In this episode, The Sights of Summer: Chasing Miles & Unexpected Smiles . . .
For Lori and me, the perfect summer morning isn't something you find marked on a calendar; it's a feeling. It's the refreshing crispness of the air on our faces, the gentle warmth of the sun on our skin, and the exciting anticipation of discovering new miles and uncovering the hidden "sights of summer" along our journey.
A glorious California day returns with our weekly ride. We begin with a warm-up cruise around our neighborhood under a wide, cloudless, azure sky. With a smile, I’m thinking, "You know it’s going to be a great ride when even furry co-pilots are excited!" We chuckled as a neighbor drove past, two white, fluffy dogs with their tongues flapping in the breeze and ears flopping wildly out the truck window. Pure canine bliss—an ideal sign for a fun day on two wheels.
“Did you see those pups? They looked like they were smiling.”
Traffic was blissfully light, a rare treat that beckoned us to throw caution (and our usual route) to the wind.
"How about Solana Beach?" I tossed out to Lori an impulsive suggestion that was met with an immediate, "Sounds good!”
For us, from our home in Vista, the Solana Beach loop is a delightful 32-mile journey, typically taking around 2 hours and 30 minutes. It’s a distance that might make some balk, but every mile is worth it when you pay attention to the unexpected joys along the way.
As we pedaled onward, summer's visual tapestry unfolded: deep green sycamores provided shade, a sunflower peeked over a wall, couples walked the trails, and a seagull's caw confirmed our coastal route. We rolled past charming beach bungalows with their unique architecture, each one telling a story, and caught glimpses of the sparkling Pacific as we neared the coast. Each element is a little snapshot of the season, creating moments of quiet awe and sudden delight.
With that summer energy humming around us – a mix of blooming plants, the distant scent of the ocean, and just that general feeling of warmth and freedom – staying fueled and hydrated becomes paramount. Hydration is key, especially in the summer! Even if the air feels mild, sustained effort in the sun can quickly lead to dehydration. Always carry enough water and sip regularly, not just when you feel thirsty. For longer rides, we add electrolytes to the water to replenish our body's fluids.
And throughout it all, the human (and canine!) connections we made added immeasurably to the joy. That's why we always say, 'Smile and wave!' Seriously. Connecting with other cyclists, walkers, and even those fluffy dogs in trucks makes the ride even more enjoyable. A simple smile and a nod can brighten your day and theirs, reinforcing the positive vibe of being out and about.
There was even that one climb, where the ocean scent grew stronger with every pedal stroke, pushing us to dig a little deeper. But topping it, with the Pacific stretching out before us, made every effort worth it.
So, as you plan your next ride, remember those two joyful, tongue-flapping bundles of fur. Their pure bliss is a mirror to the simple magic waiting on every route – if you take the time to seek out and notice the sights of summer.
I’m Patrick Ball. Stay curious, ask questions, enjoy summer. See you next episode.
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