I eat a bit more before a long ride, but less out of necessity and more out of "I'll likely burn this off anyway, so why not indulge?" I like pasta, so that's usually my meal of choice before a big ride, but I remember reading somewhere (the New York Times perhaps) that carb loading isn't as effective for women as it is for men.
Now water and hydration is a different story. Even if I don't change my eating habits much before a big ride, I will up my fluid intake 48 hours or so before the ride, especially in the summer. The first thing I do the morning of the ride is down another big glass of water. While it makes for more frequent stops, it makes for a better ride overall.
Live with intention. Walk to the edge. Listen hard. Practice wellness. Play with abandon. Laugh. Choose with no regret. Continue to learn. Appreciate your friends. Do what you love. Live as if this is all there is.
--Mary Anne Radmacher