This summer has been a transformative journey for me, full of rediscovery and growth. After experiencing some burnout, I found myself yearning to reconnect with my love for cycling—a passion that has always been a source of joy and freedom. So, I decided to take on the Discover Hudson Valley Ride, a challenging and beautiful 58-mile journey that reignited my enthusiasm for the open road and the thrill of the ride.
The Hudson Valley, with its stunning vistas and winding roads, provided the perfect backdrop for this adventure. The ride was both demanding and rewarding, taking me through charming small towns, lush green landscapes, and alongside the majestic Hudson River. There were moments of steep climbs that tested my endurance, but also exhilarating downhill stretches where I felt the wind in my hair and the pure joy of movement. Each mile brought a sense of accomplishment and a deeper connection to the journey—both on the bike and within myself.
As I pedal my way through these scenic routes, I’ve also been editing “The Cyclista Zine Collection,” a compilation of the most impactful stories we’ve shared in Cyclista Zine. This project has been a labor of love, a chance to reflect on the voices and stories that have shaped our community. It’s been a wonderful reminder of the power of storytelling and the importance of diverse perspectives in the cycling world.
In between editing sessions and rides, I’ve been indulging in some fantastic reads. “A Shore Thing” by Joanna Lowell and “I’m Mostly Here To Enjoy Myself” by Glennys MacNicol have been my companions during this time. These books, with their themes of self-discovery, resilience, and embracing life’s journey, have resonated deeply with me as I navigate this summer of renewal and reflection.
Turning 40 has been a milestone filled with introspection and the realization that each chapter of life brings its own wisdom and opportunities for growth. Here are five wise items that have been on my mind lately, all tied to my cycling adventures and the lessons I’ve learned from the books I’ve been reading:
- Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Destination: Cycling has always been a metaphor for life for me—it’s not just about where you’re going, but how you get there. Whether you’re conquering a steep hill or coasting down a gentle slope, every moment on the bike teaches you something. This summer, as I work on The Cyclista Zine Collection, I realized that the process of editing and curating stories is much like cycling: it’s about appreciating each twist and turn, learning from every ride, and finding joy in the journey itself. Just like in cycling, life is about enjoying the ride. The ups and downs, the challenging climbs, and the rewarding views all contribute to the experience.
- Take Time to Reflect and Reconnect: Sometimes, it’s the simplest things that bring the most joy. This summer, that joy came from leisurely rides under the sun, feeling the wind on my face, and diving into the pages of books. Glynnis MacNicol’s storytelling transported me to different shores, reminding me of the beauty of reading. It’s a gentle reminder to slow down and savor life’s simple pleasures, whether it’s a good book, a peaceful ride, or a quiet moment with a cup of coffee.Whether it’s through reading, writing, or simply taking a long ride, make space for introspection. It’s in these quiet moments that we find clarity and renewed purpose.
- Listen to Your Body and Mind
Turning 40 has been a gentle nudge to listen more closely to my body and mind. There’s a wisdom that comes with age, a deeper understanding of when to push forward and when to rest. Cycling has taught me the importance of balance—knowing when to challenge myself and when to take it easy. This summer has been about rekindling my love for the sport, finding a rhythm that feels good, and being kind to myself along the way. - Embrace Change and Keep Moving Forward
Life is full of changes, and cycling has taught me to embrace them with open arms. Whether it’s a change in the weather, a new route, or a different pace, every ride brings something new. As I approach this new chapter, I’m excited for what lies ahead. Turning 40 feels like embarking on a new adventure, full of possibilities and new horizons to explore. It’s a reminder that, no matter what, we keep moving forward, pedaling towards new experiences and discoveries that enriches our lives and broadens our perspectives. - Cherish Community and Shared Stories: Our connections with others are what make our journeys meaningful. At 40, I’ve come to appreciate more than ever of power of my community and connections that sustain me in life’s challenges. The stories we share in Cyclista Zine and the connections we forge through cycling are invaluable. This summer, while editing The Cyclista Zine Collection, I felt deeply connected to the voices and experiences of our contributors. It’s a reminder that we are stronger together, and that sharing our stories can create powerful ripples of change and understanding.
As I continue to explore, write, and ride, I invite you all to join me in celebrating the joy of cycling, the beauty of personal growth, and the wisdom that comes with each new adventure. Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. Let’s keep pedaling forward, finding joy in every mile and every story.
It’s good to be back here, sharing these moments with you all.
Peace, love, and bicycle grease,
Christina