Update followed with deep thoughts by Jack Handy

Been swimming some. Been running some. Been biking - not so much. Gotta push it into high gear training. I'm getting nervous! Trying to remember Dani's mantra -- "CompLETE, NOT ComPETE" - thanks Dan!

Fundraising news - I'm so excited about my success... I'm hoping to reach my $1,000.00 goal in the next 2 weeks. Thanks for the support everyone! I have raised $751.00 !! I'm so appreciative of all of you chipping in for this wonderful cause.

Housekeeping news - I've gotta order my wetsuit. I am getting anxious to start open water swimming. I've already got Miss Ali Kat to be my kayak support, so that will be nice. O, and Ali, how's your sign coming??!! I also have to figure out where to get a Tri Suit and how many millions of dollars it's going to cost me. O, and honey, I do need a new bike helmet. SORRY.

Fan Club Progress - I'm starting to recruit friends (strangers are welcome too!) to come out on the big day and cheer me on! I'm going to need all the help I can get! SUNDAY August 15th at 2:00 - SMCC!!!!

I met a young woman at the pool last week and we chatted TFACure a bit. She shared with me that participating in the TFACure last year was the best experience of her life. I know it will not be as incredible as child birth, but perhaps almost as empowering. I never felt as strong and as successful as I did the day I gave birth to my baby girl...I am hopeful that this TRI will be a very close second!

Thanks hubby for scoring me a bunch o swim caps for FREE! If you know Rich, you will understand why he is friendly with just about EVERYONE in Portland...they all love him. Over the years he's received a number of hats, t-shirts, various forms of baked goods & candies, gift cards, cold, hard, cash, etc. etc. from his adoring customers. I can't imagine why! Oh, and his charming personality and sweet face also earned him the title of "Customer of the Week" at Starbucks!! His picture was up all week with a note about his drink of choice (vanilla latte, with whipped cream). Love you hun.

Today Rich, Iz and I attended a beautiful celebration of life. My dear friend's dad passed away suddenly this week and hearing his youngest daughter speak this afternoon about the way he lived his life was incredibly inspiring. Seeing the strength and closeness in his family was heart warming. Tonight as I keep this special family in my thoughts, I'm remembering that life and family are precious. I'm remembering to love people not things. I'm remembering that many different friends and friendships have really touched me and turned me into the person I am today and I am grateful for each and every one of you.