Is cycling a form of alchemy?

The alchemist\’s goal was to transform base metals into more valuable materials; especially, of course, gold. I once read that, in one version of the story, Faust was an alchemist. One day his workshop blew up; and the loud explosion, together with the sulfurous stench, convinced the neighbors that the Old Harry had taken Faust away.

Cycling doesn\’t produce gold; but it can work other transformations. It can help with weight loss; and can improve physical health in general. I can tell that my legs are somewhat stronger than they used to be; but I\’m still a long way from being as fast as I would like to be. I won\’t be accomplishing a sub-five hour century ride anytime soon! But I suppose I have plenty of company in that respect.

During the dreary weather of Winter, a good ride helps lift the spirits. On a raw, cold day with a strong wind, I sometimes don\’t feel like riding; but when I prod myself to ride anyway, I\’m glad afterwards that I got out there!

Is cooking also alchemy? Most anyone who does much cooking knows about \”there\’s nothing to eat!\”; and having to conjure up a meal out of \”nothing\”. Actually, that can be a lot of fun!

I\’ve got to think up some new inventions, too; and use up some more of the stuff from the salvage store, such as that salmon. Maybe something with whole-wheat pasta; or quinoa.

Another Raid

I conducted another raid on the salvage store\’s grab-bag bins this morning; and found eight XL Bars; four Special K protein/meal bars; and three RXBars. I can use them for ride food; but I wish I could work some alchemy on the XL bars. They aren\’t the high-protein variety; and might not be as sustaining as I like.

The wind was about 16 mph as I was riding back home. That\’s not as strong as the forecast predicted; but it was plenty strong for me! It\’s supposed to calm down by tomorrow, which is great news for the long ride. I\’m thinking of pushing for 42 miles; and it will be great if I don\’t have a stiff headwind for the second half of the ride!

Now I\’ve got to think about the alchemy I\’m planning in the kitchen; but I have no idea how to cook up gold.