First of the year

As the old saying goes, "The first _____ of the year defines the rest of the year." We say this in music, as the first note you play defines the phrase, or the first phrase you play defines the piece.

In this case, the first bike ride of the year defines the rest. Now, I didn't have much of an off season this year, only a few weeks off around the holidays. My first ride was on Saturday, January 3rd, followed by the 2nd on Sunday, January 4th. Both rides where great. I've never felt in this good of shape this early. Usually it takes a couple rides to get back into the activity, but the very first ride I rode up and over Bernal Rd., the second my short loop out to Bailey and through Almaden Valley.

If these rides define this year, then it will be a good one.

The weight loss/strengthening/healthy living is continuing to surprise even myself, with my weight dropping below 185 for the first time over the weekend.

I've never felt like this in January. I usually have a layer of winter fat, sore, slow, lethargic legs, and cobwebs in the head. Through Yoga, working out in my room, running every so often (a total of 3 times... still...) and riding up until the week before Christmas, this year is different.

This is the year. As silly as that sounds, I feel the need to say it. This is the year I will be in the best shape of my life. This is the new stronger, faster, leaner, longer me.

And I'm ready. 3,000 miles this year? Last year I did just under 2,000. Let's double it.


This years goals: 4,000 miles on the bikes and the weight down to 170. There it is. Done.


4,000 miles and 170.