Went back to Wednesday RPM today. My first RPM session post Taupo. Hutt girl being HG often makes reference to Wednesday being Hump Day. It may well be for HG and some others in the room – but for me it is Mittwoch, Wednesday. Just the middle of the week!
It was a good workout. My body and mind felt like it needed to get back on the bike. I consider this to be good. This is what I do to reward my body and mind - now.
I never told HG I completed Taupo. I had intended to, but somehow, while it is important, I don’t feel I ‘need’ to tell her. I do though aspire to have better legs, which she bangs on quite a lot about. There was a guy in the room who I know did Taupo, and he looked about half a stone lighter this week. I am not – half a stone lighter post Taupo. But I am half a stone ‘stronger’ mentally, so that’s all good.
This afternoon, my colleague (the guy with 50 pairs of jeans) got a text from the Telecom Santa – hilarious! I’m on Telecom too, but never get these texts. And hello Santa is not ‘real’ eh? It made me think though, there are a couple of things, (and experiences), if did have the 0800 number to Santa that I do want, in much the same way a kid wants things for Christmas. Some don’t cost anything, except an investment of time. And what I want most probably has the inter-dependency of certain stars aligning at the right time. Might not seem to have much to do with Taupo, but it does. Even though as I posted yesterday life is pretty good. I actually want more than than pretty good! I want "exceeding expectations"!
Here's quite a cool video - even has bikes in:-)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1G4isv_Fylg&feature=player_embedded
As for tomorrow, 1 December kicks off Mission Taupo - 2012! MT2012!!
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Taupo ano
Another pic. This is me "racing" just past Turangi. Still enjoying myself. Still taking my time!
Good day today. Got to hang out with both my "watch advisors" at the same meeting. One of those days where you think "Man, do I get paid for being here?"!
Life is pretty good at the moment. A few gear changes required to reach perfection (in terms, of 'the complete life is good package'), but pretty good nevertheless.
I'll be giving some thought to my next challenges (the conversations at the tea breaks and lunch today reminded me of the importance of that), and posting those soon. But today I'm actually a little tired! - even slept on the train on the way home, which I don't usually do.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Taupo continued
Just got the 16 photos through from the official photographer. Here's one - more will follow when I work out how to purchase them. (v clever marketing how they locate you out of 9000 people! - one advantage of not being a pack rider is they get good solo shots of you - although that does include the leg shots - and my legs aren't quite hot enough (yet) to bask in the photographic glory of wanting these photos) This is me going up the first hill! There are a couple of nicer shots where I look less like the Molenberg lady popping out of her lycra, but I like this shot, because I took that hill! - and I look happy eh?
Actually, I look happy in all 16 shots. Although 3 of those 16 shots don't look like me at all - becasue they are not!
I'll probably purchase a set of photos, even the ones of me walking - because its good to have a photo record of my record breaking 2011 challenge!
A nice thing happened at work today: my colleagues had decorated my pod saying I was a Taupo winner - with pictures of bikes and stuff. Nice eh? Its kind of a thing my colleagues do. Celebrate each others achievements; birthdays, babys, winning bowling tournaments, weddings etc. It felt nice they had done that, especially given my prospects of having a baby or wedding are extremely remote! I was late too work this morning becasue the train got stuck in the tunnel. My acting manager goes "so why didn't you bike to work then?" Ha! One day man, one day :-) .
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Taupo
So, this weekend was "Taupo" weekend. How did it go? Well, I heeded the advice of TJ, CH, and Mario to "take my time and enjoy" myself. Each of these people gave me that advice! I guess beacause they "know" it's important. I may have heeded the advice a little too much re the taking my time factor. Oh, and the enjoyment factor, both on the ride, and post ride :-)
According to my bike computer, I completed the ride in under 8 hours. That does not (signficantly) correspond with my official transponder time. The reason being: time walking the hills when the computer doesn't register, and at the rest stops does not count.
I took the first hill real "easy". So much so that 'Marama of Lower Hutt' commented she was pretty impressed by me doing that when we rode a little of the way together. I took it so well, I was able to shout out to the official "hill" photographer, I hope he got my best side!. The second hill was Ok too. Howerever, Kuratau and Hatepe I had to walk most of. I guess I always knew that would be a possibility. I had my shoe covers so walked. The gradient of those hills doesn't correspond with my weight. That's why I find it easier to walk.
One thing I found encouraging about the ride was how heaps of the riders (mostly the elite riders), and mostly the guys! - in the early part of the ride, when they passed me (usually going up the hills) would call out my name and say phrases "keep going, dig it in, not long to go now, your doing really well". The first time it took me by surprise, as I thought 'whose that?' - then I realised they jsut read your name off your back bib. It's "nice" they take the time to do that, and I hope that one day when I am much leaner, fitter and faster I will remember to do that - because it counts. I got a shout out to from the Head Coach, TJ, - which was cool. Although not cool in the context that I left 3 hours before her!- and the point of the ride, at which she passed me!
The wind on the day was "crazy". It was good I had practiced the weekend before. But I would say the ride comprised about 3/4 of riding into the wind.
There's a whole lot of areas I could identify that if I can implement would reduce my time - hopefully by hours! These being:
I couldn't sustain 22 km to get within the 8 hours with the wind. I think my average time when riding was 17km. My average time when resting was 0 ;-)
Ride time aside, does if feel good? Yes, it does. Very good. Could I have done it this time last year? No. Do I want to do significantly better next year? Yes. And I know I can if I can address the dot points above that it is possible to shred hours off.
As for a few stats: There was a man who had one arm in plaster who finished ahead of me, however, the unicylists didn't. 160km on a unicycle is crazy. Especially when they have to pedal downhill as well as uphill.
So while the time I completed "Taupo" in is not flash. What is important is that it has strenghthened the resolve to set new goals and challenges, because that is where the enjoyment comes - in that sense of achievement - that yeah I can nail something if I set my mind and heart to it - I do have an underlying determination to want things that are good and healthy and bring pleasure.
It's been good so far, and as FH would say "the best is yet to come". But I think what Taupo taught me this year, while the best is still to come, I make the most of how it is today. And that's how the ride yesterday felt. That's what it means to give effect to the phrase "right here, right now".
I end with a quote from Amy Taylor (author of the Taupo book guide) from her Taupo FB page:
Yeah, I did have a great time! (not measured by the transponder) but measuring "time" in other ways, and it is part of the wider journey and outcome.
I'll post a few photos once I have them.
According to my bike computer, I completed the ride in under 8 hours. That does not (signficantly) correspond with my official transponder time. The reason being: time walking the hills when the computer doesn't register, and at the rest stops does not count.
I took the first hill real "easy". So much so that 'Marama of Lower Hutt' commented she was pretty impressed by me doing that when we rode a little of the way together. I took it so well, I was able to shout out to the official "hill" photographer, I hope he got my best side!. The second hill was Ok too. Howerever, Kuratau and Hatepe I had to walk most of. I guess I always knew that would be a possibility. I had my shoe covers so walked. The gradient of those hills doesn't correspond with my weight. That's why I find it easier to walk.
One thing I found encouraging about the ride was how heaps of the riders (mostly the elite riders), and mostly the guys! - in the early part of the ride, when they passed me (usually going up the hills) would call out my name and say phrases "keep going, dig it in, not long to go now, your doing really well". The first time it took me by surprise, as I thought 'whose that?' - then I realised they jsut read your name off your back bib. It's "nice" they take the time to do that, and I hope that one day when I am much leaner, fitter and faster I will remember to do that - because it counts. I got a shout out to from the Head Coach, TJ, - which was cool. Although not cool in the context that I left 3 hours before her!- and the point of the ride, at which she passed me!
The wind on the day was "crazy". It was good I had practiced the weekend before. But I would say the ride comprised about 3/4 of riding into the wind.
There's a whole lot of areas I could identify that if I can implement would reduce my time - hopefully by hours! These being:
- not carry so much fluids - which is related to another dotpoint below
- not carry so many bananas and food - I took too much
- not carry so much weight (on my body)
- do weight work and strengthen my core
- don't walk up the big hills
- don't have so many toilet and rest stops
- don't leave reserve in the tank - I was fresh enough at the finish, and this morning to go for a big walk around the lake! - although my knees felt like they were on fire in the car on the way back..from not having enough leg room
- get more sleep the night before - I only got about 3 hours sleep, which wasn't ideal for a 6am start
- do more organised rides before - like from Jan!
- do more 100km rides on a regular basis
I couldn't sustain 22 km to get within the 8 hours with the wind. I think my average time when riding was 17km. My average time when resting was 0 ;-)
Ride time aside, does if feel good? Yes, it does. Very good. Could I have done it this time last year? No. Do I want to do significantly better next year? Yes. And I know I can if I can address the dot points above that it is possible to shred hours off.
As for a few stats: There was a man who had one arm in plaster who finished ahead of me, however, the unicylists didn't. 160km on a unicycle is crazy. Especially when they have to pedal downhill as well as uphill.
So while the time I completed "Taupo" in is not flash. What is important is that it has strenghthened the resolve to set new goals and challenges, because that is where the enjoyment comes - in that sense of achievement - that yeah I can nail something if I set my mind and heart to it - I do have an underlying determination to want things that are good and healthy and bring pleasure.
It's been good so far, and as FH would say "the best is yet to come". But I think what Taupo taught me this year, while the best is still to come, I make the most of how it is today. And that's how the ride yesterday felt. That's what it means to give effect to the phrase "right here, right now".
I end with a quote from Amy Taylor (author of the Taupo book guide) from her Taupo FB page:
Yeah, I did have a great time! (not measured by the transponder) but measuring "time" in other ways, and it is part of the wider journey and outcome.
I'll post a few photos once I have them.
Thursday, November 24, 2011
My Last Post
So did you pick up what I missed off yesterday's shopping list? BANANAS - kiwifruit maybe the wonderfruit pre race - but on race day, BANANAS are the wonder fruit. Anyway, I have my bananas. Nice and firm, so they can survive the ride. I think I will take 3 on the ride....
I also have a 6.00 am start - but be at the start line at 530am locked in. Oh. my. goodness. It may not be about whether I can physically do the ride now, but whether I can stay awake - no, yeah, I can, I do that every day. And hey, adrenalin, oliveral tablets, arnica, kali phos, and mineral tablets....better do the job they are designed to do, as indeed I need to on the day!.
The early start, as advised by the Course Director means "my crew" will be be riding the old route - relay route - to miss the elite riders "platooning" us! Fair enough! Less hills - should be to my advantage - at least in the first leg.
This is my last post....pre Taupo ;-) There is still some way to go on the bigger jounney, so I'll be keeping this Blog going post Taupo. There's the journey stuff to blog about, but also there will be more cycling stuff. I'm going to keep cycling (indoors and outdoors) no matter what, and set new cycling goals and challenges.
But for today, the focus is Taupo. Just a day or so away. Mrs Strawhouse asked me on the train this yesterday what I'll think about for 8 hours on the road. In no particular order, here's what I'll probably think about - other than F**** that was an early start, and "wow, I'm doing Taupo":
I probably wont think about world peace:-)
OK.....for 8 hours, it is actually possible I may think of none of the above - but just about keeping my feet going, the road ahead, what speed I'm going and reaching the finish line before dark!
Be back post Taupo ;-)
To be continued....
I also have a 6.00 am start - but be at the start line at 530am locked in. Oh. my. goodness. It may not be about whether I can physically do the ride now, but whether I can stay awake - no, yeah, I can, I do that every day. And hey, adrenalin, oliveral tablets, arnica, kali phos, and mineral tablets....better do the job they are designed to do, as indeed I need to on the day!.
The early start, as advised by the Course Director means "my crew" will be be riding the old route - relay route - to miss the elite riders "platooning" us! Fair enough! Less hills - should be to my advantage - at least in the first leg.
This is my last post....pre Taupo ;-) There is still some way to go on the bigger jounney, so I'll be keeping this Blog going post Taupo. There's the journey stuff to blog about, but also there will be more cycling stuff. I'm going to keep cycling (indoors and outdoors) no matter what, and set new cycling goals and challenges.
But for today, the focus is Taupo. Just a day or so away. Mrs Strawhouse asked me on the train this yesterday what I'll think about for 8 hours on the road. In no particular order, here's what I'll probably think about - other than F**** that was an early start, and "wow, I'm doing Taupo":
- My favourite Rocky quote; re its not how many times you can get hit, but taking the hits, and keep moving forward
- The video clip where its about inch by inch
- Tracks and lines from various music on my i-pod
- How good it feels to be "doing Taupo"
- How "fresh" I feel after 3 days "rest"
- How easy it is because I have trained and prepared
- How easy the hills are and awesome I find I don't need to use the covers Mario gave me
- How awesome it is I'm riding so fast
- Various RPM instructors and their favourite lines, like "do not let this beat you..we've got this...or AK's line: faster faster...)
- How the Head Coach (TJ) said a year or so ago, she'd support me in the journey - and she has been true to her word, and how that has helped 'make a difference' ;-) in believing in myself - and others
- How CH has supported me with good pratical advice, positive encouragementy, and reminded me of the importance of pursuing adventure
- How FH has taught me, yeah it's OK to have a GP;-) and other stuff - and yeah, faith counts in healing
- How cool it is I am not alone on the road or the journey
- How blessed I feel to have good friends in my life who will be waiting for me at the finish line
- How blessed I feel to have people in my life who wont be at the finish line but have supported me by believing in me
- How blessed I feel to have a family I love and they love me, even though we don't really say it as often as we should, and even though life is not always sunshine and roses for us
- How I love my bike, I love cycling and the joy it brings
- About how awesome it is going to be to have a shared dinner (MEAT - and hopefully CREAM!), a few drinks, fireworks, and heaps of laughs (unless I go to sleep - nah, that's not going to happen!)
- How my roof and house needs painting
- How I have a couple of house boards that need repair
- How I have peas, and more potatoes to plant
- How I hope my strawberry plants will be prolific
- Will I ever get the perfect lawn that I want for the small lawn patch I now have
- Could I build a fence across my driveway
- Do I want a fence across my driveway because its time to get a dog - dog, lover, or maybe both?
- Will I get a new (secondhand) car before Christmas
- Should I start APs to start paying my tax bill off now, or get a new (secondhand car) - the car will win
- How awesome it is going to be to have a car again - AWESOME
- About getting a new PASSPORT issued, so I can travel in 2012
- I'll remember my Mum and Dad, and the gifts I inherited from each of them: music from my Mum and how hooking into the rythym is important in all aspects of life; a love of the land and colour from my Dad
- How people we love can die of cancer, and it can hurt, and that's why when we live, we have to live life as best we can - we really do have to LIVESTRONG
- How the quality of my life can be determined by the choices I make
- I'll think about my beautiful black cat Ali and how gifted and loving he is
- I'll think about the importance of love - in life, and for life, and for sharing love, and I how I feel strong enough to love, again...
- What New Zealand would look like if every voter decided to vote Green while I was cycling around Taupo :-)
- How beautiful the landscape of Taupo is, even the hills
- How awesome it is to be meeting new people
- Whether I'll hold off for the next toilet stop or just go on the side of the road - knowing I'm unlikely to see the people passing me again
- How this may be my slowest Taupo time, but in some ways it maybe my sweetest Taupo time becasue it is my first time, so I want to savour every minute, every interaction, every "switchback", every climb, every downhill, and best of all when I see my name on the screen at the finishline - that will be AWESOME (I'e seen they do it on Youtube!)
- How blessed I feel to have a job where the people are positive and supportive, there is good energy and a good vibe
- How I'm moving forward inch by inch
- Should I get a dishwasher?
- Christmas in Auckland - it will be a first, and different
- The fireworks
- How awesome there is no wind, at least not like the last weekend when the wind was crazy
- How awesome it is ride a new route with thousands of other people, and its an amazing way to spend a November Saturday
I probably wont think about world peace:-)
OK.....for 8 hours, it is actually possible I may think of none of the above - but just about keeping my feet going, the road ahead, what speed I'm going and reaching the finish line before dark!
Be back post Taupo ;-)
To be continued....
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Shopping list
Purchased for the Taupo Food and Beverage kit:
On a more serious note (which is not to say that I am not serious about the above itemised shopping becasue I am very serious about this particular shopping!) - but you know: I listened to the latest podcast from Bevan James Eyles earlier this week.
http://www.bevanjameseyles.com/
It resonated quite a lot. He uses this quite good case study that I could relate to a lot. So, while the case study doesn't relate directly to my own personal history, I felt there were parallels in that I know in some ways, I've found it a stumbling block to progess, that in theory and from "work experience" I know a lot of the answers, but it doesn't always make it easier. In some ways, I've let it be a hurdle to progress.
Also, the easy trap of making various comparisons, and how that can defeat progress. So, it was good to hear his thoughts on the subject. Very good. Because in many ways, I had reached that place where Taupo this year is about completion and where i am right here and now in terms of the journey, rather than where I have been, and where I am going.
Still waiting to hear from the Director re the 6.am start. I so want that 6am start!! Who would have thought?
Tomorrow is VOTEing day and final pre-Planning with KM - to make sure all the relevant shopping has been completed. As far as I'm concerned, it has, although it is possible I may have ommitted something important.
- 4 bottles of Deutz (being on special this week at New World) to add to the 2 bottles of Moet - I think that completes my contribution to the beverage "pool", although I'm trusting it will be supplemented with some "good" Martinborough chardonnay.
- 4 bottles of blue Powerade (also on special at New World) - for the pre/and ride - will tank up my Camelback with it, and have water on the bike
- Packet of disprins - maybe, for Sunday
- Chapstick - for the ride
- Oliviral tablets - pre Saturday
- Vitamin tablets - pre Saturday
- Sunscreen - although I am working on a Summer tan, on the basis it may get brown before I get to 65kg!
- Kumara chips
- Chocolate
- Cheese
- Coffee
- Salami/MEAT
On a more serious note (which is not to say that I am not serious about the above itemised shopping becasue I am very serious about this particular shopping!) - but you know: I listened to the latest podcast from Bevan James Eyles earlier this week.
http://www.bevanjameseyles.com/
It resonated quite a lot. He uses this quite good case study that I could relate to a lot. So, while the case study doesn't relate directly to my own personal history, I felt there were parallels in that I know in some ways, I've found it a stumbling block to progess, that in theory and from "work experience" I know a lot of the answers, but it doesn't always make it easier. In some ways, I've let it be a hurdle to progress.
Also, the easy trap of making various comparisons, and how that can defeat progress. So, it was good to hear his thoughts on the subject. Very good. Because in many ways, I had reached that place where Taupo this year is about completion and where i am right here and now in terms of the journey, rather than where I have been, and where I am going.
Still waiting to hear from the Director re the 6.am start. I so want that 6am start!! Who would have thought?
Tomorrow is VOTEing day and final pre-Planning with KM - to make sure all the relevant shopping has been completed. As far as I'm concerned, it has, although it is possible I may have ommitted something important.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
6am (hopefully!)
This morning when I checked my gmail, I saw there was correspondence (well, an email!) from the Convenor of the Taupo Challenge. The organisers of Taupo have “invented” a new category – the 6am start for people that have entered the 8 + hours catergory. So, I’m trying to get into that!!!
Not that I think I will take me over 8 hours - but it could take me over 8 hours. I figure if I can start at 6am – it will help me cope with the ‘crowds’ – and be with people on the road – which is quite a big thing. Also, the “slowbies” will be starting as the pack then so it may help that we have each for “support”/commradship for our long distance/day ahead. Also, I am used to getting up at that time, so the early start is not a deterrent. Also, its how I coped with the longest day on Milford Track. I just set off an hour or so earlier than the main group. I didn't write it all that down in the email :-) - Just my bib number and registration number as requested, and a "false positive" on an estimated time - just hoping I get in the group of 80. The Convenor is restricting the numbers that can enter this catergory to 80 people. So, I've written back and said I think it will take me up to 10 hours. Hopefully, a little white lie, all in the fulfillment of the bigger goal.
Check the guy out in the paper today doing it for basically 3 days non stop –wow~! That will be me next year!!!
Back to this year - *Fingers crossed* I get into that pack - Reminds me of when I first “enrolled” for rpm classes at Corrections, and it was oversubscribed! - and for some unexplainable reason I was determined I wanted to do the classes...
Today’s workout: Tuesday session with the PT. He sneaked in a few new tracks for his own practice. I caught up with the Body Balance Lady, who reminded me her seat is 19 – and on Tuesdays my seat is 20! The PT asked at the end of the session who was doing Taupo. I was the only one on the room to say yes. The PT is man who it is fair to say most of the time is "hard to read". Not today though when I said yes, to his question. He almost fell off his bike seat he looked that surprised - as did the BBL next to me. I wanted to say: and "yeah man,: I’m doing all 156km of it and not just the relay". The BBL recovered a little more quickly from the news and offered to give me extra stretching tips! Nice!
That could be my new aim in life – to shock people – in a nice surprising way.
In terms of the actual workout today, it felt "easy". I hope that augers well for Taupo. I think it felt easier because of the long rides from the weekend. I tried to go harder on the hill numbers. So, even though it felt easy, it was a good workout.
I think I'll make today's session the last rpm session for the week. I like the Wednesday sessions, but I'd rather return to Hutt girls class with the news I've completed Taupo, and then she too can fall off her bike seat;-). Because when she asks in class, whose doing Taupo I never say yes. Not really sure why that is. But there you go.
Also, I think one day on, one day off is the way to go for this week. I'll aim for a very light real road ride on Friday morning, I think.
Not that I think I will take me over 8 hours - but it could take me over 8 hours. I figure if I can start at 6am – it will help me cope with the ‘crowds’ – and be with people on the road – which is quite a big thing. Also, the “slowbies” will be starting as the pack then so it may help that we have each for “support”/commradship for our long distance/day ahead. Also, I am used to getting up at that time, so the early start is not a deterrent. Also, its how I coped with the longest day on Milford Track. I just set off an hour or so earlier than the main group. I didn't write it all that down in the email :-) - Just my bib number and registration number as requested, and a "false positive" on an estimated time - just hoping I get in the group of 80. The Convenor is restricting the numbers that can enter this catergory to 80 people. So, I've written back and said I think it will take me up to 10 hours. Hopefully, a little white lie, all in the fulfillment of the bigger goal.
Check the guy out in the paper today doing it for basically 3 days non stop –wow~! That will be me next year!!!
Back to this year - *Fingers crossed* I get into that pack - Reminds me of when I first “enrolled” for rpm classes at Corrections, and it was oversubscribed! - and for some unexplainable reason I was determined I wanted to do the classes...
Today’s workout: Tuesday session with the PT. He sneaked in a few new tracks for his own practice. I caught up with the Body Balance Lady, who reminded me her seat is 19 – and on Tuesdays my seat is 20! The PT asked at the end of the session who was doing Taupo. I was the only one on the room to say yes. The PT is man who it is fair to say most of the time is "hard to read". Not today though when I said yes, to his question. He almost fell off his bike seat he looked that surprised - as did the BBL next to me. I wanted to say: and "yeah man,: I’m doing all 156km of it and not just the relay". The BBL recovered a little more quickly from the news and offered to give me extra stretching tips! Nice!
That could be my new aim in life – to shock people – in a nice surprising way.
In terms of the actual workout today, it felt "easy". I hope that augers well for Taupo. I think it felt easier because of the long rides from the weekend. I tried to go harder on the hill numbers. So, even though it felt easy, it was a good workout.
I think I'll make today's session the last rpm session for the week. I like the Wednesday sessions, but I'd rather return to Hutt girls class with the news I've completed Taupo, and then she too can fall off her bike seat;-). Because when she asks in class, whose doing Taupo I never say yes. Not really sure why that is. But there you go.
Also, I think one day on, one day off is the way to go for this week. I'll aim for a very light real road ride on Friday morning, I think.
Monday, November 21, 2011
Consumption
On Saturday I learned (or remembered) drinking coffee pre riding does not work for me.
Today I learnt drinking "Weleda Sports Massage Oil" is not a good idea either. Not. a. good. idea. Let me note that the bottle that the Weleda Sports Massage comes in is quite similar to the bottle the Weleda Arnica 30 c comes in. Especially at 5.30am the morning. I've decided to take Arnica drops pre Taupo sort of as pre-emptive strike to stop getting stressed. Not that I am stressed,well, not when I take the Arnica drops...I just figure taking it probably helps the body recover, just gives that pre-week boost in as much as 15 drops of Arnica 3x daily can...it can, actually.
I had inadevertently placed the two bottles together on the kitchen bench. Don't ask me why I didn't realise it was oil drops going into the water, rather than arnica drops. I did it quickly, as I did I quickly consume half a glass of water. Yep, I'm pretty good at drinking water. Very good in fact. So, down the the water went - with the massage oil, at 5.30 am in the morning. Yep, that is one way to wake up fairly quickly!
According to the label on the massage oil it says: "There is no concern if inadvertently tasted, but if accidently swallowed, contact your doctor or the Poison Centre immediately". Of course, I didn't becasue I don't tend to follow instructions. Except in rpm :-)
As for what I consumed at 5.30am: The massage oil contains: almond oil, turpentine oil, clove bud, cajuput oil, eculuptyus oil, lavender oil, menthol, shea butter, arnica montana, dry flowers, camphor, Peppermint oil, cassia oil, and beeswax.
It's good massage oil - but yeah, I wouldn't reccommend drinking it - and I can still taste the remnants of it now - it's like sticking 30% alcohol down your throat - I think :-) Yep, that's one way to "strip" your throat out.
Today I learnt drinking "Weleda Sports Massage Oil" is not a good idea either. Not. a. good. idea. Let me note that the bottle that the Weleda Sports Massage comes in is quite similar to the bottle the Weleda Arnica 30 c comes in. Especially at 5.30am the morning. I've decided to take Arnica drops pre Taupo sort of as pre-emptive strike to stop getting stressed. Not that I am stressed,well, not when I take the Arnica drops...I just figure taking it probably helps the body recover, just gives that pre-week boost in as much as 15 drops of Arnica 3x daily can...it can, actually.
I had inadevertently placed the two bottles together on the kitchen bench. Don't ask me why I didn't realise it was oil drops going into the water, rather than arnica drops. I did it quickly, as I did I quickly consume half a glass of water. Yep, I'm pretty good at drinking water. Very good in fact. So, down the the water went - with the massage oil, at 5.30 am in the morning. Yep, that is one way to wake up fairly quickly!
According to the label on the massage oil it says: "There is no concern if inadvertently tasted, but if accidently swallowed, contact your doctor or the Poison Centre immediately". Of course, I didn't becasue I don't tend to follow instructions. Except in rpm :-)
As for what I consumed at 5.30am: The massage oil contains: almond oil, turpentine oil, clove bud, cajuput oil, eculuptyus oil, lavender oil, menthol, shea butter, arnica montana, dry flowers, camphor, Peppermint oil, cassia oil, and beeswax.
It's good massage oil - but yeah, I wouldn't reccommend drinking it - and I can still taste the remnants of it now - it's like sticking 30% alcohol down your throat - I think :-) Yep, that's one way to "strip" your throat out.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Tin Hut and sleep
Another windy day. I might seem a bit precoccupied with the wind for a "Wellingtonian" - but the current level of wind in the 'rapa is not really that typical.
After hanging out my washing (now, if you got the cheetah catergory in the "Sheep Dash") you'll be thinking: didn't she hang out the washing yesterday ? - Korrect! - so, after hanging out the "Sunday washing"...) I headed up to Turanikau (sp - I should be able to spell that but can't right now!)
I didn't powerade up my liquids, beause I was going to the Tin Hut for lunch, so don't want to overdose on carbs and calories unnecessarily. My thighs were a bit sore from yesterday and riding into the wind for a lot of the time. The riding into the wind actaully meant I was riding at the same speed on occassions I go up hills. Also when I felt my body wieght shifting and find it hard to stay upright on the bike because of the wind, I know its a big wind.
I didn't wear the heart monitor today. Just focussed on getting there, and getting across the motorway/and intersections at the relevant points.
Route: Went up via the Westside route, so came out at the Greytown bridge, over the Greytown bridge, and then took a left to avoid all the Sunday people (and traffic in Greytown) then the last 8km or so via the motorway. (26Km)
Return: Came back via Bidwills Crossing, at the turnoff to Martinborough, and then West side of Greytown, and then Westside route home. (41km)
There is a little hill just as you get to Bidwills crossing - I can remember riding it when I lived in Martinborough. I used to find it hard then. I was quite rapt that today I was able to do it with relative ease. Well, relative to my own progress!
On the way there managed to get an average speed of 23.1 - against the wind, so quite happy with that
as it was an increase on yesterday.
On the way home the speed was 21.7 - again riding against the wind for a lot of that time - how does that work?!!
Will need to read the instruction book re the rpm function as it seems to be coming on intermitently. Still, my main focus for Taupo is the speed and distance for each leg - which I still need to work out.
Um, I was the only one in cycling gear at the Tin Hutt - I had given a top and skirt to Mrs Strawhouse on Friday so I could get changed *oh well* ....It worries me less than it used to, and it is a country pub!
This weekend completes my last "big" training rides. Looking forward to a rest day tomorrow - for sure. Then will need to work out a few light - very light rides over the next week. Something I've noticed during a RPM week is that I actually feel good about the second or third session (which maybe one reason I seem to enjoy the Tuesday rpm sessions more than the Friday ones:-)). So, in terms of
"recovery" I'm really not sure what will be best for my body.
As for the washing: Sunday washing usually comprises my bed linen - as opposed to Saturday washing which now comprises a week of socks/gym gear, and work clothes. This gives me an opportunity to mention my sleeping patterns! I've never had trouble sleeping. I can sleep forever, sleep like a rock, and I can also sleep anywhere. Give me a backpack, I'll throw it down on the grass in a park and go to sleep! anywhere - all over the world! I can still do that! Without getting too Fruedian about it all, I can sleep like a log, but I generally only remember "dreams" about once of twice a year. I've noticed in the last week or so though, that I'm remembering dreams nearly daily. They are not particualry exciting dreams (yet!) but I am remembering them. I note this becasue it indicates my sleeping patterns are changing. Might just be pre Taupo or something, but I actually do think it is related to my the changed habits I am embedding.
One of my "favourites" - and hey, the video has a bike in it:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J4_wXPZ1Bnk&feature=related
Quite like the version they play with Stevie Nicks - that's the best version - but this version is still good.
After hanging out my washing (now, if you got the cheetah catergory in the "Sheep Dash") you'll be thinking: didn't she hang out the washing yesterday ? - Korrect! - so, after hanging out the "Sunday washing"...) I headed up to Turanikau (sp - I should be able to spell that but can't right now!)
I didn't powerade up my liquids, beause I was going to the Tin Hut for lunch, so don't want to overdose on carbs and calories unnecessarily. My thighs were a bit sore from yesterday and riding into the wind for a lot of the time. The riding into the wind actaully meant I was riding at the same speed on occassions I go up hills. Also when I felt my body wieght shifting and find it hard to stay upright on the bike because of the wind, I know its a big wind.
I didn't wear the heart monitor today. Just focussed on getting there, and getting across the motorway/and intersections at the relevant points.
Route: Went up via the Westside route, so came out at the Greytown bridge, over the Greytown bridge, and then took a left to avoid all the Sunday people (and traffic in Greytown) then the last 8km or so via the motorway. (26Km)
Return: Came back via Bidwills Crossing, at the turnoff to Martinborough, and then West side of Greytown, and then Westside route home. (41km)
There is a little hill just as you get to Bidwills crossing - I can remember riding it when I lived in Martinborough. I used to find it hard then. I was quite rapt that today I was able to do it with relative ease. Well, relative to my own progress!
On the way there managed to get an average speed of 23.1 - against the wind, so quite happy with that
as it was an increase on yesterday.
On the way home the speed was 21.7 - again riding against the wind for a lot of that time - how does that work?!!
Will need to read the instruction book re the rpm function as it seems to be coming on intermitently. Still, my main focus for Taupo is the speed and distance for each leg - which I still need to work out.
Um, I was the only one in cycling gear at the Tin Hutt - I had given a top and skirt to Mrs Strawhouse on Friday so I could get changed *oh well* ....It worries me less than it used to, and it is a country pub!
This weekend completes my last "big" training rides. Looking forward to a rest day tomorrow - for sure. Then will need to work out a few light - very light rides over the next week. Something I've noticed during a RPM week is that I actually feel good about the second or third session (which maybe one reason I seem to enjoy the Tuesday rpm sessions more than the Friday ones:-)). So, in terms of
"recovery" I'm really not sure what will be best for my body.
As for the washing: Sunday washing usually comprises my bed linen - as opposed to Saturday washing which now comprises a week of socks/gym gear, and work clothes. This gives me an opportunity to mention my sleeping patterns! I've never had trouble sleeping. I can sleep forever, sleep like a rock, and I can also sleep anywhere. Give me a backpack, I'll throw it down on the grass in a park and go to sleep! anywhere - all over the world! I can still do that! Without getting too Fruedian about it all, I can sleep like a log, but I generally only remember "dreams" about once of twice a year. I've noticed in the last week or so though, that I'm remembering dreams nearly daily. They are not particualry exciting dreams (yet!) but I am remembering them. I note this becasue it indicates my sleeping patterns are changing. Might just be pre Taupo or something, but I actually do think it is related to my the changed habits I am embedding.
One of my "favourites" - and hey, the video has a bike in it:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J4_wXPZ1Bnk&feature=related
Quite like the version they play with Stevie Nicks - that's the best version - but this version is still good.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Against the wind
I was on track to head off on my Saturday ride circa 8.15amish, had breakfast (Special K) and a little mixed fruit, 2 cups of strong black coffee, hung out the washing. "It was a beautiful day". Then I looked south. Clouds. Big grey clouds. Where did they come from? I was debating (with myself) whether I might need to actually wear my jacket. I haven't worn it for several rides now. Then RAIN. Lots of it - from the CLOUDS. What to do when it rains? Wait. Until the rain STOPS.
Yes, you can ride in the rain. I don't really mind riding in the rain. But I'm also really consious I don't want to get a "cold" pre Taupo. On the whole I have a pretty robust immune system, but heaps of people at work at the moment have "colds", so I am a little angst about getting a cold. Yeah, people contact of course increases the risk of "catching a cold" - which is one reason, I'm generally quite immune - ha~!
So, headed off about 9.30am once it looked the rain had done its thing - rain really only does one thing- RAIN. There is currently more wind about than "normal". So, the wind determined my initial direction. I find it easier if I start off riding into the wind, as it serves as pcyhological incentive that "later" at some point, the wind will be on my back.
Statistics
Distance: 122.3km
Average RPM: 66
Calories burned: 1886
Heart rate: At one point it got up to 145 - but for most of the trip was arounrd 120
Average speed 21.2km
Time: 5.46min
Drank: 3 litres of Powerade - 2 from my Camelback and one on the bike
Ate: 1 banana, 2 muesli bars - one which I will buy again for Taupo, the other I wont. I think tho the one sqaure meals give that total sugar fix!
A little (just a little further) than last weeks ride. But no real hills. But no big hour coffee stop in between. The only rest breaks were those of necessity - which was more than I would have liked.
The rpm measure seemed to disappear for some of the ride, which was annoying, but came up on the average at the end. In the first half of the ride, I did manager for parts to increase it for periods of 80-90, but it dropped again in the second half, and then I couldn't see what it was.
It was a mostly flat ride. I started and ended with the Westside route re Matarawa/back of Greytown, headed up to Masterton, the back route up to Matawhiri vineyard, and the back via Masterton airport/Gladstone. I got a bit lost in Masterton until I found the airport. I also spent about 5 mins under the eaves of the Moore Wilson there while it rained.
There was an incredibly strong wind today, which I would have spent half the trip riding into. I figure that was as good as riding into the hills. It doesn't make for particularly enjoyable riding ;-)
I needed to go the toilet a lot today. I thought I had solved that problem. I'm not sure if it was the volume of drink, adding Powerade in, or the wind. I think the wind and drinking coffee before the ride are factors. I'm a big coffee drinker, but I don't think it works pre rides for me. CH said she finds it works, but she only has 2 or say cups a week - whereas I have up to 4-5 a day! So, I think in my case, I'll wont drink coffee. I think its better to say have an extra banana. (for me).
There better be 40km left in the "engine" for tomorrow - to get to the Tin Hut and back. It's a flat route though. I may relent though and ride part of the distance on the motorway, which I don't really enjoy to keep the distance to a minimum.
I got a bit angry just in the last 1km or so becasue these runners were running side by side on the road, and didn't go single file when they saw me. Dangerous! I didn't say anything to them, but it was arrogant and stupid because to pass them I had to go right in the middle of the road.
The other thing today it was so fricken windy, I stopped wearing my music - and also had to take my sunglasses off.
.....and just to end:
I love sheep. Not sure why, I just do. I also love seeing all the calves at this time year cuddling up to each other, and sleeping together.
Here's a sheep game - instead of a music link. Try it!:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/science/humanbody/sleep/sheep
According to this game, I am an "ambling amadillo". I tried it a couple of times (ok three times!), to see if I could improve my "rating" to a "turbo charged cheetah". But nope, that's what I am - an Ambling amadillo. At least according to the "Sheep Dash". An Ambling Amadillo that is going to ride 156km next Saturday, within 8 hours!
The "Sheep Dash" says I need to "improve"!
As for tomorrow, I just have to get to the Tin Hut and back! - depending on the wind, I may try for a little further. I'll see how I feel tomorrow.
Yes, you can ride in the rain. I don't really mind riding in the rain. But I'm also really consious I don't want to get a "cold" pre Taupo. On the whole I have a pretty robust immune system, but heaps of people at work at the moment have "colds", so I am a little angst about getting a cold. Yeah, people contact of course increases the risk of "catching a cold" - which is one reason, I'm generally quite immune - ha~!
So, headed off about 9.30am once it looked the rain had done its thing - rain really only does one thing- RAIN. There is currently more wind about than "normal". So, the wind determined my initial direction. I find it easier if I start off riding into the wind, as it serves as pcyhological incentive that "later" at some point, the wind will be on my back.
Statistics
Distance: 122.3km
Average RPM: 66
Calories burned: 1886
Heart rate: At one point it got up to 145 - but for most of the trip was arounrd 120
Average speed 21.2km
Time: 5.46min
Drank: 3 litres of Powerade - 2 from my Camelback and one on the bike
Ate: 1 banana, 2 muesli bars - one which I will buy again for Taupo, the other I wont. I think tho the one sqaure meals give that total sugar fix!
A little (just a little further) than last weeks ride. But no real hills. But no big hour coffee stop in between. The only rest breaks were those of necessity - which was more than I would have liked.
The rpm measure seemed to disappear for some of the ride, which was annoying, but came up on the average at the end. In the first half of the ride, I did manager for parts to increase it for periods of 80-90, but it dropped again in the second half, and then I couldn't see what it was.
It was a mostly flat ride. I started and ended with the Westside route re Matarawa/back of Greytown, headed up to Masterton, the back route up to Matawhiri vineyard, and the back via Masterton airport/Gladstone. I got a bit lost in Masterton until I found the airport. I also spent about 5 mins under the eaves of the Moore Wilson there while it rained.
There was an incredibly strong wind today, which I would have spent half the trip riding into. I figure that was as good as riding into the hills. It doesn't make for particularly enjoyable riding ;-)
I needed to go the toilet a lot today. I thought I had solved that problem. I'm not sure if it was the volume of drink, adding Powerade in, or the wind. I think the wind and drinking coffee before the ride are factors. I'm a big coffee drinker, but I don't think it works pre rides for me. CH said she finds it works, but she only has 2 or say cups a week - whereas I have up to 4-5 a day! So, I think in my case, I'll wont drink coffee. I think its better to say have an extra banana. (for me).
There better be 40km left in the "engine" for tomorrow - to get to the Tin Hut and back. It's a flat route though. I may relent though and ride part of the distance on the motorway, which I don't really enjoy to keep the distance to a minimum.
I got a bit angry just in the last 1km or so becasue these runners were running side by side on the road, and didn't go single file when they saw me. Dangerous! I didn't say anything to them, but it was arrogant and stupid because to pass them I had to go right in the middle of the road.
The other thing today it was so fricken windy, I stopped wearing my music - and also had to take my sunglasses off.
.....and just to end:
I love sheep. Not sure why, I just do. I also love seeing all the calves at this time year cuddling up to each other, and sleeping together.
Here's a sheep game - instead of a music link. Try it!:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/science/humanbody/sleep/sheep
According to this game, I am an "ambling amadillo". I tried it a couple of times (ok three times!), to see if I could improve my "rating" to a "turbo charged cheetah". But nope, that's what I am - an Ambling amadillo. At least according to the "Sheep Dash". An Ambling Amadillo that is going to ride 156km next Saturday, within 8 hours!
The "Sheep Dash" says I need to "improve"!
As for tomorrow, I just have to get to the Tin Hut and back! - depending on the wind, I may try for a little further. I'll see how I feel tomorrow.
Friday, November 18, 2011
One week, seven days
One week seven days to go...until Taupo!
Next Friday I'll be in Taupo. Woop Woop! Can you feel the excitement building. The suppressed excitement is now bubbling to the surface....
As for this Friday, today, a few random things:
1. I observed a guy on a bike (a very nice bike) at an inner city section, balance on his cleats, while the lights were red, until they turned green. I'd like to be able to do that!- one day. Have that amount of balance and control over both the body and the bike - fricken awesome.
2. Purchased 2 bottles of Moet from Thorndon New World as part of the "food/beverage kit" for post Taupo. Note: New World currently has Moet on special.
3. Purchased a new set of headphones at Dick Smith. I was feeling stink that this is my fourth pair in months, when I met a lady who catches the same train I do, buying headphones. She confessed she too eats headphones up. What's with that? My first pair got consumed in the spokes of my bike, the second pair only has volume in one ear, the third pair are a bit big in the ear. Lets hope this last pair is "just right". I see in the Taupo info brochure, your not supposed to ride with headphones. I think at hour 6 or 7, or maybe before I'll need some music. I can understand the rule when you are riding in a pack but man, when you are out in the middle of nowwhere, I think a little music is going to be a big help. I intend to carry with music with me on the day, and will assess on the day.
4. Discovered you can buy Powerade in a big tub - so did when I was Thorndon New World. I'll try putting this in my Camelback and see how it goes. Not the whole tub - in my Camelback tomorrow, but the recommended "dose" per litre :-)
5. Purchased a new bracelet from Chris Cole the jeweller. It will stay on my left wrist until I get my new watch. - which is when I will be 65kg. So, you'll be seeing it on my left wrist for some time, until it transfers to the right wrist. The catch is made of the combined wedding rings of my Mum and Dad. It's quite nice to know that part rests on my pulse. And the bracelet is a rope design. So, it's to remind me its about pulling the threads together...it was orignially going to be a different design. But that's the design I've got :-)
6. Went to RPM. It was OK, until the T lady shouted at me in track seven to go faster :-( (no, just joking - really!) I actually couldn't work out how hard to go in class - whether to aim for "hill work" or "speed work", mindful I want to do a long ride tomorrow, and also a short ride on Sunday.
7. Mrs Strawhouse has invited me to the Tin Hutt on Sunday for her birthday with a few others, but advised me I have to ride there and back (about 20km each way - or maybe a little less). So, this means revising my training rides for the weekend. I'm still aiming to do a big ride tomorrow tho. At least over 100km. However, I definitely wont be heading out to the windmills!
Next Friday I'll be in Taupo. Woop Woop! Can you feel the excitement building. The suppressed excitement is now bubbling to the surface....
As for this Friday, today, a few random things:
1. I observed a guy on a bike (a very nice bike) at an inner city section, balance on his cleats, while the lights were red, until they turned green. I'd like to be able to do that!- one day. Have that amount of balance and control over both the body and the bike - fricken awesome.
2. Purchased 2 bottles of Moet from Thorndon New World as part of the "food/beverage kit" for post Taupo. Note: New World currently has Moet on special.
3. Purchased a new set of headphones at Dick Smith. I was feeling stink that this is my fourth pair in months, when I met a lady who catches the same train I do, buying headphones. She confessed she too eats headphones up. What's with that? My first pair got consumed in the spokes of my bike, the second pair only has volume in one ear, the third pair are a bit big in the ear. Lets hope this last pair is "just right". I see in the Taupo info brochure, your not supposed to ride with headphones. I think at hour 6 or 7, or maybe before I'll need some music. I can understand the rule when you are riding in a pack but man, when you are out in the middle of nowwhere, I think a little music is going to be a big help. I intend to carry with music with me on the day, and will assess on the day.
4. Discovered you can buy Powerade in a big tub - so did when I was Thorndon New World. I'll try putting this in my Camelback and see how it goes. Not the whole tub - in my Camelback tomorrow, but the recommended "dose" per litre :-)
5. Purchased a new bracelet from Chris Cole the jeweller. It will stay on my left wrist until I get my new watch. - which is when I will be 65kg. So, you'll be seeing it on my left wrist for some time, until it transfers to the right wrist. The catch is made of the combined wedding rings of my Mum and Dad. It's quite nice to know that part rests on my pulse. And the bracelet is a rope design. So, it's to remind me its about pulling the threads together...it was orignially going to be a different design. But that's the design I've got :-)
6. Went to RPM. It was OK, until the T lady shouted at me in track seven to go faster :-( (no, just joking - really!) I actually couldn't work out how hard to go in class - whether to aim for "hill work" or "speed work", mindful I want to do a long ride tomorrow, and also a short ride on Sunday.
7. Mrs Strawhouse has invited me to the Tin Hutt on Sunday for her birthday with a few others, but advised me I have to ride there and back (about 20km each way - or maybe a little less). So, this means revising my training rides for the weekend. I'm still aiming to do a big ride tomorrow tho. At least over 100km. However, I definitely wont be heading out to the windmills!
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Thursday RPM
I don't usually go to RPM or the gym on a Thursday, but today I did. The plan is to exercise today (done) Friday, and Saturday, and then I'll reassess from there for the next week. Maybe the Tuesday RPM session (and Weds- I'm not sure yet) and then Taupo. Eeek. Only one week away. I'm not sure whether its like having prepared for an exam, an interview or the childhood anticipation of Christmas coming. Maybe none of those and all of those! Taupo I suspect will have its own catergory like Milford had its own catergory. There is though a sense of anticipation building, and the feeling that hey, this is really happening, and I'm come this far, now I just see it through, and it will be "all good". And I'm anticipating better than good!
I won't be completing my long ride on Sunday, becasue it's Toast Martinborough. The thought of 20,000 people circulating around the township, and shuttle buses, and merry walkers, is not really a match for cycling around the area ;-) Like some of the "locals" I generally avoid Toast Martinborough anyway! - which of course is not to say I don't toast it at other times throughout the year...
As for today's workout. It was a good RPM workout with the Young American. I'm beginning to feel parts of my body a little more intensely. That's a good thing. I think that's the benefit of say one day doing a road ride and the next a RPM ride. It's also the desire to push myself that little bit extra.
Finally: thinking about carbo loading, eating bananas and fuel for the ride on the day. I'll probably have a test run tomorrow night re pasta load tomorrow for tea, and refining what I will eat and drink for 8 hours re a big ride on Saturday - maybe not 8 hours but aiming for at least 6!
I won't be completing my long ride on Sunday, becasue it's Toast Martinborough. The thought of 20,000 people circulating around the township, and shuttle buses, and merry walkers, is not really a match for cycling around the area ;-) Like some of the "locals" I generally avoid Toast Martinborough anyway! - which of course is not to say I don't toast it at other times throughout the year...
As for today's workout. It was a good RPM workout with the Young American. I'm beginning to feel parts of my body a little more intensely. That's a good thing. I think that's the benefit of say one day doing a road ride and the next a RPM ride. It's also the desire to push myself that little bit extra.
Finally: thinking about carbo loading, eating bananas and fuel for the ride on the day. I'll probably have a test run tomorrow night re pasta load tomorrow for tea, and refining what I will eat and drink for 8 hours re a big ride on Saturday - maybe not 8 hours but aiming for at least 6!
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Midweek review - 9 days to go
I did not wake up to this:
Until "Taupo" I've resolved blog entries now become all about the ride and the preparation - oh yeah, that's right, that's what the blog is about! Diversions are ok, but not in the next week! It's easy for me to get distracted by the rpm music, the class of the day, current status of my employment or not, state of my overgrown garden, etc etc (I don't underestimate the importance of the etc etc, and the etc is important to the contextual layers of the wider journey for completeness) but I totally need now to focus on the exercise training, the quality of the exercise and my nutrition, and keeping positive and focussed on the end goal - completion of Taupo within 8 hours. So, "heads up" to you (and reminding myself!) that's what I'll be documenting now until Taupo. Detail around that. Bearing in mind detail is not really my thing (although on some occassions it can be ;-)), and neither is maths - but I need to focus on the "maths" and some "maths modelling" (well, my version of maths modelling) to work out what times I aim for, for each "leg" of the race, allowing for say between 3 or 4 - 5-10 minute restwater breaks, and possibly some walking on the hills.
Today's workout:
After the rain and wind cleared, I did head out for a shortish ride. It was super windy - I was having difficulty at one point staying upright becasue of the wind.
I did a version of the Westside route - so flat roads up near the hills, until I reached a gravel road and needed to return. I found a road which I didn't know existed near Dalefield School which was kind of cool.
My computer has all sorts of functions which I haven't completely mastered. However, today I wore the chest monitor so that allowed me to see my heart beat (well at least the measurement of it!), and know how much calories I burned. It beeps a lot unless I stay at a consistent pace so that serves as an incentive to do so. I could probably turn the sound off, if I read the manaul more closely!
I managed to do a few minutues of "sprints" where I got my RPM over 100 for a minute or so. Also managed to keep it at 75-80rpm for certain points. My average RPM today though was 66RPM and my speed 20.8. I think my speed needs to be 22km. At certain points: mainly because of the wind I did get over 35km.
Time: 130 minutes
Distance: 28km
My heart rate started at 70 or so in the hallway, ended on about 110 and somwhere on the road ranged from 130. I think it needs to be 140 from what I recall on the machines at the gym. I have no idea!
Despite the wind, felt like a good ride.
I don't like the low RPMs and calories burned, but I think I do quite like the computer and at least being able to measure progress while I am on the road.
.
I woke up to this: 
and, very strong winds. Great for the garden (at least the rain), less so for riding conditions
The Metservice is now one of my favourite websites: - it reminds me of how Dr D (being one of the most 'natural' (eg. never going near a gym) fit and conditioned guys from doing all sorts of exercise - cycling to work and home, tennis, running, surfing, diving etc, I worked with, used to always look up the Metservice website to see what the weather - mainly for surfing or diving conditions were. I never understood back then. Now I do!...Now I do, D.
I also woke up to slightly sore thighs from yesterday's RPM session. I'm trying to use the remaining (pre Taupo) RPM sessions to just go that little bit further with the "hill work" in class. I try to keep the visualisation positive when doing this " just keep on the hill path until I get to the top, and then either see the Gladstone valley or Te Muna valley below" - which is always an awesome reward after a hard hill. But sometimes the reverse visualisation creeps in "Like, its ok, you can't fall off on your cleats on a RPM bike....) Sometimes its easier to imagine falling off my bike with my cleats on than it is reaching the top of the hill and looking into the valley. I totally need to eliminate the negative imaging.
The Metservice is now one of my favourite websites: - it reminds me of how Dr D (being one of the most 'natural' (eg. never going near a gym) fit and conditioned guys from doing all sorts of exercise - cycling to work and home, tennis, running, surfing, diving etc, I worked with, used to always look up the Metservice website to see what the weather - mainly for surfing or diving conditions were. I never understood back then. Now I do!...Now I do, D.
I also woke up to slightly sore thighs from yesterday's RPM session. I'm trying to use the remaining (pre Taupo) RPM sessions to just go that little bit further with the "hill work" in class. I try to keep the visualisation positive when doing this " just keep on the hill path until I get to the top, and then either see the Gladstone valley or Te Muna valley below" - which is always an awesome reward after a hard hill. But sometimes the reverse visualisation creeps in "Like, its ok, you can't fall off on your cleats on a RPM bike....) Sometimes its easier to imagine falling off my bike with my cleats on than it is reaching the top of the hill and looking into the valley. I totally need to eliminate the negative imaging.
Until "Taupo" I've resolved blog entries now become all about the ride and the preparation - oh yeah, that's right, that's what the blog is about! Diversions are ok, but not in the next week! It's easy for me to get distracted by the rpm music, the class of the day, current status of my employment or not, state of my overgrown garden, etc etc (I don't underestimate the importance of the etc etc, and the etc is important to the contextual layers of the wider journey for completeness) but I totally need now to focus on the exercise training, the quality of the exercise and my nutrition, and keeping positive and focussed on the end goal - completion of Taupo within 8 hours. So, "heads up" to you (and reminding myself!) that's what I'll be documenting now until Taupo. Detail around that. Bearing in mind detail is not really my thing (although on some occassions it can be ;-)), and neither is maths - but I need to focus on the "maths" and some "maths modelling" (well, my version of maths modelling) to work out what times I aim for, for each "leg" of the race, allowing for say between 3 or 4 - 5-10 minute restwater breaks, and possibly some walking on the hills.
Today's workout:
After the rain and wind cleared, I did head out for a shortish ride. It was super windy - I was having difficulty at one point staying upright becasue of the wind.
I did a version of the Westside route - so flat roads up near the hills, until I reached a gravel road and needed to return. I found a road which I didn't know existed near Dalefield School which was kind of cool.
My computer has all sorts of functions which I haven't completely mastered. However, today I wore the chest monitor so that allowed me to see my heart beat (well at least the measurement of it!), and know how much calories I burned. It beeps a lot unless I stay at a consistent pace so that serves as an incentive to do so. I could probably turn the sound off, if I read the manaul more closely!
I managed to do a few minutues of "sprints" where I got my RPM over 100 for a minute or so. Also managed to keep it at 75-80rpm for certain points. My average RPM today though was 66RPM and my speed 20.8. I think my speed needs to be 22km. At certain points: mainly because of the wind I did get over 35km.
Time: 130 minutes
Distance: 28km
My heart rate started at 70 or so in the hallway, ended on about 110 and somwhere on the road ranged from 130. I think it needs to be 140 from what I recall on the machines at the gym. I have no idea!
Despite the wind, felt like a good ride.
I don't like the low RPMs and calories burned, but I think I do quite like the computer and at least being able to measure progress while I am on the road.
.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Wet socks
I had to complete my RPM session today with wet socks. They were dry when I left home, but I inadvertently left some water in my water bottle. So when I arrived at the gym I had wet socks and a slightly wet (but dark!) t shirt. The last time I inadvertently left my water bottle partly filled and open in in the bag I drowned and killed my last cellphone. So working out with wet socks in comparison is an improvement.
Good RPM session (despite the wet socks) with the T(uesday) instructor playing my favourite number tracks 4 and 6, added with an opening track of Seal. I love tracks 4 and 6, even though I can't go as fast as I would like, quite yet, and I really love the tracks "In the dark" and Annie Lennox's "Why". Unlike, the Hutt girl, the T lady doesn't get "pumped" or full of hyperpole (and I mean in that in the nicest possible way!), but today she was looking sharp and focussed in black, and pre Taupo hair cut -anything to go faster eh? So, overall verdict: worth the trainfare into town - just to use a non musical measurement!
I had a few other things to do in town today, which I completed. Not on the list was buying my "racing shirt" or that should be "riding shirt", which I did. Actually, this is shirt no 3! - but its a perfect fit and the right fit for Taupo. The first 2 I ordered off the internet, and hello I am not a large Italian size. I still need to downsize to that category, so those shirts will need to be worn another time. The shirt I will wear on 26 Novemebr is a Livestrong yellow shirt. Its a Nike dri fit, the same as my other yellow shirt, just with the Livestrong logo on it. I pruchased it from the Lockerroom shop on Lambton Quay. When I walked in (about 9am or so) one of the guys asked me if I was off the cruise ship that was in town today. My response was "I wish". Then I corrected it and said "no, not really, cruise ships aren't really my thing".
I tried various sizes on in the fitting room. In the other fitting room there were two white boys in their 20s being quite particular about what shirts and colours looked cool and didn't. It made me laugh (just quietly, of course).
I'm happy with the shirt I've got now. I'm also happy, that like going into the bike shop, I no longer feel intimated making "sports purchases". I buy what fits for today. And actually the salespeople want a sale, so it all works out.
I have one more day (tomorrow) and then start my new contract on Thursday.
I can't decide what kind of road ride I will do tomorrow. Part of me wants to do a really long flat ride. The other part wants to aim for 100km or over again. I was going to "ask the audience"...?, but I have quite a quiet audience! Today's though your chance to determine tomorrow's journey!
Here's a cool quote I came across today (and try and remember it in 10 days time :-))
"We must embrace pain and burn it as fuel for our journey." Kenji Miyazawa
Good RPM session (despite the wet socks) with the T(uesday) instructor playing my favourite number tracks 4 and 6, added with an opening track of Seal. I love tracks 4 and 6, even though I can't go as fast as I would like, quite yet, and I really love the tracks "In the dark" and Annie Lennox's "Why". Unlike, the Hutt girl, the T lady doesn't get "pumped" or full of hyperpole (and I mean in that in the nicest possible way!), but today she was looking sharp and focussed in black, and pre Taupo hair cut -anything to go faster eh? So, overall verdict: worth the trainfare into town - just to use a non musical measurement!
I had a few other things to do in town today, which I completed. Not on the list was buying my "racing shirt" or that should be "riding shirt", which I did. Actually, this is shirt no 3! - but its a perfect fit and the right fit for Taupo. The first 2 I ordered off the internet, and hello I am not a large Italian size. I still need to downsize to that category, so those shirts will need to be worn another time. The shirt I will wear on 26 Novemebr is a Livestrong yellow shirt. Its a Nike dri fit, the same as my other yellow shirt, just with the Livestrong logo on it. I pruchased it from the Lockerroom shop on Lambton Quay. When I walked in (about 9am or so) one of the guys asked me if I was off the cruise ship that was in town today. My response was "I wish". Then I corrected it and said "no, not really, cruise ships aren't really my thing".
I tried various sizes on in the fitting room. In the other fitting room there were two white boys in their 20s being quite particular about what shirts and colours looked cool and didn't. It made me laugh (just quietly, of course).
I'm happy with the shirt I've got now. I'm also happy, that like going into the bike shop, I no longer feel intimated making "sports purchases". I buy what fits for today. And actually the salespeople want a sale, so it all works out.
I have one more day (tomorrow) and then start my new contract on Thursday.
I can't decide what kind of road ride I will do tomorrow. Part of me wants to do a really long flat ride. The other part wants to aim for 100km or over again. I was going to "ask the audience"...?, but I have quite a quiet audience! Today's though your chance to determine tomorrow's journey!
Here's a cool quote I came across today (and try and remember it in 10 days time :-))
"We must embrace pain and burn it as fuel for our journey." Kenji Miyazawa
Monday, November 14, 2011
Wheelie Bins
Have I mentioned I love wheelie bins? I hire one, and own three. I purchased two off a guy at work years ago (as you do!), and inadvertently stole one, although I actually ended up making a payment for it, so I don't think that can be classed as theft then eh?! Or maybe responsible theft!
I have mentioned I love gardening? Hence it follows I love wheelie bins. I also love the "tip", although while I haven't had a car, I've had to rely on the wheelie bins. Tomorrow is the official wheelie bin day. Today has been spent filling up 2 wheelie bins (one the regular one, the other a pay as you go one). I use the other two for compost. So, a "gardening day". But not of the Correctional variety. I'm waiting for the contract paperwork to come through (and on this occassion trusting in the slowness of the 'HR department' ) to allow me to have a couple of days to catch up on my gardening and a few other stuff I need to attend to! "Being on the road" at the weekends eats into my gardening time - although when I get "meaner, leaner, and faster", it may do so less. Or, hopefully, I'll be able to balance gardening and cycling a little better. At the moment gardening is coming second to cycling which means my garden post spring is rampant. Rampant. I like that word which is why I repeated it. That's how I'd like my life to be, rampant. Full of growth and no holding back...
Massive sleep in again today. Slept in until noonish - after getting up and then going back to bed. What's with that? My body is not tired from the ride yesterday - or maybe that's because I slept it off?
Next Saturday or Sunday I will aim for 130 or 140km and then "taper off" - although I don't think I've peaked yet! I still have a long way to go until I will peak. It's not going to happen before Taupo, at least in terms of the wider "journey". I'm viewing Taupo though as a significant milestone in terms of good foundations being met.
I am concerned about maintaining the speed I need on Taupo day, accounting for a few rest and water breaks, to come in under the 8 hour mark. I'll just need to work out the segments of the ride down into what times I need to achive for each. I think overall my riding was better yesterday, than at Whitemans, so I'll just have to hope that the few improvements I can make will keep me within the 8 hour mark.
Eating: Home grown grapefruit - from my young grapefruit plant, which is why this excites me, and is worthy of note.
Listening to:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xtMhtMc1GW8&NR=1
And here, I post for you a thing of beauty - although not as beautiful as my first flush roses:
I have mentioned I love gardening? Hence it follows I love wheelie bins. I also love the "tip", although while I haven't had a car, I've had to rely on the wheelie bins. Tomorrow is the official wheelie bin day. Today has been spent filling up 2 wheelie bins (one the regular one, the other a pay as you go one). I use the other two for compost. So, a "gardening day". But not of the Correctional variety. I'm waiting for the contract paperwork to come through (and on this occassion trusting in the slowness of the 'HR department' ) to allow me to have a couple of days to catch up on my gardening and a few other stuff I need to attend to! "Being on the road" at the weekends eats into my gardening time - although when I get "meaner, leaner, and faster", it may do so less. Or, hopefully, I'll be able to balance gardening and cycling a little better. At the moment gardening is coming second to cycling which means my garden post spring is rampant. Rampant. I like that word which is why I repeated it. That's how I'd like my life to be, rampant. Full of growth and no holding back...
Massive sleep in again today. Slept in until noonish - after getting up and then going back to bed. What's with that? My body is not tired from the ride yesterday - or maybe that's because I slept it off?
Next Saturday or Sunday I will aim for 130 or 140km and then "taper off" - although I don't think I've peaked yet! I still have a long way to go until I will peak. It's not going to happen before Taupo, at least in terms of the wider "journey". I'm viewing Taupo though as a significant milestone in terms of good foundations being met.
I am concerned about maintaining the speed I need on Taupo day, accounting for a few rest and water breaks, to come in under the 8 hour mark. I'll just need to work out the segments of the ride down into what times I need to achive for each. I think overall my riding was better yesterday, than at Whitemans, so I'll just have to hope that the few improvements I can make will keep me within the 8 hour mark.
Eating: Home grown grapefruit - from my young grapefruit plant, which is why this excites me, and is worthy of note.
Listening to:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xtMhtMc1GW8&NR=1
And here, I post for you a thing of beauty - although not as beautiful as my first flush roses:
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Windmills on my mind
Yesterday, was a recovery day. Eeek, that's a "recovery" day as opposed to a rest day. These aren't included on the Taupo Guide training programme. I had "one too many" on Friday night..... I guess this brings home, even though I have seriously modified my drinking and eating habits, there are some habits that "die hard". I'm OK, with this "now and again". Although, part of me actaully wanted to celebrate the news from Friday with a really (really) long (long) ride on Saturday. So, I'm not completely OK, then. Hmmm. A contradiction in my statements then eh?? I'm a Gemini! - which of course only part explains the contradiction. Anyway, no more "recovery days" allowed now until post Taupo. So, in summary, I don't think it would have been wise to go biking yesterday, so I didn't.
I was booked in for the Wairarapa Fun Ride today. But a) I didn't want to ride up to Masterton (no logic in that as its only about 12 km) and b) I wanted to do my own thing. Go figure! so I had made a decision not to go. I decided this weekend, I needed to aim for distance, without the pressure of "race conditions". Not that being in the "tail end" places me under riding pressure with other cyclists, other than the threat of coming last - which is of course better than the threat of non completion. I just felt the need for a long ride, without all the other assoicated Fun Ride stuff. Which although I warmed to that stuff more at the Whitemans ride, still reflects why I like the nature of cycling, the solo nature of the activity.
I had a huge (well, huge, by my daily standards) sleep in until 10am or so today. This affected my ride for today, as I didn't get to "leave the building", until about 12.30 by the time I had attended to domestic chores (not cleaning), - hanging out the washing etc.
I had either two trips in mind for today. Either up to the windmills out of Martinborough. I knew there were some meaty hills to get there, or to Lake Ferry and back. Due to the late (very late start) I ended up with the windmill route.
Hau Nui, as described below, is 20km or so out of Martinborough. I've been there a couple of times by "mountain bike" when I lived in Martinborough - there is a cool route through the vinyards at the back - but you do need mountain bike tyres to do that. So, today I had to keep to the tar sealed roads.
I took my little shoe "caps" just in case, turned on my "computer" for the first time, and did the ride. I didn't make it quite to the top of the windmill as um I looked at the hill, and thought "nah!". However, some of the hills I did today were meatier than the normal Gladstone route, and I did need to walk one
It took me ages to put the caps on. But that's what I have to do.
The advice I got from Mrs Strawhouse, when I stopped for coffee, was "ride until it is dark". I didn't quite do that. I came home via Ponatahi Rd and then Millars Rd.
The computer made a difference, at least in terms of knowing my speed and RPM. I'm bordering on 20km per hour at times. I need to make the most when I get that faster. Also, my actual RPM is all over the place - not consistent at all. If I could just get it to touch on 80RPM for awhile in various places that would improve my speed.
Total distance today was 116km.
Time: Forever!
Feeling: Quite good - so there is another 50Km left in the tank. I'll just have to work on the speed factor as much as I can.
Riding until dark wasn't really a safety on the road option, so I came home when cars had their lights on!
So, Hau Nui by bike still remains a goal - but not pre Taupo.
I was booked in for the Wairarapa Fun Ride today. But a) I didn't want to ride up to Masterton (no logic in that as its only about 12 km) and b) I wanted to do my own thing. Go figure! so I had made a decision not to go. I decided this weekend, I needed to aim for distance, without the pressure of "race conditions". Not that being in the "tail end" places me under riding pressure with other cyclists, other than the threat of coming last - which is of course better than the threat of non completion. I just felt the need for a long ride, without all the other assoicated Fun Ride stuff. Which although I warmed to that stuff more at the Whitemans ride, still reflects why I like the nature of cycling, the solo nature of the activity.
I had a huge (well, huge, by my daily standards) sleep in until 10am or so today. This affected my ride for today, as I didn't get to "leave the building", until about 12.30 by the time I had attended to domestic chores (not cleaning), - hanging out the washing etc.
I had either two trips in mind for today. Either up to the windmills out of Martinborough. I knew there were some meaty hills to get there, or to Lake Ferry and back. Due to the late (very late start) I ended up with the windmill route.
Hau Nui, as described below, is 20km or so out of Martinborough. I've been there a couple of times by "mountain bike" when I lived in Martinborough - there is a cool route through the vinyards at the back - but you do need mountain bike tyres to do that. So, today I had to keep to the tar sealed roads.
I took my little shoe "caps" just in case, turned on my "computer" for the first time, and did the ride. I didn't make it quite to the top of the windmill as um I looked at the hill, and thought "nah!". However, some of the hills I did today were meatier than the normal Gladstone route, and I did need to walk one
It took me ages to put the caps on. But that's what I have to do.
The advice I got from Mrs Strawhouse, when I stopped for coffee, was "ride until it is dark". I didn't quite do that. I came home via Ponatahi Rd and then Millars Rd.
The computer made a difference, at least in terms of knowing my speed and RPM. I'm bordering on 20km per hour at times. I need to make the most when I get that faster. Also, my actual RPM is all over the place - not consistent at all. If I could just get it to touch on 80RPM for awhile in various places that would improve my speed.
Total distance today was 116km.
Time: Forever!
Feeling: Quite good - so there is another 50Km left in the tank. I'll just have to work on the speed factor as much as I can.
Riding until dark wasn't really a safety on the road option, so I came home when cars had their lights on!
So, Hau Nui by bike still remains a goal - but not pre Taupo.
  | Hau Nui wind farm | ||
| Hau Nui wind farm is situated about 20 kilometres from the Martinborough township. Built in 1996, it is New Zealand's first commercial wind farm and generates enough electricity to power 1500 homes. The seven turbines operate in a wind speed range of 10 - 120 km/h above which they shut down. The structures are designed to withstand wind speeds up to 240km/h. Hau Nui (meaning 'strong wind' in Maori) wind farm has a well designed viewing area with seating from which to marvel at the impressive machines. There are comprehensive information panels making a visit informative and interesting or you can simply take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. This is definitely a worthwhile excursion. |  | ||
Friday, November 11, 2011
Holding the line - "I've got this"
Oh my gosh, this is one of my longer posts ;-) ....
Today was a good day. Pretty much most days are now :-) In fact, I've noticed that when people ask me how I am, even the "supermarket people" I don't say OK or good anymore, I say "very good" or "very well":-) I'm working up to saying I'm beautiful and gorgous in response to the question. That could be quite fun. I wonder how random strangers would respond to that?!!!!
My contract expired today. As I indicated on the blog, I was hopeful that I may get the offer of a new contract. I knew a reccommendation had gone through for approval to the Dep Sec, and my managers and Group Manager were supportive. But until you see the paperwork, you know, nothing is certain, gauranteed or locked in. It meant I had to "hold the line" - a term Mr M and I used to use when we worked on the Adventure Tourism Review together. No big deal holding the line, acting composed. Not these days. Once though, this would have totally stressed me. So, ok, I did eat too many giant jaffas and a couple of additional afghans. But in the wider context of things, I can live with that. I jokingly said, in the last couple of days, "its ok, I've got until 5 o'clock on Friday." The signed paperwork came back about 4.45pm!
My status will change from Contractor to fixed term for 7 months, and I'll be appointed as a Lead Advisor. I feel totally blessed and thankful for this. It means I'll continue to work with CH (who is my unoffical bike mentor) and LT (the man with over 50 pairs of jeans). These two people are so awesome. I have immense respect for them professionally and personally. If I was creating my perfect team and people to work with - they would be "on the list" ;-) The other members in the team are cool and great to work with too, but these two people, they exemplify how I want to operate professionally and personally.
Anyway I had to stay in my current workplace, because CH is the "watch lady". Remember: I have a goal to get to goal weight, those five things, and get a new watch. I've now got 7 months to do that! AND I WILL. I can beat myself up that I didn't get there in the last year, not there for Taupo, or I can adopt Marios advice, the more time in the saddle, I'll get there. I am though as of today setting 18 June next year (my birthday) as the target date for being 65kg. That's a very long way to go still. But I don't beat myself up anymore, I think: great, I've layed good and solid foundations over 2011, and in 2012 I bring the results home. That's why I love working with LH and CH. That's exactly how they would frame things. Positivity breeds positivity. Also, they have totally nailed work/life balance :-)
No workout today. Also, no jaffas – although I did have a chocolate digestive biscuit off the table, and an afghan in the afternoon. Big stuff (journeys) planned for the weekend, so instead I sat in the sun in parliament grounds, looked at the flowering cabbage trees, tuis enjoying the flaxes, and felt the warmth of the sun, and it felt good to be alive - it's my urban Wellington burecratic thing of "going bush" when I need to stay "composed".
Something I need to comment on: Today I met C at Astoria. I was there with my usual coffee companion, waiting for my usual long black at the counter. Then there was a nudge on my elbow. “Remember me ?”, she asked. I looked into her eyes. How could I ever forget? Her eyes were sparkling and alive with life. Her voice familar, even though I hadn't heard it for years. Sounds like an opening line from a Mills and Boon novel eh?! It’s not intended to be. And C is so not Mills and Boon material! – more B&D from what she wrote back in the 90s!
C and I were in the same “writing class” back in 1997 – so 14 years ago. That was a pretty special class with some special people. I guess through our writing we got to know each other quite well, at that time. Our paths have crossed a little, professionally through health related work – arguably working with people who some people would say are on the "edge" of certain sectors. I know there are threads in our personal life, where we share common ground too. Other than that, we are probably from completely different worlds (or, maybe not!). We’ve maybe seen each other at say a film festival or arts festival gig.
I don’t actually know C that well. But 14 years later, I can remember the stuff she used to write about and some of the stuff we talked about. C’s still makinga living from her writing and film making. She always had this ability to give me that “nudge” – more than just in the physical sense. I told her I wasn’t writing when she asked. It’s not that the blog doesn’t count because it does. But it’s not writing“writing”. She asked me who I was living with, and I said “a black cat”! so, that's what I mean when I say “nudge” - also, the "why did you give up writing?" question.
C is incredibly strong in that way some women need to be and are. I’m not talking physical strength here, although today she did look strong. I’m talking that ability to live life, and love, even though various crap is encountered along the way – which has a nice layer to it given today she told me one of her jobs is now working with terminally ill patients at the Hospice. C reminds me of this song (which is an absolute favourite because or work and non work reasons, other than just being a favourite) because she has totally "lived" this song:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LRIm5ufzMd4&ob=av2e
I think in my heart, there is the desire to return to work with "people on the edge of the universe". But I know I still have to work on my own strength and wellbeing to be able to do that justice.
So, that was today. A very beautiful and gorgous day. Another day moving forward :-)
Today was a good day. Pretty much most days are now :-) In fact, I've noticed that when people ask me how I am, even the "supermarket people" I don't say OK or good anymore, I say "very good" or "very well":-) I'm working up to saying I'm beautiful and gorgous in response to the question. That could be quite fun. I wonder how random strangers would respond to that?!!!!
My contract expired today. As I indicated on the blog, I was hopeful that I may get the offer of a new contract. I knew a reccommendation had gone through for approval to the Dep Sec, and my managers and Group Manager were supportive. But until you see the paperwork, you know, nothing is certain, gauranteed or locked in. It meant I had to "hold the line" - a term Mr M and I used to use when we worked on the Adventure Tourism Review together. No big deal holding the line, acting composed. Not these days. Once though, this would have totally stressed me. So, ok, I did eat too many giant jaffas and a couple of additional afghans. But in the wider context of things, I can live with that. I jokingly said, in the last couple of days, "its ok, I've got until 5 o'clock on Friday." The signed paperwork came back about 4.45pm!
My status will change from Contractor to fixed term for 7 months, and I'll be appointed as a Lead Advisor. I feel totally blessed and thankful for this. It means I'll continue to work with CH (who is my unoffical bike mentor) and LT (the man with over 50 pairs of jeans). These two people are so awesome. I have immense respect for them professionally and personally. If I was creating my perfect team and people to work with - they would be "on the list" ;-) The other members in the team are cool and great to work with too, but these two people, they exemplify how I want to operate professionally and personally.
Anyway I had to stay in my current workplace, because CH is the "watch lady". Remember: I have a goal to get to goal weight, those five things, and get a new watch. I've now got 7 months to do that! AND I WILL. I can beat myself up that I didn't get there in the last year, not there for Taupo, or I can adopt Marios advice, the more time in the saddle, I'll get there. I am though as of today setting 18 June next year (my birthday) as the target date for being 65kg. That's a very long way to go still. But I don't beat myself up anymore, I think: great, I've layed good and solid foundations over 2011, and in 2012 I bring the results home. That's why I love working with LH and CH. That's exactly how they would frame things. Positivity breeds positivity. Also, they have totally nailed work/life balance :-)
No workout today. Also, no jaffas – although I did have a chocolate digestive biscuit off the table, and an afghan in the afternoon. Big stuff (journeys) planned for the weekend, so instead I sat in the sun in parliament grounds, looked at the flowering cabbage trees, tuis enjoying the flaxes, and felt the warmth of the sun, and it felt good to be alive - it's my urban Wellington burecratic thing of "going bush" when I need to stay "composed".
Something I need to comment on: Today I met C at Astoria. I was there with my usual coffee companion, waiting for my usual long black at the counter. Then there was a nudge on my elbow. “Remember me ?”, she asked. I looked into her eyes. How could I ever forget? Her eyes were sparkling and alive with life. Her voice familar, even though I hadn't heard it for years. Sounds like an opening line from a Mills and Boon novel eh?! It’s not intended to be. And C is so not Mills and Boon material! – more B&D from what she wrote back in the 90s!
C and I were in the same “writing class” back in 1997 – so 14 years ago. That was a pretty special class with some special people. I guess through our writing we got to know each other quite well, at that time. Our paths have crossed a little, professionally through health related work – arguably working with people who some people would say are on the "edge" of certain sectors. I know there are threads in our personal life, where we share common ground too. Other than that, we are probably from completely different worlds (or, maybe not!). We’ve maybe seen each other at say a film festival or arts festival gig.
I don’t actually know C that well. But 14 years later, I can remember the stuff she used to write about and some of the stuff we talked about. C’s still makinga living from her writing and film making. She always had this ability to give me that “nudge” – more than just in the physical sense. I told her I wasn’t writing when she asked. It’s not that the blog doesn’t count because it does. But it’s not writing“writing”. She asked me who I was living with, and I said “a black cat”! so, that's what I mean when I say “nudge” - also, the "why did you give up writing?" question.
C is incredibly strong in that way some women need to be and are. I’m not talking physical strength here, although today she did look strong. I’m talking that ability to live life, and love, even though various crap is encountered along the way – which has a nice layer to it given today she told me one of her jobs is now working with terminally ill patients at the Hospice. C reminds me of this song (which is an absolute favourite because or work and non work reasons, other than just being a favourite) because she has totally "lived" this song:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LRIm5ufzMd4&ob=av2e
I think in my heart, there is the desire to return to work with "people on the edge of the universe". But I know I still have to work on my own strength and wellbeing to be able to do that justice.
So, that was today. A very beautiful and gorgous day. Another day moving forward :-)
Thursday, November 10, 2011
The jaffas are all gone
Rest day today. My legs needed it. Not from eating the GIANT jaffas tho. I ate more giant jaffas today that I ate yesterday. The point of difference being I didn't get to the gym. Instead I had a Chinese lunch down Lambton Quay with the Chinese analyst.
Awaiting confirmation of an extension to my contract is no excuse to eat all the remaining jaffas in the Jaffa bowl. However, as previously noted, my desk is in the closest proximity to the bowl.
Oh well, on the plus side, there are no more jaffas left - in the bowl.
NONE left.
Although I am sure there will be something else to eat (on the table) in close proximity to my desk, tomorrow.
Awaiting confirmation of an extension to my contract is no excuse to eat all the remaining jaffas in the Jaffa bowl. However, as previously noted, my desk is in the closest proximity to the bowl.
Oh well, on the plus side, there are no more jaffas left - in the bowl.
NONE left.
Although I am sure there will be something else to eat (on the table) in close proximity to my desk, tomorrow.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Take your time and enjoy the ride
"Take your time and enjoy the ride" - This is advice both TJ and CH have given me. And its the right advice for where I am in terms of the bike journey. But today, Mario (the bike mechanic at Penny Farthing Cycles) gave it to me also. As I've previously mentioned, I love that man! (in a love your bike mechanic way ;-)).
Today I took my bike in for a silver service - bit like a bike wof. If I was mechanically orientated (but I am not) I should be able to do this stuff myself. One day I probably will. But today I had the silver service. That's what its called; where all the deailers, gear grease, break fluids or whatever are checked. So, Mario did all that, changed my tryres to racing tyres, and affixed my computer ;-) ;-) (2 smiles)!
When I dropped off my bike this morning, Mario (Mario who sold me my shoes) came out to serve me from his workshop when it was me. I went over what I wanted done today, and then explained that I had stuffed my cleats because I find it hard riding up some hills due to my fitness. I didn't say my weight to him. His immediate response was "it doesn't matter, the more time you spend in the saddle, the fitter you will get. Keep riding and then you will get fitter" He was so nice and genuine about it. Then when I picked up my bike tonight, viola, he has solved my "problem". He has fiited new Look cleats with little covers! So if I have to walk (and that's still a reality) then I fit the covers and walk. Brillant. Again, he explained how the covers work in such a nice way. And then he made quite a point of telling me to take my time on the ride, and to enjoy myself. I thought that was cool.
Another good workout today. Hutt girl was in the house, and man was she PUMPED. There were quite a few newbies in the room, including a guy called "undy" or at least phonetically that's his name. So that gave her a bit of "new material" to work with. Hutt girl did quite a Hutt LM thing and selected the playlist from the room. Sometimes that works really well, and today it did. There was a good grunty no 7 that has references to cows in it. So, Hutt girls calls out "watch out for the cows". I can visually related to that doing a lo of riding on "country roads". I liked that track. I'm surprised the instructor from the "mighty Waikato" cow country has never played it! - or at least I don't recall so.
I sort of defeated my workout today though. A guy at work was celebrating the muslim festival so there was banana cake for morning tea, and in the afternoon there were giant jaffas becasue someone was leaving for Auckland - I ate 4 - the food table being in close proximity to my desk. There's usually always food on the table - and I can usually resist, but I didn't today. Hello, I did enjoy the cake and the jaffas. I sort of am a little anxious. I'm hoping to hear whether my contract is extended. Hopefully I'll know tomorrow.
But either way (whether the contract is extended or not) as Mario (and T) would say "it's all good". If it gets extended then sweet. If it doesn't then I'm free to ride the road...
Total cost at PF today $299.00
I haven't acknowledged the final split up of Westlife. Not on my i-pod thing, but a track that always makes me smile:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G1LEISP6e9c
Today I took my bike in for a silver service - bit like a bike wof. If I was mechanically orientated (but I am not) I should be able to do this stuff myself. One day I probably will. But today I had the silver service. That's what its called; where all the deailers, gear grease, break fluids or whatever are checked. So, Mario did all that, changed my tryres to racing tyres, and affixed my computer ;-) ;-) (2 smiles)!
When I dropped off my bike this morning, Mario (Mario who sold me my shoes) came out to serve me from his workshop when it was me. I went over what I wanted done today, and then explained that I had stuffed my cleats because I find it hard riding up some hills due to my fitness. I didn't say my weight to him. His immediate response was "it doesn't matter, the more time you spend in the saddle, the fitter you will get. Keep riding and then you will get fitter" He was so nice and genuine about it. Then when I picked up my bike tonight, viola, he has solved my "problem". He has fiited new Look cleats with little covers! So if I have to walk (and that's still a reality) then I fit the covers and walk. Brillant. Again, he explained how the covers work in such a nice way. And then he made quite a point of telling me to take my time on the ride, and to enjoy myself. I thought that was cool.
Another good workout today. Hutt girl was in the house, and man was she PUMPED. There were quite a few newbies in the room, including a guy called "undy" or at least phonetically that's his name. So that gave her a bit of "new material" to work with. Hutt girl did quite a Hutt LM thing and selected the playlist from the room. Sometimes that works really well, and today it did. There was a good grunty no 7 that has references to cows in it. So, Hutt girls calls out "watch out for the cows". I can visually related to that doing a lo of riding on "country roads". I liked that track. I'm surprised the instructor from the "mighty Waikato" cow country has never played it! - or at least I don't recall so.
I sort of defeated my workout today though. A guy at work was celebrating the muslim festival so there was banana cake for morning tea, and in the afternoon there were giant jaffas becasue someone was leaving for Auckland - I ate 4 - the food table being in close proximity to my desk. There's usually always food on the table - and I can usually resist, but I didn't today. Hello, I did enjoy the cake and the jaffas. I sort of am a little anxious. I'm hoping to hear whether my contract is extended. Hopefully I'll know tomorrow.
But either way (whether the contract is extended or not) as Mario (and T) would say "it's all good". If it gets extended then sweet. If it doesn't then I'm free to ride the road...
Total cost at PF today $299.00
I haven't acknowledged the final split up of Westlife. Not on my i-pod thing, but a track that always makes me smile:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G1LEISP6e9c
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Knock Knock
This afternoon at the team afternoon tea (I know, old school public service, but its kind of nice!) the conversation somehow turned to knock knock jokes. I haven't heard a knock knock joke for years. Years! The interesting thread (or at least I thought so) of the conversation was trying collectively to translate knock knock jokes for the young Chinese analyst whose english is extremely good, but it is her second language. So, while the team was laughing at quite silly jokes, she didn't get it. Knock knock jokes get lost in translation. And then trying to translate the jokes became funnier than the jokes themselves. There can be a child like quality to them which is kind of fun. And then there are others which are clever play on words etc. So, then the remainder of the afternoon was interspersed with silly (but fun) knock knock jokes.
Like: Knock knock
Who's there
Boo
Boo hoo
Oh, I didn't mean to upset you....
I know, silly, and childish eh? But fun!
But I have been replaying the question more seriously. Knock knock. Who's there? I like to think I am secure in knowing who I am, what I believe in, what is important to me, what I care about, what I'm passionate about, what I value etc etc. On the whole I am. But there is an underlying thing with physical change - letting go of my physical weight means "who's there" is not the person that once was. At least physically. So when that question is asked in my head, by myself of myself: I like to respond with words like energetic, passionate, positive, loving, strong, etc etc - at least those are those are the aspirations I strive for. I also though need to address the whose there in terms of my body. That is the next step, and progression I need to make.
Good workout today. I drank heaps of water aferwards, which I always find a bit of a measure of how hard I have been able to work myself. As a set the music worked, although no particular favourite tracks. The thing I can now achieve in RPM that for awhile I couldn't - working up a sweat and overheating becasue I can push myself, is what I need to do on the road bike - before Taupo! - I'm sure it will help in some way once I have the computer. Sure, its not going to halve my time or anything. But if I can set goals to achieve each training ride for certain speeds and distances - and cadences, it should help.
Knock Knock ?
Like: Knock knock
Who's there
Boo
Boo hoo
Oh, I didn't mean to upset you....
I know, silly, and childish eh? But fun!
But I have been replaying the question more seriously. Knock knock. Who's there? I like to think I am secure in knowing who I am, what I believe in, what is important to me, what I care about, what I'm passionate about, what I value etc etc. On the whole I am. But there is an underlying thing with physical change - letting go of my physical weight means "who's there" is not the person that once was. At least physically. So when that question is asked in my head, by myself of myself: I like to respond with words like energetic, passionate, positive, loving, strong, etc etc - at least those are those are the aspirations I strive for. I also though need to address the whose there in terms of my body. That is the next step, and progression I need to make.
Good workout today. I drank heaps of water aferwards, which I always find a bit of a measure of how hard I have been able to work myself. As a set the music worked, although no particular favourite tracks. The thing I can now achieve in RPM that for awhile I couldn't - working up a sweat and overheating becasue I can push myself, is what I need to do on the road bike - before Taupo! - I'm sure it will help in some way once I have the computer. Sure, its not going to halve my time or anything. But if I can set goals to achieve each training ride for certain speeds and distances - and cadences, it should help.
Knock Knock ?
Monday, November 7, 2011
The hill
Last night I thought a lot about "the hill". Deconstructing in my head various aspects. So it was a restless night. Not assisted by the deposit of a mouse in my bed by Ali - which necessitated (me) catching the said mouse, (with an empty cereal box) and then oh, no it disappeared :-) (into the wheely bin!). And then a few hours later repeating this process when another mouse appeared in my bed. (note, these mice are outsourced, as opposed to house mice :-)
Also, today I thought quite a lot about the hill, and my time.
Then viola, on the train ride home: I had an ephiphany. It's all about the ride and finishing. It's not about the race. It felt to look out over the Hutt/Upper Hutt roads, and Silverstream, and know I had ridden that distance yesterday.
To be fair, I may have been recieving messaging from the "universe" along these lines that has prompted this ephiphany! The finishing aspect is important. I can satrt projects, make real good progress, but am not always a finisher.
I've accepted its all about the ride, not the race and it feels ok. I still want to achieve the best I can. But that will be the best I can over the next two weeks and then on race day.
I've finally booked my bike on for Wednesday to have the computer affixed, a maintenance check, I'll have the tyres checked, and will also have my cleats changed.
All about moving forward :-)
Worked out with the hankerchief man today - Mr A had gone AWOL. Mr hankerchief man is so named because it appears he wears a hankerchief on his head. I've only ridden one other ride with him. That time I thought he was a bit arrogant so have avoided his classes. But today he seemed ok. It was quite a good workout actually. That's why everyone needs a second chance eh?, and you need to be careful not to judge people :)
Motivation is high. That's a good thing.
Also, today I thought quite a lot about the hill, and my time.
Then viola, on the train ride home: I had an ephiphany. It's all about the ride and finishing. It's not about the race. It felt to look out over the Hutt/Upper Hutt roads, and Silverstream, and know I had ridden that distance yesterday.
To be fair, I may have been recieving messaging from the "universe" along these lines that has prompted this ephiphany! The finishing aspect is important. I can satrt projects, make real good progress, but am not always a finisher.
I've accepted its all about the ride, not the race and it feels ok. I still want to achieve the best I can. But that will be the best I can over the next two weeks and then on race day.
I've finally booked my bike on for Wednesday to have the computer affixed, a maintenance check, I'll have the tyres checked, and will also have my cleats changed.
All about moving forward :-)
Worked out with the hankerchief man today - Mr A had gone AWOL. Mr hankerchief man is so named because it appears he wears a hankerchief on his head. I've only ridden one other ride with him. That time I thought he was a bit arrogant so have avoided his classes. But today he seemed ok. It was quite a good workout actually. That's why everyone needs a second chance eh?, and you need to be careful not to judge people :)
Motivation is high. That's a good thing.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Three fat guys, the smoking Pink lady (and me)
Race 2: No delusions, I came first - well, at least first to arrive. There is no spot prize for this. Only the joy of conversing with the Silverstream Lionesses and Lions, who said several times "It's a ripper of a day for it!". (actually they seemed very friendly people).
I left my sister's about 6.15am (that felt early, becuase hello it was!) - I thought it would take an hour or so to get to Silverstream. It took less. On the way up I passed three cyclists. All of who, without meaning to be judgemental, looked like they could be on probation. eg a bit "shady" being out at that time of the morning. Friendly, but "shady". Maybe, simply, they were shift workers.... Once I got to Pomare, I realised I had forgotten to wear my sunglasses. In retrospect I would have had time to ride back to the Hutt and get them. Despite the fact of the Lionesses and Lions assessment it was a ripper of a day, I didn't really need the sunglasses.
As for the race itself, I found the hill climb very hard. Way hard. It was significantly more of a test than the Gladstone/Martinbroough hill climbs. I was determined not to stop. But I did. I joined the three fat guys, who were joking they couldn't get up the hill because they were fat bastards. Then hello, the smoking pink lady (not the P!nk lady :-) or the T lady, who sometimes wears and plays
P!nk)) passed us. The smoking lady (wearing pink) I reffered to re the Martinborough race. Then one of the fat guys says - "see that lady there, 2 years ago she and I were last together in this race, and she was twice the size (she's still not tiny!) - so good on her". And the smoking pink lady calls out "its not as tough as Makara or Ngauranga". That wasn't that helpful!
So, I got up the hill with the help of the three fat guys. Then I lost them or they lost me, although I caught up with one of them, who checked I had had a rest and something to eat - which was kind of nice.
There are two reasons not to walk the hill: a) it stuffs your cleats (my cleats are stuffed), and b) its hard to get back on the bike on the hill.
Then I rode a large part of the ride solo - where did the other riders go? I was a littel freaked out coming out down the last down hill. It felt like my breaks weren't working, although they were. Seeing the ambulance (a real one - or mini one - I thought yeah, totally understand why its there.
I haven't check my time yet. I don't think it was that fast. When I arrived back at the race venue, the smoking pink lady helped me get my timer off! - I suspect we will be seeing more of each other - maybe at Taupo!
I think I enjoyed the ride more today than last week. Maybe becasue I wasn't so freaked out by seeing all the serious cyclists. I had brief chat to a couple of people before thre race, the three fat guys, and the smoking pink lady. I guess they help keep the context that we are riding the road, and while the race time is important, the interaction with other riders is important also - especially when your in the tail end bunch.
I rode back to the Hutt via most of the Hutt bike trail along the river bank. It was an enjoyable ride - almost 20 years since I've done that ride! First time I've encountered Hutt traffic, so that was a"new experience".
So, I did 33km plus 24 km travelling distance. That's not my usual distance on a Sunday. But seriously, I didn't think I could do that hill again - riding or walking. I feel quite ok now. So, will just need to use the energy I have left over to get back to the gym tomorrow. I do find it hard to "empty my tank" on these rides. These rides aren't rehearsals, but in some ways they are. In terms of fine tuning certain aspects. eg should I really carry my camelback - most people don't. I'm not sure. I figure I''ll need to for Taupo, so better to practice riding with it now. I'm not sure though.
I need to get new cleats on my shoes because they are "stuffed" - from walking in them - making it not as easy to clip into them. I also need to within the next 20 days work out how the heck I'm going to cope with the Taupo climbs.
I'm not sure on the Tour de Wairarapa - next weekend. I've booked for it - but part of me is thinking I might just be better aiming to do say a 120 km ride. I'll reassess later in the week.
Postscript - eek, I just checked my time. If I ride at the same pace today for Taupo it will take me 11 hours. So, I was considerably slower (proportionately) than last week. I think that's right. I need to double check. o.m.g - I'm going to need divine intervention for my training programme for the next 20 days.
I left my sister's about 6.15am (that felt early, becuase hello it was!) - I thought it would take an hour or so to get to Silverstream. It took less. On the way up I passed three cyclists. All of who, without meaning to be judgemental, looked like they could be on probation. eg a bit "shady" being out at that time of the morning. Friendly, but "shady". Maybe, simply, they were shift workers.... Once I got to Pomare, I realised I had forgotten to wear my sunglasses. In retrospect I would have had time to ride back to the Hutt and get them. Despite the fact of the Lionesses and Lions assessment it was a ripper of a day, I didn't really need the sunglasses.
As for the race itself, I found the hill climb very hard. Way hard. It was significantly more of a test than the Gladstone/Martinbroough hill climbs. I was determined not to stop. But I did. I joined the three fat guys, who were joking they couldn't get up the hill because they were fat bastards. Then hello, the smoking pink lady (not the P!nk lady :-) or the T lady, who sometimes wears and plays
P!nk)) passed us. The smoking lady (wearing pink) I reffered to re the Martinborough race. Then one of the fat guys says - "see that lady there, 2 years ago she and I were last together in this race, and she was twice the size (she's still not tiny!) - so good on her". And the smoking pink lady calls out "its not as tough as Makara or Ngauranga". That wasn't that helpful!
So, I got up the hill with the help of the three fat guys. Then I lost them or they lost me, although I caught up with one of them, who checked I had had a rest and something to eat - which was kind of nice.
There are two reasons not to walk the hill: a) it stuffs your cleats (my cleats are stuffed), and b) its hard to get back on the bike on the hill.
Then I rode a large part of the ride solo - where did the other riders go? I was a littel freaked out coming out down the last down hill. It felt like my breaks weren't working, although they were. Seeing the ambulance (a real one - or mini one - I thought yeah, totally understand why its there.
I haven't check my time yet. I don't think it was that fast. When I arrived back at the race venue, the smoking pink lady helped me get my timer off! - I suspect we will be seeing more of each other - maybe at Taupo!
I think I enjoyed the ride more today than last week. Maybe becasue I wasn't so freaked out by seeing all the serious cyclists. I had brief chat to a couple of people before thre race, the three fat guys, and the smoking pink lady. I guess they help keep the context that we are riding the road, and while the race time is important, the interaction with other riders is important also - especially when your in the tail end bunch.
I rode back to the Hutt via most of the Hutt bike trail along the river bank. It was an enjoyable ride - almost 20 years since I've done that ride! First time I've encountered Hutt traffic, so that was a"new experience".
So, I did 33km plus 24 km travelling distance. That's not my usual distance on a Sunday. But seriously, I didn't think I could do that hill again - riding or walking. I feel quite ok now. So, will just need to use the energy I have left over to get back to the gym tomorrow. I do find it hard to "empty my tank" on these rides. These rides aren't rehearsals, but in some ways they are. In terms of fine tuning certain aspects. eg should I really carry my camelback - most people don't. I'm not sure. I figure I''ll need to for Taupo, so better to practice riding with it now. I'm not sure though.
I need to get new cleats on my shoes because they are "stuffed" - from walking in them - making it not as easy to clip into them. I also need to within the next 20 days work out how the heck I'm going to cope with the Taupo climbs.
I'm not sure on the Tour de Wairarapa - next weekend. I've booked for it - but part of me is thinking I might just be better aiming to do say a 120 km ride. I'll reassess later in the week.
Postscript - eek, I just checked my time. If I ride at the same pace today for Taupo it will take me 11 hours. So, I was considerably slower (proportionately) than last week. I think that's right. I need to double check. o.m.g - I'm going to need divine intervention for my training programme for the next 20 days.
Friday, November 4, 2011
I've got a feeling
I'll start with the random stuff first:
1. I met a lady in the lift today. She smiled at me like we were long lost friends - or very good friends. So I smiled back in kind. I had no idea who she was. I suspected she was a train lady - you, know someone you see on the train, you know them as a fellow passenger, but you don't know them. Only by the descriptors you might assign to them. Anyway, she pressed level 5, I pressed level 7. Then she says "What class are you going to today?" Such an "educative" thing to say. So, I say "oh, the 11.30, what class are you going to?" She says "the 12 o 'clock class". Technically, that should have been 12.30, but I didn't correct her. Then she gets out of the lift, and once the lift doors close, I say to the remaining lift people "I have no idea who that was". And this lovely man says "well, in that case, you did very well" :-) Actually, I still don't know who she is, but I afterwards I realised it was a lady who goes to a few of the same rpm classes I do. It was one of those moments when you see a gym person "with clothes on" - or in a different context than you are used to, so it takes a few seconds to click. It's kind of nice to know I've got a potential new rpm buddy in my building - even though technically I have 5 days remaining on my contract (v. hopeful it will be renewed - well at least that's the collective intention).
2. The best thing about going to the gym today was having a shower and washing my hair (sorry, TJ~!) Not a reflection on the class - it did include one of my favourite tracks (Beautiful Day). But overall, it just didn't click. Partly because of the music set, and partly because of my mood. It's important there's variation in the music, because everyone responds to different stuff, I acknowledge that.
3. The Young American (at reception) asked to take my photo today. It made me "nervous". She was of course asking everyone. I just don't always like having my photo taken..
4. I purchased some Fireworks today (for the celebration in Taupo). I hope to purchase more tomorrow (in the Hutt). I'm not sure now on the :"single firework" named "Carnage" !!!! Eeek: Carnage!!!!
5. I came home today to one of those beautiful Wairarapa rainbows - they are the best in the world.
Ok, if your still reading...here's the d+m stuff for the day:
I had a rather intense conversation this morning over Mojo coffee ( I don’t really like Railway Mojo – although it is convenient, and even though there are now whanau connections with the franschise) , which “unsettled” me for the day. Not necessarily a bad thing. But it did unsettle me. It quite independently touched on another“conversation” I had earlier in the week. The thing of how I “feel” about things, rather than what I “think” about things. There were questions specifically in relation to why I don’t feel happy, joy, or the “bliss” (ok the person didn’t use the word bliss or joy!) when I achieve goals I’ve set. Although that’s not completely true, because when I completed Milford, it felt pretty awesome, majestic in fact. And if that is the case, how will I feel when I’ve ridden Taupo? What if I don’t feel anything after spending months of Taupo as the focus? What if there is no "elation"
The reason the conversation unsettled me is because it touched a raw nerve. It is true I have a protective layer I hold onto to protect myself. Its not like I don’t have feelings, or a lack of empathy about people or issues – becauseI do. But when it comes to reaching within the core of my feeling it’s true, I hold back. That's one thing in retrospect I found "disconcerting" about the "race" last week. I had more to give at the end.
That’s why if I was using my head to analyse things, my weight is a shield. It probably explains why I haven’t been making progress on the weight front. There’s something still holding me back. So moving forward means being willing to expose myself to the feelings of happiness, joy, bliss……and love. Does this scare me? I don't think it does. But maybe if you asked my heart, it does.
The biking equivalent is when I go down hill, I still break. I can’t completely let the breaks go. My Astoria coffee buddy has two biking rules: never break down hill and never walk hills. I’m mastered the second, just not the first – from either a bike, or life perspective.
That’s why bigger than the concept of playing tennis, dancing is important. If I can truly dance (and ride my bike) like “no-one is watching me”, then I will have true release: joy, bliss happiness.
Now here’s an interesting factoid (in my world): This is one of my favourite of favourite songs - maybe because it was my first ever "motivational" song:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILWSp0m9G2U
I loved the film, and then there was this awesome time when I was in Salzburg with my Goethe classmates at the time. So, the year was 2000. We were from all over theworld, but we sang this song – and rocked that café and it was v. awesome how that could happen. I felt true joy and bliss then. Now I need to work out how I capture that emotion and feeling, again: right here right now. Like there are no yesterdays, no tomorrows, just today.
That’s not the interesting factoid: the interesting factoid is when this song plays on my nano pad or whatever it is called – I press “skip” when this song plays.
I also really like this song: ( I like dance versions of it - but also like the original verison)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RV-Z1YwaOiw&ob=av2e
OK, this may be my longest post! That's all - for today.
1. I met a lady in the lift today. She smiled at me like we were long lost friends - or very good friends. So I smiled back in kind. I had no idea who she was. I suspected she was a train lady - you, know someone you see on the train, you know them as a fellow passenger, but you don't know them. Only by the descriptors you might assign to them. Anyway, she pressed level 5, I pressed level 7. Then she says "What class are you going to today?" Such an "educative" thing to say. So, I say "oh, the 11.30, what class are you going to?" She says "the 12 o 'clock class". Technically, that should have been 12.30, but I didn't correct her. Then she gets out of the lift, and once the lift doors close, I say to the remaining lift people "I have no idea who that was". And this lovely man says "well, in that case, you did very well" :-) Actually, I still don't know who she is, but I afterwards I realised it was a lady who goes to a few of the same rpm classes I do. It was one of those moments when you see a gym person "with clothes on" - or in a different context than you are used to, so it takes a few seconds to click. It's kind of nice to know I've got a potential new rpm buddy in my building - even though technically I have 5 days remaining on my contract (v. hopeful it will be renewed - well at least that's the collective intention).
2. The best thing about going to the gym today was having a shower and washing my hair (sorry, TJ~!) Not a reflection on the class - it did include one of my favourite tracks (Beautiful Day). But overall, it just didn't click. Partly because of the music set, and partly because of my mood. It's important there's variation in the music, because everyone responds to different stuff, I acknowledge that.
3. The Young American (at reception) asked to take my photo today. It made me "nervous". She was of course asking everyone. I just don't always like having my photo taken..
4. I purchased some Fireworks today (for the celebration in Taupo). I hope to purchase more tomorrow (in the Hutt). I'm not sure now on the :"single firework" named "Carnage" !!!! Eeek: Carnage!!!!
5. I came home today to one of those beautiful Wairarapa rainbows - they are the best in the world.
Ok, if your still reading...here's the d+m stuff for the day:
I had a rather intense conversation this morning over Mojo coffee ( I don’t really like Railway Mojo – although it is convenient, and even though there are now whanau connections with the franschise) , which “unsettled” me for the day. Not necessarily a bad thing. But it did unsettle me. It quite independently touched on another“conversation” I had earlier in the week. The thing of how I “feel” about things, rather than what I “think” about things. There were questions specifically in relation to why I don’t feel happy, joy, or the “bliss” (ok the person didn’t use the word bliss or joy!) when I achieve goals I’ve set. Although that’s not completely true, because when I completed Milford, it felt pretty awesome, majestic in fact. And if that is the case, how will I feel when I’ve ridden Taupo? What if I don’t feel anything after spending months of Taupo as the focus? What if there is no "elation"
The reason the conversation unsettled me is because it touched a raw nerve. It is true I have a protective layer I hold onto to protect myself. Its not like I don’t have feelings, or a lack of empathy about people or issues – becauseI do. But when it comes to reaching within the core of my feeling it’s true, I hold back. That's one thing in retrospect I found "disconcerting" about the "race" last week. I had more to give at the end.
That’s why if I was using my head to analyse things, my weight is a shield. It probably explains why I haven’t been making progress on the weight front. There’s something still holding me back. So moving forward means being willing to expose myself to the feelings of happiness, joy, bliss……and love. Does this scare me? I don't think it does. But maybe if you asked my heart, it does.
The biking equivalent is when I go down hill, I still break. I can’t completely let the breaks go. My Astoria coffee buddy has two biking rules: never break down hill and never walk hills. I’m mastered the second, just not the first – from either a bike, or life perspective.
That’s why bigger than the concept of playing tennis, dancing is important. If I can truly dance (and ride my bike) like “no-one is watching me”, then I will have true release: joy, bliss happiness.
Now here’s an interesting factoid (in my world): This is one of my favourite of favourite songs - maybe because it was my first ever "motivational" song:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILWSp0m9G2U
I loved the film, and then there was this awesome time when I was in Salzburg with my Goethe classmates at the time. So, the year was 2000. We were from all over theworld, but we sang this song – and rocked that café and it was v. awesome how that could happen. I felt true joy and bliss then. Now I need to work out how I capture that emotion and feeling, again: right here right now. Like there are no yesterdays, no tomorrows, just today.
That’s not the interesting factoid: the interesting factoid is when this song plays on my nano pad or whatever it is called – I press “skip” when this song plays.
I also really like this song: ( I like dance versions of it - but also like the original verison)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RV-Z1YwaOiw&ob=av2e
OK, this may be my longest post! That's all - for today.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Catch-up and tennis
Thursdays are generally my catch-up days. So, that's what I did today. Eat sushi in the sun down by the waterfront, ....and catch-up.
I've been thinking about playing tennis. So, when I'm on the train, I look out at some of the school tennis courts that are visible from the train and think: yeah, that would be awesome to be out there playing tennis. I'm not really sure why - I've been thinking about playing tennis. Maybe becasue when I was a teenager, I loved playing tennis, like I loved riding a bike. So, rediscovering cylcing sort of makes me want to rediscover tennis - because I loved it, and actually, I had sufficient coordination to be quite good at it - in a teenage way.
Or, maybe, as I have previously disclosed, I just like hitting things - in a healthy way, of course.
Or, maybe I have a vision of pulling up in my flash new BMW at a tennis court (although not at a school tennis court! - it would have to be an exclusive club eh?), fitting in tennis before a long leisurely ladies lunch (nah, not really)...I think I'd be pretty happy having a volley or two on a good old basic school tennis court.
I've been thinking about other stuff too. But I can't disclose all my thoughts on this blog (ha~!) - that would be dangerous!!!
I've been thinking about playing tennis. So, when I'm on the train, I look out at some of the school tennis courts that are visible from the train and think: yeah, that would be awesome to be out there playing tennis. I'm not really sure why - I've been thinking about playing tennis. Maybe becasue when I was a teenager, I loved playing tennis, like I loved riding a bike. So, rediscovering cylcing sort of makes me want to rediscover tennis - because I loved it, and actually, I had sufficient coordination to be quite good at it - in a teenage way.
Or, maybe, as I have previously disclosed, I just like hitting things - in a healthy way, of course.
Or, maybe I have a vision of pulling up in my flash new BMW at a tennis court (although not at a school tennis court! - it would have to be an exclusive club eh?), fitting in tennis before a long leisurely ladies lunch (nah, not really)...I think I'd be pretty happy having a volley or two on a good old basic school tennis court.
I've been thinking about other stuff too. But I can't disclose all my thoughts on this blog (ha~!) - that would be dangerous!!!
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
24 days to go
Suddenly, its gone from counting the weeks until Taupo, to counting the days.
My Astoria coffee buddy made the comment on Monday, that it's good I haven't peaked too soon~! This is a way of framing things in the positive. So, instead of worrying I'm not ready, or fast enough, I just continue working hard in the next three weeks (or 23 days to go). My coffee buddy suggested that instead of thinking of myself as an All Black, I need to think of myself as a French player, and make those significant progressions in the last few weeks that are possible to achieve. The improvements I make in the next 24 days are relative to my own performance.
The reality is I wont win Taupo (I am not deluded to think that this was ever a prospect - not at least this year!!!). But I will ride it on race day, and I will finish it.
My colleague at work (who has cycled round the continent of India - (respect!) always frames things positively - like, it will be "fun". Actually, I think it will. As will being able to share the day. In many ways, that's equally important. Having support people who want to support me with the goals and "being there". That's huge. The gift of time, and "walking" beside me in the journey. It makes it easier.
My Astoria coffee buddy made the comment on Monday, that it's good I haven't peaked too soon~! This is a way of framing things in the positive. So, instead of worrying I'm not ready, or fast enough, I just continue working hard in the next three weeks (or 23 days to go). My coffee buddy suggested that instead of thinking of myself as an All Black, I need to think of myself as a French player, and make those significant progressions in the last few weeks that are possible to achieve. The improvements I make in the next 24 days are relative to my own performance.
The reality is I wont win Taupo (I am not deluded to think that this was ever a prospect - not at least this year!!!). But I will ride it on race day, and I will finish it.
My colleague at work (who has cycled round the continent of India - (respect!) always frames things positively - like, it will be "fun". Actually, I think it will. As will being able to share the day. In many ways, that's equally important. Having support people who want to support me with the goals and "being there". That's huge. The gift of time, and "walking" beside me in the journey. It makes it easier.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Who knew
This is my song of the day:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJWIbIe0N90
A remix techno version of it is on the RPM playlist. I liked it when I first heard it. Simply becasue of the line "and if someone said count your blessings now". In listening to it a bit more carefully, I like the line where will you be in 3 years time. I'm not sure.
What I do know is I'm in a significantly better "place" in terms of my overall health and wellbeing than I was three years ago. Significantly. That feels good to know that. I can look at the video clip, and I was pretty much where the guy is in terms of how I was coping with "life" and felt about life.
Today I was reminded that I also need to plan ahead, reignite the dreams and aspirations I dampened. Like a fire that you think is out, put if you poke the embers hard enough and in the right places, you can get it going again.
Good (very good) RPM sesssion, when that happens ;-)
One of the positive people in my life uses the phrase "the best is yet to come"...I like that line a lot, especially when it feels true.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJWIbIe0N90
A remix techno version of it is on the RPM playlist. I liked it when I first heard it. Simply becasue of the line "and if someone said count your blessings now". In listening to it a bit more carefully, I like the line where will you be in 3 years time. I'm not sure.
What I do know is I'm in a significantly better "place" in terms of my overall health and wellbeing than I was three years ago. Significantly. That feels good to know that. I can look at the video clip, and I was pretty much where the guy is in terms of how I was coping with "life" and felt about life.
Today I was reminded that I also need to plan ahead, reignite the dreams and aspirations I dampened. Like a fire that you think is out, put if you poke the embers hard enough and in the right places, you can get it going again.
Good (very good) RPM sesssion, when that happens ;-)
One of the positive people in my life uses the phrase "the best is yet to come"...I like that line a lot, especially when it feels true.
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