Resetting

There is always a huge sense of relief after I finish packing my bags, knowing that I am heading back home to Nova Scotia. Not only the stress of trying to make sure you have everything you need and your drive to the airport is arranged but there is a sense of accomplishment, and a longing for the opportunities now past for another year. Knowing that my last race of the Spring was now done, I came away feeling a little empty. This Spring has not been up to my standards, and I wish I could go and give it another go, but don’t we all. I still have some big goals for the remainder of the year, first step is to relax for a bit at home.

Colin wishing me ill fortune

I get to watch Spring unfold twice this year, as Halifax is just a few weeks behind Belgium with the trees starting to bud just a few days after I landed. That means that there is never much relaxing to be done. Swapping out the winter tires on all the family cars, Spring cleaning and trying to save the lawn are on the menu, not to mention school work. Time is really ticking down now until my computer science exam.

The Namur Squad

I have been very lucky all Winter and Spring as I was able to dodge any and all illness, that streak came to a quick end the week I returned home. I only have myself to blame for it as I decided to attend the local group hammer ride just a day after returning. It’s impossible to go easy on such a ride, and the next morning I knew that I screwed up. That took me out for a few days, but it is great to see all the local guys again.

Last weekend in Europe

A big part of coming home is the ability to change up my training a bit, especially when you should be taking it easier and letting the body recover. Getting off the road for a bit is a nice change, so I have been dabbling in mountain biking, and getting back to gravel riding as well. My MTB skills are subpar to say the least, but I am eager to improve it. For any road rider out there thinking of getting an MTB, I would strongly advise it. The skills you can develop in the woods make you a lot more confident on the road.

Rider Cards

The change in scenery is really nice when coming across the ocean, back to home roads and all the familiar faces. But the mental disconnect is also quite large. When I am in Europe it is business time, eat sleep, train/race. Everything is performance oriented, and that is something I really enjoy. But it is not always sustainable for long durations. If I could come home more, I would, however flights are expensive but the mental reset is not to be underestimated. Old stresses fall by the wayside and new ones appear, but it is encouraging and refreshing.

Mahone Bay - Good to be back

Here is a little video that I put together recapping a race day in Belgium. With all the other things I am constantly tackling, I can’t make as many videos (or edit them) as much as I would like.

For the time being it is about easing back into training for my eventual return to Europe and a big peak for Nationals on a course that should suit me well. And yes, school as well, is always there. So, I am staying busy as usual, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Also, Tom Dumoulin to win the Giro, just putting that out there.

Thanks for reading.