Some Training and Some Astronauts

My plan was to wake up and do a light ride to test the rental bike I picked up yesterday and then go about the day and see some more space-related things. At 6:30am, I awoke to the sound of what can only be described as a deluge of rain; plan derailed from the outset. I turned off the alarm and headed back to sleep. A few hours later when the others arose the rain had stopped and the clouds were slightly less threatening.As we walked out to take a stroll along the beach to look for sea glass, the sun began to shine and I got the high sign from Jennifer that I should take the opportunity to take a ride while I could - so I did! A quick 10 mile ride around beautiful A1A in Cocoa Beach gave me the chance to test out the bike and get used to the shifting and handling. It will definitely be good for the purpose at hand - complete the triathlon.On return, we all prepared for our trip to the Astronaut Hall of Fame which is part of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. A fun way to see some more of the history of the space programme in the US, it houses an amazing collection of memorabilia, simulators and exhibits. Needless to say, Andrew truly enjoyed himself as he explored the past of his favourite astronaut, Neil Armstrong.Afterwards, we headed into Titusville to check out the location for the race on Sunday (and check-in tomorrow). Whilst we were there, I spied the first hurdle of the biking portion of the race - the Max Brewer Bridge. It is a very high and somewhat steep climb in both directions and will definitely be a challenge to overcome. Spinning will be a must or else I will go backwards. The winds and rain were pretty intense today (30 mph); hopefully it will be much less on Sunday to make sure I don't blow off the side of the bridge.We began to discuss the swim portion of the race in the Indian River and the various wildlife that exists in the water and the care with which the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge takes in preserving the plants and animals. We also covered the impact that this race could have on the Refuge. The discussion turned to whether or not I could (would) get eaten by anything. Andrew, in true 5 year old fashion said, "Daddy, don't run into any manatees or get bitten by a shark or you will ruin the race for everyone." That's what I call support and encouragement to be successful in the race! Kids are so wonderfully silly.After Dinner at Dixie Crossroads for some fish and seafood, we headed back in for the night. A good night sleep before check-in for the race tomorrow, seeing some friends who are also in the race and some that are taking the opportunity to meet up since we are in the area, it will be a long day outside before the race. I will probably also take the chance to take a swim in the river (weather permitting) to see how the water temperature and currents feel. At present, there is a good storm off the coast, so not sure how tomorrow will work.