Well, fall is definitely here. All it takes is one look at the forecast (or out the window) to realize that. While I wouldn’t trade the weather in Victoria for the climates found in the rest of Canada, I’m still allowed to complain about the rain. The dark dreariness does affect my mood a bit, and it certainly doesn’t make my continuing my goal of riding my bike to and from school every day any easier. But I’m committed, so have done what it takes to ensure that I have as little reason as possible to resist the urge to hop in that all too inviting car. The first thing I did was buy a waterproof backpack from MEC. It wasn’t cheap ($150), but I needed a new backpack anyways so that made it easier to part with the cash. Next, I was forced to get new bike tires. I’d had a bad rash of flats over the past few months and the old tires weren’t getting any newer, so I splurged on some nice Kevlar (yes, like the bulletproof vests) tires that I was told wouldn’t be leaving me on a rainy roadside anytime soon. I then borrowed/blatantly stole rain pants and a rain jacket from my mom. She is 5’5” and I’m 6’2” but somehow they fit me just fine. I’m not gonna question something I got for free. However, if she ever needs this stuff back, MEC sells rain pants for around $70 and jackets for around $170. Not cheap, but with the amount biking saves you on parking, gas, and other unforeseen expenses, spending that amount really is a good investment. If you’re serious about incorporating ways to stay in shape with a busy schedule, you’ve got to be prepared. So, while preparing to bike in (almost) any weather Victoria throws at me has forced me to part with some cash, it’s been well worth it so far! See below for proof that I actually did acquire all this stuff that makes me look very cool:

One thing to remember (that I forgot on October 18th – see below) is that the weather changes very quickly in Victoria, so pack some rain gear in your backpack! My jeans were wetter than this picture gives them credit for (thankfully I was heading home and not up to school).

Also, here’s some classic Guns N’ Roses to help get you through those rainy November (and October) days: