Ironman Packing

It has started.. One week from today I will be having the time of my life earning my Ironman medal! It sounds like one grand party where I get to do all my favorite things all day long! I can't wait! This dream has been mine for a very long time.

But before every big party, there must be planning and packing. I'm almost done with all the planning. I do need to still pick restaurants/meals I'd like to eat leading up to the race. The packing is a different story. It sounds like it will be a cool day with rain likely. This could only mean LAYERS! I love layering! Who doesn't? There are the vests in my closet waiting to be used, long sleeve shirts anxious to be worn again, and don't forget the gloves. I'm starting to feel like I'll need the largest suitcase I own to be well prepared. I'd hate to leave my favorite booties at home only to wish I had them. I've come to the conclusion that I must find the PERFECT long sleeve shirt to cross the finish line with. Afterall, everyone knows that's the picture that will be on my Christmas card this year. And then there's the pose. What should I "say" when I cross the line? And more importantly, will I remember to do it after slogging along for 140.6 miles?

I'm so lucky! I've already picked some things I MUST do during the day! I have to sing "Happy Birthday" to Madeline while I'm on the bike. She is lucky enough to have a birthday on our special day! AND.. a section of "99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall" as a tribute to my boss who will be hung over from his brother's 40th Birthday Party. And my absolute favorite part, My Big Sis in Ironman and I have a "date" from mile 18 - 21 of the run. I've been told in no uncertain terms that I better show or I may have a lawsuit on my hands. I know I've said this before, but I'll say it again. It takes a village to make an Ironman. I'm just lucky enough to have a village that spans the entire US! Let's finish the last minute details, so I can get this party started! I've been waiting for the Happy Ending for far too long!