I can’t believe that the week has come and gone – and so have the Princesses.  What a week!  We tackled hills, wind, and sun.  The temperature was pretty well perfect all week and everyone got just the right amount of time in their saddles.  There was chatting, laughing, story-telling, retail therapy and of course some wine touring.  We went on rides that challenged us, but nothing that was insurmountable.  We definitely weren’t without a few memorable moments…

                             

The Princesses allowed me to take them into uncharted territory (for me), trusting me to guide them (from behind of course).  We discovered new rides; rediscovered old ones; enjoyed new pavement just about everywhere (a cyclist’s dream) and participated in a wonderful week together.

The Girl with the Big Ring Tattoo – a Clinic Princess a couple of years ago but newcomer to the camp – who claimed that her riding wasn’t up to snuff and was a little worried about falling behind – led the charge more often that I could count.

The Lipstick Princess – never without a story to tell (and sometimes a little directionally challenged) – took us onto a stretch of road that I had forgotten was so beautiful – reminding me again that straying from the plan sometimes produces pretty incredible results.  Thanks LP.

Princess AFTPOD (It’s a Princess Bride reference and POD is Pit of Despair if you haven’t seen it) – managed to cruise the week even though she too claimed to have not ridden all winter!  We couldn’t tell.  Her discomfort with downhill speed seemed to lessen as the week progressed – moving so fast at times that she missed seeing the small Black Bear… and the Rodents of Unusual Size. Awesome work Princess AFTPOD.

Princess of the Dark Horse – who turned an otherwise tough week on its head and found her rhythm in the last 60Km of the week – dragging us back from lunch (and dropping me – handily-  I might add).  Good work Princess (and good work Coach Tracy)!  All that work this winter paid off.

Princess Butterfly – (not Buttercup, sorry) – who recently emerged from a winter of training, found her legs and flitted up every hill we managed to find.  I’m thinking that POM (Princess of the Mountain) is in her future!

Princess of Summerland – Our trusty supporter and second mate – when our Prince needed to play a round (of golf that is) was so very helpful.  She of many hats – fresh herb supplier, support wagon-er, prep-chef-er and Spiralizer queen. Many thanks for your help.

Prince of the Bakery and BBQ – the man of the hour who not only baked the bread and pies, but kept us on schedule, mopped and wiped, did the dishes and delivered lunch – was a Prince indeed.  Incredible support that we couldn’t imagine living without on this wonderful week.  Enormous thanks to you, my partner in crime.

A terrific way to celebrate the 5th year of these camps.  An idea that took hold.  A full-on retreat for like-minded women who want to both work hard, get some fresh air – and yet – experience a little pampering.

Thanks for coming Princesses – may you ride and smile often!  See you soon.

LiveSplendidly!