Let's face it, I've become a bicycle advocate. My friends are taking me more seriously when I show up to events and meetings on my pedal-powered conveyance. Working at REI makes it easy to stay on track, especially with many of the staff involved in some sort of regular physical activity. I'm asked nearly each time I arrived to work if I've biked in, whether rain or shine.

Now, in the past I've halted my riding when the weather became the least bit uncomfortable... a little rain, cold, etc. Since returning to the saddle I'm detemined to ride as often as I can, especially if there's time and no need to drive, day or night, rain or shine. So far, I've ridden in the rain to deliver communion; riding around 8 miles to share the Eucharist with a family of 5, then return the 8 miles to share it with an elderly couple before returning home another 4 miles.

I bought some raingear from REI (duh) which worksa pretty well. I also have a pair of wind pants, under which I wear a pair of light weight lounge pants to absorb some of the moisture from sweat. I'm getting pretty good at figuring out what to wear under the right weather conditions. I have a "turtle", a tubed collar which can cover the neck, head and face, if necessary and I wear it with a skullcap under my helmet. It's my belief that you don't need the fancy, expensive equipment and clothing in order to protect yourself from the elements. I've tried a combination of clothing options and I think I've found some that work. I may look goofy, but I'm warm and relatively dry when I arrive at my destination.