Kona Project Update: "Weathering the Storm"

Wow!  It is cold outside!  This has been the coldest winter in Pittsburgh that I can remember.  I love the term "Polar Vortex," but when will it end?  With temperatures constantly below freezing and often in the teens and even single digits and below, Pittsburghers have weathered the storm in anticipation of some warmer weather.

I've been weathering my own storm as I pursue a qualifying slot for the 2014 Ironman World Championships in October.  Over the past few weeks, it seemed like things couldn't get anymore hectic, until they did.  Let's start with my lower back pain.  It came back.  It's ok because I've been feeling good for a couple weeks now, but that's only after a series of appointments with my orthopedic doctor and two different chiropractors along with the purchase of a Teeter Hang-Ups inversion table, styrofoam roller, and a tempurpedic bed.  It's become clear that I have to do the maintenance stuff to keep my body prepared for the rigors of heavy training.

I ran almost as many miles as
was the temperature (15 miles).

 

I don't know if I'll remember how to ride a
bike without it being propped-up for me.

After the heavy downpour of back pain, the storm brought on an unexpected gust from a broken down car.  Laura and I came out of school on a bitter cold Tuesday, and when I turned the key to start the car, there was nothing but silence.  "You have got to be kidding me!"  Five hours later my car was towed to the dealership and the family was home thanks to Pappa Bob's escorting service.  We spent a week with one car, and I dealt with the dealership telling me I needed things repaired that another mechanic told me I didn't need repaired.  Ultimately, the car situation was resolved this past Saturday as we traded in the old four-wheel drive sleigh with over 145,000 miles for a new one with a few more bells and whistles.  Oh yeh, and a new car payment.

Those two things combined with the daily forecast of changing diapers, pediatrician appointments, feeding, bathing, dressing, undressing, and overall caring for two little boys while also training at a level I've never trained before has made "weathering the storm" a true challenge.  I'm very lucky to have Laura's love and support on this journey, and it's all still fun in its own unique way. :)



Laying with the boys

 

Reading "Little Quack"