Too Nice

We have been blessed with some outstanding weather in NJ.  Mornings are cool in the 50's, warming up to the 70's. Add to that bright sunshine. No forecasted rain for quite sometime. Anyway, I had errands to run and thought I might do some shopping so I hopped on the Greenway. It was too beautiful  to waste indoors buying things I probably didn't need, so I turned around and headed for the country. A trike is just the thing to sit back and soak up this beautiful weather. If you worked today, it sucks for you.

Fall is fast approaching

Yesterday's Commute

It was a nice commute but I forgot headlights. I use my bike lights as flashlights and left them in my vehicle. During the Summer months it's not a problem. Before I know it the sun is rising. Not the case now. Dawn did not approach until I arrived at work. It was a bit scary as I couldn't see any road hazards. The best I could do was stay focused enough to remain in the road. There was no way to pedal the 5 mile bike path. Way too dark. I had to take rt 79, a major rode, with street lights. Good thing it has a wide shoulder. I managed to safely make it to work with coffee and treats from DD.

Another Day

I had a hankering for a trike ride so I aired up the tires on my ICE T.  It was another beautiful cool morning with temps in the 50's-60's. The fairing negated any wind effect.  Long sleeve shirt, windbreaker and shoes instead of sandals. I can't believe I'm saying this but I was cold. I added my favorite Fall cap and a pair of lightweight knit gloves. I guess I'm still on Summer time. (I hope I'm not turning into an old Snowbird who can't tolerate airconditoning.)  Ten miles into the ride I lost the gloves and swapped out my cap. My legs were quite sore from yesterday's ride as I haven't been on a recumbent in a few weeks. My favorite motto, Slow and Steady. You really couldn't ask for nicer weather. I call it, A Marty Day!  I have a few days of work coming up and I look forward to commuting. I do miss being on vacation but it's nice getting back to my cycling routine.

Fall cap

Summer cap

Fall

It seemed like not much of a Summer and Fall sure hurried it's way.  Low 60's and brisk wind. Just as cool as the evenings in The Smoky's.  Long sleeve shirt, knickers and a windbreaker.  I was expecting to loose the jacket but the Autumn chill prevailed.  I am not ready to put away my shorts. I am hoping for some Indian Summer.

VK 2013

My wife and I just got back from a 2 week vacation touring through Murrells Inlet SC, Jekyll Island GA, and The Smoky Mts NC. I only rode a bit, with the wife, on paved paths in SC and GA. The Smoky's was out. It was a great trip and sad it's over. Back to business. Oh, Milo had a great time too!

Alligator

Driftwood Beach

Rest stop

I Don't Get It

I have done more miles this year than ever so why am I slower. It seems of late I am consistently 1/2-1 mph slower on all my rides. I feel good, strong and climb better than ever. Is age playing a role? Is riding alone not challenging enough? Sometimes I wish I didn't use a computer to track my mileage and speed. After all it's all about the ride and how I got there not how fast. I can't do much about age except be grateful. As far as riding with a club, well, that's not going to happen. I don't like being a greyhound chasing a rabbit. I wouldn't mind riding with someone if they rode the same pace and miles as me. In my 25 years of cycling I haven't found anyone. It's not like I'm antisocial or not willing to compromise.  I can be quite the social butterfly, just not while pedaling. When I ride it's all about me. I love my few hours of reflective solitude while my mind drifts aimlessly about. No place I have to be, smell the roses and enjoy what life has to offer.  I"m fortunate to spend as much time riding as I do. Taking a bit longer only increases the joy.