Okay, so I wasn't able to post to my blog on a daily basis! My apologies.
Riding was so much fun, and our days were so filled with riding, eating, riding some more, taking pictures, drinking coffee, getting settled and then going out for the evening..well, you get the picture don't you? Besides, most of our stops were far removed from internet services. Good excuse, heh? So, now that some time has passed I'll just give you a quick recap of my favorite days of riding. I can tell you up front however, that I can not put into words how amazing this adventure truly was.
I believe the ride from Monterey to Big Sur was most spectacular. Day 3 took us thru Pacific Grove and 17 mile drive, an AMAZING place to take pictures of the ocean, bluffs, seals and dolphins! Of course we stopped for a photo op at the famous Lone Cypress..(most photographed tree ever!) Riding thru Carmel we saw beautiful coastal homes,quaint downtowns, and a magnificent old adobe mission.
Next? Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park!!! This is the most beautiful section of coast in the world. We took tons of photos and you'll see them in the photo album. Simply spectacular...i think this was the place I kept pinching myself to see if I was really riding along this amazing coast in the beautiful weather with so many new friends! THIS was a fantastic day!
This day also included the famous bridges along the coast; Rocky Point bridge and Bixby Bridge. Bixby was a graceful concrete arch bridge over a deep canyon that ends in rocky points and white sandy beaches! The bridge curves to fit the canyon! It was beautiful!
The final treat for the day was stopping at Big Sur River Inn in Big Sur. Great burgers, salads and beers that you can eat at a table IN THE RIVER with your feet in the water! (see fotos!)We camped in Big Sur that night, and some of us stayed in the lodge..I think we could have stayed here for a week...but morning, as usual, came early....
OFF to San Simeon! This was another "up" and "down" day for sure! Better have your climbing legs again for this day! The descents were a dream for any cyclist who has a need for speed. Downhill speeds were easily 40+mph for those brave souls! OMG..they were smooth and fun!!!
We rode along the coaast the ENTIRE DAY! The cliffs were jagged and really steep!! California Condors were seen soaring above the cliffs and sitting on rock ledges! We had an opportunity to visit some hot springs, so we went! The guys wore their bathing suits and I opted for "just the legs"-I had not a bathing suit with me, but it was really nice for my legs! We ate some pizza there for a snack and moved on toward the finish line of the day!
Before we got there though, we saw Elephant Seals sleeping and pushing/shoving/fighting on the beach! They are protected mammals, but the walkways allow you close enough for some great photographs. The colony is currently estimated to be about 7,500 seals, making it the largest in the world. Pretty darn amazing (and funny)! Arriving "home" for the night we were at Hearst State Beach which has a great view of the Hearst Castle. The campground had a wonderful beach and pier. Really lovely! But, we rode past the castle arriving at our own little castle on the beach..nice hotel with amazing views of the ocean and evening sunset..What a remarkable way to end this day...We were tired of the chicken and pasta dinners (although the food was fabulous!) so we went out for mexican food and that was AFTER a wonderful massage at the spa next to our hotel!!!
Friday, October 17, 2008
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Day Two-Santa Cruz to Monterey
Waking up after doing about 90 miles the first day, most of our legs were a little tired :)! The crew made an amazing breakfast; one that I typically might eat on a Sunday morning....meaning, everything you could imagine, they had made for us. We can tell that there will not be any shortage of food at camp and the chefs are happy to keep us fueled! But I cannot eat most of what they made...it's not Sunday and I'm going to ride and can't think about putting all that food down.. But, the guys?? No problem....they eat like horses??? or just a bunch of hungry animals...I drink my Shaklee protein shake, eat some yogurt, a banana and I'm good to go. My bottles are filled with water and Performance hydration drink, I've swallowed a handful of vitamins and I'm ready to ride! I see Kevin at camp and he offers to "lube" my bike for me, so I let him..I'll do anything to go faster and that seems to be a good idea because were riding at the coast and it gets a little salty and gritty around here!
We're ready for another exciting day of riding, and so we take off with a few other cyclists leaving camp, chatting about the day before and what happened in camp last night. Each morning we get a map of the days course and this day we go about 45 miles. Not exactly all flat, there were some good rollers and enough of them to wake your muscles up from the day before!
to be cont. gotta run!
We're ready for another exciting day of riding, and so we take off with a few other cyclists leaving camp, chatting about the day before and what happened in camp last night. Each morning we get a map of the days course and this day we go about 45 miles. Not exactly all flat, there were some good rollers and enough of them to wake your muscles up from the day before!
to be cont. gotta run!
Get on Your MARK, Get Set, We're Off!!!!
Wow! We're really here! All of us from around the country...including a cyclists from Jamaica, & France! The event began with check in Friday evening in San Francisco, and a kick off dinner with some great speakers! They spoke of cures for arthritis and how so many are overcoming their illness, first, with an amazing attitude, and second, by not seeing their "limitiations", but addressing their illness as a challenge to overcome adversity! There is one young woman here with 4 joint replacements and shes riding with us all the way to Santa Monica! These individuals have remarkable, inspiring stories! So, you see, the rest of us have "no excuses"!
Saturday morning came early with a breakfast at the Hard Rock Cafe! News channels were roaming about interviewing cyclists and taking fotos..We took one group foto and then we were off! Without knowing where we were going exactly, I took off in the lead (just so happened my bike was in the front of the pack) and the tour officially had started...they had us all chanting....
"We're riding for a cure! we're riding for a cure!!
We were all soooo excited!! Departing the city there were many twists and turns, the fog was heavy, and maps got wet....Dont know if thats why we got "lost" several times that morning??? but we eventually found our way back to the trail with the other riders!
Upon approaching the Cliffhouse on the coast, we could see the ocean, hear the pounding surf and feel the wet fog dripping off our helmets into our eyes..It was WET! But we were happy to be on our bikes!
The day was spectacular! The fog lifted after about 2 hours, and there were several "rest stops" for refueling, socializing, & stretching! The beauty of the day is indescribable and so much more beautiful and exhilarating than I had imagined!
We stopped at a Lighthouse with amazing views of the rugged coast and the ocean. We pedaled up rolling hills thru out the day, overlooking the vast blue ocean and enjoyed some fun descents as well. This day I met Kevin from Washington State and Tim from southern California. We spent the day riding together, taking in the views and the scenic roads, shooting photographs of each other and the scenery...Spectacular day!
Several hours later we arrived in Santa Cruz...my deceased brothers hometown. It's a place that always makes me smile and think of him when I go there. I thought, while I am in this town, I shall ride for him! Santa Cruz is a great place to ride bikes (very bike friendly city)
Some of us rode to our hotels, and others took off for the campground...You can guess which one I went too....
We all rode strong, safe and had an amazing day!!! Cant wait until tomorrow!
Now, go out and ride! Shelley
Saturday morning came early with a breakfast at the Hard Rock Cafe! News channels were roaming about interviewing cyclists and taking fotos..We took one group foto and then we were off! Without knowing where we were going exactly, I took off in the lead (just so happened my bike was in the front of the pack) and the tour officially had started...they had us all chanting....
"We're riding for a cure! we're riding for a cure!!
We were all soooo excited!! Departing the city there were many twists and turns, the fog was heavy, and maps got wet....Dont know if thats why we got "lost" several times that morning??? but we eventually found our way back to the trail with the other riders!
Upon approaching the Cliffhouse on the coast, we could see the ocean, hear the pounding surf and feel the wet fog dripping off our helmets into our eyes..It was WET! But we were happy to be on our bikes!
The day was spectacular! The fog lifted after about 2 hours, and there were several "rest stops" for refueling, socializing, & stretching! The beauty of the day is indescribable and so much more beautiful and exhilarating than I had imagined!
We stopped at a Lighthouse with amazing views of the rugged coast and the ocean. We pedaled up rolling hills thru out the day, overlooking the vast blue ocean and enjoyed some fun descents as well. This day I met Kevin from Washington State and Tim from southern California. We spent the day riding together, taking in the views and the scenic roads, shooting photographs of each other and the scenery...Spectacular day!
Several hours later we arrived in Santa Cruz...my deceased brothers hometown. It's a place that always makes me smile and think of him when I go there. I thought, while I am in this town, I shall ride for him! Santa Cruz is a great place to ride bikes (very bike friendly city)
Some of us rode to our hotels, and others took off for the campground...You can guess which one I went too....
We all rode strong, safe and had an amazing day!!! Cant wait until tomorrow!
Now, go out and ride! Shelley
Thursday, September 18, 2008
The Countdown
Well, its time. I'm ready as I'll ever be to take on this fantastic challenge of riding from San Francisco to Santa Monica! I'll be with over 200 other cyclists from all over the country sharing what we love to do! Ride our bikes!
The weather should be perfect and the company terrific! We'll be experiencing a new adventure each day, and I've compiled a short list of places for you that we'll be seeing along the way!
New friends, amazing scenery, photo opps, a collection of shops and eateries,....Big Sur..Seaside Pumpkin Farms, Pigeon Point Lighthouse, Bonny Doon Beach, boardwalks, fruit stands, Monterey and Cannery Row, Pacific Grove and 17 Mile Drive, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park…with breathtaking views... This is the most beautiful section of coast in the world! The Bixby Bridge, built in 1932, California Condors soaring above the cliffs and sitting on rock ledges, Elephant Seals sleeping and pushing/shoving/fighting on the beach, Hearst Castle, Morro Bay, Pismo Dunes, Solvang Mission, shops and restaurants, surf beaches of Ventura County, Santa Barbara, Carpenteria, state parks, Malibu, and finally Gladstones! (a famous local eatery with occasional celebrity drop ins)...just to name a few!
Here is a link to check for photos of the ride while we are on the tour. Click or paste this website to view photos:
www.californiacoastclassic.org
I will also make daily postings to this blog! So, come along, travel with us and enjoy the ride! Until my next posting....ride strong and ride safe!
The weather should be perfect and the company terrific! We'll be experiencing a new adventure each day, and I've compiled a short list of places for you that we'll be seeing along the way!
New friends, amazing scenery, photo opps, a collection of shops and eateries,....Big Sur..Seaside Pumpkin Farms, Pigeon Point Lighthouse, Bonny Doon Beach, boardwalks, fruit stands, Monterey and Cannery Row, Pacific Grove and 17 Mile Drive, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park…with breathtaking views... This is the most beautiful section of coast in the world! The Bixby Bridge, built in 1932, California Condors soaring above the cliffs and sitting on rock ledges, Elephant Seals sleeping and pushing/shoving/fighting on the beach, Hearst Castle, Morro Bay, Pismo Dunes, Solvang Mission, shops and restaurants, surf beaches of Ventura County, Santa Barbara, Carpenteria, state parks, Malibu, and finally Gladstones! (a famous local eatery with occasional celebrity drop ins)...just to name a few!
Here is a link to check for photos of the ride while we are on the tour. Click or paste this website to view photos:
www.californiacoastclassic.org
I will also make daily postings to this blog! So, come along, travel with us and enjoy the ride! Until my next posting....ride strong and ride safe!
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Developing a Plan
Train Smart - Train With Coach Shelley
Now is the time to start thinking about your training plans for the winter. You'll want to set new goals for next year and determine now, how your'e going to get there.
It's also a great time to take a look at your nutrition and supplement program. What worked and what was missing? Did your fueling plan for pre-race and post race give you the best edge? Did your eating plan help you maintain your perfect weight for the season?
It's a great idea to look for a coach to provide direction, motivation and guidance with your plan for the upcoming season. If you are ready to get started give me a call! I’d love to hear from you.
FOR COACHING PROGRAMS AND PRODUCTS VISIT:(more coming soon!)
www.getonourmark.com
www.getonyourmark.net
CARPE DIEM!
Coach Shelley
Now is the time to start thinking about your training plans for the winter. You'll want to set new goals for next year and determine now, how your'e going to get there.
It's also a great time to take a look at your nutrition and supplement program. What worked and what was missing? Did your fueling plan for pre-race and post race give you the best edge? Did your eating plan help you maintain your perfect weight for the season?
It's a great idea to look for a coach to provide direction, motivation and guidance with your plan for the upcoming season. If you are ready to get started give me a call! I’d love to hear from you.
FOR COACHING PROGRAMS AND PRODUCTS VISIT:(more coming soon!)
www.getonourmark.com
www.getonyourmark.net
CARPE DIEM!
Coach Shelley
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Post Exercise Protein Increases Muscle
New Study Shows Post-Exercise Protein Increases Muscle Mass and Strength
A new research study showing the benefits of ingesting protein after a workout for increasing muscle mass and strength was published in the May 2008 issue of Fitness Management, a publication (www.fitnessmanagement.com) for the fitness industry. Study authors Wayne L. Westcott, PhD, William F Martin, PhD, Rita La Rosa Loud, and Susan Stoddard conducted the research at the South Shore YMCA in Quincy, MA. The following is a study summary and the published manuscript will be available shortly on the Shaklee MD Resources website.
Background of the StudyIn the last decade, significant research has been published relative to protein supplementation, recovery from exercise, and muscle development. Shaklee’s clinical research demonstrated that a protein-carbohydrate complex consumed immediately after exercise enhanced recovery from exercise when compared to consuming carbohydrate alone. More recent work has shown significantly greater gains in muscle mass and strength when protein is ingested immediately following resistance exercise.
To read more click here
A new research study showing the benefits of ingesting protein after a workout for increasing muscle mass and strength was published in the May 2008 issue of Fitness Management, a publication (www.fitnessmanagement.com) for the fitness industry. Study authors Wayne L. Westcott, PhD, William F Martin, PhD, Rita La Rosa Loud, and Susan Stoddard conducted the research at the South Shore YMCA in Quincy, MA. The following is a study summary and the published manuscript will be available shortly on the Shaklee MD Resources website.
Background of the StudyIn the last decade, significant research has been published relative to protein supplementation, recovery from exercise, and muscle development. Shaklee’s clinical research demonstrated that a protein-carbohydrate complex consumed immediately after exercise enhanced recovery from exercise when compared to consuming carbohydrate alone. More recent work has shown significantly greater gains in muscle mass and strength when protein is ingested immediately following resistance exercise.
To read more click here
Friday, June 27, 2008
A Reason to Ride-Won't You Join Me?
This week I have found another reason to ride. Heres the story...many of us do not need a reason to ride..we ride because we can, because it makes us feel invinceable. It's a reason to get outdoors and go somewhere where your spirit can be free; where you can hear the silence of nature's cry. It's a place where we can challenge ourselves mentally, emotionally, physically and even spiritually. We can commune with God, talk to the animals, smell the fresh pine needles in the forests floor, chat with our friends, push ourselves physically beyond where we've been before..and then do it all again the next day.
So, back to my new reason to ride? I've committed to riding in the Amgen Classic California Tour for the Arthritis Foundation this Sept for 7 days! It's been too many years since I have done "a ride across somewhere" and now its time. The kids are older, my husband is agreeable, and it's actually possible to take off from my "mom" responsibilities for a few days and know that all shall not be lost at home!
Why did I just commit to raise thousands of dollars and ride over 500 miles in one week? Because I can. Because I live for challenges, for the spirit and adventure of life; what better way to raise awareness and money for a worthy cause? And yes, there are many worthy causes. As I was contemplating doing this ride, I thought about my dear brother Steven who died of cancer at the young age of 31..Should I do a ride for cancer? Yes! But I'll make that my NEXT ride!
I say, sieze the moment, lets ride! ..lets be kind, grateful, conscientious. Let's all share the road and experience the "joie de vivre", love of life spirit and let it be a cause for celebration! Won't you join me? You can help me achieve my goal by making a donation to the Arthritis Foundation using the link to the right on this page.
Thank YOU!
Carpe Diem!
Coach Shelley
So, back to my new reason to ride? I've committed to riding in the Amgen Classic California Tour for the Arthritis Foundation this Sept for 7 days! It's been too many years since I have done "a ride across somewhere" and now its time. The kids are older, my husband is agreeable, and it's actually possible to take off from my "mom" responsibilities for a few days and know that all shall not be lost at home!
Why did I just commit to raise thousands of dollars and ride over 500 miles in one week? Because I can. Because I live for challenges, for the spirit and adventure of life; what better way to raise awareness and money for a worthy cause? And yes, there are many worthy causes. As I was contemplating doing this ride, I thought about my dear brother Steven who died of cancer at the young age of 31..Should I do a ride for cancer? Yes! But I'll make that my NEXT ride!
I say, sieze the moment, lets ride! ..lets be kind, grateful, conscientious. Let's all share the road and experience the "joie de vivre", love of life spirit and let it be a cause for celebration! Won't you join me? You can help me achieve my goal by making a donation to the Arthritis Foundation using the link to the right on this page.
Thank YOU!
Carpe Diem!
Coach Shelley
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