I had lab in the morning, so it shifted my schedule just a bit. I got back around 9-ish AM. I had a snack to eat and then took a quick 45 minute nap. I got out as soon as I could. The weather is a bit on the cold side with strong winds from the South East. I wore the standard winter kit with a helmet cover. Today was the first day I used my Garmin Edge 1040. It proved its worthiness. I made it to the summit of the descent in good time. I cruised the downhill and played it safe. The wind was knocking me around, so I was feathering the brakes more than usual. I put in two digs on the risers. I forgot to check the time at the base, but likely good average. After making it to the base, I headed back without hesitation. The first quarter mile had mild wind conditions. About a mile later, the wind was starting to bear down. I put in my mind that this was going to be a climb of patience. I was using my 34T on many occasions while doing in and out of the saddle efforts. In some places, it felt like I was going to stand still. Nevertheless, I was able to complete the climb without stopping. I felt better in the morale after each landmark. I kept my tempo going without heroics. The wind was in my face as I was cresting the summit. After making it there, I took a few moments to recover while on the bike. There was a strong headwind, so I decided to take it easy all the way back home. I shut it down at the top of Weston.

Concentration was good. Minimal lapses and no gremlins. The new GPS unit kept me entertained. Balance and form was good. I think I am going to move the saddle forward a bit. Nutrition was good. I fed half a banana, some apple sauce and a few grapes before the ride. It held me over. Ailments were minimal. My triceps were sore as I was descending through the lower loop. I had to feather the brakes while in the drops. Shaking the arms and hands helped keep things under control. Gear worked flawlessly. I love the new Garmin Edge 1040! Wow, what a difference in the display quality. I could read the metrics without squinting. It was as if they were written on paper. The metrics themselves looked accurate and was meaningful. I can’t wait to use it on the next few rides. Other notes, I saw one cyclist on his way down as I was making my way up the Lower Loop.