Christmas cycling

Christmas arrived much quicker than expected. Every year it creeps up on me. 

Not exactly the Norwegian tree in Trafalgar Square

Last Saturday was a total lose, strong wind and heavy rain. I have been defiant of the weather this year, rain hasn't forced me to abandon many rides. This time I just couldn't face it. As I typed the abort text to Matt, I was interrupted by the arrival of his.

I went for a walk to my local bike shop, Ross Cycles. He'd also passed on a morning ride; it was an off road route. I can't imagine how muddy it would have been. Or maybe I can; two mates and myself rode the South Downs Way many years ago.

The first day was torture, thick mud all the way, several times we were forced to push our bikes. At one point so much had built up on the wheels they beary turned, I'm sure the bikes had doubled in weight. I don't know how the gears still worked.

Last Sunday I did get out; I waited until the rain had stopped so it was a solo ride. I didn't have much time so it was all close to home.

Back to work Monday and Tuesday, and a ride first thing Christmas day before dinner with the  family.

I went to Smallfields, a village on my route to Brighton. I was surprised to see so many other people out running and riding. Two runners, and five cyclists.

Today was another solo ride, Matt have family stuff to do.

Not cycling related, but a bright beacon on a very grey day.

The weather forecast was for rain all day, but it was just overcast and grey when I woke up. So off to Westerham I went, it's not so hilly as the road to Smallfield, my route yesterday. I had a strong headwind most of the way, which help when it was time to go home. And the rain stayed away, until I left Westerham.

I cycled passed the shopfront above, but turned and stopped for a photograph. This time of year can be very dull, the very expensive chandeliers really stand out.

Foolhardy count; two runners, no cyclists.

I'll have to wait until next weekend for the promised and much anticipated cake.

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Pushing yourself

The top of White Lane. You can see the edge of the hill. It's the last part that's the steepest.

Today is boxing day.

We at NVL like to try for a Boxing Day ride. The weather was on our side. It must have rained overnight, but this morning was warm. It was really good to be on the bikes. Matt's new bike is still too clean for a mountain bike. Today wasn't going to see it get dirty. One day though.

We meet as usual at the green. But where to go? We decided on Tatsfield again. The alternative was Westerham. A longer ride, but nowhere dry to sit. I think it was Matt who suggested White Lane, to add a bit more to the challenge. He wanted to test how much better his new (too clean), mountain bike would fare ascending a very steep hill.  It's well known in the area, and hosts an annual sprint race. We weren't going to win any race this morning though. But it was a personal challenge. I don't often really push myself. Either because of lack of opportunity, or I just feel too tired to be bothered. I'm disappointed that I don't challenge myself more often. I have completed a few cycling journeys, with some big distances. A mixture of physical and mental strength was needed. The sense of achievement at their completion means I forget the physical pain, and look forward to the next time. 

I hope I am better at dealing life's trials because of these efforts. I know I can focus on the task in hand, and complete what might as first have seemed impossible.

I don't do new years resolutions, but maybe this could be one. My photography is very important to me. Can I push myself to new levels; new achievements?

Tomorrow we plan to complete the same route. Good times.

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