv2ctqv5cvAMfcL_k8y1T8XUyMtVp2XQw/s320/Singapore%2520-%2520Merlion%2520en%2520hoogbouw%2520web%2520groot.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div><br />-Singapore<br />-Kona Hawaii<br />-Vancouver, Penticton & Nelson Canada<br />-Jamaica<br />-Leavenworth WA<br /><br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Favorite Foods:</span></strong><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></strong>-Most any Salads, greens, grains & pasta<br />-Mexican<br />-Italian<br />-Nuts of any kind </div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5098188902209077650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN7YlrTy2sM9QeSCO-ENmdy9TJQFgG_mWDiQUEysxM-3ScmDwoO9QgUiImYD4HUZUePvXqMbwgGaj9LPMptSrO47qHkP-XLjHqsrVGV0UgCMWmqVbsvlIvvsZnfpD5hqqbh7a3rQ/s320/FancyMixedNuts.jpg" border="0" /><br />-Heavy multi grain breads<br />-Seafood<br />-Cheese of all kind<br />-Pizza<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Websites I visit daily:</span></strong></div><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5098189353180643762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ioFgMad19-WSGswrLnXYcSad6wyBdzW5mQewcOXcMxN0HowRw1RW_7jsKixEokGf3FWiP5AM35CEG9aK-vg_0whQCUtts0tRtQKPlzoznnk3iSVrU8RMQvCyE3Nr0FAKqYIfZQ/s320/grin169l.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></span></strong>-There are none<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Awards I have Won:</span></strong> </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5098188897914110338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrRe1hri6LduwnVSufjsKnslPpwOu5U__c7fERVaiwnIfNjkDuwUbTwrx6WuKAdlr1-lmvxFzc7zS4Es7CWRvbmDQ5U2_GmOF7cgtDDTTtSQIRuKlz5P7RvCDgbbsNsCszU-78JA/s320/award.jpg" border="0" />These are the ones that have had significant meaning to my life<br /><br />-Adam, Noah & Paisley (most meaningful “living awards” of my life!)<br />-Vision, Vitality & Contribution Award (work related)<br />-Ironman Finisher Medal (personal achievement)<br /><br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Nicknames:</span></strong><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5098189361770578402" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmdyWb8pr-_O3fVr4W9fV_YjQMBN1Sfkk5R-EhMI7UOuAPxYoMNna-aRVTHeA_YEY9FTx6FmcZcxh21LLbqroDHvXLFxfhwX4vqA-amgWLfNlG3Qe74DzHDnYZBo_nQmz48fzSYw/s320/nicknames1.gif" border="0" /><br /><br /><div><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></strong>-Kackie (Emma)<br />-Kathryn Louise (Paisley & my mom as a kid when I was in trouble)<br />-Lander-dum (high school friends)<br />-Sisty Ughler (Kimmie)<br />-Momma (Noah)<br />-GG (Jessi)<br />-Lady (Adam)<br />-Boom Boom LaDrum (college friends)<br />-Honey (Kevin) <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5098190822059459058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibqjZZx36O5BlivyVO39w2GKfOJstcJ3VyuYyzHJAbSn2nLArypvr5LG8Sp1RkoyFJ2Ny5337kU5pMYcuGT4PbwdOIWh-3-J7FfH0MewEH9t9E70jbblS8c9uhXPe9r9blZGOhfg/s320/tzun405l.jpg" border="0" /><br />-Vagina Girlfriend (Tiffany)<br />-BBF :o)(Cheryl)<br />-Sexy Bitch (Tena, Diane)<br />-Booger-fart-head-nose (my sister “fatty patti” when she was mad at me in grade school :o)Ha!)<br /><br /><br /><br /></div></div></div>kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-89364485873656857422007-08-10T08:05:00.000-07:002007-08-11T21:17:42.053-07:00FRIDAY'S FEAST<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYxidF_P9VV0Iv4xG5BIxDmqCcAh9vXNDhqhrKWZRvehpVjjUem0oJE9PHwPZWtXVeFHzAX_gtXIRzo6dsluvmhkeJvwHuJC0AaPcEx2lfyjNqLAK-1QQZfBbxZtAvX2qUKiU4HA/s1600-h/TR2CAZTT1YNCANWPMR8CA109PSZCAE5ENE3CAIJGHG2CAYD5U08CA3EHUK8CA9HAXQ2CA8TXDXUCAS04648CAD7O9H3CAWPDX5SCA15Y3W0CAEQOJ7XCA8WLP2ZCAW27NR9CA526Z6FCAAIAJLSCAEI9X49.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5097098551746543938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYxidF_P9VV0Iv4xG5BIxDmqCcAh9vXNDhqhrKWZRvehpVjjUem0oJE9PHwPZWtXVeFHzAX_gtXIRzo6dsluvmhkeJvwHuJC0AaPcEx2lfyjNqLAK-1QQZfBbxZtAvX2qUKiU4HA/s320/TR2CAZTT1YNCANWPMR8CA109PSZCAE5ENE3CAIJGHG2CAYD5U08CA3EHUK8CA9HAXQ2CA8TXDXUCAS04648CAD7O9H3CAWPDX5SCA15Y3W0CAEQOJ7XCA8WLP2ZCAW27NR9CA526Z6FCAAIAJLSCAEI9X49.jpg" border="0" /></a> <div><div align="center">~~~Friday's Feast~~~<br /></div><div align="center">A ~Buffet ~for ~your ~Brain </div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><strong><em>~~Appetizer~~</em></strong><br /><br /></div><div align="center">What is my favorite Pie?</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5097095906046689538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8MNoU5DK2uk4QM4Lsx03RESOQROyj1xlY_3hWG1iDz9B6MOg41Bo2eRy75-h9YtB9z7Ov5e6XdvwLXpoC5GlrLS0eMF4AWknxSX9q6mZz74Axm-FjzSgaztP-chdBFHOc9SRWOw/s320/pie.gif" border="0" /> I really do not care for pie, but if I was forced to eat one I would probably pick Pecan, but if I was allowed to pick Pecan Pie or a Brownie, I would pick a Brownie!<br /><br /><div align="center"><strong><em>~~Soup~~</em></strong><br /><br /></div><div align="center">Something that made me smile this week?</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5097095910341656850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLfixVSgzR9t0tbyg5ZesxE3vC4hpK91xQGCt1l_x2P6mWZIryTRHXf2LcMu3XvySGShfxdrc34T5hU0qWCdDDniQ_LrgPsjUfHSp4rhKo-rlseVlo4KgcZ5_5LuTPKg-JiNRNYw/s320/WN9CAUSNASQCAHA8PYLCAL30H00CA4Y5XL8CA4FO5UUCALC1T47CALEFJP4CAY4AMN1CARQAQDQCARLP0CQCA92HR5NCAH9WF2HCA4Q8IWTCA3Y9LGWCAUTEOLCCAJX0MIZCAFFPCXDCAD03KNZCA2JEPE2.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center">I was talking with Emma about her 1st real Triathlon coming up this weekend and I asked her what she thought would be her strongest leg of the Triathlon? And she paused for a minute as she pondered her answer and then pointed to her right leg saying "I think this one" </div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><strong><em>~~Salad~~</em></strong><br /><br /></div><div align="center">What do I do to cool off when it is hot and humid?</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5097095914636624178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilSb9T-Izn79Jl6t8yFCnF6L__93o9H-QtuLscFDrL7N2nEzRzFyYhfvCp6Gr0Es9dHbt2IrnFwhnT40kMCUYY1YyHMPr-UXoT4eEh0cnRZAwGkHuaSGwsaI-m6Lw3niq9eaN3rQ/s320/Heat,%2520Humidity.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center">I love heat and humidity, so I do nothing but enjoy it! </div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><strong><em>~~Main Course~~</em></strong><br /><br /></div><div align="center">If I received an envelope with $1,000 in the mail with a note saying I had to use it to decorate one room in my house which one would it be and what would I do to spruce it up?</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5097095910341656866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3yVuyMbyoZQCoecTFnzHnl3cYcR0h3JZMmlllIrEhjWPy072Xe0z4yT3uSMuzKnR9IZr_l8Zm4NFjnYk0qerhDNYXRBkV1r7c-eBsGnrku75Hwjl8FCJk_P_ZvYx8tkJ9qG-eUg/s320/adelaide.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center">I would pick my master bedroom and I would purchase paint, new curtains, new comforter and a few things to hang on the walls to match! </div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><strong><em>~~Dessert~~</em></strong><br /><br /></div><div align="center">My_____says_____but I say________?</div><div align="center"></div><div align="center">My head says lots of things but I follow my intiutive gut, it is always right!</div><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"></div></div>kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-19860375566238466182007-08-08T21:33:00.000-07:002007-08-08T22:16:49.610-07:00Valley Girl Sprint<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfqg-d4PEbM6kJ786NJlzn5hjG4tD7rmRlvrun0IjOTKPGdyxJB9b7PoThBNoyc9lD9UzOeLBvsQnaYJi-BxPEVAQCrNOHu655OU50j0XGwUwzijJhA29Abenq3kjpVH3naETcIg/s1600-h/thursdaybanner12.png"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096563725238976754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfqg-d4PEbM6kJ786NJlzn5hjG4tD7rmRlvrun0IjOTKPGdyxJB9b7PoThBNoyc9lD9UzOeLBvsQnaYJi-BxPEVAQCrNOHu655OU50j0XGwUwzijJhA29Abenq3kjpVH3naETcIg/s320/thursdaybanner12.png" border="0" /></a> <div><div><div><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">13 reasons I did not want to do this race:<br /></span></strong><br />1) Because it was too close after Ironman and I didn't feel completely recovered</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096560525488341074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihWWobYJaSE3VmWYJKJH1nYd7Vqwh9W5uZtck43WQmDWDv5DWJJPrAXjI6Vz70ZUH6F1tgFl3D9P1ypfneCQtPukpj_HuD-RSolSA57cQeHm_jVlXCktO-Cl3CLBBDXZJwbibIRg/s320/Diamond+Valleygirl+2007+083.jpg" border="0" /> <div>2) I hadn’t been training for short distance which required a very different intensity</div><div><br />3) I was having anxiety and PTS (post traumatic stress) from my Ironman swim</div><div><br />4) The water was too warm, so there were no wetsuits allowed, which makes the swim more energy intensive</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096562024431927474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimTy0W-igF29moZe-8ut5Eq14KIP_puyNzGgUfTqoraw0XUsti6vgHSiIdNrtmBO0fmd3PZHtMxI4JJmxUULFx-sZzt4p9NMvzE7OsfDntSiQns-UXC1hv5zsCHLyGNWAJi1TEyg/s320/Diamond+Valleygirl+2007+087.jpg" border="0" /> <div>5) Liberty Lake water is not great, and full of several kinds of seaweed</div><div><br />6) There was pressure coming from myself to place in my age group which gives me lots of performance anxiety before the race starts</div><div><br />7) I have discovered that I don’t really like sprints, they are too short and too intense</div><div><br />8) A sprint is like a big brick interval, and no one likes intervals because they are really hard</div><div><br />9) I didn’t want to have to get up really early again</div><div><br />10) They said that you could not use an MP3 player on the run and I really dislike having to run without one</div><div><br />11) I have conviced myself that I am better at endurance than I am at intensity</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096560572732981394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkdSr-H7fMViklIASvS_OwnGX0e9PycOe6-UYpoJTPN0J6SfQz8FmK-kLvBraiLtFOx1q9Zl_nskFIQ2AaYd2Tfau2QqWRNoDmoSL1_t6XNGTQmSK-qoHMgoyzurY2pwXpqRSY4w/s320/Diamond+Valleygirl+2007+090.jpg" border="0" /> <div>12) There is no time in a sprint to get into a rhythm and enjoy the race</div><div><br />13) Every leg of the race is pretty much full out anerobic effort<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">13 reasons I am glad that I did:<br /></span></strong><br />1) I ended up having a great race</div><div><br />2) I was able to push my self hard on all three legs of the race</div><div><br />3) I enjoyed lots of cheering from friends an family</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096560551258144882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUMu7dyoJWyumI2BXY6T-xly-eIBWusR5_HzXFIS89zEEPQqXGxvX-9yUwujj0kR3Up_sIbm-uiLh1cAXtAS1JslUUHsc8wR8AwMJgu32amZnyo7rwUJov9WLXlwNZ8lCjeIMSLg/s320/Diamond+Valleygirl+2007+085.jpg" border="0" /> <div>4) I acquired my 1st age group win-placing 1st in age 45-49</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096560538373242978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIM-Gh8HU7geoXlaR8_KO5tVNm_88XsipMGCMJ2qWh8SuKwbvPB5hbLDpPjD1R6xwwOwUCFcaHImOPvmRySShJXxj99m5efqMy_HGRvBLM07kGUbTsdXLV1XERB4eLQqTpRSoa_w/s320/Diamond+Valleygirl+2007+081.jpg" border="0" /> <div>5) I passed a lot of people on the bike and I only got passed by 1 person<br /></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096560564143046786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP81JE5QIx3YYETrkLGoN7bS9hV0YQR_53E_1aftrleDpKbd9b4beHDOpyc7_ZNoeBW5kbQkUQsHR1HarvTzOu0XsDLi70oEM8vmn_jlYpVRjpQ0SOBuVYZjfw-kCuJ-wrq1Jw2w/s320/Diamond+Valleygirl+2007+088.jpg" border="0" /> 6) I chose on my own accord to line up on the front line of the swim</div><div><br />7) I did have alot of fun seeing and cheering for my teammates on the race course</div><div><br />8) I enjoyed some amazing pre-race camaraderie with my Tri Fusion Sisters</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096562045906763986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsQiXYfPRLe1ZynyGKnscjvbNeYCJ6_GHUrxpNn_mHELKVHMjEP9Okgtj_IhV-1ctD0T1HJ21rfjn6wH3a49ykReTPStugoNkfffrJlpiIkgBr9gO4MOXnnCVHI21DV1X9PPdMdw/s320/Diamond+Valleygirl+2007+093.jpg" border="0" /> 9) I passed several people on the run, and did not get passed by anyone in my age group<br /><div><br />10) There is something special about competing in an "all women" race</div><div><br />11) I was able to sneak my ipod shuffle and enjoyed some good tunes on the run</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096562033021862082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWjiqloTP5MBpTZRB_tYGyw02SbtwiC6L_-1qJ6iDKZ-sfl05wsrTOLY2BeVOZZ309ym863vsE5RJ19I9vK4WILO2Ctn1YvanB-YaeZU8xlMy3J5caei06PSCyV6ZaVPZJfVQNDA/s320/Diamond+Valleygirl+2007+092.jpg" border="0" /> <div>12) We had to stay for the awards ceremony….again, several of my teammates won age group placement awards</div><div><br />13) We set up our Tri Fusion canopy and banners and had some great food and fellowship in the park after the race <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096562063086633186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkOcWS0YSg_iSKOLGu92e0oK_cxXUC5mZ3Vq-0MnlFkKfcULMylOOctUAhOd-ZgEz92XZnEROdiynYEQp45JuuxFrUpBB30Qn1FnsNaArhLgDuUJP3rnmee1HBwvo2t8D5eJMAAg/s320/Diamond+Valleygirl+2007+094.jpg" border="0" /></div></div></div>kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-39413726749136819242007-08-06T21:03:00.000-07:002007-08-07T09:33:45.982-07:00Tri Fashion 101<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPaByWSvS8K1ZuTVHpkc4jC5lFjXJMRhbIhV4QBYJZ_Qr0J2yNXs-i_2vVkKR4zf5KVbXKi7oVK0yjWVTRDRmCX5ZT_POI6sXaD4GRPVS8DEYZWg8Q_pZ9cYktsCzVFy-NiP2cOA/s1600-h/tri+fusion+logo.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095811414472441858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPaByWSvS8K1ZuTVHpkc4jC5lFjXJMRhbIhV4QBYJZ_Qr0J2yNXs-i_2vVkKR4zf5KVbXKi7oVK0yjWVTRDRmCX5ZT_POI6sXaD4GRPVS8DEYZWg8Q_pZ9cYktsCzVFy-NiP2cOA/s320/tri+fusion+logo.gif" border="0" /></a>Tri Fusion Team Apparel is COOL!<br /><br /><div><div><div><div>Just ask these teenagers! If a teenager will wear it - it must be Cool!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095808214721806258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggjaOLq1qyf3JsKc5zEILBLUFgrvMTcxQ2SIGqvvneZgb2C75d4Jpb-oE_CFb30RtvKT1ubyxWrfyRMNTXErgSMvLrS-j0z4zpKg78bfcBHNhcRZuAbnkbXB2Qma2WRfkBPL2RvQ/s320/kyleandpais.jpg" border="0" /> What is hip in your world in regards to fashion? Do you know what style works best for you?<br /><br />If you feel the need to discover your style so you can spice up your life so you can flaunt it, just ask a teenager. They are totally aware of the latest and hottest trends.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095814137481707554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw_mbQIIEBKJzaGijQ36_9reDd0jSBk-B3O-hQzp6yWpNXFO_JXzzyS4TQnKfmV9FbpIyz4ZMSWbegsT-QqM6yNQkcZji-3fkJRv-j8sBzIRos9FXzWHzy7JEo_aP2qPVpnzBGSw/s320/2007+trifusion+-+dance+team+blue+lake+027.jpg" border="0" />Marketers spend a lot of time and $ figuring out what teenagers want.<br />Teenagers are their most desirable and fickle demographic, the arbiters of “cool” who set trends, influence brand health and part with their discretionary income most freely!<br /><br />For teenagers it’s all about being COOL and looking HOT!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095808236196642802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSckBIU9xqtyuNxbry_YnTgsGQMC5Meqd2IZ-8IJO1232pnPZW4uk6pcTHU1Q0qSM_376j_Vc8P4KjlYkf-_ZXGSpxIcNn9Wf_S-ICl-kC52OBMKFAEAFk4yYC2czYUgKX0j5LvA/s320/Diamond+Valleygirl+2007+028.jpg" border="0" />Most teenagers live their lives pretty focused on themselves and what they perceive as cool.<br /><br />Here are two teens that claim to be in the know and are freely willing to give out their fashion advice!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095814141776674866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTahIcfAMN6VimuQmu6EFMQhb5Y2zFTTS8-f4O7-ytdFguzbUvao8pXy1OMXJ1C1R4EBu7ag0BYvccv3dKvjWKX_aBK5ff21s0TZvupSfGc40WboX6wU_cpa7oCfpFmW5LpFWhyw/s320/2007+trifusion+-+dance+team+blue+lake+031.jpg" border="0" />They say Sports attire is Cool and the Shiz!<br /><br />They say that Tri Fusion Team Apparel is a flattering look and is totally fresh!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095808223311740882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYJXweUP1a2vySSoRFgi-9M59K_8nW6ZiFe7EJXyksT27p9vN7_BzEy2Tm_CZTi_dF4FUCicvbWx6jdAGJ66pl-0UEZ50Jy7gvnohsVCrrRtlcVsidvn42Xqp7XkuZ6-oqvhQVKw/s320/troika+2007+045.jpg" border="0" /> They say if you want to be on the cutting edge of fashion and be wearing the latest trend that starlets are sporting you should check out the Tri Fusion Team Apparel and support crew line.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095811423062376466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiISHbJ8sIfnwRtmgB_T03WfAMQjoOb0NRaNyp6QlV_PJgx1wSvO7IHCyQg7oPDT-hlwtgnxLvHyBNU0WYtdpF6NyhDG0VtofYw5Br6gofGtSAyLf9O9cv0-OCG__IMYxfaXWRkYQ/s320/Diamond+Valleygirl+2007+084.jpg" border="0" /> It is a totally fresh and crisp look this summer<br /><br />This is super cute and you can wear it with anything<br /><br />Small touches like the “sponsor logos” take this basic tank up a notch<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095805792360251298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUpcDMdf_76mBZUoeyGubbIkdNiTplmGIEJzq6wjCMbHEoTJUbRZZ_MptMvnx4WTDZHHfhRkDLtqQfWz8-goIToIIN2fK55QSSmJSf5MM8fLM33PS1pW1irPHFBnGgT4KVjM5aUQ/s320/Diamond+Valleygirl+2007+002.jpg" border="0" /><br />Your time has come, look stylish now wear Tri Fusion Team wear<br /><br />What about cell phones, they are cool<br /><br />How about screen savers, they are cool too, just ask Kyle who spent some of his free time and surprised me by designing this screen saver for me!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095808219016773570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfvmrPTSd604x4ihLR9RTo34-6-gcZ3EAwUU2Ye-xRTsBi9qBMecnazst4vMzkDl6H8LYCO1VOG1rSESttpq31RnL1ss1MhpuPo3JUD7mjGU8OOXYpruH8Tbz17bfeRt-_n2KsgQ/s320/ironman+logo.jpg" border="0" /><br />But Tri Fusion Rocks above them all when it comes to COOL!!!!!!!!!<br /><br />If you want to stay on the top of the latest fashion trends just ask a teenager they will be more than happy to give you their fashion advice! </div></div></div></div></div>kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-115609149684775592007-08-06T08:10:00.000-07:002007-08-06T13:31:24.853-07:00Thank You Tim Seppa<div>This post is dedicated to Jessi's dad and my friend Tim Seppa!<br /><div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095678708572929778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgunUhZ725QzmLF6qkDyRzm8Z0HHDAXjkQHI6acrhnRIlWcUgKm2A2ZKhfr8uL-6418F_nxddxqPsMFT25hJPRPrABFnqJVg4gnLk6A1cVx4Txh34dMu5X8YbxYUhCp7SMc59OtHA/s320/2005+SandpointTri+086.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div>The first time I met Tim I knew he was a special person. I am pretty intuitive at first meeting whether someone is a good fit for me and it was very clear to me that Tim and I connected that day!<br /></div><br /><div>Over the last 3 years we have enjoyed an amazing fellowship through the world of Triathlon! First cheering for Roger, we both are very inspired by the environment and the amazing fitness, determination and discipline of these athletes.<br /></div><div>Tim is a great cheer person and an amazing photographer, capturing the perfect pictures of athletes in action. Like me, Tim is at "JOY" in the race environment, you can see it all over his face! Always smiling, always excited and soaking up as much energy as he can!! </div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095678734342733602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNkYsqEbJSY14UHeylcSjC1Ro4C6wFaWnqMsxWEyUK8vjDaCJcBZ-wYVUqcNalheJp-IUIjEynfumyjOYsqqee4bX2nWcmxc_AaW3qryDzlGuw3cP9wF37UruvxoIS2fI8fofDCw/s320/CdA+IM+2006C+003.jpg" border="0" /> <div></div><div>Then Roger did Ironman Coeur d' Alene 2004! Tim got inspired and let us all know that he wanted to make a movie of the Ironman Race! We organized a big cheer squad, full of cheerleaders, camera's and video camera's. Kevin got to be an integral part of Tim's camera crew and it was so fun to see the two of them get excited about getting the "perfect shot"!</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095638503384071826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiPItFaQL9XGBT2rE8zWCOotQx32BeP7YMF6iBwGOKFudbChbPxLCAoLFAe4EJBnhBqoqNqV4tONVN2J0qyw0XWijCS7QMj6wrMhnu653P8h6-EuJeva0lvdjIOg1oFUhbA0s_lg/s320/DSC00510.JPG" border="0" /> <div></div><div>A few weeks after Ironman we set a "Ironman Movie Night"! We all came with excitement to watch Tim's movie of Rogers race.<br /></div><br /><div>OH MY GOSH! We had no idea that Tim's vision of an "Ironman Movie" was actually a giant production. I don't think there was a dry eye in the room. Everyone was entranced and glued to the screen! This was a movie, with a story line, perfect background music to fit the perfect emotion at the perfect time! WoW we were all speecless at the production!</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095678717162864386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvLNMz9cTjZJJzRG0sEJr56T_sqTaMwCYtBG1fx4G-FnzRfdpxRZ6JpKwnYJiikv4K9JTCqNh0kLm4tzD87-LFBLCjEhlunPW0ra4SiKVZtW71o3xfgV0y6v-UsQ046k6YnlDEYw/s320/CdA+IM+2006B+061.jpg" border="0" /> <div></div><div>Then Roger and Jessi got the amazing opportunity to be a host family for a Pro Trialthlete! His name was Tomppa Soderdahl, he was from Finland and was coming to compete in Ironman Coeur d' Alene 2005. Who would have known that we would all fall in love with Tomppa and have such a memorable expereince.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095683561885974322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2TAXwN2xElwTT8z7NUC8EDQfvdVb2GFxzCIPDj_hdsE1YiO6GEYP-FF4Mb4BHerE3idKviFrgik7_vGDu6rUojxSkF8Hl77HMl3bLTwoRbv9KtffZpaddJo2QUS9Uvl7OG2K6VQ/s320/2005+CDA+Ironman+Tomppa2+054.jpg" border="0" /></div><div>Roger and Jessi were "over the top" hosts, literally dedicating 2 weeks of their lives, making everything perfect for Tomppa, and making sure all his needs were met.</div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095683587655778146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkCbWff9oYSKaWg0kzTem32iUAk7Z7rJ0uuSvv8HXo08O7HfzcfjQnQJ5geiVzt5cqTrtVVz79gFxQ_3mhu7YWSNKqYg3VnhthXRfQD3Xo2jkr7rN6HvDfdbf4Dj8k9btLJVqZ4Q/s320/2005+CDA+Ironman+Tomppa1+069.jpg" border="0" /></div><div>Once again organizing the most amazing cheer squad, I know Tomppa had never had cheering like he received at this race. </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095683591950745458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN3z_hVIG9OqA8ZcLvZ-DUbA7ACeK4gnNEKond-r45Ioo9TcPKjfCkd_JTpLdH4LvJx7KXftcFJc__19TWDlS9p3uSUR5414JicARkHdiZpC-vSIbY5Ftc3tBMFFCn25IdUSW_DA/s320/2005+CDA+Ironman+Tomppa1+091.jpg" border="0" /></div><div>And you knew it, by the way it spurred him on, Tomppa had the best race of his Pro Triathlete career, finishing 2nd overall!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095683579065843538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtRrb0siX6HGodTTFdiwTXLyJMf4V7KJKubgzf3DCxKA-R5xx0-5m3ZgPNcVXyAb8-5SvauQcQnan20dyLtUCJ7uygm_KrDi3rIh19_ogfSlqSic7rUa7-wOrFVfM_jlgjmi0s5A/s320/2005+CDA+Ironman+Tomppa3+010.jpg" border="0" /></div><div>And yes of course Tim was there every second of the journey collecting valuable and memorable pictures for his Tomppa Ironman movie! And what a celebration that movie debut was, WoW!</div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095683570475908930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHr-ko8LjDjYc_acuUQ-XxZWupCdw7db6OhyphenhyphenZqUUJlKvbM4N3prjEBXc0cwCXMkqH9RUXOio0W19pxb0Zi7PjeB6cDlEDSZFetN3HFKVXzrtO9aNm8l1wVQitXgs4HczkHd8YpJg/s320/2005+CDA+Ironman+Tomppa3+048.jpg" border="0" /></div><div> </div><div>Then in 2006 Jessi got an amazing opportunity to do her 1st Ironman only 6 weeks before the race. Again Tim tells us he will make a movie he had a vision for the story line, Tim goes into Director/Producer mode and he and Kevin take on the day with mission driven passion!</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095678725752798994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizi4urK_nh1XqOPJum3J1a1fORg6-6NEVRMOwpofGkO3XppDg5HSXkDZUcb3vx4MDlIpCq0IuFF51Lzgd2On6OxeTJs0bVUf7jQ3q6QFpd38FN0z9xxmj6aoJIFCvt1ZydWo4z8g/s320/CdA+IM+2006A+084.jpg" border="0" /> <div></div><div>Once again we have an "Ironman Movie" night and this time for sure there was not a dry eye. Tim's gift for bringing out the emotion and essence of the story is truely amazing! </div><br /><div>Ironman 2007 would be my 1st Ironman and I remember thinking when I signed up, I hope that Kevin would make a movie for me. Although I knew we did not have any of the equipment or knowledge of the technology that it required.<br /></div><br /><div>I was so HONORED and EXCITED and very GRATEFUL when Tim told me that he was going to make a movie os this 2007 Ironman and he wanted to include me in it.<br /></div><br /><div>Watching Tim and Kevin at work from the side of an athlete was a gift and a lift to my race. Every time I saw them I knew they were strategizing for the perfect picture for some part of the movie. I knew they were exerting alot of energy into finding the perfect location, the perfect timing, the perfect picture to capture the essence of the story Tim was trying to tell. I felt amazing love and support from their attentivness!</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095678687098093282" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzAlN6WUZBoA_X0Ayj-oPs152vU2Wmx5U571bd6SZiMs18yBlvhUyCtYZ-WAD0PY5YwufjdF9kkjZpOKo71Rvsk7IDnHHerYWUQznwblhtnIht_Yv4rSZ3-X8W3URFRQPTjQUi7w/s320/2005+SandpointTri+081.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div>I was on pins and needles waiting for the big Movie Debut! I literally had not idea what the story line was but I felt so honored to be in it!<br /></div><br /><div>We had our big "Ironman Movie" night with Jessi's Family and our close mutual friends and there was literally not a dry eye in the room. Everyone was crying! Tim did an amazing job of telling 4 totally different stories of 4 very different athletes, with 4 very different journeys, but somehow capturing the synergy of all of our love for the sport!<br /></div><br /><div>Wow what a production! The perfect pictures, video footage, the perfect music, captivating stories, gut wrenching emotion, euphoric victories! It was all there!<br /></div><br /><div>This was an Academy Award production for Tim Seppa. And a major labor of love. The movie was 1 hour long, and it takes Tim 1 hour for every 1 minute of movie footage. And that does not include the countless hours of his time taking pictures, or video footage! This is a major labor of love and one I feel so honored to have been apart of.</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095638524858908322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1wER332RkoOY3VbRSZzNOKr9dTysN8CH5O173G1kJz38kQfoZqlZK-rs38fr6Rd8Hjb7PysxONGc7poe2hoJlGbzyTiP0mdqDd329COLlxHEyecsWiWCAtsX7KC1rWC9IFawj2g/s320/DSC05036.JPG" border="0" /> <div></div><div>This Ironman Race is a giant undertaking for any individual, there is a giant piece of your self and your time and your life that you invest in preparing. What a blessing to have such an amazing movie that tells the story of your journey. This is a gift that keeps on giving. I have watched the movie several times already!<br /></div><br /><div>And I am having another "IRONMAN MOVIE" night for my "Kathi's Best Cheer Squad" on Sunday August 19th at 4pm. This will be an appreciation BBQ! Please let me know if you would like to join us, we would love to share the movie with you.<br /></div><br /><div>Tim Seppa thank you from the bottom of my heart. Thank you for a lasting memory of an event that was transforming and life changing for me! This is a gift to my life that almost overwhelms me when I think of it, but I am choosing to concentrate on being grateful and honored that you included me! Thank you!<br /></div><div>Finally to give you an idea of how inspiring the sport of Triathlon is, Tim finally lost his Triathlon Virginity this past weekend!<br /></div><br /><div>He did his 1st Sprint Triathlon with Jessi! </div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095638533448842930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJqpLib8GkETkGNffXonjJRZugmPWFSHIcPzMz2bZ-g8utIiNNYX3H1O-lrRXX1jLedo0Bj5k5E1iY9QnGp6plkO62oG2LHrysz-QcX-Bu995d1QdSLFb80XXQU-F5mf9I0AMRRA/s320/troika+2007+013.jpg" border="0" /></div><div>It was a thrill to finally be able to return the gift and be the one cheering and picture taking for Tim. I was so excited for him, becasue he was excited!<br /></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095638554923679442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6PtxHLjkMW20PSPnReKsydwrLWkUC4cX_pNmhzfsG2ilJm7oKyddmMatNGpKV6cQnJmQdf8c9cBxzN9JpX6sGyO_ft-uFikchGQqSBjSuCsTYwNOiemV_3YoogpwuRvNuq1rcpg/s320/troika+2007+023.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><div>He looked fabulous and ready to take it on!<br /></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095638542038777538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj_crFKRdNeM-ku465-oy-KGPzehsmpVDPCC4HeEZAy1tkLaXOs0c97eAyM8gamQgjxgSOvn4VKtHijx1muQFbJENI_a0Hucb3YM4rT9pYXdEBJ9_50R5AzKQh1PXabrX3n5n9QA/s320/troika+2007+040.jpg" border="0" /></div><div>Tim made it look fun and kept his infectious smile through out the race.<br /></div><br /><div>Tim Seppa, you are a "Devoted Husband" to Kris, a "Loving Father" to Jessi, Amy & Anna, you are a "Treasured Friend" to many, you are an "Inspiration to All" and you are now a "Triathlete"!!<br /></div><br /><div>Congratulations on a successful 1st Race Tim, it was an honor and inspiration to cheer you on!<br /></div><div>I love you.............Gratefully............Kathi Best</div></div></div>kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-14580673094985875582007-08-02T07:04:00.000-07:002007-08-02T09:57:03.752-07:00Ironman Highlights<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNwcwNRx_G41DNxNDCiKkEr2Wh3uAwDUAz8iml9SGJK-tTB_QX4lwH1EdnvLPQCHhQJrfUPuJNdK_Q8TVOynJoAYi4snF0VtPYGl4uMDm_gtR1-D4xK3wi8ciETHCBOIYxW9ZIzg/s1600-h/1.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094147647221186178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNwcwNRx_G41DNxNDCiKkEr2Wh3uAwDUAz8iml9SGJK-tTB_QX4lwH1EdnvLPQCHhQJrfUPuJNdK_Q8TVOynJoAYi4snF0VtPYGl4uMDm_gtR1-D4xK3wi8ciETHCBOIYxW9ZIzg/s320/1.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><div><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">My TOP 13 Favorite Highlights </span></strong><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">of my 1st Ironman Race</span></strong><br /><br />1) Finding Kevin after the finish and seeing the emotion and pride in him, that had welled up and was overflowing<br /></div><div><div>2) Hugging Adam, Noah and Paisley at the finish line and realizing that they were not only proud of me but they were inspired by their mommy</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094132215403691506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI79A_bJ6NTEDVJJ2wKC7iH0DZVCxwlexPIIzke4UdmhSXk56rzjXWvYuF2almvxx1CFps7MRjmWLRq-jT7IARyv8Y9UdDLiTuC3CPxpx7mztjJkGK0a-oV5LL_NBuoZGPeacu8g/s320/CDA+IM+07A+086.jpg" border="0" /> 3) The blessing of having so many of my “favorite people on the planet” share this long and amazing day with me<br /><div><br />4) Hearing the words announced: “Kathi Best of Spokane WA, YOU ARE AN IRONMAN!”</div><div><br />5) Seeing Adam in my cheer section, in the morning, with watery eyes as I rode by my 1st time on the bike, realizing that he must have skipped a mandatory weekend class because he could not stand not to be there, and then the gift of having him run miles 20, 21, and 22 with me</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094132185338920418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaQ1HCwYvqLT0uFUAY5SHnETqqPV_yCCnLDOWnbYH-fMgm5a3QBHDp0KAQw9pg2m75Vw05c3CwZc7O0xs14vg_dCvYaVRxbXo3n8LKGJ-NWWIaWj9RqsBeKj6QFL2RqSPenRwOlw/s320/CDA+IM+07A+049.jpg" border="0" /> 6) Hearing Tiffany yell at the top of her lungs “Kathi how is your vagina doing – Do you need some Vagina-ease!” as I am riding in the midst of 100 guys!<br /><div><br />7) Seeing Noah and his animated cheering which I know was pure LOVE for his Mommy coming out of an Introvert</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094138267012611650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGaiXU19BgyVPbe0GPfipwqxgGYkmXYq1Hlc0hyphenhyphenCUWL198vlZogOhppjei53cPIyVHJlhFMOrMTQxA5AlkI20OqY6IGwVXri0-aPES8SMIFneoCgBE_pL1OP2FnrQsLd_LxxcIzQ/s320/CDA+IM+07A+032.jpg" border="0" /> <div>8) Having one of my Best High School girlfriends Barb and her husband Greg come all the way from Oregon to cheer me on because they wanted to share the experience with me </div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094138292782415474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4UczG5-PjfHC3Ipsqx3PebXoltmbVMB2L_b6Kv46k9Rr2wnhZkcgqh1Q67tBNZ_8w-yh1WSRaY3joyaguewjAw5ooHVoX7XhY0I1VT1JmeHdgNakhgef_9C0m7sHkoKNnE31kaA/s320/DSC05067.JPG" border="0" /> <div></div><div>9) Having my Best Friend and "Sisty Ughler" run along side me in her flip flops to give me checking to see how I was doing and give me some encouragement in an effort to fill my cup</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094132129504345554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih_xwiU8tmFpKA09hntbEEinG2iASwWoIYRR16sUgk1L87ux2SJCgDw-BBlTugmXKwPfFLxgv7eMLZOtw-FCK6p7E2hpbBVGpE9Mt0tiw3xyjtV_EF2FfLQidYpW-owDapfUHtRw/s320/CDA+IM+07A+042.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>10) Having my friend & client Dianne S. yell at the top of her lungs as I ran by at mile13 “Kathi Best, you are a sexy bitch” and having the crowd erupt with cheer</div><div><br />11) Trying to “High-five” all my Kathi’s Best Cheer Squad as I was running by, and because of my extreme speed…Ha….I was catching some hands and missing some hands and noticing that with each successive passing Paisley and Kyle seemed to be developing a competition between each other of who actually touched my hand</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094132095144607170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNxLoNY8pmlBmccagl2uVqRGs4CBPUNi4F8-jCinO0JpIbFhSdNfB10OSBw5q4VhXHEvekfGCZZMslhSJbb87Gh60YiY-360pdt5t9BEGn7tPsBB8hox36yXYchoOkw6O9818bKw/s320/CDA+IM+07A+030.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div>12) Having my brother in law Jeff get so affected by the excitement my sister Patti was exhibiting about the whole Ironman experience that he couldn't stand it and purchased an airline ticket and flew in to surprise me<br /></div><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094132245468462594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW8KFJX5RCtet2wV1HjbBzdS6rdLBxvKk82F1uJtlFM37zKL_siXYztw8DYOKXTZNflVlc2dUj7D-0aup1clKzm5E2K4sEhDW7_99HrYDg59dR0wOIWAWYRIz4cV4ej2FCQwcfCQ/s320/CDA+IM+07A+087.jpg" border="0" /> 13) Seeing my typically quiet daughter cheer her heart out for me each time I passed by<br /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094138288487448162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDxzX5wSYLLwWiLjUXb1ZJ34dp0u29bQHUiBHYlCtTCgUo-oe074oXdduQJy7DmN_8ccOiVFr-t0KmsgSq_As64nJ5pYx_YNZwaIv26sjk0rC5J9RxNgOn808MiY94OtoBYNQtbg/s320/DSC04927(1)2.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">*Yes I can count, but I just couldn't get it down to "13"</span></strong><br /></div><div></div><br /><div>14) Seeing the Tri Fusion Signs and my Tri Fusion Teammates all over the race course and exchanging cheers.<br /></div><br /><div>15) Having an organized “Kathi’s Best Cheer Squad” with AWESOME matching T-shirts</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094138275602546258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWnp9Z_Mw8NOpg3z7LDzzD-jIWKLrYIZ3lXQ6rLI84TF0STeLFB66i6hug0Ond1rL2HDSs1DI8V1sf2KcW7kKdoXCNpOSZjfGuYKE6KYJ638-g4yANW9CQEC5Rh7jwhyphenhyphen1T2YuDFA/s320/CDA+IM+07A+088.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>16) Standing on the beach at the Start of the Swim with my pre-race Pacifier “Jessi”</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094138249832742450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuvNDxzPVellHsVN55N04h4HeFpozlzVIks1Pyg6RgXOfIGJE8Hryuls2mbbW2yTR8mShjORiGMFTYP_JraMUAWOv7LR5eAyDqFs6pj9So5GdWAFEAiqSiJHVH5Fal7ai4roMtWA/s320/IMG_0548.JPG" border="0" /> <div>17) Receiving an entire hour of hugs from my “Kathi’s Best Cheer Squad” after the race</div></div>kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-85477164258100817932007-07-27T18:48:00.000-07:002007-07-27T20:58:33.695-07:00Hours 1 & 2<strong><span style="font-size:180%;">13 hours of my 1st Ironman Race</span></strong><br /><br /><br />Hour 1: Was spent swimming, the first 20 minutes of which I was scared almost to death, panicked and at times felt like I was fighting for my life, as I got hit, kicked, punched, swam over, pushed under and hit in the face so hard my goggles got knocked off 3 different times.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092062638167473410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAEQK5OZ5lKe66BR2Ptr6koWjHAwR4uOwEm7iWIdShH1z69AKv2tiWh61uANzlwRLx9_VBNpFODzyFwD-M6ki4p6ReUOXfW2QJ225RwBUeHHS77Vdm5d1798BVAGy4htKOF-iunw/s320/DSC05144.JPG" border="0" /><br />In trying to describe to Kevin post race what it was like the only words that I could find to communicate the emotion for me were, “That was the most violent experience of my life!” The combativeness of the swim was definitely the most challenging part of the race for me. There were people around me screaming for help, the screams were very unnerving! No swim clinic, race or training swim I had ever done prepared me for this.<br /><br />About the 30 minute point in the swim, I had gotten some control of the panic and had become very determined, still very overwhelmed and anxious, but very determined. I stopped letting my emotion control me and got into my head and got very focused on just making it to the next buoy, then just making it to the next buoy, then just making it to the next buoy. That is me in the red goggles!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092061577310551250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgilBAOtGTnU9HiFSDYDxLufFrhJglPTCE1Jk8Qf9eS-92K8Og_tXT2EfzeGZUoOQc2GoXsEsHqGl3WFbpixQk8t47l_kRJdtH9raVf_WYcNyKPTQNcpXGPWCv5ztpUBN0C0Q4wtg/s320/DSC04743.JPG" border="0" /><br />As I came out of the water after completing the first 1.2 mile loop I was able to spot Kevin in the crowd and the pride I saw in his face and belief in his eyes gave me the courage I needed to dive back into the water for a second loop!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092061555835714754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisngdQZF-ycYZ9JWEUQTQVY7srknPwCwYhc6QS-czhKwJUd7eWW7Ypy5ymfrbyA86CIUSTk9TsSnkpFxSxDfyjrn6cP9lZUaqyXsUxEtqdCvIV5Ta2FMJ38-5CEWDgRs9_ldW21A/s320/CDA+IM+07A+003.jpg" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092062629577538802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghzZnE29cuj2dhj1gAQ5cgBDWnatlUBocF-GjxUFn7gguG-ZZbtKSPqKkkhrXncQTi2wsgh4q1FahHhynk0t7pHZBknZVJeOinZJ3L_B0g_RSzFnAs5jaTbGKgTnPOitN3FCupmg/s320/DSC05147.JPG" border="0" /><br />I was on the second loop of the 2.4 mile swim, still enduring the largest swimming challenge of my life! The water conditions were extremely rough with 2-3 foot swells and white caps crashing into my face. The swells were so big that I literally had to breast stroke to the crest of a swell every few strokes to even be able to site a course buoy. The rough water conditions that day added much challenge and frustration to the swim, but it was definitely not the scariest part for me.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092061551540747442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw3JIA4tIuzOIEV6oJR73pCt6BLW0J7bWsNX1iDnOXSxDqxAESJwb343acT3ePpLbt5B2QkDxd-g3gHeRynagcqTbfS1yAIXOVWOzWGZ-BNSbOqacYskzATT4qpDCzI7_tfnunBw/s320/DSC04770.JPG" border="0" /><br />When I got out of that swim I was ecstatic; I felt like a Survivor. If the race had stopped right then, I would have felt like an Ironman!! I ran with elation up the hill past the cheering crowd and my Kathi Best Cheer Squad - on to the wetsuit strippers (that was a treat)! I had a very long T-1 (7+ minutes, due to feminine hygiene demands, guess someone thought I needed to add a little additional challenge to my Ironman race) and then took off with gusto ready to tackle the bike course!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092061590195453154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdJAPoijQ10hr1Hz0puz0uz74JnS5iFf9IyEGliVw8m_eZrc9aHIlPeXVT1x0jTPlXvu0WsXnSM1OS0G2B3P-3Qs_nTsaBPAYaPycb_QVhyFVkD3-gpZFiszCRGEhA4Cd5MmZLmg/s320/DSC04775.JPG" border="0" /><br />Hour 2: I was cold for the first hour on the bike, I was wishing that I had put arm warmers in my T1 bag. I was just finishing the 1st small loop on the bike and was feeling great. It took me 30 minutes on the bike to get my Heart Rate calmed down to the zone I was suppose to be in for the duration of my ride. I was so full of adrenaline and still a bit riled up from the swim.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092061538655845538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmQ1qNQ8Z27fkPr_kzkFx-YEAtdpzTqgci1kYM7u33ImZ2YZyvet3BRtmqQj-_O2Z8CgfLlrEv__3sWHtPTkzyiv1yCK74qfs-bUe7Zuvf9UIAtAOsBmPoyF3iUYJQ95WswC9y6A/s320/CDA+IM+07A+005.jpg" border="0" /> Going through the hub of down town where all 3 bike course loops intersected and where the majority of my cheer squad was, was absolutely exhilarating!!! The thrill of seeing the clusters of red “Kathi’s Best Cheer Squad” was very inspiring and motivating.<br /><br /><br />My 1st time by was extra special because my eyes connected with another set of eyes in the crowd that were welled up with tears. It was my son Adam, who was suppose to be in a weekend class but couldn’t stand missing my big day so he cut out and showed up to surprise me. Wow what a boost of energy and gift to my heart and soul that was!kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-84262505158996029872007-07-27T18:22:00.000-07:002007-07-27T18:47:53.738-07:00Hours 3, 4 & 5<div><div><div><div>Hour 3: On my way out for my 1st time around the big hilly loop I had a special and unexpected blessing of receiving cheers from Greg and Barb Smith (my girlfriend from High School, who came all the way from Oregon to cheer me on and share in my 1st Ironman experience)! That was another amazing boost of energy for me.<br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092054950176013426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQPi8QERdKZxpanqHW3peqMARDhIQEUMhu1gOAyHjHFm8sS1uqeCzV6qFpjDXqSmxDuzYJLzxxR1HaoUGOMUmJ7-hTqb51C9x7IB4k1Q3vJnQMmSyeJBHH523yWV8oBYuEFTYviA/s320/IMG_0567.JPG" border="0" /><br />I was just getting into the part of the course where you think the hills will never end and I hear this voice behind me say, “Gee I love following your ass!” that made me smile and my intuition told me that it is someone I knew, and then pulling up beside me comes Mark, we exchanged words for a few seconds and he was off passing me.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092055422622416002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIkIIHTrZlHLy3dtCPMl4YNbM5ZUyK3MPEnnsBdb6ZDuofRmvUv6hvh85z96EtXTOhyPVwXliL-opvnS6byeFKccKLvVakCHUsgUOeoINnmvGtKM0R-L2xYrm7y_EhPL5c-zG4Kw/s320/CDA+IM+07A+011.jpg" border="0" /><br />I was feeling pretty good and concentrating on trying to keep within my Lactate Heart Rate Zone. My plan was to ride a conservative 1st loop to make sure I had enough left to do the 2nd loop without blowing up! I was enjoying passing lots of people and found energy in reminding myself that every person that passed me, was a person that I beat out of that terrifying swim! </div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092054009578175522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf_V_rqAU1OTAEmxXhUcl4glOrgHYZy47aMqxdPG15zud75eiEewRG3Ax0LhZP6_NAq2qNgUYTVx9kPRsGcP8-eaYzE48uhqm9NRX82ELnLur-XbnI8hu3ZFh3e6VycQWkNEdVYA/s320/DSC04813.JPG" border="0" /></div><br /><div>There were several out and backs on the bike course and every one was like a hug to my heart because every time I was going out I saw Jessi coming back in, we would always hoot and holler for each other<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092054018168110130" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCtU-uinpleCXi6cTJPMD7dAblPQxJa8oCtHYspdeAmVvfan6ebPB6fsh2_6vyjs4Ss_gyhErLonDdR4B67Im7m05i-yXERbPUKhtSeJuKABX4mWvGj0RlcVuSvHpvFn9GPwVR3w/s320/CDA+IM+07A+006.jpg" border="0" /><br />Heading up one of the steeper hills I hear my name being yelled out only to spot a group of bright green Team Thompson shirts where Tiffany, Leni and Kim were standing. These girls were putting some major energy into their cheering, they were yelling, jumping waving their signs, they cheered their hearts out for me. They all became my New Best Friends immediately! What a gift to my tired body and what a blessed surprise, amazing treat and boost of energy this was for me.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092054022463077442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1vT70MQhk48x0q3HJgK5sWvF23uyOtrH2vjHOFkjJGWJwua4XaXUiwoPKT2qgfQc3UqitYBosz3v2XNv_xPPoI1GCAgIPaT1iZqxgxCoJ-TXVwhjrSYKMOQxCY6QUkrXAiR7YKg/s320/CDA+IM+07A+027.jpg" border="0" /><br />I notice a pattern on the bike of me passing people up the hills and people passing me going down hill. In this race however I achieved a new “Top Speed” on my bike! My bike computer registered 40.2 MPH..........Yea Baby!!!!!!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092054039642946658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6FhHm_GNUFuDK2WJXM9CJIllDJ2gW9p5OwLg9Ana-mRof9GbmOgoF-KKrwnXyu0a2hEw7n68MaktIQ3Pg554pyEXfvzcHLVPncHuIQrUhHoh0ffbPmD7nVjHvGsiwx0C7Fh6JMQ/s320/DSC04810.JPG" border="0" /><br />Way out on the big loop I had a welcomed surprise of seeing some Red Cheer Squad t-shirts, as I got closer I could tell it was Kevin, Tim (Jessi’s dad) John Tormino and Cindy Doty and they were out cheering and taking pictures. This was a special treat because I did not expect to see anyone way out there.<br /><br />Hour 4: I was on my 2nd time riding the small loop and this is where the “Special Needs Station” was for the bike. I stopped to refill my personal nutrition, take a much needed potty break and cater to my feminine hygiene needs. I was concentrating a lot on successfully staying on the task of implementing my nutrition plan.<br /><br />Hour 5: I was still feeling pretty good, however I was beginning to notice some fatigue in my quads, but I tried not to think about it and just stay in my rhythm. I was once again filled with energy riding through the hub of town and past the major concentration of spectators and my Cheer Squad! I soaked up all their cheers knowing that I would need all of them to carry me through the 2nd time around the big hilly loop.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092054026758044754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq5auoJTIJtYW2h28nCe37L9kVlnBhktvITaNnPiEb0L5ccxNBzDSJWtmUehPgohd3e0xIyqQf5Et49G_V8MU7O7JR_oiLpY1mRl8wrj0zevjNfQHr_9cbi3DMd4EVvRfUfIkk8w/s320/CDA+IM+07A+032.jpg" border="0" /><br />There was a guy named Greg from San Jose who was riding behind me at that time and after we got past the crowd, he rides up next to me and says “Hi Kathi (my name was on my race number), I am going to stick close to you, because you have some major supporters and I got energy from their cheers! This is Greg passing me on the downhill again!!!!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092057750494690450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVm5DRIXFYh0eQkyKJ-RWCosH6QzIAEzDDFHS9jGVi6wwJQtVAd4PiPZ6FkhPNssNLmtLl230jy6sQcwRL-aSSZwta8sMceSOkRODJYKr4gRVU4UF7AF4UgMVmnmqb90_sOXPtTg/s320/CDA+IM+07A+010.jpg" border="0" /></div></div></div>kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-64123558677987305492007-07-27T17:06:00.000-07:002007-07-27T18:10:53.447-07:00Hours 6, 7 & 8Hour 6: I could not help but acknowledge the signs of fatigue at this point. Mentally I was dreading the hilly loop for the second time, as I rode out to the hills I was thinking, this is going to hurt.<br /><br />I was worried that maybe I had ridden the 1st loop too hard. I had been consistently implementing my nutrition plan, and had conservatively stayed below my Lactate Threshold, never the less the symptoms of fatigue were beginning to rear their ugly head. I had to get into my head and do some major self talk.<br /><br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092037783191731154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEi-NdItEWWPW47rJxOMPAcdKLyWeKa6AnIHFrTjP8gxyaIjD-HMoBklIeXn5wz6L0hO8KSwmoWmzb08gw8rblsF63-wj-p34GlSa1Gj8N0efN5ptzK8gJo4Uf5rF1Ii02uO_mJQ/s320/NoGutsNoGlory2.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />Reminding myself, how much I wanted this, that I knew going into this it would not be easy. That I needed to be willing to dig deep, that I knew my coach had prepared me to be able to finish this race and that I needed to have faith in my preparation, my ability and my self. This is when I began saying my Mantra “Guts to Glory” over and over!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092037778896763842" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSMVcc1q1x12wVC5OEL6rmdANITtBZ5WwYVQuxdd-bMdw9qBKf28NMNTmMsXqEqOMkpwCr7MjLkHwOXm7fLB6ko9XkRCfNGBdIeP7UCKmNRN9Kp9zYYQdyyFvwpFbIMyKAmNzjVA/s320/05.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />Looking at all the miles ahead still seemed overwhelming, it seemed like the hills would never end. I finally got my mind wrapped around concentrating on just taking 1 hill at a time and reminding myself in the middle of the grueling pain of the hill that this was the last time I would have to climb that hill today! Breaking it down and conquering one hill at a time seemed to work for well for me!<br /><br />Another gift to my race was once again being cheered for by Tiffany, Leni and Kim, they were still jumping up and down, yelling out my name and a big highlight for me was after I had gone by this vivacious group of amazing ladies, Tiffany yells out, “Hey Kathi do you need some Vagina-ease!” I was surrounded my male cyclists and the next 5 miles made for some very fun, interesting and fatigue distracting conversations as several of these guys jockeyed for position to ask me “So what’s Vigina-ease?” Hilarious!!!!!! (I so regret that I don't have a picture for this one)<br /><br />Hour 7: As I was coming out of the hills for the 2nd time another exciting surprise presented itself to me. As I was starting the trek back to town, this van pulls up beside me and it was Kris, Tim Seppa and Kevin.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092037787486698466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiodDTuX9F4OxMDo686xraUshxF3pApx8m1o7Wzn7IpK-yHpCqmSIBOl-kAv0ZOHkQ9yP3HxAlLyaWS0yn2dlCIFwwG7REDU7LvzQgWv7FiyAqMJ62WGq61kZHwyCnCG7gDrTtGaw/s320/CDA+IM+07A+026.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />They drove beside me for a few miles, talking to me, taking pictures and filming, it made me laugh, filled my empty tank and gave me my wings back. I headed back into town with renewed energy!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092037808961534962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh58cnj9Z53okvIA-XeDY3prBpVoskOSvGH2vsxv8u3NoiVhrbAJOIZ-Uw6vgXWNyy2pUsTsr7dklJNUZNc_0kvC1w9qN2dO60RWQ9TPcHCu_9xfrjtWvLclp8pyJR4mdcZc-v2Tw/s320/DSC04840.JPG" border="0" /><br />Hour 8: After surviving the 2nd loop of the bike I was re-inspired and this sounds strange but I was looking forward to starting the run.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092048030983699474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSDC4shOLF1HCRR9sWvkyXsFlLZ5doG-dP9i2cTzCBsmCVPtGvzf5toM_U27wuLoPID2qiGdfDWF_j_EkdR2tgMkOPAz8hi59s4gui7sECp6q4B8tkpZjdQ1k_CF6BTdNgKEH3WQ/s320/DSC04837.JPG" border="0" /><br />T2 was a bit shorter for me (5+minutes), but still far too long. Again I had a feminine hygiene and Porta Potty stop and a cloths change that cost me valuable time.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092037813256502274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEienC6mRl5yNqFHB-GYKmCNjDDT-RiXJtkplpTo6mhy3ytdTwseP_k7sJp7heCvVvASFTNjx9NspS5WlQNvuVO5BXiYVbiFalusEBZPB6eKxTShNAMXkpAThyphenhyphenSmb4YeiMp-CE_nWA/s320/CDA+IM+07A+029.jpg" border="0" /><br />I headed out to the short loop of the run (approx. 3 miles) and the first mile was amazing as the run path lead me by my amazing cheer squad and their excitement to see me, energetic support and cheering were such a gift and boost to my spirit, desire and mental game.kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-28100504080352777002007-07-27T16:42:00.000-07:002007-07-27T21:25:19.574-07:00Hours 9, 10 & 11<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVR0ioERGt_ec57q-sjUOE6_weR8anS_3OPzyN9a_V7MtKp8MeoQOeI3W8NbZZc8L8YyjnS-tAiwdJbpZw3KjZ5a6groFnhnpprjQ4YykQFhQwVXh5o3BvMN8WAGt9axXeKwP_rg/s1600-h/DSC04861.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092031022913207202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVR0ioERGt_ec57q-sjUOE6_weR8anS_3OPzyN9a_V7MtKp8MeoQOeI3W8NbZZc8L8YyjnS-tAiwdJbpZw3KjZ5a6groFnhnpprjQ4YykQFhQwVXh5o3BvMN8WAGt9axXeKwP_rg/s320/DSC04861.JPG" border="0" /></a> Hour 9: The 3rd mile took me past my cheer squad again which was such a treat and I felt very honored and grateful that they were still there cheering me on. I took in all their faces and slapped as many hands as I could. The 4 mile marker had me heading out to the big loop for the first time. I knew it was going to be a lonely stretch and at this point I could not deny that I was beginning to struggle physically and mentally. I was overwhelmed with the miles that lay before me, my body was tired and aching and I kept thinking there was no way I could run 22 more miles. I struggled with these thoughts for the next few miles. At about mile 6 I somehow found the strength to my mind focused on something positive.<br /><br />This is when I decided to stop thinking about how many miles I had left to run and focus instead on just running to the next aide station You don’t have to run 22 more miles Kathi, just run to the next aid station, you don’t have to run 21 more miles Kathi just run to the next aid station etc……<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092031027208174514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpj-ZT1RfnMpfLFyMxmFBAWMoz5t5-vzob2kEvqXtZ2AQF3rcco0PfvngF9Tg1XZAQb-xAG9U7tkYT2b2OQ58Iv8DUzrQ8fjJwmaWYiu0rTh_jSNBwCTVO08vnFDjjgYatxQDG_w/s320/10.jpg" border="0" />Hour 10: I am coming back in from my first time out the big loop of the run and was passed by a Tri Fusion teammate Katie Hemenway. She asked me to run with her and I tried but she was booking at a faster cadence than I could get my body to go! Even though she slowly ran out of sight her presence and encouragement as she went by was a lift to my spirits. <div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092031010028305298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMw77pwonYdT6Ef1EecFkYCAcNJZsfBKLc12H1m1Ws7hxpj5Q3yhXw0nV3zcSoQqUVEUIn7q4FflMmDzWFJAok5K7ban8Ou7ULaIgeW3Cepo5BgAuhAT9DhHxkoWt0bN0ukxY59Q/s320/CDA+IM+07A+035.jpg" border="0" /></div><div>Then I had a special treat of seeing my “Kathi Best” Tri Fusion Sign on the run course, it was a gift to my mind and body and I felt a surge of encouragement!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092031001438370690" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwg2Vz8oYRb_9t0v8KqbFCB4IzClZtTA3-gOQOiwp7dF1PozMku82d_C7lJ-dPMlOPtg7h_kAk5XL55Kf0vC9H467kChW6k_VU25CfRMDgzYpF0gjU0mdCOT4uoMCCbDnd5qK-SQ/s320/CDA+IM+07A+044.jpg" border="0" /><br />Hour 11: On my 2nd trip out the small loop I got the much needed gift of running by the major concentration of my Cheer Squad again. This time their cheering was major food for my soul as I dug deep to find reasons to keep running. Seeing their smiling faces made me smile, made me feel so loved and supported and gave me the boost of energy I needed to continue running!</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092030992848436082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyCd3KKwt9rM5gaFq7oeh7lYUSxX1lvTT3OiEsbVlaphQZ0sottd4SlO7zeemc8E-lm-Tx5pfHSYLoa_68U1215XMjpDNhbEaG6gMWwM9TUusaTtmxFuaytrr3lw1opGZ0_grCbQ/s320/CDA+IM+07A+042.jpg" border="0" /> <div></div><div>A Special surprise and Tank filler happened for me at the Special needs station for the run when my dear Sisty Ughler Kim came along side me and ran with me! I was hurting but not enough to not notice that she was running along side me in her "flip flops"! Is that true friendship or what!! </div>kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-47455624363635893162007-07-27T16:21:00.000-07:002007-07-27T16:42:09.620-07:00Hour 12<div><div>Hour 12: There are blessings to a looped course and there are curses. Heading back out the big loop for the 2nd time was bittersweet. Even though my mind was trying to be optimistic and say “hey come on, this is the last time you have to come out here, you are more than ½ way done and you have what it takes to finish this thing running”, my emotions were fragile, I was tired, I was hurting, I was mentally exhausted and I just wanted to lay down and be still for a while.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092023631274490690" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHnGuM_Y-dARho-V-dwfMW2IjJFglX6WH2mUJ1C8jK0FMsN6pmeBg7O0PSreJD6sKSxCMq4uuH2ag4S412OlHLT1Cp-zAoP6D8fvzIfDz931ADR-ja84oylhH7gxv0Y-ZDDDdb4w/s320/DSC04857.JPG" border="0" /><br />I was having to do some serious self talk to get myself to keep running, I wanted to stop and walk soooo bad. As I was looking deep inside myself to find reasons or encouragement to keep running I was reminded of something I had heard in a Triathlon Camp last winter “it doesn’t hurt any worse to run faster”. I must have said that over and over to myself 100 times. “Kathi it doesn’t hurt any worse to run faster”!<br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092023502425471762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeWIxOIwIlhsPCyi2OUMWr6WcDorA0vvjhAsXN0yEhGoqKZLf-uugu7koImVJl5T1sk9OUTu-7w_-1Y8ETt13S0tmesJ4dNi3OvttJOUP7_6twweIjoBs-JgE-FVhB1iG-GC08Nw/s320/CDA+IM+07A+046.jpg" border="0" /><br />I was heading towards the big hill just before the turn around on the big loop and was experiencing a really weak moment, when up ahead I saw my GG (Jessi) coming towards me, coming back from the turn around. She was running with her dear friend and Cheer Squad leader Tiffany. I started waving my arms to get her attention and then as we got closer, I couldn’t stand it, I needed a hug, so I moved over stood in front of her and forced her to stop. We hugged, mutually acknowledged the pain we were in and how hard this was. She said to me, keep going because just around the corner there is some major cheer waiting for you at mile 20.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092023545375144754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglkUA1oqoKuPwRSCPYvjoIHQnjG5LJLU_L_yqOmP_BsrU-XcKuQOAb6SOsgEgwByWOnk3VJNMj6Q9XII5zYJzxUOTsOtF-RP7pa484AKNow6fjdR-U5drWJT_kj0ZdP3F0Zgw77g/s320/CDA+IM+07A+047.jpg" border="0" /><br />My heart started to race with the thought, because my 1st loop no one was way out here. My GG was right, as I rounded the corner, there was my husband and a car full of people cheering me on.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092023669929196370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEMM8VT9Jwvpd0EkWBqO3fU4Mc5rsoH9ctf56_u54Li2aXdmewLYrFLNNEhyKM4DZ4wzyftQnd7y66HcCKaOoOm3606mKtwx3GJn29SkFTF-On5Iqcw2DCSbXX-7sa0oXH4xorcw/s320/kevinfinishline.JPG" border="0" /> Kevin was standing on the side of the run path taking pictures and I stopped to give him a kiss, it seemed like the Greatest Kiss I've ever had!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092023536785210146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj5A0WjjmK2V3TNIjEmuMHDoDfF3N89MUbmb1zj170uf9LlaDqUEagoBILiscuEvC5gk0oVUqdlow8IBx-6qcDgpB9tS7yiXvFKpl2WfUbGQLhJD1pFOWZAgHeNi3uVRKnEo9Jng/s320/CDA+IM+07A+049.jpg" border="0" /><br />Then Adam jumped out of the car in his running shoes and runs to join me. Oh my Gosh, this gift was better than any pain killer. Adam ran with me, talked with me, listened to my discomfort, made me laugh and distracted me from my pain for about 3 miles. This was the perfect gift at the perfect time, it gave me wings.<br /><br />At mile 23 Kevin came to pick Adam up. He said, “come on Adam you need to get in the car now if you want to get back to be able to see you Mom cross the finish line! Those words were energy for my body and mind. Just hearing Kevin say “your Mom cross the finish line” gave me my vision back for the finish line and made me realize that not only was I almost there, but I was going to make it!<br /><br />The last 3 miles were very hard but I was determined and motivated to keep going, knocking of one aid station at a time. I could sense the Glory of the finish line so intently that I did not stop at the last 2 aid stations. I was on a focused mission, get to the finish line!<br /><br />As I re-entered the city and neared mile 26, it was a slight up hill and approaching a corner. There was a guy there yelling out “Nice Job, you are almost there, once you turn the corner, its 6 blocks to the finish)! </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092025254772128610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLGd-_3mYY3jBxn89b-ZKjXRM5oCObaHYX_uavwNbiwXvOpjz8XGK7CXfHzqpEDoUuxWKozIRetzQkjLes9VoRQK5YnYvsQ8bJrHiSmr1FLOGoeZIGGMpx9ipnl4f62DwJcV_7hw/s320/DSC04862.JPG" border="0" /> <div></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">This was</span> <strong><span style="font-size:180%;">JET FUEL</span></strong> <span style="font-size:130%;">for my tired body</span>. </div>kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-69278904949678884882007-07-27T16:07:00.000-07:002007-07-27T16:21:25.795-07:00Hour 13<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR4s8uujWTvfqC3YNYZOR9lvn67uZJ0HzmqnzewmbGT7n80DNBpcmeBKg9WL6H92o1s6q7hFEJesbrE19jA2bczIWZNybMEWWSyc_QpWwuc15CkNXOTwtBjuuVE2tnvmEA8vPr8Q/s1600-h/CDA+IM+07A+054.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092020491653397250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR4s8uujWTvfqC3YNYZOR9lvn67uZJ0HzmqnzewmbGT7n80DNBpcmeBKg9WL6H92o1s6q7hFEJesbrE19jA2bczIWZNybMEWWSyc_QpWwuc15CkNXOTwtBjuuVE2tnvmEA8vPr8Q/s320/CDA+IM+07A+054.jpg" border="0" /></a> <div><div>Hour 13: When I turned that corner it was one of the most exhilarating sights I have ever experienced.<br /></div><div>The 6 blocks were lined with thousands of people, all cheering and yelling for you as you passed. I could see the Ironman Finish Shoot and Arch 6 blocks ahead, it was a welcomed and Glorious sight. </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092019100083993298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkzzXuwU4FikZAZqLL6uKxwt8UDdg_e_lRfTMv1BxN6UIu6bixvGHUvCCi5CTc1wgLl6Krw8HZZahNlPMvgoDD_wUxkaEWvacEpS6r73oGCWSw5Oxb8Sc3HjfvqyFcC3-Nqf3cRQ/s320/DSC04894.JPG" border="0" /> The loud cheering from the crowd was like a giant shot of pain killer and adrenaline all at once. I forgot that I was in pain and picked up my pace for the last 6 blocks to probably about a 7 minute mile pace, I felt amazing!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092019074314189490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6JU5wybY2dFc7PGHiYWxZoLSuWpEOEPBXXY89DPqL85FApBiQtj3_l-AAqHfl3cGlqymOBJPTg2PsrcaSxTrSN-w7UuRwIew-ZXtfQyzdlpuyHvkYEQ3d8kHn5r8l3ejRMaXDIg/s320/CDA+IM+07A+051.jpg" border="0" /><br />As I entered the final finish shoot that was lined with grand stands, I could see on both sides clusters of Red Kathi’s Best Cheer Squad T-shirts!! <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092019082904124098" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJj5YoQp1_hmixEfwbIDKu793ADs3uvXdHP7xJ7rF6yPkCN289R2TKQOcMTn67dwtl1k4CeEvHG1HFhIBS4ojm0inHSnu4aC_U87FeQPGHto1Y8VcTKs2W6CBguWul-PZWErmdRQ/s320/CDA+IM+07A+053.jpg" border="0" /> I ran down, waving, blowing kisses and reveling in the fact that I had accomplished my goal!<br /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092019125853797090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghrNXHoLteQL2v8CEK3mATfvQAdC6g6u5ljdiP5d6Fnp9si905BObnuMulj0iDdieJaozy3L4PLw-uaAQh3Hz1XETRC-d3LQ6qBSN5_8DBucWQQ_w7BzAGMcgJWsX91Np7ke2pZQ/s320/DSC04900.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div>And at 13:06:53 these beautiful words were broadcast for all to hear......<br /></div><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092019151623600882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY8uXGBDjNkbnfrQe9E9yZFCW-uUj3qM-jG70l-DeOkgtnP_ZScrO_FtAVMVDXfzwLSCD2J34eBZznecoUcVvWYbAYIJLSbLbaVSCLnrtN1y8zAGAhQG5NkSgvPDxz8uFh9t4UhA/s320/DSC04909.JPG" border="0" /> <strong><span style="font-size:130%;">“Kathi Best of Spokane WA – YOU ARE AN IRONMAN!!</span></strong></div>kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31055173.post-26987711827570776002007-07-27T15:31:00.000-07:002007-07-27T21:44:53.043-07:00Hour 14<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7llYP00Az_35yPVzKXPCm9LKYcSYBXWuZXz56B4eXhbcpgm6LXWjy3p4i5RnNbESm03jBUKT1znvhg3QzwrJCRDjE3DMNGma48soevqUb5XmrNL2Tbg8raPnXXG2MF3OGVNzXDA/s1600-h/CDA+IM+07A+085.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092103509076262242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7llYP00Az_35yPVzKXPCm9LKYcSYBXWuZXz56B4eXhbcpgm6LXWjy3p4i5RnNbESm03jBUKT1znvhg3QzwrJCRDjE3DMNGma48soevqUb5XmrNL2Tbg8raPnXXG2MF3OGVNzXDA/s320/CDA+IM+07A+085.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div> Hour 14: Was spent hugging my Kathi’s Best Cheer Squad. Soaking up all their amazing Congratulations and words of affirmation!<br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092011055610247810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2eMiKRAUoecHREc6jcV9njsIO0JBGaxuNkiQlLM7N0fstgkjbXn_sZQ7gcS14y_oX613v3ELl8pJLeN2fqfnwEaDNrbfxtyye12u1sSk9xFC6sckjLaPSAM3avOUmsJrdJlTbgQ/s320/CDA+IM+07A+060.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><div>Again this was better than any pain medication I have ever experienced.<br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092011051315280498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnB-AQyz7gPH3Xy46OAzVrTZUMiR2uiDXLDT30719WGhgclJN66sBgFPv-OGYzbZG24P8F-byl9l1NqMPiUBjz8GMBrijF2Gqe6dOYcQEGmrJ0CvLXKkntxx3z0HObwfRrtdJrgw/s320/CDA+IM+07A+086.jpg" border="0" /><br />This was a Life Changing Journey for me and I feel so fortunate to have so many amazing friends in my life that were not only interested in my journey but also willing to sacrifice a very long day to share my 1st Ironman experience with me. </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092011042725345890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPrh_dQ4ULrj5g_Byx2qQahm-9Tq_xFpo-vKk1W5JkovxAsLX0mzZ7GSKCvi9VkRSpcaiC0VCKnumAAsPtuE4wK9oNeOqOIjlIcD1N2zkaHj69TbpGBalYbtTfuymJzu8TL1oCBw/s320/CDA+IM+07A+088.jpg" border="0" /></div><div>My heart is full to over flowing with gratitude and thankfulness. I feel extremely honored by the love and support that was generously and unselfishly given to me!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092011064200182418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEQq9oDQBX8RnZ2_TUbYg3gV8MOSMbrGUnBX2i9rZXyjQ68g97pjHaZjQjIo1ngQYnbTxCXaJtAeGfGdqYiKEXhm1n5bmX97gFq-UQ5OFOEg_YKlQ0lVMmT9hae9pnLARqi7NWMQ/s320/CDA+IM+07A+065.jpg" border="0" /><br />I love you all and want you to know that you were instrumental in making my 1st Ironman Race a Success. I could not have done it without you! And wouldn’t have wanted to!!!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092011068495149730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt3e2VTo8A17-1-qHPXWs5GC2DtZIQ5vY6jNVpqNvoZ9m8rdXlTPwyrF6Z0y0oHtdgTsTaLpt-UzUzRlEOjKQTTnrs2BWzb8bVaKnAjRy4S4Aku0u5G2XEhl4MBvb8nlbBDY8_6w/s320/CDA+IM+07A+072.jpg" border="0" /><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">P.S. I did sign up for my 2nd Ironman race! <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5092103487601425746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL3cHXhNaD27aSLCKAutuywcqZym72Jaqlw3C6xmn1XoDYNxaT_mOnvo1Qscxfu2honTgblnlgS7e-upitPS1QsffHhnRNSeCf2gjhG-Zrk_dfPkykeCw1tMo2DBsGJBJOIi93hg/s320/CDA+IM+07A+083.jpg" border="0" /></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">I hope to see you in Coeur d’ Alene on June 22, 2008! </span></strong></div>kathibesthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17180997785050826930noreply@blogger.com8