I “competed” in the Maple Valley Half Ironman, or 70.3 (what is a half ironman anyway?)

I had a great time completing my first half Ironman in 6:08:04.

(That’s my brother on the far left - my #1 fan.)

Splits: 46:19, 07:35, 3:05:50, 04:43, and 2:03:39

Wow.

Last week I learned my best friend, who has spent the last fifteen years within a few minutes walk, is moving south. Not only him, but his wife, his children, and every unique combination I - and my family - have been so lucky to spend so much time with.

I know that, due to the marvels of modern life, he’s but a call away - and yet, I also know those interactions are likely a poor substitute for what we’ve had.

On May 1st, 2006, I got the call. Eriko said it was time, and so - it was time! I asked my brother to drive me home, a less than 10 minute jaunt up Queen Anne hill, and then Eriko and I were off to the hospital. She had selected a midwife who worked out of Evergreen in Kirkland, which left me with daily nightmares of being stuck in rush-hour traffic. Luckily, this was early afternoon and the 405 was free.

For the first time - in my career - I cancelled a vacation due to the demands of the job. It was to have been a solo affair, and thus all the dissapointment was felt only by one.

Me.