Mud Season
Spring in Vermont is affectionately(?) known as Mud Season. It’s the time of year when many of our unpaved roads turn into brown soup for a couple of weeks, filled with ruts big enough to swallow small cars (and presumably bicycles as well). It’s tough to find much in the way of Kodachrome-worthy images. In the feature photo, you’ll see the local road crew is out trying to do some repairs. On the other side of that road grader, there’s a steep section of road that gets pretty much impassable for awhile every spring.
I realize I haven’t posted much this month, or even commented very often. My wonderful spouse has been dealing with some health issues, which has consumed a lot of time and energy for both of us. I’ve been able to get out and ride almost every day, but just haven’t quite found the time to stop and take many photos, or post the ones I have taken.
But, here’s just a few, taken over the last few days.
Nothing very colorful here. But, it’s 61 degrees (F) today, so spring is in the air. I’m looking forward to those April shower and May flowers. And it was the first ride of the year wearing shorts!
16 response to "Mud Season"
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First of all, Best hopes and wishes for your wife and medical issues. We are ‘somewhat’ acquainted with them too. (Using the word somewhat advisedly!)
I would have a tough time taking a new Salsa out on those roads, but, that’s what it is for. Looks like you did a great job maneuvering around the real messy stuff.
The photo of the grader and barn is my favorite — looking forward to spring here too — finally beginning to warm up.
Thanks Rich. When I was out on those roads they were actually still pretty soiid from an overnight freeze. I have been avoiding any real muck with the Fargo so far.
I’m sorry to hear about your mate’s issues, Bob. Best of luck with everything. And thanks for submitting such a fine gallery. The tractor photo actually just about covers the spectrum.
Thanks Scott. The grader was by far the most colorful thing I saw on those rides.
I like that March is mud season in Vermont. In Colorado, March was always one of the windiest months. I do remember when things started to thaw that the whole town where I went to uni smelled like dog/geese/cow shit for a bit. (And March where I live in Oz tends to be one of the best months). I will now know to avoid VT in March.
Hope you are having lots of fun on the Salsa and learning all its secrets. All the best to you and your spouse – being unwell is a very taxing thing for everyone in the household.
Thanks Em. Yup, in spring there’s that earthy smell and the sound of running water everywhere. I’m really enjoying the Fargo so far. Those big tires give it a very solid mtn bike feel, very different than my other bike. I’ve been alternating bikes on rides, and really like feeling the differences in each one.
Frozen ponds, what’s that?, you sure live in a different world than me. Wishing you wife a quick recovery and I’m sure the warm suns rays will boost your mood and cycling mojo.
As your world seems very different to me! That’s one of the things I enjoy most about our geographically diverse little group.
I’ve been riding in shorts for a couple days now too. I hope to keep it up until November.
As do I! I have a feeling though there might be still be some cold morning rides where I fall back on something warmer. I’m definitely not a TOUGH GUY! ?
Mud season! That’s what they built your Salsa for! Looking forward to a photo of a big muddy stripe up your back.
I’m sure that muddy stripe will happen. And I can imagine the Ogre being at home in the mud as well.
Sorry to hear your wife has been having health issues – all the best to her. Good that you’re finding time to get out and ride in spite of it all. Writing and commenting here is secondary, although we all do enjoy your rides and pictures if you do find time and energy. The frozen pond is very nice.
Thanks Suzanne!
My thoughts are with you for your wife to have a good strong recovery from any health issues, and for you to stay well too. I like all your photos, and am happy to not live in an area that has so many unpaved roads!
As Suzanne says, posting here, though we love reading your stories, is definitely secondary. Do take care of both of you in your household.
Thanks for the well wishes Nancy (and everyone else). And by way, nothing too too dire as far as the health situation, but nevertheless limiting and time consuming. I do love showing off the great riding and scenery in my little state, so more posts will be forthcoming for sure. And those unpaved roads are great to ride a good part of the year, with the extra advantage of very little traffic!