Hey, welcome to another rider from the land of 10,000 lakes. Well, I' m not much of a winter rider myself so I'm much like you--starting over. Fortunately in less than a month I am doing a 4 day 350+ mile ride around S. Minnesota to raise money for AIDS (Red Ribbon Ride) which means I have to get my butt in gear, and fast! Nothing motivates a girl much like the thought of 4/ 100 or so miles days in a row on the bike in steamy July! The weather here hasn't been all the great as well so far this Spring, which means I've been struggling to get started. Luckily today is beautiful, so I hope your ride goes well. Head downtown tonight and watch the pros at the Great River Energy Festival--watching the women and men zoom around the downtown crit is sure to motivate a girl!! I want to grow up and be just like them Even if you aren't into the racing scene it's still a sight to behold how fast they go. And if you really want to see a motivating sight check out the crit in downtown Stillwater on Sunday with it's 24% grade--makes me wince as they speed up that hill time after time (I'd be happy to make it once!)...well, happy riding, maybe I'll see ya on the road!!