"Been Gonna" became, "I really did ride my bike to work today...yes, really I did". The City Bike Challange served as the tipping point, but I am feeling pleased with my ride, a touch healthier, and yeah, a little concerned about the uphill ride home.
The Bike Options folks [1] in PDOT (Portland Office of Transportation) have been gently and good naturedly urging me to give it a try. However, I am further out of shape than ever in my life, and riding over the bridge and through the few blocks of the central city intimidates me. So I have kept my mini-van full of enough gas, and have one of those expensive parking lot passes.
But this morning, much to my husband's amazement, I got Blueberry (that is my bike's name) out and headed into town. It is a beautiful day here in Portland, and the warm breezy morning couldn't have been more inviting. I took it slow, as if I had a choice, and reminded myself not to be daunted by everyone passing me, but just to be glad I was out there. It was nice; it's also mostly downhill to work. People were friendly, gardens are at their peak, and Portland is a lovely town.
I got nervous as I merged into the bike lane heading toward MLK; I was concerned I would frustrate other cyclists who do not resemble snails in their cycling. Heading up onto Hawthorne Bridge looked easy for others, yet that slight incline felt steep until I reached the top. Riding over the bridge on a lovely day is a gift, the air feels great and the view is wonderful. Downtown certainly moves faster than I do on a bike, but I just took my time and was cautious enough to feel comfortable.
[1]Jane BikeTo the many who ride daily, this must seem silly. For me; I am startled whenever I realize I am this out of shape, but I rode my bike to work today. Fancy that. I make no promises about the future, but I suspect I will do this again.