Quote Originally Posted by Embellina
Thanks for all the wonderful suggestions! I'll try reversing my route and branching out a little beyond my comfort zone...

And perhaps we can file my previous post in the category of speaking too soon. My ride today (on my very regular route) surprised me and turned out to be absolutely fascinating. About halfway through, I decided to try going no-hands. I entertained myself for a good 20 minutes trying to keep my balance and even succeeded in sitting up for a few seconds at a time! Coming from a klutzy girl who would never have attempted this as a child, this was a big feat! Still a ways to go before I can throw both my hands in the air at a sprint finish, though!

It's wonderful when rides inspire you and you discover you're capable of more than you thought!
congrats on the riding no-handed. Thats one of those skills you may never really need - but boy it's sure nice to have when you DO need it!