... finally...

My cough and sinus cold is (almost) gone. I am feeling much better and strong again after 3 weeks of "slothdom" with no workout at all. My first workouts were two solid skate ski sessions on Saturday and Sunday in WOP & Callaghan Country in perfect conditions: blue sky, sunshine, perfect snow!
I have not lost much power but certainly some cardio fitness, but that will come back - hopefully.

The first two swim sessions in the pool were slightly disappointing (as expected) because a 3 week break from swim training, especially in early season, is detrimental. My technique felt still OK, but I could feel my heart rate being much higher than usual. Breathing is not yet as easy as usual because of the tail end of the cold and cough that seems to linger forever.
Finally, I discussed specific coaching  starting January 2011. I am determined to go on a training schedule focused on Oliver Half Ironman and Ironman Canada. I am hoping to do a number of milestones races to gauge my fitness in early season. Training schedules will be developed accordingly. I expect to do much more strength and core training as well as speed work as I have been neglecting those types of workouts in the past.
Until the end of December I will try to get back into a solid training routine and get back to my "November fitness". Weather permitting there will be lots of skiing both x-country and downhill./ skiing.
After all... workouts have to be fun... at times.