Ride Pictures from the JDRF Office

RIDE PICTURES!


Click on the link below to view pictures that were taken throughout the weekend.

http://picasaweb.google.com/JDRFRIDEPIX/2010DeathValley#

Ride Team Awards - Nov. 13th

Great to see everyone on Saturday at our Youth Ambassador get together.  For those who were not there, we gave out some fun awards which I've listed below.  If you want an explanation let me know.

Where is my helmet? Award - Dan Baize
Where is my towel? Award - Sam Scahil (1st Indiana Female)
Where is Kelly? Award - Kelly Brake (Indiana Rookie of the Year)
Where's the water? Award - Lisa Blythe (co Indiana Most Improved)
Babysitter Award - Todd & Amy Schmidt
Tool, I mean Machine Award - Gary Martindale
Training Ride Award - Ted Wiese
All hands on deck Award - Kate Luken Warpool
Haunted House Award - Michael Schwab (1st Indiana Rider to the top of Jubilee)
Coffee Cup Circus Trick Award - Kate Eaton (co Indiana Most Improved)
Chief Harraser - Bob Karnak
I Hate to Ride Award (yet I did more rides than anyone) - Joel Russell
Turtle Award - Jeff Greer
Litterbug Award - Ryan Sellers
Hello Susie! Award - Mark Lushell
Brown Nose Award - Scott Crane & Jeff Mullen
Fashionista Award - Tony Gabriel (1st Indiana Rider across the Finish Line)
Embracing the Spandex Award - Kevin Garner
No Kate Left Behind Award - Scott Warpool
Newsworthy Award - Alex Weymouth

Wow...Back to Work!

It was only just over a week ago and we were in the sunny, hot desert...now I'm back at work and the day's events seem to make the memories fade just a little...but only in the details around the edges...not the feelings or the experience that is in my bones...

I thought I would add a link to the photos I put up on Shutterfly...let me know if you want any full files, I will send them via email.
Link to Shutterfly Photos

While the whole experience was just really really awesome, there are a couple of very fond memories and lessons that I thought I would share.

Coming down from Jublilee Pass was simply exhilarating.  I found myself full of emotion and then leaking it out through some tears...the tears of release, joy, gratitude, and compassion for those that do live with Type 1 everyday.  I didn't want that 7 miles descent to end it was so beautiful.  I'm don't think that I have words for the feelings and if I tried they would probably be inadequate.  BUT the big joy I had coming down the hill happened about 1/2 way down when two bikers came up from behind yelling, "ON YOUR LEFT!!"  Low and behold is was DVBob and someone else screaming down the hill, blowing by me.  I LOVED that!  While Bob conveyed just the night before that he was trying to out run old age, there was no old age anywhere near that spirit that day.  For me, it was watching a little kid with hands off the bar, screaming into the free fall, really free.  I don't know what it was like for you Bob, but it was sheer joy to watch.

The other memory was between the check point that I don't remember and Badwater where Scott, Kate and I came upon a rider stopped by the side of the road, alone.  In the process of slowing and stopping to check on her, Kate ran into Scott and I narrowly avoided Kate.  Scott, in his caring, kind voice was asking..."oh honey, are you ok?  Sweetie, are you ok?" ...are you ok?  Kate after successfully bobbing and hopping and playing hopscotch with her bike, pauses for a minute, pops up like a jack in the box, assesses herself and announces, "I'm OK!,  I think I'm ok!"  Almost as if the words convinced her that it was so.  I don't know why but it just brought me joy...maybe because I had a moment where I thought our threesome might become a twosome and a twosome was just not in my vision for the day.  I was glad that the now out of true bike wheel cooperated on the way back and that determination carried us through.

There's so much along the way...little things here and there...the people who fed us, the awesome young lady, who is a total giver, who slathered sun screen on all bikers.  She didn't care if they were hairy, smooth, sweaty or hot or clammy...she just slathered all of us.  We were all so well supported.

I think the biggest lesson for me was related to relying on others.  I can be such a loan wolf at times with my, "I can do it myself" mantra.  But it doesn't have to be that way.  I was supported all weekend and all during the ride by awesome human beings.  I said to Kate and Scott as we left Badwater for the last 18 miles home, "I need you guys."  Scott said, "we need you too."  So we rode together, me a little slower at times, but together until we crossed the finish.

I'm really grateful to be associated with such an amazing group of people.  Thank you for being part of my experience. 
Love and hugs! 
Kate

Look the poster for 2011!

The Amazing Sameness of the Second Year

Another Death Valley ride to cure diabetes is over. I’ve had a week to recover (both physically and emotionally) and to reflect on another inspirational weekend in the desert.

The ride this year was much like last year. I’ll save you the retelling of that detailed story – you can read it here if you want: October 2009 blog entry.

A few things were different, though. First was the number of riders… more than 300 total compared with 160 last year. We had 19 riders from Indiana, 15 of whom were from our central Indiana team. So there were a lot more people around all weekend and on the ride itself.

There were also more riders who underestimated the challenges of riding 100 miles in the desert and needed to catch a ride in a SAG wagon or visit the medical tent at the end. No shame in that; the real goal was raising money for diabetes research.

And there was the ride itself. I didn’t ride it alone this year, which made a huge difference in how quickly the time passed even though I slowed my pace, and allowed me the opportunity to ride along and offer encouragement to other riders experiencing the desert for the first time. It also made the ride much more enjoyable – especially with Mark and Kevin singing desert and sun songs while we pedaled. And I’d like to give a special shout out to Sam for riding along with me for many, many miles.

Turns out, though, that a number of things stayed the same: similar flight schedules, routes, bus rides and stops, warm-up rides and safety talks.

What stayed the same was the 100+ mile route, with a 7-mile climb in the middle, for a very long and hot ride on Saturday.

What stayed the same were the inspirational stories of epic challenges on the road in 100+ degree heat. My bike thermometer showed 108 on the road on Saturday.

What stayed the same was the sheer joy of crossing the finish line – and watching the friends I trained with cross. Congratulations to Danny, Lisa, Tony, Michael, Bob, Mark, Kevin, Sam, Kate W., Scott, Kate E., Kelly, and Joel. And especially to coach Alex, who prepared us well and rode nearly 40 miles herself while 20 weeks pregnant.

What stayed the same were the camaraderie, nicknames, laughter, hugs, sweat and tears shared with a great group of cycling friends.

What stayed the same were the inspiring people I met, including Mary Brown, widow of legendary football coach Paul Brown, who rode 80 miles in this, her 80^th year.

What stayed the same were the tragic stories… one of a rider and mother who lost her teenaged son to complications of diabetes earlier this year. It was very emotional to see the huge team of supporters she brought with her, in memory of him.

What stayed the same were the huge amounts of money raised ($1.3M from this ride alone with some individuals raising more than $25,000 themselves) and the riders recruited. One of the youngest riders won the yellow jersey for bringing 16 new riders this year. Wow!

What stayed absolutely the same were the magnificence of the desert, the spectacular views, and the unbelievable experience of being with a large group of people focused on the same set of goals: raise money, bike as far and long as your body will allow, and ultimately find a cure for diabetes.

And like last year, the tears are never far below the surface – my friends Bob and Danny tell me that is a normal part of the recovery process.

Will I go back next year? God-willing and as long as I am able. I wouldn’t miss it for the world.

Indiana Cure Chasers Conquer Death Valley 2010

Once again, another awesome performance from the Indiana Cure Chasers in Death Valley.  Despite the 105 degree temperatures the 19 member team completed about 1800 miles, having raised over $90,000 for diabetes research.  Everyone crossed the finish line with a smile on their face (and I have the photos to prove it).  Thanks to all of you for making my tenth year one to remember, you are all incredible people and my heros.

Rain Rain Go Away

Great ride today by Bob, Dan, Kate, Kate, Gary, Tony, Kevin, Scott & Sam!
Total miles ridden = 810
Miles in the rain = 600
Miles Alex drove = 140
Photos taken = 110
Cookies eaten = 50
Times up Knightstown hill = 45
Number of hours to warm up = 3
Number of helmets Dan needs = 2
Reasons we are riding = 1 (To Find a Cure)

You guys are awesome!  I'll post the photos shortly.

Great Turnout!

My post is not as timely as Michael's so this is a bit out of order, but I did want to share the photos and also say how great it was to see everyone on Saturday, even though a few of you I only got to see for a short time.  Sorry we didn't have a better turnout with the youth ambassadors, but I was glad Cooper came to provide us with some inspiration - Thanks Mark.

Playing in the Rain

Sam and I left before the sun was up this morning, a little later than we intended, but we were on the road, by shortly after 7am

It was a brisk 52 degrees, with light precipitation when I left downtown, but by the time we got going, it started out as just wet roads.

We headed south on Mann Road and I am not really sure where we were when the sun actually came up as it was to overcast to tell, but I think we were at the top of Centenary hill.

By the time we arrived at the Marathon station on 67 just before Robb Hill, it seemed like the weather was going to clear off, so I didn't bother to turn my rain jacket right side out when I snugged it down to my waist. We were trying to work on less than 3 minute stops and would have been out of the Marathon quite easily and back on the road in 4 but Richard, the guy manning the cash register was enthralled by my headlight. A cycling enthusiast himself, he said that he had never seen one quite so bright and had seen us coming from way down the road on the other side of 67. So I enlisted yet another Nashbar recruit and gave him all the info on my little Blackburn light.

So after about a 12 minute stop, we were back on the road and ready to climb Robb Hill.

We made it over the top in good order, but it started to spit rain again, so I had to struggle back into my inside out rain jacket, which I managed to do, but not without a lot of genuflection :)

Sam and I were very plesantly suprised to find a lot more climbing on the other side of Robb hill which pretty much continued well to the other side of Wilbur on 142 when we exited the wonderful tree cover and entered the land of abominable wind. Fortunately we only had a few miles of this before we made the turn around at the white house in the middle of the cornfield, next to the herd of escaped cows.

We stopped for a quick photo op (fortunately Sam took the phone pic as my Nikon seems to have ate the other pic - but I did find the pics that vaporized from my last rain ride with Kate E. - see Blood Sweat and Rain post )

So we got turned back into the wind full force and the sky looked ominous. The hills seemed to just fly by on the way back and either they were a lot easier on the way out or I just didn't notice because I was talking the whole way (which made me even happier that Sam was with me or otherwise it might have looked like I was crazy)

Next thing I knew, we were cruising back down Robb and were pulling into the Marathon to fuel up (yes they do have bananas) and got our stay there lengthend again by Richard. (quite a nice and interesting chap actually)

So in my haste to depart I left the water I bought sitting on the ledge outside the station. (If any of you go by there and see it, feel free to help yourselves, I don't really need it now) and fortunately did not really need it this morning.

The traffic was really pretty light until we were almost back, which made the early departure seem like that much better of an idea.

We averaged about 13.5 and this was a very pleasent 50.7 mile ride, I may do this for a double to get one more century in before I have to give up my bike. Excellant choice of venue Sam!!

Aside from not having a 7 mile climb, the topography was very comparable to what we will ride in DV. Great training circuit.

Well that's it see you all this week I hope and I will be at Southwestway on Tuesday again for the last time until Death Valley.

Keep those cards and letters coming!

Michael

Hope Ride

Michael, Sam, Tony, Alex, Bob, Dan, Kate W., Scott (Kate and Scott not pictured as they were dealing with bike issues before the start) did the Hope Ride on Saturday. Thanks for joining the MPCC Bikers group in an effort to get $1,000 donation for the Mary Rigg neighborhood center located on the westside of Indianapolis. I don't think we were the biggest team but it was well worth trying.We had many new friends join us on this ride, Marcy who knows many of you all from the Nebo ride. Penny, Christina, David, Brent of the MPCC bikers team. Dan, Lana, and 3 others riding with the JDRF Cinicinnati team who we shall be seeing in Death Valley.

We all started out together but ended up separating within the first 5 miles. There were several people that started out same time as we did which might have caused the disconnect. Bob and Dan later informed Michael that it was due to us passing on the left side of the road going up hill. We don't seem to recall that part but are sorry nonetheless. Michael, Tony, Marcy, and I stayed together most of the ride. We ran into Bob and Dan several times at stops and once when we were headed the wrong direction with a group of at least 30 riders ;o). We actually made a few wrong turns during the course of the day. We encountered several bike snobs at our first wrong turn, one guy would not respond to Marcy despite having to stop at the T right in front of us! It was classic! We did ride a short distance with the MPCC group which was working out well until we had bike troubles. Tony had problems with his bike chain and seat while I ended up riding on a flat for who knows how long of the ride. A big thanks to Michael for putting on a clinic changing my tube! Tony and I were very impressed! Also a big thanks to Tony for noticing that my tire was flat!

Marcy and Michael finished the century while Tony and I chose a shorter route after lunch and ended up with a total of 85 miles. Michael rode strong even without sport legs!

The weather was very pleasant despite being very cool at the start. We were expecting a flat ride however there were some small inclines here and there that kept us awake! I also felt like we were heading into the wind the last half of the ride but I am pretty sure that is not accurate ;o). We definitely had some head wind but also had some breaks.

Ride Happy!
Sam

Water? Who needs water?

On Saturday, Kevin, Mark and I decided to skip the hour+ drive to Hope, IN and do 100 miles starting closer to home. We met at Coxhall Gardens and set out on the 100-mile route for the organized MS ride that was held last weekend.

The morning started out chilly - around 49 F - as we pedaled north on the well-marked route. We kept a pretty good pace as we headed north and east, being helped along by a light tailwind that we didn't notice until we turned south and west. We took a short break at the Sheridan airport (did you know there was an airport in Sheridan? neither did we...), and shed our arm warmers since the temp was rising, but couldn't use the "facilities" because it was closed.

The MS ride is extremely well-marked and the organizers did a remarkable job of keeping the route off the main roads and away from civilization. This is great when the ride is supported with stocked and staffed rest stops... not so great when you are following the route on your own. So... we took a short detour from the route in Sheridan to stop at the familiar Speedway gas station for a quick water refill and a bathroom break.

We headed toward Kirklin, a route (and dogs!) we know well. We turned around at the Fire Station (the usual spot) with 44 miles complete and about half-full water bottles. As we headed out of Kirklin, we turned on a route unfamiliar to us. We drained our bottles as we rode another 30 miles in the vast corn fields of northwestern Boone county without seeing a place to stop... few houses and no gas stations or stores and roads so remote they didn't even register on my Garmin.

We stopped briefly at the Elizaville Christian Church to get off the bikes and with hope of finding an outdoor spigot or hose... with no luck. We pedaled on another 10 miles until we came upon the Boone County 4-H Fairgrounds near Lebanon, which happened to be hosting a dog show. We were pretty hot, tired and thirsty by the time we finally rolled in at 85 miles. Thankfully there was a food wagon where we got a quick bite and drinks and were able to fill our water bottles.

From there we rode Perry Worth road - not our favorite, since it parallels a busy and noisy section of I-65 - into Whitestown (NOT Knightstown, which I kept calling it), where we refilled again, and then back to Zionsville. We split up at the usual spot on the west side of Carmel and I got home showing 106.5 miles on my odometer.

It turned out to be a great, well marked ride with some new places none of us had been before. And we all felt good about completing 100 miles a few weeks in advance of Death Valley... we just need to plan our water stops better next time!

Tuesday's ride - No observatory!

Michael is a much better writer than me but I figured I would add a quick note about our ride this past Tuesday (9/14/10).

Gary, Michael, Ted, Tony, and I headed out around 6 pm. Ted just joined our group three weeks ago since the DV ride had an opening for him. He suggested that we go on without him as he was planning to ride slower that day due to not being on the bike much recently.

Gary, Michael, Tony, and I rode out to Brooklyn and decided to try the Robb Hill climb instead of observatory. I headed out for a ride alone last Sunday since I was not able to join the group on Saturday. A group of riders picked me up along the way and showed me the route to Robb Hill. The route was fairly simple however I did manage to miss a turn Tuesday night ;o). We got back on the right path and found the climb. I had to stop for a pitstop at the gas station before we headed up. I told Gary, Michael, and Tony to go on and I will meet them at the top. Michael and Gary explored the other side of the hill which appeared to be a similar grade to the DV climb so we figured it would be good to include this climb on future rides if possible however the nights are getting shorter so it would have to be one of our weekend rides. Robb Hill is longer in length compared to observatory but not as steep.

In the end, I clocked a total of 32 miles at 16.3 miles/hour. We never caught Ted on the way back. He was however in the parking lot and ended up riding a similar pace.

I look forward to seeing everyone at the Hope ride tomorrow!

Ride happy!
Sam

Blood, Sweat and Rain

It was a small turnout on Saturday, but Kate and I had a mostly enjoyable ride in the rain.

Things started off a little chilly and I donned my rain jacket for the first time of the year. (Kate had the exact same jacket as I did, so I felt like it was a bit of a fashion faux pas, when I had put it on, but I wanted to stay warm and dry. In retrospect, I should have called ahead to see what jacket she was going to be wearing)

None the less,invoking rules #5 & 9 of the Velomanatti :) we pedaled out through the rain in a generally north western direction in the wind and rain.

It seemed like no time and we arrived at the traditional gas station stop in Sheridan, only to discover that the restrooms were not available. So we went on down the street to this cool little breakfest and bistro, where Kate treated the whole team to coffee and Cafe Americanos. Plus they had nice clean restrooms.
Even Karnak the magnificent would have been impressed with the wonderful array of breakfast items presented on their menu. But we had miles to cover, so we got our coffee to go, shoved our extra water bottles in coat pockets and headed out with steaming coffees in our bottle cages! Reference rule 56

We somehow were following the exact route of the Holliday Park ride from a few weeks ago, but were not really making a conscious effort to go on a particular route as we figured that we were the only ones hearty enough to be out on such a day as this and anyone who could not get out of bed in time to at least catch us in Sheridan, would likely not be out at all.

Of all the rides that I have been on, I do not ever remember so many trios of dogs coming out to give chase. We had our first group just before we got to the place where Tony had tried to save us, by launching a sprint as a distraction, a few weeks ago, then the fence jumping dog that Tony had saved us from came out and ran along side barking and wagging his tail as if to say, "Where is the guy on the Specialized Rooby rooby roo Roubaix that tried to distract me?" Kate and I shouted a few words of encouragement to all the hounds we saw and pedaled on.

We were just finishing off our coffee, and commenting on what a delightful day it was turning out to be, and how we might just stay out for a full Century, when something happened so suddenly that both of us were suprised to find Kate having an upclose and personal meeting with Mother Earth.

Suffice it to say that Kate got the short end of the stick on that one. I thought I took a picture, but just realized today, that I had a technical difficulty and ended up with nothing. Kate was a real trooper and did what our parents always taught us to do when we take a hard knock and she walked it off. I had some stuff in my tool kit that I thought could make the wounds sting a bit more (in the form of a handy wipe) Kate made them sting and as if that was not enought poured sports drink in her wounds just to get a little salt in there.

Invoking rule #5 once again, Kate climbed on her freshly restraightend bike and we cycled on. The next we knew, we were pedaling happily along improving our handling skills on the gravel road from a few weeks ago. (you were right Alex, whatever does not kill us does indeed make us stronger) :)

After the gravel, we deviated from our path as I had discoverd earlier that I was having a wee bit of a problem with my rear wheel and took a short cut back to the Ian's Army bash.

Sure it was in to the wind all the way home, with blinding rain squalls, the dogs quit chasing me and started just going after Kate (I guess because they could smell all that blood) but that just added to the whole adventure, and didn't Kate look tough with all the scrapes (and when I say scrapes, I mean all the way up her leg from the knee up) and blood soaking through her rain jacket (which by now looked considerably different than mine) plus various and sundry bruises, not to mention being covered with road dirt. just a few tenths short of 70 but a good days ride all the same.

Amy fixed us some plates, heaped with Roast Beast, Potato Salad and Slaw from what was left over from the Cactus Grill and we felt warmer.

Hope to see you all next week at the Hope Ride!

Nebo Ridge, the B's have it!

Another perfect night for riding last night!

I was happy to see Tony, Gary, Kevin, Mark and Danny at the ride (if you were there and I did not see you,,,,, well I am not happy about that) :)

It was a spirited ride with the Killer Bs but I was able to hang on for a 21.9 mph avg over 30 miles, thanks to a little help from my friends Kevin Strawbride and Gary. Thanks for letting me use your wheels!

You can now call me El Chuppa llanta! (which translates as the chuppa llanta)

All the speed tips that Gary emailed me after last weeks ride were a tremendous success and all that jumping around and pill popping (sport legs) that he recommended really paid off in spades!

I also saw Mark out on the course as we came down the home stretch on Mule Barn road, he looked to be riding strong in the pack.

An we met Kevin Garner out on an independant excursion as we were crossing....32?? on the way out.

It was a fun ride, no wind and perfect temps!

Well I hope to see the lot of you on Saturday morning at 7:30 for the Ian's Army ride

Asta luega for now

Michael

Just another manic Tuesday

This week at the SWW hill ride, the weather was perfect!

I had a couple of helmet malfunctions this week, as Lisa and I wear the same brand helmet and had a mix up in transition at the Flying J on Saturday and the extra Giro helmet that I brought was sized for my lovely wife Melissa and the adjustment was frozen, so I had to wear Lisa's helmet...... good thing I just got rid of my head lice :)

It was just Sam, Tony and myself, but we got a really nice work out in! Sam rode in from her house, so she got the most mileage.

We regrouped after every hill interval and rode to the base of observatory hill, where Sam blew the doors off the boys in the big climb. Great Job Sam!!

It is starting to get dark earlier so we probably need to make sure to bring extra blinkies for the rest of the year, but we all got back to SWW just as the sun was dipping below the horizon, after a spirited extended lead out at the end.

I hope to see the lot of you at Nebo tonight!!

Peace

Michael

Observatory!

I was happy to make it to Southwestway park to join Michael and Tony for the Tuesday training ride this week. I have been able to make this ride a couple times but this was my first trip up observatory this year. It was certainly a challenge but I didn't hate it as much as the first and only other time I have climbed it!

I really appreciate Michael's tidbits on becoming a better rider. They have helped me tremendously! Thanks Michael.

Ride Happy!
Sam

I don't know why she swallowed a fly...

Got out on my bike today for a great ride with my friends Dawn & Kristen.  It had been a while since we had been out together and the weather made it a perfect day for a ride.  A few interesting things happened on this ride, here is the good, the bad & the ugly.  First the good, we were all on time, I was pleased that I made record time getting from downtown to Broadripple and 3/4 of the way through the ride we got to blow by three guys in their road racing kits - best "on your left" I've said in a while.  Now the bad, we had to ride back into a very strong wind, but I guess that is good practice; we did have two obnoxious drivers almost run us off the round about, but pretty good all things considered.  And now the ugly - I got stung on the lip by a bee.  You know how occasionally you end up swallowing a fly, well I guess this time I decided to swallow a bee, but it didn't approve.  Needless to say it hurt and was throbbing for the remaining 5 miles before we stopped for lunch, ice never felt so good.  It is still hurting, but no swelling - thank goodness.  I wish I could provide some pithe advice on how to prevent this in the future, but the only thing I can think of is to where a full face mask and there are obvious other issues with that.  Good riding and keep your mouth shut.

Just another Hilly Saturday

Lisa, Sam and I met at the Flying J early Saturday morning (5:30) and piled in the team bus (my Stealth Sport Van - which is neither stealthy or sporty) for our journey to do the 16 mile hill loop in Morgan Monroe State Forest.

It was very dark when we arrived so it took us a bit to get our lighting rigged on our bikes and get going so it was about 7:15 when we finally got underway.

Personally it was a hard day for me as apparently I was "blown up" from earlier rides this week and had cramping the whole time (I told Sam and Lisa that it was just that time of the month for my legs :) )

But the weather was awsum and perfect for putting in a hard effort!

I saw Tony going the other way towards the end of my second loop. I was wondering if he was going to show this weekend since it was so cold, but he made it for a few loops and to date has not missed a one of these rides.

We all did Bean Blossom Hill at least once and Sam did it an amazing 5 times! WOW!

Our training schedule called for 85 miles this weekend and I think that Sam did in the High 60 and Lisa did in the mid 70 range, but in those hills that was way over the effort for 85 miles of flat to rolling riding, I am sure. Our total ride time was 6 hours and 15 minutes a great amount of time in the saddle with Death Valley just around the corner.

I had a lot of fun, burned close to 6000 calories and slept great on Saturday night, with no more cramping that evening or the next day (woo hoo). Can't wait to do it again in a few weeks!

BTW Lisa took some great pictures of BB hill, but it was with my camera and I am having some technical difficulties, so be on the look out, I hopefully will get that figured out in a few days.

Peace

Michael

Who wants hills?

Mike and I are hitting Morgan Monroe again Saturday morning. It's a short loop, easily customizable to anyone's needs. You can ride anywhere from 14 miles on up. We'll be there starting early until mid-afternoon, so you could join us any time if you didn't want to be there all day, or meet on the south side to carpool if you do. SAG every loop at the car, bring your own snacks. Icy refills will keep us cool and happy. ;) Call, email, or text me or Michael if you want to join in the fun.

There is no "I" in "TEAM"

What a great ride, 80.5 miles of cycling fun with my JDRF team mates. The goal of the day was to boost our endurance and to spend a few more hours preparing ourselves for riding in Death Valley in October.

More importantly, it was an exercise in team building and cooperation. We spent a good portion of the ride practicing strategies like pace line riding and echelon formations. These are ways of working together which allow any one rider to be stronger because of his reliance on his team mates to give him a rest, and in turn be the strength they need when they rest. Like geese flying south, we position ourselves in ways so that we can block the wind for each other or draft in a sweet spot behind someone's wheel. By taking turns, we can go faster, stronger, and longer than any one of us could individually.

It occurred to me as I rode today that my pace line didn't just consist of the cyclists who were there with me. It also consists of all of the many friends, family, acquaintances, and even strangers who support me in my training every day, whether it's by donating money, praying for my well-being while I'm on the road, or just by encouraging me every step of the way. A great many people are part of the Indiana Cure Chasers, whether they are an official or unofficial part of my team.

The day was a perfect one, with incredible weather to cheer us. My favorite part was Tony's mad dash sprint away from the very scary barking (wagging) labrador. It was extremely thoughtful of him to offer himself up for the sake of the group and try to get the dog to chase him instead of us....wink wink. There was a bit of grumbling about a few unexpected miles of gravel road. It wasn't pleasant, but as Coach Alex says, it's good training for the rough roads in Death Valley.

All in all, today I am thankful for Mike's stellar leadership, Kate's navigational skills, Danny's cheerful good humor, Tony's competitive edge, Sam's well-stocked med kit, and Kelly's enthusiasm. What a great ride today, the Indiana Cure Chasers rock!

Southwestway is the only way!

One more great ride in the bag last night at SWW!

The weather was perfect and 4 of us headed out at 6 sharp.

Kate, Tony, Patty (Kate's guest) and myself.

With Road construction, we are varying the route a bit right now to get away from the cobblestones on the way out and it was nice to have the variety!

Kate had a bead pinch flat right after the cobbles, but we were able to get her back up and running in nothing flat :) She went on to climb Observatory Hill for the second week in a row!

Great job Kate!

Tony made the solo break on the way home, right after Centenary Hill and survived to the end.

All in all it looks as if everyone's vertical skills are improving and it was a great ride!

I hope to see the lot of you on Saturday morning at Holiday Park for a nice Flat 80 miles!

Peace

Michael

a perfect morning for a ride

Danny and I had the loveliest morning yesterday. We met at Broad Ripple, rode downtown and came back along the White River Greenway, then rode up the Monon to the Hagan-Burke trail and finally headed back to Broad Ripple again. 45 miles total, then I had to fly away home for kid responsibilities after. I haven't done much trail riding, and it was very interesting. Dodged pedestrians, saw some awesome dogs, checked out all the miserable looking joggers (I was soooo glad to be on a bike instead), and just enjoyed the time on two wheels. Sometimes I get so focused on being serious about my training that I forget I should take time just to have fun, too. Yesterday was a great reminder of that! What a great ride. :)

Well...It is now officially a 3 flat weekend.

The trip to Cincinnati...busted cuz of rain and my lack of interest in riding in the rain...
So I road around town and flatted in front of the State Fair.  Fixed it and the new tube did not hold air.  Road precariously down 38th street past the IMA to eventually pick up the White River Parkway trail. 

The Criterium was not well attended downtown yesterday although it was fun to see the riders buzzing by.  There were more than one biker with some road rash.  After a pizza and salad at Bazbeauxs, headed to "The Best Chocolate In Town" for a scrumptious mocha truffle.  Then it was off to home.

Today I went out with Bob K and we covered 68.something miles and by the time I got home I hit 70.  Why..because I round up my gas purchases to whole numbers...and 70 sounded better to me than 68.9.  We visited the Cicero Coffee Company and I have to say that the coffee was SOOOooooo good.  I wanted a to-go cup and an holder.  I/we had a really enjoyable ride, beautiful weather , nice temp and we road the length of Cyntheanne Rd.

I just looked at my bike and the back wheel is, again, flat.  I must not have cleared the culprit or picked up a new one...not sure.  Anyway...glad I'm at home with that flat instead of out.

I hope everyone's rides were enjoyable and rewarding.  Ride on!

A few great rides... despite the heat

Despite all the hot weather, we've had some great rides this past week.

Last weekend, Mark, Sam and I rode the Zionsville CIBA ride. Mark and I got some extra miles riding there and back, then with Sam we did two full loops (including Fishback!) and a partial third. Mark and I got 75+ miles and Sam got 60. Great job!

It's also nice to see so many JDRF riders at the Thursday night Nebo Ridge ride every week. Michael, Kate, Tony and Kevin S. are almost always there, no matter how hot. Pretty cool this week that I got to talk about JDRF and our rides with a woman from Bicycling magazine. She was in town for the two races this weekend (the Mass Ave and West Clay criteriums) and happened to be standing right next to me before the ride started. Maybe we'll see a story? The ride itself was good, though hot and humid. Kevin seemed to keep pace with the big group, but Michael and I worked with some other riders at the back of the pack to keep a good pace. Always nice to have some help on that ride.

And last, Mark and I did about 70 miles on Saturday, riding from Carmel, up past Kirklin and back. No hills, but lots of good miles and chances to sprint away from dogs, one of which was sure he could outrun us and another that jumped a fence for the chance to run after us. Maybe we should start packing some doggie treats?

Great Ride in Morgan Monroe

Great hill training today at Morgan Monroe State Forest! We did multiple 16 mile loops, Lisa climbed Bean Blossum in record time and Tony did a double!

Sure it was hot and we would have liked a little cooler weather but people in ...... want ice water, we had ice water :)

Great ride and we will be doing it again in 2 weeks with a few more miles, Lisa did 64 at least, probably more like 68 (her computor was messing up) I am pretty sure that G got 32 (Like Tony G- his cure chaser posse handle) I got 78, and of course we drank lots of "Brawndo" it's got electrolites!

I almost forgot to mention that I got stung by a bee on my last trip up Bean Blossum. I put Bag Balm on it just like Karnak always suggests, but the bee didn't seem to go for it?

Saturday Aug 14 Training Ride

I'll be leaving my place near 63rd and Sunnyside tomorrow morning around 8 am for about a 60 mile ride. The destination is to be determined but there will be a stop for breakfast. Let me know if you are interested in joining me. 317-908-9452.

Good Luck in Wisconsin!

Good Luck to the six Indiana Cure Chasers who will be riding in Wisconsin this weekend.  We look forward to hearing all about it.

Ride like the wind!

"That was the longest 60 miles ever, Bob"

Me trying to get all of us in one picture...and not being successful!

What a great day yesterday was for riding!  I arrived at Bob Berger's house at the usual Saturday morning ride time of 8am.  Bob Karnak wasn't far behind.  Saturday morning rides always includes breakfast and generally head into the wind.

As we are driving out of Bob Berger's subdivision Bob K says, "Well our target is New Castle.  I didn't know how far New Castle was...but just knew that it was east and the training schedule called for around 65 miles today...

The ride out was uneventful with good road.  We arrived at the corner of SR3 and SR38 in New Castle about 11am, ready for breakfast.  Bob K looked at his odometer, which read 38.9 and said, Whoa! that's further than Google maps predicted."  We looked around and Bob K was ready for some fast food and getting back on the road.  Bob Berger wanted a little bit of local fare (which I am a fan of too) and got us all headed BACK up the hill towards the Diner 38 we passed about a half mile or so.  Diner 38 was it.  We were greeted by very friendly locals who were interested in our journey and especially the 'rear view mirror' on my glasses.  A couple of omelets, eggs and coffee later and we were back on the road. 

We headed south on Greensboro Pike through a really pretty stretch of rolling hills and then it started to happen.  Bob B's omelet was not sitting well with him.  Bob fought the Diner 38 omelet for at least 20 miles.  (I'm thinking that Bob K was thinking that that local fare might not have been the best choice for several reasons.)  Well, Bob won the fight and the omelet did not get the best of him.  While rolling into Oaklandon and looking at the odometer than now read 76 miles and we weren't home yet, Bob B commented..."Bob, that was the longest 60 miles ever".  We topped out at 77.7 miles...not bad for a Saturday breakfast ride.

Hope everyone's rides were safe and FUN!
Hugs,
Kate

Almost Home - Death Valley Bob

Hot and Hilly Tuesday

Sam, Tony and I had a great ride Tuesday!

Sure it was hot (more like an aquabike) but we got in a good 28 mile ride.

Sam rode from home, so Tony and I ended up catching her on our way back from Observatory and we all rode in together, completely soaked, but feeling great.

Another hill training session in the bag, and they don't come any hotter than this one was....... except maybe Death Valley..... But it's a dry heat

Come one, come all next week!

Peace

Michael

Sunday's CIBA/JDRF Ride

Just a note to let you all know that for however briefly, it was great to see all of you on Sunday and the ride was a bit more of a work out than I bargained for :)

The ride was very well marked and the SAGs were well spaced and staffed with ....mostly pleasent people.... (grin)..... I totally enjoyed myself! Bob K told me to ride carefully every time that he saw me and that he did not want to have to pick me up off the road, so all in all I think that we can count the ride a success!!!

None the less, I took Monday off and will be riding hills tonight out of Southwestway Park with who ever ends up showing up.

Keep on Riding!!!

Michael

Today's short, painful ride

The last few months I've been riding with my parents.  They've gotten into biking, bought brand new bikes and have wanted to hit the trails.  So, all of my rides have been flat.

That's fine ... except I rode today over by Eagle Creek.  Read: Fishback and other hills :)

Wow.  12 miles and 2 sore legs later I crawled home.  The good news is my riding bruise on my calf is healing nicely :)

I hope you all are enjoying your rides!

ahem.....Danny.......

Are you going to blog about the Holland Hundred? And did anyone do RAIN, for that matter? I want details!

Gaga over beer!

Tonight I worked my first concession stand at Conseco.  Holy cow was it intense at times!! (Mostly because we had a lot of set-backs ... we ran out of cups and beer regularly!)

It was some FANTASTIC people watching.  I also learned how to correctly pour a beer from the tap!  I knew to tilt the cup ... but I didn't know you should let the tap run for about 2 seconds before you put your cup underneath.  Oops.  Some of my first pours had a lot of head on them.  Oh well!  I got muuuch better by the end of the night!

I also got to steal a glimpse of the concert.  I love Gaga, but I have to say, I heard a lot of complaints from some big fans while working!  They said her show was amateur:  she didn't play enough songs people knew, those that were popular she saved for the very end and she only had one angle on the jumbo-tron, so it was often difficult to really see.  *Interesting!*

Thanks to everyone who helped me navigate the concession stand tonight!! And a huge shout out to anyone who went to Lenny's tonight!! I'm going to call tomorrow to find out how well I did!

Great Hill Ride Everyone!

Kudos to everyone who rode yesterday from Southwestway!

Lisa got mosquito gassed and wasn't feeling to well but she hung in there with us to Centenary and like a trooper went to the top for the turn arround.

Kate you are an animal, great job pulling and climbing, way to show some intestinal fortitude.

Tony, you are really improving...... and that is all you are getting from me (wink) :)

Also, I am planning to be at SWW every Tuesday for some time to come, if anyone wants to join me on a regular basis. Tony has expressed interest and just doesn't want to ride alone out there. As long as I know that someone else is coming, I will hang around at the start until 6pm, but if I am not expecting anyone, I will be out of there more like 5:15 or 5:30

This Saturday, I am going to do the Holland 100 with Danny and the West Michigan JDRF team. I know that Danny's Brother in Law has offered camping in his back yard, but not being much for camping, I have found a decent hotel within 15 miles that I was able to get a special rate of $39.93 plus tax etc if anyone is interested in the details.

Melissa and I are going up Friday night at 4pm and I have extra room in the bike rack if anyone is interested.

Peace, love and a cure for diabetes

CU on the road team

Michael

Lenny's for a Cure, anyone???

This Thursday, July 15th -- Lenny's in Avon is doing a fundraiser for JDRF!!  Bring this flyer from 5-8 and a portion of the proceeds go to the organization!! YAY!!!!

Since this silly blogger won't let me put the pdf right on here, I've got a link to the flyer you need on my website -- just click the "Eat for a Cure" JDRF benefit flyer that has a picture of Lisa and I!

Thanks for a great ride!

This note is a bit tardy, but I wanted to say thanks to Tony, Kevin G., Kevin S., Sarah & Michael for the ride on Wednesday.  Truth be told, I was not very excited about the ride - it was hot, I was tired, I had been sick the day before and I would have much rather gone home and slept on the couch, but since I had the map, I thought I'd better show up.  I actually felt better once I got there and despite being a bit slow intially, I had a great ride.  I would have to say though the best part was Tony's fall.  No I'm not being mean, he and his bike were fine and it was funny to see him lean over onto the grass in slow motion.  I'm feeling much better about riding on Saturday - see everyone there.

Training Times Available for June

You should have all received a copy of the Training Times Newsletter for June from the National Office.  If you didn't or you have misplaced it you can find a copy on the Training Times link located on the left hand side of the blog.  This month's edition has a lot of good information about fundraising, including some motivation - someone has already raised $72,000.

the sunrise club: hills with the boys

Danny, Tony, Richard (father of youth ambassador Nick), Michael, and I started the 4th of July off with a bang. An early one.

Despite some initial grumbling because alarms rang too early and the sky looked like this when we left home, we met for some hill work leaving at sunrise.













Tony had some choice words about the ride organizer concerning departure time, but he was the first to arrive. I think he just couldn't pass up the opportunity to practice his patented slingshot technique. The one where he drafts behind me at the base of a hill and then swooshes past at top speed. :)

Danny, on the other hand, was all smiles. He was happy to get his ride in and still have a whole day ahead of him.





Michael's foot has healed enough for him to be on the bike again, but still with his boot. This gave the rest of us an opportunity to feel on more even footing. Even disabled and out of practice, Michael can set the pace.

We set out fairly quickly. I felt good today with speed, but I soon realized that the hills were harder this morning than they have been. Ooops. Someone's been too busy to spend time on strength training at the gym lately, and hasn't been hitting the hills often enough either. I'm sorry to say I felt a big difference. You know what that means....I see more hills in my near future. Still, it was an awesome workout and a fun time with friends. I do love riding with you, gentlemen! Hope you'll meet me again soon.

Apparently it's biking day in Avon!

I've seen 5 different families out on bikes this evening! It's so cute ... like little ducks all in a row :)

Our neighbors even biked to Dairy Queen and back.  Show offs! LOL  I hope you are all getting good mileage in!

OH! And my article got published in the IndyStar
http://newsfromyou.indystar.com/posts/small-hands-big-hearts-two-hendricks-county-girls-do-their-part-to-help-the-animals-injured-by-the-gulf-oil-spill

35 miles, BAABBY!

What a lovely afternoon ride!!  I rode from my house to the B&O trail and back.  I admit, it was an abbreviated 25 mile B&O ride ... hey, I had to make sure my legs had enough juice to get home!

This is PERFECT weather!! I absolutely love it.  The wind was blowing harder than I realized ... so parts of the ride were more intense ... I was going for a low key sort of ride today.

It was great fun and I passed by these 2 little girls who have a lemonade stand.  They are trying to raise money to help the animals affected by the Gulf oil spill.  How freakin sweet.  I went back after I cleaned up and wrote a story on them -- pictures, video and all!  I hope to have the story published in the Flyer and the Indy Star. (I'll keep you posted on that!)  Also ... if you are near Tilden and Jefferson Streets in Brownsburg, help the girls out!

Saturday's CIBA ride

I was on my bike by 7:15am Saturday, a nice relaxing 6 mile ride to the Major Taylor Velodrome; not much traffic and a good hill up 30th St. to get the legs moving. Met up with Tony, Kevin G & Mark and heard that Dan was on his way. As soon as they said start, Tony was off, never saw him again. There was a guy with two dogs in a carrier attached to the back of his bike and the dogs were making all kinds of noise.  Thank goodness we were able to ride faster than him and soon left him and the dogs in our dust.  We wound our way northeast, to some roads we had ridden before, including 79th St. over 465. We had hooked up with a few other folks which was nice, especially when we hit the hills, including Fishback (remember that one Heather). Back on Lafayette we had to stop to help a gentleman who had fallen at the stoplight. Lots of scrapes but nothing too bad and having stopped for the accident, Dan was able to catch up with us. We headed to Zionsville and the first rest stop.  Mark had met two guys who came from Minnesota for the Nite Ride. They were staying at the Gateway hotel on 38th St. (a bit sketchy). Then we headed further west and north to the exciting village of Whitestown, then turned back east and a little further north. Our next stop was at 126th & Towne road.  The wind had picked up and was coming from the south (of course it was because we were heading south). Fortunately there were a few turns east for a break from the wind. Dan left us at 64th St., Mark got a ahead of us in a group, but Kevin & I weren't too far behind and completed the 52 miles before noon.  I then made my way back downtown, a bit more traffic this time, but I got to test out a bit of the new Cultural Trail, which had no traffic on it.  Thanks for the ride guys!
Alex

Knee high by the fourth of July?

Apparently it's a good year for corn in Indiana!

I was unable to make it to Southwestway or Nebo this week, but I did find a trainer on craigslist for those days when my crazy family schedule or weather woes keep me from the road. Still, road miles are ever so much better. So, this morning I sneaked away at daybreak for a nice solo ride to Lebanon and back. It was gorgeous, the stifling heat hadn't made its appearance yet. Just the right temperature, birds singing, blue skies. I'm experimenting with some new routes, getting tired of the same old thing. It's fun to see some different sights. :)

Happy riding, everyone!

What rain Kevin Garner?

What a beautiful night for a ride.  Not a rain drop fell, although there was plenty of water in the river, in fact potentially too much - looked like Brooklyn was bracing for a flooding river.  We missed you Kevin G., next time trust the radar.

Okay, I have to brag a little bit

I'm sorry, I know it's kind of unsightly, but I'm so darn proud of myself -- I just can't keep from telling every single person (including 2 strangers at Target) that I won an EMMY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yes, that's right.  It's the same trophy actors and actresses win ... except mine was for journalism.  During my time at WISH-TV I won an Emmy for best breaking news.  I just found out Saturday!  YAY ME :)

Click HERE if you want to learn more.

Networking, JDRF style

Heather beat me to the blog (figures...lol), but I wanted to tell you about something fun that happened last week. :) I met the fabulous Jill Deak because her son Isaac is a youth ambassador too, and she does all sorts of amazing volunteer work with the JDRF walk and gala. We've run into each other in various JDRF situations. When she found out I was branching out from being 'mother of youth ambassador' to 'JDRF rider', she offered to do a fundraiser for me. Jill also happens to be a Mary Kay consultant. We tried a few times through the winter to line something up, but illness and weather weren't kind to us, so just last week we managed to get some friends together for a spa pampering morning. Jill helped everyone relax and enjoy themselves, and the end result was $109 raised for my JDRF ride instead of the usual free products for the hostess of a Mary Kay party. If you're looking for ways to raise funds, or just need some Mary Kay products yourself, you might want to consider contacting Jill. Guys, you should think about it too! Some of your wives or girlfriends might enjoy a little girl time.

Thanks, Jill, for a fun morning. And for your continued dedication to JDRF in all sorts of ways. You are the best!

Jill's contact info is jdeak@marykay.com if any of you want to find her.

Its a Horse of course, of course!

What a great night for a ride, no worries about rain.  Kate E., Tony, Dan and I headed east with the wind, we were hitting 19-20 mph.  A few miles in we look up the road and there are two runaway horses.  We slowed our bikes because in bike vs. horse, I'm pretty sure horse wins.  There was another rider on the other side of the horses and fortunately the owners were there as well putting on the bridles.  After a minute or two it was all under control and we continued on our ride.  After 10 miles we turned around and headed into the wind.  Thanks to Kate & Tony we made great progress, over 16 mph.  It was a great ride and you don't run into a horse very often. 
Alex

Raising money while beautifying? I LOVE multi-tasking!

Lisa held a fundraiser at her home today with a Mary Kay consultant who also has a child with Type 1 diabetes.

What a great way to spend the day -- manicures and pedicures, pizza, make-up and fun!  It sounds like Lisa is well on her way toward her goal ... now if others of us could just be so lucky :(

I hope all your fundraising efforts are going well!

Concessions at SPICE on June 19th (10-4)

Hello everyone -
We have an opportunity to staff a concession stand this Saturday at the SPICE challenge course.  There will be a group of 80 coming in 15 person intervals throughout the day.

I know that Lisa B is interested in helping and I can contribute as well.  Would anyone else like to participate in this opportunity to raise funds?

There may be more up front work this time to make this happen, but I will try to finalize that with Laura today/tomorrow.

Thanks!
Kate  319-4743

A perfect night for a ride...

Thursday evening turned out to be a perfect evening for the Nebo Ridge ride. I had the privilege of hosting a work colleague from the UK who is also training for a JDRF ride there http://www.cyclegb.co.uk/ -- and the Lilly UK team http://www.justgiving.com/ErlyWheelers2010. His ride (81 miles) is this Sunday (June 13) back in the UK, and he wanted to get at least one training ride in while he was traveling for work.

Since it just wouldn't be right to leave a fellow cyclist without a ride, he borrowed my back-up bike (he didn't have cleats to match my regular pedals), and a helmet. We got a bit of a late start from my house due to an unexpected flat and tube change, so we didn't make it to the start before the normal rides set out. We jumped on the course at 126th St. and rode ahead of the fastest group until they caught us just before the S.R. 32 crossing.

He is a few inches taller than I am and so the bike was slightly too short for him from crank to saddle. In spite of the strange borrowed bike (we learned that the brake levers are on opposite sides compared to those in the UK... yikes!), decreased leg extension and the fact that we were riding on the wrong side of the road for him, he did great! We managed to average about 17 mph for 30 miles. With comfortable temps and light winds, the ride seemed to go very fast for both of us. Though he bicycle commutes 30 miles to/from work, it was his first experience riding amidst such large groups of cyclists. That said, the Nebo Ridge numbers pale in comparison to the 1500 cyclists he is expecting to ride on Sunday... wow!

After we got back to my house, we enjoyed a beer and grilled pork chops on the screened porch before I returned him to his hotel.

A great ride... and I appreciated all the shouts of support from my fellow JDRF riders as you passed!

We didn't melt

In spite of a couple of hours of rain before ride time, Tony and I decided we needed our road miles tonight. There didn't seem to be much chance of lightning or severe storms, and the rain wasn't heavy. It was one of those times where our diligence was rewarded, because the skies cleared just as we arrived to head out, and it ended up being the most lovely of nights for a ride. We didn't even get wet! Simply 26 miles of breezy happy riding. We ended up pleased with our pace, pretty quick considering the hills and the crosswind. It was a great ride altogether.

I love riding with Tony, because he's stronger and faster than I am, and that pushes me to be a little better too. Also, we're in similar stages of training, having both gone from non-cyclists to fanatics in a little over a year. Because of this, he's my biggest competition for the 'most improved cyclist' status I'm gunning for. I'm sure in a few months it will be Heather, but for now I think Tony and I are neck and neck. (Shhhh, don't tell him I'm going to kick his butt for that status, or he might start working even harder.) And yeah, I might have said he was stronger and faster than I am.....but I'm thinking I might have a little edge because of the fact that I started out soooo much a rookie, with a lot more rookie mistakes. That's got to count for something as far as improvement goes, right? All in fun of course, but seriously......the Indiana Cure Chasers are the best group of people I could have found, and I'm very glad there's always a friend with whom I can ride.

I left my heart in a cabin on a lake

I've heard parenting described as walking around with your heart outside of your chest. When you're the parent of a diabetic child, your heart might be outside your chest, but it's also locked up tight in a protective box with waterproof tape strapping it tightly in place. Perhaps it lives on your sleeve, perhaps tucked under your shirt in some inconspicuous place. You can feel it beating there at all times, but you have to be ever so careful to make sure nothing happens to it. You spend all of your days, whether consciously or unconsciously, doing the right things to keep your heart safe and healthy.

Sunday I cut the waterproof tape, opened the box, and left my heart at a YMCA camp three hours away. Yep. It's her first trip to diabetes camp. 180 lucky kiddos cut loose from the ties that bind them for an entire week, getting to know each other and bonding through the frustrations they share. I left her there, with broken casted wrist and non-functioning pancreas, to capable and amazing staffers who know just what she needs. I'm sure my heart will leap with joy all week, and touch the hearts of others in ways I can only imagine. But I'll likely feel a bit hollow until she returns.

I'll probably miss 30-50 blood sugar checks, several pump infusion set changes (no need to hold her hand when the needle pops in?), hundreds of carbohydrates counted, high and low blood sugars corrected, and have six consecutive nights of sleep without checking to make sure she's stable first. What will I do with myself? If I seem a little lost......you might want to distract me. Looks like I'll need lots of bike time to get me through! :)

Riding for Bailey's permanent diabetes vacation!

I dropped my youth ambassador (aka Bailey) off at diabetes camp yesterday. Bailey is my daughter who was diagnosed with diabetes at 18 months old. This is Bailey's second year going to camp. She really enjoyed it last year so I am hoping the same for her this year. Anyhow, we really learned to appreciate what camp meant for Bailey. Sure it was a typical summer camp with all the activities and such but it really is a lot more than that for Bailey. It is her "diabetes vacation" because she is well taken care of by her "med. staff" as she calls it. The med staff includes doctors, nurses, medical students, dietitians, etc. They pretty much take care of all her needs related to having diabetes which allows her freedom to enjoy normal activities. It is very comforting for us to know she is well taken care of as well!

Another thing that diabetes camp does for Bailey is it allows a very painfully shy young lady become a social butterfly. When I asked her why she was so different at camp, she said "because we already had something in common."

This year Bailey told her "med. staff" that she is willing to learn how to change her own pump sites. She learned last year that she was pretty much the only kid that didn't do it on their own. Can you imagine placing a one inch needle in your skin at a 45 degree angle and removing it leaving a cannula in it's place? These kids are as young as 7 years old! I think Bailey is behind the curve because she was diagnosed at a very young age. I told her that I am willing to change her site because the pessimistic side of me thinks she has a lifetime of doing this on her own. But thankfully we have organizations like JDRF and people like you that are fighting to put an end to a lifetime of daily monitoring. Fighting for Bailey's permanent diabetes vacation!

Ride Happy!
Sam

A beautiful day for a ride!!

Ahhh ... today is PERFECT riding weather.  Shoot, who am I kidding? Today is perfect HEATHER weather :)  Mid-70's, light breeze, bright blue sky and big puffy cumulus clouds in the sky.  Sweet serenity. 

I did the 25 mile B&O trail.  Though, I decided riding alone for that long would be boooorring!!! Fortunately, my BlackBerry has I <3 Radio and I tuned in to Top 40 with Ryan Seacrest!!!  I turned up the volume, fixed my phone so it was stuck in my shirt and pedaled away!!!  It was so beautiful and so fun!!!

About 2/3 of the way through, I go by my aunt and uncle's house.  So, I stopped by knowing my cousins would be home.  I think I freaked their freak when they saw me.  Seriously, my riding gear makes me look like Bret Michaels sister or a band member from White Snake.  Word.  The yellow sweatband is helpful for the SWEAT *as an added bonus it holds my hair whispies out of the way!* and my riding gloves are straight up Miami Vice.  It was fun chatting with my little cousins and I even got to met on of my boy cousins' friends.  Although, I think I totally freaked him out.  I was talking a million miles a minute and pretending to be gangster????  Yeah, it was weird.  I'm gonna blame that craziness on the endorphins and not that fact that I had Vodka in my water bottle.  (I kid! I kid ... or do I??? LOL)

I made it home happily.  Hey, Lisa, this ride was MUCH better than our ride last month :)  Of course this time I had on my riding shorts, and it's about 20 degrees cooler with zero humidity ... unlike last time when the humidity nearly suffocated me out in the country where I thought you took me to die ... :)

What rain?

Well Heather, you missed a great ride, some yummy cookies & good barbecue, oh yeah and some rain.  Dan & I joined a few hundred other riders in Brownsburg for the B&O Trail ride.  We stopped quickly at the first rest stop at 10 miles, just as we were pulling out of the stop we felt the first rain drops.  We contemplated taking the 25 mile route back home, but instead headed west and with us came the rain.  It rained for the next 12 miles, reminded me of the Vermont JDRF ride last year.  This portion of the ride had some good hills, will probably need to head out this way later in the year.  As we left the next rest stop the rain stopped.  We thought we would get hit again a couple times, but it held off.  Of course by this time we were wet, especially our socks, thank goodness it was warm.  Leaving the final stop for the final 10 miles we had about a mile into the wind, but the rest of the way wasn't too bad.  We had a great lunch after listening to a live band.  Sorry the rest of you couldn't join us.  See you on Tuesday.
Alex

Fair weather rider

So, okay ... maybe I'm not the cyclist that you all are ... cuz I'm not gonna ride if there's a chain of rain.

Let alone thunderstorms.  EEK!


For those of you pedaling away at B&O -- best of luck!! I'll catch ya on a day that's dry :)

Fishback!!!!

I still maintain I will never forgive Tony for making me go up this beastly hill ... but I must say with some pride that I did conquer it!!!!  It's quick, but painful :)

My gears still aren't quite doing their thing ... but Alex suggested it was user error.  I think not!! LOL  I'm sure it is ... so we'll see if I can get my gear shifting fingers to work correctly.  I still shift the wrong way first, even though I know which way I want to go.

It was a fun ride tonight!! I was sweating like crazy.  Guh-ross.

Mmmmm, that omelet was good

And so was the company. No better way to start a Saturday morning than 42 miles and an omelet stop with friends. Thanks Bob K, Kate E, Dennis, and Danny for a good time! The picture we took didn't turn out so well, but the ride sure did.

That makes 122 road miles for me last week. So happy to be finding my bike legs again! Happy riding, everyone......