Between rainstorms this afternoon, I slipped out for a spin. I needed a break from spring cleaning. Forty five degrees and drizzling - beautiful. I”m still on the cycle-cross bike for now, while I wait for my cracked carbon frame to be repaired. Which is just as well, considering the rough roads and wet, slippery conditions. But even with frozen hands and mist-covered glasses, it was nice to turn the cranks over for a while.
Out on the road I ran into Mikey T heading home from work at Jay’s Cycle. It was great to see him. He’s been working Fridays and Sundays at the store for a month or so. He’s buzzing with that energy that comes from getting people excited about cycling. I get a similar satisfaction helping people with running shoes. It’s a great thing. If you don’t have it, you shouldn’t be in this type of business.
Making the switch to the running business has been fairly painless. It didn’t take long to learn the products, and the sales process is the same. I am enjoying it immensely. Being able to help runners equip themselves with the best shoes for their needs is rewarding; I am helping them achieve their goals and enjoy their sport. It’s a great feeling.
So the last couple of months have been busy. The job switch was pretty smooth, but we hit the busiest season a bit early and it has been relentless ever since. Jenn and I managed to get away to Antigua for a few days after Easter, enjoying some sailing and some relaxation in a stunningly beautiful place. We also did the Asbury Park Run-a-palooza Half Marathon last weekend, placing better than expected in spite of a so-so time on a wickedly windy day. But most of my free time has been spent working on the Ride for the Mission, the ride I’m developing with my friend Sarino to benefit the Streetlight Mission in Elizabeth. On Thursday, Sarino and I rode about 70 miles of the route. We were really excited about it, and I think anyone who does the ride will be amazed at how beautiful the route is. Most people don’t know that places this gorgeous exist in New Jersey. Please check out the website, and consider joining us on June 19. It’s a great cause to support - Streetlight Mission does so much to help the neediest people in New Jersey.