Abstinence. One of its more common definitions — the practice of not doing or having something that is wanted or enjoyable — pertains to my situation over the past couple of months or so.
Great pleasure for me has been "missing in action" on two different fronts. One bummer, quite honestly, has been the decision to reduce the frequency of my blog postings. Yes, the pressure is off for coming up with fresh material on a regular basis, but I'm not happy with the present arrangement.
The second disappointment — of a more serious nature — has to do with less time and distance on the saddle over the previous few weeks. Mostly due to not feeling a hundred percent. In fact, I've just got back on a bicycle after not riding any of my two-wheeled machines for a total of fifteen days. Hard to believe, but true.
The bike odometer is now just south of 5,200 miles for the current season. God willing, plus with good weather and good health, I'll still be able to reach six, zero, zero, zero before the end of the year.
WONDERFUL WAWA ...
Prior to my illness really taking hold, which I believe was walking pneumonia, I had the opportunity to slam some gravel riding in Wawa, Ontario. Accompanied by breathtaking views of mighty Lake Superior with nearly every pedal stroke.

The unpaved roadways went on for miles and miles, through dense forests, and up and down countless steep hills. With very little traffic. My Specialized Crux was a perfect fit for the rugged Canadian terrain, with the only downside being my first flat tire of 2024.
Wawa is a beautiful area. The town's name means "wild goose" or "land of the big goose" in Ojibwe. It is no exaggeration to say it is way up north — with a kind of outpost vibe. I even noticed a sign during the journey there that said, "Fill up here ... the next gas station is 150 miles." Along with the sensational cycling, it was great spending time at my friend Perk's place, catching up with former college buddies whom I hadn't seen in 48 years. Upon reflection, the sauna sessions with multiple dips into icy-cold Gitche Gumee probably didn't do my health any favors.
TREK TRAVEL TIMELINE ...
I received the 2025 Trek Travel catalog a few days ago, which reminded me it was one year ago at this time that I signed up for my week-long biking vacation in Belgium. I still feel very fortunate to have had the chance to experience the Flanders region and its ever-present bond with bicycles.
The cobbles, the culture, the cuisine, the camaraderie with my fellow guests, and everything in between certainly made it the trip of a lifetime. I recount the wonderful journey quite often — especially when I'm aboard one of my bikes. Stay safe!

I have never experienced walking pneumonia, but I have suffered from the boogie woogie flu, so my heart goes out to you! Also your alliteration in the second paragraph of the Trek Travel Timeline was all I needed to know that you are still on the top of your game! I'm always very impressed with you!
Glad you are feeling better! Best of luck with the remainder of the year.
Hope you're feeling better and reach the 6k goal!