I'm offically checked in!

A slow start to the day, but that's how you kinda want to play it when you're working on staying relaxed and such before the big event. We sat around drinking coffee, checking email - oh yes, and even played a few games of ping pong. I should be clear...of the 4 games we played, I won 3. I'm just sayin'!
We got ready and headed out the door, stopping in at Jamba Juice where Steve asked for a cup of coffee. The fella behind the counter decides to educate him on exactly what Jamba Juice is all about - we're a juice shop, we don't have coffee. Whatever dude...just give us the juice.
I was off to spokane airport to pick up bill and kim. Perfect timing on that, since they were rolling out, luggage in hand, when I pulled up. Sweet. It was good to see them and have them here.
Troy called shortly after we settled into the house - he and the family had also arrived. It sounded like he wouldn't be able to make it for athlete check in today, since they had to get everyone settled. So, Bill, Kim and I went to check in. I had to go in a tent and fill out a couple forms. Then you walk through to another tent where they weigh you - you sit down at a table with a volunteer that goes over all the packet information with you. Next up is activating the timing chips and then you're done. I met back up with Bill and kim and we walked through the expo area. We registered for all kinds of drawing, and picked up a few cool items.
They also have tents where you can make signs for athletes out on the course - Bill and Kim went in there and made a couple signs for me, while I checked out a few other vendors.
We stopped at WalMart and did some grocery shopping, and while we were there, Mom, Dad and Bailey arrived in CDA. They met up with us at WalMart and followed us out to the house. Everyone on my side is here...that means we're getting closer!
It was fun showing them the house - it's really perfect, and the scenery is just so beautiful!
Kim made a big dinner - grilled chicken/steak, big salad and baked potatoes. Steve came back from his day working on bikes and riding, and met the fam. Just before sitting down for dinner, Troy and Cathy called - they wanted to come by and meet everyone too. We sat and talked to Steve for a bit about the race, and then they headed back to their house. Of course, I headed straight up to EAT!
After dinner we had this big PING PONG tournament. Well, ok, it wasn't exactly a tournament, but we played a LOT! Bill and Kim were pooped, so they sat this one out, and really mostly it was Steve and I and my dad. Bailey and mom played a little. Again, I should point out that my dad killed both Steve and me, BUT, I continued to prevail in the Steve/Dawn SHOWDOWN. Oh yeah!
It was actually great to have the non-Ironman distraction for a few hours. We finally shut it down and dad went to bed. Again, it's great having Steve here, 'cause I get these segments where we just talk about the logistics of the race and such. We did that a bit more tonight and then it was off to bed. Not many more nights where you'll actually sleep, so I better take advantage of it.