Fall Preview for August's End

Bike Miles - 36

Swim - 2,500/75 mins

Wow, woke to very cool weather. Low dewpoint made a big difference!  I ended up wearing a warmer base layer and arm warmers. Had a very nice ride and felt strong.  Saw the big rottie and his big daddy out enjoying the nice weather.  

I had a stressful day at work.  Boss seems to be doing a bit of the passive-aggressive routine because my time is running short. Anyway, easy commute home, which was nice, and right to the pool, which was blessedly crowded. Had a lane to myself for the entire swim and the pool to myself for awhile. Ended up doing 100 laps to unwind and take advantage of the aquatic solitude.

Another 1K Mile Month!

Bike Miles  - 43

Last night, I slept like a rock. Even went to bed a bit earlier and took a 2 hr nap Saturday afternoon. I didn't want to get up this morning but I had a decent ride. Many odd folks were out and out, including three drunk young adults on their way home from clubbing. Took me back to the day... Anyway, I had a decent ride, even though my legs were a little tired. Saw two big doe.

Took it easy the rest of the day, aside from some chores and walking the dogs. I didn't feel like dealing with the "seniors swim free" situation at the pool, particularly since I probably will swim next Sunday. 

Frog Invasion and I Musta Passed Muster!

Bike Miles - 43

Swim - 2, 500/72 mins

Because of the predicted rain, I honestly thought I'd be suffering through another 2 hour Spinerval session inside on the trainer. It wasn't raining when I got up and while there were showers on the radar, they looked far off enough for me to get in at least 36 miles. Headed out on the beater bike and had a good ride. It was very very humid & damp, the vestiges of yesterday's super soaking rain. A big pile of sand/muck in the underpass, which I could pretty much get around. The surprise of the ride: FROGS. There was a grown pretty green/yellow frog just resting on the pavement.  Passed him several times. There were little frogs all over the place. A first.  While it stayed dry for the most part, I got sprinkled on for about 10 minutes. More like spit than rain--I think it was humidity in the air.

Got to the pool at opening and to my surprise, the Nazi started talking to me. Nice conversation. I must have passed muster or something. LOL. Anyway, she seems guarded and a little bossy, but that's ok. Ended up sharing the big lane by the bulkhead with some lady. She left after about 55 mins, so I had the lane to myself for a bit. As I was starting my final six laps, an old gent asked if he could share the lane.  Both of them were good lane partners.  I have to admit that I was feeling it during today's swim. Just a bit tired, not sore. I pushed myself to do 100 laps because the only way I'll build endurance, is to keep going when I'd rather stop. Wore my new Speedo today, too. I liked the fit at the bottom but it was a tiny bit generous at the top. Not overly so. Hopefully, it won't stretch out much (it's polyester).

The dogs and I enjoyed their walks, even though it was cloudy/gloomy and still humid.

Brian drove up to Pennsylvania to visit his father, who is up from Florida. I wonder if he regrets having moved so far away and gotten sucked in to the "step-hootchie-mama's" family?   We'll see if Brian brings home a bunch of Amish stuff, like shoo fly pie!  I'm in for a quite a day, being alone with the dogs. Hopefully, I'll be able to sneak in a nap.

TGIF!!! Yeeehaaaw

Bike Miles - 36

Swim - 2,500/75 minutes

I'm so glad it's Friday.

There was rain on the radar, north of us and moving further north. Regardless, I rode the beater bike and hoped for the best. Despite some lightning that motivated me to take it at a quick clip, it remained dry through the entire ride. I saw a simply beautiful fox---such a lush coat & tail with a gorgeous face. I hope s/he brings me good luck today.

I was in such a crappy mood at work, primarily because I was expecting the worst about the new assignment and because my boss hasn't been supportive of me in pursuing the opportunity. Anyway, it was all for naught. My big boss told me that the board approved the rotation but it isn't "official" yet. I was so happy...what a relief.  They will probably hold me four weeks but I plan on burning some leave!!!

I took a couple hours off early and hit some really severe rain on the road. Torrential downpours. Couldn't see. People were pretty good, for the most part, slowing down. That lasted for most of the Toll Road but by the time I got to Arlington County, it stopped. No coincidence there---the Best County in VA!  

Went directly to the pool and it was pretty deserted, which made me happier. Unfortunately, I was pretty tired. Particularly my shoulders. I managed to slog out 100 laps though. In retrospect, it wasn't that bad.  I'm proud that I stuck it out and took advantage of having my favorite lane to myself.

Looks like more rain tonight and possibly, tomorrow.  The means I'll be inside on the trainer instead of riding outside tomorrow morning!  

Day Off!

Bike Miles - 43

Swim - 2,500/70 minutes

Today, I'm taking sick leave for medical appts, including a visit to have my eyes checked. I can no longer see the computer screen with either pair of glasses---end up taking off my specs.  I need progressive lenses and this time, I have to make myself adjust to them. 

Even though I could have slept in, I got up at the usual time and went for a longer bike ride. It was very nice, peaceful, and non-eventful. I felt pretty strong---well, my legs had a lot of power.

I decided to go to the pool when it opened, even though I was afraid it was going to be crowded.  I was third to sign in. Met a really nice older gent who was very friendly. Asked me if I was "new," and I explained that I came in the afternoon because of the commute. However, I'm trying to get an assignment closer to home and if it works out, I might opt for early bird swimming. He wished me luck. He told me that a wide mix of swimmers came in the early morning, including whom he called the "olympians." He said they usually were there Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, so I missed out on seeing them (no regrets there). A couple others showed up, including the Saturday Pool Nazi. She glared at me, then rushed over to lay her stake on "her" lane. I ended up having a lane to myself for about 20 minutes, then a really nice lady joined me. She was a "polite" non-splashy type. The place filled up but it was two-to-a-lane, which is fine.  My shoulders, arms and upper back were very sore, but I did quite well.  Ended up doing 100 laps, taking advantage of having the lane to myself and having extra time. Switching to mornings is tempting....it was nice.  I feel stronger in the mornings.

Today is the big day---the Career Board decides whether or not they will approve my going on rotation. During my bike ride, I prayed that they would endorse it so I can take the assignment. It's really a perfect match for me and it would give me a chance to impact mission in a significant way. Otherwise, I have another six months or so of being underemployed, bored, and basically, having days where I have nothing to do.

I ended up walking to the eye doctor--a little over a mile each way. It was getting pretty warm so the walk home ended up being pretty sweaty. Got new specs---progressive lenses. The new frames aren't too exciting but they look fine. We'll see if the lenses work out this time. Thank goodness I got that vision insurance plan. If I didn't have it, I would have paid almost $900 instead of $193.

Overall, it was a great day. I ended up going to the swim store and getting three new suits, plus a bathing cap, all for under $125. The suits were on sale and one was polyester.  Spent the rest of the day with the dogs!

Suicidal Rabbits

Bike Miles - 36

Swim -2,000/55 minutes

On this morning's bike ride, I had two very close encounters with rabbits. Luckily, I didn't hit either of them. Several folks were out and about, probably because the weather was very comfortable.

I had a frustrating day at work but things seemed somewhat smoothed out by the time I left.  The commute home, however, was a bit rough.

Unwinding in the pool was wonderful. I didn't have to share a lane for long because my favorite lane cleared out shortly after I arrived. I had it to myself, making me extend my swim to 80 laps (planned 60).  

Tuesday

Bike Miles - 36

Swim - 1,750/50 mins

I did not want to get up today! Dragged myself out on the bike and after a few miles, encountered the big bald dude and his rottie, heading West. I was going in the same direction and he apparently neither saw my headlight nor heard my multiple "passing on your left" warnings. The dog noticed me first, then the guy turned in response and glared at me. Ipod in ears, probably blasting. I likely startled him unintentionally.  No harm no foul.  I passed them without incident and when I later encountered them as they were heading home, the guy had the dog sit and wait for me to pass (he could see me coming as we were going in opposite directions). 

I got a big hurdle out of the way today. Typical of my boss, I asked for my release date and he went all passive aggressive on me, running away and telling me that was an HR matter. I've never had such a freakish boss.

Enjoyed my time in the pool---70 laps.

Great News on a Monday

Bike Miles - 36

Swim - 2,000/1 hr

It was pretty comfortable out during my ride, almost cool. I'm glad I wore a bolero to keep my arms warm.  Very peaceful ride. The same fox crossed my path twice...double good luck, I hope!  Rode the beater bike because there was a thunderstorm showing up on the radar, south. I either beat it home or it isn't headed our way.

Great news!  I got the assignment. I'm so happy for many reasons. It will be nice to be busy, be contributing to mission, and to do something meaningful. The commute will get much easier, at least for the next year or so. 

Went right to pool after work, as I had a lot of adrenalin to burn off.  Had my favorite lane to myself for most of my swim, although I initially started sharing the adjacent lane until "my" lane cleared out (kids taking some swimming lesson).  Monday swims are always tougher, for some reason.  Today's was all right and I was able to swim for a solid hour.

Cooling Off, Sorta

Bike Miles - 43

Swim - 1,250/32 mins

Thank goodness, the rain cleared out in time to allow me to ride outside today. I just couldn't bear another trainer session... Anyway, the pavement was still wet, not too many puddles, and there was a good bit of debris in the first underpass. Most of the sand/muck was in the middle, so I could squeeze by on the outside without too much of a problem. Hopefully, once it dries, people won't spread it out all over the path, making the entire thing treacherous.  

The good thing about all the rain is that the heat is pretty much gone. It was humid but cool, with a very nice breeze. It heated up, though, after the sun was out long enough.

The girls were so good on their walks, even the baby. 

Even though it is "seniors swim for free" day, I decided to go to the pool and just swim for 30 minutes. It started out ok but some old day joined me after about 10 minutes. Didn't ask, just said she was getting in the lane. Even though she didn't really keep to her side that well, it was ok (I had the slow lane by the bulkhead).  Not too much later, some very odd old guy comes up and tells me he wants to join us and swim circles. I tried to discourage him, asking him if there were free lanes on the other side. His eyes got big (crazy) and said, "Yes."  So I said, why don't you go there then? He said, "they are fast lanes and I'm not fast."  I said, "neither am I" but I figured I'd just go.  Of course, the mofo LIED. All the lanes were filled with two or more folks. So I decided that I was going to leave but I noticed that the old lady vacated the lane I had been in. I decided to share w/Nutso. He asks me, "can we swim circles," to which I replied, "no, I don't want to swim circles."  Nutso actually went, "awwwww" in a pitiful voice. I figured that hey, I was there first for chrissake and it wasn't costing him anything to split the damn lane.  When one of the lifeguards came by, he started asking why the other lanes were put up in the diving tank.  It wasn't long before another old man got in the lane, just showed up. Luckily, he decided to abandon the lane after having a conversation with Nutso.

I told the other guy that I was going to be done soon, if he wanted to wait, and that I would try to finish up fast. Nutso said, "yes, you are fast."  Meaning I shouldn't be in the slow lane. I ignored him.  When I got out, I thanked the other guy for being patient, and he said that he tried to talk to Nutso about sharing the lane but that Nutso "didn't understand."  LOL.  As I was leaving, Nutso said to me, "how many laps did you swim."  I said to him, in a decidedly terse tone of voice, "enough."  

Felt good during the swim, physically, but Gawd, for a group of people using the pool for free, these old people certainly think they are entitled to take over the place. 

Rainy Saturday

Bike - 2 hrs on trainer

Swim - 2,500/75 mins

While it wasn't raining when I woke up, the radar showed some thunderstorms headed our way so I opted for a Spinervals session, inside on the trainer. I did Have Mercy, one of my favorites. Didn't go all out because I knew I was going to swim afterward, but I got in a good workout.  We got a decent storm while I was on the trainer---lots of vivid lightning.  It didn't pour, which was good because yesterday we had a soaker.

I was the second arrivee at the pool and we had to wait for them to unlock the pool area. The guy with the brown curly hair was there, first in line. I was second. Said good morning, but he didn't seem like the chatty type so I shut up. About five minutes later, this woman comes in. Probably my age or a couple years older. Thin, expensive hairdo/dye job (no evidence of bed head, either, unlike disheveled moi!). She acts like I'm not there and immediately starts talking to the other guy. They knew each other, it was obvious, but the conversation was about the pool. How she talked to the pool manager and the pool will be closed for the day on 7 September, and so on. When another guy joined us, she ran over behind me so he couldn't "steal" her place in line! Let's call her the Pool Nazi. Anyway, Floyd unlocks the door and lets us in. Immediately, she heads down to the diving board end, where I'm going ("curly hair" always claims my favorite lane so I didn't want to ruffle his feathers by asking if I could join him). I decided that the lane next to the bulkhead was fine. Well, the Pool Nazi had put her stuff next to the lane rope in "my lane." She wanted the "medium" lane next to mine but it wasn't set up yet. So she says, "Floyd, the lanes aren't set up" in a very nasty, impatient tone. He replied, "I can only do so much," went back to get his wrench, then jumped in and set them up.  He probably wasn't moving fast enough for her because she got in the lane with me, next to the bouy giving me plenty of room. I could care less.  She swam about a half hour and left, leaving her kickboard on the deck (of course).  Aside from her final "kickboard" lap at the end of her swim where she made a point of splashing like a mofo, she was a good lap sharer. Maybe because she stayed as far away from me as possible.  LOL.

It was pretty amusing. I've encountered her there before---my first Saturday morning swim, I believe.  She was in that medium lane, apparently "her" lane, and I took the one next to the bulkhead. I tried to engage her in small talk but she made it obvious that she wasn't interested. Figured, okaaaay. She did a half hour then. Must be her daily thing. 

I planned to swim an hour but went 75 minutes. Boy, my arms, back, and shoulders were feeling it, but it was in a good way. I had a lot of energy, surprisingly. I alternated freestyle & breaststroke so I was using different muscles. I ended up doing 100 laps again!! I'm so happy that I've gotten the rhythm and breathing down so well that I'm loathe to stop.

It's supposed to rain off and on most of the day, which is OK.  I was able to walk all three girls during a break in the showers. 

Twenty-one years ago today, Brian and I eloped!!  Hard to believe it's been that long....  Nothing special planned, which is perfect.

TGIF!!!

Bike Miles - 36

Swim - 2,500/75 minutes

It was 83 degrees and humid when I rode this morning. Whew. The only saving grace was a 9mph wind. Saw some wild looking dude heading home from his late night revelries. 

Another pretty boring day at work. Luckily, I had 2 hrs leave scheduled for the afternoon, so I got out of there at 12:25ish.

The pool was pretty deserted. I'm afraid it's a temporary thing---people on vacation! Anyway, I made the most of it and swam 100 laps again. The last ten laps or so were pretty darn tough. I was fried!  As I was nearing the end of my swim, some older lady came and asked the fellow in the adjacent lane if she could share with him. He had arrived probably 15 minutes before she had gotten there (he's a regular---is has difficulty walking and uses a cane).  Anyway, I told her that I was finishing up and she was welcome to join me, as she would soon have the lane to herself.  

During the final ten minutes or so of my swim, I could see dark clouds approaching in the sky lights. I got outside to discover the wind blowing, pre-storm style, and big, dark blue puffy, threatening clouds. Thunder. The only positive is that I made it to my car and was a few blocks on my way before it started. Pouring. Waves of torrential rain. I made it home but sat in the car for about 10 minutes before it seemed to let up a little. Rivers of white caps rushing down the road...  Well, I ended up getting soaked walking from the car to the house.  Since I was already wet from swimming it wasn't that big a deal.

I plan to do some yoga because I'm pretty sore/tired. 

A Favorite Day

Bike Miles - 40

Swim - 2,500/75 minutes

I decided to go to my interview, then take sick leave today.  I knew if I went in, the boss would stress me out (intentionally? possibly) before I left for the interview. In addition, I wasn't feeling well--tummy upset. I really needed a day off to recharge.

Started the day off with a decent bike ride. Again, humid and warm. Gave me some time to say some prayers that I do an excellent interview and to think. It was peaceful, which is just what I needed. Once I got home, I decided to do shoulders, since I had some extra time. 

The interview went really well. I made sure I was relaxed beforehand and was prepared. Said lots of prayers, too.  Through the entire thing, I felt pretty at ease and confident in my answers. I had so many relevant examples to give them in response to the questions.  I got a really good vibe from the lady who's chief (she said my background was a perfect fit). Let's hope I impressed them. Let feeling very, very good, like I'm going to get it. I don't want to be overconfident, though.  I have my fingers crossed and will continue praying!!!

After that, I was fired up and had energy to burn. Went to the pool when they opened to discovered that two lap lanes (including my favorite) were taken over by some kids' swim class. They supposedly were finishing up. It was pretty much deserted, otherwise, so I had a lane to myself until some older lady joined me (of course, didn't ask). She was swimming backstroke, which I can't understand when one is sharing a lane. As soon as the class moved to the end lane, I went to the one they vacated. Had it to myself for about ten minutes until some obnoxious older Asian lady joined me (again, didn't ask).  Wouldn't you know it, she was worse than the first one!  LOL. Figures, my luck. Backstroke and doing some odd form of breaststroke that took up more than half the lane. She just about kicked me once. Well, as soon as old lady #1 left, I took over my original lane, which I had to myself for the rest of the swim. I felt really good---my breathing was right on, rhythm was excellent. My shoulders were very tired/sore, but I kept going because I was in a groove. I was going to stop at an hour but I decided to try to swim 100 laps!  Longest swim yet. I'm very proud of myself.

Tomorrow's the Big Day

Bike Miles - 36

Swim - 1,750/45 mins

It rained a little on Monday, late afternoon, so there were damp patches on the pavement and the bridges were wet when I rode my bike. In addition, it was very very humid and warm. Because there was what looked like a tiny thunderstorm a few miles west, I rode the beater bike. It never rained, thank goodness. A decent ride, all told.

Frustrating day at work. Enough said.

Had a really good swim. Took my time, focused on my breathing/form. The pool wasn't at all crowded, which was wonderful. I wish I could have gone longer but I had to get home to the girls.  Unfortunately, Fiona and Margot were rather contrary, and I lost the zen feeling from swimming.  Hopefully, I can recover some of it with a yoga session...

Tomorrow is an important day for me.... will be praying that I really do well during my interview. 

Tuesday

Bike Miles - 36

Swim - 1750/50 mins

Slept very good last night. I was exhausted because I didn't sleep well Sunday night (probably since I took that long nap Sunday afternoon).  I really didn't want to get out of bed this morning but I had a pretty decent bike ride. Saw that fawn and doe again. Also a fox crossed my path, which I hope is a sign that I will have good luck all week! 

An OK day at work. 

I had a pretty good swim. At first I was in my favorite lane, but some sloppy swimming man joined me without asking if he could share the lane. His freestyle stroke style was karate-chopping the water with his straight arms while kicking up a storm. Created swells and big splashes. As soon as the adjacent lane was empty, I went over there and was able to finish my swim in peace!

Raccoons!

Bike miles - 36

Swim - 1,750/50 mins

It was a warm morning ride. Humid.  Lots of spider webs on me and on my Eclipse's handlebars. I encountered two gangs of raccoons at separate times, in different locations along the trail.  Each group had about four or five of them out foraging.  I also saw a beautiful doe standing next to the trail.  Although startled, she froze and watched me go past. 

Had a nosebleed when I got home. Very strange.

For a change, I had some things to do at work today. It got a little stressful but at least the time passed quicker than usual.

Since Brian had to work late, he was able to take the girls out later, allowing me to go directly to the pool after work. I wasn't feeling it today but I slogged out 70 laps. It wasn't bad, but I just couldn't really get into a good rhythm. My arms felt like sandbags.

Happy Birthday Fiona

Bike Miles - 43

Fiona turns two today! She got to choose her route for her walk, which means we went farther than usual. Just a little. It was a nice morning, even though it was a tad humid. She loves her present (a tough dog tug of war toy, which she and Margo are playing with as I write this).  

Last night the girls were wrestling, and Fiona came up to me with blood on her face. After checking her for wounds, I found a puppy tooth (canine canine!) on the floor. Margot is teething again.  About two hours later, looked down and saw the other puppy canine tooth on the floor. Our baby isn't much of a baby any more. A rather rambunctious "tween" is an apt description.  

Nice bike ride, no weirdos which is always a treat for a Sunday morning. Seems like there are more drunks/freaks out on Sundays than Saturdays. Maybe Friday night doesn't  have the same party appeal as it did when I was clubbing (back in the good old days). I passed a sparkle on the pavement -- definitely wasn't glass. Had I found a treasure?  Stopped and picked it up to find what is likely a nice sized cubic zirconia. The setting is cheap--sterling silver---so it's probably not a diamond. Looks to be what was once an earring. Pretty battered, so it had to have gotten run over more than once. 

Took today off from swimming, although with mixed feelings. I decided to take a nice nap in the afternoon, and ended up sleeping very deeply for about two hours. Well-earned rest.  Brian had dog duty, for a change!

Super Saturday

Bike Miles - 43

Swim - 2,250/65 minutes

Another crusher of a Saturday morning. I really love this new routine. Tests me physically and mentally.

Up and out for a nice 43 mile ride. The weather was fine--a bit humid but a smidge cooler than it's been this week. I encountered that fella who greeted me a few weeks ago (the one on his way to work). Very friendly, had his dog-Brutus, out with him. Brutus is a Jack Russell terrier with one ear that flops down. Also saw a few other early morning cyclists and runners.

Got to the pool when it opened. I was just me and the Asian guy today. He had some nasty breath or body odor... thank God he works out in the tank, not the main pool.  Smelled like spicy stale food (could have been worse). Anyway, I was the only one in the main pool for about 10 minutes and I got my favorite lane, which I had to myself until my last few laps.  I got into a good rhythm. My breathing is getting so much better, thank goodness. I have to keep working on it to make it habit. Felt so good that I just keep going. When an man joined me in my lane, I figured I'd just end it at 90 laps. Despite yesterday's long swim and upper body strength session, my back/shoulders/arms felt fine.  Legs were good, too.

The dogs enjoyed their walks. Maeve surprised me, as she's getting a little nasty to other dogs. Protective. Has never been like that before, which is odd. Luckily, I'm able to pull her away and contain it. She must be getting contrary in her old age, just like her mommy.  LOL.  Anyway, it was starting to get warmer, so all three worked up a good "pant & lather."  By the time I finished walking Margot, I was happy to be able to shower, get the chlorine off me, and eat some breakfast.  The coupler leash is coming--got the delivery notice--so I hope to teach Margot and Fiona to walk together. 

TGIF 14 Aug 09

Bike Miles - 36

Swim - 2,250/70 mins

Today was one of those nice, peaceful bike rides.  Very quiet, mostly clear sky, humid but a nice breeze made it comfortable. 

Gawd, what a boring day at work. Boss was back but didn't say anything but good morning to me!  I guess that's good... The best things about the day:  it's Friday and I took the afternoon off.

The pool was relatively full, but I got my favorite lane. Had to share it but the lady was very nice. Not a splasher. Good old "messy flip turn" showed up but went to another lane (not adjacent, thank God). At first, I felt a little off. After I got into a rhythm, I just went and did quite well. That's why I did 90 laps. My shoulders and arms are very sore, but I think that's partially due to my "upper body blast" session in the weight room at work. 

Hopefully, I didn't fry myself so much that I'm suffering during tomorrow morning's  bike ride and swim.

I'm glad to be home early, so I can spend some time w/the girls. I'll do a little yoga and then feast on pizza crusts for dinner!

Bike Miles - 36

Swim - 1,500/45 min

A prevailing SE wind kept the humidity at bay during my morning ride, which was nice. I have to admit that I'm tired of battling the cobwebs, but soon, I'm be having to adapt to the cold. I'll take this over freezing toes and fingers.  The homeless gent growled/roared at me -- that was the only noteworthy happening of today's ride. 

I had a decent swim. Still working on breathing every fourth stroke and keeping my head down when I breathe. In the lane next to mine, a lady with a very sloppy flip turn kept making these big splashes every time she got to the wall.  I think it's the same lady I saw that one Saturday morning, the one who slopped up the deck so bad I slipped!

12 August 2009

Bike Miles - 36 

Swim - 1,750/50 mins

A nice uneventful bike ride. The dewpoint was only a few degrees lower but it made a huge difference. 

Another completely boring day at work. Some good news, though. A ray of hope, so to speak. I'm praying that it works out and have asked for prayers from those much better than I.

Took the back way home to avoid the metro construction mess. It worked out OK. 

A lot of people at the pool and I wasn't feeling it today. Managed to slog out a swim.  Bought my annual pass, since I had only one swim left on my ticket. So I'm good until next August.

11 August

Bike Miles -36

Swim - 1,750/50 mins

Woke up just before the alarm was to go off, so I rushed to get out on the bike. The skies were pretty clear, despite the predicted chance of rain. It must have rained a bit overnight because there were wet patches on the pavement and the wooden bridges were wet. The only other souls I saw out were the big bald guy and his rottie. It was very steamy---warm and humid. Took it easy because my legs were sore from Monday's strength session.

Another slow day at work. The commute home was hell because they had a lane blocked off on the connector from the Toll Rd. to Rt 66. Right where those two lanes collapse. I might have to get off in McLean and go home the back way. It's just going to get worse as this stupid Metro construction proceeds.

I was so happy to find the pool uncrowded and I got my favorite lane. Really focused on my breathing and I figured out the expelling air at a pretty regular rate allows me to go longer between taking breaths. Before, I was holding my breath and exhaling most of it until right before I turned to breathe. I still have a long way to go. My freestyle technique leaves a lot to be desired. Regardless, I was pleased w/my workout today.

10 August 09

Bike Miles - 36 

Swim - 1500/45 min

It's officially the "hottest weather of the year."  Heat index over 100, temperature high 90s.

Very warm and humid ride. Lots of moths, spiderwebs, and bugs. A bug flew up my nose, which was no surprise. It's interesting encountering noticeable differences in air temperatures, going from temperate into these patches of much warmer air.  Usually happens when I'm further away from the creek.  I was soaked in sweat when I got home.

The pool wasn't crowded, which surprised me since it was so brutally hot and humid. I had a nice, relaxing swim to get rid of all the day's stress.

Sunday 9 Aug 09

Bike Miles - 43

The heatwave has descended. This morning's ride felt very summer-like for this part of the country. Typical. Very warm and very humid.  Not a bad ride, though. Felt fairly good and because it's getting close to the century mark temps-wise later today, saw a lot more folks out getting in the daily run or bike ride. 

Some pictures of the girls and one of Margot with her daddy.

Took a day off from swimming. Didn't want to overdo since I swam six days this week. 

Have been lost in the latest Alice Hoffman book. It's excellent. A good way to spend a hellishly hot and humid day---inside, lost in a book. 

Saturday 8 Aug 09

Bike Miles - 43

Swim - 80 laps/1 hr

I had a pretty good bike ride, although encountered some surprise sprinkles. Not enough to even dampen the pavement but I worried nonetheless because I was on the "sacred Seven."  The bike that shall never be ridden in rain!  Felt pretty strong, despite a very active week and the ride was most pleasantly uneventful. Cloudy skies, not to humid, and not to warm/cool. 

I hit the pool when it opened. The three "regulars," old gents, included me in their conversation and were very friendly to me. Guess that figured that my being there right before opening for three consecutive weeks means that I'm officially part of the Sunrise Saturday crowd.  Got a big slow lane to myself -- by the bulkhead -- and I was very mindful at taking it easy slow. Shoulders, upper back, and arms have been a little sore since Thursday's swim. Focused on my technique.  I'm working on breathing every fourth stroke instead of every stroke.  I'm getting better at it. As I was finishing my last lap, the old guy in the red flowered speedo was standing at the end of my lane, getting ready to ask me if we could split it. Before he could speak, I said, "perfect timing, I'm all finished. The lane is yours."  He got a big smile on his face and continued to gather equipment (fins, swim gloves, kickboard, etc.).  

The girls all enjoyed their walks.  Unlike Fiona, Margot is all business when she walks. We encountered Brian coming back from his run and she would not stop to say hello to her daddy. LOL. Kept marching ahead, leash in mouth.  Such a strutter.  When Fiona and I were walking, we saw the other golden puppy in the neighborhood (I think she must be 6 months). That dog is a deeper butterscotch than Fiona. Anyway, both she and Fiona were walking with their leashes in their mouths. The puppy's dad and I had a good laugh over that one. Typical golden retrievers!

Found a tick on the back of my leg after my shower. Pulled it off. It was small and my tweezers were too big to get a good grip, so I ended it removing it in pieces. Uggh. Now I have another tick bite to monitor.  This tick was much smaller than the tick I found on my chest in June.  

Hope to get in a nap and some yoga between washing/folding loads of laundry.  There's a two or three day heat wave settling down on us, so it will be good to stay indoors.

TGIF 7 August 2009

Bike Miles - 36

Swim - 75 laps/about an hour

What a lovely morning for a bike ride. Sixty-four degrees, lower dewpoint/humidity, slight breeze, clear sky, and bright moon/stars.  Best of all, no other people. It was all mine, save for the bunnies.  A fox crossed my path, a good omen for the day. 

As I'm eating my breakfast, I notice that Margot was on Fiona's back, as Fiona was lying on the kitchen floor. Margot was humping her to beat the band.  "I the Alpha!"  

I left work two hours early today. The traffic has been bad on Fridays---summer tourists, primarily---and it's not like I'm working on anything important.  Or much at all, for that matter.  I might just do it for every Friday for August, just for mental health reasons.

I went right to the pool and swam. Really wasn't too crowded, and I took it easy. My shoulders and arms were pretty sore from Thursday's swim, and I hope to get in a long swim tomorrow after my bike ride. Such a gorgeous day---not a cloud in the sky and not too hot. The sun was shining through the skylight, giving me a sunny swath to swim through. 

After I got home and showered, I took each of the dogs on an abbreviated walk. The sun was pretty intense, so I didn't want to make them do a regular walk. All three worked up a good lather. In the hopes of wearing her out, I took Margot on a bit further than usual walk. She was crying when we didn't turn down the road toward home!  Seemed relieved when she saw the stairs leading up to the yard.

Rainy Thursday Morning

Bike - 1 hr, 45 minutes on trainer 

Swim - 90 laps/1 hour

Rain greeted me this morning, so I did some Spinervals inside on the trainer (Big Gear Strength & Recharge).  I hope this doesn't end up being another rainy month. We've had too many of them this year.

The best part of today was being  able to leave at noon because I had an appointment. 

I got to the pool early and it was pretty crowded.  I had a lane to myself but ended up sharing with some guy who insisted on doing flipturns. Oh well, it's good more me to get used to it, I guess. I had a good swim, regardless. 

Wednesday, 5 Aug

Bike Miles - 36

Swim - 60 laps/42 minutes

It was nice, weather-wise, although a bit humid. Very bright moon and stars. There was some teenager spray painting graffiti on one of the retaining walls. In addition, there was some zaftig teenage girl riding a bike, wearing an ipod but no helmet or headlight/tail light. Must have been the bright moon that brought them out.  

Not too bad a day at work, even though it continues to be very slow. 

Tried to take it slow during my swim and decided to cut it off at 60 laps. The lady who joined me in my lane had long, coarse black hair and wore no swim cap. She was one of those "don't get the head" wet kind of swimmers.  Well, a big old strand of her hair got caught in my watch band. Gross!  She was nice and polite (asked it she could share the lane), at least. I'm trying to work on not breathing every stroke on freestyle.  I have to make myself get used to it.

The girls were better behaved today. I guess I should say Margot was better behaved!  Thank goodness.

Tuesday, 4 August 09

Bike Miles - 36

Swim - 70 laps/50 min

I had some strange dreams on Monday night, probably because I was so stressed out on Monday. Woke up, feeling ok except for some congestion in my ear tubes (probably due to the mold-induced snot factory cranking away in my head). Anyway, had a fairly nice bike ride. There were a couple of teenagers out on bikes. I'm pretty sure they were doing graffiti along the trail, as one appeared to be in a lookout position at the base of a connector trail. Bad boy wannabes. Minded their own business when it came to me, so I don't care. 

On the way into work, I was the victim of road rage. Some guy cut me off--no turn signal---so I flashed my brights at him. He slams on his brakes, and I nearly hit him. Then he gets in the lane next to me and starts "pacing" me.  Very hostile. I just kept my eye on him and did nothing more to incite him. He eventually exited.  I hate my commute. There are so many unsafe people on the road.

Got through work unscathed.

The pool was fairly busy but I initially had a lane to myself.  Someone soon joined me and we split the lane. Since it was a wide slow lane (next to the bulkhead), there was plenty of room.

Monday 3 Aug

Bike Miles - 36

Swim - 70 laps/50 minutes

It was very humid, which I expected after yesterday's rain. A breeze kept it from being a true drencher, as it was warm during my ride. Some wet patches, primarily on bridges, but otherwise dry. Felt surprisingly strong. It was a peaceful ride, had a fox cross my path.  Bright moon. The "cobweb" factor was high, so when I got home, I had to wipe myself clear of them.

Work was pretty slow, again. It wasn't a great day, overall.  Encountered that contractor at the gym, the one who wears street clothes to work out and never wipes down the machines he uses. Because of the latter, I wouldn't let him "sneak" in a set on the hamstring machine that I was using.  I was nearly done, and I knew he wouldn't wipe it down. He was doing a disorganized workout, moving from machine to machine.  It wasn't like he couldn't have gone to another machine while he waited since there was no organization to his workout.  Th one positive was that his "pal" wasn't with him, crowding the place. I did legs and shoulders.

I was pretty tired during my swim, but I slogged it out. My legs felt heavy, probably due to my time in the gym. 

Of course, Brian worked late and the dogs acted up. As soon as he gets home, I'm off to bed. I'm glad this day is over.

Stormy Start

Bike - 2 hrs, 15 minutes on Trainer

Swim - 80 laps/1 hr

Woke up to rain that morphed into some downpours and full-blown thunderstorms.  While I could have waited to ride outside, I opted for some time with Coach Troy on the trainer. First, I really needed to switch it up and do a true recovery ride. I also didn't want to deal with the muck that inevitably would get sprayed all over my bike, legs, bike, helmet, etc.  And finally, I was up, ready to ride, and had a lot of stuff to do. Therefore, it was more efficient just to get it out of the way.  I ended up doing ABB 1 and Recovery/Technique. 

By the time I walked the dogs, the rain had stopped. The ground was pretty saturated so it was good I didn't wait. In addition, it was very humid/steamy, the kind of humidity that turns glasses opaque. 

Brian went off to work for the morning--what a way to spend a Sunday morning. I took advantage of the quiet time to pack up about ten bags of no-longer worn/too big clothing for a couple charities.  Cathartic.  I also did some boring household chores.

Continued to rain off and on the rest of the morning. I went to the HS to swim, first time on a Sunday. They don't open until mid-day and it's free swim for seniors. It was the most crowded I've seen it.  Most of the old folks would loiter in the ends of the lap lanes, but luckily, I didn't have to worry about that in my lane. Ended up sharing the entire time, but it was OK since I had the wide slow lane by the bulkhead again.  I took it easy, more of a recovery swim.

Here are some photos of the girls.

1 August 09

Bike Miles - 43

Swim - 90 laps/1 hr

I got up a little bit earlier to make sure I'd finish my bike ride in time make it to the pool when they opened. It was a nice ride, as the rain predicted for all evening never materialized. While there were damp patches of pavement, nothing "spray" worthy. Best of all, no sand/sludge in the underpasses.  Peaceful. Stars were out, no one was about but me. Encountered one other cyclist in passing. 

Got home about 35 minutes or so before the pool opening, giving me plenty of time to get a load of laundry in the washer. 

I got to the pool about 10 minutes early and decided to sit in the car. Not much later, two old men arrived, and I joined them, thinking we would be waiting.  They let me know that you could go in early, which was a treat, if someone was there. Got in, discovered a few people had claimed their lanes by standing at the end of them.  I realized that you couldn't get in the water until the lifeguard got in the chair, which didn't take long. I had the slow lane, on the deep end side adjacent to the bulkhead to myself.  Nice. It was a wide lane, 5' on one end going to deep deep in the other (the diving tank side). Shallow enough that I could stand in the one side. For the first time, I wore a bathing cap and it made a huge difference. I felt more buoyant and moved through the water easier. Also, it kept the hair out of my eyes/face.  Definitely will be using one henceforth, the added bonus of which is possibly protecting my expensive hair color.  I had a good swim and felt decently strong. On my freestyle breaths, I occasionally would rotate enough so I could see the morning sky through the skylight.  That end of the pool is definitely more Zen.  I didn't even notice the group of three Master's swimmers in one of the medium speed lanes (they were kind of loud). The female member of that group was doing sloppy flip turns, wetting the deck enough that I slipped on one of her slop-spots on my way to my bag/towel.

The girls got their walks after I got home---I pulled some cherry tomatoes from the plant out front to tide me over. Breakfast sure tasted good, after showering and getting the chlorine off me.