This time, no jellyfish!!!  I have to say, between that and the comparatively cool and overcast day, this year's race was much more pleasant than last year's!  Despite that, I managed to finish in 3:27:06, which was 2:15 longer than last year.  Still under my goal of 3:30!  For me at least, it was interesting to compare my two time breakdowns:

2008: Swim 24:30 T1 10:55 Bike 1:36:47 T2 4:00 Run 1:08:40

2009: Swim 24:30 T1 10:17 Bike 1:40:57 T2 4:01 Run 1:07:22

(the T's are transitions)  It's funny how consistent I was from year to year.  My swim was exactly the same, I managed to shave a few seconds off that first transition, which I was trying to do, but my biggest shock was that I was four minutes slower on the bike this year, and a tiny bit faster on the run -- not at all what I expected. If I can, next year, I would love to buy a new bike.  I'm currently riding a bike with a compact frame, designed for shorties like me, but unlike some compact bikes, it also has smaller sized wheels, which I firmly believe slow me down.  We'll see if it's in the budget! 

Thanks to all who I saw along the course -- Mom, Stephen, Bill, Marjorie, and Regina.  Thanks also to Tiffany of Team Lipstick, who ran with me for most of the run leg and pushed me on the bike leg.  And a huge thanks to everyone who sent me good wishes and Facebook comments -- I am so lucky to have you all in my life!!!  Pictures to come as I get them.