A Monday Ride

After returning from Iowa, for Dad's wedding, on Sunday evening, I was excited to get out on the road bike Monday morning.  Not only was I feeling good and excited for a ride, I got an extra nice bonus when Tammy decided to join in on the ride.  She is just coming off of an awesome age group win at Sageburner 50k (her second 50k ever!  Woo-hoo!) the week before and was looking for a nice spin on the bike to help in her recovery.  I hopped on the bike, headed south from home, picked Tammy up at her house, and we then headed into Garden of the Gods.

 Two girls enjoying the FABULOUS weather!  Summer seems to have arrived!

As you can see from our photo, we've had hazy skies due to smoke from the wildfires down in New Mexico and Arizona.  The winds, thankfully, have moved most of the smoke out of our area.  We rode at a fairly leisurely pace, pushed a little harder up a couple of the hills, and completed several laps.  THEN, the REAL goal of the ride:  we headed into Manitou Springs for a stop at our favorite watering hole and a big drink of Peach Yerba Mate'.  Tasty and refreshing.  Of course, there was lots of girl chit-chat going on, too.

 Peach Mate' -  Performance enhancing rocket fuel and mmmm, good!

The scene of our indulgence

After lolly-gagging for 30 minutes or so, we hopped on the bikes and headed back the way we had come.  Dropped Tammy off at her house and then continued northward home.  Ended the day with 27 miles and was very pleased to feel good and to share the ride with fine company.  It felt wonderful to be out on the bike.  Mondays have been designated as my official 'ride' day and will be shooting for 30 or 35 miles next Monday, if the body continues to cooperate.  These past 7 days or so have been 'feeling good' ones.  I am hoping and praying the 'feel good' days continue!

Happy Trails this week!