Morning commute win.

My ride to work rocked yesterday. Get it? Rocks, rocked...

Nature happening this morning. Some people have a nature channel, I have this. One vulture was pinning the dead squirrel's foot down tugging out the fleshy bits with his beak. #biketowork #commuter #tourdefat #vultures

Traffic over I-40

I love crossing over an interstate on my bike. Gives me a chance to pompously and actually look down at cars. This day came with the benefit of a sunset ride through Umstead forest.

Two Rules.

Having been nearly killed twice last week, I wanted to identify some guidelines for how to communicate and navigate around a cyclist.

1 - Use blinkers. (This lets me know where you're going!)

2 - Be patient. (Hanging out behind me lets me know you're there. Your horn is SO loud. Your car is really loud too... that's why you keep the windows up. When its safe to pass, have at it. Shouldn't be long.)

That's it! Thanks for not threatening my life. (smiley face)

Further objections to bike lanes.

This is another beautiful coloration of why I kind of object to bike lanes. There's no way I'm going to clear that tree if I stay outside the solid white line.

 Trying to come up with a clothesline/tree line pun.

Last minutes of warmth...

12F is a new record low for me. I do not like to be cold, so I loaded up... Ski goggles, hooded base layer, thermal layer, fleece gaiter, ski jacket, bike shorts, silk thermal leggings, pants, wool socks, and my favorite new waterproof & insulated snow boots.

After riding, the shower water was hot on my face, but felt cold by the time it passed my legs and hit my toes. Brrrrr.....

Resolution Ride

The ADA does a couple of training rides throughout the year to prep for the annual Tour de Cure. Louis Shackleton photographed the event. There's a funny difference between how you see yourself and how the camera sees you.

Check out his work -- http://louisshackletonphotography.com/events/2015-resolution-ride/

Any time!

This was my New Year's Eve ride through Umstead. Something ironic about fencing off a forest or a lake. I decided that it meant "ANY TIME!" in a good way.

I'm a Safety Girl

The current working theory is that people will be more concerned with my safety if I appear concerned with my safety. At the very least, this thing is bright and reflective and reminds me of all the pie on GRABAAWR.

I can't find the source, so maybe I'm creating a memory. I would love to find the study around Amish triangles and slow moving vehicle safety.

"I'm a safety girl" ~Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman

Which way?

I am committed to warmth this winter, ergo new boots. They are heavy as sin, but they're warm and waterproof and came at a deal to me.

I present to you... my new boots.