Commute

Shortly after finishing my morning coffee, I put on my cycling equipment and take the bike out of the garage.

Whether it’s freezing cold or raining, this habit remains unshaken. It brings me joy and happiness, contributing to my daily good mood, physical exercise, and mental well-being.

I turn on the front and rear lights, start the GPS, and, when I remember, bring the chain to lock the bike. I keep a second lock at work, but sometimes I go for a pint or shopping after work.

As I begin pedaling, I quickly put distance between myself and the house. I turn right, carefully cross a busy road, take another right, and head straight onto a path that cuts through a small forest near Creekmore Ponds.

Sometimes I encounter people walking their dogs, running, or simply enjoying a stroll. I always say hi to them, and they always respond. Nice people around here.

The path merges briefly with the road, where I need to be cautious—cars can appear unexpectedly.

After a few hundred meters, the path diverges from the paved road and disappears into nature.

This part is particularly enjoyable: green grass lines the way, there are no cars and just a bit of gravel. It feels safe and comfortable. The path crosses a couple of busy roundabouts and then runs through Uptown County Park.

This section is such a pleasant ride. It feels even more enjoyable thanks to the absence of cars. The path descends under thick tree branches, which create a dark, serene atmosphere in winter, and a beautifully diffused light on sunny days.

After a quick left turn, the branches open up to reveal a breathtaking view. It’s so calming and uplifting that I often stop here. Many times, I’ve nearly been late to work, caught up in the beauty of this spot.

On foggy mornings, when thick clouds rise from the ground, the city’s buildings are barely visible across the water.

On sunny days, everything is clear: the bay, the lush trees, the vibrant colours around, the city’s skyline with its buildings and cranes.

Even on dark, cold days, when the bay is only visible through the city lights reflecting on the bay’s surface, the view remains captivating.

These differences, this ever-changing display of nature and the city bring me joy every day, no matter the weather.

After pausing to take in the view, I continue through the park for another hundred meters. Just beyond this section, there’s a stretch of road where water tends to collect long after it rains. I always slow down here, trying not to get splashed or drenched.

Soon after, the path exits the park. Taking a sharp left, I rejoin the paved road and face the traffic once more.

Drivers tend to be more mindful of cyclists in this area, but it’s still important to stay cautious and alert.

When the cycling lane ends, I make a left at the junction, another left at the next, and then a right. And just like that, I’ve arrived at work.