On Notice

Given that I'm riding my bike 300 miles in 12 weeks, I thought I ought to get out for a long ride today. Thankfully, a few of my local cycling team peeps were thinking the same. We knocked out a beautiful 34 mile ride with plenty of scenic views and even a few hills. 

(Living in the lower part of The Mitten, finding a few hills to ride isn't a 'given').

MrsMac, Cheesy Poofs, McNewton & BQ

I've really come to love cycling. It allows me, above all other things to NOTICE my surroundings. When I'm running or swimming, I take in a lot less of my environment (not counting the water I take in during a swim.. hehe)... when I'm biking, I notice that I notice a lot.

Today I noticed many things. Among them wild lilacs in their full and fragrant bloom, the rowers pulling in the Huron River wearing sleeveless tanks (aren't they cold?). My pal BQ's emergency butterfly designed sunglasses, McNewton's long hair and sparkly highlights....things to see when one has the time to stop and take notice.

Today, McNewton's husband rode with us today for the first time and I noticed that he is just as helpful as his bride. Having him with his super sonic hearing, to call out "car" well before the rest of us sensed one behind us, was very handy! I had never noticed this acute skill before today. (Maybe just never had the chance to discover it?)

When we stopped to turn around, take in some water and slurp a GU, MrsMac took some time to notice my gear. How could you not, right? Today was all about function for me and though this "outfit" may be hard to look at, each piece was intentionally selected for it's functionality today. 

Plus, it's good to stand out on the road, right? Right?......

McNewton & Me - Colorful

With so much road ahead and so much out there to notice, I am already giddy thinking about our next outdoor ride. Who knows what I'll notice next time!

Shout out:

1. What activities allow you to slow down and take in your surroundings?
2. Are you a cyclist - whatcha training for?
3. Do you know anyone who can qualify for the Boston Marathon and then hop on a road bike for a 34 mile ride and completely knock it out of the park on her FIRST time?

High five,

Steph