Reflecting back on the last couple of years and my training for the Tour Divide, I can only but be thankful. Thankful for a supportive family who back me in my crazy endeavors. Few people understand what would motivate an individual to spend countless hours, on consecutive days, grinding it out on a mountain bike, yet my family has been incredibly involved and supportive - truly grateful for that, as I know this race is a selfish undertaking and the training commitment has been huge. I also need to be thankful for my health. At age 40, I have the strength and fitness that will hopefully allow me to finish this race. I am fortunate that my passions keep me in good health in a society that is plagued with increasing sedentary lifestyle.