Ride along the Lake to work

This morning I finally did it and took my first bike ride to work this year.  The first is always the hardest because it is 14 miles and hard to jump into.  I had been making excuses this spring that it was too hot, too cold, or too rainy, and that worked since Easter.

I checked back and this is a few days earlier than my first ride last year and it was a beautiful morning.  The lake was calm at Belmont Harbor and stayed that way all along the way - an unusual morning.  I left home a little before 7 am so the path was not too crowded yet with bikers and runners, and just a very few roller bladers.  I made it about three miles before my body told me that I hadn't done this for awhile, so I tried to pace myself a little.  Still made the trip to Hyde Park in a little over an hour.  Last year I got my time under 45 minutes and that will be my goal again this year.

The ride gives me a different perspective on the city - really get a good view of the lake and all those using it.  There were no sail boats out this morning but there were several families of ducks and geese paddling along.  There were plenty of spring flowers in bloom along with city workers and contractors sprucing the flowers beds up and mowing grass.  As I rode I noticed the places where the city has fixed the path with asphalt and the many other spots they have not been able to get to.  Luckily the path is relatively flat with some ups and down so it is not the most difficult journey to take.

On the south side there is work being done on a couple of harbors so even the bike path has detours.  I think that the prettiest part of the trip is the Fireman's Memorial Park on the south side.  Some special flowers there and it looks so serene.

Last year I thought I might take a Saturday to leisurely bike the path and take my camera.  There are so many unique views.  I did not get around to it last summer but will have to this year.

So I made it to work and still was able to walk.  I took a shower and now am busy with my daily "grind".  I hope that you are well, enjoying our wonderful city and lake, and keeping active.

Take care.