a moment to appreciate the good

True story, it's been awhile since I've had the opportunity to write an update!  It's been heavy on my mind though, so although I'm super tired and would much rather sleep, I'll knock out this little piece of literature.  The main reason I MUST complete this is because there are soo many good things ahead, some things must be relayed immediately.   
I've been busy with the following:
- Post Ragnar Injury
- Personal Trainer Certification (5 others to follow)
- Small Business planning X2
- Being a Father (to my dogs)

 Fun Fact: Let me start off by saying if you find yourself in a conversation and  "to make a long story short" rolls off your tongue, you've already made the story too long!  Moving on, there have been many changes/realizations in my life.  It all started when my housemate left for Air Force basic training (3 weeks ago).  Since then, things kinda got hectic.  The dogs need way more attention, the house is always empty and no one plays video games with me (which rarely happens anyway) but life goes on.  As far as my injury goes (medial shin splints), I've been working like mad to get healthy and lose the "freshman 15" I gained from December.  Essentially, I've been riding the bike a lot (appx 575 miles in 1.5 weeks) and swimming a butt load (20000 yds weekly). A fellow Air Force Triathlon member and his cycling club came down to Clermont for a visit.  We put in some great miles over 3 days. (50 Friday, 75 Saturday, 100 Sunday). Recently, I started running on the Alter G treadmill and have seen some really interesting results.  Odds are that some changes to my form have added to the injury, but this treadmill allows me to run at 70% (or whatever I set it to) of my body weight.  Additionally, I get weekly massages and have a Chiropractor perform some active release.  Check out Dr Scott Rubin for all your Chiro needs!

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My favorite way to start the day is with some good energy/Baristas and delicious coffee/baked goods.  Both of the above places make my FAVORITE list because number one...Banyan has a cup with my name on it and secondly, Jessica, owner of Jett City Espresso makes the most amazing creations EVER (scones/salads/drinks).  Either way, if your day isn't better from visiting these establishments, there is something VERY wrong with you! I also have to say It's always the most amazing feeling when someone picks up the tab for my coffee.  It's happened 2 times this week when I've been in uniform.  It means so much to me that people support what we do! (High five!)

Additionally, I picked up a GU sponsorship and Honey Stinger sponsorship.  Totally amazing that these companies reach their hands out to make racing more cost effective.  Flying Fish bike shop totally hooked me up with some great new cycling shoes, plus they ALWAYS make sure my cycling needs are met. They also don't ex-communicate you for having friends from other bike shops.  Since I love healthy fuel for racing, I signed up as a member for Jesse Thomas's Picky Bars.  The ingredients are stellar and support a very talented athletes endeavors.  I suggest you sign up as a member and receive your treats every month.  They are like Cliff bars but better X 100000. 

All in all, I wanted to get it all the good people who support me recognized.  The list is very long, there are even more...but they will all have their time to be written about.  Life is so incredibly short and seemingly insignificant, however the memories and bonds we share, make life quite unique and worth taking time to appreciate.  I heard somewhere that we base around 80% of our happiness on the relationships we share with others.  I guess that explains why lonely people aren't really happy....DUH!  Surround yourself with positive people! Also....eat good food!