The Cronin Family Blog for the PMC

Registered!

2012-01-26T09:01:00.003-05:00

The easy winter has me thinking of Spring and getting a jump start on this year's cycling season. Will is now officially registered for his first Pan Mass Challenge! (His fundraising page can be found here). We both have two charity events lined up for this year -- the Tour de Cure in May (16-32 miles) and the PMC in August (the 50 mile Wellesley loop). As we get our training underway, I hope to update the blog more often. It will be an interesting year...

Will's First PMC Kids Ride, 2004. (Time to move up to the big time, kid!)

2012-01-03T12:37:00.002-05:00

2011-12-31T13:55:00.000-05:00

Cycling Season Over. Are we ready for some football? See you next year!

2011-10-01T10:56:00.001-04:00

Sam's Bench at Waikiki Beach, Winter Island

2011-09-30T10:53:00.000-04:00

Double Lost Route, Great Pumpkin Ride

2011-09-10T10:54:00.001-04:00

We had a fantastic ride on Saturday -- a gorgeous September morning. The end of summer brings crisper air and great cycling. We had 13 riders on Saturday, including Maureen, John and Alanna O'Grady, (Alanna back from her x-country trip for Habitat for Humanity. Way to go, Alanna!) Ducky met us in Beverly (with the O'Grady's), joining Arlene, Gail, Donna, The Queen, Sheldon, Ethan, Tam, Jack, Margie, and guest rider Spence as they crossed the Salem-Beverly bridge. We rode together (and throughout the morning) regrouping at several stops along the way. After Topsfield center, a few ventured off down the lost route in Boxford, rejoining the others at the Boxford General Store. (Sheldon was the first to arrive to breakfast by bike -- while Drew arrived by car!) We welcomed new friend Spence to the group, visiting the North Shore from New Jersey, and all had a great breakfast. (We love the Boxford General Store!) It was a traditional Cyclopath ride -- No one was dropped, lost, or fell too far behind. Passing cyclists on the road were in good spirits, and the sight of giant pumpkins reminded us that fall is definitely around the corner. A great day and a great ride!

Pics posted on Shutterfly!

Post-PMC Ride

2011-08-13T10:51:00.000-04:00

We had a terrific post-PMC ride to Manchester on Saturday, with a dozen riders heading out of town, including Margie, Jack, Sheldon, Lucy, Drew, Gail, Donna, Laurie and Av on the tandem, Arlene, Tam and Ducky! With warm temperatures, plenty of sunshine, and lots of laughs, it doesn't get any better.

Breakfast at the Beach Street Cafe was c-c-c-cold, (their AC was unnecessary), but the breakfast and hospitality is always great so we forgive them. After breakfast, Arlene and Jack headed off for longer rides while the rest of the pack headed up to Singing Beach. After some off-key singing by the group, Margie tried as hard as she could to get the sand to sing... to no avail. Heading back, we largely stuck together as we made our way down the rough back roads of Beverly. As we approached the Salem-Beverly Bridge, Arlene rejoined the group! Wahoo! Eleven riders headed out of Salem together with ten returning. A great day!

Pan Mass Challenge 2011

2011-08-10T10:49:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to all riders and volunteers participating in this year's Pan Mass Challenge! It was a memorable PMC for many reasons -- the celebrations, the celebrity (Lance Armstrong & David Ortiz!), the camaraderie among the riders and volunteers, and of course THE RAIN. (Wow!) Our PMC weekend will also be remembered for the emotions we all shared. We all missed Sam's commanding presence at this year's PMC -- and seeing his photo hanging at Babson College was very touching. (Thank you, Donna!) Photos from the ride can be posted to our online album at Shutterfly. Send me an email if you have trouble. Congrats to all!

Soaked at the Sharon Waterstop

2011-08-08T16:21:00.000-04:00

Absolutely soaking wet -- the rain never let up. PMC 2011 will be remembered for the walls of water, enormous puddles, and cold rain. We were soaked to the bone.

It took my shoes three days to dry out and I'm STILL cleaning the dirt our of my chain and gears. Poor bike.

PMC 2011 is in the books!

2011-08-08T10:38:00.000-04:00

Computer issues have prevented me from posting pictures from last weekend's PMC online. Hopefully, I will resolve that shortly. To briefly recap the weekend; On Saturday, August 6th, I spent my birthday at the PMC start and finish in Wellesley and Bourne, cheering on my Cyclopath teammates as they took part in the ride. Most of the Cyclopaths (including myself) were riding on Sunday -- but a few were finishing in Bourne on Saturday. Donna was taking part in her 20th ride! It was nice to be in Bourne to support her. Others finishing in Bourne on Saturday were Brian, Ben, Brenda and Jeff, with Ethan, Lynda, Michael and Ed volunteering. It was a great day for a ride!

Unfortunately, Sunday wasn't a great day for riding. Sheldon and I drove to the Wellesley start together in the rain, reassuring each other that the "rain would pass". Such optimists we are! We met our teammates at the start, gathering under the tent as the rain continued. It was Bill Cantor's 28th ride at 88 years old! Amazing! At 7:30 am, we hit the road, the rain falling steadily and never abating. The riding was difficult and the rain at times torrential -- but we forged on, determined not to let the weather get to us. It was a memorable ride! Regrouping at the end of the ride, we watched walls of water pour off the tent. It was quite comical. Definitely a bonding moment for all of us who rode on Sunday -- Arlene, Gail, Av, Bill, Arthur, Sheldon, and me -- with Donna, Drew, and Laurie as support. (Ethan and Arthur F. rode up from Bourne, but we never connected.) PMC 2011 was one for the ages. Photos to come!

YES! I rode in the rain!

2011-08-07T10:59:00.000-04:00

It was horrible! I'll post more from PMC 2011 shortly. THANK YOU FOR ALL OF YOUR SUPPORT!

Time to ride!

2011-08-05T10:51:00.003-04:00

Crossing my fingers it doesn't rain on Sunday!

Many, many thanks to everyone who contributed to my PMC ride this year. I didn't send out any fundraising letters or ask for donations this year -- but many of you contributed anyway. Thank you!! Will is planning to ride with me next year, and I knew our fundraising minimums would be higher with the two of us riding, so I decided to stay low key this year. Still, you sought me out and made a donation anyway. I'm so grateful! Thank you! for helping me surpass my fundraising minimum -- now I'm ready to ride! Just hoping the weather holds out on Sunday morning...

Less than a week left!

2011-08-01T11:45:00.003-04:00

Hard to believe the PMC is just a few days away. I enjoy riding this new Sunday route -- there's less pressure to train! I never would have been able to take a week off for a vacation with a 191 mile challenge hanging over me. We've had a nice summer this year... very low key.

This week, Sheldon and I plan to ride on Tuesday and Thursday (with Joan and Paul) as usual. No change in our routine. I'm just a few dollars shy of my fundraising goal. Not too bad for a stealth campaign! Next year I'll have to kick it up a notch as Will joins us on the ride. That will be interesting.

Stone Soup/Ipswich

2011-07-31T13:30:00.003-04:00

We had a fantastic ride today! Our group of 15 headed out of Salem towards Ipswich at 6:30 a.m. Just 20 minutes later, the group splintered into 3 groups, with the faster riders heading towards Route 133, another group looping back down Larch Row to pick up 1A, and Sheldon and I (who fell back after he dropped his chain going up a hill), taking a turn down one road thinking the others did the same, and ending up ahead of the middle group. Gosh darn it, you'd think we'd be able to stick together?!

The various groups made it to breakfast at Stone Soup, minus a few folks who headed back early. (Ethan, Mojito, Michael and Ducky.) After breakfast, Lisa and Drew took a different route back, while the remaining riders stuck together and returned to Salem in our typically Cyclopathic way -- Jack missing a turn... Sheldon and Lucy missing a turn... Paul taking a detour in Salem... Man, we were dropping Cyclopaths all over the place! Still, seven of the original 15 managed to regroup at the Roger Conant statue in Salem in traditional fashion, with many laughs shared. An adventurous ride.

19th Annual Tri-State Cohen Classic

2011-07-24T20:39:00.003-04:00

Arlene Zell, Ethan Forman, Donna Cohen, Drew Nelson, Lisa Hurley, Tam Cronin, Jack Gould, Kathy Beadle, Sheldon Brown, Brenda White, and Lynda Beaulieu at the Wallis Sands Beach stop en route to Portsmouth. (We picked up Brenda along the way!) After breakfast at Cafe Espresso, the group split with seven riders venturing on to Nubble Lighthouse at York Beach. A beautiful day with a light touch of rain at the start, and blasts of cold air along the coast to keep us cool. The heat didn't really kick in until after 1:00. A fantastic ride!

Vacation!

2011-07-22T20:43:00.001-04:00

Had a break from the bike last week as we all took a road trip to Toronto (by way of Rochester). We spent the weekend with Mike's sister Kathy and then hit the road for Toronto. First stop: Niagara Falls. We did all of the tourist sites including Maid of the Mist, Journey Behind the Falls, and the White Water Walk. (Could not imagine rafting in the Class 5 white water. Yikes!) We managed to visit a few places in Toronto, including the CN Tower, and attend a Blue Jays game. The highlight of the trip was sailing on Lake Ontario and having a picnic on Toronto Island with Steve and Katherine. Fabulous! Sadly, we had to get back to Massachusetts too soon as the Tri-State Cohen Classic was around the corner. (Saturday!) A long drive home. Next time, a visit to the Thousand Islands is in order.

Ipswich/Stone Soup

2011-07-10T21:19:00.003-04:00

Another gray Saturday morning -- I wanted to sleep in late but dragged myself out of bed. A dozen riders headed out of Salem this morning under dark and cloudy skies. We rode a quick pace through Beverly and Wenham to Ipswich, largely sticking together on the trip to breakfast. The food at Stone Soup was excellent, as always. Definitely worth the trip! Heading home, we took the backroads of Ipswich and Wenham back to Salem. The sun (which burned through the fog while we were at breakfast), gave us a nice, warm ride back, though the humidity was high. Fortunately, there were a few breezes and enough scattered clouds to make it a great ride. Total Mileage: 35. I love summer!

Holiday Weekend

2011-07-03T14:08:00.001-04:00

We had a glorious ride on Saturday -- a terrific way to start the holiday weekend. 15 riders headed out of Salem today, taking the coastal route up to Manchester together.

At the Beach Street Cafe, the group split for 2 ride options; Heading up the hills towards Gloucester were Lisa, Michael S., Paul G., Arlene, Donna and Sheldon! After a few miles, Michael S. turned back to head home to brew beer (!) while the others continued on to enjoy breakfast on the deck of The Morning Glory in Gloucester.

Taking the Manchester/Essex loop were Gail, Carl, Joan, Paul P., Tam, Ducky, Drew, and new riders Lucy and Kate. After breakfast at the The Beach Street Cafe, the gang headed out towards Essex to pick up Route 22, with nice cooling breezes making the ride fantastic. (Total mileage for me, roundtrip from Swampscott: 35)

More Rain

2011-06-25T12:30:00.005-04:00

Rainy weather has curtailed riding this week. Thursday and Saturday's Cyclopath rides were cancelled. I hope to get out for a ride on Sunday before we head to Vermont. I'd love to take the bike along too -- LOVE riding the back roads of Vermont's Connecticut River Valley -- but traveling in the Subaru with the 2 boys, husband, dog, and all the gear is a bit problematic. We'll see.

School's Out!

2011-06-22T17:29:00.007-04:00

Summer begins! Time to kick up the training. Would love to drop 15 pounds this summer and I'm counting on the kids to keep me in line. ;-)

Thank you to the parents at the Stanley School for your sweet and generous donation to the Jimmy Fund on my behalf. You know I enjoy your kids and we had a great year. (PS. Looking forward to a date with my husband at City Grill, too! --Thank you!)

Tuesday/Thursday Weekday Rides Begin... Sort of.

2011-06-14T18:17:00.001-04:00

Another cold rainy day today. I dragged myself out of bed at 5:20 to meet folks at 5:45 am. Ha! I was the only idiot to head out in the rain. Actually, I didn't know it was drizzling until I got started. Brrrrr.... No one was waiting at the Marblehead/Swampscott line, so I continued down Humphrey Street to see if Sheldon or Av were waiting. (Nope.) Continuing on, I rode to the corner of Rockaway and Atlantic. Still no Cyclopaths to be seen. So what did I do? Did I continue to the causeway to loop Marblehead Neck? Hell no. I rode back home and crawled into bed.

Rainy Ride from Boxford

2011-06-11T18:10:00.000-04:00

Ten riders showed up at the 6:30 a.m. start despite a gray, overcast chill. Someone, I won't name names, said "Oh, it's not supposed to rain until late in the afternoon.", so we decided to head out on a 28 mile loop to Boxford. Lisa (back for another year of Cyclopath riding) lead the group out of town. I love seeing the group trickle back together after the long winter. We rode a fast 15 miles to breakfast at the Boxford Community Store -- our destination 2 weeks ago. Nice, friendly place.

Unfortunately, the rain did not hold off while we ate, and we ended up riding home in the rain. Brrrr.... We kept a quick pace and returned to Salem before 10:30, wet and cold. I had a chill for the rest of the day. When will summer be here?

Another Passing

2011-06-09T21:24:00.005-04:00

I learned Monday morning that another Cyclopath, Susan Redfield, passed away from pancreatic cancer over the weekend. I'm stunned. Susan had hip surgery a few years ago and hadn't been riding with the Cyclopaths as often. Still, she'd occasionally meet Donna and Sheldon and I on our Tuesday/Thursday loops around Marblehead Neck. Susan was an amazing athlete. I took this photo of her riding in Manchester a few years ago, and she berated me for not paying attention to the road. (It sounded quite lovely in her English accent.) I really enjoyed riding with Susan and I'm truly saddened by this news. It's been a tough year for the Cyclopaths.

Encaustic Conference Weekend

2011-06-06T10:39:00.006-04:00

Missed both the regular Cyclopath breakfast ride and the Sea Glass Ride in memory of Sue de Vries this weekend. The Fifth International Encaustic Conference took place in Provincetown, Mass this year, coincidentally held at the Provincetown Inn -- the finish line of the Pan Mass Challenge! Being at the P-town Inn in a different context was a little odd. No massive tent, shower trucks, grilled food and beer and of course... hundreds of cyclists milling about. It definitely felt like a different place. Instead I was surrounded by fabulous artists from around the country (and world) working in encaustic. A nice diversion for the weekend and very inspiring. A few of my art-acquaintances brought their bikes along. What was I thinking when I left mine at home? Will make up the miles missed this week.

Memorial day Weekend Ride. (Yes, that's Chip in the Photo!)

2011-05-28T09:17:00.005-04:00

Despite another gray Saturday morning and cool misty skies, a large group of Cyclopaths left the Salem start; including Arlene, Gail, Drew, Carl, new bride Lynda, Paul G., Jack, Donna, Sheldon, Queen Kathy and Drew (returning from her winter break). Surprising all on the other side of the bridge were Ducky and the O'Gradys, (John, Maureen, and Alana!), who met the group en route! (So fun to see them!) Chip and I drove to Boxford and, along with Cyclopath Pat, rode out and caught the group on the back end in Topsfield. Together we rode the last few miles to breakfast with the gang -- Chip riding as fast as his little legs could go! Duane was waiting for our arrival at the Boxford General Store which is always a busy place. Breakfast was delicious and the conversations were crazy, as always. Returning to our bikes after breakfast, Bruce, joined the gang for the ride back! Wahoo! (All totaled, 20 Cyclopaths made an appearance on Saturday.)

Tour de Cure

2011-05-22T09:09:00.000-04:00

Four of us rode in the Tour de Cure for the American Diabetes Association -- Ethan Forman, Margie Detkin (team captain), Michael Sullivan and myself. It was another cool gray day. We can't seem to get out of this weather pattern! Despite the chill, Margie and I rode together while Ethan and Michael chose the longer 62 mile ride. It was a nice ride along many of our familiar Cyclopath routes. I think we discovered a few new hills and roads. At one point, Ethan caught up to us (he had a 2 hour earlier start) and we all regrouped at the finish. We ran into Cyclopath Bruce Kapsten, who rode with his serious biking group, the 4C's, at the finish. Fun to hang out after and enjoy the barbecue lunch and music. Great ride for a great cause.

May 21 Ride Report

2011-05-21T09:07:00.002-04:00

Under gray skies, and not wanting to venture too far in case of rain, a gang of seven Cyclopaths ventured out to breakfast at the Depot Diner. Av, Paul G., and Carl were outnumbered by the ladies today, Gail, Joan, Donna, Margie, and me. Short ride today -- only 10 or 12 miles -- but with the fog still lingering after we finished, all decided to return to Salem to make it an early day. (The sun appeared after we arrived in Salem, of course.) Always nice when we start together and finish together. Tomorrow: Tour de Cure

Tour de Cure Next Sunday

2011-05-15T19:43:00.002-04:00

Cross your fingers for nice weather next Sunday as Team North Shore Cyclopaths hits the road in the Tour de Cure for the American Diabetes Association. Four Cyclopaths will be participating in this year's event, including myself. It is an early-season charity ride, and with all the rain we've been having, we haven't had much time to train. Lucky for us, there is a 15 and a 30 mile option. Wahoo!

North Shore Cyclopaths Tour de Cure Team Page

May 14th Ride Report

2011-05-15T19:36:00.001-04:00

On an overcast, foggy and cold morning, ten Cyclopaths headed out of Salem towards Hamilton for breakfast at Henderson's. We had a terrific group for the 16 mile RT and despite the damp chill we had a nice ride! After breakfast, two riders headed out in the fog to loop Bradley Palmer while the remainder of the pack returned to Salem to finish together in Salem. Chilly, chilly day. I'm still cold. Where is the sun?!

Memorial Tribute to Sam

2011-05-01T19:41:00.001-04:00

A memorial service was held for our beloved Sam Zoll on Sunday at Salem High School, as friends and family gathered to say goodbye to a truly great man. Attending the service were distinguished names from the political and judicial world, including Senator Scott Brown, former Governor Michael Dukakis, retired Chief Justice Margaret Marshall, and State Representative John Keenan, who led the ceremonies. The memorial service included several Cyclopaths, including Gail Berger giving a beautiful invocation, Av Hammer sharing fond memories, and Bill Cantor citing the mourner's kaddish. Sam's son, Barry Zoll, shared stories of Sam as a family man and father, and Sam's brother Michael Zoll, recalled Sam's paper route and his pride in Salem. It was a lovely and fitting tribute to our dear friend.

We will miss Sam greatly, but his spirit and character lives on. We will never forget his jokes, his stories, his colorful wardrobe, his fear of dogs, and his great booming voice as we gather to ride on Saturday mornings. He is forever in our hearts.

In loving Memory of Sam Zoll

2011-04-30T19:35:00.000-04:00

April 30th Memorial Ride for Sam

2011-04-30T19:34:00.000-04:00

We had a nice turnout of riders and friends at Saturday's Memorial Ride for Sam. Eighteen Cyclopaths met in Salem, (or caught up to the group en route), including Av, Sheldon, Bill Indresano, Carl, Donna, Queen Kathy, Gail, Jack, Jeff, Joan, Paul, Ethan, Arlene, Mike Sullivan and Tam. Mojito Dave caught up to the group in Beverly and the O'Grady's (!) met us at Beverly Farms. Meeting the gang at the Beach Street Cafe were Laurie, Mike Meehan, Bill and Barbara. We shared fond memories and fun stories of Sam over breakfast, acknowledging his unique character and sense of humor. Sam was truly one of a kind. After breakfast, several riders headed up to Singing Beach for off key renditions of 'America the Beautiful' and 'God Bless America', in Sam's honor, before returning to Salem. It was a fitting tribute to our dear friend. We miss him already.

Sam Zoll, 1934-2011

2011-04-26T10:05:00.000-04:00

Sam died peacefully on April 26th at 12:30 AM surrounded by his family. His brave struggle against the cancer that finally got him has been an inspiration to all of us.

A memorial service will be held at Salem High School on Sunday, May 1st, at 10 AM.

Salem High School was always very important to Sam. He requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Salem High School Master Scholarship Fund:

Salem High School
c/o Master Scholarship Account
77 Wilson Street
Salem, MA 0197

April 16th Frostbite Ride

2011-04-21T08:16:00.003-04:00

We had another chilly ride last Saturday, April 16th. Only the die hard riders are showing up at this stage of the game. Joan, Paul, Sheldon and I, (who at least remembered gloves this time around), repeated our trek from the week before and headed to the ironically named "Something Different Cafe" at the Beverly Airport for breakfast. After breakfast, we headed back to Salem, picking up up a strong bitter headwind that made the ride feel even colder. Brrrrrrr. Is it Spring yet?

Love and Hugs to Sam

2011-04-11T10:43:00.007-04:00

As many of you know, one of my dearest riding partners, Sam Zoll, is battling cancer. Sam is the hurricane of our group -- strong, powerful, unpredictable and loud. He is a driving force of the North Shore Cyclopaths and one of the four founding fathers. When I first met Sam, I was intimidated to say the least. "Hey, How much did you pay for that bike?" He bellowed when I first met him. I was sooo unprepared. I stammered a little until someone interjected and said, "She bought it for a dollar at a yard sale." I was so hurt. I had a nice bike! What a newbie I was.

After 8 years of riding with Sam, I have gotten wiser. "Hey, Tamara. How much did that jacket set you back?" "It was free, Sam. I won it in a raffle." "Hey, what did that water bottle cost you?" "They were 3 for a buck at Building 19." (I've caught on.)

Riding with Sam is an adventure. He sings. Loud. He takes charge of everything. He has a crazy bike and shiny electric blue spandex pants. He gets us kicked out of breakfast establishments when he commandeers the coffee pot out of the waitress's hands. He teases and cajoles and makes us all laugh. He is also the first person to call and check on you when you and your bike collide with a car. (Thanks, Sam!) I am truly lucky to be able to call him my friend. (I love you, Sam!)

Spring Arrives!

2011-04-11T10:13:00.002-04:00

Only four riders showed up at the start this morning at 7 am -- Paul, Joan, Sheldon and myself. The temps were a chilly 32 degrees at the start, although the sun was bright and made the ride seem warmer. It was a beautiful day! Seven lazy Cyclopaths met us for breakfast by car -- warm and cozy from the drive over. It was nice to catch up with folks after the long winter!

Still Too Cold!

2011-03-28T16:36:00.001-04:00

The winter continues to chill. A few Cyclopaths are riding on Saturday, April 2nd. Still too cold for me!

PMC 2011

2011-03-11T13:11:00.002-05:00

Route: Sunday, Wellesley 50m loop
Date: August 7th
Fundraising goal: $1,000

The ride starts with, what seems like a 15 mile descent following the classic Wellesley to Bourne route. It then heads east through Walpole and on to the Sharon water stop where riders returning on the two day ride from Bourne are arriving at their second water stop. The ride then heads back to Babson College.

Manny Marques - In Memory

2011-03-03T19:33:00.006-05:00

A few months ago, the Cyclopaths lost an amazing friend and rider, Manny Marques, to lymphoma. Manny was an exceptional, caring, generous person who I truly cherished as a friend. While he wasn't able to join us very often these last two years, my visions of him storming up the hills in Gloucester and Manchester are still fresh in my memory. Manny occasionally rode a mountain bike on our journeys - and yet he flew along like he was riding on carbon. He was an ox. I spent many rides with Manny discussing everything under the sun -- especially sports and his favorite team, the New England Patriots. Riding with him was like riding with an older brother. I enjoyed every moment I spent with him and will miss him, always.

PMC 2011

2011-03-02T20:27:00.002-05:00

YES!!!! I am riding this year! I have just registered for another PMC. I know, I know... I said I was retiring... but it's hard NOT to ride. More soon -- Tam

2010-12-31T16:48:00.000-05:00

Cyclopaths on Sunday

2010-08-11T12:19:00.005-04:00

Arthur and Bill Cantor, Dan, Barry and Sam Zoll, Arlene Agree, Donna Cohen, Gail Berger, Myself, & Drew Nelson at the Sunday start of the PMC Wellesley loop -- Bill and Sam participating in their 27th Pan-Mass Challenge! Most of the North Shore Cyclopaths team rode on Saturday, starting in Wellesley and Sturbridge. I missed riding this year's PMC and hope to be back on the bike riding next year's challenge!

Going Virtual This Year

2010-07-26T19:49:00.016-04:00

Cycling has taken a back seat to family travel this summer as I take a break from the PMC this year. No massive fundraising campaigns, no training schedule and long weekend rides. It's been nice to have this break after 7 straight PMCs -- especially after last summer's health crisis.

This year I'm registered as a "Virtual Rider", fundraising a little, and still an official PMC rider. (Afterall, it is the fundraising that truly counts, not the miles.) I am just $255 shy of raising $30,000 for the Jimmy Fund since my first PMC in 2003!

My health is improving (bone marrow, kick ass!) and I'm working on getting stronger. Yesterday I rode a shortened version of the Tri-State Cohen Classic, looping a 40 mile route from North Hampton to Portsmouth, NH. In the past I've been able to fly on the 75 mile ride, but yesterday I found myself taking it slow, happy to complete 40. There's always next year.

The PMC is just a few weeks away! Mike and I are hosting the team's annual Pre-PMC Pasta Dinner/Cyclopath Summer Gathering next week to cheer on the riders. Go Team North Shore Cyclopaths!

If you are able to make a small donation towards my virtual ride, that would be terrific. Please visit the donation link in the right column. Thank you for your support! -- Tam

Just Do It

2010-03-29T19:27:00.000-04:00

Remember this Lance Armstrong ad for Nike a few year's ago?? It still makes me want to get out and RIDE! (Click to play. 1 min 33 sec.)

Pan Mass Challenge 2010

2010-03-11T10:53:00.002-05:00

PMC registration is ongoing. I have not committed myself to riding this year, but may change my mind once cycling season begins. :-)

2009-12-31T16:49:00.000-05:00

With Tremendous Appreciation to my Sponsors

2009-08-04T08:34:00.009-04:00

Pan Mass Challenge 2009 was a great success -- A $30,000 million dollar goal, 5,200 riders, 3,000 volunteers, and over 30 Cyclopaths participating in this year's event. (Many even made it to the team photo this year.) Fantastic! We had a gorgeous day, both of my teams did well, (NS Cyclopaths and Team Wishing Welles), Mike delivered 3,000 pieces of luggage to the dorms, and I raised a phenomenal $6,045 for the Jimmy Fund, making me a Heavy Hitter this year. (Only my third time in 7 years. It's not easy making HH!)

Your generosity knows no bounds, and I could not have done this without you! Together we made a united stand in the fight against cancer, and I cannot thank you enough for the love and support you have given me each year. You are all amazing. Thank you!! -- Tam

PMC 2009

2009-08-04T08:30:00.000-04:00

Tri State Cohen Classic

2009-07-21T12:43:00.002-04:00

Another Tri-State Cohen Classic is in the books! Thirteen riders in all, including Donna, Cape Cod Mike(!), Ed, New Dave, Drew, Lisa, The Queen, Tam, and Margie (both starting at Jenness Beach), and Ethan and his posse, Jim and Arthur! We had a gorgeous day for a ride -- especially in the morning before the beach crowds settled in! Breakfast at Cafe Espresso was again worth the trip, and our waitress was exceptional. The ride along coastal route 1A is spectacular. PMC weekend is just 2 weeks away!

Mad Martha's

2009-07-12T14:18:00.002-04:00

We had a spectacular ride to Mad Martha's, Plum Island, on Saturday -- A gorgeous day and a surprisingly easy ride despite my lack of miles lately. (At this point I'm depending on the base miles I earned earlier in the season.) Only 8 of 17 riders made the trek to Plum Island, with the rest of the gang staying behind in Ipswich for breakfast. The PMC is 3 weeks away, and most of us were noting how far behind in our mileage we are. (I'm doing my best to get more mileage in during the week.) Next weekend we ramp it up to 75 miles for the Cohen Tri-State Classic. Fun.

Independence Day Ride

2009-07-04T20:47:00.000-04:00

We had a glorious 40 mile ride to Boxford and Ipswich to celebrate the 4th of July. Bright skies, dry roads, and no rain in sight! What a relief! Our gang of 18 headed to Wayne's for breakfast -- and then most ventured on to loop Bradley Palmer State Park. Somehow en route we missed a turn and ended up in Ipswich! (Thanks, Drew!) Awesome ride.

Many Thanks

2009-07-03T11:27:00.003-04:00

I have been furiously writing thank you cards to all of you. Needless to say, I'm falling behind. Thank you, thank you, thank you for sponsoring me in this year's PMC. I have met my fundraising goal! In this economy, I really didn't think I could do it, and you proved me wrong. I am so grateful for your support and encouragement, and hope you know how truly thankful I am. (And humbled.) Thank you, again.

The rain is making my training very difficult. (Stuck inside eating cookies doesn't help either.) I suspect I'm going to have an ugly ride on August 1st and 2nd. Hopefully, the sun will be shining! ;-)

Rain, rain, go away!!

2009-06-23T10:37:00.000-04:00

This is killing my training!

Weekend Plans

2009-06-09T07:47:00.004-04:00

I was sidelined from my training for a few weeks while my toe has been healing. That, combined with a wedding (Mark and Amanda's, May 31st), and a conference (International Encaustic Conference, June 5-8), I've missed several long rides. My plan this weekend is to get in 30 miles on Saturday and 15-20 on Sunday to spread my 50 over two days. Hopefully a few mid-range rides will get me back on track.

Very Cool!

2009-05-22T22:19:00.003-04:00

Hoping to ride over the weekend despite my bruised and swollen foot, I cut up an old cycling shoe to accommodate my broken toe. (Donna Cohen's genius idea.) Unfortunately, I had to cut away too much of the shoe, leaving me with very little support. (Mike suggested using duct tape to keep my foot from sliding through the cut-out.) My friend Bruce suggested these cool looking cycling sandals (with SPD cleats) made by Keen. They're a little pricey for sandals, but may relieve some toe pressure while my foot heals. Something to look into. Thanks, Bruce, for the idea!

Sidelined

2009-05-21T09:29:00.003-04:00

I broke my toe on Tuesday (!) and won't be cycling for a week or so. The doctor said the bone will take 6 weeks to heal, but should be feeling better in about 2 weeks. (I'll need to tape my toes through June to allow the bone to heal.) I don't think I put much pressure on my toes when cycling anyway, but currently the bruising and swelling won't allow me to get on a cycling shoe. (Or any shoe, for that matter.) No fun. Will try and get the x-ray from the doctor to post on the blog!

Boxford - 30 Miles RT

2009-05-18T20:48:00.004-04:00

Between the Pedal Partner party on May 2nd, and baseball on the 9th, I missed back-to-back Saturday rides to start the month of May. (Not the best start, but not the worst either, as this time of year usually brings many rain-outs.) Despite a mostly-cloudy day on Saturday, it was great to be with the group as we headed out to Boxford for breakfast at Wayne's. (aka Boxford General Store). Thirteen made it to breakfast -- a great group -- and a quick 30-mile day. Good to be back on the bike.

PMC Pedal Partner Party

2009-05-06T12:40:00.007-04:00

The boys and I headed into Fenway Park on Saturday morning to meet with other members of Team Wishing Welles, and the Mason Family, at the PMC's Annual Pedal Partner party! This year, over a thousand riders will be dedicating their rides to 79 children being treated at the Jimmy Fund Clinic. It was tough to keep up with Welles, who enjoyed exploring the State Street Pavilion like an energetic 4 year old! Such a cutie! We couldn't stay long -- both boys had baseball games back in Swampscott -- but Chip and Will enjoyed meeting Welles and seeing Caroline. (In my newsletter I mistakenly wrote that Caroline was a kindergartner. She is actually in Chipper's grade -- which I knew, of course, but didn't catch my error before sending out my letters.)

Thank you to all who have sent in donations. I am always so touched by your thoughtfulness and generosity. You make everything possible. --Tam

Fundraising Letters in the Mail

2009-04-28T10:38:00.002-04:00

The much-anticipated Cronin Family Newsletter finally dropped this week! Hooray! There are one or two misprints, but I'm not going to point them out just yet. I'm basking in the glow of watching Chip stuff them all through the mail slot at the Marblehead post office -- several times attempting to beat his record in the "How many envelopes can fit through the slot at one time, before they get jammed" game. Happy, happy.

20 Miles to Manchester

2009-04-27T11:34:00.006-04:00

Saturday's ride to Manchester was officially 19.2 miles, which is the longest group ride to date. Some riders are just now returning to the bike after a long winter, and most rides will be in the 20-30 mile range until Memorial Day. If anyone wants to join us before we kick up the mileage, now is the time! We had 16 riders on Saturday, which is a good showing for early May.

Fundraising for PMC 2009

2009-04-07T08:58:00.009-04:00

I became involved with the Pan Mass Challenge in 2003 after losing three family members to cancer in 4 years. I rode my first PMC as a tribute to Jessica Noon, Nick Noon and Loretta Schalck, with their names on ribbons attached to my jersey, and their photos in my pockets as I crossed the finish line. Sadly, cancer continues to strike those we love, and each year I've added a few more ribbons.

Today, I ride...
In Memory of 27 loved ones lost to this devastating disease.
In Honor of 9 friends and family members fighting cancer today.
In Support of a brave Pedal Partner, Welles Mason, fighting a battle no 4 year old should have to face. And,
In Tribute to 6 cancer survivors.

Please look at the names listed to the right. They are our uncles, cousins, nieces, friends. They are the reason why I continue to ride. Participating in the PMC has become very personal.

This doesn't work without you! Over the last six years, you, my generous sponsors, have contributed over $23,000 to the Jimmy Fund and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute through the PMC. I need your help once more to raise another $3,500 in these tough economic time. Cancer doesn't take a break when the economy is bad, and today your donations are desperately needed. Budgets have been slashed and funding is down, making the Pan Mass Challenge more important than ever. Last year, the Pan Mass Challenge raised an astounding $35 million dollars with 100 percent of every rider-raised dollar going directly to the Jimmy Fund -- an unheard-of pass-through rate in charitable fundraising. Every penny of your donation is at work funding new studies, new treatments, new ideas.

Thank you for your generous support and for being a part of the Pan Mass Challenge. My fundraising newsletters will be mailed shortly. To make a donation online, please visit my profile page at PMC.org. I am grateful for your support.

Tam

Beverly Airport and back

2009-03-29T15:59:00.003-04:00

Just a quick 12 miles on Saturday for breakfast at the airport. Still chilly -- only six Cyclopaths made the loop, (with Lynda heading off for more miles through Harold Parker State Forest after breakfast.) Hope we have more sun next weekend. Fundraising letters are underway.

The North Shore Cyclopaths and Team Wishing Welles

2009-03-25T09:28:00.011-04:00

Although I'm still a member of the North Shore Cyclopaths, (and one of the 30/30 in Bourne!), I will be riding this year's PMC on Team Wishing Welles in support of 4 year-old Welles Mason of Swampscott. Welles lives nearby and was diagnosed with lymphoblastic lymphoma last fall. (His older sister, Caroline, in this photo from October, is a first-grader at the boys' school). Welles is being treated at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, and is a pedal partner for Team Wishing Welles. The team is led by several riders the Cyclopaths have nicknamed, "Ethan's Posse" -- friend's of Ethan's who occasionally ride with the Cyclopaths, though never stop for breakfast!) They are really nice guys and have welcomed me to their team -- and hopefully a few other Cyclopaths will follow.

Whose Idea was it to Start in March?

2009-03-14T10:17:00.003-04:00

I was the only Cyclopath who showed up for a ride this morning on two wheels. (It was 26 degrees.) What happened to, "Let's get an early jump on Spring?"

Thank You!

2009-03-13T20:54:00.002-04:00

Many thanks to Colin Piepgras for changing my flat tire in time for tomorrow's ride. I really need to get better at changing my own flats! :-)

First Ride of the Season - March 7th?

2009-03-03T11:18:00.003-05:00

There is snow on the ground. Lots of it. The first Cyclopath ride of the season is March 7th this year. Brrrrr..... I guess the term "cyclopath" is starting to make sense.

Just a Setback

2009-02-17T13:29:00.006-05:00

My weekend hopes of taking advantage of the melting snow, and getting out on the road, fell through when I came down with Chip's nasty cold. Sinus congestion, sore throat, body aches and pains... it's awful! I don't even have the energy for spin classes this week. Meanwhile, Cyclopath-Lynda hit the road for a 70 miler --- that's Mad Martha's distance! (In February!) Good for her, pathetic for me, as I patiently wait for the Tylenol to kick in. (Great job, Quadzilla!)

Winter Thaw

2009-02-12T16:41:00.003-05:00

The weather turned warm this week melting much of the snow. I am debating taking my bike out for a spin this weekend! Chip has been home from school all week with a horrible cold, (which Will has avoided thus far). I could use an escape! My PMC newsletter is in draft mode and keeps getting bigger. I have a lot of editing to do. I suspect this will be last newsletter (last PMC) and want to make it a good one!

One Challenge. New Goal: $35,000,000

2009-01-25T11:13:00.001-05:00

I love this video. It was made 2 years ago, but it sums up the PMC -- the challenge, the goal -- quite nicely.

Pan Mass Challenge 2009!!

2009-01-20T16:17:00.005-05:00

Economy be damned -- I just registered for my seventh Pan-Mass Challenge!! Will start posting updates to the blog soon. Thanks for checking in!! --Tam

2008-12-31T16:51:00.000-05:00

Team Photo, PMC 2008

2008-08-31T21:34:00.005-04:00

Team North Shore Cyclopaths, at the Mass Maritime finish, after the storm. In photo: Ben Yellin, Lynda Beaulieu, Sheldon Brown, Brian Carver, Donna Cohen, Ethan Forman, Drew Nelson, Dave McCauley, Tammy and Michael Cronin, and Ed Parish. Several other Cyclopaths at MMA missed our photo. With 22 Cyclopaths riding & volunteering, you'd think more would have made it to the team photo...but to be fair, there was a storm.

Back from Vacation

2008-08-19T14:00:00.002-04:00

Just got back from a long road trip with Mike and the boys! Hard to believe the PMC was two weeks ago! Time really gets away from me.

PMC Monday

2008-08-04T11:10:00.006-04:00

Wow. What an emotional weekend. I'm exhausted!

Thank you to everyone who supported me in this year's PMC. I really couldn't have done it with out you. Despite the short mileage this year, it was still a powerful experience, full of emotions, some ups and downs (not including the hills), and a strong feeling of camaraderie with my fellow cyclists in the fight against cancer. Being at the finish line in Bourne to cheer on my team as they crossed the finish was with mixed emotion. I enjoyed being there, after volunteering in the morning, but also regretted not riding with the Cyclopaths on Saturday.

After volunteering on perimeter luggage (1 day riders and those staying off campus), I was impressed with the enormous task Mike has volunteered for each year -- luggage duty in the dorms and ship for the two day riders. (A tough, physical job. Thanks, Mike, for volunteering!)

Sunday's ride was a nice one. The humidity was high, but fortunately the temps weren't bad at all. The storms held off until after the ride. Sam, Bill and I were the only Cyclopaths riding the Wellesley loop. Highlights for me included riding with Bill in the morning (our oldest rider at age 85); seeing Nancy and Fred at the lunch stop!! (What a great surprise!) -- this ride was for Nancy; finding Cyclopath signs along the way, (including birthday wishes for my birthday on Wednesday, and photos of Sue at the top of a few hills); and being cheered on by Cyclopaths Donna and Drew at the finish line. (Other Cyclopaths, Gail, Manny, and Donna (long day for her!), were at the start to send us on our way.)

A great PMC -- A goal of 34 million dollars -- I'm grateful to you all for your support.

Sugar Magnolia's - 42 miles

2008-07-28T08:47:00.004-04:00

Our last ride in July was a warm one, and with just one week to go before PMC weekend, we kept our miles light. Little Dave convinced ten of us to have breakfast at Sugar Magnolia's in Gloucester -- a terrific little place on Main Street. I was good and opted for a breakfast sandwich, but was tempted to try the carrot cake pancakes with cream cheese butter. Mmmmm... After breakfast, we rode a gorgeous loop around Bass Rocks/Twin lights for an extra 8 miles before heading back. A beautiful day after several days of rain, and an easy 40 miles! Next week: PMC!

Newburyport to Kittery Point - 70 Miles

2008-07-20T19:21:00.005-04:00

Another Tri-State Cohen Classic is in the books! Saturday's annual trek from Newburyport, Massachusetts to Kittery Point, Maine, promised to be another scorcher. We lucked out, however, as scattered clouds kept the morning temps along the coast nice and cool -- sometimes even chilly! Only nine of us this year -- I think the forecast kept most of the Cyclopaths home. We cruised up to Portsmouth, through the beaches and New Castle, for a great breakfast at Cafe Espresso, just beyond the city center.

Loved riding along the coast in the morning, blasts of cold air off the ocean, Ethan singing the Belgian Waffle song, the white egrets and lily pads in the wetlands, the side loop through New Castle, the rolling hills to Kittery Point. REALLY loved the morning ride.

It was a hot return trip to Massachusetts after reaching Maine, as the sun burned off the cloud cover, and swarms of people (and cars) crowded the streets from Hampton Beach down to Salisbury. (Could have done without the craziness of the beach traffic/crowds. Tough to bike through. Guess you take the bad with the good.) The temps, while in the mid 80s, increased as we traveled south -- though never quite got as hot as it was back at home. A great day -- a great ride.

Team North Shore Cyclopaths

2008-07-16T09:48:00.005-04:00

We have a small team representing the North Shore Cyclopaths in this year's PMC. Several riders are taking the year off, while a few others have "retired" indefinitely. The yearly increase in the fundraising requirement became too much for a few of our riders, (including me at one point). When I first started riding with the group, there were over 2 dozen participating in the PMC. This year, I think there will be 18 of us riding, spread out over four of the seven different routes. A big change. (Team photo from PMC 2005, 25 riders including Sue de Vries, center.)

Annisquam 52.4 miles

2008-07-12T09:40:00.000-04:00

We had a great ride from Salem up through Gloucester, Rockport and Annisquam today. (Did you know there is an area just beyond Rockport called Pigeon Cove? It's gorgeous!) 127/127A is a beautiful scenic ride, with just enough hills to keep our hill-crazy Cyclopaths happy. Saturday was a perfect day -- we had a nice breeze off the water, and lots of sunshine. (And I managed to avoid crashing into the tourists in Rockport - a great feat.) Breakfast at the Morning Glory in Gloucester was yummy, as always. 52.4 miles today.

Newsletters Mailed

2008-07-10T09:54:00.000-04:00

I finally popped my newsletters in the mail today. Thank you to everyone who asked me when I'd be sending them out. I know I tend to procrastinate. Thank you for nudging me along.

PMC Kids Ride

2008-07-08T19:32:00.001-04:00

I love this photo of Will, taken in 2004, finishing his first PMC Kids Ride in Topsfield (with a balloon animal hanging for the ride.) He was just five years old then, and rode the 3.4 mile course with training wheels still attached to his bike.

THANK YOU for supporting his fourth PMC Kids Ride last summer! Through contributions and his lemonade stand he raised another $60.00 for The Jimmy Fund! This year, the PMC Kids Rides were reorganized to all take place during the month of June. Unfortunately, with his baseball schedule, Will wasn't able to participate this year. The boys were talking about setting up their lemonade stand soon -- still planning to raise a little money for the Jimmy Fund this summer -- and hope to participate in their 5th PMC next year!

New Cycling Widget

2008-07-07T09:24:00.001-04:00

A few riders from the North Shore Cyclopaths are trying a new online cycling log to track our training and mileage. As I record my stats to the log, I can easily add entries to the blog with a simple click. Several rides are posted below, starting with the Sea Glass Ride on June 29th. My goal this month is to get my longest ride up to 70 miles, (Cohen Classic), and for my total weekly mileage to reach 100. Hopefully the weather will cooperate!

Getting a Late Start

2008-06-29T13:32:00.002-04:00

It's June 29th -- Michael's birthday today -- and I just rode Sue's Sea Glass Ride yesterday in honor of friend, Sue de Vries, who lost her battle with cancer 2 years ago. I'm getting a late start to my training -- yesterday's 42-miler was my longest ride to date and I'm a little sore today. Rain throughout May canceled many of my weekend rides, and my early morning weekday rides were often hampered by the wet Spring. Combined with school activities, (an arts festival), and a baseball schedule, (Yay Phillies!), it was only this past week that I started getting my training in gear.

I hadn't planned to ride the PMC this year. The economy weighed heavily on my decision. It's hard to ask for donations with high energy and food costs grabbing at your wallet. My hope was that, by not signing up for a big ride with a large fundraising commitment this year, you would consider sponsoring me again in a 2-day ride next year. (I'd really like to get to Provincetown one more time.)

I registered to ride as a Virtual Rider this year, with the intention of raising money for the Jimmy Fund without actually riding to Provincetown or Bourne. But, like the weather in New England, my plans have changed.

2 weeks ago, my mother-in-law, Nancy Cronin, was diagnosed with breast cancer. Fortunately, the cancer was discovered early and she has an excellent prognosis. She will have surgery this summer, followed by radiation treatment shortly after.

Because cancer has once again hit close to home, I have decided to get myself ready for a PMC ride after all. It's too late to register for the main routes -- those were full by the second week in January -- but it's not too late to ride the Sunday Wellesley loop. (50 miles with a $1,300 fundraising requirement.)

If you would consider sponsoring me in the Sunday ride, I would truly appreciate it. Last year the PMC raised 32 million dollars for cancer care and research at the Dana Farber -- with 100 percent of your donation going directly to The Jimmy Fund.

Thank you for your continued support -- I'll keep you posted on how my training goes.

Tammy

Belated Thank You

2008-06-29T13:29:00.000-04:00

Thank you for sponsoring me in last year's PMC. Despite incredible heat (103 degrees!), I had an amazing ride, and was able to meet my fundraising requirement thanks to very generous sponsors. (Thank you!!) We were still in the throes of our renovation projects, and I didn't do a very good job organizing my fundraising. After the ride, I wrote thank you notes to my sponsors -- only to later discover that I thanked some people twice, and others not at all. I am so embarrassed! I am usually better organized, and vow to do a better job this year. If I didn't send you a personal thank you for your donation last year, I'm truly sorry. I am so grateful for your help and I promise to do better this year.

Sea Glass Ride Wrap-Up

2008-06-28T22:09:00.001-04:00

The Third Annual Sue's Sea Glass Ride was another success! Our four founding Cyclopaths, Sam, Sheldon, Bill and Av, (along with several other Cyclopaths unable to make the trek to Gloucester), joined us at the start of the ride to honor Sue. It was really special to see everyone gathered in Swampscott before the ride, whether they could ride or not. (Click photo for larger view!)

While one group scooted out for a loop to Nahant, the Sea Glass riders headed up to Gloucester. We had a cool ride up the coast, with patches of fog, but no one seemed to mind. Food, water and Gatorade replenished us at Stage Fort Park before heading home to Swampscott.

A perfect way to honor and remember Sue.

2007-12-31T16:53:00.000-05:00

Ribbons in Memory and Honor of

2007-08-15T18:38:00.000-04:00

I rode in memory and honor of 33 loved ones, family members and friends this year -- with their names on ribbons and their photos in my pockets -- all the way to Bourne. I ditched the water bottles this year and wore a camelback, with the ribbons attached, (as the camelback would otherwise cover my ribbons!). Yes, the heat was tough -- but at every water stop I'd refill the camelback, see those names, and remember why I was riding.

This year I added a few more ribbons -- In honor of breast cancer survivor Donna Chaffer, (her daughter, Erin, volunteered in Wareham); In support of Darwin Peterson, battling cancer now; and in memory of Ruth Young, Connie Chester, and Ray Mantel, who sadly passed away. Despite the heat, I made it to the finish line as a tribute to them -- and to each one of us directly or indirectly affected by this devastating disease. I hope each mile pedaled gets us closer to a cure. Thank you for supporting me.

August 6, 2007

2007-08-06T18:39:00.000-04:00

Wow! PMC 2007 is over! What an amazing ride. Yes, it was hot! The heat was intense all day, (95 degrees in some places!), but the energy and camaraderie of 5,000 riders (plus thousands of supporters lining the route) made the heat seem secondary. We took it slow and steady and made it to the finish a bit later than previous years -- we didn't set any speed records but were all smiling and celebrating at the end. I'm feeling a little tired today and will write a wrap up soon. Thank you, again, for your incredible support!

August 2, 2007

2007-08-02T18:40:00.000-04:00

My countdown to PMC weekend is now in the single digits! My training has gone well this year, and I feel stronger this year than in my previous PMCs. (Though I'm fighting off a sore throat today -- probably irritated by the sanding of our hardwood floors.) My fundraising has really gone well. THANK YOU to everyone who has supported me this year. I was so late getting started and I didn't think I'd make it. I can't thank you enough for your help. You've been so amazing. THANK YOU.

Tam

Singing Beach

2007-07-27T18:41:00.000-04:00

Last ride before the PMC Weekend! It was a hot, muggy day -- the air was thick with humidity. With only a week to go before the big ride, most of us are scaling back to keep our muscles limber but strong for the PMC weekend. We stayed along the coast, hoping for an occasional breeze to temper the hot sticky weather. I stopped with the "A" team at The Beach Street Cafe for breakfast -- then stopped by Singing Beach with a few Cyclopaths (in photo) before continuing on through Magnolia towards Gloucester and back again. Eventually we merged with the "B" team (who ate at The Morning Glory) on the ride home. Only 34 miles today, but with the air quality as it was, it felt like 50. Hoping for drier weather next weekend!

The 15th Annual Cohen Classic - 75 miles

2007-07-24T18:42:00.000-04:00

75 Miles (3 states) Newburyport , Mass. to Kittery Point, Maine. We had a gorgeous day -- rare for the Cohen Classic, which usually sees high temps and high humidity. The ride came very easy for me this year and I felt pretty good afterward. I'm definitely in better shape for this year's PMC than I've been in the past. I'm still trying to lose 6 pounds (stubborn!), but dieting is sabotaging my riding. After my Plum Island bonk, my Cyclopath teammates have been tossing me food before and during my rides. (Drew gave me 2 pb granola bars and a banana before the CC start, and Cape Cod Mike insisted I have a Clif bar at the Wallis Sands stop.) Needless to say, I ride better with food in my stomach, but the scale isn't moving lately. :-0

We met another PMC rider, (from Marblehead), at the Portsmouth Bridge during our ride and stopped to chat. He knew Sue, (And also knows Ethan). He rode 56 miles from Marblehead up to Portsmouth -- and was on his way back down the coast when we met him. Nice guy.

North Shore Cyclopaths - PMC 2006

2007-07-20T18:42:00.000-04:00

Click to see the 2006 Cyclopaths PMC ride! (Works best with broadband/highspeed internet. Video is 2 minutes long.)

Stone Soup to Plum Island

2007-07-15T18:43:00.000-04:00

Made the 60 mile roundtrip to Plum Island on Saturday, followed by PMC Night at Fenway Park 2 hours later with Will -- A tiring but fun day. The ride to Plum Island is one of my favorites, despite the nasty greenheads along Rt 1A, (and having three flat tires hit our group heading home).

This photo, taken outside Mad Martha's (with Ed's cell phone), is a bit deceiving as I actually didn't eat at Mad Martha's on Saturday. I started out on an empty stomach, and my energy was depleted by the time we reached Ipswich and the pack split up. I stopped there and joined Av, Paul Guertin, Ducky and Marji (the A-Team) for breakfast at Stone Soup before continuing on to Plum Island to regroup with the others. I caught up with everyone just as they were finishing breakfast at Mad Martha's (and this photo was taken). A great ride and a gorgeous day!

Vermont Break

2007-07-12T18:44:00.000-04:00

Newsletters mailed -- finally. Good to get my fundraising going, just weeks before the PMC. I feel so far behind.

Took the kids (Will, Andrew and Zach) to Ascutney for a few days after the Sea Glass Ride. They had a great time playing at the cottage with cousins, playing Quidditch, exploring the brook, swimming at Stoughton Pond, hiking to the bottom of Quechee Gorge... I'm exhausted! Didn't get a chance to ride for several days and then only managed to get out for a quick 10 miles this morning. I should make up for it this Saturday with a 60 mile ride to Plum Island and breakfast at Mad Martha's.

Sue's Sea Glass Ride

2007-07-08T18:45:00.000-04:00

We had perfect weather on Saturday, July 7th, for the Second Annual Sea Glass Ride in memory of our friend, Sue de Vries. I'm guessing we had 40 riders or so heading to Gloucester; including Sue's brother, Barry, and sister, Julie. (Julie is now riding Sue's bike -- one I followed many times on the hills to Gloucester as Sue was always riding ahead of me.) We had a great ride, a great day, and many thoughts of Sue throughout the morning.

Happy 4th of July!

2007-07-04T18:45:00.000-04:00

Newsletters are finally finished! I noticed a few typos and an errant comma or two. (Guess I rushed this one to the copier too soon!) I am addressing envelopes and popping them in the mail before the weekend! Hooray!

Good training continues... Sue's Sea Glass Ride is this Saturday. (Thanks again, Ethan and Larissa, for organizing this wonderful tribute to Sue.)

Cyclopath Adventures

2007-06-26T18:47:00.000-04:00

My training rides have been going well and I've been able to get in quick rides during the week before Mike heads to work. Longer rides are reserved for Saturdays as I continue to train with the North Shore Cyclopaths. Last weekend our quick 30 mile Boxford ride became 40 when our pack split up shortly before breakfast -- and we got hopelessly lost in the back roads of Boxford. Thankfully, Cyclopath-Ethan came to our rescue. :-)

My chain is clean -- I'm riding easier. Newsletters are almost done! (Really!!)

Riding at dawn before the contractors arrive

2007-06-22T18:48:00.000-04:00

Managed to get in several rides this week. On Saturday I noticed my bike was feeling sluggish on the hills -- I swear it was the bike, not me! When I returned home and took a good look at the bike, I noticed my gears and chain were full of cruddy plaster dust! Ack! This renovation can't end soon enough.

Time Flies - Memorial Day already?

2007-05-28T18:49:00.000-04:00

Hi Friends!! Sorry for my lack of writing lately!

My training has been going very well -- I've managed to ride nearly every weekend in April and May -- with only one rainout! I've also been riding in the mornings a few days a week. This past Saturday, (Memorial Day Weekend), I rode to Gloucester with the Cyclopaths (plus an extra loop to Winter Island, Salem), for 40 miles. EASY! (I love it when 40 miles becomes a piece of cake.)

I've also been successful in dropping some of the weight I've gained over the last two years. I'm just six pounds from my goal and feel terrific. Cycling shorts are very unforgiving, so dropping 20 pounds is really making me very happy.

Construction continues... soccer and baseball games keep us busy... school gets out soon! More Later...

--Tam

Spring Training

2007-05-01T18:50:00.000-04:00

It's been a while since my last post on the blog. The renovation project has been all-consuming, but I've managed to get in several rides over the last few weeks. My mileage is still low, but the temps have been as well. I'm looking forward to warm weather riding soon!

I'm also working on a new edition of the newsletter and hope to send it out in mid-May. Thanks for checking in! -- Tam

PMC 2007, Wellesley to Bourne, 85 miles

2007-03-04T18:51:00.000-05:00

I registered for another Pan Mass Challenge! This year, with all of the chaos at home (our extensive home renovation!), Andrew playing soccer, and Will in Little League, I didn't think it was fair to add my training for a 2-day, 191 mile PMC into the mix. (Not this year.) I'm still 100% committed to the PMC, however, and hope to raise $3,000 for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute with a one-day challenge. (Wellesley to Mass Maritme in Bourne, 85 miles, with my fellow North Shore Cyclopaths.) I'm down 9 pounds since mid-February and plan to be fitter than ever for this year's challenge. I hope you will support me again this year as you have in the past. I can't do it without you! --Tam

Photo: Captured by a PMC photographer, Andrew greets me at the ferry terminal in Boston as I arrive from Provincetown. Click photo for larger view.