Two Wheels To Nowhere

Each year, from late Winter onward, I spending countless hours riding a bicycle around the countryside and each time, as I finish a ride, I am already plotting out my next two-wheeled adventure. By September, I am starting to grow a little weary of the bike and by late Fall it is a time for me to think differently. In past years, I would spend this shoulder season ramping up my running miles, preparing for a Fall finale of a local half marathon race. However, my aging body doesn’t handle the rigors of running like it used to. So, my thoughts turn to different activities. I pull the cross country skis down from the rafters in the garage and I buy some new snowshoes in anticipation of the inevitable pack of snow that will cover the county forest floors. I begin walking to work as the roads and sidewalks become too slippery to cycle on. Thinking differently about what can keep me active in the “off-season”, forces me away from my compulsive cycling habit. It opens up my mind and body to different challenges and adventures that fit the Winter season that is inescapably descending on us at this time of year. It draws me to fresh air outdoors when I am otherwise tempted to stay inside near the warmth of the fireplace or under a blanket in front of the big screen. Although the darkness at this time is a little daunting, the prospect of some Winter activities shines a little light on my daily routine. For the coming several months, this will be my normal routine, until the melting snow and longer daylight causes me to think different…