Spain, a brief entry

Long day of travel to get here. We all arrived and built up our bikes. There are several that have done both camps. It's a diverse group of people with different abilities and goals. Needless to say I'm the slowest climber here. But that's okay. Everyone is great and we've laughed and laughed.

Day 1 we went for an "easy" ride to shake out the legs. It hasn't rained here in almost a month and the air is terribly dry with a lot of dust kicked up by the farm trucks and autos. I started wheezing 15 minutes into the ride. Could not figure out what was up. Finally at one hour I gave and jumped in the van. Started the AdVair at full dose. Made it to the local gas station and bought a buff. Now I look like a bandito while riding my bike, but at least it helps keep the wheezing at bay.

Day 2 was the most climbing Ive ever done. OUCH but man what a ride. 

Day 3 we were given the option of riding the whole day or taking the van to the race and then riding back after the cyclists came through. I took the second option. We started with a 3k climb that made my quads scream. Then there was a 15K descent that was wild. About 2K down I realized my brakes weren't closed. STUPID! So I stopped and fixed that. The remaining way down to the town was breathtaking. When we got back I started to get down on myself for not doing the full day. But stopped that quickly enough as there are several days of serious climbing left. These legs aren't used to it. There are some fantastic descents as well as some hellacious climbs.

Today we are doing an "easy" 3 hours starting at lunch. Tomorrow is to be a hard day. Friday is off for sightseeing and such. Saturday is to be the toughest day.

I hope everyone is doing well and enjoying the end of their February!

much love and peace

It's travel eve

and the laundry is done and the last minute shopping. The bike is packed in it's box, but I forgot to change the brake pads back to the black ones. We'll do it Sunday when we build it up. I've not packed anything and am too tired to do it now. 

The weather channel says we might get significant snowfall in Louisville on Sunday. I'll miss it. Looks to be 60 - 67 in Malaga as the highs. However, I doubt it'll be that warm up in the mountains. 

No phone while I'm there, just internet. I hope to post pictures. I hope i remember to take pictures. I hope my carryon isn't too heavy. 

ugh, time to turn in. Early rise to pack and mark off the check list.

peace

So, it's 14 Feb

and I've not written much, not ridden my bike enough and not been serious enough about job hunting. I've been a real slacker. So I finally got on the trainer this week and started core work and yoga too. 

Feeling like a big fraud. I talk good shit. I have all of the right words and answers. But when it comes right down to it I'm a big scaredy cat and maybe somewhat depressed and a bit overwhelmed with the fact I'm unemployed at 53 1/2 and single and without a date in almost 2 years. 

I leave for Spain on Saturday to ride my bike in mountains for 8 days. Oh man am I way over my head with this stuff! I know I'll have a blast. I'll meet lots of new people and Get To Ride My Bike!  The goal is to get stronger while climbing hills. 

My oldest came and picked me up today and we went to Mom's and took her to lunch. I got good hugs and kisses from both of them. Then I saw my youngest this evenin' and got good kisses and hugs from her too. Life is good.

Wish I wasn't so afraid of rejection. I want to tell someone how I feel. They already know. But I know deep down they don't feel the same way. sheese   ha ha  

Live today and stop being afraid! I know I'd rather feel the hurt and pain than stop living and loving. 

Have a lot to do when I get back. March will be the time of focus and action to be sure.

not publicizing this post 'cause I'm a big chicken. 

I love so many. I need to find a proper outlet for my energy and love. Before I drive myself totally nutz.  

peace