Quote Originally Posted by emily_in_nc

I wish I could feel my dad's presence, as some of you mention. I have hoped to dream about him, maybe receive some sort of sign that he is "ok", but I haven't, and this entire incidence has definitely tested my faith.

I think I need a break from riding to gain perspective. Right now I see death around every corner, and I know that's not the reality. I think that time off will do me good. Since my husband is in the same state of mind right now, he's not encouraging me to ride but to do other things with him that are equally good for us, like long woodland hikes.
Emily
Hi Emily - MM here sending you hugs and best wishes and more hugs. So sorry to hear about your dad. So far, I've been extremely lucky and not lost anyone special or close to me but I have lost pets.

When I left home for university our family dog , who I'd grown up with for 15 years, died and I didn't get a chance to say goodbye, but several months later I had this amazing dream. There he was, I was patting him on the head and petting him . It was so real and it was if I'd finally got to say goodbye. I know he was 'only' a pet dog but I loved him, so I can only imagin what you must be going through to loose a parent.

As far as the bike goes, maybe a few months off is a good idea. Afterall it is winter now, so maybe it's worth taking a leaf out of the natural work and taking a rest while the weather (and life ) is cold and dark. Who knows what the spring may bring when the sun starts to warm the earth and all the little green shoots start to germinate and life begins again.

Best wishes and take care
Liz