I could sure use some good karma...

[rocknrollgirl]

Trying to get the bikes and the bodies to Nationals in Tahoe has just about pushed us over the limit. I had a sinking feeling in my gut when I decided to go, that it might prove to be too much at the start of the new school year to get both of us and our rides out there.

We were doing ok, until it came to breaking down the mt bikes and shipping them out. The cost has just about beaten the enthusiasm right out of me. They will not fit in a standard bike case, especially not the DH's bike, he rides a niner.

So by the time we get them boxed and the wheels boxed and insured and out there...it is going to cost some serious money. Not to mention having to rebuild them once there.

I know I should be thrilled about going, but right now I am so completely overwhelmed just about getting there, it hardly seems worth it.

There have been tears...

Oy.....( I really could use a Mom pep talk about now)

[teigyr]

I know what it's like to be overwhelmed. Take it one step at a time - it'll work though I hate it when people say that to me.

Can you get a case to fit DH's bike? How long will the rebuild take? Are you shipping FedEx/UPS or on your airline?

You're in the worst of it right now. I think once you get there it will be SUCH a relief, you just have to get through this right now. The cost is only about the toll on you two emotionally; money is only money. You're building experience and memories and all of that is worth FAR more than what you pay to get the bikes out there.

Is there a shop that can handle the rebuild out there? Seems like a silly expense but it takes the pressure off of you. How about where you live? Is there someone that can just make it happen with a nominal payment from you?

I feel for you though. The only thing I can suggest is take a slight break, relax, and list everything out. Separate what is emotion and what you just have to get done. After that, go on auto-pilot to get stuff done then let it go...

I know. I wouldn't listen to me either but I go through this stuff a lot so I really can relate. That and I know you have trained so hard, is a shame to let something like this take you down.

Jane

[Veronica]

Whoaaa!!! Hold the phone Jack! You're coming to Tahoe? When? Geez... I'd drive up there to see you race.

The start of school is always hard. I don't know why this, but that's the way of the world.

You're coming to Tahoe! You're coming to Tahoe! Woohoo!!!

See, I can't even have a coherent thought. Yeah, it's expensive to ship your bikes. But you're going to Nationals! I'd be hugging you and doing a happy dance around you if you were here - or I were there.

You're coming to Tahoe! You're coming to Tahoe! Yippee!!!

How cool is that?!?! It's a hassle now, but the event and the memories will make it worth it.

V.

[kerrybelle]

I'm always eager to send you good karma! I will keep good happy thoughts for you guys & all your gear. You've trained hard for this and I'm sure you're going to do great. Just don't forget to have a good time while you're at it.

Did you shop around for shipping prices? I know there's a pretty big difference between UPS & FedEx. I think FedEx was cheaper when we sold some of our old bikes.

Sorry I missed you yesterday. It would have been nice to see you.

Kerry

[rocknrollgirl]

Thanks guys. Kerry, nice to see you back on the boards. I have shopped around a bit. As you well know, Chris's bike is gianormous, especially the wheels. That is the problem. Anyway...we will get it worked out one way or another. It just seems it should be easier.


And V, yes I am coming to Tahoe...you coming to Tahoe? Will I get to meet you?

We will be there from September 27th-Oct 1st. My race is on the 30th.

[Veronica]

Unfortunately no. But hang on to the excited, this is super cool feeling, because it is. The rest is just the tedium of details.

V.

[LBTC]

Huge, delighted, weight bearing, worry lifting butterflies headed your way. This is worth it, you're going to Nationals!

Hugs, more hugs, and tons of butterflies,
~T~

[tygab]

I know it seems difficult now, but think for a moment of all those who would love to be in your shoes - most people will never have the chance to compete at an elite, national level in any of their pursuits. You do! It will be an amazing time, from the moment you check in with the vibe of other excited athletes all around you. You may stop and think to yourself a few times "Whoa, pinch me, am I really here??" The best part is you've earned the right to be there.

So stay the course, because it will be worth it. You just can't feel that in this moment, but you'll always wonder "what if," if you were to abandon now... these opportunities don't often come around twice.



Is that a good start?

[Trekhawk]

Trying to get the bikes and the bodies to Nationals in Tahoe has just about pushed us over the limit. I had a sinking feeling in my gut when I decided to go, that it might prove to be too much at the start of the new school year to get both of us and our rides out there.

We were doing ok, until it came to breaking down the mt bikes and shipping them out. The cost has just about beaten the enthusiasm right out of me. They will not fit in a standard bike case, especially not the DH's bike, he rides a niner.

So by the time we get them boxed and the wheels boxed and insured and out there...it is going to cost some serious money. Not to mention having to rebuild them once there.

I know I should be thrilled about going, but right now I am so completely overwhelmed just about getting there, it hardly seems worth it.

There have been tears...

Oy.....( I really could use a Mom pep talk about now)

Oh no Im so disappointed. I live about an hour from Tahoe and would love to have come and seen you race but I have the MS150 ride that weekend. Gee why does everything happen on the same weekend.
GOOD LUCK and I look forward to hearing all about your race.

[Wahine]

So I composed this very thoughtful post yesterday and when I hit post obviously something happened because it's not on here!!!

And now I don't have much time.

Key points - Ask for help, financial or in the form of labour, from your LBS and friends. You'd be amazed at what your LBS might do for you if you tell them you're going to nationals. They might do some work for you to pack up the bikes or give you some boxes to "borrow", that sort of thing. Think of what ever you can and don't be afraid to ask.

Second - look into who is doing the bike maintainance for the race, they'll likely have a discounted deal (or maybe even free) to rebuild. At least that's what happens at IM.

This is the tough part. The hay is in the barn and now you have to deal with all these little details that could make or break your race day. It'll make you squirrelly. So make a list (I think someone already suggested that), check it twice or a thousand times (whatever works). Stop and just breathe periodically. I make myself clear my mind and take 5 deep breaths.

Yipppppppppppeeeeeeee, you're going to Tahoe. Wish I could be there.

[rocknrollgirl]

Hi Guys,
Thanks again for all of the support. I called what serves as our "LBS" today to see if I could get a box for Chris's bike today. Our lbs is a teeny, tiny shop that builds beach cruisers.

They did however tell me that when they get their pick ups from UPS, that the delivery guy does not measure their boxes, it is a flat rate. I am assuming it is cheaper than the 2OO each way they want for DH's bike.

That being said, when I go to pick up the box today, I am going to tell them I am going to Nationals, and see if they will ship them for us. We will pay, but can we have the pick-up and drop off there. If we can get their UPS rate, it may help.

Once I get this detail taken care of, it will be a huge load off.

I think everything just converged at once and is wearing me down.

I will have three days before the race once we arrive, so I can chill a bit and enjoy the experience.