Ready to Roll with the Pedaling Parsons

Yes, I and my bike are ready to roll! Friday night I cleaned my chain and cassette (those are the back sprockets for non-cyclists) and put on new tires, then on Saturday I had my gears and brakes adjusted along with buying a new tail light (can never be too safe). So my bike is ready to go. Then on Saturday after the Buckeyes game I went out for 22 miles and today (Sunday) I rode another 15. I was moving pretty good for me averaging just shy of 18 mph. So I think that my body is ready as well.

Now, I'm taking care of the important stuff - packing. It's always good to pack light, but I don't want to forget any of the essentials either...like rain gear so that I make sure no rain comes, and underwear - just because.

One of the essentials for me is what I eat for breakfast most of the time, and that is my home-made granola. I've adapted a simple granola recipe to make it even healthier than when I discovered it. Amazingly, all of my children like it too. It's really good with fresh fruit on top like peaches or blueberries or bananas or any combination of those. Here is the recipe for anyone who would like to try it. I usually make a double batch because of how quickly I go through it.

preheat oven to 275

combine in a large mixing bowl
2 c. whole wheat flour
6 c. rolled oats
1 c. wheat germ
1 & 1/2 c. milled flax seed
(the recipe calls for 1 c. coconut - I love coconut but either put in half or none because it is high some fat OR I put in some dates instead)

Blend together separately
1 c. water
1/2 c. veg. oil
1 & 1/4 c. honey
1 T. vanilla
1 & 1/2 T salt

Add blended ingrediants to dry ingredients and mix thoroughly.
Spread out on greased (I usually spray) and bake for an hour, or until dry and golden.
Store in plastic bags or covered containers.

Well, have to keep going to get myself ready to head out at 6:00 am. I'll keep you posted on the happenings and progress of the tour of Southeast Ohio with the Pedaling Parsons.

Scott