I've learned to "go with the flow," and selected the last option, "Get real...!

This is mostly because I have no control over winter weather and winter darkness. I also have no control over when certain events related to my profession can interrupt times planned for rides, i.e. funerals, emergency hospital visits, weddings, family crisis, etc. So I hope for the best and ride as much as I can manage.

The one aspect of riding that I've found helpful in order to cope with the unknown interruptions, is to do ALL of my maintenance and building in the winter. This way, if something breaks, all I have to do is park the bike and pull out another. Short of air in the tires and a quick dusting/polishing, I can be back up and riding in about 5 minutes or less. This past year this proved to be a really useful philosophy.

Between now and the end of March, I'll ride when I can. But if I don't, there's plenty to do in the shop! So all is good in my bike world!