A Much Needed Respite

Sometimes I like to laugh at someone (slightly) funnier than himself.  Sometimes.

Sometimes I like to drive to Durham to laugh at someone (slightly) funnier than myself. Sometimes.

One of those times was Friday.  Lindsey and I had date night in the (slightly) faraway land of Durham, where we saw this (hilarious) jester:

I highly recommend you see him if you have the chance!

Saturday I did what every good cyclist does; I woke up and spent the morning on the bike.  I wanted to get a TON of miles in, somewhere close to 80 if possible.  I charged out a little later than I planned, as I often do when left to my own distractable devices on a Saturday morning.  

Lindsey was working until early afternoon so I had the time, and the energy to hammer on the bike.  I rolled out solo with no particular plan, knowing I was going to at least get some miles in around Jordan Lake.  Whilst sitting at a stop sign approximately 10 miles into my ride, my buddy Grant rode by with another friend Dave and called out to me.  I jumped on the pedals and chased them down, then rode the next 6 or so miles with them.  At the next crossroads we stopped and chatted a bit, they were finishing up their ride for the day, and we parted ways.

I continued to the other side of the lake, feeling good, hitting the hills hard, just enjoying what I would consider our first day of true spring weather.  I was a bit overdressed with arm and knee warmers, but it was borderline most of the day and there was still a bit of chill in the wind.  Riding in the changing sun/shade conditions on Big Woods Road proved that it is best to be prepared this time of year. While I was out that way, I saw another rider come into view ahead of me.  He was older, but in good shape, and had some strong form.  When I finally caught him, we traded off riding in front for a few miles, then sort of rode lazy and had some brief conversation.  He was also wrapping up his ride, and eventually turned off.  Then it was just me again, a man alone with his thoughts.  Just the way I like it.

I was so in the zone and having a blast, I lost track of time.  I looked down at my watch and realized it was getting to be time to head home.  We were meeting friends for dinner, and I wanted to be home early enough to get some recovery food in me without spoiling what promised to be a good meal.  I was going to have to be satisfied with 55 miles.  Honestly, I was more than satisfied.  It was the kind of day on the bike that keeps me coming back for more.  It was the type of day that I describe to my non cycling friends when they ask why I ride.  Most of all, it was a much needed respite from freezing rain and cold road grime coating my embrocated legs.