2023 Rewind

2023 was the year that, finally, felt normal again. But, a new normal, which, if I've learned anything from the pandemic, it's easier to adapt when things go sideways. I still went on vacation - two in fact - and a couple overnights, but they weren't without hiccups, that were replaced with equally fun plans.

2023 Highlights

With a warmer winter, January and February was all about cruising at night on studded tires, and equally riding the Dahon on dry paths, while dreaming of spring adventures.

I concentrated on major upgrades to the Dahon in March, and April/May were a flurry of getting the Rachel ready and riding the Erie Canal Trail!

My husband and I made an effort to ride different trails in both Vermont and Canada, because July's record flooding wiped out sections of the newly opened cross Vermont's Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, canceling that planned weeklong July cycling vacation. We hope repairs are made in time for a 2024 second attempt.

In August, I drove to the Northeast Kingdom to ride my favorite mountain bike trails. While there, our bike mechanic son let me know a prized Specialized Hard Rock was available. You bet I said "yes"!

September's vacation turned out to be a perfect assortment of riding in Canada with a friend, then turning towards New Hampshire and the Atlantic Coast. Again, we pivoted in one day, initially planning to ride several Pennsylvania rail trails, but the weather was atrocious south of Vermont. It's always worthwhile to have alternative ideas.

In the autumn, because it's my favorite time of year, I ride more often, completing the Coffeeneuring Challenge, enjoying foliage rides, and adventures with friends.

On the creative front, I sewed a monster tote bag, repurposed a purple bag, and started painting again.

As 2023 comes to a close, I'm proud that I followed through with 2023 intentions. I also proved that my 61 years old body is still capable of hauling camping gear on longer bike tours, and partly because of that Erie Canal adventure, I surpassed an annual mileage milestone, breaking the 4K barrier (~4150).