Boomer's Legacy - The Ride

I did it!!!
It was physically and mentally on of the hardest things I have had to do in a very long time, but I did it. There aren't enough words to describe what those 2 days were like. I pushed my body to the point where my legs could not rotate anymore.

When your in a car you don't see the gradual hills, but a bicycle.. not only do you see the hills you feel them, and they seem like your never going to stop going up!

I have to thank my best friend who rode with me as well, her bike was not the proper bike to do this ride, but she gave it her all and I'm so proud of her!!

I also met some of the most amazing people who helped me with my ride and I can't thank them enough for their words of encouragement to get me up that next hill.

The most amazing feeling was cycling into Victoria to the legislative ground and seeing my daughter at the end to give me that huge hug. She saw me accomplish a goal, and that no matter how hard it was to always finish and to never give up.

Training Update written by my bestie

Written by my bestie Deb. She describes it perfectly and I just had to share with everyone!

Training Up Date:
Boomers Legacy.😂Finding out my bike,had a man seat on it,and what the huge difference is between "a man seat" and "a woman's seat"...holy hell in a hand bag...I had blisters on my girl bits...yes,you read that right...RAW BLISTERS on my girl bits...I had to take 3 days off,from riding..just to heal my she parts.😳🙃😳😆(guess I could bring a bag) 😂😂😂WTF were we thinking..on 2nd day after hiking up the trestle mountain..Quads so sure and stiff from the hike...we decide bike training day,should be a hill day...So take a knife,cover it in the hottest sauce you can think of...then stab your quads over n over....that about describes the pain of todays training...I think I seen Gen aim towards an on coming truck,maybe she was hoping to just end the ride and leg pain...with a ride in an ambulance..bet the impact from the truck wouldn't have hurt as bad as our quads did today.😜😂😂😂😳cuz that sounds like so much fun😑😂

So for anyone who is still following me on FB,and has nothing better to do...here is an update on how training for Boomers ride,with Gen and I,is going so far.

I do not need to boar you all with my first week of training...as that is just ugly.lol
Having Genevieve Primeau as my coach,has been great,as she is very knowledgeable in the pedal biking world...and she laughs at our fails with me.lol

There are days,when we are hoping one or the other,will talk,one or the other,out of a training day,but it never happens. Even if we feel like shit,we will still get out there. There are days,were I am hoping, a deer will jump out in front of me, knock me off my bike...just so I can lay there on the ground...and yell "oh darn,I have fallen and cant get up...BREAK TIME!" Other days,I feel like Lance Armstrong,after blood doping,and can ride like the wind,and in my head, I am in a Tour de France race,and I am Fregging in the lead...I am WINNING!

The struggles.

Discovering when to change gears...and were and how fast to change them...chain only came off 3 times.

Making sure #2 is unloaded,prier to getting on a pedal bike,and riding it 30k.....and discovering there are no bathrooms along the days chosen route.

Leg training...discovering that climbing a mountain the next day after bike training...may not be as fun as it sounded.

No matter who tells you it is easy...SHUT THE HELL UP! It isn't! Legs already sore from bike training...We decide to climb up the to Trestles off Goldstream the same week of bike training. It is a long hike up this mountain,were is the burn felt,lungs,quads,hamstrings,calves,knees,abs...ok ok pretty much a full body work out. OMG...grateful of my hydration pack.

Hill training...sounds not bad right!
Shut up...you don't know our pain..you weren't there..you don't have our legs!
With only 14 days left of training,to get ready for this 240K pedal bike ride...we have to push harder now.

Pretty much all the riders have a 24gear bike...I have a 14gear bike,which means I have to work harder to keep up with the pack...gonna be one hell of an ass killing, leg burning two day ride come June 11th and 12th,however my wee team of Gen and Tom Cole,we promised each other,to not leave anyone behind...as is also the motto for the ride (we leave no one behind)

Today we tried our first Accel energy Gel pack...was like squeezing a raw egg into my mouth,that had a weird chocolate SWEEEEEEEEET flavour to it....and just when Gen and I thought,gawd we have to turn and go back up all those hills..then the Gel kicks in...BAM...was like being hit by the energize bunny,we were flying. Yop,it is a go for the gel packs!

So your donations help..
It is for a great cause.

Boomer's Legacy I'm in

Finally officially registered to be a rider for Boomer's Legacy.  I'm nervous and excited all at once.

It's an incredible ride of 240 km, which spans over 2 days. I'll be riding with my best friend Deb. We have been training every other day  and the days we're not on the bike we're doing some form of physical activity. 

What is Boomer's Legacy:

Boomer’s Legacy was created after Corporal Andrew “Boomer” Eykelenboom, a Canadian Forces medic, was killed by a suicide bomber, August 11, 2006. Andrew was committed to saving lives. His death was the catalyst to create this Foundation that helps our men and women in uniform make a positive difference in the lives of others, therefore helping themselves in the process.

If you would like to support to this amazing cause please head over to my donation page.

Family Time

Don't take family time for granted. Enjoy every minute you have.
It goes by fast and next thing you know everyone is gone.
Enjoy the laughter, the stories, enjoy making supper together and talks afterwards.
Enjoy bedtime stories, and bedtime cuddles.
Just enjoy every moment

Quick Trip To Calgary

Knowing my sister and her boyfriend were heading to Calgary for the Comic and Entertainment Expo, I asked if I could tag along for the ride.
The trip out to Calgary was a blast the 11 hour ride went by pretty fast with the awesome company I was with, all expect the last hour of the trip. Seemed like the longest hour ever! We all just wanted to get to Calgary now.
Once we arrived at the Stampede Grounds, it sure was nice to see my husband drive up. Living apart is difficult, and the past month was even more harder on me then usual due to circumstances.
My husband lives in the downtown core of Calgary, so for the first time I enjoyed a train ride, and all that downtown has to offer. Was able to meet his fellow co-workers and saw what an amazing team he works with. Enjoyed the a variety of all kinds of foods from around the world. Even enjoyed a little bit of shopping as well.
The main event thou came on Saturday when we went to the Expo. What an amazing adventure that was. SO MUCH TO SEE. The costumes that people created was stunning. Artist Alley was rows upon rows of talent. All and all I was so happy I was able to experience this event for the first time. I did spoil myself and purchased a Doctor Who mystery box, which had some really cool items in it (a Tardis pillow, wallet, sonic screw driver etc etc).
I have to say I was so proud of my sister, walking around all the vendors I was able to see how unique the stuff my sister made. That she had one of a kind tentacle earrings and octopus necklaces. She works so hard and it paid off at the Expo.
My whirl wind trip came to an end when my husband and I decided to head back to Victoria early. We wanted to get back and be able to pick up Adele and surprise her, as she wasn't expecting to see us until Thursday. We only made minor pit stops and was the last vehicle on the 6pm ferry!
Tired but happy to be back.
Picking up Adele from school I think was the most epic moment of the entire trip, not knowing we were there she came down the ramp and saw me first, the smile on her face said it all, but when she saw her step-dad, well the tears started to flow and she hugged him and wouldn't let go. I'd say we pulled off the surprise very well.

So that was my trip. Simple but much needed break from everything. Husband is home until next Monday, so cherishing all the time I can have with him and as well as all being a family. Family is so important treasure it.

A slight change in plans

Well I made an adjustment to my goal list.
Instead of half marathon for 2016.... as of this morning I have signed up for the 2015 Victoria Half Marathon.
I'm excited, nervous, anxious... can't believe I just signed up.

So I'm now really going to write about my journey..
I can't believe I just did this..

A little run

I know I keep forgetting about my blog.  Life happens and I go in spurts!

I have picked up running again, yup after being sick for 3 and a half years, I'm finally on medication that allows me to have a somewhat normal life again, and I'm taking full advantage of it!

About a month ago, I saw myself as lethargic, no energy and just didn't feel like doing anything.
Co-worker suggested I go for a walk with them. Well this walk was more like a run walk for me. She was high speed and I was out of breath, but I did it.. and I felt oddly really good after. SO I kept going. I had set a goal of being able to run the course we did.

TODAY goal was met! I ran the entire 4km. No stopping nothing. AND I feel pumped up about it! I walked back into the office, not out of air or wind, my lungs weren't screaming at me, and my legs felt fine!

Next mini goal is 5km.

I have set goals for myself for Next year....

1. Boomer's Legacy - cycle from Comox Bc to Victoria BC in two days
2. Half Marathon in October of 2016
3. TC 10k In April 2016
4. Triathlon ( longer term goal)
5. Get more into PaddleBoard racing

I'm also helping my best friend train for the Army Run in Sept that is in Ottawa. I wish I could be there with her, but the cost of the flight is just to much for this girl.

So here we go..... I will probably start using the blog more and more to talk about my journey as well the products I will be using to help....

Oh and if your wondering.. is she still making the gloves.. YES I AM.. going to be making new designs and styles.. so stay posted.. as those will be online as well!

Cheers
Gen

New combination

Working on a new pair of dragon scale gloves. I'm still in debate whether or not to make them short or long. I really love this combination of colors, really makes the green pop.

Becoming a Whovian

Yup that's right, I like so many others have jumped on the Dr Who bandwagon and all because of Netflix.

In January I finally broke down and started to watch the series off of Netflix and I was HOOKED.
Last night I finished watching everything, and now like everyone else, eagerly awaiting for Season 8 to start, and to see how the new Doctor will turn out.

I was sad to see Matt Smith leave,  and yes he did make bow ties cool again. I'm hoping that the new Doctor (Peter Capaldi) will bring his own flare, he has really big shoes to fill, and to make the Dr his own.

Why do I like the Dr. so much. Why does anyone like the Dr so much. Is it the writing of each episode? Yes without a good script it's would be a crap show. But what I love about the Dr. is you get whisked away to so many places and times and it just makes you wish that you were his companion. What or  where would you go if you had a TARDIS.  For the time that I sit and watch Dr. Who, the world disappears.

I can't wait to introduce my daughter to the Dr.

Being a Long Distance Family - Rant

Many families living in Victoria have to deal with an issue that not many talk about, and that is many families are separated because one of the spouses or family member have to leave to find work. Yes we hear about how there are jobs in Victoria, blah blah blah.. but unless you know someone who knows someone forget it. Or your promised a job if you get the right ticket, and once you get that ticket your completely ignored by the people that promised you the job in the first place ( which has happened to a friend of mine)

It's so frustrating to not know when I will see the love of my life again, it's hard on my daughter as well, all because no one would give him a chance, an opportunity to show what he can do. That he is a hard worker and isn't afraid to get his hands dirty.

I found it funny that it was a headhunter who tracked him down from a 3 year old resume that had all his old information on, and was determined to have him for this job.  I find it odd and frustrating that a company wanted him badly enough to fly him to Calgary yet no one here (cough cough engineering firms) wouldn't even look at his resume, even thou he helped restructure many well known buildings heck even our lovely Empress, when it was required to be updated in the electrical field. He has knowledge of many different fields including solar energy and diesel engines and how to integrate this technology. But do you think something like this would be useful for a company... I would have thought, but GUESS NOT.

Am I frustrated.. YOUR DAMN RIGHT, so now time is ticking down to when he has to get back on the plane in a few hours and head back to Calgary.  At least we know that my daughter and I will get to see him again at the end of July.  Right now he tries to fly back ( if plane ticket cost is low) about every 6 to 8 weeks, and only gets about 4 days ( if he comes on a long weekend) and then gone again. Saying good-bye doesn't get easier, if anything it's getting harder and harder.  I miss my best friend.

This is my rant, I had to get it off my chest... thanks for reading.. or more just letting me go off..

Coming soon.. me and my new vacuum

My vacuum has died.. after 10 years she could no longer suck dirt or pet hair out of the carpet. Last weekend and did the deed and bought a new vacuum.. soon to come.. my report.. the REPLACEMENT!!!

Hello world

What happens when life just takes off? It's been a crazy few months and I have been busying being a working single mom. 

With spring finally here it's time to let the hair down and get the motorcycle moving. She has a new heart ( battery ) installed in her!

There is nothing like two wheel therapy! I know there are people who don't understand why I ride, I ride because when I am on my bike it's just me and the wind. I feel freedom when I ride, like there are no chains of life. 

In the past month we have added a new member to our family. Her name is Dulce. She is a long haired dachshund. She is a real sweetheart, and feels like she has always been apart of our little family. She is a rescue dog and slowly we are teaching her how to be a dog.

Here she is  like one of the cats ;-)

Adele is growing up so fast, it's hard to believe that she is 6 1/2 years old.. I have asked her to stop growing, but she laughs at me. 

Our little skating adventure

and lastly on the creative side... I have been working with dragon scales.. yes that's right dragon scales!! I have taken up knitting and have been adding the scales to fingerless gloves. I am pretty happy with the outcome! My sister and her boyfriend will be selling my creations at the Calgary Comic Con in April.

I love wearing them, and the scales are so soft! I have been stopped a few times asking where can one get a pair, then explain I made them! I'm pretty proud of these.

So that is a very fast update of what has been going on.. I plan to do more blogging again, so much to share!!!

You can also follow my adventure on twitter @odinis  as well on instagram : odinis

Minion Hats

I have been working on making minion hats. It was an unexpected and but wonderful surprise to see that people like my creations. I have been a crocheting mad women, and loving it!

Each hat is unique, and there will never be another like the previous.. That's the beauty of handmade products. Each hat is special!

Crocheting is relaxing, and most are done with me sitting on the floor surround by yarn and papers and a good movie on the TV.

If you would like to have a minion hat for a family member or just for yourself, send me a message and I can send  pricing and options for your hat.

Goldstream Hatchery

I had the privilege threw work to take pictures of this amazing place. The dedication to keeping the variety of salmon species alive in our oceans is unbelievable. These amazing volunteers help year round with the nurturing of small fry until they are released into the wild.

I am looking forward to returning at the end of October to document with my camera, when the salmon are in the creek to spawn.

What happened....

Hi everyone.. an odd title indeed.. well to be honest I have somewhat disappeared to heal. My body decided that it wanted to shut down, and I guess reboot. In January I became very ill, and I haven't been the same since. I have gone threw the gamut of test, been poked and scanned, and still there are no answers. It's been a journey of strength and tolerance to say the least. I have amazing friends and support at home, but it's been a hard experience!

But while experiencing the turmoils of my health, there is one thing that helps me forget and that is my motorcycle. My amazing and best friend Deb decided to give me the most amazing gift, she customized my bike. She took what was a typical Honda Shadow, and turned it into what you see above. There is no other bike like it , it is truly a one of a kind!

The bike brings me joy and a senses of peace. Why do I ride, I ride because it gives me freedom, I ride to feel what it's like to fly without wings, I can because I can!

Do you have a motorcycle??? What do you ride, I encourage people to share with me...

Space Oddity

Training and the rules!

I have downloaded the 10 week training guide, as well as what to expect!!! OH BOY!
I can do this, I know I can. My biggest challenge to date ( besides being a mom).

Why you may ask.. because this is a charity I believe in, that I know does make the difference in so many lives. That the funds raise goes to the ones who need it, and best of all -

It's helping our Soldiers help others! 

I'm not one to do fundraising and to be honest I feel really uncomfortable asking for money, especially with our economie, but like I said before this is a charity worth donating to. For once I know that what I am doing is going to help children, women in need and most of all families!

So I have placed a widget on my blog in hopes that I can ask for my readers for their support.

If you want to learn more about Boomer's Legacy, and how it came to be please click on the link

www.boomerslegacy.ca

Again thank you for everyone's support.. it ALL COUNTS and it matters!
Also please check out Goldstream Cycles, these guys have been a huge help with making this all possible for me!!!

Boomer's Legacy all signed up

It's official I am signed up!

SO here we go....

Family & Friends, Please help me support Boomer's Legacy by making a donation through my page. Even a small donation will help me achieve my goal! The process is fast, easy, and secure. 

Please help me raise my goal and perhaps even surpass it!!!!

What is Boomer's Legacy??

Boomer’s Legacy was created in 2006 to embody the passion Cpl. Andrew “Boomer” Eykelenboom had towards helping people in need in areas where he was deployed as a Canadian Forces Medical Technician. The goal of Boomer’s Legacy is to empower Canadian Forces soldiers, sailors, airmen and airwomen with the ability to carry on Andrew’s strongly felt desire to provide much needed humanitarian assistance to people in areas of deployed Canadian operations.

Boomer’s Legacy raises funds for these endeavors primarily by “Boomer Rides,” which are road-cycling trips that gather individual and group sponsorship. Currently Boomer Rides are held on an annual basis in British Columbia and Nova Scotia, with Rides in Alberta and Ontario being added this year. There have even been Boomer “Spin-a-Thon” Rides held by deployed troops in Afghanistan! 

http://www.stayclassy.org/fundraise?fcid=239537

Thanks so much for your support to everyone!!!

Gen

Boomer's Legacy Sign up

It's JUST around the corner everyone! The official sign up date for Boomer's Legacy ride is January 15, 2013!!!
I'm so excited yet nervous all at once! If there are still some of you out there that doesn't know about Boomer's Legacy CLICK HERE
They have a new website and it's looking amazing!
OH and HAPPY NEW YEAR 2013!
I hope everyone who reads my post have a fantastic year!

Sending Christmas

Hi everyone.. it's getting to be that time of the year to send Christmas Cards to our family and friends, so why not add one more card and send one to soldier overseas. Since they can't be home for Christmas lets bring Christmas to them..

Send it to this address:
Any Canadian Forces Member
Op Attention: Kabul
PO Box 5140 Stn Forces
Belleville ON
K8N 5W6

Pass on this information, make a difference and show that we care for those that are making sure that we get to spend Christmas with our families.