Hiatus

I'm making several entries today, catching up and keeping the topics distinct. Much has transpired. First I noticed after returning from DC that, in spite of taking four days off the bike, my knees were still somewhat stiff. Following my usual habit of ignoring all possible warning signs I did the following during the next week:

• The Rose Bowl Ride
• Shakedown cruise of the cyclocross bike
• Cool Breeze Double Metric

Guess what? In spite of all this nice exercise the knees didn't improve. It would have been better had they hurt like hell, instead they were just somewhat bothersome. Then I found myself thinking about an upcoming GMR ride. I realized I'd have to strategize based on protecting my knees. Maybe something's wrong, ya think?

A solid week off the bike. Limited walking. Lot's of ibuprofen, glucosamine, MSM, icing, elevation and swimming seemed to help. Now, I think I'm just a wee tad arthritic. This is not the first time middle age has jumped on my chest and laughed at me, but maybe the worst. Everyone thinks their own passion is just the coolest, but cycling has to be special. So many aspects, so many people, so many places. The thought of giving it up was a bit much.

So things are manageable. A month of limited activity has played hob with my LT and maintainable power levels, so back to work. With a coach this time.