While cresting the hill near Hiddenbrooke this morning, this Irish blessing came into my head. It seemed fitting as I pedaled behind my two girlfriends, into the sunshine and with the wind finally at our backs…

May the road rise up to meet you

May the wind be ever at your back

May the sun shine warm upon your face

and the rain fall softly on your field…

May your days be merry and bright

And may all your Christmases be white (or full of sunshine and green hills)...