Sometimes I wonder, am I chicken?

As usual for a Sunday, today was long-ride day. It didn\’t go very well. For one thing, I felt tired; both generally and leg-wise. Much of the ride felt like a slog.

I forgot to check for a detailed forecast last night, but I knew it would get hot. Next Sunday I hope I don\’t fall back asleep, so I can get started by 6 am or even earlier. Today I didn\’t get going until 7:30!

Because I felt tired, I didn\’t do much of trying to push the pace. It wasn\’t only my legs that felt tired; I was also just plain tired. When that happens, I always wonder whether I\’m being wise; or, am I chicken?

At about mile 31, I got some brief relief from the heat when a cloud moved over the sun. On a hot day some overcast is welcome, as long as it doesn\’t mean lightning.

About then is when I got a sudden attack of post-nasal drip. I coughed and coughed, to the point where I nearly got queasy. Snot rocket after snot rocket didn\’t help much. I had to stop and get out my roll of tissue so I could blow my nose.

Now it\’s hot enough that, at least once during a long ride, I need to empty my spare water bottle into the Camel-Bak. Then I refill the water bottle in case I need it. Today at my rest stop, I was chatting with another rider who was wearing sun sleeves. He says they\’re hot when you\’re standing still, but once you start riding and get up a little sweat, the feel much cooler. I think they\’re worth trying.