Did my usual 15.2 mile loop after work. It was 43, windy, grey, and not particularly inviting. I did the loop in reverse, which makes the beginning flatter, but it might have been a good idea to have a little bit of rollers in the beginning because I was freezing. I should have worn my "2nd level" winter gloves; my fingers felt numb for about half of the ride, which rarely happens to me. In fact, I felt like I could have worn my Ibex pants because my legs were cold, which also was a first.
Even though I haven't been riding outside in 10 days (well, except on my commute bike for 8 miles) I feel like I'm in better riding shape now. I didn't use my granny gear until I got to the 10-15% grade on my street and I was able to pull my husband up the first half of the hill at 10.5.
Veronica, you are right. Some days, it just doesn't work. Not only was I cold, but my tights were annoying me by the zippered bottom and my feet felt weird. Oh yea, and the Sheebest shorts I bought s*ck. The pad is irritating me. I know everyone loves them, but now I feel like I wasted money, even though they were on sale.