John’s Ramblings

Sunday was Father’s Day. Terri and I had scheduled a Newcomer’s Ride for the Cascade Bicycle Club. The idea was to extend the range of some of our regulars with a 100% road-ride, as opposed to the local multi-use trails. The ride was from Auburn to Flaming Geyser State Park, a 24 mile out-and-back.

My 23 year old son Brendan has been living with us for the past year as he finishes the Culinary Arts program at South Seattle Community College. He also works in the catering division at the new Seattle Art Museum, so his schedule is congested, to say the least. It worked out that he had Sunday completely free, so he joined us for his first taste of club riding.

Brendan has just gotten his road bike a month or so ago. It seems that just about everyone in the kitchen where he works commutes via bike to save gas and parking fees. Being surrounded by cyclists at work and home, it was only a matter of time before we had another convert.

Locals will remember that Sunday was overcast and cool. It wasn’t the greatest day for a ride, but I had a great time. For most of the ride out to the park, I “swept” the group with Brendan just ahead of me. I watched him ride and gave out a few tips, all whilst “minding my station” with the occasional “Car Back!” call.

I’ve ridden Green Valley many, many times. I know every pothole, gravelly driveway, narrow bridge and turn on this road. The scenery is lovely, and I love watching the young animals this time of year stretching their legs. It is relaxing, but also familiar. On this day, however, it was a little slice of life, a “dad” moment that I will cherish for years to come. I am a lucky man.

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