Every now and then we are pushed to our extreme levels, either by force or by choice. In my case this week has been by choice. I am loving this week it has taught me how to challenge myself and it is making me stronger; both physically and mentally. The last two days have been very difficult to say the least. This has been my first time riding in the rain, and I will say it, I hate riding in the rain. But with it I have learned some new lessons, such as do not use the back brake to stop at red lights; you will fishtail and hydroplane like nobodys business. Do wear a good rain coat, those rain drops feel like acupuncture when they hit you while pedaling. Do wear a shower curtain on your helmet in the rain, it keeps the rain from dripping down and then running through the sunblock and down into your eyes. Do have a blinky light on your bike, that way motorist can see you better. Don't go fast down a hill, you will hydroplane. Do have fun, because no matter what the weather is going to do what it wants and you must make the most of it.
The only bummer so far is my knee; it has decided to swell up to almost twice its size and to hurt like the dickens. But with a little massage and some ice I am hopeful all will be great. Really though it does not make a difference because either way I will be out there again tomorrow finishing what I started.
It has been great along the way to see how many people come out to support us, cheer us on and to learn about trees. There are days I feel we are in this battle alone trying to make the world a better place. But after traveling around Lake Ontario this week I can say, we are not alone. There is another generation coming up that is going to step up to the plate and help us. If that doesn't put a smile on your face like it does mine then you are not seeing the big picture and their love of trees.
There have been so many lessons this week that I hope I never forget them all. But the greatest thing I don't want to forget is this; you are the only one that can determine what your limitations are in life. You can either embrace them and make your self better or fall to the wayside and curl up along the side of the road and wait for help to come along. I choose to embrace and be stronger in the long run. Which road will you choose?
