A Bike Ride for Elderflowers

Last week, I brought my rusty bike back to life; I have been riding it and enjoying every bit of it.

When things aren't moved and not cared for, they go rusty.
Just like us, we need to use our abilities and stay active. When we don’t use our skills and passions, they can become rusty, much like the bike I revived.

Today, I woke up early and rode my bike around the village and to the quiet country road where elderflowers grow prolifically.

Elderflower is my favorite wildflower. I craft so many things using it, such as leavening for bread, making wine,champagne, refreshing cordial, sweets, and cake, and blending it in perfume!

Cycling to pick them up is quicker, and I could also take my flowers home faster to keep them fresh. The fresher the flowers, the stronger and nicer their scent. I was after their scent, which I will collect through distillation to use in beverages, food, and perfume.

I am pleased that I installed the stand, making it easier to park my bike while I pick the flowers.

I got tempted to go off the road to get more flowers in a bush area.

It was downhill, and I didn't need to pedal, although it was so bumpy that I nearly lost control at one point. Phew, but it was fun.

I thought my way back would be difficult on a bumpy off-road hill, and I would have to carry my bike.

So, I stopped briefly for a little rest.

Then drank my coffee.

I enjoyed the invigorating fresh air and peaceful surroundings.

I stared at the wild meadow flowers, thinking how gentle and graceful they were when the wind blew them. The heavy wind bent them down, and heavy rain weighed them down, but the next day, they stood up straight again, very delicate yet resilient as humans can be.