More and Less

New Year... three weeks in. I feel inspired by the Distance Challenge you boys are doing, and the blogging. I was really happy to receive an invitation to join this smack talking forum (thanks, Marc!). I'm new to blogging, and as the only chick on this blog I may have to sprinkle in the occasional hearts and flowers. Along with tales of bike grease, headwinds, awesome hills, and the like.

I've committed to riding 2,500 miles on my bike this year. There. I've said it. You are my witness. I think this goal is both achievable and will be a stretch for me, too.

I've adopted "More and Less" as a theme for the year. My mileage goal is part of that. More of what I love, more time outside, being active, connecting to the elements, nature, and friends. More miles on my bike. More camping, more hiking. More time laughing, loving, being present. I'm hopeful that Liam will get inspired and join me on two wheels this year! Less time in pursuits that aren't fulfilling. Less time being scattered. Less time on frivolous spending, time or money.

So, I went for a chilly, drizzly ride with Celeste yesterday. Two pink Pinarellos, 25 miles. If we hadn't planned to ride together, I'm pretty sure my day would have involved a book, a sofa, a blanket, and a cat or two. But off we went! We didn't break any land speed records, but it felt great! We did the "Money Loop" from her house, Lake Austin (very low water), up Mt. Bonnell, down some others, Exposition, Bull Creek, Hancock, Shoal Creek and back into town on Lamar. Shannon was a good pre and post ride supporter, helping us get out the door. It was seriously comical. Celeste and I went for awesome zuchini migas at Bouldin Cafe afterwards, and brought our calendars. We planned rides together for the next month. Two new and longer ones for me that I'm looking forward to, Fitzhugh Rd. and the Cream Cheese ride from Cedar Park.

Thanks for having me, you awesome cycling dudes! Fun and safe riding to all!

PS Marc - comment on your post about potential places to live: I have not been to Ashville yet, but hear that a lot of people there are short on teeth. Just sayin.