The Great Escape....

Ever have one of those days when you think you will just pluck the head off the next person who talks to you (or even looks at you?) Yesterday was that day. Cranky husband, funky kids, long work day.... Decided that I was not fit for man nor beast until I burned off some steam. I decided that I would undertake this hill (does not do it justice) by my house that I noticed on my ride the other day. I think I will call it the MONSTER. I was determined to show the hill who was boss. After I had made it about 1/2 way up I reminded myself that what does not kill me will make me stronger. At about 3/4 of the way I was almost certain I was going to die. I did not give up, my legs did, I blame them. I ended up getting OFF my bike and WALKING it up the last 1/4 of the hill. SHAME!!! I rode home, crankier than ever, and opened a bottle of wine. AHHH, now thats better. I am totally goint to kick that hills *** tonight!!!

Walking the last quarter isn't giving up. You had the option of turning back and not walking that last quarter. You still made it up the hill under your own power.

Hey there, NL... great ride... well done you!

I have a suggestion for the next time you tackle that hill.

Next time you have to stop and get off, choose not to walk. Stop, rest... yes. But when you are ready, get back on and ride.

WHY?

Because this gives you a huge psychological advantage.

Then, when you get home, and have that glass of wine, you can tell yourself that even though you had to stop once, or twice, or three times... you rode every single inch of that climb... And you will find next time you tackle it, you can ride just a few inches further...

When I first started biking, my motto was there wasn't a hill I wasn't afraid to walk up..then it became, maybe I will try going up that hill. I would stop 3 times, then it got to 2 times, and well, you know, eventually you will make it up that hill without stopping. Keep trying and don't give up. That hill will make you stronger (and happier;))