tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34343241572271715092024-02-20T23:40:35.228-10:00Taking on the Big BlueFollow a 17 year old girls journey from La'au Point, Molokai to Sandy Beach, Oahu through 26 miles of open ocean in the Ka'iwi ChannelLeahihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15249924625206383939noreply@blogger.comBlogger18125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434324157227171509.post-35422541957623829032013-08-09T19:43:00.001-10:002013-08-09T19:43:54.753-10:008 DAYS!<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI-cG09NMtFzbObieu1m3eFWjdfj41SZdVa-7naoW1QzEa4bBbu6hzsUUxojb9ozISXjxZvRWOxGFapr4L0VbnwZLk4Rt30tOkeKQDBIoN-4tLJe7TYAVptc1DoW5AMZHfl1TWKnr45Qo/s640/blogger-image--188270258.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI-cG09NMtFzbObieu1m3eFWjdfj41SZdVa-7naoW1QzEa4bBbu6hzsUUxojb9ozISXjxZvRWOxGFapr4L0VbnwZLk4Rt30tOkeKQDBIoN-4tLJe7TYAVptc1DoW5AMZHfl1TWKnr45Qo/s640/blogger-image--188270258.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">AUGUST 9th 2013</div></div><div><br></div>If you have ever read Bree Wee's blog she has this thing called a "ten day window" where taper starts and all the butterflies set in 10 days before an event. I now know exactly what she means. At this time (8:00) in 8 days I'll be exactly where all my training has taken me, the start of Ka'iwi; La'au point, Molokai. If I haven't felt butterflies before I sure have now. I feel like my tummy is going to explode every time I think about it (which is nearly every hour, obsessive I know) thankfully things are falling into place, hotel, flights, gear all that jazz. The only thing that rests on the back of my mind is the two hurricanes coming in to the islands. <div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcojcUuquma0IZJMU5L6ZJS1E5nTxGhw4I2cswIp3yVoO94nHSxOl0MnfM5-CPa1M-_iqngPRXLlc7ey1W6MjWQ4dGzW6Cg6JxwDJDYolKAH7Achp9CNeOjxcD1CHKFt6oiPMT_33hG9U/s640/blogger-image-418551017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcojcUuquma0IZJMU5L6ZJS1E5nTxGhw4I2cswIp3yVoO94nHSxOl0MnfM5-CPa1M-_iqngPRXLlc7ey1W6MjWQ4dGzW6Cg6JxwDJDYolKAH7Achp9CNeOjxcD1CHKFt6oiPMT_33hG9U/s640/blogger-image-418551017.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Henriette was about 750 miles away at 1:00 Hawaiian time</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFoSL7D6psjunHmumv4VdmUhkz_yp_b1RhQC-IspygMMP7_a59inE8EfZhwrJQDxkOfq5pAZUzWjFXVjdoIEJaKJxfbM-9ilTVMc_kaFvyUStLUv8fUsjmMF9eOat2phhAzlzS944oBi0/s640/blogger-image--1889072775.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFoSL7D6psjunHmumv4VdmUhkz_yp_b1RhQC-IspygMMP7_a59inE8EfZhwrJQDxkOfq5pAZUzWjFXVjdoIEJaKJxfbM-9ilTVMc_kaFvyUStLUv8fUsjmMF9eOat2phhAzlzS944oBi0/s640/blogger-image--1889072775.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The next two are the ones freaking me out. These are only screen shots, but the moving satellite images shows one of them rotating, beginning to form a storm center, which only freaks me out a little more. I'm hopeful though, and have faith that nothing will come of these besides some swells to push me to Oahu (fingers crossed) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv5C7SfzaGHv2pMDJ45fDI7u53Sk2Ljo37u52Ohb3vujmxWEujFDPnXSIxTR_VLJZRymrRLfH8UbvvC4ebCKg-ut1ERsTbhS1zbHbjCet-55A0c1JryPQbHf0IJ85j0OZZnqNOveNodnM/s640/blogger-image-1096924659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv5C7SfzaGHv2pMDJ45fDI7u53Sk2Ljo37u52Ohb3vujmxWEujFDPnXSIxTR_VLJZRymrRLfH8UbvvC4ebCKg-ut1ERsTbhS1zbHbjCet-55A0c1JryPQbHf0IJ85j0OZZnqNOveNodnM/s640/blogger-image-1096924659.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Lastly it was a beautiful aloha Friday out in the islands, at least in Kona. The water was incredible! I did a double loop of the 1.2 course today just to stay loose, the water made it all that much better. And Surprise! I saw Dan at the turn around, man that kid is getting fast..... Any who my shoulders are still feeling outstanding and I'm so happy that I haven't had much pain, if any at all. Prayers have been answered for sure. 8 days and I'll be out in the big blue. Can't wait. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Happy swimming</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Leahi </div><br></div><br></div>Leahihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15249924625206383939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434324157227171509.post-43287301173152364062013-08-08T15:24:00.001-10:002013-08-09T06:38:06.198-10:00TEN DAYS!<div>AUGUST 7 2013</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqyMermaUY0Ehv2AyRAhoV3JWCfE9yVdW0he-2tdoHgoitqx0L0__w3DosUG3omys5NnWCpDT4Az_0XHnmLB1OyV0DYoTn7WpgzGmD5FDuc9wgv2xX-fBVsjN3LqtXqcfqzWjIDnvpDR0/s640/blogger-image-869856932.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqyMermaUY0Ehv2AyRAhoV3JWCfE9yVdW0he-2tdoHgoitqx0L0__w3DosUG3omys5NnWCpDT4Az_0XHnmLB1OyV0DYoTn7WpgzGmD5FDuc9wgv2xX-fBVsjN3LqtXqcfqzWjIDnvpDR0/s640/blogger-image-869856932.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>COUNTDOWN HAS BEGUN! 10 sleeps until the big day! Well maybe more sleeps than that, my snooze time schedule is all jacked up, but ten days! Lets start with last week shall we? Lived up my last week of summer until I was officially a senior! Go 2014! Got my new suit in for training and possibly part of the crossing in the event I cant handle a one piece anymore. Also got my shark shield and a myriad of glow-sticks and plenty of jelly fish fixer uppers and more lanolin. Fun stuff, right? Tri club kids and I headed up to Mauna Kea to watch the sunrise... Why? I'm not sure. A bunch of people who are really used to wearing minimal clothing, in a windy, cold, dark, environment wasn't fitting but we made it work. It was a um.... Bonding experience. <div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicCg0fE8lECywwn-LbAK50rbn8oG8OHijAQh0FwLD1SpLlVCO2I1ey63Tk4ARnXE5pamSXrEmr1UHj_bvUk2wFh4KKJqZ8tORqCe-JvRB232OLQ1iQheqngIEkds6-5aLxCtxdsL2z4Mk/s640/blogger-image-1550659932.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicCg0fE8lECywwn-LbAK50rbn8oG8OHijAQh0FwLD1SpLlVCO2I1ey63Tk4ARnXE5pamSXrEmr1UHj_bvUk2wFh4KKJqZ8tORqCe-JvRB232OLQ1iQheqngIEkds6-5aLxCtxdsL2z4Mk/s640/blogger-image-1550659932.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaTEJnpUUpcQOtbjyZ0Z9SO1KL_xHvoewHIgHsKJ8e5tvuGkK11rjv86B8ObLbtYxlQ3N_uq71aN5tw-022qmzZWIe9pb_R6jP8j8i_Xd-Rc9BVRth6We8wFcNBsjgL8takyOL0_pR38s/s640/blogger-image-1115988722.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaTEJnpUUpcQOtbjyZ0Z9SO1KL_xHvoewHIgHsKJ8e5tvuGkK11rjv86B8ObLbtYxlQ3N_uq71aN5tw-022qmzZWIe9pb_R6jP8j8i_Xd-Rc9BVRth6We8wFcNBsjgL8takyOL0_pR38s/s640/blogger-image-1115988722.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWzeigNwbbZ7sBJt5ekToWMmlVoMpe2xbHGJqq5Dm-nZaFSmoX_r9XeN8tzmcZawluxGxG16I-dBxMLDaWdDKJ3GuOnIY6N4c0I927kHvenUEZ9oyANgz6WzZ0A46ZO2fM4_9aw65P7qM/s640/blogger-image--1303973500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWzeigNwbbZ7sBJt5ekToWMmlVoMpe2xbHGJqq5Dm-nZaFSmoX_r9XeN8tzmcZawluxGxG16I-dBxMLDaWdDKJ3GuOnIY6N4c0I927kHvenUEZ9oyANgz6WzZ0A46ZO2fM4_9aw65P7qM/s640/blogger-image--1303973500.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilWVU-jjBwkPaAKBHMaBcPncnf6zffPe5uVAgJJDtoz_W_-3FoY5535CFRsqal2az7vYH00QkqVwZpYmvXvGNdRgxCSnLZUMz4JGnskQszHQw3GxthzUpuFnkHddTbPVb4s_0A8dx4Eak/s640/blogger-image-1175714711.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilWVU-jjBwkPaAKBHMaBcPncnf6zffPe5uVAgJJDtoz_W_-3FoY5535CFRsqal2az7vYH00QkqVwZpYmvXvGNdRgxCSnLZUMz4JGnskQszHQw3GxthzUpuFnkHddTbPVb4s_0A8dx4Eak/s640/blogger-image-1175714711.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Swimming wise it has been going alright. My shoulders have been giving lots of problems which makes me really sad. My hardest week was cut down to very little which also sucked but I feel as if I was almost a blessing in disguise. The last swim I went on was amazing. I went with my good friend Dan and Cj, on the way in I swore I saw a shadow, stopped in my tracks, and begged Cj to get in with me, and you know what Dan said? No. He said no. To me! The swimmer! Frustrated I continued on and so upset no one got in with me that I totally forgot about the shadow..... Dan you work wonders I swear. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Any who, back to the blessing in disguise, I was at a breaking point I think. Both mentally and physically. My shoulders seemed to have wanted to give in and I was getting more flustered than usual, even though Dan said he has never seen me laugh so hard in my life on that swim, which was true, but it was the after effects. I felt so incredibly overwhelmed, I felt like I was on the verge of tears just talking about this channel swim, sad that I wasn't at my full potential and so super stressed about the logistics, taking a small break, just going out into the ocean and remembering why I even chose to do this thing. Cause I truly love it. I love the water, the rolling waves, the lines in the Sand you can see as you swim by, the huge amount of fish and sea life in general. I got back in touch with what was important, my love of the water. Distance didn't matter, just staying loose, and feeling out the waves and current. It was marvelous. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Lastly and most importantly my night swim. Well my early morning swim. This morning at 3 am I bustled my sleepy little or actually, big body, out of bed and got ready to take a plunge at the pier around 4. Let me just tell you. It was spectacular! I was laughing and having an awesome time, I had my glow sticks, feeds, and anti chafe all down. I'm telling you, relaxing on my swims has helped so much. I was doing what I love, no matter how scary. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjygBDtqdhZlSOVr9h8ilVW3rn-j9miGWK71wikfPL78JJQh_mfRvojxzu2AHsppxNsT2UbCYYIq07KoIIAhiEigJLk7qTRcvfCo06rfpkRa8Hd9w27lcaYB98OOPdtu948P9tsJo91Tk4/s640/blogger-image--109336477.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjygBDtqdhZlSOVr9h8ilVW3rn-j9miGWK71wikfPL78JJQh_mfRvojxzu2AHsppxNsT2UbCYYIq07KoIIAhiEigJLk7qTRcvfCo06rfpkRa8Hd9w27lcaYB98OOPdtu948P9tsJo91Tk4/s640/blogger-image--109336477.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikN_cSrmeL5ZmDIy8W1_VAGN-4Q3OsoFkv-IT-_nTNgJo7YmydTavvM2489Pbl9MK9jwZEZwx6I-VZ-ru6wAtrjJodRJEtTq9aVdA5jXdtDI2rBlrVunTtqDcYgi95nLF4M9pd81K8xA8/s640/blogger-image-118173821.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikN_cSrmeL5ZmDIy8W1_VAGN-4Q3OsoFkv-IT-_nTNgJo7YmydTavvM2489Pbl9MK9jwZEZwx6I-VZ-ru6wAtrjJodRJEtTq9aVdA5jXdtDI2rBlrVunTtqDcYgi95nLF4M9pd81K8xA8/s640/blogger-image-118173821.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZx-fmgSIW5QPwtBWD7qpp29HfrigjbkcJAscMZtTi9e4OqVFHVLFUqf6uqaRnv51K0ZDgS1F-GICXq79YCtkc6VlWYj5rZjczsR5ruk2X5wNi52NcgNWgDHcsNM6buLqyipOWnxbwg10/s640/blogger-image--1776370624.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZx-fmgSIW5QPwtBWD7qpp29HfrigjbkcJAscMZtTi9e4OqVFHVLFUqf6uqaRnv51K0ZDgS1F-GICXq79YCtkc6VlWYj5rZjczsR5ruk2X5wNi52NcgNWgDHcsNM6buLqyipOWnxbwg10/s640/blogger-image--1776370624.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCxBlxHXegF96agBBzpnhLtJpqkU5AIomFgXZiX7YrhdsPQyIFXPIUrWEwd-moZG3W_o9iZr4XXDuyYIvS18SHN7MjDU6uM1PdX6T4zXLkMqVFcvcyQiUN4ZIWNz2nFQCM2fa8lHjSrKo/s640/blogger-image-1497131019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCxBlxHXegF96agBBzpnhLtJpqkU5AIomFgXZiX7YrhdsPQyIFXPIUrWEwd-moZG3W_o9iZr4XXDuyYIvS18SHN7MjDU6uM1PdX6T4zXLkMqVFcvcyQiUN4ZIWNz2nFQCM2fa8lHjSrKo/s640/blogger-image-1497131019.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIhE8tz5ADBYBDKW2of4kmH270FjbPY73C2vmMq8SZScIjgmBedBPnpho_eTsHQOy0Lpek-Eo5WrDSTCrj6wH85yHUw4VhkBPdvuTeIpEctPiun8JBofD1GIrYpzuzvBhrRoh5tUcuvrQ/s640/blogger-image--972484432.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIhE8tz5ADBYBDKW2of4kmH270FjbPY73C2vmMq8SZScIjgmBedBPnpho_eTsHQOy0Lpek-Eo5WrDSTCrj6wH85yHUw4VhkBPdvuTeIpEctPiun8JBofD1GIrYpzuzvBhrRoh5tUcuvrQ/s640/blogger-image--972484432.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Lastly we are having a HUGE influx of donations even people all the way from the mainland and helping out! John Skinner one of the very first from all the way down yonder was a Huge help to my swim. And I can't thank the copious amounts of people for helping me make this dream so incredibly real. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today I got to see a sight that not many are able to experience, the ocean at night is amazing, scary and daunting but truly amazing when it comes down to it. I shared it with the people who have been there for me since day one and deal with my grumpy butt 10 miles in. Don't know what I would do with a lot of the people here in Kona the list could go on forever which I will get to short after the swim, pinky promise. But right now I am so thankful for everyone and everything thus far, it's unfathomable and indescribable how much I love all these people and their unrelenting support which I always welcome. I am one blessed girl. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Happy swimming </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Leahi. </div><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div>Leahihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15249924625206383939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434324157227171509.post-85925856038020979912013-07-30T11:00:00.001-10:002013-07-30T11:00:34.425-10:00Storm Chasers<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgziD2dCMS4Mjp7k-PdZumHpvgzi3KbEaJEcjclZMkCOUbR83y9ongKPCQDAjFWqHJo1icPmf8PkK-EVu6o_Hla0xDMJ-idSLuc7rhLshIzULoweXyBsNbbtkQBbtCM7QA8dz0WLXhK5W0/s640/blogger-image-838426859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgziD2dCMS4Mjp7k-PdZumHpvgzi3KbEaJEcjclZMkCOUbR83y9ongKPCQDAjFWqHJo1icPmf8PkK-EVu6o_Hla0xDMJ-idSLuc7rhLshIzULoweXyBsNbbtkQBbtCM7QA8dz0WLXhK5W0/s640/blogger-image-838426859.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Alright this is going to become a once a week blog.... Anywho<div><br></div><div>This past weekend was...interesting, I found myself in the warm Lanikai waters at 8 PM swimming to an island I've never been to, sounds a little like Ka'iwi doesn't it? I was able to meet up with Steve, my paddler, on Oahu when I went this weekend to support my triclub in their sprint triathlon. A tear or two was shed when Aunty Bobbi gave me the final hug before I walked to the waters edge, what can I say? I was terrified. Dark, unknown waters, with a potential for scary creatures lurking below. Surprisingly, about 15 minutes in I put myself into somewhat of a trance, the darkness was not as apparent as I just searched for that fuzzy green glow indicating the front of the kayak, like my own personal game in the night. Scary? Yes. Terrifying. But I made it and long story short it wasn't that bad. The sky was tinted with an orangish glow from the city lights above Oahu, while searching further into the night shooting stars were everywhere. As I approached Lanikai island I felt sand beneath me and the beach was filled with black birds which made it all the more surreal. Steve and I sat on the island and discussed logistics for a little and just my overall feelings about this huge challenge. It was like a dream and I soon snapped back into reality when I got up to dive back into the water and swim back to the main island. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMaEmXTqxt0w_mv6R3DbtqWe0JYvcxBxnHtmE5fCAa38yvcVzczyWBm6EQzFcrqr633EFOnAUxbOaXrS2fCPL9FK6cOxLlgO8d5HJKK07k4BYjGAKChE5RtrN_G8-q_cNXeZ4uaURWmBg/s640/blogger-image-89144296.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMaEmXTqxt0w_mv6R3DbtqWe0JYvcxBxnHtmE5fCAa38yvcVzczyWBm6EQzFcrqr633EFOnAUxbOaXrS2fCPL9FK6cOxLlgO8d5HJKK07k4BYjGAKChE5RtrN_G8-q_cNXeZ4uaURWmBg/s640/blogger-image-89144296.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Pre and post swim, so excited to have finished without any creatures taking a nibble out of me......</div><br></div><div>It was quite a fun weekend, and truthfully the most I've laughed in a while. Being around them makes me pretty dang happy. Even though we have those bipolar moments (well I do) all in all I love that crew. It was good to have a chill weekend with all of them, though I still talked about the swim it wasn't as stressful and overwhelming. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn0fw8bLb6yhJRwwL9wjUqeEr3oUupwo4NgJ-fS9lget0ML4iwt0QIBHxqgT-Cxzh2ymCrVU5L_wQ6P2wYo8c3ceRhOUdKJx3Y-_t9UZJoIVXZrO73lgAi0qFN25ow41SRd6oKE-1dGFE/s640/blogger-image-308448950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn0fw8bLb6yhJRwwL9wjUqeEr3oUupwo4NgJ-fS9lget0ML4iwt0QIBHxqgT-Cxzh2ymCrVU5L_wQ6P2wYo8c3ceRhOUdKJx3Y-_t9UZJoIVXZrO73lgAi0qFN25ow41SRd6oKE-1dGFE/s640/blogger-image-308448950.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Somer! Gonna miss this senior....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn0fw8bLb6yhJRwwL9wjUqeEr3oUupwo4NgJ-fS9lget0ML4iwt0QIBHxqgT-Cxzh2ymCrVU5L_wQ6P2wYo8c3ceRhOUdKJx3Y-_t9UZJoIVXZrO73lgAi0qFN25ow41SRd6oKE-1dGFE/s640/blogger-image-308448950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwQE4TV57mssKGkjWFfX1VasF4rwLkl7gBBqe6dzwf73NxHDaP2geuhPYs6cl_cHlBYlDbUaeTtp1ZIr2woKB6oF7ZRT0cwG20NeygxW3_b_e9ouv-8AvlJ-6hkXZiMrX-f0N8tSOMG40/s640/blogger-image-556192661.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwQE4TV57mssKGkjWFfX1VasF4rwLkl7gBBqe6dzwf73NxHDaP2geuhPYs6cl_cHlBYlDbUaeTtp1ZIr2woKB6oF7ZRT0cwG20NeygxW3_b_e9ouv-8AvlJ-6hkXZiMrX-f0N8tSOMG40/s640/blogger-image-556192661.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We're a little dysfunctional </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuR1Xd6XcIZ56IYgfEvRzBdwS-AY9YgZC5INnRQkb-ro0W7WhOtWI5ZEwyVYkxD6bNmDXLq1ZxK8C7tuwyhdny7xzNUd8vgZwa8Tv8GyenWK_26ji3sOdyuDnplgXU9uWIEf8rENfzTvQ/s640/blogger-image--1454651566.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuR1Xd6XcIZ56IYgfEvRzBdwS-AY9YgZC5INnRQkb-ro0W7WhOtWI5ZEwyVYkxD6bNmDXLq1ZxK8C7tuwyhdny7xzNUd8vgZwa8Tv8GyenWK_26ji3sOdyuDnplgXU9uWIEf8rENfzTvQ/s640/blogger-image--1454651566.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLIv4yzHTVGcmXdiC_Sm8D9lEbFVnvvNdrKJ__OOI0hByhbQyj-T9ETOEwCuCD9GYSmON06MkYykLWPRtI7dseAyc7V2TCs8HbvTwRPlXidIkDG18eDT0injjAfl_GPsEYhS29OhqZJ08/s640/blogger-image-989743606.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLIv4yzHTVGcmXdiC_Sm8D9lEbFVnvvNdrKJ__OOI0hByhbQyj-T9ETOEwCuCD9GYSmON06MkYykLWPRtI7dseAyc7V2TCs8HbvTwRPlXidIkDG18eDT0injjAfl_GPsEYhS29OhqZJ08/s640/blogger-image-989743606.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The best....</div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLS30yxnrQaTv8mACPt4sZUu-cNh30uas5wGqIJW-T5mWAB-awkLlzYGNX9ctyqP82b1BwPHT6A6fDxNzSY7GDHNw2yJNX0wi4OoRZ3Fv5crYuCdF7pSFFPz5qQJ_99r_ujdQd9Ia2Hzo/s640/blogger-image-774679468.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLS30yxnrQaTv8mACPt4sZUu-cNh30uas5wGqIJW-T5mWAB-awkLlzYGNX9ctyqP82b1BwPHT6A6fDxNzSY7GDHNw2yJNX0wi4OoRZ3Fv5crYuCdF7pSFFPz5qQJ_99r_ujdQd9Ia2Hzo/s640/blogger-image-774679468.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD1RrcljYcN_Qm1I_Q6x1ecSOePD7OACUc0RixSVBVuqvoNjcHhi5SACmqvBwndxVlH_OkyU4qHG3uSdjSbEiNWxju9UzJWoWZtO1W_VBftVVHkvxVVoinFE-etxmqtu03KDQVBk8TBT8/s640/blogger-image--1202275540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD1RrcljYcN_Qm1I_Q6x1ecSOePD7OACUc0RixSVBVuqvoNjcHhi5SACmqvBwndxVlH_OkyU4qHG3uSdjSbEiNWxju9UzJWoWZtO1W_VBftVVHkvxVVoinFE-etxmqtu03KDQVBk8TBT8/s640/blogger-image--1202275540.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My favorites. </div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">So back to swimming as far as when I got back I was able to head out for a 4</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">hour swim yesterday with Dan and Cj, it was interesting and quite fun actually. At one point I swore I saw a shark and begged to have Cj get back in the water with me, but Dan refused to comply to my requests and told me I have to keep swimming without anyone helping me. Which I am so incredibly thankful for now. He's right. Just cause I'm scared doesn't mean people are allowed to help me in Ka'iwi and I need to realize this. It's going to be a battle between my body and my mind and which one will give out first, and god forbid its my own scardy cat ways that'll be first. It's these people that I'm thankful for. Something so little that made me a little bit stronger, a mental block that I had to break through all thanks to Dan the man. And of course, my other senior Cj, who helped take my mind off of things. Helped me not remember that I'm out on the water for 4 hours and that I am a little tired and worn. I mean who can stay upset when you have these two kooks out on the water with you? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD1qakfZaODaSjnb5f065jFQtcerDkp_ccHqX3ZUxIGtjwnLG14Clb_GOVmviQobj_qdCGkhh_wnyteh2e3b7ZPwf8VNMS4GqRR8J1OC7_l8fFd683gCWhWmwO8lIaYjZnUAUgL84QPF4/s640/blogger-image-253299025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD1qakfZaODaSjnb5f065jFQtcerDkp_ccHqX3ZUxIGtjwnLG14Clb_GOVmviQobj_qdCGkhh_wnyteh2e3b7ZPwf8VNMS4GqRR8J1OC7_l8fFd683gCWhWmwO8lIaYjZnUAUgL84QPF4/s640/blogger-image-253299025.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdcFuRUBfgzIrodl-hfn7zKPMuLPWwUbE-MDQNtgxkMWcg0X-I2_UTZ-W5mNw2iHKxmW3tATCNdFFmfvkcUQ6vxkJFHkcpxwWC5DgYgMuHKeCSfvvrqhfETJRqIe3nnWJY3e3f3ao2cBU/s640/blogger-image--888381182.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdcFuRUBfgzIrodl-hfn7zKPMuLPWwUbE-MDQNtgxkMWcg0X-I2_UTZ-W5mNw2iHKxmW3tATCNdFFmfvkcUQ6vxkJFHkcpxwWC5DgYgMuHKeCSfvvrqhfETJRqIe3nnWJY3e3f3ao2cBU/s640/blogger-image--888381182.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After being scared by the "shark"</div></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWpGZ3oTGyS2Xa_s0k04LrKk_dve0rWW4p_lOgOeB2MIas8n5l23u3QJ_fDfyBgxjJD6czLbvYrxe8L7AMjZo4c5GYWwa8qvcNn8L86KawkxpNcWFth0kAEVx3JuFwQkw3t-LQD2grcc8/s640/blogger-image--1738251172.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWpGZ3oTGyS2Xa_s0k04LrKk_dve0rWW4p_lOgOeB2MIas8n5l23u3QJ_fDfyBgxjJD6czLbvYrxe8L7AMjZo4c5GYWwa8qvcNn8L86KawkxpNcWFth0kAEVx3JuFwQkw3t-LQD2grcc8/s640/blogger-image--1738251172.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Headed in! Even though Hawaii was supposed to have a hurricane hit near kona not much happened. A little Rain can't keep us out of the water. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> I'm so thankful for good friends and amazing support. So close to my swim and I can't wait. 7 hours tomorrow, my longest swim. I'll keep y'all's posted. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Happy swimming </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Leahi </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div></div><br></div>Leahihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15249924625206383939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434324157227171509.post-4109862918947279722013-07-24T16:58:00.001-10:002013-07-24T16:59:59.593-10:00All about the ocean!<div><b>July 24 2013</b></div><div><br></div>Ocean, ocean, ocean! Finally back in the salt water after a few weeks of only pool swimming, I'm not complaining but, I do like the scenery a lot more when coral is involved..... But first lets back track here. States was grrrreat! It was long as heck, 4 days of competition all lasting from about 6 am to getting back to the hotel at about 8pm.... It was hot, windy, but mostly long, however swims went pretty well. I was able to medal in 11 of 11 events ( including 3 relays) and make podium in 9 of those 11 (top 3), which I am pretty dang satisfied with.... <div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihvvj-JZ0H8902k6LFNOk38CtWFVj3JA9oHPUu7IXslDOSQilAwj1VhGycxsegErxB-AvUMKO2GBsy-d_Z7ajWLWzmckYqW4DryETz0QvjnDZD8Gdq9hfBDJHY9lLE-du0erpGy-CpFeM/s640/blogger-image-341927177.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihvvj-JZ0H8902k6LFNOk38CtWFVj3JA9oHPUu7IXslDOSQilAwj1VhGycxsegErxB-AvUMKO2GBsy-d_Z7ajWLWzmckYqW4DryETz0QvjnDZD8Gdq9hfBDJHY9lLE-du0erpGy-CpFeM/s640/blogger-image-341927177.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSsCbWANCN2-OHeGb8ZtEnj31R74x0wOdXSyfIniCGj0i2o3rZyKiGQMpyPoTKzvj2JJv2QTjP8ywicBbql3E9pjz4WnMLi8rvx4AsNXAWvtMQnXB2mjja1VgxMAL8yf-D-gCGRmMsxKA/s640/blogger-image--1033867279.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSsCbWANCN2-OHeGb8ZtEnj31R74x0wOdXSyfIniCGj0i2o3rZyKiGQMpyPoTKzvj2JJv2QTjP8ywicBbql3E9pjz4WnMLi8rvx4AsNXAWvtMQnXB2mjja1VgxMAL8yf-D-gCGRmMsxKA/s640/blogger-image--1033867279.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZZVUlsctB-O0OTLX02KNUohSU-vu0IsN-5Q01zhWqSeyfBSMJKw2MD4tuoUHa0NgGrJI30l9l6yP8u6qibt-4kYeBhwflWGJb11gnbgsPYEv1_XklP-liPBjCIBifL-1lDhKQetoIpiA/s640/blogger-image-454707119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZZVUlsctB-O0OTLX02KNUohSU-vu0IsN-5Q01zhWqSeyfBSMJKw2MD4tuoUHa0NgGrJI30l9l6yP8u6qibt-4kYeBhwflWGJb11gnbgsPYEv1_XklP-liPBjCIBifL-1lDhKQetoIpiA/s640/blogger-image-454707119.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>But on to the more fun stuff! 5 ocean swims in 3 days! I am one happy girl! Slowly revving up the mileage again, and next week coach says we are gonna hit it hard, hell week if you would like to say, then a week taper and I'm off to Molokai. Holy heck this came fast. Countdown: 23 days </div><div><br></div><div>Swims have been going awesome, living in hawaii definitely has it's perks. I'm so blessed to live in such a great place....</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8eFN8vnyQli5vDtDjqB6yBIPBgGtTIRhgRck3UMDQFQ7YLfmKeMVWcY_VaAfZgR80NM8vKURrkHwnwPpmlqWpw0GWGoWFV_24_cveYliE9Um5CA3pUfKsrw7vhXGrjmsathXkKhzkyrE/s640/blogger-image-1597274011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8eFN8vnyQli5vDtDjqB6yBIPBgGtTIRhgRck3UMDQFQ7YLfmKeMVWcY_VaAfZgR80NM8vKURrkHwnwPpmlqWpw0GWGoWFV_24_cveYliE9Um5CA3pUfKsrw7vhXGrjmsathXkKhzkyrE/s640/blogger-image-1597274011.jpg"></a></div><br></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The pier has been bustling with excitement as triathletes begin to trickle in for the upcoming Ironman world championships, we saw a bunch of pros today, and my friend Dan, the triathlete encyclopedia was bursting with enthusiasm about the athletes coming in, and let me just say, him and Keoni are also celebrities of this years ironman as they will be two of the youngest and with our coach KD, who is also doing it, will be representing the Waverider Triclub. kinda crazy how fast our little club grew to have such amazing athletes. I'll be rooting for them, rain or shine, and I can't wait to seem them run across the finish line. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Lastly, again was was super blessed to have an article published about me today, well two to my surprise! One about that's and one about my channel swim, just the final hurrah to get all my funds in. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9fXb7yrc3YYYIiSTz3iYMtbGG5Gd1PIJkDwUfl-3hErLofj0RE9EAM9-Qc0en1CFvVmYBfuD8gEibZBENrgLeQHesCbqJg-4vWAnkofseDmjx5XFUOYzU3zeA1NCQmHMfnXIDUC6cgNY/s640/blogger-image--386767941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9fXb7yrc3YYYIiSTz3iYMtbGG5Gd1PIJkDwUfl-3hErLofj0RE9EAM9-Qc0en1CFvVmYBfuD8gEibZBENrgLeQHesCbqJg-4vWAnkofseDmjx5XFUOYzU3zeA1NCQmHMfnXIDUC6cgNY/s640/blogger-image--386767941.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8AYYRvGY1FYB8t6mg01jVCmR_YpQVIhjdxM3FDYL84mzLYD8pRjinsAQd4A_aTKTPoiED37XuSSlgsq2Segz9PKjR-QkADHGRZ2HwuYpGjDPnhZHU_j9qV1Sl8BON8f0GrqXZ4so64O4/s640/blogger-image-1416463952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8AYYRvGY1FYB8t6mg01jVCmR_YpQVIhjdxM3FDYL84mzLYD8pRjinsAQd4A_aTKTPoiED37XuSSlgsq2Segz9PKjR-QkADHGRZ2HwuYpGjDPnhZHU_j9qV1Sl8BON8f0GrqXZ4so64O4/s640/blogger-image-1416463952.jpg"></a></div><br></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I know, I'm such a kid, to be so excited about being in the local paper. But it's kinda fun...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div><div>Things are coming together, flight are booked as well as hotel rooms, my nutrition is getting better, and my shoulders are repairing. Am I scared? Heck yes. I don't doubt my training or my coaches, I fear myself, my mental blocks and those moments when riding the boat to shore would seem like a better idea. But it's not, I know it isn't and my desire to finish will overcome my desire to give myself a break. 23 days.... Wowzers. </div><div><br></div><div>Happy swimming </div><div><br></div><div>Leahi</div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Leahihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15249924625206383939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434324157227171509.post-73652424867859522872013-07-13T07:17:00.001-10:002013-07-13T07:19:50.416-10:00Im so bad at this.....<div><br></div><div>July 13, 2013</div><div><br></div>I need to update more! So sorry! Anyway! The hats are in! I just made a batch, the first ones sold like crazy! <div><br></div><div>I'm on Oahu now, and my mom bought a few ( Yes I made her buy them....) and one of her friends is rocking this one below.....</div><div><br><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMv9q0PbDYkPnIQwWXClukpNK8ru7kuKqm5jWUVPH_9Szwrbf66tpPc4nx4iJfQkO52Z-hmZkpb_3kRSSZYB2lYZhu_hGnOLG3Oml012OBCRgC69z4UWd_Ydv6FVL_uyLC2ptfPhoCihY/s640/blogger-image--590058202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMv9q0PbDYkPnIQwWXClukpNK8ru7kuKqm5jWUVPH_9Szwrbf66tpPc4nx4iJfQkO52Z-hmZkpb_3kRSSZYB2lYZhu_hGnOLG3Oml012OBCRgC69z4UWd_Ydv6FVL_uyLC2ptfPhoCihY/s640/blogger-image--590058202.jpg"></a></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">You like? It was super fun making them. And I will make more! If any one wants on e, gotta let me know. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Anyway, I have been on cruise control for the last week or so. No extra activities just swimming, relaxing and swimming. Only 3 workouts left until states..... Holy guacamole I'm getting really nervous. This year it's in Maui, which isn't a problem, it's just not home which can sometimes make it a little more stressful. Funny little anecdote here, my first state meet was also a bust, I got kicked out of the meet for missing my 50 fly final on the first day. And if you read my initial bio, you saw I got pulled out of my first ocean swim too..... But. I can only go up from there. And that was when I was 10 and a little naive. First day is the mile, which thank goodness is only swum once, I really want to cut time before I send the times out to potential college homes, that's also a little nerve wracking. But. Focus on states first. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">On a lighter more fun note, the pool was closed yesterday, which in Kona means we're doing an ocean swim for practice. Perfect! Pre ocean swim on of my friends dads, who is a professional in filmography, got some shots of Me swimming around at the pier, Jeff Smith, Uncle Jeff, as I like to call him, is putting together this huge video about the tri club with a segment on the two crazies doing Ironman Kona; Keoni and Dan, and also my swim. So that was a little fun part before training. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFiFTgMN0UESd6nHuPLPhaY4UxqMBK1-U91jmSAwoddPDgtLwW6N76nsRLdG4-Wpv5u2Y3wOrHf8ULT5kMFl-aWpEZY5yUhUyP92CLoI25Fi5R_8E4iPorLoK4OMienwCRqzzsaeRPRqE/s640/blogger-image-1293314501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFiFTgMN0UESd6nHuPLPhaY4UxqMBK1-U91jmSAwoddPDgtLwW6N76nsRLdG4-Wpv5u2Y3wOrHf8ULT5kMFl-aWpEZY5yUhUyP92CLoI25Fi5R_8E4iPorLoK4OMienwCRqzzsaeRPRqE/s640/blogger-image-1293314501.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Cj came along, my trusty support kayaker, well for today. And snapped a few shots. After he moved in front of me during a shot and I ran head first into the kayak...... I know ocean swimmers are supposed to site, but I'm glad I didn't, otherwise I might have a broken nose on hand. </div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Back to last Saturday.... An article made it into the paper about the Triple Crown, on of my friends sent me the picture, I had no idea they did a write up on it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBTsVYwYpKqhaLwzeEvSkTX2RBWJCYyrS1CH2XJQWqjLeRgQ8FN6ZVVAONE1UaSOo72NgIXhjH1k-uUrSQEwO_uN65yHwW4CVZiNSS9cmEosE8Pfpn9nRbvrP0pOl59-lkubQnB5UlrZ0/s640/blogger-image--224551424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBTsVYwYpKqhaLwzeEvSkTX2RBWJCYyrS1CH2XJQWqjLeRgQ8FN6ZVVAONE1UaSOo72NgIXhjH1k-uUrSQEwO_uN65yHwW4CVZiNSS9cmEosE8Pfpn9nRbvrP0pOl59-lkubQnB5UlrZ0/s640/blogger-image--224551424.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Again I am so lucky to have such a supportive community, it's pretty surreal to see your own name in the local paper.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">And now, I'm chilling in Oahu just visiting my mom, more of a chill weekend. The place I'm supposed to land for my channel swim is right down the road. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Blog world, meet Sandys, Sandys meet my fellow bloggers. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfoMyUoQRjwbvJL_46k_Ry945H3hWlazMwc7wfFWkhBYsqHthbeDCpRUlH52YEvaJLuOSNsFZCjxM2LpfMGp1KtIdD4bY30df51HlFPcPKuEZ8cADsBBHkBJFz3fs9HsbX6AAvXQgD4iQ/s640/blogger-image--1108565109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfoMyUoQRjwbvJL_46k_Ry945H3hWlazMwc7wfFWkhBYsqHthbeDCpRUlH52YEvaJLuOSNsFZCjxM2LpfMGp1KtIdD4bY30df51HlFPcPKuEZ8cADsBBHkBJFz3fs9HsbX6AAvXQgD4iQ/s640/blogger-image--1108565109.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Fortunately it isn't ALWAYS like this. But it would be quite interesting to have to finish in these conditions. And lastly my view for the weekend, my feet are up, chair reclined, and I'm ready to relax before a crazy stressful and fun weekend next week. I'll keep you all posted. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrYNqYdwsayJ04Hcs2Oar6_AvNml-zqlbG-9tnNirGkXerU52BpYarPK2UKwF9ShLKesG0l-AJ1IlBCc6BiXy1oA59raG04022cUEotIi4UYuZmvBQwWFv2LvwS5xs3swLaXAUIiQ-RiU/s640/blogger-image-305215237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrYNqYdwsayJ04Hcs2Oar6_AvNml-zqlbG-9tnNirGkXerU52BpYarPK2UKwF9ShLKesG0l-AJ1IlBCc6BiXy1oA59raG04022cUEotIi4UYuZmvBQwWFv2LvwS5xs3swLaXAUIiQ-RiU/s640/blogger-image-305215237.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Have a good weekend, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Leahi. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div>Leahihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15249924625206383939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434324157227171509.post-89170611519270558772013-07-07T14:31:00.001-10:002013-07-10T08:06:35.682-10:00Count downsCount downs begin. Count down till states: 10 days, count down till senior year: 28 days, count down till the crossing: 41 days. As far as my shoulders, they are spectacular, I'm so happy that they have recovered. I've been getting some pressure point stuff done by Juliet Nacino and she. Works. Wonders. My shoulders are in tip top shape.<br />
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As far as my nerves they have ceased, the swim went really well yesterday and I was lucky enough to capture first place and the Triple Crown. It's been an incredible summer as far as ocean swims and as Kings swim closes it up until the summer of 2014, Molokai is on the mind. </div>
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I was also lucky enough to finish with this little girl yesterday.... The future of Triple Crown winners......</div>
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And a HUGE shout out to Dan and Keoni some members of my triclub who surprised me with flowers after I was called up to be recognized, it was seriously the sweetest thing ever. </div>
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Long ocean swims have stopped and it's now time to focus on the distance in pool </div>
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Sponsorships have been going alright, I'm looking to release a one page spread to Bike Works and Big Island Running Co . To help get some more money. Also! Exciting news! I have been blessed enough to be able to work with Jason Braswell, my former runner for Lavaman these last few years, and also the owner of Big Island Running Co. To create hats to sell to whoever would like to support, probably going for 15 bucks a pop, all the money does go towards my swim and the excess to the Talbert Family Foundation: Helping children and families take on the reality of being diagnosed with cancer and also a proud supporter of Waverider Triathlon Club. So I'll keep y'all's posted on that. </div>
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Again. Thank you all so much for your support. It means so much to me. Can't wait to show you guys the hats! </div>
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Until then, happy swimming,</div>
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Leahi </div>
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Leahihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15249924625206383939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434324157227171509.post-63698288708309333182013-07-05T21:23:00.001-10:002013-07-05T21:23:45.407-10:00Race day....So many things running through my mind all at one time. I know race day is right around the corner. Not my crossing, but the final of the 3 in the Triple Crown series. I've had a pit in my stomach all day. Excitement, pure adrenaline, everything compiled into a 19-20 minute race. At some point that pit moves into a goofy smile and I realize this is what I love, all the sets, the million 100's, 200's and 50's, the extra ocean swims, the training, getting my number marked, the race suit, the new goggles, the war paint, and the pre race ritual macadamia brittle, it's everything I take for granted at times but when it comes down to it, it's the little things that I love the most. <div><br></div><div>It's a rather emotional time, I'm scared but so incredibly excited at the same time. Can't wait to see what the big blue has in store for me tomorrow. But now. It's time for some chill tunes and a comfy blanket and it's off to dream land until the sun rises. </div><div><br></div><div>Best of luck to all the racers tomorrow. </div><div><br></div><div>Happy swimming, </div><div><br></div><div>Leahi <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div>Leahihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15249924625206383939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434324157227171509.post-19609607611238265522013-07-02T13:01:00.001-10:002013-07-10T08:05:51.686-10:00Got my salt fix.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b>July 2 2013</b></div>
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Alright it's been busy, busy, busy..... My shoulders are awesome! I'm so excited. I swam fly comfortably the last couple of days and raced this weekend without blowing out my shoulders! Wooooot!<br />
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I was fortunate enough to go my full on race pace and snagged 1st over all. 19 mins for a mile, not too bad, I actually might be kinda tapered from swimming backstroke and kicking so much! </div>
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On Sunday I got back into the ocean for another long swim. 3 miles...here's the twist: it was all backstroke. It wasn't THAT bad, my neck was a little stiff, but coach told me to hold off on the insane swims until after states which is 2 weeks away, so I'm letting the taper begin. </div>
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Not too bad of a view, eh?</div>
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One of the times I flipped over I saw a jelly! It was like one of those from the movies and the 3rd one I've seen since I started long distance stuff. Why I'm so excited? I have no idea.....</div>
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It was a good weekend. Month and a half until I step off La'au point and finish this journey. Hopefully my shoulders were not too much of a set back. States here we come.....</div>
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And another thing... I cannot thank Fairwinds Cruises enough for their extremely generous sponsorship. If any of you ever come to Kona you have to check them out. Just one of the many sponsors that are close to me, close to home, and the community. Can't wait to rep the cap while in the channel.... </div>
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Also can't wait for my next long ocean swim..... 2 weeks and I'm back at it. 14 days... </div>
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Happy swimming, </div>
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Leahi</div>
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<br />Leahihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15249924625206383939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434324157227171509.post-32546519721899989512013-06-28T18:59:00.001-10:002013-06-28T19:01:11.788-10:00Spain on the MindThere is quite a few things that have ran through my mind since I have decided to do Molokai; sharks, swells, deep water, all the worries of marathon swimmers and of course, the Oceans 7; not a worry as much as a dream, a challenge, a chance to test your limits and defy the physical rules of the human body. I don't think I could ever classify any of these swims as 'easier' than the other, each is packed with its own set of trials and tribulations, but truthfully, if I can take down 26 miles I feel like I would be able to take down 8....<br />
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the Strait of Gibraltar, an 8 mile stretch between Spain and Morocco. One of the Ocean's 7. Obviously it made the list not because of its cute little jaunt of a swim but instead for its crazy currents and insane winds. I can't help but wonder what it would take to finish all 7, to be able to swim all around the world and be able to be one of the firsts to complete all 7. It may take years but I feel like I have to do it now, not out of force, but out of sheer want to be able to classify myself as a marathon swimmer with all my other super heros; Darren Miller, Beth French, Penny Palfrey, Kimberly Chambers, and Mackenzie Miller. I want to be apart of the elite club, I want to show everyone that they can defy the limits, people say you cant do it, show them that you can and not only survive it but thrive.<br />
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Im rambling again, but who knows, maybe after Molokai I wont have to shut this blog down, instead maybe you'll see me in Spain or Japan, wherever swimming takes me, I'm willing to go with the flow.<br />
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But first, Hapuna, tomorrow morning, 8 a.m, 1.2 mile race, good luck to everyone out there, special shout out to my support crew, again, and I say it all the time, I cannot thank anyone enough.<br />
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Keep dreaming big,<br />
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LeahiLeahihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15249924625206383939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434324157227171509.post-76466329458460872992013-06-27T13:28:00.001-10:002013-06-28T19:00:36.979-10:00Back in Business Shoulders are nearly better! kinda.... I have been icing them, and heating them, and electonically stimulating them, taking homeopathic medicine, getter pressure point work done...If this doesn't work I dont know what will! Finally got to swim freestyle last practice and it was WAY better than 6000 backstroke or kick, keeping my fingers crossed that in the next few days they will heal all the way up so I can race at Hapuna.<br />
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Next long swim is going to be saturday after the race, 4 hours in the water maybe 5 dependent on how I'm feeling. Excited to get back into the ocean, I swam this morning but it was choppy as heck and no dolphins and only 1.2....<br />
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Soon enough i'll be back in my element.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">By the WONDERFUL Sarah Lee... Check out her blog --> http://www.vivantvie.com/</td></tr>
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<br />Leahihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15249924625206383939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434324157227171509.post-64094923444376756412013-06-23T21:25:00.000-10:002013-06-23T21:25:45.343-10:00"Walk in, Swim across, Walk out" - Darren Miller<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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Well well well, looks who's been slacking on the blog life. Its been crazy busy this weekend with the swim meet and my shoulders and all that jazz. Lets start back at last week friday shall we? Pier swim was a bust, didn't really need to get in just to jack with my shoulders so I swam pretty easy with one of my Tri-club team mates, and not very far. Plus it was freezing!..... for hawaii that is....</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEyquWbF8xA0mIWLZzBc4CiDIYeYn05Ku9m30PTlMaMR3nxC28Ja1TYzjBFPZ5WA6BTJRe0Yg8_vkKCvtI9mFSHxVj5sRuEMwum8xPPpEVktccdg7MDjv0Uj_LXBXXDhK1x8pnJH3MWlY/s1600/photo+(17).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEyquWbF8xA0mIWLZzBc4CiDIYeYn05Ku9m30PTlMaMR3nxC28Ja1TYzjBFPZ5WA6BTJRe0Yg8_vkKCvtI9mFSHxVj5sRuEMwum8xPPpEVktccdg7MDjv0Uj_LXBXXDhK1x8pnJH3MWlY/s320/photo+(17).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just me casually swimming with one of my buddies....</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh65rVub0bJ22VW0jgEad6H4THHsVOLVSI2OvqVmc2RVsdPa9KAswTbJif7NfDMR6kbKpSMNs2pbUXgSf7qZzfxRQULLTcLyOs1xv51obquwv9z_9ULOgXucNBguiEEznOkQ-AJQmAunFg/s1600/photo+1+(11).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh65rVub0bJ22VW0jgEad6H4THHsVOLVSI2OvqVmc2RVsdPa9KAswTbJif7NfDMR6kbKpSMNs2pbUXgSf7qZzfxRQULLTcLyOs1xv51obquwv9z_9ULOgXucNBguiEEznOkQ-AJQmAunFg/s640/photo+1+(11).JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The frigid ocean waters of hawaii... can't you tell?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdd0a0QWH9XTS4C9UZMI1xsbaVdef5Hd3iL_LFjp66i1IyXbfxiYmTn_f12XlaFStOzs5XBLjOovGTYVlFKy3ik3Pj_j8Z8UtzYxo1zoGjUqDv6jmwM25reQSE1S53m-NHaBtobq0NlYc/s1600/photo+2+(12).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdd0a0QWH9XTS4C9UZMI1xsbaVdef5Hd3iL_LFjp66i1IyXbfxiYmTn_f12XlaFStOzs5XBLjOovGTYVlFKy3ik3Pj_j8Z8UtzYxo1zoGjUqDv6jmwM25reQSE1S53m-NHaBtobq0NlYc/s400/photo+2+(12).JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Too cute.....</td></tr>
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This weekend however was the Big Island Champs, final meet before I head off to Maui for states. Upon arriving to the pool my coach told me before jumping into warm up that "I dont want you to swim this meet half ass, if you're going to swim I want it to be fast.." and that isn't going to happen with my nervousness about my shoulders giving out. Fortunately they are feeling better, unfortunately not better enough to swim my best this weekend. I spent most of my time as a cheer leader and because backstroke doesn't irritate my shoulders I was able to swim all the back stroke events, I helped coach and cheer stuff that I usually don't get to do at meets but who could say no to these faces??</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_3j4JzVpespY79qi9XLcK5jfXNlKza8jsjgT7c63W-bXMalcl5_tfcPhAmbDB0dSEg9oCiMXvYWrsVK069HRjAbeGa1Zq1Ov_5NzjAwE9PFBrMSAw49Eek2zNqs4weAX_LKMD7COZIBA/s1600/photo+3+(2).PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_3j4JzVpespY79qi9XLcK5jfXNlKza8jsjgT7c63W-bXMalcl5_tfcPhAmbDB0dSEg9oCiMXvYWrsVK069HRjAbeGa1Zq1Ov_5NzjAwE9PFBrMSAw49Eek2zNqs4weAX_LKMD7COZIBA/s400/photo+3+(2).PNG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our team is a little dysfunctional but hey thats what makes us great. </td></tr>
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A little plot twist came this morning when my coach announced I was to swim the 800 free, backstroke...<br />
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Truthfully, I was excited... It switched up my daily distance routine and I couldn't help but giggle when Madison had to hold the counter above me when I flipped so I could see the numbers. Im sure it got a few weird looks but I gotta get my yardage in right?</div>
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Its still up in the air as to when I am to swim a long one again, but I do know it's gonna be a night swim. I can't help but wonder what creatures lurk below, I suppose it's something I am to get used to as there will be plenty out in the channel that night I begin my marathon journey. </div>
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My escort kayaker Steve sent this to me, its my future staring right back at me, taken from a cliff right above Sandys and in the distance is Molokai. Sandys: my landing spot. Wether I swim, roll, or get washed up onto the beach I have a feeling that sand will have never felt so wonderful. I told one of my team mates today, Keoni, that I'm probably going to cry twice during the swim, once when I get so frustrated with everything, and another time when I finally land on the beach and the response he had was "only twice?!", maybe he's right, Its going to be an emotional day, but recently one of my biggest supporters, Mackenzie Miller (who had also crossed back in 09' and was the one who put this dream into my head) sent me an email forwarded from her dad, he read one of my interviews and could tell I had a lot on my mind his final words "walk in, swim across, walk out", mind you her dad is an open water star. To have their support is unbelievable but those last few words are becoming my mantra. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdW7Omjt1IfdIKVTgmM7NMIBq1iQSJGaKx6wzpixOF3jkDNU-tWaBCihsEaw4ZbxwjycEttW4ASruuYTjCzzH8AE8-oAYlpuEsVnAKZ7PaRpqf9dvT7ijiZY3stubOBRBL-CsNlJApWsg/s1600/photo+4+(7).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdW7Omjt1IfdIKVTgmM7NMIBq1iQSJGaKx6wzpixOF3jkDNU-tWaBCihsEaw4ZbxwjycEttW4ASruuYTjCzzH8AE8-oAYlpuEsVnAKZ7PaRpqf9dvT7ijiZY3stubOBRBL-CsNlJApWsg/s640/photo+4+(7).JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Everything compiled into that one day, I need to make it as simple as possible, as stress free, and as enjoyable as is allowable. That day everything, the currents, the weather, the suit, cap, goggles, sunscreen, food, gatorade, jelly fish, sharks or no sharks, all of that and more are just variables and I cannot control them but I can however control my reaction to them. I need to remember that I am in control of my swim and no one or nothing can harm me if my mental strength is as tough as nails...</div>
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"Walk in, swim across, walk out...."</div>
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Breathe Leahi....<br />
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Good night all<br />
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Leahihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15249924625206383939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434324157227171509.post-6794025634764683492013-06-19T21:12:00.000-10:002013-06-19T21:14:42.801-10:00Looks Who's a Big Kid Now...<span style="font-size: x-large;">June 19th 2013</span><br />
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Remember going to the bank when you were little, watching as the parental units filled out the transaction slips, feeling super mature and adult-ish when they asked you to help? Well that was me today, pops taught me how to balance check books, write checks, use the fancy word processing program so my envelopes dont look like a 3rd grader wrote the adresses, and all that good stuff. He wants me to be able to handle the financial side of this crossing, receiving checks, writing checks, being sure that I actually do have enough funds to make this happen, good life lessons, helps me feel like a big kid.......<br />
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Sending out my first check tomorrow to my Captain Matt who is going to be helping me across the channel, his final words on the email<br />
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"send me 1,000 and we are locked in..."</div>
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Locked in.... Its real now, the boat is set, the kayakers are set, we are ready to go, stamp is on the envelope and check is going out tomorrow. Ka'iwi here I come. </div>
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On a more sunny side, literally, hit the beach today, again... I am only 17, and even though I spend hours in the ocean as it is apparently I cant get enough.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hit the cliffs today, im a bit of an adrenaline junkie ;)<br />
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Unfortunately, I have been really stressed about my shoulders, I dont know whats up with them, I have reverted to kicking a 5000 to 6000 practice, coach says to keep my heart in shape, and he seems a little worried too which stresses me out a little more... Kinda losing my appetite, not sure if its from stressing or because im not burning as many calories as usual but that worries me as well....<br />
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Been icing them like crazy and doing a little rehab thanks to Coach Steve-o, hopefully I can shake this soon, and before this weekends swim meet, it doesn't heal over-night, I know, but a girl can dream...</div>
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Ocean swim tomorrow, only 1.2, probably gonna technique it all backstroke, that doesn't really hurt my shoulders...</div>
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Praying for the guy who got attacked by a shark this past Tuesday, heard it wasn't life threatening, but still life changing. </div>
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Oh! and a good luck to Breezo at her Ironman coming up this weekend, sending my draft all the way to the chilly waters over there, swim strong breezo and bikerun even stronger. Can't wait to see you cross the finish line in Kona...</div>
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Happy swimming,</div>
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Leahihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15249924625206383939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434324157227171509.post-23279188406404769982013-06-16T23:04:00.001-10:002013-06-16T23:06:29.345-10:00"Kona Waters"Happy Father's Day all! Gonna start this post out super sappy and tell my dad how much I love him and that without him there is no possible way I would be the way I am today. Love ya pops. <div><br></div><div>On a good note my 4 hours was a success! With a little race detour. I started my swim and got an hour in when a race was about to start at the pier so I got to do that which is always fun. Who doesn't love a little team rivalry on Sunday mornings? The water was PRISTINE today loved it, unfortunately, no dolphins, hopefully next time. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgfJnytFkg-08NmmqArhVIvJy7bYHVpsAxC5SVuYizCld39NI-VYOPUHBL_VBZv9XsJlN1BOSo-DCGTwU4-RqCWL11BfQpWohSfruKHwqE9pVQCvdbE4GlWloMrTCHTRtNmln6qCgLICI/s640/blogger-image--467336254.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgfJnytFkg-08NmmqArhVIvJy7bYHVpsAxC5SVuYizCld39NI-VYOPUHBL_VBZv9XsJlN1BOSo-DCGTwU4-RqCWL11BfQpWohSfruKHwqE9pVQCvdbE4GlWloMrTCHTRtNmln6qCgLICI/s640/blogger-image--467336254.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Someone snapped a shot of me at the turn, pretty cool huh? </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ZSfIMdUDRJgA6hJ6QCAxZ06k96805bTjb-qqq3OdtCmZT7SnORHzpL7RVYb4_x_DIcacBCLMfIrvb6AcRKuovq-jFS6w-blFgs4k4zl9gTFPPxSA3Ijwz7SEM_j_U-TuXB7xYtcUv0k/s640/blogger-image--846813343.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ZSfIMdUDRJgA6hJ6QCAxZ06k96805bTjb-qqq3OdtCmZT7SnORHzpL7RVYb4_x_DIcacBCLMfIrvb6AcRKuovq-jFS6w-blFgs4k4zl9gTFPPxSA3Ijwz7SEM_j_U-TuXB7xYtcUv0k/s640/blogger-image--846813343.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Aaaaaand finishing shot, not the greatest but hey it was fun. </div><div><br></div><div>Doing this kind of stuff makes me miss Kona even though I have a little over a year left here on this island. The sense of community is so amazing and the people who make this kind of stuff happen are wonderfully giving. I love it. </div><div><br></div><div>Post race, went for the next 3 hours into the big blue, super choppy. Ever heard of the "Kona winds" that every triathlete talks about wether or not they have done Ironman? The mystical winds that suddenly shift for reach and every person to a head wind both directions? Well today I discovered the Kona waters. Current against you both ways. It's wonderful really. </div><div><br></div><div>I mean it wasn't THAT bad and after all the channel is 10 times that difficulty so I better get used to it. </div><div><br></div><div>Today's motivation?: my dad </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw0Mr8QB1KOy9qLlClAE7KI60T1OF5vKutUQYclPLR2YNi88u4MPCVw-eZsUCXf5mHg_rzlRHu-lul-gppwHDV9ceQOdfEzPmW3Hi5eHSE6X9JfD5IVwneIbJyXxTmUWNIlRQZTZfHOCk/s640/blogger-image-270519127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw0Mr8QB1KOy9qLlClAE7KI60T1OF5vKutUQYclPLR2YNi88u4MPCVw-eZsUCXf5mHg_rzlRHu-lul-gppwHDV9ceQOdfEzPmW3Hi5eHSE6X9JfD5IVwneIbJyXxTmUWNIlRQZTZfHOCk/s640/blogger-image-270519127.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>I'm feeling a little stronger than I was on Tuesday, shoulders still a little sore, which is to be expected. The training is great, the water is great, the people even better. </div><div><br></div><div>Just gotta keep trucking along. </div><div><br></div><div>Good night y'all. </div><div><br></div><div>Leahi </div>Leahihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15249924625206383939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434324157227171509.post-70967102761916484492013-06-15T16:42:00.003-10:002013-06-15T16:44:48.417-10:00Blue day in Hawaii...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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By blue I dont mean sad, by blue I mean wonderfully blue and gorgeous. So not race related except for the fact that I was just delivering my letters for sponsorship in attempts to have a little financial stability going into the crossing.... but I mean look at this!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It seems that even on my days off I cant get away from the<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE8iHi2NtYRXhwFyoGyzC_0qa8eQjDCLKo8wIs1J65Q2-wsthGyB2-iF0ERhaUV0ADiU_pvuQI80FhyphenhyphenYHBGQV69gxewTCFU3B9vKmc2WfEcY73s9WDWq43FtYGzmEfjN9KReS5_sxVFpQ/s1600/photo+1+(12).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE8iHi2NtYRXhwFyoGyzC_0qa8eQjDCLKo8wIs1J65Q2-wsthGyB2-iF0ERhaUV0ADiU_pvuQI80FhyphenhyphenYHBGQV69gxewTCFU3B9vKmc2WfEcY73s9WDWq43FtYGzmEfjN9KReS5_sxVFpQ/s320/photo+1+(12).jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
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I snuck a few pictures in while I was out. Who couldn't? Hopefully the water is just as blue tomorrow Im gonna need a little more motivation after my last swim was a bust.<br />
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Before hand I was able to help some of my friends from the triclub with their run, I got to ride and be their mobile aid station, kinda like they have been doing for me these past few weeks, its a lot different on the road especially because gravity is a factor.... but all was well and I walked away without any new cuts or scrapes, I actually really love helping them out especially now knowing how wonderful Gatorade tastes after exerting yourself for so dang long....<br />
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Made a quick stop by Bike-works after riding with some of the Tri club and one of the guys in there asked about my nutrition, this is a subject I am a little fuzzy on.... I mean food is great, but 10 hours into a 15 hour swim it doesn't sound that appetizing, at least thats what I'm guessing. I have had a little bit of a problem figuring out what works for me. Its kinda hard for me to swim on a full belly but its seems I cant get many healthy calories, without spiking my blood sugar, and without being kind of bloated. So he recommended these wonderful packs of deliciousness ------------------><br />
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Has anyone tried them? Im looking for anything here, I've swam all my life, but never for this long. Its all in the experimental phase I suppose, what do y'all eat on long days? I have found that a big breakfast really helps, but I am going to gives these a shot tomorrow on my long swim...<br />
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Even more exciting news!!!!<br />
Totally a teenager moment but Kim Chambers added me on Facebook, I absolutely love her story and I am so completely honored to have her as a mentor<br />
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The support from everyone is so incredibly amazing and so overwhelming, not in a bad way of course. It really helps to see so many people come together to help just one person out. 26 miles is a long way in the ocean but to hear all the encouragement beforehand makes it all so realistic and seemingly achievable. It seems so close and I cannot wait to make my support crew proud.<br />
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Cant thank you all enough for your words of wisdom<br />
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p.s sorry for the non race related posts!<br />
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4 hour swim tomorrow...<br />
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See you manana<br />
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<br />Leahihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15249924625206383939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434324157227171509.post-32241816196536772622013-06-13T23:04:00.001-10:002013-06-15T16:43:55.862-10:00Recovery time......<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Can't forget that I'm a 17 year old too.... Who doesn't love bowling? I mean, my shoulders were spent as it was and bowling may have not been the best idea but hey, it's my triclub, and I couldn't resist spending a night with them. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-xEJt6kQi2yIl3EsG1n_Ts0DHaLxZ6H6zk1uQSRU_Mh98COjK6MlLNmtz-J7LsYEKioNLU-crdjywk4wKcon7S64vcQFWivDFfW9qc9S6Ea65YZDCf7yPJQD6rnJ5GSdJIXij-bzZSuo/s640/blogger-image--1237483394.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-xEJt6kQi2yIl3EsG1n_Ts0DHaLxZ6H6zk1uQSRU_Mh98COjK6MlLNmtz-J7LsYEKioNLU-crdjywk4wKcon7S64vcQFWivDFfW9qc9S6Ea65YZDCf7yPJQD6rnJ5GSdJIXij-bzZSuo/s640/blogger-image--1237483394.jpg" /></a></div>
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On a separate note, I finished my brochures today to go out with all my letters for sponsorship. Hopefully we can get to our goal of 7000, who knew swimming could be so spendy.....</div>
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And on another note...... Steve scheduled my first night swim to start at 4 a.m and to swim until it gets light which is only about a hour, I attempted a 5 am swim a few weeks ago only to find that tinted goggles DO NOT help.... Good thinking Leahi. Unfortunately I'm not crazy enough to adore the depths at such a dark hour but hopefully I can adjust. It will be quite interesting.</div>
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Sunday brings another long swim, hopefully with a better outcome than the last. Fingers crossed. </div>
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Good night all. </div>
Leahihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15249924625206383939noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434324157227171509.post-19976529164138456042013-06-12T22:48:00.002-10:002013-06-12T22:59:42.873-10:00Rough Day at the Office..... Well, it happens to the best of us, rough days, we all have them. In my attempt to amp up my yardage I attempted a swim from Kona to Keahou and back, however, my shoulders did not have the same idea after about mile 4. With a mini panic attack a few miles in because I "swore I saw a dark shadow not to far from me", I was physically and emotionally drained, I pushed on to mile 6 and ended my workout in Keahou, I'm thinking a 8 mile, 10 mile, and 12 mile day all within a span of 5 days isn't the greatest idea. I definitely need time to recover, being my 7th loooooooong swim so far and it only being about 2 month since I've decided on this venture I think I may of ramped up a little too fast, my shoulders were feeling it that night and I had ice plastered to them to soothe the pain, self inflicted, live and learn, as cliche as it is, it rings true each and every time.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibsW-AqVUcqq4Rs1z5duujJhnQd6_UnYFJLoY_8_tYi9KXrzxE0zRtztqTdMxU4BsT8I2ifE4iLTHm8yC1lpteTJG1NYIOhH61zLKgdYqwz-m_wFN8vnoxtUQm0YFrXeZ_TYRlVpMkl-E/s1600/photo+(16).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibsW-AqVUcqq4Rs1z5duujJhnQd6_UnYFJLoY_8_tYi9KXrzxE0zRtztqTdMxU4BsT8I2ifE4iLTHm8yC1lpteTJG1NYIOhH61zLKgdYqwz-m_wFN8vnoxtUQm0YFrXeZ_TYRlVpMkl-E/s400/photo+(16).JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
I did have a little inspiration though, my friend Rob, who is known, well I know him by his Snickers bar every Wednesday night at his practice, was recently hit by a car and was hospitalized breaking part of his skull, in his long distance venture on his bike around the Big Island. Being so, showing a little community support athletes sported shirts saying "Run Big for Rob, a spin off of Big Island Running Co. shirts, which simply state "Run Big" and I, being that I cant really wear a shirt while swimming figured a little sharpie would do........<br />
<br />Leahihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15249924625206383939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434324157227171509.post-33255885468985711572013-06-12T22:31:00.001-10:002013-06-12T22:34:15.467-10:00DOLPHINS!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_pMX0TBOp81Fd-YOXsp-9hLmyZuTYc2MWBmhI6XIxdc_9Ufoswg7reGoADEo25yHTNAmgvQ6hiNUZO9fiEuPxZgkfrqYEizSufIcDx58MhNmdrtSs9hF0GRTelLsWVT29oiuW6nvz4lE/s1600/DSCN0286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_pMX0TBOp81Fd-YOXsp-9hLmyZuTYc2MWBmhI6XIxdc_9Ufoswg7reGoADEo25yHTNAmgvQ6hiNUZO9fiEuPxZgkfrqYEizSufIcDx58MhNmdrtSs9hF0GRTelLsWVT29oiuW6nvz4lE/s320/DSCN0286.JPG" width="320" /></a> Well today was quite amazing! Probably one of the best swims I have had, this is my 6th long swim I believe well besides years of Age Group work outs this was the longest in the ocean. Unfortunately my Garmin was acting up so I think my 10 miles was actually 8 but fortunately I was accompanied by some friends! Around the 3 mile mark I seemed to have misplaced my kayakers and found them a little further inshore with a HUGE pod of dolphins. I kept on trucking along and to my surprise they showed up a little bit below me, I could have reached out and rode one for the next 7 miles if I had wanted to. They tagged along for the longest time and it was so incredibly surreal. My kayakers had a great experience too, 4 hours is a journey in itself for two paddlers, and to see dolphins on such a wonderfully clear day just made it all that much better.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dan and Somer, My wonderful support crew</td></tr>
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I cannot thank them enough for coming out there with me that day, it isn't all that glamourous, but days like these remind me of how great the ocean really is. They are a few members of my support team and seeing familiar faces in a sea of blue keeps me trucking.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWQvl15GcpSoUsIgva5QuVetjaRqPl4ShTPnV-YxCphbLjO86PSCepB399woLJZmvMFG35JI2scNB7kkegdz4Uy-6wzTnuApQJwJ9AbYZgORW7oHl8oaaSmun1UwuqCzF1iJb1JwtKoz4/s1600/photo+2+%25289%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWQvl15GcpSoUsIgva5QuVetjaRqPl4ShTPnV-YxCphbLjO86PSCepB399woLJZmvMFG35JI2scNB7kkegdz4Uy-6wzTnuApQJwJ9AbYZgORW7oHl8oaaSmun1UwuqCzF1iJb1JwtKoz4/s320/photo+2+%25289%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the '5' mile turn around, dad says I look like an otter, gotta practice not holding on to anything while im out there, no hanging on to the boat or kayak on the big day!</td></tr>
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Leahihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15249924625206383939noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3434324157227171509.post-57396904254351228142013-06-12T22:06:00.003-10:002013-06-12T22:06:49.296-10:00First Post!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYayO8n3l54XEo3q17TIU5o5T0htJ1G-59KdlkZs4QuEOdE-gY2XNxG7tlSSX8OVS1kQ1GWVZuD_HDB7XWFp9H_diNouEJlrPe5XWZpWcoYwgU9_Fvdnxt1sqBO06RQAfL9lYvMMzhxDM/s1600/427999_10150576810126812_794036811_9364946_2135255982_n.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYayO8n3l54XEo3q17TIU5o5T0htJ1G-59KdlkZs4QuEOdE-gY2XNxG7tlSSX8OVS1kQ1GWVZuD_HDB7XWFp9H_diNouEJlrPe5XWZpWcoYwgU9_Fvdnxt1sqBO06RQAfL9lYvMMzhxDM/s400/427999_10150576810126812_794036811_9364946_2135255982_n.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hey! Its me!</td></tr>
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Before we hop right into the swimming, how about a little bit about myself; My name is Leahi. I have been so incredibly blessed to have grown up in a place where a water and the ocean is a necessity I also have been fortunate enough to have been able to devote 11 years of my life to competitive swimming. Truthfully<br />
I have fallen in love with the ocean, and always tend to say "I can swim forever in the ocean", people joke that if there were to be coral on the bottom of the pool I would swim a little faster, I think they may be right. Without a doubt long distance swimming has always been my cup of tea, always the 13 year old in the 'big kids' events swimming the 400 IM, 1000, 500, and 1650 free, when ocean swimming was introduced to my life I was swept away.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2vG5k3hsNzXuUu3xx5GDtppQlFWrl81SrL-GDj9uEUKDVot__oZ13r1krS23jqPRwBqN2HloBZwL1oAyLPk3kDbJXyeVhEImsGFdgUxGGHqbs5690T1kFKMigzbSH0IeJvqEUgFxP7co/s1600/IMG_0735.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2vG5k3hsNzXuUu3xx5GDtppQlFWrl81SrL-GDj9uEUKDVot__oZ13r1krS23jqPRwBqN2HloBZwL1oAyLPk3kDbJXyeVhEImsGFdgUxGGHqbs5690T1kFKMigzbSH0IeJvqEUgFxP7co/s320/IMG_0735.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summer of 2012, racing to the finish <br />at the Hapuna Roughwater Swim</td></tr>
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However, my very first ocean swim was a bust, the Kukio Blue Water swim in Kona, long story short, this chunky 10 year old had to be pulled out by water patrol. And now I cant ever wait for summer to come, as most teens cant wait for freedom from school, I get excited when ocean swims are announced. What can I say? It's the life of a swimmer.<br />
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And so here I am, staring at a map, thinking about how incredibly far I will challenge my body, so exciting and so scary all at the same time. This is my journey to Ka'iwi Channel.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN6FYs8OfSipax5N1zwa7lxd9lMk_WE0eqVgIy5PFvNdeg42rUo_JXJhIkkgulFNjYf_QYSOyFDGhExCcIowypHKnDLpi_Wo24OsMckqdu4uIyAR5IT-bva9pnSG3kd9NjlO-ChhxtYdE/s1600/407033_10150543809561812_794036811_9269332_423978649_n.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN6FYs8OfSipax5N1zwa7lxd9lMk_WE0eqVgIy5PFvNdeg42rUo_JXJhIkkgulFNjYf_QYSOyFDGhExCcIowypHKnDLpi_Wo24OsMckqdu4uIyAR5IT-bva9pnSG3kd9NjlO-ChhxtYdE/s400/407033_10150543809561812_794036811_9269332_423978649_n.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whats a swimmer without a team?! </td></tr>
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<br />Leahihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15249924625206383939noreply@blogger.com0