February 28, 2008
Think, Think, Think
One of the issues on the top of my list is Safety. Whenever I am planning to go anywhere, this seems to be in the forefront of my thoughts. The grocery store, to and from work, errands etc; I always look around, check out the car and watch for people around me. Not only am I looking out for unsafe situations, I am also looking out for safe situations. I want to know in my mind that I have a plan "B" to switch to if something goes wrong. Maybe it's the Girl Scout in me but it never hurts to be prepared,
Now that I am riding a bike I am very aware of "Bicycle Safety" You can wear the gear, hats, gloves, shoes, clothing, etc. but it's important to know Where you are riding. Stay with familiar places and conditions that you are sure you can maneuver. I prefer to ride with company or at least one other person, plus it's very social, but if that is not possible I am never far from someone. I stick to populated, familiar areas and ride in the daylight. Sure it restricts me but if I need a ride and the conditions are not right, I go to the gym. Please feel free to share additional tips that I might have forgotten. This is the start of the real bicycle season and everyone needs to be informed as much as possible.
Come Ride With Me.
February 26, 2008
"More Please"
It seems that everyone is worried about weight loss these days, and I am among the concerned masses (pardon the pun) After I started down the path of life alone, I managed to work off 60+ pounds as described in my original story. How was I crowned? with Diabetes 2. I have not mentioned this until now because I had plenty of other stories to tell. It's kind of embarrassing because diabetes is often linked with obesity and I have enough demons without other reminders from where I have come. I am not a weight loss snob, and even though I have a very curvy figure that will never go away, I want to take off more weight. The problem is, I cannot starve myself. I must eat healthy while trying to keep my blood sugar in balance. With all the exercise I do, sometimes I get overwhelmed and I actually become very discouraged. It's difficult to manage weight AND eat 6 small meals a day AND keep from gaining AND keep blood sugar from spiking. Sometimes I feel myself sicken at the thought of jumping on the scale, and I try not to do that too often using instead, my glucometer as my scale. I thank Coach Mary who is aware of this issue and has encouraged me tremendously. When I did my metric century, part of my victory was managing my blood sugar while doing all those miles.
I must admit when I hear of fad, and quick weight loss diets I am somewhat jealous and somewhat annoyed. It takes a lot of patience and determination to plan healthy meals, but I know in the long run that I will be healthier for the effort. Why am I sharing this? maybe it will help someone else to ignore fad weight loss promises and hang in there with a proven plan and quietly work through it like I try to do. I WILL say the healthy person that needs to lose 5, 10 or 20 pounds, to quickly reach a goal, can withstand some calorie and nutrition deficit without any problems. Let's all be mindful that everyone has to stick with his own path to achieve goals; and it's good, to have goals.
Come Ride With Me.
February 25, 2008
"My First"
I made the trip to experience my "First" bicycle event, the Tour of California. While we had rain here all weekend, and I was armed with very little information about the event, I decided to visit the "Santa Clarita Event Day" as this had less chance for rain. It seems like nothing is easy but I got there, and while waiting for the event to begin I ran into our Trek representative for the men's bicycles. I saw some vendors set up, a stage etc. turns out I wasn't even in the right place. By the time I found my way around to the correct location / The Finish Line; there were so many people I could barely see what was going on. What did I learn?
- Next time I'll travel with a "veteran"
- The Tour of California is getting more popular every year
- Find more events to participate in to become a "veteran"
- Don't be discouraged, keep getting out there
- I'm not invisible, but this is a high profile event
- More stuff to learn about; including myself
- Build a stronger support group
Do I sound a little down? I am, so somehow I need to turn the page, move on to what's on tap for tomorrow, and get started on the next poject. Tee Hee
Come Ride With Me
February 22, 2008
Come Ride With Me
I received an invitation to join a team that will be participating in the Lance Armstrong Challenge. This is an event that will take place in California in July 2008. I really want to do this for many reasons.
I received such a nice letter and invitation from one of my readers. I have always tried to keep Cancer Awareness in the forefront of all my journalizing whenever I could. This is for the memory of Cliff and all the families that have been touched by Cancer. It's something I can write and report about on my Blog. Lance Armstrong will be there, I think, and I would love to see him or get a picture with him. Maybe TREK can intervene here on several levels.
Here are some of the things I need to work out.
- I need to get a company to sponsor my ride.
- I don't know these team members, how do I work through that?
- I will need to drive myself to San Jose and it is quite a clip on my own, although I can do it.
What I am asking from you folks is this; do you recognize anything here that I am not seeing? Does anyone have any suggestions for the "Newby". Any concerns or tips you could pass along regarding the travel, the sponsor, participating in the actual event? I have got time but would like some help putting this together and making this happen. Not only is it a great cause, but it would be another milestone for me to accomplish and I think that is one of the reasons I was chosen for this venue. I have nothing to loose and everything to gain. Please let me hear from you.
By the way "Go Levi"
Come Ride With Me
February 21, 2008
"My Two Cents Too"
I just don't get it. With the many sports figures holding press conferences claiming innocence about doping, lying and insulting our intelligence, the most important thing the public needs right now is a good Role Model.
My Trek sisters, Susan, Laura and Jen have done a good job on their blogs, explaining the story of "Let Levi Ride"; no need for me to repeat everything here. If you need further details click on this link to read more. Here is a chance for you to speak up and keep our young athletes in the spotlight where they belong. www.letleviride.com
I have my opinions on this subject and I can get going on this stuff and have a difficult time stopping. Instead of me doing that within this forum, please let your voice be heard where it will do some good. That's what I did.
Come Ride With Me
February 20, 2008
"The Warrior"
During this week, especially in California we see every newscast telling a story about abuse to cows at a meat packing plant in Chino, California; about 15 miles from my home base. This has caused one of the biggest meat recalls in our history. I sicken as I wonder how a human being can abuse a beautiful, gentle animal such as a cow. They stripped them of their dignity and their creature spirit. I won't go into details, but if you saw any of the clips, it was just disgusting and disturbing. When someone says, "I don't think I can eat any more beef". I remind them that there just might be inequities with turkeys, chickens and the like. I am not a vegetarian, although I don't eat much meat anymore. But I do believe in Karma and feel that every animal abuser has his day.
On Valentines Day, when I was working on my challenge, I was unaware that "The Warrior" was starting his new life on the Other Side where he will be waiting for all his friends. For most of us, in this lifetime or any other, the most difficult moments of our lives stem from the loss of a family member. If you are an animal lover like me, the loss of a beloved pet is as devastating as the loss of a person. I want to dedicate today's blog to my bicycle Guru, Bruce's beloved pet, "Trouble", known to the immediate family as the "Warrior". He was a very good boy and a wonderful companion. When all our dogs were together, he was the spokesman for the group.
Trouble, we will see you again someday. Go strut your stuff little guy; run and play and watch over all of us.
February 17, 2008
"Excuse Me, Coming Through"
What could possibly be better than watching your child take his first bike ride? I found something; taking your first bike ride with a grandchild.
I was delighted to see Will navigate his little Trek "Mountain Cub" with such determination. (wonder where that comes from). He had only borrowed one of his friends bikes the week before to practice at the park. He doesn't care that the bike came from a garage sale for $15.00. It's a Trek and that is the same make as Gran Marie rides. I told him to keep riding and maybe in 6 months there would be a new bike to learn about and grow into. One for Jackie too; currently Jack is riding Will's old Batman bike with training wheels.
So we made the outing a lesson. We learned how to cross the street by walking our bike making sure everyone can see us before stepping into the crosswalk. We practiced courtesy while passing pedestrians. I cautioned Will to pass them on the left. "Do you know which side is the left?' I asked. "Sure, it's the hand that I write with". So as we got ready to pass. He announced very proudly. "Excuse me, little boy coming through on a bike with his Grandma." I was laughing as the couple we passed said to me, "You better not let him get ahead of you"
So my hope is that the boys will always remember the day at the park and many more to come. The Grandma With The Bicycle, and all that implies will remind them of Fun, Health, Love and Memories. By the way, notice the Shrek Jersey; the boys loved their surprise.
Come Ride With Me.
February 14, 2008
2-14-08 Crush "60 @ 60 in 6"
It's not about how many miles or hours, it's about why we did it. Did I say that? Well, here it is. I did it because I was afraid to try but thought I could. I wanted others to know what can be accomplished and I did it so that next time I can improve upon it. I tried to measure to the best of my ability and that was either or both time and mileage. Here it is: 65 miles in 5 hours and 40 minutes. Now the details.
It rained last night and this morning but I was out and about early to start with full expectations to complete all 60 miles on the bike. The sun was shining for about ten minutes, it was then that I thought I was experiencing the coming of Moses with the "tablets". The wind was so bad I could hardly stay on the bike and it was going through my mind to trash this whole idea. Why could this be happening when I told everyone that I was going to attempt this challenge. I quickly executed plan "B" and moved to the gym. For those of you that think it's easier in the "Gym", let me just say this... you have to pedal for every darn mile and there is no coasting in the gym. I worked hard for my miles and I am claiming them all. So don't be sending me comments about not being out on the road. I am happy with my results and I can now raise the bar for my own personal goals.
By the way, I did not eat any chocolate today, smell any fresh flowers, or exchange a kiss with anyone. I was isolated, and I feel good about what took place today. It shows me that I can keep going forward and find new roads to travel. I hope your day went as well and that you feel good about something that took place during your day. Now, let's move on.
Come Ride With me
February 13, 2008
Is it Possible?
Is is possible to die from a broken heart? As much as I try not to link Valentines Day to my late husbands passing, it happens because that is the day he was laid to rest. It's been a tough road for me during these last five years and although I don't speak of it too often, I am professing this to you for one reason. Yes you can die from a broken heart but it doesn't have to happen that way. I use this day as a reminder to accomplish something great that I can be proud of and to do something with myself during this week that gives joy and meaning to my life. When some of the WWR girls decided to mark the day with a challenge, I jumped on the bandwagon. As I see it, it's not how many miles or how many hours, it's about why we do it.
I just finished e-mailing coach Mary about my preparation for tomorrow's "Crush" and I thought I would share part of it with you. I have my nutrition ready, I have a few clothing changes ready, the I-Pod is charged, there is air in my tires, I have a journal in hand and I have been resting for two days. I am both nervous and excited so whatever happens, happens. I agree that any time I spend on the bike is a good challenge and I always try to celebrate whatever I can accomplish. I will take away the knowledge and know that whatever I complete, I can just add to, for the next time. Thanks for your support.
Ladies and Gentlemen and all who are accepting a challenge on 2-14-08, good luck and know that just getting out of bed some days is a challenge but it's also a Victory.
Come Ride With Me
February 12, 2008
"Blind Date" Part 2
Here we go again, rolling down the road. I was able to keep up with these two ladies pretty well. There were only two places that I slowed down; both on a hill climb. Part of the problem is that I am uncertain how and when to shift my gears as I approach a hill. If I shift down too soon, then I sit there and spin but I don't go anywhere. If I shift a little later, it's too late. I admit I need to work on my shifting and I dream of getting that trainer for my bike, so I can master this technique. At one rare point in the day's ride the girls were approaching me from behind, they said "Marie, you need to raise the seat on your bike. Your legs are going to start to hurt". "Going to?" I said. So as they passed approaching a hill, I screwed up my shifting and dropped my chain. (You gotta love how I keep trying, even though I look so pathetic trying to learn this stuff basically on my own.)
So the girls are now out of sight, over the hill and there I stand suddenly looking way up into the face of a this "Stud". "You need to raise your seat" he said, "OK, anything else?" I said sheepishly. "Let's fix the chain", he offered, "I know how to do that because I had a triple once." I am beginning to quiver wondering about the triple he had with chains. Don't worry, by this time I know it's all about the bicycle. So he gave the pedal this magic jerk and the chain was back into place. Oh my gosh, this just gets better. Then he said, let's check the seat. "Get on the seat", and he straddled the front wheel. Now I have seen a picture of Krista Rettig doing this in our training book, but, sorry Krista, this was worth writing 100 blogs. Anyway, isn't it nice that there are people along the way to help you.
As I rode up the hill Arlene and Doreen were waiting for me very patiently. "I made it, I said with a big grin. This bike riding is really fun." We finished our ride and promised that we will do it again. Thanks ladies for taking me along..
Come Ride With Me.
February 11, 2008
"Blind Date" Part 1
Is that even politically correct these days? I have a bicycle date with two new acquaintances, Arlene and Doreen. how is that.
My daughter Gina (Will and Jack's mom) called me on the phone the other day during my lunch break. She asked if I had a minute to talk and I said "Sure". Hang on then, and she handed the phone to one of her work mates. Arlene, proceeds to tell me that she would like to have someone to ride with. After we exchanged some dialog, we decided that we were probably a good match and we could enjoy a ride together. We talked about the fact that we both enjoy riding in the same vicinity where there are many safe bike paths. Both of us are determined to get in some serious bike time.
So yesterday we met at the beginning of the trail and we were off for a new adventure. The temperature had to be 80 degrees and the air was clean and fresh. Both of these ladies had a lot of riding experience so I was challenged and that was good. Just by getting out there, I learned two maybe three important lessons. So if you want to learn too, read Blind Date part 2 and.
Come Ride With Me
February 7, 2008
"The Grandma With The Bicycle"
The other day I was talking to my youngest grandson Jack on the telephone. He asked, "Are you the grandma with the grandpa? I said, "No, but I am the grandma with the bicycle". "Oh,,, cool" he replied.
This is a day I have been waiting for. It could possibly be a landmark and the beginning of a special defined relationship between my grandsons and myself. Both of the boys now have bikes and they have made somewhat of a connection because of my association with Trek bicycles. I still think they are following me around hoping that Lance Armstrong will magically appear; and that's OK, I am hoping someday for the same thing.
I am going to arrange a bike day at the park and ask their Mom and Dad if we can all go together to ride the path. I want them to experience the freedom and safety that the park offers. Since the boys are in between Soccer, T-Ball, and all their other activities, this is a perfect time to go test the bikes. I would love for them someday to look back on these times and talk about how much fun they had with their "Grandma that rode the bicycle". The boys know that I always have a little something for them when we get together. Will and Jack, this time I have a really cool suprise.
Come Ride With Me.
February 6, 2008
aBove et.al
My daughter Gina Bove is the mother of my two grandsons; Will and Jack. She writes her own blog on myspace, usually discussing her day to day family life and thoughts that seemed to have come full circle since she was my difficult teen. As my girls were growing up, my comeback to any challenge they placed before me was: "It may take 25 years but someday you will understand" Not paticularly profound I know but I was a mere child myself trying to make my own good decisions as a single mom. Well it was about 25 years later that both of my daughters admitted that I was on the right track. This is one of the greatest connections I share with the girls. We admit our mistakes, make our adjustments and share all our learning experiences. Gina was sharing some thoughts the other day and I thought they would apply to my Through the Looking Glass Category.
My youngest son was looking forward to his fifth birthday party because, among other reasons, he would get to have a piece of gum for the first time. There isn't really any reason behind the postponement of gum chewing, other than I thought at five, they might understand how to chew it safely and not to swallow it. At some point during his party, the following weekend, he got into the gum and started chewing away! I was irritated because I wanted to be there - I wanted to see his reaction and ask him what he thought about it. You know,,,suck all the fun out of it. I asked him why he didn't wait, he said that he already waited. I had to take pause at that point because he was right. Just because I am his mother doesn't mean I can micro-manage him and have a photo-op planned for every step he takes towards independence.
If I am being truthful with myself, I have to admit that this isn't really about me anyway. At some point I'm gonna have to accept that some milestones will take place in my absence. and, that's the way it should be. Trying not to blow it, RG67
If you go way back on my original blog I spoke of Annie, my youngest daughter; she did the running challenge with me. Gina is a teacher and works at Rio Hondo College. She has introduced me to one of her collegues. Arlene is a professor at the college and guess what, she is going to come ride with me. I can't wait to introduce you to her.
Come Ride With Me
February 5, 2008
"Bad Hair Day"
In the course of many TREK goodie boxes that show up at my doorstep, I receive some interesting things. I have two packages right now that are compliments of Bissell, one is a "Grab 'n Go Cleaner". While this is very nice and I know that Bissell is a TREK sponsor, I was not sure what the connection might be.
They just must have known about Molly. Not only is Molly a doggie hair factory, but this time of year especially, when it's raining like it has been in the past two weeks, it can be a muddy mess having a dog around the house. Couple that with the Bad Hair Days, which is almost every day, it's almost all I can do to keep ahead of the shedding game. I have purchased brushes, combs, devices that are supposed to thin out her undercoat, and have even used the vacuum on her. I think Bissell now has a vacuum designed for using on dogs. Actually my vac is not set up for that purpose, but when I tried it, Molly almost went to sleep, because she though she was at the doggie spa getting a massage. I failed to collect any hair.
Here is another aspect, part of me has resorted to getting dressed in the garage. No, I am not kidding. There are times I have to leave the house without Doggie DNA all over me. So I take Molly out for her last walk in the morning while wearing old dog walking pants. Then, just before I get ready to jump into the car, I slip out of my pants and into my good slacks. Don't laugh because this has worked for me many times. What so darn funny?, I can hear you laughing from here.
I have only considered stopping on my way to work to use a gas station bathroom; but I'd rather not even think about the unknown there. My last word of caution; don't try and do this holding the garage door opener in your hands. Keep the garage door closed at all times until you are safely inside your pants. By the way, one reason I love bicycle riding, spandex repels dog hair.
Come Ride With Me.
February 4, 2008
"I Might Need A Jump Start"
Yes I am, I am on my way and taking the St Valentines Day Crush challenge. Until I hear of something that fits me better, this is what I will call my latest adventure.
I have consulted with Mary Daubert, my fitness trainer Upandoverfitness.com and she has been encouraging and helpful with a path for me to follow. This includes additional training for the next two weeks including nutritional advice. For those of you that have not read Laura MacLeans blog, some of us are setting out to accomplish somewhat of a milestone in commemoration of Valentines Day 2008; Leap Year. etc. check it out.
I have not yet figured everything out. I would like to complete a Metric Century (about 62 miles) or 6 hours of riding. I do not have a road bike or a "trainer" to set my bike upon, so I will probably try to accomplish all of this by dividing my time on my fitness bike, a spinning class, the gym exercise bike and the recumbent. My hope is that if I can complete this feat, that I will be taken more seriously as someone who is really making an effort here to show commitment to this sport.
So, I am going to start making a list for all the nutrition items I will need for my picnic basket (Some Picnic huh). My plan is to have everything with me in the car and that will be my command post.
I'll let you know how I am doing and I am open to any and all suggestions. By the way, this is a picture of me in my racer that my beloved brother made for me. He made my sister (the middle child) push me around and she has not stopped since. Luv ya Alaine.
Come Ride With Me
February 1, 2008
"Until We Hear About Pickleball"
Hi Marie, Here are some pictures of me while my team, Double Nickels (we are a 55 yr. old team hence the name) were in Louisville, KY last year in June to compete in the Nat'l Senior Olympic Games. They are played every other year in different states and next year California will be hosting in San Francisco. Keep in mind that there are over 18 different events and biking is one of them. They breakdown the ages in increments of 5 years, i.e. 50 to 54, etc. up to 100 years plus.
In one of my first Senior Olympics back in 1999, I watched a 99 year old woman play horse shoes. She was in a wheel chair and her son wheeled her up to her spot and she stood out of her chair and tossed those shoes and it was a site to see. Needless to say she won the Gold since she was the only one competing in her event! It's just so cool to be part of any sport, in any event at the ripe old age of 50 to 100 plus!
In the team picture with white shirts I'm in the last row, and in the picture on the jungle gym, I'm in the 2nd row in back of the circle. I promise I will send you info on Pickleball and get a picture for you soon.
Love ya more than my luggage! Mud
Soooo, there you have it, more inspiring stories. If anyone else wants to share their story, let me know. I am happy to have guest bloggers from time to time because not only does this expand the reading audience, but it also confirms what we are trying to do here. We want you to get outside, enjoy the day, learn to ride bike, help the environment and appreciate your life for the simple pleasures; then.
Come Ride With Me.
P.S. My friend "Christy", how about an update from you.
