Today I reached my first big cycling milestone. I rode 50 miles. Doesn't sound like a whole lot, but it most definitely is. It took me just under 4 hours to complete. I was pretty happy with the day...didn't feel overly tired and had great company. Greene County is beautiful from the seat of my little Surly girl!
I can feel the strength morphing into endurance. I've always had hella strong legs, but capturing that strength and using it to my cycling advantage has been difficult. Today I felt strong. Don't get me wrong, climbing the steeps was still a bitch, but I could feel the progress. I know there is no possible way I could have made the climbs I did today, two months ago. I high fived myself.
In the recent weeks, I have made a huge connection with my two-wheeled machines. It's quite hard to explain my obsession, but those of you with the same addiction can relate. Even when I'm getting dropped, sucking wind and close to crying, I am happy. I love seeing what my body can do. There's no better way to see the little nooks and crannies of my home. I never knew such gorgeous places existed right in front of my face. It ALMOST fills the void I still have in my heart for California and the Eastern Sierras.....A.L.M.O.S.T.
There was a point in the ride today where I was overwhelmed with a sense of accomplishment. I just finished medic school (testing next week, YIKES!) and things are starting to fall into place. I never imagined upon moving back to East Tennessee that I would be this happy...but I am. The bike just makes it better. I was in a terrible head space for a year...and I've overcome it all.
I feel strong today. Mind and body. I am embracing it for as long as it lets me, for I know it's not always like this. Tomorrow is another day...
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