Just a Finish - mile 38

Finish line, 2006 Duathlon World Championships

It took a little longer to get there than I wanted, but I was happy at the finish. This moment has been re-played in my head nearly every day since it happened. I proved to myself that I could compete at a high level despite having ulcerative colitis (perhaps the highest athletic level I have ever achieved). There were a few rough moments in this race that I was able to overcome (like dropping my cliff bar, doh!). Daily life sometimes presents itself in the same way and today I was reminded of that. I got little sleep last night and worried that today may be hard. However, I took it at my own pace and made sure I was hydrated and ate when needed and the day has gone very well.

Congrats to John Dermengian - mile 28

Congratulations to John Dermengian on successfully finishing another Ironman! John had ulcerative colitis that resulted in a colonectomy, but continues to stay active completing the 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike and 13.2 mile run of the Ironman competition. Read more about his story here [link].

Starting the New Year - mile 27

What better way to kick off the New Year than to begin a blog! Today, in between annual check-ups with various doctors, I did a hill ride on my bike and surpassed my 27th mile of the year. Healthy visits to the doctor and a 50+ degree day (in January in New England!) make it easy to get out for a workout.

The New Year always brings up resolutions. I was never one to make resolutions; at least not on a yearly basis. I believe strongly in resolutions, but on a continual basis at the moment when an issue to be resolved arises. This being said, I will make a resolution for this year: to enjoy every moment of my good health and not take it for granted. Healthy appointments and a good ride today reminded me of the level of satisfaction a good day brings.

My high school football coach coined the phrase "don't count the days, make the days count." That is what I plan to do each day of health; enjoy my family, work to complete my dissertation and continue training. This is also what I plan to do each day that I may feel less than 100%; be disciplined with my diet, medication and preventing excess stress. I will not measure my year with a tally of good days and bad days, but rather in levels of achievement and happiness.