Dawn Patrol. Double Thumbs Up.

My alarm startled me this morning, it rang earlier than normal.  It took me a moment to realize why I was getting up so early.  Then I remembered… DAWN PATROL.  Last winter, early morning skate skiing adventures were not uncommon – this year, not so much.  My cyclocross season didn’t come to a close until the first week of January and the snow has been less than stellar.  The idea of getting up early to brave the dark and cold is daunting, especially when you don’t know about the snow conditions; but after reading the Meissner Nordic Facebook Page last night, I was determined to make a go of it. 

Happy Birthday Dear Sweet Sister of Mine

Thirty-one years today, during half time of the SuperBowl, the whole world changed; for the better.  It had nothing to do with the half-time show or who won the game.  During half-time of SuperBowl XXV, my little sister was born, Kacy Ann Elizabeth Bishop.

Gratitude + Cyclocross Nationals

Nationals were..... a roller coaster.  The thing with cyclocross is that you never know what is going to happen.  You have to celebrate the ups and learn from the downs - and keep on smiling!

My first race, Masters 30-34, my derailleur exploded right after the pit and I had to run way too far to get another bike.  The mud was like peanut butter and it paralyzed my pulleys and ripped off my derailleur.  I was heart broken. For the previous 13 months, I had trained specifically for that race.  I wanted to be on the podium.  I could have been on the podium, but I didn't switch bikes when I had the chance (mostly because I am stubborn and like riding my "A" bike better) and as a result, I crossed the finish line, holding back tears.  But, that's cross and I love this sport... so I wiped away the sadness and got ready to help my teammates and prepare for my second race.

Cyclocross Nationals: Madison is just 2 weeks away.

It is hard to believe I will be in Wisconsin in just 2 weeks, preparing for Cyclocross Nationals.  Last year at this time, cross season was over for me. I was baking sweets, drinking wine, and skiing.

This year is different.  I am still riding my bike.  The weather has been fine.  Blue bird skies and mild temperatures have made training outdoors very enjoyable and daily doubles have been the only thing forcing me to ride the trainer now and again.  And there isn't much snow, so I haven't been tempted to head up to Meissner for a dawn-patrol skate session. Ben has been incredibly supportive my extended season, but I know he is looking forward to a Saturday that doesn't include me bundling up and heading out for a ride.

The weather in Madison has been equally as mild, but it looks as though a cold front is on its way and temperature could drop.  We'll just have to wait and see.

Why We Race. USGP Bend.

Photo: Matthew Lasala

There are races to celebrate because you rode your best, everything went according the plan, and your hard work paid off. You crossed the line thrilled, smiling, speechless.

On a Mission

On Monday, The Bend Bulletin published this article, written by Laura Winberry, a spirited soul who loves to ride bikes.  She gets it. Rereading the article, and I started to tear up. Talk about motivation.  I am going to carry a copy in my race bag and read it before each race.... if these words don't touch my heart and ring true to my spirit, I don't know what would.  Burning legs, fighting heart!  Here's to the rest of the season!
Former runner now top cyclist; Bend's Serena Bishop Gordon is one of the top cyclocross competitors  
By Laura Winberry / For The Bulletin

Serena Bishop Gordon stands with her cyclocross bike in the Old Mill District in Bend Sunday morning.

Photo: Andy Tullis / The Bulletin

Lentils With Sweet Potatoes and Swiss Chard

Delicious, easy, and perfect for sharing with friends, this is a hearty dish that pairs well with cornbread muffins, green salad and your choice of red wine.