I woke around 7:30am this morning. Somehow the low 80’s temp felt cool. I’ve been doing LOTS of physical labor throughout these 100 degree days in central Texas. Water seems to sweat right out as soon as I drink it. BUT, I’m becoming very tolerant to the heat once more. When you’re used to 100, 83 does indeed feel pretty cool. So cool in fact, that I was inspired to hit the trail with Big Tex (bike) and Ladybird (pooch). We quickly packed up and headed off for the 360 trailhead before the mercury climbed back to 100. It’s been about 2 weeks since I’ve got to mountain bike and it was just an absolute blast.

After clearing the middle grounds and riding past an empty twin falls, we decided to hop on Rudy’s loop. The heat of the day was starting to show itself by the time we ascended to the top. On the way down, I spooked a doe and nearly slammed her at a pretty good clip. It’s the closest I’ve ever come to hitting a deer, but a good grip of the brakes avoided catastrophe and we made it back down to the main trail safely. At the bottom of the hill of life was enough water for the dog to get a good sip and cool off in.

Having felt Ladybird was refreshed, we took off for the ultimate Greenbelt achievement, something I can’t remember the last time I attempted: climbing the Hill of Life without stopping. I hadn’t attempted this in a while because I’m usually on a a Singlespeed and just don’t have the gears or legs needed to crest this very steep and technical climb. Today I had 27 gears and 100mm of suspension front and rear with the biggest nobbiest tires I own. I didn’t know if I had the fitness, but I was going to find out. I actually only dabbed once on the toughest ledge to clear, but still felt very proud upon reaching the top.

I dusted the dog on the way back down and we made our way back to the car. I probably pushed her a little too hard since she was gasping horribly for air, but the Max A/C along with more water to her back got her feeling better just in time for breakfast at Maria’s taco express. Three migas tacos and I was set for the rest of the day. I still think I’ll be doing some sort of racing come fall, but right now, I’m just riding for the fun of it, which is the best kind of riding there is. Maybe the kindle can wait til daily highs get back below 90 degrees

If you haven’t seen the update on Paleo Diet and Living yet, the big news of the day is that an interview by Paleo Cookbooks has been published with me as the featured guest. It’s an easy and informative read about how the paleo diet has helped me as an athlete. Check it out when you get a moment.

Caveman