Rehab HQ minus Amy Winehouse!

I had the absolute best workout today! Dumbells, 45 minutes (12 miles) on Madonna with the wind trainer, and 3 miles on the treadmill at a 9min 20sec split. I am very pleased with the way that went. Not only my body but the accomplishment. I really wanted to end the year strongly. Also, my blood sugar started at 136. I had a handful of sweetarts before hand and half a sports bean packet before the bike and run (thanks for the stocking stuffer mom and dad!). I finished at a blood sugar of 80. Good day all around. I had about 2 liters of water before during and after. Don't forget to hydrate!
Sports is trying to find her groove at pt. The pain is slowly subsiding with intermittent flare ups. You can see by the pic how happy she is to not be running. She'll get there...Cabo is now rehabbing. We had some rear claws removed and he is wearing one of those big collars! I think I heard Stoli and Pinot laughing at him.
See you 2008 and hello 2009. It's really just a turn of the calendar. Keep all your efforts rolling. Start new ones if you haven't started yet. Just make them better and stronger. Be safe while celebrating! See you all on the trail.

Visions of mothers' holiday food tables dance in my head

This week is truly the mark of something special. It is the season for eating non stop! I've been dreaming of the food to come today and tomorrow. That is why I added the dumbells to my routine. Lift, wind trainer, and treadmill is my Tri without a pool. My arms ached this morning but when I heard the moans of post op pain coming from the hall I felt the need to lift through my minor aches. Thanks for the motivation, Wiggles. My blood sugar started at 180 prior to the double and stayed even for the rest of the night in range. My goal will be 60 minutes with a stationary Madonna and 30 minutes of treadmill running. I have a few hours to either take a nap or get in a mid week workout. I will choose the exercise. I will feel better and my body will thank me. I am going to be ready for the Tri. Go big tone!
Happy Christmas to everyone. Celebrate with all the friends and family that you can.

Clement C Moore or less

I got this from my Type I blogger buddy, Pete from Canada. Enjoy.

The Night Before Christmas - American Soldier Style
T'was the night before Christmas,He lived all alone,
In a one bedroom house,Made of plaster and stone.
I had come down the chimney,With presents to give,
And to see just who,In this home did live.
I looked all about,A strange sight I did see,
No tinsel, no presents,Not even a tree.
No stocking by the mantle,Just boots filled with sand,
On the wall hung pictures,Of far distant lands.
With medals and badges,Awards of all kinds,
A sober thought,Came through my mind.
For this house was different,It was dark and dreary,
I found the home of a soldier,Once I could see clearly.
The soldier lay sleeping,Silent, alone,
Curled up on the floor,In this one bedroom home.
The face was so gentle,The room in such disorder,
Not how I pictured,An American soldier.
Was this the hero,Of whom I'd just read?,
Curled up on a poncho,The floor for a bed?
I realized the families,That I saw this night,
Owed their lives to these soldiers,Who were willing to fight.
Soon round the world,The children would play,
And grownups would celebrate,A bright Christmas Day.
They all enjoyed freedom,Each month of the year,
Because of the soldiers,Like the one lying here.
I couldn't help wonder,How many lay alone,
On a cold Christmas Eve,In a land far from home.
The very thought broughtA tear to my eye,
I dropped to my knees,And started to cry.
The soldier awakened,And I heard a rough voice,
'Santa, don't cry.This life is my choice.
I fight for freedom,I don't ask for more,
My life is my God,My country, my corps
.'The soldier rolled over,And drifted to sleep,
I couldn't control it,I continued to weep.
I kept watch for hours,So silent and still,
And we both shivered,From the cold night's chill.
I didn't want to leave,On that cold, dark night,
This guardian of honor,So willing to fight.
Then the soldier rolled over,With a voice, soft and pure,
Whispered, 'Carry on Santa,It's Christmas Day, all is secure.'
One look at my watch,And I knew he was right,
'Merry Christmas my friend,And to all a good night.'

Act Your Age!

Although the Shiver was a great day, I have a bit of effect from the 5K. I have this slight muscle spasm in my back that has kept me off the pavement this week so far. I have learned from that knee pain that a few days off works wonders for the aches and pains. I would rather work harder after the rest than risk further injury. Also, running outside yesterday would have sent me surely to the ER. That snow and ice can be tricky.

Our Sports had her in and out ligament repair today. She was in good spirits before. Her experience tells her it will be ok. The post op climb up the stairs to her room was tortuous for her. I don't know if she remembers the first time but I did. That helped me, although I wasn't really the one that needed help! So she will rest then rehab. The sun will surely rise in the east tomorrow...

**special note***the "old Don" complained of the photo used on race day so I found this one to keep him happy! Don is in blue and I am in all black. Missy says I look thinner that way!!

And Then the Old Don said he had an offer I wouldn't refuse

A crisp 38 degrees but sunny and a clear morning. The first Shiver by the River was stunning. Early cookie baking at my parents with all of us present. Wiggles was even there. She arrived late Saturday. Right in time for us not to spoil the surprise of an early Christmas present. We are going to Monday Night Football to see the Eagles play the Browns. I, of course, lent my expertise to all the cookie recipes. I am much better than Aimee at helping in the kitchen! I kept hydrating and tried to fuel myself for the 5K. I cautiously called my good friend, Don, to see if he might be participating. He said he was in! I was thrilled but didn't want to make too big of a deal, just in case he didn't feel too good about the run. The crowd seemed larger than normal and I was quite excited. I really kind of like to run in the cold. Don and I started out in the back, right next to the couples with the twin strollers! We figured we could possibly pace ahead of them! I told Don our goal was to not finish last and not get lapped by the winner of the 10K. As we started, we both agreed that we peed too soon. Perfect start and easy up the hill. We caught some friends I used to run with regularly. I was happy we could keep pace with them. At around the half way point, the crowd went wild! Actually, we came to the first corner where all our fans were. Missy, Wiggles, Bean, Jackie, Brad, Kevin, Ryan, and all the dogs. I smiled, too, when I caught a glimpse of Mom and Dad. I didn't know if they would make it!! I think Don appreciated the cheers, too. We made the loop and started down a hill that lead to the last mile along the river which is flat. We passed by our fans again (Missy handed me cash for a Shiver T shirt and Don veered off route to give Ry Guy a high five. Everyone thought he was bailing. Oh, the lack of faith!! Ha ha). We finished strong. Two good friends in tandem. One motivated by his daughter's force and one swept up in the idea of good health. I felt a certain satisifaction this morning. Not only for my own 5K completion but also to share it with everyone, including Don. For years I have been asking him to join me. And, so it is. Don completed his first 5K but not his last. For the record, we came in a full two minutes before the winner of the 10K!!! And, my blood sugar was pretty close to being in check. I needed a little insulin but hardly any. Better a little high than going low on the run. Rememeber, Go Big Tone (and Don, as long as he's on the Shiver course!).

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

A couple of runs this week to prepare for the Shiver on Sunday. I'm not feeling very confident about my time. I keep trying to tell myself that it really doesn't matter, but I would feel really bad if my times started to go backwards. I met a guy last night that just ran his first half marathon. He said it was a great experience. He got me a little pumped to run the Distance Run in Philadelphia in May. Missy, of course, was right there encouraging me to do that. Plus, I can then run the Tea Party run on Memorial Day weekend (Yes, Bean. I wouldn't take away your annual trip to the Jones resort!). I guess with that in mind, my Shivers by the River will have to bump up to doing the 5K loop twice. I always wanted to do that but now I feel I can because of all of you. I'll plan on running the 5K in Dec and Jan and get ready to do the 10 for Feb and Mar. That way it'll be sure to be super cold when I'm trying to finish 6.2 miles! Ha ha
The holiday party circuit is upon us. That only means extra calories. Although I didn't fill out the Santa suit, I am trying to be aware of my "days of binge". Exercise can really help combat those additional party meals. I am becoming quite comfortable with my pod, Ralph. The incredible convenience and mobility of the tool keeps me more focused. Is everyone out there doing the extra laps to cover your celebrations? Let me know...

Ho Ho Ho! Merry Christmas!!!

Running is no fun only hours after a dang-quesadilla! I tried to go even though I felt a bit queasy. Well, I bundled up, set out in a new very bright colored fleece (I know my mom likes to hear that) and made it about a mile before the Mexicans re-invaded, if you know what I'm saying!! Not a good feeling. Any runners who read this, I have a question for you. Do you ever go out on a loop you always run and just not be able to do it? I find that depending on what I eat, or how much rest I've given myself, or the weather, or stuff on my mind, or a million other things can really affect my run. Let me know with a comment if this ever happens to you.

As for the picture, on weekends when I'm not working out, I am spreading holiday cheer!! Ha ha ha. Or should I say Ho Ho Ho. That is Missy in the picture helping with the cheer and *J* is the recipient of the cheer. Go Big Tone!

Can you make a difference?

I had some knee pain that Missy diagnosed as a slight twisting while running on the trail with Cabo. I took a few days off and I am pain free. I am very aware of injuries. I don't want to turn an ankle running off a curb, slip on ice or leaves, or go out unprepared for the weather. I do try to prepare each time I run. Mostly that means stretching and not pushing too hard. I know I am not going to break any land speed records anyway! Back out this week with some good runs and swims. I may have to re-evaluate my swim venue as of January 1. A slight job change will have me farther from home for the rec schedules. Oh well, I'll figure it out.
As we enter December, I have a challenge for everyone. Not only is there the continual challenge of finding time for some kind of exercise but a challenge of giving. There are so many of us that are so lucky in our life. I don't mean lucky like having millions of dollars or being really good at a board game. I'm talking about the fact that most, if not all, of the people who read this site have places to go around the holidays. We are all surrounded by people who love them and care about whether their holidays are fun and loving. We all have the means to spread that type of cheer. There are so many ways to do that. Angel trees, adopting a family for some gifts, or donating some food to the food bank or a shelter. Buy someone a coffee who's behind you in line at Wawa or Dunkin Donuts. Do it with a smile and without any grandeur. Trust me, our lives may not be perfect, but they are way more richer, healthier, and full of love than a lot of folks out there. Good luck and Go Big Tone.

Give Thanks for All Things, both little and big.

Happy Thanksgiving. I am truly thankful for each of you who read this site and continue to motivate me. I owe you all. Enjoy your family and friends.

The Calendar Can Be a Great Equalizer

These are the times where vacation days, colder mornings, guests over to our house, and just plain laziness can easily take priority over running. It tests your mind and your body. I am proud to say that Cabo and I did a mile on the trail this morning before my long list of things to do today. He is a funny dog. He went out slow but back I kind of struggled to keep up! He obviously did not read the site to know that this one miler was for him to spend energy but for me it is just a warm up!! I hope to get out before the turkey tomorrow.
As far as the calendar goes, now Dad isn't the oldest in the house. It's my mom's birthday today. Happy birthday Mom. I hope you enjoy your day.

Team Big Tone Gets Furry

I added a running partner. He will be part time though since he lives in California (PA that it!). Wiggles came home for the turkey break and so did Cabo. Cabo is a 6 month old shepard/beagle/potluck from the Western PA Humane Society. He is full of energy and loves all of Pinot's and Stoli's toys. Our dogs seem to have forgotten what it means to be a puppy, too! My plan was to help spend some of his energy on the trail every morning. Well, he woke at 5:30AM and drug Wiggles to the living room. I took him on the trail around 7:30 and he did well! I hope we can build up to a mile before he leaves. I wonder how far we'll go over Christmas break?? Jaimye came home to break some bread and turkey with us. Our first college friend for the holidays! We are all looking forward to a great week.

Speaking of the turkey meal, I am looking forward to earning the calories with swim/run days this whole week. Monday was only 36 laps and 1.5 miles (work got in the way!!). Today I ran 3 on the trail after getting the dogs to the spa. Off to swim. I am going to try the full mile. Again tomorrow before my annual wine shopping trip with Don. We look special with those little carts getting the seasonal reds for the holiday!

Treadmills? We don't need no stinking treadmills!

4 straight days of snow flurries and I was looking for a little break. Bean suggested I run on the treadmill. I appreciate her continued support and motivation. I ran Friday inside on the treadmill. I now know two things. One, I need to give up eating at the farmer's market for lunch on a day I must run after work. Too many foods that seem to "linger" when I try to get a pace going. Second, inside running is boring. I did make a value oriented purchase at TJ Max. I got a Nike cold mock neck and long running under pants (60% off retail!). Now I can handle the cold and avoid the treadmill. I am sure that the cold winter rain will, at times, keep me inside. But, I am willing, able, and forced (thanks to Bean) to go outside. I can't wait for the Shivers!!
Also, I gave the omnipod another whirl on the arm and I am getting better results. I think I may have discovered a few things about handling this Type I. Everyday, we seem to get better at tweeking my needs. I am really looking forward to getting my lab tests in a few months. I have all the soldiers in the Big Tone Tri army to thank for that. I really do hold myself accountable to this site and all of you. Hearing from my mom that she keeps walking and taking my dad. My brother in law on the bike at the north pole is great to hear, too. I had a low the other day but sucked back swedish fish and some cranberry and drug Missy out for a 2 miler through the village in the cold dark snow. Jackie says Don is energized by his morning runs and has dropped a few along the way. All these stories really do get my butt out to run. So keep them coming. I get bored quick! And, as always, Go Big Tone!!

Like a Deer Caught in a Bike Reflector

Boy is it getting cold! Frost on the window, a dusting of snow on the fringes of the trail, and Bean has to wear a jacket in the morning. I set out today to see if I could get a three sport day in. Well, I swam 50 laps at the pool this morning. I really liked it. No problem getting through it. I even swam several laps freestyle, just to try and impress Michele Y. Still mostly breastroke, though. I get into a rhythm and I can sustain. I actually finished the 50 laps in a better time than my first 40 lap time from a month ago. No records on the M pool wall, though! Ha The closest I will come to that is my swim cap!!! A late afternoon trail ride was on my mind. Fergie and I set out to race the big heat lamp that rises in the east. From Stone Cliff at the edge of the little city to Blue Marsh and back. 12 miles round trip. It said 37 on the car thermometer when I left. I purchased a blaze orange t shirt to put over my layers because biking through the forest in October and November requires it. I looked for the blue herons Missy and I enjoy watching during the summer but there were none in sight. Actually, the cold creek seemed still and lifeless for most of the ride. Then, around a bend, she stood majestically. Her breath was visible in the late day air. A rather large doe stood in the middle of the trail about 20 yards in front of me. I slowed to avoid startling it (although I don't think she had the same consideration for me!). She trotted to the thicket in a cavalier manner as I rolled passed. Seeing a deer in the wild like that is something I've seen many times but it still provokes a certain awesomeness! I finished my ride with no other animal sightings. When Missy got home, we took a 2 mile walk in the dark through the village. It was closer to 3o and we bundled up. Margarita's sandwiches and cheese fries for our celebration of exercise! So I swam, biked, and walked today. I feel good. Also, having a great diabetes day. Well past the super highs from the weekend. Missy did remind me this morning that when I started the other pump years ago, it took a few weeks before normalcy set in. I am sure to sleep well tonight.
Thanks, Mom, for reporting on your exercise on your shopping trip. Keep dragging Dad out with you. You didn't mention, though, where you shopped. Any hints??? ha ha

Food for Thought

I have had one of those food filled weekends that should be accompanied by some massive workouts. Well, I had some great meals and functions over the last four days and harldy logged any miles. My last two runs ended early due to low blood sugars. It's frustrating but I will get out tomorrow for 4. I hope to log 20 miles by Saturday. 2 swims and hopefully a bike ride by then too. Soon, against my better judgement, I may have to bring Madonna in to the wind trainer, unless I go get some warmer cycling gear.
I haven't yet filled out my Shiver race series application. I will do that before Thanksgiving. I will also make a few copies to keep in case anyone reading this has any interest. 5K with the option to do 10. Second Sundays at 11 for four months in a row is a great way to stay focused through the winter. There is also a great 5 miler the Saturday after Christmas. Missy's favorite thing about that race is the beer bellied old guy who runs it in a speedo! A sight to see!! I hope to get into that race, too. I'm guessing Wiggles will NOT be joining me for any of these!!
Any World Run Day participants get out for a walk this weekend??? Let me know.

What do Jay Cutler (Denver Broncos QB), Team Type I (pro cycling team), Nick Jonas (duh!), and Big Tone have in Common??

Missy and I met with our newest favorite healthcare provider yesterday. Ralph is an NP and works in endocrinology. Not only is he an informative, casual, smart, caring professional, he is a triathlete! He took about an hour to get to know me and my Type I and started me on the Omnipod. The omnipod stores and delivers insulin from a plastic half egg shaped device that adheres to the body. It is controlled directly from a Personal Diabetes Manager, a PDA/remote control looking tool. This device also serves as my glucometer, machine used to check my blood sugar numbers, and is loaded with all my individual parameters for getting me back into range. I was successful at using this system yesterday. A nighttime low but Missy thinks it was my 10:00 popcorn snack! We're going to try and not have a snack and see where the numbers go. It's a bit of a process but, I believe, well worth it for a tighter control over the Type I.

I will be running and swimming today with the omnipod in full use. I will keep you all posted as to my results. I am expecting very good results! If you haven't guessed, those "celebrities" mentioned in the title are all omnipod wearing Type I diabetics. Maybe I'll get to be on the manufacturer's website??!!?? Go Big Tone!

Wow wow I love the French French!

Just a quick post with an update on our little World Run Day event. I told you we were sending off a nice check to American Diabetes Association. Well, here it is. The total will be $250! Incredible effort from our small group. What does everyone think of that? Don't answer yet. Through a conversation with my boss, she reminded me of a common practice for big corporations of matching gifts. They will match our donation for diabetes education and research to the charity! With our current state of affairs in corporate America, I am proud to say that the company I work for does this kind of thing for it's employee's causes. Go SA!

Here is the World Run Day website link that highlights the Temple Run/Walk. Be proud. I encourage you to forward it along to someone you know. Let them know you got out and exercised. Tell them about the Big Tone Tri's for Diabetes army that you are now all a part of. Let's make a difference. Thanks again to all the participants.
http://runday.com/2008%20Philadelphia.htm

...and the whole world ran

World Run Day 2008 in Temple was a smashing hit! 27 participants on the trail total. I have to admit, when my sister told me she saw the run day website, I figured I could brow beat 3 maybe 4 people to come run with me today. Up until yesterday, I still thought it would be a low key "event". I was up super early this morning with excitement like Christmas morning when I was like 8 years old (ok, my mother, father, sister, and wife are all saying, yeah right, 8!! Try every year since you were 8). Missy made some great monkey bread, we had waters, bananas, a Y fruit tray, and sticky buns from Jim and Donna on the way. My mom even unintentionally had Diabetes Awareness Month swag from the grocery store! We had a nice moment you see in the photo on the same front steps where there are usually fireworks, parades, and beers. Not today, we were setting out for exercise and community spirit. Just like every single one of my runs/rides, we first listened to the Star Spangled Banner. Then, as one unit, we were off on the trail. A handful of runners (way to go Steve, Don, and Coach Tom) and plenty of walkers. I was so proud of each of them. It was a beautiful November morning and everyone enjoyed coffee and refreshments for an hour or so after. I was so happy we could do something for fitness and charity. We will be sending a nice check to the American Diabetes Association. Normally, this is where I say Go Big Tone. This time, take a deeper breath before you read this one to yourself. Go Missy, Bean, Mom, Dad, Diane, Don, Jackie, Ryan, Kev, Brad, Dexter, Steve, Patty, Bon Bon, John, Kathy, Jolyn, Lisa, Coach Tom, Dan, Ginny, Liz, Jean Louise, Thomas, Milo, Pinot, Stoli, Jim, Donna, Zeb, Wiggles, Jaime, Cabo (those 3 out west!), and, as usual, Big Tone. Thanks.

Hope and Change

I have come to enjoy swimming, although the pool water and pool area was a bit chilly on Monday. Another 1K swim and 5K run day. I always feel good about myself when I can combine two workouts into one day. I feel like it helps me to combat any breakfast/lunch and then dinner. I haven't had too many lows in the past few weeks. In addition, in the last week, I've downloaded a web app onto my iphone to track all my diabetes markers. Blood sugars, shots, meals, and exercise have all been loaded into my application. I can even email it to my doctor (thanks mom and dad for the gift that keeps on giving!). And after a little BigTone like run in with a certain set of doctors, I will be seeing a new one next week for the installation of an insulin pump. It's called the Omnipod and it's tubeless and wireless! I am very much looking forward to changing the way I take medicine and tightening control of my diabetes all with a more efficient way of taking on this training. I will post about the pump on the day it's officially in. I hope this change is a good one and life with diabetes gets better and easier for everyone. I'm sure Missy will be happy about that one.
With election day gone, I want to congratulate all the winners. They have important jobs to do. They should ALL be on the lookout because the Big Tone Tri's for Diabetes Army will be checking on them and keeping them accountable. Go Big Tone and the USA!

Hey, Mon! Pass the dutchie from the left hand side...

Good run followed by a canceled rec swim on Friday. I will have to take that up with Aquatic Director Mike tomorrow. Big day for training on Saturday. Missy and I were headed to Chestertown for the Olympic Themed costume party. Missy dropped Madonna and me off at the Anchorage, the Jones wedding place, and we rode into town. 24 miles of pure road bliss. Anyone who's ever ridden a road bike would appreciate this ride. It seems flat in the car but a nice rolling rural highway with a super wide shoulder. Very safe. She and I "got into the groove" and I could feel the burn. My competitor was the sun and "like a prayer", we rolled into the Jones resort in time greeted by Patrick and a beer! Perfect ending to a super sweet workout. I could eat all throught the party without affecting my blood sugar and woke up Sunday morning at 90. I love when that happens.
Wiggles came home this weekend. A nice surprise for all of us. Everybody got a chance to see her and do the things we like to do together. She and I watched tv together and laughed out loud, too loud. Bean and she went to see HSM3, just like all the other 6 year old girls. Ha ha. Mom mom and Pop pop got to take them both to eat. Grammy and Pop pop even stopped by on Sunday. I think Pop Pop Al wanted to see Cabo! Missy was just happy that she was around. Thanks Wiggles.

Look, Bean, it's snowing!!

As I was just about to head out of the door for my run, I saw an odd site. A blizzard of snow and rain! On October 29th!! My first thought was of canceling the training I had planned. It was 40 degrees, snowing like crazy, we're headed for dinner in a few hours. I can take the day off. Then I realized that Type I never gets to take the day off. It doesn't get vacation, personal, sick, or snow days!! So I told Bean it was snowing, not raining, put on another layer, and cranked up the national anthem in my earphones to hit the trail. As I passed by the back dining room window, I saw a smiling Beaner marveling at the weather. I thought that maybe she was smiling because she was thinking, "Wow. There goes Big Tone. Running in the snow on a cold day because it is on his plan. Good for him!" I thought again and realized she was probably just smiling because it was snowing. Ha ha. Oh well, I'll take the "arctic" twinkle in her eye as a compliment anyway! As I always tell Missy, I take what I can get!
Happy birthday today to Big Tone's Dad. You're not getting older, you're just now older than mom! Ha ha. Hope you enjoy the day.

Muhls, Lions, Phillies, Eagles,Phillies

Swim run, swim run, swim run. I have been on a good streak of swimming 1K and running 5K. I really have come to like getting in the pool. Although I receive no points for style, I always time myself and continue to beat the previous workout's time. Aquatic Director Mike puts the pool timer on for me. I feel like I'm in the Water Cube! Ha ha. I've eliminated the side stroke and any laps with a back stroke. I've even taken the advice of Michele Y and have gotten a few laps in with a "freestyle". The run is still a steady workout for me. I even ran in the rain because I had it on the plan for yesterday. I even scared the heck out of Eddie S on the trail with his two dogs. Anyone who knows Eddie knows that is a funny scene! The blood sugar has been good too. Running is a great equalizer for eating what I want. Swimming, though, makes me famished!! Although I swim the same as Michael Phelps does in about 10 minutes (it takes me 30) I can understand why he consumes those huge meals!

A great weekend for sports if you're me. It started with the Muhls in a comeback win under the lights Friday night. Then off to watch PSU and the Phighting Phils simultaneously get the W. Josh rang me up for a great day at the Linc to see the Eagles win. We had a great time and we should do more of that, my friend! Home for a shower and comfy clothes with Missy and Bean to watch the Phils get sooooo close to the championship!! Go Big Tone and the Phils!!

M. Louise Ciccone, Bay City MI 1958

I am having a great week of training. I know that sounds conceited but there have been weeks or runs or other workouts that I haven't told you about! Ha ha. I am on a 1K swim 5K run per day week. I know it's only two days so far but I promise to do the same tomorrow! I feel good and have adjusted my run mix to help me get through Missy's loop with confidence and strength. My blood sugars are reflecting the good workouts, too. I can flat out knock this diabetes right out of the park ala Chase Utley in Game 1 of the World Series. Go Phillies!!!
Ok, my road bike has a name. Eric and Lisa confirmed the vote on CCD night (that would be adult CCD for those of you keeping score at home!). Madonna Louise Ciccone has reinvented herself many times over and she is old/used by pop culture standards. She is of Italian decent and has shown some serious commitment to fitness. When I rode my bike for the "very first time", I knew I was starting a new chapter in my life. Although I have never "vogued" while riding, I do live with a few "material girls". If you haven't guessed yet, my road/racing bike has a new name. I will call her Madonna. So if you see me riding Madonna, don't tell Guy or A-Rod, just say Go Big Tone!

If I Could Only Reach Out and Give the Whole World a Hug

Just a quick post to alert the Big Tone Tri army of a couple blogs I've listed. Peter is a Type I diabetic that has surpassed his goals of becoming a triathlete and has moved on to train for 26.2. He is a true inspiration for someone with Highs and Lows. Also, since Big Tone's Mom and Sister suffer every day with it, Crohn's disease is part of my life. We've experienced it all from different angles but they have dealt with the physical pain. Our good friends next door have it in their life too. Please take a look at Tricia's site, The Family Crohn's, for her view on this terrible illness that makes for a whole other set of highs and lows that will keep you out of the water, off the bike, and no where near the road for days at a time. Go Lil Patrick tomorrow, we're thinking of you.

I Will Never Be Able To Out Work My Dad

Great 2 days of workouts. Friday was 8 miles on the road bike (still unnamed) then on to run Missy's 2 mile walk loop in the village. I was nervous since I said I was going to do that last week and was unable to complete. Fried chicken for lunch and the market and all, I finished very strong. I actually felt like I could have done more. Even celebrated with Don, my "biathlete" friend, after the homecoming game! Got up early Saturday with Steve and rode 22 miles on the trail. Blood sugar in check before. Yes, it was cold and yes, our toes were numb!! Felt great, though. I am sure Steve's legs are going to be fine, Michele!!! After, split a bagel with Missy and tasted some new market fudge and my blood sugar was still in check. I can flat out beat this diabetes! Ha ha...
World Run Day, rail trail style, is starting to grow with a few weeks left to join. Mom and I got our shirts. Steve and his team have theirs on order and Missy and Bean are right behind. Are you registering today???
Special note, hats (and gloves after this morning's ride!) off to Big Tone's Dad. There are too many lessons learned here to list. Way to go on the latest highpoint. You never fail to always do more and do it by never showing the lows. You never lost your hero status! Love you.

Earning the Cinnamon Buns

It was a slow week for training. I traveled 2 nights this week but managed a fitness center workout. Part bike and part treadmill. It's amazing how boring that is after so many months of outside biking and running. Also, I didn't log as many miles running this week and my body quickly seems to forget! No problem though, just have to hit the pavement. I had a nice ride with some partners last Sunday. Steve and Don joined me for part of my short township loop. We climbed a couple of nice hills. We all made it! Missy had cinnamon buns ready upon our return.
Take a walk outside this weekend. It's going to be nice and brisk!

Pinktoberfest!

The crisp morning air of autumn means two things; friday night lights with your favorite sweater on and long sleeves for the road bike! Today, my plan is to get in a 10mile ride backed up right away with a 2.5 mile run. Let's see if Big Tone can put 2/3's of the tri together at once.
To deviate for a post, you will notice the color of the text. I've been thinking about October being Breast Cancer Awareness month. A strong grandmother, mother, and the feeling of being responsible for an awesome little sister growing up. The most incredible luck with a lifelong partner in a wife/best friend/etc. Larger than anything in life, beautiful, intelligent, funny talented daughters. More female cousins and aunts than anyone in my graduating class(haha). Very close and endearing female friends. The priveledge of having a caring mother in law and grandmothers in law. An extraordinary number of coworkers(it's my industry!). The Hens. These are just a few "simple" statements about my life and the women in it. Breast cancer has touched EVERYONE reading this blog in some way shape or form. If you are reading it, be aware this month. Think of a survivor, a winner, or someone who came in close second to it today and everyday this month. Those of you who are battling breast cancer right now, please don't ever ever ever give up. You all have Big Tone's Tri Army behind you. I'll see to it that you do. Special call out to Aunt Kath, Carol, Aunt Patti, and Robin Roberts (Missy and I watch GMA every morning getting ready for work!). You're what this means to me. So Beat Breast Cancer, Save the ta ta's, Save Second Base, or a number of other rally cries that I've seen all over the place.

Not the End of a Streak, But the Beginning of a New One

Two days of rest this week so far but not by choice. I fell ill Sunday afternoon after the race (and a miserable Eagles game). I napped for 2 hours and woke up Monday morning with a terrible sinus infection. I say woke up loosely because I have very little recollection of Monday at all. After Missy dragged me to the doctor Monday night, he told me sinusitis and don't go to work on Tuesday and maybe even Wednesday. I know the voice in my head keeps telling me I'm invincible but this Type I helped to knock me back! I couldn't even think about working out Monday or Tuesday. I worked at taking in fluids!! Ha. Oh well, followed orders and was out on Wednesday. I went to work easy and had a decent day. An evening 3 miler at dusk (with my relector vest on) proved to be good medicine. I finished strong and felt even better. Know when to rest is my take away.
Wednesday was a bit of a disappointment in another area. After almost 2 full regular seasons without a loss, the volleyball team we follow dropped one in a 3 game match. Our fan base was sad but I say if you get knocked down seven times, you get up for the eighth! So to Beaner, T, Marissa, Col-B, Zoe, Maddie, and the rest of the team, get back up and show 'em what you got. You can do it!!

It's Not Fair, We've Got Mer(and she's trying to keep up with the Joneses!)

The morning after the big party was time to run/walk. Alex, Maggie, Patrick, Meredith and I ran a local 5K. Kiki and Missy walked it. Mom mom and Pop pop lead the charge at the finish with Wiggles, Bean, Jamie, Jakob, Nickolas, Pinot, Stoli, and Cabo. It was a beautiful morning to have a clear head and open up on the trail. I set a goal of 2 minutes faster than last week and I beat my goal. My dad had a clock on my start and finish and he had me beating it by 2:14. I was happy. The big winners on the day were Maggie and Meredith who came in first and second in their age group!! We were all so proud. All that food the night before and only one jello shot kept my blood sugar in check and fueled me to my goal!

Thanks for everyone's well wishes at the parade. We now have a Big Tone Tri Army wearing Diabetes bracelets!

An Early Challenge to everyone (yes, that means you Don!!)

My wonderful sister has issued a challenge, per se. There is an event called World Run Day on November 9, 2008. It pretty much looks like if you register with active.com, go out on November 9th and run, you get a t-shirt and bragging rights that you entered a run! My challenge to all of the Big Tone world is for each of you to participate. Let's start at 10:00AM on the Rail Trail behind my house. We'll have water and some refreshments for anyone who wants to do it. Run at your own pace, no clocks except for the ones on your wrist, and run your own distance. One mile is north and back from our house. It will be a great achievement for everyone!! Go here http://www.active.com/page/Event_Details.htm?event_id=1641672&assetId=53eb65f5-9e4c-446a-9323-7b1a68c381cb to see more details. It's $17.99 which gets you official designation and a T -shirt. Missy and I will spot the water and after run refreshments (we can talk about that later, honey!!). I hope to hear from lots of you that you're in (I hear Yo Miss! registering now because she could never back down from a challenge from Big Tone). It's a create your own event and we'll ALL be winners. Thanks, Aim...

First Saturday in October

I swam 800M twice this week. The first time was 24:47 and the second time was 23:30! I was pumped to see that I could pick that time and beat it. I have tried to work on my Big Tone Breast Stroke to make it more efficient. Aquatic Director Mike must think I am nutty if he ever sees me flailing in the water!! In anticipation of this weekend's 5K I have run our trail. I think I can beat my time from the Great Race by 2 minutes. That's my goal and I'm sticking to it. Dad, I will write down the time and give it to you. You can be my pace coach for Sunday!
Which brings me to another huge event coming up in our lives. The first Saturday in October for the last 17 years has marked the local Halloween parade. Most of you reading this blog know what this event means. For us, it's a chance to host as many family and friends as possible to show our tremendous pride in our community. We have a "once you're invited you're always invited" philosophy, too. Some kids in the area have spent every halloween parade at our house! Missy and I absolutely love (and stress pre-party!) to have everyone over. It's a good chance for us to see how far our love reaches. Mom mom's chicken noodle soup and cookies, Grammy's chili, Uncle Smokey's jambalaya, Missy's Jello shots via syringes, Victor's pizza, Kiki's mac n cheese, and a host of other special treats everyone brings will fill us all (and there are never leftovers!). So, Happy Halloween Parade weekend everyone and, remember, Go Big Tone!

Great Race and NOT last place!

Parents weekend was filled with fun on campus. A much needed hug for the injured, a puppy and all his friends, a rugby game and social, and an early night in the city for Big Tone and Miss Missy. Pittsburgh's Great Race was Sunday morning bright and early. The weather was dry but extremely humid! Missy and I caught a shuttle (no easy task) and thought it would be a breeze to get to the start and for her to get back down to the finish. Not so. We eventually got my number and Missy caught the shuttle but it dropped her 2 miles from the finish! She got her workout in to make it to see me finish in the nick of time. While she was doing that, I was in line to use the "facilities" during the national anthem and the start gun! By the time I finished my business, the crowd of 3700 was off and running/walking. It took me a while to get around the walkers and slower runners (if you can imagine a runner slower than me!). A beautiful 3 miles from Pitt's campus down to the point. Ran the whole way and was greeted by the two little Cranberry boys in the picture and Lil Tone. Thanks for coming out. Also, thanks for all the well wishes from everyone. They fuel me and lets me feel like I am competing for all of your sakes! And, as always, thanks to my Missy. She's the best (wife, friend, coach, and manager).

It's Deja Vu All Over Again

I ran the Shiver course early Sunday morning. I really wanted to check an actual 5K route for this Sunday's Great Race. I did well and came in under my super slow goal time. I followed it up Monday with a 4 miler to get my legs under me and felt great. Rest day Tuesday but I was in a mood to grind something out so I hopped on the road bike (still unnamed!) and attacked some hills. It felt good to get up and over even after a couple of run days. I am tapering a bit for the race but I want to swim twice this week and I will get in some easy runs before taking Friday and Saturday off. I really wanted to run early morning but some blood sugar highs have gotten in the way. More of an pain in the neck than anything. A bolus of insulin and a 20 minute nap before getting the Bean to school usually helps.
We snagged a bit of a bump in the road in our house. Wiggles has taken it on the knee, again. I feel terrible for her but I know that because she is such a strong willed and determined young woman this will only be a bump in the road. Re-inventing herself is what has made her so incredible. Love you, Wiggles. I'll train harder with you on my mind.

Swimming with the Swedish Fishes

So I got in the pool for the first time this week. Let's just say that Aquatic Director Mike didn't arrest me for foul strokes! I did 3 sets of 2o0M with a minute break in between. Not a bad workout for the first time. I even wore a cap and goggles. I'm glad there wasn't anyone else in the pool! I mixed it up with freestyle and breast stroke, Big Tone style, and a few side stroke laps. I think I can do the swim part as long as no one takes away points for style.
My run workouts this week weren't that great. The beginning part of the week was nice with a 4 miler then a 3.5 miler. The rest of the week had me crashing into a low that caused me to have to walk briskly home for some cranberry juice pick me ups! I should know better by now but I don't. I plan on taking better care this week for my runs since I have the Pittsburgh Great Race a week from now. As for my blood sugar in the pool, I knocked it out just fine with some swedish fish!
Special thanks to Janel L. I got a "Go Big Tone" from her this week on one of my better runs. That definitely helps me out there.

Happy Birthday, Nick Jonas

I have been informed that today is Nick Jonas's 16th birthday. For those of you not following along, Nick is a member of the latest boy band who has diabetes. He wrote a song called "A little bit longer" that kind of chronicles his life with Type I. ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ceHlXAZ5_U0 for a listen). He talks about having to stay in the hospital a little bit longer and goes on to say that he has hope for a cure if he only waits a little bit longer. Because Type I usually gets diagnosed when you are a kid, it has been called juvenile diabetes. Nick was diagnosed when he was 13, I was 26. The same symptoms of excessive weight loss, constant thirst, irritability (ask the the ladies I live with!!), headaches, and shakiness drove both of us to seek medical attention. I was fortunate enough to have asked my doctor at a well baby visit for guess who (it is dawning on me that my beaner is my Type I angel!). By contrast, Nick, and so many others, find out by having to land in a hospital. The Type I comes as an immune system suppression. One day for me, it cracked and my pancreas stopped functioning properly. I went undiagnosed for about 9 months. So, if anyone has been feeling different with some of these and other symptoms, go ask a healthcare professional.And, to Nick and all those other young folks battling the "highs and the lows", happy birthday! Let's all work hard and have hope a little bit longer!

Shiny New Bike!

So, Stoli (our Lhasa shi tzu mix) and I went to our first triathlon on Sunday morning. We went to check things out and get a feel for how this event runs. I had pre race jitters on the way to the staging area even though I wasn't even competing! However, what I realized is that all kinds of people do this and, despite the fact that I am a ways from being ready, I feel good about myself completing the event. My favorite part was hearing the cheers from the crowd. A "Go Daddy or Mommy" from the little ones brought a tear to my eye (if you know me, then you know that tear was literal!). One man even slowed about 15 yards from the finish so he could cross the end line holding hands with his 5 year old daughter. It reminded me of one of my first 10K's where Sports ran with me to the end line for about 20 yards (yes, another tear there!).
Well, I picked up my road bike on Friday. I was very excited. It is a white Bianchi Eros with a multicolored bar tape. I name all my bikes so I will look for suggestions from anyone posting. My red Gary Fisher is named Fergie and my old white Giant is called Carmen Electra. I hope to name my new girl soon so feel free to come up with a good one! I rode a short 10 miler last night before dusk and I am very pleased. I can't wait to train harder on her(twss!!).

Big Tone 1, Type I 0

Well, as I was waiting on a doc this afternoon at 3, my blood sugar dropped. Probably because I over bolused but it was low. When I got to my car, I checked. It was 49 (ugh!). I scampered with a pack of Twizzler's and some nerds. After a struggle to focus again, I rebounded just fine. Since I did not make it to my early morning run, I still had to rally to get the 4 miles in. By 6:30 tonight I finished a 4 mile run and walked with Missy for 20 minutes as a cool down. That is an example of the potential struggle with this zero insulin producing pancreas of mine! Either way, I managed and still got the 4 miler in!

A thousand thanks and treading troddin trails

First, I want to thank everyone for responding to the emails and viewing and posting on the site. You will motivate me everyday. I want to say a couple of special thanks. One to my sister for charging the masses, one to my parents for the email (you probably can't imagine how important your support is to me), a one to my wife (from the moment you said the site was in your favorites, I knew you will get me to where I need to go).

Second, so many people are asking about my training. Well, I have set myself up with quite a long time frame. I did this intentionally so that come race day I am over prepared. Most sites for training plans put out a 12 week program. I would like to compete by June 2009. For now, I am still attached to my bike as much as possible. The end of this week sparks a new chapter in my cycling life because I am acquiring a road bike. I can't wait. I'll post more info on that later. The swim part, the biggest challenge, will begin next week for me. The local high school has some rec swim times where I think I can get in a couple sessions per week through the winter. As for the run, this is where I can focus and keep up to pace! I train near my house on a trail that runs from the neighborhood in which we've raised our girls to the neighborhood in which I grew up. It is a 3.5 mile track on a railroad line. It will soon be paved and will be so much better. Running here makes me think of the similarities and differences between my childhood and our girls. I love having that close to my house. When I run on the road, I "glide" through the halloween parade route (I will explain that event in another post!!) and on past the schools we all went to (ie my father, my in laws, my wife's grandmother, my wife and me, and our kids!!) and up around the church where I received sacraments, got married, and have had our girls receive their sacraments. If you haven't figured it out, I live in a small town and always have. Some might say this isn't so grand, but if you meet our daughters, you might think otherwise.

I will be entering in some 5K and 10K runs through the fall and winter. First up is The Great Race in downtown Pittsburgh. I hope to have a good size cheering section since it is Family Weekend at Wiggles's university, which is near there, and I have secured two little boy fans from Cranberry Township (will those 2 boys make it to see Big Tone finish? I hope so!).

With each training run and each race I enter on my journey, I think of all of you who support me. Whether it's Wiggles and her run last weekend that she claims caused her calf muscles to fall off or my wife who has me weighing in on Monday mornings (I hope that I can cross off my weight goal each week. She can be mean if not! Ha ha ha).

Ok, rest day today. Kiki says I everyone needs them! Early morning road run. 4 miles is my goal. Don't forget, if when you see me out there, let out a good "Go Big Tone"!!

Unintentional Inspiration

Claudia, or Bean to some of us, shared with me a concert experience with the Jonas Brothers. One of the 3 brothers has Type I and has written a song about his life with diabetes. After a couple of beers on the beach, I told her I should run or bike or something and raise money and maybe we can somehow get his attention and meet him! That idea seemed fun during the day and spilled over into a triathlon (we were right by the ocean!). I bought into it. The thought of being fit enough for a triathlon was very appealing. As I went on and on about it, she quickly reminded me that there would be no way I could get in shape for a tri and continue to do the things I do with diet (including those beers on the beach!). Being put in your place, unintentionally, by your own offspring can have an effect on your mind. So, with that, there were no beers the next day and plenty of thoughts on acquiring a bike to ride the tri and a scamper for a place to swim. I already have running shoes! The blog was a way to hold me accountable and I hope it becomes someplace many people visit. The attention will fuel me to become a triathlete for real! So, if the Jonas Brothers come out with support or not (of course, in my research of this idea I am only one of about 10,000 people who do this! Ha ha), I still want to complete my mission. Thanks, Bean. I love you.

Ready, Set, Go!

I am Big Tone. I am a 39 year old husband and father with Type I diabetes. I enjoy running and biking for exercise and I do it to keep my health in check. A couple of weeks ago, my youngest daughter unintentionally sparked me to train for a triathlon. I thought that if I would write about the ups, downs, and sideways about my training on the web I would be more likely to keep up the training. Also, I wanted to add an element of diabetes awareness to the site and eventually, when I can enter into a race, help raise money for diabetes research. I hope the site educates and possibly inspires anyone who visits. I am quite motivated to good health for my family. Please visit regularly so that I can show you my progress and teach you about this chronic illness with no cure available. If you happen to see me while training or, eventually, in a race, I would appreciate a hearty "Go Big Tone!" Thanks and I look forward to getting fit with all of you.