Almost there!

In a few different senses - I am only about $150 away from $4,000 - THIS IS SO AMAZING THAT I CAN'T EVEN REALLY EXPRESS IT.

This morning was probably my second-to-last bike ride before it stops being a choice to go out la la la on my bike. I get nervous now because I feel like I only go a little way and then I am kind of tired, and how am I going to go far enough when I start this thing! But I am sure it will be ok - I will make sure to be in the leisurely group, and I will keep going because I have to, and then I will keep going the next day and the next. Gosh I am so nervous.

This morning I changed my first bike tire! I was pumping up my tires when the tip of the valve just broke off! It certainly is lucky that I am so HANDY now, and could figure it out all by myself.

I have all the equipment on my list now! All I need is some sunscreen and a new camera battery. Alan and I went to REI yesterday and I am so glad he talked me into buying the Sugar knickers! That sounds so funny. Sugar knickers. They are like bike capri pants, make by Pearl Izumi. It's really nice to have the option to feel a little more covered up and cozy. It was kind of chilly this morning. Yesterday morning I outfitted my bike with all of the water bottle cages, strapped on the pump (disaster, cut my thigh actually kind of badly on the plastic edge of the cable tie). And then I am positive I put the cycling computer on right so I can track my mileage and average speed. Annnnd it's not working. Next step is buying a new battery to replace the apparently dead one that was included. And if that doesn't fix it!! We'll see. I am second guessing the necessity of the travel pillow, as it is really not very fluffy, but I will never go back to REI again!

This morning I also had my last dentist appointment with Dr. Swisher, my lifetime dentist. It was an even 20 years we spent together, from 1987 to 2007. Luckily, I had no cavities as I am about to leave, and my insurance is up....sometime? I should check on that today.

Then, in a little bit, I will get my farewell facial at the Spa! Courtesy of Terry and Papa via last Christmas. It will be good to get my skin all ready before the sun and sweat and grime.

SO FAREWELL! ADIEU!! The next time I post will be from somewhere in North Carolina!

Love, Emily