Tuesday, October 28, 2008

I Am Grateful

Reality is sets in, and I am overcome with amazement at what lies ahead.

I wonder how I got here, really, although I know exactly how I did.

Doubt is of no concern right now, there simply isn't any room for it, I have no use for it, and I would not allow it, anyways.

I still need to start packing - I am a last minute packer in almost all occasions - I prefer to not disrupt my everyday life with the stress of packing until I have to. But it is time.

One does not get to the final days before an ironman without many things going their way. Many sacrifices by friends and family. Many words of encouragement. And the watchful eye of The Divine...protecting and comforting.

I am grateful.

As I read the emails, the comments, and the facebook messages, and I take the phone calls and hear the voice mails of encouragement, I am humbled by every one of you. You guys have shown me support and love and you've picked me up when I've been down. You've been patient and understanding when I haven't had time to blog, to show up in person, or even remember to do what I said I'd do. You've reminded me why I am here, and why I love to share my thoughts with you. Why I love to swim, bike and run with you - be it virtual or in person. And the motivating thoughts of how every last one of you has impacted my life will propel me to the finish line of Ironman Florida...and I'll be thinking of you, you can count on it. You will be there with me.

I love you guys.

21 comments:

Unknown said...

I do love the blog community and all their encouragements too!

Good luck!

triguyjt said...

the hay is in the barn...now go rock it

Wes said...

Beautifully said :-) I got my list done this morning. Tonight, we pack!! OK. Off to find you on facebook :-)

JP said...

I have my swim, bike and run "piles" laid out in the living room floor.Go over the list one more time then: "get in, sit down,shut up and hang on". It's time to roll, see you in PCB.

Anonymous said...

i will be there--can't wait to get there- i will have you in my eyesight every second possible.

your ole dad

Chloe said...

Good luck! Everything is laid out - now you just have to put it all together will the tools that you have :)

Carrie said...

set the course on fire!

kate said...

Lana--i found your blog through triathlon blog searching. i'm an average jane with hopes of giving ironman a shot in two years--with just one marathon under my belt and a long way to go, your story is truly inspirational.

thank you for taking the time to share it with us all.

congratulations on making it to this point. i'll be praying for you this weekend.

go compete, but above all, enjoy this amazing opportunity you have worked for!

runjen said...

Well said. Best of luck!! Can't wait to hear the update!

Darrell said...

Great thoughts, Lana. Give IM Florida all you got!

jahowie said...

Good luck!! I know that you are going to be great!!

momo said...

lana - you're so ready. have fun out there come race day and just let your body do what it already knows how to do. we'll be cheering you on all day long!

big hugs, girlfriend!

Marathoner in Training said...

You are so wonderful with your wording, I really enjoy your heartfelt words. Good luck to you and God bless you.

Trisaratops said...

I am so proud for you...and excited for you!

Tear it up. Enjoy your Iron Day!

I'll be rooting for you!

RunBubbaRun said...

Kick some IM ass out there..

The "fire inside" is ready to be released now..

Good luck and have fun during your IM day.

Supalinds said...

You are going to do great!! Just remember: pain is only temporary, being an Ironman is forever.

Good luck! I have never been the same and either will you. Ironman is something very special!

My thoughts will be with you.

Laura said...

I'm finally delurking to say best of luck! I'm sure you will have an amazing time :)

Anonymous said...

Good luck to you Lana. I know you'll do awesome! I can't wait to hear about it! (Tony P.)

SingletrackJenny (formerly known as IronJenny) said...

... and we love you right back.
Go get 'em tiger.
xoxoxo

Mae said...

Whoo~hoo!!! YoU dId It!!!! WAY TO GO!!!

RunBubbaRun said...

Way to GO IM. Impressive time splits..

Congrats.