Biking treat for Mom

I just got back from a delightful ride on the Springwater trail. I went with a girlfriend who is a dedicated biker. Last time we road together she crashed and broke her collar bone really bad.

Last fall we did this same area of Springwater Trail. We headed towards Gresham. When we ran out of trail and got to the road, she tried to stop and slid on gravel crashing hard. She hit her helmet on the concrete, denting it and slammed her shoulder into the ground. A homeless guy who appeared out of the brush, tried to help thinking it was dislocated shoulder and mangled the area trying to force the bone back in place. I flagged down a police car for help, while I returned for my car. The officer took her to the hospital where I eventually reconnected with her. She ended up with a plate in her shoulder and we hadn't gone biking since.

When she called to see if I was available I was thrilled and concerned. I said I would only go if she promised not to crash again. We started at Oaks Park and road in to past OMSI. It was loud in town by the Freeways and bridges. There was also a homeless "town" under one of the bridges. I suggested heading back the other way. Before reaching town the Springwater trail follows the Willamette river on a quiet peaceful stretch. That is the part I like best.

Once back in the Sellwood area we meander through the neighborhoods admiring the craftsman houses and beautiful landscaped yards. We stop to have lunch at the Grand Central Bakery on 13th. We talk for over an hour. Women can sit and talk about anything and it recharges the battery of the soul.

The sun came out and I knew it was time to head home. I picked up a couple of sweet treats to bribe the boys. We loaded our bikes up and headed in opposite directions. I feel so refreshed from exercise and good conversation. This morning crawling out of bed I wasn't sure I had the energy. I kept putting off getting up. Exercise makes energy. Now I am going out to mow the lawn.