“What’s more beautiful than a road? It
is the symbol and the image of an active, varied life.”
-George Sand, French novelist

Spending a good bit of time on the roads around our area on a bicycle, I’ve noticed several things that are wonderful and a few that cause frustration and concern.

The positive is a great place to begin: there are really beautiful places here to enjoy. At times, one could feel like they are riding a bike in the countryside of Ireland, France, or even Italy. It warms the heart to go through these areas and ponder the beauty of our world. Almost smelling the peat of Ireland, or the vineyards and the olive groves of France or Italy, seeing the beauty of an old barn and wondering what that farm was like in it’s “hay day,” topping a hill and enjoying a breath-taking view of the valley. These are just a few of the joys one can encounter while taking a bike ride here in Middle Tennessee. Another wonder here are those fellow Tennesseans that one meets along the journey. Talking to folks while stopped for supplies we are often asked: How far have you gone today? Where are you headed? What is the farthest you have ridden in a day? Would you like some water? Please stop by again if you are ever in this area. Generally speaking, in our area cyclists are made to feel welcome and are respected on the highways and byways. Continue reading →