Fear and Intimidation

So....I'm getting back in the swing of training and all things Lifecycle, including the Spring Expo this weekend. A wonderful full day event filled with helpful information about the ride, how to prepare, sponsors, etc.

Besides being repeatedly thwarted by the LA Marathon in my attempt to get to the Expo (20 minute drive took me two and a half hours) it should have been an exciting and encouraging day. I got to see my fabulous rep Kerry, as well as some of the cool women I've met so far on this journey. I learned about making your bike an indoor training bike - how FREAKING COOL is that?!?! - and even met two new fabulous women who are also first time riders. But when I left the Village, I've got to admit, I was (for the first time since registering) scared!

What the hell have I gotten myself in to?!?! I found myself intimidated by every aspect of the ride: How will I possibly raise enough money? How in the world could I think I'd be able to ride 545 miles? How am I going to afford all of the equipment I need to camp, ride, eat, breathe, everything?!?!

I wish I had been given a fabulous inspirational speech by someone that I could end this entry with, telling you how I've conquered all my fears and have come up with a plan of attack and just know I can do this. Sometimes I really wish life were a sitcom. There is no big happy wrap up with a bow. I guess that's the way life is...sometimes you're scared and there's no easy way to get over your fear.

I do feel better today. I did just finish a 16.5 mile ride that felt amazing and gave me a little more faith in my physical ability (I don't doubt that will continue to have good days and bad days). I also got a donation from one of my oldest and dearest friends today which was nice. I do need to come up with a plan of attack for the fundraising, as well as prioritize and budget for equipment I need, but I think I can get a handle on it. Don't really have a choice, do I? It's my life, I've got to live it to the best of my ability :)

Still Going!

Alright, I don't want to jinx it, but I might be back in the groove...although, I'm not sure two days counts as a groove yet? Got in another 12 mile ride yesterday after work. It's been beautiful here and it's nice to have the back up of riding after work, should I find myself unable to get up in the morning to ride. That being said I'd prefer to get back in the A.M groove and ride first thing in the morning. Oh well, baby steps.

So last night's ride was harder then Monday's. Why does that happen? Whenever you come back from an extended break in you fitness routine, the first day you kick ass and the second you get your ass handed to you? Anyway, found myself a little sore in the saddle - guess I need to build that back up ;) And the first 6 miles were against the wind, really pushed me. The 6 back were much easier with the wind at my back and I made up the time lost on the first half!

Still want to plan a fundraiser, thinking maybe a Happy Hour at a bar with either a cover that goes to the ride or drink specials where the discount goes to the ride....would appreciate any suggestions! Also hope to get some video up, maybe take the camera out on a training ride and see if there are any good wipe outs ;)

Thanks for all of your support!

After a long winter's nap...

Well, after a THREE month hibernation...I finally got my butt back on my bike and MAN did it feel GOOD! I have all of the standard excuses; it was raining, I got the flu, it was cold, I just couldn't get up :( But now, with just under three months left to train, I must buckle down!

In order to help put the pressure on, I have signed up for my first century! On Saturday, April 10th I will be joining the Pos Peds for the Paul Hulse Century through beautiful Santa Clarita! Woo Hoo!

Besides needing to get back in to training, I also need to kick it up with my fundraising! Hoping to plan an event at a local bar to generate some funds for the cause, will keep you all updated on that one for sure :)

Thanks for all of your support!