Burn the Ships

It was 1999. I had the fortune of box seats to the WNBA all-star game. The league was young (one or two years old) and while I have never been a basketball fan - it was encouraging to see a women's league that was seemingly well funded relative to other women's sport leagues. It seemed we were heading in the right direction.

Pat Summit and her former assistant coach and then head coach of the Mystics, Nancy Darch were also in the box watching the game. I eased into a conversation the two women were having about the inequities of pay for WNBA coaches and players compared to the NBA. I naively suggested, that thanks to them and other of their generation, women were on the right trajectory and it was now up to me and my generation to keep it moving up and along this path of progress. They both smiled a little – the kind of smile that tells you someone thinks you’re cute. It was the kind of smile that said – we wish you the best of luck, but, but we are keeping our expectations low. At the time, it annoyed me a little. It actually annoyed me a lot.

I have re-told this story many times since my original encounter with these two coaching greats. Early on it was a story of defiance: We had to be the generation to succeed, we had no choice. Later it became a story of hope: Maybe if we just keep plugging away, things will get better. Recently, it has been a story of defeat: Why didn’t my generation do more for our daughters? How could we fail them so miserably?

Soon after the 2016 election, while I was playing frisbee with the usual lunchtime pick-up crowd, one of the guys took several steps towards the other goal while kicking off. Another guy yelled out “What? Are you hitting from the lady’s tees now?” I lost it. I got angry, and I lost my composure. Sure – you could argue the comment was in jest - no harm, no foul. But there is harm. I can go into all the reason why the “lady’s tees” are actually called “forward tees” and why many men with whom I have played business golf should play from them, but it more important to understand that the comment was pejorative. Plain and simple, it was one man was telling another man that he was was “less” because he was playing like a girl.

I was admittedly raw when this incident happened. After all, we had just elected a man that made jokes about groping women, and passing it off as “locker room talk”. No harm. No foul. And certainly, no apologies. In the last several weeks, politicians are being called out for past sexual harassment and assault transgressions. Many people taking sides and defending or repudiating the (alleged) offender along political lines. Let’s be clear - this is not about politics and to politicize the actions of these men is wrong. As the #MeToo movement illustrated, the sexual misconduct outed for politicians and media moguls happens everywhere.

Recently, I have been so angry I want to cry. But I can’t. Not in public. Because I must be strong. Only women cry. And women are weak. You can’t cry in public. Unless you are a man. A man who cries in public is sensitive, well rounded, humble. A man who cries in public is strong. I want to cry, and I want it to be okay.

I watched the documentary “Burn the Ships” on Hulu last night. The movie chronicles one team’s season in the women's professional softball league. As I watched, I realized that our trajectory to equality is slower than I could have imagined in 1999. I was going to be part of the movement that put women in the C-suites, on corporate boards and in the Oval Office. I am starting to feel that my time is passing me by and that my best hope for the future is setting young women and girls up for success. I am admittedly struggling on what that looks like; but I know I’m not ready to give up quite yet.

Martin Luther King Quote Reflections, 1/20/17

I continue my reflection of MLK quotes in context of today’s political environment.

"I oppose the war in Vietnam because I love America. I speak out against it not in anger but with anxiety and sorrow in my heart, and above all with a passionate desire to see our beloved country stand as a moral example of the world."
Martin Luther King, Jr. Anti-War Conference, Los Angeles, California, February 26, 1967.

This quote is remarkably versatile. A fill in the blank kinda quote: “I oppose ________ because I love America…” I’ll put it out there - “I oppose a Donald Trump presidency because I love America. I speak out against it not in anger but with anxiety and sorrow in my heart, and above all with a passionate desire to see our beloved country stand as a moral example of the world."

The most important part of the quote is not the “fill in the blank”. The important part is “because I love America.” This is not about me. Quite frankly, I’ll be okay over the next four years. I’ll be sad, but I’ll be okay. Unfortunately, so many people do not read or listen beyond the first fragment of the first sentence. I want to be very clear - I love America.

I will be attending the Women’s March on Washington tomorrow, where I will speak out with anxiety and sorrow in my heart, and above all with a passionate desire to see our beloved country stand as a moral example of the world.

I have heard many Trump supporters suggest that we need to give Trump a chance to show what he will do now that he is the president. That’s a fair point. However - and this is a big however - I have a hard time opening my mind and heart for a man who calls me his enemy for no other reason except that I voted for his opponent in the presidential race. Basically, Trump and his supporters are asking me to be the bigger and better person. Think about it.

I don’t expect everyone to agree with me. In fact, if everyone agreed, there would be no reason for a march. It is my hope, however, that everyone will respect my need to march. One of the reason I love America is that I can march in opposition of my president. The right of free speech is a foundation of our government - and I do not take this right lightly. My decision to march is not reactionary - I have thought it through and I believe that I need to be part of the voice. My voice alone is a whisper. My voice joined with others is a roar.

In all my years of voting, I have never felt this passionate about the outcome of a political race. In fact, I have never participated in a protest of any kind. During his inaugural speech, Trump declared that “January 20th, 2017, will be remembered as the day the people became the rulers of this nation again.” As president, Trump is to some degree the conduit of the “people”. In order to be the conduit, he would need to listen to the roar and the whispers of the people. Unfortunately, I have little hope that the Women’s March will influence Donald Trump, except perhaps to make me more of an enemy.

I do hope, however, that those who support Donald Trump, both voters and lawmakers, will be not be threatened by the collective voice of the March. My hope is that they will be inspired by the grand and passionate showing. I am hopeful.

Martin Luther King Quote Reflections 1/16/17

Imagine if Martin Luther King were alive today and he the opportunity to communicate, to inspire, to inform with only 140 characters or less.

"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of convenience and comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy."

MLK, Strength to Love, 1963.

We are in a time of challenge and controversy and now I must ask myself,” Where do I stand?” I stand on the right side of history.

Martin Luther King Quote Reflections 12/12/16

"Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that."
Martin Luther King, Jr. Strength to Love, 1963.

As I rode along the Martin Luther King, Jr. memorial wall on Friday night (see my previous post), this quote caught my eye and then it drew me in. At first, I read it out loud to myself - and then I rode over to my riding companions and shared it with them. The words are so simple, yet the essence of the words are often elusive.

In my previous post, I expressed my belief that while we won’t always agree with others, we should strive to understand how they think and feel. Throughout the campaign and in the post-election environment, I see very little effort in this regard. In fact, behind the relative safety of a keyboard and computer, many people have freely expressed hatred of those expressing views opposite of their own. Some have been emboldened to express their hate openly, in person and in verbal and physical ways. It is easy to say one side is responsible for the hate. Hate for certain races and ethnicities. Hate for police officers. Hate for certain religions. And ironically - hate for a person’s choice to love. And with this election, hate for a person’s vote.

I want to be clear: Sadness is not hate. Anger is not hate. Fear is not hate. I have felt sadness, anger and fear in varying degrees since the election. However, intense hostility and aversion derived from these feelings is - simply put - hate. And when we express these feelings as hate we will never drive out the hate of others. In fact, the hate for one another will only intensify.

There is a clear political divide in our country. But simple calls for inclusion - to “come together” - will not be enough. We need to bring light into the darkness. We need to bring love to the hate. This burden lies with both sides of the divide. It lies at the grassroots level and with our leaders. Our leaders must inspire us at the grassroots to “come together”, but they can not demand it. We, however, should demand inspiration from our leaders and action from the grassroots.

Martin Luther King Quote Reflection 12/10/16

Last night, Kim and I, along with a couple of friends set out on a bike riding city adventure. Often, when we do these rides, we spend time on the National Mall circling the monuments. There is something special about seeing these national treasures late at night, when the air is still and solitude is achievable in an ordinarily bustling corner of the city. The chilly air amplified the quiet and gave me an amazing opportunity to really take in and reflect upon the quotations engraved on the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial.

I have been struggling since the election. Who do I want to be in this new social, political and economic environment? I have always been the voice of moderation - challenging others to see a situation from a perspective different than their own. It is my belief that while we won’t always agree with others, we should strive to understand how they think and feel and importantly, why. Equally as important, we need to express ourselves in a way to help others understand our own positions. But after this election, I have vacillated between angry and sad. I have been unable to be a moderator, a position normally so comfortable for me.

To enter the MLK monument, visitors must pass through the “Mountain of Despair” on their way to the “Stone of Hope” - a tribute to King's "I Have A Dream" speech. As I read the quotations etched on the memorial - which are as relevant today as they were 40 years ago - my path to understanding and my journey of expression became clearer.

My plan is to periodically share a quotation and provide my thoughts as a means of personal expression. Unfortunately, I seem to exist in what many are calling the “liberal bubble” - but I welcome thoughts from outside my bubble as long, as they are respectful and expressed in a thoughtful way to help me better understand the point of view. The goal is not to convert anyone - but rather to promote mutual understanding.

The first quotation along the South Wall:

"We shall overcome because the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice."
Washington National Cathedral, March 31, 1968.

I recently wrote a letter to Brendan and in it I expressed how important I think it is for political leaders to be in front of the social curve. A great leader sees the pathway to future justice, despite the walls that are built with the purpose of blocking the path. This pathway exists on “the arc of the moral universe”. It seems at times the path along this arc is a two way street. The path forward towards justice is not only long, but at times, can be rugged. For some, it seems the only way to go is back. Perhaps the path forward is too hard. Too long. Or seemingly unnavigable. And if you are personally wounded along this path, logic may dictate that you go back to what you know instead of moving forward where your destiny is unclear. But a great leader needs to have vision for those who have circumstances that prevent them from seeing the path forward. A great leader listens and understand the struggles people have along the path so that adjustments can be made and when possible, a map can be drawn, A great leader will not only extend a hand to help others get through the rough patches - a great leader will inspire others to do the same.

Today - the path seems longer and and more rugged than it has in decades. Today - we need a great leader.

2012 Summer Camps

We've made it official!  

2012 SolPlay Summer Camp Program Overview

Our Vision is that SolPlay adventure camps will provide enriching outdoor experiences that will benefit children’s emotional, physical, and educational well-being.   In Spanish, Sol means “sun” and elicits thoughts of the outdoors and its vast resources.  SOL is also the abbreviation for Virginia’s Standards of Learning (SOL).  These two meanings converge to form the core theme of SolPlay.  SolPlay will use outdoor adventures to promote emotional and physical development of our campers.  We will also use these experiences as a platform to explore relevant educational opportunities.  These educational opportunities will be seamlessly embedded into camp activities and will be transparent to our campers.


Visit our website: http://solplayadventures.blogspot.com/


I blogged about our C&O Bike experience last year... take a look!

Sol Play Adventures - C&O Canal Kid's Bike Trip

Nine kids, two adults, one teenager, twelve bikes, five days of biking, five nights of camping, tons of support from family, friends and the Arlington community and an idea turns into a reality…

Several months ago, my friend Joey and I came up with an idea to start a kid’s camp that uses outdoor adventure as a means to encourage alternative learning opportunities as well as promote physical and emotional well being.   After talking to friends, family, teachers and school administrators about our ideas for the camp we knew we were on to something that would interest parents and engage their kids.   Word started to spread about our camp - and we needed a name:   Sol Play Adventures.  In Spanish, Sol means “sun” and elicits thoughts of the outdoors and its vast resources.  And Sol Play makes one think of “fun in the sun!”  SOL is also the abbreviation for Virginia’s Standards of Learning (SOL).  These two meanings converge to form the core theme of Sol Play Adventures. 

We decided to test the concept with two camps this summer.  In the inaugural camp, held last week, nine kids joined Joey and I on a C&O Canal Bike Adventure where we explored the middle section of the C&O Canal.  We started our journey at the Paw Paw Tunnel (in Paw Paw, West Virginia), and completed our adventure in Harpers Ferry, WV.

Every day was full of memorable experiences.  On the very first night, we witnessed the most amazing natural light show - courtesy 
among the trees lining the C&O Canal tow path.  We hiked through the nearly mile long pitch black Paw Paw tunnel canal at night, our headlamps night vision setting casting an eerie red glow.  Some of the kids, who were initially hesitant about entering the long dark tunnel, found they were intrigued by the structure and started asking questions about it – opening the door for Joey and I to discuss the history of the tunnel and the canal.  The kids were able to apply information they learned in school and explore concepts in greater detail.  Our goal was to never directly answer a question.   As much as we could, we answered questions by asking them additional questions.  It was fun for Joey and I to watch the kids figure out the answers to their own questions.  It was clear to Joey and I from the first night that the underlying concept for Sol Play was a solid one.

As the week progressed and they got to know each other better, the kids had surprisingly deep and mature conversations - like the one they had about what being “normal” means.  These conversations began very organically by the kids and involved little to no adult interaction.  

Competitive Uno

It was equally rewarding to see the kids sit around a single table eating ice cream in Harpers Ferry as we neared the end of our trip.  There were several empty tables available, yet they all elected to sit together at one table – and talked and laughed for nearly an hour with no adult involvement.   They had bonded as a result of the adventure and it was a good thing!



Dam 4 Caves

The day after our return I surveyed several parents to find out what their kids had thought about the trip and I was pleased to hear that overwhelmingly they had a great time.  Some of the stories they told their parents were expected:  “Glow”, the stray cat we encountered at our first camp site near Fifteen Mile Creek;  eating pies at Weavers in Hancock, MD;  fish nibbling on their toes in Antietam Creek, MD;  hiding in the nooks and crannies of the caves we explored along the trail (headlamps off); bragging about being in the “fast pace group” or the advantages of riding in “leisure pace” group; and observing wildlife, and debating who had the “best” and “worst” of everything.  

What surprised me was that many of the kids' stories focused on their newly acquired knowledge of the C&O canal.  They were eager to explain to their parents how the locks worked, the mechanics behind raising a railroad track over the canal so canal boats can pass under it as needed, why the canal was necessary, why it was ultimately a financial failure and the canal’s role in the Civil War.

Operating a canal lock in Williamsport

The trip left me physically exhausted but at the same time exhilarated.  Sol Play Adventure’s next trip will be August 29^th – September 2^nd in Confluence, PA.  Keeping in line with Sol Play’s mission – the adventure will include educational links, physical challenges, personal achievement and lots of fun.  We still have a couple slots available – so let me know if you are interested!

Antietam Creek - Fishy Pedicure

of thousands of fireflies dancing 

How to Run 40 Miles and Still Have Fun - Run Around the Gorge

I am sore.  I mean really, really sore.  More sore than I have ever been.  But if the Run Around the Gorge race had a third day on the schedule - I'd be at the start line ready to go.  And I'd be smiling!

The inaugural Run Around the Gorge race took place this weekend - a two day 40 mile trail run around the New River Gorge in West Virgina (http://www.runaroundthegorge.com/).   It was more than a race - it was an event.  For highlights - jump down to the bottom of this post.

First about the "racing" part - I've linked the course description including the topo maps and elevations for both days - http://www.runaroundthegorge.com/course.html . To say the course was beautiful would be a gross understatement.   At every turn - there was something more beautiful than the last.  I left the ipod at home and enjoyed the sounds all day - birds, waterfalls and rapids.  I ran much of the race on day one alone and I was never, never bored.

I put "race" in quotes, because I never felt like I was racing.  I strained my hamstring in August, so I all but stopped running in preparation for Savageman, which took place in mid-September.  After Savageman, the longest long run I completed was only 12 -13 miles.  I was not in racing shape, but I felt like I had enough base fitness to get through the weekend.  And while there were a couple times I questioned this reasoning, I finished both days in a respectable manner.   But more importantly, the race director had created a light hearted fun atmosphere around this event.  EVERYONE had fun.  There were less than 30 racers in all, and I can't think of anyone who did not enjoy the weekend.

I know that some of my friends question my definition of fun, but I guarantee that anyone who spent time at this event would be inspired to join us next year for the Second Annual Run Around the Gorge!

Weekend Highlights:

1. Arriving at Opossum Creek to a refrigerator full of beer and wine - and looking around the room and seeing everyone with a full glass.  CARBO LOADING!!!!
2. Finding out that I'd be sleeping in a room with seven women and I'd be on the top bunk.  Funny when I was 10, I thought the top bunk was awesome... of course when I was 10, I wasn't tall enough to hit my head on the ceiling when I sat up!
3. Discovering that the other six women in the room over packed as much as I did.
4. Seeing old friends and acquaintances I didn't expect to see and meeting new friends, whom I am sure I will again see at future races.
5. Getting stuck in the downstairs bathroom - not once, not twice but THREE times!  BTW - did anyone ever tell Mark that the door to bathroom didn't work? Because I never did!
6. Hanging out with a bunch of people that didn't get upset when they got stuck in the bathroom... a couple times (yeah - we are all slow learners!).
7. Navigating a spiral staircase in the main house that was far more technical than any downhill paths during the race.
8. Realizing that there were far more women at this race than men.  I think there were 24 racers and only 5 were men.  Women ruled this race!
9. Being the "Meanest Racer"on Saturday.  Which really means that my race time for day one was closest to the average time for all racers. Yeah - I can be mean sometimes but really I'm just average.
10. Taking the "alternative route" on Sunday down the climbers ladder and along the endless wall. 
11. Stepping into a crevice between two rocks hidden by leaves and falling thigh deep, scrapping my shin and and hitting my knee on the way down.
12. Having a mere "flesh wound" that looked a lot worse than it really was - and having Jody tell her version of how it happened. I'm guessing It was far more dramatic from her perspective behind me- one second I was running and the next I was two feet down - sunk between rocks
13. Looking forward to uphills when I had an excuse to walk and give my my quads and knees a rest.
14. Learning that ladybugs bite.  Not kidding.
15. Eating two McDonalds Cheeseburgers on the way home and not feeling guilty about it!

I hope to post pictures later this week!

2010 NFL Flag Football Regional Tournament (Raven's Stadium)

I love it when everything comes together at the last moment - which is exactly what happened for the Arlington Thunder 9-11 Flag Football Team.   Every year, Arlington Youth Flag Football sends one or two all star teams in each age group to the annual NFL Regional Flag Football Tournament, hosted this year in Raven's Stadium. Winners of the regional tournaments, held around the country, go on to the National Tournament in Florida, all expenses paid courtesy of the NFL.

Earlier in the season, the decision was made to send one Arlington team in the 9-11 category, but at the last minute there was a push to form a second team.  Just to provide some perspective - the first team was formed in August, before the actual season even got underway.  The second team, Arlington Thunder, was put together the first week of October and Ethan was asked to join the team.  The tournament was on the third Sunday of October.  In other words - Arlington Thunder had two weeks to assign positions, develop and learn plays and construct a defense.  And to confound matters a little more, the person who volunteered to coach had to back out at last minute. 

So when I got a call from the league commissioner asking if I would consider stepping into the coach position, I was at the same time flattered and terrified.  I was in no way qualified to coach an All- Star team!  Sure I coach a league team - but I was doing that by the seat of my pants.  I knew enough about running plays and setting up a defense not to embarrass myself or the kids!

As it turns out, I'm a pretty fast learner and so were the kids (okay - the kids learned faster than me, but don't tell them that!).  With a ton of help from the league commissioner and and a great assistant coach, we ended up having a pretty spectacular tournament.   Despite our late start, and the challenges of a Columbus Day holiday weekend, the kids pulled it together and exceeded everybody's expectations.  

Funny thing - we didn't win the tournament.  We didn't even win our pool, but after the disappointment of losing the final pool game wore off (which didn't take long) - there was immense pride over what we had accomplished.  We (and when I say we - I'm including the coaches) learned a new and complicated defense and contained the other teams - allowing only two touchdowns during pool play.  Now that's something to be proud of!  And on offense - not only did the kids learn the plays, they executed them well.  It was incredible to watch as I called in the plays from the sidelines through one of the players and then see them line up without confusion.  They we were calm and confident throughout the tournament. 

The kids who did not get much playing time were all mature, upbeat and supportive of their teammates.  These kids let the coaches focus on the game - they were ready to go in when needed and did not distract when they were not.  I have to give my own son, Ethan credit here.  Despite being the coach's son, he was substituted in one game for only two snaps.  And that was only because the assistant coach thought to put him in.  Ethan knew before the tournament that there was a high possibility that he would not play - he was the youngest player on the team and the only one that would be eligible to play in this age group again next season. Quite frankly, for the week leading up to the tournament he was miserable and at times made me miserable too.  But on game day, he learned what it meant to be part of a team.  Best lesson ever!

Savageman Race Report 2010

Savageman is a stupid race.  A stupid, hard race.  A stupid, hard, fun race.  And I love it!  This year was no exception.  For those of you unfamiliar with this race, it is billed as the "hardest half ironman on the planet" (http://savagemantri.org/TriathleteMag_100BestRaces.pdf)  Some even compare the difficulty to an ironman, particularly the bike section that takes you up and down the mountains of western Maryland. (http://savagemantri.org/)  For much of the race you feel as though you are going either 4 miles an hour or 40 miles an hour - and not much in between. 
The quick summary:

Total time: 7:36:44 (scary I know, but it was a PR!)

Westernport Wall:  Third Brick Baby!

2nd in AG (okay there were only 4 of us – but it was a good day!)

The weather for the race was perfect.  If anything, the warmer temps caught some off guard.  In past years, if you failed to wear appropriate outer clothing you would surely freeze during the long descent out of Deep Creek into Westernport.   This year I was overdressed with just arm warmers.  And the air was dry, nearly no humidity - so I never really felt like I was sweating.  I had to be very, very deliberate about hydrating during this race.

Several weeks before Savageman I strained my right hamstring during a long training run.  In the days leading up to the race, I came up with several race strategies - from not doing the race at all to doing an aqua-velo. And under no circumstances would I do Westernport Wall.  I already had two Bricks and I was not going to risk further injury (http://thoughtiknewthen.blogspot.com/2009_09_01_archive.html. - last year's rr)

View from the top of the Wall - 31% grade.

The Wall during 2010 race day mayhem.

While I could feel the hamstring biking up hills, it was only when I ran that it really hurt.  I did not run for a week and half before the race and I only did easy, flat rides.  Not the best confidence booster going into the race.  The strategy I ultimately settled on included swimming my normal race, taking the bike section easy, staying seated at all times – and not get discouraged by the number of people passing me.  Run the flats and down hills and power walk the up hills.  I also knew I needed to stay hydrated and fueled – which is surprisingly hard for me to maintain.

Above all else, I had to finish the race to earn the Finishers Shirt.   The shirt is not one most women would wear, including me.  But my kids love them.  The first year it did this race I gave the shirt to my oldest and last year my middle son got the shirt.  So as I left for the race this year, my youngest made it clear that it was his turn.  I did not dare return without a shirt! 

With few exceptions, I followed my strategy to a tee and it paid off.  The one big exception was at the Wall.  As I approached the Wall I had a downright argument with myself.  I had the devil on one shoulder and an angel on the other.  Would I be stupid or smart?  Was it worth the risk to blow my hamstring?  With little training, I probably didn’t have the strength to make it to the top regardless.  But as reached the bottom of the Wall, I took a deep breath and up I went.  Not the prettiest of climbs – as a matter of fact, it was down right ugly.  But I did it.  And I was glad I did.  

I cramped on Killer Miller, but not nearly as bad as I did last year and I cramped on the run only when I tried to run the up hills.  It was clear that I had favored my right leg during the bike because all the cramping was in my left leg.  I only had to stop twice on the run – far less than last year.  In the end it was the run and the fact that I did not cramp as badly as I did in past years that led me to a PR.  Go figure - a strategy based on an injury results in a PR.  

And have I mentioned the volunteers, the spectators and the other racers?  Seriously, I don't think you will find a better group at any other race! 

Will I do the race again next year….  Of course I will!  Want to join me?

Swimming - Fresh and New!

I started swimming this week after taking several months off. Some people can swim everyday all year long. Others force themselves to swim just enough to ensure they won't drown during the swim portion of their next triathlon. Like baby bear, I find swimming from mid-March to mid-September to be "just right". When I start up in March, it feels fresh and new and by October I am at my strongest for the last big race.


I swam competively as a kid through high school and so you might think that bodes for triathlon. Yeah - I was a breast stroker. Breast strokers as a whole do not make for very good freestylers. Today I swam the 100 IM as fast as 100 freestyle! Let me assure you my IM is NOT fast...

Like many age group swimmers, I stopped swimming at 18. I hung up the suit, put away the googles and didn't pull them out again for 20 years. Open water swims has made the whole swimming experience enjoyable again. I tolerate the chlorine and the black line at the bottom of the pool knowing that in a few short months I'll be swimming outside unrestricted by lane lines and walls!

Take a look at the attached Luna Training tips on open water swimming from Luna Pro Linda Gallo.

http://teamlunachix.com/tips_and_training/tips/tags/videos/

http://teamlunachix.com/tips_and_training/tips/tags/videos/

Two Poems by Ethan

Ethan is my 9 year old fourth grader. He recited these two poems to me the other night and they both made me chuckle so I thought I'd share.

Messy Desk

Messy Desk, Messy Desk,

Glue, Highlighters,

Pencils, Markers, Erasers, My Three Week Old Lunch

Some Color Pencils and...

YES!

My Homework.

Ten Years

Ten years from now I'll be president.

Ten Years from now I'll be famous.

Ten years from now I'll be driving a Ferrari.

Ten years from now...

hopefully.

In ten years, Ethan will be 19 and it won't surprise me a bit if he reaches every one of his goals - regardless of how those goals change over time.

Watchung Trail Marathon

The Watchung Trail Marathon confirmed my notion that low key races are the best kind of races for me. I like races that don't require a ton of effort just getting to get to the start line. The best races offer quick registrations with no lines, no chips, no bibs, no t-shirts and a guy at the start line who yells, "Set, Go!"

Despite this relaxed atmosphere, the training I devote to these events is no less than if I were racing Boston or NYC marathon, assuming I could qualify for either! I picked Watchung partly due to the timing of the race - I wanted something in January or February to get me through holiday eating season, and partly because of the location - near my parent's house in New Jersey.

The race provided only limited support. There was a table at the start/finish line with food items. Racers could stock up as they passed the table at the end of each loop. It was packed with items donated by participants and included everything from sports bars, cookies and bags of chips. And of course Luna Moons. Someone even brought a bottle of Jim Beam. Yep – I like this trail running attitude!

There was an ultra and marathon race option. The ultra racers did three full loops of the course and the marathoners did two full loops and a modified third loop. The course was absolutely beautiful. When I wasn’t looking at the ground I was soaking in the great scenery. At the race start it was 11 degrees and I don’t think it warmed up much as the day went on. The trail was mostly snowy – but there was a fair amount of ice. I wore my Yak Traks for the first loop, and they worked great. Unfortunately by the end of the loop my feet were hurting and I knew if I continued wearing them, I would suffer. I could not have asked for a better first loop. I came in a little under my 2 hour goal – but I knew my second lap would take a little longer. For starters, I had to replenish my nutrition and I had to stop at my car (the course ran through the parking lot!) to refill my bottles and change into dry gloves. I also had to use the rest room… and so did everyone else. The thought of finding a spot in the woods wasn’t an option at that temperature!

I felt good as I started my second loop – although I had to take the first quarter of mile substantially slower as the trail was covered in a sheet of ice. When I was finally able to open up and really start running again, I tripped on a stump and I landed on my pelvis. I jumped up right away, mostly out of embarrassment – but to my surprise it did not hurt… at least not yet. I ran with different groups throughout the day – some that I caught up to and others that passed me and enjoyed conversations with all of them. I chuckled each time I took a bit of my Cytomax – between the cold air temps and constant jiggling the Cytomax turned into an orange slushy.

As I passed the point where I would turn off to complete the marathon on the third loop, I thought maybe, just maybe, I would do the ultra instead of just the marathon. It was ONLY four more miles – how much harder could it be. I tucked the thought in the back of my mind and went on to finish the second loop.

I was still feeling pretty strong as I started the third loop. Fortunately, I did not have to use the rest room and I filled my bottles with HEED at the community nutrition table. I grabbed a couple oatmeal cookies and I was off. I was almost done! But as I ran, my pelvis started to hurt with each step. But I was almost done.

I spent a good portion of the race with my eyes trained to the ground. Missteps, I learned, can be costly. It was during the third loop that another racer stopped me and pointed out a small herd of deer right next to the trail. In the middle of the herd was a white deer. Unbelievable! I thanked the gentleman for waiting for me just to point the deer out to me. I have no doubt that I would have completely missed this spectacle as I was so focused on the trail. I looked behind to see if I could return the favor – but no one was there.

The final loop seemed like it would never end. I looked at my watch - based on distance and my perceived pace, I should have been nearly done with the marathon, but I had not even reached the marathon turn off point. My pelvis was hurting and my morale was sinking. By the time I approached the marathon turn off, the thought of doing “just four more miles” was not an option. The final approach was nearly all up hill and required quite a bit of navigating over rocks and logs. But I finished. And there was no official finish line, no finishing chute, no finisher’s medal. Just a guy who didn’t know me giving me a big hug! Awesome!

I learned afterwards that several racers compared the recorded mileage on their Garmins and that each full loop was actually between10.7 and 10.9 miles and the modified third loop that was roughly 7 miles. If you do the math, you will note that did somewhere near 28.5 miles!
I was already happy with my performance – but adding in the extra miles made my time more in line with my expectations. I smiled the whole evening after the race. Laughing was out of the question, as was sneezing – both made my pelvis hurt! I’ll be back again next year… anyone interested?

The Boy who Gets Everything By Seth Novak

Jordan has three sisters who are triplets and they are from different places. One is from America, another is from Argentina and the last one is from Mexico. He has one cat named Jackie.

His parents gave him lots of toys and games. But Jordon never got the one thing that he really wanted. More than anything, Jordan really, really wanted love.

He told his parents he didn't want toys, all he wanted was love. But they never listened to him. Instead they asked him if he wanted more toys.

So one day, Jordan put all his toys into a shredder machine and melted them into letters that said, "Mom and Dad, I don't want toys. All I want is love."

This time his parents listened to him and they didn't give him too many toys, but they gave him lots and lots of love. Jordan now get everything he wants, including love.


Dictated by Seth to his Mother

Postscript - Seth is adamant that he is read a book every night. And I do mean EVERY night. Lately though, he has decided that he wants to write books (see previous post). I feel compelled to tell everyone that I DO love Seth and that all characters in his stories are fictitious! And no - he still has not gotten an XBox.

The Boy Who Never Gets Anything By: Seth Novak

Jacob lives in a house with his twin sisters, Allysa and Laura, his parents and two cats. Jacob never gets anything because he is always naughty. Not even for Christmas or his birthday.


Jacob really, really wants an XBox, but his parents already said "no!" when he asked. So he asked again and his parents said "NO!!". So do you know what Jacob did next? He asked his parents again. This time his parents sent Jacob to his room.


While Jacob was in his room he thought about what he had done. So he went down stairs and said sorry to his parents. And they forgave him, but they still did not give him an XBox. He did get a football and from then on he was nice to everyone.

THE END

(This story was dictated by Seth to his Mother)

Lessons from A Tough Loss-Seth's Flag Football Team

It was perfect football weather. Parents huddled on the sidelines under umbrellas and several layers of clothing. The rain was steady through the entire 6-8 flag football semi-final game, played under the lights at the Wakefield High School synthetic field last evening. Seth's team, the Redskins, was undefeated during the regular season. The talent, particularly with some of the older kids, is impressive. Seth is among the younger group of kids, and while he is super fast and can run an opposing player down, he is just as happy to horseplay with his teammate's siblings, dribble a soccer ball on the sidelines or watch a separate game on an adjacent field.

During the playoffs, everything gets a little more serious compared to the regular season. All the kids play, but in a close game the playing time is skewed to the kids who have proven through the year to be among the better players. Seth was in a couple plays, but spent most of the game on the sidelines where he kicked a soccer ball around and tackled unsuspecting spectators.

The game was very well played by both teams and was ultimately decided in overtime. It was a tough loss for the Redskins. The season officially came to a close as the coach handed out the third place trophies. We were all cold and wet, so no one lingered to lament the season. As we walked backed to the car Seth leaned his head against by wet jacket and he didn't say a word. In the car, I turned to look behind as I backed out and saw Seth in a quiet but intense sob. I was admittedly taken aback. Could it be that he was this upset over the loss - when he barely watched the game? I stopped the car and hugged him for a good long time. When we got home, he carried the trophy with him everywhere and when he woke up this morning, he asked if he could bring the trophy to school.

As is often the case, I learned a lesson from this experience. I coach a couple teams and there are always those players who appear uninterested. As a coach - these kids can be very frustrating. Through my perception of disinterest I assumed these kids didn't care. Last night, Seth proved my assumption wrong.

This experience also confirmed a couple beliefs. First, it is okay - in certain games - to play some kids more than others. Yes - all the kids want to play. But as long as expectations are set, and the concept is presented in thoughtful way by the coach and parents, the experience can be a learning opportunity. I am also a firm believer of presenting trophies only to the teams that win or place. I am positive that if the game last night was a regular season game, Seth would not have been nearly as upset over the loss. He understood the significance of the game and he reacted accordingly. Similarly the pride he has for this trophy reflects the accomplishment attached to it.

Seth is already looking forward to next season!

Savageman 2009

Savageman has a way of bringing you back. In 2007 I swam as part of a relay and volunteered on the run course. I was so caught up in the energy of the race, I couldn’t wait to sign up the for the 2008 race and not just for the relay – I wanted to do the whole thing. And I did. And it kicked my ass. I swore I’d never do it again. Ever. But the very next day following the 2008 event, I was already planning my strategy for 2009.

In many ways, typical race pressures are irrelevant at Savageman. The field of women racers is proportionally much smaller, but the women who sign up are serious athletes. Where in a typical race I finish in the top 25-30% of the field, at Savageman I finish near the bottom. And I am okay with that - because this race is truly a competition between the racer and the course.
For several months prior to the race I steadily prepared, adhering to my training plan like never before. I lost some weight and worked on my strength. I was feeling fit and strong going into this year’s race. I had a race plan. I was ready.


I could not have asked for a better swim - long strokes and straight lines. The fact that there was no fog this year made sighting a breeze. If anything the sun glare this year proved to be the biggest swim obstacle. The final turn buoy was a swan boat. Seriously, it was a boat in the shape of the swan (the swan boat is featured on the finisher shirt.) Ed King, a long time family friend and Deep Creek resident was the captain of the boat, so as I made the turn I gave him a great big wave. This was the first of several memorable “Savage Moments”. I bettered my swim time over last year by three minutes and I was off to a great start.

During the first 35 miles of the bike course I felt great. I took my time going up Toothpick Road, the comparatively small hill leaving the park. It is easy to be too aggressive on this hill and burn your cold quads in the first 5 minutes. I loved, loved, loved the four mile switch back descent that leads into Westernport. I knew my best opportunity to gain ground was on the down hills – so I only sparingly used the brakes and enjoyed the ride.


When I turned onto MD 825, I took off my arm warmers and started mentally preparing for the Wall. Westernport Wall is a 1.2 mile 12% grade hill, with the last 100 feet at 31% grade. Making it up the Wall earns you a brick and bragging rights. I got one last year, and planned to do the same again this year. Like last year, I switch backed up the two blocks leading to the final and steepest stretch of the Wall, and when I hit the final stretch I pounded it. Another brick and 35 miles to go!

At the top of the Wall, I pulled over and allowed myself 30 seconds to catch my breath and get my heart rate down, because after the wall the real work began, starting with a long 6 mile ascent up Savage Mountain. Last year, this part of the course nearly did me in mentally, but this year I was ready for it. The road side signs up Savage Mountain, and along the rest of the course for that matter, were hysterical. My favorite sign: “Shut up Julie and just pedal!” I let out a signature belly laugh and then I heard Julie (I had no idea she was so close) – about five riders up yell back “That’s my sign!” It was another one of my favorite Savage moments.

Everything was going great until I came to Killer Miller a 1.2 mile 8% grade hill. My quads and hamstrings simultaneously seized. It was a miracle I didn’t fall right there and it was sheer will power and the support of follow racers and volunteers that I made it to the top.
So it seemed that despite sticking to my nutrition plan, the rest of my race was going to be plagued by on and off cramping. And from the moment I first cramped, Savageman became a completely different race for me. Before cramping, I was on my way to obliterating my time from 2008. After cramping, I just wanted a PR – even if it was only by 30 seconds. So when I wasn’t cramping I was hitting the pedals hard to make up for the time when I was cramping. The final ten miles of the bike course was relatively flat with rolling hills; but in true Savageman style, we had a nice head wind for the final five miles

Cramping continued to be a problem through the run. I ran as hard as I could when I could, knowing I would be intermittently sidelined. Once again the support and encouragement from other racers and volunteers when I was doubled over on the side of the road was totally awesome.

As I was coming up the hill from the first turn around, I passed Julie as she ran the other direction and she was clearly having trouble breathing. When I saw her again on the fire road I was seriously concerned for her. Someone retrieved her inhaler, but it did not seem to be working. She promised that she would stop racing if her breathing did not improve. She was so upset because her legs felt great – she just couldn’t get air. I joked – that I was doing fine from a cardio perspective but legs were shit and together as one racer we could kick ass. I got laugh and hug and off we went. It was another priceless Savage moment.

Julie eventually passed me as I struggled through the last three miles. I was still running, but the cramps had clearly taken a toll on my legs. When I crossed the finish line I knew I had put everything on the course – and it felt good. My parents and several friends were there to make sure I didn’t fall over. I was afraid to sit as I was sure I would never get up again. I was happy and tired. I achieved a PR despite cramping.

The first thing I said after the race? “I’m taking next year off!”” But in true Savage style, I’m already planning for next year.

My 2009 IronGirl Observations

IronGirl is always an inspirational race for me. For many women, this is the first race they’ve ever done. Others haven’t attempted something athletic for years. Women of all shapes and sizes come out for this event. Some are fast and others a little slower. But no matter fast – everyone eventually does 21.4 miles! Below are my observations from this years race:

• Duck poop smells really bad… and tastes even worse. Note to all IronGirl participants – not all open water is as icky as Centennial Lake!
• Seven minutes between waves means you tread water for quite a while.
• The first woman out of the water this year was really, really, really fast!
• I am pretty sure the swim was longer this year than last year.
• Breaststroke and backstroke is acceptable if it gets you through the 0.62 miles of the swim. Congratulations to everyone, who before IronGirl, never would have imagined swimming that far.
• Secure goggles are a must – particularly if you are in a really big wave. My wave had no less than 175 participants!
• Buoys provide a perfect place to stop and catch your breath if needed. I apologize to anyone I hit with my wide stroke as I turned the buoys.
• Mountain bikes far outnumber tri bikes at this race. The speed at which some of these women move on their mountain bikes is inspirational.
• Riding four across the road is not uncommon. Perhaps we should review blocking at the next Luna Bike Clinic!
• I saw more people drafting cars than other cyclists… or maybe they were just waiting to pass?
• I did not see any women walking their bikes up the hills…and there were some tough hills! Way to gut it out!
• There is one really hard hill on the run. And you have to do it twice! Congratulations to everyone who ran up this hill. Of course, I think I ran slower than some walked!
• IronGirl has one of the longest finishing chutes. It is great to have so many people cheering you into the finish.
• The cold duck sponge at the finish… AWESOME!

2009 Calleva 10 Hour Adventure Race - Sharing it with a Friend

I competed in my first adventure race last May (2008), and ever since I have gently tried to convince some of my “outdoorsy” friends to try one with me. I’d do so by sending an occasional e-mail with a link to an upcoming race or I would casually work the topic into a conversation while having an evening beer with my neighbors. I found that people fell into one of two camps – a.) they were not interested in the competition aspect of the race or b.) they were concerned that they were not in good enough shape. In my mind, I will not convince someone who is not motivated by competition – but it is a relatively easy to get into shape. Besides, as I explained to my friends I was happy to go at any pace, just to share the experience. Nonetheless, my emails and conversational suggestions continued to be rebuffed.

So I was pleasantly surprised when my neighbor Bob responded that he was interested in being my teammate for the 2nd Annual Calleva 10 Hour Adventure Race. This race has two categories: Expert and Sport, for the less experienced teams. Bob and I signed up for the Sport category and named our team “4th Street”. Clearly, Bob and I are not the most creative when it comes to names!

After several gear checks and re-packing of our Camelbacks, we were ready for the race start at 9AM yesterday morning. It took us roughly 7½ hours to complete the race and we hit many of the optional check points.

We bush wacked through briars and poison ivy. We rode up hills and through single track. We walked and occasionally ran through a long trek. We paddled across the Potomac. We - or more accurately – Bob did several adventure challenges and nailed them. First, he walked the high wire, twenty feet above ground and then the balance beam – also twenty feet up. When we got to the third challenge, the idea was for me to actually contribute – but in the end it was Bob who hoisted me up into the pendulum swing. As the volunteer at the balance beam said (with a British accent) “Bob, you were brilliant!”

We saw a black snake and a bunch of tiny toads. We picked up trash (a bonus minute for each piece we picked up!). We scratched up our legs on the briars and probably have poison ivy. We sweated – A LOT! We looked like we did an adventure race.

We met some fun people and had a great experience. Bob tells me he is ready for the next race… anyone else?

Canoe Camping - 2009

I thnk I am ready to sell the house, quit my job and spend my days riding my bike, hiking and camping with the kids. Oh yeah - gotta pay for college. Oh well.

Michael, the kids and I spent the weekend camping on the Potomac with the Skoloda's (minus Maureen and Natalie - Natalie had a big swim meet and I hear she rocked it!). It was all boys and me.

The camping area is completely unsupported - no bath houses, toilets, garbage cans, etc. Other than a fire ring and a bare spot for the tent, you are on your own. And the only way to access the site is via boat - canoe in our case, thus keeping it simple is key. Only bring what is necessary - which includes at least two cases of Yeungling! We spent the entire day yesterday canoeing up the C&O Canal and down the Potomac through the rapids. I'll post pictures - the ones I took before I dunked my camera when I flipped my canoe! (I had just taken it out of the dry bag to snap pictures of the kids riding the rapids on their backs - oh well, it was a cheap camera and though the pictures are a litttle fuzzy, at least I still have them)

Joey and his boys along with Micheal and Seth are still camping. I wish I could have stayed (despite the rain last night), but I had to bring Brendan and Ethan home last so that they could get ready for a week at overnight adventure camp - for which they leave in an hour. I am already jealous of them.

hmmmm.... wondering if college is really necessary ; )

Pictures available at: http://www.new.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2033201&id=1213604982&l=34fa22367e