Whoa! Is this fish cool, or what? If you have some time, click on play video at the bottom left. Also from the Globe and Mail, an Irish airline ponders pay as you go loos. And for those on tenterhooks, yes FWSG was there yesterday!
The weather seems to be having wicked mood swings. It is -19°C (-27°C with windchill) right now (it was down to -21°C earlier). Yesterday it was +7°C and bucketing down rain. Which, on the plus side, meant no ECT. So I'll be bundling up to head downtown and meet Tim for a coffee. The Boarder is firmly ensconced in the sunny window.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
Flipping White Speedo Guy!
"He actually talks?? You got him to talk!! Nobody's been able to get him to talk. He just grunts!"
That's what one of the the lifeguards said to me last Friday. Truth be told, I only spoke to the man because he was hanging off the side looking pained in one of the lanes our club has reserved. He had all the earmarks of a swimmer in trouble.
"Are you alright?" I had asked him.
He said he was fine. He really didn't look fine at all. His eyes were squinted and barely open, he didn't look up at me, he was breathing funny, and he was partially draped over the side of the pool. His bright red face was in stark contrast with his bright white hair.
"You're sure?"
He assured me he was, so I explained to him that the two adjacent lanes were reserved at the time.
"This is how I always swim!!" That would be underwater the width of the pool when the pool was set up for long course metre lane swimming.
Well, I told him I believed him, but that these lanes were reserved from 12:00 - 1:00 Fridays. He steadfastly refused to do anything different than he apparently always does. He assured me he would "look out" for our swimmers. Really I didn't think that was possible, because his "swimming" consisted of hypoxic underwater flipping. Over and over and over and over and over again. But at that point it was clear I wasn't going to make any progress, so I suggested he at least not flip under our swimmers, because some of them are pretty fast. I got a dirty look for my trouble.
"You know, the worst part," said the lifeguard, "is that old white Speedo!!! It's just gross! We're afraid to look at him, but we have to!"
"Oh," I assured her, "I only looked at his face — but I did try to get him not to do the whole flipping show under our swimmers!!"
"The only thing worse," she explained, "is when he lies on the bottom!!"
I wonder if he'll be there today ...
That's what one of the the lifeguards said to me last Friday. Truth be told, I only spoke to the man because he was hanging off the side looking pained in one of the lanes our club has reserved. He had all the earmarks of a swimmer in trouble.
"Are you alright?" I had asked him.
He said he was fine. He really didn't look fine at all. His eyes were squinted and barely open, he didn't look up at me, he was breathing funny, and he was partially draped over the side of the pool. His bright red face was in stark contrast with his bright white hair.
"You're sure?"
He assured me he was, so I explained to him that the two adjacent lanes were reserved at the time.
"This is how I always swim!!" That would be underwater the width of the pool when the pool was set up for long course metre lane swimming.
Well, I told him I believed him, but that these lanes were reserved from 12:00 - 1:00 Fridays. He steadfastly refused to do anything different than he apparently always does. He assured me he would "look out" for our swimmers. Really I didn't think that was possible, because his "swimming" consisted of hypoxic underwater flipping. Over and over and over and over and over again. But at that point it was clear I wasn't going to make any progress, so I suggested he at least not flip under our swimmers, because some of them are pretty fast. I got a dirty look for my trouble.
"You know, the worst part," said the lifeguard, "is that old white Speedo!!! It's just gross! We're afraid to look at him, but we have to!"
"Oh," I assured her, "I only looked at his face — but I did try to get him not to do the whole flipping show under our swimmers!!"
"The only thing worse," she explained, "is when he lies on the bottom!!"
I wonder if he'll be there today ...
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Bobs & Bits!
Last night two of the three movieteers saw Coraline! I know, how long has it been since I mentioned a movie?? The animation is just fabulous, although I mentioned to Lise that I found Neil Gaiman's book significantly creepier, despite the fact that the movie is very true to the original. But we didn't see it in 3D, so there's that.
There has been some very light ECT on the agenda today, and perhaps there will be a bit more over the next few days. We've been very lucky in February — the amount of stuff falling from the sky has been below normal. No complaints here on that score, though!
The Boarder has weighed in on my new shoe adventure. He is strongly of the opinion that all shoes should come wrapped in as much tissue paper as possible, while boots should come in boxes as they are better suited to holding cats. Perhaps "strongly" is understating the case!
There has been some very light ECT on the agenda today, and perhaps there will be a bit more over the next few days. We've been very lucky in February — the amount of stuff falling from the sky has been below normal. No complaints here on that score, though!
The Boarder has weighed in on my new shoe adventure. He is strongly of the opinion that all shoes should come wrapped in as much tissue paper as possible, while boots should come in boxes as they are better suited to holding cats. Perhaps "strongly" is understating the case!
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Swim Bit!
We have an exciting number of team members (119!) set to go to Provincials in three and a half weeks — Coach Duane sent out our registration confirmations for individual events this week. Making up the relay teams is a huge endeavour, and so while I think I can safely say I'll be swimming 5 relays, I'm still anticipating whether they will be women's or mixed, and who I'll have the pleasure of swimming with.
Of course three and a half weeks till a major meet pretty much means that practices are currently constructed to be butt kicking! Literally, when I got home last night I sat down thinking I have been taking my teres muscles for granted in a pretty major (and minor) way. So much so that I am actually considering a nice short recovery swim today. For our lane, after an 800 warm-up, the main set was as follows:
♦ 5 x 100 free on 1:45
♦ 4 x 100 free on 1:40
♦ 3 x 100 free on 1:35
♦ 2 x 100 free on 1:30
♦ 100 free all out
Many thanks to Ed for pulling the train! Then we did a few 50's, and I really was extraordinarily pleased my arms would still come out of the water (I did fly up, free back).
In other news, I almost had a hankering for a fancy bulbous light until I saw the price tag. But if I were rich and famous ...
For those of you anxious to get a glimpse of my new shoes, here's a pair that sports a nice solid, 1¼ inch heel. Complete with stray cat hair for authenticity.
Of course three and a half weeks till a major meet pretty much means that practices are currently constructed to be butt kicking! Literally, when I got home last night I sat down thinking I have been taking my teres muscles for granted in a pretty major (and minor) way. So much so that I am actually considering a nice short recovery swim today. For our lane, after an 800 warm-up, the main set was as follows:
♦ 5 x 100 free on 1:45
♦ 4 x 100 free on 1:40
♦ 3 x 100 free on 1:35
♦ 2 x 100 free on 1:30
♦ 100 free all out
Many thanks to Ed for pulling the train! Then we did a few 50's, and I really was extraordinarily pleased my arms would still come out of the water (I did fly up, free back).
In other news, I almost had a hankering for a fancy bulbous light until I saw the price tag. But if I were rich and famous ...
For those of you anxious to get a glimpse of my new shoes, here's a pair that sports a nice solid, 1¼ inch heel. Complete with stray cat hair for authenticity.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Shoes, Glorious Shoes!
So, yesterday I went to see my old pal Madison at Craig Armstrong Shoes in 240 Sparks. Well, really I went downtown to go to the drug store and the bank, but I thought I'd go see what Beautifeel has on offer for the season ahead. And in sandals, I am really more drawn to my funky animal print style. I'd pretty much made up my mind to order another pair in black online when these fateful words were spoken, "Let me see what there is in the back."
Didn't she come out with boxes and boxes and boxes of older substantially marked down size 36 Beautifeel shoes?? She needed to make several trips!! I spent an hour trying on shoes that fit my feet!! I had her keep the boxes so I could carry my booty home! And here's the kicker — once home I took this label off the bottom of one of the shoes:
For those of you new to Of(f) The Deep End, The Boarder's given name is Onyx.
Didn't she come out with boxes and boxes and boxes of older substantially marked down size 36 Beautifeel shoes?? She needed to make several trips!! I spent an hour trying on shoes that fit my feet!! I had her keep the boxes so I could carry my booty home! And here's the kicker — once home I took this label off the bottom of one of the shoes:
For those of you new to Of(f) The Deep End, The Boarder's given name is Onyx.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Less Bleah ...
I bailed on the pool last night. All day long every time I bent over, my nose ran. I figured flip turns would be downright nasty. And, miraculously, I'm nose breathing this morning, so it was probably a very good plan. I am slightly suspicious I am not yet 100%, but I think I'm good for some errands and a dip. I hold to the belief that there have been orders of magnitude less kleenex used this morning! And of course it wasn't a day completely without exercise, as there was ECT in the morning.
The Boarder reports he has developed a system for dealing with bills. If they are left in a stack on the table, they can be pushed off — ideally aimed such that they land on top of a toy. Then in the great frenzy to rediscover the toy, the bills are left punctured and tattered. Conveniently, the system was discovered with a stack of paid bills and a bank statement, waiting for filing. Perhaps he is trying to encourage me to file? Nah ...
The Boarder reports he has developed a system for dealing with bills. If they are left in a stack on the table, they can be pushed off — ideally aimed such that they land on top of a toy. Then in the great frenzy to rediscover the toy, the bills are left punctured and tattered. Conveniently, the system was discovered with a stack of paid bills and a bank statement, waiting for filing. Perhaps he is trying to encourage me to file? Nah ...
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Sunday Miscellany ...
Best of luck to those running Winterman today! And for a bit of related fluff, here's today's Sutcliffe. The falling flakes are fluffy too, so it wouldn't surprise me if some will be out enjoying the day in their Yak Trax, while others go for broke to BQ. I wonder how many people BQ in Yak Trax?
For me there will be some ECT activities, followed later in the day by a swim. Ideally by later in the day I will be nose breathing! I was horizontal for close to 12 hours overnight, so there is an off chance I might be unwell. But I'm sticking to the allergy story as long as I can! And with luck I'll stay up late enough to watch fancy gowns and jewels on TV tonight. If not, I can depend on the blogosphere to feed me the highights!
Apropos of yesterday's post, I bring you one of the Bottega Veneta bags I covet in my fantasy shopping world. Currently available here, and on markdown. Sadly, not nearly enough markdown for my budget ... Really I should hold out for a shoulder bag, anyway!
For me there will be some ECT activities, followed later in the day by a swim. Ideally by later in the day I will be nose breathing! I was horizontal for close to 12 hours overnight, so there is an off chance I might be unwell. But I'm sticking to the allergy story as long as I can! And with luck I'll stay up late enough to watch fancy gowns and jewels on TV tonight. If not, I can depend on the blogosphere to feed me the highights!
Apropos of yesterday's post, I bring you one of the Bottega Veneta bags I covet in my fantasy shopping world. Currently available here, and on markdown. Sadly, not nearly enough markdown for my budget ... Really I should hold out for a shoulder bag, anyway!
Saturday, February 21, 2009
"Holy Cow Miss!!"
Yes, someone said those words to me in the locker room yesterday. Loudly. Followed immediately by, "Have you ever got muscles!!!" Also loudly. Perfect. Just perfect!
But of more interest is doubtless the partner set we swam this morning — it works particularly well with a long course practice. Yes, we were supposed to have a meet. It was cancelled. A reprieve from the 400 free until, oh, perhaps May? 8 x 50 as 4 x (50 partner coordination, 50 partner competition) last partners touch, first partners go. The idea is to be in perfect synchronization, stroke for stroke the first 50, then race the second. Repeat four times. Julia and I led off our lane. This was particularly interesting as Julia is about a foot taller than I am. So while I had to try to lengthen my stroke as much as possible keeping the power in it, Julia had to move her arms at a faster pace than she is used to. A useful exercise for us both!
So now I need to figure out what to swim March 7th. I was originally thinking 50 fly & 100 breaststroke to cover off those events before Provincials, but we are really supposed to time for a half a meet a year. So it may be that I should swim the 50 fly and 50 breast (the event between them is 100 back, so that might be 10 - 20 minutes between fifties) and then time? Entries are due Wednesday, so I'd better get my act together and decide ...
But of more interest is doubtless the partner set we swam this morning — it works particularly well with a long course practice. Yes, we were supposed to have a meet. It was cancelled. A reprieve from the 400 free until, oh, perhaps May? 8 x 50 as 4 x (50 partner coordination, 50 partner competition) last partners touch, first partners go. The idea is to be in perfect synchronization, stroke for stroke the first 50, then race the second. Repeat four times. Julia and I led off our lane. This was particularly interesting as Julia is about a foot taller than I am. So while I had to try to lengthen my stroke as much as possible keeping the power in it, Julia had to move her arms at a faster pace than she is used to. A useful exercise for us both!
So now I need to figure out what to swim March 7th. I was originally thinking 50 fly & 100 breaststroke to cover off those events before Provincials, but we are really supposed to time for a half a meet a year. So it may be that I should swim the 50 fly and 50 breast (the event between them is 100 back, so that might be 10 - 20 minutes between fifties) and then time? Entries are due Wednesday, so I'd better get my act together and decide ...
Friday, February 20, 2009
Bleah ...
There is an off chance, no matter how unlikely, I just might have a cold. Because those in the loop know I don't get sick. ;-) Other people get sick. I get allergic. That would be my story, and I'll be sticking to it! Luckily I don't have to stick to it through the 400 free tomorrow morning, because our meet has been cancelled. So ideally I can stay up late enough to watch Dollhouse and fantasy shop. Because while in my dreams it has always been a Birkin or something Bottega Veneta, Francesco Biasia has truly captured my imagination with this one (also available here).
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Bobs or Bits!
In the file of unusual news stories, here's a curious highway closure bit for you.
The ECT opportunity thus far is not deep which is a good thing, as we have President Obama in town today — for those in the downtown core that will bring more than enough excitement and traffic issues! However, we have a very fine example of H2O masquerading as Pb!
The Boarder felt there was altogether too much rushing around yesterday — to the bank, with Heidi from Good Companions, to the grocery store (not on a Sunday he points out!!). This clearly does not lead to enough quality time with the cat! And no, I didn't call Dr. Daren just yet, but it's on the list of things to do. I did buy a seat sale ticket to Nationals in Toronto with Air Canada (of course the $59 list price was $95 when all the taxes and surcharges were accounted for — but still a great deal).
The ECT opportunity thus far is not deep which is a good thing, as we have President Obama in town today — for those in the downtown core that will bring more than enough excitement and traffic issues! However, we have a very fine example of H2O masquerading as Pb!
The Boarder felt there was altogether too much rushing around yesterday — to the bank, with Heidi from Good Companions, to the grocery store (not on a Sunday he points out!!). This clearly does not lead to enough quality time with the cat! And no, I didn't call Dr. Daren just yet, but it's on the list of things to do. I did buy a seat sale ticket to Nationals in Toronto with Air Canada (of course the $59 list price was $95 when all the taxes and surcharges were accounted for — but still a great deal).
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Boarder in the Boot Box!
The Boarder fits very nicely in the box belonging to the boots pictured here. Although now the box clearly belongs to The Boarder. If you like you can click for a bigger Boarder. His cough has improved enough to now sound like a wheeze, so I'll be putting a call in to Dr. Daren. It doesn't stop him growling at dogs out for a walk or doing speedwork, though.
It is a stunningly beautiful winter day here in the National Capital, although there rumours that it may not be so lovely for President Obama's visit on Thursday. 10-15 centimetres of ECT yielding precipitation is called for tomorrow, with stuff falling from the sky an anticipated three days in a row. Booyah!
In the pool I've logged almost 178 kilometres since September, compared to a smidge over 140 from the beginning of September to the end of February last year. So it stands to reason I should be in better shape. Which would be good, because I looked at the event order for Nationals (scroll down to page 3) in a serious way yesterday, and Sunday is downright terrifying — there's the 100 free immediately followed by the 100 breast, and then the possibility of 6 relays with the 4 x 100 medley relay as the last event of the day! May I just say, "YIKES!!" That's certainly good motivation to keep training harder!
Monday, February 16, 2009
The Case Of The Disappearing Posts!
When I go to my blog without signing in there is a header and sidebar entries, but not a post to be found! Signed in, however, it's all here. I may have to do something about that ... of course what exactly that might be, I'm not too sure. At this point hoping it resolves with this post seems like a plan! *
I knew when I headed to lane swim yesterday it would probably not be perfect, as I went over earlier than usual to accommodate dinner with Misses Emma & Margaret and family. Emma and Elizabeth made spinach pie, Margaret and Bob made chocolate chip cookies. As far as I can tell, Tipper supervised. It was a very nice evening. My favorite phrase for a lane swim like that is "STUPID busy!" Really I was lucky to get in the 1600 I did! Bodies all over the place (and often swimming down the centre line). There's a possibility it could be like that this evening, too, because the afternoon swim is switched from lane swim to leisure swim for Family Day. Short sprintiness will likely be in order.
And just as Swimming for ME noted yesterday that the ECT season has an end in sight, the forecast calls for some of it midweek!
* And it seems to have done just that!
I knew when I headed to lane swim yesterday it would probably not be perfect, as I went over earlier than usual to accommodate dinner with Misses Emma & Margaret and family. Emma and Elizabeth made spinach pie, Margaret and Bob made chocolate chip cookies. As far as I can tell, Tipper supervised. It was a very nice evening. My favorite phrase for a lane swim like that is "STUPID busy!" Really I was lucky to get in the 1600 I did! Bodies all over the place (and often swimming down the centre line). There's a possibility it could be like that this evening, too, because the afternoon swim is switched from lane swim to leisure swim for Family Day. Short sprintiness will likely be in order.
And just as Swimming for ME noted yesterday that the ECT season has an end in sight, the forecast calls for some of it midweek!
* And it seems to have done just that!
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Sunday Snippets
There is a lull in today's FMP* long enough for me to type a little. It may end when I have to get up to deal with Laundry Mountain. But while it is ongoing, here is a swim bit with a great headline!
The Boarder reports his cough is better but not banished, so it appears another phone call to Daren will be in order next week. I note that it may be somewhat difficult to wean Onyx off his current meds, as they have been cleverly hidden in small quantities of delectable calorie laden cat food he is served midday in a clean dish (to make sure it all goes down!). Believe you me, this guy knows what time it is! Although I'm sure he would enjoy the food just as much without the meds, we are aiming to keep his weight stable. At least I am. I don't think that he is the slightest bit concerned.
On the swimming front I think Technosport has about 111 people thus far committed to swim Provincials — and hopefully a few more will be able to join us! I'm already thinking about who to share a locker with, and how early I'd have to arrive to get one!
Oh, and final results are up for our January sprint meet — my 100 fly was 1:31.24, the 100 free was 1:16.64. Speaking of meets, we have two tune-up opportunities left before Provincials, this Saturday and March 7th. Every subsequent meet is a big one: Ontario Champs, Quebec Champs & Nationals. I should swim a breaststroke race before Provincials ... maybe I'll swim the 50 fly and the 100 breast on the 7th. I'd rather swim the 50 fly, 50 breast and 50 free, but the event order isn't too conducive to that! Really, I'm not at all jonesing to swim the 100 breast, but it should be done. In the 4 x 100 medley relays it is quite likely I'll be assigned fly or breast, and it would be better if my first go at it this season didn't include 3 other people depending on me! Although at least I've done a 50 dive start in practice ...
*Fairly Maniacal Play
The Boarder reports his cough is better but not banished, so it appears another phone call to Daren will be in order next week. I note that it may be somewhat difficult to wean Onyx off his current meds, as they have been cleverly hidden in small quantities of delectable calorie laden cat food he is served midday in a clean dish (to make sure it all goes down!). Believe you me, this guy knows what time it is! Although I'm sure he would enjoy the food just as much without the meds, we are aiming to keep his weight stable. At least I am. I don't think that he is the slightest bit concerned.
On the swimming front I think Technosport has about 111 people thus far committed to swim Provincials — and hopefully a few more will be able to join us! I'm already thinking about who to share a locker with, and how early I'd have to arrive to get one!
Oh, and final results are up for our January sprint meet — my 100 fly was 1:31.24, the 100 free was 1:16.64. Speaking of meets, we have two tune-up opportunities left before Provincials, this Saturday and March 7th. Every subsequent meet is a big one: Ontario Champs, Quebec Champs & Nationals. I should swim a breaststroke race before Provincials ... maybe I'll swim the 50 fly and the 100 breast on the 7th. I'd rather swim the 50 fly, 50 breast and 50 free, but the event order isn't too conducive to that! Really, I'm not at all jonesing to swim the 100 breast, but it should be done. In the 4 x 100 medley relays it is quite likely I'll be assigned fly or breast, and it would be better if my first go at it this season didn't include 3 other people depending on me! Although at least I've done a 50 dive start in practice ...
*Fairly Maniacal Play
Saturday, February 14, 2009
A Funny Thing Happened ...
... while I was on my way to get pizza fixings last night!
I had already decided that a swim wasn't really in my best interest. I coached the noon practice, stopped at the drug store on the way home, and then completely ran out of gas. I headed out to buy pizza fixings, and when passing Pubwells someone sitting in the window was pointing at me! I squinted and looked closer. I didn't push my nose up against the glass, but I don't think it was too far away. To my great surprise it was high school chum David James & his brother Andrew. So in I went in for cup of hot tea with lemon — and some delightful catching up! So really, it was a wonderful bit of happenstance I decided not to head to the pool. I did go to practice this morning, though. And the temptation to go back to bed is STRONG!
For those of you celebrating today, Happy EHTMNBN!! (And if you're Joel, Happy Birthday!) Here's a LOLcat for the occasion.
more animals
I had already decided that a swim wasn't really in my best interest. I coached the noon practice, stopped at the drug store on the way home, and then completely ran out of gas. I headed out to buy pizza fixings, and when passing Pubwells someone sitting in the window was pointing at me! I squinted and looked closer. I didn't push my nose up against the glass, but I don't think it was too far away. To my great surprise it was high school chum David James & his brother Andrew. So in I went in for cup of hot tea with lemon — and some delightful catching up! So really, it was a wonderful bit of happenstance I decided not to head to the pool. I did go to practice this morning, though. And the temptation to go back to bed is STRONG!
For those of you celebrating today, Happy EHTMNBN!! (And if you're Joel, Happy Birthday!) Here's a LOLcat for the occasion.
more animals
Friday, February 13, 2009
Swim Bit!
Alright, it's cold again! Last night walking back from the bus (!!) on my way home from practice, the wind was bitter and black ice was forming all over the place. This morning we are back to the minus double digits, with wind chill -21°C. Coach Duane is away visiting his mother right now, so I took last night's practice (but I swam it earlier in the afternoon) and will cover today's noon practice as well.
Speaking of swimming, Swimming for ME asked what I'd be entering at Nationals in May — there's still one event undecided. I'll swim 50 free, 100 free, and some mystery distance event, 50 fly, 100 fly, 50 breast, 100 breast and a whole bunch of relays. At Nationals you can swim the womens or mens relay and a mixed relay (2 women and 2 men), unlike Provincials where you can swim one not two of the three.
Over at The 17th Man, Joel will be celebrating a birthday tomorrow. He is also to be congratulated on landing in the USMS Top Ten in no less than 5 events! Joel sent me a lovely email after my last meet congratulating me on my hundred fly, noting it is an event I don't normally do, and I had a decent swim. I told him at the time I thought he had provided some opportune blog fodder.
All athletes at one time or another have to manage injury. It's a fundamental part of sport. It's a little different for me, though, as I am never not managing a low back injury. So it is a very delicate balance of pushing, but not pushing so hard that I'm in trouble. My orthopaedist tells me that for those of us who like to train, stopping when you should is the hardest part — and I can vouch for that! Low back injuries + butterfly = dangerous combination. Also, perhaps counterintuitively, touch turns are not so good. Dolphin kicking off the wall? Also not such a great choice. So the duration and perceived difficulty of my workouts are managed accordingly.
Yet something magical happens when I put on a Fastskin. It's like a corset or compression short — it supports my lower back and groin so that I feel much more like a real girl!! I can step up onto the blocks like everyone else. I can do things I can't in a training suit. So my training times might look like I'm dogging in comparison with what I can do in a meet — I can assure you, I'm not! I don't swim much more than a 50 fly in practice because it's not wise. (I don't swim much more than a 50 breast, either!) But do understand, the Fastskin illusion ends when I take the suit off. I feel what I've done, just as if I'd had a training suit on when I did it.
I wonder what will happen when I put a Fastskin on for a gasp! 400 free next Saturday morning? That will the only event I'll swim at the meet — I'll time for the rest of it. Unless Duane wants me to swim a relay at the end. I promised to leave my suit on under my whites!
Speaking of swimming, Swimming for ME asked what I'd be entering at Nationals in May — there's still one event undecided. I'll swim 50 free, 100 free, and some mystery distance event, 50 fly, 100 fly, 50 breast, 100 breast and a whole bunch of relays. At Nationals you can swim the womens or mens relay and a mixed relay (2 women and 2 men), unlike Provincials where you can swim one not two of the three.
Over at The 17th Man, Joel will be celebrating a birthday tomorrow. He is also to be congratulated on landing in the USMS Top Ten in no less than 5 events! Joel sent me a lovely email after my last meet congratulating me on my hundred fly, noting it is an event I don't normally do, and I had a decent swim. I told him at the time I thought he had provided some opportune blog fodder.
All athletes at one time or another have to manage injury. It's a fundamental part of sport. It's a little different for me, though, as I am never not managing a low back injury. So it is a very delicate balance of pushing, but not pushing so hard that I'm in trouble. My orthopaedist tells me that for those of us who like to train, stopping when you should is the hardest part — and I can vouch for that! Low back injuries + butterfly = dangerous combination. Also, perhaps counterintuitively, touch turns are not so good. Dolphin kicking off the wall? Also not such a great choice. So the duration and perceived difficulty of my workouts are managed accordingly.
Yet something magical happens when I put on a Fastskin. It's like a corset or compression short — it supports my lower back and groin so that I feel much more like a real girl!! I can step up onto the blocks like everyone else. I can do things I can't in a training suit. So my training times might look like I'm dogging in comparison with what I can do in a meet — I can assure you, I'm not! I don't swim much more than a 50 fly in practice because it's not wise. (I don't swim much more than a 50 breast, either!) But do understand, the Fastskin illusion ends when I take the suit off. I feel what I've done, just as if I'd had a training suit on when I did it.
I wonder what will happen when I put a Fastskin on for a gasp! 400 free next Saturday morning? That will the only event I'll swim at the meet — I'll time for the rest of it. Unless Duane wants me to swim a relay at the end. I promised to leave my suit on under my whites!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Midweek Miscellany ...
The freezing rain held off yesterday, which was good ... but we are now having a February thaw! I can't imagine it is doing the Winterlude ice sculptures any good at all. The canal is currently closed to skaters until the cold weather returns (which will be later this week). This evening there is the possibility of a thunderstorm (!) as we expect to nudge the mercury close to 50°F (9°C) and we may well get over a third of an inch of rain!
In other news, I booked a hotel room for Nationals in May — so there won't be any last minute rush or stress on that count! Any minute now I'll start looking into flights! The pool is very close to the airport, or I would most definitely take the train. Speaking of pools, my schedule continues to be unusual this week, so I'm going to head over to Plant now!
In other news, I booked a hotel room for Nationals in May — so there won't be any last minute rush or stress on that count! Any minute now I'll start looking into flights! The pool is very close to the airport, or I would most definitely take the train. Speaking of pools, my schedule continues to be unusual this week, so I'm going to head over to Plant now!
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Tuesday Tidbits ...
The Boarder was unceremoniously awakened from his afternoon nap yesterday, stuffed into the carrier and along with his entourage of bipeds (Lise, Dad, and myself) he journeyed out to see Dr. Daren (who was testing a fancy new electronic stethoscope that is particularly acute). His 6.67 kilo weight is very stable (.01 kilo less than in October). His heart is murmur free. His lungs sound clear. But his throat sounds raspy. He doesn't have anything bacterial or viral. He might be allergic. So, we are trying an NSAID (Metacam) for two weeks, to see if we break the cycle of coughing. If the Metacam doesn't sort things, we will give a steroid a shot. Well, more likely a pill. Or an inhaler. It should be noted that Daren was not too worried, as The Boarder presents as very healthy, happy, well cared for house cat — a far cry from the seriously underweight feral animal that he first met. "Time and patience," says Daren, "go a very long way, but are not often given."
In other news, a freezing rain storm is in the offing for today, so yet another swim may be nixed. We will soon see if it materializes as forecast ...
In other news, a freezing rain storm is in the offing for today, so yet another swim may be nixed. We will soon see if it materializes as forecast ...
Sunday, February 08, 2009
Saturday, February 07, 2009
Swim Bit!
This weekend there is a collegiate competition at Ottawa U, and that gave Duane a unique opportunity to run an hour long meet simulation practice for us. We piled our whole gang into the deep end (usually Saturday mornings are an hour and a half long course) and had a busy, body filled warm-up consisting of swim, build, hard 25's kick and a bit of easy swimming.
Duane took the opportunity to talk to us about the general warm-up conditions at big meets, and how to manage them to our best advantage. Then we profited from of all the lane lines and touchpads being in to do a 50 dive start in heats, the person in the subsequent heat was responsible for timing the person in front of them. It was a 50 free, but as legally (except in a medley event) that would be any stroke, I chose fly and was pleased with a :37. Then we had some fun practicing relays, with attention to finishes and starts. Six weeks till Provincials! It's going to be some FUN!
Worthy of note this year, the No False Start Rule is in effect nationwide. You go early, you are disqualified. Period. And no wearing watches in a swim meet, it is also cause for disqualification. The wording of the rule is "No watches may be worn during a competition". So those who rely on their watches in practice would be well advised to take them off and use the pace clock instead. Train like you race! And at the meet, take your watch off before warm-up.
Complete rules for Canadian Masters competition ratified in December 2008 (and there have been changes!) are available here.
Duane took the opportunity to talk to us about the general warm-up conditions at big meets, and how to manage them to our best advantage. Then we profited from of all the lane lines and touchpads being in to do a 50 dive start in heats, the person in the subsequent heat was responsible for timing the person in front of them. It was a 50 free, but as legally (except in a medley event) that would be any stroke, I chose fly and was pleased with a :37. Then we had some fun practicing relays, with attention to finishes and starts. Six weeks till Provincials! It's going to be some FUN!
Worthy of note this year, the No False Start Rule is in effect nationwide. You go early, you are disqualified. Period. And no wearing watches in a swim meet, it is also cause for disqualification. The wording of the rule is "No watches may be worn during a competition". So those who rely on their watches in practice would be well advised to take them off and use the pace clock instead. Train like you race! And at the meet, take your watch off before warm-up.
Complete rules for Canadian Masters competition ratified in December 2008 (and there have been changes!) are available here.
Friday, February 06, 2009
Pizza Night!
It is a beautiful balmy day here, the temperatures have soared to near freezing, and the bright February sun was warm on the face this afternoon. This morning The Boarder was extraordinarily pleased to have had the opportunity to show a courier his prowess obeying the "stay" command, and was duly rewarded by Fun With Cardboard. But he has a cough, so we're going to lug him out to see Dr. Daren on Monday. He is blissfully unaware of that at the moment, though. I was thinking of trying on the boots that came in the boxes and stomping around the house loudly proclaiming "I am Buster Brown!", but it's pizza night, and not only is pizza a bigger priority, but I wouldn't want to get the boots dirty! Plus The Poor Boarder has had some upsets of late, and I have no idea what he'd make of that ...
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
Wednesday Miscellany ...
Yesterday the sun was brilliant, and The Boarder enjoyed it immensely. It is a brisk morning here in the national capital (-30°C with the wind chill), so once again Dad and I are deeply indebted to Lise for her help getting us to his appointments today.
I had a chat with Dr. Susan last afternoon, and Coach Duane fetched me in the evening so I could get to practice. It was not my best practice ever, but getting through those is much of the long-term battle!
In other news, apparently some buses will be on the road Saturday, so perhaps life truly will return to normal in the coming days ...
I had a chat with Dr. Susan last afternoon, and Coach Duane fetched me in the evening so I could get to practice. It was not my best practice ever, but getting through those is much of the long-term battle!
In other news, apparently some buses will be on the road Saturday, so perhaps life truly will return to normal in the coming days ...
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
Tuesday Tidbits!
After the balminess of a near freezing day yesterday, we're headed straight back to the deep freeze. Cold today, but really cold tomorrow. Of course this is good news for cats as cold = superior sunspots!! I finally ordered these boots, not so much for this year but for next. Naturally, that's not to say I won't wear them sooner! Sadly my lifted winter boots are not likely to survive daily wear next season. So I'll have to see about getting Dr. C. to build a lift into the sole of the right one. Provided they fit. But I imagine they will, as their cousins do. And finding a 5½ these days is a bit more of challenge than it used to be.
I also decided yesterday to invest in another full leg Speedo Fastskin, this one with open back (the one I own is a zipper back). My teammate has a remaindered Canadian team suit left in my size, and at $125 for a $300 suit it is pretty hard to go wrong! Do you think I will end up with more suits than purses? There's some food for thought! You'll note that my shopping is still taking place from my easy chair. No buses just yet.
Oh, and I took temporary leave of my senses and suggested to Coach Duane I would swim the 400 free on the 21st. All those of you who knew me in my youth can now pick themselves up off the floor after splitting a gut! Maybe a good time to wear one of those full leg suits ...
In other news, Laundry Mountain is now Laundry Hill. Sigh. Ah, well, I'll keep at it!
I also decided yesterday to invest in another full leg Speedo Fastskin, this one with open back (the one I own is a zipper back). My teammate has a remaindered Canadian team suit left in my size, and at $125 for a $300 suit it is pretty hard to go wrong! Do you think I will end up with more suits than purses? There's some food for thought! You'll note that my shopping is still taking place from my easy chair. No buses just yet.
Oh, and I took temporary leave of my senses and suggested to Coach Duane I would swim the 400 free on the 21st. All those of you who knew me in my youth can now pick themselves up off the floor after splitting a gut! Maybe a good time to wear one of those full leg suits ...
In other news, Laundry Mountain is now Laundry Hill. Sigh. Ah, well, I'll keep at it!
Monday, February 02, 2009
Big Swim!
A big positive I can take from this weekend was that I not only finished that 100 fly, I could still both walk and swim yesterday. And do groceries. And a little baking. And some laundry. Now, I wasn't much good past 7:00 at night, but that's another kettle of fish entirely! Sadly, the rest of Laundry Mountain awaits me today.
I know I could swim because my teammate Vincent organized a Big Swim event for Arthritis. I got wet and did a one hour swim. 3,400 metres. So I've got that going for me ...
On the down side, you know that first speed suit Margaret gave me after it was old and too loose for her? The one I swam open water in all summer? Yeah, well, it's ready to be consigned to the rubbish. I owe it, and Margaret, a great debt of gratitude, though. I may say a few kind words when I actually put it out to the curb.
I know I could swim because my teammate Vincent organized a Big Swim event for Arthritis. I got wet and did a one hour swim. 3,400 metres. So I've got that going for me ...
On the down side, you know that first speed suit Margaret gave me after it was old and too loose for her? The one I swam open water in all summer? Yeah, well, it's ready to be consigned to the rubbish. I owe it, and Margaret, a great debt of gratitude, though. I may say a few kind words when I actually put it out to the curb.
Sunday, February 01, 2009
A New Month ...
The Boarder and I have scheduling issues right now. There is way too much happening, meaning one of us is getting more sleep than required, the other less. And we are both a bit discombobulated. For us the latter bits of this month will definitely be about finding balance!
However, I managed to squash in just over 28,000 metres this month, and a good deal of ECT! By Thursday we had racked up 183 centimetres of snow (for those south of the 49th that would be 72 inches). On an "average" year here in Nottalot we get 235 centimetres, so we're well on our way! Our all time record is 435.3 cm in 1970-71 — we were a few centimetres shy of that last season at 432.7. This morning there is a light dusting that will require a titch of cross-training. Soon it will be time for another photo of Mount Crumpet! Friday a couple of inches came down. But clearly this is all good for my 100 free ...
Mr. Sutcliffe has a nice case study in The Citizen today about a runner who learned running less is sometimes the key to running better.
Happy February everyone!
However, I managed to squash in just over 28,000 metres this month, and a good deal of ECT! By Thursday we had racked up 183 centimetres of snow (for those south of the 49th that would be 72 inches). On an "average" year here in Nottalot we get 235 centimetres, so we're well on our way! Our all time record is 435.3 cm in 1970-71 — we were a few centimetres shy of that last season at 432.7. This morning there is a light dusting that will require a titch of cross-training. Soon it will be time for another photo of Mount Crumpet! Friday a couple of inches came down. But clearly this is all good for my 100 free ...
Mr. Sutcliffe has a nice case study in The Citizen today about a runner who learned running less is sometimes the key to running better.
Happy February everyone!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
