I didn’t plan to ride the bike today.
I thought I’d take another morning off.
There’s stitches in my mouth, it hurts to say,
and last week’s cold has left a noisy cough.
But after I was up and scanned the news,
a restlessness and anger served to poke
me, modifying sedentary views,
and plotting steps to justify a smoke.

I climbed aboard with book and coffee mug
and tissue to address a drippy nose.
I read and pedaled – half an hour’s sweat,
and now I’ve nearly earned my favorite drug.
A joint awaits enjoyment, I propose,
as soon as I deliver this sestet.