“When you start looking for people who cast the same reflection as you, then there is no growth; you just love your own reflection even more, and that’s just not the point.” I thought about this quote, pondered, actually, how have I applied this to various aspects in my life, albeit positive or negative. Then my husband walked in, “Hey, I just talked to So-and-So at the Y, and she says you need to come ride with them.” So, I looked in the mirror and said to myself, “You can’t do this,” this after a dozen thoughts of “why I’m not ready to ride again” crossed my mind. I don’t want to love this reflection; there is no growth here. “I’m going,” I said, and accepted Paul’s “(re) Intro to Group Cycling” invitation on Facebook.

That morning, I rode my bike six miles to the start point; they wore jerseys, helmets, cycling tights, aww…nice bikes, I thought. “Hmmm, they look pretty professional. As a community of intro bikers go, I don’t stand out too badly, let’s do this thing!” I was pumped. This was a month ago, and I’m still at it!

Nona Cycle has two teams: Group A, “the A-Team.” Who doesn’t love the A-Team? These guys and gals fly right past me and often. And then there is Group B: Here’s the skinny with Group B – they are often ahead of me, too, a few lengths, a few football field lengths – they are an “A-Team,” too, but you know what? I’m still biking with a smile because I am lovin’ it! I’m building endurance, strength, stamina, confidence, but most importantly, I’m building friendships, and this is growth, and that is the point!

Nona Cycles “(re) Intro to Group Cycling” meets at 8:30 on the first Saturday morning of each month. Meet Paul and the gang at the Canvas Restaurant & Market in Laureate Park. The (re) Intro is perfect whether you are a novice to group cycling, you just haven’t cycled in a while, or you are a newbie to the whole cycling scene – this ride is for you! And in under two hours, you will have gotten your feet wet and/or have broken a sweat. And Nona Cycle has this “really care” philosophy – “no Rider left behind”… as I gesture and say, “Go, go, I’m fine, I’ll catch up!” The Nona Cycle Weekly Signature Ride meets at 7:30 on Sunday mornings for those who are fused to their bikes. Keep smiling! You know what I’m talking about when you and your bike become one lean, mean machine, and if you can keep up, there is still time enough for you to make your 11 a.m. church services! So, if you are ready to cast a new reflection and are looking for growth, then I sure hope to see you at the Canvas Restaurant & Market in Laureate Park this weekend!

“Who’s new?” As hands are raised, “Welcome everybody!” … “Saddle up!”