The Bicycle

Part 1 - Not quite an odyssey but definitely a bit of a journey

When I first moved to San Diego I was shocked at the number of cyclists. To be honest, before I moved to San Diego I am not sure I ever even used the word cyclist, but there was no mistaking the riders on slim bikes dashing past cars. I am pretty much a complete clutz - I run into walls rounding corners, I slice my finger with the vegetable peeler, I manage to step onto loose snowboards and crash into the ice. Because of this I naturally avoided cycling.

About a year ago, I decided I wanted a bike, but nothing fancy - not something to cycle on. Just something to ride around the neighborhood, maybe with a little basket. I also wanted something used to so I wouldn't have to worry about locking the bike up. For some unknown reason, I went to a hip little bike store specializing in snobbery - I mean really cool bikes. Just my luck, they had an old beat up bike that had not been restored yet and they would give to to me for a steal. I was thrilled and promptly bought it. I think - there, in the moment- I pictured myself in one of those Stella commercials.



Alas, it was not to be. I took it out to the street where our car was parked and was so excited I wanted to ride it right then. I eagerly got on the bike but found my feet couldn't reach the ground and the handlebars were a lifetime away. I was fighting back tears as I argued with myself that everyone knows you never forget how to ride a bike.

Stay tuned for Part 2...