COLD!!!

It is COLD here. Not chilly, not a bit cold but COLD. We awoke yesterday to 17 degrees. Maybe it will warm up. Nope. The high was 25 degrees. Oh, and the real kicker, it was sustained winds at 20 mph. I had a 4 hour ride planned for 9am.

After some whining from the boys that were joining us, Star, Shannon and I rolled out with Mark, Steve and Dur. Steve's wife Karen told us we all need to be committed. We did consider finishing the ride at Moccasin Bend Mental Health facility. We figured they wouldn't even ask before admitting us. I opted to leave the bike clothing home in exchange for my ski gear. It was a good choice. Poor Shannon did not have the right clothing on and obviously needs to eat a few more Christmas cookies to add some insulation. She was FROZEN in the first 15 minutes and had to turn back. She was the only one with any sense. It took her the rest of the day to thaw out.

The original plan involved a bit of climbing, but with the cold we opted for plan "B" which was no climbing of any kind, in order to avoid descending. We headed out River Canyon/ Mullins Cove Road along the TN river. It was a good choice. We were protected from the wind and the "doggie intervals" kept us warm. (That road has approximately 4,000 dogs on it, all running loose and chasing cyclists.)

It was a cold day and not what I would choose for riding conditions, but we got out there and did it. The company was great and made what could have been a miserable day bearable. Thanks to everyone for following me on what could only be described as a "crazy cold adventure". I am sure Moccasin Bend is waiting for all of us!!!