I set off early as the sun started to show it's promise above the horizon. I'd checked the forecast. Dry with some good sunny spells! This was novel for a Friday (my main designated long ride day). It was chilly as I was on the road by 7 a.m. (lots to fit in today) but the sun glinted on the water as I stopped to take a picture from Evening Hill (in the morning).
As I approached the chain ferry to Studland, I saw it disappear to the other side. Note to self - check the times next time you go this route. It was breezy by the sea but eventually the ferry ground it's way back to my side of the channel and I got on board. A small cup of hot chocolate to see me through the crossing and I was off again. Another note to self - when you look at the forecast on your phone, don't just be seduced by the big yellow sun symbol. Look at the wind direction and speed as well!
I battled a head wind for the 8 miles to Corfe Castle and then started the steady climb through Church Knowle (also against the wind) up to Creech, passing snowdrops and daffodils on the way. Lovely signs of spring.
As I huffed and puffed up the last bit of the hill, I spied a sign about Steeple Pit. Normally I am flying down this hill (having climbed from the Stoborough side) at around 30 mph so I've never spotted the sign before. This time I was very happy to have an excuse to give my legs a break while I took a picture or two. The Purbecks looked glorious in the bright sunshine but I couldn't afford to linger. I was on a tight time frame today so on up the hill to the summit.
I carried on the usual route but decided that I just about had time to come back via Sturminster Marshall and Wimborne. Through a flood at the bottom of the hill (no potholes though). The signs said the road was closed at White Mill but surely that couldn't apply to bikes - could it? Of course not. I ignored four sets of 'Road Closed' signs and got through just fine. Nobody was working on it, despite there being four workmen's vehicles there.
I made it home by my planned time having used up all my tissues. Another note to self - if you do a 45½ mile bike ride with a streaming cold, take extra tissues!
Penny
I made it home by my planned time having used up all my tissues. Another note to self - if you do a 45½ mile bike ride with a streaming cold, take extra tissues!
Penny