Siberia
Emerging from the station, my feet and tyres were at last on a Russian road. It was asphalt, thank goodness! I looked forward to a long and happy relationship with the stuff. Travelling through the mountains on the border train, I had seen more and more green vegetation, but cycling along through the trees I was aware of what a real blessing the trees were. I could sense an increase in the oxygen in the air. It was relaxing on the eyes too. I felt my body easing smoothly into pedalling. Being invigorated like that reminded me of the essential part plants play in life. (from "Against the Wind" - Poolbeg Press)
