Marie & Lori's 1/2 IronWOman Adventure

Runner Gifts for the Holidays!

2009-12-06T13:11:00.003-05:00

The best part about filling orders for Inspired Endurance is reading the customers' gift notes. It is such a privilege! They are motivating, inspiring, endearing, loving and express the true feelings of the gift giver. Many customers write to us after the gift is given to say "thanks" because the response was so happy and thankful, but WE are the ones that are thankful to be a part of the whole process.

Some Runner Jewelry Gift ideas:

$10 Sterling Silver Custom Race Tag with race info and finish time
$20 Sterling Stick Runner on Leather Cord necklace
$30 Sterling Silver 13.1 or 26.2 Bead for her Pandora bracelet

For more inspiring gifts, come see us at www.InspiredEndurance.com!

Finally, goggles fit for a QUEEN!

2009-08-26T13:24:00.004-04:00

During the Seattle Danskin Triathlon expo I met the folks at Lane Four Swim Shop. They were so patient with me trying on about 5 pairs of goggles and FINALLY a winner! I have purchased and tried so many pairs of goggles over the years only to have the same problem. The nose piece doesn't stay adjusted well and they leak or I get those rings around my eyes that last for 4 hours!

I bought a pair called "viewselene" that are made specifically for women making them narrower between the eyes and flat and soft eye rings that make my "ring around the eyes" a thing of the past! Here's a link to the product if you are interested!

http://www.lane4swim.com/viewselene.html

Wow...long time for posting! - Marie

2009-08-09T22:14:00.002-04:00

After my injury in January I seemed to turn into this lazy blob of whatever. I'm sleeping in, NOT working out and I'm miserable. Anxiety levels are at their highest, I feel like crap. Why did this happen? ugh.

Lori and I exhibited our products at the Loggerhead Triathlon expo on Friday. It is so nice to go to a local expo without getting on a plane! We met some great people. Yes, Krys from Luna Chix, I hear you! I will be joining you to workout. Promise. And can I wear that cute Luna Chix tri suit?!

I was cutting my dad's hair the other day and it brought back memories of cutting the local teen boys' hair in our neighborhood (when I was 14 or so). Remember the mullet? I did that well. I also pierced ears with a sewing machine needle and a bar of soap. Crazy.

I will be registering for the Women's Running 1/2 Marathon which takes place in November. Hell or high water I'm running it. My friend was just diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia, so I'm trying to figure out a way to raise money to help her pay for treatment expenses. Any ideas anyone? I will be designing some jewelry to sell in her name. This cancer thing is crazy. I just lost my best friend to it in March. This sucks. I'm wondering how much that has to do with my slacking off. Some, I'm sure.

So...I'll get back to posting. I'll register for the race and we'll go from there. Over and out. Marie.

Restrained Endurance is Best - Marie

2009-06-01T15:06:00.003-04:00

I was running today...to the beach and back...listening to my Dave Matthews jams and a young (early 20's??) man passed me. He was just running with all of his might, of course not to be "beat" by a woman. So, I'm still in my zone around a 10 minute-mile and a few minutes up ahead he was bending over, trying to catch his breath and breathing heavily. So, I passed him and guess what? Here he comes again! Same thing happened, he seemed to have bonked and I passed him again, barely breathing hard or sweating. Restrained endurance is pure satisfaction.

Lori is FAMOUS!!! Again.

2009-05-29T20:31:00.003-04:00

During a few of our races we have had photos captured of us and once we landed not only in an ad for Disney's Olympic Distance Triathlon, but they also used our photo in a Her Sports & Fitness ad and now, here's Lori, famous again!! That would be her to the left with the beet red face and cool rag over her eyes. This was during the Frank Stark Celebration Ride in 2008. The second half of the ride was very hot with the wind against us on the way west and on the way east (it flipped around, what timing!). Lori, wanna do this again?

Better yet, let's do the thirty miler and I'm challenging you to the Loggerhead this year! Wanna race!?? You can't say no to that.

Inspired Endurance Coupon Code...

2009-05-21T00:42:00.003-04:00

We've seen some search traffic for "inspired endurance coupon code." Well, here's one: enter "EXPO" for free shipping. Happy shopping!

Personal Trainers - Marie

2009-05-19T18:12:00.005-04:00

There are good things and bad things about hiring a personal trainer. The best thing is that you get incredible results - FAST! Ripped abs, cut arms, love it! The bad thing is that if you are truly working hard to get the best bang for your buck, you are walking around too sore all week to do anything else, haha. Well, a good sore, so I guess that's not really bad. I was able to leave the trainer yesterday, drop the car about 10 miles south of her "body boutique" and ride my bike home 15 miles. It was a really great day for a ride, except I forgot the sunscreen! Ok, that pic is a little gross for me and the result of lots of swimming!

Back in the saddle!

2009-05-14T12:26:00.002-04:00

Finally, I'm getting back out running again. I'm taking it very slowly so I don't get injured again. It really sucks getting old(er) but I think we need down time for a reason sometimes. I feel good and appreciate being able to go out and move without pain!!!! I'm taking it in stride and not sigining up for any events (as of today). Just trying to get motivated and feel energized again. I can't believe how exercise actually gives you energy to make it through the day. I feel sluggish, tired and "bored" when I don't work out. Off to get lots of chores and errands done! Have a hoppy day!!

Googles - Headphones???

2009-05-06T21:25:00.002-04:00

Does anyone make googles that don't leak or headphones/earbuds for people with little ears? I am so frustrated!!!

Susan's Bootcamp - Marie

2009-05-03T22:10:00.002-04:00

I have this trainer named Susan. She is an awesome personal trainer, but man, I feel like I walk into boot camp when I'm there! I'm not complaining, she is just that type of person that you want to work really hard for. I'll be going there to get re-motivated for exercise now that I'm injury free. My homework is to do sit ups every night (OK, I'm doing them!) and I'll be seeing her again on Tuesday. Now, what reasonable races can I pick out and register for next?!

And my daughter had a fever this afternoon. Uh oh!

Stroke Doctor - Swimming Technique Experts

2009-04-27T18:31:00.004-04:00

I just came home from the St. Anthony's Triathlon expo and met Gary Fahey who specializes in personalized, hands-on swim instruction. He provides lessons and workshops that "will give you the skills to swim with confidence and speed in any body of water."

As an experienced swimmer, I take the swim leg of triathlon for granted. The swim has always been the easiest part for me (except for that time I got sucked under water by the undertow in 5 foot seas and came out with a fish in my suit choking salt water). Many triathlon participants tell me over and over that the swim is challenging. If you live in Florida, take advantage of Gary's Total Immersion workshops, offered from Jacksonville down to Islamorada. Use coupon code "springsale" for $50 off his workshops (www.totalimmersion.net) when registering online.

Oh, and he is super knowledgeable, and super sweet! Read more about Gary at www.strokedocswim.com

Pool Time! - Marie

2009-04-09T13:57:00.005-04:00

Love this weather. Even though I am in South Florida, I tend to be a bit wimpy when the water is "cold". This past week, Lauren & Bryce came to visit from Ohio for Spring Break so the pool was heated to 83 degrees! I was able to hop back on the Super Swim Trainer without a problem! I love this thing, especially when listening to music with my H2OAudio underwater case for my ipod.
Having the 16-year-old spring breakers here was such a blessing in so many ways. They brought such energy and joy to our house and I can't wait to have them back! I was able to take this week to go do fun things like the Rapids Waterpark, boating with friends, movies...what a great break.

New Shoes!

2009-04-03T12:01:00.003-04:00

At the Knoxville Expo last weekend I came across of Brooks running shoes that had lavender/purple accents and had to have them. There's a longer funny story behind them but I can't take the extra time to write it right now. Anyway, they are so cute and match my Atalanta running skirt and My Motttoz lavender shirt that says "it's not fat, it's fuel" on it. I guess that's how you can tell I'm not a super serious athlete. I really just want to get moving and be comforable while looking a little stylish too. I guess I'm a little vain after all!!! Now get movin'!

Out for the count! - Lori

2009-04-03T11:04:00.003-04:00

Unfortunately, I'm out for the count now too. My hamstring tendonitis keeps coming back and I can't work out for hours like the training schedule requires. I'm seriously bummed but honestly only because I'm out $300!!!!!!!! I've never not done a race that I've paid for so I'm going to get over it. I will just swim and bike for a while and hope that I heal eventually. I've read some article online that this type of injury doesn't go away in most cases. Please pray for healing and I'll keep being thankful that I'm even able to walk!!!!

Ugh. - Marie

2009-03-31T14:43:00.003-04:00

I think we need to re-title our blog to Marie & Lori's 1/2 Ironwoman MIS-Adventures. I'm speaking for myself, anyway. No clearance from my Foot Doc to run. I walked 1.5 hours the other day and had slight swelling and pain. Still having problems with my neck. (Excuse my language but, WTF?) I've had a very stressful even in my life this past month with the death of one of my closest friends after her long battle with cancer. Not having exercise to cope has resulted in a month-long sinus infection and fatigue. Please, exercise if you can, use the body you have if its working right!

National Marathon, Needles to the Foot, etc.

2009-03-22T21:31:00.004-04:00

Well, last Monday I had cortisone injections to the left foot and just now I am feeling such relief! I have felt like I've been walking on a golf ball since January and my foot was super sore after any kind of activity. My cousin Joe, a podiatrist, diagnosed me with neuritis, injected it and I am in heaven! Running again! Whoo hoo!

I just returned from the National Marathon expo. What a great town Washington DC is. My husband Steve and daughter Jenna joined me and not only did we do the show together we got to see some amazing sites like the Natural History Museum at the Smithsonian, the National Zoo, the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam War Memorial Wall, and the White House. Of course I was in heaven being in "Obama Land." I truly can't wait to return and would love to talk my husband into running the Army 10-miler in the fall. Here is me and Jenna in front of the White House. She is running from a kiss!

Disney Princess 1/2 Marathon!

2009-03-10T11:47:00.004-04:00

I was in Orlando for an expo last weekend and fell in love with the Disney Princess 1/2 Marathon medal. I wasn't at the training point yet where I should have done it but I couldn't help myself. I signed up and figured I could always walk when I started hurting. Wouldn't you know it, I finished in my best time (by two minutes) for a 1/2. Maybe undertraining is not such a bad thing. KIDDING!! It was hard and a lot of things hurt on me but when I would walk, it hurt worse. Also, I'm still sore two days after and feel like I did when I finished a FULL marathon. I'm glad I did it though and had lots of fun too. Thanks to my friend Michelle Tierney that stuck with me the whole time and undertrained too. She is speedy gonzales usually so I haven't got to run for more than five minutes before. NEW motto idea: There's a first for everything! TTFN, Lori

She's going strong!!!

2009-03-07T22:26:00.001-05:00

Lori is running in the Disney Princess 1/2 Marathon tomorrow. I'm so proud of her! We both worked at the expo along with Heather from www.skirtgoddess.com. We had a great time seeing everyone there. It is so empowering to be at an all woman's race, seeing all body shapes and sizes to complete such an amazing race. Lori, let us know how your race goes and we want to see photos!

Hanging in there!

2009-03-01T19:43:00.002-05:00

I'm still trying to keep up with the training plan but it's been a lot harder to stay on track than any other event I've trained for. Hopefully my hamstring doesn't get worse because I might have to stop running if it does. I got new custom inserts for my shoes and need to get some casual shoes to wear more often with them in. I'm a "flip flop" girl and really don't like wearing socks and regular shoes but I think it will help with my tendonitis. Well off for now and hopefully my next post will be that I'm still doing the 1/2 Iron.

New Jewelry!

2009-02-27T13:07:00.003-05:00

I met with my jeweler yesterday and he gave me the most beautiful 14kt Gold Gem Runner with a DIAMOND!! It is so beautiful that I'm switching all of my jewelry over from silver to gold. Here she is! Now for all of those customers that have been asking about getting a diamond in the Gem Runner.....

For those of you that may run across this and would like to buy it, you can order one by contacting me at info@inspiredendurance.com

I'm walking, just plain walking - Marie

2009-02-27T13:01:00.002-05:00

We ran into a woman at the A1A expo that had done two half ironmans nearly back to back. She didn't exercise for 2 years after that. I can relate! After training for the Big Sur 1/2 marathon that took place last November I felt the same way. Maybe I didn't prepare enough and came away feeling "all used up." My body seems to be screaming YOGA and vegetarian diet at me. December came and went while scrambling to make and send out gobs of jewelry around the nation, January came and I registered for the half ironman only to get hurt a week after paying my 300 bucks so now what? Well, my neck is better. There is still something painful going on between my 3rd and 4th metatarsal on the foot (which is getting cortisone injections soon, thanks to my cousin Joe the foot doc). So I am walking. My goal? An hour a day if I can, rain or shine.

Oh My...Expos are exhausting!

2009-02-22T19:02:00.006-05:00

Lori and I just returned from the A1A Marathon expo and this photo represents how we felt about it. How exhausting and disappointing! Two days on concrete, poor sales and I can't help but be bummed. It's hard to do all this work not only for free but to loose a bunch of money in the process. We do these businesses because we love them but when we pick bad shows it truly is hard to want to keep pressing on.

I'm wondering how the marathon turned out. All we heard were complaints about the disorganization of the 5K.

I did, however, get to spend a WONDERFUL day with Steve and Jenna at Hollywood Beach riding bikes. The water was blue, flat, and gorgeous. The sun was shining and it was the perfect way to end my weekend. So I sit here, waiting for the grouper to come off the grill (cooked by none other than Spearfisherman Steve), having my Miller Lite and loving life again.

Marie.

Working Night Shift and Exercise - Marie

2009-02-11T09:08:00.005-05:00

Getting workouts in after working night shift (and being up for a straight 24 hours or more) is soooo hard! As a routine I sleep when I get home for maybe 4 hours, then get up to get Jenna from school. I'm good for about 2 hours (coffee) and then its like a shadow just descends upon me that says "go back to bed." When I planned my workouts for the 1/2 Ironman, I charted weights and swimming on those days (nothing that took a lot of endurance). Swimming is easiest because the water "shocks" me awake and for weights I just have to sit there. Oh, and I only work 2 nights per week. I feel bad for you wonder women training and working more than that!

So far so good! - Lori

2009-02-10T10:19:00.004-05:00

Well, I'm a few weeks into the training and my running is going good. I haven't swam at all yet so that is going to be a big shock but I'm waiting for my new wetsuit to get here because the water is just too cold for me. Also, biking has been about 1/2 of what I should be doing since the rare cold weather and wind make me come up with all kinds of lame excuses not to do it. Hopefully in the next two weeks I will be on track and not keep skipping workouts. It's a major challenge now that I have to work 40 hours to help make a living and pay for all my sport goodies. I got a "stick" that you roll on your muscles and it is amazing. I can't remember the brand I got but it has foam rolling pads on it. I think it has helped my hamstring tendonitis in just a few uses. Hopefully it will keep it at bay for the rest of the training too!

Rock and run, Lori

Back in the Saddle - Marie

2009-02-10T00:32:00.005-05:00

OK, finally some relief from this neck pain. Again I must state that I would rather endure 24 hours of labor or a full Ironman race than to go through that again. I started taking a muscle relaxer called Soma before I go to bed and after only 5 days I feel soooo much better! Although I can't participate in May's 1/2 Ironman, I am certain I will go for it again. It seems like a very reachable and possibly easy goal to accomplish, that is if I'm not hurt.

Jenna learned to ride her two-wheeler bike. I'm so excited for her. So much for the $200 attachment that I bought for the back of my bike. I took my old Cannondale and converted it to a sort-of hybrid. I added straight handle bars, put the regular pedals back on and added a, um, a basket. Yes, a basket. I bought a Trek Trainer for kids that attaches to the seat post of my bike and voila! A Triathlete minivan. After 3 months of taking her to school like that, now she wants to ride her own bike. I have decided to start running while she rides to school and continue on to the beach each morning.

Our past expo was fun at the Melbourne & Beaches Music Marathon. The views of the course were absolutely beautiful. I think it will become a popular race, especially for families that want to visit Florida and also see Disney or the Kennedy Space Center. The race crosses two causeways that go over the Intracoastal where dolphins often frolic. Lots and lots of water views. (And MUCH cheaper to visit than Miami.) Lori and I will be in Ft. Lauderdale soon to exhibit at the A1A Expo. Hope to see anyone there who might read this!

Excuse My Language but "DAMN!" -- Marie

2009-01-29T20:42:00.003-05:00

You know, I've been blocking this out of my mind for 2 weeks now. I still hurt. Every night I wake up with a pulsating pain that originates at the base of the cervical spine and moves outward. Getting out of bed in the morning is worse. All the muscles from the right side of my neck down to behind my shoulder blade are so tight I can barely move. This is the first time I've ever been injured and I'm disappointed, angry, and upset. Screw the pain, I can handle that. What is worse to me is setting a goal and being knocked off track at the very beginning. I guess this is better than getting halfway through a race and not being able to finish. I told Lori on Tuesday that I would not be able to train for the 1/2 Ironman right now. And I haven't even mentioned my foot. That is a whole other story. Whaaa!!!!!!!!

Funny Story!- Lori

2009-01-29T16:05:00.003-05:00

Well it didn't start out as a funny story and as I was telling Marie how crappy I was feeling the other day, I thought maybe a short run would perk me up and as I ended up walking on and off the last 1/2 mile the UPS man stopped to ask why I was walking and I proceeded to say "can you give me a lift?". He of course being the "nice" UPS man that he is said "hop in" and then when he dropped me off at my drive way said I was the best delivery he's ever had!" Wow, that made me perk up for some reason. I went from feeling crappy to having a bad run to having the UPS man give me a nice compliment and making my day!! Actually the rest of my day did end up in bed sleeping and coughing. Even the yesterday I wasn't up to my usual running around like a chicken with my head cut off self, so I slept some more and today I'm back to it. I can't tell you all the 50 things I've done but I happy to be doing them again. Sometimes all you need is a day in bed to make you appreciate the mundane things that we don't really realize we are lucky to be able to do. I'm back in the bike saddle tomorrow for sure!

Hopefully the UPS truck with have room for my bike if I get another (4th) flat tire. Ride and smile! Lori

Working the Miami Marathon Expo

2009-01-22T13:07:00.005-05:00

Lori and I are on our way to Miami to work at the Miami Marathon expo for 2 days. Lori is the owner of My Mottoz Active Wear which was born out of Lori's great idea of fun, high quality active wear that has fun sayings on it. Their running shirts get smiles wherever you go and not only to runners love their shirts, so does everyone else.

Shortly after she started her business with her sister Sandy, I started Inspired Endurance which basically was a hobby gone wild. I went to an expo with her a year ago with some of my "Racelets" (bracelets that had your race on it) and the runner jewelry, marathon jewelry, triathlon jewelry business has been going strong ever since. We have so much fun at the expos. Just think of standing around for 2 days straight talking to a lot of people that love running!

Neck is Still Killing Me! - Marie

2009-01-19T14:29:00.004-05:00

Wow. So much for jumping right into training. I've never had any part of my body let me down before except my ears, that's a whole other story. Exercise has always been my way of coping with stress and when I don't have it....wow, watch out family! I'm going to try to run in spite of the pain. The Chiro says its only muscle stuff now. Nothing helped the pain but scalding hot water and some gel called Biofreeze. Stay tuned......

Almost Back to Training! - Marie

2009-01-14T22:47:00.004-05:00

I went to the Chiropractor today. I'm starting to feel better, thank goodness. The past two nights sleeping on this painful neck have been, well, painful. I was starting to think of labor in a good light. At least you know there is an end to that pain. A few more doses of Celebrex and I'm sure to get out for a run by Friday. Whew. The mental defeat of being gung-ho for a new race, then getting injured at the very beginning is frustrating. Rock on.

Favorite Visor - Marie

2009-01-14T13:37:00.001-05:00

My favorite visor is a Headsweats visor. It is so comfy, you can wear it with a ponytail and it has an awesome sweatband underneath. Most local running stores carry them, and you can buy them online too. They are under $20.

Training Tip! - Lori

2009-01-14T13:23:00.002-05:00

Wear a visor for running and don't put sunscreen on your forehead because if you sweat like a man like I do, it will run into your eyes. Ouch! Just put on everywhere below your eyeballs and run, run, run. Groove on!

Cold Weather - Lori

2009-01-14T08:35:00.005-05:00

Wow, what a sissy I actually am. I thought I was a little tough but it's 50 degrees here this morning and I'm already shivering! I guess I've known about this "weakness" for a while, since I did move here from Michigan because of the lovely weather from November to April. But we get used to 70's and 80's - 90% of the year and when it dips down below 70, I'm all bundled up. I guess this will keep me from complaining about the heat during training in the future. I LOVE HEAT!!! Rock on - Lori

Injured Already!

2009-01-13T15:20:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I set out for a long bike ride, came home, jumped in the pool to use the Superswim trainer and 15 or 20 minutes into the swim by neck locked up! Just like that. Bam. The only thing I can think of is that during 60 Minutes the other night, I stretched through the whole program. I may have strained something in my upper shoulders then and compounded it by biking, which takes a lot of upper body endurance, and then by swimming. My biggest mistake was not stopping when it first started hurting. Yes, pain is a part of training for races and I've learned to push past it, but not this time. I'm hurt. Whaaa. ---Marie

First Flat Tire! - Lori

2009-01-12T22:41:00.009-05:00

Went for a 20 mile ride today and I think I prophesized (if that's not a word then I just created it) that I was going to get a flat tire because this voice inside my head kept saying "don't get a flat" and then about 5 miles in, I did! Not a big deal for most but it was my first and I was all alone. No Marie around to save me. I've seen it been done a few times and thankfully it was the front tire so I thought what the heck, I'll give it a TRI before calling for a ride (like a girly girl would do). After getting covered in black dirt and I'm sure a some road kill remnants, I was on my way and actually a little proud of myself. I would definitely recommend having a spare tire kit/bag under the seat of your bike and have your local bike shop show you how to change a tire. That's something else that you will be able to say that you can do! So mission accomplished, for today at least. Tomorrow is another bike ride and a short swimming session. I might have to sneak into Marie's pool since mine is freezing again! I wanted to share a past pic I love of the Moms In Motion Triathlon team that I trained with in 2007. Great friends and great memories. Keep on keeping on!!

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2009-01-12T10:53:00.001-05:00

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Man Does My Butt Feel Big...

2009-01-11T13:44:00.002-05:00

Nothing makes my butt feel bigger than cycling. Its always been that way. I could be skinny as a bean pole and my butt would still feel big. So, I went out for one bike ride and BAM! my legs and rear grew by inches, I swear. Does this happen to anyone else? ---Marie

First Bike Ride - Marie

2009-01-10T11:06:00.002-05:00

Oh my. Well, I pumped up the tires, put my cell phone in my pack, filled up my water bottles and took off toward Jupiter Island. The battery in my computer was dead so I couldn't track miles, but this was just a "get to know you again" session with my bike. I felt great, the sun is shining bright, I practiced a few farmer blows and realized that next time I better remember my water bottles.

Organizing - Marie

2009-01-09T20:56:00.004-05:00

Working night shift as a nurse causes a whole set of hurdles for training. After working all night then sleeping for a few short hours the next day, training is the LAST thing that I want to do. I think on those days I will either swim, stretch, and/or do strength training. I mapped out our 18 week training plan and it officially doesn't start until Monday, so procrastinator me will wait until then to decide what to do with sleepless training. I was able to map out my training plan through to the end of February. Tomorrow I will clear the clutter from around the treadmill and dust off the weight bench. I will also tune up my bike and hop on for a short 10 mile ride up Jupiter Island, my favorite spot to bike. I think we also need to address how we fit in training as a mom, soon to come.

Bike Ride - Lori

2009-01-09T14:06:00.004-05:00

Went for a 25 mile bike ride this morning and was all pumped up becuase I was going about 21mph and then when I turned around at the half way point and hit the wind and did about 12mph. That was a long ride home!!! I think my motto should be "don't be cocky" because I kinda was in my mind thinking I was a tough girl and then I wanted to cry on the way home. - ha ha I'm taking a rest day tomorrow and then run about 40 minutes on Sunday with Marie.

First Swim! - Lori

2009-01-08T13:22:00.005-05:00

Wow, what a great start to our training today! After a 25 minute run, I swam in Marie's heated pool with her waterproof headphones on for 10 minutes. That's the first time I have swam in well over a year. It felt great and I loved listening to music too. Now I gotta buy a waterproof case for my Sansa so that I can do swims in my pool too. I feel like I did when I signed up for my first full Marathon. I just smile all of the sudden and think "wow, we are gonna swim a mile then bike 56 miles and then to top it off, run 13 miles." Anyway, I'm just praying for me and Marie to stay injury free and to have fun, fun, fun like we always do!!! Gotta get to workin' now, Lori

I registered! - Marie

2009-01-08T10:51:00.003-05:00

The pressure from my peer was too great. I registered today. I feel like I'm walking around in circles wondering what to do first. How about print the training schedule? The pool is still warm, I'll go for a short run, then swim. I'm letting myself download a new song from itunes for my swimming playlist.

The Start of It All

2009-01-07T12:00:00.001-05:00

Lori just walks around the kitchen while fixing corndogs for the kids and says "I'm going to do a 1/2 Ironman." She has a smile on her face when she says it. She feeds the kids, walks over to her computer, picks a race and registers. Boom. Simple as that.

I've always wanted to do a 1/2 Ironman as a "Life Goal" but before I'm 40, which is in 2 years, so it can wait, right? Procrastination has always been a problem for me, or just taking the easy way out. Thank goodness peer pressure overcomes. So, tomorrow I'll be going to Active.com to register too.

We found an 18-week plan on www.trinewbies.com that we will follow. We chose the Ford Ironman 70.3 Florida, mostly because it is nearby and it will be easy for our families to come too.

I'm doing it as an excuse to get another tattoo. And maybe to cut off all my hair. Something crazy. Why not?

Gear We Love

2009-01-07T08:00:00.006-05:00

Lori's Favorites:

Bike: I have only had one bike so I can't really give a unbiased recommendation. That being said, I do love my Giant OCR3 (lavendar with black accents). It's so girly but fun to ride. I souped it up a little with aero bars and a rear view mirror.

Bike Shoes: I have Shimanos but don't know the style name (Grey with black and 3 velcro straps cost about -$150)

Running Shoes: Ahhhh, this is a tough one because I've tried so many over the last ten years and I love some for comfort and some for looks (I'm a little vain in case you haven't picked up on that yet). I also need major cushioning, which Asics Gel Cumulus 10 has for that and I've worn Addidas Adistar Cushion too. They latter is a little more stable too. I have six pairs I rotate until they look like crap and then off to the outlets in Orlando to get more. I got the Asics at Fleet Feet in Stuart though.

Running clothes: My Mottoz shirts (of course) and Atalanta running skirts (the Committment style rocks and the new capri style is so fun too). I love Moving Comfort sports bras (Fiona and a new style that I can't remember the name of it).

Marie's Favorites:

H2O Audio: Underwater housing for ipod. This makes any swim go quickly. They have several different models for ipods. I think they have other products for different mp3 players as well, not sure. Costs around $100 and you need the waterproof headphones too.

Superswim: Tethered swim harness to swim in place. I bought this after putting a small swimming pool in my backyard. I wanted a lap pool (too expensive) but this, in my opinion, is nearly as good.

Bike: LeMond Alpe d'Huez Road Bike
I wasn't particularly sold on any brand bike. My old road bike is a Cannondale R400 that has LOTS of miles on it but I knew I needed a bike with nicer components. I shopped the new Cannondales but the price was more than I wanted for the components that you got. I really liked the carbon fiber Trek and went to buy it but was sold this bike from the guy at the bike shop that said "this is what my girlfriend rides." I really wanted a feminine bike, but they made a couple modifications including narrower handle bars and it seems fine. I didn't get the triple crank because quite frankly, the only hills in Florida are the drawbridges! Why not a tri bike? You really can't ride it all of the time just for fun so....maybe when I turn pro, haha.

Bike Shoes: I bought an old pair of retro bike shoes on ebay for $20. They are make from soft leather, lace up and are the best bike shoes I've ever worn. No, you don't need to spend $100 on bike shoes.

Running Shoes: Asics 2140. I've been wearing these shoes for about 5 or 6 years. They offer a lot of support, have a breathable fabric and are just plain comfy.

Running clothes: Nike running shorts and any spaghetti strap bra top. The less material the better. If I want to look hot, I wear my running skirt from Atalanta Athleticwear (skirtgoddess.com). The committment skirt has great pockets, the shorts underneath don't ride up and it just makes you look hot. Oh, and Heather, the designer, is cool too.

Gu Gel: Marie likes to take one of these every 30 minutes while running. And one before running if its going to be an hour or more.

Swimming Playlists - Marie

2009-01-05T10:54:00.004-05:00

What? Swimming with music! Absolutely! I use the H2O Audio Underwater ipod case for my nano. I just looked it up and its on sale for $40. What a deal! I paid full price for double that, but its worth every penny. Right now my swimming playlist consists of:

You had me from hello, Kenny Chesney
One, U2
Sweetest Thing, U2
Home Sweet Home, Motley Crue
Dream On, Aerosmith

Running Playlists

2009-01-05T10:53:00.006-05:00

Marie Likes:
Sexy Can I (Ray J)
Low (Flo Rida)
In the Ayer (Flo Rida)
Independent Woman (Destiny's Child)
Hollaback Girl (Gwen Stefani)
More Bounce (Heavy D)
Let Me Clear My Throat (DJ Kool)
Work It (Missy Elliot)
All Summer Long (Kid Rock)

Lori Likes:
White Lines (Grand Master Flash)
Any Blacked Eyed Peas (let's get it started, pump it, etc.)
Fergie's newer stuff
Any old Outkast
Sean Paul
Old Destinys Child Songs
New Beyonce (Crazy In Love, Check up on it)