Sept 26th rides

[Crankin]

I really wanted to rest this week after my century, but the beautiful fall weather was calling me. I worked like crazy to get a bunch of stuff done at school and was able to leave by 3 or so. So I made a deal with myself that I would take my mtb out on the easy trail by here that i feel safe on and have a peaceful ride. I haven't been mtb since the end of August so I was very shaky to say the least. I made it a point to go slow, stay in a really easy gear and just enjoy the outdoors. Too bad that I almost ran into 2 runners.... there's usually no one on this trail during week days but I guess I'm not the only one who thought of using it after work today.

5 miles or so, beautiful weather about 64 degrees and i was actually clipped in most of the time.
Now I just have to get a new tire for my road bike and I will be back on the road Thursday... only 87 miles to make my goal.

[uk elephant]

Only worked half day so I cycled all the way home from work. Beautiful day. Sunny, warm and no wind. Last time I made this trip was in May when I didn't even make it up the second hill without stopping for a breather and I lost the cycle route and ended up doing the last bit along a busy road that wasn't very nice to ride along. I got home and just collapsed. This time was much better. I made it up all hills without much trouble, found the right cycle route which took me along winding country lanes and even for a while along a bridle path through a nature preserve. Great views from the top of the biggest hill. Could see all the way to the coast. Saw several beautiful male pheasants strutting their stuff. And I still felt great when I got home! All this riding must be working after all.