I will admit it! I’ve been quite the wimp on the below zero days. One ride around the block in -10 degrees was enough for me. I keep telling myself now, “Scott, this is your FIRST winter of biking. Don’t over-do it!” So it’s been a life of transit this past week.
However, since the temp has gone up a bit, I hope to get on the bike again tomorrow and take a more extended ride. There have been quite a few “Zen Moments” while riding in the snow. I was awestruck near Minnehaha Park to see so many bicycle tire tracks in the snow. I smiled a bit, and had to stop and take this photo, as a husband and wife were walking along in the distance. About a dozen bike tire markings made me feel as if I was not alone, which was just great.
I’ve been able to meet some great folks over the past couple of weeks too who bike in winter. Some have taken me up on my $35 winter biking discount for massage therapy. I like making these connections, as I learn a lot from people. One person booked an appointment over the phone with me and stated, “I really hope it’s above zero when I come to see you.”
I often wonder if there is a benefit to experiencing these temperature extremes. Maybe we’re meant as humans to know the measure of our weather extremes. You certainly can’t feel them in a car, with the heat on max and the CD player blaring. Maybe this stretching of boundaries and comfort zones will pay off. We’ll see.
See you on the icy trails!
-Scott