#330daysofbiking Days 32 & 33: friends and family

riding with friends; Jeff & Sarah, and Jeff's beautiful new Salsa Casseroll

Crazy time of year. Endless stream of end-of-school-year events and activities, family visiting from out of town… all things I enjoy and cherish, but sometimes I just wish they didn’t have to happen all at once.

I squeezed in a very brief road ride on Sunday (officially Day 32 – no pics), as the rains were moving out and before heading to the airport to pick up visiting relatives. No riding on Monday and Tuesday; spent time with family, headed to the tennis courts for last matches of the season, and attended Jazz Band concert at the HS. It felt kind of strange to be off of the bike for those two days … but there are some things that just can’t be missed.

Earlier today, we said our goodbyes to departing family, and friends Jeff and Sarah came out to the house in the afternoon. Jeff just got a wonderful new bicycle – a Salsa Casseroll. I had been anxious to see it – a stunning bike, down to every small detail – and I was anxious to get back on my own bike. So we headed out for a nice road ride together; relaxing, fun, laughter. Such great company, a beautiful day, a wonderful ride.

It may sound selfish, but it felt great to get out and have some time to do something for myself – even for just an hour or two. Almost like re-fueling for the week ahead. I love being there for my boys, and with my family, and I wouldn’t miss these milestone moments for anything – but a little dose of open space, a little breathing room, a little fresh air can really restore some inner balance.