Indie

26
Apr
2010

It was the proudest cycling moment I’ve ever had,
and it didn’t even involve my bike.
The day was April 22, 2010…
the moment you became a cyclist.

You are only 4 years old,
and already part of a magnificent community.
A population of riders who’s lives are better,
because they ride a bike

Is this the start of a Tour de France champion,
a car-less commuter,
or recreational mountain biker?
Whether you keep with cycling or not,
you know I’ll Love you just the same.

As you sat on the bike saying, “I can do it”,
I just knew that you would soar.
I am so excited for you,
and as I sit here looking at the photos and videos…
I can’t help but let a tear roll down.

My little boy is riding a bike.
Freedom, Fitness, and Fascination await.
I am so incredibly proud of you, Indie.
I Love You so very much.

Enjoy Your Ride

Tags:

Pin It
  • http://taiwanincycles.blogspot.com/ Andrew

    That is so cool!

    I remember my first time riding a bike with and without training wheels. It was a yellow bike from the neighbors. I even remember my PlaySkool Tyke Bike with the mini-ape hangers, plastic fox tails, and wooden seat with leopard spots painted on.

    This is a big day.

  • VitaminLee

    This is so sweet D – a totally awesome moment. I’ll remind you of it when you’re 80. Just can’t wrap my brain around Indie being 4 already.

  • http://welldressedcyclist.blogspot.com/ AmieReilly

    This is lovely. Congrats to you both.

    • http://www.lovingthebike.com Darryl

      Thank you Amie. We appreciate it.

  • Anita

    Wonderful words portraying a physical and emotional moment! Thank you so much for sharing it. Allez Indie! Chapeau!

    • http://www.lovingthebike.com Darryl

      What kind words…..Thank You Anita.

  • http://www.myrnacgmibus.blogspot.com Myrna CG Mibus

    A lovely poem for a lovely moment in time. Brings tears to my eyes remembering Rose and Ryan’s first rides and because you shared your moment in time with us. Thank you.

    • http://www.lovingthebike.com Darryl

      Thanks Myrna,

      It is a very big thing in a child’s life to learn to ride a bike….and also a huge one for the parents. When the parent is a cyclist it’s even bigger. I’m still so excited and proud of him.

      Thanks again for leaving your comments.

Blog Sponsors


ClifBar
Get Your LTB On

Blog Partners

Cycling 360 Podcast

bicycleradio
BicycleRadio.com
Listen to bikeschool on Bicycle Radio


Popular Threads

Causes

Be Kind To Cyclists

People for Bikes

World Bicycle Relief

Join Team LIVESTRONG with me and fight cancer!



What’s the best fuel for an early morning ride?

Question: Out of habit, I’ve always eaten cereal (granola) before my morning ride.  For the last several weeks, I’ve been riding at 6am to avoid the heat, and eating at 5:30 am.  I haven’t had any stomach issues, but I am not sure that this is the best pre-ride meal strategy. My legs have felt heavy since starting to ride earlier.  My rides are 1.5-2 hours.  Should I eat less, something different, or nothing at all?  What do you think?

Kelli’s Answer: I think your pre-ride fuel strategy can be improved.  The issue with eating a moderately high fiber breakfast within 30 minutes of beginning a ride is that it will likely take too long to digest, absorb, and metabolize to provide any energy to your muscles at all.  And, what’s more, if the meal is setting in your stomach, you are increasing your risk of stomach cramps (but it sounds like you’ve been okay here) and a reduced bloodflow to your legs since your body is working at digesting.

Although many athletes feel like they need a full breakfast before a morning ride, I think you’ll have better result with less food, and ones that you can eat quickly and metabolize faster.

My first choice would be 2 Tablespoons organic honey + 0.5 – 1 Tbsp organic coconut oil (all straight off the spoon).  Why? These are fast-acting, quick-metabolizing energy foods.  The honey provides moderately fast carbs that act similarly to maltodextrin (moderately fast and longer lasting than glucose), natural enzymes to improve digestion, and antioxidants.  The organic coconut oil provides fast-acting medium chain triglycerides which are used directly by the mitochondria of cells (energy producers) without the need for bile or slow digestion.

Another option would be a sports food with a moderate amount of protein – something like a Clif bar. Or, a smoothie with 1/4 cup yogurt, 1/2 banana, 1 Tbsp honey, and water.  These foods will also digest quickly and provide energy during your ride.

And, don’t forget about 8 oz. of fluid.

During your ride, especially if high intensity and over 60 minutes, or moderate intensity and over 90 minutes, you’ll still need during-ride fuel as well.  With all rides in heat, you’ll want fluids and lytes!

Please send us your questions for our Expert Sports Nutritionist, Kelli Jennings to “Ask the Sports Nutritionist“. Kelli Jennings is a Registered Dietitian with a passion for healthy eating, wellness, & sports nutrition. For more information go to www.apexnutritionllc.com.
Nutrition Tips