April Adventures

The robin has somehow made a name for itself as the avatar of spring. First robin sighting is cause for rejoicing in some quarters. My perception of the robin is that they probably have the little bird-brains we might expect. They have no clue when winter is over and frequently arrive just in time for a blizzard and we see them tender-footing around the snow drifts in the yard wondering when the ground will soften enough to provide a worm or two for dinner. In my experience the true sign of spring is the lowly. oft despised dandelion. It seems that all of a sudden these golden little blooms are everywhere and along with them comes the assurance that the snows will come no more and the sun is shining just a bit more brightly. And today I seem to have seen these amazing little flowers everywhere from suburban lawns to still unplowed farmers' fields. I am ready to believe spring has come and it is truly the season of the bicycle. I had my second day out this week today, first time I can say that since our trip to Florida in January. Monday was mid-seventies, light breezes and I did 40+ miles in shorts and summer jersey. Today was sunny but a 20 to 30 mph wind and temps that barely made it to 50 - I was wrapped in tights and three layers, the sun made it bearable but there were some challenging moments. Years ago - many years actually - when I was running I made a habit of doing a 10 mile run on my birthday. When I started seriously riding bikes I switched to doing my age every year. With a late April birthday that meant a nice little spring training ride at one time. Now I find that I need to do a few training rides just to accomplish the birthday ride. I am well short of needing to do a century but I need a few nice days and some real spring riding to get ready for this year's celebration....stay tuned, it will be fun getting ready.