Ready, Set, Ride!

I woke up yesterday morning resolved to overcome my fear of riding the bicycle. I told my family and friends my plans. I wrote about it on my blog. I made my resolution public because I wanted the avoid the possibility of giving up and not trying. If I didn't attempt to conquer my fear, I knew that I was going to have to write about my failure in my blog, or lie and tell everybody that I was successful. I vowed to never lie in my blog so I knew lying was not a viable option.

As the day went on, my nerves started to increase. Logically I knew that I had built up the fear to a paralyzing level. I also knew that it was something that I needed to accomplish for myself.

My Mom called several times to see if I had ridden yet. My mother-in-law asked if I was successful. My sister called to tell me that she was proud of me. These calls all occurred before I even attempted to ride. I knew with all of the support I received, I had no choice but to try.

Scott disconnected my bike from the trainer stand. He pumped the tires with air and found my helmet. In the meantime, I went through my purse and found my medical insurance card. I put $20 in my pocket for the hospital co-pay. I called my Mom for a last minute pep talk, and I went outside.

Robby was eager to get on his bicycle next to Mommy. Seeing him standing next to me, wearing his helmet and a huge smile, provided me with the motivation I needed. I looked into that sweet little face, and I knew I had to try. He was so excited to go on a bike ride with Mommy; I just couldn't let him down.

After last minute jitters and some anxious moments as I tried to adjust myself on the bicycle, I started to pedal. To say I was cautious would be an understatement. Scared stiff would be a more apt description. I rode to the end of the driveway, but I felt like I had just won a stage in the Tour de France.

I rode in the driveway with Robby for a few minutes. Then I knew it was time for the next step. Riding my bike in the driveway was one thing, but riding on the neighborhood roads would be another challenge.

Scott and Robby got into the "team car" and drove behind me as I cruised through the neighborhood. It was invigorating feeling the breeze through my hair as I rode. Turns and corners still cause me anxiety but I'm sure that will subside with time.

I am proud to report that I overcame my fear by riding my bicycle outside. I am going to continue riding my bike through the neighborhood. I'm sure that I will still be nervous, but I won't be terrified. I know that the fear will lessen with each ride until it is a memory. However, I will continue to keep my insurance card and co-pay in my pocket.