Reflections on the past week:
I am really ramping it up for Ironman.
This week, since David and the kids were gone, I really poured it on to build up as much base training as I can while I have the time and flexibility in my schedule.

The day they left, I did a 74 mile ride that was pure hell the last 25 miles. It was too hot, too late in the day, my fitness wasn't there, and I didn't know what to do about the heat.

I rode 5 more times in the week that followed (this past week) shorter distances, but meaningful rides, some of them fast group rides.

Today, I drove up to the site of the Ironman race and rode 93 miles of the 112 mile course. And I did it in almost the same amount of time as that terrible 74-miler last week.

Every workout I've had this week has felt GREAT! I am in the best shape of my life. I have 2.5 months left, and I am going to be SO READY.

I love training with these new friends I have met. I am developing a new love of cycling, as my handling skills improve and I'm not afraid anymore of shifting, cornering, riding in groups, etc.

I topped out at 19 hours of workouts this week, including the 5 hour and 22 minute ride today. And I've never felt better! Surprisingly, I'm not even that hungry. I think it's the heat. I eat when I'm hungry, but I'm just not as hungry as I have been, even earlier this year.