Been out on average about once a week this winter and the mud & puddles (ponds and lakes in most places) have been great fun. However it has taken its toll on my Stumpjumper, new rear hub bearings and the same for the bottom bracket, both seized after particularly wet rides and now my shocks need some attention! After Thursday;s torrential rain I went out yesterday with a mate to the Isle of Portland (Dorset), he lives in Weymouth, in what looked like iffy weather, but we were rewarded with clearing skies, sunshine, stunning views (the previous days rain had cleared the air) and we both felt refreshed and reinvigorated, albeit with tired legs. Sitting outside a café in the sunshine with americanos and brownies we reflected on how lucky we are to live here in Dorset and to have the opportunity to get out and ride its stunningly beautiful landscapes. Food for the soul? Definitely. 🙂 It takes a bit more effort, but riding thru the winter months has its rewards.