Monday, October 27, 2008

Here We Are

It's 5 days away. I finally visited the IronmanFlorida.com website and got my race number. 2139. For those who'd like to track my progress Saturday, just go to Ironman.com and follow the link to "track an athlete."

This past week has been interesting one to say the least. Believe me, I'm not in any danger of not being tapered. I've been sleeping late and squeezing in the workouts where I can, and skipping them when I can't. Yeah, I know, I don't need to be skipping them. But it's my experience that I do better with more sleep and rest than a regimented taper schedule. So rest has been the priority.

I have much to say about what's coming in the next few days, but little time to say it right now, so I'll leave you with an excerpt from an email I got from a longtime friend and fellow triathlete today:

I'll be cheering for you and watching on line, you can do it,

I know you feel like you have missed a lot of time with your family to do this but what a great example to set for your boys. They will always look at you and see what is possible when you set high goals, make a plan and accomplish them. I remember my Dad taking me to Old Stone fort when I was a kid, he would run and I would fish under the bridge. He would also take me with him to do fun runs around middle TN and I did a 1 miler when I was in second grade. I just always thought that exercise, persistence and consistency is what we do and I am grateful for the example my family set for me as I know your boys will be as they get older. There is no better way to lead than by example, so you go get that Ironman title and enjoy,

justin

10 comments:

Brad Braden said...

Best of luck.

Liz said...

Lana,

I just found your blog a couple of weeks ago through fellow bloggers, and although I haven't had time to go back and read through your training journey, I know that the road has been long and challenging, and full of sacrifices as your friend mentions! But having volunteered for Ironman Wisconsin a couple of years ago, and having run the last two miles of that race with a friend, I can promise you that you are going to have an unbelievable experience! No matter the finish time on the clock, you are doing something extraordinary that few people ever dream of doing, much less commit nearly a year of their lives to. And as your friend says, you are setting an amazing example not only for your children, but for other self-proclaimed "ordinary girls", ages 7 to 75, who dare to dream, and by your example will believe that in life anything is possible!

You are living proof that anything can be achieved through perseverance and hard work--a message that I find to be even more important these days.....

Good luck! Enjoy every stroke and every step! Find comfort and company in those you meet along the way who are on this great journey with you. One day I will be there, too, but for now I will just enjoy reading your post-race report. :o)

Kick some ass.

-Freedom Runner

Anonymous said...

Lana, you and your family have been on this journey together. You are going to have an amazing experience. I am so excited for you. Rest up, you have a big day ahead.

I'll be sending some positive energy your way.

Jill Ann said...

I am barely sleeping for all the excitement in just 4 days. How crazy is it that I follow you IM'er everywhere?

The only words of advice I have for you is...continue to rest - tapers are over-rated! Don't get stressed out, it's a long day and it will all come together. And, no matter what, don't be afraid to ask for help.

There is one heck of a crew out there that are all your biggest fans...and we've been saving it all up to see you conquer IM FL 08!!

Be safe and I'll see you soon at PCB Girl!!

PS You will never think of me the same...after you experience an IM cheer outta my mouth. Tell Flash to stay WAYYYY back from me.

Darrell said...

Almost here, how cool! Enjoy the rest and get to the starting line rarin' to go.

J~Mom said...

I will be thinking of you and cheering for you!!

Marathon Maritza said...

you can do it!!! Good luck and enjoy every second!!!

Bigun said...

excited for ya, Lana...see ya on Saturday!

RunBubbaRun said...

Go get'em Lana. It should be an exciting day for you. Take the day as it comes as well and enjoy the finish line. You will do great.

Yes, your kids will learn from your example. My kid luvs wearing her kids IM shirt.

Bethany said...

Go get 'em Lana! My prayers are with you all week long. Congrats on everything you have accomplished this year!