Anyone else feel this way?

[mimitabby]

Denise, your story is nothing short of miraculous. I can't believe you've been struggling since you were 8 years old.
thanks for sharing your story; it's got to inspire lots of folks that you are doing as well as you are and looking as good as you are in your bike photo!

[pooks]

Denise -- that's an AMAZING story. You are an inspiration! Thank you for being so frank and sharing.

I wanted to add my recommendation for the camelbak.

I hate backpacks, just can't stand them. I wouldn't even consider wearing a backpack or even a messenger bag while cycling because it's so hot and I sweat so much and it would make me so miserable.

When we were in Colorado I ran into REI and picked up a couple of Camelbak rogues (I don't remember who recommended it here, but I remembered the name!) and we wore them on a hike, and it didn't bother me at all. It's so streamlined, and doesn't cover your entire bike like a backpack would.

Plus, another tip I read here -- I filled it with ice and then added water. The cold water was great, being able to sip constantly was great, and it keeps your back cool!

Do try the camelbak. I don't think you'll regret it.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Denise,
Thanks you SO much for sharing your wonderful and amazing story. You truly are an inspiration!

I love when you say: "If losing fat, gaining muscle & feeling awesome about yourself is a side effect of bicycling, then I AM A MILLION PERCENT IN LOVE WITH IT!!"
SO TRUE....it's NOT about losing weight, it's about getting fit and feeling great!
That means both in mind and body- together they create a whole sense of well-being. It's not about deprivation- it's about rejoicing.

I feel just the way you do about biking not feeling like exercise at all. Losing weight and getting fit while biking feels sort of like being paid to be an ice cream taster?...(sorry, only example I can think of!)

[Bikingmomof3]

Thank you Denise for sharing your life with us. You have been through a lot and it sounds like you have come through it with a very positive attitude. I agree with you about diets and I also agree that a positive attitude and healthy body are wonderful bonuses to biking.

I wanted to add my vote for a CamelPak. I have a small one, it is their "charm". It is wonderful, holds enough water and I do not mind it on my back, I do not really notice it at all. I purchased mine at Nashbar on sale, including a free cleaning kit. (no affiliation with Nashbar other than a satisfied customer).