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I Still Can’t Ride!

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I Still Can’t Ride! This blog/page may contain affiliate links. “We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.” I still can’t ride!? Although I can get my foot into a sneaker now, such a shoe is still too snug; and puts pressure on my scar. Yesterday I hoped I could do a mini-ride on my hybrid today; but I had to give up that hope. Walking with the normal flex-toes gait still is uncomfortable because the swelling isn’t all gone. The podiatrist says it’s OK to walk; but to stop if it hurts. My foot is telling me to take it easy; and I think I’d better listen! But sitting around at home so much is maddening. Oh, to get going on a bicycle again! Start with a short distance that my foot can tolerate. See how things progress from day to day; and if my foot hurts, back off. It will be similar to coming back after an injury; and in effect, that’s exactly what I’m doing. After all, you can call a surgical incision an injury, can’t you? While I’m at home so much, I’m trying to get some cooking done. Nothing like Feed Zone Table, though. Today I made another of my garbage soups; and incorporated leftover chicken from Thanksgiving. Unfortunately, I’m running out of food storage boxes! But I still can’t ride, no matter what I do in the kitchen. Worse, lack of exercise is making it hard for me to control my appetite. Time to pull out Ride Your Way Lean, I guess!  

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Unseamed

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Unseamed!  This blog/page may contain affiliate links. “We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.” I finally got unseamed today! The podiatrist took out the sutures from my lapiplasty. The “pod” says everything looks great; and even told me I may try riding a bicycle this afternoon! Unfortunately a regular sneaker still feels a bit too snug; and rubs on the scar. But maybe I’ll try a mini-ride to the drug store tomorrow. “Unseamed”, by the way, reminds me of Shakespeare. I don’t remember which play it is; but one character turns on another, “and unseamed him nave to chops”. For some reason, we kids got a kick out of that line. Once I see how I do with a very short ride, I’ll try going a bit farther. Depending on how well my foot tolerates pedaling, I might be able to ride to the salvage store Saturday! I can hang the panniers on the rack and go! The weather might not be the most conducive; there’s a slight chance of showers. Around here, “slight chance of showers” might mean a heavy downpour! But after all, what have I got a poncho for?   

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A Stitch in Time

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A Stitch in Time This blog/page may contain affiliate links. “We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.” A stitch in time may save nine; but now I’m looking forward to getting rid of stitches. Tomorrow I see the podiatrist to get my sutures out; and will I ever be glad when it’s done! Then the question will be, how soon may I ride? A hybrid, such as the Royce Union RMX, will better starting point than my road bike. My foot might remain swollen for a while — normal surgical insult; but very annoying. It might be a while before I can get that foot into a cycling shoe again! How to start back? Slowly; which is hard for me. I’ve always been in a hurry! In fact, the muscles of my left leg need a bit of time to readjust to normal walking. I’ve been shuffling around for nearly two weeks, unable to flex my big toe. As a result, I’m feeling the strain in my calf. Real walking can’t commence too soon, I say. I’m starting (again!) with food logging; and a prediabetes diet. When I’m back at regular riding, I ought to be good to go with my usual ride food. When I am actually doing a long ride! Some of those bars are good enough that I’m tempted to grab one anytime I want it. But most of them are high in carbs; and it’s better to save them for long rides when I need the energy. While I’m waiting for the green light to ride, I ought to set up my sewing machine to do some mending. After all a stitch in time saves nine! ABOUT ME I began this website primarily as a way to present the story of how I accomplished a century ride on an adult tricycle. Other riders of adult trikes might want to know whether it’s possible. It sure is! You can read all about it in My Story. I live in New Orleans; and  retired in January 2023. More time for cycling! Website designed by Cecile Levert © This website is the property of its author. DISCLAIMER I am not a cycling coach; nor a health professional. This site is based on my own experiences, opinions, etc. If you need help, please consult the appropriate professional.   FRESH FROM MY JOURNAL Lapiplasty Limp December 3, 2023 We Got It December 2, 2023 All or Nothing December 1, 2023 Another Step Forward November 30, 2023 Load More TRANSLATOR

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We Got It

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We Got It! This blog/page may contain affiliate links. “We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.” We got it overnight! There was heavy rain; and we had a power outage as well! I woke just before 4 am; heard it raining; and then a loud bang that wasn’t thunder. I flipped the bedroom light switch; and nothing happened. I guess a transformer blew. I’m glad I was’t out there riding! I’m also glad the outage didn’t occur while I was using the blender to whip up a post-ride smoothie! Or trying to cook something on the stove. I grew up with a gas range; and having an electric stove is a distinct disadvantage when the electricity goes out. I couldn’t heat anything for breakfast! I was about to make hot chocolate; and then had to say, no, I can’t; because the stove won’t work. I didn’t know how spoiled I was by having a GAS stove all these years! Even if I could ride, I think I would have skipped the trip to the salvage store this morning. Rain; lightning and thunder; and waiting for the power to come back on. We got it at last; but not until almost 11 am. It’s a good thing the weather wasn’t cold, or I might have been miserable. With electrical power restored, I got to work in the kitchen; although not with the The Feed Zone Cookbook. I’m busy thinking of ways to use up the stash of canned goods that I built up during the pandemic. That’s going to take quite a while! When my foot is restored, I first need to ease into cycling with regular, easy rides; and I hope it isn’t long before I can try some more intense work. But I’m afraid I might not be able to begin for a few more weeks. My foot is still too swollen for a sneaker; so forget cycling shoes! ABOUT ME I began this website primarily as a way to present the story of how I accomplished a century ride on an adult tricycle. Other riders of adult trikes might want to know whether it’s possible. It sure is! You can read all about it in My Story. I live in New Orleans; and  retired in January 2023. More time for cycling! Website designed by Cecile Levert © This website is the property of its author. DISCLAIMER I am not a cycling coach; nor a health professional. This site is based on my own experiences, opinions, etc. If you need help, please consult the appropriate professional.   FRESH FROM MY JOURNAL We Got It December 2, 2023 All or Nothing December 1, 2023 Another Step Forward November 30, 2023 The Sound of Music November 29, 2023 Load More TRANSLATOR

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The Sound of Music

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The Sound of Music This blog/page may contain affiliate links. “We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.” Do you love the sound of music? With these Bone Conduction Headphones it’s possible to enjoy listening while cycling; running; or even swimming! If I want music while out on a ride, I think the music in my head. Classical music can be very soft one moment; and very loud the next. Just listen to what happens at about 40 seconds into this! So I would have to constantly adjust the volume; and that’s a bother.  It also is something of a safety hazard, especially if I must ride near traffic. I know that some cyclists ride along with a boom box (or radio, or whatever it is) blaring. I don’t want to be that type; and so far, long rides without such accompaniment don’t bore me. But if I don’t ride to the sound of music, what do I ride with? If I’m doing any kind of work for improving strength or speed, I have to concentrate on the timing. My Garmin lets me time these intervals accurately; but I still have to focus on when to start the next hard effort. I don’t keep my eyes glued to the screen, of course — that would be asking for trouble! If I want the sound of music during indoor activities, e.g. cooking, these Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II could come in handy. They need to be used within 30 feet of the connected device; so they wouldn’t suffice for a long ride. Speaking of music, my ears are getting up an appetite for some Saint-Saëns! ABOUT ME I began this website primarily as a way to present the story of how I accomplished a century ride on an adult tricycle. Other riders of adult trikes might want to know whether it’s possible. It sure is! You can read all about it in My Story. I live in New Orleans; and  retired in January 2023. More time for cycling! Website designed by Cecile Levert © This website is the property of its author. DISCLAIMER I am not a cycling coach; nor a health professional. This site is based on my own experiences, opinions, etc. If you need help, please consult the appropriate professional.   FRESH FROM MY JOURNAL Like a Gnat November 28, 2023 Cycle Morocco November 27, 2023 Boa? November 26, 2023 Food Coma November 25, 2023 Load More TRANSLATOR

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Like a Gnat

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Like a Gnat! This blog/page may contain affiliate links. “We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.” Thoughts of RAGBRAI keep buzzing in my head like a gnat. Or swarming about like ants whose hill has been kicked over.  Could I ever get ready for this week-long, long-distance event? It sounds like a lot of fun; but let’s face it, at present I’m not in condition to ride an average of 60 miles a day, every day, for a week. I won’t be able to start cycling again for at least two weeks; and after several weeks’ hiatus, it isn’t wise for an amateur like me to plunge into 60-mile jaunts. If I do get the chance to tackle RAGBRAI, do I need a touring bicycle, such as the Windsor Tourist FB? Or will my trusty old road bike do? If any portions of the route are over gravel, can narrow road-bike tires manage the surface? I have zero experience riding gravel; and on a long tour far from home is no time to discover that I can’t do it! As to far from home, how will I get from New Orleans to Iowa? I’m a non-driver; and would need to find another RAGBRAI participant to share transportation. Or go by air; and those travel cases for bikes are not cheap! The more I think about this, the more things I think of; so it’s no wonder the entire idea is like a gnat. It won’t stop buzzing!   ABOUT ME I began this website primarily as a way to present the story of how I accomplished a century ride on an adult tricycle. Other riders of adult trikes might want to know whether it’s possible. It sure is! You can read all about it in My Story. I live in New Orleans; and  retired in January 2023. More time for cycling! Website designed by Cecile Levert © This website is the property of its author. DISCLAIMER I am not a cycling coach; nor a health professional. This site is based on my own experiences, opinions, etc. If you need help, please consult the appropriate professional.   FRESH FROM MY JOURNAL Like a Gnat November 28, 2023 Cycle Morocco November 27, 2023 Boa? November 26, 2023 Food Coma November 25, 2023 Load More TRANSLATOR

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Cycle Morocco

BACK ISSUES, bicycling /

Cycle Morocco To cycle Morocco sure would be something different! If you like great diversity within a bicycle tour, this tour of the  African nation includes sea coast; snowy mountain peaks; and more! You’ll start and finish in the capital city of Marrakech; and during the 14-day trek you’ll pass through several cities, including Tangier and Fes. Cool off in the Atlas Mountains; and feel the heat in the Sahara Desert. As of June 2026, Morocco carries a Level 2 travel advisory. I take it that means it’s OK to go there; but be extra careful. Oh, and if you undertake this tour, you’ll be supporting Education for All. Which bike is best for this cycle Morocco tour? That depends on your fitness level; and there are some long climbs. You can opt for an e-bike; and a support vehicle is available.  How to dress? Summers can get very hot; and Winters can be quite chilly. Depending on the season, you might need a jacket and leg warmers; or sun sleeves and leg sleeves. And, of course, lots of sunblock! This blog/page may contain affiliate links. “We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.” ABOUT ME © This website is the property of its author. DISCLAIMER I am not a cycling coach; nor a health professional. This site is based on my own experiences, opinions, etc. If you need help, please consult the appropriate professional. FRESH FROM MY JOURNAL ✍🏻 Facebook Twitter Youtube INTERPRETER

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Boa?

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Boa This blog/page may contain affiliate links. “We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.” Boa? Why am I thinking about snakes, let alone blogging about them? The very thought of those critters gives some people the big-time creeps! I’m not fond of them, myself; but as long as I can see that a snake is non-venomous; and not a huge python; I can tolerate its presence.   Maybe it’s because I was thinking about these Giro Gauge Boa MTB shoes. I don’t know why they’re named for a snake, unless the closure has something to do with it. Maybe it squeezes your foot, like a boa constrictor! And why am I musing about shoes of any kind? Wishful thinking, I suppose. I’m not ready to try cycling yet; and I didn’t get a KneeRover. Come to think of it, those things might be difficult to maneuver indoors, anyway. I sure miss pedaling along, munching on bites of FitCrunch Bar as I go. The temperature is in the upper 60s; and it’s overcast, but not raining. Wind under 10 mph, too. That’s just about perfect for a good, long ride! I don’t have the sun in my eyes; and it isn’t either too hot, or too cold. I don’t get my stitches out for almost two weeks; and until then, I should avoid putting stress on that foot. Time for a hurt-foot video! ABOUT ME I began this website primarily as a way to present the story of how I accomplished a century ride on an adult tricycle. Other riders of adult trikes might want to know whether it’s possible. It sure is! You can read all about it in My Story. I live in New Orleans; and  retired in January 2023. More time for cycling! Website designed by Cecile Levert © This website is the property of its author. DISCLAIMER I am not a cycling coach; nor a health professional. This site is based on my own experiences, opinions, etc. If you need help, please consult the appropriate professional.   FRESH FROM MY JOURNAL Boa? November 26, 2023 Food Coma November 25, 2023 Happy Turkey Day! November 23, 2023 Limperator? November 22, 2023 Load More TRANSLATOR

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Happy Turkey Day!

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Happy Turkey Day! This blog/page may contain affiliate links. “We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.” Happy Turkey Day! I’d probably be out there now enjoying a bicycle ride if not for yesterday’s procedure. It’s chilly and gray; but with leg warmers and other cold-weather gear I think I’d be comfortable on the bike — except, of course, for my nose! I have family here for a few days; and we’re going to roast some Cornish game hens for our dinner. Not that I can help much; it’s OK for me to walk around indoors, but I need to avoid being on that foot for prolonged periods. And needless to say, I don’t need to have anyone accidentally step on that foot! Prior to surgery, I looked for videos about non-weight bearing exercises, and found this one that I think I can use. I tried a few of those moves today. They’ll be OK, I think. But no substitute for actually being on the bike! I’m already thinking of my first ride when my foot is healed. Probably to the park for a gentle lap or two. I won’t be up to any hard riding for a while. Meanwhile, Happy Turkey Day everybody! ABOUT ME I began this website primarily as a way to present the story of how I accomplished a century ride on an adult tricycle. Other riders of adult trikes might want to know whether it’s possible. It sure is! You can read all about it in My Story. I live in New Orleans; and  retired in January 2023. More time for cycling! Website designed by Cecile Levert © This website is the property of its author. DISCLAIMER I am not a cycling coach; nor a health professional. This site is based on my own experiences, opinions, etc. If you need help, please consult the appropriate professional.   FRESH FROM MY JOURNAL Happy Turkey Day! November 23, 2023 Limperator? November 22, 2023 Uncertainty November 21, 2023 Last Ride? November 20, 2023 Load More TRANSLATOR

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Limperator?

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Limperator? This blog/page may contain affiliate links. “We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.” Limperator, as the story goes, was the nickname that harbor pilots in New York gave to the German ocean liner SS Imperator. This ship was top-heavy and prone to listing; and that’s what I’m doing now — listing. This morning I had the lapiplasty; and as a result, I’m limping around. I’ve got a kind of special shoe on the foot; and I’m trying to keep from putting too much weight on it. Just call me Limperator! I’m also trying to ice it for 15-20 minutes once an hour. The clinic gave me a cold pack; so at least I don’t have to go buy any. At the moment it’s in the freezer, getting “recharged”. Now comes the frustrating wait until I can go cycling again. It might be a few weeks.?; and I suspect that cycling shoes will be too painful for some time. It can take a long time to get back to normal after any surgery; and if this had been only a bunion, I think I would  have let it go. But the bone spurs were causing problems; and I knew they had to go. I’m glad I’ve gotten the procedure over with; and I hope I’m done with surgeries for a while. Like any cycling enthusiast, I don’t enjoy being off the bike; but to ride, I need both hands and both feet to be in proper working order. I had hand surgery this past January; and now I’ve had a foot worked on. That’s enough to last me for years! And when I can ride again? Start slow and steady; and keep it short. Avoid climbing for a while; so I’ll have to stay off the levee. I can’t be sure at this point; but I should be able to ride again by Christmas. I’m looking forward to that! ABOUT ME I began this website primarily as a way to present the story of how I accomplished a century ride on an adult tricycle. Other riders of adult trikes might want to know whether it’s possible. It sure is! You can read all about it in My Story. I live in New Orleans; and  retired in January 2023. More time for cycling! Website designed by Cecile Levert © This website is the property of its author. DISCLAIMER I am not a cycling coach; nor a health professional. This site is based on my own experiences, opinions, etc. If you need help, please consult the appropriate professional.   FRESH FROM MY JOURNAL Food Coma November 25, 2023 Happy Turkey Day! November 23, 2023 Limperator? November 22, 2023 Uncertainty November 21, 2023 Load More TRANSLATOR

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