So it’s been a rough couple of days around here. I wasn’t sure if I was going to participate because I’ve been pretty under the weather. I had a flu test this week – came back negative, but I’m not convinced I don’t have it. I was lying in bed today thinking I just needed to bow out this week – but for some reason I just can’t quit! So, it’s in that fighting spirit that I shot a picture of one of my favorite pasttimes – my bike. Three years ago, I was in the best shape of my life, participating in triathlons and half-marathons…but my favorite part of my training by far was the bike rides. AND THIS BIKE is just one of the things that makes me happy just to look at it. It’s the most beautiful color of blue – and when I look at it, it takes me back to flying through those races at top speed (well, my top speed…ha ha). I miss those days. I completed St. Anthony’s olympic distance triathlon in April 2007 – I always say it was one of the greatest days of my life. It changed me somehow. Made me believe in myself in a way I hadn’t before … or since really. 1 mile ocean swim, 26 mile bike and 6.2 mile run. It was exhilarating. Shortly after the race I suffered an injury to my thigh that I struggled with for an entire year. I went from doing 35-40 mile bike rides and 10 mile runs to not being able to do ride 3 miles without pain. Running? Forget about it…I couldn’t make it to the end of the block.
I fought and fought but the more I fought, the more my leg fought BACK. It was very hard to take. For those that know me, I’m NOT a quitter. I don’t give up. I push and push to make things happen. I can’t just sit still and let things go. My physical therapist told me I HAD TO SIT STILL and not ride, not run…I ignored him. My injury continued. Because…as my mom always says…TERESA knows better. She always told me I had to learn things the hard way and this was one of those times in life where that was true. About a year later, I was getting back on track…was able to ride moderate distances, run moderately – and then – SURPRISE!! Baby on board! Yup. BIGGEST BLESSING OF MY LIFE – don’t get me wrong…but I also knew, once again, it was going to be a while before I could get back to my triathlon days. Here I am three and a half years later and finally feeling that fight again. I’m ready to see these wheels spinning!! There won’t be a St. Anthony’s this year – but my goal is to do at least one smaller race this summer…hmmmmmmmmmmm Mad Dog?? Dunedin?? (that was my first triathlon). Whatever the race, I’m looking forward to recapturing that part of myself that has been missing so long…that confidence and drive and determination. I’m sure it’s in there somewhere!!
Head on over to Jennifer’s blog and see her version of “lines”! Fort Wayne, IN- Jennifer Olivas
I’m a race girl as well, but mostly running…there’s something about the feel of a competition that just gets me going. I hope you get yourself back out there this year!
Wow, you go girl. I have no doubt you’ll be doing triathlons in no time! Great picture and great story!
Nice job! I’m glad you forced yourself to do it and I hope you feel better!!!
So creative!
Nothing better suited for ‘lines’ than the spokes on a bike. Great shot!
Great picture….and I love the story that goes with it. After 4 knee surgeries my bike is a must in my life….but I hear you…..injuries SUCK! Not only my knee…but my back also has set me back and it’s killing me to just sit and wait to heal….it’s not working for me. Hope you get back to riding soon!
wow… thats quite the story. I love your image and admire your fight. You go girl!
Love reading your story! It is amazing how life turns around, but our passions remain the same!
Very cool shot!
Love it! And love the story that goes with it! I feel happy looking at my bright pink running shoes!
Cool perspective, love it!
Great shot! I feel your pain – we’ve got the flu here too. Glad you didn’t give up – very creative!
Great read….fab image
so sorry you aren’t feeling well. this turned out great!
I do love the color of your bike too! Great shot.
Hope you are feeling better! You have an awesome spirit and did a great job!!!