We finally got to ride here. It's been raining for 3 days straight (don't get me wrong, we desperately needed it!) so eveyone has been feeling a bit cooped up.

Met up with about 4 other couples (there were 10 of us) and rode a nice 45 mile round trip ride from our town to a tiny town north of us. The route there was pretty direct, and quite hilly. We got there in about 17-18 miles and it was by far the worst 17 miles I've ever ridden. I had no explanation, but I was seriously dragging and doubting that I'd finish the ride. I was last up all the hills, and it was taking everything I had to keep up in the flatter areas. I didn't realize I was THAT out of shape! I even starting planning a winter training plan for myself because this was NO fun. By the time we got to the store were we all took a break, I'd figured that maybe my weight gain had finally done me in. I've been gaining for the past 2 years pretty steadily, but I've also managed to get progressively stronger to compensate. I just figured that I'd hit my strength limit and gone past it.

After using the restroom, I decided to check my brakes....yeah, the rear was rubbing. No wonder!!!

The last 25 or so miles were a breeze in comparison! I was not that out of shape, I did not have trouble keeping up, and my weight was not the problem!! What a relief!

From that point on, I made sure to appreciate my fitness, my strength and the gorgeous weather.