Here’s what the hardest part of my ride looks like. It’s my garage door.
When it’s raining outside or especially cold, that door can be daunting. Making my way out of my warm, cozy house can seem insurmountable. My beautiful bike dozes quietly in the corner, oblivious to the internal turmoil I face: to ride or not to ride?
These are the times when my best riding accessory is a good friend.
Here’s a recap of a conversation with my friend, Karen, on an especially cold October morning. We had planned to meet at Phil’s Trailhead for a mountain bike ride. The skies were stormy and I was looking for an excuse to bail.
Me: It’s really cold and windy here. Not looking good.
(Hoping Karen will opt out.)
Karen: You’re not backing out, are you?
Me: Of course not.
(Disappointed, yet too proud to admit that backing out was exactly what I had in mind.)
Once we started riding, I warmed up and we had a grand time following single-track trails recently dampened by a light rain. Conditions were perfect. Yes, I was bundled up like a polar bear but it all good.
Several other friends joined us but I especially enjoy riding with Karen since her full-time job makes it difficult for us to get together except on our Saturday morning rides. We caught up on all sorts of topics as our legs kicked into a natural rhythm, lungs grateful for the chance to expand. This is life at its best.
Me: Thanks for not letting me back out.
Karen: Of course!
