January 31, 2008
"Class of 1965" Part 3
So here is Maria's (Mud's) e-mail to me. I will continue to introduce you to many inspirational women who are determined to stay fit, limber, happy, and maybe just a little sun tanned; well past 60 years. One additional story about Maria's life of sports tomorrow. Thank you Mud for the update and the material. Keep us posted on the latest.
"Wow, I'm so very proud of you for taking on this project with Trek. Your articles are great for those of us who are already 60 and also for those youngsters out there who probably think 60 year olds are couch potatoes. You know being 60 is not all that bad if you really think about it. I'm doing more with my life, now, than I did when I was in my 30's. I play Women's Senior Softball and now I've found another sport I just love to peices; Pickleball. I've been having a lot of trouble with my right knee so I am saying good bye to Softball after being actively involved since 1995 and have 5 championship rings to boast about. I too think biking is a great sport because for years I was involved in cycling. I even made a trip with some friends and my husband and kids to the San Diego area from Orange Country. This was a 100 mile trip that was very challenging for me. Also, when I lived 5 miles from work, I would ride my bike during the summer to work and back. I will do more bicycling when I retire in a few years because I want to keep healthy and young at heart. I play Pickleball on Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings. I want you to know that after reading your inspirational artiles that I know I need to fit in a workout schedule somewhere since I have a home gym and an elliptical machine in my garage, Duh...
So thank you my friend for sharing your Blog site with me and for your passion to pursue your dreams and take on the challenges that you have! It's a Good Life and I hope to live it to it's fullest. And I look forward to reading your blogs. I plan to share your site with several of my over the hill gals. God Bless and Love ya, Mud."
January 30, 2008
"Class of 1965" Part 2
I received an e-mail recently from a girlfriend that I have stayed in touch with since high school graduation. While that wouldn't seem like such a feat for the majority of you, we graduated from Pioneer High School, Whittier, California, in 1965 AD.
Maria Falchi Stenner, also known as "Mud" and I, go back to our Typing 1 and 2 class with Mr. Armstrong. Please note we were typing 90+ words per minute,(Don't laugh) on Manual typewriters; that means non electric, before keyboards. Mud was the class clown and I was the quiet one.
Our graduating class was real good about staying in touch and att
ending all the reunions through the years. After my husband Cliff passed, it just so happened to be time to start planning our 40-year reunion. Always attending and always on the committee; Mud contacted me along with the other committee members and asked me to participate. It was a painful experience for me to show up as a newly single person, still heartbroken about facing the future by my myself. Alas, these girls came to my house once a month and picked me up to see to it that I attended every planning meeting for the next year and a half. We laughed and had more fun and it was the best of times for me to start to begin socializing again. We had a great reunion, great attendance, played golf, and drank a lot of wine and martinis. About two weeks later we started planning the possibility of the next reunion. We laughed about the suggestion of having a brunch next time because everyone goes to bed so early these days. I am looking forward to Part 3 of this story where I share Muds picture, her hobby today and part of her viewpoint about these best of times right now. "Were we the Breck Girls or what"
Come Ride With Me.
January 29, 2008
"Class of 1965" Part 1
I wanted to start out this new series of stories about aging and how that feels, sharing the profound words of the great comedian George Carlin. This is really something to think about. It reminds me never to take myself too seriously, so have fun with it.
Do you realize that the only time in our lives when we like to get old is when we are kids? If you are less that 10 years old, you are so excited about aging that you think in fractions. "How old are you?" "I'm four and a half!" Teens always jump to the next number, "I'm Gonna be 16!", then you Become 21. But, then you Turn 30 , Oooohh, what happend there?, something like bad milk, HE TURNED. You Become 21, you Turn 30, then you're Pushing 40. It's all slipping away and before you know it, you Reach 50 and your dreams are gone. But wait!!! You Make it to 60. You didn't think you would. So, you BECOME 21, TURN 30, PUSH 40, REACH 50 and MAKE it to 60.
Your have built up so much speed that you HIT 70! After that it's a day-by-day thing; you HIT Thursday. You Get into your 80's and every day is a complete cycle; (NOTICE I AM WRITING ABOUT CYCLES) You HIT lunch, It Turns 4:30, you Reach bedtime. and it doesn't end there, Into the 90's, you start going backwards; "I Was Just 92." Then a strange thing happens. If you make it over 100, you become a little kid again. "I'm 100 and a half!" May you all make it to a healthy 100 and a half!!
My next post I am going to introduce you to a long time friend that has contacted me with some updates on her life. We are going to tell a little story about two women just entering their prime. Bicycle riding, sports and feeling pretty darn good about our lives today. Next post, my high school graduation picture.
Come Ride With Me.
January 27, 2008
"Spin Cycle" II
Up and at em at 8:15 a.m.. It's Sunday morning, pouring down rain so everyone should still be tucked in bed, enjoying their coffee or reading the Sunday paper. I thought if I was going to get this Spinning Class accomplished, this would be the perfect time to try. Around the corner to the gym, not many cars in the parking lot; yeeesss. The Spinning Class will be empty. Do you know where I am going with this, what was I thinking. It was raining so hard that no one was able to ride their bikes; they all showed up for the "Class". OK, I introduced myself to the young lady instructor, she explained a few things to me and before I could swallow my gum, we were started.
I'm here to say, it's very challenging, a great workout and even better, a bicycle training tool. I had to do a total mind bending job on myself to keep going. After the first 30 minutes I had to face the realization that the class was going to last an hour because I was the only one that was smiling. I was smiling because I though it was over. Drat, I continued and tried to keep thinking that I had to write about this class and how would it sound if I gave up and walked out of the class. Well I finished my latest challenge; and I will do it again.
I felt so good about myself, that I went home, threw my bike in the back of the car and went out for a bike ride. There was a break in the clouds and I wanted to take advantage of my small window of opportunity. I'm tucked-in for the evening now, catching up on my storytelling.
Come Ride With Me.
January 24, 2008
"Trek News"
Please take a moment before you sign out of the website today. Make a point to click on the TREK Advocacy site. "One World, Two Wheels". Trek sister Susan wrote a great article on this but I would also like to encourage you to take the time to look at it.
Rebecca Anderson is the Trek Advocacy Director and we had the opportunity to meet with her again on our last trip to Wisconsin. Rebecca and her team are truly committed to this project and as you read, you will not only gain a new awareness of Treks inspiring story of commitment and responsibility toward our environment but also keeping our children healthy.
As the public becomes informed, things begin to happen. Consumers start to become involved and we begin to embrace vision. Give us your thoughts on this program; directly to Rebecca or through Women Who Ride. This is your chance to make a difference.
Come Ride With Me
January 23, 2008
Disinfect, Then Use The Spin Cycle
First of all, this young man looks a whole lot better than any picture I could have provided of myself. So, ladies here is your Eye Candy for the day. Gentlemen, Let this be a message that I will never be too old to appreciate the opposite sex.
OK, I'm back at the gym today, working through the rest of my cold. I can sit around and indulge myself when I retire, which I plan to do in 2022. I have been putting in time on the exercycle and practicing some standing / pedaling until my bike trainer arrives. It may take months but I am going to complete a metric century ride, on a Trek Road Bike if I have to map out the course myself. I will not leave this program until I can write about that accomplishment. They told us at Trek to think big when choosing a bike, I'm thinking big, are you getting my vibe.
My last visit to the gym, after doing my cardio and bike work, I wandered over to the Spin Cycle room (no they were not washing the gym towels). I found myself longing to get on one of those machines and at the same time trying to figure out all the questions going through my head. Here we go again, what shoes do I wear? This question comes up more now then when I get invitations to May weddings. During the class I was watching all the participants. They all seemed to be at the same level. I do want to participate but I wonder how the "newbes" fit in. I wish I had someone to walk through that door with that was on my level. It may not be this week, but I am going to make some telephone calls, ask some questions and I will be there by next week.
One of the advantages I have found as part of the Women Who Ride, team is that I have an unbelievable amount of information available to me through my Trek Sisters. They are a great resource, and you can see this by checking Laura's response to my Spin Cycle questions. Thank you ladies for the very special Support System you bring to the table.
Come Ride With Me
January 22, 2008
"Meet Aviana"
This is beautiful Aviana, my Belly Dancing teacher. I cannot express how great she can make a women feel about dancing, expressing yourself and feeling good about who we are in our own skin. This is what it is all about. I am back to class after some period of time due to my knee problems. I have decided that I want to do this not only because of the exercise, but the great union of people that are involved in this art form. I will be writing more about this later but I want you to be thinking about a few things.
This could fall under the category of Adventures at 60, but also, Training, Goals, Equipment and being equipped, through the looking glass, but really...This is My Life. My Life is about getting out there, and setting an example for other women. I certainly don't have any more to offer than the average 60 year old women, and maybe that is why you relate to me. I am doing something that anyone can do. Probably things you would like to do but felt as though people would judge you wrongly for trying different things.
Please try something new; even if it is a new lipstick color. Do you know how long I was taking Belly Dancing classes before I would admit that to the general public? (I think it might be happening today). Make yourself a short list of a few things you would like to do. Tuck it away in a pretty little jewel box, put it on a shelf so that evey time you pass by, you will think about the list in the box. Then, at some time you might decide to do one of the things you have written down. If you feel silly about this, send Me your list, I can post some of the ideas without any names attached and we can compare some of our wishes. Maybe if we get a good list going, you will want to add new things to the secret box. By the way, stay connected because I have met a new lady who is going to..
Come Ride With Me
January 21, 2008
TGIF Maybe
TGIF: I hope I will be saying that Saturday morning and be happy that I accomplished everything I was supposed to do by Friday. I have fitness exercise to catch up on.
This is how my story started out for the weekend. This is me today. Yuck, I have been zapped with my first cold in over 2 years, and it might even be longer, I cannot remember. How can I possibly have a cold when the temperature has been 75 degrees outside. Can I blame it on the plane ride back from Wisconsin? How about all the coughing going on at work? I cleaned out the refrigerator at work last week, did I touch some germy food? Who knows, but traditionally I do miss at least one day at work because I don't like the Germ Trail to be linked to my cubicle.
I am a little disappointed, a Lot disappointed that I didn't get in the quality bike ride I was looking forward to. OK, I'm a wimp but I can barely hold on the handlebars as it is. How was I going to tend to my runny nose. I didn't want to be that person that everyone was joking about when we all got together at Trek. Yes, the subject came up about bike riders and runny noses, and I will leave it at that. I'm going back to bed.
Come Ride With Me, when my nose stops running.
January 17, 2008
Where are the "Glovies" Part 2
I want to thank everyone that wrote to me about Grandparents, role models, and the positive effect we can all have on the youth of today. Not only is it good for them but it's great for our generation too. We have an opportunity to get outside, move about, have some fun and contribute to a conversation about something other than getting old, stiff, aches & pains.
I want to be a role model for my grandsons and so far, probably because they are so young, it's working. I'll have to keep re-inventing myself in order for them to stay in awe of Grand Marie. The good thing about that, as long as I am improving to inspire them, it's helping me too.
My bicycle Guru Bruce and I share many simple things in life. At this point, we are not about accumulating material things with the exception of bike gear. Together we cherish good memories, friends and a healthy lifestyle that we find comfortabe to maintain. The good thing about what we practice is that we have the energy to keep up with the kids and enjoy their company. Try to do something this week to make that possible. Here is a start, attend one of their sport events or acivities or just visit to share some "silly". If you have suggestions about how to spend quality time with your grandkids, send them along for all of us to read. Suggestions for long distance relatives too!
Come Ride With Me.
January 15, 2008
Where are the "Glovies"? Part 1
Now that my grandsons are getting older, they are allowed to place a call to "Grand Marie". This particular time Will (6 years) and Jack (5 years); knew I was going back to Trek about bicycle business. They don't grasp the whole concept of "Women Who Ride" but they are hopeful that I know Lance Armstrong.
Will asked very politely if I would possibly bring he and his brother, some bicycle gloves; very specifically the open finger style. "Well certainly I would be happy to get you some gloves." When I returned, we met for dinner and after the customary hugs and kisses, the first question was "Where are the Glovies"? Hooray, they fit perfectly, and just by coincidence, they match their new Road ID bracelets that I bought them for Christmas.
These two little guys are so much fun and full of life, it's always refreshing to be around them both. My grandsons think "Grand Marie" is pretty cool, and I usually manage to surprise them when we get together. Glovies part 2 will discuss further how I feel about being a role model for your grandkids. Parents, let the old folks have some fun. Let us spoil the children a little before we send them home.
Come Ride With Me
January 14, 2008
"Here's Barbara"
If you go back to November, you will remember that I introduced you to my friend Barbara, as a very active woman in her 90's. Well, here she is on her clubhouse treadmill and no, there are not two Super "Barbara's", that is her reflection in the mirror. She walks to the club house every day at the same time to do her 30-minute treadmill workout and I witnessed this first hand. She is amazing, and as you can see she takes this workout very seriously; what a hoot. After the workout was over, she took me shopping to the all-Korean supermarket to buy veggies, where I received quite a good overview of what was available to choose from, what cooked up well and what not to waste my time with.
I was never able to meet my grandparents and when my mother was in her 90's, I could no longer hold a conversation with her. We need to be reminded of what a gift it is to live a long healthy life. Embrace your parents and friends that have accomplished this and celebrate with them.
This brings me to something I have been giving some thought to lately. "Active Grandparents and their responsibility as role models not only to their families and grandchildren, but to others. Look for more about this later in the week.
Come Ride With Me
January 10, 2008
Back on Track
So the holidays are behind us and in some cases there are other things behind me...
All in all I was pretty good during the holidays but I need to get back to my routine. There is something to be said about "Normal". Can it be that expecting an hour out of our day to be scheduled with something as Personal Time, feels like an act of selfishness? Not really if you have anyone in your life that depends on you, it should be considered as important as stopping to partake in a nutritious meal.
My work out partner Kathryn and I, were back at the gym working out with all the other people that are filled with good intentions. We felt pretty darn good this morning and were even discussing the addition of another class of some sort. This too is something to consider because moving things around as well as variety, is not only good for the mind but for your body. You might consider a change that will shake up and wake up your metabolism. Here is a thought; visit a store that sells exercise equipment, and get on a few of the machines, try them out and see what is comfortable for you. This works much better then buying something you see on television; and it gives you a better selection. Then,
Come Ride With Me
January 8, 2008
Meet Christy
I promised not too long ago to introduce you to a few connections that I have made with my readers. Later in the week I will be posting a photo of another friend that I have already introduced you to.
For today, please meet my friend Christy. She has contacted me from Colorado and is at a very significant crossroads in her life. She had made a decision to start riding her bike again and learn how to ride with the clips and special shoes. She has made a comitment to become healthier, stronger and has already increased her confidence about the bicycle and her daily life. She visited her local bike shop for encouragement and instruction and it was there that she discovered that her bike was the wrong size, and way to big. Ahhh yes, yet another story. We have been exchanging e-mails for some time now and decided to become exercise/training pen pals.
We have also discovered we have many other interests in common that we can share, including Belly Dancing. I haven't mentioned this to you before now, why, I have no idea. There is just so much that I have yet to reveal about what get's me on that bicycle for yet another ride. So, stay tuned for things that Christy and I will share; training, ideas, kudos, whatever it takes to keep us peddaling down the right path. Let me know if you have a good story to share. There is always room for good information to pass along. If I am really lucky, I'll be sharing a trip to Denver Colorado so Christy can...
Come Ride With Me.
January 6, 2008
I'm Back and I Passed!
Here I am with Coach Mary and her darling son Conner. We met for a personal session at the Trek gym, while I was visiting last week. This was very exciting for me because all 5 of the "Women Who Ride" were together for the first time in 6 months. We all participated together under Mary's direction and I was very pleased to hold my own since all the other ladies are more experienced than I. I am now feeling more and more confident about participating with others as my strength and endurance increases.
I was thinking about all the ladies that have contacted me since I began this project. I wanted to take the time to encourage you to keep going forward on your path to good health. It's not necessarily about the race to the finish, but more about what we discover along the way.
I have more new goals to share with you that I have set for myself, with the encouragement of Coach Mary. All my training is directed to a "Metric Century" ride. This is going to take time and patience of course but I am going to do it, so stay tuned for more stories on that challenge.
Come Ride With Me
January 3, 2008
"I Made It"
There is so much to tell you about that it will have to appear in a few segments. I arrived to very cold weather, "zero" in fact, but I find you just move from building to transportation to building, so fortunately it's not too bad. As the other Trek Women Who Ride will be arriving from the East Coast later this morning, I spent a few with two ladies from the Trek Women's Demo Team. These are the ladies that tour the United States and bring the equipment to the people; meet Chris Garrison and Ross Rushin. I look forward to speaking with them more to find out when they plan to come to California.
Now I am on my way to the gym to warm up a little before my part of the meetings begin.
I loved the view I was able to enjoy while I performed my meager little workout this morning. Please notice the palm tree inside the pool room, it's just like Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. OK, I'm off to explore and take more pictures, see ya later.
Come Ride With Me
January 2, 2008
I Can't Wait To Meet Mary
I am at Trek now, meeting up with my pals and making plans to meet my Angel Coach Mary on Friday. I am very excited and nervous at the same time because she will inspect and test the results of her training. We have a session scheduled for Friday afternoon in the Trek gym where I will be riding their hi-tech stationery bikes.
Mary is encouraging me to practice my strength, "standing and peddaling". She also has plans to demonstrate the spinning concept to me. I have been working at the gym trying to build up strength, but unless someone can give you guidelines, how do you know if you are improving or not. This will be a perfect chance to get that validation. I'll take lots of pictures.
Actually all of my Trek Sisters are much more experienced than I am but I don't care, it gives me lots to write about and lots for you to read. Hopefully you are seeing my progress.
Come Ride With Me
January 2, 2008
"I'm On My Way"
This is a picture of Trek Bicycles in Waterloo, Wisconsin, but it was taken last July on my first visit.
It's 6:00 a.m. on January 2nd, 2008 and the Aiport Shuttle picked me up an hour ago. I am just arriving at LAX to hop a plane and meet with the gang at Trek. This is like a little kid preparing for a field trip with lots of anticipation for a fun experience ahead.
I have tried to gather up some warm gear, and left the California style, Hawaiian shirts and flip flops at home. Although my toes are painted red, I doubt that they will ever leave the confinement of my warm socks. I bought NEW warm socks, gloves and gathered up all the neck scarves that have been gathering dust in my closet. As you can probably guess, this is yet another new encounter for me because there will be snow and cold weather to enjoy? Molly is at the "Doggie" Spa visiting her friends while I am away. Although Trek is wonderful about taking care of my transportation and lodging, there are still issues for me to take care for a trip like this. However, I am reaping many benefits so I think it is important to accept such an invitation. I'll keep you posted on my activities.
Come Ride With Me - Not in the Snow
