Saftey advice on a Sunday

I've just read a job description that includes the following in the person spec:

·        The ability to use safely a computer and associated peripherals safely without causing or aggravating an injury.

I find that quite a funny statement.  Not of course the commitment to health and safety, just in the context of aggravating an injury through the peripehrals associated with computer use.

It also includes this statement:
·         The jobholder must be able to physically carry out the functions of the position.

I'm going to apply for the job.  Every option is an option (even if it is an option B), and as an alternative to working in Wellington, I think I'd actually enjoy the job.  It is Masterton based, so it would limit my lunchtime access to LM.  On the plus side given I'm Carterton based,  I could cycle to and from work and wouldn't have any train fares, and I'd still be home early in Summer to go for another ride.

Random Sunday posting: I guess it is what is occupying my mind.

Weather update:  Snow on the Tararuas is beautiful and crisp so good riding weather for the next few days ahead.

Domestique

I deferred riding to Martinborough today.  Weather conditions look much better for Monday to do that.  Although that of course means a long solo ride return and no one to talk to and have coffee with when I get there.

I think my body needs a bit of recovery from yesterday.  This is a good thing.  I'll do a few hours in the garden as there is still a lot to do to get it in shape before I start my next job.  Not that I have my next job yet, but need to work on that mental operating space that my gardening days are numbered because I will be returning to work very soon.  I'm hoping I can draw together the relevant dots re that in the first week of August.  The first week of August of course being next week.  Also, the incentive of committing to double RPM sessions may also be an incentive to find paid work!  Not that I need an incentive. 

I'd like to use the analogy in a job interview that as a team player I am a Domestique.  I probably wont.  It's a good word and my word of the week.  It's an interesting concept.   No winner of the Tour de France could win without the contribution of the Domestique.  Here a couple of web links re the Domestique:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cycling_domestique
http://cyclingdomestique.com/

RPM - Double shot

Before class today the T lady suggested I should start doing double RPM classes, especially while I am not working.  I had been thinking about this anyway.  Partly because it maximises my time at the gym and the train and gym fare, and partly because I need the intensity and interval training.  It's something I need to work on when I am on the road:building in segments where I aim for speed, and not just the duration.  Riding a bike is a bit like walking for me.  I can walk for "miles" like a snail, but I need the intensity to get results.  The best way to get that for me is through a structured class where there is an incentive to keep on pace - the correct word actually, is "tempo". So, that was good timing re the suggestion.  That's the benefit of having someone give you the "nudge". 

I said I would probably start Tuesday, but then T said she was taking the 12.30 class, and as I had fulfilled my coffee commitments for the day, decided I may as well start the double session thing today.  It was good.  Sort of got the feeling that I got when I first start doing RPM - there is that stretch factor.  Apart from the fact I need it to keep the weight loss momentum, I also need it re keeping the variety factor and mixing it up re the general training.

Two RPM sessions = 90 minutes maximum effort.  So, 30 minutes extra than the 60 minute class I do in the Hutt on some occasions.  That 90 minutes is a better use of effort than the cruising for 2-3 hours.
Although I still need the long road rides to build up the overall endurance.

T's having a RPM sabbatical for the next 6 weeks.  I'll miss her, as in my RPM world she is the head RPM coach, even though I guess that title should be reserved for the Godfather of RPM.  But that's the thing about a coach influence whether it be in sport or re work.  They can walk (or ride) with you part of the distance and share aspects of the journey, but in the end it has to be your legs that get you over the line.

After class I did a few core exercises.  This lady, who I didn't know (but when I first saw her from a distance I at first thought she was Flojo) tactfully and very helpfully showed me how to correct my "bolt hold" posture.  It was really good that she did correct me, because I wasn't doing it right. It definitely helps to start builidng on some core work, as that helps with building up the overall resistance.  I know this becasue I have been reading the cycling magazines at the library.  Although I also know it because I can feel it making a difference when I ride and in my posture.

Four months and four weeks

There is a technical difficulty with my blog re commenting on my own posts and also re saving draft postings.  This means I can not currently save and review my own postings.  In checking the blog help function it seems it is also affecting others.  It is more than slightly annoying, not that I have a lot to review.  It does though provide certain limitations.

Firstly in response to A.non. re why I selected yellow for the colour of my jacket.  I selected yellow because it is like my vibrant personality and reminds me of the sunshine.  So, when car drivers see me, they can think to themselves "There goes that vibrant cyclist that reminds me of the sunshine".

Four months to Lake Taupo.  Four weeks until my niece's wedding today.

A few days ago this article was published:

http://www.stuff.co.nz/manawatu-standard/5324738/High-visibility-gear-for-cyclists-unwanted

The Coroner Gordon Matenga is currently traveling around New Zealand hearing evidence on the deaths of eight cyclists. On the first day of the inquest last week, Cycling Advocates Network Spokesman Patrick Morgan told Mr Matenga that making high-visibility gear mandatory could put people off cycling because of the perception that the gear looked dorky. To give him the benefit of the doubt I guess what Patrick Morgan was trying to highlight was that the onus of responsibility should not soley be on the cyclist which making high visibility gear mandatory would suggest.

I agree that making it mandatory, as in requiring legislation, is a step to far. That's not how you effectively bring about behaviour change. However, the supporting argument by Morgan that it would make cyclists look dorky is, in my view, disappointing for someone representing the Cycling Advocates Network.

Having read quite a few Coroner's reports as part of my job when I worked on the Adventure Tourism Review most deaths caused in the adventure and recreation sector are preventable and the risks can be mitigated. So in relation to cycling, there are three things I would focus on:
1) Cycling deaths are preventable
2) The risk of accidents and death can be mitigated
3) There is an onus of responsibility on road drivers and cyclists.

As I previously posted, I spent a lot of time before buying my yellow jacket and subsequently after observing what people were wearing re high-visibility gear. eg. When I worked in Pipitea, the construction workers on the Archives site seem to wear their visibility gear with pride, the Transmetro guards and "clippies" wear high visibility gear, and heaps of people in the 'rapa where visibility gear. I've noticed a few walkers wearing vests.

I noticed a marked difference once I started wearing the yellow jacket in drivers slowing down behind me. And that makes me feel safer. Sure it doesn't guarantee my safety, but in my view it does reduce unnecessary risk.

The roads I ride are quite different to inner city conditions. But the same principles should apply. It should be about educating cyclists and car drivers. It just seems irresponsible to introduce a "fashion statement argument. The cyclists that want to get into the fashion side can still do that, and once they reach the cafe or work, can reveal their fashion colours and gear, so I just don't get it.

As an aside, I do quite like the word "dork". Just not in the context it was used. Maybe becasue I used to use it quite a lot as a kid, and had almost eliminated it from my vocab. I think it's a word worth reclaiming, just not in the high-visibility argument.

No exercise today. I put my gear on, and then subsequently went to sleep. No current worries about getting 8 hours a sleep a day any more. Well, I didn't go to sleep straight away. It seemed at the time a better alternative than facing the wind. That of course is not on the prescription for Bootcamp stage two. I'm a bit over the Carterton staycation. Still, this is a critical time in trusting God will provide and has a plan, and will sort out the relevant project management required for my next placement. Just seems to be taking a little longer than I envisaged.

Not sure if I will get out on the bike tomorrow as my sister is coming over. Definitely will schedule some solid time on Friday and Saturday though. I have to get over to Martinborough, as the Mr Strawhouse needs a talking to - not that he will listen to me, re how you don't just go and randomly chop Olive trees down when they are a symbol of peace, love, and harmony.

Key words

I'm learning to love the library again.  It is full of books and magazines!  All sorts of books - although my focus is pretty much still on flicking through cycling related magazines and 'self help' type books.  Because I'm not a member, I just randomly select them, read abstracts and then leave them on the table where I have been sitting.  I know that's not very responsible as a reader, but it allows me to have control of an abstract activity.  I write down web references I'll follow up on or quotes or key words that I think are worth focusing on.  Today's key words from the magazines are:

• Prepare
• Perform
• Prevail
• Desire and commitment
• Outstanding clarity
• Outstanding Value 

Also caught up on some Podcasts on the train.   One of them talked about how you shouldn't minimise things in your life - true.

RPM was good.  Interesting use of a remix Seal for Track 7 instead of Track 1.  I didn't do weights today, because I had my blood test taken this morning. I think the lovely nurses at the diagnostic laboratory would probably advise against doing a RPM session a few hours afterwards.  It was only a test tube though, and as a blood donor I feel confident in being able to assess whether I'm OK to exercise.  As it happens, I think it made for a good RPM workout, or that maybe because I had a rest day yesterday due to the snow.   I plan to go for a decent road ride tomorrow, so a solid RPM session today is probably the right pace.

I'll post about the high visibility issue tomorrow, which I know is what I said yesterday, but today I have decided I will do it tomorrow!  - as some RPM instructors say, "I lied"! :-)

When you smile

Today I was going to post about the article that was in the DomPost, and the subsequent comment it has generated on high-visibility clothing.  I'll defer that post until tomorrow.

Early this morning I took a telephone call, just after 9am, from the receptionist of my dental practice.  She advised me it was necessary to cancel my appointment with the dentist on Wednesday.  I was quite relieved, as I don't want the additional expense at the moment.   Also, it's only a month or so since I had my teeth cleaned by the hygienist, and I'm fairly sure I don't have any fillings.  So, "great" I thought.  Then the receptionist said "I'm very sorry to have to say Neasa tragically passed away at the weekend".   I felt for the receptionist. I could hear her holding back the tears.  That must be an incredibly hard thing she will have to do cancelling all the appointments and advising why. I then almost burst into tears myself.  That whole thing about how death, and especially unexpected death can put life in perspective.

I used to joke that the dentist was the health professional I saw most often.   This was pre having a GP.   It wasn't just a joke it was true.  Until I got a GP a year or so ago the Dentist was the only health professional I ever saw - in a non work setting! I've been a patient of Neasa's for over 10 years.  During that time I've seen her move from being the baby Dentist in the practice to the senior Dentist.  She took out four wisdom teeth, inserted a couple of crowns, and numerous fillings.  I had bad teeth, and that was a reflection of my eating and drinking habits.  Early in the ten year period I used to go to the Dentist at least 3-4 times for cleaning because I used to get all this "build up"on the teeth. The last time I saw Neasa she said my teeth were in the best shape they had been.   I trusted Neasa with my teeth.  And trust is not an easy thing I give to health professionals.  She knew the way I liked the seat not to far back and heaps of injections.   I consider she was an excellent dentist.  Expensive! - but excellent "to be sure".

Neasa was too young to die.  She was only in her mid thirties.  While I only knew her through ten years of a lot (a lot) of dental work, I did know she was was full of life, including being "fit", a runner, and going to the gym.  She had a beautiful smile, an awesome Irish accent and sense of humour. She also played in a Irish band that I had seen a few times.  Awesome singer and musician.

Rest in peace Neasa.  It was good to have had you as my dentist and to have known you as a person. I trust you'll have found a beautiful place in heaven, where there is awesome Irish music playing, and Guinness on tap to enjoy listening to it - and you'll be dancing with the angels - to be sure.  I'll remember your beautiful smile - and to floss and brush correctly! 

Waterblaster training

In carrying out an independent evaluation of "Bootcamp", I concluded that Bootcamp so far as really only been 101 Bootcamp.  Although, that was probably a wise first step.  Time to progress to the next level.  So,yesterday I did one hour freestyle swimming, and three hours at the gym.  Today I did a 60 minute RPM session comprising at least 4 track 7s - wtf?  That's what you get when the instructor asks the room what they want played in the Hutt.  You get 4 grunty numbers.

I sort of kicked myself at RPM today.  The instructor asked the class who was doing Taupo.  Only one person out of a full class of about 30 put their hand up.   I didn't put my hand up.   I don't why.  Maybe becasue I don't really know the instructor or the class, or maybe because that's a little sign sometimes I still hesitate in backing myself. Because I am doing it, and I'm proud I'm doing it, and I'm going to do it well.  Next time an instructor asks the question, I am resolved to put my hand up.

I then walked the waterblaster from my sisters place to the Waterloo railway station (3.3km) and then home to my place.  The train guard wasn't that rapt about it, but that's what the gaurd van is for.

I also had a massive carbo load this weekend - so that probably only evens out the extra exercise.  I've almost eliminated carbs for now, but its probably better to have more carbs back in moderation than carbo load like a did this weekend.

I had this interesting conversation with an 11 yo girl on the train on the way tonight - which provided a nice interlude to carrying the waterblaster.  She wanted to sit next door to me because she doesn't like sitting alone on the train (ha! - I could have been a crazy woman!).  I had seen her at Waterloo Station with her father.  One of those quite usual scenes where the child has spent the weekend with a one parent and then returns "home" the 'rapa. The girl told me, among several other things, her father drunk too much, smoked too much and also took drugs. Having seen him briefly, I don't actually think she was making it up.  She then took out a portable DVD player (and noted her Dad tried to buy her with stuff) and we watched Charlottes web.  It was kind of nice in a random sort of way.

Oranges at half time

I prefer rugby league - it's meaner and faster than rugby (and it was afterall, Tana Umanga's home game), but in a nod to the World Cup, check out this link:

http://www.orangesathalftime.co.nz

I'm off to the Hutt to find out more about about it from the Morgue man (who is involved with the project) and Stronger Light.  It will also be nice to see their beautiful baby daughter.

Will fit the training schedule around the Hutt LM and some swimming at Huia.

The link with rugby and rugby league?  From my observations, the Hutt LM seems to attract a lot of rugby/rugby league player.  I was trying to work out if its just because its large gym so I notice it more, because there are more people and it's a volume thing.  I'm not sure.  Definitely a lot of rugby players tho.  How do I know?  - because a) they look like rugby players, and b) they often have their affiliated club name on their gear!  So, maybe the local clubs do a deal with the gym.

I guess if I got to LM Extreme more often it would be similar compared to the Terrace suits.

Oh, and finally, I need to keep my LM membership active into World Cup time (September and October) so I can enter the latest LM promo.  It's not the promo that's the incentive, just the funding (as in having regular work again - and close to the gym!) that's on my mind re that.  The promo is called Game Fit.

I saw this "career coach" (paid for by my work at the time) a few years ago (who I have a lot of respect for), and he talked a lot about the importance of being "match fit". It's a good analogy.  That's what I'm still working on - being "match fit".   

Two poets two wheels

Here is a link to an excellent article for New Zealand Poetry day:

http://laurawilliamson.co.nz/?page_id=358

I like the fact that Brian Turner discovered cycling in his mid 40s.  I can sort of relate to that, and also the enjoyment he gets from the landscape.

I managed to get to a RPM session today.  I missed the T lady, but she was replaced by the Hutt girl who as an alternative I probably prefer to the Godfather replacement when T is unable to make class.  She provided the usual banter she does.  After a week of talking to Ali (my gifted but now not so young black cat) it was a welcome relief to hear the banter.

There was this "interesting" moment at Track 7 which was "Heaven".  Hutt girl was taking the opportunity to "play" her 10,000 words line (how she has to use up her quota of 10,000 words in RPM class before she goes home to her husband) to the class, some members who she did not know - which sort of made her more "playful".  She says to the class "Try saying this tonight to your partner "I'm in heaven"".  There was a silence.  So, she asks "How many of you are married?  Put your hands up".  One person put their hand up - of about 12.  She then defaulted to what I think she thought was a safer line:  "Oh well, how many of you are in love?" Again there was a deadly silence.  I think for a moment it put Hutt Girl off guard.  Wow - a room full of what I would describe as eligible (some very eligible!) people not in love...Wow...

Checked in with the Frau Doktor today.  It seems not working corresponds with reducing my blood pressure - significantly.  Go figure. Although the reduced blood pressure probably also corresponds with the increased exercise, modified diet, and keeping off the booze. So blood pressure wise, I'm now not only in the "normal" range - but in the very normal range.  Given I still carry a lot of extra weight this is pretty impressive.

Weight wise - I reckon in the next 2 weeks I will finally crack what has been a 20 year barrier.  I need to have some blood tests re "hormone" issues.  This may also provide some light on why my weight loss is slower than what I would expect for the exercise I am currently doing and diet.

Anyway, progress is progress and its good to be making progress.

I also caught up on the cycling mags at the library.  There was a good article that said you should have three routes - fast, spin, and flat so that you work the various intensity and keep variation in your programme.  Ha!  That's exactly what I had worked out myself this week.  Sweet!

Love after Love

It's New Zealand Poetry day tomorrow.  As an entre to tomorrow's entry, here's one of my favourite non New Zealand poems.  The poet is Derek Walcott and he was introduced to me (and others) by Professor Manhire - hence the NZ connection.  It's one form of describing the "journey".  It resonates a lot for me:

Love after Love
The time will come
when, with elation,
you will greet yourself arriving
at your own door, in your own mirror,
and each will smile at the other's welcome,

and say, sit here.  Eat.
You will love again the stranger who was your self.
Give wine. Give bread. Give back your heart
to itself, to the stranger who has loved you

all your life, whom you ignored
for another, who knows you by heart.
Take down the love letters from the bookshelf,

the photographs, the desperate notes,
peel your own image from the mirror.
Sit. Feast on your life.


Hold on until tomorrow, when I will try and include a NZ bike poem subject to being able to find it on Google - I know there is one by James Brown.

West Side

I can now introduce you to the "West Side" route: This comprises riding the first half of the rubbish dump walk, and then turn right towards the Tararuas into Dalefield, along Watsons Rd, Matarawa Rd, pass Matarawa railway station and then up towards Greytown, coming out just over the road bridge from Greytown into Carterton.  It necessitates riding about 10 minutes on the motorway before going back down Dalefield Rd and back via the rubbish dump walk route.

I'm not sure what the distance would be.  I am though sure that the terrain is mostly flat, as in very long stretches of flat.  It provides a good contrast to the Gladstone/Martinborough route.  I tried to increase my speed overall for the ride.  It took me an hour and that felt like a good ride. 

Even though this route is so "close to home" even by car I don't really know the roads that well.  It makes for more variety to vary it up, and I enjoyed the ride today.  It was the combination of a new route and the stunning snow on the Tararuas.

The aim is eventually to merge the Gladstone/Martinborough/West Side routes and other routes so I can have the distance thing.  I think though its also important to work on the speed.

I forgot to wear my gloves today.  But that's better than forgetting to wear my helmet - as I did the other day (v. dangerous and stupid to ride without a helmet I know!)

  

Rubbish dump walk

Completed the "rubbish dump" walk today.  It took me 2 hours.  I noticed some lambs that were a few weeks old in one of the paddocks.  Also did a few hours gardening.

In a random factoid, the "offical" rubbish dump lady has a little toy doll of the man below: Yes, Mr T. I find it quite odd that she does as she is quite a mature lady - as in a lot older than me.  Still, I guess Mr T holds some significance for her.  I think she aspires to be like Mr T in character - as in shes quite militant about checking your green waste.  She aspires (and I think does quite well in her aspirations) to be mean like Mr T:

Fog

This is pretty much how the ride looked today - except of course from the saddle of my bike and not from a car:

Actually, the first half of the ride was much denser fog.  This is despite leaving about 10am.   It felt a little dangerous at times.  The fog combined with the Monday morning "rush" of cattle and sheep trucks combined for the necessity to be aware a little more than usual of passing traffic.

I completed the Gladstone (R) route.  That's the Gladstone route in reverse.  So, up via the Mushroom factory, down Millars road and back via the Gladstone pub, Fairmont and Gladstone vineyards. 

It took me about 2 hours.  So, the same time more or less as last time.  I can't work out whether its a steeper climb in reverse up Millars Rd or the other way.    The fog was so dense I couldn't even see the Gladstone church, and at times 15 metres or so in front of me.  Normally, the church is very visible:

I was watching the Tour de France cyclists on the news yesterday.   I noticed how they pedal fast downhill. I still hold on to the breaks.  One day I hope to have the the confidence to pedal down hill.
  

Sunday Times

Not much happening today.  Weather is OK but there is a cold nip in the air.  I walked to the "service station" to get the Sunday Star Times, and deliberating whether I'll go for another walk.  I probably wont.  So, a lazy Sunday.  I need to differentiate the days somehow.  Actually, I feel a bit "blah" which is not a space I can afford to let myself go into.

Weather forecast for tomorrow looks very good though so I'll definitely get back on the bike tomorrow.

Here's a little RPM related stuff I have been reading over the last week (and related comment) or so:

From the Sunday Times:

"Even spin classes make me awkward - the whooping, the living nightmare of being trapped in lycra, going nowhere very fast to a soundtrack of cheesy house."

I had a conversation with the wife of my sister's best man (referred to in a previous post - I'd like to give you a fancy link, but your not getting one - you are intelligent enough to remember!)  She is extremely lean and fit and an avid LM goer.  She was saying how there was no way she would go to RPM classes because she didn't think she would be able to survive.  And I'm thinking: so why do you think its OK for your husband to go to RPM classes and he would survive and you wouldn't?  So, I said that's how I used to feel, but actually I'd found it's about what you want to make of it. I didn't win the arguement: not that its about winning an arguement.  She changed the topic and I decided not to pursue it.  This frustrated me for two reasons.  Firstly, I couldn't articulate in a way that I wanted that her justification was unfounded.  Secondly, the only real way to give testimony that RPM classes work is to show that through changing your body shape etc.  Anyway, the conversation provided good motivation on that front.


From the Australian Women's Weekly at my sisters (kind of a disclaimer that you wouldn't find the Women's Weekly at my house...although it is surprisingly quite good!)

"Cycling is not only fun. but will help you build the body of your dreams.  It gives a full body workout and burns loads of kilojoules, tones your muscles and is easy on the joints.  It's great for your butt, thighs and calves, and if you include some hills you'll also get an upper body workout."

Yep, apparently so ;-)
From the cycling magazine at the central library:

"Bernard Hinault, the Badge and five time winner of the Tour de France said
"when you climb, you should be able to play the piano"
....he was alluding to two things, the first, that you should have a strong core. And the second that you should always have your hands light on the bars"

Yep, being a piano player, I like this quote.

Swimming

The owners of the straw house wanted to go to the Solway Farmers market today and also a swim at Masterton pool.  This worked out well, as it allowed me to stock up on some fresh organic produce, and the swim fitted in perfectly with my training schedule.  Also, having been to Martinborough yesterday, I was a little reluctant to ride there again this weekend.

I find swimming helps stretch my body.  Unfortunately the spa was out of action at the pool - as were the hot showers.   It was good to go for a swim though as the "work" is absorbed by the arms so it gives the legs a bit of a rest.

There is the unrelated training factor it is also quite good to get "dressed" and out of the house which is not to say I don't get dressed and out of the house when I am gardening or cycling ;-) (because you know I do, having referred to the various layers of clothing in previous posts), but there is not a lot, if any,  social interaction in those activities, other than the wave to the guy on the other side of the road.

Masterton pool is nice pool (especially when the spa and the hot showers work) -  I rate it more than the Upper Hutt pool,  and behind Huia in terms of indoor pools.  The Wainuiomata Pool will always be my favourite outdoor pool - simply because it is adjacent to the bush so makes for an awesome swim in the morning. It is also 50 metres, which means you don't need to turn so often.

I like swimming.  Partly because it carries my body weight and because I used to be confident swimmer - so the strokes and movements come back fairly easily.   I also don't mind the aimless laps.  I find it meditative in a way.  While I was swimming, I thought about how say in the next 6 months, (once I have a job and new car) I could join the masters swimming club and Masterton cycling group.  I think they are probably post Taupo Challenge aspirations - when a) I am fitter, and b) I have more confidence about joining a club.  I suppose there is that desire to "join a club" for a little more social interaction.  That in itself is a good thing.  I also thought (while I was swimming) about entering the Kapiti Womens triathalon next year.  I don't like running.  But it would provide a goal post the Taupo Challenge.

I may in the next week trial cycling to the Masterton pool, go for a swim, and then cycle home.  I want to give that a go sometime and see if its feasible.  Or, I may just build in the swims at Huia.  It will be the school holidays so quite busy, but that's OK. 

Completed 30 lengths in about 40 minutes.  I was Ok with that.  Especially given the big ride yesterday. and today was sort of a "rest" day.   I definitely could feel it was easier to swim because my arms are stronger and my fitness is improving.  Same principle as cycling applies though.  The less weight in the pool, the faster I'll go!

Gladstone x Route 77

Today I created the hybrid of the Gladstone Route with Route 77.  This comprises: riding down Somerset Rd, pass the Mushroom factory and then at the Martinborough turnoff I turn into Millars Rd, and then Masterton Rd to Martinborough, turn off at Martinbrough, pass Te Kairanga vineyards, Ata Rangi, Schubert etc, and then back via the main (back) route to Carterton.

I did this more or less non stop - with the exception of having to adjust my chain at one point, and a few "comfort" stops from drinking so much water, and stopping for about 5 minutes to eat a protein bar - which I found did energise me - after 3 hours I was beginning to feel a bit tired!

I passed (as in he was the other side of the road) the same cyclist I passed yesterday.  He is super friendly, as in he gives me a big wave and smile.  It's easy to reciprocate in kind.  I think we are both just so pleased to see someone else on the road.

I had a bit of tail wind on the way back, which was a relief actually.  My left knee feels a little sore (I think this is from the squats I did the other day as opposed to the cycling) so made sure I did a good stretch session after the ride today.

Not sure what the distance would be for this route - maybe a little less than 77km  - maybe about 70km - a reckon the hill climb down Millars Rd makes up for the distance though.

Time: 4 hours 15 minutes

The Gladstone route

I commenced the day (after stacking the firewood) by running after the man I had noticed staking out my neighbours (who are currently overseas) house.  Sometimes I have no fear.  And yet when I think about it, fear is a fundamental barrier to change not always acknowledged, so I have had some things I fear.  Show me a man (or woman) who has no fear, and then that scares me, but it is a balance between being fearless and having courage to follow though.  Anyway, before I digress, after a brief conversation with the man, and being shown his Genesis ID card, I was satisfied he was indeed the local meter reader~!  Woops~! Actually, it would be a stupid person to break in to my neighbours house (given their son in law is the local policeman), but people can be stupid. It's one of the things of being "at home".  I don't really know who the postie or the meter reader is because I never see them.  Hopefully, I will never see the meter man again!

After the adrenalin of the faux chase subsided, I decided to layer up again - this time in my cycling gear - lycra, long johns, shorts, tramping socks, and three thermal layers on top plus the yellow wind jacket.  It was a overcast, but segments of blue sky held some hope, and not raining like yesterday.

Despite the fact there are still quite a few tasks to be completed indoors, I decided to go to Martinborough and return.  I didn't make it there, so modified the route and have now got what I will call the Gladstone route.  This is the round circuit via Gladstone Vineyard, Gladstone pub, and then turn off at Millars Rd and back via Parkvale Mushroom Factory.  At the turnoff at Millars Rd it says its 18k, so I estimate the circuit would be about 40km.  It took me 2 hours and 5 minutes.  This may become my base route and I'll try and time trial it now and again.  The road up Millars Rd is quite a gradual hill climb.  I managed to get in the right gear, and I think that is working better now.

The wind was quite strong, so it felt like quite a tough ride in parts.  It was worth it though to see this beautiful double and huge rainbow.  I also saw my first lamb for the season.

Boots

Boots: an essential piece of 'clothing' for Bootcamp. To prove (to myself) I am not a 'fairweather' exerciser, and because  there is no room for slippage on HQ Bootcamp, I geared up in my tramping gear today: boots (fortunately they are well broken in and very good quality), socks, 3 layers of thermals, woollen hat and possum gloves,  and completed the "rubbish dump" walk - about 6-7km.  Was I going to be deterred by thunder and lightening - and local drug busts?  No! Why?: Because it's all about building resilience and commitment.

Also completed an hour of "core" work - sit ups etc.

I am though looking forward to next week - the long term forecast indicates it will be a return to gardening weather and allow me to return to both outdoor cycling and gardening.

Shooting Star

While I was waiting for the train this morning I saw a shooting star.  I think I've only see one or two others in my whole lifetime.  It was awesome!  That alone is a reason for getting out of bed.

I spent some time at the central library before RPM today.  Its an old haunt that I used to frequent weekly, but since I moved to the Wairarapa a lot less.  This odd thing (or at least I think it is odd) occurs.  You have to wait outside locked gates before 9.30, and then these "burly" guards let you in at exactly 9.30.  This means you get to que with an ecelective group of people: old aged pensioners, students, people who look like they live on the street, and last but not least: people who look like they are probably on parole.  It was a good chance to flick through some cycling magazines for inspiration.  Although they feature women, they tend to be very male centric - much like the coverage of the Tour de France.

From this I concluded its better to read before RPM than do a heavy weights session!  Had a close encounter with KC in the changing room.  I so try to avoid those, if possible. Simply because they are "awkward" in more ways than one.  Otherwise a good RPM session for the beginning of the week (for me re exercise), and considering I spent most of yesterday in bed. (I've resolved not to do that for the rest of the week)

Had lunch with KM.  She volunteered (with C and maybe their boys) to be part of the HQ Taupo support team.  Its locked into her I-phone.  I'm rapt about that. Sweet.  It will be cool to have KM and her whanau there.   KM's been part of the journey before I knew it was the journey so that's why I am rapt.  Plus, it will make for an awesome "after" party.  Sooooooo looking forward to that!!!

I swam for an hour or so at Extreme or whatever it is called pool in Upper Hutt.  I needed a swim and so it was good for that, but it wasn't Huia.  Spent some time in the steam room, but the contacts started to fog over!  I much prefer Huia, so will wait until the maintenance is completed there before I go for a swim again - in a week or so, so not long.

There were quite a few army guys from Trentham at the pool - I know this because there uniforms were in the pool lockers.  This seemed to coincide well with the offical commencement of my self imposed Bootcamp.  Bit of an easy day for Bootcamp today (in terms of hours, not the RPM session:-)) but will accelerate as the week goes on.  But Bootcamp has commenced~!

Indoors

The bike is in the spare room tyres pumped up to the max thanks to the new super floor pump, cleaned (when I upgrade I will not be purchasing a white bike) and ready for action.  Even though real bikers go out in the rain, the weather today has been rather "ghastly" and even though I don't have "sick days" to worry about I do have an intensive training schedule I don't want to jeopardise by catching cold - even though overall my resilience on that front is pretty high.

So, no gardening, no biking today.  In fact it was an indoors day, which means Bootcamp did not commence today.  Only serious activity today occurred around stacking the daily supply of firewood, which has become an important feature of my current daily routine.  It's fortunate I like the firewood activity thing.

Should at least mean I am fresh for RPM tomorrow.  I've decided I will go for a swim after RPM or at least after lunch rather than do the weights before RPM - that didn't really work last week.

Statistics

It's seven weeks until my niece's "wedding winter dinner".  I find this slightly stressful for a number of reasons not least the premise that "Weddings" should not be stressful.  Seven weeks to fit a "Karen Walker" outfit.  Ok, the reality is I will not be wearing a Karen Walker outfit.   My niece will.  The reality is she would be shocked if I did turn up in a designer outfit.  And I think I probably have the "crazy aunty - exempt pass" in any case.  I feel for my sister, in that she as the "mother of the bride" does not have the option - and this is creating stress for her. Even if a) I could fit a Karen Walker outfit and b) afford a Karen Walker outfit, I would not be wearing a Karen Walker outfit.  The wedding invite (received in the post today) says "join us celebrating an intimate family ceremony and winter feast".  There is just one minor no major flaw here, the fact that getting 20 people in the one room, and half have not communicated for about the last 6 years (for what I consider are valid reasons and not really appropriate to blog about),  doesn't really seem that conducive to an "intimate family feast".  Oh well, I'm sure I wont be seated next door to the ex brother in law.

Hmm, why I am I posting about this?  I guess my tolerance factor has gone down at buying in to lets pretend everything is OK on the surface and not talking about certain things (the all that glittters is not gold syndrome).  Although it may seem I'm passing judgement on family members when I write this, it's also a self imposed judgement on myself.  Acknowledging that, is about reclaiming what I value.  Understanding that is key to focusing on my wider goals and the harmony thing - being at peace with myself, my body, God and family - or maybe the order should be: being at peace with: God, myself, my body, my family.


There is also an underlying thing the unofficial "dress code" thing about the wedding highlights for me: it is actually a goal to wear a "black dress" number, and the signficance of the wedding in seven weeks, is that I know I'm not going to have achieved it by then.  It's not though about the label.  It's about wearing a black dress and looking (and feeling) "hot".  Hot: as in toned defined, arms and legs.  But in being "hot", being "cool" with who I am.

It's twenty weeks (I think) until the Taupo challenge. 

So, as of today my goal is to loose 20 kilos by then.  I can do that, and its possible.  I need to focus on the exercise and eating programme a little more intensely.  I reach these plateaus.  Its kind of like the body (and myself) saying "are you really going to do this?".  I need to "breakthough" the current plateau.  I actually feel strong mentally to do that at the moment.

"Hold on" .... Hebequeen "bootcamp" is about to commence.  It may get ugly.  There is though a necessity to get ugly in terms of adopting an aggressive training programme, to get beautiful and strong.  But in saying that, and within the context of this post, I do value outer and inner beauty, and I'm striving to achieve the best I can for both outer and inner.

Back to the Hutt

Heading to the Hutt today - again.  Even though the 'rapa is home now, it's still partly how I "centre" myself re a few things.

Short post, to keep the commitment of posting daily.

Will be back with more words tomorrow.

Jazz on the wharf

I enjoyed some very good jazz on the wharf today.  I sat for about an hour or so while a quartet of young jazz musicians comprising: a guy on snare drum with a tambourine fitted to his foot, a trombone player and two other musicians who interchanged instruments played a mix of jazz numbers.  They were good, very good.  I didn't get their card which they were offering out because I have no imminent plans to get married, or hold a cocktail party!

It was interesting watching mothers with young children park up their pushchairs, or encourage their young toddlers to put money "in the suitcase.  I think they had 100% hit rate with every mother passing stopping.  Then this family came along with what looked liked 3 toddlers under 5.  These little kids just started dancing their little hearts out like they were in paradise.  Set against the backdrop of a really nice winters day with sailboats and Sommes Island in the background it was magic. 

The connection with cycling?  Well, a couple of guys parked up their bikes and sat next to me for a few numbers.

What did I like about the music: everything: the location: the random set of people passing who kept smiling when they heard the music; the random interchanges between people listening to the music, the music itself; the PASSION.

Also, on the waterfront is a new cafe "Karaka".  It overlooks the lagoon.  It is excellent on all fronts.  In fact its ka tino pai.  Staff are great, helpful, attentive and friendly without being intrusive, coffee is excellent, food is great, location superb.  I'd read a good review, and its as good as the review.  I'll be going there again.  The really awesome thing it is Maori based, and it has so nailed "the Maori cafe" without the gimmick stuff.  11/10.  I hung out there for awhile drinking the great coffee.

Had a good workout today.  Not great, but good. I'm not sure doing an hour and a half of various stuff makes for an optimal RPM session although I'm sure the weight work is ultimately going to help shift some weight.  So the fact that I not only had sore legs from yesterday from the uber excitement of practicing the "running man" on the treadmill, my shoulders were a bit stiff this morning from doing some arm/shoulder work before class.  (I can now benchpress 40 kg - so have managed to up that from 30kg)  Although I think the main issue was that I hadn't been on a RPM bike or real bike for over a week.  I should address that with the resolve to do daily rides in the morning.

I actually think I'm cardio fitter than when I was last time going to they gym on a regular basis (over 6 years ago) - but the benchpress is marker, I still need to invest in strength/core work.  But hey, I currently have time to do that.

Todayt I recieved Tour de France cycling gloves today - an authentic little bit of France to keep me going until I get there myself - next year;-)

Tyre update

I caught the mid morning train with the "bennies" and Gold cardholders today.  I am neither, so it felt like I wasn't on the right train.  I'm hoping (and praying) my status doesn't change to be a bennie.  

First mission was to go to the bike shop.  Being in the Hutt I was right in my assessment that it would be quiet - compared to the quite busy Penny Farthing in Wellington.  The young bike boy was very patient with me and showed me how to fit the tube.  The key thing is not to seal it to the rim, but to put the tube inside the tyre, then seal the tyre, and pump it up.  Viola! Easy peasy.  Not being scientifically inclined, it still feels like magic.  I'm 80% sure now should I be stuck on a remote road I will be able to change a tyre and I'm 100% sure that the other 20% will kick in with the adrenalin of being stuck on a remote road.  So, all good, and means now that I need to build into my daily schedule a morning ride of an hour or two hours.  I think the circuit round Gladstone will probably cover it if I turn off at the crossroads that goes to Martinborough, and instead go via Gladstone return home.

I also purchased a Floor pump so hopefully I will have the pump/tyre thing sorted now.

Had a good session at the Hutt LM.  Did some bag work and that felt good.  The speedballs weren't pumped up sufficiently though!   Did some bike work followed by some time on the treadmill.  Thanks to the darkness of the cardio room in the Hutt and the Black Eyed Peas I got a bit excited and actually ran on the treadmill for 10 minutes.  My head was telling me I could do it, and my legs followed, although I think they may be bit sore tomorrow.

I was going to go for a swim at Huia, but I got there to find it was closed, so instead went and had quiche and coffee at the Dowse!  It was probably just as well actually, as I probably also walked about 10km today.

It was odd waiting for the train home at Waterloo.  I watched a few Upper Hutt trains go by before my train came.  The mass of commuter faces coming off the train like catching the mid morning train somehow seems displaced.   I sort of wanted to ask "where's the joy? - what have you done today to make yourself feel proud?"  Not that I did anything today particular to make myself feel proud.  No, that's not completely true. Every day, and days like today when the opportunity can potentially present itself to revisit "old habits" then yeah, I am proud that I don't.

Oh yes, today I decided that next year I need to go to France and ride the Tour de France route.  Not sure how that's going to happen.  But today was the day I decided it would!

Paperwork

The most frenetic activity occurred today when I turned my study (as opposed to the temporary study that has migrated by the fire) "upside down, inside out, and sideways" to quote a JD I didn't apply for, searching for a piece of paper to remind myself of some "strategic" wording for a JD I did.  That absorbed a couple of hours while I got distracted by various paperwork, and then another couple of hours translating the strategic wording to today's job application.

With rain intervening, that left only a couple of late hours in the garden.  I now have gardeners hands again instead of "office" hands.  Didn't take long. 

Re paperwork: have received the next stage of the Taupo registration to complete.  So need to nail my colours to the mast re how long it will take me to complete: a long time!  Even if (no when) I drop several kilos and increase my speed by November its still going to take a "long time".  That's ok.  So, I think I'll still need to enter the slowest category.  As long as a marshall (and a few familiar faces) are there when I cross the line :-)

Looking forward to tomorrow as I'll (hopefully) get some tyre tips and solve the mystery of how to create the "perfect fit", a swim at Huia which will allow a bit of a stretch out and some much needed cardio, and maybe some time at the Hutt LM when I can literally hit the bags there.  Not that my arms need a workout - but I know I will enjoy a bit of time with the speedball.   That should fill in the day nicely.  Sweet!  I will though need to negotiate leaving the tyre at the bike shop so I don't walk round the Hutt with a spare wheel - although for some reason I have from past experience found that for some reason if you carry a spare wheel, people suddenly feel the urge to comment and create conversations with you.

Time

Today I reminded myself of something I used to say quite often: "Timing is everything".  I think it is true.  In terms of music its about remembering that good music only works if there is consideration of the "rest notes".  In terms of RPM its about remembering you can only "smash it" if you take the time to take the "recovery" segments.  In terms of the "next opportunity" or "job" its about timing and the right connections at the right time coming together.  And in the "rest notes' periods, its about using that time to re-energise.

I also had a coversation with the Frenchman today (the Frenchman from Paris ex Fisherman who runs Cafe Mirabelle with his wife, -  the best French Cafe in Wellington/the Wairarapa).  Check this out and you will find others agreee with me:

http://www.menumania.co.nz/restaurants/cafe-mirabelle-carterton

I have a lot of time for the Frenchman because he tells a good yarn and has a good heart.  The Frenchman advised he was short of Thyme, and said if I could bring some in he would exchange it for coffee/pan au chocolait.  Luckily I have some thyme I can exchange - which will get a few coffees!  It is unfortunate that the preferred herb currency is not kaffir lime leaves, bay leaves or rosemary!

Workout today was again in the garden.  There is a reason I am not a professional gardener at my hourly rate and the progress I am making - still, I am making progress.  I also learnt a cool little move called the "running man" off the guy on Good Morning:

http://tvnz.co.nz/good-morning

and a little relevant te reo; haa ki roto, haa ki waho

Und wenn sie nicht gestorben sind, dann leben sie noch heute

"and when your not dead, then live for today".  I like that translation best.  The phrase is commonly translated in children's story books "and then they all lived happily ever after."  "It's not that I don't like the common translation, because I do.

Why I am I posting a random line from German fairytales in my blog?  Because if I remind myself of that phrase, then in my days of "freedom" it reminds me that I need to spend the days constructively, and not whittling them away. 

Another beautiful day today - even better than yesterday.  Aiming for 5-6 hours in the garden.  Have had to wait for the frost to settle first though. Not a cardio workout, but it should serve in parts as a bit of a "core" workout if I hit the "grubber" hard - to rediscover my rose beds.

Deflated

Today provided perfect riding conditions, as evidenced by the heavy frost, the hot air balloon drifting south after take off, fresh snow on the Tararuas, and beautiful warm winter sun.   The best weather conditions for at least a month or so.  

However, I didn't ride today, even though I had found my "long johns" which for me are a HQ version of "skins".  (Mental note: add skins to the "new wardrobe")  I went to change the tyre (after using the pliers unsuccessfully to adjust the valve) and struck the same problem I did last time a few months ago.  It's like doing a fricken rubics cube as far as I am concerned. The tyre goes round the wheel and then there is about 2-3 cm extra no matter how hard I try - and I have tried until I am tired!

I'll take the wheel to the bike shop on Monday or Tuesday  (probably in the Hutt, in which case I'll go to the Hutt LM and take my boxing gloves, so that will be good). I was going to go in any case to buy a proper floor pump.  Hopefully if I go at a quiet time I can ask one of the guys to show me what I am doing wrong.  Last time I took it to Penny Farthing and the guy just made it fit.  All good but not if I can't do it myself!

I find this frustrating, because I can change a tyre on a car, easily.  Also, it doesn't hold much prospect if I can't change a tyre in the confines of my own home, then I'll be completely "stuffed" on the road.

I really do need to be able to change a tyre.  I just need to persist until I can - this is where "do not let this beat you" applies :-) at least in a maintenance sense.

*Oh well*, I've missed a perfect day for riding, but on the plus side this tyre thing accelerates the fact I do need to upskill in this area a little quicker than I have, and it's a perfect day for gardening which will be very pleasant.

Let me introduce

Once I've worked out how to do a blog roll thing, I'll be adding blogs I follow to my main page.  In the meantime, I received this email in my inbox yesterday.  I did a course (ha! govt funded as part of some 'professional development') a few years ago with Dr David Keane:

www.drdavidkeane.com

Dr David Keane has developed what he calls essential things for leading a "deliberate" life.  It was good to get his email, because the timing was bang on in terms of resonating with what I have been thinking/posting about anyway. But more than that, it was good to reflect that since I did his course (about 2-3 years ago) actually my life has become deliberate, and therefore my quality of life has improved. 

I'm going to email him back, but here's his email to me (and others!) as I think it is worth sharing, especially the Huxley quote:

The Things We Believe
Dear Hebequeen, (actually Dr Keane doesn't call me Hebequeen!  but for the purposes of this blog he does!)
The beginning of July marks the mid-point in the year and a good time to review how your year is going.   As a participant in one of my workshops, you’ll know that I define what I call REAL Success as “being on the pathway to the achievement of worthwhile dreams – whatever they may be.”   This applies to both your work and outside of work life.   So, are you on your pathway to success?
Over the next couple of days, as you review your situation, you may find it helpful to bring to mind some of the beliefs you have about success.

If your experience is anything like mine, you’ll discover that some of the things we believe are simply not true.   For example, how often have you heard the saying that “practice makes perfect?”   It’s something we say to ourselves when we’re getting to grips with a new skill or when we are trying something new for the first time.  But when you really think about it, is this true?
If practice makes perfect, it means the repeated doing of it will help you to become noticeably better and better.   So far, so good.   But what if what you’re doing is already pretty good, do more repetitions really matter that much?   Would your time and efforts be better spent moving on to something else where perhaps your skills level is not that good?

The problem with the “practice makes perfect” approach to life is that it downplays the value of making mistakes and getting it wrong.   And because the phrase is silent on the value of errors, we may begin to shy away from and shun the making of mistakes.   In truth, the making of mistakes is where we really get the most value because that is where we do the most learning.

In his wonderful book, Failing Forward, John C. Maxwell has written extensively about the value of turning mistakes into stepping-stones for success.  He teaches that when we alter our beliefs and begin to become friendly with failure, we no longer fear obstacles, but see it instead as an opportunity for becoming better
.
Aldous Huxley had this to say:
     “ Experience is not what happens to you.
       Experience is what you do with what happens to you. ”

Perhaps we should really embrace the idea that “imperfect practice makes perfect!”

With Best Wishes,
David Keane

Sleep

Todays word is sleep. I slept a lot today in a nice warm bed.  Although I did get out of bed to take a call "Jacob" from Nova energy about how I could reduce my power bills.  Mental note:  Remember calls on the landline on "workdays" are usually from people like Jacob re what they can offer.  Usually I say I am busy, or already support charities of choice but today I let Jacob talk.  He had quite a good sales pitch that included something like "why wouldn't you take this deal?".  When I said I'd think about it he said "you not going to take the offer or ring me back are you?"!!!  Probably not.  It's a good question to ask re other stuff in general "Why wouldn't you....?"...

No workout report today (2 days in a row again) and not much else particularly to comment on.  Was going to be a personal "strategic planning day" re assessing a range of goals etc.  That still needs to occur, just wasn't today.

Usually I get by on about 5-6 hours a sleep.  It's never really worried me because the sleep I get is good sleep.  However, recently it has, and then I find every now and then I take a day like today. It's not enough sleep when I am exercising properly.  With the restrictions of train timetables not defining my life so much over the next few weeks, hopefully I may be able to train myself to get the extra hour or two per night again.  I still find it hard as I actually wake up early, and then every now and then need a day like today.  It seems a strange area to identify for improvement, but it is.