As I was riding home last night, I was thinking about how different I felt from even three weeks before, when I got my new bike. I had been out a couple of times prior to that, but the MN winter had kept me indoors and fairly sedentary until that point. I thought it might be fun to share some things we've noticed as new riders.

1. I am more awake during the day.
2. I sleep through the night, and I sleep well.
3. My legs feel stronger, more powerful.
4. I can breathe! When I was riding the first week or so, I'd get to the top of a hill and really feel like I was suffering to catch my breath. I noticed yesterday that my breathing was consistently nice and even, even when my thighs were burning as I worked my way up hills.
5. I am perkier/more positive during the day.
6. I'm proud of myself!
7. My DH is proud of me!
8. I am more conscious of what I eat. I fin myself asking if it will be good fuel for my ride.
9. I've gotten to know parts of town I had never seen before.
10. I am skipping the coffee shop because I'd rather have another jersey or pair of shorts than a latte. (So I make my coffee at home instead!)

Just a start.