Peace of Mind

So often we (and by we I can definitely say I) get caught up in the spin and the stir, the hustle and bustle.  We feel the need to constantly fill every second of every day with some sort of stimulation.  We are pushed to hurry, to move faster, to fit more into already bursting schedules.  No one (that I know of) is exempt.  Although some are much better at managing than others. 

Me- I'm the others....

Seriously though, I was lucky enough to get away with two very strong independent women this weekend.  A trip up to Vermont took worries and hurrying away... we did what we want, when we wanted.  This trip brought about a certain sense of peace... although, when it looks like this, how can you not be peaceful?

Sometimes simply vocalizing goals, problems, barriers is an incredibly empowering thing, especially around the right people. Confidence is gathered with just a little push and a nonchalant, "so do it" or "well, you have work to do" and "You've got it."  It is incredible the peace that comes with that.

A wonderful trip to a beautiful, magical, snow-laden place with excellent food and plenty to do, with no rush.  I learned how to snowshoe and discovered a new love (come on CT- we need some snow.)  On my return to the real world of course hit the ground running with no time to breathe, but with a different mindset.  Take it as it comes, and you've got it.  Make it happen. 

Stressing doesn't help.  Peace of mind makes sleep easier, it makes dispositions kinder, and it makes life smooth out just a bit.  Sure, sh*t happens, but how you deal with it changes everything.  Tonight I look at the challenges, the goals ahead and look forward to them.  I'm ready.  Time to put me and the people that I love first- and that brings peace.

Back in the water in the morning.  First workout in I can't remember how long... not really true- last time I did anything was the half marathon **and well snowshoeing this weekend which sort of counts.**  I intend to be smart, to move slow, and to enjoy the training.  I am lucky to have the ability- and I intend to enjoy every second and the peace of mind it brings. 

Thanks ladies for hitting my reset.

Challenge

What do you challenge yourself to?  Do you say it out loud?  Do you tell other people?  When your insides say quit, do you challenge yourself to more?  When something dances in front of you do you push and say "I dare you?"

Of course you do.  We all do.  We each challenge ourselves to things we never imagined.  While my challenges seem crazy and outlandish to many, I can't imagine standing in the shoes of others challenging themselves on a daily basis.  To each their own, and the challenges that draw them.

It is part of our human nature, push, work, challenge.  Love, fight, challenge. 

My challenge:

That would be the inside of my knee.  It was a mess.  It hurt, and for good reason.  I pushed through an entire season, challenging myself to more.  I have no regrets.  This year was amazing.  One Ironman attempt with multiple lessons learned.  A half ironman with incredible friends.  Another Ironman attempt and completion with the loving support of my husband and parents- and many many friends- in person and from a distance.  A half marathon in the support of the beginning of one of my best friend's running career. 

My challenges for the upcoming year are different from any time previous. 

Training hard and smart.  At least one and possibly 2 Ironmans on tap for the year.  Additional smaller races and plenty of training time.  Starting slow and paying attention to technique.  Gradual increase and build.  No injury goes ignored.... tough challenge.

Nutrition.  I have learned a lot about training ride and run nutrition.  Race nutrition.  I eat incredibly carefully in the days leading up to a race.  The rest of the time... not so much.  This has lead to a downward spiral now that I am not training.  Time to get back on the horse and remind myself that fuel matters, and this extra baggage has to go.

Enjoy the moment, enjoy the journey, appreciate the gift.  Sometimes we have to remind ourselves, this is what we wanted.  We asked for this.  We set this goal.  Soak up every second.

What are your challenges?  Be specific.  Reach for more than you thought possible.  You've got this.