Oh boy...were the goddess's playing with the stars or something last Saturday? I wasn't going to mention my ride, but...

The ride was going well UNTIL the trail markers showed different numbers than the ones on the forest service map...as in, are we lost? So...after assessing that if we didn't turn back and take another trail, we'd be riding around a mountain all day. That was just a little dark cloud. I was leading, but when we turn around, I was in the back. No biggie until these two women on horse back came up behind me and and were paying no attention to the fact that I could not ride out ahead fast enough (over rocks up hill) and their horses were freaking out on me...the women just ignored my shout-outs to back off for 30 seconds, plus, ignored their horses being upset by my presence. On top of that, they were loud and gossiped something fierce to the point I was getting a headache. I felt as if I were in a bad dream where I could not get away and pedal fast enough...the guys were gone...OK, got over all that as soon as I caught up with the guys...But, right after that, I caught a bush in my derailer, fell to the right with the bike on me (you should see the 6" black beauty on my inner AND outter thigh). The derailer was mangled and I lost all but my 3 large gears. Then I bonked from all the nervous energy...plus guys never came back because I can "take care of myself" and "didn't blow the whistle for help". So, I stopped, said a few cuss words, took my shirt off, sat down and ate some food. After that, I just could not get my focus back. I had slipping gears, could only ride straight aways and the last 1.5 miles was all up hill...all my skill were gone and I was dabbing, falling so, I stopped and walked it in. I was too beat up on Sunday to try and ride; lots of bruises that didn't show up until the next day.

Took the bike to the mechanic...$5.00 bucks later, a pat on the back, I was fine. I also found a wire choker full of rinstones that hooks into my helmet beautifully. It reminds me of a circus elepant's head jewels...Missliz, this tiara thing really does cheer up the day.

One more thing...
I don't think the guys understood. Sigh...glad you ladies are here.
Terry