The Final Countdown

Welcome Back Blog Readers!

The final countdown to The 34solo Challenge is underway! As spring break slowly creeps toward its final closure, the swimsuit tucked away neatly in its place, and memories of time well spent with family and friends linger, I must carefully shift my attention forward to the looming challenge that awaits. Much has happened since I last wrote. I have been lounging in the sun, lurking in the cupboards for snacks, and liberally consuming the Almighty Fat Tire like I was competing for the grand title of Sloth of the Year. It's true- I have the sun wrinkles and love handles to prove it.

But let's take a moment to revisit the 34solo challenge. Beginning tomorrow, I am committed to going CAR-FREE for 30 days. This requires a bicycle commute to work (mixed in with the saving grace of the 34Xpress transit) of 34.6 miles each day. My ultimate plan is to not drive my SUV for 30 days. I have resolved using the bus transit in the mornings as my work day starts very early- 7:15. This still requires a little over 5 miles on the bike as I have to ride to the bus stop (as early as 5:45 A.M) and from the final bus stop into work. The grand total being just over 23 miles each day. But I'm feverishly committed to riding home each day (17.3 miles). You ask, "Why in the world are you doing this?" My answer is simple: I am attempting to re-define the landscape of my day in an eco-friendly way. The benefits are enormous- general fitness and wellness, along with reducing my carbon footprint. I am also looking to capture those small details that we fail to see in the midst of our hurried culture.

The logistics of this challenge has become astronomical. I have across town meetings throughout the week that I must make arrangements for. The wardrobe and hygiene factor alone has consmmed most of my planning. In fact, my attempt to cheat by taking some clothes in this past weekend was thwarted by not being able to get into the building. DAMN IT! So I must pack my work clothes. And my lunch. And my essentials. And my rain jacket.

I've become worried about the elements. I anticipate rain, snow, and wind. I hear the wind is enough to make the strongest of men wince. In fact, there are naysayers among us. Just yesterday, someone said I couldn't do it. For those who have remained positive- thank you. For those glass-half-emptied people- boo hiss. For those who are indifferent- well, get passionate about something!!!!

I've spent another $80 at the bike shop. I almost spent $500 on a steel framed bike advertised on Craigslist (I love you Craigslist!) that would prevent me from being carried away by the winds. I've become worried about how my bike will hold up in the elements and on the front of a bus going well over 60 MPH. I'm considering investing in an authentic commuter or touring bike. But for now, I'm sticking to my Rocky Mountain Solo until I fly fly away...or crash in the downpour.

Accomplishment of the Day:
Put the computer on my bike for mileage and speed! Did you know that 82 inches converted in millimeters is 2082.8? Don't ever say you don't need math in life! Only broke one piece, with swearing, but still no throwing!

Concern of the Day:
Making two out of building meetings tomorrow.
Monday's lunch.
Tuesday's lunch.
Wednesday's lunch.
Thursday's lunch.
Friday's lunch and happy hour.

For those of you still reading- The Countdown is officially ON and Cheers to the 34solo Challenge!