a nice day. Cool and windy but nice.

I arrived at the parking lot and we looked like an invasion. It was really cool to leave the parking lot with a huge line of bicyclists all ready to conquer Mt. Diablo. It was good to see Marie there - she had already introduced herself to everyone (I don't think she has internet access this weekend but we should hear from her next week).

Marie had emailed me a few days before to inquire about the ride and I knew she would be a good fit with this crowd. She and I chatted all the way up to the summit, not too far behind Veronica, Thom, and Kelly. Veronica arrived at the junction ahead of us and turned around to sweep up the other riders (guess that means she did the junction twice!). Thom, Kelly, Marie, and I continued to the summit. Thom and Kelly were slightly ahead of us and climbed the last bit (about 100 meters of 17% grade). I chickened out of the steep grade bit. Marie probably would have tackled it if I were up to the task but decided I'd leave that bit to a little later in the season when I was in better shape. I might also try it with my new touring bike (with much lower gears than my compact double).

So, it was getting pretty darn cool at the top. We all took off. down, down, down. The decent always makes the climb worth it (in my opinion). I got a chance to chat with Kelly on the way down - very sweet - hope she can come out again! We waited for a bit at the junction but didn't want to get too cool, so took off again. Then a short stop to pick up MP and Em. Can I tell you how cute they are with their matching blonde ponytails on that tandem. Oh and then Thom, taking pictures with one hand on the handlebars and going about 30mph.

I wasn't able to stick around for lunch since I had to get to San Jose for the babtsism party. But I'm sure there will be plenty of Hill Training Rides in the future. And of course you all are welcome to join the LUNA Chix on Thursday nights at 6:15pm for a ride to the junction (meet at California Pedaler in Danville).

Happy Memorial Day weekend!!!!!