Hey girlies: I'm so happy to be part of this group, and have you all make a fuss over my small victories.
Showing up for that ride, and not knowing a soul, was just about terrifying. I walk right up to strangers every day on my job, but real life is waaaay different. I got divorced about five years ago, and it's not easy to get out among people you don't know. Ditto if you're worried about being the slowest slug at the end of the line.
However, I would encourage anyone who is thinking about it to beat the shyness of being the new kid and give a group a try.
My reward was six new friends, some pretty good biking advice, kudos from youall and beer and food after the ride (double bonus!). And even if these folks had been snooty or aloof, the next road would have been easier.
I finally just decided to pretend I was someone who wouldn't be shy about doing this (Katherine Hepburn!).
I've spent the last few days taking shorter, hillier rides for stamina, and I actually feel like I'm getting somewhere. Wooooohoooo! --Kymberli