It’s been a tough December. But Decembers usually are. Last year, I only managed 184 miles in December. This year, 185. And just barely. It’s been a cold couple of weeks, with intermittent snow, which means it isn’t melting well. Which means riding has been difficult. I’ve only been able to ride to work twice in that time.
And yet, I was so close to my annual goal — 5,000 miles/8,000 kilometers — that I needed to get out somehow. Just 50 miles to go with three weeks? Shouldn’t be hard. But, that snow. On at least two occasions, I went to bed expecting to ride the next morning, only to wake up to a light layer of snow and road conditions AMBER (no bikes) on base.
I even went so far as to set up my indoor trainer, and I did about 17 miles total over a couple of sessions. But it’s not the same. The indoor will keep my legs in decent shape, but even being able to watch movies gets old after a while. Plus, of course, there are no variations in pace. On the indoor, you’re either peddling or you’re not moving.
So I’ve been keeping a close eye on the weather forecasts…and all the time, the days were dwindling. Consistent sub-zero (C) days, with interspersed light snows. Throw in visitors who had me pretty busy when I wasn’t at work, and it looked like my chances were slipping way. Just under 25 miles to go on December 31st. That’s cutting it close.
But the weather held out, and the temps weren’t bad — mid-20s at 7 AM. Clear roads. I liked my chances.
And I took them. And it was fun.
Very pretty ride. I like the bike. Is that your winter ride?
Congratulations
Amazing Bob. It may seem like the weather is a set back, but have you considered that it is during freezing temperatures that you are able to walk on water? When life gives you lemons… You are an inspiration brother ❤️. Happy New Year!