Steady miles and spreading the love.

Despite the predicted snow this past weekend, G and I manged to get 5 1/2 hours of road riding in.  Saturday was a chilly start and we even saw some snow flurries!  Once we got moving, we warmed up and were able to get in just over 33 steady miles.  

On Sunday, I was invited to join some fellow mountain bike racers for a group road ride.  It was so awesome to have the invite and it made me feel really great to have this particular group even think of including me.  I had to graciously decline as I am not feeling quite ready for a ride at a group pace.  I'll get there, but it is so important for me to take it slow right now.  I still got out there on Sunday and finished another 37 miles with my guy.  He is so encouraging and helps me in more ways then he even knows.  I could not ask for a better training partner.   

I felt really great both days.  I was a little more comfortable and steadier on the Sunday ride.  My legs felt strong.  My heart rate was steady and my lungs felt clear.  This is all very promising that I will be back up to speed in no time.  As much as I miss riding my bike in the woods,  being out there on the open road made my head clearer than it has been in weeks. 

My arm felt alright....Not great,  but not horrible.  I need to build my strength up in my arms again so I can lean over on the handle bars for long distances. I am still in physical therapy and it seems to be helping my arm cording a lot.  I wear a compression sleeve while I'm riding.  According to my therapist, I show no signs of lymphedema but she suggests that I wear the sleeve during strenuous exercise or heavy lifting. I am not sure I completely believe that it will prevent me from getting lymphedema but as long as it's not hurting me, why not?! 

I have a busy week ahead.  It seems like my cancer treatment/follow up care is still a full time job.  I already had P/T today and will have my second session on Thursday.  Tomorrow morning I have to head back to the dentist to have my second filling replaced since I ended treatment.  I have read of some patients having horrible teeth problems post treatment.  I just didn't expect it so soon!  Actually my teeth and gum's looks great so it could just be a coincidence that two fillings broke within two weeks....I go straight from the dentist to my  6 week follow up with my radiation oncologist.  Hard to believe I have been finished radiation for 6 weeks already!  My skin looks good and I feel good so I don't anticipate this being a long appointment. 

For the most part, life is coming back to a sense of normalcy for me.  I still have moments of What the hell happened to me?!  but  I am sure I always will.  It will hopefully fade away with time.

It is Valentines Day and at the risk of sounding totally corny- I am so grateful for all the love in my life.  Family, friends and of course my guy.  I could never have done this without all of you.  I am a lucky woman.


Happy Valentines Day to all of you! 

♥