2007

Wow, what a year - 2007 had many ups and downs. On Jan 1st Jeff starting focusing on the new year. Had goals and wanted to make his dream come true. With aging up this year to the 55-59 age group – he knew it was now or never for the World Championships.

He trained hard on his trainer and took his trip to Asheville. Although the weather wasn’t the best – rain, snow, wind – they were able to get a couple of good rides in. Next trip was to Chattanooga for the 3 State/3 Mountain. Thanks to Egg and Dobo he was able to hang on – and thanks to an older man alongside a mountain – he got back on his bike and rode. His finish time was much better than expected.

Opened his triathlon season with Little Miami – while practicing the canoe, he pinched his elbow. Didn’t think much about it – went on the race and won. The next weekend was Milton Triathlon. Although he had a “good” race, something wasn't right Didn’t think much about it until a few days later. The elbow he pinched was swollen and turning red. After a few more days he went to the Dr. Treated with meds – got a little better but a soon a he quit the meds it returned. Found out he had a staph infection. After 2 months of treatment it finally went away.

It was now or never to qualify for World’s. Decided to try at Mansfield – long story make short he did. We traveled to Richmond VA for a very satisfying race – 6th in the World – Jeff was extremely pleased.

After we got home we received news that his Uncle Rich had an inoperable brain tumor. Less than 2 weeks later, Rich died on what would have been his 75th birthday. Rich had overcome so much adversity in his earlier days – was an extremely smart and caring person – loved to walk and write. It was very devastating to all of us.

Jeff ran and I walked the Turkey Trot to officially end his training season for the year. Jeff’s heart wasn’t really into the race – he hadn’t worked on speed this year – mostly endurance.

Christmas was wonderful. We got to spend it with family – especially my brother. We haven’t been together for 13 years – lot of family history (mainly his wife that died in July). Jeff got his compact crank (for Brasstown Bald) which has made everyone happy!

Received news that his Aunt Ellie (Rich’s widow) had been diagnosed to colon cancer and would be having her surgery on Jan 2. The news was not good – stage 3 – it had not progressed to her liver. Treatment? That is up to her. Very sad news.

Ended our New Year with very good friends. Egg was back playing with Funky G for the evening. Haven’t seen Egg smile like that in a long time. Everyone had “something” to let go of and embrace the New Year with hopes and dreams.

What will 2008 hold? Nobody knows. Just glad to be here and welcome the New Year in. We each have our goals and dreams. I think we have learned to roll with the punches.