Reflecting on the past year, I would describe 2023 as a “Year of Firsts.” Mostly related to my hobbies, there were things I tried or achieved for the first time. Whether they were bike riding events, traveling to new locations, or just trying new eateries (like a revolving sushi restaurant), I am glad to have experienced these things.
As much as I love bicycle riding, I wasn't looking forward to a 46-mile ride that my husband and I signed up for over the summer. The distance, while it would be the farthest ride to date, didn't bother me, but the idea of climbing hills did. Dreading the four climbs on the route wasn't helpful, so I thought of ways to prepare for this ride and improve my outlook.
My second year accomplishing the Tour de Donut is in the books! In 2022, my husband and I learned about the unique Troy, Ohio ride at the last minute and signed up two days before the event. Coined as the "sweetest ride in Ohio," the Tour de Donut is a fun challenge with donut stops along routes that range from 9 miles to 58.5 miles. You get five minutes deducted from your ride time for each donut you eat.
I’m not one who puts a lot of effort into styling my own hair. I usually get haircuts that are low maintenance because I don’t like spending a lot of time getting ready in the morning. And for as long as I can remember, I convinced myself that I lacked the ability and creativity to do my own hair.
Commonly referred to as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster,” the Grouse Grind is a very challenging trail that is 2.9 km (1.8 mi) in length with 2,830 steps gaining 853 metres (2,800 feet) in elevation. For safety reasons, downhill travel is prohibited (meaning be prepared to finish if you start it).