My Leisure Consultant Pondero has been setting an example of how to properly enjoy a bicycle ride. It involves biking on quiet roads or paths, finding a place mid-ride to enjoy a hot beverage and treats, and then continuing on your way until you eventually find yourself back at home. He lives in a more rural setting than I. Although I do have access to country roads and parks without having to venture too far from my home in town.
We don’t live in the same climate either. We have harsh winters which makes stopping something to be avoided unless you bring along several extra layers of arctic outerwear. Not complaining, I enjoy winter. But now that our typically late Spring weather is starting to show itself, bike rides that include a stop are possible.
I took the Ellis out for the ride today. It’s the first ride of the year for it. I call it my “skinny tire” bike. It’s got 700c x 32mm tires. If I don’t count my Brompton, it’s the skinniest tires I ride. It’s always a bit of a celebration for me when I finally get this out on the road in the Spring. It’s such a wonderful bike to ride.
I ventured south out of town on the Munger Trail. My destination was Jay Cooke State Park. I figured a picnic table next to the River would be a good lunch spot at around 15 miles. I stopped to listen and watch some frogs. Every low spot with standing water along the trail had croaking frogs in it today.
Eventually I made it to the river and then the park’s main visitors center area.
I had a nice leisurely lunch within sight of the river and the parks iconic swinging bridge.
After eating and finishing my tea, I packed up and headed back towards town. It was so nice to be able to sit outside and not get cold. The temperature was around 60degF/15degC with light winds. Very pleasant indeed.
four season cycling 
I keep on seeing photos of bare legs from Minneapolis! It’s going to close in on 90F here on Monday!!
LikeLike
Sounds like a great idea and a perfect ride. Thanks for including the frog chorus, that was a treat. Any chance of sharing your gluten-free bread recipe? I haven’t had much luck coming up with anything that even resembles something edible.
LikeLike
I’m glad you liked the frogs. I wasn’t sure anyone would watch the short video. The frogs start being vocal just before things start greening up around here. It’s a sure sign winter has turned the corner towards Spring when the frogs are singing. Send me an email upnorthdoug at yahoo dot com and I’ll send you my GF bread recipe.
LikeLike
Spectacular! The weather, and that spot! That is exactly the kind of excursion I enjoy. It is always great to see the first outing for the Ellis each year.
LikeLike
It certainly is nice to get out and ride on a nice day. I just spent a week in Austin where it was in the 70’s and 80’s. It was a bit of a jolt riding in the cold raw Cape Cod weather yesterday. I’m a fan of rural riding, but also really enjoy city riding also. Boston tonight at midnight is one of my favorites.
LikeLike
I also enjoy city riding. My weekends are usually spent on a bicycle. The biggest decision is always where to go, stay in town or head out into the country.
LikeLike