Sometimes it's really hard to remember that those in the Midwest and on the East coast are struggling with 18 inches of snow daily. Based on yesterday's ride around the Great Western Loop and today's run on the beach life is grand.
January days end relatively early. After getting a good dose of fresh air I am happy to curl up with a good book.
That is after I have checked Facebook 20 times and read every body's blog 5 times. One of my many goals for the year is to waste less time so I have more time to read books. Lately I have read some good ones.
Every dog lover will enjoy this book. "Enzo" the dog absolutely stole my heart. Those of us who truly are "racers" or have a passion for something often are not understood by others. Sometimes we don't quite understand ourselves. Enzo gets it and can even put it into words. It's just a book and Enzo's just a made up dog, but Enzo will have a place in my heart forever.
Most triathlon books have given me a better understanding and respect of physiological and mechanical aspects of sport. That's great but I always wonder what goes on in the head of true champions. This book clearly demonstrates the what great things can be accomplished when the body and mind work together. It's not a "heavy book". In fact just the opposite, you really feel the lightness of Madonna Buder's persona and her relentless energy.
This is a great book on mountain biking. Of all the books I have read on running, skiing, or triathlon this book is the most helpful. I know you can't just read a book about mountain biking and ride like a champion. I think it would have helped me to read it before I began my off road adventures or at least before the first time I rode Noble Canyon. There is solid advise for about any situation. Recalling this books tips and being confident in execution makes a huge difference. Instead of listening to your riding partners or spouse say "FAIL" as you push your bike around the technical section you will smile graciously/smugly when s/he asks you how you did it and say "It's easy, Ned says ....".
In addition to advise on riding I have read the importance of understanding your mountain bike from a mechanical perspective. I have read and believe to be true that every mountain biker should be competent in removing a link from a chain and changing a derailleur hanger.
I confess I probably wouldn't be so interested in learning those mechanical skills if my multi tool wasn't the most fashionable multi tool ever. It's got to be on par with a Coach handbag or a pair of Jimmy Choos. In the event that I don't master all of it's functions at least I'll look sharp.
