January 2nd – I finally plucked up courage just before sunset. I was still quite unwell, and am still suffering the upset stomach now, but I’d eaten a little, and wanted fresh air and the reassurance that I could still ride. It was very, very windy, and my energy levels pitiful. With the solid feel of my bike under me, I set off. Oddly liberated, I sped through Brownhills and back along the canal. I’d really missed this. The wind had been crafted on Satan’s anvil, but for once I just clicked down the gears and mashed through it. My energy didn’t last long, but I was back. I could do this again.

The sunset at Clayhanger bridge, and dusk looking toward the Jollier Collier Bridge from the Old Cement Works bridge made nice pictures.

Lying at home thinking, I decided I had to continue the 365daysofbiking project, to to make it fair, it had to start again from today. That’s the only way I can feel better about this, so I’ll continue.