Facing your Fears - Biking the Bridge

Yesterday was a really really big day for me.  I faced one of my most terrifying fears, heights.  When I reflect on the day, I still can't believe I accomplished it - biking the MacDonald Bridge.  The only other time I  crossed the bridge without being in a vehicle was after a night out downtown with a girlfriend, and we decided to walk home.  Even with liquid courage, I struggled that night, holding her hand, and closing my eyes the whole way.  But yesterday I did it on my own, in the daylight, and on a bike.  It felt so empowering conquering my irrational fear.  I had a meeting in Dartmouth and decided why not bike?  Its cheaper and quicker than a taxi, and will give me extra km's for the day.  My sister Lisa is on vacation in Myrtle Beach and texted me yesterday to tell me about her skydiving adventure.  We have always been in competition, her and I, and I thought if she can do that I can bike the bridge.  As I rolled on to bridge's bike lane, I knew there was no turning back.  There was a little bit of an incline on the span which got the heart pumping even more.  I closed one eye in an effort to not see the water below me and focused on the road.  In about 7 minutes it was all over and I felt invigorated, I accomplished what I had set out to do.  The ride back was a little less intimidating because there was lots of traffic, and for some reason it felt comforting.  In the back of my mind, I knew if I freaked out or had some sort of anxiety attack, there were lots of people around that I could call for help.  Just knowing that eased my anticipation, comfort in numbers.  I am so glad I did it, and plan on doing it again soon.  If anyone wants to give it a try, just let me know and I would be happy to go with you.

My total ride home was about an 90 minutes which wasn't too bad considering I was riding from downtown Dartmouth to Lakeside.  I felt like I was dodging bullets while in traffic on North Street, but I am getting more at ease riding on the road  as I gain experience.  I breathed a sigh of relief when I reached the trail, the last leg of my

trip.

I have meetings today in Cole Harbour - a little too far to travel by bike on work time, so I had to bring my car.  I did get up extra early to bike though, and got in 16 km before heading to work in my vehicle.  I can't miss any opportunities to ride with only a little over a week left to bike the remaining 300 km of my 1000 k goal.

I hope the sun is shining wherever you are!  Have a great day.  Cheers!!!! Tracey :)