Today marks my 7-year blogiversary. And, if you ask me, that’s reason to celebrate. Even though I don’t post as often as I once did, the Using Our Words community continues to lift me up, help my laugh when I need it most, and fill my soul.
Speaking of soul, about a year ago, a couple of my friends tried to talk me into getting my butt off the baseball bleachers and into a SoulCycle class in Palo Alto. They explained that it was dark. The music was loud and fun. And that even though it was challenging, it was really motivating and a great workout — for the body and, you guessed it, soul.
For months I made excuses not to go. I knew I’d make a fool of myself. I was out of shape. Totally uncoordinated (afraid this part is still true). And seriously? A workout that also gives you a huge mental/emotional boost? Come on…
But my friends persisted. They knew I’d love it. So once all three kids were in school all day, I decided enough with the excuses. And I clipped in.
A few classes in, I was hooked. I felt exhausted and energized at the same time. I actually liked being in close quarters with a bunch of sweaty people because it did feel like we were working toward a common goal of self improvement rather than trying to show each other up. And I was shocked to see the different shapes and abilities in the room. Some of the people you’d least expect were spinning faster than my eyes could keep up with. And some that looked the part were pedaling seated, trying to catch their breath and get back in the rhythm.
I told my friend that while I never *would* plan a private birthday ride (yes, it’s a thing), I wanted to *want* to plan a birthday ride by the time my next one rolled around. And wouldn’t you know it. A funny thing happened. SoulCycle opened a new studio in San Mateo last month and they reached out to me inviting me to have a private Using Our Words class.
So, here it is. My blogiversary. My birthday. And I’d like to share an in-person celebration with my local community. Whether you’re a die-hard cyclist or haven’t sat on a bike seat since your childhood Huffy, I hope you’ll come. There are no expectations. There’s no competition. This is simply a fun way to come together and dance on a bike. In the dark. To great music. (And you know dancing is my thing even if I don’t have a particular talent for it. This also translates to my SoulCycle abilities, FYI.)
July 12th, 10:30am
SoulCycle San Mateo
2 East 3rd Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94401
Free class, free shoe rental, free bottle of water. (They also provide complimentary lockers, showers, etc.)
Here’s how you can join in the ride.
- Like Using Our Words on Facebook. I post even when I’m not blogging and I love to connect with readers there.
- OR subscribe to Using Our Words in the right-hand column of my blog. Then each time I write a new post, you get it via email. No spam or newsletters. Promise.
- RSVP with an email to usingourwords@yahoo.com including your first and last name by July 5th.
- Create a SoulCycle account (if you don’t already have one) so they have your emergency info, etc come party time.
- Please feel free to share this with friends!
Don’t hesitate to reach out to me with questions or for a pep talk. I hope to get in sync and tap it back with you soon!
Use Your Words