119th ride of 2018 - Friday, 12/7/10`8

2018 mileage: 3225.54

The cold weather that has arrived in recent weeks has sharply curtailed my outdoor riding. But today I bundled up and scrounged up all the gumption I could muster, and went out at 9:30 to do only my 2nd ride outside since November 14, going 12 miles in brisk, 26° conditions.

I rode a single round trip to Marsh Park. But they are paving Textile Rd. east of the park, over to Platt Rd. It is still closed to thru traffic, as the paving is halted (for the winter, I believe). But I was able to ride about a half mile beyond the park, to where the road is closed as the paving stops, at Campbell Rd., where there is a small country cemetery. They are also extending the trail on which I ride, and the ground has compacted for this, but the asphalt has not yet been laid (also awaiting the spring, I assume). So today I rode on the road. Michelle has asked me not to do this, and I am happy to honor her request. But today I judged it OK to ride in the bike lane, due to the absence of vehicle traffic.

As I rode, a bouncy, lovely choral song whirled through my thoughts. This was "A Winter Morning" by Brent Pierce, which the St. Olaf Choir had sung during my freshman year (1975-76) at St. Olaf College. The text (written by the composer) goes:

Sing to the world, the Lord has now come
On this, a winter morning.
Praise him with timbrel, harp and trumpet,
Praise him on this morning.

Angels are singing Alleluia
On this, a winter morning.
Telling the world the Lord has come
On this, a winter morning.

Wise men have come to bring him gifts,
Sing, sing Alleluia.
The shepherds have left their flocks to see
The son of God this morning.

Look at the star. It shines in the sky
For all mankind to follow.
Christ has now come to set men free
On this, a winter morning

Link to (Relive) video of today's ride