Monday, October 21, 2019

THE END OF THE LINE

     ....even if you're old and gray
         riding around in the breeze
         we're going to the end of the line.

       A  few chosen lines out of order from one of my very favorite songs The End of the Line by the Travelling Wilburys.

       Well, since I turned 80 today I had made up my mind that there would be changes made in my life.

        So I decided I had  to quit riding my bike. There is a high risk factor so there's no sense in tempting fate. So I like to think about riding around in the breeze. 

       I have ridden about 45000 km since 1983. I will miss it

      So today was officially my last ride. I was fortunate enough to meet some well known people on the bike path and say good bye.




        There's nothing like an 80th birthday to make one think about the realities of life.  So we're riding to the end of the line even if we're old and gray!

       Now the rear view mirror on the helmet shows up as a black spot.


     So some of my birthday loot!

     But after I got in the house from my last ride I said, "You know what? There are recumbent bikes! "  So maybe I'll get a recumbent and keep on riding.

37 comments:

  1. ...my friend, keep doing what feels right and gives you pleasure!

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  2. Use it or lose it, Red! A recumbent bike might be just the thing to keep you on the move.

    Happy Birthday and may the year ahead treat you well! You and my daughter share a birthday.

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    1. That's cool that your daughter has the same birthday. Happy birthday to your daughter.

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  3. Belated Birthday Greetings Keith! You old dog!
    Riding all those kilometres on your bike will have certainly contributed to your good health. I think it is a shame that you have given up bike riding but I can understand why. How about investing in an exercise bike? It would be safe and you would be helping to maintain your fitness. While pedalling away listening to Iron Maiden or AC/DC you could close your eyes and relive past bike rides.

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    1. Thanks. Yes, to both physical and mental health.

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  4. Replies
    1. Thanks. Thanks for visiting Hiawatha house.

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  5. Happy birthday Red. And well done on getting eighty years and 45,000 kms of bike riding behind you. That's no mean feat.
    I'd certainly investigate a recumbent bike if I was you.
    And the Travelling Wilburys, just that sound to take you to the end of the line.
    Alphie

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    1. Thanks Alphie. It was a lot of fun and a million stories.

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  6. Happy Birthday Red!!! Now this is a special birthday and I must say you look much younger. Staying active makes a big difference for us doesn't it. I hope you had a wonderful birthday and enjoy the rest of your week.


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    1. I had a wonderful birthday. Maybe I should turn 80 every year.

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  7. Oh really, you stop? That is a pity...

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    1. I will keep going . Just at something different.

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  8. Hello, Happy Birthday! They say just keep moving, I think they are right. Enjoy your day!

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    1. Thanks. As one of my friends said about her husband...if he doesn't move , I'll have to dust him.

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  9. Happy birthday, Red! You are just three years ahead of me, and I too am looking at what needs to change as I get older. I think a recumbent bike sounds like a great adventure. :-)

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    1. We have to look ahead in a positive way.

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  10. I had to quite bike riding and running with injuries. I hear you!

    Happy birthday, Keith! So proud to know you!!!

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    1. Thanks. I quit running at 71. I still miss it.

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  11. Happy happy birthday to you, Red! I love seeing these photos of you and your bike. A recumbent bike sounds like a grand idea.

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    1. Thanks. I wanted to mark the end of my biking.

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  12. Happy birthday, Red. Wishing you many more happy days.

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  13. That’s a sad event, giving up your bike. I hope i have a few more years and that I’ll have the sense to say “end of the line” when it’s time. Happy birthday, Red!

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  14. A very happy birthday to you Red. It would be nice if you can get a recumbent bike. If not, then I think you've made a wise decision. all the best to you and your wife in this coming year.

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    1. Thanks. I will look into the recumbent.

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  15. Yes and 3 wheeled bikes! Don't give up unless you want too! Happy Birthday!!

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    1. Thanks. I don't want a trike but a real bike only recumbent.

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  16. Happy 80th! I think if you can make a few adjustments to keep riding, do that. And I LOVE the song 'The End of the Line' by the Travelling Wilburys. Such a great tune.

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    1. Thanks. Yes, I can make some adjustments.

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  17. Happy birthday! 80 is a big deal! And yes, there are recumbent bikes so maybe that's a good option for you. Of course there's always walking, too. :)

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  18. Oh my! Happy Birthday!!! You are the most active 80 year old I know. My mother just celebrated her 90th and you have a lot more fun to look forward to.

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  19. Belated Happy Birthday wishes to you, Red🎂 Sorry to read that you decided to give up bike riding and wondered if it was strictly for safety reasons. I know folks who continue to ride past 80.

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  20. Hey Dear Red

    i am sad for two reasons one is that i am late for this precious post and second that i didn't like the view in image in which you standing alone with the cake (i am sorry if i crossed the line )
    i am happy that you rode a lot in your life which is quite an achievement and i believe that you also feel this way
    there are people like me who have most biggest wish in their hearts may they can ride a bike at least once in life and can feel the adventurous breeze but life keeps them awaiting
    you ended it so beautifully with lovely words and so beautiful images :)
    i felt so serene and proud of you while looking at your peaceful face :)
    HAPPY BIRTHDAY my friend ,may you see many more with you perfect health and such amazing attitude :)
    yes recumbent bike is good replacement :)

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