Workout math

Elizabeth was cranky today, so I said let's go for a bike ride! Piled the kids, their sippie cups, some books, and a bunch of toys in to the trailer and away we went. Most of the ride away from home is uphill, so I started thinking about how much dead weight I was carrying. I figure that the kids together are about 55 lbs. The trailer is about 20, and all the devices intended to entertain them are another 10. I am pulling 85 lbs of dead weight uphill! Makes me feel better about only going 3-4 miles.

It wasn't entirely DEAD weight. Matthew and Elizabeth were very much alive. (well, Elizabeth slept the entire way home, but anyway) Matthew kept up with the "encouragement": Let's go, Mommy!! Which way are we going next. Red means Stop, Green means Go. (for the entire time until we could get to the stop light!) And making all the toys make noise, sing songs etc. Who needs an iPod?

In all seriousness, I am just using my old swimsuit, my old googles, and my old gym shoes. I am using my old bike, it is about 11 years old, but I love it. It changes gears with a little twist of my wrist, rides easily. If you are looking for a bike, I HIGHLY suggest a Trek. Mine is a Trek 320 Multitrack and has 21 (i think) gears-although as flat as it is here, I only need 7ish. It is a hybrid mountain bike/racing bike, meaning it is lightweight but can handle a few bumps. I don't think you'll find that one new, but if you find it used I would definately get it. If you are thinking new, I would look into Trek too, I am sure they have something simular to what I got: moderately priced (about $500), high quality components (shifters, brakes), lighter weight frame, sturdy design.

Don't know if you know this but the bike frame comes in different sizes. I think it is the length from the seat to handle bars. I remember looking into that when I got my bike (it is the same as Kevin's but maybe 1-2" shorter. )

I've been thinking about maybe making some tops for all of us to wear for the race, and maybe some bike shorts for me. (and anyone else that would like one). It depends on if I can get fabric (and time to sew!!)
Love ya! Arlene