Today’s weather was fantastic! In the low 60’s Winds (primarily) from the North West. I wore the standard kit with 1 base layer. I decided to go to Keene today. When I checked out the window before the ride, I noticed that the wind was from the South. As I made my way out, about ½ a mile into the ride, the wind changed direction. It went from South to Northerly. I cruised the downhill, soft pedaling. As soon as I reached the base, I commenced the climb. I started with modest tempo. I picked up the tempo when I reached the steeper sections. I put most of my cookies into those sections. I made a good dig over the loop monument and recovered on the short downhill. After that, I eased up on the pace and brought it down from high to good tempo. I kept the momentum nice and steady. This was more or less the case for the remainder of the ride. I was pushing hard today. I was exhausted by the time I reached the summit. Fortunately, the wind was on my back for the majority of the ride. The return downhill on WTR was a welcome relief. Concentration was good today. I had some things to think about, so that kept my mind occupied. Balance and form felt real good, I was in and out of the saddle constantly as I made my way back from Keene. Ailments consisted of lower back soreness. It was just enough that I had to adjust my form and tempo, I was stretching on every occasion I had. Gear is working well, although, I am still hearing loud creaking noises from the bike. I have to figure out what’s going on. I’d hate to have a mishap due to my own negligence. Other notes, no other cyclists today. Some tourists at the loop monument.