Hey Sue,
Too bad you guys aren't riding to Portland this weekend.
I'm planning to ride it on Saturday again; that'll make it an even 5 times and maybe then I will have gotten it out of my system!
So, now all the heavy duty mileage training, prepping etc is done and I know that the main motivation when I'm still some miles outside of Portland on Saturday, all tired, feeling aches everywhere, is to think of getting to the finish, heading to the shower and cracking open a cold beer...aaahhhhhh! That way I can sleep in and wander over to the finish line and enjoy the 2-day riders' arrival, after a leisurely breakfast on Sunday!

Sounds like you're getting in good training for the Courage Classic. I've heard that it's a super-supported ride. You'll ride Snoqualmie, Blewett and Stevens on it, right? I've done the first 2 passes a few times each and you'll have a great time! They are the best for whooping and hollering on the descents!
Mary