This morning was, like many others have said, weird. It was about 40F, and pretty warm. The moon was really bright, and my usb-charge light lasted the whole time (yay!). I've had problems with the light crapping out on me mid-ride, so I finally bought a tiny battery powered backup, which has already come in handy.

I wore my shorts with chamois, legwarmers, long sleeved wicking shirt, wool neck gaiter, earband, and skullcap under my helmet. And my typical fingerless cycling gloves. I wear wool socks with regular tennis shoes--one day, I vow I will be cool enough for clipless pedals and cleats. Til then, I'm just a pedal stomper.

I really enjoyed the ride. I have a new Brooks saddle (B 17 Imperial S) that I have put about 90 miles on so far. It rides like a dream. I coated the underside with Proofide when I got it, and have kept it dry. Just a little Proofide on the top surface of the leather. The saddle is black, as are my shorts, so I don't have to worry about staining the leather. I upgraded from the comfort gel saddle and terribly short seatpost I've had on my bike for the past 10 years (only about 2 years of active riding in that time, though). Having my tuchis stable really makes a difference with climbing. It's certainly the finest leather my butt has ever perched on.

I get on the trail at 5:45, and get to work about 6:20 (7 miles, all trails. Mostly concrete, the last 2 miles are gravel). I have been doing this since August, and I can't believe I waited almost 10 years since I commuted by bike last. What an amazing way to live.