What a great day! We had cookies, a nice climb, screaming descent, Mexican for lunch. Thom was truly surprised that the birthday dessert was his. He was convinced it was for Andrew - a soon to be 21 year old who smoked us all. But hey, he couldn't have a beer with HIS lunch.

My D'oh moment, I asked Bill what gear I was in on my rear cassette (first ride with the new stuff and it felt different.) Told him I hadn't developed the skills to turn around and look. He said, "Veronica, you don't turn around to look, you look between your legs." I looked and said, "Wow! you really can see it!" How many years have I been riding? Let's just say I'm NOT spatial.

I did go up most of the mountain one gear higher than normal. I thought I was in my 28, based on shifter position and feel, but nope I was one down from there. That was cool, since I have a tendency to get into my easiest gear and stay there.

We all survived the climb and plan to do it again in two weeks.

V.