I was riding my bike yesterday from Swan Valley to Victor to Jackson to Hoback Jct. then reverse. 123 miles. Climbed 4 passes. I concluded that it isn't the acutal summit itself that changes who we are, but the pains that go into getting there. That is where the charater is formed. I also had this thought that much of what I've done these past several years has been long, difficult and stupid! This bike ride and the lotoja for which I'm training is really no exception. Lotoja may be the culminating event of long, difficult and at times, stupid.

It's been a rough 2 + years. I feel like I've reached another summit it my life, though. It's been a different kind of summit, but like all summits, the trek to it has changed me. I like how it's changed me.

I'm forever grateful for the love and support of family and friends who have been my aid stations.