Saturday, January 8, 2011

Morning Micro-Tour Made Better

It started, I suppose, as an idea drifting along and snatched out of a stream of thoughts. The idea was to mix a recipe of some of my favorite things to see what would happen. To my usual mix of early morning gravel, micro-tour intentions, and a lonely hilltop, I added one of my best friends.


When he agreed to meet at my house in the no-moon darkness, ride for about an hour in the chilly air, and watch a sunrise, I decided to make a few preparations. A little time invested on Friday night makes a Saturday morning outing more enjoyable. My trips are relatively short, so I guess I'm more about "ultra-luxury" than "ultra-light".


Because the sky was so clear, the hills had a warm golden glow even before the sun climbed above the ridgeline six miles away.


And when the sun did appear, the glow turned into warmth for body and mind.


We found a large flat rock for seating, enjoyed homemade scones and coffee, asked hard questions, and listened to conspicuous silence. I'm not sure Michael will become a micro-tour fanatic, but he seemed reasonably content. It is good to have friends willing to occasionally participate in my odd ways.


We took in the view with gratitude for the opportunity, and for the bicycle which makes such excursions more pleasant.


As we rode back home with the sun in our faces, it occurred to me that mixing a good friend into my morning micro-tour makes for a tasty recipe. Thank you, Michael.

9 comments:

  1. Did y'all use the Kelly Kettle or was this thermos coffee?

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  2. Thermos coffee this time. Maybe it is time to get the Kelly Kettle out again. It's been awhile.

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  3. I can see miles and miles of Texas. Gorgeous by the way, as always.

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  4. I'm watching a British 'Masterpiece' and it makes me want to say Delightful.

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  5. Looks like a wonderful ride ... and your photos are beautiful. Having some quality company can make a ride much better.

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  6. Great pics, Chris! Looks like it was a lot of fun!!
    Peace :)

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  7. Wish you had been at my house again to enjoy 10-12 inches of snow and my yard is still white.

    Mom

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  8. I just discovered your blog and enjoyed this post and its sentiment immensely. Thank you, kindred spirit.

    - Chris Kostman

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  9. Hey Chris, nice to hear from you. I've been a fan of your variety of work for quite awhile. I really like your any bike, anywhere philosophy (http://www.xo-1.org/). Hopefully, I can make it out to one of your organized events one day.

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