An awesome ride for a great cause

This morning we were up as the sun rose and found ourselves eating oatmeal in the kitchen, so early we were still waiting for the birds to begin to sing.  But soon enough we were loaded into the car and on our way down town to the begin the 50 km charity ride for the Heart and Stroke Association.  There is nothing like joining 13 thousand other riders all dedicated to raising money for a good cause and today the weather agreed with our good intentions and created a picture perfect day of sun.  Our team set off, the six of us, riding in the sunlight, enjoying the pleasure of feeling the world go by at your speed, your body in rhythm with your bike, your lungs filling, the sun  on your face, your teammates faces laughing, telling stories, caring for each other, and waiting for each other, encouraging and forgiving the outbursts caused by fatigue or frustration.  We rode up the loop, battling hills and valleys, and stopping for cut up bananas and water, then the long gentle ride back down to the lake, feeling amazed at the distances slipping by.  And suddenly we were passing the finish line and then off for beer, burgers and more conversation before heading home. It was a great day and a perfect early summer day and now tonight we are just enjoying lying low.  We had a cold dinner outside on the patio and now I think it is just time to snuggle up and watch a movie before an early bed.   I have an early start for my flight tomorrow morning so I am going to make the most of being home with my baby at the end of this perfect day.