basketcase

I think I've finished getting all my little knick-knacks for my bike. The most recent editions are a water bottle holder, bike lock, a little computer to track my speed and distance (among other things), a case that straps underneath the back of my seat to carry my things, and a waterproof riding jacket that I can bundle up and tuck away. Being in Seattle, with our constantly changing weather, the waterproof jacket is much needed. I ended up getting a bright, sun-shine yellow jacket. As much as I dislike to and shy away from wearing flashy colors, I'll make an exception when it comes to my safety while riding. I finally got to take my new bike out for a 2nd time yesterday and that jacket was incredibly helpful seeing as it sprinkled and drizzled on me most of the ride. It was my only day off to myself for at least another week, so I did my ride anyways, rain or shine.

Since I managed 14 miles last weekend and felt like I could have done more, my goal for this ride was 18-20 miles. I did 20.2 miles in 2 hours 20 mins! And that included about 30 minutes worth or combined breaks. During the first half, I was averaging 12mph, but on the way back, I was doing 14-15mph most of the way. On top of that, during the last 1/2 mile home, through my neighborhood, there are several hills and I've always had to get off the bike and walk some of them during the few times I've ridden in the past. This time, I stayed on the bike the whole time and didn't get off once to walk them. The whole ride felt like such an accomplishment and I felt pretty darn proud of myself when I got home. It felt really good. The next time I have a good 4 hours to spare for a ride plus a bath afterwards (a hot bath does wonders, I never get sore muscles the next day), my goal is 24-26 miles. At this rate, if I keep it up, I definitely think I'll be able to do the 2-day, 200 mile ride from Seattle to Portland next July (2011).

As for work, I'm not particularly fond of the guy the boy-child's mom just started dating. There's just something about him that I don't get the most awesome vibes from. For one, the guy literally just filed for divorce less than 2 weeks ago and she's been dating him for 2 or something months now. He also has a 4 year old kid with his wife and when he filed the papers, she tried to flee out of state with the kid. Cops were involved and she was ordered to stay in state. Drama drama already. The mom is quite naive for a 40 year old woman and has a history of picking the wrong guys it seems and I fear for her that this guy really is a douche too. He just kind of looks douchey too. A little over a week ago, he showed up at the house right after the mom did and as the were both standing in the kitchen while me and the 2 kids were just 8 feet away with just a counter and a table between us, and he got the grand idea to get kissy with the mom in front of me and the kids. I diverted my eyes as soon as I saw what he was about to do and turned my back to focus on the kids and getting the girl-child ready to go. I didn't want to see, and it felt very disrespectful, a bit too much too soon. From my peripheral vision and what I could hear, it seemed like the mom tried to stop him at first out of respect to me, but was unsuccessful. I don't know if I should bring it up to the mom, or just deal with it. I just don't want this to turn into a similar situation that I had to deal with when I started working for a particular family 4 years ago. That was the only job I've ever quit, and I was with them for less than 3 months. I don't want her dating drama to affect me and my job.