I like writing. I’m not a writer, but I enjoy challenging myself to improve. This blog is essentially a self-serving space where I can push myself to get better, and it’s also a diary of sorts. I enjoy going back and reading what I wrote over the years to see how my style has changed, and to remember what exactly I was doing.
Oftentimes, I find it hard to find something to write about. Life here is like life anywhere; many days are filled with routine, and it feels like there is not much to say. Of course, I love being here, but how many times can I write about that? And not surprisingly, time speeds by so fast that finding time to write doesn’t always happen.
And as usual, time has been flying by with never-ending work, social activities, and of course, lots of cycling. There have been dinners and birthday parties, people coming and going. It’s been a bit nuts. On top of that, I’ve had some fairly big cycling days, taking advantage of the last hot days of summer, and I think I might just be plain worn out.
Last week I wanted to push myself a little and do a very long ride alone. I’ve done this loop before with friends, and I know every inch of it, but I found the idea of doing it solo a bit daunting. Not because it’s particularly hard, but when it’s hot, it’s a long way around with no one to count on to help me if I found myself in a spot of bother. We call it the Tour de Ventoux, which is a route that circumnavigates the whole mountain. It’s around 110 kilometres, give or take. So I picked the most perfect, sunny, and warm Saturday, started early, and was so happy I did. My pace, my schedule, and my legs spinning round and round until I got back to where I started. I was pleased with the accomplishment, and it was a perfect way to spend a beautiful day.
A day later, I thought, why not go up the Ventoux? I’d been up to Chalet Reynard a few times this summer, but not to the top. Many cyclists here feel an obligation to suffer up to the top at least once a year, as so many cyclists would give their eye teeth to ride this mythic mountain. One must pay their dues to the gods and goddesses of cycling. So off I went from Bédoin on another very warm day without wind. Such a rare treat; I am glad I forced myself to do it.
Then Robert, an importer from Holland who I’ve ridden with many times, arrived at the winery. So I took him and his friend Thai for a little cycle around the Drôme away from the Mistral winds in the valley. They were fast, and it was a challenge to keep up. It was such a treat to cycle with Robert. I really enjoy his company, and his friend was equally lovely. They seemed to really enjoy the route, and I took them past some very beautiful spots. Often I take people to the town of Brantes with Ventoux in the background; it’s such a stunning village and view.
Apparently Thai also thought Brantes was so amazing that he illustrated it that evening. It was gorgeous, and I loved his style. Before he and Robert left, he generously offered it to me. I am still shocked by his kindness, and I cannot wait to frame it. Sometimes I am awed by my luck and by all the wonderful humans I have met in my life. What a wonderful life indeed.
