Sometimes I think my head is like Swiss cheese: full of holes.

For instance, this morning I forgot to wear my heart-rate monitor chest strap again. Several month ago, the Garmin’s screen began to show a message that the monitor’s battery was low. I didn’t have the tool I needed to remove the battery compartment’s cover; so I stopped using the chest strap.

Then came the foot surgery; and that kept me off bikes for two weeks or so. During the recovery phase, I located a jeweler’s store just a block from home; and they were able to replace the battery for me. But during the hiatus from using the chest strap, I got out of the habit of putting it on before a ride. Now it’s too easy to forget about it! And I like to see what my heart rate is doing as I climb the access ramp to the top of the levee.

Lip balm is another item that’s easy to forget. I need it, now that we’re getting cold weather; but I usually focus on applying sunblock to my face. Lip balm easily slips to the back of my mind.

I hope I don’t start forgetting to ride! For the time being, my focus is on just riding. It won’t do to attempt force development exercises yet. My foot feels much better; but it’s not ready for force work; and my legs need a little more readjustment to cycling. I do try to extend my distance a bit each day. But start training for RAGBRAI? Not yet!

Speaking of riding, what shall I take along for on-bike food when I’m ready for long rides again? Swiss cheese?