Impulse Control

“1. Does this need to be said?
2. Does this need to be said by me?
3. Does this need to be said by me right now?”

—	Craig Ferguson’s three questions to ask yourself before posting something on the internet.

Look back, understand it, write it down.

Joan Didion on Keeping a Notebook | Brain Pickings:

Why keep a notebook, or for that matter, why collect all these writings?

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/03/21/opinion/brooks-going-home-again.html

And, why look back?

http://www.listsofnote.com/2012/06/what-i-wont-and-will-miss.html

And, what will you miss?

GR2R, Commuting, Six Years

Rode the sixth in our Getting Ready to Ride Series today, a total of 52 miles.  Last week on the series, I led a leisurely group in a downpour and when I started down the hill this a.m., the sprinkles made me think, "Here we go again!"  But, the rain held off, and the ride was fine.  Longest of the year so far.

On the way to the start, I rode over Dexter and into downtown, stopping at Zeitgeist for some coffeeneuring sustenance, and then out to Jack Block Park in West Seattle.  This week, I was a sweep in the steady pace (12-14 MPH), and the route was hilly at first, a bit of a challenge for some, but interesting.    We rode along the West Seattle ridge and down through north Burien, back into White Center, stopping at Ambaum Park for a fluid exchange, a regroup, and encouragement.  Then, down to Fauntleroy, around Alki Point, and back to the start.  My return was through Myrtle Edwards Park and the Ship Canal Trail, subject of more photos watching the changes along that route.

The CRV gave out this week, replacement crankshaft, and another expense we just don't need.  The one bright spot is that it provides me the encouragement for two-wheeled commuting for a couple of days.

While riding, I couldn't help but think of the same Saturday 6 years ago, and my attempt at the McClinchy Mile, interrupted by the phone call.  Six years is a long time, but also so short, and much water under the bridge, but many memories as well.  Good reminder to be thankful for being here, for what we have, and for life.  Puts the expenses in perspective.

On Writing & Riding: The Full List | chasing mailboxes d.c.

On Writing & Riding: The Full List | chasing mailboxes d.c.:

Maybe I should be writing more about my riding so I can understand why I do what I do, where I've gone, what I've seen, why I use the 'I' pronoun so extensively?

Since the return from the East Coast, there was the CTS Orientation, where I felt like one of the oldest in the room.  The presentation seemed to focus on rules, requirements, tips on how to survive, and needed an emphasis on the notion that biking was fun.  

And, there was the preride of GR2R #4, in warm, sunny, 55 degree, shorts and fingerless gloves.  Seattle spring, fleeting, almost teasing, as it was followed by the real deal the next day, 42, drizzly, chilly.   But I led, enjoyed the leisurely pace and those who choose to ride slowly.

Signed up to ride CTS after the GR2R series winds up at the end of the month, and the goals, as always, are to ride more and to enjoy the ride more.