MY NUMBER ONE SUPPORTER

That would be my wife, Susie.  And she deserves her own special post.  Here she is with her niece, Meghan Foy (the photo was taken by her dear friend Patti Roper).  She is always encouraging and supportive in all of my efforts to pursue my goals and my dreams.  She makes me feel like I'm Lance Armstrong on the bike, Eric Heiden on skates, Mark Spitz in the pool...  No matter what I do, she thinks I'm the best.  It really is a nice feeling.  So what if she can leg press more than I can.  My wife thinks I'm the greatest (...I've considered changing my name to Ali) and that's pretty darn special.  All jokes aside, she is wonderful and will do everything within her power to help me achieve success in everything I do.  She'll drive hundreds of miles to drop off and pick up locations, divert routes for extra support, change many of her plans so I may keep mine, the list is endless.  You have to admire a woman like that...and I DO!

I try my best to not take advantage of her kindness.  There will be times when some training will have to shorten or rescheduled to spend time together and with friends and family.  Let's face it.  This journey will be a huge time commitment and a big test for us to see how we can cope.  But it's this support and encouragement for each other that makes life a journey worth traveling. Try it!  You'll like it!

Susie IS my number one supporter.  She's the best!  And I thank her for making this and all of my journeys so special.  If you're reading this Jake (her nickname), I love you!