Hello all! I am still around

I have been MIA these last few months because of life getting in the way (second jobs, kids, work)

Well I have done it! I have verbally commited to doing my first Tri! JUNE 10TH!

thanks to all who have posted their first tri experiences - they have helped me a lot! especially in the courage department.
I am doing it w/ a veteran triathlete and another over 50 gal who will be doing her first also - Perfect combination.

I originally wasn't too worried about the swim portion because swimming is one of my stronger areas but it is in a marina off of the Northern Missouri river and will be cold! I am trying on some wetsuits tomorrow and will have a few chances to get into frigid water before hand. I have heard gasping rather than breathing is a pretty common reaction. I figure if I have to breast stroke it so be it, I have a strong breast stroke so shouldn't lose too much time and hopefully once i am comfortable I can break into freestyle. This may change when I do my first cold water practice - it just may be SURVIVE

My running still isn't up to par but I figure there is no time like the present to get started and if all else fails I KNOW I can walk 3 miles in 45 minutes - all I can do is go up from here!

I have been able to get out and do some good road rides so that portion should be doable and it doesn't look like too tough a course (although I do better on "rollers" than I do on the flat.)

this site is so awesome. Thanks for all the tips and reports - they are invaluable