Handbuild Custom Bikes for Women

SUMMER FUN

2011-09-05T10:18:00.000-06:00

It's been a heck of a month. Life has just flown by! I have just tried to get every bit of fun out of this summer before the kids go back to school. Yesterday we took a fun little trip up to Cave Falls with family. The beauty was truly amazing.

The kids go back to school tomorrow, and oh, how this makes me sad. Sad to know they are all growing up. Another year has past! Oh, how time flies. I have enjoyed every moment of this summer, and I can't wait until the next.

My sister and her family

Look at these adorable little Vibrams.

I found this amazing little quote on Facebook and loved it so much I thought I would share.

I've carried a child within my body ♥ Slept with a child on my chest ♥ I've kissed little toes & wiped away tears ♥ I've been vomited on, peed on, pooped on & spent sleepless nights cradling my child, but I wouldn't have it any other way ♥ My body isn't magazine ready or perfect, but when I look in the mirror I see a Mom… and there is no greater honor, love or blessing.

BIG CHAR FIRED UP

2011-08-19T21:22:00.001-06:00

Brian did some cooking with Big Char today. Do you remember who Big Char is? Well, Char is the name of the sweet cooking oven. You know, the one that cooks up sweet carbon fiber bikes.

Brian was doing some painting on a carbon fiber fork so we went to hang out for a bit. Enve, thanks for making such amazing forks.

Here is Coop trying to help out. I LOVE that his little shirt matches his danger mask. NOT PLANNED.

So, I have been slacking on the cycling end of things. Why is it that life and busy schedules get in the way? Could someone please figure that out for me and let me know. I will make you cookies!
Tomorrow morning is the Rush triathlon. Not doing it this year, but my amazing 65 year old father is. I will post pics of him after the race. He has had two hip and two knee replacements. Now, what's my excuse?

DESIRE to push forward

2011-08-15T21:25:00.000-06:00

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

2011-08-12T08:05:00.000-06:00

She can deal with stress and carry heavy burdens. She smiles when she feels like screaming, and she sings when she feels like crying. She cries when she's happy and laughs when she's afraid. Her love is unconditional. There's only one thing... wrong with her.

She forgets what she's worth!

when I was making kid t-shirts I made one that said "I am awesome, no really I am. This is really how we should be thinking. We all have such amazing talents. We all have amazing responsibilities. We are awesome. I think if we believed in our ability to better each other - anything is possible. So believe in who you are and your ability to be awesome.

Another Beautiful Build

2011-08-10T21:27:00.000-06:00

Spent the weekend at Targhee Resort. It was a blast visiting with family and watching the Pierre 100. It is a local mountain bike race that has been going on for a few years now. This is the first year I have heard about it. It looks amazing. These athletes were truly inspiring. ONE HUNDRED miles on a mountain bike with over 16,000ft of climbing. It exhausted me just watching them. I love attending these events - it seems to re-motivate my engine.

Our good friend Chris road the race. Way to go Chris!!

Brian has some beautiful builds that he has been working on. I am wishing you could see these in person. They are amazing. I am loving the new matt finish on the frames. Nicholas from Utah ordered a steel road frame. He is the manager at the bike shop down there. Steel has been a popular material lately. Several people like the way a good steel bike rides.

Here are a few pics from Nicholas's build.

Strawberry Smoothies & Legs

2011-08-08T14:46:00.000-06:00

Strawberry Smoothie

My children absolutely LOVE smoothies any time of the day. They have become so adventurous with the magic bullet. Carson (13) has been brewing up this delicious berry, berry smoothie that it makes Jamba juice look like a bunch of ameteurs.

For one smoothie, combine 6 ice cubes, 3/4 cup skim milk, 2/3 cup frozen mixed berries, (optional spoonful of frozen cranberry juice) 1/3 cup nonfat plain yogurt or Kefer and (optional 3 drops of liquid vanilla stevia). Puree until smooth.

Also, Bella Rosa is looking for a great pair of legs and some fun personalities. I am wanting to do a couple photo shoots for the new site, and some brochure info. If you are interested and live around the area, give me a shout out! It should be a lot of fun, and we can get some riding in at the same time. Here is a nice pair of Kelson legs - thanks to Ryan.

HEALTH UPDATE:
Alright, so going out of town and eating burgers and fries may effect your physical fitness. Yeah, no weight loss this week . . . just playing catch up. PLAN- Go grocery shopping for healthy fruits and veggies. Can't wait!

That's Life

2011-07-29T11:35:00.000-06:00

I know we are all busy. I know we all have our daily routine of long to dos. As mother's, and women we also have the daily to dos of everyone else. We take care of the house. We are chefs by nature, we are housekeepers by trade, we are kid lawyers, and motherly nurses. We can freakin do it all! Why, oh why do we have such amazing responsibilities? This is kind of how I feel about so many responsibilities.

Although we have so much to accomplish in one day we some how find a way to get it done, and move on. If we don't get it done, we find a way to cope with life just the way it is. It's definitely not easy, but who said it was going to be?

(photo I took of a local hometown country girl)

The photography studio has been amazing. I have been booked solid, and can't be more greatful for this opportunity in my life. It was a year ago that I received my camera as a gift from my parents. They knew how bad I wanted to take photos of Brian's bikes so they surprised me with a wonderful gift. Look where it has taken me.

The boys are in full soccer swing. Guess who has decided to coach? Brian has graciously volunteered his time and talents to the soccer kids. I know I say this all the time, but he is amazing. How does he find the time? He says that his kids are only young once and they will be gone before we know it.

Jenny came up yesterday to pick up her amazing cx bike. Brian, Jenny, and I went for such an amazing ride.

CX season is right around the corner and I'm trying to grow some balls to race this year. Alright, that sounded a little crude, but seriously - why the heck am I so chicken when it comes to racing? It was never a problem 20 years ago.

Like I say, life is a crazy roller coaster - so get on and enjoy the ride.

Runner Steph, Meet Cyclist Steph - Featured Writer Stephanie Hancock

2011-07-17T19:11:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to take some photos of my good friend Steph and her family. She has always been an inspiration to me, but after reading her story I realized that she is truly an inspiration to us all. Thanks Steph for sharing.

(Here is a pic I was able to take of Steph. It shows her definite love for running.)

Last Tuesday I met up with some friends to go for an early morning bike ride. I am a runner, not a cyclist, but every once in a while I try to get out on my bike. It kind of helps to have ridden a time or two each summer before my annual triathlon...

(A flat on a previous ride, but same friends I rode with on Tuesday)

I want to learn to like my bike, mostly because I feel obligated since I have it, but also because Jeff rides and I'd like to join him sometime when I feel comfortable on the bike. I keep thinking that I'll never learn to like riding unless I actually get out and do it. So I resolved to join the ladies on Tuesday and prove to myself that riding really wasn't as painful as I remembered.

It really was painful.

Worse than I remembered. I was out of breath before I made it to my neighbor's driveway. I was more out of breath as I tried to carry on a conversation and act as if nothing was wrong. I was miserable by the time we crested the hill. And finally at a whopping 2 miles out, I was done. Done. I couldn't believe I was saying it, but out came the words, "I have to stop. I can't do this." And completely out of character, I peeled off and headed the whole two miles back home like a dog with its tail between its legs.

I never quit. No matter how I'm feeling, if I start something I just don't quit. I spent the entire day Tuesday puzzling over my actions, wondering what brought on this odd behavior, and feeling like a complete and utter failure. I even cried more than once that day because I was so frustrated. I couldn't keep up. Sheesh, I could barely even start! I wondered if I should just give up on the bike. I could sell it and get some new running gear, couldn't I? I sobbed to Jeff, "How in the world can I ever learn to like cycling if I keep having bad experiences!?"

Jeff is very level-headed. He is as steady and logical and reasonable as they come. And kind, too. He just smiled at me and said, "You need to just go out on your own sometimes and have fun - don't worry about keeping up with anyone, just do your own thing."

I realized that a huge part of the problem was the stress and anxiety I get when riding (or sometimes even running) in groups - I worry that I won't keep up, that I'll hold people back, that I'll ruin their ride or run. At my two-mile turn back point on Tuesday I was struggling to keep up and terrified of the potential suffering in the upcoming hour. So I quit.

Jeff reminded me that I was sick and had been sleeping way more than usual as I fought off the cold and sore throat. And I remembered that I'd not eaten much for several days (sickness makes me lose my appetite), so there were definitely valid reasons for quitting, but if I had been running I don't think I'd have quit. Sure, I would have had a miserable run, but I wouldn't have stopped.

I know myself as a runner.

I don't know myself as a cyclist.

Runner Steph, meet Cyclist Steph. She's a stranger and you don't know what she's capable of. That makes me wary and a little unconfident. Okay, a lot unconfident.

(Me & my friend Heather, whose husband helped fit both my old bike (pictured) and my new bike to me.)

Being the compulsive type, I decided to take Jeff's advice and go out again the next day (you know what they say, just get back on the bike when you fall - or fail!). I went on a solo ride and spent some time getting to know Cyclist Steph. It wasn't the ideal morning for a ride with 20+ mph headwinds the first and last 6 miles and crosswinds on other parts of the ride, but I didn't have to worry about my speed, didn't worry I'd be slowing someone down, didn't need to save my breath for talking, and could focus on the ride.

I'm so glad I did it. Tuesday: 2 miles of fatigue and anxiety until I turned around. Wednesday: 20 miles of strength and relaxed riding. I wasn't speedy - the winds certainly had something to do with that. Overall I averaged 15mph, which included the snail-pace 7mph ride on the uphill (I can RUN up hills faster than that! Oh, this is pitiful!), but also included topping out at 38mph on the downhill. THAT was cool.

So cool that this morning (now Monday) I chose to ride my bike instead of running. I rode the same route, this time with very little wind, and finished the 20 miles six minutes faster. It was another solo ride - trying to get my conditioning up to where I can ride with friends again. (I did join a 20+mile ride with some friends a few weeks ago, in rain and wind - they let me draft. I told you I'm not very good at this, but I'm trying!)

So anyway, it's coming. Tomorrow I'm doing my favorites - running and swimming. I have a half-marathon race on Saturday so technically I'm tapering this week and won't be doing too many workouts the rest of the week. But I bet I'll be on my bike again soon.

My husband (I could also call him my therapist, couldn't I?) regularly rides twice, thrice, four times the distance I'm at (and in a LOT less time). He's definitely inspiring me. And encouraging me. I love that he expects me only to have fun and has no pre-conceived notion that my running fitness would translate to cycling prowess. I don't think I'll ever be great, or even good - just mediocre. After all, I'm first and foremost a runner. But I'm a runner that is learning to (almost) love cycling.

Let's Talk Life

2011-07-12T20:35:00.002-06:00

Alright, so life has just seemed to pass on by without me taking any notice what-so-ever! I think I am going to have to turn this into my personal/fun/business blog. So, I will begin with the personal side of life. Yesterday, I was a little somber due to a rat! Yeah, you heard me a friggin rat! Carson, my son has owed a rat for several years. Now this is not just an ordinary rat, this rat had style. Anywho, a few months ago little Mr. rat who we called Nike got a tumor on his leg that just grew and grew. I thought it was just a gas bubble that would pop, but after two different surgeries poor little Mr. Nike had to get put down. His leg was seriously the size of a small pear. I cried and cried over a rat. Oh, the hormones.

I always tell you how much I love my little life. Jenny came over for a mountain bike ride the other day. We did some exploring through the peaks of our local National Park. The cool thing about the ride was we just left from my house. There are some amazing rides that I had no idea about - right in my back yard. We had an amazing time, but after just about an hour of climbing I had the perfect excuse to not continue. MY SEAT! Yeah, my seat had slowly loosened itself up, and moved it's way all the way down. Now, if I were a prepared bicycle rider I would have had all of my tools and necessities to fix the problem. Well, I didn't ! My goal is to help self educate myself about lame bicycle issues so that I can teach my fellow riders how to be prepared. So, in future posts I plan on educating other's about bicycles while learning and educating myself in the process.

Brian has been extremely busy with some new builds. I went down to the paint booth and took a few snaps of his paint job. Most bike companies can weld, but how many of them can weld and paint? Brian definitely has some serious talent! I get impressed every time I see him in action. Talk about action . . . I'm celebrating 16 years of LOVE to this man on Friday!!! Or maybe it's just 15 and it might be on Thursday. Anywho . . . . Life rocks.

HEALTH UPDATE:
I am so proud of my ability to drool over chocolate now and not SNARF it down. I am down a total of 9.5 pounds and happy to say that I can climb on my bicycle a little faster each day. My goal this next week is to hit the weights. Thanks for all of the encouraged thoughts. You guys are awesome.

Life Rolls On

2011-06-23T17:21:00.000-06:00

(Jenny, your bike is looking so stinkin cool)

So I have to tell you that life has been a wicked fun roller coaster lately. I can only say how greatful I am for the amazing opportunities that have come my way. So many things have happened lately that I don't even know where to begin. My blogging skills totally bite, but be patient - good things to come.

The other day I had the opportunity to go for a ride. A ride that took me back in time. A ride that made me cry, but at the same time put a huge smile on my face. I got to ride with my hubby Brian. It's been almost 13 years since I have been on a road ride with him. No, let me explain. Do you have kids? Well, I have three of them and thirteen years ago I gave birth to my first amazing child. That is pretty much when life halted all things fun. Brian was always watching the kids while I went riding, and I watched the kids while he went riding. Now, thirteen years later I have started giving them a little bit of responsibility. As long as they are alive when I return two hours later . . . . it's a good day. I think I made Brian sweat a little. He only made me cry once. Freak, that was a good workout.

Brian has been insanely busy. I think the hardest part for him is working at home. He has a small studio building that he builds out of, but when he is at work, it's hard to work. Here is an example. Today his friend called to ask to borrow his drift boat to go fishing. Off he goes with the boat. Brian goes back to welding, and an hour later gets a panic call saying your boat is at the bottom of the river. He heads out to save his boat. Poor guy just wants to work. He is constantly helping the community and everyone around him. I just keep telling him to say NO, and throw everyone the bird, but he thinks that his duty is to help the whole universe. Tonight we are off to teach little boys about bike safety. Work, what's that?When? Life around these parts rolls on. Life is amazing, and I am living it every day.

HEALTH UPDATE:
So far I have been sugar free for 23 days. I have lost a total of eight pounds( THIRTY to go) and I have more energy than ever. The only problem is I WANT A FRIGGIN SNICKERS BAR!!!!

Utah Bike Fit

2011-06-13T11:01:00.002-06:00

We made a quick trip down to Utah this weekend for some serious bike business. Yesterday, we fit Tiffany (the most amazing girl on the planet) for a Bella Rosa bike. When it was time to ask questions about flexibility, she past the test with flying colors. Tiffany, can almost kiss her own butt! How would that be? I would love to just be able to touch my toes. Way to go Tiff, it was so fun meeting you.

Today, Brian has more business in SLC doing a few more fittings for cross and road frames. I wish I could go with him and be his sidekick apprentice. Each time I learn more and more about bike fit. I truly enjoy learning more about bikes. If you are in the SLC area and want to ride faster, contact me regarding setting up a custom fit for your current bike.

I will spend the afternoon with the kiddos in search of the perfect SLC activity. Talk with you all soon about the updated trip. Get out and ride.

Healthy eating update

2011-06-05T22:34:00.000-06:00

So some of you have been asking how the eating program has been going. Happy to say, that I have been working hard to achieve my goal. Here are a few things I have been doing to stay on track.

Sugar addict - CONQUERED. This was the hardest part for me. For the first three days I had serious withdrawls. Headaches, stomach pains, and serious PMS.

Eating about two fruits a day - I love fruit. I could eat it for every meal!

Eating unlimited amounts of greens. Freak, I think this is making me a wee bit constipated! Bring on the Kefer.
Sticking with low fat proteins. Chicken, and fish.

Exercising a minimum of 4 days per week.

It has been three weeks and currently down 6 pounds. YIPPEE!

Have you ever picked up a five pound dumbbell and thought that it was pretty heavy? It's amazing how quickly it can pack on over the years. THIRTY pounds to go. I will keep you updated on the progress, and if any of you feel like joining in just drop me a line!

Early Morning Rides

2011-05-29T11:37:00.001-06:00

So early morning rides are going to become a regular scheduled event on my calendar this summer. It is the only way I will be able to get my rides in. . . . EARLY! Here is a short vid I made up of our little journey through the woods. Come join us.

Last night it was suppose to snow close to 6", but thank goodness the weather man was wrong so me and a good friend headed out for some torture in the cold (38 degrees cold). Here are a couple short clips of our painful journey. I definitely don't consider myself a videographer, but thought it would be fun to start sharing clips of my little life, and my back yard.

We decided to do Anderson Mill backwards which means ALL up hill. Now, all I have to say to that is FREAK! You can spin all winter long indoors, but when it comes to getting out on the real mountain, it means serious PAIN.

I get a little freaked out when it comes to wolves and bears. We have a lot of them around here. Ran into some FRESH bear poo on the way and I was wanting to turn back, but little Jenny just persisted up the friggin hill leaving me thinking about pedaling a lot faster. I caught right back up knowing there was a bear on my tail.

By the time we headed down the mountain we we SUPER cold. Trudging through drifts and the misty rain made my toes and brain stiff. It took pretty much all day sitting by a fire with my robe and hot chocolate to thaw out, but you know what . . . . . . . . . it was totally worth it. Call if you would like to join us on our early morning bike rides.

Featured writer - Jennica Hirrlinger

2011-05-26T08:12:00.000-06:00

I always truly enjoy reading Jennicas articles. Each time I read one I learn something powerful. I learn a life lesson that I couldn't have learned in a classroom. She teaches us that we are truly tougher than we think we are. Thanks for sharing another truly inspired read.

Success or Failure - Featured Writer Jennica Hirrlinger

What would you do if you knew you could not fail? I’ve seen this question being asked all over facebook lately and I, personally, think it’s a tricky question. I mean, sure it would be fun to just have it all handed to me but, man, the risk of failure is what makes success so intense. It’s the lows and the down times and insecurity of it all that truly allows us to feel the elation and the joy of the summit.

I am often asked how one trains for a marathon. “It’s so far! I can only run 3 miles.” To that, I usually respond that the first three miles are the hardest. And, they are. It takes a while for our bodies to warm up. Beyond that though, it also takes a while for our brains to warm up to the idea that we physically can run that far. Our mental toughness runs on a parallel track with our physical endurance and they grow together.

I learned some things about myself on a recent climbing outing. I spent a couple hours hanging out on a wall, higher than I’ve ever climbed and feeling stuck, with nothing to do but to wait and to contemplate how I felt about being up there and being completely out of control and trusting someone else to help me succeed. My brother and I did our first multi-pitch climb and while there were a few moments where I thought I might totally lose it my overall feeling is that I got just a little bit more mentally tough. Even at my most anxious, I could still make myself continue physically doing what needed to be done and though I was not yet at a place where I could get back on solid ground, I could talk and think my way down from the stress I was having. And, I realized how amazing and exhilarating it was to be up there and I got tougher.

I got tougher, not because I could not fail, but because there was a huge risk that I would fail. I could have easily found out that I was not cut out for the whole climbing thing or I could have chosen not to ever see what it was like to run further than 3 miles. But I didn’t. I took a risk and it feels good. So, instead of asking what would you do if you knew you could not fail, ask yourself what you can learn through your failure and take the risk. The feeling of success is totally worth it!

12 Week Challenge - AGAIN?

2011-05-16T09:05:00.001-06:00

Alright girls, it's time that I truly admit I have problems.

(hike in the rain with my amazing hubby)

I know, we all have problems but at some point and time we need to deal with those problems. I think I have already blogged about this issue several times before, but the past few days I am really wanting to share my issues with others. I am a woman! I am full grown adult woman! I have needs and wants. Currently those needs are

*Good food
*Good friends
*Supportive family life
*Shelter

So far I have all that I could ever ask for and more. Here are a list of wants that don't seem too off the wall.

*More food
*More food that is not good for me
*More food

Here is my problem. I LOVE food. No, seriously I LOVE bad food (sugary food). I am truly addicted to crap! I know I have problems starting projects and not following through to the end. Is it just me? Why can't I commit?

I love exercise. I enjoy waking up early to teach my bi-weekly spin class. I love evening runs by the river. I even love pumping iron. All these things make me feel empowered. But for some reason I can't seem to figure out why I can't drop weight if I am only eating 4 candy bars in a day while chugging down my diet pepsi. I thought it was suppose to counterbalance the candy bars. Well, I was reading "Racing Weight"

and Matt says that you can not eat 4 candy bars in one day and lose weight. That was super cool to hear. Now I think I have it all figured out.

For the past few years I have wanted to do the Capital Reef Classic bike race with my husband. It is a very well organized race that we have attended since it began. For a brief moment I thought about riding in it this year (July), but came to the realization that I am not in "fit" shape to do it. I am what I consider to be a fit overweight cyclist. Does this make sense? I feel fit! But at the same time I have a high percentage of body fat. Matt also says in his book that "A runner weighing 160 pounds has to muster about 6.5 percent more energy to run the same pace as a runner weighing 150 pounds." No wonder why all my skinny friends were beating me to the finish line. I get it!

So, in order for me to really work on my issues I have to commit to something big. So here we go again! For the next 12 weeks I am committed to eating healthy and exercising. I will chart my progress along with my (hopeful) weight loss/fat loss journey so that I can start achieving some of the goals I have put off for so many years. Please help me along the way! Those freakin Oreo's are calling my name.

GOAL:

Cardio at least 5 days per week
Weights 3 days per week
Healthy eating plan
Chart progress
Lose body fat
Attend one cycling race/event without pooping my pants
Enjoy the journey

Where have you been?

2011-05-09T21:08:00.003-06:00

Alright, so you are probably wondering where in the world I have been lately? Well, life has just been spinning so quickly I just decided to get off the ride for a while. Not really, I am back in full force and still waiting for the warm weather. It's raining again today, which makes me believe there is a rainbow and a smile on the other side.

My husband has been working so hard to help me get ready for the open house at the studio. Well, it turned out amazing. Family and friends showed up to support us during the open house. It was great seeing so many of you. Here is a little glimpse of the new studio pretty much FINISHED!

Now that the studio is officially open, I can focus a little more on the cycling scene. Brian just finished Liz's bike, and can I just say WOW. Seriously, every time he finishes a bike I just say WOW! Here is a pic of her beautiful new ride, oh and my beautiful - HOT husband.

This bike was truly custom in every way. Liz works for the Forest Service and wanted her bike to represent who she is. She is in love with trees! I know we all have our passion and LOVE and her passion is white pine bark trees. The detail in this bike is truly unique. I find it amazing how Brian can start with one single tube and transform this process into a work of art. All of our bikes are built one at a time in house. From welding to painting - true awesomeness. I will soon be showing you how this process is done, from start to finish.

This beauty is a custom blend of columbus tubing, Sram and Ritchey parts. The carbon fork smooths out road vibration and a women's specific Sella Italia saddle provides comfort for those long rides. All logos, and details where painted directly onto the frame. No stickers or decals here. Just pure sexiness. Freak, I want to ride this beauty.

CHOCOLATE THIEF?

2011-04-25T10:25:00.000-06:00

Seriously ladies, is this weekend over? Happy to say that it was a truly amazing weekend. Family, friends, and a case solved. The kidos found out who the REAL Easter bunny was, and the chocolate thief was finally caught.

I have to admit that I started eating candy on Friday after a painful trip to Walmart left me with bags of opened candy sitting in the closet. Hello, I had to open the candy to stuff the eggs but what was left over turned into a true problem. Friday - candy! Saturday - candy! Sunday - candy! All weekend long I munched (with the closet doors shut) on CANDY! Here is the sad part. Today I woke up and after a painful morning of spin class I headed directly into my kids rooms on a hunt for CANDY! I quietly lifted the grass from the basket and stole everything that was possibly delicious. Yeah, I headed to the next room and stole more from my sleeping child's basket. Finally, I headed to the last room where I tip -toed in, lifted the grass, and heard a soft little voice say "mommy, why are you stealing my candy?" I was caught. All my kids will now know who stole their yummy Easter candy. It was kind of like the story of Goldilocks and the three bears.

If there was an CAM (chocolate addiction meeting) here in town I would be attending daily. WTH? This has to stop NOW! Could someone please tell me how to steal candy without getting caught? No, really I just need help and it starts now. How can I report to my faithful women cyclist friends and readers on becoming clean? Do I need to go in depth about my life and where this all began? Or do I just need to start training for an event that will help fulfill that gap? Well, for the moment I will ponder on this painful event and let you know the outcome. So, I'm heading to the gym in the morning to work off about 20 pounds of chocolate from a place I call HELLMART!

It’s All About The Journey - Featured writer Lynnette Horton

2011-04-19T20:49:00.000-06:00

I was so excited to hear that Lynnette achieved her goal of Lavaman, Hawaii. What a wonderful way to celebrate - family, friends, and a kick butt trip to Hawaii. I am so proud of you Lynnette. You make me want to be a better person. Thanks for sharing your journey with us.

“It’s All About The Journey” Cont…

Lavaman 2011

By: Lynnette Horton

My family and I headed for the Big Island on March 23. We left two weeks prior to the race to get some good training in as well as to adapt to the climate. I left the frigid weather in Idaho confident in my swim and run but due to training indoors all winter on the bike this event seemed to be playing second fiddle to me now. I had many questions that needed to be answered.

My first week in Kona was filled with heavy training prior to tapering down prior race week. There had been times in the past in which I have had a bit of anxiety in the ocean, almost like a bit of claustrophobia. That was not the case this trip. Our first training day was a 1.2-mile swim, I didn’t even hesitate, in fact I left my sister in the dust. It was a great swim.

For our second day of training we headed out to the Waikoloa to run a brick on the course. 27-mile bike and 4-mile run. We were greeted with high wind advisories and 30 mph winds. It was a tailwind on the way out and we just flew down the Queen K. Following the turn around it was a whole other story. Where we were riding at 25-30 mph on the way out it was 6 mph on the way back. Still we were ready to transition to the 4 mile run. We covered many surfaces on the run from asphalt, to stone, to coral, and sand. I now realized how tough this course really was but the important part of today’s training… When we finished this brick I began to cry, this was the first time I really new that I was ready to compete. All of my questions have now been answered.

Upon arrival my step mom had discovered she had a cold. She was so conscious in trying to keep us from getting the cold. I stocked up on anti cold remedies but unfortunately I did get the cold. The good news was it did not really affect my training and it came during the taper week.

The Thursday prior to the race we had a day off. My family and friend planned a trip around the island. First stop was a helicopter ride over the volcano, and then we headed for Akaka Falls. Our last stop was The Black Sands Beach. I have always felt a strong connection with the islands. My dad moved there with my step mom almost 25 years ago. I have always loved stopping at this beach and the amazing sense of peace that I feel when I am there. As all of my family and friends were off seeing the sites at the beach so decided to sit down on the lava field and have a little heart to heart with the island. I asked for relief from my cold and that Patti and I and all of the other racers have a safe race. It was at that time I felt the weight of having the cold slipping away. I new the cold would not affect me for the race.

It was time now to head for the Waikoloa, tomorrow is race day and it is time to get checked in and then meet the family for dinner. Patti and I headed into pick up our packets and to get our race number. I was so calm I could not believe it. It has been one year since my sister reached her goals and now it was my turn. Patti has taught me so much over the past year. I have had so many ups and downs, and I have reached so many of my milestones. I have had so much support from all of my friends and family, I could not be more thankful! After getting marked we headed to the pre race meeting. All in all it was pretty fantastic. We spent the evening having a wonderful dinner with our family and then Patti and I headed off to bed. I love her so much!

Well, it’s race day, still not nervous just eager and excited! The beach was once again filled with fans and contestants just as it was a year ago when I was there to watch my sister. Now it’s my turn. As they began calling the waves to the start line I was more nervous that my family hadn’t arrived than I was to begin the race. After I helped my husband get my family settled I headed down to join my wave. Patti and I found out that we were getting to start together. I had thought that I was going to start in the wave prior to hers but since I turn 40 this year we were able to start together. The bad news is I would have had a 10-minute lead on her in the other wave. As we approached the water we found our Dad and our Step Mom. This moment was so special for me. It is not often, anymore, that all of my parents attend such a special event. Having my mom, dad, and step mom there was priceless.

As the starting gun sounded 300 triathletes began to fight for their position in the ocean. The hardest part of my swim was settling in among them to set a pace for myself. I worked my way to the outside and some open water from there it was smooth sailing. I maintained my outside position throughout the swim. In the final ½ mile of my swim I saw a beautiful Honu, (Sea Turtle), swimming amongst the rocks. It was almost as if he had become the spectator in his ocean while all of us swam by.

As I approached the beach in the last few meters of my swim I could hear the crowd cheering. I was now starting to think about the ride. As I exited to the beach I heard my little boy saying “go mommy go”, it was not long before I spotted him, Sheree, and her daughter amongst the crowd cheering me on. This brought such a smile to my face. I made my way to the Transition area where I was excited to get rolling on my bike. Along the way I saw my mom, my husband, and my step mom. I was told Patti was behind me but I new she would not be far.

As I headed out for my 27-mile ride I was so excited. Patti and I had a great ride hear the week prior and it was windy then. Today was much different, there was a slight breeze and a few clouds in the sky, a beautiful day for a ride on the Queen K. As we headed out we had a slight head wind, but that was not going to slow me down. After a few miles Patti finally showed up and passed me. I kept up with her for some time but she slowly crept away. I tried the next 20-miles to catch her. We caught a bit of a tail wind after the turnaround but it was not enough. As I returned to the transition area I saw my Dad, and Sue, (my step mom), Sue told me Patti was ahead of me by three minutes. I parked my bike in the rack and got into my running gear. I drank my fuel and a little bit of electrolytes and then I was off. Time to hit the Lava.

The run has always been one of the hardest parts for me but through my training I have gained so much confidence there. As I glanced down at my watch I quickly realized that achieving my goal of completing the race in less than 4 hours was achievable. I was calculating the match in my head and I new that I had to at least run a 15-minute mile. I had been running about a 17-minute mile at home. At the first mile I was about 14 minutes so I picked up the pace. This was so achievable I could not quite looking at my watch. It was about mile 4 where I passed my sister. I maintained my pace and the 4-hour mark was slowly closing in. As I crossed the lava and the coral I enjoyed the beautiful sight of the waves breaking on the shore. How much more motivation does a person need? As I rounded the corner I began to her the music at the finish line. I glanced at my watch and I was about 13 minute prior to the 4-hour mark. The sand was so dense but it did not matter. As you ran by the people on the beach they began to cheer. I entered the path that took us around the tsunami damage and I had about 10 minutes to make it to the finish line. The path snaked around the lagoon and the music was getting loader. I could even hear the names of the contestants crossing the finish line ahead of me. When we reached the end of the path we had to re enter the beach for about 50 yards before the finish line. My intensity had been building and I just took off. There were about 8 – 10 people ahead of me on the beach and my sister said “I looked like a car going in and out of traffic”, I crossed the finish line so fast they announced my name when I had already finished! I just could not hold myself back. The emotion was incredible! The volunteers greeted me with a Lavaman Medal and a “neck cooler”. Immediately followed by my sister with a lei. We were ushered into the photo area where we had our photo taken together. I worked my way across the beach finding all of my family and friends. It was such an amazing experience! Here are our final times for the Lavaman 2011.

876 PATRICIA WELTER-HENDERSON 48 F Holualoa, HI

Swim Rank 53 Swim Time 41:50

Pace 8:22

Transition 1 2:49

Bike Rank 42 Bike time 1:36:07

Rate 15.5

Transition 2 2:28

Run Rank 47 1:21:19

Mile Split time 13:07

Overall Time 3:44:31

587 LYNNETTE HORTON 40 F Boise, ID

Swim Rank 69 38:53

Pace 7:47

Transition 1 5:02

Bike Rank 75 1:41:40

Pace 14.6

Transition 2 2:09

Run Rank 79 Run Time 1:25:16

Mile Split Time 13:46

First Signs of Spring

2011-04-11T13:49:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was beautiful. I mean, melting snow beautiful. I haven't seen sun in months so when the sun popped out for a few moments we all took full advantage of it. Cooper wanted to ride his bike, and the boys wanted to go on their bare foot mile walk. I know that child services will be calling me regarding no shoes in the snow, but seriously - it was the boys who wanted NO shoes. We still have about a foot or two of snow, but seeing the sun was all it took to make me smile (BIG).

Brian brewed up some delicious HEALTHY cookies yesterday. They were so good that I ate about all of them. Plus, they were healthy so that counter balances the bad in them.

I will be sharing the recipe this week. A couple tweaks and soon you will be enjoying them in your home to. Currently Brian was evicted from his frame building area today due to a nasty skunk who really is tormenting the heck out of him. He says his head hurts from all the stink. I don't know if that is a good enough excuse to not be building bikes. Maybe when he starts to pass out. Hope you are enjoying the first signs of Spring.

ELEMENTS - Featured Writer Jennica Hirrlinger

2011-04-03T10:17:00.002-06:00

I haven't seen Jennica much this winter. I think we were both busy staying warm by the fire and drinking way too much hot chocolate. I think so many of us go through this transition from winter sedentary blues to the fresh air chill excitement of Spring. Thanks for sharing.
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It’s been a tough winter and I’m starting over. My muscles ache from inactivity and my running shorts are a little too snug for my comfort these days. It’s been pretty challenging to get back into it but I NEED to get back out there and get moving. But, it’s hard to get out of bed when it’s so warm and cozy.

I am becoming more motivated daily though as things around me are changing. Honesty though, for the last few days, I haven’t been able to stop thinking about running and biking and even swimming in the freezing water that is starting to melt and flow down the rivers. I sat watching and listening to the river recently and in the rushing of the water I could hear my body and my heart repairing itself from my illness induced hiatus. This change in the weather, as cliché as it sounds, is rejuvenating me. It’s as if nature is slowly creating a starting block in my soul and the pull of the universe is gently forcing me to take my place on top of it.

I went running the other morning and it felt so good! Well, it felt . . . hard, but it also felt good. Oh, that burn in my legs and in my lungs and the cool air on my face and the heat of the sweat down my back. I love those contradictions in athletics; The complete elevation of success after the agony of pain we put ourselves through. It motivates me. I love that exerting myself makes me more aware of my senses and the way my body moves through the atmosphere in those early morning runs. I can feel the strength of the elements power through me as I focus on my breathing while I stroke, pace or pedal through a workout.

So, here I am. I’m in the worst shape of my life but I feel strong in the knowledge that, at some point, my body will remember , the earth will continue to remind me, and the training pains endured will pay off and I will be free again. Free, from the ache of inactivity and free from the physical limitations and I will step up on the starting block, push hard off of it as the gun fires and see where the elements will take me.

As a side note: My daughter has started a rock climbing class and when asked how she was doing so well she replied “ I just want to be as tough as my momma!” Now, If that’s not enough to motive me…

Misery or Strength

2011-03-28T16:16:00.000-06:00

There are so many ways you can look at life. You can either make the best of what you have, or indulge in the negative thoughts of others that will eventually ruin your life. You have a choice. You know what you should be doing. You know how you should be thinking. Why do we make it so difficult? I heard this thought today from a girl on the dailymile today. I truly liked the message

(This is a photo of myself taken by my mother. I think I was swearing inside because of the blistery weather we were having. This is "I WANT TO RIDE MY BIKE NOW" face. . . . snow, snow go away.)
Snowing and blowing hard today again. I have a feeling the storms will cease and the flowers will begin to bloom. Great day to catch up on indoor dirty laundry and never ending nasty bathrooms.

Brian is getting geared up for some amazing frame building. He is currently working on a custom carbon project that is going to be the new "SWEET" of the cycling industry. I will take you out to the shop for a small tour soon.

Brian just celebrated his 38th birthday. Man we are OLD. I asked him over the weekend if there was one thing he would do different, what would it be. He thought for a moment and responded "ride my bike more". I agree! Ride more, work less. Could somebody please explain to me how I go about doing this. Have a wonderful week. Great things to come.

Dreaming Makes Me Smile

2011-03-19T21:52:00.000-06:00

So, I'm over it! Yeah, you heard me. This living your dream is for the birds! Listen to my pathetic song of "cry me a river". Well, I am a little heart broken about the lack of blog posts lately. I just haven't had time. Here is a rundown of the amazingly busy schedule. I know "cry me a river".

DREAM:

Photography studio - the progress on the photography studio is absolutely amazing. Brian has been putting his dreams on hold (building bikes) to make his wife (me) happy.

(Check out my hot husband posing it up! If he finds out I put this on my blog he will seriously KILL me. I guess I will find out if he reads my blog or not.)

Brian has taken off the past two months for the remodel. Everyday he has been working his tail off texturing, laying floor, and painting. I tell you what . . . I owe him big time! Is this what the big dream is all about? Working your tail off, spending money you never knew you had or don't have, and feeling guilty you left your children at the bus stop with no ride home. No, I'm not that pathetic. Livin' the dream does not feel that great right now. Gallery pics showed up today - YEEHAAWW! Studio opening April 1st.

Bella Rosa Bikes - Winter has been pretty painful. A few too many unwanted pounds has made me crave my summer bike rides. I know I have said this over and over but seriously Mother Nature - melt some friggin snow. The bluebird bike is ready for paint. I don't even think I have shown you the design yet. Here she is! She is so beautteeefffuulll.

Bluebird will only be available for a limited time only and only a few number will be made. I will talk about this soon. So EXCITED to paint one of these babies up.

I have been lacking in creativity without a current graphic designer. The problem I have been having is this - New bike design ideas, but no great designer to implement them. I was looking forward to taking some Bella Rosa Bikes down to the Utah Little Red in June. I think it's pretty much impossible without a few extra hands. Livin' the dream does not feel that great right now.

Rusty Mill - Life at the Rusty Mill has been busy. We have been building frames like crazy. No, not bike frames, but picture frames. Livin' the dream does not feel that great right now.

Hair Salon - March 1st we took possession of a hair salon. Yeah, that's just what Brian wants to be doing right now - running a hair salon. Well, it's definitely not our dream job since I barely know how to wash my hair, but the previous owners were not paying rent so we took back over the building that we rent and now have a hair salon to go with it. Freak, livin' the dream really doesn't feel that great right now.

So there you have it. Another cry me a river post. I tell you what though . . . Life is amazing! I LOVE being alive! I thrive on hard work! So for now, this is my dream . . . . and it feels good.

It’s all about the Journey - Featured Writer Lynnette Horton

2011-03-02T20:51:00.000-07:00

I met Lynnette through a good friend of mine - Kelly. Kelly was always talking about her amazing, funny friend who is extremely tough mentally and physically. She talked about her weight loss journey, and how she started doing triathlons. I was so impressed! It was so inspiring to here her story and know that no matter how many trials we have in our life, they can always be overcome. Lynnette has taught me to truly believe in who you are as a person. If you want something bad enough hold on tight and fight for it. Thank you so much for sharing your amazing journey of life. Can't wait to formally meet you Lynnette!

It’s all about the Journey - Featured Writer Lynnette Horton
On March 28, 2010 my sister Patti was signed up for the 2010 Lavaman Triathlon in Waikoloa Hawaii. Patti had been training for this event for a year and a few months prior to the race she had realized that she would not have anyone with her in Hawaii to support her and she asked me if I would come to the island to watch her race? I told her, without a doubt, yes. Little did I know that this is the day my life would change forever!

Let me back up a bit, before I get into the details of my journey I must give you a bit of my history. I am the youngest of four children. I have two older sisters and one older brother. I really could have been considered an only child because there is an 8 years difference between my next sibling and I. My parents divorced when I was young and I really did not get to know my brother and sisters very well. It was not until my early twenties that my sister Patti and I were sitting on the beach in Hawaii sharing some facts about our childhood that our lives were forever changed. It was from that day forward that I new my sister and I would be forever inseparable. Though we live thousands of miles apart now, we are each other’s best friend, soul sister, and training partner.

As I watch Patti reach her goal of completing her first Olympic Triathlon on the Big Island of Hawaii, I instantly new that this was an accomplishment that I wanted to achieve. I have always been very active but this would in fact test my abilities as it would anyone. I began my training immediately when I returned to Idaho. One of the first things I did when I got home was to purchase my road bike. I also set some goals for myself. As a 38 year old, obese, but very active woman, I new that I needed to achieve many of these goals in order to make it to race day.

The first goal was to start training in each discipline on a regular basis along with continuing my strength training. I have always loved to bike as well as swim but I was always worried about the run because of my weight. As an overweight person, I like many others have lost weight many times. In fact, I have lost up to 100 pounds on three different occasions but for various reasons have gained it back. A few years a go a close friend of mine had Lap and surgery. My friend really wanted me to consider it myself but, at the time, I just was not ready… until now.

Goal two. Lap Band Surgery. This is no small feat. There are many qualifications and requirements one must over come. I was required to loose 10% of my body weight before even being considered. There were many tests and many doctors but on June 17, 2010 I reached goal number 2.

Before Lap band Surgery

Goal number three. Start narrowing down my training for the Y not Tri in Boise. This is a sprint triathlon held in August in Boise. The race consisted of a 400-meter swim, 12-mile bike, and 2 mile run. I never could have imagined myself running, let alone running a triathlon. One thing that really made this race special was that my sister Patti happened to be in town from Hawaii and she ran the race with me as well as my husband. It was such an amazing experience to share with both of them.

In October I went to Hawaii for two weeks of training. This is the reality finally set in. My trip also encompassed the World Championship Ironman Triathlon. My sister and I set out for a quick swim the Friday before the event, she told me “all of the triathlete’s will be resting”. WHATEVER! When we arrived at the pier there were hundreds of people down there, some watching and many swimming. It was that day that got over my fear of swimming with other athletes. It is all about the energy from the islands!

My winter training moved forward as I joined the Tri club at the local YMCA. Everyone was so helpful and welcoming! I have spent hours on the computrainer in the basement of the Y; received coaching tips from world-class athletes, and made many new friends! Who would have thought that I would be running 12 – 16 miles per week? I still can’t believe it!

I am now just under a month away from goal number 4, completing The 2011 Lavaman Triathlon, I am nervous, eager and ready! I look forward to updating all of you on my status in the coming months. In the meantime, love your family and friends, live your best life, and above all relish in the things that bring out the best in you!

This is one of the most current pictures that I have. I have lost 60 pounds to ate and I am loving every minute of my training! Bring on the 2011 Lavaman!

Scream - Positive Energy

2011-02-22T18:45:00.000-07:00

So, I have just downed my 4th cookie of the day. I think I could easily shove about 5 more down without even gagging myself. The kiddos got out of school early due to the high wind advisory along with more snow. Yeah, more snow!

Here is my good buddy Max - I think he is saying "WTH"

The past few days we have racked up 16 more inches, and you know what that makes me do? Eat cookies. . . . lots of cookies!
I did my 5am workout this morning. I think that calls for at least 4,000 calories of cookie consumption.

I know that this blog is about being positive and having a great outlook on life. Well, let's just say that we are taking a small break from that word. Have you read the book "The Secret"? I totally believe in the principals behind the book.

So I walked outside and took a couple snap shots of the snow situation.

Now, I am giving off positive energy . . . . thinking of a warm beach . . . . . .cookies . . . . . bikini (well, maybe not yet) . . . warm beach. After a long winter of being cooped up inside "I LONG FOR A BEACH"!

Yeah, it measures around 5'

My positive thoughts are currently focused on warm riding weather. Alright, back to the positive attitude. Thanks for letting me vent.

All WORK and NO play -

2011-02-11T22:16:00.002-07:00

As you are aware, I have not updated the blog in a very long time. This is sadly due to the fact that I have been working 24/7. I am serious when I say 24/7! Remember a while back I was trying to decide on which job to keep and which to ditch. Well, I have been working endlessly on my plan. I never thought it would require so much effort, lack of exercise, and a lifelong endless painting scheme. Yeah, painting - so fun.

My husband Brian is truly an amazing man.

(old pic, but oh so cute - Bri with the boys)

He taught me the importance of hard work. When we owned and operated the bike and snowboard shop he would go to work early - before the world was out of bed, and come home late - when all the world was sleeping. He worked harder than his competition and it showed. To this day he is the hardest working individual I know and builds the most beautiful bikes I have ever layed eyes on.

The past few weeks we have been remodeling a building next to the bike shop. This studio is going to be the new

I know that hard work = no play, but man . . . . I'm needing some exercise! Thanks for all of your e-mails and comments. They keep me going. They make me want to work harder. I know that true gratification comes from working hard. But I also know that staying sane means adding a little play. This weekend I'm heading to the mountain to go shredding with my boys.

A little fresh air will do me good. Can't wait for a new WORK week.

The Bella Rosa website is currently down and under construction. Please email me if you have any questions or just want to say hi. info@bellarosabikes.com

Doctors said "Fail" Featured writer Shelly McKee

2011-01-30T13:05:00.000-07:00

It makes me wonder how some people are able to overcome such incredible odds when it comes to mental power and the body. How people run when doctors said they will never walk. How the absolute impossible, becomes possible. I love that Shelly was able to overcome her odds. She has shown her doctors that hard work and mental stability make dreams come true. Way to go girl. Proud of you.

What motivates me? Featured writer Shelly McKee

The single thing that motivates me the most is when my doctors told me that I would probably need hip replacements and knee replacements by the age of 30. That was when I was 16 years old. When I turned 16 I was told that I have this connective tissue disease that effects all soft tissue in my body, and from they’re on forward I would have to be extremely careful with activities and just life in general.

Six years later I was finally able to get out of all the bracing and past the need for support to start riding a bike. I never thought at the age of 34 that I would be getting ready for my second season of racing. This coming year I have some big goals, as I did last year with getting through my first stage race - that being the green mountain stage race. Cycling is becoming more of a lifestyle for me than ever before.

Now, all I think about is what is the next thing the next level I can get to that the doctors said I would never be able to get to? I have been riding for about 12 years. Six of those years have been mountain biking. I then switched over to road and i'm in my 6th year of road riding. I have my first season of racing behind me. I am training hard now going into my second off season. Currently I have a coach over looking what I am doing to get me ready for next year. Next year is going to be a big year for me since the Canadian Masters Nationals are going to be close to my hometown and I will be competing in the time trial, road race and more than likely the criterion.

Dean Alleger out of Sacramento California has been coaching me for the past year. Dean has been able to help me balance my training, racing, home life and work. With Dean’s initial interview for new athletes lets him understand you right away. The interview let’s him understand what you want out of your training, how many hours you’re able to put into your training in a given week, then asks about your health and any special conditions. With my special condition we were able to figure out what I could do and then move on from there. Over this coming winter there are many things planned for me with the up coming season with hopes of peaking twice and many stage races in my future. I cannot wait for the season to start with my first series of races in Rome Georgia this year.

Shelly Mckee

A New inFATUATION

2011-01-28T11:20:00.001-07:00

Due to the long gray winter months here in Idaho, I have found that in order to stay sane you have to get your buns outside and enjoy the fresh air that Mother Nature has provided for us. Studies have shown that getting outside during the winter improves our mood, increases our sex drive (WHOOT, WHOOT), and in general makes us healthier individuals.

For years I have watched my husband enjoy the winter months Nordic skiing. He heads to the local track and skate skis for his daily dose of goodness. Now, when it comes to cross country skiing I can say that it honestly just about bores me to tears. However, I have found my new love - it's a lot like cross country skiing, but faster. I LOVE that word! FAST! Anything that will make you go fast, and gives you a workout is my kind of new love. So, lately I have been putting on the skate skis and have been taking short lessons from my awesome husband. Here is how things have been going so far.

Stand up, glide for one second, fall down! Stand up, glide for two seconds, fall down! . . . . . . . . REPEAT. . . . . .REPEAT.

Man, this takes serious balance. I'm not quite ready to show you how I look doing this, because it will end up on the next episode of funniest home videos. Well, here are a few good techniques that will help get you started. Also, if you are interested in learning what equipment you will need for skate skiing go here. Good luck to you girls.

Banana-Strawberry Goodness

2011-01-26T09:05:00.001-07:00

Alright, so I am not a protein shake freak, but I also don't love choking down chicken breast 24/7. Here is another great recipe to add to your pre-workout routine. Whip it up before your intense spinning class - you will have mounds of energy you never knew you had.

Banana-Strawberry Smoothie

1 scoops vanilla protein powder (your favorite)
3 -4 strawberries, frozen
1/2 banana
1/2 cup water
1 tsp flaxseed oil (optional)
Ice cubes
Blend and enjoy!

Jeans and Bike Fit - Featured Writer Jill Shirley

2011-01-25T14:04:00.002-07:00

I have known Jill for a long time. To me she resembles an Olympic athlete. Strong body, and a strong mind - she has no limits. It wasn't until recently that she jumped into the sport of cycling. She contacted Brian and I interested in a women's specific fit. A bike that she could have for years to come. A bike that would fit her. Jill's bike! After her build and her cycling event I asked her for a few words regarding her custom fit. These are her amazing words.

A Great Pair of Jeans - Featured writer Jill Shirley
A dear friend of mine once explained her love of cycling like this,

"One of my very favorite things to do in this world is to be in a place where I can feel the wind. Growing up it was always perched up on a rock or a peak in my mountains, the wind would blow and I would feel as if it was cleansing me, blowing all of my stress, my worry or fear into the valley below.

I have now lived in North Carolina for almost seven years and it has been hard to find the perfect spot to sit and be cleansed by the wind. I have felt an ache in me to be back in a place where I can have a daily dose of height and wind but here I am, in this beautiful but relatively flat green oasis. So finally, finally I have found something that fills me with that same familiar thrill.

My bicycle.

I can go so fast, the wind rushes over me and as I gaze over the corn fields, the red barns and the beautiful sky I feel cleansed."

Though my words are not as eloquent as hers, I feel a love for cycling as well. It's the peace I have when I'm out riding. I don't know if it comes from the rhythm of the cadence, the solitude and beauty of the miles and miles of fields around me or just the pure peace I have of letting everything go... just for a few hours. Nothing else matters for those couple of hours except me and my bike.

Almost every cyclist I have ever talked to has shared with me basically the same eerie phenomena; you and your bike become one. I know, I know, it sounds a little bit "Star Wars-y" but honestly, in order to achieve that complete peace while cycling, you have to become one with your bike. Your bike needs to be an extension of you. The bike you ride makes all the difference in the matter.

Riding the right bike for you can either make or break the love you have for the sport. If you ride a bike that doesn’t fit you correctly, you may never find that perfect peace. I was lucky enough to have a Bella Rosa custom-made bike made specifically for me. Custom-made bikes ensure a perfect fit whereas stock models are just that, stock. If you think about it, it makes perfect sense; everyone is built so different, why would you settle with one that isn’t made just for you. You wouldn’t borrow jeans from just any friend, would you? That friend would have to have the exact same build as you. In fact, I dare say that you’d rather wear your dirty jeans that fit you good rather than wear someone else’s jeans that don’t fit you at all. It’s like that with custom-made bikes. You’d rather look into having a bike made specifically just for you than ‘try’ to make those stock models work for you. I LOVE my Bella Rosa bike. As dorky as it sounds, it’s just an extension of me that works in complete sync with my every move. I’ll be looking forward to greeting you out on those long roads of complete peace and beauty.
Jill Shirley

IT'S A GIVEAWAY!

2011-01-15T15:35:00.001-07:00

Alright, I'm not much for giveaways because no matter how many times I enter something I NEVER win. Let me repeat . . . NEVER win. So, this is going to be super duper easy for one of my 4 readers to win one of these adorable little kid tees. Well, actually I do have a few more than 4 readers but who's counting. Choose from orange or white.

How to enter…

“Like” us on Facebook and spread the word about our site. Tell your friends about Bella Rosa Bikes.
Then come back here and leave your comments to win! Seriously, we LOVE comments, and definitely don't get enough of them. These amazing women writers need your support. They need to know that others are learning and growing from their amazing stories.

The lucky weekly winner will be announced January 23. Happy day to you all!

ONE STEP AT A TIME - Featured Writer Barbara Hughes

2011-01-11T16:36:00.001-07:00

I have found that so many of you women have such amazing stories to tell, and talents to share. I ran across Barbara's blog online http://barbie-tryingatri.blogspot.com and was so excited when I found it. I fell in love with her vision for life, her excitement for being healthy, and her motivation to keep going. Thank you for sharing your story with us Barbara - we are all inspired by your words.

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ONE STEP AT A TIME - Featured Writer Barbara Hughes
What an honour it is to be asked to write something about myself for Bella Rosa Bikes – thank you Heather.

Let me see, where do I start? The last 2 years of my life have seen me go through the biggest journey – reaching one of the lowest of lows and the highest of highs. And I am so glad it happened as it has made me who I am today. Let me explain.

After the birth of my twins 15yrs I had always struggled with back pain, until finally after a year of it I could tolerate it no more. I sought the help of a GP and a specialist and was diagnosed with Bilateral Sacroiliitis. The medication which I was prescribed back then made me feel quite sick and made it impossible to be a good mother so I stopped taking them and never went back and rode the wave of back pain for years – tolerating it through another pregnancy, university degree and work.

At the beginning of 2008 the pain really began to intrude in my daily life till I was unable to work (nursing was my life) and I finally made my way back to the doctor with my head held low in defeat. The specialist once again ran a barrage of tests and I was prescribed Prednisone (steroid) to reduce the inflammation in my lower spine. I was finally pain free but the resulting side effects (weight gain, bruising, hairloss, depression) was without a doubt worse than the pain I had endured.

Me on the left.

In March of 2009 my brother came to visit me for my birthday (green striped shirt) and although I was ecstatic to see him, inside I was totally embarrassed that he had to see me in such a state. And it was this very photo that made me realise that I had lost control of me and my life and it was time to take the proverbial “bull by the horns” and regain that which I had lost. So the journey began.

Initially they were baby steps. I got back into the pool after some 20yrs and started with no more than 500m. A total contrast to my former self - who would have thought nothing of swimming 6km, twice daily. But I knew “Rome wasn’t built in a day” and if it took me a good 6mths to gain 30kg then it was going to take me just as long if not longer to lose it and stay healthy at the same time.

By July of 2009 I was under the guidance of a personal trainer and I was finally starting to see remnants of my former self start to emerge. I signed up for the World Masters Championships which were being held here in Sydney in October. I trained 6 days a week (swimming, bootcamp, running) and when the day finally arrived to compete, apart from being very nervous – I was ready. The race was the culmination of all of my hard work, sweat and tears – so to have come out 2nd in my 50m Backstroke in the 35-39yr age group was like the icing on the cake.

No sooner had this day finished I was in search of another goal to conquer – not to win again but to prove to myself that I could and that I was the master of my own destiny. So I entered a 500m open water swim – and lo and behold I came first with a time of 8min 17secs. How cool. Life was finally looking up and with that I entered my first Triathlon. What a challenge.

I had not ridden a bike since I was 14yrs old nor run more than 1km but I was determined to do this Enticer. I trained probably 4-5 days a week in the swim and bike but due to running injuries I was unable to actually run the 2.5km needed for the race more than once. The day itself was a bit of a blur, but I do remember being very nervous and inexperienced in all aspects. The 250m swim, 10km cycle and 2.5km run went by in a flash and to my surprise I came 6th in my age group. And with that I was hooked.

Since March of 2010 I have accomplished another Enticer Triathlon as well as my first Sprint Triathlon which saw me place 9th amongst some tough women competitors. I am continually inspired and motivated to push myself beyond that which I thought ever possible. However, I know that a lot of it has been made easier to achieve through having a supportive family and network of friends through my local Tri Club – Panthers Tri Club.

There are so many words I could use to describe the world of Triathlons – exhilarating, exciting, addictive. And it is through the world of Triathlons that I have found myself again. It has allowed me to set goals relative to where I am at the time and has made me want to strive and achieve – the hunger at times is insatiable.

So I have now signed up for my first Long Distance Triathlon – a 70.3 at Port Macquarie here in Australia on May 1st this year. This is a 1.9km swim, 90km cycle and 21.1km run. Am I scared? You bet! But I have never been one to let fear beat me. For me it’s all about the journey – watching myself conquer things, like my first 100km bike ride (what a blast that was). Sure there is pain at times, not just physically but mentally – but half the fun is overcoming them and realizing you are stronger and much more capable than you give yourself credit for.

I look forward to seeing what the next 4months will bring in training – I know I am a capable individual and I know most importantly I am setting a good example to my 3 children. I want them to see that anything is possible in their life and that the sky is the limit if you just try.

Thankyou Heather once again for asking me to be a part of this. And to all who read this who may feel that things are maybe too hard right now – all it takes is one step – doesn’t matter how big or small that step is so long as it is in a forward direction. GO FOR IT.

Beating the Crazy Winter Blues

2011-01-05T12:49:00.002-07:00

So, the weather where I live has been a bit crazy. Snow, snow, and more snow! I truly love snow, but after a while I feel a little cooped up and want to get out. Our little town doesn't even have a gym. The closest gym is 30 minutes away. Makes for a long winter.

It's truly hard riding your bicycle in this weather, but I have found that the indoor trainer and spin classes will just have to due. No matter how crazy it makes me. I was talking with my brother who was up for the Holiday season visiting from L.A. he said there are so many cyclists out on the roads down there this time of year. How can this be? Doesn't everybody live with snow? I mean isn't everybody dealing with five foot drifts in their yards? Aren't schools being canceled due to bad weather?

(I look like I am ready to beat someones butt. Really, I am super happy.)

"If you can't beat it join in."

Now, what I mean by this is get your butt outside and play. If you make the time to get outside you will be able to cope with the long winters just a little easier. Your loved ones will thank you for not being so p.m.s.e!

I was able to get out and take my family out for a day of snowshoeing and cross country skiing. They had a total blast. I mean WE had a total blast.

Here are a few tips I found from sparkpeople.com to make your cold winter months a lot more fun.

1. Exercise -As if we needed another reason to get fit! Exercise isn’t only for maintaining your weight and staying healthy. It’s great for relieving the stresses of life. Plus, the effects of a good workout can last for several hours after you hit the showers. You’ll have more energy throughout the day, and your metabolism with stay elevated too. Exercise also helps your mind by releasing those "feel good chemicals" that improve your mood.

2. Eat a Healthy Diet - What and when you eat has a great affect on your mood and energy. Avoid refined and processed foods (like white breads, rice, and sugar). These foods are not only devoid of the nutrients your body craves, but they zap your energy levels and can affect your mood—causing depression, lack of concentration, and mood swings. Try to incorporate more complex carbohydrates (whole wheat breads, brown rice, veggies, fruit) and get your daily 8 cups of water. These healthy foods provide your body (and mind) with nutrients, and stabilize your blood sugar and your energy levels.

3. Get Some Sun - Most people know that sunlight provides us with Vitamin D. But did you know that it also improves your mood? Winter days are shorter and darker than other months, and because of the cold weather, a lot of people spend less and less time outdoors. Lack of sunlight can cause many people to become depressed—without knowing why! Similar to exercise, sunlight exposure releases neurotransmitters in the brain that affect mood. Try to spend a little more time outdoors. Keep your shades up during the day to let more light in. Sit near windows in restaurants and during class. Try changing the light bulbs in your house to "full spectrum" bulbs. These mimic natural light and actually have the same affects on your mind as the real thing.

4. Treat Yourself - Having something to look forward to can keep anyone motivated. Winter seems endless! But if you plan something exciting, your mood improves when you’re anticipating it and when the event actually comes. Plan something that’s exciting to you—a weekend trip, a day at the spa, or special event like a play, girls (or guys) night out, or sporting event.

5. Relax! -You’re busy! Work, class, family, friends, appointments, meetings—even if you enjoy being busy, everyone needs some time off. Don’t be afraid to say "No" to extra opportunities (covering a shift for a co-worker, bringing food to your son’s class party). Try to spend a few minutes each day doing nothing!

6. Embrace the Season - Instead of always avoiding the cold and the snow—look for the best that it has to offer! Take up a winter sport like ice skating, snowboarding, hockey, or even sledding! Enjoy these opportunities while they last—after all, they’re only here a few months per year. Staying active will boost your energy. Seeing winter in a positive light, with all the fun activities that it has to offer, will keep your spirits high.

7. Get Social Support - Don’t underestimate the power of friends, family, mentors, co-workers, and neighbors. Who can you turn to when you’re down and need a pick-me-up? Keep a mental list of these special people and don’t be afraid to ask for help or encouragement when you need it. Something as simple as a phone call, a chat over coffee, or a nice email or letter can brighten your mood.

8. Catch some Zzzz’s - People naturally want to sleep a little bit more during the winter. But with all we have going on, sometimes sleep is the first thing to go. With a little time management, and some self-discipline, you can meet your shut-eye needs. Aim for 7-8 hours each night, and try to keep your bedtime and waking time consistent.

Now that you have some key tips to keep you going this winter season. Get out and enjoy the benefits that winter has to offer.

Motivation - Featured Writer Sigrid Ziegler

2011-01-01T22:34:00.000-07:00

Motivation - Featured Writer Sigrid Ziegler

Lots of people ask me where my motivation comes from to do what I do. I never have a good answer, but recently I started thinking about it. I've been an athlete since I was very young, and today I am a competitive cyclist. I think with every sport transition my motivation changed and that was actually why I changed sports. I started in Track and Field, likely as a baby, became a speed skater when I was 18 and at 24 became a cyclist. I don't remember much about Track because I was so young, but I was in the programme because I was good at it and I won a lot. I don't think I needed a lot of motivation. Eventually though I hit puberty and I couldn't run a race to save my life. I struggled through it and training was the only thing I knew how to do. It didn't help me get results though. It wasn't fun, I couldn't win and I hit a point where I realised, I'm never going to win an Olympic medal at this. So I quit.

Six months later I became a speed skater. I didn't do this because I loved skating or the idea of speed skating. I did this because it looked hard, not a lot of people do it, and with my work ethic, I knew I could be successful. In 2002, I figured, in 6 years I'd be a World Champion and maybe I could even go to the olympics in 2006. So I trained. I trained my butt off for 25-30h a week in a sport I had never even done, for 6 months. At that point I started looking for an ice club to go to, when I discovered there are no Long Track Ovals in Toronto! I figured I must be missing something and made a trip to the Toronto INLINE Speed Skating Club to ask them where the ice is. This is how I became an inline speed skater, because truly there was no ice outside of Calgary at the time.

I excelled quickly because I worked hard. My biggest problem was that I couldn't skate before 2002 and I had a lot to learn about technique. It was easy to have fun when you're getting better and winning. I made the World Team in 2005 and competed in my first Worlds. That's where I realised that I had been fueled by negative motivation. I wanted to beat everyone around me instead of meeting my goals. My goal was to be a world champion, but I didn't care what sport as long as I beat everyone. My club and training group were a fairly negative influence in that respect and the boys in the group always riled up the girls against each other. I wasn't well liked and the women especially resented that I was faster than them in such a short time. I was training more than them so it was going to happen no matter what. I started to realise the situation I was in was destructive but I just couldn't seem to change my attitude. I attended another World Championship the following year and was given a contract to a Professional World Inline Cup (WIC) Team. I moved to Switzerland in spring 2007 for what I thought would be my break through year. I was the first Canadian woman on a WIC Team that contested all the races in the world. I got to fly to Asia several times! It was the experience of a lifetime, but I had this large chip on my shoulder. I was there to prove that I was better and faster, that I was the Canadian who could make it and that by finally having a coach, I'd be a world champion. I was told if I come top 20 in a WIC race in my first WIC season, that's a big accomplishment. I placed 19th in the first race. In Seoul, Korea on April 2nd, 2007 was the last time I had raced without expectations.
Every start line I stood on after that felt worse than the last. I didn't do well in my 2nd race and in my 3rd race I thought, "I can't mess this up like the 2nd race". In the 4th race I thought, "ok two bad ones, shrug it off. You can do this!" and season continued on without another top 20, not even a top 40. I was demoralized and my coach was questioning why I wasn't performing, since I did so well in Seoul. What could possibly be the matter? I was embarrassed, scared of getting yelled at after the races and I just wanted so badly to prove to everyone that I was capable. That I would be a world champion in 2009. I set that date after arriving in Switzerland because everyone who goes to the WIC gets good and 2009 Worlds would be in Switzerland. That would be almost like a home event by then. I thought I'd get better just by association I guess.

I got better, a lot. But it was never enough. I felt pressured and I blamed everyone. One day it hit me. What he hell am I doing here? I gave up my life in Canada, my job as a research analyst, this sport ruined my relationship and I don't even like it! I am effectively, in my opinion, one of the worst "World Class" skaters and can't possibly be expected to win! By pressuring me and yelling at me, I'm not going to get better because I had that negativity for 5 years in Canada before I ever became a Pro. So I quit. I realised that I hated this environment, and I hated the person I had become. I hated that I looked at every girl who came to the skate track with a magnifying glass to see if she could beat me, or if she didn't like me, because nobody ever likes you in skating. I had so much baggage from "failing" at track and field and then growing up in a negative sport that I was never going to succeed. I just didn't know it.

I left speed skating at the end of my last WIC race that year and 4 weeks later won a bike race in Germany. The most important thing I remember is that I had so much fun riding my bike that I didn't care what place I got. I got dropped on a hill and was so happy that I was on my bike instead of skates that I chased and chased. I caught up and I won. If that was a skating race, I would have dropped out after getting gapped on a hill. I changed my sport overnight, and I promised that I would never be negative again. It wasn't easy. I came back to Canada and made the obligatory appearance at the skating track, only to be interrogated about what my list of excuses was for not winning a WIC race. I said, "I've never won a marathon road race in Canada against you guys, and you thought I was going to win a World Cup race? Are you nuts? I'm happy with how I did there". There they had it, I was happy with my one top 20 finish and I didn't even win?! It didn't take long for the gossip and trash talk to start, but for the first time in my life I didn't care. In truth, I was very happy with my race in Seoul, but it took me a long time to see that because I never stopped to take it in. I was too focused on the bad things.

I joined a cycling team, started climbing the ranks slowly and learning that cycling is the hardest sport I've ever done. Sometimes I regretted that I had been riding since the age of 5 and never raced until almost 20 years later, but I know that with my attitude, I wouldn't have been ready. I reminded myself that I love to ride and that it's a gift. My speed skating coach in Switzerland used to say, "in the WIC, you're on hidin' to nothin'. Everyone's watching." I couldn't fake it and I couldn't lie about why I placed badly, the way I was expected to in Canada like everyone else. Cycling is like that. You either have it or you don't, it's very simple. The thing is, you can't possibly perform every day of your life, and I learned that the hard way. Sometimes you just show up and give everything you have and it doesn't matter where you finish. As long as I give everything, I'm happy.

I feel like 20 years have passed between my experience in Switzerland and today, but it's only been 3 years. I learned what positive motivation is. I ride so that I can feel that small daily success of achieving my goal. My world title wasn't going to happen overnight, and I wasn't ready to put the work in. After reflecting on it, I can very honestly say that aside from the mental blocks, I was not going to be a world champion speed skater because I simply didn't work hard enough. I don't know whether it was the influence of the others, or that I was just crazy in thinking that was enough training to be a world champion. Today, I train an average of 40h a week and most of the time I'm completely exhausted. I am still trying to win a world title, but the difference is, I enjoy the journey. I love that after a really gruelling training session, I get to log it in my journal. I love that at the end of the week I get to see the big number of hours that I rode. I hardly ever have personal bests these days because it takes so much more to achieve them. For me, it's a personal best to make it through the week, complete all the training and tick another week off. I take satisfaction in knowing that I didn't skip any training because only now do I truly understand how valuable it is and how hard it really is to be a world class athlete. There are no short cuts. It took me a long time to understand what Greg LeMond meant when he said "It never gets easier, you only go faster". I do understand that now, but I actually think it's gets harder. The faster I get, the harder I work and I push myself so much more than I thought was possible.

One of my Elite Men Teammates was on a training session with me a week ago and he talked me into doing a few more hill reps than I had to or wanted to. He said "If you wanna win, you gotta do one more!" So I did. He said that 3 times. At the end I asked, "Does this ever get easier?" and he smiled and said "Nope!"

New Year's Resolutions

2010-12-28T22:55:00.000-07:00

I am so ready for the New Year detox. Freak, I am stuggling with my buttons AGAIN! I have tried to find something to blame my 15 pound Holiday gain on, but haven't come up with a good enough concept. I could say that the grocery store has ran out of fruits and vegetables and left us buying just sweets and yummy chocolates. I could also say that the local bakery ran out of home made wheat bread and had a super sale on jelly filled donuts. No matter how I say it, - "it's a really good time for detox"!

Have you made your New Year's resolutions yet? Just so you know - I failed on 98% of last years goals. Now, why is it so hard to stick to your New Year's goals? I think for me it's called lack of planning and preparation. I found this cute little video that makes life for 2011 seem a little more enjoyable.

Goals for 2011 coming soon!

Doing What You LOVE, With Those You Love - featured writer Amy Boehme

2010-12-13T14:36:00.000-07:00

I haven't known Amy for long, but have realized what a talented young mother and athlete she is. It's amazing to see how far she has come in the sport of cycling. Thank you for sharing your story with us.

DOING WHAT YOU LOVE, WITH THOSE YOU LOVE - Featured Writer Amy Boehme

My husband Matt got me into riding three years ago, and I enjoyed it as just a recreational pass time. My second year of riding (2009) I was invited by a cousin to do the “Little Red Ride” in Logan, Utah. Little Red is a “charity” ride benefitting Breast Cancer, and is held in the (mostly) flat Cache Valley on the Utah/Idaho border. The first year I did 64 miles, and the last ten just about killed me. I was barely able to pedal into the finish line, and every part of my body hurt and I felt SO sick. I was able to do more riding in 2009, but I was bummed that I felt I did so bad on that ride. I shouldn't have been so hard on myself, as that was my first ride of any significant distance. Later in the summer Matt and I rode in the Heber City Century. We only did 50 miles, so I could get back for a job (I’m a face/body painter).

The hills were many and often! Riding up back side of Jordanelle was a monster, and I did it at only 4 mph. But I did it! After that I realized: “I may be slow but I can do it!” Even if it is only 4 mph... This has become a sort of mantra for my approach to hills. I rode the trainer through the winter (not my favorite pass time) and then did the Little Red again in the Spring of 2010. This time I did the full 100, and when I looked at my time at the 64 mile mark it was 2 hours faster than last year! That was it, I had caught the bug. I love this sport where my biggest competition is against myself!

I love doing a work out that doesn't feel like a work out. I was never interested in sports but biking changed that. I can truly say that my health and musculature have never been better. The part I like best about cycling is being able to do it with my husband. It is so nice to share something you like so much with someone you love. And he is the best wind break ever! I can follow him up a hill at 15 mph instead of my now 6 mph. I like that I can see improvement in my rides, and in a very real manner; Less time for identical rides is usually better! This fall before the snow I was able to do 30 miles in 2 hours and that is an accomplishment I am proud of. I look forward to many, many years of pursuing even better times on my bike!

Positive Response - Featured Writer Jennica Hirrlinger

2010-12-11T16:08:00.000-07:00

POSITIVE RESPONSE - Featured Writer Jennica Hirrlinger
My son, Lincoln, is obsessed with golf. He walks the course for an average of 7 hours a day in the summer. He wears collared shirts instead of t-shirts because that’s how golfers dress and when I do the laundry I find golf balls and tees, ball marks and tiny pencils. The kid is obsessed, for sure.

He asked to get a private coach to help him improve because he wants to play in the PGA when he gets older. He works incredibly hard and he practices like crazy. His work ethic for golf is very inspiring.

In a weird way, he kind of reminds me of myself. When the race season kicks over and I pick the next seasons races, I eat , sleep, and obsess those races. I check previous years’ race times and then I figure out my training according to those winning times. I visualize courses and transitions in my head and I see myself crossing the finish line and doing well.

Then, I do the race and I find that it’s hard to know what to say when people ask me how it went. If I did well, I don’t want to sound like I’m bragging. If I did poorly, I can’t say much because anyone who tries is a winner, right? And because most people don’t have the same race expectations that I do, it can feel a little strange when I can tell they don’t understand why I would tell them all the things I could have done better when I just won the race.

Yesterday, Lincolns’ new coach came to meet us and to give Lincoln some things to work on in the off season. First though, she asked him to tell her about his 2010 season. He listed several different tournaments and talked about how he putted poorly at this one, it was raining at that one, he played the wrong ball . . . all these negative things.

The reality is that he won all but one of the district tourneys!

Then, she pointed out to him and us about how he focused on the negative and had to be pushed to say anything positive about those tournaments. I realized, that this was another way he reminds me of me and this made me sad. It was sad to think that of all the great “athletic” things I could teach my kid and he is emulating my negativity . . . or, at least, my unwillingness to be satisfied with my efforts.

The coach taught Lincoln a new phrase. “Positive response nets positive outcomes.”

This is his new motto. He knows what he needs to work on and he will but he will do it in a more positive way. He will learn to love the distractions and the journey. And, he will learn a lot about life.

And, I intend to be more like him this time.

Being Human(e) - Featured Writer Stephanie Hancock

2010-12-07T22:39:00.000-07:00

Being Human(e) - Featured Writer Stephanie Hancock

So, thinking of Christmas, I decided that grumpy athletes remind me of Scrooge (before his metamorphosis). They think only of themselves and find no joy in the success of others.

Thankfully, I don’t know a lot of grumpy athletes. Most people I know are really, truly wonderful. I loved the idea in the book, “Born to Run” that the best athletes were also the best people – the most loving and inspiring. They excelled, but not at the expense of compromising their humanity. They didn’t squash people to get ahead, but pulled others along with them to the top.

I like that. I like that a goal doesn’t have to be about beating everyone else but about everyone cheering each other on to meet their own goal. I like the idea of sharing the experience, of everyone doing their best and everyone pleased with each other’s performance.

The potential problem with being the Scrooge athlete is that being better than everyone becomes his identity. He haughtily pulls inside himself, too worried about his performance to even consider cheering anyone else on. And then the inevitable happens: one day, he fails and finds himself all alone. It is devastating because he has lost – not only the race, but all the wasted time focusing on something fleeting instead of something lasting.

Something lasting…like what? Like being the best person you can. Like finding as much satisfaction in your successes as in other’s successes. Like being comfortable, adaptable, and flexible to the curve balls coming your way, bouncing back with a smile and a good heart.

Speaking of curve balls and a good heart, three weeks ago my son was teaching my five-year-old daughter to play baseball. She stood too close behind him when he swung a big, heavy metal bat…right into her nose. It moved the bridge of her nose off center, breaking the bone and breaking the skin. I ran her into the bathroom where she bent over the sink, gushing out sobs and blood. When she caught her breath long enough to speak, the first thing she said was, “It’s okay, Mom, it was an accident. He didn’t mean to. He feels really bad.”

I was floored. Her first thoughts were for her brother. After her surgery a week later (they had to wait for the swelling to subside before they could do the surgery), she woke from the anesthesia, looked at me groggily, and asked, “Am I okay?” I assured her she was. She then immediately asked if she could please call her brother at home to let him know she was okay. Again, her first thoughts were of him.

I didn’t teach her that, she came that way. She’s a loving, happy and joyful person. She’s also an incredible runner. I kid you not, that girl can run. Sometimes I’ll take my kids to the local university indoor track for some exercise when we’ve been cooped up in winter weather too long. My daughter always picks one of the college kids out and joins them in their run. She keeps up for a couple of laps, takes a breather, then finds a new running partner, bouncing from new friend to friend. And the way she runs, you’d think she was in Disneyland having the time of her life. She grins when she runs. She loves it.

She loves everything. She cares deeply for people. Her loving energy translates to beautiful running. I look at her and think of the hypothesis in “Born to Run” and I see the possibility that it is true.

I’d like to be like her. Sometimes I’m nowhere near, but sometimes I get close. I run two kinds of marathons – first, the marathon for me when I try to get my fastest time yet. When I’m running for me, it is thrilling, a real test of my stamina, a time to see what I am capable of. But it’s all about me. The fun is there, but it’s passing, sometimes followed by post-race let-down (although not as often as it used to happen). I don’t even remember what my times were or what the courses were like. For those “me” marathons, I mostly remember who was there to meet me at the finish.

Then there’s the marathon I run with my brothers. We run to simply share the journey. Two of my brothers and I take turns pushing our oldest brother, who is quadriplegic, in his racing chair. We switch every two miles, take care of each other’s needs during the 26.2 miles, and spend at least the first half laughing and talking. The second half we all kind of clam up, except for our oldest brother. He says really inspiring things like, “Think you could go any faster?” or “I don’t think we’ll get a good time, maybe we should go back to the beginning and try again,” or “Are we there yet?” He has this really evil laugh that follows such statements. He makes us not take things so seriously, and he obviously enjoys the heckling. In fact, he enjoys the whole race, while those of us pushing enjoy a lot of it…and then we enjoy the finish. My brothers are good people. To spend hours on our feet or in a wheelchair together is maybe not the most exciting thing, but it’s definitely satisfying and memorable, something we can do together, and a way to include our oldest brother in the joy of moving. And when we run, our oldest brother grins – he grins like my daughter when she runs. Good, loving people, the both of them. And good at loving the run just for the sake of the run.

I am delighted that I met my personal running goal during one of those “me” marathons. But the second kind of marathon – the “us” marathon - is the one I’m most proud of. It’s not easy pushing a grown man that long (and it takes us a l-o-n-g time), but it is so so so much fun to race together. It is quite the experience to see the delight on our big brother’s face as the crowd cheers him on and fellow racers give him the thumbs up. He becomes a part of some really great people – or perhaps they become a part of him, a really great person. Racing together does that - makes you a part of each other.

Maybe we are all part of each other, and maybe when we include each other we all become better people. Maybe we can all find joy in the journey together. Maybe we all were “born to run” (or ride or ski or swim or just move), one way or another. Hopefully we will all be out there with silly grins and wicked laughs, pulling or pushing each other along to success.

Jersey LOVE

2010-12-06T14:13:00.000-07:00

It was so fun to see all you girls riding with your Bella Rosa jersey's this past cycling season. You all ROCKED! Just a shout out to let you know I have a few jersey's left, and will be selling them at discount. $50.00 bones for this sweet piece of art. If you are interested I have size M and size L left. Just zip me an email if you would like one shipped out. Heading out to play in the snow. Good times.

New Build - Kyle

2010-12-02T22:39:00.001-07:00

I just can't help posting some of Brian's amazing builds on this GIRLY blog. I know it is a girl site for girls, but sometimes it's ok to love boy things. Like this custom Kelson cx build for Kyle.
Boys are funny when it comes to taking their photos. I was able to snap a few pics of Kyle and his new ride. This was right before we got three feet of fresh new white pow. Check it.

Gifts that make you go ahhh!

2010-12-01T21:57:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the advice of several of my good Bella buddies, I have decided to quite my day job at the Hospital. Stability? Who the heck need stability? It looks like I will be able to spend more time working in the bike department, which makes me smile. I have also ordered a bunch of photog equipment, which makes me really want to cry. I will be working until I die before this stuff gets paid for.

BELLA UPDATE:

I have been putting together a bicycle package called the "bluebird special". This package will be available January 1, 2010 and is seriously going to make you freak out. It will be a custom bicycle package for a few special buyers. I have a designer working on the paint scheme and I think it's gonna be a jaw dropper.
Do you do century bike rides? What about do triathlons? Bella Rosa Bikes will be offering gift packages for you to give to your fellow athletes. Coming January 2010

I am sure many of you have not had time to get out and get your Holiday shopping done. Well, I love waiting until the very last moment possible to do mine. If you still need gifts to buy for those spoiled brats - here are a couple of ideas.

What a great way to say I ride bikes. Super cute ring idea. Go here to check out her cute Etsy site.

This is one of my favs. One year for Christmas, Brian and I made these up for our fellow cyclists. Super cute idea that you can purchase here. Good luck with your Holiday shopping. I will keep hunting for a few more special finds.

Job Hunt

2010-11-27T21:12:00.001-07:00

Alright, so I have been gone for a bit. Not on vacation, but working . . . working . . . working. I hope all of you had a wonderful Thanksgiving with loads of turkey, and family fun. Due to the fact that I have to work Thanksgiving and Christmas this year I am considering quiting one of my day jobs. Help me out with this one. Here is a current list of my daily works and I am needing to dwindle it down to a few favorites.

Bella Rosa Bikes - this is my passion! I LOVE my job here, and WON'T give it up. It makes me happy. It brings peace to my inner soul. It completes me.

Rusty Mill - My good friend Kelly and I have started making frames, and other rad wood stuff . We love it, and I DON'T want to give this up either.

Born Ready - I sell kid tees at the local craft shows. I LOVE this and don't want to give this up either.
Photography - This is a hobby that has turned into a true passion. Opening up a photography collective in small college town next month. I am in LOVE with my camera, and don't want to give this up either.

FULL TIME MOTHER & WIFE - This is my favorite of all favorites! I couldn't ask for anything more. I am in love with my family, and don't want to give up this fun full time job.
HOSPITAL - I have worked at the hospital for 15 years. I am greatful for this job, but don't LOVE it. I can't quite give it up due to stability. Freak, life is confusing.

So, because you are my friends and help me with all of my issues - I NEED HELP! I'm on the job hunt. . . the hunt to dwindle down the things I don't enjoy. The problem is I LOVE all of them. Oh dear Bella friends, please help.

Bike Fit Article

2010-11-20T19:04:00.001-07:00

(thanks to my good friend Kelly for modeling for the article)

The other day a guy named Mike called. He said he was interested in getting a gift certificate for his wife for a custom bike. She was celebrating her 50th birthday, and he felt he wanted to surprise her with something special. Mike, you are a TRUE man. What a rad gift! To make a long story short - Liz came over to get sized for her new ride. The look on her face when I wished her happy birthday was priceless. Big grin from ear to ear! I don't think I have ever seen anyone so excited for a custom ride. During her fit analysis with her current bike Brian and I noticed that she was going to be a great candidate for custom. You would never know that Liz just turned 50. She is my inspiration - cross country ski master, teli instructor, forest service ranger, and cyclist. The thing that put the icing on the cake was that she just moved to my small little town. How cool is that? Can't wait to bike with Liz this coming spring.

Yesterday an article ran that Brian and I wrote in a cool online magazine called Cycle and Style. It was an article on bike fit for women. Check out the amazing website. Great resource for women in the cycling world. Check out our article HERE http://cycleandstyle.com/2010/11/sitting-pretty-intro-to-bike-fit-for-women/

Tough Cross Chics Rock

2010-11-14T18:54:00.001-07:00

Saturday at the local cross race there was this girl.

I don't know her name or where she was from, but what I do know of her is that she is friggin tough. She was racing in the men's cross division and kicking some serious butt! The thing that was so impressive was the determination on her face. She was going to give it her all and not an ounce less. I learned a pretty valuable lesson from her. Sometimes giving 100% is not enough. Dig in and find that last 10%! In the end it will make a huge difference in how life turns out.

What Do You Dream?

2010-11-12T20:47:00.001-07:00

Ever since I was a kid I have had big dreams. Big hopes of one day becoming something amazing. Becoming something that I could be proud of. Why is it that no matter what we dream it seems unreachable? Well, I have realized that unreachable is good. No, unreachable is great. Seriously! It means that we have to continue to strive for perfection before we can reach the unthinkable - the unreachable dream.

Do you dream? What do you dream? What are you reaching for? I heard this quote by Gail Devers that said

"Keep your dreams alive. Understand to achieve anything requires faith and belief in YOURSELF, vision, hard work, determination, and dedication. Remember all things are possible for those who believe."

So tonight when you go to bed DREAM! Dream about life. Dream about your next finish line. Dream about your hard training. Dream about your early mornings. Dream about your smile while riding through the wind. DREAM! Even if those dreams seem unreachable - Dream.

Sweet dreams my friends.

What is an Athlete - Featured Writer Jennica Hirrlinger

2010-11-03T20:31:00.000-06:00

I can't believe it's already November. The leaves have fallen off the trees and the crisp clean air means it's time to prepare. Yeah, snow! The bicycle hooks will soon be filled with the bicycles of my three little ones along with the bicycles of me and my husband. It has been a very fulfilling year. CX season is still in full swing so those bikes will remain unpolished for a little longer.

My good friend Jennica has done it again with her featured story. I always love reading what all of your thoughts are. As a female race women are truly powerful individuals. Man, I would LOVE to see what life could be like if we all put our hearts and minds together for a special purpose. Keep rockin' it this month girls. GIRL POWER.

What is an Athlete - Featured writer Jennica Hirrlinger

I recently saw a news story outlining how a high school girl chose an autistic student in her grade for her date to their senior prom where it was probable that she would be voted Prom Queen. This young man was so excited for an evening out with this beautiful girl that he slept for a week prior with his tux layed out on his bed. The other students responded to this unusual situation by voting them prom royalty as their King and Queen. The newscaster went on to mention a few other similar incidences occurring across the country and summed it up saying, "Some of today's young people are changing the definition of beauty..."

I was considering this story as I went to work the next day and saw all the different kinds of people running or biking for exercise that morning. It used to be that only super fast, naturally talented, traditional-type athletes trained for and participated in races but today, pretty much anyone can and does register. Marathons and triathlons are some of the fastest growing, most inclusive sports in the world right now. Have you ever seen such a wide-spread support system?

With the exception of only few traditionalists, most people are thrilled to see the growth and to help pass on their knowledge of these sports and training techniques. Some elites even stand at the finish line, long after they have completed their race, cheering until the last competitor has crossed over.

I gave a talk once where I used my bike and my tri gear as visual aids to illustrate my point. A few months later, a neighbor approached me and thanked me...saying that, because of my talk she and her family were inspired to start running and they had planned to compete in a 1/2 marathon! She seemed super excited about it and was thrilled about the weight that she and her family had lost already.

(Jennica is always doing something active and fun with her kids and other's in the neighborhood. Cute pic at the local sand dunes)

It has been a couple of years since then and I still see them out running as a family. They are not, what some would consider traditional athletes but they are none-the-less ATHLETES. They are a brave, skinny, amazing, dedicated family of athletes. They, and so many others today, have changed the definition of the word athlete.

And that, is inspiring to me!

Jennica Hirrlinger

Feed Zone - Priority

2010-10-29T22:54:00.002-06:00

This picture just makes me laugh. No, I mean bursting out in laughter with tears rolling down my cheeks - laugh. It reminds me so much of myself, but without the extremely large pointy boobies. I am sure we have all been there! Waiting for that special someone to roll up with sweat dripping down their faces to hand them a nice cold bottle of ice water. Oh, how it makes us feel important to know that we somehow contributed to the success of their race.

Let me explain how nature sometimes take precedence over the feed zones. Race day - 80 miles of traitorous terrain. Brian had volunteered me to be at two different feed zones taking care of two different riders (my husband included). I was prepared to succeed. When both Brian and Tim reached feed zone number one I was waiting with bells on running like the girl in the photo above, but without the pointy boobies. Success! Feed zone number one down and one more to go. Well, on the drive to the next feed zone mother nature was calling. No, I mean she was screaming to stop. Thank goodness for the Ranger's station that was so conveniently placed on the way to the next zone. Oh what a feeling. Enjoying the nice fresh air while gazing at God's beautiful country. It wasn't until I noticed racers screaming past my car that I started to stress out a little. Goodbye, great feeling - hello nightmare.

To make an extremely long story short. The bikers were a lot faster than my potty break. As I was enjoying nature, and feeding my hungered soul - my husband zoomed past me in hopes of the next feeding grounds. Yeah, I missed the feed zone - and with 40 more miles to go into a head wind I was going to face serious harsh looks for the rest of my life. I was no longer feeling like the girl running down the road holding the nice fresh water bottle cheering her loved one on. I felt guilt! Holy ($)#*@ I missed the feed zone. I did get crap for a while and I think it will take a lifetime of sarcastic remarks before Brian forgets about this event. So, a solution to all of your female problems is this

Shiz in the woods
Shiz in my pants
Hold it until my eyes start to water (I would suggest this one)

Hope you have a super duper Halloween night! Take your family down to the local Spooky Cross CX race. Fun for the whole family.

Morgan Watson - A CAUSE WORTH RIDING FOR

2010-10-24T15:06:00.001-06:00

Last week a good friend of ours stopped by to get his Kelson bike ready to roll for a bike ride him and his sister were participating in. He said that he and his sister Alisa would be staying with (get this) "LANCE ARMSTRONG" at his home in Texas. Pretty cool huh? Well, the cooler thing is that they are riding for a cause. Here is a note that I got from Alisa last week.

Dear Family and Friends,

My brother Ryan and I are participating in the 2010 LIVESTRONG Challenge this weekend in Austin, Texas. I will be riding my bike for 40 miles and my brother for 70 miles - a total of 110 miles. We will be riding to honor and help Morgan Sage Watson in her fight against cancer.

About Morgan

Morgan Sage Watson is the most vibrant, fun-loving, and amazing person you will ever meet! In August of 2010 (at 15 years old), she found a large lump in her breast and had it removed for testing. On August 27th, 2010, Morgan was diagnosed with Medullary Breast Cancer. Morgan has just begun this long journey, but she's going to make it! She is the beautiful daughter of Jana Meikle Pendleton and Boyd Pendleton, Johny Waton and Crystal Watson.
Please help her cause by donating at:

Go to: http://www.livestrong.org/, select: DONATE, then select "Support Participants." The challenge that we are participating in is the LIVESTRONG Austin. Enter my name or my brothers: Alisa Shirley or Ryan Shirley.

Our goal is to raise $1,000.00

The Power to Choose

2010-10-18T10:01:00.001-06:00

Aren't we lucky to be able to have the power to choose who we are and what we want to become. I think it is pretty powerful to have the ability to be whatever we desire. Now, I don't think that this comes easy. In fact I think it actually causes me to freak out just a little. Remember, I was committing to you months ago about how I was going to change the way I approached myself and my body. First off, let me just reiterate the words I wrote here.

"I have committed myself and family to eating healthier.

For three months I will document my progress. I will give you weekly updates on the positives and negatives of Living the Life. I will share with you my experience of becoming a beautiful person from the inside out."

NOW let me give you the definition of commitment

the act of binding yourself (intellectually or emotionally) to a course of action;
the trait of sincere and steadfast fixity of purpose;

So as you are aware, I have not achieved my three month goal. The problem that most of us have is that we give up to easily. When things get a little difficult, most of us just quit. When we loose focus or don't have a goal, we just give up. Now, this is where things get amazing. We have the power to choose. The power to choose whether we make new goals. Whether we wake up early or sleep in. Whether we eat the donut or grab the crispy apple instead. We are powerful! I think that is pretty AWESOME. So, if you have not maintained top performance - make new goals. If you have gained a few extra unwanted pounds - make new goals because we have the power to choose. The power to choose if we will be fit and healthy or not.

(my boys fly fishing)

My kids are the best example to me of setting goals and living them. I watch them each and every day plan new activities out and how they are going to accomplish them. Their current goal is racing in the spooky cross cx race that is coming up at the end of the month. Brian is currently building them up a cross bike. I think they will really enjoy it, and hope it helps them set new goals for in the future.

Protein Power Soup

2010-10-11T11:46:00.001-06:00

I LOVE Fall. No, I mean I REALLY LOVE FALL! I love the clear crisp sky, and the brisk breeze that smells- oh so good. What I also enjoy is a good heart healthy soup. I am always looking for amazing new soup recipes, and at proteinpower they had this one listed. I can't wait to try it.

Protein Power Soup

Makes 4 servings.

It’s so quick to make, you may want to whip up a couple of batches at once to last several days. Freeze portions in zip freezer bags or freezer containers if you need to keep it longer.

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 clove garlic, diced fine
1/2 small yellow onion, diced small
1 small carrot, diced
2 ribs celery, diced
1 medium (or 2 small) zucchini squash*, diced
1 can (about 14 ounces) diced tomatoes with seasoning (basil/onion, onion/garlic, Italian seasoning, etc)
1 quart chicken broth (with salt and spices if available, if not, add the following: 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder)
1 pound skinless, boneless chicken tenders, cut into 1/2″ chunks, sprinkled with salt and pepper.
1-2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)

1. In a soup pot, sauté onion in olive oil over medium heat. After about a minute add the garlic and continue cooking until they are both translucent.
2. Add the chicken and sauté until opaque.
3. Add the carrot, celery, and zucchini and sauté until slightly softened (about 5 minutes) stirring them often to prevent burning.
4. Add the tomatoes, with their juice, and the broth.
5. Bring to a boil, then turn down and simmer until all vegetables are tender.
6. At serving time, if desired, add a tablespoon or two of chopped fresh cilantro or parsley to brighten the flavor.
Protein per serving = 27.5 grams
Effective Carb per serving = 14 grams
Calories per serving = 345

*Note: This version calls for zucchini, but you could just as easily substitute a cup of broccoli or cauliflower or yellow summer squash or a mixture of all three veggies or a big double handful of fresh spinach leaves for about the same carb cost. I usually use whatever veggies I have the most of on hand or that I need to use up because we’re heading out of town. It’s all delicious and nutritious!

Always A First - Featured Writer Dawn Larson-Rainforth

2010-10-04T10:46:00.002-06:00

I met Dawn through the Bella Rosa blog. I haven't known her for long, but I get the feeling that she has a heart of GOLD, and the mental capacity to do amazing things. I always love it when people make comments on the blog - and Dawn has kept me writing. I look forward to many years of a new friendship with my new buddy. She proves to all of us that there is always a time for FIRSTS. First 5K, first bike race, and first triathlon. Thanks for all you do, and making women know that anything is possible if we just have desire.
Always A First - Featured Writer Dawn Larson-Rainforth

2 summers ago, a friend of mine mentioned she was entering a 5km race in her home city. I was in awe. When she said she was entering a 10km...I could hardly imagine doing such a distance. I could hardly run 3km without having to stop every other minute!

Then came the day when she called up and asked me to join her. I was shocked! Me? A person who only had distant memories of the Cross-Country Running Club in high school....coming in last in the only race I signed up for? With her reassurance that it was a "Walk or Run 10km" distance....I could walk whenever I wanted to- I decided I would join her. I was good at walking!

It ended up being the hottest day that summer. From what I can remember....I did try to run a lot of it, and I think I had heatstroke at the end of the 1 hour and 10 minute ordeal. Little did I know it was the beginning of my love for running...and a whole lot of other things......

Fast forward to this summer.

10 race bibs later....and I felt ready for more. When someone mentioned a Triathlon....I was in. Why not? I loved to bike and swim just as much as run. Put them together and you have a pretty well-rounded race on your hands...'er....feet. I trained a bit over the summer. With the "thought" of a September Triathlon in my mind...I biked Saturday mornings, ran 3 to 4 times a week, and swam a few mornings. I told everyone I knew I was "going to do my first Triathlon" in the fall. But I never signed up. I kept training, kept on "bragging"....but something held me back. I felt so unsure of myself. What WAS I thinking...doing all 3 sports in a couple hours back-to-back (to back)? Besides...I was a mother of 4 kids. There wasn't time! I felt older than I really was and "out of the game" compared to all the "elites" out there. What was I thinking......me? I was NOT an athlete!

One night I was laying there....trying to get up enough nerve to sign up online...a thought hit me. If I hadn't of tried that 10km race with my friend a couple years back...I wouldn't have 10 race bibs and a few medals pinned to my wall. I wouldn't be able to say I knocked 11 minutes off my 10km run. I wouldn't be able to say I had ran 2 races on incredible mountain trails with magestic mountains as the backdrop. I got up and signed on. It was done. I had a few weeks to really "get ready".

To make a long story (kind of) short.....

I TRI-ed it!
I Did it and FINISHED!

I made it through the scariest (Open Water) swim ever..... I hopped on my (borrowed) race bike and pedaled my 20km to the run Transition.....And I ran the 5km Trail Run to the finish line....where I crossed the Finish Line and the only thought I could think (after I caught my breath and felt my legs slowly return)...was that I DID it...and I wanted to do it again.

Now....

I have another race bib on the wall. Along with a picture of me crossing the Finish, and all I can think is that I want to do it again next summer-
an Olympic Distance next July.
And who knows- after that ....there's always a Half Ironman Distance......then there's the Ironman......

Dawn Larson-Rainforth

Carbon Fiber - Test Team

2010-09-28T21:18:00.000-06:00

The carbon fiber project has had it's days. Good days, and really crapy days. I just sit and cheer Brian on - feed him food every now and again and watch him work. I have learned to lock him in his work space and hide the key. I let him out to shave about every six months or so just so he won't scare away customers.

I have told you the process before, but all I have to say is that it is beyond complicated.

The big moment came last week after he finished cooking the project bike. I noticed a slight glimmer in his smile as he said "Test Team Ready". Those were some great words. Do you know what this means? Do you know how stinking cool this is? For someone who has been patiently waiting - this is BIG.

For someone who eats, sleeps, and dreams bikes this is huge. For the wife of someone who eats, sleeps and dreams bikes this is a relief. Brian, YOU DID IT! So proud of you for sticking to such a difficult task. Project 1 is ready for testing. We will be offering test bikes to a few choice few. Just shoot over an e-mail if you have any questions or want more info on test team pricing for the new custom carbon fiber project 1.

Photos don't do this bike justice. Sorry, I will work on my skills and have you better photos soon.

The Joys of Vegas

2010-09-28T13:04:00.000-06:00

It's great to be home! Vegas is quite the place. If you have never experienced the thrill of big city, big boobs - you need to visit Vegas. I am sure that there are plenty of amazing things in Vegas, but we were too busy to see any of them.
The bike show was absolutley awesome. It was really exciting to see that we (Kelson, Bella Rosa) are right there with the rest of them - minus the millions of extra dollars for advertising and marketing. Someday soon!

My greatest moment came when I met up with Eddie Merckx. I currently have a large autographed framed picture of him hanging in my dining room area. I think he's pretty rad. He even took the time to sign my new book "The Spring Classics". Just when I thought it couldn't get any better . . . . .

I attended my first professional cyclo-cross race. It was a true nail bitter. The French Pro won by a split hair. I just can't say how extremely amazing it was. They also had a pro women's race. Women are tough. Loved every minute of it.

I forgot to mention that I left the three kidos in Southern Utah with my mother-in-law. They had so much fun ropin' cows and hanging out. First time I have been without them for more than a day in 12 years. We were able to fit in some hiking and petro finding.

It's always nice to go visit new places and see new things. I learned a lot in the bicycle world, but it's always nice to come home.

HOME SWEET HOME! Now, off to build some bikes.

Bella Rosa Bikes Presents

2010-09-26T16:46:00.000-06:00

Vegas Baby

2010-09-24T11:17:00.000-06:00

I have been at the Vegas bike show for the past few days. I can't wait to tell you all about it and all the amazing people I met. I even got to go to a PRO cyclo cross race. Action and bikes in Vegas! Doesn't get any better than this.

Christmas in September

2010-09-16T20:54:00.001-06:00

Don't you just love it when Santa comes a few months early? Well, I do! Today Mr. Fed Ex man (SANTA) showed up at my door with a very important package. A package that contained something so cool that I almost started to cry. Yeah, I did see a tear roll down my cheek as I peered my eyes on the beautiful metal. This is what I saw.

These beautiful badges are going to make the Bella bikes even more beautiful. I can't wait for the next build. The second gift came from my cool husband who has been slaving away in his shop working on so many amazing projects.

Remember a few months back - maybe even a year ago I was telling you about the carbon project that Brian has been working on. Well, he has mastered the process. Two and a half years of product testing. Callused hands from all of the pattern cutting. It couldn't have turned out more beautiful. Fully custom carbon bicycle. There is not a company around that is able to do the process like Brian. Merry Christmas! I am so proud of him for sticking with the project for so long and not giving up. I will post photos soon!

Randy headed up today to pick up his new cross bike. Cross season is on girls so let me know when you are out at the local races and I will come cheer you on. Here is a pic of Randy's beautiful new cx bike.

Well, Christmas in September just makes sense. I think I could get use to this.

911 - Never Forget

2010-09-11T16:23:00.003-06:00

My mother is a truly amazing person. She is a great writer and photographer. Last year this is what she wrote about the 911 tragedy. I just couldn't come close to saying it better. Love you mom.

Born to Run - A GOOD read

2010-09-09T20:45:00.000-06:00

I honestly can't believe how quickly time passes. I say this too frequently, but seriously - time "FLIES". This morning my 6:00am workout started in the pitch black. I can't tell you how freaky yet amazing it is to run into the darkness. Where I come from there are serious animals in the wild. Thank goodness for a great running buddy (Kelly) who shows up at my doorstep so early in the morning to brave nature and the wildlife with me. I have been thinking a lot lately about the aches and pains my body feels after a long run.

SAYING TO MYSELF:

Only short, small people should run.
I am not built to be a runner.
Running stresses out my body.
You need to weigh 100 pounds to be a good runner.

How many excuses can I possibly come up with NOT to run? ? ? ? ?

Early this week our good friend Scott showed up at our doorstep and handed Brian a book to read. He said that this book "changed his life"! Now seriously, how can one book "change your life"? I don't know, but if it changed his life . . . maybe, just maybe it can change my life too.

Here is a little inside peak at Born to Run - Thank goodness for amazon.com

Book Description

Full of incredible characters, amazing athletic achievements, cutting-edge science, and, most of all, pure inspiration, Born to Run is an epic adventure that began with one simple question: Why does my foot hurt? In search of an answer, Christopher McDougall sets off to find a tribe of the world’s greatest distance runners and learn their secrets, and in the process shows us that everything we thought we knew about running is wrong.

Isolated by the most savage terrain in North America, the reclusive Tarahumara Indians of Mexico’s deadly Copper Canyons are custodians of a lost art. For centuries they have practiced techniques that allow them to run hundreds of miles without rest and chase down anything from a deer to an Olympic marathoner while enjoying every mile of it. Their superhuman talent is matched by uncanny health and serenity, leaving the Tarahumara immune to the diseases and strife that plague modern existence. With the help of Caballo Blanco, a mysterious loner who lives among the tribe, the author was able not only to uncover the secrets of the Tarahumara but also to find his own inner ultra-athlete, as he trained for the challenge of a lifetime: a fifty-mile race through the heart of Tarahumara country pitting the tribe against an odd band of Americans, including a star ultramarathoner, a beautiful young surfer, and a barefoot wonder.

With a sharp wit and wild exuberance, McDougall takes us from the high-tech science labs at Harvard to the sun-baked valleys and freezing peaks across North America, where ever-growing numbers of ultrarunners are pushing their bodies to the limit, and, finally, to the climactic race in the Copper Canyons. Born to Run is that rare book that will not only engage your mind but inspire your body when you realize that the secret to happiness is right at your feet, and that you, indeed all of us, were born to run.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

I can't wait to dive deep into this read and see for myself how one book can change a life. So next time you're out at the local book store stop in and check out this good read. It could change your life too.

Introduction to FUN - CYCLOCROSS

2010-09-02T16:52:00.002-06:00

It wasn't up until a few years ago that I even knew what Cyclocross was. It sounds like some crazy motorbike race with big jump. I thought it might be interesting to tell you girls a little bit about FUN. The history behind cyclocross racing is pretty fascinating. It makes a whole lot of sense in the fact that we need a year round training program. Here are some interesting facts that I found at bigshark.com

History
Cyclocross racing was developed in Europe in the early 1900’s as a way for road racers to remain fit during fall and winter. The intense event helped athletes maintain and improve their racing fitness and skills, too. As the sport grew, some riders abandoned the road-racing scene to become cyclocross specialists. Today, there are cyclists who focus only on cross and many professional road and off-road riders race cross to keep their race engines finally tuned in the off season.

The Course
Typical cyclocross courses are 1.5- to 2-mile loops on a mix of paved and off-road surfaces over flat-to-rolling terrain. Usually, races lasts an hour plus a lap. But, what makes cross such a unique and challenging sport is that courses always include obstacles that force riders to dismount and run while carrying their bikes.

(This is the part where female women riders - who have had children need to wear DEPENDS while dismounting. )

For example, most courses feature short, steep (often muddy) sections, which are nearly impossible to ride. There can be scary cliff-like drop-offs, river crossings and technical singletrack, too. Also, courses include series of man-made barriers scattered around the course requiring riders to carry their bikes over or, if they're really talented, to jump their bikes over the obstacles (called "bunny-hopping"). It's this combination of cycling, stunt riding, carrying, running and scrambling over obstacles that makes cyclocross so exciting, such a phenomenal workout and so darn much fun!

(pic taken last year at local cxrace)

(I COULD TOTALLY GET USE TO THIS!)

Doesn't that sound like a total blast? I tell you what - this has my name written all over it. Big, steep cliffs. Barriers! Mud! Does it get any better than this? The only problem is I can't remember the last time I jumped over anything taller than 10" without peeing my pants. Thank goodness for chamois.

Kelson bikes and Bella Rosa bikes are teaming up to offer a cyclocross program. We will be offering stock framesets for $1,250 bucks. If you are interested in stock geometry we will make that available for an additional $250.

So, there is definitely NO reason to stop training this fall/winter season. Get into cyclocross - it seriously ROCKS.

Running Inspiration

2010-08-31T21:35:00.001-06:00

Holy smokes! Where has the time gone? So many amazing things happening. I am in LOVE with this time of the year. The brisk chill in the morning air makes me smile. Although riding a bike in 40 degree weather makes me get a little RT. Yeah, I had to turn the heater on this morning. They are predicting am showers with possibility of snow. SNOW! What in the world is going on?

I finally nailed down the final design on the head badges and they are off to manufacturing. I am so excited how the final design turned out. Here is the new design.

Over the weekend I had the opportunity to be commissioned to take the Mesa Falls Marathon photos. It was an absolute pleasure! I had a lot of great help from my fabulous mother, and friend Kelly. The pain in the butt came when we had to index all 800 plus photos. Wow, what a job. It was such an amazing experience watching these individuals run/walk the race. So many different types of people. There were young people my children's age. Older folk, my grandmother's age. Larger boned bodies. . . . small and petite. They were running for the gold, or finishing as a gift to a love one who had passed. I LOVED every minute of it! They made me realize that anything is possible. You just keep one foot in front of the other and keep pressing on. Check out some of the amazing runners here www.lifephoto.smugmug.com

3 MONTH CHALLENGE UPDATE - Week 2

PLUS 1 pound (total weight loss -4)

EXERCISE - beyond slacker

So I could say

That I was super busy
The kids made me eat that
My body hurt too bad to exercise
I had NO time
My dog ate my kids homework so I had to stay up late helping them.

or I could just say that I have NO excuse for why I was not 100% this week. Life happens! Goals for this coming week.

Prepare meals - check
4 days weights
4 days cardio

Can't wait for Monday! It's time to kick some serious buttahh!

3 Month Challenge Update

2010-08-23T08:50:00.003-06:00

THREE MONTH CHALLENGE - MONDAY UPDATE

Weight Training (4 days)
Cardio Training (5 days)
Healthy Weight Loss (-5 Pounds) Too much for one week, but things will slow down next week. Off to a great start.

(I am not being compensated in any way for doing this program . The only thing being compensated will be my rear end!)

I have to say that I learned a lot this week about myself and my family. I learned that no matter how prepared you are - things are going to come up. You have to be able to deal with the challenges, and accept the consequences of your choices. I learned that in order to be successful at any healthy eating journey you HAVE to focus on YOU!

Let me explain (THIS SECTION MAY CAUSE DAMAGE TO YOUR ADULT EARS)

Dishes, dishes everywhere - Do I do the dishes, or go workout? Well, this is my response for the week. . . . SCREW the dishes! It's 8:00 at night and I haven't worked out - now if I want to be successful at changing things I need to say NO to something. So, yup the dishes are going to have to wait.
Reading time with kids - Well, again it's late at night - I'm pooped and I have spent all day with the children entertaining them. I don't have to feel guilty for not reading tonight so again - SCREW the reading! I'm off to workout.

There should be a rule that people can't wake up before 5:30am. That is just not a time of day that people can function. Well, this week 5:30am came way too early. Again, SCREW the sleep . . . it's time to workout!

Again, I apologise for the foul language, but I am trying to get a point across. If you want something bad enough, you have to make sacrifices. The sacrifices you make will end up making you stronger and healthier.

Challenges - Brian made some yummy huckleberry apple pie. Freak, how can you pass this up? Well, one bite won't hurt.

Positives about Living the Life

Even though the first few days I wanted to just scream for a chocolate bar it ended up being alright. I felt prepared with what I was going to eat and when I was going to eat it. I never felt hungry! I was eating all the time (right proportions, right combinations). Well, one week down and a lifetime to be healthy! Can't wait.

Fit Day

2010-08-18T21:45:00.001-06:00

(Jess, sporting the new Bella Rosa jersey)

It has been a fun past few days.

We have had so many visitors up in our neck of the woods.

We were able to visit with Stephanie, Jill, Michelle, and Jessica. They all came up individually to get fit properly on their new bikes. Jessica, came up to get fit for a new Titanium cross bike. Cross season - soon to start up.

(Steph getting a good fit)

(Stephanie and her husband Jeff)

I get so excited for them because I know how much happier/comfortable they will be riding with a good fit. People comment often on how their custom bike has solved their neck or back pain. They comment on how the proper fit has made it so their knees don't ache. Brian is a bike magician. He has worked with bikes since was 12 years old. He is ONE with the bike. He can make you one with your bike.

Michelle - close to 6 feet tall - now has zero neck pain.

(Jessica getting fit for her new Titanium cross bike)

Here is a new cross bike Brian is building for Randy- It's crazy AWESOME!

So girls, if you are having trouble with your current bicycle and your ride is just not 100% satisfying - come on up for a visit. We would LOVE to see you.

A Healthier Lifestyle

2010-08-15T20:44:00.000-06:00

Ever since I was a child I have been active. I mean extremely active. You name a sport, I played it. . . . a lot of it. I would spend hours in a court cranking on racquetballs against my elder brothers . Yeah, it felt great to pelt them in the buttocks every now and again. My weekends and weekdays were filled with trips to the local crag - climbing with good friends. Don’t forget the weekday trips to the mountain. It felt good to ride fast down the steepest of slops after a good rain. Mud, how I loved the mud.

(warrior society photo)

It wasn’t until my third child that I realized that the buns of steel were no longer rock hard. When it was time to sit down at the dinner table I had to unbutton my pants so I wouldn’t poke an eye out with a flying button.

Exercise has never been a problem for me, but eating a few extra treats has brought me a few extra unwanted pounds. Sure, I am satisfied with my body, but there are several things that I can change that would make me smile just a little more. I know my closet would increase in size from clothes that have been stored for years with tags saying “skinny clothes”. I don’t know one woman who could honestly say that she loves herself whole heartedly 110%. Sad, isn’t it?

I learned something amazing the other day while doing a photo shoot for a friend. I told her daughter that she looked beautiful in her summer dress. Her mom replied to her daughter. What makes us pretty? She asked her little girl. The little girl responded with “MY HEART” makes me pretty. I feel truly blessed to have such a strong body. I am so greatful for my heart that beats each and every day without fail.

I feel that now is the time to start living a healthier lifestyle. Even though exercise makes my heart strong, the foods I eat have a dramatic effect on how I feel the rest of my life. So, I have committed myself and family to eating healthier.

My friends over at Live the Life take the guess work out of planning and preparing your weekly meals. For three months I will document my progress. I will give you weekly updates on the positives and negatives of Living the Life. I will share with you my experience of becoming a beautiful person from the inside out – just like the little girl in the story.

So, for now . . . I will finish off these chocolate chip cookies that are saying “eat me, eat me”. Just joking. Off to the grocery store for some cabbage – YUM!

Favorite Protein Shake

2010-08-11T17:12:00.001-06:00

Do protein shakes make you want to vomit? Do you have this nasty chalk taste left in your mouth after you gag it down? Well, I am here to attest that you no longer have to vomit up your next protein shake. My friends over at Live the Life know how to make shakes. Here is one of my favorites

add one scoop of this . . .

add 1/2 frozen banana - yum

add 3 drops of this . . .

add 1/4 cup frozen berries or my favorite - fresh huckleberries

add 4 ice cubes and blend away.

I always make this drink first thing in the morning right before I workout. I don't think that my family enjoys the early morning 5:00am noise that the mixer makes, but it sure makes my belly say YUM. You can also use it as a post exercise shake. Don't be afraid to mix in 1/4 cup blended oats. Heart healthy!

Early Morning Rides

2010-08-10T13:31:00.000-06:00

What a fantastic summer it has been. Early morning road rides, walks by the river and mud in the face from wet mountain bike rides make me happy. I am in LOVE with summer. I love the smells, and the open air that this majestic land offers. I don't want one day to go by without appreciating it's amazing beauty.   I wish you were here to see how absolutely beautiful it is. I wish I could also experience your morning rides. The mountains in your neck of the woods.  The smells from your green pastures.

This week I met up with some old friends and one new friend. We headed out to the mountains for a morning ride. The air was clean from the rain storm that rolled in the previous night.  My tires were pumped to maximum capacity and we were ready to roll.

I have been hearing some pretty amazing BEAR stories from the Fish and Game. BEWARE OF BEARS!! BEWARE OF BEARS!! It just so happens that we were riding the trial that the grizzly was spotted on a week before. Usually these things don't really sketch me out much, but this morning I was feeling a little uneasy. Kelly was there with her camera to do a little filming. As she waved goodbye from the top of the mountain we headed toward the last opening until the final downhill. I stopped for a moment to see something pretty glorious. It was a valley with hundreds of trees. These trees had all been scrapped by some kind of animal. Alright, so I almost pooped my chamois. It kind of freaked me out. I wish more than anything I had taken my camera to document this amazing find. After pulling myself together and singing several songs LOUDLY we headed for the single track downhill.

It was freakin awesome.  I was super stoked to not have been eaten by a grizzly. We had a great time, with great friends.  So try getting out this week to your favorite mountain trail. It's worth waking up to.

Break Down Barriers Featured Writer - Jennica Hirrlinger

2010-08-03T22:39:00.000-06:00

Today is a good day. I'm sitting in a camp chair under cover of rustling aspen leaves, listening to my husband teach fundamentals as he throws passes to the kids. They, are tan skinned and sun-bleached and loving this active summer. Duke, our yellow lab, has placed himself in the "monkey in the middle position" and is happily chewing on a softball. The mountains on the horizon fade into the blue sky as the lillies stretch toward the sun. The grass is soft on my bare feet and my ankle has a gentle ache from my first post-sprain 10 miler. And my belly is full of fresh summer salads and chocolate chip cookies.

"Put it in the numbers, Linc!" says Jimmy to encourage proper quarter-backing technique. I hear the reciever giggle as the ball is caught, tucked, and carried back across the line of scrimmage. Cutting right to avoid a tackle makes the ball carrier's arms and legs look strong and the definition of the sinews would make even a seasoned athlete jealous.

Like I said, it's a really good day and it motivates me to get off the couch and resume tough training now that my ankle has healed enough. I have done a few workouts in the last couple weeks that have induced some disappointment with the back-slide of my fitness level and I have been forced to evaluate what training and racing really mean to me. It's tough to start over. It's tough to hurt again and work through sore muscles. But, experiencing this perfect day in the shade of my tree and watching my family and my football star, I'm reminded that it's worth it.

Um, did I mention that this particular football star is my 7 year old daughter?

Start over if you have to, break down barriers, and rock on, girls!

Bella Rosa Jersey's now for sale

2010-07-29T21:54:00.000-06:00

Girls, I am making the Bella Rosa jersey's available to the public. You can join in the fun by being a part of a team. The Bella Rosa Team. You will be able to purchase the jersey's through paypal. Thanks Mattie for being my model.

Sorry girls, jackets are SOLD OUT!

Cycling 101 - Featured Writer Stephanie Hancock

2010-07-28T14:12:00.000-06:00

CYCLING 101 - Stephanie Hancock

When it comes to cycling, I'm the first to admit that I am way out of my comfort zone. Running is easy - you just kinda put one foot I front of then other and go. Sure, there are things you can hone in on, like form and intervals, but pretty much anyone can jog without much instruction. Swimming I do just because I like it and since I took lessons as a kid, it also pretty much just happens. There are tons of things I can work on there - balance, technique, and conditioning - but it doesn't make me uncomfortable. Not like my bike does.

So I used to think cycling was just hopping on and going, like lacing up my running shoes and taking off. I guess for most cyclists that's really how it is, but for yours truly this is a new sport for me and new things terrify me. Ever meet someone who wants to be perfect at anything she tries? And if she isn't doing it right she's convinced she's a full-blown failure? That'd be me. So the very fact that I've been hopping on and joining rides is a huge deal for me.

Why in the world am I even stretching myself like this if it's so tough? Well, because of a lot of reasons. Some of the very neatest ladies I know are great cyclists (and also very patient, especially when I had flat a few rides ago). I love being in their company. It is also a fabulous cross-training workout, which helps curb boredom and avoid over-use injuries while training for marathons. I'm also branching out because my husband, who can't run, can (and does) ride, so this is something we can do together.

And the number one reason I'm sticking with this sport - well, surprise surprise, because it's just plain fun! I don't need to know all the ins and outs of components and cadence and climbing before I have fun. I don't need to be an expert at the sport before I even dare try it in the first place (how backwards is that?)! That knowledge will come with experience, and if I make a mess of things in the meantime, well, so what? At least I'm having a good time.

With winter gone and basement workouts on my trainer now a dim memory, I am thrilled to get out and go farther and faster on wheels than ever in my running shoes. I still love my running (and swimming), but my cute little bike is becoming quite the friend. Who knows, I may even get serious enough to invest in a really cool bike someday (I'll see if I can impress my husband by becoming a biker chick).

Now that I'm daring to make a fool of myself (and honestly having too much fun to care anyway), I'm beginning to dare to learn the mysteries of the bike universe and have even asked my husband to teach me to change a flat. Yup. I asked. I haven't actually learned yet, but hey - baby steps, right?

How many women does take to fix a flat?

2010-07-25T21:35:00.000-06:00

Wow, what a beautiful morning for a ride. Good friends = good times. We headed out this morning at 6:30am with a temperature of 45 degrees and protein shake in hand. Wasn't somebody telling me that it is SUMMER time? BURRR!

Well, that didn't stop us from making our journey north to Harriman.
This is Harriman State Park.

Isn't she beautiful?

I feel pretty fortunate to live in such a beautiful area.

Our destination was to head south here - Lower Mesa and then head back home.

As we were enjoying our cycling journey we were suddenly stopped by a minor mechanical problem. Yeah, 15 miles in with one bar cell coverage, and a few very unprepared women we get a flat. Let's just talk for a moment about being prepared. Seven women, seven bicycles,

and only ONE prepared lifesaver (thanks Dawn).

Dawn was the only prepared one out of the bunch. She came stocked with tube, and CO2. Now, you think that would be enough for us to continue on our journey. Well, let's just say things didn't go as planned. After inflating the CO2 we started on our way. Within a couple of moments we knew our flat repair job was NOT top notch. A bulge! Yeah, you heard it a bulge! What the #$@)&!

It turns out that my buddy and I walked for a very long time until our car support came back to get us. We had such a friggin blast though. It's amazing how much fun you can have walking with the bears in spandex and your bike by your side.

So my goal is to educate myself and others on the importance of cycling prepardness. (pics to follow)

Head badge INPUT

2010-07-22T18:16:00.001-06:00

So I need all of your expert advice. I am trying to nail down the head badge, and need your help. What you like and don't like about it? Any input would be great. I am thinking it might be just a little too busy?? Share your thoughts.

SO SEXY

2010-07-21T22:35:00.000-06:00

All I want to do right now is ride this pretty thing. Wow, there is nothing more sexy than a custom ride.

CRC bike race

2010-07-20T21:16:00.002-06:00

Over the weekend we got to spend some time in Capital Reef for the CRC bike race. It's always a good time for mental rehab. Yeah, watching all these fast buggers with their tight butts makes me want to scream. Well, let's just say I'm a little jealous of those buns. Every year I am motivated to be better, to work harder and to toughen up for the next years race. And each year comes and goes with NO hope for Heather riding. How in the world to people do it? Seriously? How do you find the time to train with the busy schedules? Please, could you answer this question for me?

It was fun having some of the local Kelson guys travel such long distances to attend. Brian was ill last week so he was unable to ride, but he went along and was a great asset to the race organizers. Capital Reef is where Brian's folks live so we were able to hang out and do some other amazing fun things.

We herded cattle. Yeah, I don't even know what the word herd means, but we took them from one place to another.

My boys sure had a blast.

So what did I learn this weekend? I learned that I have a lot of room for improvement. I learned that with alot of hard work and dedication anyone can get in shape enough to ride the CRC race. I will be starting today focusing on getting my buns in shape so "next year" I can join in the fun of riding in the Capitol Reef Classic.

Life ? ? ? Awesome

2010-07-11T23:10:00.002-06:00

Jill has been so patient waiting for her new custom ride. Sometimes things like this are sure worth waiting for. We are still waiting on some new custom head badges that will finish off the new look of her Bella bike. A few new parts might also help aid in that finished look. Super stoked for you girl.

I have been trying to figure out how to take good product shots of the bikes. After pulling out my hair, scratching out my eyeballs, and beating a few things up against the wall I am hear to tell you "I STILL HAVE NOT FIGURED IT OUT"! So for now . . . this is what you get to look at.

I promise she is so much more beautiful in person.

For a moment there I thought I forgot to log back into the Bella blog . . . it's been so long. How have you all been? I truly miss talking to you. Life has been absolutely amazing. Amazingly busy, amazingly stressful, amazingly full of trials - but amazing. It has truly been an exhausting month so far, but I am loving every minute of it. I have been pondering quite a bit on Life. Life is such a precious thing that can be swiped up from us in a few moments. We don't know how long we will be here on this earth. Some of us are even wondering why we are here on this earth. For now, I am just truly greatful to be living in this moment right now. Let me explain.

During early spring my sister-in-law and her kids were involved in a rollover accident close to her home. She rolled over into a ditch. This ditch is usually full of water. Where was the water? Why were they spared?

About a month ago my brother was hit by a car riding his motorcycle home. The doctors wondered how he made it out without more severe injuries or death. Why was he spared?

This last week, my brother-in-law was involved in a rollover with his son and dogs. They were going 75 miles per hour and rolled the car 5 times. They walked away with not even a scratch. Why were they spared? Our good friend Kaina (Whitney's dog) however was not.

So, today it makes me wonder a little bit about LIFE, and how freakin awesome it truly is. You never know when it will be your turn to kick the bucket so just be extremely thankful for your life and everyone in it.

Freak, isn't this bike amazing. This is his new build for David. My husband ROCKS! My pictures however need some serious professional HELP.

Jersey LOVE

2010-07-02T20:22:00.003-06:00

So today I spent the day trying to find out what happened to our Kelson/Bella jersey order. The Fedex man said he had delivered our package, but not to the correct address. So I tracked them down. It only took me a couple of important hours, but I did find them at some old man's home. He was kind enough to hand them over, but not without saying that they didn't belong to me and he was going to keep them. After many moments of explanation he finally let them loose. It was like he had fallen in LOVE with them or something.

You have all waited so patiently. Well, the waiting is over. They are here . . . . . . Safe and sound.

They completely ROCK my world. Seriously, I couldn't be happier.

These are the team jackets. S M O O T H!

Here is Kelton my little guy sporting the jersey. It's a little big for you bud, but you will grow into it.

It is going to be so fun watching all of you during your group rides/races wearing your cool new threads. Christina over at rootedinpaperandart.blogspot.com designed the Bella jerseys and deserves a big shout out. She is extremely talented. So if you are in need of any rad ideas for wedding or baby invites. . . . she's your girl. Gheen over at gheenhillman.com designed the Kelson jerseys. What talented people you both are.

If you didn't get a chance to pre-order your Bella jersey and would like one, please e-mail me. I would love to hook you up.

Medicare & Miles - Featured Writer Mary Fran Jeppesen

2010-07-01T17:51:00.001-06:00

Do you ever really think about what life might be like thirty years from now? Will you be able to get out of bed in the morning? Will your bones and muscles scream in agony? Will your hair be thinned, and wrinkles deep? Will your butt have grown in immense proportions? These are things that cross my mind on a daily basis. I don't want to grow old. After reading Mary Frans article - I think that thirty years from now sounds pretty dang good. I will be turning 66 years old and loving every minute of it. Sweet! I wish my birthday was tomorrow so I could celebrate.

Medicare & Miles - Featured Writer Mary Fran Jeppesen

On Thursday, June 17 I signed up for Medicare. Now what could make you feel older than that? What do you think of when you think of Medicare? It makes me think of shuffling around with a walker, sitting in a doctor’s office, or a nursing home. It’s kind of amazing how fast it happens. It was a little depressing to think that in three months I would be 65 and truly be a senior citizen. Do I feel like a senior citizen? Heck no!!

Well to prove that I was not all the way old, as my little grandson puts it, I decided to go on a bike ride with some friends the next Saturday. We started in Pocatello and biked up Mink Creek and through Arbon Valley. The Choke Cherries and spring flowers were in bloom. They truly smelled like spring. There’s a hard up hill at the beginning of the ride and I am always glad to get to the top. From there it’s an easy down and flat through some beautiful farm country. There were cattle ranches and horse ranches and no traffic at all. And it’s a nice paved road. Just before Malad there was another long up hill. By the time we had reached Malad we had ridden 74 miles and 77 miles was the furthest I had ridden this year and I had another 58 to ride. I was a little nervous!

We had a good lunch in Malad . I was hoping I would feel better after lunch and a little rest but I was still pretty tired. My friends kept telling me there was only one more hill and I was not looking forward to it. Coming up out of Devil’s Creek Reservoir I thought I was done and they would have to come back and get me…but I couldn’t give up. I stopped and took a Gu Roctane. In a few minutes I felt like new. It was amazing!! The 58 miles back to Pocatello on the east side of the freeway was even more impressive than the west side. There were beautiful farms and ranches, lots of fun downhill and some up. And I made all of it feeling good. It took us just under nine hours.

This weekend my sister and I did our yearly trip from Little Elk through Water Fall Canyon , to Upper Palisades Lake and out Palisades Creek. It’s a beautiful run after you get down and across the snow fields. We made it in record time this year.

I signed up for Medicare on Thursday and rode my bike 133 miles on Saturday and ran Water Fall Canyon 20 miles in 7 ½ hours so I guess I’m not all the way old yet…..Thanks goodness!

Grandma (Mary Fran ) Jeppesen

Find a Friend and RIDE

2010-06-30T09:43:00.002-06:00

So how have things been going ladies? How have your group rides been? Have you had several people show up? Do you need to start a group ride? What a great way to keep you motivated through the summer. . .riding with a group/club. It is also a great way to meet new and exciting women in your area. So how do you start a club ride? Let's talk.

CLUB RIDE: Bicycle clubs provide women information on new places to ride, a body of like-minded women to ride with, a source of answers to cycling(and life) questions and a united front to help promote bicycling.

So how cool is that? All you need to do is start by calling some close friends and inviting them on one of your favorite rides. Usually the word will spread like wildfire, and the next time you go out to ride you will be surprised at how many new women have come to join in the fun. What a great way to meet new people.

You can be a catalyst to the process by contacting interested people, distributing leaflets (usually where there are concentrations of cyclists) and posting notices (physical and cyber) to let people know what is happening.

It might be fun to meet together (with food) of course beforehand. Talk about (with food) some fun rides that you would like to do for the year. Share your goals (with food) for the season. What a funner way to spend a couple hours. Good friends, good food!

My good friend Beth has a true love for cycling. Everywhere she goes she shares that love with other women. She pretty much has cycling written on her forehead.

So, women in my neck of the woods -

we will continue to have our weekly rides

every Tuesday evening at 6:00pm.

A Little Slack

2010-06-24T14:19:00.001-06:00

So I have been getting after Brian lately for not updating his Kelson blog. Why have a blog if you're not going to ever update it? Well, come to find out - he has been a little bit busy. I went to check on him to make sure he wasn't out fishing on such a nice day, and this is what I found.

Freak, I guess

I'll give the poor guy some slack.

oh and take the rest of the day off to go fishing.
xoxo your wife