TriBalance Coaching

"He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life." ~ Mohammad Ali

2012-01-26T21:32:00.000-06:00

Saturday, January 21, 2012 in Austin, Texas at The Fittest Games...

WOD #1:
5 DeadLift at 135 lbs
5 Box Jumps
5 Bar over burpees
70 lb sprint carry
Goal Time: 8:00-8:30/ Actual time: 7:31

Once I heard 3...2...1...Go...it was game on. Hard time cleaning the 70lb bag. I was just SO happy to beat my goal time.

WOD #2

3 attempts of Pro Shuttle Sprint

3 attempts of Broad Jump

3 attempts of Wall Ball Throw (14 lbs)

Wall Ball Throw...interesting WOD

Wasn't sure what to think about this WOD. I did what I could and was happy with it all!

WOD # 3

4 minutes to find your Max Snatch

2 minute Rest

1 minute to find Max Thrusters at 95 lbs

Find that Max Snatch...Get it!!!

So happy...ended up getting my Max Snatch at 85 lbs...almost had 90 lbs. Not enough time. Clocked 13 Thrusters for the 1 minute. I knocked out 11 right away!!!

WOD #4

9-7-5

Squat Clean @ 95 lbs

Game Hand Release Push Ups

Shoulder to OverHead @ 95 lbs

Pull Ups

Goal Time: 9-9:45/ Actual Time: 8:13

Concentrating before WOD #4!

I was nervous about this WOD. The cut off was 10 minutes. I knew in my heart of hearts...if I could do this WOD, I would be a happy lady. I didn't care if I placed 1st, 2nd or 10th...I wanted to just finish!!!

This weekend...I learned alot about myself. I signed up to do a CrossFit competition in December. I got in. I trained for it and I succeeded at it. I placed 4th in Master's Female Division.

Big picture wise, it doesn't matter what time I did my WOD's in or how far I jumped or what place I ranked...what matter was that I was "courageous enough to take risk." And after taking that risk, I accomplished something...I accomplished getting my confidence back after a tough year in 2011.

Thank you Ali for taking a risk in "your world"...you taught me how to take a "risk" in mine...

Fittest Games THIS Saturday, January 21st!!!

2012-01-18T22:21:00.001-06:00

Looking forward to seeing how strong I have become. I am competing in The Fittest Games in Austin on Saturday, January 21st.

Here is all the info:

The Fittest Games Location:

507 Calles Street
Austin Tx, 78702

The Details:

Follow the webpage: www.thefittestgames.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/TheFittestGames

Also follow me on Twitter https://twitter.com/#!/CoachJenRulon. I will keep you all posted through out the day!

I don't know how I will do or even if I will finish but what I do know is this:

I am going to do what I know best: Have fun, be thankful that I CAN CrossFit and enjoy every minute while I am there. I have two arms, two legs, heart to keep me moving and lungs to keep me breathing. I can't wait. I am competing for Amateur Master's (40 years old +) Female Competitor!!!

"Age is whatever you think it is. You are as old as you think you are." Muhammad Ali.

I feel twenty again :)

Listen to The Fonz...

2012-01-15T19:01:00.000-06:00

You hear it all the time... "Go with your gut" or "Listen to your inner voice".

I heard that voice on Wednesday at 10:45 am, when I was talking with my husband, Chris, on the phone. I told him that I felt anxious that morning, after I taught at Body Armor. I didn't have to workout that day, so I was trying to get some things done at the gym for the 5k that we were putting on that Sunday. I told Chris that I figured what I was feeling was being anxious towards school starting and getting ready for my final semester.

At 10:57, my "gut" was right but also wrong. I received a phone call from our alarm company...

Alarm Company: We have movement going on at your home.
Me: I am not at home....
Alarm Company: Should we call the cops?
Me: I guess so...it could be the dog?
Alarm Company: Yeah, there is movement from the back to the front.
Me: Call the cops ASAP

I felt sick...absolutely sick. I called Chris as I was driving home. He was in ameeting, and his phone was turned off. I pulled up and saw my front door open. I was about to throw up. The cop drove past me and I didn't want to go in. I was scared since I didn't know where my dog or cat was. I got out of the car and I saw Macca Dog in the empty lot...he didn't come to me right away, he seemed to be "scared or unsure." (Doggy and kitty are fine :))

The cop came back to the house...found out my neighbor saw what was going on and called the cops. Never got a license plate but got some information. The cop walks in to the house to make sure it was safe. He brought me in. I was shaking...I was crying...our house was invaded, our lives were invade and it was a mess.

I am not going into details of what was taken, what was broken, etc. and the days after that but what I will say is this...

I "heard" my inner voice, 12 MINUTES before I received a phone call. I didn't go with it and "blew" it off thinking it was something else. I am not going to "beat" myself up about not "listening" but I will notice it next time I "hear" it.

Found this quote today from Henry Winkler...aka The Fonz...

"Your mind knows only some things. Your inner voice, your instinct, know everything. If you listen to what you know instinctively, it will always lead you down the right path."

I have been "listening" to my inner voice, my whole life...this time, I forgot to trust it.

Don't forget to trust yours...

Spring Cleaning and Life

2012-01-09T14:19:00.001-06:00

January, what do you think of? New Year Resolutions? A New Diet? A New Exercice Program? In January, I think about spring cleaning. I think of a fresh start, ..."out with the old, in with the new". I think of the closets being clean out and taken to GoodWill, I see desk drawers being empty, I see computers being cleaned up and starting up "FRESH" for 2012.
Today, I did some spring cleaning not only in my closet, my desk drawers, and some files but I did some "Spring Cleaning" on my mind and some memories.

As I was going through papers, pictures, articles, videos, I noticed that I had four major piles:

Sea World
CrossFit
Triathlon
Fertility Clinic Information

Sea World Pile: A pile of happiness. Photos, videos, cards from friends, when I put my 2 week notice in, ID's, name tags, etc. This pile made me smile, made me cry, made me laugh and made me feel very very blessed. Check out my last show that I did at SeaWorld San Antonio.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mGrhbBqfRCM&feature=BFa&list=HL1326081265&lf=mh_lolz.

CrossFit Pile: A pile of newness. Articles and journals that haven't been read from CrossFit Journals, photos from competitions that I have done, my strength training plans now and a newness of it all. This pile made me smile, and made me feel that there is more to come and I can't wait for the journey.

Triathlon Pile: A pile of dreams. Articles that I have written, photos of races that I have done, my athletes history and waiver forms, the Ironman races my athletes are doing or have done, my USA Triathlon Level I certificate, my USAT Honorable Mention patch from 2008 (need to declutter more :)). This pile made me reflect of my journey through the triathlon world as an athlete and as a coach, watching my athletes succeed and now as a spectator...supporting my husband as he trains for Ironman-Hawaii.

Fertility Clinic Pile: A pile of sadness, confusion and the unknown. It was mostly bills that were payed, blood test information, blood test showing that I was pregnant in April and May, and what to do next. This pile made me cry but this pile has taught me the most about myself. This pile taught me that I can not technically "control", when I am suppose to have a baby, and if I am suppose to have a baby.

My Spring Cleaning brought me to this conclusion:
I am a 40 year old women, that have swam with killer whales, married a wonderful man, competed in Ironman competitions and now competiting in CrossFit competitions and when I look at my piles, I tend to focus on the "Fertility Clinic" Pile.

Guess what, the "Fertility Clinic Pile" went in the shredder...the other piles did not.

I LOVE spring cleaning not only my desk, closets and files but also my MIND.

Happy New Year in 2012!!

2012-01-02T20:44:00.001-06:00

Hi All!
I am back to blogging. It has been quite a while since my last post but it hasn't been an easy year for me in 2011. I honestly feel that having two miscarriages in 2 months can take a toll on someone...mentally and physically. At that point, I put myself into a "cave", stayed to myself, worked out a s$^% ton at CrossFit, running and triathlons, went to school and laid out at the pool a lot!!!

2012 is already looking positive. I will be graduating in May from graduate school with my Master's in Kinesiology. I plan on competing in a couple of competitions at CrossFit as a Master's athlete (Yes, I turned 40 in 2011), my husband qualified for Ironman-Hawaii in October and the strength program that I started 5 weeks ago, I am seeing such positive gains already.

Weekly, I will be blogging my journey (if you want to read it or not), learning how to keep my life in balance with school and comprehensive exams, coaching 12-15 CrossFit classes a week at Body Armor CrossFit in San Antonio, coaching 3 athletes to their first Ironman, getting stronger for CrossFit competitions (#timetogetstrong on Twitter) and of course, spending time with my husband, Chris, doggy, Macca and kitty, Echo.

People have asked...if we are trying to have a child again. At this point, I would say no. We have talked about adopting but for now...we need to take our life one day at a time and God will guide our way.

I look forward to this journey with you all. Let's enjoy our journey together....

Jen

Four Miscarriages Later...I still want an Americano with a Splash of Heavy Whipping Cream...

2011-07-14T23:30:00.000-05:00

Sometimes the truth sucks. Sometimes life sucks. But guess what...I will always be that person that still wants her Tall Americano with a splash of heavy whipping cream.
If you have read my post about 2.5 years ago, you have seen that I have been through some tough times. http://tribalancecoaching.blogspot.com/2009/01/4-months-have-passed.html.

Long story short:

Oct. 2008: 1st Miscarriage
November 2008: Dad passed away
January 2009: 2nd Miscarriage

Updated version:

Same as above
April 2011: Found out I was pregnant and 3rd miscarriage within 2 weeks
May 2011: Found out I was pregnant and 4th miscarriage after 8 weeks

Where do I begin? What do you say? Do you tell me that "Everything will be OK?" Do you ask me "How am I doing?" Do you tell me that "Things happen for reason"? or do you say..."Let's go have lunch or go grab coffee or go to the pool or go tubing down the Comal River."

Maybe I haven't told many people about what I have been going through because I keep my guard up. But what I need right now are my friends, family and some love and an Americano to get me through these hard times.

So, if you have a friend or a family member or whoever going through some hard times...ask them what they need...ask them what you can do for them. Honestly, maybe all they need is an Americano or breakfast at Twin Sisters (http://www.twinsistersbakeryandcafe.com/).

Thank you to those friends, who grabbed an Americano with me, breakfast at Twin Sisters, hanging by the pool, lunch wherever and tubing down the Comal. I am still alive.

A Mexico Vacation, a Beach, some Sun and Sand...

2011-05-23T21:41:00.000-05:00

I decided to do 150 beach burpees for time on the beach front of Riveria Maya, Mexico.

Every once in a while, you need a little change of sceanery!

Life Comes at You Fast...

2011-04-09T11:14:00.000-05:00

Life can come at you fast. How do you deal with it?

One day you are having the time of your life...the next day, it may be crap! It could even be a wonderful hour of your life and then you receive a phone call and it can change your life!

Life is a roller coaster. You have your ups...your downs...your side turns...your complete stops...you may even be stuck on the ride for a bit but you know it will end but how do you deal with it?

You laugh, you cry, you scream, you laugh so hard you stomach hurts, you cry so hard your stomach hurts, you are in shock, you giggle with friends, you cry some more, you share stories with family...but guess what YOU KEEP GOING!

While there has been ups and downs in my life in the past few years and recently, I have learned to work through it. How?

Through the grace of God, my wonderful husband, my FANTASTIC family, my AMAZING FRIENDS (you know who you are!), my handsome dog, Macca, my beautiful cat, Echo, EXERCISE and being able to feed my soul through it all.

Being able to throw on a pair of my Newton running shoes, whenever and wherever I am and just run. Being able to goto Body Armor and throw some weight around and try to have a good WOD for me, no one else. Being able to sit on a beach and enjoy the sound of the ocean...which feeds my soul.

This is how I am able to get through it all.

3M Half Marathon and CrossFit

2011-02-04T21:28:00.001-06:00

I did my first Half Marathon this past Sunday...since February 2007. 4 years. WOW!

Honestly, I crossed that finish line this year and felt fantastic versus 2007. How is it different? I have been doing CrossFit since 2008 and have seen a change in my body, that I would never have seen with triathlon/marathon training.

I started CrossFit in 2008, when I mentally did not want to do a type of triathlon training. (See posts earlier). I didn't want to sit on my bike for 2 hours or run for 60 minutes. I wanted to workout and not think what I was doing...I just wanted to do.

I started doing CrossFit, mostly at BodyArmor (http://www.bodyarmorsa.com/), 2x's a week...then 3x's a week, then 4x's a week, while on the Paleo Diet/Zone Diet. I did everything I could CrossFit...cause I was addicted. I even became CrossFit Level I certified. I figured along with my USA Triathlon Level I cert...how great it would be to be able to work with my athletes and get them strong as well.

I have been loving the people that I have met, the competition everyday and the way my body had changed. But I started also missing the same thing in triathlons...I missed hanging with my friends that I have known for 10 years, I missed racing when my husband was racing and I missed being outside and loving the road under my feet and the water against my skin.

So, I decided to sign up for 70.3 Ironman in April in Galveston in November. I went pretty hard with CrossFit for a good 2 1/2 months and got SUPER strong. I decided I wanted to do the 3M about a month out from the event, so I worked my way up on my runs. My workouts consist of 3 CrossFits, 1 swim, 2 bikes (1 60' and then 1 longer bike) and 3 runs. GEES...I was pooped but stayed with it. If I cut something out...it was CrossFit. My longest run before the 3M was an 1:15...only 8.5 miles...I was slow that day :)

Sunday, January 30th came around and I told myself that I would do about 2 hours for the Half. I honestly did not know where I would be. It was a humid day but not too bad...a bit of mist. About 95% of my races, I don't wear a watch...the time is what it is and there is nothing I can do about it but just do my best. But, I did wear a watch to see what my splits were for my 1st Half in 4 years. I was starting with 7:40, 7:55, 8:03, etc and I started thinking..."OH NO, I am going to fast." Well, I told myself just to go with it and off I went. I clocked a 1:44 this year versus a 1:54 in 2007 and felt fantastic and was averaging 7:58/mile for the 13.1 run. (I did have some stomach issues at mile 10 and 11, so honestly my chip time was a 1:47 but I managed and I am trying to figure that out. If I didn't have the watch...it wouldn't have matter what it was!)

Long story, short...it is OK to get out of your routine now and again. Try something different...who knows...maybe it will change your body, your mind and your life. I know CrossFit did that with mine!

(Stay tune for post about the 70.3 Ironman in Galveston and the training for it!)

2010...a year of Growth

2011-01-22T17:03:00.000-06:00

Growth is the only evidence of life.

~John Henry Newman

Thank you for allowing me to grow in 2010.

Here is to growing more in 2011!

Coach Jen

Another year of being blessed...

2010-11-25T11:20:00.000-06:00

Chris and I in Austin...one of my blessings.

Happy Thanksgiving to All!

I am blessed...

to breath
to see
to hear
to think
to learn
to swim
to bike
to run
to do triathlons
to CrossFit
to LOVE
to have a husband, who loves me for me
to have a dog, to run with
to have a cat, to cuddle with
to have family in WI, MI, TX and FL, who love me
to have friends in WI, TX, CO, CA, VA, MN, IA, CT (more states...I can't remember!) to love me back.

These are the reasons why I am blessed. Now it is time to write down your blessing...

Have a wonderful THANKSGIVING DAY, my friends!

Jen

What I learned from lululemon athletica...

2010-11-10T12:47:00.000-06:00

October 21st was my last day at lululemon athletica in the Quarry. Why you ask? I had to make some priorities that I lost. My family, graduate school and me. I learned a lot from lululemon athletica this past year. lulu has been wonderful about teaching their employers...goal setting. I have always been a goal setter, especially when I was in high school/college years. Some amazing things I have accomplished in the past:

Worked and swam with Killer Whales, Beluga whales, dolphins and sea lions for 14 years
Accomplished 4 Ironman's
Ten 1/2 Ironman's and numerous triathlons
On Team USA for the World Championship Duathlon in 2001

As you get older, you tend to forget about your goals, your ambitions and your dreams. You tend to forget to realize who you are....and who you CAN BE! When your goals are out in the universe...they can come true. I have accomplished alot within a year working there. This is what I have accomplished:

Took my GRE
Applied to Graduate School at UTSA
Got Accepted to Graduate School at UTSA, getting my Master's in Kinesiology
Recieved my CrossFit Certification
Chris and I have been going to church on a weekly basis
Talk with my Mom on a weekly basis
CrossFit-4-5x's a week
Get back into triathlon again
Did 3 Triathlons this year (2 sprints and 1 Olympic)
Signed up for 70.3 IM in Galveston in April 2011
Participated in the Regional CrossFit Games with RiverCity CrossFit Team
My 40th b-day dream is coming true...we are going to Paris in 2012

I had a wonderful time at lululemon athletica...I met some WONDERFUL people, made great FRIENDS and made some great connection.

While I will "write" my next chapter into my life...I will ALWAYS be greatful for lululemon athletica and the people at the store that brought me to this place in my life. With out YOU (you know who you are!), I wouldn't be out there...achieving more dreams and goals!

GoodBye to 2009...Hello to 2010!

2010-01-01T20:39:00.000-06:00

HAVE A WONERFUL 2010. Enjoy life, live to the fullest, be thankful for what you have, give your loved one a hug everyday, call you parents and your siblings, once a week and tell them that you love them, get your body to move for at least 45'-60' day, take a day off from EVERYTHING and be happy :)

This is what I plan on doing for the start of the new year in 2010...

What are you going to do?

lululemon blog artist

2009-12-01T20:45:00.000-06:00

It is official...

I am part of the lululemon blog artist team.

What does that mean? I get to write for a fantastic company about my doings in San Antonio, TX while working for lululemon athletica. I get to talk about ...triathlon, lululemon athletica, going back to school after 15 years, CrossFit, the clothes at lululemon athletica, you name it!

What does that mean for my readers? You can find me at the lululemon blog website and here as well! Tell me what you want to hear about!

I will keep you posted when my first blog in up and running!

Plus there will be some challenges given to us by the lululemon blog staff.

The first one is huge...

A time to be thankful...

2009-11-26T21:49:00.000-06:00

Today, I am thankful for...

My husband, Chris
My family...Mom, Brother, SIL, Niece and Nephew
My In-Laws...Mom, Layne, Dad and Jing
My Kitty, Echo and Doggy, Macca
My best friend, Krista
My wonderful friends...past and present (High School, College, MAP/MS, Sea World, triathlon world, lululemon athletica)
My Dad, who passed away over a year ago
My Grandparents...
My job at lululemon athletica
My acceptance to graduate school
For my two arms and two legs that I can walk/run/swim/CrossFit/Yoga/Pilates/etc

Today, I am blessed to be alive. To be in the present...to be me...to be who I want to be. Today, I am thankful...

Do One Thing a Day That Scares You!

2009-09-30T08:34:00.000-05:00

I am doing just that. I am starting to work at lululemon athletica in the Quarry in San Antonio, TX. Check out the website...http://www.blogger.com/www.lululemon.com. I am so very excited! More to come and my reasons of leaving my 15 year career...I have to go get ready!

Fat Free Talk

2009-09-04T19:38:00.000-05:00

This video is very empowering. I think at sometime in our lives, we have dealt with body image or body dysmorphia. Now, it is time to change...it is time to change the way we think about ourselves and our family and friends. Make a commitment of being a "Fat Talk Free" friends, family, work place, and a "Fat Talk Free"...YOU! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RKPaxD61lwo

What is your Limiter?

2009-07-20T21:29:00.000-05:00

I did the Marble Falls Triathlon in 2009 and I also did it in 2007.

1k Swim, 23 mile Bike and a 4.4 mile run.

I did not train a lot. I did no swimming, some biking and mostly running and CrossFit.

(Thanks Kevin for the great shot and thanks TYR and Hammer for all your support!)

My break down for each race:

2007 2009

Swim 18:12 18:39

T1 1:48 1:44

Bike 1:09.07 1:12:29

T2 1:02 1:21

Run 34:06 34:16

Total 2:04:24 2:08:28

Where was the 4 minute difference? I can tell you that...the transitions...since I never practice and the bike. The last 8 miles of my bike ride...my back was hurting bad! About a week ago, I found out a have a herniated disk between L4 and L5. The last 6 miles of the bike was downhill...I told myself, get off the bike to stand up straight...you will be fine. And I was. Truthfully, my run was the easiest part. I kept going back and forth with 2 girls on the bike. I couldn't keep up with them since my back...guess who passed them on the run :)

So, here are some questions...How could I do if I train? What is my potential? Could I push myself more? What is my limiter?

Here are my answers: I think I would do pretty darn good if I train. I don't know my potential but I think it is a lot higher than I think! I could push myself more. My limiter is a numerous thing...life, work, life, coaching, life,...But

I think my biggest limiter is MYSELF! I have been struggling for some time with what I want to accomplish in triathlons. I have done everything...I have done numerous Sprint Triathlons, Olympic Triathlons, 1/2 Ironmans and 4 Ironmans. But there is something that I have NOT accomplished in my triathlon career...Ironman Hawaii.

I have the potential to make it to Hawaii. I did have the drive, the passion and the goal. What happen to that drive, passion and goal? I can tell you what happened...it was me, my limiter, who lost the drive, the passion and that goal.

After being at Ironman-CDA with Chris and racing at Marble Falls and showing my potential with out training...guess I need to work on the hardest "event" of them all...ME!

DO NOT let your Limiter get in the way of YOU!

Well, how did I do?

2009-06-14T10:08:00.001-05:00

Signing up for Tri-It in Spanish: $50.00 Training with CrossFit and Body Armor in San Antonio, TX: $150.00/month Doing any triathlon training the past 6 months: ZERO Placing 2nd overall female and 1st in my age group: PRICELESS :)

First Triathlon of the Season

2009-06-12T20:45:00.000-05:00

What: Tri-it in Spanish Triathlon...300 meter swim/19.2 K Bike/3.2 K Run

When: June 13, 2009 at 8:00

Where: San Marcos, TX

How: Swim fast, Bike fast and Run Fast :)

Why: Because it is fun and because I can!

OK...this triathlon really makes me nervous. I did this race last year and got 2nd overall female, with not a lot of training. This year, I have not done much triathlon training at all but I have been doing CrossFit, 3x's a week, some running, some Yoga, on the bike 2x's the last week and that is about it!

I have done so many triathlons that I feel that I can do one with my eyes close...but without much biking, no swimming and some running...really how am I going to do?

This is my goal...To have fun, see some friends, enjoy the ride (along with the swim and the run) and thank my lucky stars that I am able to do what I love:)

Making a difference...

2009-05-12T20:28:00.000-05:00

I am very blessed. I have a great relationship with God. I have a wonderful husband…a wonderful family…fantastic friends…a great job (my full time job and my TriBalance Coaching business)…some great pets and people who support me through thick and thin. As I am getting older…I realized that I would like to make a difference in someones life…whether it was just one person or a whole bunch of people. I feel fortunate because this weekend…I did. In more than one way… This weekend, I was in MI…working on my Dad's house. As you may have read, my Dad passed on November 13th. It has been extremely tough…mentally. When I am in TX…I think of my Dad but think that he is in MI…mowing the grass, playing with his dog, planting his flowers for the year. He had a beautiful garden! When I am in MI, it is a completely different story. I am driving his car…going to his house…that is empty…getting an appraisal on his house, looking through old papers that he kept. I found a letter from my Grandma to my Grandpa and she was talking about how big my Dad was getting. He was at his 6 week check up. The letter was dated January 1946. I took some things of my Dad to Salvation Army…clothes, shoes, jackets, ties, suits and then the household things…dishes, bowls, cups, glasses, old knifes, etc. The gentlemen that helped me unload the things and I had a wonderful conversation. Salvation Army Worker: "Madam, you have a lot of nice stuff in here." Me: "Yeah…it is nice…but I wasn’t sure I was able to sell it in a garage sale." SAW: "Are you moving…is that why you are getting rid of it?" Me: "No, it was my Dad. He passed away in November." SAW: "Your Old Man passed away…I am so sorry. How old was he? You did say Your Old Man?" Me: "Yeah...he was young…he was 62." SAW: "Dang, that is young. I am so sorry." Me: " Yeah, I wanted to drop these things off and hope that I can make a difference in someonelse's life. I really don’t need to try to sell the coffee mug for 5 cents or the jacket for $5.00. It is not worth the hassle. Life is just too short. I want to help someone out in need more than needing the money." SAW: "Amen…thank you." As I left the Salvation Army and realized that I made a difference by dropping off some things that folks may need…I realized so did my Dad…I just started balling. I couldn’t control it. I think it hit me…I was in MI. I didn’t know who to call…everyone was at work. Hubby was in Houston, my brother was working with his new interns and my sister in law was in a meeting. I called my Mom…you can always rely on Mom. She will drop everything for you. I needed to hear a peaceful voice. She made it so easy for me. And I thank her for this. Happy Mother's Day! After I calmed down…I stopped for some retail therapy at Somerset Mall and went to one of my favorite athletic store, Lululemon Athletica….http://www.lululemon.com/. They have the best workout clothes! You need to check it out if you haven't already! I grabbed my Blackberry to check my messages. I received an email from a women who read my TriBalance Coaching blog. She told me thank you for writing a blog regarding my miscarriage and getting back in the swing of things through exercise and triathlon. I made a difference…again! Wow! Earlier that day…I spoke at my nephew's 2nd grade class regarding my full time job. I talked with them on how to become an animal trainer and how to train animals. I talked with them as well to have goals…be a good brother or sister, a good daughter or son, etc. It was a lot of fun and I really enjoyed it. I picked up Jaxson from school that day and we were chatting in the car and he said…"Aunt Jennifer…I have something for you…" He pulled out 24 thank you cards for the kids that I gave the talk too. Wow…once again, I made a difference. As I look back at my week in MI…I felt that I wasn’t accomplishing much, especially physically. I wasn’t getting my workouts in. I wasn’t eating right. I only went to CrossFit one time. But looking at the big picture, I accomplished a lot…. 1. I made a difference in my nephew's 2nd grade class. 2. I made a difference with another fellow triathlete. 3. I made a difference with possibly hundreds of people through Salvation Army. 4. I even helped my Dad made a difference with possibly hundreds of people through Salvation Army. 5. I spent quality time with my brother, sister in law, my beautiful niece, and handsome nephew. I am very blessed. I made a difference in numerous lives on Monday in MI. Now, I have to wonder...how many lives have I changed each day of my life?...I will never know but I do know...I am MAKING A DIFFERENCE!

Attitude is Everything...

2009-04-26T22:16:00.000-05:00

As I sit here pondering on what to write...I thought about what someone told me this weekend... "You have a great attitude...you are really easy to work with." That meant the world to me when I heard that. I get so frustrated with the grumpiness at work, the upset people in the line at the grocery store, the pissed off person, who got cut off in the traffic....you know what I mean. I know we have all been in that spot of the getting cut off in traffic or frustrated at the person in the grocery store. But have you ever been the person that was told...."You have a great attitude." I have and it feels great! Attitude is everything....remember it is up to you on how to handle situation.

"A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort." — Herm Albright

Get Lucky Pub Run

2009-03-22T21:59:00.000-05:00

Had a great weekend...did Cross Fit on Friday at 8:30. I did my first Kipping pull up with out the band. I was just messing around. It was a great morning. I was so JAZZED!

Friday at 6:00...I did my first Pub Run. It was called "Get Lucky" Pub Run thru Lululemon Athletica. It was 6 bars within in 3.4 miles...you do the math! I had a blast. I meet some AWESOME people, hung out with some wonderful friends and just enjoyed myself!

Look at the big picture of your training...HAVE FUN...Enjoy your workouts...Change it up...Meet new people...try something new and if it involves running and drinking once every blue moon. That is ok!

We workout because we love it...we workout out to feel better about ourselves...we workout because it makes us HAPPY:)

Do you have a "Happy Song"?

2009-03-13T21:09:00.000-05:00

I love singing...I am not the best singer...I love great voices...maybe that is why I am addicted to "American Idol", but there is not always the best singers there:) I love good lyrics...love simple voices...not over the top voices...I generally like male singers... I noticed when I am in a great mood...I sing. I sing in the car, in the shower, around the house, at work, before my workouts, during my workouts (running on the trails on Tuesday...I hope no one heard me:)) When I am sick or sad...I don't sing. People maybe OK with that though! I listen to my I-pod before my races and it is under Pre-Race Songs (2004-2008). I have "energy" songs..."Lose Yourself" by Eminem, "Stronger" by Kanye West, "Gold Digger" by Kanye West...then I have emotional songs..."At Last" by Etta James (Our Wedding Song), "It's Your Song" by Garth Brooks (for my Mom)...then I have just fun songs, "Wide Open Spaces" by the Dixie Chicks, "SexyBack" by Justin Timberlake, and "Poision" by Bel Biv Devoe. For my 2009 Pre-Race Songs...I will have the above songs in my list... "Wind Beneath my Wings" by Bette Midler...I danced with my Dad to this song at my brother's wedding. I want to think of my Dad when I am racing...he will be waiting for me at the "Finish Line." "My Life would Suck without You" by Kelly Clarkson. What a great song. I love Kelly...oh, there is that "American Idol" connection.... and then...my "HAPPY SONG" "I'm Yours" by Jason Mraz. Wow...this is my happy song. If I am in a bad mood...put this song on and let me sing away. Start singing it to me...I am in my own world. People are stressed..." I sing my happy song"...I am in traffic..."I sing my happy song"...I am happy..."I sing my happy song" You know...I have been singing my "HAPPY SONG" a lot... "Life is good...things are good...I am good...I AM HAPPY:)"

Dance with my Father

2009-03-01T21:11:00.000-06:00

It has been almost 4 months since my Dad has passed away. I miss him dearly and can't believe he is gone. It is really hard not to call him...just to say Hi...just to tell him that I love him. Luther Vandross sings ...."Dance with my Father". It is a great song but it is hard to think that I will never dance with my Dad until I see him in heaven. God, I miss him!

When I am out for a run, I think of him waiting for me when I got home. I went to visit him and my brother in June 2005, for the Spurs and Pistons Final Game. I was getting ready for Ironman Western Australia and had to do a long run while I was there. I told him where I would be running and that I would call him if I needed anything. As I left the house...he was standing in the driveway...waving to me and telling me to be safe. About an hour and a half later...I came up the street to his house and there he was...standing in the driveway...waiting for me to come home.

I guess he will be waiting for me in the Driveway to Heaven and we will dance all night! I love you Daddy and miss you more than you will know!

My First 5K with CrossFit

2009-02-22T21:19:00.000-06:00

My 5k results the last two times, I have done a 5k. 2006 UTSA Diploma Dash 23:56 7:42/mile run 2009 UTSA Diploma Dash with CrossFit 22:14 7:10/mile run 1:40 faster than 2006. To me...this is amazing. I will be honest...I have not been running as much as I did in 2006. I did not run at all this week...but I have been doing CrossFit with Studio B for the last month. Man, talk about changing your mind and body. I crave it. I love it! CrossFit has taught me so much as an athlete. I have been doing triathlons for about 10 years and I have enjoyed it so much. Triathlon has taught me so much about me. But CrossFit with Studio B has taught me to dig deeper. Paul, from Studio B, suggested that I do a 5k after a month of CrossFit...I did. I was FASTER!!!! FASTER!!! Can you believe it? I was so happy with my time and really looking forward to the results of more CrossFit and more running. My last blog was a really tough blog to post. But I started to figure out who I was...who I am...who I want to be. I want to be a happy athlete, that enjoys working out because it feels good, not because I need to prove myself to anyone. I want to be a good women, because that is who I am. I want to be a loving wife, because I love my husband with all my heart. I want to be a good friend, because that is why I am blessed to have so many friends in my life. In my ripe age of 37...I have come to realize... I just want to be...

4 months have passed...

2009-01-19T20:50:00.000-06:00

4 months ago… Wow…4 months fly by…where do I even being with my blog. I will tell you right now that it was probably the toughest 4 months of my life. Let me begin: September 6th- Found out I was pregnant October 3rd-In the hospital for a miscarriage October 8th-In the hospital for a bout of colitis October 12-17th-Went to MI to visit my brother, my sister-in-law, my beautiful new niece, and my Dad November 13th-Found out my Dad passed away… December 5th-Found out I was pregnant January 10th-In the hospital again for another miscarriage There is where I have been the last 4 months….one of the worst 4 months of my life. I have never hurt so bad, never cried so much and never grieved so much. I had to deal with 3 deaths in 4 months…plus I lost my last Grandma in May. Since January 10th…I decided to take the rest of the week off. I couldn't’t go back to work, I couldn't be happy, I couldn't’t be anything…I just needed to be. About 2 months ago, I planned on going to MI from January 17th-25th, to do more stuff at my Dad's house. Which I did…I need to go see my brother, my sister in law, my niece and nephew and my Mom was coming to visit us in MI as well (She is in WI). But what I did realize the first weekend after my 2nd miscarriage was that I needed to spend time with myself and I needed to take care of myself. How did I do that…through exercise. I took Yoga classes, took doggy for an hour walk, took a couple of Nia classes (yoga, martial arts and dance), went for a couple of runs and did a CrossFit Class…ouch but loved it. Since I have been a triathlete for 15 years..I have always said this: "Triathlon helps keep me in balance…mind, body and soul." But now I need to put this: "Exercise helps keep me in balance…mind, body and soul." In these heartaches, I have learned to take care of yourself, it is OK to cry, surround yourself with love ones and remember to always be true to you. I forgot that…that is what I was doing the last 15 years.

Top 10 Reasons for the 2008 Triathlon Season

2008-09-14T20:49:00.000-05:00

Top 10 Reasons of Why I enjoyed 2008 Triathlon Season: 1. I enjoyed hanging out with my triathlon friends without feeling I needed to beat them:) 2. Didn't put any pressure on myself 3. My sponsors still sponsored me 4. My family still loved me 5. I still have my job:) 6. I could still do small races and do fairly well (That isn't a good thing to know though:)) 7. I didn't look as tired when I went into work 8. I was able to go and hang out with my friends when I wanted too 9. I was able to support my hubby with his training 10. I enjoyed triathlon again:) Looking forward to Triathlon Season of 2009...who knows what that will entail?

Youth Triathlon Clinic in Chicago

2008-08-31T13:56:00.000-05:00

I went up to Chicago for a quick weekend to help with a Youth Triathlon Clinic. The ages ranged from 7-17. What a great bunch of kids. There were about 25-30 kids for two days. The clinic was put on by Alive with Mission Me! and Tri-Masters. Tri-Master's is a group that encourages kids of any age, size, color, bike or no bike, to learn about triathlons and duathlon. It is such a wonderful group. Bernard and Tony were AWESOME! What a bunch of great guys helping out kids who just want to get out and do things! Alive with MissionMe! is a non profit organization that encourage kids to get out and just do things outside...sort of what we used to do when we were younger. Ride our bike to play t-ball, go to the lake for 5 hours and just swim and play, ride our bikes to go to the local pool and then ride home and dinner was ready. I miss those days. But I think we can still do that with kids...just in an organized setting. Teach kids that it is OK, to get out and do things! I learned and accomplished a lot from that clinic...kids are exhausting, so many great coaches out there, Chicago is an AWESOME town, kids are exhausting, learned new swim drills, learned different drills for the kidos...on swimming, biking and running, improved my speed walking:), kids are exhausting, learned how to get on the same level with the kids...(Just tell them what you have on your IPod...Usher, Chris Brown, Rhianna...I am not that old!) and that a little part of me hoped that I made a difference in a 7-17 year old's life. That someday they can look back at their weekend of the triathlon clinic and say..."Hey, remember that Coach Jen from Texas...she was _(fill in the blank)_". That is what I hoped that I accomplished from the clinic in Chicago. Thanks Kidos:)

3rd Race of the Season...

2008-08-18T20:33:00.000-05:00

I forgot to post how I did on my 3rd race of the season, Dam 09' in Alamo Height, TX...

1st age group and 5th overall.

Truthfully, I was really happy with it. It did seem a lot easier than Rogue Women's Race but it was also shorter. It was a pool swim and I placed myself a little farther back than I should have. A lot of folks who don't understand the pool set up, probably will place themselves at 1:00/100 meters...trying to be Michael Phelps:) I did have to pass a few folks. The bike was great...right in my back yard. The run was a road/trail run...once again, the park we take our doggy too! I passed quite a few women on the run and very surprised. It was a great race and a lot of fun. I highly recommend the Dam 09 Triathlon for a beginner or someone who is getting ready for an Olympic distance. Great race! This I have decided will be my last triathlon race of the season. I did my 3 for USAT rankings...I am OK with that! I will miss triathlon for the 2008 season but I know that there are good things to come. I would like to do the 1/2 Marathon in SA...the Rock-n-Roll Marathon! That should be fun! Had a good time for 2008...looking forward to 2009:)

8...need I say more!

2008-08-16T23:09:00.000-05:00

UNBELIEVABLE...8 Gold medals from one Olympian. Michael Phelps...absolutely amazing. Wow...I am still at lost of words with his 1/100th of a second win.

Another amazing swimmer which I think she got sided since Dara Torres was Natalie Coughlin. She won 6 medals in the Olympics this year. I believe I heard that this was the most for a female. GOOD FOR YOU NATALIE!

I love watching the swimming and their push off the wall, their glide, their stroke count, their drive and determination. Thank you Olympians for a great 1st week!

Third Race of the Season

2008-08-15T10:01:00.001-05:00

Well...it will be my 3rd race of the season...the Dam 09' in Alamo Height, TX. It is a 400 meter swim, 10 mile bike and a 4k run. Not sure how I will do but I do know that I will go out and have fun. What I have been trying to do all year long. This year, I wanted to get back to my roots of triathlon...why did I do a triathlon from the beginning? My first triathlon was on a mountain bike but I had fun!! It was the best feel of accomplishment for me to say I did a triathlon. Once in awhile, don't forget you to go back to your roots...remember why you got into triathlon...remember your first race...try to race the way you did that first race...don't worry about the time, the awards, the person in front of you...try to race to finish it:) Enjoy the journey of the triathlon!

Olympics in Beijing

2008-08-08T10:49:00.000-05:00

I am really looking forward to watching the Olympics...

1. Triathlon (Go Hunter, Matt, Laura, and the rest of the US crew!)

2. Swimming (Go Michael P...8 Gold medals...can he do it?)

3. Gymnastics

4. Track and Field

It is such inspiration watching them all. What I do like to watch especially in the track and field, is their concentration that they have and even their superstitious behaviors. Like touching your ear or putting their foot on the line 5 x's, etc. That is the Sports Psychology that I love!

Enjoy the Olympic journey...I know I will!

Results from Rogue Women's Triathlon

2008-08-01T10:32:00.000-05:00

I am truly amazed at myself sometimes. I really feel like I am out of shape...I haven't been doing as much as I used to but my results were...

1st in Age Group and 5th overall female!

Same as last year...my times were a bit slower...about 3 minutes slower but I am really OK with that! I felt a lot more wind on the bike than I remember last year. I really pushed it on the swim but it did seem longer than 300. Run seemed a little harder but I think cardiovascular wise...I could use some improvement:)

It was wonderful my hubby, Chris and our dog, Macca or McCormack came to cheer us on...here is a sweet photo of dogie and I. It was really nice to have some support. That is always helpful.

What do I get out of this experience?

1. I had a blast!

2. I enjoyed spending the time with Chris and Macca Dog

3. It was nice to know that I can still do shorter races with little training. (Good muscle memory!)

4. Realize that you can still do races, have fun and not try to kill yourself with training.

I am not saying not train and workout...but I think a lot of people put way to much emphasis on training and can really stress out about it. We need to remember to have fun, enjoy the journey and enjoy the finish line.

2nd Tri of the Season

2008-07-25T16:32:00.000-05:00

Rogue Women's Triathlon July 27, 2008 300 meter Swim 11.1 mile Bike 2 mile Run Did it last year and placed 1st in my age group? With less training...how will I do this year? I will let you know on July 28th:)

First Tri of the Season

2008-07-10T08:36:00.000-05:00

Well, I finally did my first triathlon of the season...Tri-It in Spanish. The race was June 14th and this was my first time to sit down and write about it!

I decided to do this race since my athletes, Marco and Lorena Garsed put this race on. They are the ones that open the Triathlon Store in San Antonio...Trisition Area. So, Chris and I really wanted to support them:)

I was pretty nervous, since my training has been back burned due to my busy schedule at work. But I have been trying to get a couple of runs in during the week, some yoga and maybe an occasional swim or bike.

Had a great swim, a pretty decent bike considering the hills, averaged about 19 mph, the run was OK...it was trail runs and I had racing flats on...not a good combination. But had a decent enough run.

OK...so are you ready? Muscle memory must be pretty good because...I placed 2nd overall female. I was 50 seconds away from the 1st place women. Not bad for "not training" or feeling "out of shape!". I was really happy with my results. Chris placed 2nd overall male! Not bad for some older folks...hehehe!

I ended signing up the Rogue Women's Triathlon on July 27th and Dam 09 on August 16th. They both should be fun.

I am looking forward to them both but have really enjoyed the down time from triathlons. It has been a good summer for me when it comes to my job but the triathlon part of my life is on the back burner. I am OK with this...(I think) but I know in the long run that I will always have triathlon in my life, whether I am cheering my husband on, whether I am coaching my AWESOME athletes or just enjoy watching the sport on TV for the Olympics...GO HUNTER!

This I know...I will ALWAYS have triathlon in my heart!

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!

2008-07-04T08:51:00.000-05:00

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY TO EVERYONE! HERE IS TO THE MILITARY PAST AND PRESENT...I WOULD LIKE TO SAY THANK YOU FOR TAKING CARE OF OUR COUNTRY...AMERICA!

I am a member of "iamTri"

2008-07-01T09:42:00.001-05:00

Another link for meeting triathletes

View my page on iAmTri

Writer's Block

2008-06-30T22:30:00.000-05:00

Like Carrie Bradshaw says, "If you cant think of anything to write...goto bed and try again in the morning!" (Saw "Sex and the City" Movie...2x's already!)

This I will do...

LIfe comes at you FAST!

2008-05-24T14:12:00.000-05:00

WOW...what a crazy month of May. May 5-8th-In Bahamas for a girls trip and had a blast! May 9th-Back to work and found out my Grandma passed away (last grandparent) May 11th-Happy Mother's Day and flew to Detroit for my Grandma's funeral May 15th-Flew back to SA by 4pm...in at work at 6:00pm May 16th-Worked 7:30-5 May 17th and 18th-Off but Chris and I went up to Texarkana for the 4 States Triathlon. I signed up for it...but mentally, I was spent. I just didn't have it in me to do it. It was a really hard decision but when your head isn't in it....your body may compensate...I didn't want to do that! May 19-22nd-Work at Sea World and then we are open full time for the rest of the summer! May 23-24th-Days off...thank goodness:) I don't know where the month of May went. I do know I mentally had a roller coaster ride in May. But I do know that I will get past this road block as well. I did a lot of running during the month of May, so I feel really good about my run. Not sure when I will do my next triathlon...feel like work is taking a lot of time this year...but that is OK...not to many people can say they can jump off a killer whale! I have to remember to keep Life in Balance...it is not about the destination...it is about the journey. And while I am here on this earth...I am going to enjoy my journey which ever way I can!

Happy Earth Day!

2008-04-22T20:04:00.001-05:00

Happy Earth Day! Is everyone doing their part by conserving the earth? How much can one do to make a difference? I am not sure but I have to say that I am trying to do my part. I tried not to drive today but had to do some errands. Went to the grocery store, picked up my free HEB grocery bag to replace the plastic ones...yuck and Chris and I took dogie for a walk at the park. I will try to do my best when it comes to taking care of the earth...whether it is today or any day! On my runs and rides, I am floored of how much trash is around the roads or the parks. Have people not been educated with throwing litter or do they just not care? Do folks not care since they won't be around in 100 years? Why is it that hard to put trash in a garbage can that is only 3 feet away from you? Is it hard to put your Coke can in the recycle bin? Why is it hard to put a cigarette butt in your ash tray in your car versus the road? Do folks not want to dirty their car? What about dirtying our earth? Truthfully, it disgust me, how naive people can be towards this earth...since it is the only earth we live on. We all may have a busy schedule with jobs, family, triathlon training, school, etc. but just like we make time for ourselves...we can make time for our earth! (Thank you for letting me get on my soap box for today!)

Recap of Ironman Arizona

2008-04-16T08:53:00.000-05:00

HOT, WINDY and just YUCK!! This is from http://www.ironmanlive.com/.

A tough day in Arizona
RACETIME: 16:27
If you are wondering how tough things were out on the course today, all you have to do is check out the number of DNF's at today's race.Of the 2035 athletes who started the swim, 2033 finished in time to start the bike.Of those, 1,874 managed to get through the hot and windy bike course.1,830 of those started the run.With just under 40 minutes to go, 1,574 of those athletes have finished.The high attrition rate is no-doubt due to the extreme heat we experienced here today, coupled with the high winds.

Unfortunately, one of those DNF's was my husband. I rented a mountain bike and was seeing him at different parts of the bike and the run. He looked great on the bike and even the first 3 miles of the run...at mile 5...he gave me the look that you don't want to see from anyone. He gave me "I am done!" look. He was having stomach issues even on the bike and felt like there was an alien in his stomach. I suggest to go to the med tent just to get checked out. They let him hang out for a bit but didn't give him an IV since he felt like he didn't need it. I saw James Bonney in there and the 5th place male. They looked spent!

Chris is OK...he has a really good attitude from not finishing it. I think I was more upset for him then he was? But he knows there are other races and other Ironman races! I want to let him know that I love him and support him whether he placed 1st, 30th, 495th, or DNF. He is still my Ironman!!!

The Day before Ironman Arizona...from a spectator's view

2008-04-12T09:34:00.000-05:00

It is the day before Ironman Arizona and I am looking forward to watching my husband compete! What a change that is for me. As triathletes, we ask ourselves many questions before our "A" race, especially when it can be an Ironman...

"Am I overtrained or undertrained or just right?"
"Do I have all my equipment?"
"Do I have enough food for the race?"
"Am I mentally ready?"
"I am nervous...am I the only one?"
"Do I wear a hat or visor?"
"Can we just start this thing?"

There are so many questions as an athlete but I have questions in my head as a spectator...

"What time do I have to get up?"..."REALLY?"
"Am I ready to be on my feet all day?"
"Do I have enough sunscreen?" (It is suppose to be 93 degrees)
"Can I get a run or a swim in during his bike?"
"Where can I see Chris?" (Ironman AZ is a very friendly spectator course!)
"Do I have enough digital photos in my camera?"
"Where should I go for lunch?"

Since this has been my second time watching an Ironman...I am sure I will do fine. Truthfully, I am really looking forward to it. I am renting a mountain bike, so I can see Chris at different points of the run...that should be nice!!!

It is going to be a long day for both of us...but I have to say I am glad that I am on the spectator's end. I have come to terms that I will not be doing an Ironman for another couple of years and I am OK with that!!!

I will keep everyone posted on my day along with Chris's day of Ironman AZ. We also have an athlete, Jay, who will participating in the Ironman as well. Julie, his wife, will be asking herself those same questions...I am sure!

3 months later...

2008-03-18T21:58:00.000-05:00

A lot of things can happen in folks lives within three months…training hard for an Ironman, getting ready for a new job, opening a new business, moving to another state, having major surgery, the possibility of trying to have a baby…I have all of the above athletes. My husband, Chris and Jay are getting ready for IM-AZ! It is April 13th! (I CANT WAIT TO CHEER YOU BOTH ON!) I have three athletes doing Ironman Louisville, Dave, Sean and Travis. (YOU GUYS ROCK!!!) My athlete, Marco has decided that changing jobs, opening a triathlon store in San Antonio… www.trisitionarea.com and having major surgery will hinder his Ironman-Louisville completion but will still train for the 70.3 IM in Austin. (WISE CHOICE, MY FRIEND!) Another athlete, Maureen, moved to Nashville and has decided to work with a coach in Nashville. (YOU WILL BE MISSED!) Then myself, Coach Jen, has been trying to have a baby…with her husband’s help…of course! A lot of things can happened…but remember…we need to keep it all in (TRI) BALANCE!

Happy Holidays

2007-12-24T08:34:00.000-06:00

Hi All,

It has been awhile since I have posted on my blog...but I just wanted to say Have a wonderful Christmas and a very Happy New Year. The month of November and December was pretty layed back as far as training...and that is OK. It is what my body craved! I lifted 2x's a week, ran 3x's a week...did Brikam Yoga...rode the bike a few times...spent time with family....went to a couple of movies...got ready for the holidays...baked Gluten-Free Sugar Cookies...found a puppy under our house...still have the puppy...not getting a lot of sleep with the puppy. These last two months were wonderful but I am looking forward to getting back to "LIFE". I am looking forward to getting into a routine of spending time with the hubby, work, spending time with the cat and taking the dog for a walk and of course, working out....and getting ready for the 2008 Triathlon season!. Have a very safe New Year and I will keep you posted more on a weekly basis! Remember it is all about keeping an even BALANCE of LIFE!

Thank you...athletes!

2007-11-11T19:09:00.000-06:00

Just a little note to you...my athletes! I wouldn't be here as a coach if it wasn't for my athletes. Now, I am not talking about my athletes from the last year...I am talking about my athletes from the last 6 years of my coaching. I have come so far as an athlete and as a coach. But if it wasn't for the athletes from 2001 all the way to 2007...I wouldn't be here. So, to the folks who went with me as a coach in 2002...when I was just learning to be a coach...I, Thank you!. When I started my own business, TriBalance Coaching, and my athletes stayed with me...Thank you! When I have not only developed an athlete/coach relationship but a friendship between 2 athletes...I say Thank you! So, you know who you are....THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart!!! You will never know how much I appreciate you all as an athlete and a friend! So...THANK YOU!!!

Wow...36 years old!!!

2007-10-28T22:27:00.000-05:00

Well, it is the day after my 36th birthday(10-27) and I sit back and reflex on my year. On my birthday, I ran 36 minutes. I didn't have time to run a full 36 minutes, so Chris (my hubby) suggest that I run 18 minutes of my childhood years at home and 18 minutes of my adult years at work. So, I decided to reflected on what I have done in my 36 years of my life. Each minute of my run, I looked at the clock and figure out where I was at the time...from 0-5...I don't remember much. From 5-10, I was in those young years, trying to figure out who I was. From 11-15, I was in the geeky years...still trying to figure out who I was. At this point, I figure out I either wanted to be a marine biologist or an actress. Time will tell. From 16-19, I was getting the driver licenses, going to college and leaving home. From 20-24, I was going back to live at home, graduate college, do my very first triathlon on a mountain bike. From 25-29, I lived in Minnesota, Mississippi and Texas...living my childhood dream of being a marine mammal trainer. At this time, I also figured out I wanted to do an Ironman before I turned 30. From 30-34, I did 4 Ironmans, numerous 1/2 Ironmans, got married and still living my childhood dream. From 35-36, I am still living my childhood dream, still doing triathlons and loving a man, that I never thought would be in my life...my husband. I look at my 36 years of my life and I am very thankful and very blessed for my each day that I live. What holds for the 37th year of my life...I will not know until my 38th year rolls around. But with the support of my husband, my family and my amazing friends...it will not matter...I have lived the best 36 years of my life and I will never look back to regret anything. Maybe I should change my Blog title: "Attitude helps keep life in balance...mind, body and soul." Watching this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k0aO64aKqek...may help you think about your life, your childhood dreams and your attitude. It did with mine:)

Welcome to TriBalance Coaching Blog

2007-10-21T11:41:00.000-05:00

Hi All! Welcome to Coach Jen's blog. I will post different aspects of life vs trying to train for triathlons. It is truly all about balance! Life sometimes just gets in the way. It is tough but it is possible to train for a sprint triathlon all the way up to an Ironman. It is about figuring out what works for you as an athlete. I am here to guide you!

The season is ending...

2007-10-02T22:13:00.000-05:00

The season is ending....it is October 2nd and I have 12 days until my final triathlon of the season, the US Open Triathlon in Dallas. I was pretty impressed with my training and racing for this year...thinking I would not get a lot of races in or do very well. I ended up doing 5 triathlons + 1 more in Dallas. And my placing was pretty good with all my races...usually first in my age group and top 5-10 overall female. I have been consistent with my training, maintained my weight...even have lowered it, and have been happy with my races. I left my races this year...the feeling that I think we all crave...the feeling of your first race ever. I remember my first triathlon... 1992, YMCA Triathlon in Janesville, WI and I believe it was a bit longer than a sprint. I was on my mountain bike and watching the really "fast" people ahead of me...but I didn't care. I was looking at the cows, the butterflies, and listening to my Mom and my best friend, Krista cheering me on. When I crossed that finish line...I was happy. I was happy that I finished my first triathlon. This year...I can say I have been happy with my races. I think this has been a year of discovering the "Joys of Triathlon" again. Learning to say "NO' to Ironman Arizona when you know you are not ready. Learning to say "I am not doing that race...run, swim, run...no thank you." Learning to cross that finish line being HAPPY, not second guessing your training...because you just finished "your _______________ (fill in the blank) triathlon." This year...I went back to 1992 and enjoyed every minute of it.