Oh what a night!!!

I had been looking forward to this night with great anticipation for months. And more so for the last 3 weeks. It was the Panthers Tri Club Ball for 2011 and this night was going to be BIG. I was going to get all frocked up and get my groove on. But I was also totally freaking about about putting my slideshow together as I wanted it to be just perfect for everyone there on the night.

The Committee had worked so hard to put this night together and boy did it come together beautifully. Every aspect was without a shadow of a doubt - simply perfect. It was great to see everyone enjoying themselves and mingling and just enjoying the night which had finally brought the season to a close. And I must admit - not that I am biased AT ALL, but I think our club is a good looking club. Everyone looked amazing.

My afternoon started off with making my way to Jennie and Paul's. They had kindly invited Stephen and I to stay the night and Jennie was also doing my hair. My hair turned out amazingly and I felt stunning - like a movie star. Thankyou Jennie.

As we made our way there, I knew my feet weren't going to last long in those heels. Being in them for just 20mins was already hurting. But for the purpose of the night I was willing to endure the pain - and let me tell you - there was and still is pain in my feet. Heck, I don't even remember having this much pain doing the 70.3. But it was well worth it.

As we arrived at the Club we made our way up to the Glenleigh room, it was time for me to get the DVD to Cloe and then start taking as many photos as I could. I didn't want to end up missing people but sadly I did. I hope they were able to get one's of themselves.

The table decorations and the whole layout of that room was so elegant. I haven't seen anything quite as beautiful. And as people started to make their way in it was such a joy to see their faces. This night was for them, for all of us. To celebrate a great club, great friends, great times and a great year.

And as the time approached for my slideshow to start I started to get really nervous. I so badly wanted everyone to enjoy it - it was my way of showing the club how much they all mean to me. How proud I am to be a part of it all and how much I appreciate everyone's welcoming arms - for I have never felt so embraced. I also wanted it to be a way for people to remember the year, not just the races but to have a real vivid recollection of the year that was. And for our family and avid supporters to be thanked as well.

So as the slideshow started my eyes were on everyone. I wanted to see what their reactions were. I wanted to see their faces light up - and they did. I could hear people saying things and smiling and Oooo'ing and Ahhh'ing. It was priceless. Just the reaction I wanted.

I have to thank from the bottom of my heart Elissa for loaning me her computer with the program to put it together and helping add the music to this slideshow and help cutting it onto a DVD. Without you Elissa, I don't know what I would have done.... That program is amazing. Elissa won the "Rookie of the Year" award. Congratulations my dear friend. And thankyou to all for emailing me photos and videos.

As the slideshow went on from focusing on individual athlete's to their families, then our Juniors it, then touched on our Ironmen who have either made it to Kona or who have qualified to go to Kona this year. I was given footage of Bob by his wife Kristen and knew that this was a highlight and integral part of the year. It had him crossing the finish line and as he did he pumped his arms in the air - the look of pride in his face was without a shadow of a doubt PRICELESS. I hoped you liked it.

I also had a sneaky surprise for Joey and Kristy. You see Joey proposed to Kristy at the finish line of Port Mac Ironman. This had to make an appearance on the slideshow as well with some other added footage I was given by his best mate Tim. The look on their faces when this played was UNREAL. I loved it. Just what I was hoping for.

Then as the night progressed the awards started and I was snapping away taking photos of each of the recipients. When the photos get put on our club website I will post a link for you all to see. There will also be a youtube link to the DVD to watch. The it came to an award for the Panther of the Year. Drew was talking and I was waiting to take a snap shot of the slide of the person whom we had discussed should be getting the award. Then all of a sudden MY name gets called and a photo of me comes up on the big screen.

To say that I was FLOORED is the understatement of the century. I think I almost dropped my camera. Everyone started clapping and I remember looking back at everyone and just seeing smiles and clapping and hearing people cheer. I remember seeing my husband and all the table I was sitting at standing up, but to tell you the truth I was staring through eyes that were filling up with tears. I have never been so overwhelmed. I can't even remember what I said but know that I am so proud to have been awarded this position. I love my position within the club - and I love PTC. You are all amazing individuals and I feel truly blessed to have you all in my life. I look forward to spending my prize money this Thursday. Hmmmm, what to spend it on. Will have to think, but I am in dire need of winter clothes - so that may be the go.

The remainder of the night went by beautifully. There was alot of partying to be had and my feet are still killing me. When it was time to retire home - well back to Jennie and Paul's, Paul made the yummiest coffee and it was time to sit and watch a DVD which a good friend Clair had made for me. It was all about my journey since entering the Tri World doing my first Enticer in March last year to my first ever 70.3 in May.

I loved it - thankyou Clair. It means so much that you took the time to do this for me. You are a special soul. Have watched it now 4 times and think there may be a 5th coming up shortly. And I didn't realise I was having my photo taken as I was watching it - Jennie.

The following morning Stephen and I got spoilt rotten by Jennie and Paul. We had the best breakfast laid out for us. Thankyou so much guys. You made our stay so welcoming - Stephen and I appreciate it immensely. Paul won the "Encouragement Award". Congratulations. You deserve it.

So it is now 2 days post ball, and I am still smiling. I even went out for my first 5km run back since feeling a bit BLAH and it was good. Got to get it all happening again as Yeppoon is fast approaching. And being the ever photographer I am - I had to get a photo to commemorate my comeback.

I'm BACK.