Merino wool. So soft and functional, maybe less environmentally harmful than the synthetics. I tell myself that. I have jerseys of different weights each worn depending upon my comfort needs. It takes many rides to stink up. I recently treated myself to a merino hoodie for off bike wearing staring with first clothing put on after getting out of bed. The first day I wore it I was cocooned by its softness. Big ahhh. Subsequent wearings, while the material remained the same, that ahhh was not as strong. I have been told that a similar experience is noted with first time drug influence: user seeks that first buzz feeling. No, at $100 I will not buy another one seeking that buzz.
Another stretch of 90 degree days is forecast. So far air quality here is green. No environmental issue to drive me away. I ordered shorts from Patagonia hopefully to arrive by weekend as last hold on me. I plan on heading towards Hood River stopping for several days of riding on RD 44 trails then down to the town. I will inquire of rides in WA that locals ride. This will start my WA rides.
What to ride? Air quality paramount. Extreme dryness, a dry lightning storm could change that.
Yesterday I made a complete rest day, only exercise was taking care of myself, never 50′ away from home. Today I wanted a recovery ride sort of, one of pedaling with no big climbs. I rode from anchor spot off rd 41 on Catch and Release to its end that started Afternoon Delight that ended at Roundabout around and back. Still 20 miles, climbing 1549′ and pedaling for 2hrs 34 mins in the heat. At least it was not 1 hr straight of road climbing. Lots of patches of shade and bright sunshine that my age affected eyes can’t light adjust fast enough to decipher any hidden features. I really like riding on cloudy days. Today I shared the trail with maybe 8 others, one guy twice, once when he was climbing and the next was me climbing. We both expressed Trail Love. Dusty.