Dear So and So

[Catrin]

My understanding from reading HMBA's trail condition thread is that Pine Loop often takes longer to dry than the other trails. I read a post recently that said something about giving it "a few" dry days. Well, we're not going to have a few dry days for a while.

Yes, I remember that now - I guess it is because the grade is more gentle than the other trails so it takes longer to dry...

There IS Limekiln, another beginner trail. I've hiked it and there is a bit in the middle that is more challenging, and there is certainly more elevation change on the trail. I don't know if you would feel comfortable with it - it is a good bit longer than Pine and there are no shortcuts out that I am aware of.

Personally I want to be able to ride Pine with a bit more confidence before branching out to Limekiln - especially with the odds of my riding solo. Nothing wrong with walking uncomfortable bits, but I think some tight turning drills will be helpful. I've had several women offer to ride with me but I suspect scheduling is going to be difficult...but hopefully something will work out.

Of course the HMBA site is showing none of their trails in the state rideable at this time

[Owlie]

Eden--Your knee is happier now? Yay!

While we're on the subject of weather:
Dear weather--Could you somehow arrange to not rain until after about 12:30 tomorrow so I can get a ride in? Thanks.

[indysteel]

Yes, I remember that now - I guess it is because the grade is more gentle than the other trails so it takes longer to dry...

There IS Limekiln, another beginner trail. I've hiked it and there is a bit in the middle that is more challenging, and there is certainly more elevation change on the trail. I don't know if you would feel comfortable with it - it is a good bit longer than Pine and there are no shortcuts out that I am aware of.

Personally I want to be able to ride Pine with a bit more confidence before branching out to Limekiln - especially with the odds of my riding solo. Nothing wrong with walking uncomfortable bits, but I think some tight turning drills will be helpful. I've had several women offer to ride with me but I suspect scheduling is going to be difficult...but hopefully something will work out.

Of course the HMBA site is showing none of their trails in the state rideable at this time

I watched a youtube video of somebody riding Limekiln. I think I can try it if I keep my speed down. With my brakes repositioned, I'm hopeful I'll be able to do that.

I'd offer to ride PL with you, but as I texted you after the clinic, I think we each need to ride with more experienced people for the time being. Someday, though. I have great hope for us both.

[Catrin]

I watched a youtube video of somebody riding Limekiln. I think I can try it if I keep my speed down. With my brakes repositioned, I'm hopeful I'll be able to do that.

I'd offer to ride PL with you, but as I texted you after the clinic, I think we each need to ride with more experienced people for the time being. Someday, though. I have great hope for us both.

I agree entirely - I don't think the mountain bike trail is the best place for two newbies to ride together without more experienced folks about - one of these days though

If Pine doesn't dry out soon then I will try a portion of Limekiln alone, just not the middle bit nor the steep end. No shame in walking portions of it until it I am more comfortable. I hope to get some practice in Friday, tomorrow night I need a GOOD road ride to get some exercise. Have had a couple of bad days and eaten things I shouldn't have

[marni]

dear weather gods,

thank you for the lovely 2' of rain we got today, and for the first measureable rain since early January, and for letting it fall before the entire state catches fire. Too bad that all the farmers have lost their crops and it's probably too late for a lot of the trees and it is only 1/10th of what we nedd to bring us anywhere back close to normal soil moisture, but thank you for making it a slow steady rain for most of the storm.

Now if you could just do something about the continual 90% humidity and 20 +mph gusting to 35 mph winds, I would be a happy girl.

[crazycanuck]

Dear bikes & swim stuff,

I'm sorry i'm unable to share in the fun at the moment. It's not pleasant when bones rub against your thorax & am not about to cause more annoyances.

Yes, I know it's annoying and i too am sad. Hopefully my dr will refer me to someone who can help with this.

*sniff* Poo..

Sad cyclist.

Dear Legs,

Thank you for having fun doing the long beach walks in the soft sand whilst we're off the bike.

[Owlie]

Dear Powers that Be:
Why am I not good enough to be able to do the things I want to do? Could you elaborate so that I may improve? The depressed and anxious patch I'm going through right now, thanks to you, is not helping me sleep.

[Catrin]

{{{Owlie}}}

Dear Weather,

I've not been able to head out on my bike since Sunday. Stress is starting to take a toll and I really need to ride. Please hold off on the rain until after I can get at least 20-25 miles tonight. I would appreciate it if I don't have to sprint in front of the storm back to my car 10 minutes after starting like Tuesday night. I know my request is minor considering how many are dealing with fire, floods, and drought but I really need to ride. Can you please give everyone a break and move our rain to parched and fiery places?

Thank you