"Almost There"

As hoped for I got to meet Paula Newby-Fraser this morning.



Besides being the most successful long course triathlete ever, she is bright, witty and well spoken. I had a chance to meet with her along with a small group of people who had entered the race through the community fund program. A charity program in which you pay twice the entry fee, and coincidentally the reason I was allowed to carry my entry over to 2009. She made several comments which I found sensible but the point which hit home the most with me was related to "why are you here?" She said that the most common phrase she usually heard during race week was "I just want to have fun". She challenged us on this, making the point that a year ago when we signed up and started training that the idea of 'fun' had nothing to do with it. She went on to share her belief that each and every one of us was there for a very special, very personal reason, and that we should focus on that as opposed to having fun. I took her advice to heart and as such intend on trying to enjoy my success, as opposed to having fun. I think those are 2 very different things

I'm tired today and at the same time I'm ready to go. I did not sleep well last night but hope for better tonite. I continue to get amazing support from so many people but tonite I had a special call. My sister-in-law Heather and her daughter Carla gave me the most wonderful words of support. They then put brother Bill on the line who proceeded to tell me at some length that my blog was mostly a waste of words. This didn't bother me because generally I agree with him and I appreciate his honesty. It was clear however that he has read enough of it to be able to make that judgement and as such I say it must have had a few good moments. Besides, he blew his whole tough guy approach when he told me that "he loved me"!!! I love you too Bill!

Teresa tells me that we made it onto the TV in Kitchener tonite courtesy of Janine and there will be a followup on Monday for anyone who cares. Any video you will see will be courtesy of my wife, videographer extraordinaire.

I wish to dedicate day 344 to our Kylie, the most perfect girl child ever born, and on who's shoulders I will fly through the course.

"Today was good. Today was fun. Tomorrow is another one."---Dr Seuss

"It's kind of fun to do the impossible."---Walt Disney

love
peter