Wow, Darby, good on ya for being so motivated, dedicated and keeping your priorities regarding the kiddo where you need them to be !

Quote Originally Posted by mtbdarby
I need to buy a bike rack for my car
That one's easy, shop for a used rack. Try craigslist, websites or publications put out by local cycling clubs, the classifieds. Ask your cycling buddies for help with the technical aspects of what kind you need, do that research before you shop. You can save some serious money buying used and have that much more for components .

I met a paramedic (hey, he could come in handy for the biking season, right?, lol!). We've hit it off so well it's scaring the crap out of me. So I'm going to take it easy and see what happens but I've already let him know that my training is very important to me right now.
Having a paramedic on hand could certainly come in handy ! It's that last sentence that's important. You told him up front where your priorities are. Sometimes saying it out loud to someone else helps remind ourselves. Good for you!

You ask this question:

Quite seriously, I really would like to know if deep down I only mountain bike and race as some sort of connection to my ex bf.
You answer it with your own words (and my bolding ):

Where biking is concerned, I’ve set a goal this year to do a 12 hour enduro event May 13th.

After this weekend though, every weekend long ride will be my personal record so that is exciting and motivating to me!

On the other hand, I don't know that it matters because it makes me feel good about myself to get out there and pedal. That race to me is like my spiritual journey, demon-fighting time, way to prove he didn't get me down, connect with God time.
Here's the hard one :

Heck, anyone in Indianapolis that I could ride bike with would be better!
I'd be right there with you if I could!