Some days are tough because of the terrain. Some are tough because of the weather. Some are tough for no apparent reason - like today.
All signs pointed to the making of a fantastic day: we're finally in Colorado, the terrain was delightful, I had an awesome riding group, and my legs were feeling good. Yet, for some reason my mind wasn't in it at all. I just didn't want to be on my bike today. I guess it's not completely absurd given this was our seventh ride day in a row, with a total of about 550 miles ridden over that time period. I wanted so badly to change my attitude, but I just couldn't.
I was so relieved to be done with biking today that as soon as I got to the host I started crying. People kept asking me what was wrong but I didn't even have a good answer. I just needed that release. This life is amazing and I'm so grateful everyday that I have this opportunity for adventure, but it's not always easy. I'm constantly unpacking and repacking my life, surrounded by people 24/7, exerting more energy than ever before on much less sleep, and I guess today was the day that all added up and took a toll.
Regardless, there were still positive moments and I want to reflect on those. In the long run those are the things that I remember and the things that keep me going day after day. I love the constant new and unknown territory; the excitement of not knowing what I will see over the crest of the next mountain. I love the random small town stops, like the coffee shop this morning where we chatted with the locals, or the antique shop that had a surprisingly delightful selection of cold drinks. I love the games we play on the road to help pass the time; that will make me laugh even when I'm having a hard day.
So in the end today was definitely tough, but the great thing about this trip is that we are constantly moving forward. Tomorrow I have the opportunity to wake up and press the reset button. I'm going to try and channel the positive moments, learn from the negative ones, and carpe the f*cking diem.