Monday, August 25, 2008

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Tribute to Paulie


I went to Salmon Arm this weekend to visit Paulie and, for lack of a better word, compete in the Apple Triathlon in Kelowna. It was a great weekend.

Not only did Paulie wash my car AND bike, we also had some wicked night hawk walks. Paulie treated me to lots of delicious ice cream, and to some of the best company that I've had in a long, long time.

The night I got there, Paulie and I chilled out and relaxed, watched the Olympics and caught up on things. The following day, we went for a short, but awesome ride in Salmon Arm - my first ride in the Okanagan. You can't go anywhere in Salmon Arm without climbing a bloody hill.. other than that, it was fabulous. Paulie then came down to Kelowna with me for package pick up and came to the race meeting with me - you know, all the fun stuff!


Not only did Paulie wake up super early on race day and drive me to kelowna, but at the race, Paulie was the best support - always had what I needed, whether it be water, cheering, or my time split for the previous lap... you would have thought I was elite or something!
Because we only took one car, Paulie ended up riding back to Salmon Arm, a 130 kilometre ride, which translates into 4.5 hours of riding.... AFTER wandering around the race course, cheering me on in the 38 degree Kelowna heat for 2 hours and 50 minutes. The heat really takes it out of you.

Paulie is one of the most amazing people I've ever met. So devoted to his family, work and training. He is one of the most positive people I know. He always has the best advice and delivers it in the kindest, most respectful way. Somehow he knows exactly what to say at exactly the right time. Sometimes I think he's not human.

Regardless if he's human or not, Paulie is one of the best people I know and I feel so blessed to have him apart of my life.


Thank you, Paulie, for everything you do for me, and for everyone else you meet along your way.

Coincidentally, as I finish this post, I realize that today is the 20th of August, one day shy of Paulie's birthday; A day that I will be thinking of Paulie every minute and asking the heavens above "What good deeds have I done to deserve such a marvelous father?"

Happy Birthday, Dad. I can't imagine where I would be without you.

Pound it!

J