Jethro, got your link and will watch it tonight and honestly what you say makes sense, there is no way I can do what I use to at my current weight... and getting over that sooner than later is probably a good idea.
SeanBlader, it all makes sense and I agree 100%, in fact I have said it in my blog more than a few times, ty for the reminder.
Bill Kapaun, I have a couple short loops like that and think that's a grand idea, perhaps adding a nightly ride on one of the shorter loops until I build some stamina back is what I need.
Chitown _Mike, I feel you on the hating mornings... I prefer night time rides, just as it gets dark and starts getting cool, I live on a lake so sometimes I will toss the lights on the bike and head out for a quick ride on my "workout loop" as I like to call it, I don't know if I would fare all too well on that loop in my current position hmmm perhaps I should test the theory out.