Reasons Why I Run:

1. Relatively low chances of slamming head first into a tree

2. No need for crazy gear to get used to (read: hand brakes, gears, etc.)

3. My ass doesn't hurt this much running

4. I'm too old to fall off of...

... a mountain bike.

Really, though, I had a great time biking this weekend. Saturday, after I landed from Phoenix, JP and I biked along the 8-mile paved path at the local metro park. It felt easier than the first time, so we were pleased with our improvement. And, were lured into believing we were ready for prime time.

Sunday morning, we met my parents for brunch, took a perfect Sunday afternoon nap, and then decided we were ready to try a mountain bike trail ride. We went to a local state park, where the trails are supposedly good for beginners. Yeah.

We rode about 2 miles into the park before we got to the trail. We were really excited and knew that it wouldn't be super easy. I didn't think I'd fear for my life. I think I needed to start off on a dirt trail with a few little twists and turns. NOT hills, tight turns, huge stone that looked more like boulders, tree roots that were more like logs ... you get the picture. Every time I went downhill, I prayed to the trail gods I wouldn't slam into a tree. Every time I went uphill, my legs were burning like crazy and I tried not to slip backwards. I admit, we did get off a few times to walk up/down the hills. It was just too tough for us. Thankfully it wasn't too busy, so we didn't upset the pros by our slowness.

We did about 1 1/2 miles before there was a break in the trail and we could jump off and back onto the paved trail. I was a bit disappointed we couldn't do more, but we have to start somewhere. Besides, I've never been on an adult bike until a couple weeks ago. And here I am, trying to tackle the trails. (Like my self-talk so I don't feel so bad?). We were dirty, sweaty and loved every second of it. Obviously, we have to work on it and get into better shape, but we had a great time. I said that I need to toughen up a bit, too. It was scary!

I forgot my camera, so still no pics of my new bike. Here's the website photo, though:

It's the Giant Yukon. Mine's blue and silver and I LOVE IT! I just loved being outdoors (although I'm covered with mosquito bites), getting back into shape and spending some time with JP. In the past, we each did our own thing to work out, so this is a nice change. It was a great workout and I slept so soundly last night. It's still beautiful fall weather, so we're hoping to get a ride in tonight after work. Yay for being active again!