Back in the saddle again

[eclectic]

Hello all
I am finally logging back on the site after a roller coaster year. As I told you last summer my DBF was diagnosed w/ cancer last July so I dedicated the year to him.
We were winning the fight against the cancer - his tumor shrunk from 13.5 cm to 4cm in 6 months. But he was one of the unlucky 3% to develop an allergic reaction to the chemo and passed away the beginning of May from a brain aneurysm.

Finally last Monday I got back on my bike. I have been trying to rebuild my running, lose the weight I gained (I gained what he lost) and will eventually get back in the pool. This year is going to be a rebuilding year w/ my sights set on next season.

BTW coming into last week I only had 129 miles on my new baby I purchased at the end of last summer (Specialized Ruby expert). I did a 24 mile practice run then did a 3 day tour of 162 miles
Took her out again tonight for a 23 mile run and I have decided I am going to LOVE her. I have been practicing using aero bars and LOVE them. The bike still needs some tweaking but she is AWESOME ! ! !

So anyway I am BACK ! ! ! Now I need to go catch up on the posts to see what everyone is and has been doing

[KnottedYet]

((((eclectic)))))

[crazycanuck]

Hey Ecclectic!

((((E)))

You're one amazing woman & will be back

[Wahine]

((((((((Hugs)))))))))

I had to go through a similar rebuilding phase. It's tough. We're here for you. It's so great that you're back out on your bike!!

[jesvetmed]

I'm so sorry about your BF. Experienced a dear friend's loss this last year, also. Hang in there -- you sound like you're on the right path. Exercise really helps clear the brain, and in the end, you feel better for it. Congrats for getting back on the bike -- I hope you enjoy your "new" baby. Big hugs.
Jes

[rocknrollgirl]

I am really sorry for your loss. Really. Glad you are getting back on your bike. Exercise always helps me through troubled times.

[colby]

Hey Eclectic, good to see you. Welcome back. The good news, you're already on the road to recovery and loving it!

Sorry for your loss, make sure to enjoy some of your days for those he wasn't able to have -- he'll understand.

[NbyNW]

Eclectic -- deepest sympathies.

We lost a childhood friend in a very similar manner last year, and I've spent a lot of time thinking about how losing someone you've been planning your future with (his widow is also a childhood friend) is sharply different from losing a brother, son, colleague, friend.

Take good care of yourself, and best wishes as you move forward.

[cosc]

Eclectic, I'm sorry to hear about the loss of your DBF.

I'm glad you are enjoying your travels on your new ruby. Indeed riding seems to clear the brain of all except the important details of life.

[Tri Girl]

Oh Eclectic- I'm so sad to hear of your loss. We're here for you, and I'm glad that you came back to join us. We'll help you as you rebuild your life and your cycling. You can count on us.
I'm glad that you'll love your new bike- she's quite the catch! Keep on riding and it'll help you in more than a few ways.
Hugs to you, friend!