A Ride to the Park

One of the best features of my home is the fact that it is about 2 blocks from a wonderful walking/biking path. I've spent the last few months saving up for a bike and debating over what type to get. Thanks to a generous Christmas gift from Mom and Dad, a very kind birthday check from Grandpa Bob, and some saving along the way, I finally took the plunge and made my investment after trying out, and re-trying out many, many different bikes- all I can say is that the guy at the bike shop was incredibly patient! I was so excited to go by and pick it up last Wednesday, and I rode it home just as it was starting to rain. Plans to ride later in the week were foiled by rain and more rain and colder temperatures than I cared for...

But, I'm happy to report that today proved to be a beautiful day, and I got home from work in plenty of time for a nice ride. My planned 1/2 hour turned into 1 and 1/2 as I discovered you can ride all the way from my home up to the county park without having to cross any major roads- the bike path goes along the river, with bypasses under the freeway and all the busiest streets. What could be better than seeing everyone out enjoying the sunshine- people jogging and walking their dogs, fishermen along the river, couples enjoying picnics, moms with their kids at the playground, teenagers rollerblading, families flying kites... it made me happy and was just what I needed! My legs felt like jelly by the time I got home, and I had to stroll around the block a couple of times before I could walk normally again. We'll see how I'm feeling tomorrow, but I have high hopes that I'll be able to ride to work in the morning.

As a side note, I'm really pleased with the bike I finally decided on. It's a comfort bike, with thick tires for a smooth ride and a very comfy seat. They were able to attach a rack on the back so I can tote all my stuff back and forth from school. And James gave me the coolest of brass bells to go on the handlebars. I've christened the bike "Myrtle"... I know, I know bikes should have names like "Flash" or "Lightning" or "Apollo" or something infinitely more classy sounding... but Myrtle just seemed to fit. I'm not sure exactly what that says about me, but I think that we will become friends, and I'm looking forward to a great summer together :-)