I got up early, had breakfast and took my morning nap. When I got up, it was mostly cloudy skies. They predicted rain. I decided to ride. Besides, I had unfinished business with Keene. So, that’s where I went. I wore the entire winter kit. I was sufficiently warm. The wind was from the North West. I made it to the top of the descent in good average time. I cruised the downhill, putting in two digs on the risers. I stopped once to take a video of the passing train on the Loop. As I approached the last miles to Keene, a few drops of rain started to appear on my sunglasses. I had a choice, continue or head back. I decided to continue. After reaching the base, there was no rain. I headed back without hesitation or stopping. The sky held up for the duration of the climb. The legs felt good. The air was dense and cold, making it good for a climb. I had a nice tailwind as well. I was counting off the landmarks. I felt much better after reaching the second dip. I was doing in and out of the saddle efforts trying to keep the tempo on the higher side. I tried to keep my mind occupied and kept my momentum going over the top. After cresting the summit, I took a few moments to recover on the bike. Interestingly, the wind turned 180 at this point. Fortunately, I was pretty much done. I made my way back home and shut it down at the top of Weston.

Concentration was good. Minimal lapses and no gremlins worth mentioning. I was a bit impatient in some places, but I was in the zone for most of the ride. Balance and form was good. Nutrition was good. No hunger signs. I fed a banana and grapes before the ride. I think it made a difference. Ailments were minimal. Some hand soreness while digging out of the saddle. Gear worked flawlessly. Other notes, no cyclists today. I let traffic by, by using the turn-outs. The motorists seemed to be appreciative.