~~~~ When I cycle I feel free ~~~~

Originally uploaded by Orhan*

Last week was rough.  Every part of my life seemed like it was being flung into chaos.  The worst was in the love department, and I just didn’t know what to do to get back on track.  I found the answer.  if you have been reading my blog for awhile, you know that I am doing a century ride for the American Diabetes Association in June.  On Friday, I bought my bike.  It’s lovely.  It’s a Giant Defy and it was made for me.  I met my coworker, who is doing the bike tour with me, on Saturday to begin my training. 

I now know that expression “It’s just like riding a bike” is true.  I haven’t ridden on a bike, other than stationary, since I was a teenager.  However, when I got on my bike, I felt like I had never gotten off.  We went to the W&OD Trail starting in Vienna and did 16 miles.  I was so proud of myself because I didn’t know that I would be able to do that much the first time.  Yes, I do spinning twice a week but it’s not the same as actually riding a bike outdoors.  

I googled for training schedules, and I think I have found the perfect one:

I am going to continue doing spin class twice a week, a short ride during the week, and then a long ride on the weekend.  Every week or so, I am going to increase my long ride by 10%.  I think by June, I will be able to handle 100 miles.  =)

I also went to my friend Denyse’s birthday party.  Before, I would have flaked, but this time, I went and glad that I did.  I met some awesome people who I never would have met.  Also I saw Denyse, who is one of the most genuine people that I have ever encountered.  I would have stayed longer, but thought I was going riding today, but it got cancelled. =( Oh well, next time.

On my way there and back, which is 40 minutes, I talked to Bridget.  We talked about everything and anything, and I was glad that we were able to.  We discussed our guilty pleasure The City, and how proud we were of Whitney for letting go of her boyfriend even though she was dying inside.  I totally understood where she was coming from because I am in a similar situation.  Therefore, it was the kick that I needed.  

My aunt also had her 50th birthday, and she looks great.  She has gone through so much in these last years, so I am glad that she was in good spirits to bring in a great year.  I hope I look as good as she does, and I hope that she gets everything that she wishes for.  

I had a great weekend, and I think I am going to remain alone for another nine months or so.  The kids are starting sports, I am doing a marathon, etc.  I don’t have time to really focus on my love life, so it’s taking the back burner.  As long as I keep doing new things, meeting great people, and being around my family, I will be ok.