Pedaling Across Missouri

There is no way to suppress my smile as I unstrap my bicycle from the car. A blue sky day such as this February afternoon is nothing less than a gift.  The breezes that stir my hair are surprisingly gentle, unexpectedly warmed by the rays of a winter sun.  Months have passed since I have taken off on this trail. It is with great delight that I push the first pedal forward followed by the other.

I have had the good fortune to follow the Katy Trail across our state and back again several times. There is something that is really satisfying about pedaling long distances; relying on my own muscles and determination, visiting small towns along the way. The Katy Trail truly highlights Midwestern Americana. Today I will not go far, maybe ten miles, but that’s okay.

Trees may still be gray and bare, silhouetted against the waning sun, but the world is alive. As of yet, there are no wildflowers, but still the warm breezes whisper a promise of spring. A Red-tailed hawk shrieks displeasure at my intrusion, circling behind me as I vacate its territory. The sound of fluttering feathers to the left of the trail captures my attention.  A large flock of wild turkeys explode from the shadows of the woodland into an open field. Their iridescent feathers seem to capture the orange glow of the late evening sunshine. Life’s simple pleasures. Sighting these animals fill me with anticipation for the new season of new life, for adventures and discoveries along new trails as of yet not taken, of sharing laughter, and memories with family and friends.

With this blog, I hope to share some of these memories with you.  Missouri is rich in bicycle trails and is steeped in nature and history. We will explore many bicycle trails that cross Missouri as well as to visit some of the places and people along the way. Life is about this journey we take.  Strap on your helmet and shoes. Come discover these stories with me.