Walking and Geese

I can't believe that is has really been over a month since I have last posted.  I need to get on a better schedule!!!  Well ....  I am still here and still living without a car.  As I last posted my modes of transportation have continued to vary from walking to biking, busing to the occasional taxis and the rides from friends and family.

I have settled into a bit of a rhythm - and have found that I really do love walking.  I have been walking from my house, through the fairgrounds (and, no --- I haven't gotten lost again) to the St. Paul campus to take the shuttle over to the Mpls campus for work.  It is a nice 35 minute walk --- and a great time to practice my meditation ... sometimes with music, sometimes without ....  And the only scary part was yesterday when I was walking a gaggle of geese was crossing the road just ahead of me.  Those of you who know me (and who are intelligent) understand the inherent danger in geese.  I wasn't quite sure what to do .... as I really didn't want to get pecked!!! So ...  I did wait a bit until they were all safely across and moving away from the road.  My heart was beating quickly .... but I did make it safely by the gaggle. 

The one interesting thing to note is that I have commented in the past that not having a car makes me feel closer to the community in which I live is still true ....  but it is interesting that when I ride the bus or the shuttle everyone seems to have their headphones on ....  which is eerily similar to being inside of a car --- completely closed off from those around you ....

I am getting very familiar with the bus system --- although, have still not yet put my bike on the front of the bus.  The fall weather has gotten me back out on my bike more often ....  what a great time of year to be car free!!!! :)

Oh - and good luck to all of the 10 milers and marathoners this weekend.  Can't wait to get out an cheer for everyone!!! :)

Ahhhh .... biking in MN!!! :)

I think that I have admitted before that I wouldn't talk about the weather .....  but it has also been reconfirmed for me that I love temperate weather.  Perhaps that is one of the reasons I actually did leave my heart in San Francisco.  The weather there is perfect ....  I can even deal with the fog - knowing that the the weather was never going to get hot or cold enough to keep me off of my bike.  So ... today with the weather starting out in the mid 50s and only getting to the mid 70s (and no humidity) is perfect.  I was so giddy today to get out on my bike!!!! :)  I did walk the dog first thing this morning -- and then mid morning met with my trainer .....  and now I really should be working ....  but trying to figure out what errands need to do!!!  I do have a book club meeting tonight - so I will have something I NEED to bike to and I plan to leave a bit early so that I can actually ride more than 4 miles ....  I keep telling myself if I can work for at least one hour (without getting on Facebook!!!) then I deserve a quick ride around the neighborhood.  I know that the hot weather is not behind us ----  it will be humid and in the 80s this weekend ....  but what a priceless day!!!   Ok ... enough of this ...  I need to work for a bit and then the freedom of the bike ....

Interesting twists and turns ...

So - when I started this car-free journey I had thoughts of lots of biking, cute outfits and awesome looking thighs!!! :) .....  But my summer took a bit of a different turn.  No - I have not bought a car .... and I am still committed to the car-free lifestyle --- but is has included many more bus rides with a few taxi rides here and there.  It makes me feel a bit lazy --- but I came to the realization that just because I gave up my car, didn't mean that I wanted to give up who I am. ....  And, part of who I am really hates heat and humidity.  I can't stand being all sweaty (unless I am working out) .....  and given the weather during August - I was breaking a sweat just standing waiting for the bus!!!

I am looking forward to September --- going back to school ---- and more cool, less humid days.  I look forward to getting back on my bike - and perhaps even biking in the dark.  I am committed to spending much more time on my bike this fall ---- oh, and finally getting my back rack and panniers .... and of course, FINALLY putting my bike on the front of a bus!!! :)

Riding in Cars

So ...  I have ridden in quite a few cars over the last 5 days.  And ... I am ok with that.  I made the choice not to have a car for many different reasons - but it was never to be a martyr.  It was my 20 year HS reunion this weekend and my very, very dear friend N came to stay with me.  She lives in Seattle -- car free!!! :)  However, she wanted to do plenty of exploring of her old neighborhood - plus get to the reunion looking smashing (which she always does) so she decided to rent a car.  I do love her dearly, but I do have to say riding in a car with her was an interesting experience.  It should be just like riding a bike .... once you know how you never forget.  Although --- after not driving for many years the awareness level perhaps is a bit different.  When you are on your bike or walking things go by much more slowly ---- so there is more time to look, ponder and take in all of what you are seeing.  Everything happens much more quickly in a car .....  so I did have to smile a bit .... and wonder how long it will take my "car skills" to start to diminish ....

Finding my center ...

There have been so many changes in my life this summer ... selling my house, moving, going back to grad school full-time, preparing for the M+Ms to leave MN ... oh .... and that little thing like giving up my car!!!!  All of these changes has made it really difficult for me to get into a regular schedule.  I am still getting use to a new neighborhood, different class times depending on the day, bus schedules and routes, not knowing which mode of transportation is going to be ideal based on the weather and how to plan for the unexpected without a car ......

Given all of this, I have to admit that I am missing my meditation time on my bike.  Now - you might think that meditating on a bike perhaps is not the best idea ....  given if I closed my eyes and started saying "Ommmm" and carrying a candle on the bike might be dangerous!  However, my sister once taught me that meditating can be active.  Walking for me is the best way to meditate (or so I thought) .....  I can take time to notice my surroundings, clear my mind and center myself.  I have learned, though, that biking allows me the same thing.  It allows me the chance to think, clear my mind, focus on my body and my surroundings ..... all things that center me.  I didn't realize how important that is for me until these past 10 days when I have not biked as much.  There are all kinds of reasons why ....  the extreme heat yesterday, not wanting to put a bike helmet on after getting a haircut last week (I didn't want to mess up a GREAT blowout!!!) and perhaps being a bit lazy and hopping on the bus.  I have also been berating myself for not taking up a formal meditation practice .....  one which I have started and quit countless times over the past few years.  ......  But wait ....  I HAD started a meditation practice ....  I was doing it every time I walked or biked somewhere.  And .... these past 10 days that is what has been missing from my life.    Duh ....  perhaps that is why I have been feeling "off" .....  I have deprived myself of my mediatation time ....

So ....  here is to getting back on the bike and finding my center ....

I am a busser!!!

Well --- lately my bikes have been a little lonely in the garage --- but I have been exploring more of the Twin Cities by bus.  I actually made it out to Bloomington (almost Eden Prairie) from St. Paul on the bus (well, 3 buses) and then made it back from there to the U of M for class.  SUPER easy!!! :)  And - I have to say that everyone at the bus stops have been more than helpful.  I had people making sure that I made it off at the right stop --- and ensuring that I was on the right bus all safe and sound.  What a great community of people!

The one thing that I had just a bit of issue with was getting off the bus in suburban Bloomington and trying to figure out which direction to walk to my final destination.  Remember that part about my lack of direction?  I did have to call someone to "guide me in" ....  which actually resulted in being picked up. .....  But I almost made it by myself ....  next time!!!

I also witnessed numerous people load their bikes on the front of the bus.  I am ALMOST feeling confident that I could do it.  I did watch closely - but I am still nervous about getting my bike off if it is the first one on and there is one sitting in front.  But ....  I do need to get over that fear.  I have certainly conquered many fears in the past few months ....  and sometimes I look back and think ---  really, I was nervous about that?  But .... it has been a spring and summer of growth and the journey just continues ....

And I am very much looking forward to commuting by bike tomorrow!!!

What Have I Learned Thus Far?

I have been a bit remiss in posting lately --- which does not mean that I have not been continually learning --- just that I have not actually taken the time to sit down and write.  I have been asked by Transit for Livable Communities (TLC) to write a follow up to the interview Amber did with me about my decision to give up my car.  She wanted to know how I was doing --- and what I had learned so far ....  Hmmmmm ....  what have a I learned so far?  Here is a list - in no particular order:

1. Riding in the rain is very possible - but be careful when going around corners at great rates of speed and make sure that you have the right gear --- or else it is very much like biking in the shower!!!  And, make sure that your bag is also waterproof --- or the "dry clothes" you bring along to change into will not be very dry!
2. I need to get panniers for my bike, as I really hate carrying things on my back.  It gets heavy - and makes me even more sweaty.
3. How to successfully lock up my bike anywhere --- and that there are some places with fantastic bike racks --- and some places that finding something to lock my bike to is a challenge.
4. The most direct bike route is not necessarily the best bike route.
5. Sometimes the sidewalk does end.
6. Taking the bus is a viable, lovely option when it is raining or WAY too hot outside to do anything but stand in the shade.
7. It is ok to get up and move to a new seat on the bus if you determine that the people sitting directly in front of you have not showered/bathed for more than 3 days .....  and it is ok to turn down the drink in the brown paper bag from said couple, even if it is after 12pm.
8. Accepting offers from friends to pick you up or drop you off somewhere is wonderful!  I never expect it, but it is nice to have such a great support system.
9. It is possible to bike in high heels and a skirt!  I bike in a skirt often --- and I do tend to wear flats or bike shoes when biking and take along the high heels ----  but I have biked in high heels and it works perfectly fine.
10. Even cute bike helmets look silly .... but they are IMPORTANT, so I do wear mine.
11. Arriving to a casual date on my bike is perfectly acceptable.
12. Arriving to a more "fancy" date by bus is perfectly acceptable (and if it hadn't been SUPER hot I could have arrived on my bike).
13. Having a date drop me off somewhere near my house after a first date is also perfectly acceptable!
14. Reminding myself that I am the one that chose to be car-free --- therefore, I cannot get cranky when a meeting goes a bit longer than expected just because I know that I have an hour bike ride home in the rain.
15. There are lots of people who live without cars --- and not always by choice --- and we need to continue to do a better job of making our communities accessible to everyone!
16. Not having a car is more and more do-able every day and feels very freeing .... well, sometimes it feels very freeing ....  sometimes it feel very hard ....  but the freeing feelings vastly outweigh the hard feelings.

What else do I need/want to learn/experience?

1. How to put my bike on the front of a bus.  I know it is suppose to be easy - and I did practice at the Living Green Expo -- but it seems really different there than when I am standing in front of a running bus with people inside waiting for me.  And, what if my bike is the first one on, and someone puts their bike in front of mine.  Will I be able to lift my bike up and over? ...
2. How to get places other than St. Paul and Minneapolis on the bus.  I know I can look at the schedule --- just haven't done it yet.
3. How to successfully separate my bike commute from my workout.  Bike commuting certainly made me stronger on the bike leg of a recent triathlon ....  but I have not been as consistent in getting out for long rides on Lucy (my road bike).  Sophia (my commuting bike) gets to spend much more time with me!
4. How to not think twice about an invitation --- even if it is in an inconvenient place.  I have not turned down invitations, yet ----  but I have seriously considered it.  I just need to immediately jump online and figure out the best way to get there.
5. I don't need to learn this --- but there is some bike gear that I would still like to get:  back rack, panniers, cute, small, stylish backpack (mostly for when I walk places .....) and better rain gear.
6. And ....  I am certain that there are other things that I have not experienced that I will in future.  (I am not even thinking about winter yet ....)

No sense of direction ....

Ok -  I have always known this about myself - that I have no sense of direction.  However - sometimes I choose not to believe this and think that I can can navigate somewhere based on my intuition.  Well ...  I really can't.  Yesterday when biking to class (the first time from my new house) I thought I could navigate through the fairgrounds and hop on the U of M transit way.  Easy enough ....  I mean, I am a Minnesotan and I have been to the MN State Fair countless number of times.  My first mistake was my failure to remember that when I am at the fair I never know exactly where I am.  So - blissfully ignorant, I set off.  I did make it to the fairgrounds (I only had to make two turns .... that part was easy.)  Once in the fairgrounds I headed sort of in the right direction.  I could see the St. Paul campus and tried to make my way over there.  I did succeed in making it on to campus --- up and down the hills of the campus --- but no transit way.  The second mistake that I made was not remembering that I am not always very observant.  (Note that when I was young I walked right past a new bike sitting in the kitchen while going to get my breakfast!!!)  So - after biking around for awhile, I decided to head over to Como Ave ---  I knew where that was to catch the transit way there.  As I headed down the hill ----  guess what I saw?  The Transit Way!!! :)  I had biked by it not once, but twice ......  But, whew ...  finally I was on my way.

The bummer was that I had started sweating - a lot - given my trips up and down the hills.  I wasn't that worried about being sweaty --- but I was concerned when my facial lotion started running in my eyes.  I spent a few minutes not being able to see--- eyes all squinty, tears running down my face and hoping that I wasn't getting all frothy!!! (I did think about once when my mom and I did a road race and her facial lotion made her face all white and frothy when she started to sweat.)  However, I did survive that part.  The transit way is actually a lovely ride - with a nice false flat running a bit downhill all of the way to campus ---  so I was able to make up a bit of time.  I did pondered the fact when I saw a gopher - the victim of what I supposed was an inter-campus bus - why we would kill one of our own!!! ;)

So - I hope that I am a bit more successful heading to class today.  I have a test ---- and I don't want to be late!!! :)

Journey around St. Paul

I had an interesting bus ride today!!! :)  I got a ride to class - so needed to take the bus to a meeting downtown St. Paul and then back to my new house.  I used the metro transit link to map the route --- but didn't actually look at the map - just knew where I could get on and off.  The ride from Mpls to St. Paul was uneventful - albeit LONG.  I took a complete tour of St. Paul through neighborhoods that were unfamiliar to me.  It reminded me that my love of St. Paul is limited to a specific area! ;)  It also brought up a few questions - like what is BENGO?  I have heard of BINGO - but not BENGO.  And - who knew that there was an Aerospace Elementary School in St. Paul?  Well .... I am sure many people did - but I didn't!!! :)

The ride home was a bit more "special"!!! :)  The first 1/3 of the ride was quiet --- and by that time I was one of two people (besides the bus driver) on the bus.  And then the fun started!!! :)  As I said - there was only one other person sitting in the bus when The Couple got on and of all the places they could have sat - they sat in the two seats right ahead of me.  They happened to be very loud, very affectionate and very drunk ....  and perhaps they hadn't bathed in awhile.  It was amusing for a few minutes - and I really should have gotten up to move, but I didn't want to hurt their feelings ....  not sure why I thought that .....  but if I had moved --- they probably wouldn't have turned around to offer me a drink of whatever they had in their brown paper bag!!! :)    So --- there was I sitting behind these two individuals who were so drunk they could barely speak (although they were able to find each other's lips) trying to hold my breath --- which would have helped when the woman farted .....  and of course they thought that was hilarious!!! :)  And despite the fact that they were so gracious to share their drink with me --- I did decide to get off a couple of stops early, because by that time the bus was filling up!

As I was walking home it did make me smile.  Why was I worried about hurting their feelings?  They probably won't even remember the bus ride.   ....  And, at least they didn't try to kiss me!!! :)  Many, many years ago a similar experience with a gentleman on a bus - who kissed my mom and offered us his chicken wings had scared me off the bus for a LONG time.  Now it was just an amusing part of the day .....  and next time I will just move to another seat.

New Neighborhood Exploration

It has been an interesting few days getting to know my new neighborhood on foot, bike and bus.  I am certainly quite familiar with the area - but it is so much more intimate walking through the the neighborhood seeing people out in their gardens, smelling the grills going and getting to know the best routes - or the not so much!  As I was walking yesterday to get a pedicure I came to where the sidewalk ends ....  and not the fun kind that Shel Silverstein described.  It was the kind where the sidewalk literally ends and I had to walk through the dirt before being able to cross the street.  (Good thing that was on the way to get the pedicure and not on the way home!!) 

I also found that it was almost as fast to catch a bus back to my "old neighborhood" to meet a new friend than it would have been to drive.  Yippee!!!!!  Well ---- it was easy to get there - not as easy to get back, but good thing I was able to get a ride home.  Bummer that what took me 20 minutes to go there would have taken me 70 minutes to get back.  I will have to do some more investigating ....  as I am not sure if that was because it was a weekend or what ....  But, good to know that I do have options!

Happy 4th of July!!!  Where will you bike/walk/bus this month?

Another Beautiful Day!!!

I just can't stop smiling these days!!! :)  What a great stretch of weather ....  perfect for not owning a car.  It was interesting yesterday when I was doing some errands on foot I reaffirmed how much I love my neighborhood ....  And how I often I use to jump in the car when I truly didn't need to!!!  It is so great to explore the neighborhood, get a little exercise, clear my mind and do errands.  It did make me a little sad - since today is the official day I move to another neighborhood in St. Paul --- but I am excited to explore that new neighborhood as well.

I know that there will be more challenging days in the future --- but I am completely enjoying the moment!!! :)

This is why I love MN!!!

What an absolutely beautiful day to ride in MN!!!!!  I - the totally sweaty person --- actually biked to class this morning with only the slight bit of sweat down my back!!! :)  And - I didn't even mind all of the bike "congestion" I encountered.  What an awesome day ---- and it was so much fun seeing all of the bikers out....  total road bikers with their spandex, a guy in suit, a woman in a skirt (and not me!!! - some other woman!!!), kids having fun, fellow students ---- what an awesome way to begin the day.  I was smiling the whole way to class - which did start promptly at 8am!!! 

I also had the chance to walk to a meeting downtown St. Paul --- and then up to meet a friend on Cathedral Hill for a totally appropriate patio happy hour.  Super great day for not owning a car!!! :)

Still new at this!

Ok - I know that I said in a earlier post that I wouldn't complain about the weather --- and there isn't bad weather, just bad clothing choices ....  but I do have to say that I am really tired of the rain/storms when I am trying to get somewhere ..... 

I did have a great bright spot in my day today when I attended a volunteer meeting with Transit for Livable Communities.  It was interesting to hear every one's stories --- and to know that I am not alone in navigating the world without a car.  I was, however, seemingly a novice within the group.  It made me feel on one hand that there are plenty of resources out there --- if I search them out ---- but it also made me hyper-aware that getting started using public transit, biking or walking is still a scary venture and there don't seem to be a lot of great resources on how to get started.  I completely understand that very few people are actually going to give up their cars - but it would be great if once a week or once a month more individuals would think about and then actually take an alternative form of transportation.  But --- I think that there needs to be more information from a newbie perspective.  Or, perhaps I am the only one who feels a bit lost in all of this.....

The question for the weekend is how to get to and from a 30th birthday party (not mine!!) tomorrow night.  I feel confident taking the bus there --- as it is near Lake and Lyndale and should be a straightforward bus ride.  I am just a bit nervous about the ride home ....  not sure I want to be on the bus after 10pm at night.  I wouldn't walk alone along that same path in the dark --- but is busing different?  I know that I can always take a taxi - but I don't want to have that expense every time I go out at night.  I will probably be able to get a ride home from someone .... but I don't like having to depend on others to go out of their way for me.  So ....  that is the dilemma.  Perhaps it is not such a dilemma --- but it feels like one now. 

Silver of Hope and Safety

Last night when I went to bed I was convinced that I was going to take the bus to class today.  It was suppose to be stormy --- and now that I am a bus "expert"  --- it was a no-brainer.  I thought my plans was reinforced in the middle of the night when I woke up to the thunder and lightening (what an awesome storm!).  However, when I got up this morning the sun was shining ---- and I almost went for a run.  I didn't, thinking I would go after class .... dumb, Rachel!!!!  You should ALWAYS work out in the morning --- the commute doesn't count as a workout when training for a triathlon.  (Ok --- enough self-lecture!!!) .....  So - the sun was shining and I went about some morning tasks and a bit of studying for my first test tomorrow.  I didn't seem to notice that the sky was getting dark and very ominous looking. 

Eeeeekkkkk .....  by the time I was ready to go it looked very much like rain, but I was too late for the bus, so I headed out.  I started out wondering how far I could get before I was completely drenched.  But - then I saw sliver of bright, blue sky directly overhead --- and I decided to follow it.  I just kept pedaling and watching that sliver (and it really was JUST a sliver) of blue sky surrounded by super, dark rain clouds.  So, I kept pedaling and watching, peddling and watching and more pedaling.  And - before I knew it I was there, locking up my bike and walking inside.  Whew ..... just as class started it started pouring outside.  Oh well, I wasn't too worried about biking home in the rain --- or perhaps it was my day to overcome my fear of putting my bike on the bus rack.  But ....  much to my surprise just as class was over, so was the rain and I followed that same sliver of blue sky the whole way home!!! :)

The other thing that I have been thinking about lately are the biking habits of students at the U of Minnesota.  I am sure that it is similar to other campuses --- but there seems to be no rhyme or reason as to where they bike:  sidewalks, the wrong way on a one way, against traffic .....  It all seems to dangerous.  Now, deep down inside (ok not that deep inside)  I tend to be a rule follower.  When I got my first road bike almost 10 years ago to start seriously (or semi-seriously) biking I had to re-learn biking rules.  And .... I am still following them .....  I just am surprised that more people don't get hit at the U ---- and I feel like I am the only one following the "rules". 

So -- here's hoping to larger slivers of blue sky and safety for all of my fellow students!

Moving and Stuff

I have to admit that I am glad that all of my friends and family are not car free ......  although I am sure there would have been another solution .....  but it was a HUGE help this weekend as I was moving.  So - it is not that I am anti-car .....  but riding in cars this weekend did remind me that I am really glad I am no longer responsible for one! :) ....  and a bit ansty to get out on my bike for a ride!!!

The other reality that I am feeling (both due to not having a car --- and packing all of this STUFF I don't need) is that I can certainly live with less ----- and probably be more happy.  I am moving out of a house that I have been in for about 6 and 1/2 years.  And I was amazed at how much stuff one can accumulate.  Stuff that I hadn't looked at for years ---- or had even forgotten that I owned ....  and really my house is not that big.  All of that stuff --- just like my car ----  certainly didn't make me happier ......  so as I continue down this journey I am vowing not to collect stuff .....  or at least give away or repurpose soemthing old when I buy something new --- except for shoes!!! ;)  Not quite willing to go there yet!!! ;)  .....  But I am finding that less stuff makes me feel lighter --- and not having a car will make it easier not to buy new stuff, if I can manage to stay off the internet!!! ;)

Well - and now off to my first car free commute of the weekend to meet my dad to celebrate Father's Day.  Woo hoo!!!!!

Memories -- Old and New

In the process of making new memories today while riding the bus --- some wonderful memories of living in San Francisco came back and made me smile ....

The weather was a bit iffy this morning, so I decided that it was time for me to take the bus.  I had looked last night about what bus/buses to take and was all ready.  However, when I got up this morning, I am glad I was up a bit early --- since the buses I was going to take were either running 15 minutes behind (too late to get to class) or there was a schedule change - or I had looked at it incorrectly.  Whatever the case --- I was up in plenty of time to walk to the bus stop.  (First lesson - make sure that I am early to the bus stop, because the bus was 2 minutes early .....  not at all like San Francisco!!!)  The best thing is that the guy at the bus stop gave me a warm good morning ..... when does that ever happen while driving a car?

I got on the bus --- paid my $2.50 (I really need to get a bus pass!!!) and sat down.  I didn't get too comfortable --- as I didn't want to miss where I needed to get off to get my connection.  Once I made my connection (for which I only had to wait about 2 minutes) I was able to sit back an enjoy the ride.  It immediately brought me back to commuting in San Francisco - the cool, damp weather also helped to bring me back. 

It was odd, because when I was in SF it didn't seem like I was doing such a big thing ......  just doing what everyone else was doing.  Everyone road the bus to work --- as experienced by me being the last stop from the Russian Hill area on an express bus to the Financial District.  Often that bus was too full to stop ---- and when it did stop I would be left standing (sometimes in the stairwell) holding on for dear life!!! :)  ..... that was always compounded by the fact that at 5'1" it was hard to reach the overhead railing .... and hanging on to something was imperative when going up and down the SF hills!!!!

Today was a totally different story.  I was sitting down --- only having to share the other seat for less than 5 minutes.  I also noticed that people brought their coffee on the bus --- something that was taboo (as I recall) in SF.  The one thing that was great - as it was in SF ---- that I had time time to truly notice the neighborhoods we were going through.  I can't read on the bus --- so all I have is time to watch and notice.  It was amazing the places I passed and thought, "Oh - that is where THAT is ....".  I remember in SF memorizing the neighborhoods and feeling so safe and knowledgeable about the city ---  much more than here ---- and I grew up in St. Paul.  Hmmmmm ...... perhaps it was all of the walking/biking/busing I did in SF.  .....  And now I am so excited to continue to explore/learn about the Twin Cities in the same way.

I also learned --- or it was reinforced --- that some bus routes are going to be more favorable than others.  On the way home from class today there were a few less professionally dressed individuals --- or perhaps they were just professionally dressed for some alternative profession!!! ;)  But - just as in other aspects of life --- there are places I would walk alone at night ---- and there are places I wouldn't walk alone even in the day. 

As I was on the bus going home ... I also remembered that in SF I would go shopping and take the bus home.  Why, oh why, did I think that was ok ---- but I couldn't imagine doing that here?  Why don't I think that taking the bus is as cool here?  Is it because in SF the buses ran down all of the trendy neighborhood streets?  Is it because it was riding the bus in SF was completely socially acceptable?  That at night on the bus you would see everything from hot 20-somethings ready for a night on the town  - to a couple on a first (or what looked to be a) date - to people in black-tie going to the opera?  .....  And during the day completely chic women with thousands (or at least a thousand) dollars on newly purchased shoes and clothing --- to families going to enjoy the sites --- to individuals coming home from the grocery store on the bus.  What would that be like if everyone in the twin cities started taking the bus?  How awesome would that be?  And why was I so nervous about it?  .....  Maybe all of the current bus riders are actually uber-trendy!!!

I have to say that it was actually quite liberating to ride the bus.  I now know that despite the weather --- I really can get most places easily --- and independently --- without a car.

Oh --- and don't think that I am giving up my bike .....  but it is AWESOME to know that there are options!! :)

Really?!!?

Ok -  I am feeling a bit defeated ..... and cranky today.  The rain during my commute to and from my class took the wind out of my sails a bit regarding being car free.  Now, I didn't melt, fall or even have to sit in wet clothes during class ....  all of those things are positive!!!  However, on my commute home I started feeling like this wasn't as fun as I wanted it to be ....  especially with my glasses fogging up so I could barely see and my mascara running in my eyes and down my face.  (And of course as I am typing this the rain has stopped and the sun is peaking through!!!) 

Before I left the house this morning, I did decide that biking in my regular clothes wasn't going to be an option - which I was fine with me.  I put on a t-shirt, bike shorts, bike shoes and a rain jacket - and my dry clothes went in my bag.  The only issue I had was that my glasses kept fogging up making it hard to see .... which was a bit of a problem since I didn't know exactly where I was going.  However, I arrived to the right building, got my bike locked up - and found a bathroom where I could change.  I do wish that I would have had a towel - but the paper towels were fine.  I put on my dry clothes (wished I had a plastic bag for my wet clothes) and fixed up my hair and makeup and was ready for class.

And - before heading home I put my wet clothes back on ....(not sure how I would dry them while in class) ... and headed back home.  It must have been raining a bit harder - because on the way home, not only could I not keep my glasses from fogging up --- but the rain was making my mascara run --- which not only looked silly, but was getting in my eyes!!!  Ugggg .....  I was wet, cold and just wanted to be home!!!

Lessons learned?

1. Just as you wouldn't put on makeup BEFORE you take a shower - don't put it on before biking in the rain .... same effect!!!
2. I will not melt in the rain.
3. Wet hair (meaning - really wet hair - just like out of the shower) can be sexy!!  (Or at least I am going to keep telling myself that ....)
4. I need to check the bus schedule for tomorrow, if it is raining again.  This journey for me is not just about bike commuting - but living without a car ...  and I am pretty sure that I prefer being a bit more dry!! ;)

Technology

So ....  I got an iPhone this weekend!!!!  Super excited - although a little nervous that I will not use it to its full potential.  I am not very good with technology (or like someone I know, who claims she is VERY "technocanic"!!!), but at least I will be able to take pictures out on my rides --- and hopefully access cyclopath or some other mapping tool when I get lost on my bike.  Or ....  the thought just came to me ... access the bus schedule when it starts to rain!

Tomorrow grad school starts - a little nervous and excited about being a full-time student again.  I did map the ride using cyclopath.org - despite the fact that I was pretty sure I knew how to get there.  It did take me just a bit off course - but I really like some of the features --- especially the one where it tells you where to expect the big hills.  Not that I am actually looking forward to the big hills during my commute - but at least I can be prepared.  The weather looks to be ok this week --- but if there is a day like we had last week --- I will be experiencing both the bike and the bus this week.  Only time will tell ....

Now off to pick out my first day of school outfit ........

Pictures

Here are some pics from the MPR interview ...  my view of the world and another pic of my new helmet.

Walking and MPR

So -  I have not been on either bike in a few days ...  going through a bit of withdrawal ... but I have been walking and walking and walking..... to the gym, the grocery store .... and to a meeting last night downtown St.Paul. I decided to walk last night to the meeting namely because it was raining and I thought I would stay a bit more dry.  I did, underneath a great umbrella (thanks, mom!!!), stay relatively dry.  The only two issues I had was (1) I don't know how to walk in flip flops without spraying myself up the back of my calves; and (2) the humidity in the air makes my hair a bit crazy!!! .... Think (and I am going to date myself a bit) of Monica from Friends in the episode where her hair got just "bit" frizzy .....  not quite that bad, but almost!!! ;)  If anyone has any suggestions about the art of walking in flip flops or great hair products - let me know.

I do like walking - as it does give me a bit more time to think.  It is more like a walking meditation. I do have to admit that I was offered a ride --- but (1) my 20-year HS reunion is this summer and any extra exercise I can do is important!;)  and (2) it really is nice to be a bigger part of the community where I live.  Had I been on my bike (or in my car) I would not have had the opportunity to tell the new HS grads I saw downtown, "Congratulations!!" Or - smile at the family enjoying Rice Park (it was sunny on my walk home.).  And, even in the rain - with crazy hair -- I was still thrilled not to be sitting in my car in traffic!!!:)

On another note --- I was interviewed by MPR on Monday about going car free as part of Bike Walk Week.  Here is a link to the interview.  http://minnesota.publicradio.org/display/web/2010/06/09/biking-to-work/.  Where are you going to walk or bike this week?

Rain, mud and sunshine!!

Where do I even begin?  It was an interesting day yesterday to say the least.  It was raining fairly hard when I left my house (on Lucy - I thought she would be faster) to venture to the suburbs.  I was not to concerned about the rain - but perhaps I should have been a bit more cautious.  Just a few blocks from my house, while going downhill, I took a corner a bit too fast and ended up laying on the ground in the street still clipped to my bike.  I was ok....  except perhaps for my ego.  No worries - I got myself back upright I was off.  The trip south was rather uneventful and I actually felt pretty cool/tough out there riding n the rain. 

Well ... the trip was almost uneventful.  A few miles from my destination I encountered some road construction - but it appeared that Google Maps knew about the construction, because they had me turn just before the construction.  I turned, but couldn't find the right road - but there was this awesome bike trail parallel to the road I really wanted to be on.  Perfect!!! :)  Well .... perfect until the path abruptly ended.  Now what?  I could see the road I wanted to be on just 50 yards or so away.  However, in between me and the road was 50 yards of mud. Hmmmmmmm.....  I could backtrack on the path -- but I really didn't know what other road to take.  So --- I decided to walk through the mud.  In retrospect not the best decision.  I was sinking in the mud almost to my ankles and by the time Lucy and I got to the other side we were both covered in mud.  I tried to scrape off as much as I could -- wash up in a mud-filled puddle ..... but I just couldn't get clean enough.  BUMMER!!!!!  So - I called my girlfriend and she came to pick me up.  I wish I would have had my camera to take pictures.  It was really a funny site - especially since I really hate being dirty -- but what could I do? 

I felt much better after hosing off Lucy, taking a shower and getting into some clean clothes.  Toward the end of the meeting we were having I started to get a bit, let's say, anxious .... ok, call it like it is ... crabby.  I didn't quite know why --- but it was because I had to bike home ....  not just because of the ride --- but because it certainly was going to take me longer to get home that any of them.  I had to take a deep breath and remember that it was not their fault that I had to bike home.  This is my choice - and actually the ride home was amazing.  It was sunny and I was able to enjoy the sites, smells and energy of the neighborhoods I was biking through.  What a great end to the crazy day!!!

Lessons for the day:

1. Take it slowly (or a bit slower) when biking in the rain.
2. Don't walk through mud with your bike shoes and road bike.
3. Perhaps having an iPhone/Blackberry/GPS - or some device to help out when getting lost is something to think about.
4. Be sure to have a water proof bag.  The "dry clothes" I brought to change into were not dry, nor were they particularly clean by the time I got there.
5. This is my choice and I am happy to be on the journey --- even through the mud and the muck (literally and figuratively)!!
6. Having friends who are willing to support me through this journey is such a blessing!
7. Don't forget your sunglasses - even if it is pouring rain when you leave - there is always a chance that the sun will come out!!

City Living

I have always loved living in the city - as compared to the suburbs.  Much more going on - much more energy - and easier to get to "cool" places to hang out.  I have often joked with my friends that why do I need to ever go outside of the belt-loop when I have everything I need right here in St. Paul?  Well ... everything I need except for some of my friends!!! :)  So - today I will venture outside of my comfort zone and head to Inver Grove Heights.  Ok, ok, it is really not that far - only 13 miles to my friend's house.  But it will be interesting to start to test some of the bike mapping tools.  I am using the route Google Maps suggested for my trip today.  What a cool feature that you can get directions anywhere driving, walking, biking or bussing.  Just another day of experiencing something new on this journey.

Eye Candy

Ok - so I have been told that, although my blog posts are interesting, I need some pictures - or a bit of eye candy!!! :) So - here is a picture of Sophia and friend (with my cute bike helmet) and another picture of Sophia.

Enjoy!! :)

What I have learned .....

Here is a list of things that I have learned this weekend:

1.  I can't control the weather. (I suppose I already knew that ... but it was confirmed --- so I need to stop commenting on the heat and just search for better solutions!!)
2. Even cute bike helmets look dorky - especially when trying to impress someone new.
3. Carrying anything on my back makes me even more sweaty - so I am now looking for interesting bags to put on my bike. Perhaps a cute basket with flowers? Or this awesome bag/purse made by two women in Chicago (http://www.pocampo.com/)? What I really need is to get a back rack installed pronto!
4. I sweat - a lot! Ok, I already knew that as well, since I sweat drying/curling/straightening my hair even with the A/C on in the summer. What I have decided is to call it sweat when I am working out --- but call it my "personal glow" when I am commuting - or socializing.
5. Going for a bike ride with someone new is a great way to get to know each other. Even if I was nervous about my biking speed/ability/personal glow/hair/etc --- it can be super fun!
6. Not everyone is going to embrace my life choices - but it is an interesting barometer for me when meeting new people.
7. Guys on bikes are cool!! :)

And - now for some questions:

1. How do I balance working out (training for an upcoming triathlon) with commuting?
2. What are the basics I need to know about bike maintenance?
3. What type of material/clothing is going to be best for commuting?
4. How do I get rid of the flip flop tan line?!!? Ok - not really worried about that .... but it does send some sort of message that I am developing a clear tan line from my flip flops .... and it does look sort of odd when wearing a pair of heels! ;)

The Journey is the Destination

I have a very close friend who has a tatoo of this symbol. I have always admired her - and others - who are truly able to live that way. Personally, I have always been about the destination. Although, Sophia might have something to teach me. I finally went back to Erik's today to fix the squeek. Turns out it was some rubber piece (not sure what it is called) near the center of the back wheel that just needed a bit of lube. I did have an enjoyable time riding over --- but it sure was HOT -- and I was super sweaty .... not promising given that I would like to show up places looking a bit more chic. (I did, however, get a nice compliment on my helmet from one of the guys at the shop!)

The ride back was a completely different story. I don't know if it was the 8am spinning class, the 4 mile walk I took to the Farmer's Market this morning, the heat or the wind --- but I found myself getting a bit cranky and tired. I just wanted the ride to be over. It was then I thought about needing to enjoy the journey. So -- I became more conscious of my surroundings and of how lucky I was to be able to ride (and just a little about the sculpted legs and butt I hope will be a nice by-product of this new way of life!!). And for a few minutes I was able to enjoy the journey, perhaps not as much as the A/C I knew was in my near future, but I was able to smile. This is certainly going to be a work in progress - but I am glad to be on the journey.

Cat litter and bike helmet

Fun stuff I first ..... my new bike helmet was waiting for me when I got home from Fargo!!! :) I actually wore it around the house for awhile - just for fun and because it made me think of the time my dear cousin, A, wore hers out running while training for a triathlon ..... but that is her story not mine, but it always makes me laugh!!! And, I wore it while riding Sophia this afternoon. What fun!!!

The other part of the day wasn't quite as fun --- carrying cat litter back from the store. I needed some groceries for myself and I walked the 5 blocks to the market. While I was there remembered that I also needed cat litter. It is not something that I always remember -- so I figured that was a sign that the cats were getting desperate. The food all fit in my backpack .... but carrying the litter was not super fun!! I was trying to think of ways around that in the future. Could I have strapped it to my bike? Or perhaps find a way to strap it to my back?!!? .... Ok, maybe not. I may have to plan a bit more into the future and when I am out shopping with one of my car-ed friends I will have to remember to get it. On the other hand - it was a good workout!!!

Today's Lessons

It was not as hot as I thought it was going to be in Fargo today --- so perfect day to bike to work!!! :) The first lesson that I learned it that the most direct route is not always the best route. I had read that in Chris Balish's book: How to Live Well without Owning a Car. I just didn't believe him .... well, I suppose I believed him as it made perfect sense, but, ok, I didn't believe him. Perhaps that is because I didn't want to believe him --- and only because I am TERRIBLE with directions and the way with the least amount of turns seems like it should be the best. However - I do stand corrected and will now find the way when bike commuting with wider lanes, slower and less traffic or perhaps scoping out a bike path. I don't think that I was ever in danger .... but the ride could have been a bit more relaxing and enjoyable.

The second lesson is that not every city is as bike friendly as St. Paul. Ok, again, I suppose I already knew this --- but it was confirmed when more than 3 times today I was told to get on the sidewalk. Now, I do really believe that Fargo is a friendly town .... but it certainly did not feel very bike friendly.

The third lesson - ok, confirmation -- is that bike commuting is super fun, easy and a great way to learn more about a city. I am so glad that I am on this journey and continue to be amazed at all of the support there is for finding alternate ways of transporation.

Whootie Whoo!!! :)

Ok .... let me just start off by saying that I am really not that brave. I like trying new things - but as my sister will attest -- only if someone is there to try it out first ..... or at least with me to hold my hand. I have never been someone who ventures out on her own. I LOVE to travel --- and I have learned to do so without an itnerary --- but again, when someone is there with me. For goodness sakes --- the only time that I have ever taken the bus in St. Paul as an adult (or perhaps ever) was with my mom about 15 years ago .... and if I had my choice I would have someone along for my second trip!!!!!!

Having said all of that ... I found a bike shop in Fargo, rented a bike and just got back from a ride. I left my rental car at the shop -- so that I can bike to work tomorrow. Whootie Whoo!!! :) I feel so empowered. I know that to most people that sounds like such a small thing --- but to me it feels like this major accomplishment. Absolutely freeing!!!

The only crappy thing is that it is SOOOOOOOO HOT and HUMID!!!!!! I HATE the heat. I would take foggy, cool San Francisco (my favorite US city) over this anyday. I might even be tempted to say that I would rather bike in the snow than this ..... But I am holding my tongue - so I didn't actually say that out loud! ;) But .... I am super sweaty .... so we will see how the biking to work goes tomorrow. I will leave in plenty of time ---- but you can only bike so slow without tipping over!!!! (And, I do know that from my experience climbing hills outside of SF! Not that I ever actually fell over .... but almost!!)

What an amazing journey!

Missing Sophia and Lucy

So - here I am in Fargo without my bikes!!! I didn't think that I would miss them .... but (despite the wind) it would be a nice day for a bike ride. Plus, I got done with my project around 3pm (granted I left my house at 5:30am this morning to get here) - so I would have had plenty of time for a nice ride. Too bad I didn't see the comment from sota767 before heading up here .... I should have taken the train and then I could have had Sophia (or Lucy) here with me. Something to put into the file for next time! Now I have to wait until the end of the week to ride.

On the other hand, perhaps there is somewhere in Fargo to rent a bike for an hour or two --- or for a few days. I certainly could commute from my hotel ..... Oooooo .... this might be exciting! I am off to do some research and see what I can find!! :)

Bike Helmet

I have to admit that driving this Prius makes me feel kinda cool!!! :) I suppose if I have to drive a car for another week it should be one that does the least damage to the environment!!! ;)

The bigger news for today is that I finally decided on a bike helmet. It was hard - since the design wasn't my first choice .... but it is still pretty cool. You can check it out here: http://nutcasehelmets.com/HelmetDetail/street6.aspx. It certainly won't be the last cute helmet I will have ---- and I am just looking at it as another accessory. It would be great to have a few - so I can coordinate the helmet with my outfit. I ordered it online --- so I can't wait to get it!!! :)

I won't have much more to report this week - as I will be in Fargo, ND with my rental car .... but it still feels like such a relief to have finally gotten rid of my car.

Now - here's to hoping that today wasn't a sign that the summer will be super hot and humid .....

Today is the Day!!!!! :)

Well - it is official .... I am no longer part of the car-owning society. It feels odd - yet freeing at the same time. I no longer have to think about getting an oil change -- or wondering what the weird light is that just popped on .... or running out of gas. I am not sure if I mentioned this before - but I absolutely believe that getting gas is perhaps the most asinine task ever!!!!

It was an odd feeling as I went to the car dealership (my mom followed me to give me a ride home) to return my car. All of these new cars sitting around, and that new car smell --- something that in the past might have been exciting ---- but I actually felt a sense of calm knowing that this is the path I am suppose to be on right now.

I do have to admit - as I have already done --- that I am not completely without a car at the moment. I have a nice Prius sitting outside my house .... a rental to get me to North Dakota next week. So - it isn't if the real journey has started ..... but I am no longer paying anything to do with a car.

Speaking of that --- I need to call my insurance agent to ask what type of insurance I need to carry once my policy expires this summer. I have done some research - but I do think that I need something if I am renting a car .... hmmm .....

But --- I decided that it is time for celebration. I NO LONGER OWN A CAR!!!! :) Putting all of the fears behind me for the moment ... I think that it might be time to celebrate with a nice glass of wine!

Last Night .....

So - on the eve of going car free ..... thought it might be a bit more dramatic ..... I did meet some friends for a happy hour birthday celebration in the suburbs. As I was driving there I thought .... how would I have gotten there without a car? (I also thought how silly it was to be stuck in traffic and alarmed when I almost got rear-ended!!!) But, I wouldn't have missed the celebration for anything. First - we could have met in St. Paul - which was an option. Or, second and third - I would have either biked or had someone pick me up. So - I do always have options. C did say that she didn't want me to start excluding myself or not accepting social offers ..... and, strangely I just knew at that moment that giving up my car was absolutely the right thing to do ....

So --- nothing dramatic ---- just that this is the right path to be on.

I was a bit disappointed today when I went onto the NutCase website (www.nutcasehelemts.com) and found that the super cute helmets were all out of stock. I guess I wasn't the first to find them. So - still on the search to either find one --- or find Kate Spade's phone number to have her make one for me!!! ;)

And the adventure begins ....

Two Days

Well .... two days until I will be car free!!!! Ok, not completely, I do have to rent a car or borrow one next week to complete a work project in ND -- I decided that would be too long of a commute!! ;) But as of Saturday --- I will no longer have my own car. Part of me is SUPER excited and the other part is SUPER nervous. Can I actually do this? It is one thing to talk about doing it --- and how cute I will look on my bike. But - this is serious. I am actually not going to have a car. Let me just say that again (for my benefit, not yours!!!) I am actually not going to have a car. .... Just trying to let this set in.

Granted, I am going back to grad school full-time. So, the commute will be easy --- and I will not be expected to dress-up every day. And, I am trying not to think about winter --- just taking things one day and one experience at a time. And, I am excited about all of the new experiences --- and learning more about myself --- what am I really capable of?

Whew ..... and then I think ..... people all over the world live without cars. It is really not that big of a deal. Plus I have a great network of people with cars .... so ..... two more days!!! Hopefully I can find a cute bike helmet before then!!! ;)

Squeeky Wheel!!

Sophia has a squeeky rear wheel- and I just can't figure it out. Something is rubbing against the tire .... but what? And here lies one of my big fears about owning a bike - although I suppose that I had the same fears about owning a car .... which is: I am NOT mechanically inclined, and I honestly don't have any desire to change that. However, what do I need to know how to do? It seems silly to take it back to the bike shop for a little squeek -- but I feel even sillier with the squeek - as it is sort of loud!! So - what are the things that I need to know how to do? I have changed a flat before and I am certain that I will be able to change one again. But - what else? I suppose I should do a bit of research on what are the absolute basics of bike repair/maintenance that I need to know.

On another note --- I couldn't find the bike helmet that I want in my size at REI. It turns out that I have a very medium sized head - hopefully that says nothing about what's inside!! ;) So - still searching for the perfect helmet to complete my chic look.

I am also searching for the perfect bag to take on social events. If I am biking - I would like something big enough to hold a pair of platform sandles -- but that doesn't look "industrial" like the backpack I have for more utilitarian trips. Not as easy as I thought ....

Does Kate Spade make bike helmets?

Ok .... I am officially in love with Sohpia!!! Now, nothing will replace Lucy -- but I do love Sophia!!! :)

Finally, a day without rain in St. Paul --- and what a beautiful day it was. I had planned to meet a friend for Happy Hour and I was so excited to take Sophia for her inaugural ride. So - of course as I was getting ready the first question was what was I going to wear? I decided on a short, flowly, black dress with a cropped jean jacket and flip flops .... super cute - but comfortable. The next question was --- what sort of bag/purse/satchel/etc was I going to bring. I chose a small, orange, purse with a cross-over strap. (Good thing that I had just read that this was one of the "have-to-haves" of the spring!!!) It had just enough room for my keys, cash card, ID, lip gloss and perhaps a small camera .... the essentials!!

After getting ready -- and almost prepared to head out the door I realized that I could not find the keys to my bike lock. Ugggg .... but only a minor set back. The friend, J, that I was going to meet suggested two bike shops along the way where I could buy a new one (which in retrospect, is much better than the one I currently owned). So - headed first to buy a bike lock (a large U-lock) and then out for Happy Hour.

As I started biking, the only thing that I could think was how awesome Sohpia is (riding, shifting, braking ....) and how chic I felt, except for my helmet. And I thought, I wonder if Kate Spade makes a bike helmet. There certainly must be something different than what I had on. I also thought - perhaps I should be wearing full-coverage (but sexy) undies --- as I did the Marilyn Monroe quite a few times trying to hold my skirt down. (Ok --- two IMPORTANT things --- first - make sure that your skirt is actually tucked underneath you when you ride and two, I think that a slimmer skirt would work a bit better --- meaning not be so apt to blow in the wind!!)

I also need to rethink the bag choice. When I got to happy hour J had things to give me --- and at the moment I had no way to get them home. I am planning on getting a back rack - and she has panniers for me --- but how can I wear the cutest bag -- but also have the appropriate storage space for presents? I mean, I LOVE presents - especially those that are unexpected!!! :)

I do have to tell you that I felt COMPLETELY empowered --- I LOVE bike commuting --- especially in this weather!! I do have to remember to bike slower - as I did get a bit sweaty. Which begs two other questions -- perhaps I should grow out my bangs - as they look silly when they get wet. And, two, I need another deodorant option. I really like Thom's of Maine --- but it is not going to cut it ---- and I DO NOT want to smell "all-natural " ... (Hopefully that is not TMI!!)

The last thought - is that I did see someone at Longfellow Grill tonight with THE cutest bike helmet .... so even if Kate Spade doesn't make them .... someone does!!!

Interview

I am amazed that someone is interested in my story .... but Amber from Transit for Livable Communities (http://www.tlcminnesota.org/) interviewed me last week --- about my car free adventure. You can view the interview here: http://tlcminnesota.typepad.com/blog/2010/05/going-car-free-in-minnesota.html.

I am grateful for what TLC is doing - and hope to continue to support their mission.

New Bike!!!

I did it!!!! :) I finally got my new bike!!! And she is so pretty. Too bad that it is raining - and although I am perfectly comfortable riding in the rain - I didn't want to take her out for the first time in the pouring rain. Hopefully I will be able to ride her tomorrow!!!!! And - yes, she is a girl - and I think that her name is Sophia -- but I need to ride her a bit before settling on the name.

I bought a 2010 Specialized Women's Vienna 2 Cross Bike from Erik's Bike Shop. (I do really like the Specialized brand - as Lucy, my road bike, is a Specialized Dolce Elite. And -- they are both blue - Lucy a pretty light blue and Sophia a darker blue.) I had the headlight and tailight I got for my birthday put on -- as well as new pedals (with clips on one side) and a kickstand. I am just so excited. I did ride it a bit inside the store -- and I am confident with Sohpia when I ride in a skirt I will feel chic, rather than silly!!! :)

I am not sure what else she needs right now -- but I am positively giddy!!

PS: Here is the link, so you can see her picture!! :)

http://www.eriksbikeshop.com/ride/product.asp?pf_id=PR3C5325

Biking in a Skirt

Well ... new experience for me today!! :) As I was getting ready for church this morning - and then lunch with my mom for Mother's Day - I decided not to dress for the bike, but dress for the day .... despite the fact that I would be riding my bike to church and over to my mom's. As the weather was a bit chilly I opted for a long black skirt, black turtleneck and a jean jacket. The shoes of choice were flat --- but I did decide to wear my biking shoes and put the shoes in my bag. And .... I was off!!! :)

What did it feel like to be biking in a skirt? Well, not as cool as I thought. I did feel empowered - and certainly got quite a few looks and a couple of nice waves. However, for some reason I didn't feel quite as cool as all of the pics I have seen of the well-dressed European women. So - what was the difference? First -- I was riding my old mountain bike. Not super cool looking and I actually can't stand over the frame (remember the 24" inseam?!!!). So, when I came to a stop at a traffic light I felt a bit like a 10-year old boy in a skirt .... not sure why that reference .... but you know how 10-year old boys look like when they come to a skidding stop on their bikes? .... with the bike practically parallel to the ground? Now picture a 38-year old woman in a skirt in the same position. It just didn't feel very chic.

Second - I was wearing my bike shoes. I really like the efficiency in pedaling with clipless pedals. However - I didn't like what the outfit looked like. Perhaps I need to give up a bit of the efficiency when it isn't about a workout - or getting somewhere quickly. I will try that next time.

The other thing is the helmet. No cool, chic-looking woman in a skirt is waering a helmet. Bummer .... I can't imagine not wearing one ..... but the thought did cross my mind today. And, the other problem about the helmet is the hair situation. It doesn't do much for a carefully coiffed head of hair. ..... Which again brings me back to the dating thing. God certainly didn't care if I had helmet hair when I was at church ....... but I do - and will my date?!!!? And, even though being car-free is a lifestyle, I am not sure that I am willing to cut my hair ....

So - what did I learn today? That I really need to buy a new bike - one that I can stand over - sooner rather than later. That I can wear whatever I want on a bike and there seems to be suppport out there for chicks wearing skirts on a bike! ;) AND, that I need to learn how to bike slower so that I don't get all sweaty. For some reason that is hard for me .... I can walk slower --- but biking slow seems difficult. But, I REALLY need to learn this skill as to be perfectly honest I can sweat just standing still. Not particularly attractive ......

And - I do want to thank my friends and family for all of the AWESOME presents for my birthday. They were mostly bike related .... so now I have a relfective vest, head and tail lights, money toward my new bike and an great backpack!!!! :) Each day is a step forward toward the freedom I will have when I actually go car free!!!

Ironic

I find it ironic as I have the tv on in the background while I do some research on bikes .... that the contestants go WILD when they see that they could win a new car ... interesting that they wouldn't get as excited if they were to win a new bike ..... Hmmmmmm ......

Looking for a Bike

I have to admit that I was really nervous about going to look for a bike by myself. I don't really know anything about bikes - the terminology baffles me - I can never remember what frame size I need - and I am certainly not mechanically inclined!!! I have been very intimidated in the past in bike shops where I have been treated poorly - and almost scoffed at when trying to make a purchase. (And - the customers are sometimes worse than the employees. Don't get me started on the time I was buying my first road bike and another customer looked my bike up and down and told me that his wheels cost more than my entire set up!!!! Why, why would he even have to say anything?) Needless to say - I was a bit aprehensive to start looking for what will be my primary mode of transportation.

I went to three stores today - and walked in with a air of confidence (even if I was just pretending!!!) and asked the first person who said hello for help. I told them that I was giving up my car (I got plenty of high fives for that!!!) and I needed a commuter bike. My list of needs were: a step-through (mainly because of my 24" inseam), something I can comfortably ride for at least 20 miles, something I would feel comfortable wearing bike clothes or a skirt and something that looks cool - but not too cool to park at the UofM. The questions were - do I want something completely upright and comfortable or something a bit lighter and built a bit more for speed? Do I need chain guard? Do I need internal gears (ok - not even sure that is what they are called. I just learned about them from a friend the other day ....)?

So - after my speech each shop was able to show me a couple of bikes. The prices ranged from $450 - $950. The biggest surprise to me - each shop showed me different bikes. I thought I was going to be able to price shop .... but that was clearly not the case today. After taking numerous test rides and asking lots of questions - I think that I have it narrowed down to the Specialized Vienna, Breezer Villager and a Bianchi that I can't remember the name.

I am having a tough time separating the bike from the experience in the shop. One of the bikes jumps out as a clear front runner, but is it because I felt ultra-comfortable in the shop? Is that a reason to buy or not buy a bike? Or do I go with a shop that I know is committed to creating complete streets? I want to ensure that I feel comfortable when I bring the bike back in for tune-ups and support .... but I also am cautious (not just when I buy bikes) to shop in places that represent my values.

And my last thought ..... I am DONE with the wind!!! :)

Choices

We all make choices about how we are going to get from point A to point B. For most of my adult life it hasn't been a conscious choice about how I would get to work. Hopping in the car was not just the obvious choice -- it seemed like the only choice. (Except for the time living in San Francisco --- when I began to understand the beauty of public transportation.) But - for my life here in MN grabbing my car keys while running out the door seemed like a no-brainer.

Well .... this morning I had a choice to make ... and just so you know, I did not make the right one. I had to be downtown St. Paul at 7:30am this morning and last night figured that I would get up in enough time to walk. This morning a few more minutes of sleep seemed much more important .... and I rationalized that I might as well get as much use out of my car as I long as I still own it. (Writing that down now doesn't seem rational at all ..... but it seemed to make sense curled up in my bed with my cats!!) So - getting down there and parked was fine - and about 10 minutes faster. I was a bit jealous of those people I did see walking .... but I was still glad at that moment for the 10 extra minutes of sleep!!

HOWEVER - getting home was a totally different story!!!! I sat in my car (along with all of the other people sitting in their cars, alone) for 45 minutes. Yes - I said 45 minutes. I was literally trapped in the parking garage ..... and I could almost feel the concrete squeezing in on me. And then I almost started laughing .... I was actually PAYING for this experience. How silly is that? I was paying to sit in a dark parking garage by myself for 45 minutes?!!? I could have been outside, enjoying the fresh air, getting some exercise for FREE!!!!! :)

So - lesson learned .... I do have choices - but if I had the choice again, I wouldn't be sitting in my car in a concrete parking garage!!


The other piece of this puzzle is why my bike wasn't even an option. I am trying to work through why I have apprehension about taking my bike. Maybe I am still nevous about how to arrive somewhere looking fresh after biking. Or perhaps it is where will I put my bike - and how will I lock it up in an unfamiliar location. Two things that I still need to work through ....

The Journey Continues

Well .... the past week or so has provided many lessons, a few gifts and still a few more questions. What to start with first ...

One thing that I learned is that my car-ed (my new word for friends with cars ... and funny that it actually spells cared!!!) friends and family really don't mind giving me a ride home - or picking me up. I am struggling with the balance of accepting their offers - and not relying on them. I need to make sure that I not relying on the offers, but also accepting the gifts when offered. I am thinking that will be a work in progress for awhile.

I also learned that walking places puts me in touch with my environment and other people in new and unique ways. I have talked to people on my walks that I would never have had the opportunity to if I were in a car. This is sometimes extremely interesting - and sometimes a bit, um, weird! And, walking has also given me the time to meditate. Again, weird, since I thought meditating meant sitting in a dark room (maybe with candles) waiting for the buzzer to go off!!! ;)

I have received many gifts in the past week - the best was meeting with a college classmate who has NEVER owned a car. She gave me so many great tips - and connected me with some great resources and websites (which I will post on my blog soon). It was so reassuring meeting with her - and I continue to be inspired by her!!!

I still have so many questions .... like, how do I keep my mascara from running down my face when sweating, or riding the rain? How will I go to dinner parties in the suburbs? Can I really wear a pair of platform sandles on my bike?

The biggest one right now - is what I kind of bike do I need? I have my road/tri bike, Lucy, who I LOVE!!!! But what kind of bike do I want for commuting? One where I am sitting upright with a cute basket up front? A speedy road bike? Or something in between? That is the question of the week -- and I plan to spend the week at bike shops researching.

More later ..... but perhaps if I post more often they won't be SO long!!!

Shoes

Ok - I have to admit that I LOVE shoes!!! Heels, flats, platforms, sandles, boots, flip flops, sneakers ..... whatever the shoe, if it is cute and matches something in my woredrobe I love it!!! They don't even have to be super comfortable - if they go with the outfit they are in!!!!!! ....... So - my car-free "practicing" is definiately a work in progress. I had a meeting last night about 2.5 miles from my home. My outfit wasn't bike appropriate, so I decided to walk. I did change out of my heels and put on flats - a pair of baby blue, patent leather slides (totally cute - totally made the outfit) .... They were flats and quite comfy, so I thought everything would be fine. I didn't really want to put on a pair of socks and tennis shoes like every power woman in the 80s. And, I wasn't power walking - I was merely "strolling" to my meeting.

Well ... the results were not as pleasant as I thought. By the time I got to my destination I had a huge blister on the ball of both feet. OUCH!!!!! Good thing I was sitting during most of the meeting - but I had to walk home. AND, the walk home was mostly uphill. What to do? I did refuse a ride from my sister (which felt a bit like cheating). I did get some bandaids from the restaurant -- and headed home. I guess the universe was looking out for me - as while I was walking M (my mom's husband) called and wanted to know if I was free to join them for a beer at a place three blocks from my house. Yes - of course I did ..... and then he offered to come and get me, as my voice must have given my pain away. The ride and the subsequent beer did help the pain - for that night.

So - now what?!!? Today has been a bit painful --- and I am nervous about my triathlon training tomorrow (the bike will be fine, but the run afterward might prove to be interesting). I know the pain will wear off - eventually - but what lessons have I learned? Well - I have not given up my passion for shoes - so then what? Do I carry the cute shoes with me? Do I buy better, cute walking shoes ---- do they even exist? Do I take my bike more places? Do I just stay home forever and tele-commute into every meeting?

No answers right now - but I am more determined than ever to continue to stay looking fashion-foward (or at least fashion-right) while also being car-free.

The Pre-Beginning

Well .... here I am ... at the pre-beginning of being car free. At the moment I still own (rather am leasing) a car. This will change on May 22. One month from now the official journey will begin -- but it is nice to have a month to try things out - and wrap my mind around actually not having a car.

Why am I doing this? Many reasons, life journeys and previous decisions have brought me to this point. My decision to go car free is part green, part financial and part curiousity. When I actually say it out loud to people - even I think it sounds crazy. However, the closer I get to May 22 the more excited I am. I do want my bike to be my primary mode of transportation - but I am starting to look into bus schedules and the hour car.

Now -- my big fears ..... how does someone who is interested in fashion .... makes sure that she had just the right shoe for the outfit .... enjoys getting dressed up to go out on the town .... doesn't like to get sweaty or dirty (unless actually working out) ..... how will she/I survive on a bike or a bus? And - what will dating be like on a bike? Can I really show up for a first date on a bike? ..... This will certainly be an adventure!!!!