Today was my first workday after summer vacation, and with the weather being pleasant – not too hot, and no rain – I decided to finish work a bit early and go for a 39-kilometer bike tour through the surrounding area.

The first half of the ride was mostly uphill (since it’s a low mountain range) and somewhat demotivating as I was slower than I wanted to be. City traffic, suboptimal bike infrastructure, and traffic lights added to the delays. However, after a quick stop at a castle to take a picture, the second half of the ride, which was mostly downhill and with better infrastructure, was much more enjoyable.

This trip taught me that hard times are often followed by rewarding experiences. It can’t always be easy.

Or can it be? Maybe I should take my bike with me the next time I go to my second flat for more than just three days, as the area there has far fewer hills and mountains.