Thanks for the encouragement! I have tried to get into mountain biking several times now and in the past have gotten to a certain point and then given up - totally frustrated! This time feels very different. The biggest thing is that I lucked into the perfect bike for me. She's not flashy or shiny or new but she's perfect!! I can honestly say I don't have bike envy at all for anyone else's bike! Anyway, the other big difference is that I'm riding in groups now so I see others stuggle over some of the same stuff I struggled and it sort of validates my growth on the bike. Makes me feel much better and like maybe I don't completely SUCK!!

Today I road my first real clipless ride. The pedals went well. I bonked big time!! I only got through 1/2 of the ride. I had to go back to the car. I was dizzy - weak and jelly legged!!! I was actually having trouble WALKING my bike! YIKES! But tomorrow is another day. I'll try again.

OH - my friend that is hunting a bike road the Giant trance yesterday and she really liked it!! She's also in love with a specialized stump jumper. I don't blame her at all - it was a cool bike!!