HI Anne

thanks for the training schedule. I've printed it off and will take a look. I just wrapped up my work for the Summer so it's time to get serious about this! My father has adult on-set diabetes (I think that's type 2) so That's a cause I'm interested in! Re the Aspen ride - you can do as much or little as you want. the climbs are pretty gradual - nothing like riding over Independence Pass or anything. I think the first stretch is gains about 1500 feet over 12 miles, then up to Maroon Bells you gain another 1500 feet over 8 miles. There are alot of people who just do those 2 sections and then head back into town. We're going to ride (at least) from Woody Creek out to the Monastery, to the Deaf Camp and back to Woody Creek. Most of that is pretty level or easy grades. The Monastery is great as the monks all bake cookies and have lemondae in the barn - it's always the favorite rest stop. The website StayAspenSnowmass.com will have the best hotel deals - usually in early Sept things are cheap - at least by Aspen standards.You can easily get a very nice room for $100. Thanks again for the suggestions. Good luck with YOUR ride....we'll keep it in the back of our minds and if the training goes really well, maybe we can make it.

I work out with a trainer 2 days a week and am not sure how to combine that with all the riding. I am not fit enough to go for a ride, then do a trainer workout. Am wondering if I should back off w/the trainer, or skip a day of riding. Appreciate any suggestions on that !

thanks again!