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doctoralissa
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Username: Doctoralissa

Post Number: 157
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Tuesday, February 14, 2006 - 9:25 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

02/14/06

Well I've set another big goal for myself. This one is scarier than the Ph.D. and giving up the single life and getting married and having babies. I'm going to do a triathlon! Me! The woman least likely to exert herself (except on the dancefloor or in very short bursts).

Actually I'm quite athletic...in my mind. I've got all sorts of excercize equipment (I love buying gear!)...it's just a matter of using it.

Well anyway, the triathlon thing has been running around my mind for quite a while. Years ago I used to watch the Ironman competition in Hawaii and just be in awe of those folks. Since I have virtually NO athletic history (not since grade school and enforced gym class in jr and high school), I had no idea of how to start. I've always been more of a person who lives in her head and I've done well in that...finished college a bit early, got my doctorate at 30 (right on schedule) and worked successfully as a researcher lo these few years since then. I'm also a Buddhist which is also pretty cerebral...love to read...again a solo and in the head thing...I think that's just been me...and also it's the safe place to be, since it's tried and true and quite comfortable.

So what makes me want to be an athlete? I dunno, just tired of being in my head so much and trying to live this life to the max. I'm no longer afraid of putting it ALL out there and trying my best. Win or lose, succeed or fail at least I'm out there doing it. Buddhist reflection...living in the moment, right?!? Now is all there all, so as I train I succeed.

Of course that sounds great right? And it is true, but what it also is is only part of it. This is the third year I've attempted to do a triathlon. I have a group of women I hang out with from work and two of them have done triathlons in the meantime while I've done none and it was MY dream in the first place. Pathetic!

Two years ago I was remodeling my kitchen with my husband (the contractor) so my training was interfered with by that project for a triathlon I planned on doing at the end of the summer. Our kitchen is beautiful, so I guess it was worth it, but annoying. Last year I was pregnant and spent the summer gestating my beautiful son, Jay. Definately, worth it! But all that Buddhalike sitting while growing my son has just added to the "out of shape" that is me. I was on the couch for about 10 months, plus wasn't in that great of shape before, you know?!?!

Anyway all that to say, I've wanted to do this for a long time AND I have a lot of work to do. I'm trying my first tri on June 17 this summer and to reinforce my effort I'm doing the training with a group and telling everyone I know...more on that later.

Anyway, thanks for reading and I look forward to sharing more with you later!
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Pippi
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Username: Pippi

Post Number: 1738
Registered: 8-2003


Posted on Tuesday, February 14, 2006 - 9:42 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Alissa -
You are an inspiration! I wish you the very best of luck.

I plan to make a donation, too. My dad died of multiple myeloma, so curing blood cancers is high on the list of things I'd like to see happen in our lifetime.

Keep us all posted of your progress.....you can do it!

(easy for me to say. I may very well be less athletic-minded than a couch potato!)
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las
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Username: Las

Post Number: 954
Registered: 10-2003
Posted on Tuesday, February 14, 2006 - 9:44 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

This is great, Alissa!

I was wondering when you made your initial post if you would be keeping us informed of your training progress. I'm looking forward to reading all about it. Thanks for including us!

Best,
Lynn
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doctoralissa
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Username: Doctoralissa

Post Number: 158
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Tuesday, February 14, 2006 - 11:37 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Still 02-14-06

Well this is the first week of my official triathlon training. We did an indoor biking (spinning) session on Saturday for an hour and a half and last night I drove all the way to Wyckoff to the YMCA to swim for an hour.

Well my first judgement is, as I told a friend this morning on email...I am WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY out of shape. Geez! Spinning/biking...can you say SEAT PAIN?!?! Ouch...my thighs were ok, but my sitting area...sore! Swimming...let's just say being winded while trying to breathe and stroke is NOT a good thing. :-)

Ultimately I was able to do what they asked, bike ("Now raise your hips off of the seat and increase the resistance, we're going up hill!" or "We're going to do 8 "50s" to "warm up". HAHA. I was more than warm by that time. I moved from the moderate to the beginning level swimming group, not because I can't swim. I can and have been swimming for years (I AM from California after all.) but because my cardio base is SO WEAK. It's not really a surprise actually because as I noted I have been on the couch for the past year or so, pregnant and all.

The shocking thing is unlike those occasional bursts of activity I had when younger it feels harder now. I'm 36. Not old, but no longer young either! And doing this is harder. Older women told me this would be the case, but I couldn't appreciate it until I experienced it. Regardless, I'm going to stick to it. I'll sweat between here and the finish line to get there.

An additional reinforcement for me is my friend Lashawn, who I recruited to do team in training with me. She is a colleague and friend and also a new mom (her kid is a month older than mine). She is in there with me and that's good. I like having a familar face around, but I have decided not to depend on her participation to do my own. I don't mean that in a bad way, in fact she is one of my friends who has actually completed a triathlon while I waited in the wings, so I know she can and will do this. What I mean is I have to do this myself, motivate myself, commit to myself. So far before both trainings, I didn't call her to make sure she was going and then decide from there, I just went and hoped I would see her there. Both times she was a bit late, but showed, but I'm just glad I went on my own. Got to!

Anyway, I'm out of shape and have a LOOOOOOOOOONG way to go to get across the finish line, but get across I will! Thanks for the support and keep on reading!
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Wilkanoid
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Username: Cseleosida

Post Number: 557
Registered: 10-2002
Posted on Tuesday, February 14, 2006 - 12:29 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

I've received the mailings for this, and toyed with the idea of doing the training. My current excuse is managing child care and the absence of someone to cover the after-school-until-hubby-comes home period. I guess I'm not motivated enough. I'm glad you're doing this now. If the information had come while I still only had one (very young) kid, I would have been out training in a flash.

Oh, well.

Keep up the good work!
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doctoralissa
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Username: Doctoralissa

Post Number: 160
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Wednesday, February 15, 2006 - 10:26 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Thanks for the support everyone! I really need it!

Ever wake up in a really cr*p mood? I usually don't, but today, Oh Boy! I was feeling bad like this goal is totally impossible. I'm too out of shape, too fat, too whatever to do it! I woke up at 5:30am and nursed my son then was just lying in bed wallowing in my cr*p mood.

I wanted to get up and go work out, but also would have liked to lie in bed and cuddle my son. I decided to get up and go to the gym and add a day to my life later to get to spend with him instead of that hour this morning.

I went to the gym, arriving before 7am and ran and crosstrained for about 30 minutes. Me? At the gym BEFORE 7 am?!?! Unheard of! Totally unheard of.

I was glad I went and was in a better mood once I had gone, but my overall mood didn't really improve today. What's up with that? I think I was sad because I have a LOOOOOOONG way to go. I'm fat and needed a doctor's release to train for this (because I have HBP). That sucks and I'm only 36 which makes me sad that I'm in this shape (my own fault). I have been losing and gaining the same 4 pounds at Weight Watchers for the last few weeks since I joined...that sucks too. (I think I said I'm going to put it all out there here and I guess I am!) Overall cr*p!

I talked to my best friend and he was encouraging, my mom too and my training partner. I am really proud of myself for going out this morning. As one of them said it shows how much I want this and how much I'm willing to sacrifice to get it. That's true. :-) I'm starting to feel a bit better. I've been busy all day but been thinking about putting this down in the blog. It's a bit of a release.

I did read something uplifting this morning in Triathlete magazine. To achieve a goal you've got to Decide, Start, Continue and Finish. If that's the case I'm half way there...I've decided and started...continuing is a long route and then the finish line. Yay! :-)

More soon,

Alissa
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Pippi
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Post Number: 1754
Registered: 8-2003


Posted on Thursday, February 16, 2006 - 12:10 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Good for you to get out of bed!
Think of your progress in small baby steps.
You can't accomplish it all in a day, but each time you get out of bed to work out you are that much closer to your goal. Keep it up

I particularly loved this:
I decided to get up and go to the gym and add a day to my life later to get to spend with him instead of that hour this morning.

That's brilliant.
Imagine if we were all able to think in these terms?
I hope to keep that message in my mind when I think I am too lazy or too comfortable to spend the mere 60 minutes (even 30 minutes!) bettering myself for the long run.
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doctoralissa
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Username: Doctoralissa

Post Number: 161
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Friday, February 17, 2006 - 10:38 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Hey all,

I'm feeling better today. Still iritated with my doc for not pursuing things in a more timely manner (any suggestions for a good local GP/cardiologist?), but I got a great note from my TRI coach, Chuck today which really lifted my spirits.

"Well, let him know what you plan to do and be sure he’s okay with it, and then do some training from the training plan that we put together for you. You might even show him the plan so he knows that it’s only a modest beginning. If he’s okay with it, follow that plan until he gets written clearance to the office. We’ll look forward to having you back.



Don’t get to stressed over it. Lots of people wind up taking time off for one reason or the other. As long as your commitment is strong, you’ll be fine! I train an athlete in Ecuador who last year had started on beta blocker medication and also antidepressants and who’s gone through a tough divorce this past year. He had to take some time off and I had to make modifications to his training program to accommodate the beta blockers (which impact heart rate significantly). And then he finished Ironman Florida in 11hrs 14 min. (his previous best time was over 13 hours!). Stay committed and follow a responsible program. We’ll get you through it!



Chuck"

Yay for me! I will get through this! Today my bike came back from the bike shop and I went for a ride. Felt great to be out on the bike, it's definately been a while. Biking is so awesome because you're speeding along, but can still enjoy the scenery. Plus good old fresh air! Had to get some before the cold crashed back down on us tonight/tomorrow.

Had a convo with my training partner Lashawn too. She's very level headed and unemotional about these things and talking to her made me feel much better too. We're probably going to get together for a swim over the long weekend.

I'm feeling good! Thanks for the words of support, Pippi and all.
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las
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Username: Las

Post Number: 999
Registered: 10-2003
Posted on Saturday, February 18, 2006 - 12:30 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

My running goal is to do Wyoming from Millburn Ave to SO Ave and back. Four miles. If you're ever up for a baby run let me know.

So glad you're feeling good, Alissa!
-Lynn
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redY67
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Username: Redy67

Post Number: 4898
Registered: 2-2003


Posted on Saturday, February 18, 2006 - 8:36 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

las that is too impressive!

Alissa glad things are getting better!
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doctoralissa
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Username: Doctoralissa

Post Number: 162
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Thursday, February 23, 2006 - 3:32 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

the latest brief report. I was at the gym yesterday at 6am for running and biking and lifting a little. haven't been on a weight machine in a while, but i used to be a fiend in my late 20s (was quite a buff chick for a while). anyway, felt good to be up and at it and I like the folks who go to the gym at that hour (even though I don't talk to them!). felt good to get the blood pumping that early and felt it all day. was TIRED by the time I came back to m'wood from the city and a day of work though. i was too tired to even sleep, but hung out with the baby and hubby in bed before crashing. a lovely day!

today, i'm resting from my workout as I am a bit sore and creaky feeling. it will get better. just going to keep it moderate and try to maintain consistency.

am home in m'wood today. baby had a check up (4 months). got two shots and checked out ok. he's TALL. having a healthy kid is such a blessing. keeping mom healthy is my other job. going on monday for the cardiac stress test. pediatrician said don't breast feed him for 48 hours. luckily i've got like 50 bags of milk stored so he'll be well fed while i'm clearing my system of nuclear material. :-) i wanted to try out my new glass bottles anyway. here's my opportunity.

thanks to all who are supporting!
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las
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Username: Las

Post Number: 1049
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Posted on Thursday, February 23, 2006 - 11:11 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Congratulations on Baby's healthy four month check up! Do you ever stroll him on your runs?
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doctoralissa
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Username: Doctoralissa

Post Number: 163
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Friday, February 24, 2006 - 3:07 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

las, I do. I got a jog stroller a few weeks ago and we've been out a few times. I'm such a novice runner it's more walking than running, but i'm mixing it up. I just saw your note about a baby run and would be happy to do it sometime. pl me and let's try to set something up.

today am home from work and went to Ballys, ran, lifted and swam. I feel good now, but will see how I'll feel tomorrow. Should do some stretching or yoga tonight to ward off soreness. am drinking water!

dropped off more fundraising letters to the TNT offices in Westfield so hopefully that will lead to more support for the cause. I'm up to about $600 bucks so far (only $380 reflected on the website http://www.active.com/donate/tntnonj/TripleThreat but $600 is my true total) so I'm about 1/3 of the way. I wonder why I've only had female support thus far (other than my best friend Barrington)? What's up with that guys? Come on, cough it up! :-) The one Maplewood guy (remaining unnamed) who promissed some cash never delivered. :-( Oh well I'm greatful for all the support I've had thus far and welcome more. Remember if you've been touched by Lymphoma, Leukemia or Myeloma let me know, I'd be happy to add a name to my jersey on race day!
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las
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Username: Las

Post Number: 1059
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Posted on Friday, February 24, 2006 - 3:57 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Alissa:

Each* time you take me for a run I will put $20 towards my pledge.

I private lined you.

-Lynn

*Each is a relative term. Let's see how we do and if necessary I'll set a limit.
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Tom Reingold
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Username: Noglider

Post Number: 12629
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Posted on Friday, February 24, 2006 - 5:06 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

I have lots of experience riding long distances on bikes, though I hardly competed at all at cycling. I also worked as a bicycle mechanic long ago, in a galaxy far, far away.

On a bike saddle, you sit on some very small muscles in your crotch, and if you ride a lot in a few days, you will get sore there. But let me you encourage you by saying these muscles build up quickly, and the soreness will go away after just a few days.

But if the seat is causing you genital pain, you need a new saddle or you need to change your position or both. If your is not an expert at bike fit, see the folks at Millburn Bike Shop. They know about this stuff and are helpful.

I'd be glad to go out on rides with you, if that would help. I could use a reason to get on the bike. But I only ride on roads, i.e. not on machines. I'm happy at most any pace, fast or slow, for a short or long ride. I might also help you with adjustments and fit and even bike maintenance.
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doctoralissa
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Username: Doctoralissa

Post Number: 164
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Posted on Friday, February 24, 2006 - 9:50 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

YES to all! Tom I'll PL you this weekend and las I'm writing you back right now.

Alissa
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doctoralissa
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Username: Doctoralissa

Post Number: 167
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Saturday, February 25, 2006 - 9:36 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Hey I'm going to try the new blog spot. Come on everyone!
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doctoralissa
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Username: Doctoralissa

Post Number: 168
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Friday, March 3, 2006 - 2:43 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Went to the gym today. Also ran up and back (mostly) to Topf’s from my house this morning. Dang it was COLD! Hubby had the car and needed to get there before they closed. Was impressed with myself. Feel a SLIGHT shift in my attitude, like I need (like I said slight) to go excercise. That is definately positive. Once I was home and sitting around with Dad and Baby watching TV decided to get up and go to Bally’s to work out a bit more as the little run in the morning didn’t seem like enough. I’m patting myself on the back. When I got home from the gym I had some lunch (relatively healthy) and then fed Baby. Then decided to treat myself to a bath. When Chris (hubby) remodeled the bathroom a few years ago he insisted on a whirlpool tub. I thought it was dumb, but I’m glad we got it because on those very occasional times we use it it is nice. I bubbled my way through my latest Prevention magazine and then got out. Hubby and Baby are downstairs enjoying each other and I’m in office writing to you all, but am going down in a few to chill with them.

Hope you’re all well!

Alissa

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Tom Reingold
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Post Number: 12732
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Posted on Friday, March 3, 2006 - 2:58 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

I suspect that slight shift in your attitude will continue and become permanent. This is a very good thing. You go, Girl.

My offer still stands, though of course, I want to wait until the muck is gone from the roads before cycling. But I have decided not to let the cold stop me. I think I will even cycle between home and work from time to time, and it's 20 miles each way. Of course, I can't do that every day, because of time constraints.
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doctoralissa
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Username: Doctoralissa

Post Number: 169
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Posted on Friday, March 3, 2006 - 3:04 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

YAAAAAAAAAAAY!!!!!!!! I've been cleared by my doctor. Took a nuclear cardiac stress test on Tuesday (yes I stopped breast feeding for the next 56 hours--luckily I had about 50 bags of breast milk stored in the freezer--you're welcome Jay for having such a think ahead mom). Was worried and not worried at once, not worried because I took one a few years ago and it was fine, worried because if something was wrong I would have to give up on the Tri Try. And that's not happening.

Finally my doctor was in (he only works mondays and fridays!) and I called the office and he reported that he had dictated the letter at lunch today (I'm not going to get the thing until the end of next week! Don't leave me in suspense!). I asked what the results were. He said they were "Excellent" (his words!). So I"m ready to go. And we have a run tomorrow. Oy! Running is my weakest part and being away (although working on my own) makes me afraid to go back to the group, especially on a run. Bleh. But I"ll go and I'll walk parts if I have to (and I will have to). Anyway I'm glad to be back and hope to make up (gently) for the time I've been away. Hopefully the group will incorporate me well. Full Steam Ahead!

:-) Alissa
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doctoralissa
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Username: Doctoralissa

Post Number: 170
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Posted on Friday, March 3, 2006 - 3:05 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Tom,

I too am considering riding to the train station, maybe to SO for a greater challenge when it warms up. It is a bit mucky out. Let's be in touch when spring has officially sprung, ok?

Alissa
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las
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Username: Las

Post Number: 1109
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Posted on Friday, March 3, 2006 - 3:26 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Heck, Alissa - if you can carry a baby dangling from your breasts for four months, tomorrow should be a cynch! You've so been there, girl! (I doubt the rest of the group can do what you do...)

You've got a cheering section on MOL - don't forget that.

Best,
Lynn

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Tom Reingold
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Posted on Friday, March 3, 2006 - 3:33 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

True, I never managed to dangle my babies from by breasts!
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doctoralissa
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Username: Doctoralissa

Post Number: 171
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Posted on Saturday, March 4, 2006 - 6:05 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

I try not to dangle him, it's hard on his neck, but thanks, I'm looking forward to our run las, although my expectations for running are low, if today's outing at the gym are any indication. I guess stretching is important! :-)

did go to the gym. did bike and run and lift. will go running with las tomorrow.

Alissa
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las
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Posted on Sunday, March 5, 2006 - 12:15 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Don't fall for the low expectations bit, people. I got to the track this morning and there was Doctor Alissa...doing warm-up laps. She waved and said, 'Hurry up Lynn, try to catch up!'

ugh...
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doctoralissa
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Post Number: 172
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Posted on Sunday, March 5, 2006 - 9:21 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

ok, I was warming up with a few laps before las arrived...but I must say, she was an awesome training partner and fun to talk to. my cardio base is still weak, so I burned a lot up on my warmup, so once she arrived I trotted and walked briskly she jogged along beside. It was a good pace because we could both talk only occasionally (me) panting. I look forward to more baby runs with her in this training season!

Went to yoga at Shakti Ma tonight. Was very relaxing and free (first time). It's like 5 minutes from my house so I'll be back! Looking forward to a peaceful and productive week. Hope you all have the same!

Alissa

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Tom Reingold
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Post Number: 12738
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Posted on Sunday, March 5, 2006 - 11:13 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Alissa, how long are the legs of your triathlon?
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doctoralissa
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Username: Doctoralissa

Post Number: 173
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Posted on Monday, March 6, 2006 - 4:15 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Tom,

It's a sprint distance, so 1/2 mile swim, 17 mile bike and 5 mile run (mile not k so it's longer than normal).

Alissa
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Judy Polyne
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Username: Jcassama

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Posted on Tuesday, March 7, 2006 - 8:04 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Alissa,

Congratulations on your progress! This is amazing. You are totally doing it girl and I am so proud of you. I know that it must feel nice to finally have the chance to work on this goal. I remember when you first put it out there a few years ago. Well, like everything else you will conquer this and then move to the next big thing.

Keep taking the baby steps necessary to improve your cardio base. The fact that you are training with a team will make all the difference in the world. Have you been using a heart rate monitor? That helps a lot too. If so, I can send you a handy chart that will help you to see the different zones for your max heart rate. It takes some of the guess work out of things.

My coach last year told us that after working out for a while we would start experiencing AOA, which is adult onset athleticism (ie the urge to workout). I think that's what is happening to you. Work it out!!! I know that you can and will do this.

Judy
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doctoralissa
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Post Number: 174
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Posted on Tuesday, March 7, 2006 - 9:32 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Thanks friend! You know you have been an inspiration to me in your own tri accomplishments! Yay! I love AOA, I am so feeling that!

AGC
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doctoralissa
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Post Number: 176
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Posted on Thursday, March 9, 2006 - 10:43 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Well I signed up for my next race, September 17th in Sandy Hook. The Danskin Women's Triathlon. That was my original target race 3 years ago, so here we go again. I'm excited to do it, because I hear it is a great one. The people are super supportive.

Last night was back with the team for a bike clinic. Learned how to change a bike tire. Cool! It's not rocket science. I'm going to try on my bike this weekend to practice.

Couldn't get out to the gym Tuesday so I just did aerobics on TV on Comcast. Did you know they have free excercize classes On Demand? it's pretty cool and the baby liked watching me dance around like a dork in our living room. I did a strength workout too for upper body. I'm going to be so Deisel!

AGC
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Judy Polyne
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Posted on Thursday, March 9, 2006 - 11:55 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Way to go for using what you have! I think that it's so easy for us to not do anything when we are unable to do what we want (eg. go to the gym), especially when it comes to exercise. The most important thing is that you try to do something, no matter how small.

I heard somewhere that it takes 21 days to form a habit. It seems to me that you are quickly approaching your benchmark for being in the "habit" of working out. It's about lifestyle changes and finding time to "do you". You totally deserve a pat on the back for working it out. You are going to be "Diesel," hopefully I'll be right there with you.

jp

PS: Count me in for Danskin on 9/17!
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doctoralissa
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Username: Doctoralissa

Post Number: 177
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Sunday, March 12, 2006 - 10:09 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Well yesterday I went for an 11 mile bike ride with the Team. Feels good to be back with them. Although I feel shy around new people/groups initially I went anyway. Everyone, of course, had fancy bikes--Aero bars, clip in bike shoes, bike shorts and shirts, etc. I have a regular hybrid bike with upright handle bars and regular pedals. Perhaps they are more experienced bikers than me? Oh well!

We have like 80 people on our team and about 15 or 20 people showed up for this, so I'm proud for just going. I started out slow and stayed that way. I was with them at first but they took off on their fancy bikes. Fortunately one of the coaches announced that she is pregnant with twins and was going to stay at the back. So she stuck it out with me--we were out near Morristown--somewhere I've NEVER been before and were on roads weaving in and out of the Loantaka Reservation. I had a bike route but I would have been lost and certainly would have given up and gone home if she hadn't been with me. Thanks Tracy! Anyway, it was good to talk to her. These are her first and as you know I'm a new mom too. It was fun talking to her. I learned a lot about her and she me as we chatted and rode. I guess it's a testament that I could ride that long and continue to talk, eh? I wasn't gasping like on my run/trot with las, last week. By the way las, when are you up for another round? I'll check my calendar at work and email you my availability. Anyway, after the ride (of course I was the last one in...well actually Tracy was behind me, but you know...) I chatted with some of the riders for a bit and walked around the park a little bit to get the feel of being on my legs after a ride as that's the weirdest part of triathlon transition, they say. It did feel a little rubbery, but not too bad, but then again we were walking not running. Maybe next time. :-)

I drove home and was still amped on adrenaline (is that what you get after excercise?)...or whatever and decided to take my kid for a walk as the weather was gorgeous. I took my dad too. We walked around our two neighborhood parks and came on home. I felt very virtuous, you know?

I was going to go out today, but my haunches were sore and it was raining so I stayed in. I may do an upper body workout before bed tonight, but it's already 10 and I've got work in the morning so I probably won't. I did get in some Meditation this evening...as everyone else in the house (except the baby who was with me) was watching Soprano's. I figured my meditation could counteract some of the funky vibes put out by that show. I watch lots of ridiculous programs on TV, but generally the bad guys get caught on them, they're not the heroes.

Otherwise I'm feeling ok and am glad to be back in the saddle...literally! Want to start riding down to the train station for my commute. May begin this weekend. Can't hurt!

AGC
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las
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Username: Las

Post Number: 1237
Registered: 10-2003
Posted on Monday, March 13, 2006 - 9:43 am:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

That was awfully nice of Tracy to get pregnant with twins and assume last place in an effort to ensure there will always be someone behind you. Obviously, she is a team player.

Alissa, you're doing an amazing thing - you are brave and taking risks you probably never contemplated before. I know it's hard to not compare yourself, but you should remember you are training with people who did not just give birth! That has to count for something.

Keep writing! - Lynn
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doctoralissa
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Username: Doctoralissa

Post Number: 179
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Monday, March 13, 2006 - 8:49 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Hey all,

Went for a run tonight...1.5 miles! I'm proud of myself for doing my thing. Walking was interspersed, but I went and did my thing. Let's trace my thinking as I went around the track...

lap 1..."Am I crazy? A triathlon? I should have begun with a 5k! How am I going to do this?!? S**t!"

lap 2..."hmmm well this isn't so bad...run...run...now walk. run...run...now walk"

lap 3..."pick up the pace...run faster and walk less...i'm doing it! my god!"

lap 4..."run longer...until that (x landmark). now walk. run again...run...now walk..."

Back hurts...now walk. Don't hurt yourself or you won't be in this for the LR.

Stretched and went home. YAY!
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doctoralissa
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Username: Doctoralissa

Post Number: 180
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Sunday, March 19, 2006 - 4:55 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Friday had a doctor's appointment over in SO. Decided to ride (back) from the appointment. Dad and baby came with me and bike to appointment, but left me there and I rode home. In my head this was a big deal, but it took less than 15 minutes to get home and we live on the Union side of Springfield in Mwood. Why did it seem like such a big deal? It wasn't. I pushed it on the flats and cranked up the inclines. Felt good. Makes me want to ride to SO train station for my commute. Let's see if I can work that into my schedule?!?!

This weekend went to the peace event at Mem library. Was going to walk with baby, but have a head cold coming on and decided not to push myself. Went to Trader Joes where Dad nearly got into an altercation with some slick dude who's cart (supposedly--I was paying the bill, not paying attention) kept bumping into dad. Had to pull out some mindfulness and loving kindness in that situation! Blech!

Got home and into bed. Felt worse this morning but mostly because of upcoming talk to program funder that i don't want to do. It's done now though,,,so all is ok.

more later!
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wendy
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Username: Wendy

Post Number: 2109
Registered: 5-2001
Posted on Sunday, March 19, 2006 - 5:50 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Just got your lovely thank you card in the mail Dr. A. I hope you're not spending too much on postage for these things and using most of the donations for the great causes (your health and, most importantly, the eradication of the blood diseases) that I assume are motivating you. Getting that card reminded me of what you said in one of earlier blog posts: "The one Maplewood guy (remaining unnamed) who promised some cash never delivered." Did he ever come through? Somehow I doubt it. But I hope others of the male persuasion have.

Great blog and keep it up; you're helping me with my motivation as well.

Wendy
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doctoralissa
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Username: Doctoralissa

Post Number: 182
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 - 2:53 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Wendy,

All the $$ I raised went straight to the LLS. All our postage, training supplies, etc. are at our own expense, but saying thanks to all of you who have helped me out is worth the small cost!

By the way, I just wanted to share with everyone that I have met my fundraising goal of $1800. Anything I raise now is gravy and goes 100% to the cure and support of those with blood cancers. If you're inclined please continue to help. Easiest way is through my website above, but PL me if you want to do it another way.

To answer your other question, no I never did hear from that guy and all the folks here on MOL who have supported me have been women. T. Reingold and I are going to go bike soon though and that certainly helps.

Thanks to everyone!! If I'm motivating folks that's an added bonus!

Alissa
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doctoralissa
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Username: Doctoralissa

Post Number: 185
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 - 7:14 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Did an arm and leg workout on Comcast On demand. OOOOOOO my triceps! Decided to to for a bike ride when hubby got home from work. Only rode about 4 miles...out to south orange and back but was good to break the inertia of the couch and internet! Going to bed now.
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doctoralissa
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Username: Doctoralissa

Post Number: 187
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Saturday, March 25, 2006 - 7:29 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post Print Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)

Havent been in the pool in quite a while. Am going tomorrow to do a workout Lashawn gave me. I think it will be a good thing to be back in the water. Today the team had a 7:30 am bike. I just couldn't do it! Too early! I did my own 12 mile jaunt up to Orange and back at a more civilized 10am. Was pleased to be out. Felt very good. Got to see some Montrose houses (nice area!) up close that I hadn't before. There is so much you can see on a bike (or on foot) that you miss driving.

Got home from the excercise and didn't know what to do with myself. Peapod came with some groceries. Worked on a little construction project with my dad. Hung out with baby! Took a nap. Now what's for dinner. I"m off to the kitchen to find out!

Alissa

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