Getting closer to my YTD goal. Bicycling on the “Atascocita – Walden – Huffman” route 31.9 miles drew within 26 miles of the 6,000 miles needed by the end of September. I started at 10:54 AM delayed some while I searched for invading fireants on the outside of the house. I didn’t find their path but sprinkled some poison at the last spot.
Late summer weather is hanging around making the biking enjoyable though sweaty. At the start: 88 degrees, 71% humidity, mostly cloudy sky 7 mph breeze. I finished at 1:37 PM with 92 degrees and 61% humidity. The humidity is what makes for muggy and sweaty bike rides.
Cleanup continues along the route from Hurricane Harvey flooding. The piles of sheetrock and debris are getting fewer with some streets are clear. Several crews worked as I rode through. On the way back home the sidewalk/greenbelt was closed with a giant wrecker parked on it. I think they were trying to get a waste container that had floated near the bridge during the flood. I got off my Stradalli and walked around the wrecker because it would have been difficult to cross W. Lake Houston Parkway at that location.
Arriving at the Huffman Chevron 20.2 miles into the ride I decided to take a 25 minute break. I brought a couple fruit and grain cereal bars and refilled my water bottle. I sat in the shade under the pump cover enjoying the breeze. While I was there a new Harris County ESD #4 ambulance arrive. I complemented the driver on the new vehicle and he asked if I was okay and taking a break. I said yes and yes. Apparently the ambulance company that served Huffman in the past decided to stop so the Huffman VFD added the ambulance. Some pictures.
After resting I headed west on FM 1960. The wind was somewhat friendly and I was able to hit my top speed on the way to Atascocita Shores Drive. The street was looking cleaner and one section the east bound lanes were closed while trucks were filled with flood debris.
One area I need to avoid next time is behind the shopping center along W. Lake Houston Parkway north of Kingwood Drive where the old HEB store was. The flood debris is a mess and scattered on the concrete where I rode. Flats could happen there and I would not like to walk through the mess.
Tomorrow looks great to bike and reach my goal.
Strava Ride Summary (click on the image to go to Strava.com)
