Man, who knew back in July when I signed up to lead a ride yesterday that we would have a freeze warning? When I awoke, temperatures at my house were 37F (2C), and when I left to meet my riding buddies from my club, it warmed up to a whopping…

…42F (5.5C). Sheesh!

But I was prepared… two pairs of socks, outer later layer wool; thin thermal-reflective undergear; thick leather breeches with Wesco Patrol boots.

On top, another thin thermal-reflective undershirt, leather shirt, thinsulate jacket, then brightly colored overjacket kept me warm.

Up top, I wore a balaclava, which covers the head, face, and neck with an insulated layer that was surprisingly comfortable and warm when worn with my helmet over it all. Add a thin pair of cop search gloves with thick insulated motorcycle gloves — and I was all set to ride.Three buddies met me, and we rode over 100 miles through Maryland’s “mountains” to look for leaf color. The colors were muted, even though this was supposed to be “peak” weekend. The muted leaf colors were caused by extreme dryness in August and September when trees require rain to produce full autumn color.

We had a great ride. Didn’t even get lost once! Progress!

Life is short: ride when you can, and enjoy the view with your safe riding buddies.