I can’t really bring myself to post about much of anything else than that of my feelings of utter sadness about the passing of my friend, Glenda Taylor yesterday.   I’m hoping to try to not even open my computer the rest of the day, as to not be reminded, and acknowledge the realization, that yesterday was real and not just a very bad dream.

I’ve had some pretty incredible experiences the last couple days on my bike, here in Colorado. And they now seem completely trivial compared to the stark reality that Glenda is dead.  I’m having a very hard time controlling my thoughts and not allowing myself to go back to an endless loop of memories of Glenda and questions that can’t be answered.

I’m being pretty selfish in the  thought that I’m relieved that I’m still out in Colorado and don’t have to be at my house tonight for the evening ride in Topeka, where all my friends will be, minus Glenda. I don’t think I have it in me to do that.

There has been tremendous support and praise for an incredible woman.  I am embarrassed that I feel that maybe I took it for granted, knowing someone as special as her.  Here is a link to her Facebook page.  So many people have left such nice comments, somehow trying to get a little personal solace and try to understand the incomprehensible.

I don’t understand.

This past weekend  was very tragic for cyclists.  I saw at least two other articles about riders being killed in automobile accidents.  Two in Wisconsin, then another one here in Colorado, in Fort Collins.  It seems like is becoming more and more common.  It is something that all of us are facing on a daily basis.  Let’s try not to dwell on this too much.  Glenda wouldn’t want her death to stop others from enjoying their lives, especially their cycling lives.

Cycling to her was like breathing, as was art and many other things.  She was multifaceted.

Okay, I just need to stop.  Death is very personal.   I wish the best to my friends today.

Glenda in orange, in the Freestate jersey, next to my brother.

I received an email from Washburn University.  They have been in contact with Joe Saia, and Glenda’s memorial will be on Friday at 3 pm. on Washburn Campus.  So,  it will be this Friday, June 12 at 3 p.m. at Lee Area.  This is open to the public, everyone is invited.  I think there will be a big crowd there.

According to the announcement – Whiting is on the east end of campus and is connected to Petro Allied Health Center. The north entrance leads directly into the practice gym, where the memorial will be held. Attendees are encouraged to park in Lot 4, which is at 19th St. off Washburn Ave. There are a limited number of bike racks around Whiting/Petro if anyone rides over. 

Here’s her obituary from Penwell Gable –

Glenda Marie Taylor, 60, of Topeka, died Sunday, June 7, 2015, due to injuries sustained in a bicycle/truck collision near Walnut Kansas. She was a source of never-ending energy, leadership, athleticism and artistry. Her roles included: loving wife, loyal friend, dedicated teacher, fierce runner & cyclist, gifted artist, passionate community leader, and environmentalist.

She was born June 24, 1954 in Chapman, Kansas, the daughter of Gordon and Joyce (Lauer) Taylor. She was married to Joe Saia for 28 years and was a treasure to everyone she met.

Glenda was a 1972 graduate of Chapman High School. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Bethany College, a Master of Arts degree from Emporia State University, and a Master of Fine Arts degree from Kansas State University. Glenda was Chair of the Washburn University Art department, arriving there in the fall of 1987. She was a Washburn faculty member for 28 years, teaching ceramics, sculpture, and art education.

Glenda is survived by her husband Joe; siblings Terry Taylor, Nina Shasteen, Roger Taylor; her parents; and a host of extended family members.

Glenda has been cremated and she will be inurned in one of her own ceramic pots. A public celebration of Glenda’s life will be held at the Whiting Field House on the Washburn University campus at 3:00 PM on Friday June 12, 2015.

In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be sent to the Washburn University Foundation, 1729 SW MacVicar Avenue, Topeka KS 66604 to benefit the Glenda Taylor Memorial Fund.