RAFL week 10 - Prairie Roots

Excellent book!!! I thoroughly enjoyed it and if you get the chance read
Angels and Demons by Dan Brown too.

Debbie

"Joyce" wrote in message
...
I think 5 miles and your speed sounds like a fantastic start, as well as
quite an
accomplishment for your first week out. I have no idea as to average
speeds or
distances - but think of it like this ... if you just ride 5 days each
week and
hit 5 miles each ride ... in a month you'll have logged a hundred miles
already.
In my mind that is absolutely amazing!

Weren't those gusting winds horrible? I didn't realize you were hit with
them
too, figured it was just another one of those Chicago things. Hub and I
were
shopping, I had to grab him several times as I felt like I was being
tossed
around. He says he's going to bring home some large rocks to put in my
pockets.
G And we were hit with the snow last nite, really depressing after
seeing the
green grass appear after the recent rains. Now it's white. sigh Not
much
accumulation, maybe an inch, and nothing at all stuck to the pavement or
driveways. They're talking more for tonite, then rain tomorrow or
thursday ... I
hope they are wrong. For now, I'm staying in the house and feeling lazy
.... maybe
will go get my nose stuck back in my current book (the DaVinci Code).

Joyce

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 06:01:28 -0600, Prairie Roots wrote:

The Galyan's here is exactly the same.

So far my maximum bike mileage is 4-5 miles: once around the entire
lake using the bike lane. Depending on the wind, I'm averaging speeds
of 11 - 14 mph. On Sunday, the wind was gusting up to 40 mph. On one
side of the lake, I had to work hard to keep myself pedaling at 11
mph. On the other side, I had to work almost as hard keeping my speed
down to 17 mph. LOL No biking tonight, as snow is in the forecast.

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 02:08:21 -0600, Joyce wrote:

Now ya know you can do the bike riding too! Having the right equipment
makes
things a lot more enjoyable, as well as the right frame of mind. It
sounds to me
like you are there on both accounts. I can't wait to hear about your
explorations
and increasing mileage.

The only problem I have with Galyan's is that it is so overwhelming.
Ours is two
levels, as are the other stores I've been in. Tons of clothing, tons of
equipment
- no idea where I am or what I've looked at much of the time. I don't
much get
past the clothing, as that is on the main floor.

Joyce

On Sun, 14 Mar 2004 09:50:30 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

Thanks Joyce. I've been wanting to bike for just years and years and
years. When my kids were little, I bought a bike and commuted to work
for about a week. Loved it. But I had an accident (my bag got caught
in my back tire and over I went!) that resulted in a concussion and a
totalled bike. My next bike was a cheapie from Target that I rode
maybe once when I weighed 230+ lbs before storing it in the garage
until I gave it away last year to my nextdoor neighbor for his
elementary-age daughter. Reading last year about Kelly J's adventures
with bike riding got me started thinking that maybe I could still do
it too.

Galyan's is just across the street (OK, across an 8-lane freeway!)
from REI. I've been there before, but haven't really explored what
they have beyond winter clothing--boots, socks, etc. They were next on
my list if REI didn't have what I needed. If they have as much stuff
as you say, I need to stay away!

On Sun, 14 Mar 2004 03:02:44 -0600, Joyce wrote:

Wonderful PR, glad you finally did get some satistaction and are once
again a
happy customer. It also is good for the owner to know that some of
his employees
are much less than helpful - definitely not good for his business. If
you had
problems, I'd be willing to bet that others have also and possibly not
made the
effort to give him the chance to make ammends. I am so thrilled that
this all
worked out well.

Glad you enjoyed your very first bike ride, and I see many many more
in your
future. It sure makes looking ahead to springtime a lot more
enjoyable. G

I have never been into REI, just noticed the other day that we do have
one store
across the street from Costco. I tend to go to Galyans, which is
huge. It's a
fun place to browse around, tons of neat stuff there (as well as a
rock climbing
wall). I figured if they don't have an item, I really must not need
it. G Of
course, what do I really need to walk in my basement. LOL

Joyce

On Sat, 13 Mar 2004 19:46:26 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

Dan's the MAN! He's the owner of the bike shop where I bought my bike
and took it back today for a getting-acquainted session. Dan and I
had
a lovely come-to-Jesus conversation, and he's now my new best friend.
He introduced me to his staff, to some of his neighborhood customers,
and told me about two of the bike clubs in the area that would be
appropriate for me. When I asked if they were comprised mostly of
young people so I'd end up feeling silly and out of place and older
than Methusaleh, he said, "Are you kidding? You'll be one of the
younger ones." That's when I fell in love!

He's had his bike shop on that corner for 20 years, and he does not
want to be thought of as exclusively for racers, even though his shop
is the sponsor of a local racing club. He gave me a couple of bungi
cords for the bike rack for my trouble. He adjusted the seat for my
height and also tilted it forward so that certain body parts won't
get
numb from the pressure of sitting. After I asked, he returned to me
the bike's original red seat with the built-in rear light so that
once
my own rear end gets used to biking, I can switch back from the
extra-cushy gel seat to the very cool red Bianchi seat. I left the
shop an expert on getting my front tire on and off, and also on the
quick release mechanism for the front brake. Turns out the black
accordion boot does NOT go into the mechanism as I'd thought. I was
doing it correctly all along.

Needless to say, I was very satisfied with the service and attention
I
received today from Dan. Don't know that I'll bother with talking to
any of the under-20 somethings, but Dan can take my money anytime.
Before I left the shop, I bought a helmet cover and a Timbut2
backpack
so Dan got something out of today's deal too.

After the bike shop, I went to REI (for the 1st time ever!) to buy
some cool weather biking gear so I could ride today in 41F and rain.
What a store! I can see myself spending WAY too much time and money
there. G They have winter items on clearance now so I ended up with
padded below-the-knee pants, leg warmers, and rain pants.

I managed to ride around Lake Nokomis one time today. It's a small
lake, about 4 miles on the bike path. First time on a bike since high
school, I didn't want to overdo it. It felt SO GOOD. I'll be back
there again tomorrow. I figure once I can get around the lake three
times without feeling like I'm going to die, I'll be in good enough
shape to start commuting and maybe then I can check out one of the
bike clubs.

What a feeling! I'm actually biking! What I did today was no
mini-goal; it's no less than the realization of a dream.

On Sat, 13 Mar 2004 08:00:42 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

Today I'm off to the bike shop to see what answers I can get there.
Warmer weather is on the way and I want to be ready to join the
other
bicyclists on the chain of lakes circuit. I've found several maps of
bike routes in and around the Twin Cities. I think biking is going
to
be a great way for me to see some new local sites.

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

I watched the forecast this evening, am trying to plan my week out. I had
promised my mom that the next time I visited I would take her to lunch ... and I
really don't want to mess with taking her out in the sloppy weather. Then again,
she more than likely wouldn't remember what I told her - but I hate to count on
that. G Snow tonite, snow tomorrow, rain thursday - looks like it will be clear
and back in the mid 40's on Friday. I'll more than likely stay home until then.
Temps right now are sitting at 29 - definitely too cold to be out pedalling.

I'm glad you missed the snow for a change. The ground must have been warm, the
1.25 inches we did get are totally gone already. Now it's just wet and mud.
Welcome to spring. G

Joyce

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 17:40:42 -0600, Prairie Roots wrote:

I'll stay in this evening. Tomorrow night too. Snow's predicted and
the sky's gray. The temp is hovering around freezing. Just not biking
weather. Instead I'll use my indoor equipment, which has been sitting
neglected since the weekend.

We missed the snow that got dumped on you. The winds were bad enough.
Rocks in my pockets maybe would've helped.

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 13:44:50 -0600, Joyce wrote:

I think 5 miles and your speed sounds like a fantastic start, as well as quite an
accomplishment for your first week out. I have no idea as to average speeds or
distances - but think of it like this ... if you just ride 5 days each week and
hit 5 miles each ride ... in a month you'll have logged a hundred miles already.
In my mind that is absolutely amazing!

Weren't those gusting winds horrible? I didn't realize you were hit with them
too, figured it was just another one of those Chicago things. Hub and I were
shopping, I had to grab him several times as I felt like I was being tossed
around. He says he's going to bring home some large rocks to put in my pockets.
G And we were hit with the snow last nite, really depressing after seeing the
green grass appear after the recent rains. Now it's white. sigh Not much
accumulation, maybe an inch, and nothing at all stuck to the pavement or
driveways. They're talking more for tonite, then rain tomorrow or thursday ... I
hope they are wrong. For now, I'm staying in the house and feeling lazy ... maybe
will go get my nose stuck back in my current book (the DaVinci Code).

Joyce

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 06:01:28 -0600, Prairie Roots wrote:

The Galyan's here is exactly the same.

So far my maximum bike mileage is 4-5 miles: once around the entire
lake using the bike lane. Depending on the wind, I'm averaging speeds
of 11 - 14 mph. On Sunday, the wind was gusting up to 40 mph. On one
side of the lake, I had to work hard to keep myself pedaling at 11
mph. On the other side, I had to work almost as hard keeping my speed
down to 17 mph. LOL No biking tonight, as snow is in the forecast.

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 02:08:21 -0600, Joyce wrote:

Now ya know you can do the bike riding too! Having the right equipment makes
things a lot more enjoyable, as well as the right frame of mind. It sounds to me
like you are there on both accounts. I can't wait to hear about your explorations
and increasing mileage.

The only problem I have with Galyan's is that it is so overwhelming. Ours is two
levels, as are the other stores I've been in. Tons of clothing, tons of equipment
- no idea where I am or what I've looked at much of the time. I don't much get
past the clothing, as that is on the main floor.

Joyce

On Sun, 14 Mar 2004 09:50:30 -0600, Prairie Roots wrote:

Thanks Joyce. I've been wanting to bike for just years and years and
years. When my kids were little, I bought a bike and commuted to work
for about a week. Loved it. But I had an accident (my bag got caught
in my back tire and over I went!) that resulted in a concussion and a
totalled bike. My next bike was a cheapie from Target that I rode
maybe once when I weighed 230+ lbs before storing it in the garage
until I gave it away last year to my nextdoor neighbor for his
elementary-age daughter. Reading last year about Kelly J's adventures
with bike riding got me started thinking that maybe I could still do
it too.

Galyan's is just across the street (OK, across an 8-lane freeway!)
from REI. I've been there before, but haven't really explored what
they have beyond winter clothing--boots, socks, etc. They were next on
my list if REI didn't have what I needed. If they have as much stuff
as you say, I need to stay away!

On Sun, 14 Mar 2004 03:02:44 -0600, Joyce wrote:

Wonderful PR, glad you finally did get some satistaction and are once again a
happy customer. It also is good for the owner to know that some of his employees
are much less than helpful - definitely not good for his business. If you had
problems, I'd be willing to bet that others have also and possibly not made the
effort to give him the chance to make ammends. I am so thrilled that this all
worked out well.

Glad you enjoyed your very first bike ride, and I see many many more in your
future. It sure makes looking ahead to springtime a lot more enjoyable. G

I have never been into REI, just noticed the other day that we do have one store
across the street from Costco. I tend to go to Galyans, which is huge. It's a
fun place to browse around, tons of neat stuff there (as well as a rock climbing
wall). I figured if they don't have an item, I really must not need it. G Of
course, what do I really need to walk in my basement. LOL

Joyce

On Sat, 13 Mar 2004 19:46:26 -0600, Prairie Roots wrote:

Dan's the MAN! He's the owner of the bike shop where I bought my bike
and took it back today for a getting-acquainted session. Dan and I had
a lovely come-to-Jesus conversation, and he's now my new best friend.
He introduced me to his staff, to some of his neighborhood customers,
and told me about two of the bike clubs in the area that would be
appropriate for me. When I asked if they were comprised mostly of
young people so I'd end up feeling silly and out of place and older
than Methusaleh, he said, "Are you kidding? You'll be one of the
younger ones." That's when I fell in love!

He's had his bike shop on that corner for 20 years, and he does not
want to be thought of as exclusively for racers, even though his shop
is the sponsor of a local racing club. He gave me a couple of bungi
cords for the bike rack for my trouble. He adjusted the seat for my
height and also tilted it forward so that certain body parts won't get
numb from the pressure of sitting. After I asked, he returned to me
the bike's original red seat with the built-in rear light so that once
my own rear end gets used to biking, I can switch back from the
extra-cushy gel seat to the very cool red Bianchi seat. I left the
shop an expert on getting my front tire on and off, and also on the
quick release mechanism for the front brake. Turns out the black
accordion boot does NOT go into the mechanism as I'd thought. I was
doing it correctly all along.

Needless to say, I was very satisfied with the service and attention I
received today from Dan. Don't know that I'll bother with talking to
any of the under-20 somethings, but Dan can take my money anytime.
Before I left the shop, I bought a helmet cover and a Timbut2 backpack
so Dan got something out of today's deal too.

After the bike shop, I went to REI (for the 1st time ever!) to buy
some cool weather biking gear so I could ride today in 41F and rain.
What a store! I can see myself spending WAY too much time and money
there. G They have winter items on clearance now so I ended up with
padded below-the-knee pants, leg warmers, and rain pants.

I managed to ride around Lake Nokomis one time today. It's a small
lake, about 4 miles on the bike path. First time on a bike since high
school, I didn't want to overdo it. It felt SO GOOD. I'll be back
there again tomorrow. I figure once I can get around the lake three
times without feeling like I'm going to die, I'll be in good enough
shape to start commuting and maybe then I can check out one of the
bike clubs.

What a feeling! I'm actually biking! What I did today was no
mini-goal; it's no less than the realization of a dream.

On Sat, 13 Mar 2004 08:00:42 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

Today I'm off to the bike shop to see what answers I can get there.
Warmer weather is on the way and I want to be ready to join the other
bicyclists on the chain of lakes circuit. I've found several maps of
bike routes in and around the Twin Cities. I think biking is going to
be a great way for me to see some new local sites.

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

I am enjoying the book but not making too much progress. Whenever I pick it up,
someone decides they must have my attention ... makes it hard to keep track of
where I am. The grandson has picked it up three times now and removed the
bookmark sigh. I think the gods are against me. I will add the Angels and
Demons to my *want to read* list. Thanks for the recommendation. I haven't read
anything by this author before, received the book as a christmas gift from my
sister. It really is a wonderful read, I just have to find some undisturbed time
for myself. Maybe tomorrow ... between loads of laundry?

Joyce

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 22:07:27 -0800, "Deb in Northern California"
wrote:

Excellent book!!! I thoroughly enjoyed it and if you get the chance read
Angels and Demons by Dan Brown too.

Debbie

"Joyce" wrote in message
.. .
I think 5 miles and your speed sounds like a fantastic start, as well as
quite an
accomplishment for your first week out. I have no idea as to average
speeds or
distances - but think of it like this ... if you just ride 5 days each
week and
hit 5 miles each ride ... in a month you'll have logged a hundred miles
already.
In my mind that is absolutely amazing!

Weren't those gusting winds horrible? I didn't realize you were hit with
them
too, figured it was just another one of those Chicago things. Hub and I
were
shopping, I had to grab him several times as I felt like I was being
tossed
around. He says he's going to bring home some large rocks to put in my
pockets.
G And we were hit with the snow last nite, really depressing after
seeing the
green grass appear after the recent rains. Now it's white. sigh Not
much
accumulation, maybe an inch, and nothing at all stuck to the pavement or
driveways. They're talking more for tonite, then rain tomorrow or
thursday ... I
hope they are wrong. For now, I'm staying in the house and feeling lazy
... maybe
will go get my nose stuck back in my current book (the DaVinci Code).

Joyce

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 06:01:28 -0600, Prairie Roots wrote:

The Galyan's here is exactly the same.

So far my maximum bike mileage is 4-5 miles: once around the entire
lake using the bike lane. Depending on the wind, I'm averaging speeds
of 11 - 14 mph. On Sunday, the wind was gusting up to 40 mph. On one
side of the lake, I had to work hard to keep myself pedaling at 11
mph. On the other side, I had to work almost as hard keeping my speed
down to 17 mph. LOL No biking tonight, as snow is in the forecast.

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 02:08:21 -0600, Joyce wrote:

Now ya know you can do the bike riding too! Having the right equipment
makes
things a lot more enjoyable, as well as the right frame of mind. It
sounds to me
like you are there on both accounts. I can't wait to hear about your
explorations
and increasing mileage.

The only problem I have with Galyan's is that it is so overwhelming.
Ours is two
levels, as are the other stores I've been in. Tons of clothing, tons of
equipment
- no idea where I am or what I've looked at much of the time. I don't
much get
past the clothing, as that is on the main floor.

Joyce

On Sun, 14 Mar 2004 09:50:30 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

Thanks Joyce. I've been wanting to bike for just years and years and
years. When my kids were little, I bought a bike and commuted to work
for about a week. Loved it. But I had an accident (my bag got caught
in my back tire and over I went!) that resulted in a concussion and a
totalled bike. My next bike was a cheapie from Target that I rode
maybe once when I weighed 230+ lbs before storing it in the garage
until I gave it away last year to my nextdoor neighbor for his
elementary-age daughter. Reading last year about Kelly J's adventures
with bike riding got me started thinking that maybe I could still do
it too.

Galyan's is just across the street (OK, across an 8-lane freeway!)
from REI. I've been there before, but haven't really explored what
they have beyond winter clothing--boots, socks, etc. They were next on
my list if REI didn't have what I needed. If they have as much stuff
as you say, I need to stay away!

On Sun, 14 Mar 2004 03:02:44 -0600, Joyce wrote:

Wonderful PR, glad you finally did get some satistaction and are once
again a
happy customer. It also is good for the owner to know that some of
his employees
are much less than helpful - definitely not good for his business. If
you had
problems, I'd be willing to bet that others have also and possibly not
made the
effort to give him the chance to make ammends. I am so thrilled that
this all
worked out well.

Glad you enjoyed your very first bike ride, and I see many many more
in your
future. It sure makes looking ahead to springtime a lot more
enjoyable. G

I have never been into REI, just noticed the other day that we do have
one store
across the street from Costco. I tend to go to Galyans, which is
huge. It's a
fun place to browse around, tons of neat stuff there (as well as a
rock climbing
wall). I figured if they don't have an item, I really must not need
it. G Of
course, what do I really need to walk in my basement. LOL

Joyce

On Sat, 13 Mar 2004 19:46:26 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

Dan's the MAN! He's the owner of the bike shop where I bought my bike
and took it back today for a getting-acquainted session. Dan and I
had
a lovely come-to-Jesus conversation, and he's now my new best friend.
He introduced me to his staff, to some of his neighborhood customers,
and told me about two of the bike clubs in the area that would be
appropriate for me. When I asked if they were comprised mostly of
young people so I'd end up feeling silly and out of place and older
than Methusaleh, he said, "Are you kidding? You'll be one of the
younger ones." That's when I fell in love!

He's had his bike shop on that corner for 20 years, and he does not
want to be thought of as exclusively for racers, even though his shop
is the sponsor of a local racing club. He gave me a couple of bungi
cords for the bike rack for my trouble. He adjusted the seat for my
height and also tilted it forward so that certain body parts won't
get
numb from the pressure of sitting. After I asked, he returned to me
the bike's original red seat with the built-in rear light so that
once
my own rear end gets used to biking, I can switch back from the
extra-cushy gel seat to the very cool red Bianchi seat. I left the
shop an expert on getting my front tire on and off, and also on the
quick release mechanism for the front brake. Turns out the black
accordion boot does NOT go into the mechanism as I'd thought. I was
doing it correctly all along.

Needless to say, I was very satisfied with the service and attention
I
received today from Dan. Don't know that I'll bother with talking to
any of the under-20 somethings, but Dan can take my money anytime.
Before I left the shop, I bought a helmet cover and a Timbut2
backpack
so Dan got something out of today's deal too.

After the bike shop, I went to REI (for the 1st time ever!) to buy
some cool weather biking gear so I could ride today in 41F and rain.
What a store! I can see myself spending WAY too much time and money
there. G They have winter items on clearance now so I ended up with
padded below-the-knee pants, leg warmers, and rain pants.

I managed to ride around Lake Nokomis one time today. It's a small
lake, about 4 miles on the bike path. First time on a bike since high
school, I didn't want to overdo it. It felt SO GOOD. I'll be back
there again tomorrow. I figure once I can get around the lake three
times without feeling like I'm going to die, I'll be in good enough
shape to start commuting and maybe then I can check out one of the
bike clubs.

What a feeling! I'm actually biking! What I did today was no
mini-goal; it's no less than the realization of a dream.

On Sat, 13 Mar 2004 08:00:42 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

Today I'm off to the bike shop to see what answers I can get there.
Warmer weather is on the way and I want to be ready to join the
other
bicyclists on the chain of lakes circuit. I've found several maps of
bike routes in and around the Twin Cities. I think biking is going
to
be a great way for me to see some new local sites.

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

quit using that four letter "S" word!

Julie, who is dealing with a wet butt in the am because the snow gets in the
car and melts before I have half a chance to get it out of the car.

"Joyce" wrote in message
news
I watched the forecast this evening, am trying to plan my week out. I had
promised my mom that the next time I visited I would take her to lunch ...
and I
really don't want to mess with taking her out in the sloppy weather. Then
again,
she more than likely wouldn't remember what I told her - but I hate to
count on
that. G Snow tonite, snow tomorrow, rain thursday - looks like it will
be clear
and back in the mid 40's on Friday. I'll more than likely stay home until
then.
Temps right now are sitting at 29 - definitely too cold to be out
pedalling.

I'm glad you missed the snow for a change. The ground must have been
warm, the
1.25 inches we did get are totally gone already. Now it's just wet and
mud.
Welcome to spring. G

Joyce

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 17:40:42 -0600, Prairie Roots wrote:

I'll stay in this evening. Tomorrow night too. Snow's predicted and
the sky's gray. The temp is hovering around freezing. Just not biking
weather. Instead I'll use my indoor equipment, which has been sitting
neglected since the weekend.

We missed the snow that got dumped on you. The winds were bad enough.
Rocks in my pockets maybe would've helped.

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 13:44:50 -0600, Joyce wrote:

I think 5 miles and your speed sounds like a fantastic start, as well as
quite an
accomplishment for your first week out. I have no idea as to average
speeds or
distances - but think of it like this ... if you just ride 5 days each
week and
hit 5 miles each ride ... in a month you'll have logged a hundred miles
already.
In my mind that is absolutely amazing!

Weren't those gusting winds horrible? I didn't realize you were hit
with them
too, figured it was just another one of those Chicago things. Hub and I
were
shopping, I had to grab him several times as I felt like I was being
tossed
around. He says he's going to bring home some large rocks to put in my
pockets.
G And we were hit with the snow last nite, really depressing after
seeing the
green grass appear after the recent rains. Now it's white. sigh Not
much
accumulation, maybe an inch, and nothing at all stuck to the pavement or
driveways. They're talking more for tonite, then rain tomorrow or
thursday ... I
hope they are wrong. For now, I'm staying in the house and feeling lazy
.... maybe
will go get my nose stuck back in my current book (the DaVinci Code).

Joyce

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 06:01:28 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

The Galyan's here is exactly the same.

So far my maximum bike mileage is 4-5 miles: once around the entire
lake using the bike lane. Depending on the wind, I'm averaging speeds
of 11 - 14 mph. On Sunday, the wind was gusting up to 40 mph. On one
side of the lake, I had to work hard to keep myself pedaling at 11
mph. On the other side, I had to work almost as hard keeping my speed
down to 17 mph. LOL No biking tonight, as snow is in the forecast.

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 02:08:21 -0600, Joyce wrote:

Now ya know you can do the bike riding too! Having the right
equipment makes
things a lot more enjoyable, as well as the right frame of mind. It
sounds to me
like you are there on both accounts. I can't wait to hear about your
explorations
and increasing mileage.

The only problem I have with Galyan's is that it is so overwhelming.
Ours is two
levels, as are the other stores I've been in. Tons of clothing, tons
of equipment
- no idea where I am or what I've looked at much of the time. I don't
much get
past the clothing, as that is on the main floor.

Joyce

On Sun, 14 Mar 2004 09:50:30 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

Thanks Joyce. I've been wanting to bike for just years and years and
years. When my kids were little, I bought a bike and commuted to work
for about a week. Loved it. But I had an accident (my bag got caught
in my back tire and over I went!) that resulted in a concussion and a
totalled bike. My next bike was a cheapie from Target that I rode
maybe once when I weighed 230+ lbs before storing it in the garage
until I gave it away last year to my nextdoor neighbor for his
elementary-age daughter. Reading last year about Kelly J's adventures
with bike riding got me started thinking that maybe I could still do
it too.

Galyan's is just across the street (OK, across an 8-lane freeway!)
from REI. I've been there before, but haven't really explored what
they have beyond winter clothing--boots, socks, etc. They were next
on
my list if REI didn't have what I needed. If they have as much stuff
as you say, I need to stay away!

On Sun, 14 Mar 2004 03:02:44 -0600, Joyce wrote:

Wonderful PR, glad you finally did get some satistaction and are
once again a
happy customer. It also is good for the owner to know that some of
his employees
are much less than helpful - definitely not good for his business.
If you had
problems, I'd be willing to bet that others have also and possibly
not made the
effort to give him the chance to make ammends. I am so thrilled
that this all
worked out well.

Glad you enjoyed your very first bike ride, and I see many many more
in your
future. It sure makes looking ahead to springtime a lot more
enjoyable. G

I have never been into REI, just noticed the other day that we do
have one store
across the street from Costco. I tend to go to Galyans, which is
huge. It's a
fun place to browse around, tons of neat stuff there (as well as a
rock climbing
wall). I figured if they don't have an item, I really must not need
it. G Of
course, what do I really need to walk in my basement. LOL

Joyce

On Sat, 13 Mar 2004 19:46:26 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

Dan's the MAN! He's the owner of the bike shop where I bought my
bike
and took it back today for a getting-acquainted session. Dan and I
had
a lovely come-to-Jesus conversation, and he's now my new best
friend.
He introduced me to his staff, to some of his neighborhood
customers,
and told me about two of the bike clubs in the area that would be
appropriate for me. When I asked if they were comprised mostly of
young people so I'd end up feeling silly and out of place and older
than Methusaleh, he said, "Are you kidding? You'll be one of the
younger ones." That's when I fell in love!

He's had his bike shop on that corner for 20 years, and he does not
want to be thought of as exclusively for racers, even though his
shop
is the sponsor of a local racing club. He gave me a couple of bungi
cords for the bike rack for my trouble. He adjusted the seat for my
height and also tilted it forward so that certain body parts won't
get
numb from the pressure of sitting. After I asked, he returned to me
the bike's original red seat with the built-in rear light so that
once
my own rear end gets used to biking, I can switch back from the
extra-cushy gel seat to the very cool red Bianchi seat. I left the
shop an expert on getting my front tire on and off, and also on the
quick release mechanism for the front brake. Turns out the black
accordion boot does NOT go into the mechanism as I'd thought. I was
doing it correctly all along.

Needless to say, I was very satisfied with the service and
attention I
received today from Dan. Don't know that I'll bother with talking
to
any of the under-20 somethings, but Dan can take my money anytime.
Before I left the shop, I bought a helmet cover and a Timbut2
backpack
so Dan got something out of today's deal too.

After the bike shop, I went to REI (for the 1st time ever!) to buy
some cool weather biking gear so I could ride today in 41F and
rain.
What a store! I can see myself spending WAY too much time and money
there. G They have winter items on clearance now so I ended up
with
padded below-the-knee pants, leg warmers, and rain pants.

I managed to ride around Lake Nokomis one time today. It's a small
lake, about 4 miles on the bike path. First time on a bike since
high
school, I didn't want to overdo it. It felt SO GOOD. I'll be back
there again tomorrow. I figure once I can get around the lake three
times without feeling like I'm going to die, I'll be in good enough
shape to start commuting and maybe then I can check out one of the
bike clubs.

What a feeling! I'm actually biking! What I did today was no
mini-goal; it's no less than the realization of a dream.

On Sat, 13 Mar 2004 08:00:42 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

Today I'm off to the bike shop to see what answers I can get
there.
Warmer weather is on the way and I want to be ready to join the
other
bicyclists on the chain of lakes circuit. I've found several maps
of
bike routes in and around the Twin Cities. I think biking is going
to
be a great way for me to see some new local sites.

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

LOL! That really came back to bite me in the butt, didn't it? G How did you
get the white stuff inside your car? Ya gotta learn to move quickly around here.
G

Joyce bracing herself valiantly for the next nasty cold spell moving in quickly

On Wed, 17 Mar 2004 17:38:48 -0600, "skiur" wrote:

quit using that four letter "S" word!

Julie, who is dealing with a wet butt in the am because the snow gets in the
car and melts before I have half a chance to get it out of the car.

"Joyce" wrote in message
news
I watched the forecast this evening, am trying to plan my week out. I had
promised my mom that the next time I visited I would take her to lunch ...
and I
really don't want to mess with taking her out in the sloppy weather. Then
again,
she more than likely wouldn't remember what I told her - but I hate to
count on
that. G Snow tonite, snow tomorrow, rain thursday - looks like it will
be clear
and back in the mid 40's on Friday. I'll more than likely stay home until
then.
Temps right now are sitting at 29 - definitely too cold to be out
pedalling.

I'm glad you missed the snow for a change. The ground must have been
warm, the
1.25 inches we did get are totally gone already. Now it's just wet and
mud.
Welcome to spring. G

Joyce

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 17:40:42 -0600, Prairie Roots wrote:

I'll stay in this evening. Tomorrow night too. Snow's predicted and
the sky's gray. The temp is hovering around freezing. Just not biking
weather. Instead I'll use my indoor equipment, which has been sitting
neglected since the weekend.

We missed the snow that got dumped on you. The winds were bad enough.
Rocks in my pockets maybe would've helped.

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 13:44:50 -0600, Joyce wrote:

I think 5 miles and your speed sounds like a fantastic start, as well as
quite an
accomplishment for your first week out. I have no idea as to average
speeds or
distances - but think of it like this ... if you just ride 5 days each
week and
hit 5 miles each ride ... in a month you'll have logged a hundred miles
already.
In my mind that is absolutely amazing!

Weren't those gusting winds horrible? I didn't realize you were hit
with them
too, figured it was just another one of those Chicago things. Hub and I
were
shopping, I had to grab him several times as I felt like I was being
tossed
around. He says he's going to bring home some large rocks to put in my
pockets.
G And we were hit with the snow last nite, really depressing after
seeing the
green grass appear after the recent rains. Now it's white. sigh Not
much
accumulation, maybe an inch, and nothing at all stuck to the pavement or
driveways. They're talking more for tonite, then rain tomorrow or
thursday ... I
hope they are wrong. For now, I'm staying in the house and feeling lazy
... maybe
will go get my nose stuck back in my current book (the DaVinci Code).

Joyce

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 06:01:28 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

The Galyan's here is exactly the same.

So far my maximum bike mileage is 4-5 miles: once around the entire
lake using the bike lane. Depending on the wind, I'm averaging speeds
of 11 - 14 mph. On Sunday, the wind was gusting up to 40 mph. On one
side of the lake, I had to work hard to keep myself pedaling at 11
mph. On the other side, I had to work almost as hard keeping my speed
down to 17 mph. LOL No biking tonight, as snow is in the forecast.

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 02:08:21 -0600, Joyce wrote:

Now ya know you can do the bike riding too! Having the right
equipment makes
things a lot more enjoyable, as well as the right frame of mind. It
sounds to me
like you are there on both accounts. I can't wait to hear about your
explorations
and increasing mileage.

The only problem I have with Galyan's is that it is so overwhelming.
Ours is two
levels, as are the other stores I've been in. Tons of clothing, tons
of equipment
- no idea where I am or what I've looked at much of the time. I don't
much get
past the clothing, as that is on the main floor.

Joyce

On Sun, 14 Mar 2004 09:50:30 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

Thanks Joyce. I've been wanting to bike for just years and years and
years. When my kids were little, I bought a bike and commuted to work
for about a week. Loved it. But I had an accident (my bag got caught
in my back tire and over I went!) that resulted in a concussion and a
totalled bike. My next bike was a cheapie from Target that I rode
maybe once when I weighed 230+ lbs before storing it in the garage
until I gave it away last year to my nextdoor neighbor for his
elementary-age daughter. Reading last year about Kelly J's adventures
with bike riding got me started thinking that maybe I could still do
it too.

Galyan's is just across the street (OK, across an 8-lane freeway!)
from REI. I've been there before, but haven't really explored what
they have beyond winter clothing--boots, socks, etc. They were next
on
my list if REI didn't have what I needed. If they have as much stuff
as you say, I need to stay away!

On Sun, 14 Mar 2004 03:02:44 -0600, Joyce wrote:

Wonderful PR, glad you finally did get some satistaction and are
once again a
happy customer. It also is good for the owner to know that some of
his employees
are much less than helpful - definitely not good for his business.
If you had
problems, I'd be willing to bet that others have also and possibly
not made the
effort to give him the chance to make ammends. I am so thrilled
that this all
worked out well.

Glad you enjoyed your very first bike ride, and I see many many more
in your
future. It sure makes looking ahead to springtime a lot more
enjoyable. G

I have never been into REI, just noticed the other day that we do
have one store
across the street from Costco. I tend to go to Galyans, which is
huge. It's a
fun place to browse around, tons of neat stuff there (as well as a
rock climbing
wall). I figured if they don't have an item, I really must not need
it. G Of
course, what do I really need to walk in my basement. LOL

Joyce

On Sat, 13 Mar 2004 19:46:26 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

Dan's the MAN! He's the owner of the bike shop where I bought my
bike
and took it back today for a getting-acquainted session. Dan and I
had
a lovely come-to-Jesus conversation, and he's now my new best
friend.
He introduced me to his staff, to some of his neighborhood
customers,
and told me about two of the bike clubs in the area that would be
appropriate for me. When I asked if they were comprised mostly of
young people so I'd end up feeling silly and out of place and older
than Methusaleh, he said, "Are you kidding? You'll be one of the
younger ones." That's when I fell in love!

He's had his bike shop on that corner for 20 years, and he does not
want to be thought of as exclusively for racers, even though his
shop
is the sponsor of a local racing club. He gave me a couple of bungi
cords for the bike rack for my trouble. He adjusted the seat for my
height and also tilted it forward so that certain body parts won't
get
numb from the pressure of sitting. After I asked, he returned to me
the bike's original red seat with the built-in rear light so that
once
my own rear end gets used to biking, I can switch back from the
extra-cushy gel seat to the very cool red Bianchi seat. I left the
shop an expert on getting my front tire on and off, and also on the
quick release mechanism for the front brake. Turns out the black
accordion boot does NOT go into the mechanism as I'd thought. I was
doing it correctly all along.

Needless to say, I was very satisfied with the service and
attention I
received today from Dan. Don't know that I'll bother with talking
to
any of the under-20 somethings, but Dan can take my money anytime.
Before I left the shop, I bought a helmet cover and a Timbut2
backpack
so Dan got something out of today's deal too.

After the bike shop, I went to REI (for the 1st time ever!) to buy
some cool weather biking gear so I could ride today in 41F and
rain.
What a store! I can see myself spending WAY too much time and money
there. G They have winter items on clearance now so I ended up
with
padded below-the-knee pants, leg warmers, and rain pants.

I managed to ride around Lake Nokomis one time today. It's a small
lake, about 4 miles on the bike path. First time on a bike since
high
school, I didn't want to overdo it. It felt SO GOOD. I'll be back
there again tomorrow. I figure once I can get around the lake three
times without feeling like I'm going to die, I'll be in good enough
shape to start commuting and maybe then I can check out one of the
bike clubs.

What a feeling! I'm actually biking! What I did today was no
mini-goal; it's no less than the realization of a dream.

On Sat, 13 Mar 2004 08:00:42 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

Today I'm off to the bike shop to see what answers I can get
there.
Warmer weather is on the way and I want to be ready to join the
other
bicyclists on the chain of lakes circuit. I've found several maps
of
bike routes in and around the Twin Cities. I think biking is going
to
be a great way for me to see some new local sites.

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

:-)

Wind blowing in the direction of my car door. I open the car door, it goes
in the car regardless of how much I brush off before I go in. There isn't a
whole lot of it, but enough that I feel like my pants should have been in
the dryer for a few more minutes. I also can't get it brushed off my seat
completely so the stuff that gets into the seat crevices is what melts.

It's 50 right now and it's only going to drop. I hope you and your daughter
have good windproof jackets for the city trip.

Julie




"Joyce" wrote in message
...
LOL! That really came back to bite me in the butt, didn't it? G How
did you
get the white stuff inside your car? Ya gotta learn to move quickly
around here.
G

Joyce bracing herself valiantly for the next nasty cold spell moving in
quickly

On Wed, 17 Mar 2004 17:38:48 -0600, "skiur" wrote:

quit using that four letter "S" word!

Julie, who is dealing with a wet butt in the am because the snow gets in
the
car and melts before I have half a chance to get it out of the car.

"Joyce" wrote in message
news
I watched the forecast this evening, am trying to plan my week out. I
had
promised my mom that the next time I visited I would take her to lunch
....
and I
really don't want to mess with taking her out in the sloppy weather.
Then
again,
she more than likely wouldn't remember what I told her - but I hate to
count on
that. G Snow tonite, snow tomorrow, rain thursday - looks like it
will
be clear
and back in the mid 40's on Friday. I'll more than likely stay home
until
then.
Temps right now are sitting at 29 - definitely too cold to be out
pedalling.

I'm glad you missed the snow for a change. The ground must have been
warm, the
1.25 inches we did get are totally gone already. Now it's just wet and
mud.
Welcome to spring. G

Joyce

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 17:40:42 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

I'll stay in this evening. Tomorrow night too. Snow's predicted and
the sky's gray. The temp is hovering around freezing. Just not biking
weather. Instead I'll use my indoor equipment, which has been sitting
neglected since the weekend.

We missed the snow that got dumped on you. The winds were bad enough.
Rocks in my pockets maybe would've helped.

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 13:44:50 -0600, Joyce wrote:

I think 5 miles and your speed sounds like a fantastic start, as well
as
quite an
accomplishment for your first week out. I have no idea as to average
speeds or
distances - but think of it like this ... if you just ride 5 days
each
week and
hit 5 miles each ride ... in a month you'll have logged a hundred
miles
already.
In my mind that is absolutely amazing!

Weren't those gusting winds horrible? I didn't realize you were hit
with them
too, figured it was just another one of those Chicago things. Hub
and I
were
shopping, I had to grab him several times as I felt like I was being
tossed
around. He says he's going to bring home some large rocks to put in
my
pockets.
G And we were hit with the snow last nite, really depressing after
seeing the
green grass appear after the recent rains. Now it's white. sigh
Not
much
accumulation, maybe an inch, and nothing at all stuck to the pavement
or
driveways. They're talking more for tonite, then rain tomorrow or
thursday ... I
hope they are wrong. For now, I'm staying in the house and feeling
lazy
... maybe
will go get my nose stuck back in my current book (the DaVinci Code).

Joyce

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 06:01:28 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

The Galyan's here is exactly the same.

So far my maximum bike mileage is 4-5 miles: once around the entire
lake using the bike lane. Depending on the wind, I'm averaging
speeds
of 11 - 14 mph. On Sunday, the wind was gusting up to 40 mph. On one
side of the lake, I had to work hard to keep myself pedaling at 11
mph. On the other side, I had to work almost as hard keeping my
speed
down to 17 mph. LOL No biking tonight, as snow is in the forecast.

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 02:08:21 -0600, Joyce wrote:

Now ya know you can do the bike riding too! Having the right
equipment makes
things a lot more enjoyable, as well as the right frame of mind.
It
sounds to me
like you are there on both accounts. I can't wait to hear about
your
explorations
and increasing mileage.

The only problem I have with Galyan's is that it is so
overwhelming.
Ours is two
levels, as are the other stores I've been in. Tons of clothing,
tons
of equipment
- no idea where I am or what I've looked at much of the time. I
don't
much get
past the clothing, as that is on the main floor.

Joyce

On Sun, 14 Mar 2004 09:50:30 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

Thanks Joyce. I've been wanting to bike for just years and years
and
years. When my kids were little, I bought a bike and commuted to
work
for about a week. Loved it. But I had an accident (my bag got
caught
in my back tire and over I went!) that resulted in a concussion
and a
totalled bike. My next bike was a cheapie from Target that I rode
maybe once when I weighed 230+ lbs before storing it in the garage
until I gave it away last year to my nextdoor neighbor for his
elementary-age daughter. Reading last year about Kelly J's
adventures
with bike riding got me started thinking that maybe I could still
do
it too.

Galyan's is just across the street (OK, across an 8-lane freeway!)
from REI. I've been there before, but haven't really explored what
they have beyond winter clothing--boots, socks, etc. They were
next
on
my list if REI didn't have what I needed. If they have as much
stuff
as you say, I need to stay away!

On Sun, 14 Mar 2004 03:02:44 -0600, Joyce wrote:

Wonderful PR, glad you finally did get some satistaction and are
once again a
happy customer. It also is good for the owner to know that some
of
his employees
are much less than helpful - definitely not good for his
business.
If you had
problems, I'd be willing to bet that others have also and
possibly
not made the
effort to give him the chance to make ammends. I am so thrilled
that this all
worked out well.

Glad you enjoyed your very first bike ride, and I see many many
more
in your
future. It sure makes looking ahead to springtime a lot more
enjoyable. G

I have never been into REI, just noticed the other day that we do
have one store
across the street from Costco. I tend to go to Galyans, which is
huge. It's a
fun place to browse around, tons of neat stuff there (as well as
a
rock climbing
wall). I figured if they don't have an item, I really must not
need
it. G Of
course, what do I really need to walk in my basement. LOL

Joyce

On Sat, 13 Mar 2004 19:46:26 -0600, Prairie Roots

wrote:

Dan's the MAN! He's the owner of the bike shop where I bought my
bike
and took it back today for a getting-acquainted session. Dan and
I
had
a lovely come-to-Jesus conversation, and he's now my new best
friend.
He introduced me to his staff, to some of his neighborhood
customers,
and told me about two of the bike clubs in the area that would
be
appropriate for me. When I asked if they were comprised mostly
of
young people so I'd end up feeling silly and out of place and
older
than Methusaleh, he said, "Are you kidding? You'll be one of the
younger ones." That's when I fell in love!

He's had his bike shop on that corner for 20 years, and he does
not
want to be thought of as exclusively for racers, even though his
shop
is the sponsor of a local racing club. He gave me a couple of
bungi
cords for the bike rack for my trouble. He adjusted the seat for
my
height and also tilted it forward so that certain body parts
won't
get
numb from the pressure of sitting. After I asked, he returned to
me
the bike's original red seat with the built-in rear light so
that
once
my own rear end gets used to biking, I can switch back from the
extra-cushy gel seat to the very cool red Bianchi seat. I left
the
shop an expert on getting my front tire on and off, and also on
the
quick release mechanism for the front brake. Turns out the black
accordion boot does NOT go into the mechanism as I'd thought. I
was
doing it correctly all along.

Needless to say, I was very satisfied with the service and
attention I
received today from Dan. Don't know that I'll bother with
talking
to
any of the under-20 somethings, but Dan can take my money
anytime.
Before I left the shop, I bought a helmet cover and a Timbut2
backpack
so Dan got something out of today's deal too.

After the bike shop, I went to REI (for the 1st time ever!) to
buy
some cool weather biking gear so I could ride today in 41F and
rain.
What a store! I can see myself spending WAY too much time and
money
there. G They have winter items on clearance now so I ended up
with
padded below-the-knee pants, leg warmers, and rain pants.

I managed to ride around Lake Nokomis one time today. It's a
small
lake, about 4 miles on the bike path. First time on a bike since
high
school, I didn't want to overdo it. It felt SO GOOD. I'll be
back
there again tomorrow. I figure once I can get around the lake
three
times without feeling like I'm going to die, I'll be in good
enough
shape to start commuting and maybe then I can check out one of
the
bike clubs.

What a feeling! I'm actually biking! What I did today was no
mini-goal; it's no less than the realization of a dream.

On Sat, 13 Mar 2004 08:00:42 -0600, Prairie Roots

wrote:

Today I'm off to the bike shop to see what answers I can get
there.
Warmer weather is on the way and I want to be ready to join the
other
bicyclists on the chain of lakes circuit. I've found several
maps
of
bike routes in and around the Twin Cities. I think biking is
going
to
be a great way for me to see some new local sites.

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

LOL! Over time you get used to moving fast, and learning how to get all that snow
off before you open the door. The next trick to learn is ... when traveling with
more than one person in your car, do not open driver and passenger door at the
same time. It creates a horrid wind tunnel and everything blows out your doors.
G Exit the car seperately. Then by the time winter arrives once again, it's
time to relearn those snow survival tricks. LOL

The wind wasn't bad when we arrived in the city, 9:30 am. We did quite a bit of
walking and it was very pleasant out. By 1:00 the winds had really picked up and
it felt rather chilly. We called it quits at that point - had seen what she
wanted to, and got all the information she needed. I liked the calmer weather
back in the burbs much better ... shirt sleeves when we got home. G

Joyce

On Sat, 20 Mar 2004 06:02:09 -0600, "skiur" wrote:

:-)

Wind blowing in the direction of my car door. I open the car door, it goes
in the car regardless of how much I brush off before I go in. There isn't a
whole lot of it, but enough that I feel like my pants should have been in
the dryer for a few more minutes. I also can't get it brushed off my seat
completely so the stuff that gets into the seat crevices is what melts.

It's 50 right now and it's only going to drop. I hope you and your daughter
have good windproof jackets for the city trip.

Julie




"Joyce" wrote in message
.. .
LOL! That really came back to bite me in the butt, didn't it? G How
did you
get the white stuff inside your car? Ya gotta learn to move quickly
around here.
G

Joyce bracing herself valiantly for the next nasty cold spell moving in
quickly

On Wed, 17 Mar 2004 17:38:48 -0600, "skiur" wrote:

quit using that four letter "S" word!

Julie, who is dealing with a wet butt in the am because the snow gets in
the
car and melts before I have half a chance to get it out of the car.

"Joyce" wrote in message
news I watched the forecast this evening, am trying to plan my week out. I
had
promised my mom that the next time I visited I would take her to lunch
...
and I
really don't want to mess with taking her out in the sloppy weather.
Then
again,
she more than likely wouldn't remember what I told her - but I hate to
count on
that. G Snow tonite, snow tomorrow, rain thursday - looks like it
will
be clear
and back in the mid 40's on Friday. I'll more than likely stay home
until
then.
Temps right now are sitting at 29 - definitely too cold to be out
pedalling.

I'm glad you missed the snow for a change. The ground must have been
warm, the
1.25 inches we did get are totally gone already. Now it's just wet and
mud.
Welcome to spring. G

Joyce

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 17:40:42 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

I'll stay in this evening. Tomorrow night too. Snow's predicted and
the sky's gray. The temp is hovering around freezing. Just not biking
weather. Instead I'll use my indoor equipment, which has been sitting
neglected since the weekend.

We missed the snow that got dumped on you. The winds were bad enough.
Rocks in my pockets maybe would've helped.

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 13:44:50 -0600, Joyce wrote:

I think 5 miles and your speed sounds like a fantastic start, as well
as
quite an
accomplishment for your first week out. I have no idea as to average
speeds or
distances - but think of it like this ... if you just ride 5 days
each
week and
hit 5 miles each ride ... in a month you'll have logged a hundred
miles
already.
In my mind that is absolutely amazing!

Weren't those gusting winds horrible? I didn't realize you were hit
with them
too, figured it was just another one of those Chicago things. Hub
and I
were
shopping, I had to grab him several times as I felt like I was being
tossed
around. He says he's going to bring home some large rocks to put in
my
pockets.
G And we were hit with the snow last nite, really depressing after
seeing the
green grass appear after the recent rains. Now it's white. sigh
Not
much
accumulation, maybe an inch, and nothing at all stuck to the pavement
or
driveways. They're talking more for tonite, then rain tomorrow or
thursday ... I
hope they are wrong. For now, I'm staying in the house and feeling
lazy
... maybe
will go get my nose stuck back in my current book (the DaVinci Code).

Joyce

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 06:01:28 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

The Galyan's here is exactly the same.

So far my maximum bike mileage is 4-5 miles: once around the entire
lake using the bike lane. Depending on the wind, I'm averaging
speeds
of 11 - 14 mph. On Sunday, the wind was gusting up to 40 mph. On one
side of the lake, I had to work hard to keep myself pedaling at 11
mph. On the other side, I had to work almost as hard keeping my
speed
down to 17 mph. LOL No biking tonight, as snow is in the forecast.

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 02:08:21 -0600, Joyce wrote:

Now ya know you can do the bike riding too! Having the right
equipment makes
things a lot more enjoyable, as well as the right frame of mind.
It
sounds to me
like you are there on both accounts. I can't wait to hear about
your
explorations
and increasing mileage.

The only problem I have with Galyan's is that it is so
overwhelming.
Ours is two
levels, as are the other stores I've been in. Tons of clothing,
tons
of equipment
- no idea where I am or what I've looked at much of the time. I
don't
much get
past the clothing, as that is on the main floor.

Joyce

On Sun, 14 Mar 2004 09:50:30 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

Thanks Joyce. I've been wanting to bike for just years and years
and
years. When my kids were little, I bought a bike and commuted to
work
for about a week. Loved it. But I had an accident (my bag got
caught
in my back tire and over I went!) that resulted in a concussion
and a
totalled bike. My next bike was a cheapie from Target that I rode
maybe once when I weighed 230+ lbs before storing it in the garage
until I gave it away last year to my nextdoor neighbor for his
elementary-age daughter. Reading last year about Kelly J's
adventures
with bike riding got me started thinking that maybe I could still
do
it too.

Galyan's is just across the street (OK, across an 8-lane freeway!)
from REI. I've been there before, but haven't really explored what
they have beyond winter clothing--boots, socks, etc. They were
next
on
my list if REI didn't have what I needed. If they have as much
stuff
as you say, I need to stay away!

On Sun, 14 Mar 2004 03:02:44 -0600, Joyce wrote:

Wonderful PR, glad you finally did get some satistaction and are
once again a
happy customer. It also is good for the owner to know that some
of
his employees
are much less than helpful - definitely not good for his
business.
If you had
problems, I'd be willing to bet that others have also and
possibly
not made the
effort to give him the chance to make ammends. I am so thrilled
that this all
worked out well.

Glad you enjoyed your very first bike ride, and I see many many
more
in your
future. It sure makes looking ahead to springtime a lot more
enjoyable. G

I have never been into REI, just noticed the other day that we do
have one store
across the street from Costco. I tend to go to Galyans, which is
huge. It's a
fun place to browse around, tons of neat stuff there (as well as
a
rock climbing
wall). I figured if they don't have an item, I really must not
need
it. G Of
course, what do I really need to walk in my basement. LOL

Joyce

On Sat, 13 Mar 2004 19:46:26 -0600, Prairie Roots

wrote:

Dan's the MAN! He's the owner of the bike shop where I bought my
bike
and took it back today for a getting-acquainted session. Dan and
I
had
a lovely come-to-Jesus conversation, and he's now my new best
friend.
He introduced me to his staff, to some of his neighborhood
customers,
and told me about two of the bike clubs in the area that would
be
appropriate for me. When I asked if they were comprised mostly
of
young people so I'd end up feeling silly and out of place and
older
than Methusaleh, he said, "Are you kidding? You'll be one of the
younger ones." That's when I fell in love!

He's had his bike shop on that corner for 20 years, and he does
not
want to be thought of as exclusively for racers, even though his
shop
is the sponsor of a local racing club. He gave me a couple of
bungi
cords for the bike rack for my trouble. He adjusted the seat for
my
height and also tilted it forward so that certain body parts
won't
get
numb from the pressure of sitting. After I asked, he returned to
me
the bike's original red seat with the built-in rear light so
that
once
my own rear end gets used to biking, I can switch back from the
extra-cushy gel seat to the very cool red Bianchi seat. I left
the
shop an expert on getting my front tire on and off, and also on
the
quick release mechanism for the front brake. Turns out the black
accordion boot does NOT go into the mechanism as I'd thought. I
was
doing it correctly all along.

Needless to say, I was very satisfied with the service and
attention I
received today from Dan. Don't know that I'll bother with
talking
to
any of the under-20 somethings, but Dan can take my money
anytime.
Before I left the shop, I bought a helmet cover and a Timbut2
backpack
so Dan got something out of today's deal too.

After the bike shop, I went to REI (for the 1st time ever!) to
buy
some cool weather biking gear so I could ride today in 41F and
rain.
What a store! I can see myself spending WAY too much time and
money
there. G They have winter items on clearance now so I ended up
with
padded below-the-knee pants, leg warmers, and rain pants.

I managed to ride around Lake Nokomis one time today. It's a
small
lake, about 4 miles on the bike path. First time on a bike since
high
school, I didn't want to overdo it. It felt SO GOOD. I'll be
back
there again tomorrow. I figure once I can get around the lake
three
times without feeling like I'm going to die, I'll be in good
enough
shape to start commuting and maybe then I can check out one of
the
bike clubs.

What a feeling! I'm actually biking! What I did today was no
mini-goal; it's no less than the realization of a dream.

On Sat, 13 Mar 2004 08:00:42 -0600, Prairie Roots

wrote:

Today I'm off to the bike shop to see what answers I can get
there.
Warmer weather is on the way and I want to be ready to join the
other
bicyclists on the chain of lakes circuit. I've found several
maps
of
bike routes in and around the Twin Cities. I think biking is
going
to
be a great way for me to see some new local sites.

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

I think I was just convinced that it couldn't be that much snow--since it
was warmer those days. (I know calling it warm on days that there is snow on
the car is just plain twisted.)

J



"Joyce" wrote in message
...
LOL! Over time you get used to moving fast, and learning how to get all
that snow
off before you open the door. The next trick to learn is ... when
traveling with
more than one person in your car, do not open driver and passenger door at
the
same time. It creates a horrid wind tunnel and everything blows out your
doors.
G Exit the car seperately. Then by the time winter arrives once again,
it's
time to relearn those snow survival tricks. LOL

The wind wasn't bad when we arrived in the city, 9:30 am. We did quite a
bit of
walking and it was very pleasant out. By 1:00 the winds had really picked
up and
it felt rather chilly. We called it quits at that point - had seen what
she
wanted to, and got all the information she needed. I liked the calmer
weather
back in the burbs much better ... shirt sleeves when we got home. G

Joyce

On Sat, 20 Mar 2004 06:02:09 -0600, "skiur" wrote:

:-)

Wind blowing in the direction of my car door. I open the car door, it
goes
in the car regardless of how much I brush off before I go in. There
isn't a
whole lot of it, but enough that I feel like my pants should have been in
the dryer for a few more minutes. I also can't get it brushed off my
seat
completely so the stuff that gets into the seat crevices is what melts.

It's 50 right now and it's only going to drop. I hope you and your
daughter
have good windproof jackets for the city trip.

Julie




"Joyce" wrote in message
.. .
LOL! That really came back to bite me in the butt, didn't it? G How
did you
get the white stuff inside your car? Ya gotta learn to move quickly
around here.
G

Joyce bracing herself valiantly for the next nasty cold spell moving
in
quickly

On Wed, 17 Mar 2004 17:38:48 -0600, "skiur"
wrote:

quit using that four letter "S" word!

Julie, who is dealing with a wet butt in the am because the snow gets
in
the
car and melts before I have half a chance to get it out of the car.

"Joyce" wrote in message
news I watched the forecast this evening, am trying to plan my week out.
I
had
promised my mom that the next time I visited I would take her to
lunch
...
and I
really don't want to mess with taking her out in the sloppy weather.
Then
again,
she more than likely wouldn't remember what I told her - but I hate
to
count on
that. G Snow tonite, snow tomorrow, rain thursday - looks like it
will
be clear
and back in the mid 40's on Friday. I'll more than likely stay home
until
then.
Temps right now are sitting at 29 - definitely too cold to be out
pedalling.

I'm glad you missed the snow for a change. The ground must have
been
warm, the
1.25 inches we did get are totally gone already. Now it's just wet
and
mud.
Welcome to spring. G

Joyce

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 17:40:42 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

I'll stay in this evening. Tomorrow night too. Snow's predicted and
the sky's gray. The temp is hovering around freezing. Just not
biking
weather. Instead I'll use my indoor equipment, which has been
sitting
neglected since the weekend.

We missed the snow that got dumped on you. The winds were bad
enough.
Rocks in my pockets maybe would've helped.

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 13:44:50 -0600, Joyce wrote:

I think 5 miles and your speed sounds like a fantastic start, as
well
as
quite an
accomplishment for your first week out. I have no idea as to
average
speeds or
distances - but think of it like this ... if you just ride 5 days
each
week and
hit 5 miles each ride ... in a month you'll have logged a hundred
miles
already.
In my mind that is absolutely amazing!

Weren't those gusting winds horrible? I didn't realize you were
hit
with them
too, figured it was just another one of those Chicago things. Hub
and I
were
shopping, I had to grab him several times as I felt like I was
being
tossed
around. He says he's going to bring home some large rocks to put
in
my
pockets.
G And we were hit with the snow last nite, really depressing
after
seeing the
green grass appear after the recent rains. Now it's white. sigh
Not
much
accumulation, maybe an inch, and nothing at all stuck to the
pavement
or
driveways. They're talking more for tonite, then rain tomorrow or
thursday ... I
hope they are wrong. For now, I'm staying in the house and
feeling
lazy
... maybe
will go get my nose stuck back in my current book (the DaVinci
Code).

Joyce

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 06:01:28 -0600, Prairie Roots
wrote:

The Galyan's here is exactly the same.

So far my maximum bike mileage is 4-5 miles: once around the
entire
lake using the bike lane. Depending on the wind, I'm averaging
speeds
of 11 - 14 mph. On Sunday, the wind was gusting up to 40 mph. On
one
side of the lake, I had to work hard to keep myself pedaling at
11
mph. On the other side, I had to work almost as hard keeping my
speed
down to 17 mph. LOL No biking tonight, as snow is in the
forecast.

On Tue, 16 Mar 2004 02:08:21 -0600, Joyce wrote:

Now ya know you can do the bike riding too! Having the right
equipment makes
things a lot more enjoyable, as well as the right frame of mind.
It
sounds to me
like you are there on both accounts. I can't wait to hear about
your
explorations
and increasing mileage.

The only problem I have with Galyan's is that it is so
overwhelming.
Ours is two
levels, as are the other stores I've been in. Tons of clothing,
tons
of equipment
- no idea where I am or what I've looked at much of the time. I
don't
much get
past the clothing, as that is on the main floor.

Joyce

On Sun, 14 Mar 2004 09:50:30 -0600, Prairie Roots

wrote:

Thanks Joyce. I've been wanting to bike for just years and
years
and
years. When my kids were little, I bought a bike and commuted
to
work
for about a week. Loved it. But I had an accident (my bag got
caught
in my back tire and over I went!) that resulted in a concussion
and a
totalled bike. My next bike was a cheapie from Target that I
rode
maybe once when I weighed 230+ lbs before storing it in the
garage
until I gave it away last year to my nextdoor neighbor for his
elementary-age daughter. Reading last year about Kelly J's
adventures
with bike riding got me started thinking that maybe I could
still
do
it too.

Galyan's is just across the street (OK, across an 8-lane
freeway!)
from REI. I've been there before, but haven't really explored
what
they have beyond winter clothing--boots, socks, etc. They were
next
on
my list if REI didn't have what I needed. If they have as much
stuff
as you say, I need to stay away!

On Sun, 14 Mar 2004 03:02:44 -0600, Joyce
wrote:

Wonderful PR, glad you finally did get some satistaction and
are
once again a
happy customer. It also is good for the owner to know that
some
of
his employees
are much less than helpful - definitely not good for his
business.
If you had
problems, I'd be willing to bet that others have also and
possibly
not made the
effort to give him the chance to make ammends. I am so
thrilled
that this all
worked out well.

Glad you enjoyed your very first bike ride, and I see many
many
more
in your
future. It sure makes looking ahead to springtime a lot more
enjoyable. G

I have never been into REI, just noticed the other day that we
do
have one store
across the street from Costco. I tend to go to Galyans, which
is
huge. It's a
fun place to browse around, tons of neat stuff there (as well
as
a
rock climbing
wall). I figured if they don't have an item, I really must
not
need
it. G Of
course, what do I really need to walk in my basement. LOL

Joyce

On Sat, 13 Mar 2004 19:46:26 -0600, Prairie Roots

wrote:

Dan's the MAN! He's the owner of the bike shop where I bought
my
bike
and took it back today for a getting-acquainted session. Dan
and
I
had
a lovely come-to-Jesus conversation, and he's now my new best
friend.
He introduced me to his staff, to some of his neighborhood
customers,
and told me about two of the bike clubs in the area that
would
be
appropriate for me. When I asked if they were comprised
mostly
of
young people so I'd end up feeling silly and out of place and
older
than Methusaleh, he said, "Are you kidding? You'll be one of
the
younger ones." That's when I fell in love!

He's had his bike shop on that corner for 20 years, and he
does
not
want to be thought of as exclusively for racers, even though
his
shop
is the sponsor of a local racing club. He gave me a couple of
bungi
cords for the bike rack for my trouble. He adjusted the seat
for
my
height and also tilted it forward so that certain body parts
won't
get
numb from the pressure of sitting. After I asked, he returned
to
me
the bike's original red seat with the built-in rear light so
that
once
my own rear end gets used to biking, I can switch back from
the
extra-cushy gel seat to the very cool red Bianchi seat. I
left
the
shop an expert on getting my front tire on and off, and also
on
the
quick release mechanism for the front brake. Turns out the
black
accordion boot does NOT go into the mechanism as I'd thought.
I
was
doing it correctly all along.

Needless to say, I was very satisfied with the service and
attention I
received today from Dan. Don't know that I'll bother with
talking
to
any of the under-20 somethings, but Dan can take my money
anytime.
Before I left the shop, I bought a helmet cover and a Timbut2
backpack
so Dan got something out of today's deal too.

After the bike shop, I went to REI (for the 1st time ever!)
to
buy
some cool weather biking gear so I could ride today in 41F
and
rain.
What a store! I can see myself spending WAY too much time and
money
there. G They have winter items on clearance now so I ended
up
with
padded below-the-knee pants, leg warmers, and rain pants.

I managed to ride around Lake Nokomis one time today. It's a
small
lake, about 4 miles on the bike path. First time on a bike
since
high
school, I didn't want to overdo it. It felt SO GOOD. I'll be
back
there again tomorrow. I figure once I can get around the lake
three
times without feeling like I'm going to die, I'll be in good
enough
shape to start commuting and maybe then I can check out one
of
the
bike clubs.

What a feeling! I'm actually biking! What I did today was no
mini-goal; it's no less than the realization of a dream.

On Sat, 13 Mar 2004 08:00:42 -0600, Prairie Roots

wrote:

Today I'm off to the bike shop to see what answers I can get
there.
Warmer weather is on the way and I want to be ready to join
the
other
bicyclists on the chain of lakes circuit. I've found several
maps
of
bike routes in and around the Twin Cities. I think biking is
going
to
be a great way for me to see some new local sites.

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003

Linda P
232/158/WW goal 145
joined WW Online 22-Feb-2003