Now the Real Training Continues...

It's constant...

It's everywhere...

The race is on my mind damn near from the second I wake up to the moment I go to sleep (and many sleeping moments as well). How could it NOT be? I train first thing in the morning. Every meal is tailored towards performance (except the M&Ms and wine). I train most evenings. I enjoy dinners with Shawn, but both of our heads hit the pillow at a reasonable hour as he is up at the same time I am most days. I update my training log. I talk with other athletes. I read blogs and magazines. Our pantry is stocked with power gel, perpetuum, endurox, clif blocks and other endurance nutrition.

The physical part of the preparation is winding down and now it's time to continue training the mind. Everywhere I turn, there are reminders and affirmations of this event. I visualize success and I emphasize that success at every turn I take.

Our shower gel is Zest "Marathon!"

That bumper sticker has sat on my bathroom counter for the last 9 months greeting me with hope, encouragement and excitement. (The blingy ring isn't so bad either) :-)

My Ironman coffee is in the kitchen.

Plenty of night-stand reading material

Smack dab in the middle of my comfy fleece robes is an Ironman Wetsuit making an appearance

Of course, the obligatory triathlete mag bathroom reading material

(sorry folks, they're pretty much all mine too!)

Most women apply lipstick and makeup in their car. I apply Swimmers Ear, multi-vitamins, goggles and cycling helmets. No change in those cupholders...

I'm also creating "visual boards" at work. My desk is filled with stickers and medals.

So, there you have it! A day in the life of someone who is getting ready to complete their first Ironman in 24-days!