It Stirs Something In Me

Yes, I rode to work today.

I didn't mention the big water main break I encountered last evening. It was a block from home and made for an interesting urban water crossing.

They worked on it all night, sometimes very loudly. I must say I have spent many a more restful night.

They were still working on it this morning when I left the condo to head for the cafe. I took the long away around and missed a repeat of riding through the water.

It turned into a very pleasant day. It got all the way up to 41F/5C this afternoon with plenty of sunshine.

After work one of the judges was walking my way. As we walked we talked and she asked me if it wasn't a little cold to still be riding. Heaven knows I get asked this question all the time, but she seemed to ask it from a place of complete curiosity and simplicity. I must admit, usually when I'm asked this question I give a flippant or curt answer, but the way she asked the question deserved better. I told her there were a couple of ways I could answer her question. One answer might have to do with growing up in Michigan and still having trouble viewing 40F/5C as cold. The problem with that answer is I know lots of people who grew up in Michigan who view 40F/5C as plenty cold. Probably the best and I hope the most honest answer is I just like riding in the cold. I don't think I do it to prove anything. I know I don't do it to show how tough I am. That said, there is something very satisfying about getting to work knowing I've made the correct gear choices and have a bike prepared to handle the cold. I find great enjoyment in getting home on a cold night, taking off the helmet, turning into the wind and simply smelling the air. When it is real cold the air seems so clean. It is a beautiful thing. It stirs something in me. I can't name it, but I love it.

• 25F/-4C with a few clouds for the ride to work.
• 38F/3C and fair for the home ride.