January 21

Yes. Finally a new president. Went ski racing today. Every time I race, I imagine a bike race. I am skiing my way back into shape. I know I am getting in shape because man oh man it is hard. I got all the ingredients though: competition, skis, snow, competition, competition, and support. Sometimes it is hard because there is really no one I know really closely who has been through the same thing. Yet there is always the feeling of the whole bike community. I can't help but think we are all in it together, and I just drew the short stick. I hope no one else ends up it like I did. It is too hard for anyone to have to go through. I can handle it though because I get a lot of help.
Rose

Update: January 7th

Hello all,
I Hope the New Year has found you well. I am determined to get back to racing now, no matter how hard it is. I kind of forgot that feeling of stepping off the pavement onto your pedals. It is kind of like flying. I went to Florida and as anxious as I was to ski, I was even more eager to ride my bike. Man, and as sweet as riding is racing is where it's at. I used to not even understand people who didn't race. It is nice to take a step back but right now I am going to concentrate on getting better at biking fast. Cheers,
Rose

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11-16

Wow it has been so long. I don't know how all those internet bloggers update daily. There is so much more life to be lived. Speaking of living life, I rode rollers today. Although this sounds dismal, it was a skill which I had to re-conquer to convince myself I am recovering. I did it no handed (Look ma, no hands!) and yes, I rode 'em no handed one footed. yeah! To those who have not heard of rollers, they are device used to ride indoors which requires balance and suppleness (www.kreitler.com).
Now, I return to the fifty-something page grant proposal I am reading.
Best,
Rose

11-4

Election Day. I ddin't vote today; I voted absentee last week don't worry. I think this will be the highest turnout election I've ever seen. We will see though.
On another note, I got temporary lower teeth yesterday. They are a little uncomfortable so I cannot wear them for more than an hour. I think I will have them fixed considering the cost and the fact that I will be wearing them until I get implants (which is in forever). I can now eat a banana without breaking it into little bite size pieces. It is nice to have a full smile again.
On another note, I started a job yesterday. It really is exhausting so I am taking tomorrow off (and I have two appointments). I am working in a lab part time at UVM. I am so happy to regain more independence by making a little money.
Free ice cream today at Ben and Jerry's. Don't mind if I do...
Rose

10-27

My lack of activity on the blog is the best testament to my recovery. I have been going out on short rides and doing a zillion situps to get my strength back. I spend less time sitting at the house (read: at the computer) and more time outside. I went home last weekend to an amazing Kingdom Trails benefit. Slim rode plenty of the trails and I spent some time working at my house. I like how when you go to the Kingdom, nothing is a big deal. Nothing. It is counter-intuitive because there isn't a ton going on, but really, people over there don't get riled up very easy.
As far as my mouth goes, I learned today it is going to take a loong time. A wicked long time. Like 18 months. Holy cow. That is almost too long to write. I am doing willpower exercises to see if my teeth will grow back on their own.
Enjoy the weather and don't forget to vote.
Rose
Snow is coming!!!