I have had people stop and ask if I needed help with a flat, usually I'm with someone when it happens and we wave them on. So far I haven't had any other major malfunctions (knock on wood). I have had strangers when I'm running ask me what I'm training for and say 'good luck' or 'great job', but nothing as cute as the little older lady and water bottle refills.

Earlier this spring I went out for an Ironman training ride and it started to rain. Not mist. Rain. I can handle a little rain and I had my arm warmers (was just wearing a short sleeve jersey), but didn't have them on because it of course did not start out by raining and we'd had a lot of days that threatened, or sprinkled, but then the weather moved on, which I can handle. By the time I was cold enough to put them on, it would have been like putting on a wet bathing suit. I had come up on another rider just as it started sprinkling, and started riding the back side of the loop with her. She wasn't training for the IM this year, but was local (more local than I - about 15-20 miles separated where she lived and where I live). This fine woman offered to drive me home rather than ride the additional 15-20 miles (on top of the many hilly and chilly miles I had already done). It was pouring when we got to her house. It was dry when we got to mine. Go figure. I guess it just wasn't my day to ride... (my bike) Lucy and I were soaked to the bone (gills? carbon?).

I will never forget that gesture and will certainly offer others the same courtesy if I'm in a position to do so. One of the guys at work has a saying on his instant messenger, small courtesies are the lubricant of everyday life.

So, thanks Christine, if you're out there.