"Slowly" Awesome!!!

Most of you read my wife Michael's blog, Slowly Tri-ing!  And while she's not in my league as far as humor, wit, and satire ... she clearly out-shines me in almost every other facet of our lives.  Most of you also know her as a painfully honest writer who spells out exactly what she's feeling regarding working out and her Triathlon life.  But what you might not know is just how much she inspires me every day!

Michael will be the first to tell you that she was not blessed with speed.  I mean, she dedicated the title of her blog to this notion.  (She really sells herself too short in this area.)  But what she lacks in seconds on the clock, she makes up for in determination, heart, and a "don't give up" attitude ... and it motivates me to do the same!  

For some reason I have been blessed with good genetics and never really suffer from any long term injuries.  Sure I ache sometimes, and it can be a chore to push  myself - but it's usually nothing more than typical muscle soreness.  Something I probably take for granted way too often.  Michael is exactly the opposite.  For whatever reason, her body just doesn't respond well to all the training.  I know many times she is really hurting during a workout.  And I know sometimes she wants to quit ... but she never does!  She keeps churning and pluggin' away and always accomplishes her goal.

But yesterday she got word from the doctor's office that she had to come in for an MRI to take a closer look at her shoulder, which she injured about a week ago.  It seems as though there might be a bigger problem than originally anticipated.  They think the bone is rubbing against bone, with a potential tear in the tendon.  She was devastated.  She has her first Olympic distance Triathlon in a few short days in Des Moines, IA and this really puts things in doubt.  There's really a lot up in the air right now about whether or not she'll be able to compete.

Baby, whatever you decide or have to do about the Triathlon, just know that I couldn't be anymore proud of you!  All of the hard work you've put in is an inspiration to me and not one second of it has gone unnoticed.  I can't believe the way you push yourself with all of the double workouts, and it makes me want to be better just from watching you.  I know this is a tough time ... but I love you with all my heart and you have my 100% support whatever you decide!  You inspire me to be a better athlete, father, and man.  I love you!
... be great today!