For the first time since February. :) It felt amazing to be out on the road in the morning again. I have lost so much fitness, but I am not back to where I started so I just need to pick up from where I currently am and move on. It is about 7.5kms. Not sure how long it took. The ride in to work contains a 6km slight but steady uphill stretch that I really felt. But it felt great. I am going to leave the bike here overnight (it is locked in the shed) and will ride home tomorrow. Just until I am used to being back on the bike.
I am back baby!!!!!!!!!!
xox
Showing posts with label cycling. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cycling. Show all posts
Monday, September 26, 2011
Saturday, September 24, 2011
A month has passed...
Jeepers I am a slacker... Rather than having nothing to say there has been too much. But that is all in the past, no point playing catch up.
Two things to talk about today.
I started a "Fat Chick Yoga" class today. Well, they don't actually call it fat chick yoga, that is my spin on it. It is called "Plus Sized Yoga". I have always wanted to do yoga but have always shied away thinking my size would make it difficult. So when this popped up, I was over the moon.
Only 3 people turned up, although 6 paid their deposit. Hopefully more come next week. She took us through some basic poses and breathing exercises, very gently, and teaching us how to modify them for our size.
Can I just say - I LOVED it! It was absolutely incredible. It felt amazing - although I am getting sore now and there is a chance I will not be able to move tomorrow. :) I was so surprised at how much of my flexibility I have retained from my dancing days. I was the biggest person there, but also the most flexible, so that made me feel pretty good. There was only one pose I did not attempt and that was because it was over extending the Achilles, so I did it on my right leg but not my left. But my Achilles did not hurt in any of the poses at all so I was thrilled with that. Unfortunately there is no class next week, but I can not wait for the next class.
The other news is something I have hinted at before.
As you know I am now an Ambassador for the Cancer Council of SA. My goal in taking in this role was to do a big fundraiser. I came up with the idea a few months ago and have been trying to work out if it is "doable".
Well, I have decided that it is, so I am going to go for it.
My goal is to raise $20,000 and to do that I have put together a team of 8 people. 6 of us (3 men and 3 women) are going to ride our bikes from Alice Springs to Adelaide (1550kms) in August 2013. The other 2 team members will be out support crew. As a team we are planning on doing 10 months of intensive fundraising during which time I want to raise a minimum of $20,000 and raise a whole lot more awareness for the Cancer Council and the work they do.
I have 5 definitely riders and 1 definite support crew already, with other people currently considering whether or not they will be involved. I am starting my training this week, since I am basically starting from scratch. The others will determine based on their own fitness when they feel the best time to start their own training will be.
I am excited, but also terrified. The logistics alone is a bit overwhelming. Add to that the thought of riding 1500kms in 12 days, and I am silently freaking out. But I will do this.
I will keep my other blog - http://ridingwithareason.blogspot.com/ - updated with my training and fundraising etc, but will also let you know here when that gets updated.
Hopefully it is less than a month before I see you all again. I do want to get back to my blogging. I miss you all. :)
xox
Two things to talk about today.
I started a "Fat Chick Yoga" class today. Well, they don't actually call it fat chick yoga, that is my spin on it. It is called "Plus Sized Yoga". I have always wanted to do yoga but have always shied away thinking my size would make it difficult. So when this popped up, I was over the moon.
Only 3 people turned up, although 6 paid their deposit. Hopefully more come next week. She took us through some basic poses and breathing exercises, very gently, and teaching us how to modify them for our size.
Can I just say - I LOVED it! It was absolutely incredible. It felt amazing - although I am getting sore now and there is a chance I will not be able to move tomorrow. :) I was so surprised at how much of my flexibility I have retained from my dancing days. I was the biggest person there, but also the most flexible, so that made me feel pretty good. There was only one pose I did not attempt and that was because it was over extending the Achilles, so I did it on my right leg but not my left. But my Achilles did not hurt in any of the poses at all so I was thrilled with that. Unfortunately there is no class next week, but I can not wait for the next class.
The other news is something I have hinted at before.
As you know I am now an Ambassador for the Cancer Council of SA. My goal in taking in this role was to do a big fundraiser. I came up with the idea a few months ago and have been trying to work out if it is "doable".
Well, I have decided that it is, so I am going to go for it.
My goal is to raise $20,000 and to do that I have put together a team of 8 people. 6 of us (3 men and 3 women) are going to ride our bikes from Alice Springs to Adelaide (1550kms) in August 2013. The other 2 team members will be out support crew. As a team we are planning on doing 10 months of intensive fundraising during which time I want to raise a minimum of $20,000 and raise a whole lot more awareness for the Cancer Council and the work they do.
I have 5 definitely riders and 1 definite support crew already, with other people currently considering whether or not they will be involved. I am starting my training this week, since I am basically starting from scratch. The others will determine based on their own fitness when they feel the best time to start their own training will be.
I am excited, but also terrified. The logistics alone is a bit overwhelming. Add to that the thought of riding 1500kms in 12 days, and I am silently freaking out. But I will do this.
I will keep my other blog - http://ridingwithareason.blogspot.com/ - updated with my training and fundraising etc, but will also let you know here when that gets updated.
Hopefully it is less than a month before I see you all again. I do want to get back to my blogging. I miss you all. :)
xox
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Gear Up Girl ride 2011
Well, despite the fact I am not yet back on the bike I have just registered for the 2011 Gear Up Girl 15km River Ride in November. I figure I have 4.5 months to get myself ready for a 15km ride and that is easily doable. I need a goal, and since I missed this ride last year due to my Achilles I figured it would be the perfect way to come back from that same horrible injury.
So which if you South Australian readers are going to do the ride with me? There is a 15km ride, a 35km ride and a 50km ride, followed by a party in the park afterwards. Would love to catch up with some of you after the event. :)
xox
So which if you South Australian readers are going to do the ride with me? There is a 15km ride, a 35km ride and a 50km ride, followed by a party in the park afterwards. Would love to catch up with some of you after the event. :)
xox
Monday, June 13, 2011
Study Day
That is our oldest kitty, Shiva, snuggling up to Ross.
Well, today was my first full study day. I will probably not have too many full days of study, but because I am away next weekend, and already have commitments most evenings this week, I figured I should get a whole day in.
My two subjects this study block are 'Naturopathic Framework' and 'OH&S'. I was hoping to get stuck into 'Naturopathic Framework' but my text books have not arrived yet. I have everything I need for OH&S from the online portal so OH&S it was.
I got started after breakfast. About 45 minutes later I heard a light knock on the door and in comes Ross carrying...
My favourite tea brewing and some honey to sweeten it with. How amazing is that! I was so blown away.
After a while it was time for my first study break. I went outside to see what Ross was up to and discovered he had set up my trainer.
So I grabbed my shoes and jumped on. My first ride since February. It felt absolutely amazing. I only did 10 minutes because I did not want to overdo it and risk further injury. My Achilles feels absolutely fine now, although a little fatigued, so I am glad I stopped at 10 minutes. It was so amazing to be back on the bike. I figure I will get on a few times a week and slowly increase my time. Once I am up to 30 minutes I will go out on the road for a real ride. As much as I am dying to do that I am going to be patient, and take my time. I am going to heal properly.
The rest of the day has been studying with breaks interspersed throughout. The OH&S subject has 3 topics to read through with quite a few weblinks to read and study activities etc. Then there are 2 assignments and an exam. I have done everything except for the assignments and exam. I can not believe how much I got through. I am tired but feeling a lot more confident about getting through all the work I need to get through.
Back to work tomorrow and a Camp Quality planning meeting tomorrow night, so a long day ahead.
xox
Sunday, January 23, 2011
I Smashed It!
Guess who rode 51.19kms today....
I did not go for my ride last weekend where I was due to ride 42kms. Today was meant to be 45kms. I have not been on the bike for over a week and something in me told me to just go for the 50.
So I did!
We got on the bikes and headed for Outer Harbour. 26kms later we were there. Stopped for brunch and a rest then headed back - straight into a head wind. My butt was amazingly sore plus I had some underwear elastic/hair/giney issues. Made the ride home incredibly slow going. But I did it. I skipped all the lead up and went straight for the home run!
And I SMASHED it!!!!
On to other news - camp was great but completely exhausting. I spent yesterday in bed. Food was average. But very overly processed. The chef had no idea about feeding vegos (or coeliacs for that matter) so those of us with special dietary requirements pretty much got the same crap at every meal. I feel fatter so no doubt I have gained weight, but am getting serious again this week.
I haven't caught up on any blogs anywhere so I am sorry for that. But I hope everyone is doing great and I will catch up during the week.
xox
I did not go for my ride last weekend where I was due to ride 42kms. Today was meant to be 45kms. I have not been on the bike for over a week and something in me told me to just go for the 50.
So I did!
We got on the bikes and headed for Outer Harbour. 26kms later we were there. Stopped for brunch and a rest then headed back - straight into a head wind. My butt was amazingly sore plus I had some underwear elastic/hair/giney issues. Made the ride home incredibly slow going. But I did it. I skipped all the lead up and went straight for the home run!
And I SMASHED it!!!!
On to other news - camp was great but completely exhausting. I spent yesterday in bed. Food was average. But very overly processed. The chef had no idea about feeding vegos (or coeliacs for that matter) so those of us with special dietary requirements pretty much got the same crap at every meal. I feel fatter so no doubt I have gained weight, but am getting serious again this week.
I haven't caught up on any blogs anywhere so I am sorry for that. But I hope everyone is doing great and I will catch up during the week.
xox
Monday, January 10, 2011
Weigh In
Weigh in today and I lost 1 kilo. Before you get too excited, it is a bullshit number. I SHOULD have lost more. But for some reason my head went haywire and I used Saturdays ride as an excuse to eat anything and everything. So while I acknowledge the loss, it is a bullshit loss as I could have done so much better.
Anyway, moving on....
I have joined a 7 day challenge on CK. Basically you set some goals and resolve to stick to them for one week. It is only 7 days, so it shouldn't be too hard. These are my goals:
1) Stick to my calories
2) Drink 2 L of water a day
3) Stick to my cycling training plan
4) Go for a couple of walks.
Speaking of my training plan, I have revised it. It seemed sill to aim for 33 kms this weekend when I have already done 40. So I have reduced it by a week and increased my weekend rides to get me there quicker.
I am sure this is completely manageable and I am looking forward to doing it.
100 Days of Gratitude
Day 55
Yesterday I was grateful for very little if I am honest with myself. My whole body was fatigued from the ride and I are myself silly. If I had to be grateful for anything it would be that there was very little crap food in the house, as I could have done a LOT more damage than I did...
Day 56
Today I am grateful for Emma, who this morning gave me the pep talk I needed to get myself back on track.
xox
Anyway, moving on....
I have joined a 7 day challenge on CK. Basically you set some goals and resolve to stick to them for one week. It is only 7 days, so it shouldn't be too hard. These are my goals:
1) Stick to my calories
2) Drink 2 L of water a day
3) Stick to my cycling training plan
4) Go for a couple of walks.
Speaking of my training plan, I have revised it. It seemed sill to aim for 33 kms this weekend when I have already done 40. So I have reduced it by a week and increased my weekend rides to get me there quicker.
I am sure this is completely manageable and I am looking forward to doing it.
100 Days of Gratitude
Day 55
Yesterday I was grateful for very little if I am honest with myself. My whole body was fatigued from the ride and I are myself silly. If I had to be grateful for anything it would be that there was very little crap food in the house, as I could have done a LOT more damage than I did...
Day 56
Today I am grateful for Emma, who this morning gave me the pep talk I needed to get myself back on track.
xox
Saturday, January 8, 2011
My Ride
My bike ride this morning was awesome. According to my training plan I was aiming for 30kms. I met Megan in the city I got there early so I could have a bit of a rest before she got there. I took my time and just enjoyed the ride. I rode 11 kms to get there, but it didn’t take as long as I expected. So I laid my bike down and sat myself on the grass to wait.
When Megan got there we had a chat so she could have a rest then got on the bikes and headed off for a nice comfortable ride. We did a loop through the parklands around the city. It was a gorgeous morning and just took our time, gasbagging the whole way around. Imagine our surprise when we got back to the start point to stop for a coffee and we had done over 15kms! We were aiming for 10. :)
We stopped for a drink and food (at least I got food) and gasbagged some more – we are good at that – before heading off in different directions home. I went home via the library so by the time I got home I had done…. 40.61kms!!!!!!
YAY ME!
50kms is not that far off. I will revise my training plan and knock at least a week off of it now I think, but it is at work so I will do it Monday.
100 Days of Gratitude – Day 54
Today I am grateful for the kindness of strangers. While I was waiting for Megan this morning a cyclist that rode past me while I was sitting on the grass actually turned around and doubled back to ask me if I was okay and needed any help with my bike. Very sweet I thought. :)
xox
Friday, January 7, 2011
This & That
Like I said in my last post yesterday - I was planning on smashing it on the bike on the way home last night. The aim was 15kms. Well, I wouldn't say I smashed it, but I pushed it pretty damn hard. I had a headwind nearly the whole way home, and I pedaled hard. My legs were fatigued and I was puffing and panting (which I don't usually do as I normally just cruise along). By the time I got home I was absolutely dripping with sweat and I was completely buggered, but geez I felt good! I did 16.47kms. I have no idea how long it took me or what my HR was, and I don't care. I know I worked hard and that is all I care about at this point. :)
After dinner (vegetable fritatta - YUM!) I went out to check my tyres, which I do every few days. This is what I found...
Of course, I am out of spare inner tubes, aren't I... Grumble, grumble...
So Ross is off to the bike shop today to get a couple of spares and to fix it for me (I really must learn to do that myself one of these days). And I had to catch a tram to work. The good news is, the 1.8km walk from the tram to work, all up a very slight slope, did not hurt my Achilles in the slightest. YAY! I am back to the Physio next Tuesday and I really really hope he gives me the go ahead to start hiking again.
I did pretty good with my food yesterday too. Had some ice cream last night but it fit into my calories since I did such a hard ride. I was actually hungry too, not just mindlessly eating, so I figured it was okay. :) Am still feeling motivated and feeling good about it all. Hopefully it lasts.
100 Days of Gratitude - Day 53
Today I am grateful that I am no longer living in Qld where all that awful rain and flooding is. My thoughts and love goes out to everyone affected by it.
xox
After dinner (vegetable fritatta - YUM!) I went out to check my tyres, which I do every few days. This is what I found...
Of course, I am out of spare inner tubes, aren't I... Grumble, grumble...
So Ross is off to the bike shop today to get a couple of spares and to fix it for me (I really must learn to do that myself one of these days). And I had to catch a tram to work. The good news is, the 1.8km walk from the tram to work, all up a very slight slope, did not hurt my Achilles in the slightest. YAY! I am back to the Physio next Tuesday and I really really hope he gives me the go ahead to start hiking again.
I did pretty good with my food yesterday too. Had some ice cream last night but it fit into my calories since I did such a hard ride. I was actually hungry too, not just mindlessly eating, so I figured it was okay. :) Am still feeling motivated and feeling good about it all. Hopefully it lasts.
100 Days of Gratitude - Day 53
Today I am grateful that I am no longer living in Qld where all that awful rain and flooding is. My thoughts and love goes out to everyone affected by it.
xox
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Cycling
I am trying again - time to hit that 50km mark! I have done it before and i can do it again. Let me know what you think. :)
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Xmas Wrap Up
Well, it has been a really good few days. Ross is back at work today, but I have until next Tuesday off, which is great (for me). :)
Xmas Day was spent with family. Often, this can be a trial, but it wasn't too bad. The kids were in a great mood and ran around like little nut-bags. They got water guns for Xmas so everyone got soaked. Considering how hot it was, no-one really minded. :) The food was great - mostly healthy but lots of it. Ross & I got some new chickpea burgers that made us both a bit gassy. It was a bit uncomfortable (and smelly) but it meant we were still feeling really full and didn't eat dinner. LOL Note to self:- Never buy those chickpea burgers again...
Boxing Day we made our way down to the Bay for lunch with Em. Em moved to Roxby Downs a few month ago so it was awesome to see her again. Glenelg was one of the only places open in Adelaide so it was insanely busy, but we still had a good time. Lunch was delish, and the company was great. Unfortunately she has already headed home so we have to wait for her next visit to see her again.
That night we headed to Thebarton to the West End Brewery for their annual Xmas Lights. It is always packed in the lead up to Xmas but going on Boxing Day was a good plan as there were a lot less people there. We had a really good night and have decided to make it a Boxing Day tradition.
Yesterday was Ross's last day off. The weather was great so we got out the bikes and headed out for a ride. I can't remember the last time I went riding for fun rather than just to get somewhere. We had no destination and no timeframe in mind. Just us and the bikes. We ended up down at Seacliff where we stopped for ice cream. We slowly made our way home along the foreshore. By the time we got home we had done 27kms. Not a massive ride, but the longest I have done since I hurt my Achilles.
When we got home we celebrated the ride with a couple of drinks...
The Achilles held up really well which us great as it means I can get back into the cycling without having to worry that I am doing damage. I am really pleased about this as I have something to train for (which I will share details of in the new year) so I know I can get started now. :)
The rest of me didn't fare as well. It has been too long since I have gone riding and it hurt. My butt bones feel swollen today! LOL I was so exhausted when we got back I feel asleep on the couch. I pulled up okay today though - other than the swollen butt bones that is... LOL
This morning I headed to the Gym. Now that felt weird. It has been forever since I have been in a gym. Since the ride went so well I decided to see how walking up a slight incline went. I have only walked on flat surfaces for months. I set the speed at a moderate pace and did a couple if stints at 1% incline. Not a lot, but something. My Achilles was fine until towards the end where I felt it starting to pull. Not hurt, I could just feel it. I stretched it out afterwards, and went for a short bike ride. When I got home I took some anti-inflammatories and iced it. Now it feels pretty good. A little tight, but pretty good.
This afternoon I am watching Sex & The City on DVD, and will be doing a little sewing later. Very relaxing. :)
100 Days of Gratitude - Day 43
Today I am grateful that I was sensible enough to follow the Physio's advice and look after my Achilles. The fact that it is clearly healing is incredible, and I am starting to see there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
xox
Xmas Day was spent with family. Often, this can be a trial, but it wasn't too bad. The kids were in a great mood and ran around like little nut-bags. They got water guns for Xmas so everyone got soaked. Considering how hot it was, no-one really minded. :) The food was great - mostly healthy but lots of it. Ross & I got some new chickpea burgers that made us both a bit gassy. It was a bit uncomfortable (and smelly) but it meant we were still feeling really full and didn't eat dinner. LOL Note to self:- Never buy those chickpea burgers again...
Boxing Day we made our way down to the Bay for lunch with Em. Em moved to Roxby Downs a few month ago so it was awesome to see her again. Glenelg was one of the only places open in Adelaide so it was insanely busy, but we still had a good time. Lunch was delish, and the company was great. Unfortunately she has already headed home so we have to wait for her next visit to see her again.
That night we headed to Thebarton to the West End Brewery for their annual Xmas Lights. It is always packed in the lead up to Xmas but going on Boxing Day was a good plan as there were a lot less people there. We had a really good night and have decided to make it a Boxing Day tradition.
Yesterday was Ross's last day off. The weather was great so we got out the bikes and headed out for a ride. I can't remember the last time I went riding for fun rather than just to get somewhere. We had no destination and no timeframe in mind. Just us and the bikes. We ended up down at Seacliff where we stopped for ice cream. We slowly made our way home along the foreshore. By the time we got home we had done 27kms. Not a massive ride, but the longest I have done since I hurt my Achilles.
When we got home we celebrated the ride with a couple of drinks...
The Achilles held up really well which us great as it means I can get back into the cycling without having to worry that I am doing damage. I am really pleased about this as I have something to train for (which I will share details of in the new year) so I know I can get started now. :)
The rest of me didn't fare as well. It has been too long since I have gone riding and it hurt. My butt bones feel swollen today! LOL I was so exhausted when we got back I feel asleep on the couch. I pulled up okay today though - other than the swollen butt bones that is... LOL
This morning I headed to the Gym. Now that felt weird. It has been forever since I have been in a gym. Since the ride went so well I decided to see how walking up a slight incline went. I have only walked on flat surfaces for months. I set the speed at a moderate pace and did a couple if stints at 1% incline. Not a lot, but something. My Achilles was fine until towards the end where I felt it starting to pull. Not hurt, I could just feel it. I stretched it out afterwards, and went for a short bike ride. When I got home I took some anti-inflammatories and iced it. Now it feels pretty good. A little tight, but pretty good.
This afternoon I am watching Sex & The City on DVD, and will be doing a little sewing later. Very relaxing. :)
100 Days of Gratitude - Day 43
Today I am grateful that I was sensible enough to follow the Physio's advice and look after my Achilles. The fact that it is clearly healing is incredible, and I am starting to see there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
xox
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Cycling
Quote of the Day
Whoodda thunk that 5 weeks off the bike would make such a massive difference. Yesterday was HARD... The morning ride was 8kms (normal) which I usually do in around 30-33 mins, depending on how tired I am and how long I wait at traffic lights. That is because I take my time since I don't want to get sweaty as there are no showers at work.
Yesterday morning took 40 minutes. And it was 40 HARD minutes. I was so sluggish. It was dreadful. The ride home was better. I did 12.5kms, although I have no idea how long it took. The 35 degree heat got to me though, and when my water got hot I started to feel quite ill. I guess it was just the first heat of the year, combined with my general level of "un-fit-ness", that made me feel bleh.
This morning was better. Took me about 36-37 mins to get here and that was with a killer head wind. So I am pretty impressed with that. I am feeling good about my riding again which is good.
Which means I will be doing the Gear Up Girl ride on Sunday. It is only going to be 19 degrees, so I won't have the heat to contend with. I am a bit nervous as I have never ridden in a pack before. My plan is to stick to the back and as it starts to thin out just find a spot on my own. It is 15kms, and afterwards I will ride home, so I will easily get the 23kms in I need for my 50km training plan.
As for my Achilles, I am off to the Physio for a check up tonight. It is feeling pretty good though. I went for a 30 minute walk yesterday morning, plus all my riding, and it is feeling good. The tendon next to it (I forget what it's called) is still tight, but it has only been 3 weeks since I started truly taking care of it, so I guess it will take time. Hopefully the Physio is pleased with the progress.
100 Days of Gratitude - Day 8
Today I am grateful for the sunshine. Although I am a little bit pink right now, I am so glad that the sun is shining as it really does brighten the day in so many ways.
xox
EDIT
I have started a fundraising page for the Gear Up Girl ride, in support of the Heart Foundation. If anyone has a few dollars spare and would like to help out, it will be most appreciation. Just click here to donate.
Thank you
Courage and perseverance have a magical talisman,
before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish into air.
- John Quincy Adamsbefore which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish into air.
Whoodda thunk that 5 weeks off the bike would make such a massive difference. Yesterday was HARD... The morning ride was 8kms (normal) which I usually do in around 30-33 mins, depending on how tired I am and how long I wait at traffic lights. That is because I take my time since I don't want to get sweaty as there are no showers at work.
Yesterday morning took 40 minutes. And it was 40 HARD minutes. I was so sluggish. It was dreadful. The ride home was better. I did 12.5kms, although I have no idea how long it took. The 35 degree heat got to me though, and when my water got hot I started to feel quite ill. I guess it was just the first heat of the year, combined with my general level of "un-fit-ness", that made me feel bleh.
This morning was better. Took me about 36-37 mins to get here and that was with a killer head wind. So I am pretty impressed with that. I am feeling good about my riding again which is good.
Which means I will be doing the Gear Up Girl ride on Sunday. It is only going to be 19 degrees, so I won't have the heat to contend with. I am a bit nervous as I have never ridden in a pack before. My plan is to stick to the back and as it starts to thin out just find a spot on my own. It is 15kms, and afterwards I will ride home, so I will easily get the 23kms in I need for my 50km training plan.
As for my Achilles, I am off to the Physio for a check up tonight. It is feeling pretty good though. I went for a 30 minute walk yesterday morning, plus all my riding, and it is feeling good. The tendon next to it (I forget what it's called) is still tight, but it has only been 3 weeks since I started truly taking care of it, so I guess it will take time. Hopefully the Physio is pleased with the progress.
100 Days of Gratitude - Day 8
Today I am grateful for the sunshine. Although I am a little bit pink right now, I am so glad that the sun is shining as it really does brighten the day in so many ways.
xox
EDIT
I have started a fundraising page for the Gear Up Girl ride, in support of the Heart Foundation. If anyone has a few dollars spare and would like to help out, it will be most appreciation. Just click here to donate.
Thank you
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Cycling
You know what I realised - I have not been on Bluebell in about a month. I do believe this is the longest I have gone without riding since I seriously got into it over 2 years ago... It feels strange.
But tomorrow I am allowed back on the bike. YIPPEEEE!!!!
I have been giving a lot of thought to my fitness while I am not allowed to hike or run, and of course, I am lead back to the bike. Old faithful. The thing I started on and the thing I keep coming back to.
My fitness is not great. I can no longer just pop out and do a 50km ride. And I miss that. So what to do. Well, get that back is what to do! There is just under 8 weeks till the end of the year. Can I do this?
OF COURSE I CAN!
If I stick with this by January 2 I will have my 50kms back. I am building up slow, just adding 10-20% to my long ride each week. My commute to work is nothing, I can still do that half asleep (and often do). I am sure I will be able to crank out 20kms this weekend (I hope so anyway). And from there is is just hop, skip and a jump to 50. :o) That's my theory anyway. Would love to know what you think of the plan. And I will keep you updated - remind me if I forget.
xox
But tomorrow I am allowed back on the bike. YIPPEEEE!!!!
I have been giving a lot of thought to my fitness while I am not allowed to hike or run, and of course, I am lead back to the bike. Old faithful. The thing I started on and the thing I keep coming back to.
My fitness is not great. I can no longer just pop out and do a 50km ride. And I miss that. So what to do. Well, get that back is what to do! There is just under 8 weeks till the end of the year. Can I do this?
OF COURSE I CAN!
If I stick with this by January 2 I will have my 50kms back. I am building up slow, just adding 10-20% to my long ride each week. My commute to work is nothing, I can still do that half asleep (and often do). I am sure I will be able to crank out 20kms this weekend (I hope so anyway). And from there is is just hop, skip and a jump to 50. :o) That's my theory anyway. Would love to know what you think of the plan. And I will keep you updated - remind me if I forget.
xox
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Back on the Bike
On Sunday I went for my first bike ride in a few weeks. I am still on the tail end of this cold and my lung capacity is for shit right now. Sunday we rode to the Farmers Market to do our veg shopping. It was actually a beautiful day. I do believe Spring has finally Sprung! Ross hooked up his new bike trailer to bring everything home, and off we headed. It was a great way to get the veg shopping done.
Then yesterday and today I have ridden to work. I am in a better mood when I ride in the mornings, even if I still can't breathe properly while I do it. :) It does feel good to be back on the bike, and to be riding in sunshine again.
I have 3 days left of work then I am off for 2 weeks! YIPPEE! I plan on riding as much as possible while I am on leave so watch out! LOL
xox
Then yesterday and today I have ridden to work. I am in a better mood when I ride in the mornings, even if I still can't breathe properly while I do it. :) It does feel good to be back on the bike, and to be riding in sunshine again.
I have 3 days left of work then I am off for 2 weeks! YIPPEE! I plan on riding as much as possible while I am on leave so watch out! LOL
xox
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Bike Saga Continues...
So this morning I got on Bluebell for my first ride since her unexpected hospital trip last week. It seems I did not give her a thorough enough examination... The front wheel is also buckled. Not as badly as the back as she is still rideable, but buckled nonetheless. Which means I need to get her to a bike shop (again) to have the wheel straightened out. The gears are also slipping a bit, but Ross can fix that himself. Sigh...
The good news is that I got out there and rode, even though I really did not feel like it. Tonight after riding home I also need to go for a 45 minute walk. I have a chiropractor appointment (after my meeting with the funeral director) so I am hoping to get there early and walk first. My adjustments are always easier if I have exercised first so I may as well do it then.
Nothing else going on since yesterdays post so I'll leave it there.
xox
The good news is that I got out there and rode, even though I really did not feel like it. Tonight after riding home I also need to go for a 45 minute walk. I have a chiropractor appointment (after my meeting with the funeral director) so I am hoping to get there early and walk first. My adjustments are always easier if I have exercised first so I may as well do it then.
Nothing else going on since yesterdays post so I'll leave it there.
xox
Friday, July 30, 2010
Gear Up Girl
I just entered this years Gear Up Girl River Ride. I am doing the 15km ride. I could do the longer distances but I have never ridden in a group situation before so I thought I would do the smaller one and see how I go.
Any other South Aussies going to enter?
xox
Any other South Aussies going to enter?
xox
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Aiming for 100
Ever since I started seriously riding over 2 years ago I have talked about doing a 100km ride. Well, time to stop talking and start DOING! Before 2010 is out I will have ridden 100kms in 1 day. My PB to date is around 75kms and that was well over a year and a half ago. This weekend just gone I did 42kms. I figure if I add 5-10kms every couple of weeks, I will easily be there by the end of the year.
This Saturday is a ride day and I want to do at least 50kms. I need to go to the Library and then I thought I would visit my Grandma in the Nursing Home. My place, to the library, to Grandma's, to home is a little over 50kms I think. I don't mind if it takes me all day. I just want to rack up those kms. Each day I do a big ride is one step close to the goal of 100.
Yesterday I finished working on my next Children's Picture Book story and was brave and sent it to a publisher. I sent it to the same publisher that did not accept my first one. It is very different to the first one though so I am hoping to get a better response. The first one is currently with my second choice of publishers. But while I am waiting the agonising 4 months to hear back from these places, I will start working on the next one. I have a few in draft form, I just need to work out which one I will work on next.
Don't forget to check out the Give Away I am running for 3 free "Photo Cards by Kylie Ann". Competition runs until Sunday night.
xox
This Saturday is a ride day and I want to do at least 50kms. I need to go to the Library and then I thought I would visit my Grandma in the Nursing Home. My place, to the library, to Grandma's, to home is a little over 50kms I think. I don't mind if it takes me all day. I just want to rack up those kms. Each day I do a big ride is one step close to the goal of 100.
Yesterday I finished working on my next Children's Picture Book story and was brave and sent it to a publisher. I sent it to the same publisher that did not accept my first one. It is very different to the first one though so I am hoping to get a better response. The first one is currently with my second choice of publishers. But while I am waiting the agonising 4 months to hear back from these places, I will start working on the next one. I have a few in draft form, I just need to work out which one I will work on next.
Don't forget to check out the Give Away I am running for 3 free "Photo Cards by Kylie Ann". Competition runs until Sunday night.
xox
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Shopping, Cycling, Bowling and Maybe Hiking
Friday night Ross, the MIL & I decided to go out for dinner since we are currently old person free. We went to the Central Markets in the city. We had a really yummy meal then spent some time wandering around enjoying ourselves. We went into the Asian Grocer (how I love that shop) and fell in love with these cool little teacups.
They come with a lid to keep your tea warm, as well as an insert to hold your tea leaves while your brew your tea.
When the tea is ready you just lift out the insert to drain, then you can put the lid back on and keep your tea nice and hot. I love it and we all got one.
I also got the awesome granite mortar & pestle.
MIL has one the same and I have fallen in love with using it while I have been here. So she bought me one of my very own!
Yesterday morning was cycling day. I had to go to the library and then I had to deliver my large "Photo Cards by Kylie Ann" order. Everything fit in the pannier so off I headed. I got to Jeanette's in good time and we sat in her beautiful back yard and had a drink and a chat.
On the way home I took myself along the Linear Park Bikeway along the Torrens and down to the beach. I SO wish I had thrown my camera in my bag. There were so many fantastic things to photograph along the way. All I had was my phone and the camera on that is not so flash.
However I had to use it to capture this...
When Ross & I started riding this path about 2 years ago this portion of the River was almost a dry bed. There was a thin trickle about 1 metre wide in the middle but that was it. SA is by no means out of drought danger, but this sight was so amazingly encouraging.
I had the bike almost at the rivers edge. The only reason I didn't go closer with the thick mud. I had an awesome ride and clocked up just over 42 kms. It has been a long time since I have done a ride like that and I loved it. Surprisingly, I am not too sore today which is great. Next weekend I will get out there and do it again.
Last night was our work social night. There are only 4 of us in the company, and 2 of those are married, so even with partners there was only 6 of us. We went to dinner then bowling.
We had a really good night. I am lucky to work with some really good people. Normally our social event are children friendly since they all have kids under 6. But I pushed for a kid-free event. Not that I don't like their kids, but when they are there, because they are all so young, the whole thing becomes about watching kids, and feeding kids, and disciplining kids (the boss has twin year old boys), and even just plain talking about them. Very boring for childless people. So last night was a real treat.
Today the plan was to climb Mount Lofty. However my achilles (actually it is a spot right next to my achilles rather than the achilles itself) is still sore so we kinda figured that a 4km walk up the steeped mountain in Adelaide may not be a good idea. So we decided to go to Shepherds Hill Recreation Park instead. It is still hilly, but not as steep. The only problem is that it has been steadily raining all morning. We are still going to get ready, and hope for the best.
I'll leave you with a pic of Ross 'Cat Trapped' in bed this morning.
xox
They come with a lid to keep your tea warm, as well as an insert to hold your tea leaves while your brew your tea.
When the tea is ready you just lift out the insert to drain, then you can put the lid back on and keep your tea nice and hot. I love it and we all got one.
I also got the awesome granite mortar & pestle.
MIL has one the same and I have fallen in love with using it while I have been here. So she bought me one of my very own!
Yesterday morning was cycling day. I had to go to the library and then I had to deliver my large "Photo Cards by Kylie Ann" order. Everything fit in the pannier so off I headed. I got to Jeanette's in good time and we sat in her beautiful back yard and had a drink and a chat.
On the way home I took myself along the Linear Park Bikeway along the Torrens and down to the beach. I SO wish I had thrown my camera in my bag. There were so many fantastic things to photograph along the way. All I had was my phone and the camera on that is not so flash.
However I had to use it to capture this...
When Ross & I started riding this path about 2 years ago this portion of the River was almost a dry bed. There was a thin trickle about 1 metre wide in the middle but that was it. SA is by no means out of drought danger, but this sight was so amazingly encouraging.
I had the bike almost at the rivers edge. The only reason I didn't go closer with the thick mud. I had an awesome ride and clocked up just over 42 kms. It has been a long time since I have done a ride like that and I loved it. Surprisingly, I am not too sore today which is great. Next weekend I will get out there and do it again.
Last night was our work social night. There are only 4 of us in the company, and 2 of those are married, so even with partners there was only 6 of us. We went to dinner then bowling.
We had a really good night. I am lucky to work with some really good people. Normally our social event are children friendly since they all have kids under 6. But I pushed for a kid-free event. Not that I don't like their kids, but when they are there, because they are all so young, the whole thing becomes about watching kids, and feeding kids, and disciplining kids (the boss has twin year old boys), and even just plain talking about them. Very boring for childless people. So last night was a real treat.
Today the plan was to climb Mount Lofty. However my achilles (actually it is a spot right next to my achilles rather than the achilles itself) is still sore so we kinda figured that a 4km walk up the steeped mountain in Adelaide may not be a good idea. So we decided to go to Shepherds Hill Recreation Park instead. It is still hilly, but not as steep. The only problem is that it has been steadily raining all morning. We are still going to get ready, and hope for the best.
I'll leave you with a pic of Ross 'Cat Trapped' in bed this morning.
xox
Friday, July 16, 2010
Bluebell's Milestone!
Yesterday morning Grandad had a fall in the toilet. MIL could not get him up so called the ambulance. The paramedic came and got him up and checked him out. He was fine and did not need a trip to the hospital. But the paramedic noticed how exhausted MIL was and asked if she was okay. MIL filled her in on the last 5 or 6 weeks, how none of us are sleeping etc. The paramedic (our hero) decided that was not acceptable and got some emergency respite organised - effective immediately! Within an hour MIL and Grandad were on their way.
We now have 2 whole weeks of smoke-free silence. Last night we folded up the sofa bed and we all sat in the lounge room and watched the big TV. Just because we could. Tonight we are thinking of going out for dinner to celebrate.
Since none of us are tied to the house this weekend we are going to get out and do stuff. Tomorrow I need to deliver my photo cards. The client is about a 15km drive away, so I am riding there. Then tomorrow night we have my work social night. We are doing dinner and bowling so that should be fun. And Sunday Ross & I are going for a hike. I am looking forward to every bit of it!
xox
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
More Riding
Yesterday afternoon at around 2ish the wind picked up in Adelaide to a pretty high speed. The corrugated iron on the roof sounded as though it were flapping around, full bins were getting blown over, branches were coming off trees. The wind gusts got up to 65kmph.
Thankfully, by the time I left work at around 5.15pm they had died down considerably. Prior to the winds picking up I had planned a longer ride home. Mostly the same as Monday, until I get about 2kms from home, then I have the option of an extra 4.5km loop. At around 2.30 I was thinking that I would be riding straight home. 65kmph westerly winds, and I live in a westerly direction from work.
By 5 the wind had died down enough that I decided to do the same ride as Monday, but not the loop. It was still windy, it was cold, and there was rain about. I got to the point where I could either go straight home or add the loop, and thought 'what the hell'. I did the loop. The result was a 16.5km ride home in pretty high winds, with rain for the last 3kms. I got home freezing, but jumped straight into a hot shower which is always nice.
After dinner I did more work on my cards. I don't need to have them finished until Friday night now, but I am going to try and get them done tonight. 60 are finished, and the other 60 are started, so it shouldn't be too hard to get them done.
I am currently sitting at my desk drying off. It rained the whole way in this morning... My riding clothes are strung over chairs strategically placed in front of my little heater. Luckily I always have a change of clothes at work. The only problem is that last time it rained I used my spare knickers. And I haven't replaced them. So that back of my bum is wet and cold... LOL Tonight I have to head straight home as I am on Grandad Duty while MIL goes to her craft class, so no long ride tonight. I think I will miss it, I have really enjoyed the last 2 nights.
xox
Thankfully, by the time I left work at around 5.15pm they had died down considerably. Prior to the winds picking up I had planned a longer ride home. Mostly the same as Monday, until I get about 2kms from home, then I have the option of an extra 4.5km loop. At around 2.30 I was thinking that I would be riding straight home. 65kmph westerly winds, and I live in a westerly direction from work.
By 5 the wind had died down enough that I decided to do the same ride as Monday, but not the loop. It was still windy, it was cold, and there was rain about. I got to the point where I could either go straight home or add the loop, and thought 'what the hell'. I did the loop. The result was a 16.5km ride home in pretty high winds, with rain for the last 3kms. I got home freezing, but jumped straight into a hot shower which is always nice.
After dinner I did more work on my cards. I don't need to have them finished until Friday night now, but I am going to try and get them done tonight. 60 are finished, and the other 60 are started, so it shouldn't be too hard to get them done.
I am currently sitting at my desk drying off. It rained the whole way in this morning... My riding clothes are strung over chairs strategically placed in front of my little heater. Luckily I always have a change of clothes at work. The only problem is that last time it rained I used my spare knickers. And I haven't replaced them. So that back of my bum is wet and cold... LOL Tonight I have to head straight home as I am on Grandad Duty while MIL goes to her craft class, so no long ride tonight. I think I will miss it, I have really enjoyed the last 2 nights.
xox
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Loving the Cycling
I seem to have re-found my passion for cycling. Not that I ever not liked it, but as cycling is my main form of transport, I had begun to see it that way which is never good. My ride on Sunday was awesome. Then yesterday as I was leaving work I decided I wanted more than just a 'ride home'. So I took myself off a different way and had a ball. I didn't add all that much to my distance, (12kms instead of 8kms) but it wasn't about that. It was about riding for the sake of riding, through a new neighbourhood, with new surroundings. And I had a ball!
This morning I decided to ride a different way in to work. Similar distance (I don't have showers at work so I can't add to much to the distance as 8-9kms is my "sweat-free-zone") but just through different roads. It was awesome. I think that fact that it hasn't been absolutely freezing this week has definitely helped matters, but also just getting out there, freeing my mind, and just enjoying it has been amazing. From now on, if I don't have to go straight home for any reason, I am going to try and go a different way, or take a longer path.
I spent yesterday evening making photo cards. I have an order for 120 cards due this weekend. Unfortunately my supplies took 3 days longer than they should have to arrive so I am now under the pump a bit to get them done. I got 40 done last night, so if I can repeat that tonight and tomorrow night they will all be ready for the weekend.
Ross has Sunday off work - the first one since he began this job - so we are going for a hike. Our Heyson trip is in 3 months and we really haven't done a lot in preparation. Time to get a wriggle on with it.
xox
This morning I decided to ride a different way in to work. Similar distance (I don't have showers at work so I can't add to much to the distance as 8-9kms is my "sweat-free-zone") but just through different roads. It was awesome. I think that fact that it hasn't been absolutely freezing this week has definitely helped matters, but also just getting out there, freeing my mind, and just enjoying it has been amazing. From now on, if I don't have to go straight home for any reason, I am going to try and go a different way, or take a longer path.
I spent yesterday evening making photo cards. I have an order for 120 cards due this weekend. Unfortunately my supplies took 3 days longer than they should have to arrive so I am now under the pump a bit to get them done. I got 40 done last night, so if I can repeat that tonight and tomorrow night they will all be ready for the weekend.
Ross has Sunday off work - the first one since he began this job - so we are going for a hike. Our Heyson trip is in 3 months and we really haven't done a lot in preparation. Time to get a wriggle on with it.
xox
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