Thanks all.
I plan to go to beach tomorrow night (weather premitting) and mark off a 1/4 mile and just go for it. I think I just need to know I can do it. I was that way about my first 1/2 marathon...I did 13 miles in training..I needed to knwo I could do it.

Wahine,
Thanks for the advice. I do think I'll try and get in the water where the tri is teh day before. (If it is still light when I get there). I live in Florida...so it is salt water and warm--thus no wetsuit (aka "floatation enhancer").

Ran this AM. Still slow...but who cares. (Hot and early in running training plan). Tonight is swim (pool). I can't believe it is now 11 days....and counting.

I appreciate all the advice, posts and support!

K