Day 12: First Post-Covid Ride
- oliviaray6
- Jun 17, 2022
- 2 min read
June 17, 2022 in Springfield, Kentucky
One benefit about sleeping around a few very loud people is that they will make sure you're completely awake before 4:15 alarms, so I was able to pack up and roll out right on time.
I decided to set a goal for myself of making it to our first of two stops, about 32 miles into the day.
This ride was certainly harder than a ride of the same capacity pre-covid. The flats felt pretty good, although my legs ached badly the whole time. The hills, however, were kind of torture. I was having a terrible time breathing and keeping up my pace, and there were a couple hills I had to walk, which has never happened to me before.
Despite the hard parts, I did end up meeting my goal and getting to first stop. After 32 miles on my very first ride after Covid, however, I decided to call it a day.
My favorite part of the ride was this absolutely beautiful side road lined with tall trees. It was long and windy, but with rolling hills we absolutely flew over. Even better, it was right before our stop, so it was an awesome ending!
I'm inclined to feel disappointed no matter how hard I tried if I'm not able to finish a ride. I did my best to lean on my people and remind myself that 32 miles right after Covid is actually pretty awesome.
In the van on the way to the host, we were even able to stop and get ice cream! I also made a butterfly friend.
At the host I took a lovely nap before pizza dinner and an evening walking around the town with friends. And my favorite part of all, I got to call Jonathan, Mom and Dad, Jack, and Nani and Buckie.
Off to bed for me for another 4:30 wakeup!
From the perspective of most people, it’s sorta funny saying you “only went 32 miles your first ride after COVID.” “Only?” Remember that what you are attempting is rather wild and extreme, and every mile is impressive. Not the stuff of common mortals. So, just do the best you can and improve just a bit each day. Set manageable goals, and remember it’s not the destination but the journey that’s important. Even with the rather unimaginable challenges thus far (knee surgery, COVID, a continent to bike across, etc), you’re still standing.
Awesome, Livvy! You set your goal, you met your goal, and you have a beautiful smile on your face. So, so good! ❤️
Wow that’s great livvy, that you made it that far on your first ride after Covid. It’s so very beautiful. You should do a epson salts bath it would make your legs feel so much better & your body. I’m glad you made your goal today. We’re so proud of you for continuing your journey with bike n build. You definately get to eat a lot of ice cream I love ice cream!!!! ❤️❤️