10 in 10, twice

Tonight I went for a winter night ride (the pic is borrowed from my winter day ride last weekend). I decided I would bike to the mall to pick up a sternum strap for my camelback. I lost mine years ago, but it never really bothered me until I went x-country skiing and it kept falling off one shoulder. Anyway, it was mostly just an excuse to get out, so I hooked up my lights and hit the road on my fixie. I decided to go with three layers on top and bike shorts and tights on the bottom and brought along some extras just in case.

The ride started out nice. I was a bit chilled but figured I would warm up after a few miles. A few miles later I decided to put on the second pair of tights. I thanked myself for bringing an extra pair as I pedaled away with noticably better wind protection. From that point on I was comfortable except for the usual trouble areas - my feet and stomache. Yep, my stomache. I need to get a windproof vest or jacket, but I already agreed to let Santa make the purchase...so I am now really looking forward to xmas :-)

Once I got to the mall I realized I didn't bring a lock, so I ditched the bike in a snowbank near a few dumpsters. I figured people wouldn't want to ride it and probably b-line straight to their cars anyway. Once in the store I discovered that the sternum straps sold out in the last couple days...go figure. I attempted to find battery-heated socks that I heard about, but alas I did not find those either. A young woman did say I inspired her to get out on her bike, so I guess all was not lost. I put in a plug for WORS, so we'll see if she sucks it up buttercup.

On the way home I thought I would swing by Jesse's house and give him a hard time for not joining me...although I had only left a message. On the way a car pulled over and flagged me down. He had to know where I got my spoke lights and offered to buy them now. Admittedly I love them - they are fun, artsy, and ultimately help me be visible. Warning though, they do tend to get random shout outs, so be prepared!

I have been watching videos and reading about Milwaukee's bike culture, such as the Milwaukee Messenger Invitational. I miss East Side Milwaukee and being in an urban environment with a strong bike culture. I am seriously thinking about making my move back. For a while I pondered a move out of state (ideally for mountains, ocean, or both), but I think I could be happy hear. I just need a bit more of the yuppie life I guess; I don't want to get lost in the burbs yet. I would love to commute to work via bicycle, have my morning coffee at the local shop, jog along the lakeshore, and in general see more people out and about. Interesting events, restaurants, people, etc.

For today, I will settle for 10 miles at 10 degrees and back - not a bad day.