RM - Nope, not a member of Phoenix Tri Club, I used to run with Racelab, but I stopped having them make my schedule at the beginning of the school year because I couldn't make any of the group workouts. It didn't fit with my kids school schedule. I've been thinking about PTC just to have a group to train with now and then if I wanted. Although, I don't do the group "ride" thing very well. Where are you swimming?

Have you read the book "Be Iron Fit"? There is a bit in there about Energy Givers and Energy Takers. Energy Givers are people who make you feel positive and energized when you're around them. Energy Takers are people who make you feel the opposite. The book says that to take on the challenge of somethink like IM, you need to be positive (seems like you have that going!) and keep your spirits high because nothing can bring you down like negative people. Sounds like your dh's friend's wife is that way. I'd stay away from her until after the race... Then see what she has to say. :-)