How exciting! The countdown begins I try to just forget about it for a few months until I have to start training.

I swear, half the challenge is the mental commitment of signing up. From there it's all plan execution and tolerating and adapting to changes. You've already put your name on the dotted line.

I thought about doing Ironman Canada next year instead of Coeur d'Alene, but I enjoy getting it out of my system early in the season and playing at shorter races the rest of the summer. Also, no long runs/rides in super hot weather is a major plus... though the long runs/rides in super cold weather and the endless trainer miles are a major negative so maybe it evens out in the end.