Apparently sometimes I have difficulty counting! Or adding. Or hitting the save button. Or some combination of the above. On the up side, I do a back-up of my swimming log at MSC Canada's million metre challenge. It said I was over 50,000 (by 700 metres) this month, and a little shy of 402,000 since September 1. So I retallied the month's workouts. I guess I missed one. Because I am, indeed, at 50,700. So, yay for me!
The furor over technical suits is still at a feverish pitch. The current FINA statement on suits can be found here.
It is supposed to be sunny tomorrow, so that would make a nice change for our morning pond swim! In fact, it is sunny now, and in honour of the first birthday R is celebrating in Canada, I am wearing a skirt. And before I go out the door, I'll put on my Prada shoes! They are my one and only pair, scooped up after multiple markdowns several years ago, and it will be their first outing this summer! Because really, it hasn't been much of a summer.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Thursday Tidbits ...
So the answer to the question I posed yesterday is apparently yes. It's the been the rainiest month EVER on record. 38mm in yesterday's thundery deluge put us over the top. You'll forgive me if I don't cheer, won't you?
On the up side, the deluge was over before we ventured out to see Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. It rained again while we were inside. And the movie was most enjoyable.
KD mentioned to me that she has been coveting my current bag. Mine is in a rich brown, though. I am still coveting this one! Really, it was a hard decision between the two bags when I chose the hobo. And I understand that they would make me a hobo in the blue leather if I asked. But it's not in my immediate future, that's for sure!
On the up side, the deluge was over before we ventured out to see Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. It rained again while we were inside. And the movie was most enjoyable.
KD mentioned to me that she has been coveting my current bag. Mine is in a rich brown, though. I am still coveting this one! Really, it was a hard decision between the two bags when I chose the hobo. And I understand that they would make me a hobo in the blue leather if I asked. But it's not in my immediate future, that's for sure!
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Wednesday Miscellany ...
July rainfall record. Check! Will it be the rainiest month ever? Stay tuned ... But I sure hope not.
Last night I swam a bit, was coach on deck for a bit. That suited me well, as it was day 6 in a row in the water. Usually I squish a rest day in there somewhere.
In my collection of competition suits, I have two (count 'em two) racerback kneesuits that at this point in time would meet FINA standards next year. But as they are now saying the rule change may be delayed until May, perhaps my full leg suits will be legal till Nationals? Again, stay tuned ...
Maybe a dose of Harry Potter is required to break out of the July doldrums ...
Last night I swam a bit, was coach on deck for a bit. That suited me well, as it was day 6 in a row in the water. Usually I squish a rest day in there somewhere.
In my collection of competition suits, I have two (count 'em two) racerback kneesuits that at this point in time would meet FINA standards next year. But as they are now saying the rule change may be delayed until May, perhaps my full leg suits will be legal till Nationals? Again, stay tuned ...
Maybe a dose of Harry Potter is required to break out of the July doldrums ...
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
4,300 To Go ...
Hopefully by Thursday I'll have hit 400,000 metres since September 1st. If I counted weeks Thursday to Wednesday I'd need just over 2,000 to get me past my weekly high total (since I've been back in the pool). Of course I don't. I count Sunday to Saturday. But a little less than 2,500 this month will get me over my highest monthly total. So given the situation with my back, it's been a good month of training.
And in somewhat tragic news, the hot tub at Plant is out of commission while they install an overhead fan system. Okay, so maybe not tragic. But it was disheartening to see it covered by scaffolding last night!
In other breaking news, I actually had to water a potted tomato plant outside today!
And in somewhat tragic news, the hot tub at Plant is out of commission while they install an overhead fan system. Okay, so maybe not tragic. But it was disheartening to see it covered by scaffolding last night!
In other breaking news, I actually had to water a potted tomato plant outside today!
Monday, July 27, 2009
Morning Excitement!
In the years when Houdini was a resident here, I prepared some of her food using a small food processor (which conveniently was a perfect size for a single person to use regularly too). I had an extra one on hand, just in case. Because she (and I) depended on it. This morning I thought of her very fondly, as while in the midst of making hummus (and not cheating with tinned chick peas) horrifying noises came from the equipment! The chopper blade mechanism had split in two inside the machine! Well, actually, first I thought, "Thank God the plastic cover held!" So out came the back-up model for the next batch, and the first exciting attempt went out to the trash in its now useless appliance! And still, I'll have hummus for lunch.
The Boarder didn't like the noise, but was otherwise undisturbed by the incident. He's really too busy being slightly annoyed I am cat sitting. Really, he doesn't share that well. But he's kinda cute!
The Boarder didn't like the noise, but was otherwise undisturbed by the incident. He's really too busy being slightly annoyed I am cat sitting. Really, he doesn't share that well. But he's kinda cute!
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Another Cloudy Day ...
It is the summer of our discontent. It said so in the paper. The Boarder would have to agree. It is bordering on boring. The local wildlife just isn't as active as he would like! However, I can report on his behalf the time he has spent sans collar has resulted in satisfactory refuzzing.
On the way home from the 3K yesterday, we had the heat on in the car. Isn't it just wrong to need the heater in late July? I was fine in the water, but after getting out I ended up with blue fingernails and lips! So the heat on my feet was more than welcome.
This morning I'm busy athlete tracking and virtual cowbell ringing! One thing I love about the Iron Man at Lake Placid is that as a two loop swim course with a run to the beach, there's a swim split! There are also folks doing shorter tris today — notably Chisago and the New York Tri. Best of racing to all!
On the way home from the 3K yesterday, we had the heat on in the car. Isn't it just wrong to need the heater in late July? I was fine in the water, but after getting out I ended up with blue fingernails and lips! So the heat on my feet was more than welcome.
This morning I'm busy athlete tracking and virtual cowbell ringing! One thing I love about the Iron Man at Lake Placid is that as a two loop swim course with a run to the beach, there's a swim split! There are also folks doing shorter tris today — notably Chisago and the New York Tri. Best of racing to all!
Saturday, July 25, 2009
3K Swim Report
Open water. It's a different ball game than pool swimming. The conditions affect speed. You can have a decent swim on the same course in drastically different weather, and the results are substantially different.
Our 3K swim is 4 loops around the island. Under normal conditions on the second loop I wouldn't take the wrong line off the island. Well, on any loop really. But, we had the added bonus this morning of FOG! The fog wasn't as dense as last year — you could make out the island from the beach, but not the other way around. Now, I've never had anyone come and fetch me before, but I was sure glad Betsy did. Curiously, it is the same wrong line I took in the foggy 2K last year. However, my open water swim policy is to go at a pace I could swim forever, so I turned around and tried again.
As the swim went on, the chop picked up, which made correcting a bit more challenging. And of course, we desperately needed more challenge! The water temperature was nice, though. So we had that going for us. In whole I think I had a decent swim. Not a stellar swim, but a wholly acceptable result — though it was almost 4:30 slower than last year. I felt comfortable with my pace, and could have continued swimming for a long time still, so we'll take that and run with it. Even if it was 52:17, a pace of 1:44/100 metres.
P.S. I think I may have been 9th out of the water. Top 10 were to get a tote bag. I got one, as did the swimmer behind me. We had a smaller field of 33 swimmers today, as lots of teammates are readying themselves for Ironman Lake Placid tomorrow. Best of luck all!
Our 3K swim is 4 loops around the island. Under normal conditions on the second loop I wouldn't take the wrong line off the island. Well, on any loop really. But, we had the added bonus this morning of FOG! The fog wasn't as dense as last year — you could make out the island from the beach, but not the other way around. Now, I've never had anyone come and fetch me before, but I was sure glad Betsy did. Curiously, it is the same wrong line I took in the foggy 2K last year. However, my open water swim policy is to go at a pace I could swim forever, so I turned around and tried again.
As the swim went on, the chop picked up, which made correcting a bit more challenging. And of course, we desperately needed more challenge! The water temperature was nice, though. So we had that going for us. In whole I think I had a decent swim. Not a stellar swim, but a wholly acceptable result — though it was almost 4:30 slower than last year. I felt comfortable with my pace, and could have continued swimming for a long time still, so we'll take that and run with it. Even if it was 52:17, a pace of 1:44/100 metres.
P.S. I think I may have been 9th out of the water. Top 10 were to get a tote bag. I got one, as did the swimmer behind me. We had a smaller field of 33 swimmers today, as lots of teammates are readying themselves for Ironman Lake Placid tomorrow. Best of luck all!
Friday, July 24, 2009
Tagged!
After two days swim-free, I got 3,150 at LSD pace in yesterday. So I've got that going for me!
Fe-Lady tagged me on Facebook, but I don't have notes activated, so I'm responding here with my list of threes. I don't tag people, so if this interests you, feel free to do it. If not, no worries!
Three names I go by:
1. Wendy
2. Wen
3. Wendini
Three jobs I have had in my life:
1. Cashier
2. Swim coach
3. Graphic artist
Three places I have lived:
1. Winnipeg, Manitoba
2. Oxford, England
3. Sherbrooke, Quebec
Three favorite drinks:
1. Coffee
2. Coke
3. Hot Chocolate (in season)
Three TV shows that I watch right now:
1. Dollhouse
2. House
3. The First 48
Three places I have been recently:
1. Toronto
2. Grand Cayman
3. Perth & Sydney, Australia
Three people who e-mail me regularly:
1. Jenny
2. Coach Duane
3. Brent
Three of my favorite foods:
1. General Tao's chicken
2. Homemade pizza on Friday nights
3. Dark chocolate
Three things I'm looking forward to:
1. Little Red Lighthouse Swim (fingers crossed)
2. Seeing the new Harry Potter film
3. Sunny summer weather!
Fe-Lady tagged me on Facebook, but I don't have notes activated, so I'm responding here with my list of threes. I don't tag people, so if this interests you, feel free to do it. If not, no worries!
Three names I go by:
1. Wendy
2. Wen
3. Wendini
Three jobs I have had in my life:
1. Cashier
2. Swim coach
3. Graphic artist
Three places I have lived:
1. Winnipeg, Manitoba
2. Oxford, England
3. Sherbrooke, Quebec
Three favorite drinks:
1. Coffee
2. Coke
3. Hot Chocolate (in season)
Three TV shows that I watch right now:
1. Dollhouse
2. House
3. The First 48
Three places I have been recently:
1. Toronto
2. Grand Cayman
3. Perth & Sydney, Australia
Three people who e-mail me regularly:
1. Jenny
2. Coach Duane
3. Brent
Three of my favorite foods:
1. General Tao's chicken
2. Homemade pizza on Friday nights
3. Dark chocolate
Three things I'm looking forward to:
1. Little Red Lighthouse Swim (fingers crossed)
2. Seeing the new Harry Potter film
3. Sunny summer weather!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Thursday Tidbits ...
I wonder if we can chalk the two days I've been away from the pool as a mini-taper for the 3K I intend to do as a training swim? Oh ... never mind. The current rule is, if my back says no, my brain has to go along for the ride. Astoundingly, we are having a brief sunny break, so I will go pack my swim bag!
But before I go, here's a hat tip to Jewelry and Beading blog. I am in awe of these earrings featured there by Down To The Wire Designs.
But before I go, here's a hat tip to Jewelry and Beading blog. I am in awe of these earrings featured there by Down To The Wire Designs.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Just Bits ...
Monday, July 20, 2009
Monday Miscellany ...
For the well off space fan, here's a gift idea. It is amazing to me, that it was forty years ago, in the Whiteshell, we listened in awe to the moonwalk on the radio.
On a completely different note, here's a nice article from Masters Swimming Canada on distance swimmer Jen Alexander.
I can only hope this incident really featured a cane toad, especially given the quote in the second last paragraph. Yes, I'm a bit grumpy today!
On a completely different note, here's a nice article from Masters Swimming Canada on distance swimmer Jen Alexander.
I can only hope this incident really featured a cane toad, especially given the quote in the second last paragraph. Yes, I'm a bit grumpy today!
Sunday, July 19, 2009
On Pulling the Trigger ...
In my world, perhaps more than most, life is a series of trade-offs.
I've known for the past couple of years that my body was behaving better than it had in years. And I suspected, as have many who have watched the progression of things over the last 20 years, it was a Limited Time Offer. It's a pattern that repeats over decades. S-I joint fusion one: improvement, gradual decline, extreme impairment on opposite side. S-I joint fusion two: improvement, gradual decline. Which brings us to where we are now. Thanks to the immense generosity and support of friends and family, I've done things during this past period of improvement I never would have imagined possible. I've competed at Worlds in Australia (!), swum with whale sharks, kissed a stingray, and touched a critically endangered blue iguana. Just thinking about these things continues to fill me with wonder.
But the last year has been a much more challenging one than I would have liked. I had hoped that when I met with Dr. Chow on Thursday morning, he would tell me he could inject the facet joints at L-5 with lidocaine or ketamine and some nice steroids, and in a matter of days I'd feel better. Not so much better that I wouldn't have pain to manage — that's not going to miraculously change — but better. Well, you know how Nothing Is Ever Simple or Easy? This is a prime example.
The facet joints are unhappy, in a degenerative kind of a way. There's a ganglion in one, and he suggested the other is likely full of fluid. And probably ganglia have been coming and going. But ... that's not the entirety of the problem. The degenerative changes extend to the now compressed disc, and involve the nerve. The discs further up the lumbar spine are a thing of beauty. The paraspinal muscles at L-5 lack the strength that they show further up the spine, and you can see the fatty deposits marbled throughout. Kind of like a piece of meat that would be on fire sitting on your barbeque — the others look more like a nice filet!
We will try a conservative course of physio in the immediate future, but over the course of the next three to five years the possibility of a lumbar fusion looms on the horizon. And if that scenario plays out, we can pretty much assume that things will get worse before they get better. So ... it only makes sense to squeeze everything I can out of right now! Within reason.
With that in mind I'm thinking of pulling the trigger on a trip to New York City the last weekend of September. Because there's this. And I'm sure I could have breakfast near Tiffany's ...
I've known for the past couple of years that my body was behaving better than it had in years. And I suspected, as have many who have watched the progression of things over the last 20 years, it was a Limited Time Offer. It's a pattern that repeats over decades. S-I joint fusion one: improvement, gradual decline, extreme impairment on opposite side. S-I joint fusion two: improvement, gradual decline. Which brings us to where we are now. Thanks to the immense generosity and support of friends and family, I've done things during this past period of improvement I never would have imagined possible. I've competed at Worlds in Australia (!), swum with whale sharks, kissed a stingray, and touched a critically endangered blue iguana. Just thinking about these things continues to fill me with wonder.
But the last year has been a much more challenging one than I would have liked. I had hoped that when I met with Dr. Chow on Thursday morning, he would tell me he could inject the facet joints at L-5 with lidocaine or ketamine and some nice steroids, and in a matter of days I'd feel better. Not so much better that I wouldn't have pain to manage — that's not going to miraculously change — but better. Well, you know how Nothing Is Ever Simple or Easy? This is a prime example.
The facet joints are unhappy, in a degenerative kind of a way. There's a ganglion in one, and he suggested the other is likely full of fluid. And probably ganglia have been coming and going. But ... that's not the entirety of the problem. The degenerative changes extend to the now compressed disc, and involve the nerve. The discs further up the lumbar spine are a thing of beauty. The paraspinal muscles at L-5 lack the strength that they show further up the spine, and you can see the fatty deposits marbled throughout. Kind of like a piece of meat that would be on fire sitting on your barbeque — the others look more like a nice filet!
We will try a conservative course of physio in the immediate future, but over the course of the next three to five years the possibility of a lumbar fusion looms on the horizon. And if that scenario plays out, we can pretty much assume that things will get worse before they get better. So ... it only makes sense to squeeze everything I can out of right now! Within reason.
With that in mind I'm thinking of pulling the trigger on a trip to New York City the last weekend of September. Because there's this. And I'm sure I could have breakfast near Tiffany's ...
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Morning Cake!
So, thanks to Gen & Jeff I did get out to the pond this morning. It was just BUCKETING down rain when we began, but it gradually petered out through the 2K we swam. And then we had a hot beverage and a cakey reward in Chelsea! Hot chocolate and banana cake with chocolate chips to be precise.
Also on the up side, I found my cell phone charger today in my laptop bag. You know that bag hasn't even been used since Nationals, and had nothing else in it! Don't ask. On the down side, I have misplaced a bunch of dvd's (which is why I was looking in the laptop bag). And no, sadly they're not where the cell phone charger usually is. Nothing is ever simple or easy! And of course now I have to decide whether I return the new phone or not ... but at least I have options, right?
Also on the up side, I found my cell phone charger today in my laptop bag. You know that bag hasn't even been used since Nationals, and had nothing else in it! Don't ask. On the down side, I have misplaced a bunch of dvd's (which is why I was looking in the laptop bag). And no, sadly they're not where the cell phone charger usually is. Nothing is ever simple or easy! And of course now I have to decide whether I return the new phone or not ... but at least I have options, right?
Friday, July 17, 2009
This is Not The Boarder ...
Although she does bear a striking resemblance to Onyx, and is also a stray. I had a few conversations with some neighbours, Declared Dog People, who had become concerned about her, too.
Well, folks, meet Frankie. She has been working her feline wiles on the DDP. She now has a litter box, and is following in the footsteps of both her new people (she walks around the block with them), and Onyx (as they are teaching her the "sit" command). And we are all pleased that there will be a safe place for her to have her kittens. Soon.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Ooops!
I made a mistake in the garden yesterday. I pulled ONE milkweed plant to allow a better view of one of the dwarf hemerocallis you couldn't see unless you were walking up the step. Try to bear in mind I've seen no monarch activity of any sort since early June. Usually I would check the plant very carefully before pulling, but really, I think I'd given up. But thankfully it is also my habit to check them before I put them in a lawn waste bag — and it's a good thing I did! Because then I had to find this little gaffer a similar plant to call home. In 24 hours there's been a good feed for a quarter inch caterpillar, so I guess the move wasn't too traumatizing! Click to see it a bit better.
We seem to be having a summery day, so naturally, for your reading pleasure I am linking to fall bag trends and an article in yesterday's paper about our weather!
We seem to be having a summery day, so naturally, for your reading pleasure I am linking to fall bag trends and an article in yesterday's paper about our weather!
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Throwing Money!
The colours on this little fly are just phenomenal! I hope a click will get you close enough to see the dent in one of its abdominal segments. The Boarder would find it fun to hunt, but it lives on the other side of the door. On the up side, he was able to pull a Barack Obama with a housefly yesterday. Really, I'm surprised that the fly was warm enough to get airborne!
In other news, with my cell phone charger still missing, I cleverly took a page from my brother's book and threw money at the problem. As I barely use it, but don't want to be without it, I bought the cheapest phone I could to replace it. My feeling is that will lead to either me finding the charger very soon, or great relief when I still can't find the $%^&*&* charger. And I do feel much better just having the phone.
On the social scene, instead of a film tonight, the movieteers are going to have a casual dinner and a whole lot of chatting! I was coach on the deck last night, so I'll have a swim today before lunch. LSD, here I come!
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Tuesday Tidbits ...
The gentleman on the front desk of the pool last night said as I was leaving, "You're here late tonight!" I reminded him the pool schedule had changed. "Oh, yes!" he exclaimed, "you're avoiding the Awful Swim." And it worked too! Although next time I will shoot to be in the changing room earlier, as there is a well attended prenatal class that lets out close to 8:00. Which is a good thing. But makes the locker room a little cramped!
However, apparently after our workout Sunday night there was not much fly left in Chris and I. Those who follow along closely will note that we are now bringing the interval times down just a smidge for the fly sets. Here's last night's workout. It's a long slow process rebuilding fly tolerance in older athletes! Nevertheless, we had a solid swim, and got some kick in two nights in a row! Teammates Jean and Fay were also in the pool, so we had an enjoyable hot tub dunk too.
It's nice to see that the announcement of the Canadian swim team for the World Aquatics Championships actually made the CBC sports page with a full listing of athletes!
For you shoppers out there, Neiman's last call sale starts tomorrow in store and online today!
Our forecast high today is 64°F, 18°C. Long pants again. Phooey!
However, apparently after our workout Sunday night there was not much fly left in Chris and I. Those who follow along closely will note that we are now bringing the interval times down just a smidge for the fly sets. Here's last night's workout. It's a long slow process rebuilding fly tolerance in older athletes! Nevertheless, we had a solid swim, and got some kick in two nights in a row! Teammates Jean and Fay were also in the pool, so we had an enjoyable hot tub dunk too.
It's nice to see that the announcement of the Canadian swim team for the World Aquatics Championships actually made the CBC sports page with a full listing of athletes!
For you shoppers out there, Neiman's last call sale starts tomorrow in store and online today!
Our forecast high today is 64°F, 18°C. Long pants again. Phooey!
Monday, July 13, 2009
You Should See The Other Guy ...
Except that I think it was a cat hair. In my right eye. So I kinda look like I went a few rounds. However ... the class must go on. Naturally this happens on a day I teach, so lots of people can ask what happened!
And now, for something completely different, let me complain about the weather. I am having oatmeal for breakfast! We are heading for a high today of 62°F/17°C. If we get dog days of summer this year they will hit like a ton of bricks! And what does this weather favour? Weeds. Insects like aphids not insects like monarchs! But at least I've seen some beneficials in the garden lately, too.
As usual a click will get you closer — you'll be able to see the dented elytra!
And now, for something completely different, let me complain about the weather. I am having oatmeal for breakfast! We are heading for a high today of 62°F/17°C. If we get dog days of summer this year they will hit like a ton of bricks! And what does this weather favour? Weeds. Insects like aphids not insects like monarchs! But at least I've seen some beneficials in the garden lately, too.
As usual a click will get you closer — you'll be able to see the dented elytra!
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Sunday Snippets
So ... at least appears to be a sunny one! Because yesterday's thunderstorms were definitely impressive. We're heading for a high of 21°:C (that's 69°F). It's been an odd summer so far, and the pattern seems to be holding.
For your reading pleasure this morning I bring you today's column from Mr. Sutcliffe.
Have I mentioned what an impressive team I swim for lately? In addition to Alex's five new National Records* at Provincials in March, Technosport relays counted ten! And I'll note that if you scroll down far enough, you'll find this:
** AGE GROUP 200+
800 free women 25m — F.GRANT M.ROMAN M.BAKISH W.BUCKNER — TECH ON 10:52.95 — OTT MAR 09
So kudos and special thanks to Fiona, Marisha, and Margaret — and congratulations to everyone whose name is on that very long list of accomplishments!
* This link is a listing of Canadian Masters records set to date in 2009.
For your reading pleasure this morning I bring you today's column from Mr. Sutcliffe.
Have I mentioned what an impressive team I swim for lately? In addition to Alex's five new National Records* at Provincials in March, Technosport relays counted ten! And I'll note that if you scroll down far enough, you'll find this:
** AGE GROUP 200+
800 free women 25m — F.GRANT M.ROMAN M.BAKISH W.BUCKNER — TECH ON 10:52.95 — OTT MAR 09
So kudos and special thanks to Fiona, Marisha, and Margaret — and congratulations to everyone whose name is on that very long list of accomplishments!
* This link is a listing of Canadian Masters records set to date in 2009.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Two Loops + A Nap
Clearly, I am too old to stay up 21 hours in a row!
I needed the alarm to wake me this morning, then had no idea why it went off. Nor did I have any idea why someone would phone a sponsored medical call in program to ask if there's something they can take for the double vision they've had for two weeks — but I think that was perfectly understandable! The alarm was set to radio so I spent some time lying in bed being incredulous that people don't seem to know when to go to the doctor! Luckily Fiona and Bruce had stopped at Tim's on their way to pick me up, so there was a little coffee for my drinking pleasure on the way to Meech. The water temperature was very nice, and I was having a slow agreeable swim but when rounding the island on my second loop I heard thunder. Back to the beach and out! Some of us got two loops in, but others only got one done. On the up side from the car we spotted some larger wildlife in the park today: one coyote, one fawn.
I had a most enjoyable Chinese dinner with Emma et al last evening, and a little bit more of it for lunch. After my nap. Which started immediately after coming in the door from the pond. In fact, I still haven't unpacked my swim bag. Ugh. It'll be a few days, I think, before I hit my rhythm again!
I needed the alarm to wake me this morning, then had no idea why it went off. Nor did I have any idea why someone would phone a sponsored medical call in program to ask if there's something they can take for the double vision they've had for two weeks — but I think that was perfectly understandable! The alarm was set to radio so I spent some time lying in bed being incredulous that people don't seem to know when to go to the doctor! Luckily Fiona and Bruce had stopped at Tim's on their way to pick me up, so there was a little coffee for my drinking pleasure on the way to Meech. The water temperature was very nice, and I was having a slow agreeable swim but when rounding the island on my second loop I heard thunder. Back to the beach and out! Some of us got two loops in, but others only got one done. On the up side from the car we spotted some larger wildlife in the park today: one coyote, one fawn.
I had a most enjoyable Chinese dinner with Emma et al last evening, and a little bit more of it for lunch. After my nap. Which started immediately after coming in the door from the pond. In fact, I still haven't unpacked my swim bag. Ugh. It'll be a few days, I think, before I hit my rhythm again!
Friday, July 10, 2009
The Witching Hour ...
The hospital has just a slight air of eeriness in the smaller hours of the day. Following the purple dots I was alone, not another person wandering the halls. I know that particular rabbit's warren very well — over the past twenty years I've investigated its nooks and crannies more often than most. The solitude you find there at night contrasts with the sometimes quite frenetic activity level of the daylight hours. I was a little early, reporting just before midnight for imaging at 00:30.
While lying quietly inside the MRI machine, what struck me was how much windier it is than a similar experience inside the CT scanner. The technician laughed when he freed me and I told him so. It was simple and easy. Textbook really.
Waiting for the cab to go home, sitting under a pot light, I was vaguely mesmerized by the colours of the mother of pearl and shell ring I had bought on the French Riviera many years ago, and the sparkle of the cubic zirconia flower on my other hand. Mickey said it was 1:30. I don't wear good jewellery to the pond, where we had swum earlier in the evening. My thoughts drifted off to the last time I sat at that entrance, waiting for a taxi. It was after the bedside service for April, almost a year ago now, before the staff took her to the operating room so her organs could provide better lives for others.
Memories, it seems, can have the slightest air of eeriness all their own at the hospital during the smaller hours of the day. And yet just a short time later, scooping up a groggy and cuddly cat at 2:00 a.m., carrying him upstairs, and laying him gently (purring) on the bed there was a profound sense of comfort that neither of us would have known otherwise.
While lying quietly inside the MRI machine, what struck me was how much windier it is than a similar experience inside the CT scanner. The technician laughed when he freed me and I told him so. It was simple and easy. Textbook really.
Waiting for the cab to go home, sitting under a pot light, I was vaguely mesmerized by the colours of the mother of pearl and shell ring I had bought on the French Riviera many years ago, and the sparkle of the cubic zirconia flower on my other hand. Mickey said it was 1:30. I don't wear good jewellery to the pond, where we had swum earlier in the evening. My thoughts drifted off to the last time I sat at that entrance, waiting for a taxi. It was after the bedside service for April, almost a year ago now, before the staff took her to the operating room so her organs could provide better lives for others.
Memories, it seems, can have the slightest air of eeriness all their own at the hospital during the smaller hours of the day. And yet just a short time later, scooping up a groggy and cuddly cat at 2:00 a.m., carrying him upstairs, and laying him gently (purring) on the bed there was a profound sense of comfort that neither of us would have known otherwise.
Thursday, July 09, 2009
A Little Bit of This ...
And a little bit of that, I think, will be the order of the day!
On the Olympic eligible swimming front, national world championship teams are currently being established north and south of the border. Canadian trials results can be found here. The women's 50 breaststroke was pretty exciting yesterday in Montreal, when 15 year old phenom Amanda Reason went :30.23 in the 50 breast and set a new world record! Update: CBC's video of the event can be found here. South of the 49th, Aaron Piersol was under 52 seconds for a world record in the hundred back. And Mr. Phelps is swimming up a storm, so Worlds promises to be full of exciting competition!
Glowing Orb Watch: It is currently visible in the sky — so people will be much happier today. Especially those of us who were caught in one of the downpours yesterday! Although there were bright spots — after my swim I thought I'd get takeout from the Chinese restaurant on the corner, but ended up eating in with old friends who were already there! And while Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs is weaker than the earlier films, it is still an enjoyable way to spend an evening. Plus Scrat! Who doesn't love Scrat!?! And as an aside I note that Simon Pegg has had some plum parts of late.
Bluesfest has begun up on LeBreton Flats, so The Boarder was quite occupied last evening. He clearly preferred Jeff Beck to some of last year's offerings. At least he wasn't "singing" back at him!
As the glowing orb is visible, I've just finished washing the Long Pants. Hopefully they won't be pressed into service for a while! There are some towels in the dryer (Heaven knows I go through enough of them!), so more swimming can occur this week. Hopefully a pond swim this evening. And it will be a very late night, as I report at midnight for an 00:30 MRI!
On the Olympic eligible swimming front, national world championship teams are currently being established north and south of the border. Canadian trials results can be found here. The women's 50 breaststroke was pretty exciting yesterday in Montreal, when 15 year old phenom Amanda Reason went :30.23 in the 50 breast and set a new world record! Update: CBC's video of the event can be found here. South of the 49th, Aaron Piersol was under 52 seconds for a world record in the hundred back. And Mr. Phelps is swimming up a storm, so Worlds promises to be full of exciting competition!
Glowing Orb Watch: It is currently visible in the sky — so people will be much happier today. Especially those of us who were caught in one of the downpours yesterday! Although there were bright spots — after my swim I thought I'd get takeout from the Chinese restaurant on the corner, but ended up eating in with old friends who were already there! And while Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs is weaker than the earlier films, it is still an enjoyable way to spend an evening. Plus Scrat! Who doesn't love Scrat!?! And as an aside I note that Simon Pegg has had some plum parts of late.
Bluesfest has begun up on LeBreton Flats, so The Boarder was quite occupied last evening. He clearly preferred Jeff Beck to some of last year's offerings. At least he wasn't "singing" back at him!
As the glowing orb is visible, I've just finished washing the Long Pants. Hopefully they won't be pressed into service for a while! There are some towels in the dryer (Heaven knows I go through enough of them!), so more swimming can occur this week. Hopefully a pond swim this evening. And it will be a very late night, as I report at midnight for an 00:30 MRI!
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Draggin'!
I bailed on practice last night. I have been having, besides back issues, problems with energy levels. By the time 5:00 was rolling around, there was quite literally nothing in the tank. And at that point, really, it's better to listen to your body than to push through. Especially since I'll be up well past my bedtime tomorrow night for my 00:30 MRI. That will be followed next Thursday by a review of the images with Dr. Chow ought to result in a Plan. Oh, how I'm looking forward to The Plan!
Most of us experiencing this unseasonably cool summer can at least be pleased we're not in Newfoundland, where there was a risk of frost overnight!!! Aaaarrrgggghhhh! Yesterday it was long pants and a cashmere sweater over my tank top. Sigh.
On the up side, there's gear on the way from Aquasport, so I'll have a new training suit. I find that a Speedo Endurance suit lasts at least a year swimming on an almost daily basis (including regular dunks in highly chlorinated hot tub)— and the fabric itself would keep lasting, but I get a bit concerned about the stitching, which has a lycra component. Because nobody wants me to have a suit malfunction! Although I could try layering the older ones over another suit for drag!
Most of us experiencing this unseasonably cool summer can at least be pleased we're not in Newfoundland, where there was a risk of frost overnight!!! Aaaarrrgggghhhh! Yesterday it was long pants and a cashmere sweater over my tank top. Sigh.
On the up side, there's gear on the way from Aquasport, so I'll have a new training suit. I find that a Speedo Endurance suit lasts at least a year swimming on an almost daily basis (including regular dunks in highly chlorinated hot tub)— and the fabric itself would keep lasting, but I get a bit concerned about the stitching, which has a lycra component. Because nobody wants me to have a suit malfunction! Although I could try layering the older ones over another suit for drag!
Tuesday, July 07, 2009
On Fast Lanes, Fans and Fishes ...
If there are 9 people in the fast lane, and I'm the fastest by a long shot, you can be assured it is an overcrowded lane swim. And one of the slowest fast lanes in history. A lifeguard said to me afterwards, "You came to the worst lane swim in the history of the pool!" But by 8:00 it cleared out, so we won't be making that same mistake twice!
On the sparkly things front, I've been receiving compliments on this necklace of late. I had thought I might buy the fan coral necklace as reminder of my trip to Grand Cayman, as I saw so many just sea swimming. But my friend E. got it for Christmas, so I revised my plan. On my Stingray City trip, I saw two different flat needlefish, and that made this a fine alternative. That and the pot was significantly sweetened by the Summer Sale price — online it was temporarily marked down 70%. You can bet I'll be sporting it when I'm next in the tropics, too!
On the sparkly things front, I've been receiving compliments on this necklace of late. I had thought I might buy the fan coral necklace as reminder of my trip to Grand Cayman, as I saw so many just sea swimming. But my friend E. got it for Christmas, so I revised my plan. On my Stingray City trip, I saw two different flat needlefish, and that made this a fine alternative. That and the pot was significantly sweetened by the Summer Sale price — online it was temporarily marked down 70%. You can bet I'll be sporting it when I'm next in the tropics, too!
Monday, July 06, 2009
359,000 ...
So, I'll be back teaching this afternoon after a couple of weeks off. The bonus is that the Monday night lane swim is actually longer than it was the rest of the year (3 lanes 7-8, 6 lanes 8-9:30), so I'll be able to stay on track with an approximately 7:30 start time! Wonder how busy that first half hour will be? After I get one length in, though, I'll have nudged myself over the 359,000 metres swum mark since September 1st!
On the weather front, I am concerned that "cloudy with showers" may be jumping the gun — that's how it's supposed to be Tuesday and Wednesday. But it's not looking too bright and sunny just now! I guess I'll just go make muffins ...
On the weather front, I am concerned that "cloudy with showers" may be jumping the gun — that's how it's supposed to be Tuesday and Wednesday. But it's not looking too bright and sunny just now! I guess I'll just go make muffins ...
Sunday, July 05, 2009
See and Be Seen!
It's still a bit brisk here this morning — but the glowing orb in the sky will be improving moods far and wide! Another bright spot in the day is Mr. Sutcliffe's column featuring an inspirational and accomplished runner.
I'm going to take a moment to share with you a comment from a new friend of mine who was watching us pond swim on Thursday night. "I was amazed at how well I could see you guys! Other people you couldn't really see — but you guys stood out!" That was a reference to our team's bright (neon) yellow swim caps. Caps that stand out in open water are a key piece of safety equipment. You want other swimmers, boaters, and jetski operators to see you at a glance and recognize you as a swimmer. And I always say if I need someone to fish me out, I want them to find me fast! Now that's not to say you wear a brightly coloured cap and then just swim along expecting everyone else to see and avoid you — sight regularly and be aware of watercraft and other swimmers.
There is another reason I bring this up. The previous week there was a wetsuit clad swimmer out in the pond wearing a black swim cap — wetsuits, especially full wetsuits, often blend in to the aquatic landscape extraordinarily well. I offered an extra fire engine red cap I had in my bag, but it was refused.
I'm going to take a moment to share with you a comment from a new friend of mine who was watching us pond swim on Thursday night. "I was amazed at how well I could see you guys! Other people you couldn't really see — but you guys stood out!" That was a reference to our team's bright (neon) yellow swim caps. Caps that stand out in open water are a key piece of safety equipment. You want other swimmers, boaters, and jetski operators to see you at a glance and recognize you as a swimmer. And I always say if I need someone to fish me out, I want them to find me fast! Now that's not to say you wear a brightly coloured cap and then just swim along expecting everyone else to see and avoid you — sight regularly and be aware of watercraft and other swimmers.
There is another reason I bring this up. The previous week there was a wetsuit clad swimmer out in the pond wearing a black swim cap — wetsuits, especially full wetsuits, often blend in to the aquatic landscape extraordinarily well. I offered an extra fire engine red cap I had in my bag, but it was refused.
Saturday, July 04, 2009
MIA: Summer!
Holy smokes! It isn't even 60°F yet this morning. It's breezy enough that there were white caps on Meech Lake. What's up with that??? We had a nice enough pond swim, but it was frigid getting out. With the wind, no sun, and cool temperatures, we were warmer in the water! A downright miserable day for the Meech Lake tri. We were feeling for the participants still in the water at O'Brien when we went by in the car with the heated seats on! It is certainly not normal July weather, that's for darned sure. It has been a while since I got home from practice and made a hot chocolate, but that's what I'm sipping on now!
Here's hoping my American friends and relatives have better weather as they celebrate today!
Here's hoping my American friends and relatives have better weather as they celebrate today!
Thursday, July 02, 2009
Ducklings, Dragging & Navels ...
We had a lovely swim from O'Brien Beach last night in a gentle rain. And instead of goslings we saw ducklings! The water was a little cooler than last week, but still very comfortable for swimming.
Today, though, I'm dragging! Enough that I will probably take a rest day. But tomorrow we are scheduled to be out at the lake in the morning. And on the up side, it is supposed to be cloudy with sunny breaks! Because the rains are getting tiresome.
Some more Nationals videos have been uploaded by MSC, so you can now watch my 100 fly here. I'm second from the bottom. You'll remember from my navel gazing post that I am still having difficulties with the last 15 metres — here you can see that the last 5 were really troublesome. But I was seeded 7th, one swimmer ahead of me scratched, and I finished 3rd, beating my seed time by 4 seconds. So although I've got a way to go, I'm pleased enough with this swim. In particular I can see a big improvement in my turns — I am reliably getting 5 metres off the wall before I start stroking. So when I'm in the pool this summer I'll try to keep beavering away at fly tolerance!
Today, though, I'm dragging! Enough that I will probably take a rest day. But tomorrow we are scheduled to be out at the lake in the morning. And on the up side, it is supposed to be cloudy with sunny breaks! Because the rains are getting tiresome.
Some more Nationals videos have been uploaded by MSC, so you can now watch my 100 fly here. I'm second from the bottom. You'll remember from my navel gazing post that I am still having difficulties with the last 15 metres — here you can see that the last 5 were really troublesome. But I was seeded 7th, one swimmer ahead of me scratched, and I finished 3rd, beating my seed time by 4 seconds. So although I've got a way to go, I'm pleased enough with this swim. In particular I can see a big improvement in my turns — I am reliably getting 5 metres off the wall before I start stroking. So when I'm in the pool this summer I'll try to keep beavering away at fly tolerance!
Testing 1-2-3!
Testing the little camera on the Canada Day fireworks from the back window — without a tripod. Probably worth a click (or three). Images not cropped.
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
Happy Canada Day!
Sadly the weather is not ideal, but we Canadians are a hardy lot, right? The Boarder has decided the antidote to the cooler temperatures and overcast skies is sleep. And who can blame him?
In yesterday's news, I had a swim at Plant. There I ran into my teammate Mike H-E (who incidentally made a lovely presentation at the Banquet). Well, not literally ran into. We were in the same lane. Our teammate Jacques, the pool director, teased us about standing around chatting. I'll note he was standing on the deck teasing, though!
I sorted my MRI appointment — July 9/10 (in that I have to be there at midnight, but the appointment is for 12:30). At least it's not a 3:00 a.m. appointment, right?
And, in the evening, I gave the practice. Usually Duane assigns a practice and I am the PDS (practice delivery system), but I was on my own last night. So here's the workout for the fast lane:
♦ 600 free (I asked people to randomly throw in some drills, too)
♦ 400 free paced, every fourth length harder, then back to pace
♦ 50-100-150-200-150-100-50 free hard, last person touches, first goes
♦ 25 fly, 50 back, 75 breast, 100 free, 100 IM, 75 IM less one stroke, 50 IM less two strokes, 25 choice — last person touches + 5 seconds
♦ 5 x 100 choice on 1:45 (pull was the option many took)
♦ Swim easy
Oh — and as usual, a click will get you closer to the daylily!
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