Today has been the second cold, rainy, dreary day in a row. Yesterday I appreciated that -- because I had been working too hard, out six nights in a row, out of balance. Yesterday I spent reading, which energizes me. I finished the third of five sections in a book that's turning out to be as important as any I've read for my work: Evangelism After Christendom: The Theology and Practice of Christian Witness, by Bryan Stone. It's a brilliant description of the purpose of the church and the context in which the church finds itself. Not easy reading, but well worth the effort.

Yesterday, also, I went to my doctor for a routine physical -- and it looks like I'm back to excellent health. Blood pressure 110/70, pulse 52, body mass index 25, internal organs all feeling healthy. Hooray!

I haven't been out on my road bike for days because of rain or darkness, and I was especially disappointed by the weather today because on the second Saturday of each month I enjoy the ride Jack Huber leads, beginning in Waverly, VA, which is on the other side of the James River. We head out into rural areas for 45 miles or so before circling back to Waverly, and then enjoy a wonderful lunch at an Italian restaurant.

Two weeks ago it was rainy and 40 degrees. Last Saturday I got in 52 miles on a beautiful, sunny, 75 degree day. Today it's rainy and 40 degrees. That's March ...

(I remember, three years ago, on the Waverly ride in March, that it actually snowed on us during part of the ride!)

I did accomplish some important bicycle work today: I took the chance to overhaul both hubs (Ah! New ball bearings and grease!), clean the 10-speed cogs in the drive train, install a new chain, a new rear tire, and new brake pads. If the rain ever stops, it'll be like having a brand new bike, when I'm finally able to ride the most beautiful road bicycle in Williamsburg and the counties of James City and York.