Missing Indy

It's been a rough couple weeks.  We had to put my best buddy down last Friday.

I picked him up from the Fulton County shelter 10 years ago.  He was 3 or 4 years old and a mess. After his burns healed and he went through treatment for heartworms, he was a goofy and extremely kind dog.

He was the happiest dog and full of joy and love.

Indy was my running, hiking and paddling partner.

I know many of you remember him running the cyclocross course and hanging out at registration.

Joining us at an outside cafe.

Hiking

 MTB racing

 Working on trail

Always with the boys

 Happy to be reunited after riding TNGA

 After leg surgery.

 Allergic to grass but didn't care

 Always beyond excited to hit the trail with the family

 Accustomed to traveling with bikes

   
Unfortunately dementia reared it ugly head and his back was tired and painful and his sight and hearing was all but gone.  It was time.

Thanks for the unconditional love, forever positive attitude and amazing memories, Indy.  Miss you so much.

NOW Who Needs the Snickers?

Shey and I drove to Augusta for a long ride this past weekend.  

I met up with Elizabeth and agreed to ride as much as she needed to for the day.

The weather was perfect.  Overcast and burning off into a lovely sunny day.  Not too hot.

History:  I met Elizabeth back when she was in High School.   She showed up, very nervous, with her brother, at one of our cyclocross races.  I talked her into doing the race, she had fun and she just kept racing.  She got faster and faster every year.  We have been riding together for close to 10 years now.  Hmmm, we might have to celebrate that with cheesecake or something!

 I used to talk Elizabeth into riding longer with me by bringing along snack sized snickers in my pack.  When she was 'done', I would tell her I had a snickers waiting for her at the top of the climb.

  

It always worked, but this day I needed some chocolate/fitness/nutrition/legs/lungs, for sure!  She schooled me completely.

                                       

Though I ALWAYS have fun on our rides.  I was slow.  My legs just wouldn't get peppy.  Looks like I have some work to do before our next ride.

 Great time and I was happy to be out there!  Thanks E!!!

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