Last night's ride was a pleasant antidote to the evening before with a good session on the rings and a waft to the shops. Pub planned afterwards however I was predictably rinsed so stayed in once back to the flat.
This morning; again bright and clear if conspicuously chilly; made the right decision to wear trousers for the first time in a long time. Was passed by a van driver who was notably considerate - the novel, palpable lack of anxiety made me sad to think how cynical and defensive we have to be by default; and consider how nice the world would be if everyone exercised an appropriate amount of thought and respect for others.
Got overtaken by, and subsequently chased a racing snake but he was flat out faster than me so I gave up. Smashed it up St. Aldates and probably came close to a PR were it not for having to negotiate that stationary traffic at the top; hitting high 80s on the HRM before I had to slow.
The top end of my heart rate seems more achievable / regularly visited since I started on the creatine, although perhaps it's just confirmation bias. Maybe I'll check my records when I get back.