Training hampered

I have a rather embarrassing problem that is causing my swim training to be on hold. I'm shedding. A LOT. For several weeks. Hair is just falling off me everywhere. Clumps of hair. I suppose this is a good sign that spring is here, but it's embarrassing to clog up the filter at the pool. So for now, it's just running for me.

OWS = Open Water Swim

As race day nears, I need to get a few open water swims (OWS) in. This morning the whole family set out to scope out a potential swimming hole near our house. We managed to find a nice sandy spot for me to go in and out of the water. This spot is wider than the pool, so I can practice doing longer laps and of course I can't rely on my turns for extra speed. I got a brief swim, but my non-swimmer brother was getting a little impatient. Next up: OWS with mom (still working on a location for that).

I also got a few runs in this weekend. It's finally warmed up, hitting 85 degrees today. Any hotter and I'm going to need to start carrying water.

Spring Training Camp

Every spring, thousands of baseball fans travel hundreds or thousands of miles to Florida and Arizona to catch a glimpse of their favorite team in spring training. Similarly, I had one fan (Mom's friend and blog friend, Julie) travel 0.1 mile to see me in spring training camp. It's true, my winter hiatus is over. Saturday was a two workout day with a morning run and an afternoon swim.

Here I am getting my swim on.



And here I am with Julie after swimming. Don't worry I'm not eating her hand, she has treats.



So blogdom, there are three deck chairs at the pool, reserve your spot for Spring Training soon.

Busy as a Bee

Yesterday was a busy day. I had to go visit the V-E-T in the morning. I was just in for my once year checkup and shots. I was a little concerned that I had put on some winter weight, but it appears I am right at my optimal training weight. I did have to suffer through a bordetella vaccine. I imagine getting that is sort of like being waterboarded. Held down against my will while they poured drops up my nose. It's pretty awful - I would talk if I could. Last year, I fought them off until they gave me a shot, but the vet was a little more determined this year. I tested a weak positive for anaplasmosis, so I've got some antibiotics to take. You know what that means - Peanut Butter. Yum!

After my morning visit to the vet, I had a short rest before it was off to the pool. I had a good workout, though it turns out that they get kind of upset if you try to jump back in the pool after the shower. But there was a toy left in the pool, I was just trying to help clean up.

I'm ready for the humans to go back to work so I can get some rest.