The Year in Review

I started out the year with the hopes of racing. My plans took an abrupt turn in California in February. I had a seizure & that ending any chance of racing this year. I kept my hopes up of just being able to ride outdoors this year & in time I was able to be outdoors riding. I set a goal of riding 3500 miles this year & am happy to say that I surpassed that goal. I managed to ride 4151 miles total this year. Although I couldn't race, I did manage to get some good rides in this year. I guess the hightlight of my year was the Tour de Cure. I had a goal of beating my time of last year. I had a new frame, trained harder, & smarter this year. I did beat my time by about 15 minutes. I'm hoping to do 100k in under 3 hours ride time next year. I did get stronger as the year went along, & am really looking forward to next year. The doc gave me permission to race next year so I'm in the process of trainging for the next season. I'll have to think about my milage goal for next year. I'm sure I'll do more miles than I did this year, but we'll just have to see how things go. Here's to a Happy New Year to everyone & a good year coming up!!!!!!!

Nice past couple days

The last couple of days have been great riding weather. I managed to get in rides the last 2 days. My legs have felt great even though I haven't done any kind of Cyclo-Core workouts this week due to the holidays. I'm planning on starting again the first of the year. We'll just have to see how things go......

Merry Christmas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I just wanted to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas!!!!!!! May you and your families have a blessed day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Got to ride today.

Today I rode with some of the guys from the club. I was planning to ride at least 3 hours, but things happened that changed all that. Well it all started out nicely, but I was riding at a comfortable pace for me, but I guess it was too fast for most of the group. Only one guy was with me so we started slowling down to let the group catch up. Once the group caught up, we rode together for a bit, but then they started falling back again. I just decided to ride a comfortable pace for me & anyone that could stay with me was welcome. I had only one rider stay with me until we hit Unidilla. Ali was able to hang with me most of the time. I didn't think I was going that fast, but I was faster than most of the group. One we hit Unidilla, we had a decision to make. Most of the group wanted to head back because some of them had things they had to do. I wanted to ride more, but didn't feel like going solo. Steve said he would do the metric century ride with me provided I didn't go too fast. I told him I would pull & he could just sit back & enjoy the ride. He said that was ok, so we headed off, while the rest of the group headed back. We had a head wind for a bit then it turned into a cross wind. I really didn't have a difficult time in front & Steve was sitting in nicely. We were heading down the road & Steve said we must have missed a turn to do the metric century, because we hit US 41 too soon. I told him not to worry about it & we'd just head back to Perry. I kind of picked up the pace heading back to Perry, with Steve tucked in behind me. All told, we only did 43 miles, but that's ok with me. I'm hoping to do at least a couple of hours on the bike tomorrow seeing as I'm going to Christmas Eve services at church in the evening. I wish anyone who reads this a Merry Christmas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Rain, rain, go away!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Today was my last day of vacation I had left. I was hoping to go riding today for about 2 hours, but Mother Nature had other ideas. It rained the entire day & by the time it stopped raining, it was too dark to go riding. The bike club is planning on riding tomorrow morning at 10 am. I'm hoping to get to go, but we'll just have to see what happens.......

Good week so far

The weather for the first couple days this week has been awesome!!!!!!!!!!!! It's been great riding weather & I've been taking advantage of it for sure. I managed to ride a bit over 21 miles yesterday & the wind was pretty much not a factor. I averaged over 19 mph for the trip. I just rode at a comfortable pace & really didn't push it. Today I had a bit of a tail wind most of the way home & after doing the Cyclo-Core workout yesterday & working today, I decided to take it kind of easy on the way home. My legs felt good today & I still averaged over 19 mph despite taking it kind of easy. I can tell that the workouts are working for me. I have been feeling better while climbing (my biggest weakness) & I don't dread them as much as I used to.

Recovery Ride

Today was an easy no drop ride with the club. It was a beautiful day for a ride & we had a good turnout for the ride. I think having food after the ride was a big help for the turn out, but that's another story. We just rode easy & enjoyed the company & scenery. I'm hoping for good weather this week to keep up the riding. We'll just have to see how it goes.......

Nice Ride!!!!!!!!

Today I went for a ride with Shane & Ali. We did about 64 miles today. The weather was fantastic, there was very little wind & the temperature was comfortable. My legs felt good the entire ride. I pulled pretty much the entire ride, but that's ok. I needed to work harder to get ready for next season. Tomorrow the bike club is having a social ride & I'm hoping to be able to go on it to work the soreness out of my legs. The Cyclo-Core workouts really seem to be helping with my riding. I'm feeling stronger when out on the bike & don't get as sore as soon as I used to. Let's hope for good weather tomorrow & we'll see how things go.

Rough weekend.

I went for a ride this past Saturday, but for some reason my legs just weren't there. I felt good the first part of the ride, but after about 35 miles, they started to feel a bit heavy. After about 45 miles, my back & knee were getting a bit sore. This only seems to happen here lately when I do the bonus Thursday club route. I'll have to try it again after some good rest & see what happens. The Cyclo-Core workouts are still quite challenging, but I am enjoying them a bit more now. I still have a hard time doing some of the stretches in the cool down part, still too much of me in the way. I rode home from work today & had a headwind most of the way, but I struggled through it till I had a nice tailwind & was able to pick up the pace. Not a bad ride today. Stay tuned......

Nice Day for a Ride

Today I went & rode the Sunday route the club does. My legs felt pretty good even during the climbing on the route. I was able to keep a pretty good average speed the entire route. I manged to do 52.3 miles with an average speed of 18.8 mph. I felt a twinge of pain in my right knee after about 40 miles so I stopped at a convience store to stretch my legs out. After a brief stop, my legs felt good. I use the Perpetuem emergy drink from Hammer Nutrition & it worked great. They say to use that for rides over 2 hours. I managed to ride 2:47 + hours today. I'm hoping to take it kind of easy tomorrow, but we'll just have to see. My legs may feel good enough to ride for a couple hours, but I won't know till I get on the bike. Stay tuned for my further adventures........

Cyclo-Core Update

I've been doing the Cyclo-Core workouts for about 2 weeks now. I've decided to do each body resistance workout seperately instead of all 3 at one time. I learned the hard way not to do that. I have noticed small increases in flexibiliby & strength just in the time I've done them. The hindu squats will work you out & I'm able to do more of them each time I try them. The same with the narrow width push-ups. The dvd has you do 25 of them, but the first time I tried I could only do 15, the next time I did that workout I did 17, and this past time I'm up to doing 20 push-ups. I'd say that's a good improvement in just a short period of time. Some of the balance exercises are really hard for me & it's going to take some time to get them down, but they say practice pays off in the long run. My flexibility is a little better, but I'm betting that if I lose more of my gut I'd probably do better at those exercises too. I have noticed that I have lost some inches around my waist because my pants are getting a bit bigger. I might have to purchase a new belt & possibly some new pants here soon. I have been watching what I have been eating. I'm trying not to indulge so much on the junk food & eat more fruits & veggies. I know it's going to be hard during this holiday season to avoid all the good food, but I'll do my best not to over indulge myself. I'll alllow myself some treats from time to time so I can enjoy this time of year. I'll post another update on this program in the near future. Stay tuned...........

One Busy Weekend

This was one busy weekend riding wise. I went with the club & we did about 54 miles today. There was even more climbing (yeah), but I do need to work on that aspect of my riding. I'm sure my legs will be sore tomorrow, so I'm planning on taking a nice easy spin on the way home from work if the weather permits. It was nice to be able to ride every day this weekend. The weather was great, the company was great, & the legs actually felt pretty good during the rides. I've been using Hammer Nutrition products seeing as I'm a Type 2 diabetic & their products are supposed to be better for diabetic athletes. So far all I've used are the Hammer gels, Perpetum energy drink ( for rides longer than 2 hours), & their recovery drink. I have been impressed with each product, though the taste of the Perperum drink might take some getting used to. I really like the Hammer gels. My legs don't really feel tired when I have used them. I'll have to keep trying them & the energy drinks they have to see how they work in the long run. Stay tuned for further updates........

Sore Legs

Yesterday I went to The Bike Store, hoping to meet some people for a ride, but no one showed up so I went for an easy ride to work the kinks out of my legs. Today I went for a ride doing the CGC Tuesday long route with a couple of changes. I didn't know that the changes I made to the route were going to hurt like they did. I did more climbing today then I have in quite awhile & I'm feeling it right now. I'm planning to ride with the club tomorrow @ 1:00 pm. They say it's supposed to be an easy ride, but that depends on who shows up. We'll just have to see what happens tomorrow. I'll post the events here & let everyone know....

Nice Thanksgiving Day

Today I went on an easy ride the some of the guys from the bike club. We did the short version of the Thursday ride & just took it at an easy pace. The weather was great & the company was great too. The hills on the route are still hard on me, but the more I ride them, the easier they will become (I hope). I'm hoping to ride tomorrow & the rest of this weekend depending on the weather. I'll just have to see how it goes. I had a great dinner & really didn't overdo it on the food. Stay tuned.......

Sometimes I'm just too hard headed

Last week I started the Cyclo-Core workouts, but instead of easing into them, I, in my brilliant kind of insanity decided to do all 3 body resistance circuits in one workout. BIG MISTAKE!!!!!!!!! After the one time doing all 3 workouts, my hamstrings hurt most of the week. I laid off the workouts & checked out the forums for Cyclo-Core. Most everyone said to ease into the workouts if you haven't done anything like that for a long time. I decided to break up each circuit into a single workout & just repeat them twice a week. There is also a bonus ab & core workout, but the Graeme recommends only doing that twice a week total. Today I was able to get out & finally ride. It felt great to be on the road. I'm hoping to get to ride a bunch this weekend seeing that I have the next 4 days off of work. I'm hoping to ride at least 2 hours tomorrow, take it kind of easy on Friday, then do at least 3 hours or more on Saturday. On Sunday they changed the time for the ride so I can do at least the 40 mile route. That's about all for now, stay tuned for further updates..........

Tough workout

Yesterday I started the Cyclo-Core workouts. I had previewed the exercises last week & most of them didn't seem too bad. Boy was I wrong!!!!! I was just using my body weight & it was a tough routine. Some of the exercises required balance & mine isn't that great so it was difficult. I'm looking forward to getting stronger with the program & the exercises should be easier later down the road. I rode home from work today & the legs definately felt the workout last night. They were tight & I just tried to keep a comfortable pace on the way home. I'm going to try the exercises again tomorrow night & see how it goes.

Nice day for a ride!!!!!!

Today was a great day for a ride. I left the house a bit later than I was planning. I was waiting for the weather to warm up a bit more so I wouldn't have to wear as much clothing. When I left, I had shorts, jersey, wicking t-shirt, & arm warmers. I decided I was going to do at least 3 hours on the bike today. I rode a combination of rides I've done in the past. It was a hilly route that I did today, only a couple of hard climbs, but most of the route was rollers. My back started hurting after about 2 hours in the saddle. I had to stop a few times to strech it out. I tried some Hammer gels today & they really worked great. My legs never really felt bad the entire ride. I could probably have rode faster if my back hadn't started hurting, but I haven't ridden this long in quite awhile. I'll get used to it as the winter goes on. I think I'm going to start the Cyclo-Core workouts on Monday & do them during the week, leaving the weekends free for more riding. I'm still going to try riding home from work as often as possible. I don't think that will be a problem for a bit seeing as I get off work @ 3:30 pm & there is still plenty of daylight to try and get at least 20 miles in a day. We'll just have to see how thing go from this point on. Stay tuned...........

The Off Season Begins

The weather here this week has been fantastic!!! I've been able to ride most of the week home from work. The wind has been a pain sometimes, but that's just the way it goes. Today, my Cyclo-Core DVD came in. I'm going to preview it & see what it's like & probably start it next week. I hope it will help get my core muscles ready for next year. I have no idea what to expect with this program, but I think it's worth a try. I have absolutely nothing to lose by trying it out. I'll let everyone know how it's working as the winter goes on. Stay tuned.......

Great time on the bike!!!!!!!!!

Yesterday I went to Snellville for the grand opening of a new Jittery Joe's franchise. They had Ceasar Grahales & some of the other riders from the pro cycling team there. Thery were going for an easy ride of about 30 miles. The Gwinnett Touring Club was there to guide the ride. There was a surprise on the ride also. Nathan O'Neil from Healthnet presented by Maxxis showed up just to ride along. Seems he lives in the area & heard about the ride & decided to join. I can't tell you what a great time I had riding with everyone. It was so cool getting to ride & talk to the pro's. Nathan had one of the new Cannondale System Six bikes. I asked him what he tought about it & he told me it was one of the best bikes he's ever ridden. I asked him about the team & he said he's looking forward to next season. I really had a great time & look forward to the next time I get to do something like that. I also orded the Cyclo-Core DVD to help get ready for next season. We'll just have to see how the system works for me. I'll let everyone know how the system works. Stay tuned......

Nice week so far

So far the weather this week has been fantastic. It's been a bit cool in the morning to ride to work, but the rides home have been great. Yesterday my legs felt great & the ride showed. I've been off the bike since last Friday, so I was very well rested. I managed to average 19.9 mph for the trip home. The ride today wasn't as fast, but I still managed to average 19.3 mph. I am happy with that considering I pushed it yesterday. I'm hoping the weather continues this week & weekend for some good riding. Stay tuned......

Good news from the doc

Last Monday I had an MRI done of my head. It's been six months since I've seen the neurosurgeon. Today I went to see him & got the results. Things haven't changed in the past six months, so I asked him if I could race next year & he told me I could. So I guess it's time to start seriously getting in shape for next season. I have to see him again in a year, so let's keep hoping things stay the same. I'm looking forward to racing next year & I hope I can be somewhat competitive. Only time will tell.......

Beautiful Day for a Ride

Today was a beautiful day for a ride. There wasn't much wind & the temp wasn't that bad. My legs felt heavy the first part of the ride, but about halfway, they really felt great. I was able to keep up a good pace the entire ride. I'm hoping the weather is like this all week. If so, I will be doing some serious riding while it's here!!!!!! Let's hope it lasts until the weekend. Stay tuned......

Nice weather for riding

This past week has been great for riding. I rode home from work all last week & really enjoyed it. On Friday I was up in Marietta to help my dad with a project. I took the bike up there with me to ride the Silver Comet Trail at least one day if not both. The weather up there was a bit cooler than at home, so I made sure I took some cold weather gear. When I decided to finally ride, it was a bit on the cool side, but arm warmers worked fine for me. I rode out for 20 miles then turned around & headed back to my starting point. I forgot that the trip out is mostly on a slight incline, but nothing really bad. The trip back was more fun, I was able to get some good speed going & keep it up for a bit. I was able to up my average speed by a half a mile per hour due to the return trip. All in all it was a great week of riding. I was busy all day with my dad Saturday, so no riding. This week, we'll just have to see. I had a good ride home from work today, but tomorrow is not looking that great. The forcast is calling for a 90% chance of rain, so looks like trainer time, but I'll survive somehow........

Good Ride Today

I've had to stay off the bike for a bit due to being a bit under the weather. I felt good today after work & went for a 24 mile ride. My legs felt good considering & I'm glad I went for a ride today. The weather was fantastic today & looks good for the entire week. I haven't gotten the Raliegh fixed, probably won't till the end of the month. I'll just have to suffer & ride the Orbea home from work for the time being. lol Here's to a good week riding & good weather.

The Ride from Hell!!!!!!!

Yesterday was the proverbial ride from hell. On the way to work, I managed to flat the rear tire. I saw a rock in the road, but the rear wheel managed to hit it & caused a pinch flat. Where it happened was totally dark & it wasn't that far from work, so I limped into work with the flat. On the way home, the front derailleur became loose & started falling down. It kept hitting the big chain ring & sounded awful. I managed to fix it, but then there started a sound from the rear wheel. I don't know exactly what it was, but had to limp home, hoping it didn't lock up & cause a crash. I hope to get a new rear wheel this weekend, but until then I'll catch a ride to work, & ride the Orbea home. I have to admit, it's not what I want to do, but it's better than walking & it's still saving some gas.

Doc's happy so far

I went to the neurologist this past Thursday. He asked how I was doing and had me do some simple tests, which I passed with flying colors. I told him I was doing fine & I had a couple of appointments next month with Dr. Smisson, my neurosurgeon. He asked that I tell Dr. Smisson to pass any notes from the visit to him. I told him that I have been riding my bike as much as I can & he said that was great. This past week I managed to commute on the bike 4 days to work. The weather is great, a bit cool in the morning, but the ride home is fantastic. I love riding in the spring & fall time, makes it all worth while. That's about all for now, I'll keep in touch......

The commute is working

I have been commuting to work on my old Raliegh since last Monday. So far the bike is working great. I forgot that it's a bit heavier than my Orbea, now even more so with the rack & my panniers filled with clothes & food for work. My average speed isn't usually what I would like, but I guess the weight has something to do with that. Today I rode home & then switched bikes. I rode the Orbea for a little over 19 miles today. I remember why I really like that bike. It felt great riding it again. I hadn't ridden it since a week ago this past Sunday. Climbing wasn't much of a problem after commuting all this week. The bike really felt light & my legs felt pretty good even after the commute home. Added all together I put in over 52 miles today with the commute to & from work plus the Orbea ride. I'm sure I'll be sore tomorrow, but I'll try to take it as easy as I can but still have a good ride. That's about all for now, stay tuned for more stories........

IT'S ALIVE!!!!!!!!!!

This past Saturday, I finally got my old Raliegh road bike finished. I have managed to ride to & from work at least 3 times this week. It would have been 4 but on Tuesday it was a 70% chance of rain. I managed to get soaked on the way home Monday. I was nearing the end of the ride, but the closer I got to the house, the harder it was raining. Oh well, things like that happen from time to time. I'm hoping to go for a reasonably long ride this weekend on the Orbea. I hope the weather co-operates with me. My legs have felt pretty good so far this week. I forgot how much heavier the Raliegh is compared to the Orbea. Then add the rack, panniers, & the stuff I carry in them to & from work & that adds a little more weight. My legs were feeling a bit heavy the trip home today & I don't really know why that was, but I got home ok & look forward to a new adventure tomorrow morning (weather permitting)...........

Better be prepared next time

Once I arrived at work yesterday, I realized I forgot my water bottles for the trip home (I catch a ride to work from a friend until I get the Raliegh finished). I had to try to find somewhere to get some water for the ride home. I stopped at a convience store near work, hoping to find Gatorade in the sports bottle, but true to the way the day was going, they didn't have any. I bought a couple bottles of water & was on my way. Once on the road, I found out I had a crosswind that was going to be difficult on the way home. It was a pain, but I decided to go a different way home. I took the shorter, but harder route home. This way home as a few more decent climbs on it. I actually didn't do that bad on the climbs considering I haven't ridden them for quite awhile. I only got 15 miles in, but the hills made me work. Needless to say I made sure I had water bottles on my bike before I was heading to work today. I hope the wind won't be as bad, but if so, I'll just deal with it. That's about all for now..........

Sorry it's been so long

It's about time I caught up with this. I'm sorry it's been so long, but I haven't been riding much as of late. The weather has been the main reason as to my not riding as much. It's kind of hard to ride when the heat index is about 105 degrees & you have been in the heat working all day long. Once I come home, the last thing I'm thinking of doing is going out & sweating trying to keep up with everyone. Now that the weather is cooling down, I have been riding home from work. My legs have felt pretty good considering it's been awhile since I've been on the bike. I'm working on putting my old Raliegh together as a commuter bike to ride to & from work. I only need the tires & cables adjusted before I'm ready to get commute again. Weather permitting, I should be able to ride to & from work until sometime in November. I'm hoping to be able to race next year. I have to see the neurosurgeon on 10/30 & will ask if I can race depending on how things turnout with him. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

Catch up time

It's time to catch things up here. I'm sorry for not posting lately, but other things have kept me busy. I rode last Thursday for the first time in 9 days. I usually do the 35 mile route & average somewhere between 19 & 20 mph. That was not to be on that day. The heat & humidity did their best on me seeing as I was out in the hanger most of the day at work. I drank like a madman, but it still wasn't enough. I did the short route & struggled to manage a 17.6 mph average. Not one of my better days. On Saturday I did the short Tuesday route. My legs felt better managing a 18.3 average for 31 miles. Last night I just rode the trainer for an hour & pushed it once or twice on certain songs I was listening too on the cd player, but mostly just spun the legs to loosen them up for the usual Tuesday ride. I hope it doesn't rain, but if it does, I'll ride the trainer for a couple of hours instead. Here's hoping the weather holds off to get some good riding in.

Not a Good Day

Yesterday was the Tuesday group ride with CGC & it was not to be my day. I hadn't drank enough during the day because I just forgot to. I really hadn't eaten that much either so I guess I had it coming. When we started riding I dropped one of my water bottles, so the ride was cut real short. I only managed to get in 26 miles at an average speed of 18 mph. I really felt it on the way back to the car & once I got home I downed 2 full water bottles of water. That made me feel a bit better & dinner really helped. I'm hoping to go for an easy ride later & get ready for the Thursday group ride. Stay tuned

My Weekend

This is a catchup post for this past weekend. My parents were down in Cordele at Veteran's Memorial State Park camping with some of thier friends. I decided to go visit them down there. I left my house just before 9 am & started riding down that way. It was a great day for a ride, the temperature was a bit lower than normal & that made for a great day riding. The route was great & easy to get there, stay south on US 41 unitl you hit US 280 then turn right until you get to the park. The terrian was mainly just small rollers then mostly downhill after you left Vienna. My total distance was 61 miles with an average speed of 19.1 mph. I had a great time visiting with my folks and thier friends. I even managed to see some of the Watermelon Festival going on in downtown Cordele. I took the day off the bike yesterday to get some other things done so I'm looking forward to riding later today. I don't know how sore my legs will be, but they weren't as sore as I thought they would be yesterday. We'll just have to see what later brings.

Thursday Group Ride

Yesterday was the usual CGC Thursday group ride. It had been raining on & off most of the afternoon so I wasn't sure if there was going to be a ride or not. I decided to show up at the meeting point & see who showed up. After being there for about 10 minutes, Don & Angie showed up saying that we were insane for even being there. Then after a few more mintues, more people showed up. We decided to take a chance & go for the ride. Once we hit Haynesville a steady but light rain began to fall. It was decided to do the short route instead of the longer route due to the rain. I had to catch up to the group seeing as I thought we were going to do the longer version of the ride. I want to thank Don & Shane for giving me a pull up Grovania Rd. We regrouped on Elko Rd & we just rode in from there. Even though I was wet, I sitll managed to average 19.6 mph for a bit over 30 miles. Today looks like more rain, if so then it's trainer time. If it dries out, I'll go for an easy spin before a long ride tomorrow.

Wednesday Ride

Yesterday I went on the group ride with CGC. Some of the guys wanted to go a bit further than the usual route so I was talked into doing the short loop for the Tuesday ride. There was 5 of us & the pace was pretty good. My back started to hurt a bit so I backed off. My legs have been feeling a bit heavy the last couple of rides. I'm hoping to feel better for the Thursday ride. I usually do better on that ride average speed wise. I did manage 31.2 miles with an average speed of 18.7 mph. I guess that week off really didn't help at all, but I'll just have to ride back into the shape I was in before. Here's to a good ride & good weather.

Independence Day Ride

Today I decided to ride in the morning seeing as I was off work instead of riding with the group later in the heat. I rode a route I hadn't ridden in quite a while. My legs felt kind of heavy most of the ride, but it was still good to get out and be on the bike. I rode a route with rollers most of the way, but it was fun & managed to return before it got too hot. I manged to get 25 miles in & averaged over 19mph. I'm hoping to ride tomorrow, but depends on the weather. Stay tuned.

LSD Ride

Yesterday was a LSD (long steady distance) ride. A group of us left from the Perry welcome center. On tap was a route that took us through Unadilla, Byronville, Montezuma, Marshallville, then finally back to Perry. The start of the ride was a nice long climb up Elko Rd. I really didn't like this climb, but managed to survive it. The roads to Unadilla was gentle rollers. We then rode to Byronville through some pretty country scenery. We made a store stop there to refresh & then headed to Montezuma. Montezuma is a pretty little down. Riding down their main street was cool. There were lots of old houses that really looked great. The road to Marshallville was more of the same, gentle rollers with a few larger climbs. Another rider & I picked up the pace from Byronville until we returned to Perry. I was tired when I got back, but it was a great time. I did 65.2 miles with an average speed of 18.1. I'm happy with that average seeing as I picked it up 2 mph from what it was in the first hour of the ride. Hoping to ride to work tomorrow morning.

Thursday Group Ride

Yesterday was the usual group ride. Some of the guys were going to add a few more miles by taking a bit different route, but seeing as I hadn't ridden much in over the past week, I just decided to do the usual 35 mile route. I was doing good until I hit Elko Rd. There was a bit of a headwind going up Elko Rd, but I tried my best to push it. I managed to catch the ladies before Perry. On the last part of the ride my back started getting sore, but I still managed over 19.5 mph for the ride, not too bad considering. Let's hope for good weather this weekend to ride.

Time to catch up here

I'm sorry it's been so long since my last post, but things have been busy. I managed to ride about 55 miles on June 17th with some friends. It was a nice ride, not too fast or hilly. I had to take a week off the bike due to other obligations. I'm going to try & not let that happen again. I managed to get a ride in yesterday. My legs actually felt pretty good during the ride. The climbing was about usual, but that's ok. I actually averaged a faster speed than I thought I would on the ride seeing as I had over a week off the bike. I'm hoping the Thursday ride isn't going to hurt that much, but we'll just have to see. Check back for details........

Today was a heck of a ride!!!!!!

Today was the usual Thursday group ride with CGC. We stayed together until the big hill on Larry Walker Parkway. I just kept a steady pace & was able to catch the lead goup on Grovania Road. I hung with them as long as I could, but had to let them get ahead of me. They slowed down & let everyone regroup on Elko Road. I tried hanging with them, but realized that if I stayed with them, I might not be able to finish. I just rode at my own pace & kept it as high as I comfortably could. I saw a few of the other riders who took the short route & did my best to catch them. I caught them just before the finish of the ride. I managed to beat my best average speed this week. I averaged 20.4 mph for 35 miles. I'm sure I'll be a bit sore tomorrow, but I'll go for an easy spin to loosen the legs up before a long ride on Saturday morning. I just hope the weather co-operates with me this weekend. Same bike time, same bike web address.........

Abandoned Husband Ride

Yesterday was the Monday ride starting in Perry. This was really set up for the ladies to get together & ride, but some of the guys decided to take advantage of it too. We just did a recovery ride pace for about 23 miles seeing as the weather was looking kind of nasty most of the ride. We tried to stay near the fairgrounds & did a couple of laps of about a 12 mile loop. It felt great to ride again, seeing as I hadn't ridden in 3 days. The new tires were great & we pushed it just a bit on the last part of the ride. We did manage to avoid the rain on our bikes, but ran into it on the way home. Later today is the usual Tuesday ride, let's hope the weather lets us to it. Stay tuned.....

Abandoned Husbands Ride

Yesterday was the Abandoned Husbands Ride starting in Perry. This really is for the ladies to get together & ride, but a few of the guys take advantage of it too. The weather wasn't looking that great so we kind of stayed around the fairgrounds. We did 2 laps of about a 12 mile loop at a recovery pace. It felt nice & easy after not riding for 3 days. We did kind of push it just a bit on the last part of the second lap, trying to make sure we got back before the rain started. We beat the rain, but ran into it on the way home. Later today is the usual Tuesday ride, we'll see if the weather lets us do it today. Stay tuned.......

A Ride That Was Not To Be

Yesterday I woke up ready for a long Saturday ride. The CGC guys were doing a metric century starting at the Perry Welcome Center. I got myself ready & as I was loading my bike I notice the rear wheel was flat. I just loaded the bike knowing that I would have time to change it once I got to the starting site. I was the first one there & proceeded to changed the tube. After changing the tube, I noticed that the tire didn't seat right, so I released the air pressure & tried to reseat the tire. This time while I was pumping up the tube, I noticed that I had a small hole in the tire. So much for any kind of ride today I said to myself. I told the assembled group that I wasn't going to be able to go with them, loaded my bike back up and headed home. I did things around the house to relieve my frustruations & bought 2 new tires and installed them on the bike. I'm hoping to ride to work in the morning, but we'll have to see how the weather goes. Stay tuned for more of my adventures.........

Thurdsay Group Ride Report

Yesterday was the usual Thursday group ride with CGC. It started out as usual, everyone staying together until the big hill on Larry Walker Pkwy. I couldn't hang with them & kept a steady pace for myself. I did feel better climbing this week. I saw a rider ahead of me on Ellis Rd. & that was my incentive to catch. The wind this week was worse than last week making the catch even harder. I managed to catch him in Elko & rode his wheel for a bit. Once on Elko Rd. I decided it was my turn to pull him for a bit, but he must have been feeling worse than me because he couldn't stay with me. I didn't put in a big acceleration, just rode steady. As we went along Elko Rd. I noticed that he was falling further & further behind. I saw the group a ways up the road, but knew that there was no way I was going to be able to catch them. I just rode a steady pace that was just a bit of a push for me. I caught Kim & another girl riding together on Kings Chapel Rd. They did the shorter route. On days like yesterday with the wind, I think the shorter route is actually harder than the longer route, due to the fact that the short cut takes you into a head wind when the wind is out of the west as it was yesterday. I had to ride back home after the group ride so I did a total of about 43 miles with an average speed of 19.8 mph. It was a bit slower than last week, but with the conditions, I'm not complaining about it. I feel as if I'm getting stronger, just have to keep riding & watching what I eat. The weight will come down & I'll get better. I'm hoping to ride the metric century they are planning from Perry tomorrow, but we'll just have to wait & see. Stay tuned.....

Tuesday Group Ride

Yesterday was the usual group ride with CGC. The guys were feeling extra froggy because they started pushing the pace before the first climb. I was dropped on the climb ( as usual, but getting better). I managed to catch up with them at the stop light as they waited for it to turn green. Don & Bk took off on Bible Camp Rd. I tried bridging up to them but didn't have much success. They waited at the top of Bible Camp Rd. but I contined on with 2 other guys. I was hoping we could work together & give the hammerheads a good workout chasing us. It was not to be because as soon as I got to the front they waited for the group. I contintued on at my pace & was eventually caught. I tried staying with them but couldn't. After turning on 42 I caught one rider & he just sat on my wheel the whole way back to Byron. Each time I tried to get him to take a turn to pull, he just let up & I stayed in front. It kind of aggrivated me a bit because when we caught the others in Byron due to a train crossing, he left me & hammered the rest of the way with them. I think on Thursday's ride I'm just going to sit on someone's wheel & let them pull me around the route, but we'll just have to see.

Good start to a new week

I should have posted this yesterday, but things didn't go as planned. I decided to try riding to work yesterday via the hillier route I've used in the past. The plan was to test how my fitness level was coming along. Well, it's better than I thought. I never had to downshift going up any of the climbs on the way to work. That made me feel good & I still managed to average over 19 mph for the 17 miles. On the way home I had about a 10 mph tailwind so I decided to push it a bit, but not too much seeing as the group ride is the next day. I kept in one gear the whole time but did manage 20.7 mph for the trip home, the only time I had problems keeping it near or above 20 mph was the last stretch home into the headwind. All in all it was a good start to a new week. I rode to work this morning & took it easy. Looking forward to the group ride. I'll let everyone know how that goes later tonight so stay tuned........

Great Ride Today

Today was the CGC Thursday group ride. I got dropped as usual on the climb ( gotta get lighter). I rode most of the ride by myself, but noticed that someone was ahead of me. I decided to try to catch him. I was making up ground on the climbs (someone actually climbs worse than me), but would lose ground on the flat parts of the ride. I thought that he might wait up for me to catch him so we can ride together, but no such luck. I worked my tail off to catch him & finally did. It was a workout, but worth it. I managed to average 20.2 mph for 35 miles, best average speed this year. My back & hips felt great after finding out my seatpost on the Orbea was too low compared to the Raliegh. I'm hoping to ride to work & home tomorrow depending on the weather, so stay tuned.........

Group Ride

Today was the usual Tuesday group ride with CGC. I managed to stay with the group on the hills, but got dropped on the back part of the course. I still managed to average 19.3 mph for 41.1 miles. I did catch one person & the two of us took turns pulling at least till we got inside the Byron city limits. I took my turn pulling and he must have decided to ease up because he kept getting further & further behind. I kept up a steady pace & rode home. My back was a bit sore, but we'll have to work on that later. It felt good being on the bike after taking a couple of days off for other projects. I'm planning on riding to work in the morning, but we'll just have to see how that goes. That's about all for now.

Saturday Ride

Today I went for a ride & worked hills. I rode into the wind to Ft. Valley and the hills were a work out. It felt pretty good though. I had a tailwind the way home & really hammered it. I even managed to keep it on the big ring during the climbs on the way home. I managed 19.2 mph avereage for 32.1 miles, not bad considering I haven't ridden as much this week as in the past. I plan on going for a long ride on Monday seeing as I'm off for Memorial Day, but we'll just have to see how the weather goes. That's all for now, stay tuned.......

Tuesday Group Ride

Today was the Tuesday group ride with CGC. I was staying with the lead group as we turned on Bible Camp Rd. I noticed that my rear tire was getting low so I stopped to replace the tube. Charles, Don, Bk, and the other fast guys turned around to lend a hand. After the tube was changed, we got back to riding. I was doing all I could to stay with them, we were hammering it as far as I was concerned. Every time I looked at my computer, it was at least 21 or 22 mph or faster. My legs are feeling it now, wonder how they will feel tomorrow. I managed to average 19.9 mph for 41.3 miles total today. We'll just have to see how things go tomorrow about riding. That's all for now.

Tour de Cure

Today was the Tour de Cure to raise money for diabetes research. I chose the 100k route as I have for the past 2 years. There were 2 big differences between those rides and this one today. One was that I have ridden more miles at this point in the year than last year and I have a new bike to ride that was much lighter than in the past. I managed to ride with different groups of people for most of the ride. It was really fun riding in a paceline and taking turns in front. Most of the group rides I've been on lately, either I've been on my own or I've been doing most of the pulling. I was with a group on the return to the start, we had a good paceline going and my average speed was about 20 mph. Then I felt something rubbing against my wheel and stopped to find out one rear brake pad was rubbing. I fixed it as fast as I could, but I could never catch the group I was with. I rode about the last 10-12 miles on my own. I still managed to beat last year's time and average speed. I finished in 3:06:50 with an average speed of 19.75 miles for 100k. The Orbea was fanatastic!!!!!! I actually felt like I could have rode longer if I had to. The more I ride that bike, the more I love it. All in all it was a great day and a fun ride.

Last Ride Before Tour de Cure

Today was my last ride before Sunday's Tour de Cure. I just took it easy on the way to and from work today. I kept a steady pace and kept it in one gear. The wind on the way home was a pain, but I managed to survive. I'm going to stay off the bike tomorrow, give my legs a rest then ride on Sunday. I'm hoping to beat my time of 3:25:15 of last year with an average speed of 18.4 mph for 62 miles. If the weather co-operates, I should be able to beat it, but you never know. LOL Here's to a good ride for Tour de Cure!!!!!!!!!!!!

I love my new toy

Went on the Thursday group ride and though I couldn't stay with the fast group, I did manage to have a good ride. The wind was a pain on the back side of the route, but the ride in wasn't too bad. I felt pretty good on the climbs, thanks to my new toy. My Orbea climbs great. My legs actually felt good even on the ride home from the stopping point of the group route. I think a lot of it has to do with riding a lighter bike and not having to push as much weight. I'm really looking forward to Sunday and the Tour de Cure. It should be a great ride. Going to take it easy for the rest of the week to be ready. That's about all for now.

Recovery Day

Today was a recovery ride after kind of pushing it yesterday on the Orbea. It was cool this morning on the ride to work. I pushed the pace up the climbs just to see how the Orbea felt and it felt pretty good. On the way home I had somewhat of a headwind the whole way, but it wasn't that bad. I'm hoping to ride with the CGC on Thursday for one last hard ride then time to take it easy until Tour de Cure. I love riding the Orbea, it's a great bike.

First Ride with New Toy!!!!!!!!!!

Today I was able to ride my new Orbea frame. I had it taken to Bike Tech to finish adjusting things after swapping parts from my old Raliegh frame last night. It felt awesome!!!!! It's such a difference after riding the same frame for so long to ride something new. I just have to get used to a carbon fork and the sound it makes when it hits a bump. It's different than what I'm used to. I was actually able to catch up to some of the group today. I was surprised about that seeing that I was running late & was behind everyone. My legs felt kind of heavy the first part of the ride, especially on the climbs, but the Orbea climbed really nice. Now all I have to do to climb better is work on losing some of me!!!!!! My legs felt better the last part of the ride and managed to average a bit over 19 mph for 38 miles. I'm planning on doing the Thursday ride to work out the Orbea before Tour de Cure on Sunday. I'll probably ride to work tomorrow easily to recover. Well, that's about all for now.

Recovery ride today

Today I rode to work and it was a bit cool on the way in, but it was a good ride. I took it easy today and just enjoyed things. The wind on the way home was a bear. I just barely managed 18 mph for the ride home. I'm getting the Orbea together little by little. I'm hoping my new stem and bars will be in on Monday so I can swap parts to the Orbea and take it to the bike shop to be adjusted and possibly ride it on the group ride on Tuesday. We'll just have to see how things go. I want to ride it at least once before Tour de Cure. The bike clubs in the area are working a booth at the air show this weekend & I'm working it tomorrow. Sounds like it should be fun.

Recovery day (somewhat)

Today was somewhat of a recovery day. I rode to work this morning and was planning on taking it easy, but the weather had something else in mind for me. I was about 2/3 of the way to work when I started to feel a light mist falling. I was just hoping it wasn't going to get worse before I got to work. I just got a little wet and got to work in plenty of time. I had to push it a bit on the rest of the ride so I didn't get soaked. The rain stopped by the time I got off work so I got to ride home. Not long after I got home and showered, it seemed like the bottom fell out. I looked outside & was glad I was home already & not riding in that. I'm hoping that the weather lets up tomorrow to ride to work and go on a group ride tomorrow night, but we'll just have to wait and see.

Tuesday Group Ride

Today was the usual Tuesday group ride with CGC. I managed to hang on the first climb, but fell back on the second. The group was still in view the first hour of the ride, then they picked up the pace & I couldn't hang with them. I did ride with a couple of people most of the back part of the ride. We each took turns pulling and had a good small paceline going. The legs actually felt good after yesterday's ride. I'm hoping to ride to work in the morning to work the kinks out of my legs, but we'll just have to see.

Abandoned Husbands Ride

Today I went on the "Abandoned Husbands Ride" with the bike club. It was a good ride, but the hills kind of kicked my butt today. I did manage to get some good pulls in today. I'm looking forward to the group ride tomorrow. I can't wait for the Tour de Cure, it's going to be a great ride as it's been the past 2 years. I just hope I can get the Orbea together & ride it before then, but we'll just have to see. Here's to a good ride tomorrow, weather permitting. LOL

I got a new toy!!!!!!!!!!

Today I finally got my new frame. I received my first check under our new profit sharing program & it was enough to get the frame. I just have to see about getting a new stem, seatpost and clamp for the front derailluer. I'm hoping to get it assembled and get to ride it before Tour de Cure on May 21st, but if not it's ok. We'll just have to see how things go. I did managed to get a ride in to work this morning, but it rained this afternoon so no second ride. I'm hoping to get a ride in tomorrow morning before our men's breakfast at church. I just hope the weather co-operates with me.

Getting warmer!

The ride into work was pretty good, didn't really try to push it, but the legs were feeling good. I took it easy on the way home because it was almost 90 today & I didn't want to get too overheated. I'm hoping the weather tomorrow isn't bad so I can ride to and from work but we'll just have to see. It's been great riding to and from work this week and it's been a great stress relief.

Recovery day

Today was kind of a recovery day for me. I rode to work but pretty much kept it in an easy gear the entire ride. After yesterday's insanity, I felt an easy ride was required. I kept it in the same gear the whole ride to work and kept it off the big ring. Legs felt good after the ride. I didn't get to ride home due to some bad weather on the route home, but there is always tomorrow. We'll just have to see how things go.

Long Day!!!!!

Today was a long day on the bike, not only did I ride to work and back home, I had the crazy idea to ride with the Central Georgia Cyclists guys this evening. I thought I would be able to hang a bit further, but my legs just aren't there as of yet. I'm sure riding home from work eventhough I thought I took it easy didn't help. It was a good day to ride and I really needed to get in the miles to get ready for Tour de Cure on May 21st. I'm hoping the legs won't feel too bad in the morning but we'll just have to see how things go. Take care everyone.

New week to begin commuting

Today was the first day I was able to commute to work on the bike. It was a bit rough getting up @ 5 am to get ready, but it'll get easier the more I do it. The ride to work was great, a bit on the cool side, but it felt good. I felt a few drops of rain, but it went by rather quickly. Well work came & went & it was time to start the ride home. The front derailluer was acting up so I decided to head to The Bike Store to get the cable replaced. I also noted that the chain was slap wore out and had that replaced. After getting the bike fixed, the ride home was much more pleasant. I'm hoping to ride to and from work all this week and get in 1 or 2 group rides. We'll just have to see how the legs feel. Here's to a good week commuting and riding in general.

2 for the price of 1

Today I managed to get 2 rides in. I rode home from work for the first time this year and felt pretty good considering I was carrying a good load in my backpack. After getting home, I switched cranksets from my time trial bike to my road bike. I did this because the new frame I'm getting includes longer crank arms & I really need to get used to them. All in all it was a good day to be riding, not much wind and the temperature was great. I'm hoping tomorrow will be more of the same so I can get a good long ride in with the longer cranks. Tune in to see how it goes.

Good news and good ride.

Today went to my family doctor to find out the results of the CT scan I had done last week. He told me that the results were normal but my blood sugar was a bit on the high side so he put me on another medication to help lower it. After getting home, it was too late to ride with the club, so I just went on a solo ride. Pushed it a bit up the climbs but felt good overall. Going to ride home from work tomorrow and see how things go. That's about it for tonight.

Good ride today

Today I was able to ride the Tuesday ride with the bike club. I headed out a bit early to get a head start because I knew they would catch me on the climbs. They caught me just after the second climb, but I wasn't mad at all. I still need to get more climbing in my legs. I waited for the second group and 3 of us rode together for quite awhile. I managed to get a good long pull and was doing anywhere between 20.5 and 23 mph. We managed to run into some of the ladies in the club riding a different route. I was willing to pull them along while the other 2 guys rode off, but they weren't able to keep up with me. I tried to catch the guys ahead of me, but despite hammering it I couldn't catch them before they turned off and I had to head on home. I kept up a pretty good pace on the way home and picked up my average speed a bit. I know I'm going to feel it tomorrow, but I'll go for an easy recovery ride to work out the kinks. That's about all for now, just keep riding.

Oh Yeah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I went to the neurosurgeon today to find out the results of my MRI. The doc told me that the lesion on my brain was quite small and looked benign. So I asked him if I could go out riding and he said it was ok as long as I wore a helmet. I told him that I never get on a bike without one. I went out for an easy ride today and am looking forward to riding with the group tomorrow. We'll just have to see how I feel with the group, not going to try to stay with the hammerheads but I'm going to try to stay with a group or at least one other rider. I'm looking forward to riding the Tour de Cure next month so it's training time to get ready for it. That's about all for now.

Decision has been made

I have made my decision and have decided to ride the trainer for at least one more week. I will see the neurosurgeon next Monday and I hope he will have a better answer as to why I can't ride outdoors other than what MIGHT happen. I really can't have people waiting on me hand and foot to take me places. I use my bike for transportation besides using it for exercise. I feel like a part of me has been taken away for what seems like a lame reason, but I'll follow the doc's directions for now, but can't guarentee how much longer I will follow his directions, seeing as one doc says I can ride outdoor as of right now.

Decisions, decisions......

Well I finally got the results from my EEG and VER tests back from the neuorologist. They told me the results were normal. I asked them about riding out on the road and they said it was ok with them, but they told me that the neurosurgeon's office told them that he didn't want me out on the road because of what might happen. I don't know what to do, I really felt great riding out on the road earlier this week, but I do want to listen to what the doctors tell me to do. I'm having a hard time deciding on what to do. I know what might happen, but the same thing might happen as I'm walking the dog down the road too. It would be easy if both doctors told me to stay off the road, but only one says that, the other says it's ok as long as I wear a helmet (which I always do). Riding the trainer is getting on my nerves when it's a nice day outside. I can handle riding it on bad weather days, but I really want to be outdoors riding. I don't see the neurosurgeon until the 24th. I wonder what he will say when I ask him why I can work on aircraft but not ride outside? I wonder what he'll say if I tell him what I think my boss would say if I told him I can't come into work because of what might happen? I know what my boss would say, better find another job then. I'll let anyone who reads this know what my decision is. Until next time...........

A nice recovery ride

Today was a recovery ride after kind of pushing it yesterday. I tried to meet the CGC group for their Wednesday ride, but I missed them on Tharpe road. I rode to the Bike Store but didn't see anyone on the way there either. I went back down Tharpe and rode the route backwards till I met them. I rode with them until I had to go straight and head back home. It really feels great to be on the road again. I'm just trying to figure how far to ride tomorrow. We'll just have to see how the day goes & just wing it I guess.

First Group Ride of the Year

Today was my first group ride of the year. I did the short version of the Central Georgia Cyclists Tuesday ride. My legs felt the hills early, but then felt better. I actually managed to catch a couple of people on the ride. I kind of pushed it today to see how the legs would be and they weren't too bad. I'm sure I'll be feeling it tomorrow or Thursday. I'll have to go for a recovery ride tomorrow to work out the soreness. Riding up Bible Camp Road didn't hurt as much as usual. I acutally managed to keep up a good cadence up the small hills on that road. That's about all for now, take care everyone.

On the road again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

As the words to that Willie Nelson song goes "On the road again, just can't wait to get back on the road again" , I decided I have waited long enough to hear from the doctors and I went for a ride today. This was the first time I've been on the road since I left for the Tour of California. It felt so good to get outdoors and I really missed it. I was going stir crazy and driving myself crazy. Riding the wind trainer is ok when the weather is bad, but nothing beats riding out on the road on a beautiful day. I'm going to do it again tomorrow if the weather is nice again. I know the doctors said I shouldn't ride outdoors for 6 months, but I've never had a seizure while riding. So if something happens while I'm riding, I'd rather be doing something I love instead of sitting on the couch. That's about all for now.

What a lousy week it's been

I know it's been a bit since I've updated this thing so forgive me. I had the EEG and VER tests done on the 3rd and ever since then I've been sick. I've been really tired since Tuesday and stayed home from work the past two days. I went to the doctor today and found out I have a case of bronchitis. I can go back to work tomorrow and we'll see about getting on the trainer this weekend. I have to see the neurosurgeon on the 10th to see what he's found out with the last MRI I had done. My family doctor wants me to have a CT scan of my upper body to see if what's in my head didn't start somewhere else. They are going to get back with me on when that will be scheduled. I just hope to get a good night's sleep tonight, haven't been able to sleep well since Tuesday night. That's about all I have for now.

Bikejournal.com

I don't know how many people know about bikejournal.com, but it's a great place to log your miles in. I've been using it for the past couple years and it's much easier to check times for certain routes to compare them and see how your fitness is going. I have a club site for Max Cycling there, just go to clubs after you log in & look for it. Let me know if anyone uses it. Thanks.

I'm Back

It's been awhile since I've updated this. I had another MRI done yesterday with contrast. I haven't heard from the neuorsurgeon, so I guess that's good news so far. I worked the Perry-Roubaix race this weekend and had a great time. I just wanted to say thanks to Don and Angie Bill for giving me a ride to be able to work the race. I managed to get back on the trainer to get some exercise. It actually felt good to even ride that. I have another couple of tests on April 3rd so we'll see how that goes. That's about all I have for now.

Another day another doctor

Today I went and saw the neurosurgeon, Dr. Smisson. He told me today that he wants me to have another MRI to get a better veiw of the mass behind my left eye and the lesion on my brain. I also have to get a copy of the MRI done 5 years ago when I had my last seizure. If the leision is there, they probably won't do anything about it, but if not, they will probably do a biopsy and possibly remove it. If that happens, oh well. Some people can't understand how I can be so calm going through this, but worrying about it will just drive me nuts. There isn't really anything I can do about this, except what the doctors tell me to do. So I don't worry about it because I have no control over it. I'll just keep riding the trainer like I did last night and see what happens when they let me ride outdoors. I'm hanging in there & praying that things go well.

Good News, Bad News Day

Well today I received some good news and some bad news. I went to my neurologist appointment today and he showed me the mass behind my left eye. I have two tests to be done on April 3rd. One is an EEC where they put this goop in your hair, hook up some electrodes, put you in a dark room and flash a strobe at different intensities and frequencies. The other test is a VRE. They stimulate your eyes and determine the response rate of both eyes. The doc said that if the VRE test results were normal we would just monitor the mass behind my eye, but if the results were abnormal, then we would have to decide what the next step would be. The good news is that I can go back to work tomorrow. The bad news is that by Georgia law I have to be seizure free for 6 months before I can drive again. The doc also said I can't ride outdoors for that same time period. It looks like any kind of racing this year is gone to the dogs, but I have plenty of time to get ready for next season. I have to try to put a positive spin on something or I'll be totally depressed. I can ride the trainer for that time period so I'll have to come up with some kind of workout routine for that time period. I'm hanging in there as best as I can.

Back on the bike for now

I managed to get on the wind trainer for over an hour today & the legs actually felt pretty good. It really felt great to be on the bike again. I can tell how much I really missed riding. I have a doctor's appointment on Wednesday at 9:45. I'm hoping they can tell me why the seizure happened & what the next step in possibly stopping them will be. I really want to know how soon I can get out on the road & ride, but will ride the trainer for now. I'm hanging in there for the moment.

Not on the road yet

Well I still am unable to ride on the road as of yet. I had the MRI done this past Wednesday & have a neuological consult scheduled for March 15th. I'm hoping that I can get out on the road after that. I guess for now I'll have to ride the trainer & do 2 a days to make up for the fitness I've lost since I went to California. I'm beginning to become frustrated at not being able to take advantage of the beautiful weather we've been having out here, but I'll just have to deal with it. I was hoping to race later this month or early next month, but it doesn't look to promising for that. There is nothing I can do about the situation except let the doctors do what they do best & let them tell me what the next step is. I'll just keep hanging in there the best I can.

Not on the road yet

I am still not on the road as of yet. I had the MRI done & am waiting to hear about the results when I have a neurological consult here on March 15th. I guess until then I'll be riding the trainer. I'm going to try riding twice a day to make up the fitness I've lost since going to California. I just wish the weather wasn't so nice so I wouldn't feel as frustrated as I do at not being able to ride. Not driving isn't bothering me as much as not riding is. I was hoping to race either later this month or early next month, but I'm kind of doubting that as of yet. I'll just have to wait & see what the docs have to say about things & ride the trainer & watch cyclism sundays on OLNTV.

Went to the Doc today

Well today I went to see what my doctor had to say. I have an MRI scheduled for Wednesday @ 1:15pm at the Perry Hospital. After we get the results back we have to make an appointment to see a neurologist. Until then I can't drive & I am home from work at least until March 5th. I might be able to go back to work next Monday. I was told I can't ride outdoors, but can put the bike on the trainer & ride that way. Riding the trainer is better than not being able to ride at all & I'll make the best of the situation. I am finding myself getting tired more easily. I don't know if it's from the medication I'm taking or not exercising for the past week. I'm planning on riding the trainer tomorrow morning with my new cleats. I'll let anyone who reads this know how it goes.

Back From California

Well I'm back from California a bit earlier than I wanted to. I ended up having a seizure the other night after coming back to the hotel in Monterey. I don't know what caused it, but I was told not to do much until I see a doctor here back home. The racing in California was great. The scenery was awesome & it seemed that the racers really loved being there. I managed to get a few autographs. I got Saul Raisin's autograph & pic before the race started in San Francisco. I also got Paul Sherwin's there too. Once we hit Santa Rosa, I got Sean Yates & Johan Bruyneel's autograph seeing as Discovery was staying at the same hotel we were. During each stage of the race, Specialized had an angel blowing kisses to the vehicles & riders during the highest point of that stage. I managed to get my pic taken with the angel. Everyone loved her at each stage. It was a great advertising deal. I'm bummed that I had to leave early, but I can follow the race on cyclingnews & can still keep in contact with the rest of the team. I hope the dr. can find out the cause of the seizure & I'm not off the bike much longer. I'll let everyone know here on the blog how things are going.

finally Got Outside!!!!!!!!!

Today was a GREAT day!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I finally got to get out on the road & ride!!!!!!!!!!!! YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It felt great to be outside. I did a 19 mile loop & hammered it the whole way. I managed to average a bit over 20 mph for the route. My legs felt pretty good on the climbs that are on the loop. This is the last time I'll be able to get on the road until the 28th. I'll be in California for the Amgen Tour of California until the 27th. I hope the hotels we stay at have at least a stationary bike to ride so I won't lose that much fitness. I'll try to update during the tour as much as I can. California here I come!!!!!!!!

Here we go again

I wish the weather would warm up to normal here. I want to ride outside at least once before I have to head to California, but we'll just have to see how things go. If I have to ride the trainer, then I'll have to ride the trainer. Beats not riding at all. I'm just looking forward to going to California & working the Amgen Tour of California. Sounds like it's going to be fun & I can't wait to get started.

Attack of the Trainer

Today was another trainer ride, the weather sucked outside all weekend. I had to work on the truck this weekend so all I was able to do was ride today for 90 minutes. My legs felt pretty good considering I hadn't been able to ride since Wednesday. I hope to ride outside most of the week before I leave on Thursday to head for California to work the Amgen Tour of California. I can't wait to get there, it sounds like it's going to be a blast. I'll try to update here as much as I can.

The Trainer Strikes Again!!!!

I'm starting to enjoy riding my wind trainer. That's kind of scary!!!!! I'd rather be outdoors riding, but the weather this week & other obligations have kept me from doing so. I guess riding on the trainer beats not riding at all. I'm hoping the forecast for the weekend is going to change or it looks like I'll be on the trainer all weekend. If that happens, I'll just watch lots of tapes of old races I have. I'm hoping I can get out at least on the road one day this weekend.

Overhaul my bike please!!!!

Rode the trainer last night while watching Overhaulin onTLC. Being somewhat of a car nut, I love the show. I just wish there was a show that would do the same thing to a person's bike. It would be cool to see my frame repainted & have all sorts of new carbon goodies & components hanging from it. I know I'm dreaming, but it's all good. Manged 90 minutes on the trainer and the legs felt pretty good. Let's see how things go after work today.

Trainer, TV, & 24

This was supposed to be logged yesterday, but the site was down for maintenance. I finally got on the bike after being sick all weekend. Even though it was on the trainer, it felt good to ride again. I just put the trainer in front of the tv & watched 24 & the news. All in all managed 90 minutes on the trainer. Let's see how tomorrow goes for riding. If I have to, I'll ride the trainer again so I won't get sick again.

Finally get to ride this week

I finally got on the bike this week. I've been a bit under the weather most of the week. I've been congested & my sinuses have been acting up, so it was great to be able to get out & ride today. I manged about 23 miles before it got too dark. Let's hope I feel good tomorrow & get to get out & go for a long ride.

Indoors Once Again

Today was a trainer ride due to rain. At least I was on the bike. I did 90 minutes on the trainer but had to stop after that due to my stomach starting to bother me. Earlier in the day I went to the bike store & tried on a jersey & shorts for the race team I am going to join. I have my first race scheduled for April 8 & 9. It's time to start getting serious about training. Lets hope for good weather the rest of the week.

Needed a map today

Today I thought it would be a good idea to check out the route for a ride coming up near the end of March. Things started out ok, but then they got confusing. The markings for the route didn't seem to make any sense to me, they had me going & doubling back to where I started the ride in the first place. I finally just gave up & just rode. My legs felt pretty good during the ride. The wind was a bit of a pain, but that's what happens when you ride in the afternoon & not earlier in the day. Oh well, all in all it was a good ride & hope to ride tomorrow.

Nice Day

Today was an easy ride just to get the legs kind of rested for tomorrow's ride. I'm hoping to do a metric century tomorrow depending on the weather. The legs felt good today & I went to a club race team meeting tonight to find more about racing this year. I'm going to give a few races a try & see what happens. Let's look forward to good weather & riding this weekend.

Felt Good To Ride Today

It felt good to ride today. I took a day off the bike yesterday, since my legs felt so heavy after Tuesday's ride. I did my 19 mile loop & averaged almost 19.5 mph. My legs felt a little tight on one part of the ride, but I was able to work it out & then they felt much better. I hope to get a ride in tomorrow, so we'll just have to see.

Heavy Legs

Today my legs felt heavy the whole ride. I tried several stretches to get them loose but nothing seemed to work. I managed to get in 19 miles but the pace was much slower then in the past. The wind didn't help much either, but that's riding. I'm debating on whether I'm going to ride tomorrow or not. I guess it depends on how my legs feel at work tomorrow. Stayed tuned.

Easy ride

Today was an easy day. I pushed it over the weekend & decided to take it easy & just enjoy the scenery. It was overcast & there wasn't much wind, but it felt good just to ride with no kind of agenda. The legs felt pretty good.

Good Ride Again

Today was another good day for a ride. Rode with the bike club & did the Tuesday route. The wind was a pain on the back part of the ride, but overall the legs felt good on the climbs. I need to climb more hills to get better, but that will happen here soon enough. Did another 2+ hours on the bike & really had a great time.

Good ride today

Today was a good ride. I managed getting 42.5 miles in today. I had to wait until later in the day for the weather to clear up & by that time the wind had picked up a bit more. While on the ride I ran into a lady with a flat tire. I managed to help her get it changed & found out the rim had a hole in it besides the tire being flat. After that, just got back on the bike & fininshed the ride. I was on the bike for about 2 1/2 hours today & felt good. Probably going to ride with the club tomorrow after church if the weather co-operates. Let's hope so.

I needed a ride today

Today was one day where I really needed to ride. It was a bad day all day. No matter how I tried to make it better, it failed. I was so glad to get out of work & get on the bike today. I took it kind of easy after pushing it yesterday. It was relaxing to get on the road & get my frustrations out.

I love outdoors

Today was a nice day & of course I took advantage of it. I managed to do 19 miles & average 19.6 mph. My legs actually felt pretty good considering having to pull a power cart to the shop not long before leaving work. It really felt good to be on the road again. I'm going to try to take it easy tomorrow so I can do a long ride this weekend (weather permitting). Let's hope the cycling gods smile on me this weekend.

Hello Wind Trainer

Had to work a bit late today, so that meant riding the wind trainer after coming home from church. I did an hour & a half on the trainer, my legs felt pretty good & felt pretty good overall. I'm hoping the weather gets better for the weekend. I really want to hit the road this weekend & ride, but we'll just have to see what's the weather going to do.

Once again on the trainer

After recovering from a lousy weekend, I had to ride the wind trainer today. I did 2 hours on it while watching 24. I got hooked on the show last season & I know where I'll be spending at least an hour on Monday nights for a bit. The legs felt good on the trainer. I hope to get outside & ride tomorrow, but the weather forecast doesn't look good as of now. We'll just have to see how it goes.

Riding again

It was another nice day, so guess what? If you guessed I went riding, you would be correct. I managed to get in 19 miles today @ an average speed 19.4 mph. My legs felt good the entire ride. I just love having nice weather, beats riding the trainer everyday of the week. I hope the weather lasts through the weekend so I can get a nice long ride in. I think I'll take it easy tomorrow & recover for Saturday's ride. That's about all for now.

Two of my fav things

Today I was able to combine two of my favorite things. I had church today so I rode the wind trainer. I also found out that there is a free preview of NHL Center Ice on DirecTV. So I rode for an hour & fifteen minutes while watching two of my favorite teams. The Blackhawks fell to the Flyers, while the Thrashers beat the Predators in a shootout. All in all it was a good night.

Back on the Bike

Today was another nice day & I managed to get about 17 miles in today. My legs felt a bit heavy after yesterday's ride, but still felt good. It's nice to be riding after last week. I hope the weather is good the rest of the week, but we'll just have to see. Let's hope for a good ride tomrrow.

....

Got to ride today

I managed to get in a ride today!!!!!!!! I hurried home from work & changed faster than I ever have before. I rode for about 19 miles. Out on the road felt great. My legs felt pretty good considering I hadn't ridden since New Year's Day. My average speed was good too, just short of 19 mph. I'm hoping the weather is good during the rest of the week. Who knows, maybe I might get another ride in.

I hate being sick

All week I've been very tired & not feeling very well. I hate that I haven't been able to ride. Even riding indoors on the trainer is better than not riding at all. I took it easy this weekend & rested hoping to get over this cold. It seems to have worked so far. I am looking forward to riding the wind trainer this week & hopefully doing some long slow rides this weekend. We'll just have to see how this week goes. I am looking forward to the coming season. I hope to ride more & ride stronger than last year, but we'll just have to see how things workout during the year.

Here's to a good year riding.