Jess's Journey

How to Follow #126 on Race day :)

2011-08-24T20:26:00.000-07:00

Here is exactly what the paper sent with my little active link says:

For those on a Web Browser (such as home computer) or IPhones:

Track.MyAthleteLive.com/vemap.aspx?name=028444

For those with handheld PDA/Blackberry/Palm:

Track.MyAthleteLive.com/pda.aspx?name=028444

JESS'S NOTE.. I SIMPLY COPIED AND PASTED AND IT WORKED FINE :)

NOTE: certain versions of the Blackberry broswer do not work. You can download for free the Opera-mini browswer on your blackberry at http://www.opera.com/mini/download

from here.... when it get's closer, or you are really into following details :)

Per the Ironman Website:
IronmanLIVE
Tune in to IronmanLIVE on Sunday, August28, beginning at 6:30 a.m. ET for live race coverage of the 2011 Ford Ironman Louisville, hosted by Ironman World Champions Greg Welch and Michellie Jones. IronmanLIVE has ramped up the show with 17+ hours of live, unrivaled coverage, HD video, social media interactivity and a lot of great new in-show segments. The live webcast can be seen by going to ironmanlive.com or ironman.com. We will also feature live text updates throughought the day.

Originally from: http://ironman.com/events/ironman/louisville/media-credentials-due-by-saturday-august-27-for-ford-ironman-louisville#ixzz1W0ZKjxdY

I hope this helps :) Until then, here is one of my favorite video's as I hope we get that $20,000

Final Week Countdown!!!

2011-08-21T05:09:00.000-07:00

I can't believe this week is already here, THE weeek, the last week until our Ironman Race.. Kevin already text me this morning stating that in one week we will already be on our way !!

I am blessed to say that I am 90% to my goal to $20,000! I only have a little over $900 dollars to go and I am so very grateful for this.. You can still donate here:) http://www.active.com/donate/SoleMates2012/JLeonard

Today is going to be a great day !! Lots of packing to start, and more importantly .. all those snow runs, all those rain rides, and way to early swims were worth it.... I am getting pumped for my FINAL COUNTDOWN!!

Here we go... one more time.. everybody's feeling fine....

2011-06-17T14:30:00.001-07:00

If you can sing that song... you, my friend are moving up in the cool points.. a little group sang that song during a visit to my high school...

But oh my.. is it time.. day after day.. ua as athletes pound the pavement.. striving to run well.. with the wind if you will... and we sometimes forget where the root of our body starts.. besides our muscles deep inside... but our feet.... why must our feet get narly throughout this training process... I decided after Amy's suggestion, it is time for a little R and R and booked a pedicure... my calves have been tight... and feet tired.. it is almost that they have a life of their own that screams NOOOO MORE at times...

But with the help of Sam :) my feet and legs from knees down feel refreshed.. peppy, and they look normal, maybe even cute again :)

Weekend goals: swim 2 miles up at the Creek... run at least 8?10?.. then that beast of 100 mile ride Sunday followed by a run with Meghan :) She has moved to Providence, and we are running the Rock and Roll Half Marathon TOGETHER the first weekend in August!!

This weekend is Karen's half Ironman Race!! I hope you all say a prayer of inspiration for her... she is going to have some Rick and Roll herself !!!! I can't wait to hear how awesome she does :):)

Giddy up, and here we go !! T-72 days until that Fourth Street Finish Line...

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Long Training Weekend.. Makes for a Tired Butt :)

2011-06-15T11:32:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, I knew that we had it in for us.. there were so many things I wanted to get done, and really somehow, my clients laugh when I tell them what I accomplish in a day, they often have a hard time doing in a week...

The weekend started off to a "bang" when I was rearended on Harrison.. Not too cool of an idea, but somehow the other woman involved "wasn't paying attention" .. REALLY I thought? I thought you just liked hitting me twice, first the tap, then again when the person behind her hit her to push her again into me... Thankfully, I am okay, and no one got hurt..

Saturday morning started earrrrrrrly.. I have to say this is the one part of the sport that I don't like.. getting up so darn early to start the day.. I took a video
I thought for sure we were going to get soaked during the entire swim..

However we got there, "suited up" and down to the river we went... I took some pictures of Karen and Spike, and Karen jumping in...

My goal was really to try to remember what it feels like to swim in that nasty water again.. not to swallow that nasty water again, and above all.. get in and get out..

the sun was beauuutifully coming out, except I remember the whole time out, I was complaining in my head because my mp3 underwater player died, and then the sun was to my right..I couldn't site well, and I sure as heck wanted out of there..

It says I swam a mile in about 33 minutes, I will take that being that I didn't go even 65% and I wasn't comfortable .. we got out, and Karen and I had a mission.. ride the out and back twice, and head back in for a nice run..

I was pleased with how we felt going out.. I know Karen has some of the same fears I did with riding on the road.. cars, confidence, etc... she is strong strong cyclist, she just has to believe it... and she is going to rock her first Ironman..

I took it easy going out to the out and back, wanted to feel good, and work on nutrition and gear changes... just feel good.. and here we have it :)

The ride back in was a pain in the rear, hard head winds, and even harder to concentrate on our form on area... we did get back, and had a nice run...

This run was really to help get back into the mental state of mind of where everything will be... from the bridge, to the finish line... LORD how I love that finish line...I get excited when I think about, those awesome words... "YOU ARE AN IRONMAN" I kidded Karen that that is the time to sprint, smile and not trip, but deep down I remember this is the reason that I signed up again.. I miss this finish line... we ran it home, and packed up for a great night of Sushi at Bamboo House (love them:))

Sunday was a nice bright and early start again for Ride for Cincinnati Breast Cancer Ride... HOW MUCH FUN :)I love rides like this, and all to help save some boobies :)

I felt great, and looking back on my numbers, and seeing lots of high 18s, 20s, for mph makes me feel happy :) I am really trying to become a stronger cyclist...

After a great brunch, a quick nap at the pool, I knew my week would start again in a few short hours...... I loved this weekend..I wish I could be around active people like this all the time.. though the mornings came early :)

74 days and counting... I am getting excited.. I am ready to start kicking in ;) BOOP! let's ride :)

pics from warrior weekend:-)

2011-06-07T19:23:00.001-07:00

Here are some :)

Are you Warrior ?

2011-06-06T18:06:00.000-07:00

So, here I am, 83 days away.. and I will say it is all coming around faster and faster than I remember it did two years ago... This past weekend, I decided to take a break in the swim, bike, run, scene and competed in the Warrior Dash... One of the top 3 most fun races I have EVER DONE...

The best part is, I decided to try to dress the part... see pictures above..

See Tri Diesel's page here for reference to what we had to do : http://tridiesel.blogspot.com/

Testing out New Shoes

2011-05-12T08:49:00.000-07:00

So, I read that I can upload a video and picture...trying out my new shoes and happy feet:)

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some times you are the lemon, sometimes you are the vodka ..

2011-05-12T07:56:00.000-07:00

We all remember that phrase when life hands you a lemon, make yourself some lemonade.... I am going to change that.. when life hands you a lemon, grab some vodka and make it a party....
Saturday was our Girls on The Run 5k... and every time i get ready to coach another season.. I get to this race...I am speechless of the amount of girls that we have involved in this program (938 this spring) and how many are in thanksgiving for their scholarship (508 this spring)..
I decided to take it up a notch that day and challenge all clients to a set 5k time...if they beat it..they would get a free session...:). Sounded like a win win win situation to me..:) win 1.. the girls benefit..2.. they get outside to run...3. They could get personal training for free..
I'll have to be honest... if I reach my $20,000 goal. I will wear Tutu and.crown during Ironman Louisville:) and to be bias and say we all did great...

Hipp Hipp horray for GOTR Ironman Louisville Solemates Karen Martin :) after our first run we went on a 8 mile run with Karen... she is sweet, soft spoken, humble and kind !! She has about 100000 questions about the Ironman, much like I did. And I am grateful and honored to help either... I often say it, but she reminds me of me two years ago :).. I cannot wait to see how awesome she does.

We finished with a swim.. this is where I am getting frustrated... I am swimming longer and well... but this beautiful mother Earth is killing my open water swims .. Ceasers Creek is flooded up to past the shelter:(:( so pool swim again..

You would think I learned my lesson in cramping..but nope I haven't... I cramped from my toes to my hip.. like ET style... and my swim was done...

Saturday night was Scott Lane's I am ready ride fundraiser...I need to look more into this... but the event gave me ideas !

Sunday, Karen and I met for bike ride on Rt.8... I love the feeling of my new fit !! I have to say those guys at bikes and more are treating me like a queen... and I am very excited to have their support :) they are honest, available, open to questions, and well priced...my vote for sure :)

the 3 hour ride felt good, a couple great rollers, good climbs, and good chat :) I feel ready for Saturday:)

I can sit back and think of the many times I wish I went longer,harder, probably smarter too, but I am starting to look at the big picture here... it's all about the journey... and finding some friends with vodka when you have handfuls of lemons...

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Today was wet...4-23-11..

2011-04-23T15:12:00.000-07:00

I really need to start blogging more.. especially after rides like today.

2011-04-23T14:38:00.000-07:00

127 miles :) aww not so fast.. 127 days..yes :) today was sooo incredibly wet... I mean terrible down - hard rain.. but my trusty partner in crime kept me in tack and rain had nothing to do with our mission to get some miles in..

I woke up in hopes to run down to Louisville for 80 of the 112 mile ride, except today they were expecting hail, and 30 mph winds with rain and thunderstorms, and we (Kevin, Karen and I) decided to bag that idea, and stay local.. Karen said not today, but I knew Kevin would keep me honest to my word to ride today...

I was all pumped about my new jacket:

and off I went from my house to his.. I knew also it would be a challenge of the bold and fearless today.. and before I knew it, we were on our way.. took Glenway out to Purple People Bridge, to Rt 8 to the end and back.. Here is Kevin patiently waiting on the KY side for our ferry:

Finally boarding, it was to give the ol' legs a break..... the back half of the Ferry is fun, looks almost like we would have a boat down. but alas we made it back to Ohio side... and off we went along River Road.. I laugh now, but at the time, we were thinking RR hated us.. I dropped one of my favorite bottles, went back (yes I did :) ) to get it, and the top was smashed off from a car... about 5 minutes later, bam, lost another one, went back to get that one too.. and then came the rain.. dropped a gel, we rode and rode, and turned on that wonderful 128, and we split off.., I knew those last couple miles would be wet, but I thought it would slow down a bit... thought. haha, through the rain, and a couple last grunts, I made it home, changed shoes and headed out for the run... I was DRENCHED!! it the matter of minutes.. it was horrible, and painful, but all I could think about is the end result, this Ironman race in 127 days...I got home and laughed . I have never been this wet except for the Flying Pig half - marathon last year.. haha Here is a video of the rain: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AZxBr-3MDPE

and Here is a link to our ride: http://connect.garmin.com/player/81040850

The cool thing is, today I realized I am already over the $10,000 mark for Girls on the Run :) Only $10,000 more to go by August 28, 2011!

Gidddddy Up for a big Easter tomorrow :)

SUNSHINE on a COLD DAY

2011-03-25T17:20:00.000-07:00

So here is last weeks ride...argggg http://connect.garmin.com/player/73868227 it was cold. and hilly and cold and hilly... none the less I decided to get out there and get some miles done...I met this nice guy, Kevin, he is also doing IMKY, and little did I know before meeting him, he is also the son-in-law of the wonderful lady who cuts my daddy's hair :) any chance to get some miles in, with a new friend that doesn't mind my snot, cursing, I, my friend, am game :)

So you know how it is soo early .. it is still dark. check out my good ol boyfriend bike still holding up in the dark, with fluids ready :)

The ride is above.. from Kevin's Garmin.. being that I kept turing mine off somehow, and I really am still learning now to use mine quite yet. It was a pretty course, except for that it was cold, and early and dark, but out on that good ol Paddy's Run we rode upon a Llama farm... yeah we have them in Ohio ....and I decided to take a picture while I was there :)

haha, I was yelling for them.. LLLLLAAAAAMMMMAAAAAS! haha, so off we went again, and I decided, my feet were too cold after our first trip that I tried to warm them up.. must invest in warmer clothes or something fun.. but we made out the park, and then decided to go for a jolly up climb to Crosby.. oh dropped chain.. yes! I love it too! at least it is good practice for if it would happen any other day .... all in all we averaged about 16mph, a little slower, but not bad with the headwind, wind, and dropped chains and stops. in the books and done :)

Here are most of my awesome awesome girls this season for Spring Girls on the Run... Every year, the girls are more and more different than my previous years.. I have strong runners, I have strong walkers and joggers... this season we have a great mix :) I decided to try to get some more pictures along the way.. this is during my lessons today :) we were talking about our community service project: here are our top three ideas :) carwash, walking pets for a day, and donating to clothes drive.. they are all like my little sisters..

Tomorrow, I am riding from Whitewater Park to Oxford and back... it should be fun :) I am excited, in a giddy kind of way.. mostly because even though... it will be cold, I have booties and socks from Jim Ray (THANK YOU) and my kick A$$jacket from Mary 2 years ago.. I barely get the chance to wear it , and with her and friends, it should be allll Sunshine on a Cold Day !!

brick .. brick.. brick.. brick

2011-03-11T19:35:00.001-08:00

So who ever first came up with the idea, take that back, idea of brick training had a good idea in theory .. until it is time to actually do one, or four....

Knowing that bike to the run And that ICK feeling all too well, I decided to change it up and throw in a little of my weights in the mix...

170 days .. and ticking ... today workout included :

4 rounds for time to complete:

20 alternating Kettle bell single arm squat with swings.. with 25 lbs.
4 mile stationary bike~ on an upright life fitness bike.
.50 mile run

First set .. no problemo, second. Ouchy those legs feel this.. third... there is that ick.. fourth.. get this darn thing over ! 62:01...

I am excited I did it.. And even more excited to be in Louisville for vball.. driving here. Passing New Castle, and more so La Grange.. I surely get those awesome goosebumps ... those nerves that scream 170 days. And ticking. Will you miss Jessica be ready again ?

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Not enough sweaty days...and then we get snow?!!

2011-03-10T18:12:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was one of those great days.. you know when for whatever reason things happen for a good reason, and you really don't know how it all turned out the way it did, but you are just happy it did..

Yesterday, I had 2 wonderful classes jammin to the classic 80s... and then my last two clients decided to cancel, and I had the incredible night to myself :) and the gym only had a couple people leff in sight...

I knew I wanted to get some solid work done on the deadermill-- enough already right?

SO, after setting the treadmill to 55 mins, speed 8.0 or higher, I ran a half mile, followed by some sort of three series for weight training... when I finished, I watched my favorite show minute to win it, on the eliptical... this isn't my shirt, but this is what it looked like..

This weekend we have a huge vball tournament in Louisville.. it always feels kind of funny to go there after all the memories I have.. and next weekend I am praying for a goooooood no snow weather day :):)

Signing out, and over.

175 days!

2011-03-06T18:24:00.000-08:00

Here we go.. 175 days and counting until we start back up in this little race called the Ironman..

I have a goal to raise $20,000 ! It will happen, I have a goal tihs week to finish my letters, and send those out in the next week. I have a goal to finish my thank you cards, and I have a goal to sell 200 of these fabulous tee-shirts in 20 days !

If you are intersted :) Email me jessicaleeleonard@hotmail.com I can send them with your donation ;)

Secondly... my page is up and running for my donations !! :) here we go $20,000!! http://www.active.com/donate/SoleMates2012/JLeonard

I can't wait to update as I go ! Bring it on .. new goal... new committment :)

Key West

2011-02-22T08:43:00.001-08:00

So... this is it... I am sitting here waiting for our last eatery in town, and I decided to try this little application I downloaded :) Key West was super fabulous.. except too short..

I rented a road bike for the short week, and road at least 35 miles a day... something I wanted to do... I even met up with a group and rode 35 with them... and another 15 by myself around the island.... each day I wanted to run something... during that early morning ride, I had my longest 10-12 mile run..

It was wonderful to hang out with my family. And that they let me do my own thing .. I am going to try to upload my pics :)

Today turns over 189 days until IMKY :)

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Be Remarkable - Inspirational new video

2011-01-27T19:57:00.000-08:00

Saturday .. January 29, 2011 :) Something great is going to occur... On Saturday, everyone of my spinning bikes are reserved to ride for 8 hours.. 8 hours.. for 18 bikes, and I am asking for a donation of $20.00 per rider per hour.. all tax donation for Cincinnati Girls on the Run! How awesome is that!

I have an incredible support staff, that includes this awesome kick butt Jim Williams who made a slide show for 8 hours :) He pretty much rocks... hands down :)

Here is a good video to get us up in the good mood :)

222... Three 2's seems lucky enough to start :)

2011-01-19T19:07:00.000-08:00

Sooooo, Here I am. I take a deep breath, I realize there is a lot of work to be done, and yet I tell myself, I can do it :) My goal: oh yeah taking it up a notch :) 20,000 big ones :) $20,000!!! ALL for Cincinnati GOTR :)

222 days away... Training is set, training is printed rather, and now it is just a smooth kick in the tail to get me going :)

I do have some fundraisers set, one being my fundraiser :) 8 hours of spinning all for GOTR :)

On January 29th from 11-7 I, as well as 3 other awesome gyms are hosting an eight hour, YES 8 Hour spinning challege!! Now before you click out and say no way, there are multiple dif...ferent ways YOU CAN GET A WORKOUT OF YOUR LIFE :) all to benefit this awesome charity!

Come listen to some best music, and sweat it out in sweat to ring in our new year and our new goals :)

Option 1: Casual Spinner .. if you want to reserve a spinning bike, call the contact below to sign up to make sure you get your bike available.

Option 2: Team Pow WOW :) Grab up to 8 people ( non members are also permitted) to a team to divide and split up the ride to get 8 hours covered:)

Option 3: Teasing the Trainer: Bring your road bike, bring your trainer, and let's make sure you contact the site where you want to ride to ensure there is space at your choice site, and come grind it out,and put your endurance to the test, very much beats riding alone :)
** teams can be made with trainers also :)

TOP FUNDRAISED teams at each will receive Heart Rate Monitor with Chest strap :) as well as an additional 30 given out as door prizes.

Other door prizes include gift cards to: Dicks Sporting Goods, Bikes and More, Panera, Mejier, and Starbucks.

Now the important thing :) A 100% tax deductible $20.00/hour donation will be accepted per rider for the length you ride this awesome day :)

We will have towel helpers, as extra hands on deck to fill up bottles, and keep things moving :)

I am excited to see who can ride the longest,.. currently the top rider with me is challenging me past 5 hours, CAN YOU TOP THAT?

Looking forward to seeing you!

Jessica Leonard
513.379.2918
3131 Mercy Health Plex
Cincinnati Ohio 45238

Other Supportive Gyms:
Revolution Spinning and Fitness
4642 Ridge Avenue
Cincinnati, OH 45209

Western Tennis and Raquet Club
5490 Muddy Creek Road
Cincinnati, OH 45238
(513) 451-4233

West Side Pilates and Fitness
3233 Westbourne Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45248

So... Let's saddle up, get ready, and jump right into another year of fun... 222 days and count down begins :)

Kona, Ironman World Championships

2010-10-06T23:56:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from the week.. I keep adding as I keep taking :) Enjoy :)

How can you not get hooked, lined, and SUCKERED in to RACE..

2010-09-01T21:24:00.000-07:00

Sunday.. 1 year from the day that I stepped up to the plate to race my first Ironman. It was mixed emotions to go down and be a part of this wonderful journey for this year's athletes..

Upon getting to my host house on Saturday, I decided to turn off and drive some of the La Grange loop.. Why is it feel so short and so flat an smooth when we are in a car.. I saw a couple workers putting some baracades for that incredible crowd, and saw the community already starting to place signs along the road.. at this moment, I started to tear up a little bit.. I know crazy, right?!? But it was at that time, I had that race of emotions that said "Jessica.. it is time for you to step up .. do this thing again.. you are NOT done!" I left here and went over to the Ironman Shop that was still open for another hour or so.

Downtown, I couldn't resist that urge to check every person I passed, and those with that Blue Ironman Bracelet.. proudly getting ready to race, and I wish I was part of them :) I stepped into the venue, and without the superstitions of the previous year, I decided to get myself some swag.. I have to say that shtuff is expensive, but worth it.. I finally got that little sticker that says "IRONMAN FINISHER" .

Onword past the transition area madness, and athletes.. everywhere.. there was that part of me that wanted to just put a booth on a corner with a sign over head like a lemonade sale that say "come chat about the Ironman"But instead.. I drove to Erin and Jim's Fitness 19 (the couple whom I will stay with during most of my training.. unless Brother dearest Jake moves), got a quick Crossfit workout in, elipitical ride, then went out to dinner. the morning came soon, and my volunteering shift that started with the swim timing.. it was fabulous to be there on the course.. hear the buggles, and then watch the cannon go. off they went.. I was screaming go go go .. start that watch as i was jumping inside for these athletes..first shift in Blue was done, and I moved on to watch some Bike out... It is amazing how fast these kids go..

All I wanted to yell is you have 112 miles!!! what the heck is the hurry... but I know that feeling of just wanna get going :) Job in blue done... Ran into these two crazy guys.. Bob and Steve who also raced Ironman KY in 2009, and we were discussing (while I failed to watch my turn and bump) about how we are all ready to start this journey again..I met Kristen, Dustin, and Jesse who I also am hoping also committ to this journey :) Then, a long time stranger.. Aamanda Brungs.. I haven't seen probably since I have graduated school, Amanda was a freshmen when I was a senior, and the small incredible world of the Ironman, she told me that watching my brother's video he made me last year, influenced her to go down and volunteer.. HOW kick A$$! So positive that I need to race again.. here we are (again me not watching my bump in the road).... After several hours, I walked over, finished my sandwhich, and decided to watch a little bit of the finish line shoot, before I received my yellow shirt to work the Finish Line.. I took a picture of the medal, because they are different than last year, and I could... WILL use this as motivation.. After several hours, I met Tara from Biggest Loser (sidenote, when I forget out my real camera- not just my phone.. I will get our picture on here) I saw a man do push ups at the finish line, one guy wanted to dance, one guy's wife just had a baby 2 days ago and they were both there.. its so cool telling a stranger., YOU ARE AN IRONMAN TODAY!!

And with that.. My volunteer shfit was over, and i just couldn't wait to sleep... I signed up on Tuesday.. and I hope you all have good coffee... or tea., as this is going to be one exciting journey :)

Every good journey should start clean and fresh...

2010-08-22T12:48:00.000-07:00

Today was a great serendipity day for me.. I woke up early expecting to go watch the Men's Finals at the Western Southern Tournament with my mom, and after not hearing from her of when she was going to pick me up, I decided today was THE DAY..

I kidded on my facebook wall post stating:

‎"How to Train for Your Second Ironman" Chapter 1: The First step to training for IMKY 2011..Clean Bike from last ride during IMKY 2009. To do so, Place glove on left hand, place glove on right hand. Remove handle tape off the bike, spray gingerly 409 over frame of the bike, and pray you don't remember the sweat, powerbar jells, spit, dropped fluids, or anything else that fell on the bike during that 112 mile journey."

So today, I did just that.. I cleaned off my bike.. Check out these before pics.. Oh yes, I should also state I really haven't been on my bike since the Ironman last year.. I know I know..pathetic.. horrible. incredible.. unreal.. but true ! haha, Look I still had my sticker on it, and it was quite mixed emotions taking off that sticker...

You know that old wives tale with the band-aid.. if you go and steady it will actually hurt more, just pulling it off quicker is less painful.. it is true :)

but more so, lots of things have changed in the past year, I bought my own little house (well- condo, but I bought it, not renting) ... I haven't blogged much at all, but I am changing that, got a cute new background, and decided it is time.. because now more so I have this crazy goal (which I will) to raise 20,000 DOLLARS for the Cincinnati Chapter of GIRLS ON THE RUN! I have many new ideas, and I can't wait to start this journey much like I did two years ago...

A long day volunteering is one of the most incredible ways to spend a day, especially when it is with over a thousand of your closest friends. Sunday August 29, I will volunteer again during the Ironman in Louisville... and August 30, I will sign up to start that single step towards my journey ..AGAIN :)

Somewhere in the middle of that very brief moment between sunrise and day time...

2009-10-22T11:10:00.000-07:00

...This is where I want to stay.. for a very long time.. this mornings early run was one of those long runs I didn't want to end.. Just felt good to have cold legs, cold breath, but sweat dripping everywhere... Loved the feeling of red face, wet hair that turns white from the cold sweat, and how I felt during the run.. Having lots to think about just becomes easy during these kinds of runs.... I know I have avoided this blog, not for lack of what to say, but for the question, we first time Ironman-er's get... "now what?"... I am still pondering this.. but for the better part of the day..I will keep dreaming of that brief moment between sunrise and day time...

The Video of the Journey to my Ironman, Louisville, Kentucky

2009-09-20T12:46:00.000-07:00

I know, I know.. where is my race report... Every day, I think.. I gotta do that.. every day I see someone I haven't seen since before the race, and I say usually the same thing along these lines:

"It was okay, I FINISHED which was my main goal.. hardest part? eh, yeah the swim.. I got sick in the middle of the swim... no.. no.. no there was a sand bar where I could stand briefly and unfortunately got sick .. from what? ahh, nerves, a ton of river water, couple kicks.. and I really thought that brown bride was moving and moving... getting out of the water was the best feeling... the bike? well I forgot to put a pair of socks in that bag, so I had to run out and get a pair out of my other bag... yeah, go bathroom, and I thought, just have fun...waved a lot, smiled more... half way through during my special needs bag pick up, my left cleat broke again... yeah yeah.. again can you believe it... jumped off with the awesome volunteer help, went to the porto-let, jumped back on after about 15 mins of gabbing, and off I went.. saw some awesome fans I couldn't figure out how they got out there, and before I know it 112 was done.. no. no music speaker... got off my bike and thought oh my gosh, here goes a marathon, yes MY FIRST marathon... it was still light out, and I knew I had 8 hours to get across 26.2 miles... just had fun, or tried to.. my friends ran part of the way along the road, yeah I know they are crazy.. but people are awesome.. kept trying to move forward, kept smiling, went to the bathroom a lot in the porto's, and kept saying you can do it.. got to the turn around and thought oh my gosh, why did they put the turn around right where we can see the finish line? okay, one more loop... keep going, and then there it was... the finish.. and I did it.. 14 hours and 33 mins later."

:) here is a video that my younger brother... my side kick made of the weekend.. he was great, and I owe him tons... but really, the pictures say it all.. I promise to put a race report up soon :)
Much love and hugs to all of you.. I am an Ironman :)

follow me during race day here!

2009-08-28T18:29:00.000-07:00

Hey friends and family... For all those who plan to watch from home or even those who plan to be down here...

Here are the two most updated links for you to virtually follow me throughout the race! There is so much emotion and comotion going on..

From the excitement starting out the Gatorade practice swim... The water actually felt nice... Then to athlete check in... It all became so gut wrenching.. And awesome.. Getting my bags!

Travis continues to be great and taking lots of pictures.. Which I will sure be to post...

Tomorrow... Underwear walk shuffle to honor a fellow triathlete who was killed by a drink driver in a race.. The dropping off bags and bike... Then early dinner... Scary how close this is all becoming!! Here is the link...

If you have a blackberry... Or I touch..

www.mapmyathlete.com/pdatrak.aspx?name=051412

If you have a computer to use... Or just get the internet..

www.mapmyathlete.com/vemap.aspx?name=051412

Thanks for your support... I will be able to reach text messages at 5133792918...

I will... Be... An ironman! !

HERE I COME LOUISVILLE!!!

2009-08-27T12:48:00.002-07:00

"Run While you can, walk if you have to, crawl if you must, but just FINISH :) "

I am off of here to head down to Ironman Louisville, 2009

BIB 339.

GOAL TO FINISH with a Smile!
TOTAL RAISED FOR GOTR: $9,632.00

THANK YOU!!!!!!!! I CAN STILL COLLECT ONLINE DONATIONS UP UNTIL 2P ON SATURDAY!!!!!

Thanks again for all your love and support. Can't wait to see a lot of you down at the race, and cheering. BE LOUD and BE YELLOW!

See you after I return from Cancun :)

Cheers and hugs.

"SWIM like a sharks on your ass
BIKE like Lance Armstrong is riding with you
RUN like A CHEETAH....that's my nickname:)

YOU CAN DO IT JESS!!!! (From C.H)

SOME LAST MINUTE INFO..

2009-08-27T12:48:00.001-07:00

Jessica Leonard BIB # 339
Ironman Louisville Journey
You can follow her along the day by one of the following:
- www.jessicaleonardsjourney.blogspot.com
-www.ironmanlouisville.com
à At the start of the race you will see a link for the Athlete Tracker under the coverage tab of the event on the home page of Ironman.com. You can also access the coverage by navigating to “Events”, then choosing the race (Ironman Louisville) you are interested in.
http://www.myathletegps.com/
- Then Upper right corner it says track athlete… find Jessica Leonard… this will give you live updates where I will be during the race. Only thing needed is a computer or personal handheld phone with internet.
You can also send messages to 513.379.2918 in which Jessica will receive them when she is finished with the race. (Jessicaleeleonard@hotmail.com)
Enclosed are maps to help make time a little easier to find athletes, the parts that have smiley faces are from the GOTR director, and the star’s are places it would be great to see some of you J you can get a more detailed version of this on Google’s Maps “Jess’ Ironman Course- with psble viewing areas”
** Every athlete will be anticipated to start the swim by 7:30 am.
-> I should be out of the water by 9:30 at the latest.
-> I should be on the LaGrange loop for majority of the race considering we loop it twice as you can see, and it is 33 miles long. Times I will be on the course are listed. THIS IS AN ESTIMATION J
->Complimentary shuttle bus service will be available from downtown Louisville to LaGrange (and back) on race day from 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Following the swim, spectators can walk to the corner of Witherspoon and First Street to catch the bus to LaGrange. The shuttle bus drop- off/pick-up location in LaGrange is in front of the courthouse at the corner of Main and Second Streets.
-> The Bike Course closes at 5:30 so you know I have to be back in to transition before then to start the run that I will enjoy so much J
->Run maps are also enclosed with lots of stars.. this is when I am going to need you all the most J Come with signs, noise makers, you name it! It s a loop course, that we do twice, so you will and can see me lots!
Can’t wait to see you all and bring me home on this long day. I have until midnight to make it home!
THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!! SEE YOU ALL IN YELLOW WHEN I GET BACK! J IRONMAN HERE I COME!

Things YOU (even I) might not know about the Ironman In Louisville.

2009-08-27T12:39:00.001-07:00

They make a lot of money, drink a lot of water, and need a lot of volunteer help. Here are some of the more interesting facts John Boel found in his preparation for Ironman Louisville coverage:

Average yearly HH income for Ironman entrant: $161,000 (ha, ha, ha :) )
Estimated value of bicycles in transition area: $2 million
5 men are attempting Ironman Louisville who are ages 70 - 76
Water - supplied by Louisville Water Company:

Bike Course: 42,240 bottles (24 oz) That's 14 per athlete
Run Course: 37,000 bottles (34 oz) That's 12 per athlete
Finish Line: 9,000 bottles (500ml)

Police: 625 different police shifts for the race, just in Louisville, not counting Oldham County.

Total Volunteers: 2,600

Including:

60 for body marking 35 in kayaks on swim course
100 other swim monitors
30 assisting with gearbags
60 in changing tents
75 per bike course aid station
30 motorcycle volunteers
100 bike "catchers" in transition area
50 per aid station on run course
100 at finish line
5 vans on the bike course picking up non-finishers

HOW ABOUT THAT!
"Success seems to be connected with action. Successful people keep moving. They make mistakes, by they don't quit."

THANK YOU FRIENDS AND FAMILY

2009-08-27T12:16:00.000-07:00

Today I was suprised ( more than you all think) with a little flood and sea of yellow shirts... I was so excited every time I saw another one... and each one with another high five, and little quote... here are some pictures I snapped with my cell phone..

Then at noon on the dot, I was surprised with tons of people from the gym.. alllll in yellow :) I mean all my clients that I had already said good bye too, all my fellow gym mates, my virtual coaches, my psychologist, my co workers.. everyone.. in their yellow shirts!!

I can't wait to see those pictures!! I am thankful for all of your support, and I am humbled more the same.. it is with you that I will get throughout this race...

There were all my favorite foods from Sushi to rice krispies, to fruit and more...

THANK YOU THANK YOU, THANK YOU!

The night was sad with tears of goodbye to my boyfriend, as it was going to be the last time I see him until I see him in Philly... He is going to be an amazing new DM, and I am happy for his promotion, just wish he was going to be there throughout this journey's next chapter... the finish line of the Ironman...

He did give me Ryan the Lion, in which I will take with me for courage and strength :) Thank you!

SHOTS.. and not the GOOD KIND.

2009-08-25T12:10:00.000-07:00

Today was the day I got my cortizone shot.. I went in and simply put, waited, and waited, and waited... however it is good to know your Doctor, and that he could get me in before this weekend...

While waiting, I snagged this photo of those awesome instruments...

Then wam bam thank you mam, after a short x-ray that didn't look like there was any stress fracture, just very narrow bones, I was ready.... and Rod laughed when I asked him if I could take a picture of him doing this... I said, "I have followers... not many.. but some"

I thought there was only one, but he ended up giving me two... the first batch.. eh, not so bad, the second, I said "HOLY HAIRY MARY"... but it is over... and with instant releive of my foot... let's hope it holds up for 26 miles.2!

"It's when things get rough and you don't quit that success comes."

Quit will not be in my vocabulary..

2009-08-22T07:03:00.000-07:00

Pain is temporary. It may last a minute, or an hour, or a day, or a year, but eventually it will subside and something else will take its place. If I quit, however, it lasts forever.

– Lance Armstrong

I am going to print this and put it on my aero bars.

Thanks Big Daddy Diesel you continue to motivate me across the miles.

BIB # 339. It is all real now!

8 Days.

Headed out on a little bike ride up to a craft show... just to feel out how the bike feels after this week's little adjustments.. coming home and starting to make list upon list. Can't wait to see Mary tomorrow and ride with her for some Q and A :)

Friends, especially Friends who know Bikes, are WONDERFUL

2009-08-20T07:16:00.000-07:00

This week I feel like I have hundred of things to do and just keep thinking, oh yeah, better do that, yeah that to, and oh damn, that too... and the first thing on my list was uptuning Boyfriend..

I bought new tires for my Bike, Boyfriend, way long time ago, but I decided to put them on for my A race, Ironman Kentucky, and wanted to get new tape for the bars, and after my last ride, and not being able to unclip, and getting a partial fix to get me past the wonderful day of challenge... I wanted to get those clips looked at too...

I am grateful, and downright love that I have a trustworthy Bike shop within minutes of my work, and my house for that matter, and that it teammate and crazy IMKY friend Judi's boo Dom is their mechanic... beng that he wasn't going to be in the shop, I was welcomed to bring my little Boyfriend over to their basement...

Their basement had so many bikes, like tons.. and he is so freaking smart and nice to teach me about bikes... I don't get bike envy a lot, but some of those, especially Judi's that she is going to rock out IMKY on, are preeeettyyy. Jason Diaz, my partner in tri-wanna-be crime, once wrote an obituary for my bike when I thought about getting a new bike.. and now that the time is coming close, I am glad I kept my first one to get me through..

I had to run and get some new tape, and I piked Red, to match the bike, but also because it just made me think, "FAST" I know, I am crazy.

When I got back to their house, Dom had already put on my back tire for me, and cleaned out my gears and lubed them up, and was getting ready to teach me how to put on my front..Patience and stupid questions later, I learned how to put them one on, little quicker too.. just hope I won't need to do that..

When he put me on the trainer to check out my bike, he laughed at the first thing of how out of wack and low my aero bars are. I have said it time and time before, I envy those who just look comfy riding their bikes, and I never have felt that way.. and then he looked at my seat.. For this whole year of getting blood blisters in the lady who who area, I know now, just now that my saddle was turned to the left.. how bout that... fixed that, check.. and then he noticed my cleats.I need new ones, and sometimes I think, what else can I get, what else do I need to buy, but he suggested where to get my something to make me pedal more smoother with the cleats I have.. so I went and got them... and 4 bottles for my special needs bags..

It was fun to see how tiny Judi is...Glad to know that we are both kinda in that eating well, but what are you going to ... eat the day before, eat today, eat tomorrow.. Still don't really know what to eat, but she and others have suggested Salt is going to be my friend this next week, and carbs... and I already feel bloated..

I feel like I could have ran more, and maybe I might feel a little more comfortable with this race, but my Dr. apt is tuesday, and I am supposed to get my cortizone shot then...and maybe, just maybe my head will be at ease..

However I know some of you vet's are thinking, "ARE YOU CRAZY... DON'T MAKE ADJUSTMENTS LESS THAN @ WEEKS OUT!!!!" but really felt 90 times better than it did.. the true test will be this weekend with some casual riding..

Goal to finish .. goal to finish before midnight..

yep.. 11 days..

2009-08-18T06:24:00.000-07:00

11 days.. Yellow shirts are being worn all over the gym.. next Wednesday I have been asking all those that bought my over 150 shirts to wear them proudly....

11 days until the sound of chills and silence.. but I am getting nervous, and just start to have those "OH MY GOD" thoughts... but It is all coming close..

Saturday I had a little mini Sprint for the USAT Mid East Central Championships... Many people were discouraged not to do this race at all, but I decided to weigh my options, and do it anyway.

Pro's:

It was a 5:30 p.m. start, with the Option of the Sprint or the Olympic, I chose the Sprint
Open Water River swim for .5 of a mile
Race against some of the Best in The Region
Try to get used to the heat.. again
It was a 12 miles of bike
It was a 3.1 mile run
PERFECT WEEK FOR TAPPERING
I got to freak out that IMKY is so close with other IMKY teammates

Con's

My foot still wasn't 100% (But then again I don't think it is ever going to be again)
It was hot
It cost money
I could get hurt

So.. Yep I thought it was a good idea to race after all. and ya know what. It was. My little Race Review:

Got to the race at a casual pace, and got checked in with no problem.. Learned that the hotel didn't have their AC working, and it was hotter inside there to check in then anything. Changed and started to get everything ready at my bike. I always check my little computer, and even though it wasn't working, and doesn't work all the time, I noticed I put my front wheel on backwards.. In order for me to take it off, I had to deflate the tire, and then before I knew it, the RD was screaming.. last call for shuttel down to the swim start.. last call for shuttel. THANK GOD Barry ( he always comes to my rescue. always) ran got his pump for me and I was ready to go. The shuttel down to the swim start was soooooo freaking hot, and I had Nigera man in Red Speedo right over my shoulder.. Still don't know how he kept all that in there..

Swim Start.. kinda horrible that we had to walk down to the barge bare footed, without knowing that there was going to be a bucket for sandles.. but on the barge.. it was kinda crazy watching the 60+ people try to jump in the water at the same time for the Mass Start.. Thinking about it, this is my first jump in mass swim start..I stood there for a minute and just kept telling people, okay.you go, okay you can go too.. and when I saw a clear spot, I jumped in.

Swim: felt so choppy for me, water has been feeling choppy in the river and the Creek, but just kept trying to relax and reach out in this down stream swim.. trying not to think about how much longer I am going to be in the water, or in the race over all. Missed the ladder step on the way out and got out on second try.. hit my watch at 14.13.. grabbed a gatorade and on I went into T1.

T1. Oh I laughed how I could just taste blah in my mouth and wanted it all out of my mouth. Got a good laugh from someone who saw my duct tape then I laughed as I almost hit the camera guy trying to master the twist off gatorade lid.. literally headed right to him..

Bike: Headed out and thought just be careful.. not get hurt.. but I was gunning for some people...Passed some, got passed by others.. Saw Seth, and it felt great to "chic" a guy on my own team :) Headed in after a short 12 miles on my watch at 40.01 and thought damn, I would have another 100 miles in a couple weeks.

T2: put on comfy gym shoes ;)

Run: Kept telling myself to play it safe, play it safe, run smart.. It was quite warm, and I thought this is perfect practice for Louisville, started out on the run and felt that little nag on my foot, and thought if I need to slow it down, go ahead, as long as I finish the race. There were stairs at the turn around point.. I laughed, and thought.. seriously, Stairs? but that wasn't the worst, but the grass that was on top. I had a couple huge sneezes, and scratchy eyes, and before I knew it I saw another little hill up to the finish line.. hit my watch at 27.16 for the run, 1:26 time overall..

Overall, I placed first in the athena, and second in my age group, 7th female over all the sprints, and I am quite happy I did it.. Will post pictures soon :)

baby showers.. bridesmaid dresses.. and class de ironman..

2009-08-12T10:11:00.000-07:00

So today is one of those days that I just have to sit back and take everything in.. as I sit here, I know I should be swimming, I really should be swimming, oh there are my goggles, saying hey you.. get going.. but not right now.. there are about 10 of our older men in the pool and they just take up lanes, so I WILL.. tonight at 9, when it is just me and only me... Planning an easy 1.5 miler.. just to think..

This weekend was good.. Saturday went and got fitted for yet another bridesmaid dress.. I am happy to the high heavens for Erin and Jim, really I am, it was just hard to get motivated when I was tired,.. then Sunday. Sunday I got up early and headed out on one of my last 12 mile runs.. as I was heading throughout the streets of Covedale, I did get a honk and keep it up from Lauren More (a friend who is a frequent in my spinning classes) an then along Glenway this stranger kept yelling: "heyyyyy, heyyyy you!... take this! I have been watching you for the last two miles" as she out reached a cold new bottle of water... in the back seat there were young girls just pumping thier arms getting excited.. I was and still am grateful for that stranger supporter.. for it was one of the hottest days this summer..

Then I headed home, finished making the desserts, and headed to Meagan's (Erin's twin sister) Baby shower :

This was just a riot.. so many things for the little babies I have no intention of having anything to do with anytime soon..Meagan, Jen, and Erin and I have been friends since kindergarden, and it is fun that we can still get together and laugh... Erin (the bride from Saturday in the blue) owns Fitness 19 in Louisville, and her and other's are excited about the race... after the shower, we had a "class de Ironman" and I had the chance to talk to them about where they should be, and where I will be during race day.. After many "oh my god's" I decided it was time for me to leave..

Headed to the tail end of Grandma' Leonard's Birthday Party and headed home.. My legs were in severe pain/tired mode, and I was cranky.. You know the point where you are so tired, and just want to sleep but can't fall asleep soon enough kind of pain.. yep.. Sunday night..

However Monday morning came, and I was back to work.. Excited about the State Volleyball meeting for Ohio Ref's and raising 145 dollars just by speaking for 5 minutes and walking around with a basket.. people do want to help a great cause :) and I am THANKFUL for that!

Went to lunch for some yum-yum Sushi with Brian the Great and Jason JD Diaz ... It was great to talk to them, and see how fun we can have over a couple pieces of raw fish..

However as the day went on, it did with again some serious foot pain.. this little ache isn't going away, and it seems as if it has transitioned from the start of a stress fracture to "Morton's Neuroma" which is defined as: "Morton's neuroma is an enlarged nerve that usually occurs in the third interspace, which is between the third and fourth toes" CHeck it out:

Treatment? Cortizone shot, and hope to make it through the finish line.. More so, just know my name and be under 17 hours..

I am to the point that I just want the race to get here... and be happening, especially with everything else around me going on...

Tomorrow is Fun day Thursday, and celebrating Ryan's birthday with Diamond Seats at the Reds game.. however the weekend will be sad, as I know a talk about his move to Phily will be brought up...

But deep down I know I have a goal ahead... 18 days.. it is really coming fast.. . faster than I had ever anticipated!! Ironman Louisville.. here I come..

One of those days..

2009-08-08T17:35:00.000-07:00

This morning.. oh this morning was rough.... last night, I had an incredible home cooked meal from Ry and I am trully grateful for the night in... I decided to give him his birthday present of Reds' Diamond Seats and hotel stay early, and he was pumped.. literally.. I think he stared at the sheet for about an hour :) but this morning, the alarm went off early, and I just had that inner voice (hopefully other's have it too) that yells NOOOOOOOO, stay in bed for 5 more minutes

But Like a good boyfriend, I hear a voice.. "get up... you gotta do your training"... Lucky for him he can just roll back over for a couple hours, and I feel like my head is going to explode it is so tired.. But I get up... peel on my suit and head up to Caeser Creek... Today I knew I wanted to do a long swim, and just getting in to the groove was hard..I walked over.. and staggerdly, I just kept telling myself.. the sooner you start, the sooner you are done.. the sooner you start..... and off I went... the water felt choppy... I was one of the later swimmers in the water, and it was hard for me just to get to the first bouy.. why do we have these days, when other days time just passes by... If someone would have tapped my shoulder after the first 500 and said you can get out now.. I would have been out in no time at all...but I kept going, and going... and before I knew it I was out and done!

Tomorrow I have the hopes of getting up early for a long run.. for me and this foot that means about 10-12.. slow and easy, without pain is the goal :)

hopefully, there weren't be any choppy roads.. 22 days..

Really.. 23 days...

2009-08-06T16:36:00.000-07:00

I am sitting here at work.. reading about all these other athletes and how the time is clicking.. we are getting closer... soooo fast!!

Today I ran for only about 4-5 miles.. I say only because I think about that long 26.2 miles that comes up after that 112 miles after that 2.4 swim..

I am getting to the point that I know I am not going to be the fastest.. I know I am not going to be too much up on the top of the pack.. but I know I can do it.. just have to do it..

Last weekend was a great learning experience..and sometime soon I need to get a new bike fit.. for seriousness my legs felt that ride ahh too much..

But until then, I am pledging straight forward with my shirts.. I only have about 20-30 left.. many smalls and mediums if anyone wants to buy any for their kids or families :) only 10 bucks a piece.. can't beat it :) I am afraid to look to see where I stand with other Janus participants..

Speaking of participants.. over 3000!!!!!! What the heck.. I thought there were only a selected few of us that are this crazy to do this... but over 3000!! I am thinking about getting some light up glasses so my friends know it is me coming when it is pretty dark outside! I will do this.. right?

WHY oh WHY have I not ran with friends more?

2009-08-02T17:45:00.000-07:00

Today was my first day in soooooooo long that I didn't set an alarm.. Forgot how good that can feel... I knew I was going to go for a run..not a long one because I am still nursing my foot.. but a nice casual one to get some sushi with my long lost friend Jason Diaz... JD is the man that first introduced triathlons to me... . This was 3 years ago... we raced out at Morgan's, it was a canoe, run, bike... and I thought during that time I was going to die.. During our run together today, we laughed at how far I have come since those days...

I drove over to his house with tired, and heavy legs.. I knew starting the actually run was going to be the hard part... But alas.. running with someone makes the time go so much faster.. Before we knew it we were at one of our favorite local sushi spots.. and we were bummed... really bummed.. so we continued our run up to Panera.. grabbed some lunch.. and got up..

Good ol' JD has five jobs out in Cali.. I envy at some .. no all the great work he is doing, and I can' wait to go visit all his modaliy centers.. I swear to it one day he will make walk out of their disablity chairs... He plays wheel chair tennis, basketball, even soccer with students in wheelchairs... amazing... but the fun part was that the run flew... I don't know why all this time I didn't try to find someone around my pace to do my long runs with...maybe for my marathon??

4 weeks.. 28 days.. here I come..

Good Patient Friends (New and Old) are the Best!

2009-08-01T16:23:00.000-07:00

throughout this time of training for the Ironman, I have had numerous text from friends and family asking the infamous... "how far is this race again... and where and when is it!" However through all the "oh my gosh" and " are you nuts".. I actually have some deep down, good ol' supportive and patient friends...

From my boyfriend who patiently says, "geeeeeze.. that sounds likes something I want to do... minus the something I want to do" as he wishes me goodbye on the early Saturday Morning training days... to the friend that understand I am running late to her bridal shower because I got lost after an early in the season bike ride, to my friends that understand I can't drink them under the table because I had to run 10-15 miles the next day..

Then to my family, especially Mom and Dad who put up with all my "crap" of such laying around everywhere around the house.. Even though I want to move out, they are patient enough to allow my bike sit in the kitchen, and "Fluid" stock the fridge...and let me lay everything out all over the floor for today's festivities.

However today.... I had gotten picked up by my training buddy Freaking Fast John Book, and Mark Bunch was going to meet us as we headed down to Louisville for yet another ride of the course. I had planned this to be my last 112 long bike until August..

We had all three planned to do the swim preview... I practiced wearing my Zoot Suit, and the water looked murkey as ever...Gotta Love that ol Ohio River..I went out.. kept swimming, swam some more, kept going, and then not knowing really where to turn I decided to turn around after 26 mins out.. and then with the current... oh how fun..i was back in 7:47 mins.. ha! yes.. there is a current!!

Got everything ready for the bike, and off we went... I felt pretty good.. keeping my heart rate down as it can ride with excitement for flats... Then .. DUN.. DUN... DUN... my left cleat wouldn't unclip.. I then had to ride past the parked cars at the red light and turn a quick right.. DARN UNCLIP... some laughed and said just keep riding, don't unclip.. but I had no control on that foot... and I knew would't be able to ride much longer. I had that gut feeling that I knew I was bound to fall... MARK BUNCH (UNSUNG HERO #1) went with me and detoured to the best little bike shop . Louisville's Mountain Bike Depot.. They were awesome, quick enough, and didn't bother asking for money.. just suggested I get a new fitting for my bike.. then KATIE from Chicago (UNSUNG HERO #2) and JASONOSU (UNSUNG HERO #3) were waiting right by the out and back... now.. I didn't do this section because we had already went out of our way 12ish miles..

The Four of us went on our little way.. and we decided to just do the 80miles... I saved my leg batteries, and my speakers for the last of Wolf Pen Branch.. and Back we were.. Mark from Chicago (UNSUNG HERO #4) and I ran bout a 25min brick. down to transition area fountain (got my hat wet Mary.. nothing else..).. and I feel okay.. little light headed...drunk feeling...but okay.

All in all I am grateful for new and old fiends for their patience today, and I can only wish the best for you!! 4 weeks! Woop Woop!

p.s. heard a triathlete was hit and killed while riding/ racing on our course today.. scary.. I hope everyone says safe.

30 Days ..

2009-07-30T10:38:00.003-07:00

I am going to write 30 post leading up to THE DAY!

Today was and is so far great.... I took off the whole morning.. just because I needed to, and I wanted to. Tonight is a big night of the GRE and I really will do great.. I know it.. I can feel it..

This week, one of my clients Lynn (Pictured here with my other HUGE SUPER FAN Sue) told me she has a new goal for me... train her and get her ready for the Senior Olympics.. for a sprint triathlon in the Senior Olympics in 2011!! Now I will say it is in these moments like this in my life I just get a little tear.. I am most honored when I can introduce something to somone, rather it be a walk, the pool, a triathlon, and they want to succeed and take it up a notch.. I frankly looked at her, gave her a high five, and said "Kick ass!" How cool! Lynn and Sue will be down at the Ironman, wearing their yellow shirts that YOU CAN STILL BUY.. and I am honored she has as much support for me as she does..

So, this morning, we got our butts up on this off day and I took her for her first open water swim up at Caeser's Creek.. there was no one there!! it was 7:30 am, and besides one boat.. we were it! It was absolutely fantastic..You never know how far those bouy's are, but I say by the time of my laps, we swam a little over a mile!

She did great.. really.. as she is expierencing what I did and that is trouble with sighting.. but we headed home, had a tastey protein shake and I crawled in a bed for my massage by the wonderful.. oh so sweet Andrea.. She meaded at the feet, and the quads, and my upper back, and everywhere.. and before I knew it I was done..

I am getting ready to settle in and watch some you-tubes...

Here is a great one... brought some tears to my eyes!!

I took a deep breath and thought.. 30 days to make my way to the finish line.. 30 days!

just a run... for me!

2009-07-26T12:48:00.000-07:00

This weekend was intended and still is intended on having some time to get things organized as I come to the 30 days!.. Knowing that I did 100 miles last Sunday, and did great with my swim workouts of the week.. this weekend I wanted to break in my new running shoes and try running with no pain in the ol foot.... and I have been home now.. for eh..3 hours and I still click around on here, reading tons of word of wisdom from other racers, and other people that I admire and hope to see on race day, to very intimidating fast friends that might have time to touch the Eifel tower and back after their race at IMKY before I even get out on the run..

I just finished reading the rules and regulations of the USAT, and if they so choose to, I will be getting a time penalty of 6 minutes because of my bike speakers... that is okay, as long as it is just once.. I love them :) and they are over the top the best thing I have ever bought...

Went to the Dayton Celtic Festival last night and got a new great addition of tunes :) I was dancing in my seat with excitement.. now if I could learn how to jig..

I need to oder some Fluid, and really head out on this run before attacking my room.. but right as I am about get up, I read this article:

Running Motivation
RUNNING BLIND
The importance of choosing a path that's right for you.By John Bingham
Image by Kim Rosen
From the July 2009 issue of Runner's World
There's a quote by William Purkey, a well-known professor of education, that goes, "Dance like no one is watching, love like you'll never be hurt, sing like no one is listening, and live like it's heaven on earth." It seems like the perfect life philosophy—and one I've learned to apply to running over the years. I run like no one is watching, even when I'm racing with 35,000 people. I'm usually having so much fun, I simply don't care what anyone else thinks.But I didn't always feel this way. In my early days, when I weighed 240 pounds, I ran like everyone was watching—and judging. If I was on a run and saw a car approaching, I'd stop and pretend I was looking for something I'd lost. I was so concerned with what other people thought of me that by the time I did open up about running, I constantly worried whether I was living up to their expectations. My first coach put me on a treadmill, dialed up the pace to 9:20 per mile, and said to run for 40 minutes. I tried and, not surprisingly, failed. I couldn't help but be disappointed in myself—even though I knew what he was asking was nearly impossible for me.I even dressed like people were watching. I bought the high-tech gear and sleek clothes that I thought would make people believe I was a runner—even if I felt like an imposter in them. And I didn't have a clue if the expensive shoes I was wearing were the right kind for me—I just wanted to look like I fit in with this group.To be honest, I felt a certain satisfaction in believing that someone was watching. I really thought that other people cared about my performance. The best example of this was a combined, two-lap marathon and half in Florence, Italy. As I neared the finish line, the crowd began to cheer. I was astounded. Here I was, thousands of miles from home, and the Italians were yelling for "Il Penguino." About 20 yards from the finish, the truth set in when the winner of the full marathon went past me as I was finishing the half-marathon. No one was cheering for me. No one probably even noticed that I was finishing. I couldn't help but smile at my own illusion of self-importance.That's when I realized I had been running for every reason except the right one. I ran to make other people happy, ran to live up to their expectations. But that didn't matter. No one was watching—no one cared. So I decided I was going to run for me—just me—and gained a new enjoyment from the sport I hadn't truly experienced yet. That doesn't mean I don't want to improve or sometimes wish I could run faster. It just means that the joy I feel when I'm moving my body with my own two feet is so great that the act alone is satisfying enough. I've learned to run like no one is watching.So if you see me at a race, and I look like a 60-year-old guy waddling along, don't worry. I'm fine. I'm better than fine. I'm happy. You see, I remember those words that first appeared here 13 years ago: "The miracle isn't that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start." Waddle on, friends.

and now, I am back to reality... getting ready to run or waddle tonight .. for me, because during that race.. it will be me.. no one else to get me across that line..

50 mile ride Friday... 4200 meter swim Saturday.. and 100 Mile Ride Today.

2009-07-19T15:38:00.000-07:00

Whew... it feels soo good to sit down... this weekend I had really thought last week at this time I was going to be racing down at Cardinal Harbour in Louisville, which many note is "one of the best IMKY prep races around"... it is on the course.. literally is most of the course, and I was quite sad after a nice run last weekend of what happened with my foot and not being able to race...

however, when one door closes, another door, and maybe window opens :) right ?:) long report.. just a warning :)

Right before I left work, Earl showed up :) this man just makes my day every day I see him, and he was so excited about his new shirt I gave him, and his new matching (perfectly matching) yellow shorts. :) Earl is turning 82, a Leukemia survivor, an avid sports fan, and he still works out, I just had to take a picture with him!
I had so many things of training I wanted to do, so many experimental ideas with nutrition I wanted to set, NEW SPEAKER to try, and a long. kick my butt with boredom (or not with the help of an angel friend) long swim... So.. this is how this awesome ( I am so tired) went..

Friday..I was so excited with the cool temperatures, sunshine, and get to see Mary Sunshine..

I have never rode at Lunken with the exception of the short part I was on during last year's Tri for Joe .. so I was new to the whole area of riding.. I was so excited to see Mary.. it really had been too long.. and here she pull out this tiny body.. and mega-intimidating bike.. even though she just laughs about this.. every time I ride, I tell myself.. try to keep up.. try to keep up....

Before we started tho.. I showed her my new toy.. we laughed at my Stars Wars intro music.. but it shortly died.. I knew I had to work on this before my century ride today.. Before we went off, I bothered a complete stranger to take a picture of us:

Check out that sky in the background!!! GOOOORGEOUS :) We went off and it was just like ol' times.. just way too short.. we skipped the bike path and headed down towards Eastern.. she commented like others that they want to read about my IMKY camp weekend, and I PROMISE I will post pictures and a report... it is all still fresh in my head... After Mary had to go .. I decided to stay and do at least 5 laps on this course.. I went off on the road a little bit, but captured this awesome picture :)

This was right after I passed this "bad-underwear -shorts tooo small-for-you-wow-rude-and-why-do-you-need-two-bike-mirrors-on-the-Lunken-Loop-Man". I am still laughing, but when I got back around this specific part of the course, I kept checking out my tires, my shoes, everything because it had smelled as if I rolled over dog-poo.. and I was glad to be done because after the many bugs, lots of walkers (cute active couples, kinda love that especially on a Friday) I realized I didn't like the nasty smell.. at least I had fun with an easy, breezy ride.

Saturday.. Mission.. if I choose to accept in... 4200 swim.. how? open water swim? 50 meter pool? I chose the pool and was so excited to hang out with Mary again.. she keeps me accountable in these times...I wanted to do 200, 250, 300 up to a double 600 to equal 4200... Total Time with no more than a minute rest (that I def. took) in between sets.. 1:24.. CONFIDENCE BOOSTER! She is kind enough to let me borrow her Zoot Speed Suit, and we were laughing at a random crotch string I need to trim, but here are some pictures Mary was so awesome to take :)

Sunday: Century bike ride along route 8 out to Maysville and back.. The morning went well.. figured out that I think I am going to eat 2 cups of oatmeal.. two gatorades, a stack of 6 crampshocker gels, a balance gold bar for breakfast.. a lot? yes.. but we will see... Loaded up my speaker, and all my nutrition, and then realized, oh Ship... I forgot two things.. my cleats, and my helmet... THANK GOD my dad is another unsung hero, and he drove them down to us... An hour later.. off we went... John just laughed and said "there is something not right about that speaker Jess" But I loved the idea...

I wanted to give Fluid .. used to use it, and it has more sodium than the basic Gatorade..The first 35 or so into Augusta felt great.. really.great! I don't know if it was my bumping speakers, or if it was just nutrition, or what, but I felt great.. Jumped off, went to the bathroom, loaded up some gatorade in my two empty bottles, and on to Maysville we went... the thing I don't get is that we drink so much then we have to pee so much.. Once I pedaled out to the 50 mileage point, John laughed and said turn around.. I checked my computer.. made it out on avg. of 17.3, right around 3:30..I had to pee, and John headed back into Augusta and the sweetest older man and I had a little chat about the Ironman..he wished me luck, and off I went...My speakers were still pumping and then, around the next large climb, they died... I knew it would, my Ipod only last 4-5 hours..

I knew that Augusta was 16 miles away from Maysville, and I wanted to make it back under 45 mins, and I just barely did..John was relaxed and cool already finished with his sandwich and my pains were starting to sit in, in particular my right knee and left calf.. He could get a Kona spot, I think he could... he is so fast.. I took my time.. really..really slow.. going in to the store for some Advil and one more gatorade..went bathroom, and sat down for a drink... went back into the bathroom, thanked those awesome girls working.. and headed back in...

In my head I knew it was only about 35 miles, but with no musica, I was hurting.. MENTAL. it was alll mental. just kept saying keep going, keep going.. within 10 miles, dropped a chain, then again 6-7 miles later... those miles took forever, but before I knew it .. I was back in our original place..I was tired, but glad to be done.. Total time with all my long, long stops 7:30... Bike time riding, right over 6:04 with avg home at 13.8. Big difference when I am tired.

Now.. what to work on.. getting what I need and go... no need to lazy lay around when filling up water...keep my mental edge strong.. But I am glad to be done! Only two more times I will ride this far... 1.. on August 1st.. 2nd.. on race day!

6 weeks... at this time I will be still running my jouney to the finish line of Ironman Louisville!

GET PUMP .. GET EXCITED... LET'S GO!

2009-07-16T20:01:00.001-07:00

So okay.. as we all have bumps and bruises.. and tries and tribulations... this week is turning out to be pretty cool...

Wednesday... I ... Was.... HYPNOTIZED! Yes, Marilyn DeCourcy (thedecourcygroup@gmail.com) (513.518.5895) hypnotized me for several accounts.. the first thing I always get is..."WHY?"

To refresh your memory.. I have two huge things ahead of me. first and foremost right smack in front of me is the IRONMAN.. the second is this life dream to go to Physical Therapy school. I wanted to talk to her about my anxiety I have for both, and see what happens...

WOW~ really... wow..my outlook on everything has totally changed... now I do understand it could be a change of thought process, but I think I can do it.. both the Ironman, and the GRE..I have an unusual state of calm feelings.. . I would highly... highly recommend this for anyone with those crazy anxiety feelings they have about a race like this.. but then maybe again it is just me that goes through these feelings... check out her place, Elemental... and let her know I sent you :)

THEN.. oh yes... this bad boy arrived today!!!

MY BIKE SPEAKER... I am sooo giddy about this... yeah I know.. is it legal? ha.. not too sure it has been outlawed like the head phones.. but I will be testing it this weekend during my 100 mile ride with John Sunday... it gets loud too :)

Then.. I won some new shoes on ebay for 60 bucks cheaper than retailed... hey.. when I wear a 12.. I do get the new ones where I can....even if it is on Ebay:) Here those bad boys are.. Judi Calls them, or ones like them.. shoes on steroids :) I hope they make me get across that line..

Ahh.. just one of those okay... let's do this week!

Just a couple other things to figure out..

1. Salt tablets, and mastering the little kinks on my bike..
2. Getting and practicing with my aero bottle bracket..
3. Do I wear a speed Suit??
4. What to put in my differnt bags... Swim, bike, run, and special needs... yes, I am starting to think about this..
5. Schedule the GRE ..
6. and just a closer place to swim a long, long swim Saturday..

45 days.. ready.. or not..

STRESS...FRACTURE!

2009-07-14T19:52:00.001-07:00

You know.. there seems to be a lot of stress when training for such a huge race... time commitment, and more so time management is HUGE.. however after many little bumps.. I decided that I was ready to push myself a little farther...

and I am paying for it..

Why? I didn't tape my foot.. My feet were so beat up a while ago.. and good ol' duct tape was working.. (if you have done any tri.. even one .. you know athletic tape doesn't quite do the trick.... it loosens up, but more so feels like I could just pull it off... so I went to Dad's suggestion.. DUCT TAPE)

But the mere fact of a couple weddings..and really lathering up those puppies.. they are actually looking and feeling good... so Sunday.. I went for a killlller hilly run.. at least for me..

Looking (if I knew how to upload it I would) to my mapmyrun.. I ran right at 13.05 miles... Minimum elevation.. 686ft... Maximum 925 ft... Ascent.. 305 ft.. descent -299 ft.. HILLY..

But then as I came home.. my left foot started to hurt..AGAIN... but this time underneath..

I went to my hero MaryAnn in therapy, and she said if there is a stress fracture... your bones at the high frequency of heat will cause them to vibrate.. and before I knew it.. hey my foot is vibrating.. not consistantly, but enough to feel it.. so back to no running for a week..

there are many times throughout this journey that I have to think..what am I doing.. can I do this... but then I have to remember allllll the times I thought no way, and thought.. yes way! come on.. get some rest..stay on top of it with ice, and ultra sound, and it isn't huge yet.. YOU CAN AND YOU WILL...

I got an amazing reflexology appointment with Andrea today.. she has amazing healing fingers, and I am grateful for angels like her.. it felt great, and I will really keep this up until race day..

until then.. I am investing in new pair of heel support and cushioned shoes.. any suggestions??? anyone?? bueller??

I WILL.....

7 weeks to take a bite of an elephant...

2009-07-12T07:26:00.000-07:00

It has been quite a while since I have last uploaded...there are so many things I could go through.. from the beautiful bride Kristen Daily Kemen to the awesome people that showed support at my Lodge Bar Fundraiser to the Ride Cincinnati for Breast Cancer that ended shorter than expected.. to the incredible and awesome IMKY Camp down in Louisville with Heather Gollnick, to the relaxing last trip in Cumberland .. to losing some respect from those you really care about for doing something really stupid, to another beautiful bride Tammi Toney Waite, to then waking up and relizing.. hey .. hey you... YOU GOT JUST 7 weeks... CRAZY!

I know I can write and write, but frankly, pictures are better.. So while my computer slowly uploads all the pictures.. I will say a little prayer for everyone today...I am surfing the net for some bike speakers... (yes I am serious)... they are not considered as "illegal" yet for the Ironman World, and frankly I want to be able to relax on that ride..

Maybe some like these:

haha.. Could you imagine... Really looking at this:

I know you will probably say oh but you will lose your water bottle holder.. I have four on right now, and I plan to have my aero bar bottle.. so I think I can be okay losing one.. I really want this! :) and a Garmin.. ahem ;)

I am planning a long run to my aunt and uncles to lay pool side for a while to run back. about a 16 mile run total.... but instead of going now.. when it is realtively cool... I know it will serve me better to do so when it is in the heat of the day....I promise to get back to blogging... YOU as supporters will get me ready for this huge elephant in front of my face.. the Ironman!

After all... Lois said.. "Now Jess... how do you eat an elephant... one bite at a time.... how will you do the Ironman.. one bite at a time :) "

THREE CHEERS for GOTR~ HAPPY HOUR!!!!!!!

2009-06-10T11:32:00.001-07:00

THIS FRIDAY... JUNE 12TH... LODGE BAR IN

DOWNTOWN CINCINNATI...

FROM 5-10 PM

I WILL BE HOSTING A HAPPY HOUR FUNDRAISER FOR
GIRLS ON THE RUN OF CINCINNATI.

MINIMUM OF $5.00 DONATION AT THE DOOR WILL GET YOU A BAND FOR $2.00... YES $2.00 DRINK SPECIAL OF ANYTHING YOU WANT..
WITH THE ONLY EXCEPTIONS OF TOP SHELF LIQUOR AND RED BULL!!!

SO WHAT DO YOU SAY!! COME TO DONATE FOR THE CAUSE, OR COME FOR A DRINK A TWO.. COME DANCE AS IF NO ONE IS WATCHING...
EITHER WAY JUST COME AND SAY HELLO!!

ALL ARE WELCOME, AND I HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!!!!

SUPPORT TEE SHIRTS!!

2009-06-10T11:05:00.000-07:00

Due to the awesome.. the one and only Erin Hamilton, E.D. of Cincinnati GOTR..

I will be selling Support tee shirts for a cheap 10.00 bucks!!

The one thing I thought was very cool was during the Ironman, Supporters and Fans of athletes all wore a common color in support during the race.. not only to be seen by the athlete but to cheer them on along the way !! My dad had said he wouldn't wear pink, so here it is!!

I will have sizes from XXL to Small... all shirt sizes are unisex and printed on this awesome BRIGHT YELLOW!!! Not only are my triathlon club Cincy Express bright yellow, but so are these beauties :) Checks or cash are accepted, and please email me at jessicaleeleonard@hotmail.com when you are interested for address.

Available for pick up or delivery. Delivery will include small shipping charge!

ALL DONATIONS GO RIGHT BACK TO GOTR!!

THANK YOU!!

Swimming can be fun!

2009-06-09T11:20:00.000-07:00

This week I have moved on to Base 2 in my training, where as it states I will have more specific goals for each week focusing on one part of this great adventure.. this week.. SWIMMING.

Now as we all know, it isn't that I hate swimming, or even despise it.. I simply get bored in the pool when swimming by myself.. people have often told me it is there time for clearing their head, deep thoughts.. awesome time with oneself.. HA. no.. I simply keep saying was that my first 50 or was that 100.... HOWEVER...

Monday night I had a huge .. estimated 85 min long swim.. warm up with 4 x 250 , then a ladder from 300 down to 25.. Meaning 300.. then 275..250... 225.. 200.. you get the idea.. cool down with 4 x 25.. each slower than the previous

When I walked in around 8:30.. I saw two girls I see training a lot together.. the one I knew just did Tri for Joe, the other, I always see sprinting up the stairs for a spinning class after getting out of the pool I assume.. dedicated she is on her bricks.. and I saw Chip.. Chip is maybe ( I could be guessing high) in his late 50's and is a "powerful-I-still-wear-my-mock-speedo-swimmer". We all know those guys.. that they don't mean to leave you in their dust, they just do.. and you keep trying to get their pace to just keep up..

I informed everyone of what my schedule fo the night and everyone started with me.. and you know.. It was actually nice to have some friends next to ya to keep you honest and not cheat out on your swims... It actually was fun... My swimming is coming .. slowly.. along as I continue to try to reaaaaaaaaaaach out with each stroke... We finished right before our lifeguard was about to pull us out.. and I headed home..

As I went to bed that night.. I smiled and thought.. swimming was actually fun tonight..

WELCOME TO LOUISVILLE!

2009-06-03T18:13:00.000-07:00

This post is only a couple days old.... but here it is...

Last Friday, I headed down to Louisville to stay with Erin and Jim.. the BEST host couple I could have... We went to munch on some sushi, and even got home for a good night's sleep.... I was so nervous about the next morning group ride with folks from IAMTRI, but yet again.. so ready all the more...

I have told the many girls I have coached throughout the years... and I have heard it countless.. I mean COUNTLESS times .. You play how you practice... even more PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT!

I knew after my so horrible, but more so crampy time during my half ironman two weeks ago, I REALLY needed to practice my foods AND fluids... and this is what I had planned to do..

Arriving to this event was much like my first day up at Caeser's Creek with Cincy Express . Nervous, but pumped... blood flowing, but sick feeling..

I met a wonderful man that drove down from Michigan, and he calmed my nerves.. about .001%! :) Before long, I saw more and more and more athletes coming around the bend, and getting their bikes ready... and there we were... about 35-40 of us. ready to take out on this journey... We had two different options... the 79 mile loop which was the course minus the second loop of the La Grange loop... or the full 112 .. I chose the first because I knew I had a race scheduled for Sunday... yeah.. Crazy I know :) I live for this stuff ! On most days :)

I will say.. before we took off... I had goosebumps through my longsleeve shirt... Bob, the MacDaddy who organized this whole thing.. said "Gang.. whehter you realize it or not... in 3 months from the day.. YOU WILL BE AN IRONMAN! Stay safe out there." I was a little emotional... it could be because I am a lady.. it could be because of all the time it takes... or it could just be because I am really doing this.. who would have thought...

I told myself from the get-go.. I have to use this as much as a practice as I can.. don't worry about gunning it out.. don't worry about finishing first.. but more so to just FINISH the task at hand...

Throughout the entire course, I didn't feel awesome, but I felt like I knew I can do this.. I kept drinking, and kept eating... My secret nutrition plan... Peanut Butter Sandy's and Power Gel. and LOTS OF WATER!

I am thankful that we had a SAG vehicle to fill up, and grab a nanner when needed, and thankful for the "thorns" aka guys I rode with.. and got home safely.."

Though I can tell you it is around mile 22 that the out and back will come upon you, and it is around mile 31 that the La Grange Loop starts, and there are 8 significant climbs in that course, I can also tell you .. I did the ride.. through the hard as nails head wind, and being dropped off by the huge chunk of riders...

does it matter? nope... because I did it.. and with some legs left... and a smile across my face :)

And what about Sunday's race? I actually won the Athena Division in the Ultra-Fit Ohio Challenge... .51 mile swim, 13 mile bike, and 5 k run in under 1:30... Tired legs, but successful ones at that :)

Taylorsville Half-Ironman Distance Race Report.

2009-05-27T04:34:00.001-07:00

I know. I know. I know. This is very much long over due... however it is here! Better late than never right?

My Half Ironman experience would happen down in good ol' Taylorsville, Kentucky and was meant to be a learning experience... and that it was...

As you all know I could write volumes about my race, so if you are trully interested.. keep reading.. otherwise.. check out my pics and leave a note :) This race was by no means meant to be a race for me, but more so a trial run (right Mary?) for IMKY.. Just goal to finish, and that I did :) I will try to keep it to the basics as I was always told to take a lot of pictures, because they will speak many memories, and lots I took..

Jon and I met down in good all Florence ya'll and drove down.. The weather seemed to be pretty clear on the way down, until about half way down. Check out this pouring rain.. this is about 30 miles out from Shelbyville where we decided to pool off and get some food.. Bravo sounded good to both of us, and the carb-fun of the week continued. Choice was pasta with pesto and chicken, couple slices of bread and salad.

In finding the first hotel we came across, we saw this awesome sign for Bowling. I was laughing (all the nerves were kicking in) and I even got out to take a picture!! We decided on the Holiday Inn Express, and I tried to get settled. I laid out everything a couple times, rehearsing in my head the order I would put things on, and even thought about the time it would take to put them on. I called Ry-Bread, he wished me luck, and off to sleep I tried to go. I know I need sleep. I know I need sleep. Oh fall asleep.. oh fall asleeeeeep. tick, tick, tock... then before I knew it my alarm went off...

I remember my longest race last year was Chicago Accenture Triathlon, and I wanted to puke in the morning, but thankfully my dad was there to help me get things ready.. He is great to get up in the morning at 3:00, just make sure he gets a soft nudge from Mom as I come racing by or he might fall asleep... He makes sure my coffee pot was boiling for my oatmeal, carry my cooler..ya know.. the basics.. However this trip I forgot my oatmeal, and I couldn't have felt sicker in the morning. 200% nerves I am sure, but I couldn't even get a half a cup of cereal down I was so nervous about this race...

WOW. RAIN! Walking outside the parking lot was soaked, the rain came down harder and harder... and we were off on our way... I just kept thinking, if it stays like this.. and made into a du, we are outta here! After being drenched setting up our transition area (thank god I always bring extra garbage bags) Seeing a man with bloody knees from the after maths of the lightening.. we were told to get ready.. I took my last picture of the sky before we started!! yeah, that is a real picture from my phone! Safe to swim in a lake, no problem... Might as well do one last prayer..

now for the good stuff:

SWIM: They split us in two groups. men (n=about 125). women (n=about 10). ha. The men were all competing to get the first spot in the water, inching to get started when that gun fired. Us women are so different. We talked to each other.. Sang Kum-ba-ya, even someone mentioned holding hands to start the swim. When the mini gun fired, I started my watch and I was on my way..my first Half Ironman!!! have I said oh-SHip yet!?! The swim was a 1.2 mile two loop box swim. After my first loop, checking my watch and saw I was around 18:08.. Pretty cool for me! If I could keep that steady pace, IF I could, I would be happy with that... Turning the last post I felt pretty good.. Not out of breath, not really tired, but comfortable. When I hit land, I hit my watch 39.08. GET OUT! I hugged the guy working, and walked.. yes walked my way up the hill to T1. There were wet suit strippers that just laughed with me to get my suit off.. offered water or heed, and I just was excited with my time. (Last year at Chicago I swam in 38 or so.. and that was .90 of a mile... winter swimming has surely helped :) )

T1: I took my ladddeee-daddaaddieee-freaking time. Made sure everything felt ok.. Bike sensor was on, Shorts Felt good, Socks felt good.. gels all set, sandwiches in back pocket, water bottles on.. okay.. looks good.. now take your time the first 10 miles.

BIKE: Coming out of T1, there was a nice pretty little climb.. I just laughed (which I did a lot of that day... in all reality.. I really did enjoy it) thinking, well this is the fun way to start these little miles. I actually pictured all the athletes coming out of T1 at the Ironman in Louisville last year.. how they were drenched in river water, and sunscreen splattered all over them, how they had this nice little hill.. Some gunned it right away.. Some smiled :) some didn't do anything. I pictured this and talked myself up this first little 10 miles. After getting into a little rhythm, I remembered to tell myself solid peanut butter sandy at the top of the hour, gel at the bottom. solid, gel. This couldn't have gone any better. I was within 5 minutes of every nutrition intake. The course.. well the course was definitely challenging (Oh SHip here ).. and one of my clients, Terry, told me before I left work Thursday, I have to have Faith... Have Faith.. I was riding along by myself (as many times we are) and I was just singing out loud.. "faith.. hope... and love.. and the greatest is love.. I WILL have faith.. I WILL have faith.. " and the older Limp Biskit song Faith.."Well, I guess it would be nice. If I could touch your body. I know not everybody. Has got a body like you..Because I gotta have faith. I gotta have faith. Because I got to have faith, faith. I gotta have faith, faith, faith"

Crazy, but if you know me, you know this much is true :)

We came across the out and back, and knowing from the little fun diagram of the bike preview this was going to be like the out in back.. imagery works folks.. it does... I told myself to take my time going down because I am going to have to climb coming back up... and I did it! Beast.. Shameast.. ha.not really. it was a great climb that I even let out a "hell yah" scream and I smiled again to know I WILL and DID make it up..

Coming around the last ten miles I was feeling good.. Really good.. until.. Bah bah boooom. My left quad started that little shake..I could feel it getting really tight, and not really knowing what to do.. I tried to stand and shake it out.. when I did.. BAM!!!!! Both legs stiff as Tin Man..

I have never had muscle contractions or spasms like that before.. where my quads felt like there were up in my chest..I couldn't relax them, couldn't even mead them out.. I had to lower my bike to the road because I couldn't bend my knees to get off it.. I tried to walk and my legs would shoot back up and Tin Man again I was.. 30 mins friends.. 30 mins of sucking down 2 gels and trying to get my legs back together... I thought I was fine to try to get back on my bike. and I was.. just took it nice and easy.

T2: wow. I can't feel my feet. Wow. I can't feel my quads. Wow I just felt over trying to put on my shoes. this 13 miles is going to be fun. Grabbed my last peanut butter sandy and walked out of T2. At least I told myself I am 2 out of 3 done.

RUN: Well that first little bike hill, yeah it was our first run hill.. devil RD he is.. I saw Jon, and the tear gates opened up a little.. I couldn't bend my knees, couldn't relax my quads. I don't know what felt worse, to try to stiff leg run, or walk. I decided to try to do both. Because they were fun timers when they designed the course, our out and back 3 (yes 3) loop course was all hills.. and more hills.. My first loop, ha I laughed at myself 57.41. I thought did I really just walk backwards, with one hand, and maybe trying to bounce on that one hand to do that first lap. Second loop goal: suck down as much water as I could, and get a negative split.. Barry was right that I am competitive within my own limits. 51.14. Not bad! Saw some more familiar faces, and was slightly.. I am becoming more and more envious of the people that wore I-pods, or those that had running buddies for part of the loops... VERY Jealous! Saw other Imky folks... yeah we can do it.. right? Feeling VERY slightly better. Except for my ghost rubbery ankle syndrome! ha.

Third lap.. oh my god get me off this thing.. When you are by yourself, who am I kidding, when I am by myself, I want to walk more, talk myself out of it more.. I am so close, and I am so sick of these rolling hills and seeing boats and people leave.. I want to be done. I want to stop. Keep going.. Keep Going... and there was Jonny O. He came out on his bike right as I made the last loop's turn and he had that darn I touch.. Now I knew I could run, and I had to smile! Pictures are important! :) The last of these pictures I look like I could run for miles, but I was just glad I could talk to someone.

FINISHED: my watch 7:10.. clock time 7:14.

Overall! When I was finished it was awesome to talk to other people that were on the same path to the Ironman in Kentucky..However looking at all my stuff still laying there in the Transition area.. I had only drank about 3/4's of my first water bottle on the bike.my back one had not even been touched.. not even touched.. I know. I know I should know better.. but for whatever reason I didn't drink anything during the bike.. Looking back.. the only time I drank anything was during my solid times of food.. could this result in my muscle tightness? no clue... but at least I know I did it. and I can do it. even if it is double.. oh 14 weeks to go.. giddy up.

and I thought 140.6 was long..

2009-05-20T05:15:00.000-07:00

I will post a race report about my half here soon. I promise. Until then.. this guy inspires me :)

OH... SHIp

2009-05-15T05:27:00.000-07:00

I am nervous... nervous as all get out that my legs aren't strong enough, that my ankle will kick in, that I will swallow a gallon of water... that I will just take forever that they give me the grace nod and say, "it is okay princess... you tried your best." Tomorrow is my first half-iron distance race.. down in ol' Taylorsville.

I had the best luck in the world yesterday... the best! When I was asking around for where to buy some tubes (just in case) I was mentioned this little bike store right around the corner from my work... I have ran many many miles past this store, even drove by it more, and had no idea it was there.. but alas... it is and I will be back.. Judi's boo Dominic works there too.. which made me totally pumped and comfortable to know I have a local bike shop I can be a regular at that isn't over 45 mins away. The store.. Bikes and More.. right on Glenmore off Montana, and BAM is right there :)

However, after leaving, knowing I have my tubes in hand, I knew I am one day closer to this half ordeal...

Tomorrow.. forecast shamcast... looks kinda gloom, but I am hoping for a Finishing race.. that is all.. a FINISH. I took a look at the bike route... ha, fear in my bones... have I rode enough hills? take a look.

Yeah... Look at those climbs and drops... on my god.. is that a little bundle of fun right there in the middle and there at the last portion... oh Joy!

However, I did get a spiffy, make me look fast singlet... I am a dork and actually wore it around the house for the night.. just to get the feel for it..

I am headed down with a teammate of mine, Jon... Jon is anticipating being finished in about 4.5-5 hours... I warned him to bring a couple of books to read while he is finished bc I won't be that fast... just aim to finish! :)

Then to top it all off, I have Kristen K. Daily's bachlorette party and friend shower.. :) Yeah. I won't be worth a pile of poo, but it will be fun for her.. I hope.

Good luck to all those racing at Tri For Joe Sunday :) You will be cold, but you will be fast :)

Cheers friends... Cheers with little ring on big hills:)

My Old Kentucky Home...

2009-05-02T10:47:00.000-07:00

This is Derby Dau... Best of luck to all those racing or even better .. Betting :)

I remember at the Ironman Louisville last year, minutes after my body marking duties I heard the start of my first live Ironman.. I saw the hundreds of athletes waiting in line... First the pro's, then the open age groupers... I then looked up on the Deck, and saw a man playing "My Old Kentucky Home" on his Bugle, and I teared up... I know I will again this year, more so because I will be that athlete waiting to start on a 17 hour journey.

Less than 125 days... more and more chills each day!

Here we go...

2009-04-26T16:51:00.000-07:00

This weekend in the good ol' Natti, we broke 80 degrees... It was and is hot... I mean hotter than it has been here, and I am thankful for the sun! It feels good, and is refreshing that there really is a spring and summer ahead... Saturday morning came... I was restless all Friday night, turning and tossing, couldn't get a good night sleep, and before I knew it my 5:00 am alarm went off.. I ate my yummy oatmeal, my egg beaters, and swished back a couple head meds just to prevent a headache... I loaded up my bag and sat on the porch.. Check out this beautiful sky..

Swimming coach John Book picked me up, and off we went.. The plan was a long route 8 ride out to Augusta and back followed by a short little run... I actually felt pretty good for it being so early... It must be the benefit of being at work by 6 each day finally catching up to me... On the road by quarter til 7 and off we went.. not many travelers, and no bikers to be seen on the way out, I felt comfortable with the cool air.. I had no idea what to expect but to get some good miles in. On our way out, we hit some slow and steady climbs.. these were fun.. Some how I always seem to lose that gust of energy I have, and get lost on these... Make up some time playing catch up, then little climb and I'm in the dust again. Work needs to be done to strengthen this aspect of my ride.. I had a little coach in my head (even though she wasn't there with me) saying practice eating.. solid at the top of the hour, gel at the half... and I did this.. really well I thought, and it felt pretty good.

In Augusta just shy of 2 hours later, John and I made a quick bathroom stop, and back in we would come. We saw some dead goats, first sights of other bikers just starting there day, and even a sign that we both laughed that said "NUDE BEACH CLOSED" A negative split back we made it to the car under 1:44. not too shabby considering the death head wind we had. Quick out and back run, and we were on our way home. total milage 68.9. all before 12pm.

My half iron distance is quickly approaching, and the fear is within the bike portion.. it is stated to be prettttty hilly. nice. really.

and....

check it out....

$5200 dollars . GOAL .. MET... going for more :)

Looking forward to the future week.. cheers my friends.

Emily's Wedding...

2009-04-20T17:48:00.000-07:00

A Beeeeaaaaaaautiful Bride...

Weddings can be fun... it all depends on :

a) your role in the wedding ,

b) the shoes you choose to wear, and

c) the date you bring :)

For Miss Emily Sue Longhauser, I would say..

a) check !! first time in a couple years that I didn't have anyhing to do in but sit there and enjoy.. b) check!! I bought some gellens..worked great .. even If I put them on the wrong feet :)

c) check!! Ryan was fun... even asked me to slow dance a couple times :)

Congrats Emily Hulsmann! :)

Oh what a night..couple days and nights :)

2009-04-19T20:08:00.000-07:00

This was yet again another unforgetable weekend....

Tri Season 09 Here I come!!

I will be posting race report, and pictures from the Miami University Student Triathlon tomorrow! Stay posted!

Emily Sue Longhauser is proudly now Emily Hulsmann, and her wedding was beautiful as she was stunning as ever! Picture of my pretty cute stud escort to follow also.. but who am I lieing.. it is just for me to show how I can look all perrrty (and girlie )outside of training gear.

THEN.. Dunnn, Dunn, Dunnnnn, Dunnnnnnn.. (insert background music here.... the kind most movies have before it starts...) I have totalled my checks to date and I am CURRENTLY at ..

$4,495!!!

I just have a little smile across my face when I finished my last entry!! KEEP IT UP.. it is because of you that over 300 Girls in the Cincinnati Tri -State area are learning about self respect and healthy living through GIRLS ON THE RUN.

Long day tomorrow, but stay posted... the best is yet to come:)

Relaxing... Is it possible..

2009-04-16T10:10:00.000-07:00

My clients tease me all the time, that I am go go go.. non-stop.. Never know where I will be or when, but most of the hours during the week I am at 3131 Queen City.. aka Work... However after last weeks awesome ride, I decided to try our Yoga class at work.

Being that I work at the fine Mercy Health Plex and Wellness Center, we have several different classes, and even though I love teaching Bootcamp. I took Yoga. Yes, this inflexible, oh so tight muscles, girl that stretches other people every day girl... It was nice. Really peaceful, but I stunk worse than old Nike's that are several years old in your face stunk. I am so tight, and throughout the whole session, I thought about how I really should do this to prevent injury during this journey to IMKY.

However the time is usually when I train Sue, and I will have to see if I can move her back to 9, but I am really going to make an effort to go.

Then that evening, on Tuesday, Ryan and I decided to go get Sushi... kind of went with the relaxing day.. We went to Aikra up on Tylersville, and it was quite yummy. One of my clients, Lynn, had asked what I usually eat before Races, and I said tai and sushi... kind of my superstition, but I thought why ruin something that works :) Here we are very excited about our enormous plate of yummy fresh sushi.

This weekend, I have my first Tri of the year as I said. Really, I am not doing it to win it, and not even in the Athena division (that's with your suggestion Mary) but I am excited to see where I stand compared to last year..I have heard many friends and teammates going to be there, and I am thrilled to welcome Lynn in to the sport of Triathlons.

And then the beautiful Emily Longhauser will be married to Dave Hulsmann... she will be EMILY HULSMANN! So excited to be actually a normal folk (well kinda normal) at a wedding :)

Keep training, and keep smiling...

:)

Easter's Blessings..

2009-04-12T17:57:00.000-07:00

This week has been full of blessings and after hearing that friends and family are following my blog, I vowe to update at least every other day...

This week we had an amazing (and challenging) practice 5k for the Girls on the Run I am coaching and raising money for. Here we are after an amazing race.. You can sign up for the 5k Run.walk that will take part at the Paul Brown Stadium by clicking here> GOTR RUN/WALK.

Crossroads Girls on the Run Team

Then after feeling pretty strong from this weeks training sessions, I decided to ride my bike to my bootcamp and continue my ride after our Cincy Girls get together. I knew I wanted to ride at least 50 plus miles, and it was such a different kind of ride than I have had in the past. I left from Jayne's and headed down North Bend, to West Fork.. Took West Fork allllll the way down to where it dumps into Harrison Avenue. Turn right on Harrison, and rode this alll the way out until it crosses over 128. When any rider, or maybe just me, see cars flying down a hill to the stop sign, I just get that "oh no" feeling. I ate another oh so yummy Power Gel, and thought here goes nothing... Having my Ipod (only in my right ear) helped, and up and up and up I climbed. I had no idea where the top of this hill was going to be, and before I knew it a guy on a motorcycle was right next to me... He tried to encourage, just kept saying keep pumping, keep moving, keep spinning, and kindly I just said you are not helping sir. Just leave me be sir. but he didn't seem to get the picture. I just kept telling myself over and over... it is this out and back, this is your out and back, keep going, keep going. Soon I made it to the top, and I was passing local biker bars. At the top, he finally said good job, and I am on here, and that is why I have this. No joke this guy and his friends resembled this find looking lad on the left...

I continued on and before I knew it I was coming up on Old Harrison Pike... and I knew I made it to Harrison.. yeah :) and now just to get on Kilby. When I turned Left on Kilby, I just pictured the straight stretch on River Road.. I remember Mary telling me that it was like a sprint fest.. and just coming home after the 100 miles prior on the course... I just loved this road... It was one of the first times I felt comfy in my aero bars. I think it was the smooth pavement, or just that I wasn't worried about a popped tire, but my cadence was beautifully smooth, and I just went along with the sun and the road. I didn't want this road to end, but alas, here I made it to the corner of Kilby and Route 50. Route 50. I remember riding it frequently last year, and thinking there were parts I loved, and parts I wanted to pass so I knew mentally where I was.. Down in my aero I went, and before I knew it I had my speed up to where I wanted it and my music pumping my legs. I passed my Dolly Monument, and passed Fernbank... soon would be Bender and the temptation to climb it came across.. no, I thought, keep on your mission.. On I went, and there was Anderson Ferry, where two years prior I fell, hard trying to climb, I wonder if I could today, no, again I thought, keep going. Soon I would come up to Jim and Jack's and I would approach the climb of Fairbank on to Delhi, this little climb will getcha if you aren't ready. But again, I made it up.. then there is Rosemont. This stinking hill bites my tail and I have yet to make it up it.. I try, I mentally am tough, just legs shot at this point, and it is one of my goals to get up it before IMKY.

Sunday. I had a great morning run before Mass, and then had fun recording my new checks... check it out... $3,390 raised!!! SOOOOO AMAZING! Keep checking the columns on the right for updated list!

I am grateful for each day, and looking forward to the busy week ahead. Thanks for your support, and keep pushing..

Run while you can...

2009-04-07T19:40:00.001-07:00

There are many times throughout this journey that I hear... really? that many miles .. really 2.4 swimming, then really.. 112 miles on the bike... then just really you want to get some more in, and have 26.2 miles to finish the run.. really? YES REALLY.

This weekend:
**amazing, amazing start with a season opener Caeser's Creek. I did get a little goosebumpy driving over the creek for the first time this year... I just thought, let the whips start cracking, and here we go. There were TONS of CE folks.. I loved it, I wish that I would have met more... but had a great 45+ mile bike ride, and even conquered THE BEAST for the first time this spring..
**then made a trip to 5/3rd ball park for a baseball game, and up to Troy :) (Hi guys :) ). Good comfy nights in always are fun, and I needed the rest...
** Sunday, I awoke bright eye and busy tailed, or as someone says like a kid on Christmas Day, and was ready for the day. Went to yummy Montgomery Inn for dinner with Ryan and Dad, and came home to settle in with 7 Pounds.
** Monday, Opening Day with my Cincinnati Reds :) Rain, Wind, Snow, or Storm.. we were troopers and it was fun to be with great company :) Looking forward to many games ahead.. We even took the bus home :) Hey. first time for everything :)

then today.. My first Batch of donations are coming in.. Check the side panel for always updated lists!! IT IS BECAUSE OF YOUR SUPPORT, this is all coming into reality.

Reality.. Funny thing is that when people ask me really? you want to do that long of a race... I Say simply. Yes.. I just want to finish... I have my favorite mantra always repeated in my head:

"Run while you can, walk if you have to, crawl if you must... JUST NEVER GIVE UP and FINISH!"

GO SUE GO!!! I AM SO PROUD OF YOU!!

2009-03-29T16:58:00.000-07:00

TODAY was cold.. it was wet... it was sleeting.. and it was windy...

AND..

SUE CARROLL did her first 5k in a long time.. under our 2 hour goal... at 1:20! I met some awesome volunteers to start of the morning, and after my shift I went down to the 15k finish shoot to watch teammates come in... Saw some great CE folks, and saw my client Lynn come smiling across the finish line. ANY finish line is one of the most joyous, bone chilling places in the world on nasty days (or beautifl days) like today as I watch people of all ages, shapes, colors, smile for fn. before long, Lynn and I met with Sue for her 5k walk.

Sue always has a smile... she always works hard.. she "shuffels" or as I call it "dances" in zig zags beautifully. She is determined, has been training for her walk by using the eliptical, and walking our track...And throughout it all has lost over 25 lbs. so far to date... she keeps at it.. each week whether Senior Dance Class, or weight training with me... She pushes and pushes! We laugh like trains, and work hard.. and today..

SUE!! YOU DID YOUR 5k under 1:30!!

During the walk I saw some familiar faces, including one of my other clients Donna, who is pictured below!

I consider it the most warm touched complement when I have influenced, and helped a client and friend reach a goal of walking a 5k, 10k, 15k or more... These pictures are from today :) Enjoy!

Sue and I about to start our 5k!

Sue, Donna and I during the walk on Columbia.. heading out for the turn around :)

"Look at all the people..."

Sue and Lynn walking together... New Friends for Life.

Sue and I at the turn around..

HOMEWARD BOUND! it was raining.. but we still looked good! :)

UDER TWO HOURS.....

UNDER A HOUR AND HALF!!

WAY TO GO SUE!!!

Proud friends share a picture with their awesome, GOLD FINISHER MEDALS!!

Nicely done ladies, nicely done :)

I have the love and support of friends :)

2009-03-28T20:25:00.000-07:00

This week I had something just "cool" happen. I was approaced by Eric, a Reebok salesman, for sponsorship. I tried to talk about what my mission is with Girls on the Run, but that didn't matter.. he wanted to know what size shoe, pants, shirt, sports bra, tech shirts.. the works I wear.. and I was a little confused right off the bat... But after informing him, I have a little pronation problem on this little left foot of mine, and I was going to be buying shoes that weekend, he said let's see how you like mine! Here they are!! Ryan even got a pair of sweet kicks... Mine are the green ones, and his the red ones!

I ran in them on Thursday for 6 miles, and I have to say.. I like em.. the truth will be told when I get some more milage, but def. check them out when making some shoe finds!

Then Today after a wonderful catching up breakfast with my Favorite Former Boss, KK, ... I had my second (and maybe last) indoor challenge.... I was very excited about this one after last one not going as nearly as I had planned... forched to use improve music, and had no idea when songs were going to end last time, nor what to do really.. I wanted to improve for returners, and make sure I felt great leaving today..

Even though I didn't have every spinning bike filled, and there weren't as many folks on trainers.. those that were there, were there ready to move and groove! and that is what we did. for two hours... my foot felt great, I was drenched, and my music seemed to be enjoyed by all..

Total Funds :) 400 bucks! in two hours for under 25-30 people! That means YOU riders are awesome!

Thanks to Ruth, Lois, Chuck, Jim, Carol, Beth, Walt, and Rose, for your donations!!! I believe when I enter all the amounts I will be over $2,000!!

After an amazing dinner at PF Changs with "Ry Bread" I am calling it a night...

Tomorrow I will be at the Mini Heart Marathon, walking proudly the 5k with two of my favorie clients.. Sue and Lynn! Goal to finish Ladies.. Goal to finish!

Oh my... this is my first road race...

2009-03-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

So this weekend was full of activity... and Sunday.. I had my first Road Race. I have always heard the "roadies" and people asking me if I am a "roadie".. and really.. after Sunday.. I know I am not a roadie... Nope.. Sure.. I do have a road bike, but I don't consider myself one of "them"... and when I say "them" I mean the matching jerseys, the matching helmets, and socks, and matching bikes. I do have.. sometimes, have a matching jersey, but for the most part... I am just "that" girl that is trying to survive in this training of Ironman Journey.

Sunday morning was great.. the great folks at Lifetime put on a great show for the Indoor triathlon, and I am thankful for him letting me grab the mike to promote the indoor training ride... I might have more spinners than trainers.. because as of now.. I am the only trainer riding gal. If I can get a full class of 18 spinning bikes.. that would be cool.. for it is 180 bucks at least towards GOTR. However... by all means I am still hoping for more to come.. The races ahead will be hard to be compete with.

Then Sunday afternoon, Mary and I were back at it.. I love riding out to races with Mary.. Even though we have very different backgrounds, and mentally get ready for races completely different.. It is always fun to share time of laughter, and hit the roads together. For those of you that don't know.. Mary Mary... she is a freaking rock.. she will kick your butt, smile, maybe even toss out a little pink wave, and keep on rocking the bike.. however.. to my slow butt, and my freaking out, she stayed with me during my first road race...

I didn't have a clue what to expect.. but that it was going to be 40 miles...We got there, and I was registered.. I laughed to myself at the different CAT's, and the different levels, and on the registration, I was simply "woman, 26".

On a websearch I learned the following:

SCF Levels – USCF has 5 levels Cat 1-5. New racers starts out as a Cat 5 and as he accumulate points via placing or by experience, he upgrades to Cat 4, 3, 2, and finally Cat 1, which is considered the last step before turning Pro. What many racers don’t realize is that there are really only 3 levels in practice (at least in the Northeast): Beginners (Cat 4/5), Intermediate (Cat 3), and Pro (Pro/1/2). If you look around, there are very few Cat 5 races. These races are almost always combined with the Cat 4’s. Cat 3 races are truly the intermediate level as most races will have a separate Cat 3 only level. Once a racer upgrades to Cat 2, he is racing with Cat 1’s and Pro’s. There are almost no Cat 2 only races. The only Cat 2 race I know of is the Tour De’Toona and that is more like a Cat 1 race. This is especially true today as USCF recently allowed Pro’s to compete in amateur events as a Cat 1 if there are no separate Pro events.

I went to my bike, started to get everything ready.. and I even tapped my foot: I caught him right in the act of taking my picture, I was laughing because I was in fear... more than anything FEAR... but at least I got a decent picture ...

Followers note: I have this one bike jersey.. yeah.. and Mary let me borrow her undershirt.. it was a little cold... and those pants... yeah. just basic nike long spandies... and even more so... I just wanted it all to go smoothly without getting hurt..

Off to pump my stuuuupid tires.. they always give me grief... maybe the tire St. Patty's God will give me a new pair..

Off to line up... here we all are, ready to start.. I am behind the couple guys and one gal looking down.. saying a quick little prayer, repeating my mantra's I always say...

As the race started, I thought I was going to poo my pants... I didn't know what to do but just pedal pedal pedal.. I wish I would have practiced with a group.. or even watched a live road race, and before I knew it, yep. I was dropped.. I wasn't too worried, but I just wanted to finish. Lessons of the day were: a. I did it. b. Had some good times meeting a couple new people. c. Didn't completely get killed... at least I don't think so.

Here are some pictures from during the race... Mary said.. "it is all about good pictures.. " so I just smiled during the times I could..

This would be us trying to stay up near Mary.. I was just smiling to make me a look a little better...

And here is Mary and I during our big finish.. you can't see from the picture.. but I am actually inhaling all her dust she left me in :)

This week is a recovery week, so slow runs and swims.. but I am excited about that.. my foot is feeling a little achy.. so I just want to see how it goes :) each day is a new day!

Committment when you just wanna have fun!

2009-03-14T11:55:00.000-07:00

There comes a time in every endurance (or even non-endurance) athlete's life that you have to consider what you want out of the big picture.. if you just want to finish.. then you can just forget about some workouts here and there and just make sure you don't get hurt. But if deep down you really want to make sure it is .. and was worth the whole journey.. you need to make some sacrifices. I learn this each day, and each day it becomes the usual to say, "I am off to run, or I am off to bike, or the favorite of last week.. I am off to swim."

I realize that we as humans are blessed with many different friends in life.. Many that have same interest, and many that have very different... many different ages and backgrounds.. and I think that is one of the beauties in life...

I love my close girl friends that seem to have the questions of how far did you run? And to no surprise when I tell them, their response is usually.. "Ugh, Sick." This morning, (or late morning) was the first morning in a while I couldn't wait to get up and run since this ol achilles was bothering me. I ate my yummers ( ;) ) oatmeal, made sure my IPod was charged, put on my fav long spandi's, laced up my shoes, and off I went.

It was cool and brisk, and and being it wasn't incredibly too early, I thought I was having a good run...For me, average mile splits of under 9:00 since getting back is a good run..

When I got to an area of a street which has anywhere from 5-10 local bars on it, I usually don't see a soul along the streets, however today, the weekend of St. Patty's beer crawls... I saw so many people. I got some stares, some muffled comments, but also some high fives... I just laughed none the less.. One couple, standing on the corner with me, both holding a fresh cold green beer asked, "Why are you running?" I proudly said.. "the Ironman's starting gun will fire, if I am ready or not.." and the guy said ... "seriously.. THE Ironman" I smiled, said "Yes... THE IRONMAN....Cheers mate!" and off I went..

Even though at times I feel like I am missing out on some fun social nights by working those long hours, and coming in early for the next days run, it is also fun to see close friends start to get excited with me... for me... because rain, wind, snow, or shine... I as a committed endurance athlete, trying to stick to the plan.. even if I just wanna have fun sometimes!

Channel 19 Interview..

2009-03-10T19:44:00.000-07:00

CLICK BELOW!

CHANNEL FOX 19 INTERVIEW

This was pretty cool! When I figure out how to post it on here, I will do that :)

Thanks for your support!

Don't forget... March 28, 2009.... 2-4 Indoor Riding Challenge! Bring a friend that needs a spinning bike, and you on the trainer :) $10 dollar donations :):)

If Only....

2009-03-08T12:34:00.001-07:00

There are countless times we, especially Me, say If Only..

For instance:

- If Only... my computer speakers would work.. and I could hear this song !

- If Only ... I would have stretched 5 more minutes... would my achilles and surrounding ligaments be where they are???

-If Only.. .I would have really fancy shancy job that I could have 8-5, or even 9-4 hours, so I could train more normally.. is there a normal??

- If Only.. I didn't have the rest of my student loans to pay for... I would live in a cute little house.. maybe something like this house ..check it out... it says TWO walk in closets in the master bedroom...

- If Only... I didn't have a car payment anymore... I would do above first.

- If Only ... I could just spend $600 bucks for Ironman Louiville Training Camp.

- If Only ... I had scored ten points higher on that darn GRE... Savannah .. hmm..

- If Only... I could get my next gadget... a heart rate monitor :) Garmin would be fun :)

- If Only... right?

Indoor Riding Challenge... Take 2.. CAN WE GET 50!!?!?!

2009-03-05T20:37:00.001-08:00

Looking to get at least 50 local riders!!

Come one, come all.

GOTR32809

Publish at Scribd or explore others: Brochures & Catalogs indoor challenge 328

10 Happenings ...

2009-03-05T19:44:00.001-08:00

It has been too long, and too much as happend...

This will be a list of ten most important happenings, and in no particular order..

1. The Downtown Dayton Indoor Tri was a great success for the first time putting it on. Arriving for my 11:00 am wave, I didn't know really want to expect... There was body marking, designated transition times, and we even got our own lane... I was number 19! It was fun to feel the ink, as crazy as that is, to know my tri season has began for the year... even if it it was an indoor tri..

My super fan, Ryan, who found this short race due to the fact that it was at his gym, was there to cheer me on, even though there was no where to sit, and there was the awkwardness, of now what do I do... Thanks to his texting abilities, I hope it wasn't too boring... It was delightful to teach him what the IMKY will entail.. like most people, they just can't put their finger on why I would want to do this to myself..

2. I did place 3rd in the women over all, traveling 12,523 yards. I didn't want push myself too fast too soon.. and get hurt... even though I really wanted to go all out on the 15 min. treadmill run.. I had been running up to 6.4.. after not running much more over 10 mins I was excited to just set my treadmill at 7.1 and get what I could done. Without any pain, and icing that night, I was happy how I felt. I do get a medal and a couple cliff bars... with a nice white hoodie sweat shirt too... Made the travel up 75 all that much more fun! Especially to be that girl in gymshoes at a local bar spot! :)

3. I celebrated my great grandpa's 93'rd birthday. Grandpa Roy still has the whit, and conversation like I remembered all along. He did ask me, what are you thinking, and are you crazy when I was telling him my future race plans. Like usual, he did ask about my schooling, and work, and I can't wait for the day to tell him that I will be getting my doctorate. He did request that I try to get married before he turns 100!

4. Too cute, and when I asked if there were any nice looking ladies at his new place he is living, he stated, "Nope, they are either too old, or too poor.. too old, older than me.. or too poor because they have been there longer than me."

I am privaledged and blessed to have LONG

LONG ages on my Mom's side of the Family. Here we are, first my Great Grandpa, and my Grandpa, and then my Great Grandpa, Grandma (his daughter) My Mom, then Me. Four generations, and three daughters :) I love family times.

5. I was cleared from Physical Therapy, to remain on watch to make sure I do okay. There really isn't any pain in my achilles... knocking on everything wood around me, however I decided to try it out on a spinning bike. Haven't put my bike back on the trainer since my fundraiser. Little scared, however I did get re-fitted, and I have a new saddle. The best bike fitters I know, at least personally know, and I can call whenever about any problem, Bob at Wheelie Fun is the man. He get's his sutff done, and does more. I felt a lot better on my Boyfriend after I left.. so let's just hope I don't want to break up with him before long.

6. I have set a new date for INDOOR 2 HOUR RIDING CHALLENGE! The last one was such an amazing success, and I moved the dates for those wanting to participate in the Mini Heart, or those that want to particpate in the Lifetime Fitness Indoor Triathlon. I will be walking the Mini Heart 5k on March 29th with two of my clients, Sue and Lynn, and then Maybe volunteering or particpating in the indoor tri on the the 15th. I am hoping to get at least 50 riders to the challenge to gruel it out! Tell one, tell all. I do have 18 spinning bikes available for first come first serve!

7. I was interviewed by Fox 19, Rob Williams about my fundraising efforts for Girls on the Run. This is supposed to air on Monday.. at 6, 8, and 10! That is right... I hope my message is being heard and supported by more and more friends across the miles.. Here are a couple pictures my wonderful coworker took during my filming.

8. During this interview I happen to sing my Finding Nemo song, Keep On Swimming. If it is my luck, this will be the one part shown to air.. :)

Other than saying Lake Michigan has bridges? (no idea??) I think I did okay.. We will see on Monday! :)

9. Bad news.. my bank account and your's trully is a victim of Fraud... kinda scary... but luckily, 53'rd was on top of it and noticed it right away.. The guy was very easy to talk to on the phone, but it is still bone chilling to hear after several thousand dollars of charges... "Miss Leonard, I am sorry to tell you, but you are a victim of Fraud."

10. It is the weekend! I plan to get 200 letters out Sunday for my fundraising efforts, and.. most importantly!! Friends are coming down, up, and around to celebrate Ginger Fest for Adam! It should be a great time... especially considering I will have the house all to myself.. plus a couple guys, Saturday night :) Hope all is well.. and see you on the flip side. Cheers :)

What a Wonderful World..

2009-02-22T16:33:00.000-08:00

I see trees of green.. red roses tooI see em bloom. for me and for you ...And I think to myself..what a wonderful world..I see skies of blue..clouds of white..Bright blessed days.dark sacred nights..And I think to myself ..what a wonderful world...The colors of a rainbow..so pretty ..in the skyAre also on the faces..of people .going by..I see friends shaking hands..sayin.. how do you do..They're really sayin..i love you..I hear babies cry..I watch them grow..They'll learn much more. than Ill never know And I think to myself ..what a wonderful world(instrumental break)..The colors of a rainbow..so pretty ..in the sky..Are there on the faces. of people ..going byI see friends shaking hands..sayin. how do you do..They're really sayin...*spoken*(I ....love....you).I hear babies cry..I watch them grow*spoken*(you know their gonna learn..A whole lot more than Ill never know)And I think to myself ...what a wonderful world...Yes I think to myself

what a wonderful world.

Last night with friends of all different walks of life, we gathered for a gift gathering party to celebrate one common bond.. Seton High School.. This school was where I went to high school, and it feels like moons ago when I walked the halls.. thinking about practice, and homework, were the only two of my worries, and didn't think much more than if I was going to be able to go to the Elder game that Friday... As many friends and family know, I didn't get to many Elder games, but even more than those games, my friendships made would be for a lifetime. I was excited to donate my gift, and know it will be supporting girls for tuition assistance and scholarship program, much like I was gratefully given years ago. Continuing on my volunteering fun, I hope I can volunteer at this great event and see more to come for the Seton Saints..... ahhhh.. S.. S.. S.. E ..T... T..T...T..O..N.. S..E..T..T.O..N.. .. LET'S GO SAINTS!

I JUST WANT TO RUN!

2009-02-19T18:25:00.000-08:00

I am getting ansy... realllly ansy.. and my foot/achilles/ heel/ everything feels good. Swimming.. ah yeah, swimming.. is getting to be boring.. I should have invested in a water proof head set. Big investment will be a heart rate monitor, and a new pair of bike wheels.. not the whole bike, just the wheels.. any suggestions from you readers would be great :) :)

I keep resting.. and hopefully I can try the waters next week. it would be a full 3 plus weeks of rest on a baby spring up with DYT :)

MY Mainsqueeze... my man.... my boyfriend!

2009-02-18T21:05:00.000-08:00

Mary Mary, my mentor, has always suggested the following..

...something that spends THAT much time between your legs should ALWAYS have a name! A cyclist's gotta have SOME morals!!!

This is one of the first things she told me, and to no question during my first try at parts of the IMKY bike loop, I said, okay. Boyfriend. My bike will be named Boyfriend. He is there to listen to me whine, especially on hard, hard climbs up, high, high climbs, and doesn't say a word, he is even there to hear my beautiful singing during flat boring parts of rides, he is even there to hear me squeel a little bit as I get excited to go down hills faster than I am ready for at times. However, rain, snow, wind, or heat, he is there ready for me to ride him 24.7 :) Oh yeah :) haha!

However, until I get this beauty off my foot, at least for the night laying around periods, I won't be doing much of anything with my boyfriend. Today was my first day of PT, and I even tried the arch trainer (yes Rod, keeping my foot flat) for 20 mins. I did a whopping one mile. But I actually broke a sweat for the first time doing something cardiovascular outside the pool. For the record, it is also very very verrrrrrrry hard to run in the pool. Is it possible I just don't know how to run in the pool.

Here is to a quick recovery..... IMKY... see that little count down... 192 days.. and counting!! Eek.

Chickens on the Run!

2009-02-17T16:52:00.001-08:00

Today... I decided I need to take a little more what I preach into my own practice... Each Tuesday and Thursday we, the coaches of Girls on the Run, teach these girls how to take some part of life, and put it into use. Tonight as two other girls, one coach and I were setting up the cones, we decided to nick name the cones, chickens... My goofiness, and random thoughts as we were coming downstairs, came up with this, and we giggled as we shivered and put the cones out in the lot. From here on out.. they will be the Chickens.. and then I laughed (as we all know it doesn't take much) and said.. ohhh it is like Chickens on the Run.. like the movie, instead of Girls on the Run! :)

Today though we had a negative box of things we want to get rid of that are negative.... 2 cards dropped, and then many many laps of positive cards were given. I want to do this... in this box, I want to drop the cards of negative thoughts or words..... There are not many times, but sometimes I get the tiny nasty erge... whether it is the person taking up too much time as they make a turn driving their car, or the slaming breaks... or even, how people don't put things away at work... I want to take these negative thoughts and put them in the box. As we taught the girls, I can try to do something good with the negative. I will try to help put things away, and just let the people go slow... If I am in a hurry, it is my fault.. not theirs.. I also want to take my negative not so fast recovery mentality out the door.. Today, my good ol achilles (which that is NOT my foot in the picture) feels good...first day of a couple week rest here we come..! Kicked my own arse during my swim... Good positive words that each girl and were given to each girl during each lap! I hope and try to stay positive, I really do. and the big one I liked is cheerleader... PERSONAL CHEERLEADER!

There is the possibility of doing a BABY Tri in Feb. This fish I know... RYAN.. yes YOU RYAN! :) mentioned this to me.. and I am really considering it... it would be just about 3 weeks of solid rest, and it is a short.... short.. short.. tri. 15 min. swim, 20 min stationary bike, 15 min treadmill run... just to get my feet wet back into the sport... and we could hang out again... I guess that would be another plus :)

So many things to consider... off for now to wear my kickin boot, and watch biggest loser! Cheers!

Cheers..

IT IS NOT A TEAR!!! HALLLLELLLUUUAH!

2009-02-16T20:29:00.000-08:00

This is what I thought I had... keyword... HAD HAD HAD! Even though my left achilles area is still much more swallen than my right..

Tonight... I write quickly.. mostly because I need to get in to bed, and because of the good news.... My achilles currently doesn't have a tear!! Yippeeeee! According to my MRI, and the ultrasound with the great bambino Dr. Rod Roof.. there doesn't look to be any tears..

-Am I supposed to run.. Nope.

- Am I going to be able to run the marathon.. probably could, but IMKY is the big picture, and after talking to Rod, and many supporting peers, I would rather miss out on the marathon, knowing deep down I could have done it, and be more ready for IMKY.

- Am I cleared to cycle. Nope. (intersting about my left ITBand always hurting, and now this.. it really does start all at the feet).

- Can I swim.. YES!

and lots of it will be done these weeks ahead.. LOTS!

- Can I use the eliptical.. if my feet stay flat... YES
- When Can I return to running.. when I can squeeze my leg with no swelling or pain.

SO... Who knows when that will be.. he thinks 3 weeks. Good news that the achilles is not torn or anything though! and I get to wear this fine and dandy thing to bed every night!

Signing off with first good news of the week :) Also... March 15th, 08 will be the bring your trainer ride for take 2! I am hoping to have at least 50 people signed up!!!!!

Happy Valentine's Day.. or Weekend!!

2009-02-14T08:37:00.001-08:00

This week has been a learning journey. Learning to rest. Learning to help friends miles away. and right next door can be a wonderful thing. Learning to listen to my body. Learning to be patient. Learning your role models continue to be awesome (thanks for your awesome email again). Through these though, there is the learning that usually, if you look at the glass half full, you will LEARN things happen for a reason. I have stayed put from running, and the ol achilles seems to get a little better..... Not too much grinding today.. lovely sounding doesn't it. I will take today and tomorrow off again, and see what Monday's appointment with Rod holds.

Learning the power of people. I have a member, Bill, who we speak often, and it was great to share my journey with him, and talk to him for a while about the Ironman, and the greatness of Girls on the Run. Thanks for your donation support Bill!

Learning I love to hang out with young gals... this week was my first week's practice with the Girls on the Run camp, and I love them. I crack up thinking about them as I sit here, and I know I say it a lot that I don't want kids, these girls just make me giddy to be around them. They have the excitement of being together, and laughter that is contageous for hours, and I am so excited for these next 11 weeks with them.

Learning there are some still some good fishes in the sea... that give me dinner, a flower, and box of candies too :) Hey, it is true there is a first time for everything :)

Learning there are generous supporters in the community. Thanks Linda, the letters and cards look amazing... I can't wait to send them out!! ALL 500!!

Learning that throughout the week of just swimming, there is light at the end of the tunnel.. It was good to rest, and I hope, really hope that Monday's appointment will give me to go to continue with this journey...

Learning first thing this morning, I made the newspaper... check it out here...SMILE

Happy Valentines Weekend... I hope you all enjoy it... it won't come again for a year :) :)

OH MY GOSH WHAT AN AMAZING AMAZING WEEKEND!

2009-02-08T19:47:00.000-08:00

This weekend.. like many of my weekends.. was jammed pack!! I could write and write... but this is going to be short and a list of the top unforgettable memories...

1. Ran freaking 15 miles! AND DIDN'T get lost!! Ran it all with the exception of a couple lights in the streets of the west side...

2. Got splashed like the little ladies on commercials... HUGE downer, but laughed.. because it was a McDonals truck, and he honked.

3. Ran 15 miles and felt okay.. except for today... my right calf is tight, and my left achilles, oh my god.. it hurts.. hurts bad.. but I can Still walk.. Need to buy a heart rate monitor... really really bad!

4. DID THE POLAR BEAR PLUNGE

5. THIS IS US PRE-PLUNGE.... our skit was to have me jump in and the guys kinda just laugh and not know we planned that.. and them shake their heads and then them jump in after me.. it was Cold.. but worth every Penny for Special Olympics. see more pics here: Plunge

6. Went out to Cady for some fun fun fun with friends :) I love friends.. they are some of my biggest fans!

7. Had my fundraiser indoor riding challenge.... rock on... raised 460.00 bucks all to GOTR!!! AWESOME! 2 hours... learned some things there:

a. Make sure everything works... way before class starts.. not just the hour before.

b. Don't be afraid that if things don't go right. just remember these people are here to support a good cause.. and get a good ride in... afraid? to jump up and teach 30 plus riders a spinning class...who cares if you aren't a spinning instructor.. right?

c. sweat it out... scream it out... burn it out !

d. smile for the camera....both the pics here: Cincyexpresgroupride .. More to come :) and for channel 12 camera man.... how cool was that!

e. thank everyone, especially my CE folks and Jim and Mo for helping me set up, and take down.. and Amanda for the music last minute and anything else needed!! plan for another to hit 50 plus people!! Maybe in 2 weeks?

8. SMILE... and be grateful... one blog I follow talks about things every day I am grateful for... This weekend!! Every part of it... if you were there to ride today.. THANK YOU.. you will help me reach my 5,000 goal.. and thank you for bearing with me during my tech difficulties... check back for more pictures, I will hope for feedback... any and all :)

9. Go to bed early :) Rest is good!

10. Oh Yeah... and breaking over the 1,000 dollars raised mark!!! WHO RA!! :)

Happy Birthday to Me...and Condoms from Mom

2009-02-02T10:36:00.000-08:00

I decided to enter my year of excitement to take off yesterday.. completely.. I ran 10.5 on the schedule on Saturday, had some fun with some friends, and didn't do a darn thing yesterday... Not one thing!! I literally layed around on the couch, and watched some tv, read some of my favorite new book, and then went to bed before 9. It was great!

However, unlike years in the past, there was no cake :( no icecream :( no dinner of choice. which I wanted Tai... I really will have to get this by myself... or hope J.D. saves some sushi for me out in Cali... but I did get an unusual gifts from Mom... Condoms.. TOE condoms to be exact.. she thought this was too funny considering I am in the process of having bruised toe nails, blisters, and nastiness on my feet from my marathon running. I thought it was funny toe... just not what I was thinking. I liked her little dance she did with my card too..

Funny thing about birthdays... this nice looking striking lad stroke up a conversation with me Saturday night.. then he said oh, it is your birthday... how old are you.... I said I am turning 26 tomorrow... he said oh, and with the most disgusted face he said really? I laughed and said do I smell like tuna all of the sudden.. what's wrong with that.. he said.. I just turned 21 last night, and you are like 30! I just had to laugh.

This year of 26 of my life:

- I will finish a marathon.. not too worried about my finishing time.. just crossing the Line.

- I will finish an a half Iron - distance... I thought my teammates were nuts last year with this...

- I will finish an Ironman... Crazy.. and I like it. hopefully under 17 hours.

- I will watch one of my clients, and possibly my brother finish their first triathlons. I have been told I have inspired them to tri one! So much fun!

- I will raise money for GIRLS ON THE RUN. First fundraiser this Sunday 2-4 ! Can't wait!

- I will watch one of my best friends marry her best friend and love of her life, and try to be the best dress holder . (ha) ever!

- I will volunteer more... maybe Kona! (Yes I have thought about it)

- I will learn, love, and grow!

This list is as of today.. I am sure there will be more! But until then, I am just praying for the nice weather we are supposed to get.

Happy Birthday to me!

V02 Max and Lactate Acid Test.. ROCK ON!

2009-01-25T16:49:00.000-08:00

The SUN WAS Shining, and my bike was on the back of my car for the first time in a LONG LONG TIME!

This weekend was just awesome! I am loving this journey to IMKY, and learning so much with it... I was honored that Mary Mary invited me back with Dr. Bruce Jayne up at UC to crank out on a bike to find my V02 Max, and levels of Lactate Acid in my body...

Even though my background is in Exercise Phys, it was cool to see this all work.. I have never had a stress test, and this is what I thought it would be like... well kinda...

From his website... VO2 , it states the following:

" What results will you get? See the links on this site with previous tests and the explanation of Vo2 max tests to get an idea of what you will receive. We are able to measure heart rate, oxygen consumption, Co2 production, ventilatory rates and volumes, mechanical power output, metabolic rates, efficiency and blood lactate levels. If somebody simply wants to perform a stepped effort test that measures power and heart rate without the respiratory measurements, then that is super easy to do and more comfortable for the rider, and even adding lactate to this is not a big deal. The really labor intensive data on our end is all of the stuff having to do with the gas analysis. Especially for repeated testing, you may strongly want to consider this latter more economical option. For these simpler tests we could have your results completed and ready for you about 10 minutes after your test.
How much time should I allow for the test? If we are doing your resting metabolic rate as well as performing an analysis of gases for your stepped effort test, I recommend allowing at least an hour for the whole procedure. Determining resting metabolic rate, calibrating the gas analyzers and setting up the bike will take a total of about 20-30 minutes. The stepped effort test has 3 minute increments beginning at 100 Watts and increasing by 20 Watt increments until power can no longer be maintained. Thus, depending on the power you can sustain, this portion of testing will usually take 15-40 minutes. If you want information on recovery after the test allow another 10 minutes.

I arrived with butterflies for yet another first about an hour early to my test to watch my hero take on her's... Here you can see Mary as she was getting her test done.... Yes, the mask is the worse part... Just hard to get used to wearing it...

Mary is a beast on the bike... and I mean a lady beast... she always tears it up, and she inspires me to be faster, and get stronger... I was watching her numbers, and in all honesty, had NO idea what any of it meant... and funny, I still don't... but that is the learning part.. I tried to keep her postive, and trucking along until her test was complete. She had mentioned that she did better than last time, and I think that is amazing.. she always looks so comfortable on the bike.. even with a huge plastic thing glued to her face.

And then.. I signed off my papers, and got ready for my test... Here is Dr. Bruce setting up my test bike... I brought mine just incase I needed to take off pedals, and what not, but their bike worked out... Before everything I do. I always say my mantra's.. I WILL, and IMPOSSIBLE IS NOTHING... here I am getting my Ipod ready, and saying these over and over and over :)

You have to love a mentor like Mary who has your Lady Who-Who in mind, and she brought me a new saddle.. I put on the saddle, and I laughed at that I felt like I was sitting on a tinnnny saddle...

I soon got back off and started the process... sitting here, I was to breath normal, and not move, or talk.. funny.. me not move, or talk :) K. Wright showed up at this moment, and had a chuckel at me in my new face gear. I would love to see his outcomes considering he always tears it up on the bike. The machine setting my normal base line of my resting heart rates and breathing patterns. I think.?.

And here I go... at this picture, I am really smiling, but I was nervous as hell.. I have never done this before like I said, and I had no idea what to expect, or what numbers I should be around, or where I would want to be, or what is poor, what is good, all these questions... oh well.. just ride I thought!

Throughout the test, you maintain a speed for 3 mins, change gears, and then up your watts go, then they take a sample. We started at 10mph, increasing by 2 mph, and every three mins. I thought the hardest part was finding that sweet speed and HOLDING that speed...

Here is a picture of the great worker grabbing some blood sample to test for the lactate acid level.. I really don't know how this works, but it was similiar to a diabetes reader, but it read my lactate level.. I will have to get back to my school books to find what levels people should be around.. especially an endurance athlete like myself..

Throughout this ride, like I said early, we just kept it up, and moving along. Thanks to Mary, I have these awesome pictures of the action as it was happening... this was right before I was to maintain 20 mph, at whatever watts, and just ride, ride, ride..

And finally here I am.. I actually could hold on to the 22mph for the first set, and then was able to hold it on for one more set...I love that Mary was right there the hole time, assisting positive energy.. I WILL HOLD 22... I WILL she kept saying... I think this is pay back from when I kept positive energy yelling.. I WILL GET UP THIS HILL WITHOUT COMING OUT OF THE SADDLE... OH memories.. Anyway... If there was another way to breath, or get used to the breathing, I think I would have done a little better.. but I did it.. and that, I can say, was pretty cool I am excited to see what the outcome data looks like, and see where I need to improve...

Thanks again to all the great workers there, Mary for introducing me to Dr. Bruce, and Dr. Bruce, for making all this happen!! TOO COOL!

I had a swim clinic this morning, and Seth from CE informed me that I am the new Social Chair Director Person with J. Quinn.. Pretty Fun to be apart of something like this!

This weeks goals: oh Yeah, that lovely 15 mile run is there, and I really can't wait to meet with Mercy to discuss the future letters to send out for fundraising. Mary wrote a kind word on her blog: Jessica Lee Leonard...even her name sounds like a rockstar... cranked out the watts in the VO2Max and LT testing! I'm so proud of her! Check out her blog and help cheer her on as she trains for IMLOU--raising money for Girls On the Run.

That to me is like a little a Miny Mike basketball player meeting Michael Jordan after a basketball game, and MJ telling Miny Mike.. Great game.. PRETTY COOL!

Cheers!

12.4 or 14... Either way you look at it...

2009-01-22T15:46:00.000-08:00

Today I did 14 miles on the ol' treadmill.. can you believe it... I have been reading a lot of literature, and I like the fact I won't get lost, and I can keep my pace.. yes I know that it is kinda cheating, but my legs still have to move, and they must be getting some benefit from it right? I do have the incline on at least 1.0, if not 1.5, and I am maintaining those 8:20-8:35 min miles.. my slow miles I am thrilled with. There was a point I really had to keep looking down to make sure my legs were still moving.. I couldn't feel them.. it was the oddest, weirdest thing.. right up there with the constant shock I get from my headphones being plugged into the dvd player into the outlet.. :) However, it is how you look at the glass.. half full.. I did over half... 14 is exactly .8 over the 13.2 mark... or half empty.. 12.4 more to go after that :)

Today I set my alarm early.. knowing the days ahead are JAMMMED pack.. I know there are things going to be missed in this journey.. but it is more how can I get one more thing of training in there kind of weekend... Tonight I will meet with the lovely, awesome, incredible people of Girls on the Run for some (++ fingers crossed++ ) networking opportunities as we meet for the appreciation night... tomorrow, I have work, and didn't want to run the 14 the day before the test with Mary Mary on Saturday.. Saturday.. testing with Bruce and Mary, and then I am supposed to go to a meeting with CE, and head up to Dayton.. Then Sunday (awesome that I will be there already) swim clinic with CE, and then come home for some work reffing some vball.

whew.. ya got all that? So I knew I had to do it today.. really went well.. doing okay with my nutriton when I am running, but I won't lie... felt a little.. no a lot queezy for several hours after.. not sure why.. but hopefully it will pass with time...

Exciting though that I am doing this.. I don't know if she will ever read this, but I remember Laurie Davis (Kona Woman Pro.. haha :) our teammate on CE) telling me at Mattoon, that she ran 13 miles that morning.. and I humbly thought.. yeah there is no way.. and then today. bam. I did it. Kinda cool feeling for me personally.

Goals of the next week ahead:
1. Talk up Feb. 8th.. see flyer below.
2. Talk it up more :)
3. Meet with Mercy to see what is the game plan with fundraising on their part, and mine.
4. Finish letters to start getting on board to suprass the $5,000 goal. I have a feeling I can do this, I just have to believe if.
5. Have fun... I WILL be an IRONMAN in less than 300 days.. CRAZY COOL!

Cheers!

INDOOR RIDING TWO HOUR TRAINER CHALLENGE

2009-01-22T10:40:00.000-08:00

GOTR20809

Publish at Scribd or explore others: Other Brochures & Catalogs indoor trainer ride

Wow of a weekend!

2009-01-19T04:25:00.000-08:00

This weekend was jammed.. I mean jammed pack, but for nothing else, I am posting in between clients. Saturday was amazing!! Simply amazing to learn about all the fun things that the Girls On the Run organization actually does, and to be a part of such an incredible, life moving and touching experience is bone chilling to me... I did hand out many fliers, so let's hope a ball starts to roll with my fund raising goals...

Following this, went with KKD and saw Bride Wars.. Cute.. very very cute.. and it got us both, especially her, in the mood for her wedding... We discussed her bachelorette party.. which we are going to try to have fall on the night after my half IM distance race... crazy!!

Then yesterday... I knew it was coming.. the dreaded 12-13 mile run.. and being there is still ice everywhere, and coldness.. I thought why not pack everything and head up to the gym.. Yes I did it.. on that darn treadmill... My amazing multi-talented father made me a stand to watch dvds on.. it was great.. I just need to find longer head phones... but I happen to drop some time.. and my first 7.5 miles were under an hour... not to shabby for this gal.. and then the ending 5.5 were drilled home watching the 07 IM KY... Talk about inspiration and motivation!! and I did it!

Some exciting news is on FEBRUARY 8th, 2009... I will be hosting a "bring your trainer" day... cost is $10.00 dollars, and I will be hosting this at Mercy Health Plex. All proceeds will go to those lovely ladies of GOTR, and I will gladly accept additional donations. I am looking forward to a good turn out, and those coming are suggested to email me, or post if they are coming to allow for enough drinks and such afterwards. Any questions, let me know!

Looking forward to another busy week in the gym! But who-ray for 13 miles!

TRY NOT. DO!!!

2009-01-15T16:11:00.001-08:00

The past two days have been interesting.... I have been thinking over and over .. why did I pick the marathon in March when it is going to be sub 10 degrees from here to forrreevvverrr in Cincinnati and my long runs are going to be this cold cold weekend... Last night was an "easy 3-4 mile run" and like all great things in the sport, you live and learn (and then get loves.. right Em?). However I learned I have to do my running, have to... have to...HAVE TO before 9 at night... Otherwise I am like a zombie and 3-4 miles feels like 30-40 miles. However, I did it, and I was happy with doing my 5k under 28 mins. (not fast, but good for this big Athena).

Then today... I knew I was going to have a break in my clients and get my run in early, so I packed my lucky and lovely light green shorts, and kept telling myself.. it's only 6.5 miles, it's only 6.5 miles.. and before I knew it (with the exception of the time I had to get off and use the ladies room) I was running 7 and it felt great.. not effortless, but much better than last night...

Funny how our muslces work, with music and the many positive pumps in the air from those fine members at Mercy Health Plex, it realllly helps. or could it be my favorite green shorts? This is Kathleen Kisner in my picture with me.. We were both finished with our work out of the night, and our sweatiness proves it. She is a Former (but will return) client, and she bought this shirt she was proud to show me while she was at Disney... which read "TRY NOT. DO..... OR DO NOT. THERE IS NO TRY" When I kinda looked at her funny she said it is for me to stop making excuses and just do it.. don't try, just do it. I liked it enough to take a picture :) great mantra for this weekends long run.. JUST DO IT! I am hoping I can manage to build a stand for a portable DVD player.. at least that is what the idea is...

Either way, I did it another day, and I even spent some decent time on the spinner this afternoon. Until then... I think like others can, I will continue to say in my head...

TRY NOT... DO!!!

Boy vs Girl Treadmill Sprint Test... Ready... Start your Treadmills...

2009-01-12T18:33:00.000-08:00

Tonight I saw a familiar face that I haven't seen in a while, and I was approached, more so challenged with the idea of running aside him for his treadmill workout of the night..I couldn't resist... it should be known that this guy usually comes in full force to workout... I haven't ever really seen a "boring" or "pale" workout from him, and I usually say, oh that looks pretty cool..secretly I ask myself could I do that.. and half of the time, no... Most of the time I answer myself and say, ah.. NO.... so like any competitive filled and drived person, I said Bring It!! ... well not those words exactly, but something of the sort was said in my head :)

The hardest part of the night was getting two treadmills next to each other to keep each other honest... THE workout: seemed simple enough... start at a reasonable faster pace... he was at 9.0, I started at 7.0. This felt pretty easy, so I was suggested to move it up to 8.0. We run at this speed for a minute, then have a minute of rest. Then up the standards... he moved to 9.1, I moved to 8.1... run for a minute, minute off... move up to 9.2, I went to 8.2 and so forth.....

Being that I have been really working on my base training, I am sure this is against all Ironman programs, but it gave me the opportunity to try to actually have fun on the treadmill.. go figure...I just said that.. I had fun on the treadmill... I just kept saying in my head... we all need sprint work, we all need sprint work..I just kept trucking along, knowing the full workout is up to 20 minutes of sprints.. I decided to call it quits at 9.5... But knowing he was going to stop at his half way mark... and that I do have this race in under 300 days.. I was happy for doing this for the first time... One day I will surely have to try it for the full 20...

It was a great change of pace... really.. but tomorrow starts all over.. a quality run of 5-6 miles is back on the schedule, along with a long swim... and my "sprint days" are gone faster than a blink of my eye... at least when I think back, I can keep humming... anything you can do I can do (better?).... at least somethings :)

Organize Team Louisville 2009???

2009-01-11T17:56:00.001-08:00

I am toying with the idea to start a Team Blog for the Louisville Ironman in August of this year, 2009. I have come across and read several times those post from 09, and I did email the organizer from last year, and he does not plan to post one for Louisville 09 for he has IMWI on his plate...

I love social networks. My life thrives to know people, and learn from people. This will be another way for me to reach more, and learn more...

hmm... I must sleep on it, but I think I will do it.

This is why I want to try.....

2009-01-11T17:44:00.000-08:00

Youtube.... Not really sure who invented it.. or where it came about.. bu there are beautiful, inspirational videos on there... Crazy stuff too.. of course... but it is videos like this that make me get goosebumps thinking about the IRONMAN.

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Winter Wandering..

2009-01-09T14:32:00.000-08:00

So this week I learned the value of warm weather... I never thought I would say this.. but I do miss running in the warm breeze.. ya know... like there was a rush of the ocean... but this week... it has come down to training on the treadmill, or buckel up, and lace up the outdoors..

This is how you get creative when you run over 6 miles on a treadmill... you strategically place a foam roller (that will be used later) next to you for the water bottle that is too big to fit in the cubby hole... You kick out your rockin white 80's headband, BIG BAD MOMMA JAMMA SHORTS and put in the i-pod and off you go.... My fav. spinning instructor.. who again I will miss terribly, was telling me there are the positives of running on a treadmill during the winter:

** There is a tv... even though this early there is nothing really on..
** I have a fan if I get too hot.. and I'm not speaking of those that are working
out.. even though those members are VERY appreciated!
** I have access to the bathroom if need be... No need to pop a squat.. or wonder
if u get back.
**I CAN'T GET LOST :) :) :) and ga-ra-un-teed to get those miles in !
This was yesterday.. and in reality.. it really did go good.

Looking at the forecast for tomorrow: First just cold.. then cold with 100% chance of precipitation and mix of rain and snow.. so I bit the bullet straight on and decided to do my long run of the week... 9-10 miles... Outside.

Like inside, there are pro's.. such as you don't really see the same thing twice.. unless you get lost, and it is a nice breeze.. even if it is turning your whole body beat read, and your hair gets wet -- no Frozen.. AMAZING if you feel tingles and drops of sweat hit your nose... Check out all the clothes that were needed to keep this big bone body (not the F word.. right Mary) warm..

Here: Long Full Leg Spandies ( love em ), my supportage, my dry fit tank, my dry fit long sleeve, my long sleeve t, my reg t, my fleece, two pairs of socks, one new pair of shorts, my Power Gel wrapper.. (just for you El Grande), and um, a pair of gloves and head wrap are in there some where.

My favorite part of today.. EATING MY POWER GEL! Craziest thing.. but since it was so cold at pre-8 am, I think part of the gel started to freeze.. and I laughed, because when I ate it.. I was right by an ice-cream store... and I thought.. THIS IS IRONMAN ICE CREAM! haha, ok that is a stretch, but because I have never had one that cold, it actualy was really yummy at that moment.

And even though I got lost again, (ha, yes Seriously).. I CAN say it is over for the weekend, and I can rest tomorrow...

TO TOP IT ALL OFF: I was featured in the GOTR Newsletter, and it can only keep growing from here: Check it out.. roll call.. sha-booey. GOTR

Cheers to a normal?! weekend!

Swimming like the Good Ol Days... Kind of !

2009-01-07T09:47:00.000-08:00

Tonight... I was going to head up to UC to swim with the boys, but I decided to go out on a limb and ask my brother Travis if he wanted to swim with me up at Mercy.

My plan: warm up 200
4 x 500 with 100 fin drill in between RPE 3 on Evens RPE 5 on odds
cool down 200

not a lot, but a solid amount for a Tuesday night swim, and for swimming by myself, and hopefully with my brother. Back in the Good ol days... Mom used to drop the three of us off at the pool early in the morning for practice, and then claim her spot with her towel.

And he came! :) It was fun to be in the lane with the younger lad who used to kick my butt in the pool... He kept complaining at the fact I was too slow, and I laughed and said endurance my lad, endurance. I just kept remembering to reach out, and try to have a pretty stroke (after reading an article about pretty strokes in the recent Tri Magazine. And I have to say... I felt pretty good wooping up on my younger swimmer. Of course, he kept saying "breast stroke is my stroke... my shoulders are numb.... you are too slow" I kept hitting the wall and going again when he was "catching his breath.... RESTING"

It was a great time, later that night he even said "want to go for a run, for a second part your race" I laughed, and I stated that if he would find a bike, I would pay for his MUSU Triathlon, and train with him for this... being it was my first Tri, and it would be fun for him to do it as well. He actually looked like he might ponder the idea..

There is a blogger I have been reading from and he posted this quote... he often has great reads, and this quote hit right at home, especially as I determine to venture outside, or suck it up and run on the treadmill today.... until next time :) KEEP ON SWIMMING!

"There are two kinds of people in this world. The Ninety-Nines and the Ones.“The Ninety-Nines... That’s what I call ‘em. Ninety-nine out of a hundred people can’t fathom what I do. They scratch their heads, can’t believe my dedication to this great sport. Many don’t even think this a sport or that I have a life. Never let others define your ‘life’ for you. This is what I have chosen. This is the road I’ve taken, with all the potholes, bumps, and turns. The Ninety-Nines, they can’t commit 100% to being their best, to step up one day and stand tall among the giants.”

TICK.. TICK.... BOOM!

2009-01-05T17:03:00.000-08:00

From another blog friend: http://tridiesel.blogspot.com/

That piece of paper taped to my cabinet? The one that circled in red... AUGUST 30, 2009. It’s a call to action, a declaration of war. I put it there to remind me of the date every single day… It’s also my personal alarm clock. Every morning, as I’m grabbing my gym bag—it goes off, like a hammer to my brain. My alarm doesn’t have a snooze. It never lets up. It cuts me no slack. Some days, I see it and it gets me jacked. Yeah, I’m gonna do this. This is my destiny. Other days I think, 'What the hell am I doing? I feel like crap.' Either way, I can’t escape it. Every time I see that piece of paper, it stares back at me, calls me out, challenges me. So I just keep grinding forward. Listen, this is how things work. If you want to get something done, you gotta set a goal. Then, write it down--put it in a place you can’t hide from. Every day, look at it and ask yourself, am I farther along than I was yesterday? Am I moving forward? Cuz if you’re not, why did you even set a goal to begin with? My goal is up there, circled in permanent red ink. Every day it greets me, my own personal alarm clock. If I listen closely, I swear I can hear it ticking. Tick… Tick… Tick… Ticking down. Can’t you hear it? It’s freaking thunderous. And it’s winding its way down to 0…"

B, LH, LG, RA, RR, ARG!

2009-01-04T16:02:00.000-08:00

This weekend I decided it was above 40 and I am doing my long run of the week outside. I prayed after work that it by chance I would have a long sleeve shirt in my trunk, and sure enough I did. I knew according to my schedule I had to run 8-9 miles, but how far is exactly 8 or so miles from work??? Due to the glory of mapmyrun, I decided to map out my run. But, when I am running, how will I know where to turn.

I decided to take a marker and right down my hand to my wrist... Budnoit, Left on Harrison, Left on Glenmore, Right on Applegate, Right on Rob, and so forth... this was going great until I got to a letter.. RH... what is H? Right on Harrison again? okay, off I go, but then my next letters were LD.. Daytona maybe.. but it is going to be on my Right, not my left.. ARG! How did I get lost...

All in all, I thought just keep running for the time that you think will take you to run that far....

I got back, red flushed skin, little cold, but drenched with sweat, and I thought there has to be a better way to map out a distanced run. I will have to figure this out before this weekend...

Mom laughed when I got home, and said the truth of the day... "Jess, It is prettttty bad that you get lost so easily, you have to write it down on your hand." Very true Mom, very true.

Until next time, I think I will take a cheat sheet.

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS!

2009-01-02T17:18:00.000-08:00

I just got home from a cold, chilly, very dark, but amazing Friday Night Line Run. I left my house around 6:30 and planned out to run my 5-6 miles.. if I go more, okay..If I don't stop.. Even Better.

There are a couple things I loved about running on a Friday night more so than during the day...

1. NO ONE CAN SEE ME! yes this can be a dangerous thing, and next time I promise I will wear reflectors, but when my fav run faster, be stronger songs came on... I COULD REALLY DANCE when I was running! haha, I laughed because when I did get stopped at lights (and there were no cars) some people might have thought I was that girl with a mental problem jammin' away.
2. It was cold, and my lungs felt fresh... I just kept thinking one more step, one more mile.. one more hill... I love the smell of cold and sweat... gross, but reminds me of my dad!
3. I could mismatch again! (back to #1.. no one can see me :) ) I didn't.. but I thought about it during the run.
4. It makes me pick up my feet, because I can't see the pavement, I can't see what is ahead of me. Again Dangerous, un-safe, but I ran the tallest I have in a long time because I was forced to pick up my feet and pull those legs up!
5. On Glenway, when people can see me.. lots of cars, and lots of lights, especially on a Friday night.. I ran like the wind... it is like my main-street stretch before coming home. Always has been this way for the many years of running this route... just feels good to be a little stronger.

All these make running at night fun!

Then to make it even more laughable.. I found this video on Youtube... haha.. it's just good for a laugh.... some parts are true.. except for the fun I had tonight..and instead of his man-boobs, I say I run for no jiggalie body at the pool during the summer months ahead or at best friend's wedding :)

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T13:48:00.000-08:00

This year is going to be huge...

There is so much on the list as far as first this year, and I can't wait to sit down and think about all the INCREDIBLE things ahead... Just thinking about the goals I have gives me goosebumps...

I was down in Louisville this New Years Eve and hung out amongst friends on Fourth Street Live, and surrounding outskirts of Louisville... I kept picturing in my head the race.. ESPECIALLY the BEAUTIFUL FINISH LINE! .. the sounds.. the people.. the smell.. everything from volunteering at this year's IM LOU 08 were coming back to me, and all I kept telling my friends was please be here!! right here in August screaming for me to come across the line, 140.6 miles later. Pretty cool visions I had...

For now, it is all about making my plan and sticking to it... :)

Happy New Years! Be safe..be loved..and be happy :)

In Honor of Grandpa..

2008-12-28T07:48:00.000-08:00

(this picture was from my cousin Jermey's wedding... It is one of my favorite :)

John Matthew Leonard

12-25-26 ... 12-26-08

Friday night was one of the hardest nights yet this year.... I sat with my Grandpa, gasping trying to get more breaths but you could see how hard it was for him.. My Grandma didn't leave his side.. I knew it wasn't going to be long.... I gave him his usual blessing on his forehead, and a kiss on his cheek, and I did manage to see one eye open just a little bit, and told him I loved him one more time..I knew he knew I was there..

I kept trying to just comfort him, and I find myself choked up... helping my aunts change his bed sheets, trying to make him as much at ease as I can.. he was sweaty, clamy, cold then hot, and I knew it wasn't going to be long. Shortly after leaving his room one more time, I asked my dad, and his brothers and sister to enter the room. It was only them in there... Just the family... I faintly heard my dad, uncles, and aunt say we love you dad. And quickly after, roughly around 8:30 he passed away in the love of his own house and family.

This was the first time I have, in all whopping 25 years of my life, I saw my dad cry. I have seen laughter tears, but nothing like these. I knew he had been the one throughout this time that tried to stay strong, tried to be the rock, and I know now where I get this courage. We all entered the room, everyone present in the house, and cried and laughed, and loved in memories of grandpa. I will never forget how soft his hands were at this time, even though many years prior they were horse with roughness. His knees, from many years of the floor business, used to have permanent indentations, were as soft as a new silk sheet as he lay there.. It is somewhat surreal to think how fast he went, but as I sit here, I know he had a plan to ensure we were all there..

Today was full of meetings from deciding on the songs, to deciding on who will do the readings. It can be overwhelming at times, and I am thankful for my family to be there along the way.. I am trying to get my butt out the door to do a refreshing, and meaningful run.

Even though I know true as day, that this blog is in tribute to my Ironman Journey, but today, for my family and for him, my blog is in honor of John Matthew Leonard, my Grandpa, whom I will never forget. I know he will be with me throughout the many years ahead.

Things that make me smile!

2008-12-25T20:28:00.001-08:00

<<<This was last year right when we got back from our Christmas Cruise.. I have to hold on to him, or he might just run away!! We were joking I had gave him my best cross right punch shot, right to his eye.

Today... Christmas... Jesus' Birthday... and the Big Man on our Leonard Campus.. Grandpa's!

There are so many feelings and emotions that surround the holidays without anything unusual happening.... add a couple new friends, and familiar family members in town to stay to the mix and you might just have yourself a party...

Grandma and Grandpa Ryan came down to visit! It is always nice to hear Grandpa's belly bottom deep laugh as we all sat around watching The Christmas Story, for maybe the tenth time for me this year! Not counting how many times I have watched bits and pieces looking for trivia answers :)

After breakfast, I was on a steady mission to put the final touches on my Leonard Grandparents present. For those whom read my bable, Grandpa has severe dementia, and has developed eye cancer (at least diagnosed) within the past year or so.. This week he had complained about abdominal pains in the side of his body, losing his ability to stand, and was admitted to Christ. Thankfully, after a great scan, nothing showed, and was discharged home with the care of a hospice nurse and bed. It is AMAZING to me how quickly he has made a turn for the worse.. as much as I wish no person to leave this earth, I keep wishing for one more day, then one more day, then one more day with him...

Our grandkid present went over well, and as I sit here, I think the most positive thing I can write are the things that make me smile... This picture was taken of all of us around his bed last night...

1. Family. EVERY ONE OF YOU from the youngest to the oldest to Mandy, my uncles Dog that is spending the holidays with us... Especially for my Mom and dad that have given us a beautiful childhood, and will be there for us along the way.

2. My grandpa's humor. Even though he is in and out of realizing we are in the room, somehow deep inside this hurting man, he still has some meek energy to try to make those around us laugh. It is not often, but when it is there, it is noticed.

3. My grandma. She is warm, always a worrier.. no matter if it is how we are going to re-use the bag, or get the rolls out of the dinner, but she wants everyone to go on with things as such as there is nothing to worry about. I hope I can only be the strong, humble, amazing woman she is and has been throughout the many years of their marriage.

4. My cousins. They had helped me make this video what it was from their videos last night, to getting last minute pictures. Remember to tell Grandpa how much you love him. He hears you. I know it.

5. Family games. oh dear, what a Leonard tradition of Christmas. Usually it is cards with pennies and nickels, this year it was Apples to Apples. We scream, we yell, we love each other. It is just that simple.

6. Midnight mass. I miss singing in the choir. I really want to try to get back to lecturing, or something at Church again. I love seeing all the familiar faces, and love smells and warmth of the mass. Even as the clock strikes twelve, I can't think of anywhere else like it at that moment.

7. All the Remember whens.... Just think remember when.... and let your mind run free..

8. A Christmas story and trivia... :) and Ovaltene. You . Thanks for little laughs and slober from your little angels :)

9. Ironman videos that I watch every night, wanting, and most of the time staying up throughout, but some nights, just falling asleep dreaming of that Starter gun firing for the race :)

10. Memories that will stay with me for a lifetime. Not just in pictures, but of my family, friends, and others throughout the holidays...

Now, I must tell myself to get back on track, and try to see ahead.. one day at a time, for as a good friend said.. its not the date that matters for the thanksgiving of the holidays, it is what you do with it all.

Oh it is Cold.. and I don't like the treadmill much..

2008-12-21T18:25:00.000-08:00

This week has just seemed to fly by... literally... I have to say though, I have stayed on track of where I wanted to be.. I even got my tired butt up to the gym yesterday to run my 8 miles on the deadmill.. I did have to make a little post it note with the M-Dot symbol to put by the fan on the treadmill to touch each time I wanted to get off... even though I know it was worth it because I had some amazing first time Duey's pizza that night :) :)

It is times like this that i keep saying August.. August.. or even more so.. MARCH.. MARCH..

This week is going to be harder to stick to training.. with Christmas events and family in town to see! I will try to get up early, and I will try to stay later at the gym.. but oh how I love to be with friends and family more than the spinner at the gym..

Here is to staying warm in sub zero (-15 be exact) windchills and run training on the treadmill..

Mismatching socks and old sweat pants.

2008-12-17T05:13:00.000-08:00

I love the those little things and life, and this morning just makes me smile :) Getting up early is hard, but then knowing today I won't have time for a ride, I just put on my mismatching socks, and old sweatpants, and my boyfriend and I went for a ride... today was a tribute to Christmas songs on my Ipod, (thanks Travis) and just cranking out the hour and half I wanted to.

It was harder this morning... mostly because I knew I had to get it done, but sleep felt sooooo good... more so just my warm bed felt good... and I just took it in steps... 1. roll out of bed... 2. put my shoes on and 3. stard pedaling...

and look... it is done! it is days like this that I am thankful for a home trainer, and that no one can see me work .. in my beautiful mismatching socks, and old sweat pants :)

Snow falling, swimmers splashes falling.. almost the same :)

2008-12-16T16:51:00.000-08:00

I almost contemplating skip out of work today to go play out in the snow... thankfully the snow slowed down, and I had to finish out my last couple of clients for my first half of the day.... I reminisced to Emily watching the snow fall, thinking about last year at this time, it had only been a month after I bought my first one piece bathing suit in a while, and all I thought about then was Chicago, Chicago, Chicago... I loved watching the snow fall when I was in the pool... It was my first peaceful time of training then...

Now a full turn of a year later, I am swimming with those amazing Elder swimmers, and thinking that I would love an easy warm up of 400... ha, but I am stronger... at least at times I feel like I am... and now I keep thinking LOUISVILLE, LOUISVILLE, LOUISVILLE!!!!

To this time and date, I have the following on my mind:
- Marathon - March 21st in Virginia Beach... plan already in my calendar... will I really run 26.2 miles.... 2 times this next year...
- Half IM, in Taylorsville Kentucky... May 9th! Hey, even though I wanted Orlando in May, this is cheaper, same distance, and I can spend more money on new fun toys!!
- Full IM in Louisville, the big dog, the great Bambino, August 30, 2009. Enough said.

OH THE FUN AHEAD!! GET READY FOR LOOKING FINE IN 2009! ha, thanks Dick :)

Supporters that I didn't know of.. until today!

2008-12-15T18:18:00.001-08:00

Today was going to be a long day at work...knowing my first team of clients start at 6 amand my last would be at 7:30p.m., I knew it was going to be a long long day... During days like this.. I love that I stay busy.... and I am grateful for having the access of a gym facility of my work.. and I can do all three avenues of my sport in one day if I wanted to... no matter rain, snow, ice, or heat!

Today was great! I knew I was going to have a break from 7:00 until 10:00... BIG, BEAUTIFUL BREAK! I was determined to get an hour and half on the spinner, and at least 4-5 miles on the treadmill.. or the dead mill... For the spinning bike, it is placed right on the inside of our track, and many... if not ALL of our morning comers are track walkers.... I planed my water bottle spot (on the top of a balance mat.. which was on top of the garbage can right in front of me), a large towel for my down pour of sweat.. and I even brought my shoes, and a Power Bar for my 30 min timed food intake..

I was into my ride no more than 15 minutes when I received my first pack on the back.. I didn't have a clue if they said anything because of my music pumping, and then another member patted my sweaty, gross, strong back.. and another one, and another... Every lap a new person kept encouraging my little spinning bike ride.. and it was just a warm feeling.. aside from the sweat that was a down pour around me.. Within the last 30 minutes over the hour, I had one of my favorite brother duo cheering IRONMAN..IRONMAN. IRONMAN..I almost teared up.. they were so cute turning their towels in the air... Then, one of my other favorite members offered to fill up my water battle... It was just a great feeling to have their support..

As I approached the deadmill, for the first time in a long time, these miles flew.. really! I don't know if it was the constant little cheer, or smile.. but they did..

Many times throughout our journey.. all of us that make this journey for the Ironman, that many people don't know how much time, or dedication it really takes... and it was an amazing feeling to know that I do have supporters I didn't even know of.. until today :)

NO INBETWEENS WHEN IT COMES TO IRONMANS

2008-12-14T18:00:00.001-08:00

"There are only two options regarding commitment; you're either in or you're out. There's no such thing as life in-between."
-- Pat Riley

THANK YOU!

2008-12-14T08:48:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple of pictures of some great friends coming to support GOTR!

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!

Thanks for all of you that came to my first fundraiser, and supported GIRLS ON THE RUN!

I have never have hosted a Purse Party, and I think for my first go at fundraising, I did pretty well (at least I think so) ! It was a great time to see friends meeting friends, and buying pretty purses too !

Looking forward to my marathon training kicking in gear. NOW. ha :)

AMEN AMEN AMEN

2008-12-10T06:01:00.000-08:00

This was my quote of the day..

"Don't be afraid of the space between your dreams and reality. If you can dream it, you can make it so."
- Belva Davis

As my former boss Robbi used to say AMEN! AMEN! AMEN!

If you had... only one chance... Would you Take it?

2008-12-08T19:19:00.000-08:00

This song is the song that I love to listen to. over and over and over :)
Check this guy out, not the only the first guy.. but the guy that beats him.. this is what it is like to give it your all.. Once Chance..

Look, if you had one shot or one opportunity to seize everything you ever wanted in one moment Would you capture it or just let it slip?
Yo, his palms are sweaty, knees weak, arms are heavy
There is vomit on his sweater already
Moms forgettin' he's nervous
But on the surface he looks calm and ready
..You better lose yourself in the music
The moment you own it you better never let it go, oh
You only get one shot, do not miss your chance to blow
Cuz opportunity comes once in a lifetime, yo
You better lose yourself in the music
The moment you own it you better never let it go, oh
You only get one shot, do not miss your chance to blow
CUZ OPPORTUNITY COMES ONCE IN A LIFETIME, YO YOU BETTER!!!!!

Snowing!! Not Inside on the Trainer... 2 hour ride.. Take 2!

2008-12-07T12:20:00.001-08:00

Note... Snow on ground.. means 2 hour trainer ride.. :)

Today Mary Mary (as she is in my phone) picked me up for a 2 hour indoor trainer ride.. endurance ride... we went up to the University of Cincinnati Biomechanics Lab... I had really no fears in this, for I know the first time I did my first two hours on the trainer, then by my theory, if I did it once, I could do it again.

Now I know that this wasn't going to be the same set up as it was in our front room, but when we got up to the Lab, there were 3 bikes already set up, with wires and such coming from them, and then there was room for Mary and My bike. There were to be five us riding next to each other, and side by side we were... Here is what it looks like before we got on :)

I just had a little chuckel noticing how far away Mary's bike is from my bike.... ha! I don't know if this is incase we have a little spill again (I doubt this will ever happen), or I just stunk like poo this morning.. I hope it is not the later...

As we got started, I had my jams beating... I love music... I think I want to find someway to make a radio in the air when I am riding those long 112 miles on Race day... anyway... off we went... :) of course there is a picture of myself, and two new friends to my left.. we were honored with a video clip of the Tour de France..... Dr. Bruce Jayne was the man of knowledge.. he is the guy in highlighter Yellow.. playing with his Power Tap..

The ride was okay today... not really sweat drenched hard, (as I am learning they don't need to be .. all the time :) ) not boring, just okay. I don't know if my legs are actually get used to the time on the trainer of I just felt more comfortable today than earlier this week.

Mary said a very interesting thing today... If she knows someone will be in the room watching her, or just knows she is in there.. she will do the work... I believe this to be true, which is why I am grateful for her picking up me up today... I also keep checking my wrist... I WILL [insert.. not get off this bike] I WILL [insert.. be strong.. love long lean legs of those Tour de France bikers... will mine ever look anything like that?] I WILL [insert.. stay on just 30 more minutes until the 2 hour mark.. keep going].

Cooolio stuff though.. as we were leaving, Dr. Jayne mentioned us coming back and me checking out the Power Tap world and getting my Vo2 max test...Mary would check her's out again.. (and kick mine out of the water).. but since I have never done either, I want to check it out... I love learning this kind of stuff..

all in all it was a great day, ended with a yummy brunch... and done before 3 none the less :) here is a video of what Mary and I like to do on our close of every training ride..

Every Rose has It's Thorn :) . it is starting to be a tradition, and you know how much I love traditions.. if there is any chance for women bikers turn pop culture singers.. i think we might be the first in line :)

until next time :)

GIDDY UP FOLKS, GIDDY UP

2008-12-05T19:35:00.000-08:00

Check out this amazing quote!
"This one step - choosing a goal and staying to it - changes everything."- Scott Reed

Today was a great day... I went to work for a short day, went to dinner with my mom at Rock Bottom, then saw STOMP... it was a great.. beat filled show.. I just kept thinking about cadence during the show... isn't that funny? and how I could just transfer this to the road..

This picture was from the Cincinnati Winter GOTR 5k .

Hey Aunt Wendy :o) and all you San Diego Firefighter Guys and Gals... there I AM! per your request for more pictures :) you can't see from here but my right hand was covered in a myriad of different paint colors from the Face Painting. These other girls were also volunteering at the awesome Entertainment booth!!

This week I can proudly say I have been on my bike trainer four times!! That is not including this past Sunday either... all different times from just a quick hard and fast 30 minutes, to two hours.... Travis (my youngest brother) came in the other day screaming.. GO GO GO!! He laughed at two facts 1) His feet can't reach the pedals.. and 2) He doesn't know how I sit on my tiny seat of my boyfriend.... little does he know!

I am determined on Sunday to make some inspirational papers to place around the room to keep me on track... first one being a countdown!! :)

Tomorrow, I have the GIRLS ON THE RUN Coaches Clinic, not sure what I will be doing the next year, but thought to check it out, being I want to volunteer more, and find out how.

Sunday, 2 hour trainer ride with Mary up at UC! Giddy up folks, giddy up!

TWO HOUR FUN TRAINER INTERVAL RIDE!

2008-11-30T14:54:00.000-08:00

Outside Riding Partners... (@ Mary's Team Trial Race in Cleves)

Inside Riding Partners (@ my lovely Leonard house.. front guest room!)

Today, Mary came over and it was yet another first. Jason had helped me in the past load up my bike, and make sure my indoor trainer (complements of I-want-to-be-like-you-or-just-have-one-of-your-500-bikes-Joe Yorio) and the first 10 minutes felt fine... however, my horrrrible, I will never wear them again shorts had to go, so I jumped off real quick, changed and back on I went... that is one beautiful thing about being inside, in my own home none the less...

I had no idea really how to get comfortable on the bike, but after a little bit, I finally felt the beat in the music, and had the beat take over my legs... Mary's (http://maryasunshine.blogspot.com/ ) dialogue says it best:

""""After about a half hour I started m first PI (Power Interval)...was supposed to be 250 Watts but since my POS PT was not going to give me my wattage, I just decided to CRANK as hard as possible for the one minute. and so I did.

Mary: "Something smells like it's burning..."

Jess: "Dunno, might be your tire."

Mary: "Oh."

Jess's Dad came in and took a pic for Jess's blog. then I started the second PI and the burning smell returned....hmm.

Then I was nearly through the third PI and....well...see photo - [[click on it for a larger picture of our awesome accomplishments today..check out Mary's heart rate.. I really need to get a heart rate monitor]]

i LAUGHED HARDER THAN I HAVE IN A REALLY LONG TIME WHILE PICKING UP SWEATY SELF, MY BIKE, AND TO A LESSER EXTENT...JESS AND THE BOYFRIEND.""""""

I laughed so hard because it was almost a year ago that my goal was to have a ride without any blood... If I was out on the road, by myself, or with the great almighty JD that I was falling off my bike, on land, and bleeding uncontrollably, but today it was just inside, and Mary and I just laughed. It is great to know Mary is not 100% super hero on the bike.... probably 99.9% but that little accident proved to me she can have little falls just like me at times...

I have left my sweat sheet down, and my goal is to get my arse up and moving first thing in the morning (on the days I don't train my clients at 6) or for at least an hour when I come home. Dad did make a pretty sweet get-up for my front tire....

Another thing I learned is how much I love music, if it isn't being played, I am always, as Mary hears, talking to myself out loud. When we rode the IMLOU route this summer, I kept saying, yelling for that matter.. I WILL get up this hill, (during the up hill on the out and back) and today I just kept picturing that hill over and over and over... it is an awesome feeling.

alas, It is a new beginning... I will continue to jump on Mr. Boyfriend, and wish only strong bike legs from here on out... Looking forward to our next T-Party... Trainer Party that is with Mary.

FINS!! ... Dolphin Kicks, and a little yack.

2008-11-29T18:06:00.001-08:00

So Friday was the inevitable... I blocked out my morning so I could get to swim practice on time, and be there for the two hours and was very excited this time. Not that I haven't been in the past, but for some reason, on this particular Friday, I, Jessica Leonard, was excited to swim.

We started with our usual warm up, and YEAH.. we got to use our fins!!!!! However, the 10 x 100 dolphin kicks on our backs, each followed by a 25 under water swim, and 25 free... GOT ME! It was around number 7 or 8, that I was starting to get the shivers, then the really weird chills, then the metal taste, then I could get out of the pool fast enough, then I did, and fins came off, and off I went to the locker room, and blah of a yack... I haven't gotten sick from a workout in my life, but the combo of the two gatorades, and the power gels got me. I knew I didn't eat enough for breakfast, but I really thought I would be okay. Practice ended early for me, and I said enough was enough. I had horrible chills, and headed back to work for the rest of the day.

First night in a long time I was in bed before 9, but it felt good. This morning I had a little 3 mile jog, and by goly it felt as if I was going for 30.

Tomorrow is my first day on the trainer inside... It is supposed to rain followed by snow, or a combo of the two, and Mary is coming over to keep me, and me keep her accountable. I have made a wide range of song play list, that hopefully is to her liking, and it should be fun to stay inside... however, something about 2 hour spin kinda scares me and the land of the Netherlands. haha, my boyfriend better be nice to me during that long journey.

Signing off to study some more GRE words...or just fall asleep.. which ever comes first :)