The Rain

Waiting at a stoplight on my bike in downtown Seattle.

I always think of January as the worst month of the year in terms of weather here; this January was an exception (thanks El Nino!). The temperatures have been mild, the rain has been nice to me and mainly fallen before or after my rides, and it's even starting to get lighter. I am grateful.

Even when it is rainy in Seattle it's rare for it to be pouring. Biking in drizzly rain can actually be fun. Cars seem to be more aware of me, and there's something refreshing about biking past all the umbrellas and rain gear. When you just accept the fact you're going to get wet it's really not bad at all, although I much prefer it to happen on my way home when I'm not trying to get to work on time and it doesn't matter if I show up drenched. I am lucky though that my commute only takes me 30 minutes. Any longer and I'm sure I'd be less tolerant.

I did ride one day where it was pouring. I didn't realize until I was already on my bike and soaked within minutes. The only dangerous part was that the bike lanes were waterlogged, which meant I couldn't see where the potholes were. One big pothole you don't brace yourself for can lead to falling, but luckily I took it slow and made it home safely enough. Although I resolved never to bike in a downpour again.

I am relieved that the sun is starting to come up sooner and go down later. Biking in the dark just takes a lot more concentration, a lot more lighting, and a lot more gear. I can't wait for the spring when it doesn't take me 10 minutes to put on workout pants, rain pants, biking shoes, booties, workout shirt, bright yellow windbreaker, biking gloves, smartwool hat, and helmet.

The one thing I will miss about biking at this time of the year though is the amazing sunrises and sunsets. They make me giddy as I ride into work and home. Pedaling hard while taking in the view brings me home refreshed and recovered from a boring or busy workday feeling strong and alive. I haven't found any better way to end an 8-hour day of sitting in a very gray office!