Saturday, August 29, 2009

dear ironman,

Dear Ironman,

I just wanted to make sure we were on your radar. D-day is 12 weeks away and I'll have you know we're getting ready. Yes, I said we, because this triathlon thing has been a year-long commitment for all of us. We don't sweat quite as much as Denten does, but we put in the time in our own way.

In August alone, D has put 13 hours in on the bike, 90 miles just this morning. It was a long ride, one that pushed into a 112 degree day. He has run for 7.5 hours, which means lots of miles and has logged almost 12 hours in the pool. Aside from Sundays, there has only been one day off all month. Most of those days are two-workout days. He's serious. He's working hard and doing great. Sometimes I look at his body and think, damn, if I put in that much effort, I could have the female version of that body.

But for now I'm the cheerleader. I'm the sounding board for things like what to do when we find out the fantastic bike he's been training on is not the right size and is causing issues. Well, we sell it to someone who needed it pretty badly and get a new one. A fantastic one. I've been calling it fancy, but the word rocket keeps working it's way in. I listen and discuss various fueling and hydration systems and then console when they don't work as anticipated. I admire the impressive gear and tight shorts and breathe deeply when charges from the tri store appear on my financial statements.

While there have been more mornings and bedtimes without dad around, we fully support this endeavor and are proud of the dedication and effort he has given this adventure. In fact, as denten is currently missing hunting season, I must say I have not. one bit. I'll take tri season anytime. He brings home satisfaction and medals rather than dead stuff that could potentially end up on my wall.

All in all, we're gearing up. We'll be ready for November to cheer on our own ironman, so be ready for us. Save me a prime spot to hang out, 'cause it'll be a long day. See you soon.

Love,
the wife.

9 comments:

Anonymous said...

90 miles?! holy cow! he bring his cell phone with him just in case right? dang, he is amazing!

Amy said...

I'm excited for Denten! Sounds intense, but fun at the same time! good luck!

Katelyn & Wade said...

Dear Wife,

I am going to follow your example and be more positive and supportive like you. I am not going to say under my breath whilst looking at our bank statement,"$100 for a blasted water bottle holder, really?" I am going to be nicer to Ophelia (the bike) and make her feel welcome in our bedroom, like she belongs there. I am going to be stoked on Sat. When the hubs in on his bike for 4 hours because it's making him stronger. I'll will quit secretly wishing it was me and be happy for him, let the Ironman have his deserved place in the sun.

You are a good influence wife. Thank you.

Love,
The other Ironman wife

Natalie said...

Way to go Denten! That's awesome! And way to go Amberly for supporting him! You guys are a great team.

kimmalee said...

Hmmm, yes. Ironman sounds like a huge committment...but I'd still take it over hunting season.

Emily said...

But it would be so much better if they could carry a couple of kids in a backpack while they logged all those hours, I mean really we'd be doing them a favor...think how easy it would be when the real event came around and they could do it without the baby in the pack! ;)

Annika said...

I'm with Emily, they could be a train decoy of sorts.

carrielyshous said...

Way to go family! When exactly is it, and where will the race be? Not that I'll be able to make it, but I could always enjoy the future pics :) Good luck one and all!!!!!!!!

Nancy said...

very exciting stuff. good luck to him and what a supportive wife you are. i agree that medals are better than dead stuff on the wall.