I should just turn at the next intersection and get off this road.
A pain of mysterious origins in the lower back has kept me off the bike for a couple of days and, now, in my eagerness to get back in the saddle and get a ride in before thunderstorms arrive to dampen my mood, I’ve chosen a route along a road currently in the process of being resurfaced. The top layers of asphalt have been removed and I’m chugging along on a surface that’s making my handlebar vibrate like a jackhammer. Although my hands are getting numb, I pass the next cross street and continue on my way because I want to reach the magical 10-mile mark before I turn around and head for home.
Besides weighing the momentous decision of whether or not to abandon my route, I’ve been thinking about paint. My wife, Paula, and I have started the seemingly gigantic project of re-painting our house—a task we’ve chosen to undertake ourselves because: a.) we want a long-lasting paint finish; b.) we can’t afford to pay a contractor what it will realistically take to achieve a long-lasting paint finish. Today, after hours spent researching, reading and hearing the conflicting opinions from noted authorities about the “best” primers/paints for the job, we’ve reached closure: oil-based primer and a premium latex topcoat from a local paint merchant. Thankfully, we’ve already chosen a color scheme. Hence, the project can proceed without further delay assuming it stops raining sometime in the near future.
I’ve reached a long, relatively flat section of roadway and I’m working the pedals with vigor. I’m maintaining a steady 23-mph pace; a slight downhill and I’m flying at 30-mph. It’s not the Tour de France, but my one-man peloton is almost worthy of respect.
As I turn into the driveway, I note storm clouds gathering on the horizon; more rain is on the way. I’m dripping with sweat and I’m tired. However, the pain in the lower back seems to have dissipated and the exuberant dog greeting my arrival brings a smile to my face.
Life is good.
Comments
4 responses to “Thoughts on Two Wheels: July 8, 2013”
Finally got around to registering. Which road is being resurfaced?
Copley Road (Rt. 162). They’ve got the portion within the Akron city limits re-paved. But from just west of I-77 to the Medina county line, it’s still in the “stripped” stage.
And thanks for registering, John. It’s nice to see a stray comment here or there.
After painting my first house at least twice, I opted to build my next house with siding! I admire your enthusiasm!
As the cedar clapboards on our 1928 colonial are still in great condition, we decided we’d rather paint than side. However, we’re also taking our time and doing a thorough prep (stripping down to the wood where paint is peeling or where too many layers have built up) in an effort to make sure our paint job will last for at least 10-15 years (or more). It’s a lot of work, but I hope our efforts will pay off in the end!