Last night I had some stomach issues and really questioned if I would feel like meeting DH today after work. I woke up with cramps but put my bike in the car anyway because it was supposed to be mid 70's and it is almost the time change. After a stressful afternoon I decided to head to the trail. I get off an hour before DH and he encouraged me to start without him. This is a beginner to intermediate trail so I should have been just fine by myself. When I got there I spent 15 minutes sitting in my car or walking around trying to tell myself I could go alone.
Finally I just told myself to give it a shot. I hit the singletrack and was shaking from my tremor and nerves. I hit the first obstacle, the rock bridge and didn't quite make it up. This thing is fairly easy but for some reason I am looking at the rocks instead of past them. Weird thing is at first I flew over this. Anyway I went on, rode on to some harder stuff and even took a descent that rattles me. I had to roll up to it 3 times before I dropped! DH finally arrived and we rode together. I made several climbs I had not in the past. After nearly two hours I was happy but pooped. DH did one lap, hit a tree and came back with a bloody finger! I just got a few bruises from bailing out too quick and all was well. I think I did about 12 miles. 
The best part is I have a couple days I may get off at noon and I now know I can go ride this trail alone and have fun. What a great way to end what was a crappy day!
Amanda
2011 Specialized Epic Comp 29er | Specialized Phenom | "Marie Laveau"
2007 Cannondale Synapse Carbon Road | Selle Italia Lady Gel Flow | "Miranda"
You don't have to be great to get started, but you do have to get started to be great. -Lee J. Colan