Observation:  New addition to the standard riding supplies today – a mace wrist guard. After being chased by dogs a few times, I had bought a small container of mace, but somewhere along the way it got lost, and I like this new one even better because it feels more accessible. At the same time, I feel a little guilty for not thinking through all the options for when this situation arises next time. I am a huge dog fan, and so the idea of using this on any animal kind of bothers me, but after posting a pic of it Instagram, a few people tossed some additional ideas my way. One is just getting off my bike and using it as a shield, which might work for dogs just trying to prove a point or while I wait for their owners to snag them (surprised by the number being walked off leash). But the other option that I didn’t think of was pretty basic…treats. Sure, I’m not going to pack a sirloin in my tiny bike bag but throwing 1-2 dog treats might stave off some of the more food-motivated canines in the city.

Distance:  21.37 miles

D-Fact:  The Detroit Jazz Festival is the world’s largest Free Premier Jazz Festival