There are so many forms of personal achievement. Truth be told, I feel fortunate. I've picked up several nice bikes. We've been healthy, did not lose power during Sandy, have logged many miles, over 2000 on the tandem alone, plus my first century (a solo ride). I feel especially blessed to be able to count all of you as friends and supporters.

T-mar and anixi, I wish you well with your back problems. I've had occasional sciatic-related and scoliosis-related back issues for a years, usually piriformis syndrome. After one episode I went to my orthopedist. She took some x-rays and told me she was surprised I hadn't had problems for years because I had bone-bone contact between some vertebrae. Physical therapy helped and I came away armed with an array of stretches and, most importantly, knowledge. But believe it or not, the one thing which helps a lot is biking. When I stopped doing yoga and especially started biking more my back issues mostly disappeared. Of course everyone's mileage may vary. But knowledge is always good. I've concluded that as you get older, the day you stop doing something is the day you start not being able to.

RubberLegs, way to go losing weight! Your wife should support your yard sale interest for that reason alone!

In under two weeks I'll turn 64. (Dang, I wish I was retired, but that's a whole 'nother story.) If the weather is good and I can take the day off I'm going to try and do another century. And if it doesn't work out, I'll still feel lucky. Here's hoping all of you can say the same regardless of your condition. We have much to be thankful for.