tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2551667691542306552024-03-14T04:34:14.088-05:00Little Miss SingletrackEnjoying what each day brings, usually on a bike ride, but not always...Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.comBlogger57125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-36913579240299146632010-07-30T10:38:00.004-05:002010-07-30T11:43:25.956-05:00CancerversaryOne year ago today I was diagnosed with Stage 1B2 cervical cancer. It's been an interesting journey and one that changed my life, for the better, surprisingly. Throughout this experience I've felt a range of emotions and feelings - fear, anger, hope, gratitude, frustration -and have spent a lot of time thinking about my life, what I want and who I want to be.<br /><br />These thoughts weave through my mind daily. And, although I don't talk about it much, the fear of recurrence weighs heavily on my mind. In talking with other cancer survivors I'm learning that this will lessen as time goes by.<br /><br />Recently, I've learned that recovering from cancer treatment takes a long time! I've had a few conversations with some cancer survivors who were competitive athletes and they said it takes years. I had to be patient during treatment (surgery, chemotherapy and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">radiation</span>) but I wasn't prepared to be patient after treatment! However, I have been struggling this summer with my fitness so I'm going to listen to the advice and focus on recovery, not racing. Having said that, I still have a few races that I'm going to be doing but for fun. After all, I love mountain biking so why stop?<br /><br />This weekend is the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Wausau</span> 24 -- a 24 hour mountain bike relay race that I'm doing with 3 friends. I will be a fun weekend and a very fitting way for me to celebrate my first year as a cancer survivor.<br /><br />Happy riding!Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-88061405198747147172010-06-21T08:00:00.002-05:002010-06-21T08:22:25.388-05:00Not checking it off my bucket listI was hoping I would be able to write and tell you that I finished but not today. I finished 2 laps - a total of 66 miles which took me 8 and a half hours. Am I content with that? Not really. Did I try my hardest? Yes. Did it hurt? Yes? Did I have fun? Yes!<br /><br />The race was perfect in many ways - great <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">singletrack</span>, perfect weather, no <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">mechanicals</span>, and no injuries or <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">wipeouts</span>. The first lap was the funnest I've had on my bike in a long time. I felt like I was on a roller coaster much of the time. The 2<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">nd</span> lap was really hard and took all of my will to finish. Funny how so much could change from one lap to the other. After that lap I was pretty much done with endurance racing. Now I feel differently.<br /><br />Today the"could haves, should haves" are going through my head. However, the reality is I just didn't have enough fitness built back up yet and that instead it was test of wills to just get through what I did. So, I'm chalking it up as a good training ride for all the other fun races ahead of me. <br /><br />Happy trails!Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-57553906526790672412010-06-18T06:31:00.004-05:002010-06-18T07:47:44.080-05:00A long and winding road.......and what a winding road it has been. I started this crazy love of endurance racing with my first attempt of the Lumberjack in 2006. Little did I know how that decision would change my life. Then I was going through periods of melancholy, struggling to find my way, trying figure out what kind of life I want to live and growing into person I want to be. Today, I feel like I've come full circle. That first Lumberjack led me down a path to figuring it out, and surviving cancer affirmed it. Now I am leading the life I want and have become the person I want to be. All this beginning and ending with the Lumberjack. I never planned on doing the Lumberjack until a month ago so I find it my thoughts today quite serendipitous.<br /><br />Tomorrow is the Lumberjack. I have two goals - have fun and finish!<br /><br />I'll post up how it went but please send me good your good karma, thoughts, and prayers tomorrow.Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-60870568195793868322010-05-21T19:50:00.002-05:002010-05-21T20:07:38.107-05:00The Lumberjack<a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.lumberjack100.com">This race </a>has been on my bucket list for several years. I attempted it in 2006 but had 3 time-consuming mechanicals and didn't make the cutoff. It was my first attempt at an endurance mountain bike race (other than team 24 hour events). It was an experience and I'm very glad for it. Sure I was disappointed that I didn't finish the race but knew that I did what I could. And, I rode 60+ miles which was by far the most I've ever ridden on single-track. It was this race that fueled my interest in endurance races and since then that's been my focus. And, for the record, I finally hit the magic 100 mile target during a 12-hour race two years later.<br /><br />Last summer, before I found out I had cancer, I had thought about trying the Lumberjack again in 2010. It's something I kept thinking about but in the end decided not to because I was so unsure of how I would recover from chemotherapy and radiation. I instead decided to focus on getting healthy while still doing some endurance races.<br /><br />Having said all that, I am now doing the Lumberjack. It's a complete last minute decision but I'm really excited about it. Registration has been closed for some time but a friend, who was registered, is injured and can't do the race. I'm bummed for him, but excited for me.<br /><br />I think it's totally insane that I'm doing the race with only a month out but what the heck, it will be fun and I will be doing something I love. Will it be hard? YES but cancer was harder.Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-18802972957750206142010-05-02T21:40:00.004-05:002010-05-03T08:34:41.245-05:00Off to the races!Today I completed my first race of the season and was it ever fun. For my mountain biking friends who haven't done the <a href="http://www.wors.org/schedule/event.php?e=10"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">WORS</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Iola</span> Bump and Jump</a>, I highly recommend it. It's a great early season race - short, fast, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">flowy</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">singletrack</span> with some good climbs and just a fun atmosphere/vibe. People are happy to be racing their bikes again and seeing each other after a winter <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">hiatus</span>. It was like old home week for many. And, it was a bluebird day, perfect for a ride in the woods.<br /><br />I was unsure about how I would do and set some pretty simple goals for myself - have fun, finish, and no "could haves, should haves." I'm feeling stronger but didn't know what to expect with the first race of the year, especially the first race after cancer treatment last summer/fall. I exceeded my expectations and am very happy how it all went. First and foremost - I had a FUN!<br /><br />I always hate the start but as I lined up I tried to focus on the good things I've learned from yoga - breath, focus, pay attention to what you need to be doing and not the other stuff around you. Also good lessons for life. I was nervous at first but then I kept reminding myself that I've done much harder/scarier things and not to worry.<br /><br />The first lap was fun and fast. I even got into a pack on the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">single track</span> and it was awesome to be actually chasing some ladies. The second lap was slower, no wagon train but I did trade places with several women. The third lap was slower yet but I rode all the long climbs (had to walk 2 short ones) and worked hard to keep my pace going and finishing strong. In the end - I gave it all I could, finished and had fun!<br /><br />As I get stronger my thoughts of cancer push deeper into my memory (yeah!). However, this Tuesday, I have my second 3-month checkup with my oncologist (which I will have every 3 months for the next 2 years) so it's at the forefront of my mind these days. And, she said that I most likely will have to have another CT scan after this appointment. That should be confirmed on Tuesday. I'm nervous and anxious for Tuesday to be over and hope I hear the words "everything looks great." Please send good karma my way Tuesday!Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-87902493476988131542010-04-11T14:10:00.002-05:002010-04-11T14:21:09.851-05:00Spring has sprung!Today is an amazingly beautiful spring day. Birds are chirping, woodpeckers are pecking and I'm able to sit on my patio typing this blog. And to make things even better, work has been amazingly cooperative. Usually this time of year, I'm stuck in the stuffy halls of the MN State Capitol but for various reasons, things are at a major lull. I just hope when it does get busy, things happen quickly and legislators go home, sooner rather than later.<br /><br />Over the Easter holiday, Kevin and I went out to <a href="http://www.fruita.org/"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Fruita</span>, CO </a>for a few days of mountain biking. The first day was a complete bust because of rain but we were able to ride Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The best day was Friday by far - we did a 5 hour ride on CO <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">singletrack</span> without covering the same trail twice. It was fun, rocky <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">singletrack</span> with great views of the Colorado River.<br /><br />The best part of the last two weeks is that I'm finally feeling like my fitness is back. I was able to do the 5 hour ride with no problem and I'm feeling stronger and faster. Today, I went for a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">mtb</span> ride at Lebanon Hills and did by normal sequence of loops in the same time before cancer. <br /><br />So, I'm really excited about training and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">focusing</span> on racing this year. It seems that I have some good karma -- work is cooperating, my fitness level is greatly improved since finishing cancer treatment and my motivation level is very high. I can't wait!Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-75021855043756151792010-03-26T08:05:00.006-05:002010-03-26T21:55:23.710-05:00What health care reform means to meLate summer and early fall was a complete blur to me because I was in the midst of a cancer diagnosis and cancer treatment. As a result, I was not at all engaged in the health care fight in Congress. I should have been but to be honest, I was recovering from a radical hysterectomy, in a fog of depression, and exhausted and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">nauseous</span> from chemotherapy and radiation.<br /><br />However, it's been four and a half months since my last treatment. I had my first 3 month checkup and the doctors have given me a good prognosis. I finally feel like I'm back to myself and living a happy and full life. And now, I've been paying attention to the debate and am very happy the Democrats in Congress fought for this. It affects me personally but I also have a different lens to view the world with and passage of this bill, as Joe <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Biden</span> so aptly stated, is a big F@!? deal! To see how it impacts me directly, read this <a href="http://www.canceradvocacy.org/resources/news/what-healthcare-reform-means.html">article</a>.<br /><br />To me this <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DmlgwwCHof8">video </a>expresses a lot of what I've seen lately from the other side - a lot of anger and opposition without any real solutions. And, I don't consider allowing people to shop for health insurance from other states a real solution.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=255166769154230655"></a>Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-89932663254193776682010-02-21T15:24:00.003-06:002010-02-21T15:39:52.394-06:00Feeling the loveYesterday I was able to do my training ride outside. It was the best ride I've had since I was diagnosed with cancer and completed treatment. I finally feel like I'm getting back to my former fitness level.<br /><br />The best part of yesterday's training is that it helped me feel <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">rejuvenated</span> and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">focused</span> on my efforts. Winter was getting me down, I was starting to wonder if I was going to get back to where I was before, and I was getting bored with the grind of training in the basement. Yesterday helped give me a new perspective and a little more patience to get through winter.<br /><br /><br />I've also started doing yoga which has been really good for me. I was having a lot of muscle and joint issues (as a result of the radiation) and was feeling like I was walking around like an old woman. Along with numerous visits to the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">chiropractor</span> and massage therapist, I'm feeling stronger and more flexible. My favorite aspect of yoga is the mental strength and concentration it gives me -- I feel like I'm in a better place after an hour of yoga.<br /><br />Spring is around the corner and I can't wait!Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-36535812821696658662010-01-17T17:07:00.005-06:002010-01-17T17:23:18.145-06:00Ready, Set, GoMy coach and I finalized my race schedule this week and I'm really looking forward to a fun race season (I've updated it on the sidebar). I have a lot of races on the calendar and am going to be able to race on some fun trails. I only got to do 1 endurance race last summer, because of the cancer diagnosis and treatment, so I'm hoping 2010 will afford me a lot more time on my bike. And, the last two race seasons I haven't performed as I would have liked and I wonder if the cancer was taking it's toll without me even knowing it. So, I'm also hoping for some good placing at these races.<br /><br />I've been back with my coach and on the bike since December but all of my focus has been on recovering from cancer treatment and getting used to physical activity again. So, I've been riding but it has been without much focus. However, I feel good and rested so my coach will start focusing the training and I can focus again on what I love - the bike and endurance riding. Yeah!Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-4523083934513256152009-12-13T16:32:00.003-06:002009-12-13T16:40:42.258-06:00That old familiar feeling....The last time I rode outside was the weekend after my last chemotherapy appointment. After three months of surgery recovery and cancer treatment I had no idea what to expect on that ride and got a real eye-opener....I was REALLY out of shape! Since then I've only exercised indoors on the bike trainer and have spent the last several weeks just getting used to exercising again.<br /><br />Today I ventured outdoors instead of sitting on the bike trainer. It was warm (for this time of year) and sunny so I couldn't handle the thought of sitting on the trainer in Kevin's basement. I wanted sun and fresh air!<br /><br />The ride was great and I felt good. I'm still really out of shape but felt better than on the last outdoor ride. I can tell I'm getting my strength back. What I liked most was the tired, spent feeling my body felt afterwards. I ached to feel this during cancer treatment and it was good to have it back.Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-35487294411781867222009-11-30T20:05:00.002-06:002009-11-30T20:19:23.100-06:00On the other sideExactly 4 months ago today I found out I had cervical cancer. It's hard to believe it was only 4 months ago because the last months of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation seemed to last forever. <br /><br />Shortly after I found out about the cancer, my OBGYN talked to me a bit about what I was going through. I distinctly remember her saying that even though it's hard for me to see it, when it's all over I will breathe a huge sigh of relief and realize that I've made it to the other side. She was right -- it was hard for me to see that while going through everything but now that I'm here, I am breathing a huge sigh of relief for it to be all over. And, I have reached the other side and I believe that I am a stronger, better for it. <br /><br />I tried to stay as active as I could the last 4 months but pretty much focused on getting through treatment. It got really difficult towards the end. Today I started training again and it felt great! I'm back working with my coach but we are taking it very slow in getting me back in to shape. However, I have my sights on a 12 hour race next June so I'm pretty focused on getting back into a routine. I can't wait!Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-83892815672689579572009-08-21T23:27:00.003-05:002009-08-22T00:12:36.631-05:00ChangesMany people know that old <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">familiar</span> tune by<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pl3vxEudif8"> Davie Bowie </a>but when your faced with it, CHANGE SUCKS!<br /><br />On Thursday, July, 30th I went in for minor surgery and during the procedure the doctors saw that I had a cancerous mass in my cervix. On August 4th, it was confirmed that I have a form of cervical cancer called adenocarcinoma. This was very sudden and I showed no signs during a routine exam the end of May.<br /><br />Since then I've had a <a href="http://womens-health.health-cares.net/radical-hysterectomy.php">radical hysterectomy </a>and now may have to go through radiation because of the risk of it returning. I won't know until I see a radiation oncologist September 1st of what lies ahead of me but I can tell you this....cancer sucks and it has changed my life in oh so many ways.<br /><br />I can't even begin to describe what I'm feeling. I feel fear because I don't know what's ahead of me. I feel frustration because my life has changed dramatically. I feel frustration because I think people believe now that I've had the hysterectomy, they think that the cancer is gone and my life is fine. I feel guilt because the cancer I face is nothing like other cancer patients face yet I'm still very afraid. I feel anxious because because I want to live a long and joyful life, ride my bike, work hard, thrive, but that all seems so very far away.<br /><br />Despite all my fears, sadness and trepidation, I spend my days thinking about the next endurance race. First on my horizon is the <a href="http://www.lumberjack100.com/">Lumberjack 100 </a>in June 2o10 and my hope remains that my life will be back to normal.<br /><br />I've also spent a lot of time looking for resources and by far the best one has been the Lance Armstrong Foundation. I know that a lot of people are cynical about Lance but his organization has been the best resource for me. I especially like the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_SDBOHpKI6g&eurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Efacebook%2Ecom%2Fhome%2Ephp&feature=player_embedded">Manifesto</a>. It, among all the caring thoughts from family and friends, gives me strength.<br /><br />Cancer may leave your body but it never leaves your life.<br /><br />ValerieValeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-30345509889926391402009-07-01T21:42:00.005-05:002009-07-01T21:52:27.001-05:00The Northern Gravel ClassicIt's confirmed. I'm changing my race schedule and doing this <a href="http://heckofthenorth.blogspot.com/">race </a>late September. It is 104 miles on mostly gravel roads in Northern MN. It seems like a really cool vibe/culture and an awesome adventure. No race fees, self-supported and I get to see part of MN I've never really seen before. And, the best part is that Kevin has decided to join me!<br /><br /><br /><br />There are several other races like this in Southern MN - the <a href="http://www.almanzo100.blogspot.com/">Alamanzo 100 </a>and the <a href="http://ragnarok105.blogspot.com/">Raganarok 105</a> and I've been curious about them. I have wanted to try at least one but I've just never been able to because both are in the spring and I'm working.<br /><br /><br /><br />I'm really excited about this new adventure!Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-8683405586024110912009-06-30T13:01:00.002-05:002009-06-30T13:17:56.678-05:00Mixing It Up a BitI leave this Thursday for a 2 week vacation in Wyoming. Kevin and I are going to hike in the <a href="http://www.windriverrange.com/">Wind River Range </a>for 7-8 days and attempt to climb <a href="http://www.pinedaleonline.com/Gannett.HTM"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Gannett</span> Peak</a>, the highest peak in WY. This will be the first vacation in years that hasn't involved 2 wheels and the first time since 2000 that I've taken 2 full weeks at once. It's strange to think that I won't be biking for two solid weeks but this trip will be amazing. The Wind River Range is the prettiest place I have been and I'm looking forward to seeing another part of this area. Physically I feel ready but I have to admit that I'm a bit scared about the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">summit</span> attempt as there will be glaciers, crevasses, and exposure. However, I figure being scared is a good thing as it will make me be more careful and thoughtful every step of the way. And, Kevin and I have been planning this for 9 months and he's an <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eagle_Scout_(Boy_Scouts_of_America)">Eagle Scout </a>so he's prepared for anything.<br /><br />We don't really have plans for the remainder of the vacation other than that we are going to visit Kevin's Aunt and Uncle in <a href="http://www.sundancewyoming.com/"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Sundance</span>, WY</a> and check out the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teton_Range">Tetons</a>. <br /><br />I've also been thinking of changing my race schedule a bit but I first need to get some things figured out. This <a href="http://heckofthenorth.blogspot.com/">race </a>sounds pretty amazing and I'm hoping to do it. After all, what would I do after the WY adventure but be sitting on the couch and eating a bag of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected"><a href="http://www.fritolay.com/our-snacks/doritos-nacho-cheese-chips.html">Doritos</a></span>!<br /><br />See you all in a few weeks!Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-32550815694487737942009-06-23T08:36:00.003-05:002009-06-23T09:10:39.265-05:00Wednesday Penn Women's Mountan Bike RidesI've been part of the <a href="http://penncycle.com/page.cfm?pageID=742">Wednesday Penn Cycle Women's Rides </a>for the last 11+ years - either as a ride leader or a rider. The rides started after I moved to MN because I wanted to try and meet some other women who were into the sport of mountain biking and <a href="http://penncycle.com/">Penn Cycle </a>graciously agreed to be the host. Thanks Penn Cycle!<br /><br /><br />As I imagined, it was a great way for me to meet other riders and develop friendships. While many have come and gone, I still ride with lots of these women and every year I meet more women with the same love of biking. We have had a lot of fun times!<br /><br /><br />Fun. Fun. Fun. These rides are not training rides, no one gets dropped and we want everyone to have fun, enjoy the trail, learn something new and meet some friends. We want to help new riders feel more comfortable on their bike as well as allow more experienced riders the opportunity to challenge themselves and improve their skills.<br /><br /><br />Tomorrow the ride is at <a href="http://www.morcmtb.org/wiki/index.php/Terrace_Oaks">Terrace Oaks </a>. We meet at the <a href="http://penncycle.com/page.cfm?pageID=12">Eagan Penn Cycle </a>at 6:00 and ride from there. Terrace is a great place for beginner riders because it lets your practice some basics --going around tight corners, how to maintain speed in some fun, windy, singletrack and learn some downhill skills. It's also good because it's short so you can go back again and practice the skills. Hope to see you all out there!<br /><br /><br />Valerie<br />"We all get 24 hours each day. We should spend that time living the life that makes sense to us."Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-78721736082168214892009-06-22T08:08:00.002-05:002009-06-22T08:13:24.302-05:00Sisterhood of Dirt<a href="http://sisterhoodofdirt.blogspot.com/">Sisterhood of Dirt </a>is now up and running! Thanks to <a href="http://janetfatkinson.blogspot.com/">Janet </a>for her creative ideas and to others who contributed to the content.Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-35626514530142033012009-06-16T14:49:00.002-05:002009-06-16T15:00:18.546-05:00John Muir Race reportSaturday was my first endurance race of the year. I did a 6 hour race at John Muir in the <a href="http://www.fattireguides.com/trails/yourTrailDetail.cfm?tid=30">Southern Kettle Moraine State Forest </a>of WI. Going into it I was really nervous because of my race performance the last two weeks but things turned out much better than anticipated. <br /><br />I didn't really know what to expect of the course because I've only ridden there once and couldn't really remember the trail. It was fun and fast with some good, short little hills and some fun windy, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">singletrack</span>.<br /><br />The best part of the race was how I felt. It all came together very nicely. I didn't let any weird mental garbage clog my brain and I was able to go at a consistent pace for each lap. I finished with 4 laps (44 miles) in 5 hours and 23 minutes. You have to be done before 6 hours is up otherwise I would have gone out for 1 more lap.<br /><br />The next race is July 25th at the 24 Hours of 9 Mile in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Wausau</span>, WI. I'm doing the 12 hour solo event. Coach and I had another talk yesterday about training and we both agreed that the goal is to make me faster. I have the endurance so now I will spend my training working on speed. It should be fun!Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-62863421232134977502009-06-09T19:42:00.004-05:002009-06-10T06:10:54.770-05:00Shout outI forgot to give a shout out for my friends Dana and Janet. They did awesome at the 9 Mile race this weekend. Nice job ladies!Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-53586139292837480932009-06-09T14:44:00.003-05:002009-06-09T15:18:46.148-05:00Ready, Set, Go!The last two weekends I spent in WI doing short, cross country races which are part of the Wisconsin Off Road Series. This is a great series -- a lot of fun races, great vibe and fun people.<br /><br />The first was the Crystal Lake Classic in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Rhinelander</span> and the second was the Big Ring Classic in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Wausau</span>. Both courses were really fun and I was happy to be back in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Wausau</span> which has some of the best <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">singletrack</span> in the Midwest!<br /><br />But to be completely honest, I'm not really happy with how I performed in either race. I expected better results and pretty much spent the last two days whining. Well....that all changed after I talked to my coach this morning. She reminded me that I had a hellish last few weeks of session but that I needed to stop whining and kick it into full speed. It was a good kick in the pants.<br /><br />After all, I didn't stay committed to my training all winter long, with the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">hellacious</span> work schedule, with 4:45 am workouts and Saturday winter rides in the cold to just show up and go at a comfortable pace. From now on, I'm putting it all on the line - consistent training and showing up for races confident and ready -- physically and mentally. For those still wondering why I do this, click <a href="http://arcticglass.blogspot.com/2006/07/why-i-like-endurance.html">here</a>.<br /><br />This weekend I'm doing my first endurance race of the season and I CAN'T WAIT! I'm doing a 6 hour solo race as part of the <a href="http://teamcyclopath.blogspot.com/">12 Hours of John Muir</a>. I've only ridden here once but had a blast and am excited about riding some new trails and some fun <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">singletrack</span>. I'm also looking forward to this race because some friends and family (Kevin's parents) will be there. It's always nice to have a cheering section!<br /><br />Happy racing!<br /><br /><br /><br />Valerie<br /><br />"We all get 24 hours each day. We should spend that time living the life that makes sense to us." -- author unknownValeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-37957482458830530292009-05-15T08:32:00.003-05:002009-05-15T09:05:00.045-05:00The 40th HourHopefully my life will get back to normal soon. The legislative session must adjourn on Monday as stipulated in the State Constitution. The Legislature and the Governor must pass a 2 year state budget and there were big questions about whether not that would happen because none of the parties could agree on how to solve our $4 billion budget deficit. Well, the Governor took the ball to his side of field yesterday by claiming that he would not call a special session if the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Legislature</span> did not agree to a budget solution and instead he would line item veto budget bills sent to him and use a process called <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">unalottment</span> which is available to him July 1st to balance the budget.<br /><br />This has been an exceptionally long session for me with a lot more hours put in than I expected. I feel like I'm in the 40<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">th</span> hour of a 48 hour bike race. I think it's hard for most of my family and friends to understand what this time of year is like for me. in case you were wondering.....I work <u>all the time</u>. I looked at my calendar and I've worked every Saturday for the last 4 weeks and for the last 3 weeks I haven't really had a day off. And, the crazy thing about this I never know from one hour to the next what my schedule is like. Last Saturday I went to the Capitol at 9:30 am and left on Sunday at 6:00 am and the last several weeks I've been at the Capitol until 1:00 am a lot. To my friends and family who ask me to do things this time of year, thanks for putting up with my common refrain "I can't, I'm working."<br /><br />Session is a lot like an endurance bike race, only the stakes are much higher -- you have a chance to do good things for people. You prepare for months, your work hard and tough out the rough spots, become very weary at the end and can't imagine how you will be able to finish. Afterwards your swear you'll never do it again. A few days later, when you are rested, you look back at what was accomplished and think to yourself "that was worth it."Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-23527461741378400152009-05-06T17:47:00.003-05:002009-05-06T17:58:08.224-05:00Was it worth it?Today is the last day of my detox/cleanse. Was it worth it? Totally! I feel so much better and can see the positive benefits. I lost 6 pounds, got rid of some bad cravings and began the first steps on kicking some bad habits. The biggest benefit was that it has really made me think about what I eat and drink and the impact that it has on my well-being and performance.<br /><br />Look out world!Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-68772235366064661722009-05-02T14:11:00.002-05:002009-05-02T14:35:43.051-05:00Spring Clean UpLast week I decided to do a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Detoxification">detox and cleansing diet</a>. I've read about this before and was curious about the benefits. So, I looked into it, talked to my friend Janet who's done it before and decided to make the leap. Janet's is doing it with me. She's committed for 14 days...I'm in for 7 because I don't want it to impact my training.<br /><br />Why do it? I've want to get rid of a few bad habits and kick start some weight loss for race season (I've managed to not gain some weight during session but want to lose some more). Plus, I generally want to feel better about myself and make healthy choices.<br /><br /><br />I've <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">chosen</span> a plan that is based on fruits, vegetables, whole grains (not wheat), and lean meats. It also means no processed foods, sugar, caffeine, wheat, dairy or alcohol. It is not a liquid or fasting detox plans. <br /><br />A few things I've learned so far:<br /><br />I should have tried to wean myself off <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">caffeine</span> BEFORE trying this. I've had a raging headache for the last two days and am hoping that it goes away soon.<br /><br />Plan meals before you start this. I decided to do it at a time that worked best for my training schedule but did not give myself enough time to plan meals accordingly. As a result, I was in some serious nutrition deficit yesterday by not having enough <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">carbs</span> from something other than fruit (i.e. rice, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">quinoa</span>).<br /><br />Find alternatives for breakfast. I often eat cereal or yogurt for breakfast and those are both off-limits this week. I've struggled to find the right fit. I've tried brown rice, which I normally like, but the texture first thing in the morning is hard for me to stomach. Today I had scrambled eggs and they were <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">delish</span>.<br /><br />Yesterday I felt like crap - mostly because I was at work very late the night before, had little sleep and didn't give myself enough time to plan the food for today.<br /><br />Today I feel great and am noticing the positives of the process, except for the headache!Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-81860241120761086452009-04-28T08:52:00.002-05:002009-04-28T09:19:18.057-05:00Hiking we will go....Kevin and I have been planning a backpacking trip of a lifetime. The first two weeks in July we are going to Wyoming to climb <a href="http://www.summitpost.org/mountain/rock/150362/gannett-peak.html">Gannet Peak</a>, the highest point in WY. We plan on taking 2 weeks off, but the actual hiking trip should only take about 7 days. I CAN"T WAIT!<br /><br /><br />In preparation for the trip, we have been hiking every weekend around the area- mostly within an 1-1.5 drive away from home. I'm really thankful we took the time to do this. First of all, Kevin and I got to spend some quality time outside together. Secondly, we experienced a lot of interesting parks and sights. I'm really looking forward to going back to these parks to see the impact of the change of seasons. We will have more trail options since we won't be competing with the skiers and I'm looking forward to how the parks change with the seasons.<br /><br /><br />Here's a list of where we hiked (in order favorite to least favorite):<br /><br /><br />Nerstrand Big Woods State Park: Nerstrand SP is located south of Northfield. This was a very interesting park with one of the last extensive stands of the "Big Woods." Very cool frozen waterfall in the winter. Not heavily visited.<br /><br /><br />Wild River State Park: Beautiful scenery along the St. Croix River Valley.<br /><br /><br />Lebanon Hills Regional Park: This very near my house so we hiked a lot here this winter. It's a great park to hike in the winter because there are 2 hours worth of hiking only trail and we didn't have to worry about getting in the way of the skiers.<br /><br /><br />Lake Maria State Park: A variety of scenery and trail selections.<br /><br /><br />Lake Elmo Regional Park: Very pretty park with wide open spaces. We also saw an interesting site - a partially hibernating raccoon - in the middle of our trail.<br /><br /><br />William O'Brien State Park: This would be a better park to hike in the summer and fall. We were here in the winter and there weren't a lot of hiking only trails.<br /><br /><br />Fort Snelling State Park: Very cool little loop around Pike Island<br /><br />Afton State Park: Pretty park but I was expecting more climbs and views of the region.<br /><br /><br />Carver Park Preserve (Three Rivers Regional Park): This was a pretty park but not a lot of trails in the winter.<br /><br /><br />Frontenac State Park: This would be a better park to hike in the summer and fall. We were here in the winter and there weren't a lot of hiking only trails.<br /><br /><br />Willow River State Park (WI): Very pretty park but heavily used.<br /><br />Happy hiking!Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-84230564716427133612009-04-19T20:20:00.003-05:002009-04-19T20:49:24.271-05:00I'm OK, You're OKI had to work yesterday and I was totally crabby about that. However, once I left the Capitol and headed over to my local favorite mountain bike trail everything was right again. Then, I heard <a href="http://www.ingridmichaelson.com/music/lyrics/">this </a>song on my way home and it completely described what I've been thinking/feeling lately.<br /><br />It has been ages since I wrote anything on this blog. It's mostly because work has been all consuming and I've had to let lot fall to the wayside. However, my work is a priority, it's important and it's worth it.<br /><br />Here's what else I've been up to:<br /><br />- Training! I am planning on doing a number of endurance mountain bike events this summer and I've been sticking to my plan. Plus, I feel much better when I exercise and it helps me relieve a lot of stress! (I'll post my race schedule very soon.)<br /><br />- Planning for a trip of a lifetime to WY. Kevin and I are going to climb <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gannett_Peak">Gannet Peak </a>this summer. To prepare, we have been hiking every weekend since October. I've been to a lot of cool hiking trails over the winter and I'm looking forward to experiencing them now that winter is over.<br /><br />- Cooking and meal planning. I've been trying to cut back on spending, saving more and as result I've been doing a lot of cooking at home. It's been fun.<br /><br />- Sleeping. I wake up at 4:15 am most mornings to train so I pretty much plan on trying to be in bed by 8:30 or 9:00. Plus, I nap on the weekends!<br /><br />- Facebook is my new addiction. I've also just discovered Twitter.<br /><br />Stay tuned for more as I plan on being better about sticking to this!Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-255166769154230655.post-15106923891560435752009-01-04T20:59:00.006-06:002009-01-04T22:42:50.872-06:00Every day I wake up I choose love, I chose light,....These are the words of the song I listen to often by <a href="http://www.thesubmarines.com/">the Submarines </a>and it often makes me think of the New Year.<br /><br />It's been a really long time since I last posted. It's been so long that I'm not even sure if anyone will read this! Not a lot has happened other than a lot of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">illness</span>. I've been sick three times since the middle of November. I had the flu and missed work and then a nasty chest cold and finally a horrible stomach flu over the holidays. After all this, I decided to take a lot of time off to rest and get healthy.<br /><br />Christmas came and went and I was so sick so I just slept a lot. New Years came and went and I slept a lot but I also had fun. Kevin and I went up to his family cabin in MI and snowshoed, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">skied</span> and hiked. We saw a cool ice cave and ice formations and I will post <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">pictures</span> soon.<br /><br />A lot folk on the blogs I read have either posted New Year's resolutions or looked back on 2008. I don't usually have a New Year's resolution but decided that it's <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">probably</span> a good idea to reflect on things so here you go:<br /><br />- 2008 and 2007 were <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">ok</span></span> but 2006 and 2000 are the banner years in which I measure all things to.<br />- I'm a really lucky woman. I have great friends, family, a loving partner and lots of fun things with which to keep me occupied.<br />- I'm happy I learned how to snowboard this year.<br />- I want to have a variety of friendships.<br />- I want to read more.<br />- I want to mountain bike the entire Colorado Trail.<br />- I spent more time cooking this last year and have a new goal to only go out to eat when it's really important/exciting and not just because I don't feel like making dinner.<br />- I hope I do better in reaching my goals on endurance mountain bike events.<br />- I'm really excited but nervous about my backpacking trip to Gannet Peak, WY.<br />- I want to/need to learn more/experience more about meditation.<br />- I'm really afraid of losing my twin sister.<br />- I really want two tattoos ( designs already picked out) but am to0 <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">chicken</span> to do it,<br />- Turning 40 wasn't as bad as I thought and realized that a lot of people are <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">surprised</span> to learn that I'm 40.<br />-- My profession/career has very little to do with my overall happiness. Yes, it's important but it's not how I measure my success but it allows me to do the things I love and for that I'm very thankful.<br />- Having the nickname "the General" <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">isn't</span> all that bad. At least I can make a decision.<br />- Most importantly, I'm comfortable in my own skin.<br /><br />Happy 2009!Valeriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04911254325751733141noreply@blogger.com0