This is the second winter season where our roads have been clear, and the invitation to ride our bikes has been with us nearly every day. And we're in Northwest Illinois-- the "Upper Left-hand Corner"-- in what is typically a frosty landscape in winter.
Herr Carl Beichel and I have logged over 130 miles since the first of January 2007. Our daily rides begin at 3:00 in the afternoon, and we roll in just as the light begins to fade. But we're on the other side of the winter solstice now, and each day the light will linger longer. Now, if only the snow holds back, we'll exceed our 200 miles during January of 2006.
On Saturday mornings, we head out from the corner of Harlem Center and Lily Creek Roads at 8:30 and ride north into the hills above Freeport. We punctuate each Saturday ride with a double espresso e dolce at the 9 East Coffee shop in downtown Freeport.
On Sunday mornings, we ride south from Highland Community College at 9:00. Our usual destination is Jerry's Cafe in Shannon where we warm up with waffles, eggs & sausage. The past few Sundays have been frosty, and our faces are in the wind as we ride to breakfast. But on the return trips, we catch the wind and sail with the sun at our backs and the sparkle in the trees.
Yup, winter riding is very special, and it sets the tone for what is to come in the cycling season.
This is a simple beginning to our bicycle blog in the Upper Left-hand Corner of Illinois. We'll add routes and destinations in Northwest Illlinois as we progress-- perhaps a photo or two-- as we figure this blog thing out.
So join us. Share your joy of riding. Every day on a bike is a good day.
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