I Know This Much is True

1. Riding a bike is like, well, riding a bike. Just because I did not ride my bike for 1 1/2 years did not mean I was starting over.

2. While going up a hill, it is really important to be sure you know how to shift down and how NOT to shift up.

3. No hill is insurmountable but some seem to last a really long time.

4. While travelling at 30 mph (downhill, I am not that good) a bug hitting your cheek hurts and will leave a mark. Just another reason I dislike bugs.

5. Not falling makes for a much more enjoyable first ride back.

6. I need to show more appreciation for road maintenance crews-their job is really important to cyclists.

7. There is a reason bike shorts/apparel is black. I dropped my chain on my first climb, and was able to get it back on fairly quickly/easily, but I got FILTHY.

8. I am much more intimidated going down most hills than up.

9. If you 'listen' to your bike, it is easy to tell when to shift-this is a lesson that has taken me a really long time to learn.

10. I am excited to get back out on my bike on the open road.

So, I did my first real bike ride on an actual road. It went well-no spills, no dog chases, and great weather. It was an easy ride and I basically practiced a lot of shifting, clipping/unclipping, and worked on getting comfortable back in the saddle. I only rode 10 miles, but it went really well and was actually fun. I am looking forward to getting out on some group rides with my triathlon club soon.

Before my ride, we had a great Sunday. We bribed Andrew to be good in church, and he was about as good as he has ever been. The deal was if he behaved we would go to a local playground and have breakfast there before playtime. We were meeting two other families there, so I am really glad Andrew cooperated during mass which was no easy feat being that it was Passion Sunday. It was really nice to meet up with our friends and enjoy this amazing weather we are having. Tomorrow the weather is supposed to turn quite chilly and miserable for 2 days before improving, so I will be back to the gym for a spin class followed by a quick run for a brick workout. I know it is going to be tough being back inside for my workout, but hopefully I will be back outside soon.