The Madness is Over

Where do I start? The past days have been a little nuts. I hope to cover everything that has happened, but it may take a couple posts.

First. My sister, Elizabeth, got married this weekend. Congratulations to her and Patrick. I can say this entire process from the beginning to the end has made me nervous. The planning and execution of this wedding has been well outside my limited comfort zone. There was seeming chaos laden in the preparation for this event. However, I can say, that my sister pulled it all off with grace. Everyone in attendance could not resist saying this was one of the best weddings they had ever attended. None of this, and mean that as sincerely as possible, could have occurred without the tremendous support of my parents.

As a surprise for my father, Liz and Patrick had there first dance to a song my grandparents recorded over 50 years ago. With the recent passing of my grandfather, he was obviously at the forefront in everyone's thoughts throughout. This was a touching tribute to two people, my grandparents, whom meant so much to us. I will post some selected pictures later, but she looked lovely.

Second. Throughout this weekend I trained my ass off. It was difficult to fit it all in, but I did it. I really put in some good time. The highlight for me was an interval ride on Sunday after brunch. It took all I could muster to resist the delicious Mimosas being served in quantity, but it was well worth the restraint. The ride, 2.5 loops around Sauvie Island, was mainly intervals. The best part was SHORTS! I wore shorts, without tights, knee warmers or leg warmers for the first time this year.

Third. Dan, my best friend, got engaged this weekend. Congratulations to both him and Carrie. I cannot wait for the big day. It will certainly be a highlight. This news has long been inevitable, but nonetheless it is exciting.

Fourth. This weekend was Ironman Arizona. I had many acquaintances racing. Although I don't know many of them well I have a lot of admiration for their capacity to endure this VERY difficult situation. The weather was Shitty, with a capital S. Many didn't finish, but before they encountered what would prove too much for many, one didn't even get to toe the line. For more, read Dave's Blog. Although, I can't publish the chain of email that ensued on our team's list serve after this post, I can say they were passionate and numerous. In the world of endurance sports, few of them have as many complicated nuances associated with them than Ironman racing. Dave and Anne are tireless athletes and I feel for their situation. The only point of clarification I will add to Dave's post is that he clarified, in an email, his position that all Age Group athlete deserve the same respect as the pros. Thanks Dave, for your continued passion as an athlete.

That's all for now.