Just another Friday Bike Ride

I feel like I'm not posting as much these days because I ride my bike to work every day now that it's not 1028 degrees out and so it doesn't seem as exciting because it's something I do so regularly. 

Today, however, a few interesting things happened.  Let me splain...

First of all, as I pedaled through Field Club Golf Course down Woolworth, there were two smiling gentlemen in a golf cart waiting to cross the road holding a few cups of joe.  As I rang my bell and passed them watching the steam rise from their cups, the wafting aroma of fresh coffee greeted my nostrils and inspired me to pedal a little faster.  It was definitely enjoyable and made me glad that I was on my bike and not in a car.  An experience that would surely be missed if I were boxed in a vehicle.

Secondly, as I was zooming down 16th St. with Copper in tow, I was quickly approaching Douglas and a woman started running into the street from the west sidewalk.  She froze, like a deer in the headlights when she realized that there was a real possibility of getting hit by a cyclist with a dog being pulled behind...at which point I asked her if she thought it would be funny if she got plowed over by a bike.  She laughed, as did I.  I pedaled on. 

Did you ride your bike today?!  Copper and I enjoyed it and look forward to the ride home.  The two best parts of my day usually.

SJ

League of American Bicyclists says I'm Legit

This weekend was spent both in a classroom and on my bicycle as I went through Traffic Safety 201, which was presented by John Rider (isn't that funny that his last name is Rider?) who is certified by The League of American Bicyclists.  I passed, thankfully, becuase if I didn't I'd be doubting what I do for a living.

In the classroom we all took turns giving presentations to the class about what the League is all about, what it takes to adjust a derailleur, how to teach to people with different learning types, etc.  Pretty informative overall.  I can actually say I enjoyed my time there.  Once we got out on our bikes our time was split between obstacle course(ish) handling skills in a parking lot and out riding through traffic showing our aptitude in commuting.  Fun day with fun people.  Thanks to all of you who sat through it with me; made it a lot more entertaining.

So, I'm proud to say that I'm officially an LCI (League Certified Instructor).  After over 20 hours in 2.5 days it's all over and done with and I can continue putting on my little commuting clinics, only from here on out, I'm legit.

If you have any questions, let me know!

SJ

Sunny and Cool = Perfect Morning Ride

Noteworthy encounter: riding down 16th St. past the MAT station this morning and a leg-less man in a wheelchair said, "Hey baby! Nice wheels!!" to which I replied, "Ditto!"

That's all for now.

Over and out.

'Nother Day of Fine Riding!

So we had an Omaha Bikes meeting this morning, which was well attended, I'm happy to report.  I pedaled out to Aksarben Village for that and then swung by my house to pick up the ol' Copper dog and then rode down to the shop.  I did have one fun exclamation about my ride set up though:  "Ah man!!!  That dog got it better than I do!!  Shit!!"  It was pretty entertaining.  This came from the mouth of a bus stop lady who was particularly moved by the sight of me pulling Copper behind my bike.

Purdy good day.

What a Perfect Day!

I've got the day off and it sure is a nice one!!  I started my Friday with a quick ride down to the shop to make sure the new hours were put on the shop door (we're now open 11-7 every day but Sunday when we're closed altogether) and to finish a little clean up that was neglected last night. 

Then, from there I pedaled to Midtown Crossing and hit up Delice in their new location. I was greeted by a huge display case of baked goodies that were absolutely drool-inducing. My eyes darted excitedly from croissant to cream puff to creme brulee to scone...maddening really! Too many delicious options to pick just one. I almost felt panicky! Ok, deep breath.  I ended up getting ahold of myself and ordering a rather enjoyable slice of their spinach, tomato, and provolone quiche as well as an iced chai with a shot of espresso thrown in to really get my day moving. As I stepped out towards the patio I made the mistake of glancing once more at the glowing case-o-tasties and knew I'd be back for something sweet.  As I sat out on their patio with my bike locked to one of the racks nearby I just watched people walk by and savored each bite of my breakfast.  It was fantastic.  Then, as the foreshadowing above prepared indicated, I waltzed back in with a grin on my face and dessert on my mind.  After studying the case for a bit longer than necessary, I decided to go with a tiny yet tasty fruit tartlet and headed back for some more patio time.

At this point I'm sure you're probably thinking, "Why is she writing so much about food when this is a bike blog?!"  The answer is quite simply this: I love food as much as (if not possibly sometimes more than) bicycles and therefore deem this an important blog entry!

But wait, there's more.  Since this was really my first true experience cheking out Midtown Crossing, I decided that I should continue my venture.  I walked my bike westward and stopped in to 3 Dog Bakery and Spaw.  How funny.  There was a bit too much cooing from customers over the adorable factor of the 3 dogs that hang out in the shop.  Too much for me.  So onward I rolled.  Up to ingredient...but that's another post...

Get out and ride!!!!
-SJ