KABOOM!

I unplugged for four days and ventured deep into Yosemite Valley. I emerged victorious.

So basically, this happened. Made the podium - 3rd place. Still in shock.

Pet the pigs at Krueger’s Farm for good luck and hope I don’t get swine flu. Debate skinsuit vs. kit and change in the backseat of the car. Pick up my number and pre-ride so I know what I’m getting into. Pee a thousand times and curse myself for drinking so much coffee.

I drink coffee until I start having heart palpitations. My OCD kicks in and I swear I’m forgetting something important even though I’ve triple-checked my race bag.

Then we pack everything cycling-related that we own into our car.

This requires a lot of swearing.

Race day is full of quirky rituals. First, I wake up at the crack of dawn and eat my bird seed.

At the Zoo. Huey Lewis and The News. Reliving the glorious 80’s.

I’m on a bike.

A while back, I participated in a video shoot for the Bicycle Transportation Alliance. It’s a promotional video for bike commuting, and I think it beautifully sums up the positive cycling community in Portland. We’re lucky to have such a bike-friendly city. 

I love the video and I can’t stop watching it.

Summer bliss is mussels and clams with white wine, rich butter, and a hint of curry. Crisp green salad with balsamic vinegar and fruity olive oil. Ice-cold, crisp Sauvignon Blanc. Savory sourdough cheese rolls.

We are in Mt. Vernon for a wedding and love is in the air.

Crown Point, you are an ass-kicker. Beautiful ride on a beautiful day…