Abort Kilimanjaro!!!

I made a decision in the middle of August after working with physical therapists most of the summer, that my leg and foot problems were severe enough to abort the Kilimanjaro climb.  It was a very difficult decision!! For 12 months I had been preparing for the climb and had become very fond of the women that had embarked on this journey.  Throughout the summer many of us hiked three times a week in Breckenridge, many of us biked three times a week, and some of us worked with a trainer.  It was a committment that no one took lightly.  The average age of the 13 women was around 70 years of age.  I was inspired by two ladies that were 76 and 78 years age.  My first fourteener was Mt. Evans the middle of July.  About half way up I could no longer look down to where I had come from!!  Every Tuesday we hiked up Mt Royal which is 1300 vertical and 1.9 miles and usually took about two hours, up and down.  The upward grunt was worth the climb for the views.  I measured my  progress every Tuesday with the Mt Royal hike.  Some of the other hikes were Mayflower, Ptarmigan, Angler, Mohawk, Wheeler, McCullough, and Quandry.  I was in Arusha in Tanzania to welcome these amazing women as they came down from the mountain and back to the Impala Hotel.  They were beaming with joy as they stepped out of that loaded van.Their very, very dirty and dusty clothes told the partial story of their nine day trek!! It was emotional to hear their stories recounting their successful trek to the top!!  I salute the 11 women,  many celebrating their 70th birthday, that trekked to the top of Kilimanjaro.  THEY MADE IT!!  THEY DID IT!!  There were eight of us that went on to do the Serengeti Safari.  It was a fitting climax to a year long journey .  I am inspired by and so, so proud of these 11 women that made it to the top of Kilimanjaro!!!  They are amazing women!!!!!!!!

Breckenridge June 16th to July 31

First week in Breck was spent biking and hiking with my grandaughter, Ciera.  We biked to Keystone and Copper and she did great on my old carbon Trek.  After Ciera left I began my two a week work-outs with Marika, Fitness Director of Breckenridge Rec Center.  She was quik to assess my limitations concerning plantar fascitis.  The next week was spent with Ann Middleton and I did my first Vail Pass bike ride the end of June.  There was so much snow and water, part of the bike path to Copper was under water.  Right after July 4th, Barb and I started the regimen of biking on Monday and Thursday with two different ladies groups, and hiking with the Kilimanjaro ladies two or three days a week.  Every Tuesday we hike Mt. Royal in Frisco.  It is short but steep and it is a good measure of my acclimitization and fitness level to do it every week.  Last Tuesday(my fifth week) was the first time it seemed easier.  The week before we turned left on our way up to Mt Royal and did Victoria until we were turned back by the snow.  We drove to Mt Evans on Sunday, July 11, just to get above 14,000'.  On Friday, July 16th we hiked Mt. Evans.  I could not believe how steep it was and could not look down once we got close to 14,000'.  I did not feel well at the top and rode down in a car.  The following day I had severe stomach/under breastbone pain and went to Dr. PJ.  He suggested I had a reaction to Naproxen that I was taking twice a day per the podiatrist.  He did EKG as a precaution and asked me to see a cardiologist before I climbed another fourteener.  I did and all is well.  However, I missed the Bierstadt fourteener on Friday, July 23rd.  Instead, we did a lovely hike to Mayflower Gulch with Annette's group.  In between we have done Angler's mountain and part of Ptarmigan, three times.  Weekend of July 24-25, Barb and I went to Denver to stay with Darci and family and buy Kili stuff at REI.  Walking the concrete floor was a killer for my foot!! The foot is holding at this point; not better and not worse. 

Last two weeks in May and first two weeks in June

After returning from Italy my thoughts turned to Kilimanjaro.  The podiatrist said the plantar fascitis had returned, the tendon in my arch was severely swollen, and to return to all the aggressive methods in treating my foot.  Another cortisone shot, iceing, stretching, sleeping in boot, flexing my foot 10 times and holding at least six times a day and no unnecessary walking.  Always wearing shoes in the house and orthotics at all times to protect the heel.  I could bike and swim.  I resumed my work with a trainer two times a week and I did not know I should not have been on the step machine or have done lunges.  My current trainer in Breckenridge, who is the fitness director at the rec center has educated me further about activities I should and should not be doing to heal my foot.  I did spin classes and biked several times a week as the weather allowed.

My eldest grandaughter graduated from high school the end of May and I was collecting items in preparation for my summer in Breckenridge.  It was a challenge to try to think of everything I would need for biking and hiking in Breckenridge as well as all the clothes and camping items I would need for the nine day trek in Kilimanjaro.  I knew I would fill in with clothes from REI but I wanted to bring as many things as I could anticipate three months in advance.  It was a huge undertaking to prepare for and my van was full.   Ciera, my grandaughter wanted to come to Breckenridge with me for a week so we took two bikes as well as all my gear.  Whew, what a job packing that van.  We left for Breckenridge on June 16th, the day after Savanna's (my 13 yr old grandaughter) dance production and stayed at Darci's in Denver for two days to enjoy her family and to acclimate. 

Catching up-Italy bike trip 4/28/11-5/11/11

I am attempting to catch up from my last post in April!!!

On 7/28/11, we flew into Rome, took train to Venice and biked to Florence.   Maps and wonderful hybrid bikes provided by Pack & Pedal, a European vendor.  Our group is organized by Stan Pierson, our 83 yr old bike leader.  Jim Elkan, a retired pilot, navigated the beautiful countryside tour through Italy. Our stops were 5/1 in Chiogga, 5/2 to Rovigo, 41 miles, 5/3 in Ferrara, 29 miles, Wed. 5/4 in Ravena, 32 miles + train, 5/5 in Brisighella, 35 miles, Friday-5/6 to Florence, 22 miles + train.  5/7 & 5/8 in Florence, 5/9 train to Rome and left on 5/11 from Rome on Ilitalia & United through Chicago.  The scenery, food and wine were excellent.  Walking Florence and seeing the amazing sights were breathtaking.  My biggest disappointment was reinjuring my foot while walking the streets of Florence.  Plantar fascitis was my nemesis two years ago and it came back with a vengeance.  After returning to Overland Park, I scheduled a visit to the podiatrist, got a cortisone shot and dealth with the unhappy thought of trying to prepare for Kilimanjaro without the ability to walk the 4.5 miles around Shawnee Mission Park.  In previous years, Barb & I had tried to work up to two trips around the park for 9 miles to prepare for the hiking in Breckenridge.  It was not going to happen this year.  I left June 16 for Breckenridge to try to get acclimated to 9800' feet. 

Italy bound! 4/28/11

Headed to Rome. Taking train to Venice!

Wed., April 6, 2011, A hard bike ride!

It is so hard to know how to dress this time of the year in KC.  Yesterday, it was 31 degrees when we started our ride to Prairie Village from my house at 7 am with 8 mph winds.  Coming back after breakfast at Grandview it was 55-60 degrees but a 15-18 mph head wind.  It was a hard 44 miles!!!  Today, Barb and I walked a fast 4.5 miles with only 5 lbs.  After that I got my second round of shots for Africa;  Hepatitis A/B combination, typhoid, and meningococcal vaccine for over 55 yrs of age.  I must have three hepatitis shots and because there is not enough time for all three I am on the accelerated program.  That means a booster hepatitis one year from my first shot a week ago.  Tonight my arm is sore!!  Last week, did not feel a thing??? 

April 4, 2011, Weights and yoga and seven grain blueberry pancakes!!!

Finished last week with a bike ride on Saturday and Sunday and yoga on Sunday.  Yard work on Friday and Saturday felt great.  Heavy winds changed the work-out plan for today.  Weights at 6:30 this morning and substituting yoga for the 5 mile walk today. After two weeks on taxes, (UGH!) I hope to finish up today and send to Iowa for the final touch.  My trainer reminded me to get 130-135 grams of protein every day.  That could mean 5 meals of 25 grams plus.  I know I need to have the protein within 15 minutes of walking in the door after my work-out.  Today I had protein shake with two scoops of chocolate Melaleuca protein flex powder with 8 ounces of coconut milk and one LARGE strawberry.  I would have added peanut butter (yum) but we were out.  At 9:30 I will have one scrambled egg with large Table spoon of cottage cheese and one multi-grain, blueberry pancake.  I crave my 7 grain organic pancakes.  I get the mix from Paul's Grains farm, a menonite like farm that reflects a "true organic" philosophy.  This farm is about 20 miles North of Newton, Iowa, where I lived for 30 years.  I have been getting this mix for the last 25-30 years and love the grainy texture.  When I add the blueberries it goes over the top for me!!!!!!!!!!

Back from Tucson and Breckenridge!!

Six weeks at La Paloma in Tucson, bookended with snowshoeing in Breckenridge, made for a fun and very sunny winter:):):)  The hard part was coming back to cloudy weather, cold and even a little snow.  The KS winds are always tricky when planning bike rides and have required some indoor spinning classes.  I am now back with the trainer three times a week.  For the first time I am sore today!!!  Even though I have worked out some on my own, it seems impossible to push myself as much as the trainer does!!  I am walking the Shawnee Mission hills, 4.5 miles, twice a week with six lbs in the backpack and ready to take it to eight lbs. My goal by June 10th is to be able to walk nine miles at Shawnee Mission Park with 10-15 lb backpack weight.  Thank goodness for my walking and biking partner, Barb.  It is so helpful to have a support system as there are days you want to stay in bed when it is cloudy and cold??!!  It was quite easy in Tucson when the sun was shining every day!!!

Tucson, Gates Pass, 3/11

Two and a half hour hike on Gates Pass. This was the second, flatter route. Turned back on the first one that was steep with loose rocks!!??!!

Tucson, 3/13 Mt Lemmon & Gates Pass

Barb arrived on Wed and we rode Mt. Lemmon on Thursday, hiked Gates Pass on Friday, and did a 23 mile biking loop yesterday.  Biking Mt. Lemmon twice in one week is enough!!  We abandoned the ride leader on Gates Pass after 30 minutes and came back down.  Very loose rocks and gravel on a steep ascent did not make sense to me or seem safe!!!!!!!!!  We drove to another trail head and had a safer more pleasant hike.  Susie lives near so she actually hiked back to her house and had lunch and Margaritas ready for us!!  A perpect ending!!!!!!!!!!!!  Social life has been over the top!  Tonight, we go to Judy and Pablo's for our sixth happy hour in six days!!!!  It has been fun but I could not continue this???!!!  In an hour we will ride to Rincon Market with the KC group for the every Sunday "Farmer's Market" breakfast.  It has been in the 80's for the last week!!!  Most important, we see the sun every single day!!

Tucson summary 3/8/11

I have been in Tucson for five glorious weeks and I leave in a week.  Weight training is not the same without a trainer but I have managed to use reciprocity at JCC and average 2-3 times a week lifting weights on  my own.  I have hiked once a week with the longest hike 9.2 miles.  Sally Krusing, (climbed Kili two yrs ago) suggested that hike was equal to the longest Kili hike, without the altitude!!!  Pontatoc Ridge last week with Lynn & Ginny was shorter but it was a little more technical and a great work-out.  Bike rides have averaged about three a week.  The Mt Lemmon ride, which I have done every Tuesday, is a great cross trainer!!  Today, after Mt Lemmon, I am looking forward to a round of golf with Bill and Kay W. and a dinner at North.  We have had great meals at Jasper's, Vivace, Arizona Inn, Firebirds, and an amazing sunset/meal at Hacienda Del Sol.  Lynn and Ginny left yesterday and Barb comes in tomorrow.   Life is "oh so good" !!!!!:):)::)

Pontatoc Ridge hike, Tucson, 3/5/11

Pontatoc Ridge, Tucson - A gorgeous day, 78 degrees, starting at 9 am and finishing around 1:30. Close to my condo at La Paloma. Friends of Lynn and Ginny joined us; Jack, Gary and Connie. It was a great overlook of the city and especially the Westin golf course and La Paloma. It is the closest I have been to Finger Rock!! We finished with a great lunch at Blanco!! Foot feels fine but it always does the same day!!

Mt Lemmon, Seven Cataracts

Sally K. and I rode to Seven Cataracts, mile nine, on the Tuesday Mt. Lemmon ride. It was my first ride past Molina Basin.

Marlene, Tucson, Aqua Caliente Ridge,2/11

We missed the hiking group so Barb and I lagged behind and hiked this ridge on a cool Friday in the middle of February; about 4 miles. The foot felt fine. Yea!!

Tucson, 2/26/11, finished reading "Mao's Last Dancer"

Michelle arrived today!!  Picking up Jack's bike, a visit to REI, a long nap, and eating at Acacia filled the rest of the day.  I could not go to bed till I finished "Mao's Last Dancer", based on a true story of an 11 yr old boy, chosen by Madame Mao's gov't, to leave his rural peasant family and study ballet.  A passionate, heartwarming and sometimes riveting memoir!!!!
I cannot believe I have not written in this blog for a month!!  Tomorrow, I promise myself, I will catch up.  Tomorrow morning, snow is predicted here in Tucson, a temp of 29 with a high of 49????  But Monday, the sun and warmer weather returns!! 
Since we cannot ride our bikes to the usual Sunday morning breakfast with the rest of the KC cyclists, Michelle and I will drive to Tubac.  Maybe, I can find one more beautiful clay pot to add to my collection of four!!??!!  My van was already full coming out here!!!!!!!!!!!

Breck snow shoeing with the Kilimanjaro ladies!!

Today was one strenuous day but absolutely one of the most beautiful days in the Rocky evergreens I have ever seen. The snow was pristine, glistening brighter than diamonds, and hanging like giant puffballs from the limbs. Barb and I joined four of the Kili ladies (Diana, Eva, Martine, and Jane) snow shoeing on peak seven.  I swear these ladies took off at a trot??!!  We did a 3.5 hour loop ending at the Grand Lodge in the hot tub, thanks to Martine, soothing some aching muschles.  Our lunch was at the Alleuja Hut!!  Having just arrived at  this altitude, Barb and I were breathless most of the 3.5 hours.  It seemed harder than two of my triathlons put together.  It was exhausting but fun . . . now that it is over!!!:)  I think we were at 11,000+ feet at one point!!!  Not nearly as high as 19,300 that we will experience next September.  Baby steps,  right??
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Breckenridge- Jan. 26, 2011

Last week was spent training three mornings with Corie, my OP trainer, (I am getting stronger!), three spinning classes and preparing for being gone seven weeks; a week in Breckenridge and six weeks in Tucson.  After an overnight with Darci in Denver, I arrived at my condo in Breck Monday and it was -3.  Brrrr!  Ten of the eleven Kilimanjaro ladies met for a cocktail/get acquainted evening on Monday.  I am impressed and slightly intimidated with the athletic abilities of these women.  Their backgrounds include 9 safaris, Ride the Rockies, an ironman, 50 marathons, and our oldest member in her late 70's planning two half marathons next summer in addition to hiking our fourteeners every week???!!!:):)  I left the evening thinking "did I just really hear all of that????  And . . . can I keep up in this altitude???? It is obvious that this amazing group of women LOVE THE OUTDOORS, ENJOY ADVENTURE, ARE IN GREAT SHAPE,  AND REAP THE BENEFITS OF GOOD HEALTH IN THE PROCESS!!!  I am honored to be included in this group!  Five of the eleven women will turn 70 this year!!  Our Kilimanjaro trip begins on September 6, 2011!!!!  I have to remind myself that was the reason for this blog; to track my training and my journey.

This was an amazing France bike trip last year. Loire Valley is beautiful!!!
Biking in Paris at night and
ending on a wine cruise on the
Seine was a true adventure!!

Noah wins local 5th grade school spelling bee!!

Noah won on the word elucidate last night at his school's spelling bee.  We have been practicing for a week and it paid off!!  Now on to the regional!

Phoenix-1-9-2011

My week in Phoenix with Bill & Leone has gone to fast.  I leave tomorrow morning and return to predicted 7" snow in KC  It is always relaxing to lounge on their patio overlooking the pool and to have breakfast poolside.  Leone & I worked out twice with the Tatum trainer.  Mindy is a "FitforGolf" coach and an excellent trainer with creative work-outs.  Back was a little sore.  Leone and & pushed each other on a small sled and then pulled each other back to the start!!  Fun and very challenging!! Today we worked out on our own and I did 25 min. on the step, 35 min lifting upper body and 15 min of stretching.  Felt good.  My foot may be getting used to the step and getting stronger. 

On Wednesday we hiked Pinnacle Peak out and back in 2:15 and stopped often for pictures.  I love that hike and wish I had it in my back yard.  There is a bit of loose gravel and I marvel at the number of people that run it up and down!!  Now trying to post Pinnacle Peak pictures.  Wish that were easy for me!!??!!  With the new I Phone 4, the pictures are marvelous and I so want to share.  We'll see!!  Next week it is two trainer work-outs.  Barb & I have a yoga groupon and her daughter gave her free sessions at another gym.  We joked about having to work-out all day to use the groupons and gift memberships.  Two weeks from today we leave for Tucson for 6 weeks via Breckenridge.  Life is good even with the Chiefs losing in the play-off as I write.  Time to go to REI and look for Kilimanjaro equipment!!!  That is fun shopping!!!!!!!!!

Marlene's pose for "Black Dress Cycling Calendar,2011

"Black Dress Cycling Calendar Ladies", 2011

January 2, 2011-New year thoughts

I went to Borders to buy books today.  A friend told me to get "Paths of Glory" if I was going to climb Kilimanjaro.  "The Book of Awakening" and "Chinese Diet Therapy" were also recommended by friends who know I appreciate holistic healing and searching the soul.  In the process of selecting these books my eyes fell on "Better Health through Natural Healing".  A dear friend has advanced prostrate cancer and has decided to forego Chemo and radiation.  So I am sending him this book.  Another friend who had prostrate cancer five years ago, healed it by drinking 8 cups of green tea every day, among many other things.  We certainly all have choices about our health!!  We also have choices about how we live each day!! 

New Year Day 2010

Catching up for month of December!!  Working with a trainer three x a week on M W F and biking outdoors Tues, Thurs & Sat weather permitting.  Spin classes indoors on the bad weather days.  I feel myself getting stronger.  My heel is still problematic as my year old plantar fascitis seems to rear its ugly head from time to time. Tiger balm, naproxen, and my orthotics have become good friends as has a water bottle of frozen water to ice the foot.
Christmas was complete family time!!  Darci and family came from Denver and bunked in for 6 days.  We had 16 people in our house for the better part of those days.  Our DW was emptied three times a day!!  X box Kinect was the hit gift.  Shirts with a built in guitar, remote helicopters, spy watches, I Pod touch, and my favorite gifts were Keen cycling sandals and a mug with family photos.  Having all the family together outweighed all the gifts!!!!
The photo shoot on 12/6 with 12 other ladies for "black dress cycling calendar" was fun.  I happen to be December!!  The calendar has been printed (with our ages??!!) and proceeds go to a charity that helps to educate kids about cycling safety etc. We are hoping it may also inspire other women to cycle or exercise in some way.  Tomorrow, we have an open house at "Family Bicycles" in their new location to celebrate and promote this "first edition" of the "black dress" calendar, so the "black dress" will be worn again!!!!  (Never mind that we have had two open houses to celebrate the calendar already!).

 My thoughts for the new year are many.  I pray for a healthy body to be able to attempt the Kili climb in September.  I am so thankful for the times when my entire family can be together.  There are sixteen of us and everyone is precious!!  My current friends are very dear to me!!  I treasure my friendships and enjoy time spent with them.  I also look forward to new friendships this coming year.