The trail a round the lake is about 12 miles, flat, mostly single track, with a few on road sections and a nasty path through the blackberry bushes down by the shore. Shortly after these pictures were taken I found myself wrestling with the thorny bracken. I lost. Rode up a banked corner and BAM my bike and I were splayed across the trail. Flat tire. Very flat.

I can do this. I'm prepared! I've been practicing changing flats on my own - with out my trusty coach/husband to help. Wheel off, tube stripped, new one ready to go, pump in hand. I bet I can do this fast! Ahhh. Huh?!!?! How the heck does this flipping mini pump work?? I've never used this one!!! Struggle, struggle, give up. Give up????

Well, yes, I did. I'll admit it -- I tried not to lose my shit. I picked myself up and all my crap and started walking. I didn't get too far when I realized I actually sis lose my shit. I'd left the pump and tools back down the trail. I threw down my bike and trudged back scanning the trail not know where the heck I had been. This sucks. 

Found it. Ridiculous Remy. Really. Get it together. 

Well, I didn't. I made it to the road. Some dudes tried to pick me up in a old Ford truck. I passed. No cell service. Nice. I walked up the road until I could get a few bars --- called Julie who was doing the mini-tri practice and planned to meet me back at the car. "Dammit...flat....side of the road....help....Tanner Creek....bah!"

As soon as I saw her truck come around the corner -- the tears came and the laughs. Thanks for the rescue Julie Jo. Thanks for the learning experience Hagg Lake. I'll be back!!!! And I will beat you.