Ordinarily, I never start out riding in pouring rain unless I happen to get stuck in one which happened the other night. I try to find that sweet spot in between the downpours, which of late has been more challenging to do, with recent storms and 30 MPH winds hitting Northern and Southern, CA. Today was calmer. Riding in the rain offers a unique and exhilarating experience. Those who embrace the elements discover a special kind of joy in the midst of it, especially when nature abounds. The heightened sensory experience and feeling of liberation is hard to pass up. There is a sense of being one with nature, and experiencing its raw power and beauty firsthand. It is a pleasant reminder that we are not separate from the natural world, but in fact, an integral part of it.
I hit the Los Gatos Creek Trails heading west and had to navigate around a detour sign since the trail was flooded. I proceed to Vasona Lake County Park which essentially is a reservoir. On the way, I stopped at the spillway which was roaring as it usually does when there are continuous days of rain during winter months. I took some photos close-up near the railing, and walked down an embankment further away from the spillway which is relatively safer and flatter—albeit a muddy trail. All the plants and grassy knolls were lush green.
I continued on the paved trail and saw a huge downed tree that was pulled out of from its roots and was cordoned off with yellow tape (photos). The trail was blocked with debris and I walked my bike around the tree and continued on. Before exiting the park I took a photo of a beautiful rainbow, and made my why to "Happy Hound" and ordered two hot dogs to go, securing it in my utility bag on the back of my bike rack, before headed back into the park again, accessing the same trail to head home. On the way, I took some photos of orange bluish clouds being lit up by the sunsetting setting. The rain was more of a drizzle at this point, and it was dark.
Riding in the rain feels like an act of rebellion at times, a reminder that like is meant to be lived fully, even when being faced with obstacles.
