90 miles [check]

It felt a bit like Frogger as I rode through the intersection and into my neighborhood at the end of 90 miles on bicycle. I was tired but certainly not in the wrong to roll into the intersection after the last two cars had crossed in front of me. Unfortunately, the two cars behind them were playing by different rules. They didn’t have time to wait for a bicycle. I escaped unharmed and, feeling pushed around, I rode the rest of the way with extra caution.

The ride itself was good. I managed to hold up fine on 2 hours worth of Perpetuem, a packet of almond butter, some salted almonds and raisins, and (on a quick stop at home) a bowl of loaded up quinoa served with a smoothie. The entire 92 mile ride took just under 8 hours.

I can remember when 40 miles was long and painful. Just thinking about how short a time ago that was makes me pretty darn proud of myself — especially since I’ve done most of this journey on my own. It isn’t so much that being alone is “how I roll.” Honestly, I prefer to have company. But it is sure nice to know that IF I need to go it alone, I can totally do it. I’m no longer petrified of the cars. I’m a bit braver on the downhills and a teeny bit more confident on the uphills.

With 90 miles behind me, I can now rest up and heal for the few weeks between now and my century ride. It’s taper time again! It’s been a long but beautiful journey getting here. And even if I don’t do it all that quickly, you can bet tushie that I going to give it all I got for as long as it takes.

Wish me luck.