Oak, I think the person who left the forum, stating that she felt unwelcome as a conservative, may have also been somewhat freaked out by lesbians. She didn't say this, but I was reading between the lines. I think she realized that her views were somewhat different from everyone else's and couldn't get past that, to talk about cycling. I am sure there are plenty of conservative cyclists... somewhere.
On the physical part, well, I mentioned this in another thread. I've had a year of lots of immunological/allergy stuff and a mild resurgence of my supposed fibro symptoms. However, I have a friend (a cousin, sort of) who really does have fibro, and what she experiences is similar, but I just don't have to stay home and do total rest like she does, nor do I have an cognitive symptoms. Work doesn't tire me out, like it does to her. I just have less tolerance for intense exercise. However, it's cyclical, so I am hoping it will eventually get better. Since I am returning to my previous health club, I will be doing a lot more stuff this winter, in addition to my nordic skiing/snow shoeing. Lots of spin classes and I will definitely be at Tabatta and circuit training 2X a week. The club is practically next door to the condo, so I am looking forward to that. So, my mantra is to keep out there, maybe just less distance if I am not feeling well. But, my head is ready for more. Hoping for a mild enough winter that I can ride a little outside in January and February, for the first time in a couple of years, to get more miles. I am hoping adding more yoga back in, will help, too. What worries me is that I have been having thoughts of cutting down my work more, but I have no idea why. I would be bored without more structured activities. Not going there...