I rode my “new” used bike to the grocery store 2 miles away. Once I get in shape it will be an easy way to run errands while getting exercise.

How quickly do apples and asparagus freeze at 20F? To play it safe I strapped an insulated bag to my basket to keep perishables from freezing on my mostly uphill journey home.

It has been years since I have ridden, though from age 6 to 16 a bike was my primary mode of transportation. I wonder if in my IL hometown a child can still take off on their bike for hours without a specific plan or destination. While I generally remember feeling free and independent, I had a terrifying ride home from school in a thunderstorm when I was about 7. I thought I was going to die any moment! When I finally reached home I threw my bike down and rushed in the door. Rather than commending her brave hero for making it home through the storm, Mom made me go back outside in the rain to put my bike away properly.

Nearly 50 years later I look forward to regaining my balance and stamina. For now I get off and push the bike up hills as needed (and it isn’t very steep!)