Stunning skies, warm wind, and still climbing!

I know it's been months and I need to finish the story of the Ride. Only time for a quick update. Some people have wondered how much riding we've gotten in since the Ride. And the answer is: not as much as I'd like. Usually it's been once a week at most. Leading up to and returning from the pilgrimage it was less. When we got to L.A. we all agreed we wanted to keep up with riding to not lose the muscle, strength, and stamina we had gained. But riding is time-consuming and it's easier to find excuses when you allow them. There was no excuse when we knew 585 miles lay ahead. My recent rides, since returning from England have mostly been great climbs into the headlands, but have maxed at 20 miles and my last ride was more than 2 weeks ago-13.5 miles. Then it was family time and Marma's 90th birthday and then 10 days of sick with a cold.

So, with the gorgeous weather, and the last few long days, I got on the saddle. And rode 32 miles in a little over 2 hours. It is such a blessing to be on the Golden Gate Bridge with a sunset in the clear sky over the Bay. It's so easy to get caught up with life and busy-ness, but the insights and energy and renewal that come with rides are like nothing else. It's prayer-time. So, I'm committed to getting out on Friday.

As the weather gets colder, the days shorter, I'll find a gym--probably the Y, with spinning classes, and get outdoors as often as possible--that's what the tights and riding jacket are for!