Christmas Eve 2008

I spent the evening with my in-laws, Jeanne and Murray Lufkin. I went to their church service, had a chili dinner at their house, then opened presents with Greg's parents, his 2 sisters and their families. Greg's brother couldn't make it, but was there in spirit.

Before dinner, we were all able to say hello to Brian and Andy, who couldn't make it home from Orlando. We talked to them via skype, on our webcam. It was so nice to see them, and it was almost like they were there with us. Chris had to work, but he'll be able to make it up from Rochester, MN tomorrow.

Greg is flying for the airlines this week. If it isn't bad enough that he is working over the holidays, he just got a pretty nasty cold. He isn't too sick to fly, but he is pretty uncomfortable. He does have a fever, which makes it even more fun for him. At least his head isn't too stuffy. I just feel horrible for him.

On to something better though. Greg and I made out very well tonight. We exchange homemade gifts with his siblings. They've all come up with some pretty darn cool stuff. We received some delicious treats from his sisters. Greg's dad made us a personalized 2009 calendar. I will leave you with a picture of the cover. It speaks for itself....

Snow Day!

This is how we spent our snow day yesterday. Greg was throwing the Frisbee for Skeeter (you can see all 3 in motion to the right). Skeeter was so excited to chase that green disk all over the yard. However, after about 4 throws, he was exhausted. All that new powdery snow was up to his chest. He was covered in white. Skeeter was the happiest dog that ever lived that day. I think this scene is what he dreams of at night. There is nothing better than snow, his Frisbee and his dad. Happy days!

Boomer our wonder cat spent his snow day pretending he was a fierce beast. He hid behind the table cloth and would attack your feet if you came near. He would jump on the chair next to me, and bat at my leg, all the while hiding behind his red curtain. He's so fierce. You can see the danger in his eyes....

Weighty Issues

OK, so the diet is going well. However, the more weight I loose, the less I get to eat. How is that rewarding? Weight Watchers bases the "points" you get to eat on your weight. The less you weigh, the less the points. I'm just wondering when this decrease in points will stop. I'm down 3 points a day from when I started. I don't want to complain to much, because each decrease in points means a decrease in weight... which is pretty cool.

To celebrate the lack of points, I went for a run. I was going for 30 minutes, but while I was stretching I decided to go for 40 minutes. While I was running, I decided to go for 45 minutes. A little later, I realized I could get in 4 miles if I went just a bit longer. So, I ran for my 4 miles and I feel great! I'm sure my legs will tell me otherwise tomorrow. For now, I'm basking in the glow of my running success.

As for tomorrow, I plan to dig myself out of another snowfall. It's been an odd winter so far (and it really isn't winter yet). We have about a foot of snow on the ground, with almost another foot expected in the next few days. Skeeter is thrilled to have all of this new snow to bound around the yard in. He's like a puppy again out there. In fact, he played so hard to day that he is passed out on the floor in front of me. Sleeping dogs are so cute!

Jingle Bells

Yesterday, I ran the Northfield, MN Jingle Bell Run 5K. It was wonderful! It was in the upper 20s and warming up. As you can see, the sun was shinning and we were all ready to go. (I'm in black with a blue scarf) My wonderful husband and Skeeter the Wonder Dog were there to cheer me on. Skeeter wasn't so sure about it all, but he did like the attention he was getting.

Races in Northfield hold significant memories for me. You'd think they'd be wonderful, but they aren't. The first 5K I did here was 3 years ago in the fall. I had been battling a bad back all summer, and didn't run very much. I was the first time I had to walk during my 5K races. It seemed like the hills were HUGE. The next year, I ran with my friend Kari. She told me not to worry and pick someone who I knew I could pass and beat. She picked on for me... a blind man. At about 2 miles I heard a click, click, click... Before I knew it, the blind man passed me. It still hurts.

So, I'm ready to go (2 years later). We are begin the race and I look to my right and who do I see? The blind man!!! You can see him in that picture. I was filled with dread. At 1.5 km, he passed me again. So, to mark this tragic occasion I took his picture to prove to Kari that this had happened again!

In spite of all this, I had a blast and felt really good about it all. I'd wanted to do this run for 4 years, and it was worth it! Too bad my next race isn't until Mother's Day. I may have to find another somewhere soon.

Home again!

I just got back from an amazing trip to Mississippi. What made it so good? I passed my PT test!!! OK, that should be expected, but it wasn't for me. I let myself go over the past few years. I ate my pain of infertility away. I'm lazy. In June, I realized I couldn't live like this anymore. However, I had a summer of trips with the Hurricane Hunters and realized a diet over the summer wouldn't work.

So, in October I started Weight Watchers on-line. I have a great friend, Jackie, who did this last spring and lost 60 lbs. She inspired me. So, I jumped in with both feet (what a tidal wave).

I've lost 25 pounds in a little over 2 months and feel great. losing those 25 pounds has made it so much easier to run. In fact, I cut about 2 minutes off my run time (1.5 mile) and 3 inches off my waist! Yeah!!!!

I was so excited about my run time that I screamed and fell on my knees on the track. My commander was there, so I felt really stupid. However, he said it inspired him. What a HUGE compliment.

Anyway, that's what I've been doing. I'd say it's been tough but it hasn't. I love this program and I feel great! I'm going to make my weight and fitness goals and I can't wait!!!

Thanksgiving 2008

I have so many things to be thankful for this year. First, my wonderful husband, Greg! I'm also grateful for my stepsons, my family, my animals, my home, my town, having jobs, and many many more things.

A big thing to be grateful for... not having cancer. I had a mammogram last week, and they called me back the next day for more images. I went in on Wed for additional mammograms and saw what looked like a tumor on my first set of films. Well, when they do additional images, they squish you even more. So, they did and what looked like a potential tumor squished away, so NO tumor! Yeah! However, now I get to have annual mammograms. Not a bad deal.

So, what did you do today? I had 2 Thanksgiving meals to attend. Actually, we alternate dinner at one set of parents and dessert at the other. So, I had a Lufkin dinner and Emery pie. It was so much fun!

How do you avoid all the potential weight gain when trying to diet? You run in the morning! So, I did the Turkey Trot 5K in downtown Minneapolis today. It was in the 20s, but so much fun. I took a ton of pictures during the run and just relaxed. It was slow, but beautiful. I'm so glad I did it. Now, I'm ready for the Northfield Jingle Bell Run in 3 weeks! We get bells for our shoes during the 5K! I can't wait!!!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

What have I been doing?

Why has it taken me so long to update my blog? Greg was home for a week and a half, and we got so much done around the house. We worked in our basement, finishing the walls of the family room. We completed mudding and taping the walls. Greg had the patience to teach me how to do the mudding and taping, and it was a blast! Now, the house is full of sheetrock dust.

We then set to paint. You can see what we've chosen to do on the right. As an homage to the Minnesota Wild hockey team, we painted the walls the team colors! OK, so we're not that psycho, we just liked the colors. Since the colors are so strong, each half took 4 coats of paint. We are then going to put up a 6 inch piece of pine for the chair rail. I was holding up this piece of wood to give you the effect. We're pretty happy so far. Now, we're working on the built in bookcase on the west wall.

Today, I went for a good run. I was only going to do 2 1/2 miles, but gutted it out and did a whole 5K. This is good, because I'm going to do the Lifetime Fitness Turkey Trot 5K Run on Thanksgiving morning. I still can't believe I signed up to run outside in the winter. What was I thinking? It should be a blast though. Everyone wears the same number, 2008. There is also a kids carnival. My brother's friend, Cheryl, will be running it too. So, Bill and Scout are going to come and cheer us on.

So, while I was working out, and sweating my butt off, what were the animals doing? Sleeping! This is what my evening with them has been like. Pretty exciting in the Lufkin house!

MICE!!!!!

AAAAHHHHHH!!!!!

I just got home from Mississippi today. I was happy and relaxed. I was relaxing on my couch, enjoying my day, when I heard my girl cat, Thunder, letting out a loud and low growl. Greg and Chris told me about this growl. That growl means MOUSE!

OK, I thought I'd try to ignore it. It may go away (the "mouse" sound). Then, I saw Boomer, my boy cat, head toward the growl. I looked towards the dinning room table and saw Boomer chase a little gray thing. MOUSE!!!!

Now, I had just talked to Greg 1/2 hour before this. He was headed to bed in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and I couldn't talk to him. So, I ran upstairs to my room to call my mom. Isn't that what everyone does? My mom was very sympathetic to my misery. She gave me a pep talk and told me to call her when it was all over.

I headed down stairs with a plastic bag over my hand as protection. I stood in the living room for 5 minutes, getting up the courage to go near the mouse. The cats traded time with their prey, wearing it down. It was squeaking and exhausted. Thunder couldn't handle it much longer, she grabbed it in her mouth and took off. I got some cat treats to make a trade, I trade I wish I didn't have to make.

She dropped the tiny field mouse and I grabbed it with my bag-gloved hand. I ran for the door and flung it off the deck. Then, I started to breath again. I was sweating bullets. I was shaking. The terror was almost too much for me, but I conquered my fear and saved the house from the evil field mouse!

I HATE MICE!!!

SNOW DAY!!

It's been snowing for 3 hours now, and hasn't stopped yet. We haven't had a really hard freeze yet, so the ground is still warm. So, the snow isn't sticking. However, I can see a thin layer on the ground right now. We'll see how this ends up...

The snow was just starting to collect on Skeeter, so I took a picture of him. Right after this picture, he saw a lazy squirrel. That squirrel just got up the tree as Skeet got to him. My dog almost got his first catch!

He loves the snow so much. He's been watching it fall all morning now. He's glued to the windows. He did get tired though, so took a nap right by the sliding door so he wouldn't miss a flake. He's crazy!

So, how did Thunder and Boomer spend their snow day? Sleeping of course, just like the good cats they are. Cute aren't they? Do they look like trained killers to you? They are! Well, sort of. The other day, I saw Skeeter sticking his head in our spare room. It was odd, so I went to see what was up. There were Thunder and Boomer on either side of the desk. No one was moving. Not good. So, I calmly went downstairs to get my wonderful and manly husband. I told him I thought they'd cornered a mouse, and if he had time would he go check it out? So, he went up stairs, then came out of the room again (after closing the door) to get some gloves. Yes, they did corner a mouse. He said they wore the poor field mouse out, who was squeaking in the corner. Greg picked it up and let it free in the back yard, where it ran down the hill as fast as it could. Such killers my kittens are. Oops, not kittens any more. They are 1 now. Oh how those kids grow up.

How am I spending my snow day? I'm watching "Toughest Race on Earth"! It's a Discovery show about the 2008 Iditarod. I fell in love with the Greatest Race on Earth 2 years ago during our trip to Alaska. It is amazing what man and dog can do. This is the best show! It makes me want to get Skeeter in training. We just got a toboggan last year, so who knows...

Enjoy your snow day!

d

HOCKEY!

On Tuesday, I went to see the Minnesota Wild play the Atlanta Thrashers, in Atlanta. My very good friends, Tina and Randy, are huge Thrashers fans. We've started a tradition now of going to see our teams play each other. This was my second time seeing the 2 teams play.

They are such great friends! They put up with me cheering my team on all night long. By the way, the Wild won! It was a great game, and I can't wait for the two teams to meet in Minnesota next year!

Leaves and Relaxing

Yes, I am finally home again. We got back to Northfield last Wednesday. The weather has been BEAUTIFUL! It's been in the 60s and sunny every day. I've spent time in my garden, cutting back plants to do the fall clean up. Greg had to mow the lawn twice, due to 3 weeks without being mowed. The yard is gorgeous! I've had some quality hammock time in my back yard, and can't get over how wonderful it is. The emerald green grass, the smell of cut grass and malt-0-meal, the sight of Skeeter and Greg playing with a Frisbee... it's breathtaking!

We went and bought 5 new trees on Thursday, to be delivered this Wednesday. We bought 3 birch trees, because birches are best when they are in a group! We also bought 2 apple trees. Did you know that you need 2 different types of apple trees in order for any of them to produce apples? They need to produce fruit at two different times, so we bought a Zestar (early fruit) and a Honey Crisp (mid-season apple). I can't wait for those apples!

It's been wonderful to be home. Finally relaxing and enjoying the sights and sounds of fall!

Biloxi, MS

I arrived safe and sound in Biloxi yesterday. We spent about a week in St Croix flying KYLE, but the fun had to end. So we headed home. On my flight back, I was asked to fly Kyle's final mission. That meant a 5:30am wake up for me today.

However, Kyle lost a lot of strength, so the National Hurricane Center cancelled my flight. So, I have a free day off. Greg is now making his first ever Jambalaya and watching the Vikings. Next up is watching the Twins play. Lets just hope they win and the White Sox loose, then we'll be in first place and on to the play-offs!

Greg and I head home Tuesday. I can't wait to get home and enjoy fall in MN! We were just wondering what color our leaves were. We really do miss home!

I've posted some new pictures on our Smug Mug page... http://deeann-greg.smugmug.com/. I hope you like them...

Tropical Trash

For all my hurricane hunter friends out there... you know what Tropical Trash is. For those of you who don't know, it is a messy tropical weather system just like the one we are in St Croix to fly. I flew into it 2 days ago, and it was messy. Actually, I didn't fly into it because it was over Haiti, but I did fly around it for 3 hours.

So, I'm in crew rest to fly this storm again tonight. It continues to move Northeasterly, so it shouldn't hit the US, but you never know. Luckily, one of my best girl friends, Tina, is flying with me tonight. So, we get to share weather duties and take turns napping. It's so much better having 2 weather officers on board.

I'll have more pictures soon, but right now it's taking too long to up load them. Maybe tomorrow.

I hope the weather is beautiful where you are!
d

St Croix

Hello All!

Greg and I have made it St Croix, via Key West, FL. We are here to see if we can make anything of the tropical wave over Puerto Rico and Hispanola. Greg flew it yesterday, and I'm off to fly it tomorrow. Nothing was found today, but they think it is because the center was over the Dominican Republic.

Greg and I had the same day off today, so we took a tour of the Cruzan Rum factory. I'll have pictures soon.

It is raining cats and dogs in St Croix though. The roads are flooded, and the sewer system is having a hard time keeping up downtown. Hopefully, the rain will move off tomorrow.

Second Trip in IKE

Well, what a morning! You can see my flight through the eyes of the Weather Cow at http://deeann-greg.smugmug.com/gallery/5954318_DFiJD/1/371193567_ii98Q#371193567_ii98Q. The Weather Cow is owned by a weather guy at a local TV station in Birmingham, AL. He gave me the cow to take on flights with me for a few days. He did a great job!

We had even more media with us today. After the flight, I heard about numerous press results from my previous flight. We were the top news story on YAHOO news... http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080912/ap_on_re_us/eye_of_ike. The weather guy at a local Mobile, AL station submitted this story... http://www.wkrg.com/hurricane/article/hurricane_hunters_in_ike/17939/video/. They were great guys and gals to fly with. I'm going to be interviewed by Fox and Friends tomorrow at 6:30am (central time), via phone. This is just crazy!

It was a messy storm. The hurricane force winds extended over 100 miles from the center. The pressure didn't drop much and the winds barely rose. It had no eyewall with it. It was odd. I just pray for all those in TX and LA!

IKE

Greg and I are now in Biloxi, MS. We have just started our 3 week stint here with a bang. I flew yesterday into IKE, and am getting ready to fly again tonight. Greg is briefing right now to fly into IKE, so we'll pass each other in the night.

Yesterday, it was getting stronger each pass through it. The strongest winds were over 100 miles from the center, which was very strange. It was easy to find, so it made us look good (I flew with another weather officer, Rich). The eye was only 8 miles across, which is small for a hurricane. Here's what it looked like to us...

Then, on the last fix, the eye wall was visible from outside... it is that dark column on the right of the picture below....

On the way home, we saw the most beautiful sunset. The sunrises and sunsets in storms are the most beautiful I've ever seen.

What did you do on Sunday?

So, last Sunday we had the ENTIRE Zurah Shrine Drum Corps over to our house for an end of the parade season BBQ. It was the last day of the Defeat of Jesse James Days, and the day of the Grande Parade. They were at our house at 11:30am, the parade began at 2:00pm, they came back about 4:30 and the eating began!

Greg made pulled pork, hamburgers, chicken, pasta salad, corn and beans. We ran out of everything! We expected 40 people, planned for 50, but had 70! It was so much fun. We can't wait for next year!! Our friend Kari Kennedy comes all the way from Dallas, TX just for this.

The only thing we request from them is that they play a few songs for us in our backyard. It was a blast!!! Check it out!!!

Home

Yesterday I ran a slow but good 2 miles. I hadn't run in over 2 weeks, due to Typhoon flying and jet lag. OK, too many excuses. The reality is that I'm lazy at heart.

The run felt good. I have a 5K next Sunday, so needed to see how it would go. I didn't want to push it too hard, but felt I could do a 5K with no significant problems. I didn't push it, because my back is hurting again. My hip almost feels like it's out of place. So, I'm easing into this. I'm taking today off, then doing a 5K tomorrow. I'll let you know how it goes.

Greg and I got back from Guam 1 1/2 weeks ago. A day and a half later, Brian and Andy came to town. We had all 3 boys here! However, it wasn't all fun. They came to town because their maternal grandfather just died. It was really good to have all 3 here again.

Now, I'm trying to get back into the swing of things. We are having our annual Defeat of Jesse James Days BBQ next Sunday. So, I'm cleaning and gardening for the next week. My spring cleaning always happens in September.

We are also meeting with our Adoption social worker on Friday, and have a home visit with her on Monday. Good thing the house will be clean :)

Working in Guam

OK, there may be some doubt as to whether or not I'm actually working here in Guam. Here's proof...

I really am working here! OK, it wasn't a typhoon, but we are ready for the first one to pop up any day now... any day now... ok, it's slow here. We are flying a invest mission tomorrow though. Maybe we'll finally do some Typhoon flying. I'll let you know when it happens.

By the way, my friend Randy (our Drop) took this picture on our flight today. He laid on top of my palate to do it. It's odd to look up and see someone looking down on you when you're on an airplane.

Guam

Hello all!

You may be wondering why I haven't written in a while. Well, I'm currently in Guam to fly Typhoons. It's very interesting working with at least 20 scientist on our storm missions. We will have only a couple with us on the plane. Our first flight is tonight. It should be fun.

We've seen so many beautiful things out here already. My birthday was on Monday, but back at home it was still Sunday (we are a day ahead of MN here). So, Greg deamed it my 48 hour birthday. He bought me a cake, which we enjoyed with everyone by the pool at the hotel. He's so great!

We went to the Chamoran Village last night, which is the native people's celebration every Wednesday here. Attached is a clip of some of the little girls dancing. It was so cute!

I'll try to be better about updating, but if not then assume I'm saving the world from Typhoons :)

Wagons

I'm back on the wagon... the workout wagon! Saturday, I went for a 2 miles walk with Skeeter the Wonderdog. I was going to run, but my stomach was very upset. So, on Sunday I took the day off too.

So, where is the wagon? It came around the bend today. I almost forgot to go run (really I did). Then, realized I should head out or I'd feel horrible. Out the door I went. I was going to go for a quick 2 miles at 6:30pm. 1/2 mile into it, and I changed my mind. I ran a 5K, and I feel great!

I also got a call today from our Social Worker. She just got our package today, and wanted to set up a meeting. We are going to have our first of 3 meetings with her right after we get back from Guam. Things are finally moving on the adoption front!!!

Well, I'm off to cool down and try to have a healthy dinner. Enjoy your day where ever you are!

Deeann

Allergies or Illness?

So, I do NOT have allergies. My nose is runny and my ears feel strange. However, I had a slight fever yesterday... or was it the change in the A/C. OK, so basically I just don't feel quite right.

On Wednesday, I ran a nice 2 miles. It was a GORGEOUS day out, and the first .5 miles was great! So great, that I was running faster than normal. Then it hit me that I was running faster than normal and I hit a wall. I struggled for the next 1.5 miles. I hate my mind games.

Yesterday I went to the pool. School's out, so it was me and a 60+ lady! I love the summer!!! Like I said, I wasn't feeling right and the swim felt like I was in molasses. It was tough, but I swam 1200 yards before I called it a day.

I plan on swimming again today, because it will be in the low to mid 90s today with thunderstorms. Plus, swimming is more fun!

So, since my last post my friend Kari came out to do a 25K trail race in Afton, MN. So hadn't run more than a 5K in a month, so she didn't have high hopes. She kicked butt though! I was able to see here at the 9.5 mile point and got a great picture. I was so proud of her.

It was great to have her here. We went to the sculpture garden and the science museum. Plus, we relaxed and enjoyed numerous games of Cribbage. So much fun!!

Wish me luck on the next few days of working out. I have to get back on this horse!

Exercise? What?

OK, I'm working out. Yes I am. I ran for 2 miles yesterday and 2 more today. It wasn't too bad. In fact, thinking about it... it was relaxing. I cleared my mind and worked a bunch of stuff out.

Did my body want to run? Surprisingly enough... YES!!! I've had a mild headache and mild nausea for a week now. After running yesterday, I was better. Today, there is no headache and no more nausea. I know I had all those problems due to tension, so running worked it out. I know this, because when I took my Motrin the headache and stomach ache went away.

The worst part about the headache and stomach ache was that if I didn't know better I would have thought I was pregnant. I'm not, by the way. There is no way I could be pregnant. It's just frustrating to have those symptoms.

I think I might hop on my bike tomorrow. Then, I'll take it in for a tune-up. I know, that's backwards, but I don't think I should run 3 days in a row. A nice ride might do the trick.

By they way... my sister left for Bogota today for a month. Wish her luck and safety! I miss ya chicka!!!

d

Cabin Fever

OK, so Kari Kennedy has called me out for not updating my blog. Yes, I have been slacking. I did run in Mississippi. I did my Air Force PT test too (not great, but improved). I've been back for a week, and I've been a slacker. I admit it.

I came home last Wednesday, then Greg and I had adoption classes on Thursday and Friday. They were 8 hours long, and very intense. We learned more than we ever expected. It really opened our eyes, but wore us out! I was exhausted!!!

On Saturday we had to clean the house and go to a wedding 1 1/2 hours north of us. Greg's oldest son, Brian, also arrived from Orlando on Saturday. On Sunday, we had both families over for Greg's birthday party. He made some amazing ribs and wonderful hamburgers. I know... I didn't make him cook for his birthday. If you know him at all, I couldn't stop him.

On Monday, Greg, Brian, Chris and I all headed up to the Lufkin Cabin on Dummy Lake in Cumberland, Wisconsin. It was BEAUTIFUL and very relaxing. Skeeter jumped right in the lake and didn't want to get out. Greg fished and trolled around the lake with his mom. The boys got in some quality relaxation and beat everyone in cards. Here are some great pictures from the trip. By the way, the fish is MINE! It is a lovely 14 inch Northern that we released.

I will go running tomorrow. I have a ton of work to do on the computer and will need it. I actually can't wait to run again. Wish me luck.

This exercise thing can be addictive

I ran an easy 2 miles today (I can't believe I said easy). It was my first exercise since the tri. It felt good. I also had a desire to get out there and do something. Amazing. I'm at work in Biloxi, and have been flying everyday. We flew over the base pool and I was wishing I was swimming. Not for just for the fun of it, but for lap swimming.

This is crazy!!! Who would have thought I'd be like this? Not me.

Well, I'm off too cool down, shower and wash clothes. I hope your evening is more fun.

I'm a triathlete!!!

I can't believe it, but I am a triathlete! It was an amazing and emotional experience. It was more than I expected, and worth all of the pain of training! I recommend Danskin Triathlons for all first timers. It was non-competitive and very supportive. When people passed me they'd say, "Way to go girl!" not "move it looser!" Just an amazing day.
On the way to the race


















Kari and Deeann preping for the race















Kari and Deeann pumped to race















Kari, Deeann and Kait












Deeann high-fiving before the swim













Getting ready to bike

Run Deeann Run

The finish line!!!

It was just too much for me. I bawled!

Hello from Dallas!

Greg and I made it to Dallas, TX yesterday. We had the most wonderful evening with our dear friend Kari. She is such a wonderful hostess. We feel spoiled here!

Tomorrow morning, we set off bright and early for Austin. We are spending most of the afternoon at the registration expo. While there, I'll try to figure out how this race works. It's getting more confusing to me as the days progress.

I'm more excited than nervous now. I think it's being here with Kari that helps to calm me down. She is such a great motivator for me. I'm so lucky to have her!

Wish me luck! I don't think I'll update this until after the race. Until then, have a wonderful weekend!
D

Off we go...

Greg and I are headed off to our parents' homes tonight. We are dropping off Skeeter the Wonder Dog at my folks house, then spending the night at Greg's parents' house. We then head to Dallas before dawn on Thursday.

We are going to spend 2 nights with our very good friend Kari, then head down with her to Austin, TX for the race. I can't wait to see her.

So, it hasn't sunk in yet that I'm doing this on Sunday. I keep hearing the U2 song, "Sunday, Bloody Sunday" in my head when I think about the race. Is that an omen?

Thanks again for all your support. It's so wonderful to know that I have such a great group of friends cheering me on!

I'll update this again before the race, but until then... enjoy the rest of your week!!

Biking and Running

OK, so I didn't check my blog comments until after my workout today. Kari left me a wonderful note about how I should stay off my feet and take it easy this week. I had a HUGE smile when I read it. NO RUNNING! However, I worked out before reading this.

I had a wonderful lunch with Lael today. It was great to catch up again! Then, I was off to Menards with Greg. After that I went to Target and Cub. Where is the workout? It's been raining almost all day so I had to go indoors. Well, I headed out the door for the gym at 5:30pm. It was SO hard to get out of the house. I lost my motivation. But I made it.

I rode this cool computerized bike there. You can move the handle bars to turn on the course. I you don't, then you could fall off the cliff. I rode hard for 30 minutes. It was tough, but felt good.

Then it was upstairs for a 30 min run. I was moving so slow. But, I made my full 30 minutes!

Now, I'm laying on ice. I see my wonderful chiropractor tomorrow, so that should help. For the rest of the week, I think I'll swim (if the pool is open and free) or do my Pilate's. Maybe Skeeter would like to take a walk?

6 days left until the tri. I still can't believe I'm doing this. I'm just grateful that I get to share the experience with Kari, Kait and Greg!

Tired, Sore Back, and Running???

Sorry I haven't written in awhile. I've had my own mental battle going on right now. I've been pretty tired this week. Not sure why, except for the poor sleeping thing. Maybe I'm getting too worked up about this race in a week, so it's affecting my sleep.

I've also been dealing with a really sore lower back. My increased run times have been great for my legs, breathing and psyche. However, it's made my back sore. On Wed I went for a 45 min run at the gym. I only got 15 min in, because I could feel the pain in my lower back. My toes were hurting from my first steps, which is a huge warning sign for me. Once the pain was in my back I stopped.

After talking it over with Greg to make sure I wasn't being a slacker, I decided to ease up a bit. I want to make sure I can do this triathlon. I can't ruin my back now. I'm only 1 week away!

With all of that said... I ran an HOUR today!!! I took my Motrin right before the run, which helped me out enormously. I've been on ice for most of the evening. I stretched out the back. I think I have kept the damage down.

What to do tomorrow? I went to the pool today, but each lane had 2-3 swimmers in it already. The lanes are really narrow and not the greatest for more than 2 swimmers. So, I decided to make it a run day. I pick Greg up from the airport during the 2 hours of swimming tomorrow. So, swimming is out. I guess biking and a nice run is in order. It's supposed to me in the lower 80s, so I can finally get my heat training in!

Wish me luck!

Bike 60 min

Yup, a good long bike ride was in order for today! How exciting. That is... as long as your weather observation isn't...

KDEEANN 272000Z 07009G28KT 10SM OVC120 13/02 A3027 RMK FREAKIN' COLD!

OK, so in non-geek terms it was 55 degrees with 24mph wind gusts! It was cold!! I went for 5 minutes and almost turned around. However, I went the distance. I saw neighborhoods I've never seen before. It was wonderful. But now I'm exhausted.

I realized today that I only have 1 1/2 weeks left. It was a bit shocking to me. I'm starting to get nervous. I just have to tell myself that all I want to do is finish and not walk. I am not out to compete, just have fun. It's tough to remember that though. We'll see how nuts I get as the days go by. I'm sure I'll be a basket case this time next week :)

Run 55 min

55 minutes? Who the heck does this stuff? Me, I guess.

On my official training plan, I was supposed to run yesterday and strength train today. Instead, I switched the days due to bad weather here yesterday.

Lucky for me, Greg went for a 2 + mile walk about 45 min before my run. He sent back word that there were VERY strong winds out of the west, and I may want to rethink my route. So, I ran up and down my north/south road from the house. It is the beginning of my course, so I just ran it back and forth for 3 plus times.

It was a tough run for the first 15 minutes. I didn't' think I could make it the full 55 minutes. It was made even more difficult by the fact that I kept seeing my house every 15 minutes. After about 20 minutes I found my groove and was ready to finish it all. I ran the full 55 minutes, and felt like I had more to spare, but I didn't push it.

Tomorrow I was supposed to run 45 minutes, but since I already moved stuff around, I'm moving things again. We'll see what I come up with tomorrow :)

Run 40 min

First, I must tell you why it's been a few days since my post. I was in Washington DC for Altitude Chamber training at Andrews Air Force Base. It was a great class, but even better trip. Greg and I visited with our good friends Tina and Jimmy Blain. Then we walked around for 5 hours in DC on Wednesday to see all of the sites. It was very emotional walking through Arlington National Cemetery. The monuments were beautiful and awe inspiring. It was wonderful!

So, on to the work outs. I'll highlight it by days...

Sunday: I was going to swim 30 min, bike 30 min, then run 30 min. However, the 50 min run on Saturday hurt my back. So, I swam for 40 minutes... going over 1 mile! It was great!

Monday: I did some weight training at the lovely and scenic Comfort Inn at Andrews AFB.

Tuesday: I hoped on the stationary bike for 30 minutes EARLY in the morning. I fit it in right before class, which was a good thing since I couldn't exercise for 12 hours after the altitude chamber.

Wednesday: We walked for over 5 hours around DC. I felt it in my jello legs last night.

Thursday: I ran for a wonderful 40 minutes today. It felt so good!! I can really feel a big difference in my legs. My breathing is so much better. I just felt good! I also did some gardening, so worked those hamstrings out :)

Tomorrow is a rest day, and I'm taking it. I see my chiropractor tomorrow, and figure I need to give my back some TLC. My mom and I are also going to a local talk show taping tomorrow. It should be fun.

I hope your week has been great so far!
Deeann

Run 50 min

Run for 50 min?! Yup. I was excited to do this, but a bit nervous too. I haven't run for that amount of time for 3 years. Could I do this?

Well, I started off strong. It wasn't easy, but I did it! I felt so good for making it the full 50 min without stopping. I'm sure it wasn't pretty, but who cares. It was 72 degrees, sunny, with 15 mph winds. Nice run weather.

I iced my back down after the run. I could feel this one in my back. Motrin will be my friend for the next few days. The ice really helped me though.

After I showered, I headed out to my hammock to read the Chi of Running. The hammock is tied to one of our crabapple trees, which is just starting to bloom. It was so relaxing. Skeeter would check up on me every so often, with a nudge to my butt. At least I knew he was still there. My time had to come to an end though. Rain clouds were forming overhead, so I pack up and headed inside.

What a great day!

Swim 30min & Run 25min

What happened to my old professors at the pool? It was full of 18 year old college students!!! They were also all over the lawn when I drove up. They must have my training schedule and were out to mock me!!!

So, I swam through the mental pain. It went well, but I could have done better. I finished and put on my running gear, and I was out the door.

I decided to run in the upper Carleton Arboretum today. It was 70 degrees and fabulous out! There were some really steep hills, but I made it. In fact, I made it up the hills then took it easy for a few steps and off I went again. It felt really good. In fact, I think I can run for longer than I would expect. I'm finally winning my mental battle!!!

So, here is a lovely picture of my dog and his giant piece of asphalt he brought to me today. Nice, huh? So, now he and I are both exhausted. Good thing tomorrow is a rest day. Speaking of rest, Skeeter also relaxed in the chair after his hard day...

Bike 30 min & Strength

Let's start with yesterday. I ran for 40 min, as scheduled. I went up to my Mom's to spend the day with her, after dropping Greg off at the airport. Since I was early, I decided to run there. There is a great park about 1/2mile from her house. Well, Coon Rapids has had a string of random beatings in the town. People have been warned not to go alone anywhere. So, my Mom got in her car and watched me run around the park. I took Skeeter with, but he pooped out at 20 minutes, so I handed him of to Mom.

Today, I hopped on my bike and rode around my beautiful town. I forgot it was for only 30 min, and i went for 43min instead. Too much time isn't so bad.

I'm substituting gardening for strength training today. I bought some beautiful plants 2 days ago, and need to get them in the ground. It's a gorgeous 65 degrees today, so why not spend it outside.

Tomorrow's swimming and running. It supposed to be another beautiful day. I'm liking this training thing more and more.

Race for the Cure

Happy Mother's Day!!

Today was also the Susan G. Koeman Race for the Cure at the Mall of America. At 7:30am, I ran a 5K with 7,500 other happy runners. I bettered my time from last fall by 10 minutes! Not too bad. It was still slow, but I made it. It was so much fun to be a part of that group. I also broke in my triathlon t-shirt.

Following the run was a 5K walk. Greg and I walked with my brother, sister and mom (a 7 year survivor). That was even more crazy! There were about 30-40,000 walkers. Nuts.

Oh, did I tell you it was 40 degrees this morning with 20kt gusts? It was freezing, but fun.

I felt such a great sense of accomplishment from this that I can't wait for the Danskin Triathlon!

Bike 45 min & Run 10 min

It was supposed to be a beautiful, sunny day here. Well, it turned out to be overcast and in the low 60s. Not too bad.

I set off on my bike to see Northfield. It was a nice ride, but I realized I need to bike faster. So, that's my goal for the next bike day.

I dropped the bike off in the driveway and headed out for a quick run. It was tough. My legs felt like jello. It was made better by the GIANT hill at the beginning of the run. It was slow, but I finished my 10 minutes.

My knee is sore though. I was going to run 45 minutes tomorrow, but I think I'll just do my pilates tape to make sure I don't screw my knee up.

All in all, not too bad today. Can't wait for tomorrow. It's Girls Night Out in Northfield!!!

Swim 30 & Run 10

Hello to all of my readers! It's been quite some time, but I'm finally back in Minnesota. We had a great time in Biloxi with my parents. We had a ton of shrimp, they met most of our MS friends, and we were able to have a relaxing time.

I did get most of my workouts in while I was there. I was still getting over my cold, so I took an extra day off, but I tried very hard to make training a priority. On Sunday, we had our PT test and I cut 1:30 off my time from 6 months ago! As I told Kait, I guess this training thing really does work.

On Monday, I ran for 40 min around the flight line at Keesler. I ran a little over 3.25 miles. So, Kari, I will be doing my 5K faster than a year ago. Pretty darn cool. I also ran 2 miles yesterday, before we caught our flight home.

So, now I'm back to my routine here. I went to the pool with all the other college kids. It was tough today. My cold is still hanging in there, and it isn't easy to cough while swimming. After my .75 mile swim, I went for a run in the Carleton College Arboretum. I thought I should try running in my swimsuit and why not today, since I only needed to run for 10 minutes. It wasn't so bad. The trail wasn't the greatest though. It was pretty muddy, because we've had a lot of rain lately. It was nice to have a change of scenery though. Only running 10 minutes was pretty easy too, since I've been running 25 minutes or more for 2+ weeks. Again, this training thing really works.

I hope all is well with y'all.

Deeann

Day 16

Run 35 min

Well, I still have my wonderful cold. I didn't post an update yesterday, but I did do my 1/2 hour Pilate's tape for my strength training day. After that, Greg and I just vegetated on the couch. See, he's sick too now.

As for today, my ears are stuffed and my head is stuffy, but not as much as the past 2 days. So, I decided to give the run a shot. It got up into the lower 50s today, so why not run outside? It was wonderful! After the first 5 minutes of hacking up a lung, the run went very well. I ran even faster than I did 3 days ago! I'm making improvements!!!

So, there's your brief update. I'm off to pack now. Greg and I are off to Biloxi tomorrow for UTA. We are taking my parents with us for a cheap and hopefully fun vacation for them. I'll send updates when I can, but I promise I'll let you know how things went when I get home.

Have a great week!
Deeann

Sick

I'm very sick with a nasty cold today. So, no workout for me. I folded laundry and I was exhausted. I'm sure I'll be better tomorrow. Chris has the same cold, and he did much better the next day.

Here's hoping you're healthy.

D

Day 13

Run 35 min

So, I have a cold. Yeah me! My nose is running, my ears are itchy, my throat hurts. Uck! Did I workout?

YES!

I thought why not give it a go. Again, I couldn't go outside today. It SNOWED this morning, and the winds are gusting to 25kts. So, off to they gym I went. I knew I didn't feel great, so pace didn't matter. I was just going to keep running for 35 minutes.

I checked my watch at 1 mile and I'd run about a 12 minute mile. Slow for you guys, but last week I was at a 13 minute mile. My goal was to run 20 laps, but 19 was OK too. I ran 21 laps! That equals a hair over 2.75 miles!!! Again, slow for you guys, but great for me!!!

Kari, this means that I will run my 5K around 40 minutes or less. Much better than last year.

Oh yeah, I'm running in the Susan G Komen Breast Cancer 5k Run on Mother's Day. It starts at the Mall of America, goes around the neighborhoods, then back to the mall. It's an amazing event with about 40,000 people for the run/walks. My mom (a survivor), Greg, sister, brother and Aunt Emily (also a survivor) will be there. It will be a great time!

Well, enough for now. I'm off to ice the back and blow my nose.

Deeann

Day 12

Run 30 minutes

So, yesterday I took the day off. It really helped my back. Well, that and the chiropractor. I felt like a slug, but it really was the right thing to do.

Greg went with me to the gym today, and neither of us wanted to be there. Oh, it rainy and in the 40s outside. Yeah spring! Anyway, into the gym we went.

I felt surprisingly good. I kept thinking my shoes are a gift from God! I felt like I was floating! My goal was to keep up a faster pace for the first 1.5 miles. I didn't look at the clock until 1.5 miles, and I was VERY disappointed with my time. So much so, that I started walking. Greg caught up and told me I was doing great, but I didn't believe him. I knew I could only let myself walk 1 lap (1/8 of a mile), so I started running after that. Well, I finished the 30 minutes doing just as many laps as I had the last week on that track, that's including my walking. I really was faster.

So, I need to remember that I'm not in this for speed. I'm training for time limits. I just need to get my endurance up and the speed will come. So, after having a horrible beginning to my run, it ended on a very high note.

Thanks to my girlies for the posts. Kait, I can't wait to hear more about that book. In fact, I think I may get it. Anything to help with the run!

Deeann

Day 10

Swim 15 & Run 30

Not such a great day for me. I did pretty well on my 15 minutes of swimming. It was tough getting to the pool early, but I have stuff to do today, so I had to do it.

My back is very sore. I contemplated not running, but decided to give it a go. At .75 miles from home, it really hurt. So, I turned around and ran home. So, I got in a 1.5 mile run. Now, I'm off to ice the back and contemplate how I'll explain all this to my chiropractor appointment tomorrow. It was already scheduled.

Oh well.
Deeann

Day 9

Bike 30 min & Run 15 min

FREEDOM!!!

Yes, that's right... freedom! I set my bike free today! It was hooked up to a stationary thingy-ma-bob, but now it's free! It felt so good to be out on the open road on my bike. The wind in my bike helmet. Ahhh... the joy of it all!

It was tougher than I thought though. As you may be able to tell from this picture, there are some rolling hills just outside my door. The hills were a challenge, but that's what gears are for, right?

I went in and out of some beautiful neighborhoods. I couldn't believe the houses just a few miles from mine! It was so nice, that I lost track of time and went an extra 5 minutes today. 35 minutes on my FREEDOM bike!

Then, I got Skeeter and we were out the door for my 15 min run. I felt like I was on auto pilot again, but Skeeter had to poo, so we made a stop and my auto pilot never returned. I made it through and did OK on my pace. I can't wait until Greg gets home and can take the dog instead of me.

Speaking of Greg, he had his first 757/767 trip for Continental Airlines this week. He went to Birmingham, England 2 days ago. His hotel was in Strattford, so he did some great Shakespeare sightseeing. Now, he's winging his way in a lovely 767 to Honolulu, Hawaii. He said he's celebrating earth day by burning 180,000 pounds of gas in his plane today! He's staying in the same hotel we were in 2 years ago, so he knows all the good places to go. He'll be home Thursday, and I can't wait to see his pictures.

Well, enough for now. I'm off to ice my back. Oh, it's my Mom's birthday today! Happy Birthday Mom!

Deeann

Day 8

Strength Training

Doesn't sound so bad. My legs were looking forward to this. All the 18 year olds were in class, so it was me and the profs during the lunch hour!

I worked a great circuit for a little over 30 minutes. My abs, back, arms and legs all got a great workout. I was a bit wobbly leaving, but I feel really good.

It was in the 70s for the first time this year here! It would have been a great day for running, but I need to stick to my schedule. I know if I change it, then I won't get back to it. I did open up the house though. It feels so good to finally see spring.

However, as I look out my windows dark clouds are moving in. I guess this is the price we pay for a lovely 74 degree day.

Enjoy your spring day!
Deeann

Day 7

Swim 30 min & Run 30 min


OK, this one was a bit of a challenge. I had a very busy day, but still needed to make sure I got my training in. I went to church in the morning, then I was of to my cousin Sarah's son's first birthday party. It was a great party and a perfect excuse to have cake!!

I brought all of my workout gear with me, so I was ready for the day. I got to the pool, and it was full of college students! For those of you who don't know, I swim at the Carleton College pool. My husband is an alumni, so I get to use their stuff! Only $10 a year for all the athletic facilities! Not bad. Except... you have to work out next to skinny 18 year olds!

So, I picked the lane next to the ladder. Why do this? So I don't look like a fool hauling my big butt out of the water. On lap one, I could see the 18 year old life guard napping in his chair. What the heck! I'm old, and he needs to protect his elders! OK, so now I'm on high alert to stay safe... so no flip turns for me.


I swam 1400 yards today, a little over .75 mile swim. I did it almost all crawl stroke too. That's big for me. I swam 1/2 mile straight crawl. Not bad.


So, I haul my big butt up the ladder, rinse of and change into my running clothes. I got home, put on my IPOD and watch, then got Skeeter ready to go. Skeeter is like Greg and I... out of shape.



We got going and it went really well, for the first 20 minutes. Then, Skeeter was exhausted and I was almost dragging him along. We finished the full 30 minutes successfully! I even ran a faster pace than the past 2 runs. I feel pretty good.



Here is Skeeter after the run...

Wish me luck tomorrow (Skeeter too)!
Deeann

Day 5

Run 30 minutes

This shouldn't have been too hard, seeing as I did it on Tuesday and 20 min yesterday. Oh how naive I was! This sucked!

It was a struggle to get run the full 30 minutes. My pace was pitiful. I just kept thinking about stopping.

However, I made it 30 minutes. I didn't walk. I'm done for the day. That's all I ask for, so I should be happy, right?

Tomorrow is a rest day! I'm spending it with Lael and my BEAUTIFUL god-daughter Celia. I can't wait.

So, that's it for today. It's been great to keep you guys up to date on this blog. When I don't want to go workout, I just think, "How will I explain my lazy butt on the blog?" It really keeps me going. Thanks for the support!

Deeann

Day 4

20 min swim & 25 min run

OK, today was my first combination day. I was NOT excited about it. It's too much. I had to do it though.

So, Greg went with me to the pool. 20 minutes later and I'd gone 900 yards. It felt so good. So, it was back into my running clothes.

I was excited to run outside again, but the rain came and we went into the gym instead. Now, I'm not proud of my slow pace. For improvements sake later on... I ran 2 miles (15.2 laps) in 26:15 min. During the run, my legs went on auto pilot. I didn't think I'd get to that point for another month!

None of this is easy, but I feel pretty darn good right now. Endorphins are a wonderful thing!

I hope your day was wonderful too. Talk to you tomorrow!
Deeann

Day 3

45 Minutes of Biking & Strength Training

I bought a new bike seat yesterday to help me with my very sore tailbone. It was really starting to impact my bad lower back (I sound so old). It works great! My bike is still on the stationary stand in our house, but I think I can hit the open road next week! It's finally warming up here!

So, I biked for only 40 minutes. I know I'm lame, but I changed it to 40 min from 45 min in my head while I was on the bike. I figure cutting it short 5 minutes won't kill me.

As for the rest of my day... since it's in the 60s I'll be outside cleaning up my gardens and my yard. I'm getting ready to plant my flowers in less than a month and to plant my very first vegetable garden! Greg is going to de-thatch the yard today, so we'll both be out enjoying the beautiful weather.

Lovely looking yard, isn't it? We're working on upgrading our fire pit and helping the grass grow from where Skeeter left his mark this winter.

I hope all your training and daily events went smoothly too.

Talk to you tomorrow!

Deeann

Day 2 of Training

Hello All!

So today is day 2 of my 6 week triathlon training cycle. I was supposed to run 30 minutes. Doesn't sound too bad, does it? Keep in mind, I just started running again 1 month ago. I was very slow, but I made 30 minutes and felt OK.

However... we have tropical storm force winds here today!!! I don't think it helped my distance very much. Nothing like running with your body at a 90 degree bend.

My plan for this blog is to just post my progress during my Danskin Triathlon preparation. I need all the support I can get right now. I'm not the picture of physical fitness, but I think I can do this.

The Danskin Triathlon is in Austin, TX on Jun 8th. It is a 1/2 mile swim, 12 mile bike and 5K run. I have 3 girlfriends doing it with me, so it's keeping me motivated to do this crazy thing.

My only goals for this race are to finish it and to not walk the run portion. I think I can do it.

Anyway, I'll keep this updated with my progress. Thanks for the support!
Deeann