Today I went on my first solo ride. Two and 1/2 months after I started riding and about 1800 miles later, I went out on my own. The hubby has always stated that I needed about 10,000 miles under my belt before I could go out on my own. But... today he said he was just throwing a big number out there and that I was plenty good enough to go out by myself. :) That was a nice feeling to have my protective husband feel confident enough in my abilities to "let me go" (in every sense of the phrase). Also, I have been bugging bugging bugging him about going for rides because I want to ride about 5 days a week (or more). The more experience the better... plus I love it love it love it...so I want to ride ride ride. But he swears this had nothing to do with him encouraging me to go out on my own. ok... now for a few details...

I tentatively warmed up my bike (wow, my bike sounds loud when I'm all by myself). I took off down the driveway and rode through the neighborhood for a few warm-up laps (but, I totally gave myself permission to just ride through the neighborhood if that's what I needed to do). But, after a few squirrels came within centimeters of my tires, wet leaves and pine needles, neighbors backing up trailers into their driveway... I thought, "geeshh... I'm more nervous riding through my neighborhood than riding on the street." So, off I went... first I thought I would just ride to the corner store...nope...I saw it and decided, "hmm...need to ride more..." and so passed it. I rode down to the grocery store. The streets to the store have some fun curves, a little bit of traffic and a nice stretch where you can go 55-60mph. I was surprised at how comfortable I felt riding by myself. I was very attentive to both road conditions and traffic...riding around road crap and slowing down at intersections (& covering my brakes). At the store, I felt so proud to be "the rider" the "solo rider." I did it. :) I was so proud of myself. :) I bought a bag of halloween candy to be consumed by both of us, called the man and left a message (I'm at the store -all is well), and went home.

I have a deep grin from the deepest part of my being to the content grin on my face. This little ride was my most satisfying ride yet.