Over the last four days, I went on a mini-adventure with my Bike the US for MS crew, and this blog post will suffice to cover all four days. Well, five, really, if you count the first travel day, which is where we'll start. But before that, I want to hit the big takeaways. One of the great things about these bike rides is that I feel that I always learn something about myself, reflected in the ride. And this time, there were two clear messages: one subtle, one profound. The first is more prosaic: nutrition is really important. Well, duh! You say, but this is something new for me. Over the last month, in an effort to lose weight, I have been careful about what I put in my body. Over the last 4 days, I threw caution to the wind. Many who look at our rides think we must be athletes, but the truth is more complex than that; in many ways our rides are like a rolling party, a celebration of life and of movement, and as with any good party, there is food. Tons and tons of food. Red velvet cupcakes, ice cream, sandwiches, beer, trail mix all went into my face, not to mention cookies and brownies and god knows what else. And you know what? I could tell immediately; fatigue, irritability. Yes, food is fun, but it's time for a new approach to food.

The second conclusion was more profound and I'll have more to say about it later but the simple version is that it's (finally) time to pursue my dreams. Like I said, more later, but the first step of that dream is a personal dream, which is just to get in really good shape. So that's what I'll be making a priority for a while.

On to more of chronological approach: Saturday, I rode my bike from Encinitas down to San Diego 35 miles to take Amtrak up to Santa Barbara. What a disaster! First I was denied boarding, for no good reason, by a cranky Amtrak conductor who seemingly just didn't like cyclists. Then, after waiting 2 1/2 hours for a new train, that train had mechanical failure and was 3 hours late. So my afternoon arrival turned into riding in the dark. The team was at the "ant church" and had been dealing with an ant infestation. I slept well, and next day was 100 miles. Four miles into my 259 mile trip, I got in a wreck! Unbelievable. Just hit a speed bump the wrong way. So for the next 200 miles I couldn't shift because I broke my shifter. When life throws you lemons, etc. Then 90, then 65, then 35. All of it was great fun. I hung out with the old crew; Kaylyn, Kurt, Amanda, Matt. Some some new/old faces like Nick. Slept on suburban floors. Learned that I don't enjoy sleeping in my car as much as a tent (you can't keep the bugs out without turning it into a hothouse). Ate McDonalds. Oh! And I got to show Cassie and some of the rest of the team the Bike The US for MS App I've been working on, and they really liked it, so I'll be spending more time on that. All in all a great short trip and now it's on to my next adventure, which will be less travel-oriented but no less fun!

From the Ocean Beach Hotel in downtown San Diego, signing off for now!