Snow Riding

November was incredibly mild, but over the last few days the temperature has dropped and we've had a dusting of snow, so it's beginning to feel like winter. I'm trying to get in as much riding as I can before the snow starts to fly and the trail is groomed for cross-county skiers.

After weeks in the shop awaiting her new tires, Turtle finally came home yesterday. The cream Delta Cruisers look amazing, and I'm so happy I held out for them. I also added a new brass bell, and gave the Brooks saddle a deep conditioning. She looks wonderful.
Aaron and I decided to take advantage of the sunshine and go for a short ride this afternoon. I let him ride Turtle, as we're still looking for a bike for him and I think he's getting a little tired of riding my sister's Trek. I think they make a very handsome pair.

I rode my new Raleigh Grand Prix. I've been admiring mixte frames and couldn't resist when this one popped up on Craigslist. I named her Juno, because of the little red road bike the title character rides in the film Juno (one of my favorite movies).
I've never ridden a bike so late in the year. I love riding through the light, dry snow over of the trail and seeing the variety of animal and tire tracks. It gives me the sense that even though the river valley seems so quiet and still, it is full of life and activity. In a car, we miss these little details.
If you look closely, there is nothing barren about a winter landscape.