The Weekly Pull

Pressure or Power? One Year Later — A Winter Ride Revisited

One year later, it’s easy to look back and smile at what that very first Pull the Line ride with Pull Through Coffee Bar became. At the time, it was simply an idea rooted in community, courage, and a shared love of bikes and coffee. Now, it feels like the beginning of something far bigger than we imagined.

Winter is still a tricky season for cyclists—cold temps, stiff winds, and unpredictable weather never seem to take a year off. And last January was no exception. When Christina James, owner of Pull Through Coffee Bar, and I decided to host a monthly ladies’ ride, we knew we were asking a lot by choosing January 19th as our kickoff date. Cold air, winter legs, and early alarms aren’t exactly irresistible. But the vision was clear: create a space where women could ride together, support one another, and build something meaningful—no matter the season.

As the first ride approached, the weather forecast did what winter forecasts do best—it scared people. What began as a strong list of committed riders slowly thinned as 32-degree temperatures and gusty winds became very real. Understandably so. Still, when I reached out to the Pull the Line crew, the response was immediate and unanimous: we’re in.

What followed was a familiar rhythm many of us now laugh about. The group chat lit up with nervous jokes, hopeful hints at backing out, and playful accusations of “peer pressure.” Some were searching for validation to stay home, while others leaned into the accountability, knowing deep down they wanted to show up—even if it meant frozen fingers and windburned cheeks.

Standing here a year later, I realize that ride perfectly captured the heart of what Pull the Line would become. What felt like pressure in the moment was actually power—the kind that comes from being surrounded by strong women who remind you of who you are when things get uncomfortable. It wasn’t about forcing anyone to ride. It was about choosing to show up together.

That first ride wasn’t fast. It wasn’t glamorous. But it was full of laughter, grit, and connection. Coffee tasted better afterward. The smiles were bigger. And something clicked: winter riding wasn’t just about surviving the elements—it was about thriving within a community that lifts you up.

Now, as we roll into 2026, it feels fitting that our first ride of the year started with beautiful weather and an incredible group of women. A refreshing contrast, for sure—and maybe a small apology from Mother Nature for last year’s challenge. As we reflect on where this all began, there’s a shared hope that this winter will be a little kinder, a little warmer, and a lot less windy for everyone involved.

Still, no matter what the forecast holds, one thing remains the same. This community shows up. Not out of pressure—but out of power.

Here’s to another year of rides, connection, and hoping Mother Nature is on our side this time around. 🚴‍♀️☕

January 2026

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🚴‍♀️ How to Dress for Cold to Warm Rides

1. Dress in layers.
Cycling in cooler weather works best when you can add or shed layers as the temperature shifts — especially on rides that start chilly and warm up later. Cycling gear writers from Bicycling explain that layering helps trap air for insulation and lets you regulate temperature throughout a ride. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating mid-layer, and top with a breathable, cold-weather jacket that blocks wind but lets sweat escape.

2. Protect extremities.
Your head, hands, and feet lose heat quickly in cool weather. Texas riders (and riders everywhere) are advised to use thermal gloves, shoe/ toe covers, and head protection like a skull cap or gaiter under your helmet. Extremities are also the first places you’ll feel discomfort if your kit isn’t right.

3. Be ready to shed layers once you warm up.
Gear advice from cycling blogs and guides suggests starting slightly underdressed compared with how you feel outside before your ride — because your body heat will rise as you pedal. Ride authors say it’s normal to feel cold at rest, and that a base layer plus removable outer pieces (vests and windbreakers) make warming up easier without overheating.

4. Avoid cotton at all costs.
Technical fabrics like merino wool or synthetic wicking materials are recommended for base layers because they pull sweat off your skin. Cotton traps moisture and chills you once you slow down or stop.

5. Keep visibility and adaptability in mind.
Winter rides often mean lower light and variable conditions — especially in early mornings. Bright or reflective outer layers and adaptable accessories (like removable gloves and vest) help keep you safe and comfortable.

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💧 Staying Hydrated in Cool Weather

1. You’re still sweating — even if you don’t feel it.
Cold weather suppresses the feeling of thirst, but your body still loses fluid through respiration and sweat (even when hidden under layers). Cycling health articles stress that riders often underestimate hydration needs in cool weather because “it’s easier to drink when it’s hot,” but you still sweat and can get dehydrated just as quickly.

2. Warm fluids can help.
Carrying warm beverage options like tea or a warm electrolyte drink in insulated bottles or thermoses not only helps keep you hydrated but can make taking in fluids more appealing on a chilly ride. Some cycling publications even suggest bringing warm drinks to sip so you stay hydrated and warm at the same time.

3. Hydrate before, during, and after the ride.
Because cold weather alters your thirst cues, make hydration a ritual — take small, regular sips throughout the ride rather than waiting until you feel thirsty.

4. Insulated bottles make a real difference.
For rides that stay cold for long periods, cold-weather cycling gear guides recommend insulated bottles (even stainless steel models tested by Bicycling) to keep your drink from freezing and make sipping easier throughout the ride.

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🌦 Bonus Tip for Variable Weather Rides

Plan for Texas-style swings in temperature.
Texas conditions (even in winter) often bring wide swings throughout the day. Experienced riders suggest carrying removable layers — like arm warmers and leg warmers — and planning stops where they can shed or add gear easily as the ride warms up.

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Recipe to Share

🌿 Anti-Inflammatory Turmeric Latte (Golden Milk)

Ingredients (1 serving)

• 1 cup unsweetened milk of choice
  (almond, oat, coconut, or dairy all work well)
• ½ tsp ground turmeric
• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of ground ginger (or ¼ tsp fresh grated ginger)
• Pinch of black pepper (important for turmeric absorption!)
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional, but delicious)
• Optional boost:
  • ½ tsp coconut oil or ghee (for richness and absorption)

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Instructions

1. Warm the milk
   In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, gently warm the milk. Do not boil.
2. Whisk in spices
   Add turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and black pepper. Whisk continuously until well combined and fragrant.
3. Sweeten & flavor
   Stir in honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract. Add coconut oil or ghee if using.
4. Simmer briefly
   Let the mixture simmer gently for 3–5 minutes to fully infuse the spices.
5. Blend (optional)
   For a frothy café-style latte, carefully blend using a handheld frother or blender.
6. Serve warm
   Pour into your favorite mug and enjoy immediately.

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Why It’s Anti-Inflammatory

• Turmeric: Contains curcumin, known for reducing inflammation
• Black pepper: Increases curcumin absorption by up to 2,000%
• Ginger & cinnamon: Support digestion and fight inflammation
• Healthy fats: Help your body absorb turmeric more effectively

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Flavor Variations

• 🌶 Spicy: Add a tiny pinch of cayenne
• ☕ Latte-style: Add a shot of espresso
• 🍫 Chocolate golden milk: Stir in 1 tsp cacao powder
• 🧊 Iced version: Chill and pour over ice with oat milk