And So it Begins.

While I am recovering from this cold thing, I have some time to sit around and think about what's ahead of me.

PhD letters.  Acceptance or rejection.  Either way, I will know something.
My first research proposal presentation.
Another semester of students, and the inevitable good times that will ensue.
Another quarter of other students at the other school . . . more good times.

And another season of century training.

Last year, I decided I was going to do my first century ride.

What adventures we had.  A big group of us spent every Sunday together, going from spot to spot in Central Florida, enjoying the outdoors, loving life, and making new friends everywhere we went.  We were loud, fun, funny, and more than a little smart-alecky.

It was one of the best times of my life.  (Ass-disfiguring saddle sores aside.)
                                                                                                                       
I can tell you firsthand that it wouldn't have been possible without a very special group of people.  One of them in particular was my very first real cycling mentor.  She taught me that it was ok to push yourself to the next level, that it was ok to ride with the guys - that it was ok to ride with new people, even.

It is because of her that I am attempting this.

And this.

So. 

Let the games begin.

All of them.