A Good Dose of Medicine

The past few weeks have taken a toll on me emotionally. My father suffered two heart attacks in the last two weeks and it just happened to be the end of our second trimester of school and grades and report cards needed to get done. I have to admit that I am quite tired and on most days I didn't even want to ride my bike.

My father is finally home, but is quite frail and his heart is only functioning at about 35%. It's capacity to work has been greatly diminished but my father's desire to not give in has been stronger. The guy just never stops amazing me. If I could only be half as tough and as wise as he is...

So, after several trips north with no bike and the last one with a bike that was touched, I finally was able to get out and ride in the park today. Original plans had me hiking in the Anzo Borrego Desert of southern California this week. Instead, I was spending time sitting in hospital rooms. Patti went without me, but only for a long weekend. Tomorrow we are disappearing together and I'm looking forward to it.

With the temps hovering right around 40 (F) 4 (C) I was actually amazed at how firm the trails were today. I was expecting very soft and wet conditions. It felt so good to get out in the fresh air and get the pedals turning once again. However it was difficult to get thoughts of my dad out of my mind and I continuously wondered how his first day back from the hospital was going. At times I found myself getting teary eyed, but I guess that was OK.

I ended up riding for almost three hours and just as I got back to the trailhead and my car a steady rain started to fall. The smell was amazing and it was actually rather refreshing, but it certainly will mess the trails up. Temps for the next few days are expected to be in the mid to upper 40's (F). This will definitely put a dent in our snow base, but it is only March 15 so there is still that hope for more snow.

Tomorrow... Patti, Bella, and myself head north for some fun and relaxation near Lake Superior. Hopefully we will enjoy the sunshine and moderating temps. We plan on doing some running, hiking, shopping, and eating good food. No Bike! Today and the next few days should provide me with that "Good dose of medicine" that I so need right now. If I should happen to get some decent photos I will definitely post them.