Up reasonably early, toast and coffee, wrap up because the thermometer is showing a little over 3C, quick bike check and off. The roads vary between dry, damp and wet, for the first time in what seems like weeks the wind is minimal. We are aware that rain is forecast to arrive here circa 11am so time is not on our side if we want to stay dry.
Just over a mile from home, the first hill
About the same number of cars around as any Sunday morning, very few. The first clue that today was different was when 2 horse riders we overtook shouted merry Christmas. As the miles roll by more people emerge but still far fewer than years gone by, perhaps the weather forecast is to blame.
I chose a nice rolling route that would regularly have us out of the saddle
And the odd greasy cattle grid
Even the bridges over the A1 are not too ugly
Dropping down into the Welland Valley
Rutland Water with about 8 miles to go, and er, dr_pink
Without the white stuff, these kind of decorations always look a little sad
Nearly home!
Still dry
As we turned into our road the first drops of rain were felt, what timing! Only 33 miles, but done at a reasonable clip. Just another day at the office really.
Safe and Happy Christmas to all those who post their rides on here, many of whom we have ridden with over the years.
.
as the rain that was due in from the west at 7am this morning still hadn't arrived at 8 so the planned Crimbo ride was at least going to start in the dry! 
