It's been quite the day . . . went to the bike shop and spent over two hours there, between being fitted, putting on the computer, tape, cages . . . boy, and do I need some time getting use to the new seat!!! The bike is absolutely beautiful - actually much better looking when I knew she was finally mine!! I did pretty good with the clips - I have a tendency of walking with a bit of a "duck foot" stance, so when mounting my bike and placing my feet on the clips, I'm inclined to turn my feet out a bit, so I have to remember to point them straight - I told the fella, "I'm actually very coordinated, but today, I look clueless". It took some practice, but I think I'm going to be okay. And clipping out is much easier than clipping in. He suggested that when I first start riding to clip in with one foot, take some strokes, then clip in my other foot - works for me, so for now, that's what I'm going to stick with. He also traded out the stock seat and gave me a Bontrager WSD seat with a bit more cushioning. It wasn't my tush that was hurting, rather the more sensitive area - and oh, how embarassing explaining that one to him!! He was quite kind and I have to say, really catered to everything I was saying, and explained the do's and don'ts for me. Oh, and he took the stem off and turned it upside down, bringing my bars up just a tad. He said that this will help me adjust to the new position, and as I become more comfortable, he'll turn it right side up again - I'd never heard of this but he explained Bontrager makes them this way so the rider will get a better fit, and, it's simple to do, which makes his life much easier!!!

Let's see . . .oh yes, I got a helmet - he gave me a great deal on a Trek helmet - he only had the Giro Atmos, and I really didn't want to spend that much, and I actually like the fit of the Trek - room for my ponytail which was very important to me (besides protecting my brain, of course!!).

I took her out for a small ride trying to keep myself safe from all moving vehicles!!! It's smooth like butter, truly. I don't know how else to describe it. I'm absolutely thrilled with it and look forward to a longer ride tomorrow. I keep going back to my office (where I keep her) and just stand there, look and think to myself "I can't believe I finally got it."

Geez, I've written a book . . . sorry about that

Kathryn

P.S. Nanci - nice to hear about the foster family for the dog. I have a hard time keeping the news on when I see all the animals that were left behind, tied to trees . . . my heart mourns the loss of the people as well as the animals. How's everything going with your new bike? Still enjoying it?