Stopping to Smell the Flowers

What a busy couple of weeks, but they've been packed full of all the things I like to do. The flight over here went smoothly, and it's great to be here with Conrad. Time seems to pass by so quickly at times.

I think I've done more cycling in the past 2 weeks than in the past 2 months. Actually I know I have. I did a handful of trainer rides in the weeks leading up to my trip, but in the winter I'd rather run. The dogs also prefer the runs, so the cycling has fallen a bit by the wayside.

I've made up for it though. Yesterday was a brilliant solo 6 hour "coffee shop" ride along the coast. Conrad had some crazy session and I heard he say something about 300 Watts and I said no thanks. My actual riding time ended up being about 5 hours and I stopped to watch seals play, stopped to just look at the stunning view, and stop to watch and chat with the surfers. Incredible views and weather!

It's fantastic to just enjoy life. Often we get so busy with work and waiting for all the fun things in life to happen. It's also a blessing to not be training and just riding for the sheer joy of riding. It makes me wonder if all the work is worth it, or if I could work less and live with less. What brings happiness at the end of the day? Unfortunately I have a fondness for shiny carbon fiber objects on 2 wheels. The rest of the rat race I can pass on, but I really enjoy being able to travel and have a nice bike or 2 or 3.

I see and work with so many people on the work treadmill. Needing bigger cars or bigger houses. Stepping back really makes me think what is my priority and why.



BBQ at Conrad's house.


The yummiest coffee ever!


The best swimming place (and napping place). 50 meter salt water pool next to the ocean.

Random Ramblings

First off. I did that 50K trail run last week and the only problem I had after the race was a little poison oak. Damn.... so itchy... and it's the smallest area. I was wearing full tights, longs sleeves, hat, didn't even stop to pee in the bushes (thankfully). Apparently there was a tiny area peaking out between my socks and my tights that was exposed. So very itchy this week! Forget knee or quad pain this is way worse.


Currently I'm sharpening my nails so I can get a good scratch in while I wait for my flight to South Africa. I'm feeling descent after a red-eye from SFO last night. The bike fee was $250, thanks United. The ticket counter lady snarkily said, "How do you intend to pay for that?" Seriously, like it's an option at this point. I'm standing at the counter with one bag, one bike box, and myself weighing a grand total of 230 pounds. Whatever, "credit card" I reply. I've gotten used to paying rediculous bike fees at this point, and it's not like I can just leave it behind. However, I am leaving the bikes and case in South Africa this time. Delta charges $300 for a bike, so I guess I'm getting a deal. I remember when they were free on international flights.

Only 24 more hours of travel to go! Definitely not looking forward to the next 20 hours wedged into the same seat. My recipe of choice for this flight is 1 ambien, 2 benadryl, and maybe a drink. Hopefully when I wake up I'll be at my destination.