Happy New Year Everyone!

Here's the belly at 20+ weeks.

I know it's all about the baby so all you get to see for the first picture is di big belly. Wishing you all the best for the New Year. May all of your dreams come true.

Click here for Christmas Eve pictures with the Dugaw Family

To All of My Family and Friends

May your home be filled with many blessings.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

It's Like A Good Novel

Tuesday of this week I had the privilege of replacing all of my camera equipment. It was certainly a weird experience spending that much money at one time and not having to worry about how I was going to pay for it. My goal, not to go over the cheque amount that the insurance company gave us. I was successful and I am extremely pleased with my new equipment.

Well, the next day I get a phone call at work from a stranger that asks me if I lost a camera and he knows who has it. Are you kidding me. I ask him how he knows it's mine and he says that the guy tried to sell it to him and while looking through the manual a receipt for a photography course fell out with my name on it. He took the receipt without this other guy noticing and googled me. That's right folks, you too can be googled...scary. Anyhow he realized that this was some expensive s**t so he felt it was only the right thing to do.

I called Tim, we called his brother the lawyer and he advised us to call the police and our insurance company. After calling our kind stranger back he was willing to give us not only the guys name but his phone number and where he hangs out. Once we got the police involved they went to the guys house but he wasn't home. Not sure where things are at the moment the one thing we've learnt is that there are still good people out there that will do the right thing.

As for my new equipment, if they retrieve the old stuff they have given me two choices. I can return the new stuff and keep the old stuff OR I can keep the new stuff and the old stuff will then be owned by the insurance company. Not knowing what this guy has done to my old equipment, I think I will stick to my new purchases.

19-Weeks (5 months)

It's an exciting time of the pregnancy. You have your energy fully back, you are now showing, although you are at the point where someone could think that you've just put on weight and you start to feel things that everyone that has had a baby or two says is your baby moving. Okay folks, whatever you say.

The only difference with me is that I don't have a great appetite. I have cravings for a certain type of food every once in a while, and I get what I want, but most of the time I'm not always sure what will taste good or what I feel for.

I don't have pictures to show, you know with the camera gone, although the good news is that I can replace ALL of my equipment and that's what good insurance does for you.

Merry Christmas!

Two Teefin Bwoy

So last night I had the worst night ever. I was leaving work yesterday evening at around 4:45pm to go to a Family Forum for the YMCA, I was in charge of taking pictures. When I got to my car I realized that I had forgotten my purse inside so I placed my camera bag in the car shut the door and ran in to get my handbag. I was in the branch for no more than 3-minutes. I use the bathroom, I got my bag and I was out the door- no dilly dallying. When I got back to my car well, I think you must all know where I am going from here. My camera bag was gone. I thought I was in the middle of some cruel joke, I kinda wish I was. My heart began to race and I began to search the area like a mad woman. It was gone, it was time to call 911. We later found out that a members car window had been punched in, nothing was taken from his car.

The contents of that bag was worth over $8,000. It had been 3-years of me accumulating every piece of equipment that I own. It was with great care and serious thought that each piece was purchased and that is what was of value to me.

So the sad news is that I will not have the opportunity to capture the events over the Christmas season and it also means that I must put a hault on my portfolio. It does NOT mean that I plan on giving up on my photography, it's just given me the fuel to continue what I love to do and to really address the subjects that I am passionate about.

Have a wonderful Christmas and be safe.
Walk Good!

Snow in the City

Too lazy to get the flash

It began in the morning as a light dusting of snow or what the weather man calls a trace however, by 5:00pm we ended up with about 1" of snow fall. Ever since I moved to Seattle we get at least one day of snow in the city during the winter season and I like it. It was early this year so we may get another one later on. Hey man, we don't have to worry about shovelling it on a daily basis so the change is nice.



With a substancial snow fall comes a beautiful white layer on our lawn and trees, giggling kids, snowmen, snow angels and SNOWBALL FIGHTS. Along with the 14 kids in our neighbourhood, Tim and Scott, our neighbour, were the two biggest kids out there. While the kids were outside having fun I was inside, warm and cozy trimming our tree. Tis the season..
Happy holidays everyone.

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is not a holiday that we celebrate in Jamaica so, for me it's been a time I have had to embrace in my adult life. In the 7-years that I have lived in the United States, I've celebrated Thanksgiving in Miami, Boston and Seattle and each year I have been welcomed with open arms by family and friends.

I have thought about the people that have no where to go, the people that are either homeless, have no friends or family in the area (because of a move) or the people that have chosen to be alone. This year I have a dear friend that has been working extremely hard at school and work and has done exactly that, she has chosen to be alone for the holiday. I was worried that she needed that time to be with her family and she reminded me that this was a great opportunity for her to take a well deserved break and enjoy a day off - that she is thankful for. For my friend at work that has recently moved to Seattle and has no where to go with her fiance, she has reminded me of the importance of volunteering and the need in our communities to feed the homeless. Well then, I guess they do have somewhere to go after all.

So to all of you out there, no matter what you have chosen to do this holiday, no matter where you are from be thankful, be thankful for it all. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

I Guess The Picture Says It All...

Red Haired Dreadlocks Baby

Well, not everything. We made the official announcement about 2-weeks ago, but I am happy to make this announcement on my blog. I am pregnant and currently 13.5-weeks along. The due date was originally May 19th but after today's ultrasound we were given a due date of May 11th. I just have to say that this calculating of how many weeks I am and when the due date is tends to be a little off and some what confusing so as far as I'm concerned the wee one will choose to come when he/she is ready.

So far I've been feeling really good. No morning sickness but felt nauseated most mornings while on my Montana trip. I have been extremely tired and require at least an hour nap in the middle of my day and I haven't noticed any major or should I say specific cravings apart from always wanting carbs. Getting into a regular exercise routine has had it's challenges since I returned from Missoula so I am trying to get my body out (even in the rain) for at least a 2-4 mile walk each day. I will probably add swimming to my workout as the weather continues to change.

This is an exciting time for Tim and I and we are looking forward to sharing more photos and updates on the wee one with all of our family and friends.

Happy Halloween

I know I have not posted in a long time. It's just been one of those weeks where I don't have a lot to talk about. I can tell you that we had a fun Halloween with the kids in our neighbourhood. It was a cold night but that didn't seem to stop them from gathering enough candy to last them an entire year. My favorite costume for the night was the little boy dressed as a candy corn...adorable, sorry I didn't take a picture.

I hope you all had a safe and fun night.

Any Given Sunday

Yesterdays game should've been a win but instead it was a really disappointing loss. Our offence was off and our defense, which is tough, was just not playing well. The worst part of the game was losing the man himself Matt Hasselbeck (our quarterback), I have a feeling he may be out for the season. Not sure what his injuries are but he is the glue that holds that team together.

Well with that all said I kept thinking that we were now out of Superbowl contention until I heard on the radio that we were in this exact position last year. We're not out yet...watch out for the Seahawks folks, we will fight back and fight hard.

I'm Back!

Wow, two long weeks away from home. I missed my husband, I missed my bed and I missed the opportunity to cook good meals everynight. With all of that said, I have to tell you that it was all worth it because it was two fantastic weeks of intense photography. I learnt so much and I've come back with an appreciation for this art that I never had before.

Rocky Mountain School of Photography has given me the confidence to really start taking serious pictures. It also showed me that I am a good photographer, I have a good eye and I'm now even more technically sound.

What will I do next, well I'm working on that and the moment things start to happen you will all be the first to know about it. Let's just say there will be a show in my future.

My Love For Photography

I was 15-years old when I picked up my first camera and when it came to what I wanted to be when I grew up, professional photography was number two on the list under professional beach volleyball player.

Well, it's now twenty years later and one year ago I had made the decision that I ither needed to get back to the beach or take my photography to the next level. With my husbands support I have decided to do the latter.

Beginning on Saturday I will be attending the Rocky Mountain School of Photography in Missoula, Montana for two weeks. I'm not expecting to come back a professional but I am expecting the dream to become even more alive.

I'm not sure how much blogging I will be doing but I do look forward to sharing my experience with all of you.

It Was Wicked

I celebrated my 35th birthday yesterday and it was Wicked. That's right Tim and I had a lovely dinner at Volterra in Ballard and then headed off to the Broadway Musical Wicked - The untold story of the witches of OZ. I haven't read the book, but was told by someone in the audience that had, that they did a really good job of putting the story on stage in 3-hours. We laughed, we cried and the performers were fantastic. The two leads were actually natives of Washington, one was originally form Olympia and the other from Bellevue. There is talent in these parts I tell ya.

I had 5 birthday cards, 16 phone calls, 5 people serenade me, 1 email and one handsome man give me at least 4 big kisses. Just like every other birthday that I have it all feels the same but I will tell you that I never imagined myself at 35. I never imagined I would be married to this wonderful man and we'd be living in this beautiful city. I just never imagined 35, what a wonderful experience!

Thank you family and friends for making my birthday special, I love you all.

2-Night Campout

September 8th-10th Tim, Paul (Tim's brother) and I went on a really fun trip to Mt Adams. Our first night was spent at Horseshoe Lake. In the morning we headed up to High Camp just below the Adams Glacier, what a beautiful hike.

I'm enjoying and becoming much more comfortable with these overnight campouts. I had a little anxiety with the first one we did but I think the more I do the more I learn. I'm telling you folks, knowledge is power! More pictures

Not Much Going On

We didn't do very much this weekend, it was nice. We've had such a busy summer that taking a break was well deserved.

Hope you all had a wonderful Labor Day.

Happy Birthday RoseMarie

RoseMarie was celebrating her 40th birthday and it was party hats for everyone. If you missed the event, I am happy to present - Hats, Hats and More Hats.

My First Backpacking Trip

Heading out for our big weekend

Good Morning
Tim and I have been talking about going backpacking for a long time, we finally did it. Although I have been sworn to secrecy as to our location (it was so beautiful we don't want anyone else to go there), I can tell you that it is in the Mt St. Helens area and you can see Mount Rainier, Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams and Mount Hood - AMAZING!

This trip was long overdue, we got to use our brand new tent, which we just love, and Tim got to finally use his new bag (which didn't work so well). The hike was 6-miles to the lake and it took us about 4-hours with a lunch break, many breaks to admire the views and rest for Tim's back. Coming back it only took us about 2-hours 45-min.

For my first overnight in the wilderness I was a little nervous about bears and other wildlife I do not encounter everyday. Thankfully our only little friends were a chipmunk and some birds. Tim was happy to swim in the buff and at night there was a peace that I never hear in the city.

Check out the pictures, they tell it all.

A Weekend of Celebrations

On August 12th 2006 there was a lot going on. My mummy and daddy would've been celebrating their 45th wedding anniversary. My friend Lauren was married. We celebrated Bills life and laid him to rest in Toledo, WA and on August 13th we wished Elli and Dianne an early happy birthday.

Two Weeks Of Fun

Mummy and Courtney (my 11yr old neice) visited Tim and I in Seattle. It was non-stop fun. Here's what we did:

July 26th - Arrive in Seattle - Yeah, I can't wait to show them around.
July 27th - Shopping (a part of every Jamaicans trip)
July 28th - Traveled to San Juan Island, Stayed at Juniper Lane (highly recommended), Dinner at Madrona Bar and Grill in Roche Harbor
July 29th - Whale Watching with Captain Carli's Charter, visited the Lavender Farms
July 30th - Returned to Seattle, drove on the famous Chuckanut Drive
July 31st - Woodland Park Zoo with Friends and more shopping
Aug 1st - Courtney went on the climbing wall at the YMCA. Visited the beautiful Japanese Garden and discovered Pike Place Market. Dinner at the Penny's home - thank you!
Aug 2nd - Mount Rainier (Paradise). Courtney and Tim climbed to about 6400-ft and she got to hike through snow.
Aug 3rd - Mummy went shopping. Courtney and I went to Wild Waves/Enchanted Village. Dinner with our friends the Deys - always a good time.
Aug 4th - Tim, Mummy, Courtney and Simon went to Fall City to visit Mary Jo. They had lunch and rode the horse. I was at a training ALL day. We all enjoyed the Mariners Game in the evening.
Aug 5th - We headed to Olympia and spent the weekend with Donna. Marie, Paul, Courtney and Tim swam and drove the boat while Mummy and I did a little more shopping (what can I tell you).
Aug 6th - Enjoyed Eld Inlet. Walked to the cove, swam, drove the boat, taught Courntey how to go clamming, Tim swam across the inlet (about 2-miles) and had lunch with the rest of the Dugaw family. It was a fun weekend.
Aug 7th - Mount St. Helens: Mummy really enjoyed this visit. We had dinner with Paul, Marie and Claire.
Aug 8th - Goodbye Mummy and Courtney, thank you for visiting us. We had a whole lot of fun and we look forward to your next visit. We love you!

Check out the 382 pictures: Album 1, Album 2, Album 3

It Was A Hot One

Thank God for the water and thank God for friends like Tim and Marianne. This was one weekend you didn't want to be anywhere, but near the water. With temperatures in the high 90's Tim and I enjoyed two wonderful days in Allyn.

Take a look at the pictures, it says it all.

I Love and Miss My Friends

The Jamaican Crew

Tim and I had a fantastic time in Dayton, Ohio this weekend and if it wasn't for Sion's wedding, I probably wouldn't have seen this place my dear friend calls home.

It was a joining of two familes that are from two different worlds. It was a reunion of friends that have know each other for over two decades. It was a meeting of new friends. It was an invasion on Ohio by probably the most diverse group of people - Jamaicans, Australians, Brits, the south, east coasters, the NW - we were from all over the globe. With the Appleton Rum and Red Stripe Beer flowing, this session lasted the entire weekend.

Pictures Galore... Album 1, Album 2

Weekend With The Dey Boys

What a fun weekend we had. Tim, Simon, Colin and myself enjoyed the Mariners game on Friday night. On Saturday we went to the park in the morning and tried flying Simon's birthday kite however, it just wouldn't get off the ground. We ended our day at a party on the Lake, running around in circles and playing a little volleyball and paddleball.

It was fun boys, come back again soon.

Our weekend in photos - Check it out!

It Doesn't End Here

I took a week off from training after the race on June 25th, now Tim and I are back at it. The Team in Training group is so driven and encouraged to do a few more races this year. Many of them are stepping it up to do a 1/2 Iron Man. Tim and are working on our Sprint and Olympic distances. There's nothing wrong with perfection. Most groups fizzle out and don't think about doing another race until the next session. It's been a fun group, we meet two to three times a week. We've taken what Wade (our coach) has taught us and kept it going.
Go Team!

The Finish Line

On Sunday, June 25th I competed in the Pacific Crest Olympic Distance Triathlon. It didn't go as well as I had hoped but, I did finish and that's what was important.

I woke up on Sunday morning at about 2:45am with a not so pleasant stomach ache. I think it was partially nerves and partially something I ate the night before. I completed the race on an empty stomach, making it a very difficult race to swim, bike and run. I was also dealing with 98-degree temperatures and an elevation of 4200-ft.

The .9-mile swim went fairly well finishing in about 0:29:33. The 28-mile bike ride was beautiful, however it felt more like a leisure ride than a race (I just didn't have it in me to power through those hills). I finished the bike in 1:52:51. And the run, well with my quads cramping and my body lacking nourishment let's just say it was probably the second worst 6-miles I have ever run - the first being the last 6-miles of the Chicago Marathon. I must admit that with 3-miles to go I wouldn't have been able to continue if it wasn't for my wonderful husband. Tim rode a bike and walked beside me to the finish line and it was his encouragement that kept me going. I completed the run in 1:16:53. This gave me an overall time, including my transitions, of 3:46:19.

This race may be over, but I am encouraged to do many more. I think doing triathlons are my new sport of choice. I'll let you know when the next one is.

Thanks again for all of your support. The Leukemia, Lymphoma Society raised over $103,000 with our team - Thank you! I encourage all of you to support Elizabeth.

Let the Races Begin

This is it folks, the moment of truth. Think of me on Sunday morning at 9:00am (pacific daylight time), give me about 4-hours to complete the entire course, I'm shooting for 3.5-hours however finishing will be a bonus. It's a 1.5K Swim, 28mi Bike and 10K Run.

Thanks again for all of your support. Your next update will be on Tuesday.

Soltice Parade

I've lived in Seattle for 3-1/2 years and this was my first time going to the parade. Not so bad since my dear husband has lived here all of his life, except when he moved to Philadelphia, and this was his first time at the parade.

What a fun event and a must see for anyone visiting at this time of the year. It's the beginning of summer and the longest day of the year so why not celebrate with a parade and the annual Dey Soltice party.

Renee's Visit

It's been a fun, filled week with Renee in town. On Monday when she arrived she had the honor to spend her first day watching me put about 25 kids up a climbing wall. Tuesday we headed over to Port Townsend, Wednesday I took her downtown to enjoy Pike Place Market, Thursday Tim and I took her to Mt. St. Helens, our second trip in a month - third trip in a year. On Friday we went back downtown, enjoyed a movie and then went to the Mariners game for some good American fun. On Saturday we spent the entire day in Fremont enjoying the Soltice Parade...lots of naked people to be seen.

She has to go home today and I will miss her. It has been nice having her around.

12 Days to My Big Race

That's right people I have less than two weeks before I swim, bike and run the Olympic distance triathlon in Sunriver, OR. Am I ready, not really but I will be in 12-days...right.

Make final donations at my Team in Training page. Thank you for all of the support you have all given me. I love you and if I don't see you at the finish line, I promise you will hear from me when I get back.

Race Information

Fantastic Website

I have found the best website for runners, bikers and even walkers. It allows runners to map and measure their favorite running routes and then save them to the largest searchable database of running routes in the country. It is done through USA Track and Field.

Anyone that considers themselves a runner will love it. Check it out today.

Sprint Down...Olympic To Go

Tim and I completed the Issaquah Sprint Triathlon on Saturday with our spirits high. We felt we had worked hard and done really well. It was good for me to do this race as a practice run for the big event coming up in Bend, OR. I must admit it seemed to be the perfect distance. To think I will be doing twice the amount in less than 4 weeks.

Tim was thinking about doing the Pacific Crest Tri and he had told me that he would make the decision at the end of the sprint triathlon. His first words to me as he crossed the finish line were, "honey you are on your own". He enjoys racing and competing and I believe he will do another sprint race with me at the end of the summer. It's the 6.2-mile run at the end of an olympic event that doesn't thrill him too much. He loves to swim and bike, running is just not his thing.

Laud it Cold

So I did it, on Wednesday night I went to Luther Burbank on Mercer Island and plunged into Lake Washington. It was my first open water swim wearing my wet suit. It went really well for me. The initial entry took my breath away, literally, then it got much easier. I was alot warmer than I thought I would be and I wasn't as freaked out with not seeing the bottom, as I thought I would be. Hey I'm Jamaican what do you expect.

Our sprint race is tomorrow...wish us luck.

The Unofficial Start Of Summer

People seem to forget the real meaning behind Memorial Day and that includes me. I must admit my weekend did not have anything to do with remembering those that have died in the line of duty. Should I feel guilty about this? I don't know, I'm not sure that I do. Most people seem to have a BBQ or they go to festivals to ring in the unofficial start of summer.

My weekend didn't include any BBQ's or festivals. What it did include was a 3-mile run around Green Lake, a 2100-yard swim, a 40-mile bike ride and a relaxing weekend with my husband. We didn't do very much and we were both very happy to be doing just that. With 4 prior weekends that were booked solid and the next 4 weekends being booked out of our whoha this was a refreshing time for us both.

Welcome to summer folks...I plan on making it the best one yet.

Another Update

Tim and I will be competing in a sprint triathlon on June 3rd in Issaquah. After that race I will have 22 days until the Pacific Crest Triathlon.

How is my training? Here is the latest: On Saturday we had a multi-brick workout which included a 10-mile bike ride, 2.5-mile run, 10-mile bike ride, 2.5-mile run ending with a 8-mile bike ride, whew, it's just as hard typing it as it was doing it. It was a long training but it felt really good. Monday I had my 2-mile time trial and I was 30-secs off of my best time...YEAH! I'm feeling more and more ready for this race.

I'm only $410 short of my $3,000 goal. If you have not made a contribution to Team in Training do so today. If you have THANK YOU!

Family in Town

It's been quite the weekend and now quite the week. Tim's niece was married on Saturday and so a part of the Canadian crew came out to visit. Tom and Jen are staying with us this week. We enjoyed the wedding on Saturday, spent sunday at Gramee, Mom, Donna (it depends on who she is to you) for Mother's Day and last night we went to watch the Black Eyed Peas. They were good, really good. Today we are heading down to Mt. Saint Helens and the rest of the week is packed with ferry rides, tours under the city of Seattle and horseback riding.

During all of this I must keep up with my training. So Sunday I went for a run, with Tim, and the rest of the week will see me in the pool, on my bike and running. I tell you, there is no rest for the weary.

Training Update

Last week started out with a bang. I went for my usual Monday run at Green Lake, we were doing mainly hills. I was feeling good until my right knee buckled under me. I wasn't in any pain so I kept on running. The following morning I went for a run around my neighbourhood, feeling no pain but having an odd feeling in my knee, it was a pretty good run also. On Tuesday night after a late night meeting my knee was killing me, I was in pain. I had difficulty walking down stairs and it was slightly swollen.

On Wednesday I gave it a rest as well as Thursday. Friday I was heading out of town to Orcas Island and although my knee was feeling good, I was beginning to feel a little stick with flu like symptoms. Saturday I worked all day, walking at least 3-miles around Camp Orkila and on Sunday I had all the faith in the world that I could do a work out but my heal was now giving me trouble....oy vey.

Not a great week of training, I'm hoping this will be my only set back until the big day on June 25th.

Orcas Island

If you come to the great NW it is important that you make your way to the San Juan Islands. Lucky me, once a year I have the opportunity to go to Orcas Island, a place I would like to explore with a little more time. However, every year as a part of my job at the YMCA I get to go to Camp Orkila with our Adventure Guides group. It was a fun experience, as usual, but this year they have added a new chanllenge. It's the giant swing and it is fun, fun fun. Check out the pictures of me on the swing with Lydia, one of the kids in the program. The next time I'm going it alone.

Suiting up for the big ride and Lydia and I hanging out

That's My Timmy

I was looking at Calabash Yard today and realized that I hadn't uploaded a picture in a long time. This was one of my favorites from our weekend with the Moriarity kids. Tim took over the playground and as you can see by the smile on his face, he was a happy little boy. That's my Timmy.

Weekend Continued...

As I had said in my previous blog, Sunday was going to be our day to spend with the Moriarity Kids (Quin and Colin). The kids got to our house around 11am, we sent their parents on their way and then it was our turn to have some fun. Nick, Simon, Colin and Haylie had joined us for the majority of the day.

Our first stop was the Sea Aquarium. After 1-hour of kids faces lit up with smiles we were all hungry and so we headed to The Old Spaghetti Factory for lunch. We ended our evening with the kids at the BF Day school park followed by Gas Works where we met Colin and Quin's parents.

Our evening wasn't over. As Tim and I were driving home we were passing Green Lake Pitch and Putt and decided to play a round of golf on the 9-hole, 3-par course, it was a fun way to end our weekend.

Busy Weekend

Saturday morning I went on what was to be a 45-mile bike ride. Well, it turned out to be 52-miles, partially because there were a few turns we made that were wrong. Our ride took us from Marymoor park east on 202 to Fall City north on 203 through Carnation winding our way back to Marymoor via one bitch hill, it was the Snoqualmie Valley experience.

It was a good ride, I felt good and I worked hard to maintain my speed while keeping bikers ahead of me and behind me, mainly because I do not know that area very well. I knew getting lost was inevitable, I just didn't want to do it on my own. I will tell you that it was one of the most beautiful rides I have been on in Seattle. I rode by places I have been to before but I got to see places that I never even knew were in Seattle such as the Nestle Training Center. I wish I had my camera with me.

For the record, Tim went on a 14-mile ride from home.

Later that afternoon it began to rain, missing me on the bike - yeah. Phillip (Tim's nephew) visited us and took us to North Face to go shopping. He works for a store that owns NF and we got to get ourselves a few items at a 50% discount. We couldn't resist. Check out our new tent and backpack. Then we had dinner with our friends Kevin and Michelle.

Today, Sunday, we are taking the Moriarity kids for the day. It's thier Christmas gift. We'll let you know what we decided to do with them. The good news is the sun is shining.

Hump Day

The middle of the week. It can be the greatest feeling in the world OR it can feel as if the week is just dragging along. This Wednesday is a good one. I've just returned from a run that felt really good and I'm about to cook my husband and I some cod. Although cod is some of the cheapest fish you can buy, it is probably one of my favorites. I suspect that it is because cod or salt fish as we know it in Jamaica is a part of our national dish and I ate it a lot growing up.

Monday Tim and I went for a 2500m swim. Tuesday was an off day because we decided to go watch the Everett Silvertips play in the playoffs. Thursday will probably be a run/bike day. I'll let you know what we do on Friday. Saturday I'm going for a 45-mile bike ride. Sunday, well Sunday may just be another rest day...we'll see.

First Game Of The Season

It was a beautiful day in Seattle with temperatures in the 70's. Tim and I finally went to a Mariners Game yesterday and even though they lost it was a perfect day for baseball. When we got home we headed out on a 20-mile bike ride, with a pit stop at the Dey's house.

Training has been going well. Last week I did a run that I was not happy with but having bad days are expected. Tim and I will be doing a sprint triathlon on June 3rd, he's doing it to support his lovely wife and I'm doing it as a practice run before the real thing.

If you have made a contribution to Team in Training, thank you and I look forward to swimming, riding and running this race because of your support. If you haven't made a contribution...do it now!

Happy Easter

I hope everyone had a peaceful and safe Easter. Tim and I went to Olympia on Saturday evening and spent the night at his moms. Sunday we went to church and then headed down to Chehalas to have lunch with the rest of the family at Paul and Maries.

Thank you for the good food and fun time.

Out With The Old, In With The New

I'm in the process of renewing my Jamaican passport and I have to tell you it has been as painful as getting my teeth pulled. This process started about 4-weeks ago and I am still trying to make the Embassy of Jamaica in Washington, DC happy. Seattle does not have very many Jamaicans living here so we have one consulate that is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays ONLY and she's in Kent. Mercy!

Hmm, I wonder if I could become a Jamaican Consul?

Confused

That's what I am. I kept getting my training weeks mixed up. Finally, I think I have figured it out. I am currently in my 11th week of training. My 9th and 10th weeks were consistent and this week I must say that I have stepped it up a notch. Well that's what my butt, back and legs are telling me.

Sunday I did a 1600m swim. Monday was 1-hour running hills. Tuesday I went for a 3-mile run and I played a serious game of floor hockey. Wednesday I will be swimming, Thursday I plan on doing a 17-mile bike ride. Friday I plan on doing a 4-6 mile run and Saturday we have our second multi-brick (run/bike).

Go Team!

How About A Good Cry

On Friday April 7th Tim and I had a wonderful opportunity to tour the Oncology Unit at Children's Hospital. We were taught and reminded of how a child with Leukemia lives day to day. Not to mention their parents and siblings. Rosanne Feder, our tour guide, showed great passion in the work she does with the kids on the unit and it made us have an appreciation for the work that hospital staff and volunteers do everyday. I left realizing that I have a sweet life, I'm healthy and I'm free to be who I want to be and go where I want to go. Become a blood or bone marrow donor today or support Team in Training. These are just the easy ways to help make a difference!


The weekend continued with a few more tears when we went to Tim's brother in laws retirement from the Washington State Patrol. Craig has served 37 years in Washington State and it was Saturday night that showed me a little bit more about the man himself and the work he did on a daily basis. Craig is not a man that likes to have the attention placed on him. However, as we listened to the speakers we learnt how much he is respected, loved and will be missed. They ended the evening with a salute to the longest standing trooper to serve in this state. Congratulations Craig and Good Luck!

Week 9 of 21

I'm not even half way there, I have to admit that I have a far way to go. My runs are still feeling a little sluggish, my bike rides could certainly use a little more power and my swimming, well I just need to get into the pool more than once a week. Even though I am feeling this way, I promise all of you that have made a contribution to this wonderful cause that I will be completing this triathlon.

Today we had three 1-mile repeats, tomorrow I will run about 3 miles, Wednesday I will be doing an hour of boot camp and then swimming for an hour. Thursday I plan on doing a 17-mile bike ride, Friday I will do a 4-6 mile run, Saturday we are doing a 1-hour trail run and Sunday I plan on resting. I will let you know what really happens and how it really turns out.

Thanks for all of your support.

Time Together

Tim and I had a very full yet relaxing weekend. On Friday evening we headed down to Olympia to spend the night at his moms place. Saturday morning Tim went to do the MS Walk with Dan and Paul while Donna and I headed to Erin's wedding shower. By 2:30pm we were heading back to Seattle.

Sunday morning came around and Tim had a hard time getting out of bed. Well, he got out and then went back. By 4:30pm I convinced him to come out with me for a walk at Golden Gardens. We had a lovely evening walking on the beach, having dinner at Madame K's and attempting to get in for a round of bowling. That didn't happen due to a league being played and all of the lanes being used.

All in all it was a wonderful time together.

Go, Go, Go

Saturday morning I had my usual Team in Training workout. This week it was an out and back 35 mile bike ride from Marymoor to Matthews Beach. It felt great! I think I'm finally feeling good on the bike. I'm getting use to using my gears the correct way, I'm feeling much more efficient on the bike.

At the end of practice I rushed home, took a shower and at 1:00pm I kissed Tim goodbye (He worked deligently in the garden all day Saturday). I had to make the 1:30pm ferry to Kingston. I was heading over to Fort Worden which is in Port Townsend. I was meeting up with our Adventure Guides group (work stuff). The best part is that I made it back to Seattle by about 6:30pm, that's right it was a quick trip.

On Sunday morning I felt that my house needed a little attention so I cleaned it. I love a clean house! My reward was brunch at one of our favorite spots- Wild Mountain. We hadn't been there in a while so we spent most of the time catching up with friends, we know the owner and the ladies that work there.

It's Been A Long Week

Monday was a beautiful day in Seattle. It was the first day of spring. I went to Green Lake and did my timed 2 mile run, this is my second time doing it. The good news is that after two weeks of vacation my time was 2 seconds faster. I would've liked to have been at least 30 seconds faster but at least I am consistent.

The rest of my week included a swim and a soar knee taking my running out of the training plan for this week. Haven't had much else going on. Just hanging with the hubby and reading alot. I tell ya, it's been a long week.

My Weekend Workouts

Saturday, March 18th 2006:
I woke up at about 5:30 this morning, I have practice at 9am and I would love to get just a little more sleep. It's not happening, so I jump on my computer and take care of some reunion business.

My Team in Training practice this morning is at Seward Park. I will be doing my first multi-brick training. When I get to Seward it is cold, very cold but I know that my bike/run will soon warm my body. We bike a 5 mile loop, then run what I believe was 1 mile. Everyone was to complete 4 transitions, I only completed two and a half. I was close to stopping at two but, with the help of my coach I did the bike one more time and it felt good to do that. After two weeks of vacation and my lack of training, I was hitting a wall very early on.

Sunday, March 19th 2006:
It's a gorgeous day in Seattle. If you had a chance to be outside, I hope you were. I went to church in the morning then Tim and I decided that we needed to be outside so we went for a bike ride. We headed from home down the Burke Gilman Trail to the UW, about 12 miles round trip. I don't get enough time on my bike and although my legs were certainly feeling it, it was nice to be out there - so this was a nice bonus.

The Jamaica Trip Continues...

On Monday morning Tim and I headed down to Negril. I'd never been to the place we were staying at so we were a little worried. However, Catcha Falling Star ended up being wonderful. Our first evening in Negril we swam in the beautiful Caribbean Sea, had dinner from a roadside diner and drank wine under the stars. We were in heaven.

On our second day we decided to go snorkeling. I must admit that I got a little bored and I drove Tim crazy. After some Ackee and Saltfish for breakfast, we headed into town to look for a game of beach volleyball, we came up empty. Instead we got into a minor fender bender. So, we ate lunch at Cosmos, bought some local art and then headed back to our abode. Tim spent the evening jumping off the cliffs, I read my book. That evening we ate at the Rockhouse then relaxed in our patio hammock listening to a concert at Ricks Cafe (4 doors away).

The next day we lazed around, read and played cards. We were having the time of our lives doing whatever WE wanted to do.

Thursday morning we headed to the south coast to stay one night at Jakes in St. Elizabeth. Although we were not as happy with our room, the place is a great little hide away. Their restaurant Jack Sprat (near to the beach) played some really good music so that's where we would spend most of our time.

Heading back into Kingston, the following day, we stopped at Lovers Leap and we ate lunch at Little Ochi. Our final weekend in Jamaica was spent with the family. We even had an opportunity to take the kids to Dunns River Falls, we did have fun.

So that's our vacation, it was a time we both deserved and we both enjoyed.
Mi cay wait fi go back home.
For more pictures check out Shutterfly.

The Food...The Workouts

Steamed Garlic Crab, Jerked Shrimp and Bammy

Tim constantly reminds himself how much he loves the food in Jamaica, it is all good and let's just say that our workouts did not exceed the amount of good food we ate. So needless to say we did eat well and we did put on a little weight.

I know I have a triathlon that I'm working towards, so I will share with you my limited time of training. I did a total of 4 workouts while on vacation, my initial plan for my 14 days on the island was to do at least 8, so I was 50% there. I did a 1600m swim, and three runs that were 3-plus miles. I cannot lie it's been a while since I have run in heat like that. I truly missed that amount of sweat running down my face, my back and my arms. I do wish I had done a few more workouts but the hammock just kept on calling my name.

Tomorrow I will share with you our wonderful getaway in Negril at Catcha Falling Star.

Home Sweet Home

Courtney the Performer

Luke the Sports Star

Stuart the Star Baller

I've decided that with the amount of pictures and information I have to share about our trip I'm not going to overwhelm you all at once, so I will give it to you in pieces.

I arrived in Jamaica 4 days before Tim and that time was spent with my family. I had the opportunity to watch my two nephews, Stuart and Luke, play football and on Sunday I went to watch my niece do her synchronize swimming. When Tim arrived late Sunday evening we had ourselves some good Jamaican food (more to come) and a quiet evening with mummy.

It's Cold Out There

Tim and I had a wonderful time in Jamaica and although it is nice to be back home, it's always hard to say goodbye.

The moment we departed the plane the cold hit us, we had gotten so use to the warm sun beating down on us that we had to pull out the warm coats and get into bundle mode. It's wonderful to be home, sleeping in our own beds and having a different pair of shoes to wear (limited clothes when you travel) but our trip was really jam packed and fun. My next entry will have pictures and a review of our time in our second home.

Soon Come

Tim and I are going to be in Jamaica for 2 wonderful weeks. I arrive on Thursday (March 2nd)and spend a few days in Kingston with my family. Tim arrives on Sunday, after a business meeting in Miami. We head to Negril (Catcha Falling Star) on Monday morning for 4 nights and then we will spend one night in St. Elizabeth at Jakes. Our final weekend in town we plan on seeing family and friends. During the entire visit, I plan on eating as much good Jamaican food as I can.

As for my training, the good news is that my sister, Lisa, is also training for a triathlon so I plan on tagging along with her. When I'm off in the country I will play tennis and run.

I'm not sure how much blogging I plan on doing, you might get an update on the trip and then again I am in Jamaica so you might not.

Layta

The Training Continues...

I am 5 weeks into my training and as the workouts get more and more intense I am reminded at our Saturday practices why I signed up to do this.

Alex McKinley is an energetic, brave 11 year old boy in 5th grade. He was diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia on January 20th, 2005. He is now in the maintenance phase of his cancer and he seems to ge getting better, but it has been a long road for Alex and for his mother Kaori and his 8 year old brother Chirs.

When I think of the total number of miles that I will be doing in the Olympic Triathlon and I think about how far Alex has to go, my distance seems so short. Good Luck Alex!

I Need A Nap

At 8:30 this morning I rolled into the Redhook Brewery parking lot ready for my 25 mile bike ride on the Burke Gilman Trail. It was a cold morning and from the moment I jumped onto my bike I wondered if my Jamaican blood was really cut out for this.

There were many Team in Training members out on the trail as we rode into (not literally) the marathon team. Plus, there was another large group of about 100 people that were going to be riding over 50 miles and then of course you have the people that just love to run on the trail or live in the area, so needless to say for a cold morning the Burke Gilman was very busy.

As we headed on down the trail, towards Seattle, my fingers became more and more numb. I couldn't feel anything, surprisingly my ears were doing okay and so were my feet it was just my fingers I was having a lot of trouble with. I was feeling pretty strong 3 miles into the ride and very encouraged that my body, and those pesky fingers, were going to start warming up.

For the majority of the first half of my ride I was pretty much on my own and very focused. It was at mile 11 that I had a couple pass me and decide that it was time to chat, take over the entire trail and slow down to the point where I was coasting most of the time. It was just before the turn around point that I had the opportunity to pass them, I kept it that way.

The second half of my ride didn't go as well as the first. The first problem was there was a very cold head wind that was kicking me in the butt. Then, although the trail is somewhat flat, heading back there was a slight incline and this time instead of my fingers going numb, my toes were now feeling very uncomfortable. To make matters worse, I didn't eat anything before the ride therefore my legs were beginning to run out of gas. I made it back to our meeting place but I was needing some serious nourishment and a warm fire at that point.

For my first official ride with the team and for the season, I was pleased with how things went. I am looking forward to more long rides and improving my performance.

My New Wheels

Sweet Car!

This is what I'm driving for 6 full days and I am loving every moment. Paul, my brother-in-law, went on a trip and needed someone to take him to the airport. I said yes, and this is what I got to borrow in return. Not a bad deal, not a bad deal at all.

This is the car (well the old model) that I learnt how to drive on and Tracey, my eldest sister, owned one so I drove it a lot. I'm very impressed with the new Coopers they have a ton of space and they are peppy. It's bringing back some good ol' memories.

If you're around, maybe I'll take you for a spin.

Week 4 of 21

This weekend took so much out of me that I missed my swim/run on Monday night. The rest of the weeks training will include a 45min spin class, a 1200-1500yrd swim, 6-8 miles of running and a 25 mile bike ride. At the end of the bike ride there will be a Nutrition Clinic at Redhook Brewery, of all places. I have yet to bike outside this year and although I know how to ride a bike I'm a little nervous about riding in such a large group (there are 80 of us).

As I had said a few blogs ago, it's time to step up my training. Next week I will be out of the country and away from my scheduled practices so, it will be up to me to stay focused and continue building on the program and working just a little harder.

I am having a lot of fun with this program. It has certainly gotten me back into the workout grove and if my fundraising goes well I think I may have to do another one and another one and another one. Anyone interested in joining me? Oh, and I promise I will make time for a family.

Oh What a Beautiful Morning

Sunrise at the Sound (Mt. Rainier)

This is how our morning began before we headed off to Bill's funeral (Feb. 17). It was a wonderful service with family and friends. People showed their appreciation and respect to the life of a wonderful doctor, father and husband. "Donna's the greatest...boop, boop, boop."

It's My 2006 Goal

Every year I set a goal for myself and this year was no different. My goal for this year was to lose weight and get in shape. The only way I felt I could accomplish that was by participating in an endurance event, like a marathon or a triathlon.

When I walked into the Team in Training meeting on January 10th, my plan was to sign up for a race, and walk away with a structured training program and an experienced coach. I walked away with a lot more. This year my goal is not only to complete the Pacific Crest Olympic Triathlon on June 25th, but also to help raise awareness and money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. This organization is dedicated to funding blood cancer research, providing education, and patient services. Thousands of people battle different kinds of blood cancer on a daily basis, and this is our opportunity to help.

I will be swimming .9 miles, biking 25 miles and running 6 miles in honor of Susan Dalton. I have known Susan and her family for over 3 years. Susan was diagnosed with leukemia 6 years ago at the age of 39, and was in remission for 2 years. She is currently hospitalized, battling her second case of Leukemia. She has had one eye removed and she has also gone blind in the other. Research dollars have increased the survival rate from 15% in 1965, to 46% today. With our help, hopefully these research dollars will help them find a cure in Susan’s lifetime.

By now, I hope you agree with me regarding the importance of this cause. Please help support me by giving generously. Seventy-five percent of all funds will go directly to research, and your contribution is tax deductible. Contributing money is a powerful way to get involved, when you can’t give your time. Many companies match charitable contributions, so please check with your company, and include matching forms with your donation. To make a contribution, please complete the enclosed donation form and return it to me by May 28th, or go to my website at www.active.com/donate/tntwaak/tntwaakPDugaw. If you would like, your donation can be made in honor of somebody special, just let me know their name, and I will race for them as well.

If you would like to support me through motivation, please check back here again and again and again. It will have updated information on my training. It is also a great place for you to write words of encouragement, like reminding me that leaving a warm bed at 5:30 am for cold Lake Washington is a good thing.

When You Love Somebody

It's been an emotionally draining week, especially for Tim and his family. Seattle is back to beautiful days with snow expected over the weekend. Bill's funeral is going to be on Friday and many of Tims siblings will be here. I'm excited to meet two more of the twelve kids, to think that in over 2 years of knowing the family I only have 2 members left to meet- whew.

My training is going relatively well. We had a 2 mile timed run on Monday, didn't do too badly, and I have swim practice tonight. I'm feeling that I will need to step it up a little next week, it's been about 3 weeks of training and although I'm feeling really good I don't feel as if I'm doing enough. I feel as if I should be further along.

Always remember to tell the people you care for, I love you.

A Little Snow Fall

Our Front Yard

We have had 3-4 full days of beautiful clear skies and sunshine. Last night when I went for my run it was so cold that at 2 miles I was still freezing my butt off, literally. That cold brought us a little snow last night, certainly not an east coast blizzard, but it's always nice to wake up to a little white on the ground. I've been told that Saturday we should expect more... and we thought spring was here.

We Love You Wilbur!

Wilbur Joseph Dugaw

1923 - 2006

Be Healthy in 2006

I've made a decision that 2006 is my year to really feel good about myself and to just be healthy. Therefore I have signed myself up for an Olympic Distance Triathlon. I will be swimming 0.9 miles in a cold lake, biking 25 miles of some of the most beautiful country and running 6 miles with views to kill. All of this will be taking place in Bend, Oregon on June 25th at the Pacific Crest Triathlon. So, if you're in the area you are welcome to join me, and my cheer team - Tim.

I began swimming again. For all of you that didn't know, I was a pretty good swimmer and water polo player in high school. Anyhow, I've got myself back in the pool 1-2 days a week and it has not been easy. I'm running around 3 days a week, thank God for the great weather we've been having in Seattle and I'm biking around 1-2 days a week.

It has certainly been a commitment and I probably wouldn't know what I was doing and wouldn't be as motivated if I hadn't signed up for this race through Team in Training, more to come on this in a later blog.

Yes it has been a grand start to the new year and I look forward to continuing my training and just feeling good.

Hold Your Heads' Up High, Seahawk Fans

Great job to the Seattle Seahawks, they moved that ball and they played like NFC Champions. It was hard watching them lose yesterday but I just know the NFL playoffs and the world have not seen the last of the Seahawks. It's been a fun football year and I look forward to the start of the 2006/07 season in September. "Go Hawks!"

It's Superbowl Sunday!

It's a beautiful day in Seattle and after a windy day yesterday, today the sun is trying hard to show itself. It's game day and for many of us Seahawk fans we will be watching the game from home or at fun filled parties. Tim has decided that as a Seahawk fan since 1976 (their inception) a party will not do this year, he must have peace and quiet around him as this is a serious game and he needs to watch all plays and hear all commentary. All I can say is "Go Hawks!"