Kabaty Forest

I've never owned a bicycle, therefore my cycling skills are pretty much non- existent. I had mentioned this to Barbara, my Polish friend and guide, and she took to teaching me to ride a bike. Clearly, she didn't see this as a big deal, only that she didn't know what an insurmountable task this was.
So we proceed towards the Kabaty Forest natural reserve, situated on the southern part of Warsaw, which is approx two miles away from Barbara's flat.
The first few yards I thought to myself: "I can really do this" but after the first car had closely missed me, I wasn't so sure. But a few wobbly miles later, we finally arrived to the forest- and what an enchanting place this is!
I am not sure how old this forest is, but judging by the size of the trees- its pretty ancient! The wide paths are pretty much mapped out, it seems the forest is "gridded out" - sort of like the American cities, making it easy to find your way around. It is a safe heaven for walkers, cyclists and runners, or though I can't remember seeing an animal (I suppose my desire to keep to the saddle had somewhat to do with that). Unfortunately I was told the forest becomes very busy at weekends and other holidays so perhaps this is why the wild animals might've been driven out of their natural habitat.

Fifteen long, hard miles later, Barbara suddenly announced that we were half way through our little adventure and I was pretty sure I was going to pass out with the shock and exhaustion! Talk about being unfit! She was thankfully, joking! But all in all I did enjoy my first cycling trip and I am sure my riding will improve, given time and practice. I have however comprised a little guide to serve me and other "learners" (I am sure- a rare breed) - through my future cycling adventures:

1. Don't have a copious meal before setting off (unlike moi)
2. If you see a puddle, DO try to avoid it, otherwise you will end up very, very wet (steaming!); unless of course you need cooling off. I wasn't going that fast so I was OK
3. Stinging nettles provide an instantaneous "pick me up" for any flagging muscles. Just head for the largest, tallest specimen for fast revival.
4. At junctions, DO look both ways! I nearly knocked over a Police foot patrol - I am sure they would've revoked my licence had I owned one in the first place
5. On seconds thoughts, leave the copious meal in. You'll need those calories for sustenance.
6. Do wear biker's gloves! My palms are red and I have blisters where I was gripping the handles for fear of death
7. Do not attempt to get up stairs after the exercise - you will collapse unsightly in the view of all onlookers
8. Wearing a hat would probably be a good safety tip
9. DO NOT get near a busy road!!!!
10. DO bring a large amount of humour into it. Laugh a lot; it makes the journey worth while

This morning I half expected to be able to pinpoint new muscles I didn't know existed. But no, after walking gingerly and cautiously towards the smell of freshly brewed coffee, I discovered I was fine, so obviously I am not that unfit...
I haven't taken any photo's of my forest trip but I am venturing out on the bike again in a minute and this time I will take the camera with me - and hope I won't fall and damage it!

Au Revoir!