Almost there

Hello followers-well, here it is-the final postings leading up until next Sunday. I leave for Calgary bright and early tomorrow morning, and am a basket case full of nerves!

I have been extremely busy with making lists, trying to get organized and getting some quality training in albeit at a reduced intensity. I had my last open water swim on Tuesday with Mr. and Mrs. P and that went well. Here's hoping Ghost river will be like my little pond! (OK I know I am trying to delude meself!)

I also took my bike in and Mr. C gave it a final tune up and wrapped my aerobars which feel great-not as slippery!

Yesterday, I met with Mr. P for some last minute advice. Seems like even when I don't think I have any questions left-I do-and lots of them! As usual, Mr. P was able to give me some great tips-he also gave me a DVD to watch of last years race-which was fantastic to see (not the kind of DVD where you eat popcorn and drink pop)-but ramped up my wing nut anxiety even more!

For my devoted followers, just so you know, the race will be covered by TSN (not sure when they broadcast?) and on the day of the race you can actually go online and see when racers come out of the water, their bike and run splits! Man technology is crazy!

This morning, I am going for a swim as I don't know how much opportunity I will have before next weekend to get out and swim. I know the Ironman organizers are arranging a swim clinic on the Saturday which I hope to get to as I want to at least try getting in the Ghost River once before the race!

Prior to the actual race, we are taking the children to Drumhellar for the dinosaurs and Banff and Lake Louise for some hiking and touring! Must also hit the Calgary zoo as I hear it is awesome and of course, what is a trip to Calgary without visiting the IKEA!

Lastly my followers, my friends, my family.....I have to thank you all from the bottom of my heart. Without your support, I would have never have gotten this far. Everyone who has ever been there for me-whether to provide a laugh, advice, a hug, or words of encouragement, will own a part of the Ironman. In life's successes-no one goes it alone. This I know for sure.

I also need to acknowledge the people who have not been there for me, the ones who have dissapointed me, the ones who have dropped off the face of the planet and the ones who get mad at me for splashing in the water (yes even you Gangsta lady). While you folks don't know it, you have given me a gift-the drive to go on, and a lesson about how to persevere in the face of adversity!

So there we are my friends, this time next week....I will be embarking on one of my greatest adventures.....I will keep you posted and love you all!