Took a short mtn bike ride yesterday.  I had a good time although it was way too short.  <3 miles although, my son says that it is the hardest 3 miles in Nashville.  I am beginning to think that I have bitten off more than I can chew, but am just stubborn enough to make this happen.

I plan to do some research today on when the big rides are this year.  Tom wants to plan a big ride out west, which sounds good to me as well.  We will see....

Nearing the end of December before my big goal is in place.  I have spent my exercise time with kettlebells.  2 - 3 times a week.  Plenty hard enough....not enough cardio.  Not because kettlebells isnt cardio, but more because I am just now learning the moves.  I have discovered that I need to work more on upper body.  Quads are not a problem.  I am sure that my butt will be sore enough once I am back on my bicycles.

11/29/13

Thanksgiving is over and I am 4 lbs heavier than the last time I weighed.  Not a good start to what I hope is an awesome riding season.  Since this little issue is weighing on my mind, I will also comment about my diet and exercise program along the way.  I guess I am in prevent disaster mode.

Went mtb riding with my son yesterday to Montgomery Bell.  I basically sucked.  Worst 5 miles I have done in forever.  Sorc butt today as well.  I have lots to do before 1/1/14!

It has been a few years since I have had any serious miles on a bicycle.  At 58, it hard to think about planning for so many, but what the hey!  I am thinking that most of the miles will be on my road bike ( Cannondale Synapse).   I was also thinking that a certain percentage would be traveling back and forth to work on a Electra cruiser.  As well, a percentage will be on my Santa Cruz Tall Boy mountain bike.  I have grown to love mountain biking over road, especially since the death of a friend as a result of a bicycle vs car accident several years ago.  That's funny to think about too, since I have hurt myself so many times on the mountain bike.  :-0

Currently, I would say I am in moderately good health.  Probably 10 or so pounds too many, but other than that, good shape.  I have been working out with a trainer for several months and have recently moved to kettle bell workouts.  Serious stuff kettle bells.  I actually like these workouts.  Twice a week x 45 minutes per session.  We will see how they prepare me for 2014!

At this point, i am not sure what to blog about....maybe preparations, planning trips, pictures and fitness levels.  I am excited about this New Years plan!

I live in middle TN so most of my rides will be in that general area.  At the moment, I am thinking about BRAT & BRAG!  I have been on neither so dont know what to expect although lots of friends ask me to go each year.  I also want to ride to Mississippi via the Trace.  Almost did that this year, but lacked the saddle time.  My local bicycle club should be able to help with this endeavor.

My oldest son will push me on the mountain bike.  He eats and breathes ultimate adventures!  He recently visited Canada on a long mtn bike trip.  We have visited CO and UT with our bikes.  Tons of fun for sure.  Lots of things to look at, lots of mountains with great downhill sections.