Are you a "Die Hard"

Are you one of those Die Hards? Think back to that perfect day last Spring, weather was perfect, no rain, plenty of sunshine and a perfect temperature. You look out the office window and just know this is going to be a GREAT day to ride. You show up at the group ride and everyone is out, young, old, fast or slow they all show up. Everyone had a great ride and you can just feel the excitement and general good feelings in the air.

Now let's get back to reality, winter has started, the temperature drops, rain, snow, sleet possible. You cannot get outside during the week so all your workouts are done inside. By the weekend if you are anything like me, you are just dying to get outside and ride with some friends; talk about your week and just let the miles roll by. However you wake up, make that cup of coffee and take the dog out, holy cow is it cold; so cold I do not even want to know. Click on the weather channel, not much good news there either, the high of the day looks like a decent LOW. What to wear, how many layers, what socks? My feet always freeze no matter what I do. I grew up in the South I hate the cold, hell bring 105 degrees and I can handle it, anything below 50 and I am a total wimp. So you finally figure out what to wear, how many layers, pack up the bike, get that weird look from the neighbor (You can only imagine what he is thinking - That idiot is riding his bike TODAY?) Just give a nice wave and out you go to the ride. You show up at the designated start area, you are the first to arrive. Start getting ready to go, ok do I want that extra layer? If I take it off wear can I put it anyway? Ok let's roll - you look around 10 other people are here and doing the same thing. Sure enough you hear those famous words early in the ride (Only the Die Hards out today!) Wow 10 people not tood bad, you finish your 50,60,80 mile ride whatever you need and you think. Who are these people, professional atletes, maybe but probably not, Weekend warriors, Triathletes, Cyclist preparing for the race season? Maybe here and there but mostly just peopel who like to ride, stay fit and just ride with a few friends no matter what the weather. Well there you have it! That is what a Die Hard is and personally I have a lot of respect for all the brave souls out on days like this last weekend. Just damn cold! Brrrrrr!