Oh, inertia: we have those days when we just don’t feel like riding; and merely getting ready for a ride seems like a major undertaking.

For me, such inertia is more likely to strike when it’s cold and windy. It’s irksome and time-consuming to put on all those layers; and extra layers on my legs interfere with pedaling. Multiple layers “up above” make me feel weighed down; and I lose track of which pocket has which thing in it! On cold days, I know that my nose will run like crazy; and I need warming packs for my hands. But having those things inside my gloves is awkward.

Of course the opposite occurs, too: when it’s already 80 degrees at 5:00 am, I don’t always feel like going for a ride in a sweltering steam bath. We’ll be getting such weather before long; and it’s likely to persist as late as November! Already I see more insects when I’m out on the bike; and I’m not looking forward to riding through thick swarms of miniature moths; gnats; and whatever else is out there.

On long-ride days in that heat, I have to plan for extra hydration, too. Plain water simply doesn’t suffice after about 45 minutes.