It was a gorgeous ride -- the weather was perfect, the wind wasn't too bad, all car drivers were courteous. The funny part is that it almost didn't happen, as I was coming up with every excuse in the book not to ride. Finally I went for the ride, and even then I was making excuses to cut it short. I really would have missed out.

Mantra: No matter what, just keep on pedaling!

It's amazing how well this works, even as your laboring uphill with a headwind comin' at ya!

Riding Philosophy 1: It doesn't matter if you're not fast -- if you don't keep riding, how the heck are you ever going to get faster?!

Riding Philosophy 2: Yes I have a nice bike, but I'm still slow. But just imagine how much slower I'd be if I didn't have such a nice bike!

Riding Philosophy 3: The nice bike doesn't care if you're slow -- it's just glad to be out in the fresh air and not gathering dust in the garage!