I wake up for the morning commute,
slowly coming to the realization that it’s winter in Seattle.
Layering myself in thoughts and clothing,
I pick up my bike and head out the door.
Riding by parked cars as they slowly defrost,
I appreciate the simplicity of pedaling up hills and down trails,
even when my route is frozen leafed,
snow patched and cold.
I keep on pedaling,
embracing the crisp air as the cars drive by
with their windows sealed.
While they zoom by,
I tune into my morning commute,
riding slowly on the trail at that wintertime kind of speed.
Passing by people as I pedal down the trail,
I know my destination is near.
Upon arriving, and much too warm,
I tell myself less is more.
But I know my commute later will be much different
since the sun sets at half past four.
__________________________
The day is over, it’s time to go.
Here’s where the nighttime commute begins.
Feeling the withdrawal from coffee,
since switching to hot chocolate in mid-afternoon,
I know I have to get home soon.
Lights turned on,
I begin on my journey and start singing as I ride down the road.
In the darkness of a lonely trail,
I sing past trees and know if one falls
it might actually make a sound.
Pedaling in boots on a well-trodden path,
I begin to appreciate the wintertime commute.
Although a few bumps make me momentarily unsteady,
I keep riding on my regular route.
Towards the end of my commute,
feeling invigorated,
I politely pass a man
as I ride up that one big hill.
One last pedal stroke,
the bike commute complete
I carry my bike into my home,
And I make myself something warm to eat.
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