Yesterday I got "back in the saddle" so to speak. And I must admit I was quite nervous. Nervous about numerous things. My ability, my determination, my strength - BUT - I thought, "you gotta start somewhere right ?".
And it was just the perfect day for it. All week we have been having this horrendously unpredictable weather yet yesterday it was almost as though the God's were laying out the red carpet just for me. And how could I not oblige by taking advantage of it.
It was great seeing everyone's faces this morning. I have missed them all so much and it really pepped me up beyond belief. And as we took off I took a deep breath in of that beautiful morning air and had trouble wiping the smile off my face. Loved hearing everyone's chatter - thats the great thing about riding with people - you are never short of someone to talk to.
Elissa and I had planned on taking in about 100km so as we got to the Northern Road we said "Adieu" to the pack and wished them a safe ride. Rommel joined us on our journey to the M7 and back and so the 3 amigos set off.
I was really impressed with myself on the way out to the M7. I kept thinking "Wow, this old girl hasn't lost too much strength". But as we turned around and started heading back home it was then that things started to systematically switch off. The mind was definitely a willing participant but the body had other ideas. Especially as we started to go up long slow rises which I would normally power up.
I couldn't help but giggle as I watched my speedometer reading slow down until I am sure I got to the point where I could have walked faster. I would yell out to both Elissa and Rommel "slowing down, slowing down" to which they both would back off the gas and join me in the land of "slow poke". Thanks guys.
As those last 15kms were trying to be reached on our way home I think it was just sheer determination to get back to the Coffee Club for a well deserved long black. Thankyou Elissa and Rommel for making my first ride back memorable and for getting my backside back in one piece. The target of 100km was not reached but 73km was - JUST.
And as I sit here typing I think my Yoga class tonight will be a Godsend. My hip flexors are quite sore as are my Trapezius. So welcome back Barb to the land of pain and fun.
