Sunday, October 23, 2011
Monday, March 14, 2011
Virtual cycling
I was reading the Columbia Daily Tribune online this morning and came across an article called “All Weather Workout.” It talked about ways to workout when Mother Nature isn’t so nice. And certainly on a day like today with a slushy snow/rain mixture, you have to get creative. A section at the bottom mentioned investing in a virtual-reality cycling trainer. For people who typically go cycling to get in their workouts, this invention sounds pretty neat. Here’s what the article said:
“A virtual-reality trainer is a sophisticated cycling simulator. You insert your rear tire into a motorized roller and your front wheel into a frame that has a steering sensor. The system is wired to a computer programmed with software that shows a video of a bike route and controls pedal resistance to simulate hills and wind resistance on the course. A lot of cyclists say it makes time and miles go by faster.”
Would you try something like this?
Article link: http://www.columbiatribune.com/news/2011/mar/13/body-running031311/?pulse
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Contact your elected representatives, it really does make a difference!
Columbia area bicyclists,
Ten Missourians will be visiting congressional offices in Washington, DC, tomorrow as part of the National Bike Summit. They will be visiting the office of every Missouri member of Congress, making the case for better, safer bicycling and walking in Missouri.
If you could spend five minutes sending a message of support to your members of Congress, it would really help back them up.
We don't have anyone in person from Congressman Luetkemeyer's district this year--making your phone calls and messages more important than ever. He WILL listen if he knows his constituents are backing our message.
It's easy--just visit this website
There you'll find your members of Congress list along with the best ways to
contact them:
- Online message (direct link to their online feedback form)
- Phone & fax numbers (the Washington office, where we'll be visiting)
Please give them a call or send them a message like this:
-----
Dear [Congressman or Congresswoman or Senator] X,
The National Bike Summit is taking place today in Washington and a delegation from Missouri will be visiting your office.
I hope you'll take the time to meet with them, because bicycling and walking is very important to Missouri and to me.
Federal funding for bicycling and walking is a very, very small amount--just 0.03% of the federal budget--but it is very, very important:
- Federally funded roads and highways are among the biggest impediments to bicycling and walking
- Destinations that people want to bicycle and walk to cluster along federally funded roads and highways
- Federally funded roads and highways cut right through every city and town in Missouri, and when they are not built to allow people to bicycle or walk along or across them, the result is that entire neighborhoods become unwalkable and unbicycleable.
[Add a sentence or two about why bicycling and/or walking is important to you.]
Sincerely yours,
-----
Again Visit this website for the contact info for your representatives:
THANK YOU!
When you contact your elected representatives, it really does make a difference!
Ten Missourians will be visiting congressional offices in Washington, DC, tomorrow as part of the National Bike Summit. They will be visiting the office of every Missouri member of Congress, making the case for better, safer bicycling and walking in Missouri.
If you could spend five minutes sending a message of support to your members of Congress, it would really help back them up.
We don't have anyone in person from Congressman Luetkemeyer's district this year--making your phone calls and messages more important than ever. He WILL listen if he knows his constituents are backing our message.
It's easy--just visit this website
There you'll find your members of Congress list along with the best ways to
contact them:
- Online message (direct link to their online feedback form)
- Phone & fax numbers (the Washington office, where we'll be visiting)
Please give them a call or send them a message like this:
-----
Dear [Congressman or Congresswoman or Senator] X,
The National Bike Summit is taking place today in Washington and a delegation from Missouri will be visiting your office.
I hope you'll take the time to meet with them, because bicycling and walking is very important to Missouri and to me.
Federal funding for bicycling and walking is a very, very small amount--just 0.03% of the federal budget--but it is very, very important:
- Federally funded roads and highways are among the biggest impediments to bicycling and walking
- Destinations that people want to bicycle and walk to cluster along federally funded roads and highways
- Federally funded roads and highways cut right through every city and town in Missouri, and when they are not built to allow people to bicycle or walk along or across them, the result is that entire neighborhoods become unwalkable and unbicycleable.
[Add a sentence or two about why bicycling and/or walking is important to you.]
Sincerely yours,
-----
Again Visit this website for the contact info for your representatives:
THANK YOU!
When you contact your elected representatives, it really does make a difference!
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Parade Happy
Today marks the final day of the True/False Film Festival of 2011. I saw a couple films over the weekend and wish I could have gone to more. It was such a cool opportunity to see these films because they are all so unique. One film that I loved was called “Buck.” It was about a man that can tame the wildest of stallions in such a tender way. Since I’m a huge animal lover, this film was very inspirational.
In addition to the films this weekend, PedNet Bike Club kids had lots of activities. I went to the parade and caught some of the action with my video camera. Even though it was raining and cold out, the energy of the parade was tip top. The kids and adults rode their bikes with floats attached with smiles on their faces. It was a great weekend for the Columbia community. Check out the short video clip!
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Walking School Bus
I was on campus today when I saw the new Walking School bus ad on the side of a public transportation bus. If you are unaware, A Walking School Bus (WSB) is a group of 5-10 children who walk to school together under adult supervision at local schools here in Columbia. You can learn more about WSB at the PedNet website here.
Seeing the ad reminded me that the Spring 2011 WSB program will begin March 7. To volunteer as an adult supervisor, you can fill out the registration form.
Happy Walking Everyone!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
WeCar brings sustainable car sharing program to Mizzou's campus
A sustainable car sharing program started this fall at Mizzou.
Did you know that a shared vehicle can remove 15 – 20 cars off the road? WeCar sharing offers an economical, convenient and environmentally friendly transportation alternative to owning a car.
WeCar offers students, faculty and staff freedom and mobility without the hassles of owning a car. Two hybrid vehicles and two sedans are available and conveniently located on the MU campus. Membership is $35 annually and reservations can be made online. Hourly weekday rates for sedans are $8 per hour and hybrids start at $9 per hour. Customers who are 18 -20 years of age are eligible to use this service but must have their own insurance.
“Bringing WeCar to Mizzou will provide an important service to our students, especially those who are on-campus residents, and will allow them the freedom to go grocery shopping, run errands, etc.” said Dr. Jeff Zeilenga, Asst. Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs. “This program also supports MU’s sustainability initiatives to reduce our carbon footprint, as well as relieve congestion and parking demand on campus.”
I don't know anyone personally who has used the car sharing program, but it seems like a good choice for students who need to travel a long distance. Walking or riding a bike is always a good choice for getting around on campus but going further distances can sometimes be a challenge. This alternative method provides students the option to use a car only when they need one, without the temptation of using one all the time for close destinations.
What do you think of the new program? Do you know anyone who has used WeCar?
Monday, February 21, 2011
A Masterpiece in the Making
Hmmm what’s new in my life? Oh, I know – I’m working on a documentary featuring PedNet! I have to create a 15-minute film for my senior capstone class by the end of the semester. With so much going on at PedNet, I knew there was bound to be an inspirational story that I could document. So far I’ve been following a couple Bike Club groups. Watching the ‘Move Ahead Bike Club’ kids was a neat experience. The looks on their faces once they got the hang of riding their bikes were priceless. The kids are also working on floats for the True/False film festival parade. I am going to let the direction of the documentary be pretty flexible at this point. Hopefully after getting more footage I’ll be able to start piecing together a masterpiece!
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Bike Friendly Businesses Get My Patronage
The Spokes Man, aka Robert Johnson, shows us that there are plenty of bike friendly businesses in Columbia in his Columbia Daily Tribune column Awards Honor Bike Friendliness
In the immortal words of the Spokes Man:
"Being bicycle-friendly is beneficial for a business. It frees up parking spaces, has proved to reduce employee absenteeism, and it’s chic to be considered an environmentally friendly business. It’s also the right thing to do. Take the time to make sure your workplace is recognized for doing the right thing, and be sure to visit these businesses that already have been recognized."
In the immortal words of the Spokes Man:
"Being bicycle-friendly is beneficial for a business. It frees up parking spaces, has proved to reduce employee absenteeism, and it’s chic to be considered an environmentally friendly business. It’s also the right thing to do. Take the time to make sure your workplace is recognized for doing the right thing, and be sure to visit these businesses that already have been recognized."
Monday, February 7, 2011
Refreshing my mornings
Every morning for the past week I have started my day doing yoga. I usually like to take a walk around my neighborhood, but the snowy weather has made that a little more difficult. Having been cooped up in my apartment during the snowstorm, I had to make sure I was staying active. But I have to say, doing 30 minutes of yoga every morning has been very refreshing.
There are so many benefits to yoga. Better posture, increased strength and flexibility, improved balance, and an overall happier mood are just some. I’ve found that starting my day with a clear mind helps me to stay focused and more energized for school and other activities.
Furthermore, just doing something in the morning before work, school, or any other activities you have going on can be beneficial. As the weather gets nicer (give it a month…or two :) ), getting outside for a walk, run, or bike ride can be a small key to a healthier lifestyle. There is nothing better than fresh air and a little vitamin D.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Walking is Grrrrreat!
How many of you walk, bike, or take public transportation to work/school? For those of you who do, you understand how rewarding it can be! What better way to start the day than getting some fresh air, right?
For those of you who don't currently walk or bike to your end destination, this is why I enjoy it. I live in downtown Columbia and I find that the mile walk to campus each day is exactly what I need: no matter what the weather is like outside. Here is what walking to class helps me to do before I start my day:
--Clears my head
--Releases some energy before I have to sit down for an hour +
--Saves money/hassle of driving
--Gives me some alone time
--I can think, zone out, or plan my day all on a walk
--If the weather is nice, I get to enjoy it even if my day is really busy!
The reason why I encourage YOU to look into the PedNet Coalition a little more is because their mission is unique and important! They offer numerous opportunities to get outdoors and become more physically fit.
Think about it....
For those of you who don't currently walk or bike to your end destination, this is why I enjoy it. I live in downtown Columbia and I find that the mile walk to campus each day is exactly what I need: no matter what the weather is like outside. Here is what walking to class helps me to do before I start my day:
--Clears my head
--Releases some energy before I have to sit down for an hour +
--Saves money/hassle of driving
--Gives me some alone time
--I can think, zone out, or plan my day all on a walk
--If the weather is nice, I get to enjoy it even if my day is really busy!
The reason why I encourage YOU to look into the PedNet Coalition a little more is because their mission is unique and important! They offer numerous opportunities to get outdoors and become more physically fit.
Think about it....
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Alternative Travel
Thursday morning and our street was still not plowed. I'm not complaining though, I know its a big task getting streets cleared and ours is usually one of the last. I'm used to it.
I didn't want to attempt to get my vehicle out because, although my driveway is perfectly clean, it is clearly a "road to nowhere" and I didn't want to end up like this guy.
I didn't want to attempt to get my vehicle out because, although my driveway is perfectly clean, it is clearly a "road to nowhere" and I didn't want to end up like this guy.
My neighbor. He's kinda mean or I would have helped.
So, how to get to the office today? Biking was a possibility, but it was 15 below zero and I prefer to keep all my digits. Instead I walked to the top of my road and hitched in with a co-worker.
Later that day I had a meeting at the Health Dept so I walked to the Wabash Station and grabbed the 103W bus. A bargain for only a buck! It dropped me at the Health Dept. bldg but lo and behold, I was on another road to nowhere.
Bus stop at Worley and West Blvd.
After the bus pulled away I had to step back out into the street and go around the snow banks to get into the building. Luckily, I have good mobility. Anyone with limitations would have had trouble.
After the meeting I headed off walking to meet my husband at Gerbes for a restock of supplies. Three days in the house with a gigantic 13-year-old left us with little more than some butter and General Tsao sauce.
As soon as I left the parking lot it soon became apparent that I was going to have to improvise. The sidewalks on Worley were completely snow covered. I decided to walk in the road facing traffic. It was quite nerve wracking. I was worried that someone might be texting and not see me until it was too late.
Bless those fire fighters at Station 2! They had shoveled their walk! I was able to get off of busy Worley until I could turn onto Pershing.
The sidewalk in front of Fire Station 2
Challenging travel day? Yes. But, I used three different modes of transportation and none of it single-occupancy vehicle. I call that a success.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
New Course from PedNet: Bicycle Mechanics College
I’m currently working on an article for PedNet’s monthly newsletter. It’s about a new program called Bicycle Mechanics College. It is an 8-week course being taught at Walt’s Bicycle Fitness and Nature on Wednesday evenings in March and April. If you are someone like me, Bicycle Mechanics College would be a great way to learn all about bikes. I know I could definitely benefit from all the course has to offer. Here are the weekly topics:
- Week 1: Basic maintenance and repairs
- Week 2: Tires, rims and fixing flats
- Week 3: Hubs, bearing and bottom brackets
- Week 4: Wheels and truing
- Week 5: Drive Train – cranks, chains, cogs, cassettes, chain rings
- Week 6: Shifters and derailleurs
- Week 7: Brakes
- Week 8: Bike fit, ergonomics, control and speed
In 8 weeks, you certainly learn a lot. Trained professional League Cycling Instructors (LCI) teach the course too. Bicycle Mechanics College originally started in Santa Barbara, CA before the idea started to gain popularity at PedNet. For only $150, you can register for the whole program. I highly suggest anyone looking to advance/gain knowledge with bikes secure a spot quickly. This class is bound to be popular and great fun!
How to winterize your bike commute
While snowed in these past couple of days thanks to the great snowpocalypse of 2011, I stumbled across some great tips on how to winterize your bike ride. Although it may still be a couple days until Columbia clears the streets where you ride, keep these helpful hints in mind!
First up: A short video from Streetfilms. The video profiles riders in Chicago who face harsh winters but see the benefits in riding year round. Shows tips about warm clothing, proper bike maintenance and the winter mentality shared by Chicago riders. Check it out here: http://www.good.is/post/video-how-to-winterize-yourself-for-a-bike-commute/
Next: A place to share your winter biking tips! GOOD has created a forum to share tips, stories and advice with others who also bike through the many seasons. Read what others have to say and share your own advice! http://www.good.is/post/share-your-winter-biking-tips/
Are you planning on venturing out into the snowy abyss anytime soon? Remember stay warm and safe out there!
-PedNet Communications Intern
Rachel
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
"want to ride 'rents say too cold:( c u!"
When I started this whole Bike Brigade thing, I really didn't know what to expect or how it would work. I figured that as the weather worsened, most kids would stop riding and it would be just Max, Annarose and I biking through the winter as usual. Some kids did stop riding with winter's arrival, but as the temperatures dropped, a core group of kids kept showing up each morning. I didn't make a big deal about it, but I was always pleasanlty surprised. The first day with temperatures below 32 degrees, I didn't make a big deal about it. The kids showed up, got on their bikes and rode to school without complaint or remark. I didn't say anything about the temperature until we arrived at school.
When we arrived at the bike racks, I said "Wow! Do you guys even realize how amazing you are?! It's 27 degrees and you just rode your bikes to school. You are so awesome!"
Now, it is February 1 and five kids are still riding their bikes to Smithton and three kids are riding their bikes to Lee Elementary daily....through snow, rain and extreme cold. On days when the weather is especially harsh, some kids are not allowed to ride. When this happens, I invariably receive texts like this: "want 2 ride 'rents say 2 cold :( c u!" These texts give me a smile and a chuckle. I absolutely understand and respect parents concerns for their children and not wanting them to ride when it is too cold. I just find it sweet and funny that the kids want me to know that they want to ride.
I am very lucky. I honestly can not think of a better way to begin and end my days than riding bik with kids. They are amazing and inspire me daily.
When we arrived at the bike racks, I said "Wow! Do you guys even realize how amazing you are?! It's 27 degrees and you just rode your bikes to school. You are so awesome!"
Now, it is February 1 and five kids are still riding their bikes to Smithton and three kids are riding their bikes to Lee Elementary daily....through snow, rain and extreme cold. On days when the weather is especially harsh, some kids are not allowed to ride. When this happens, I invariably receive texts like this: "want 2 ride 'rents say 2 cold :( c u!" These texts give me a smile and a chuckle. I absolutely understand and respect parents concerns for their children and not wanting them to ride when it is too cold. I just find it sweet and funny that the kids want me to know that they want to ride.
I am very lucky. I honestly can not think of a better way to begin and end my days than riding bik with kids. They are amazing and inspire me daily.
PedNet in the news
The Spokes Man had a column about snow studded bike tires a few weeks back. These would be quite handy right now as the Blizzard of 2011 commences to show us who's boss. Here's Robert demonstrating how they worked on a frozen Stephen's Lake. No worries, the lake had been cleared for ice skating.
Note the cinematography on that video. Robert said that the person holding the camera complained about the bitter cold the whole time but I don't remember it that way at all...
The Trib also ran a news story about BWWW Funding. That's Bike Walk & Wheel Week for you novices to Columbia or the PedNet world. No matter, we are still going to have a killer week with fun rides, educational classes, and all the free breakfast you can ride your bike or walk to. Anybody for trying to hit all of the stations this year?
Note the cinematography on that video. Robert said that the person holding the camera complained about the bitter cold the whole time but I don't remember it that way at all...
The Trib also ran a news story about BWWW Funding. That's Bike Walk & Wheel Week for you novices to Columbia or the PedNet world. No matter, we are still going to have a killer week with fun rides, educational classes, and all the free breakfast you can ride your bike or walk to. Anybody for trying to hit all of the stations this year?
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Taking Stock
Well, it's 8 pm on Sept. 30, and I don't expect to go anywhere by bike, car, or on foot now until October. So here are some last thoughts on this experiment:
*Total mileage on the family car for September: 183 (we normally average between 700-800 miles per month)
*Days when I really got wet: 2
*Pounds lost with NO attempt to restrict eating: 2
*Times we called on grandparents to help transport kids: 2 (probably about typical)
Overall, it was a positive experience. I like to think, going forward, that I will choose not to use the car more often than in the past. I would like to imagine I can continue with the mindset I have had this month, where I first think of getting where I'm going by bike, bus, or on foot, and then think of the car when that doesn't work. And for those car journeys, make them count by carpooling, combining errands, etc.
I want to make clear that I am not anti-car at all. I think cars are wonderful for carrying large loads, travelling long distances to remote destinations, and sometimes to get places in the dark, or bad weather, or whatever. But they're a lot like antibiotics: They should be used when they are needed, and other, more appropriate transportation choices should be used for the many short, easy journeys we all take. Otherwise, we get all kinds of unwanted side effects, like huge public spending on auto infrastructure, poor health, traffic injuries and deaths, air pollution, respiratory disease, global warming, crippling dependence on unfriendly oil producing nations, etc. Besides that, just as antibiotics become less effective with overuse, cars are made less effective when traffic congestion and parking pressure mean that what should be a short, easy trip, becomes a slow, frustrating crawl. As I was waiting to cross Old 63 one morning, watching dozens of cars, each with one occupant, go by, I tried to imagine what it would be like if we were like Amsterdam or Copenhagen, with 1/3 of trips by car,1/3 by transit, and 1/3 by foot or bike. Think how beautifully clear streets would be on those occasions when you do travel by car!
It seems impossible to imagine such an outcome, but I don't know. This month, I read JOYRIDE by Mia Birk, former bike coordinator for the city of Portland, OR, now the USAs best bike city. I really hadn't realized that as recently as 1993, Portland was far from a bicycling Mecca--it was just as auto-dominated as any American city. And the bike infrastructure was no more popular there than here, among certain parts of the population. She got the same accusations of communism, unamericanism, and interfering with our God-given constitutional right to go anywhere we want as fast as we want in our cars, that Trib Talk has been full of.
Even Amsterdam and Copenhagen had to make conscious policy choices way back in the middle of last century, to stop cars from taking over their cities. It didn't just happen because the Dutch and Danish like to ride their bikes. It happened because they had good infrastructure, and it was often the easiest, most affordable, and most logical way to get from one place to the next.
So does it do any good for me, or me and my family, or 150+ LCNCWC challengers to do this, in the face of the overwhelming number of cars? Well, I think it does. It has made me personally realize how frequently the car is not my best choice, and I think just being out there doing it means that each day, we may be planting the seed of an idea in someone we encounter, or maybe watering a seed planted earlier by someone or something else. Most people don't really want to be on the front wave of social change, but many are ready to be in the second wave. I know that I thought Ian was crazy thinking we could get by with one car once the kids were in public school, but when I met another family similar to ours who were doing it, then I realized we should at least give it a try...which we have been doing now for 9 years.
So thanks for the challenge. Thanks to the sponsors--I appreciate my new bike bell and water bottle from Walt's, loved my lunch at Cafe Berlin, and was very sad when my son's illness meant we had to change our plan to enjoy a final car-free dinner at Main Squeeze tonight.
*Total mileage on the family car for September: 183 (we normally average between 700-800 miles per month)
*Days when I really got wet: 2
*Pounds lost with NO attempt to restrict eating: 2
*Times we called on grandparents to help transport kids: 2 (probably about typical)
Overall, it was a positive experience. I like to think, going forward, that I will choose not to use the car more often than in the past. I would like to imagine I can continue with the mindset I have had this month, where I first think of getting where I'm going by bike, bus, or on foot, and then think of the car when that doesn't work. And for those car journeys, make them count by carpooling, combining errands, etc.
I want to make clear that I am not anti-car at all. I think cars are wonderful for carrying large loads, travelling long distances to remote destinations, and sometimes to get places in the dark, or bad weather, or whatever. But they're a lot like antibiotics: They should be used when they are needed, and other, more appropriate transportation choices should be used for the many short, easy journeys we all take. Otherwise, we get all kinds of unwanted side effects, like huge public spending on auto infrastructure, poor health, traffic injuries and deaths, air pollution, respiratory disease, global warming, crippling dependence on unfriendly oil producing nations, etc. Besides that, just as antibiotics become less effective with overuse, cars are made less effective when traffic congestion and parking pressure mean that what should be a short, easy trip, becomes a slow, frustrating crawl. As I was waiting to cross Old 63 one morning, watching dozens of cars, each with one occupant, go by, I tried to imagine what it would be like if we were like Amsterdam or Copenhagen, with 1/3 of trips by car,1/3 by transit, and 1/3 by foot or bike. Think how beautifully clear streets would be on those occasions when you do travel by car!
It seems impossible to imagine such an outcome, but I don't know. This month, I read JOYRIDE by Mia Birk, former bike coordinator for the city of Portland, OR, now the USAs best bike city. I really hadn't realized that as recently as 1993, Portland was far from a bicycling Mecca--it was just as auto-dominated as any American city. And the bike infrastructure was no more popular there than here, among certain parts of the population. She got the same accusations of communism, unamericanism, and interfering with our God-given constitutional right to go anywhere we want as fast as we want in our cars, that Trib Talk has been full of.
Even Amsterdam and Copenhagen had to make conscious policy choices way back in the middle of last century, to stop cars from taking over their cities. It didn't just happen because the Dutch and Danish like to ride their bikes. It happened because they had good infrastructure, and it was often the easiest, most affordable, and most logical way to get from one place to the next.
So does it do any good for me, or me and my family, or 150+ LCNCWC challengers to do this, in the face of the overwhelming number of cars? Well, I think it does. It has made me personally realize how frequently the car is not my best choice, and I think just being out there doing it means that each day, we may be planting the seed of an idea in someone we encounter, or maybe watering a seed planted earlier by someone or something else. Most people don't really want to be on the front wave of social change, but many are ready to be in the second wave. I know that I thought Ian was crazy thinking we could get by with one car once the kids were in public school, but when I met another family similar to ours who were doing it, then I realized we should at least give it a try...which we have been doing now for 9 years.
So thanks for the challenge. Thanks to the sponsors--I appreciate my new bike bell and water bottle from Walt's, loved my lunch at Cafe Berlin, and was very sad when my son's illness meant we had to change our plan to enjoy a final car-free dinner at Main Squeeze tonight.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Bike 'n' Bus
Today, as I came out of Boone Hospital after rounds, I found the right lane of Broadway coned off for construction. That's the way I usually get to my bus stop, but today I decided it was so beautiful anyway, that I would just whiz down the hill and pedal on to my office. I was glad I did. What a beautiful morning!
The bus bike racks have been a huge part of getting going with non-motorized transportation for me. Way back in 2001, when I decided to participate in the 1st Bike Walk Wheel Week, I had lots of barrier: I was out of shape, it was 7 miles to my office, I have to stop and change clothes to see patients in the hospital on the way many mornings, and at that time East Broadway was a terrifying ride, especially the pinch point bridge over the Hinkson Creek.
So I got out the bus map, and at that time, there was a bus that came down Stadium to Old 63, then up over the hill, and out to my office. I found that I could go entirely be trail, except for the short segment of Old 63 from Grindstone Nature Area to the bus stop, and be delivered in a mostly timely manner to my office on Keene Street. That didn't take me past Boone, so I only did it on days that I had no patients to round on, but it was a start. Later, I started riding to Boone to do rounds, and then met the bus at the bottom of the hill, and found I could make that work. At some point, they changed the bus route so that it no longer went down Stadium, and become the perfect route for me. I could finish at Boone at about 8:00, catch the bus right on Broadway, and be dropped off right in front of my office by 8:20, still in my work clothes from rounds. It was ideal! If I ever got tied up and missed the bus, which sometimes happened, it's only about a 15 minute ride, and somewhere in there, they built the new bridge and Pedway on East Broadway, so it's not a bad ride at all--but hilly enough that I, at least, work up a bit of a sweat, making the issue of whether or not to change clothes again one that I had to consider.
More recently, the bus route has changed again, making it less convenient for me (it gets to my office at 8:30 instead of 8:20, which is cutting it close), but I can tell by the markedly increased ridership that it was probably a good move for a lot of people, so I'm not really complaining. And I'm really not complaining about the new orange route, which actually puts a bus stop within a mile of my house on the SW side of town!! That gives me more opportunities to use the bus even without my bike, as I have done several times now.
I love that our NCLCWC cards work as bus passes. And I really love that the bus drivers seem to recognize them and just wave me on! Now, if they would only get around to printing the timetables and maps for the routes that have been in effect since early August....
The bus bike racks have been a huge part of getting going with non-motorized transportation for me. Way back in 2001, when I decided to participate in the 1st Bike Walk Wheel Week, I had lots of barrier: I was out of shape, it was 7 miles to my office, I have to stop and change clothes to see patients in the hospital on the way many mornings, and at that time East Broadway was a terrifying ride, especially the pinch point bridge over the Hinkson Creek.
So I got out the bus map, and at that time, there was a bus that came down Stadium to Old 63, then up over the hill, and out to my office. I found that I could go entirely be trail, except for the short segment of Old 63 from Grindstone Nature Area to the bus stop, and be delivered in a mostly timely manner to my office on Keene Street. That didn't take me past Boone, so I only did it on days that I had no patients to round on, but it was a start. Later, I started riding to Boone to do rounds, and then met the bus at the bottom of the hill, and found I could make that work. At some point, they changed the bus route so that it no longer went down Stadium, and become the perfect route for me. I could finish at Boone at about 8:00, catch the bus right on Broadway, and be dropped off right in front of my office by 8:20, still in my work clothes from rounds. It was ideal! If I ever got tied up and missed the bus, which sometimes happened, it's only about a 15 minute ride, and somewhere in there, they built the new bridge and Pedway on East Broadway, so it's not a bad ride at all--but hilly enough that I, at least, work up a bit of a sweat, making the issue of whether or not to change clothes again one that I had to consider.
More recently, the bus route has changed again, making it less convenient for me (it gets to my office at 8:30 instead of 8:20, which is cutting it close), but I can tell by the markedly increased ridership that it was probably a good move for a lot of people, so I'm not really complaining. And I'm really not complaining about the new orange route, which actually puts a bus stop within a mile of my house on the SW side of town!! That gives me more opportunities to use the bus even without my bike, as I have done several times now.
I love that our NCLCWC cards work as bus passes. And I really love that the bus drivers seem to recognize them and just wave me on! Now, if they would only get around to printing the timetables and maps for the routes that have been in effect since early August....
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Nearly October
I'm loving the cool weather, and starting to reflect a little on my Whoa!Car month. Overall, it was easier than expected, although I am currently fighting a nasty cold and cough, the one thing I really hoped wouldn't happen. It's not so bad, though. It helps me prioritize what I REALLY have to do, so I've opted out of a few things I would usually have done, which frees up a little time in my day.
One result of this challenge has been the luxury of telling Ian that he HAS to do the driving--I can't! Still, our total car journeys/mileage are WAY down for the month. We haven't bought gas in September, for example, and the gauge is still well over 1/4 full; and the car didn't leave the house at all on 16 days so far. When it did leave, it was virtually always a carpool, to soccer or band or show choir or the homecoming dance. We are certainly finding ourselves up against societal expectations, though. It is clear that everyone just assumes that each kid at Rock Bridge will have their own car, so planning schedules to make catching the bus work, for example, just doesn't happen. I think this is a terrible situation for many reasons--the expense to families, the way kids whose families can't afford an extra car just can't do extra stuff, and most of all, the idea that we are creating an environment where parents actually WANT their children to be driving everywhere, despite the terrible toll car crashes, not to mention inactivity, take on American teens.
I am finding it really wonderful to turn to my bike first. Now that I'm not giving myself the option of driving to work, I don't have to weigh the pros and cons each morning. The rain has been a little hassle, but not too bad. I have driven 3 times this month, and the truth was, I didn't enjoy it much. It felt a little weird. But I'm sure I will be back to more driving as winter arrives--it's not the weather so much, but I do find the short daylight hours to be a problem.
I heard Gina on the radio Monday saying that over 150 people are signed up for one of the challenges. I think that's really incredible. I sometimes see people out walking and biking and wonder who might be a NCLCWC challenger!
I have had no trouble at all using my card as a bus pass, and hope to make it to Walt's tomorrow to take advantage of the discount on a few items, like a new helmet and gloves. Maybe I'll run into someone else flashing a pink card there.
I'm loving the cool weather, and starting to reflect a little on my Whoa!Car month. Overall, it was easier than expected, although I am currently fighting a nasty cold and cough, the one thing I really hoped wouldn't happen. It's not so bad, though. It helps me prioritize what I REALLY have to do, so I've opted out of a few things I would usually have done, which frees up a little time in my day.
One result of this challenge has been the luxury of telling Ian that he HAS to do the driving--I can't! Still, our total car journeys/mileage are WAY down for the month. We haven't bought gas in September, for example, and the gauge is still well over 1/4 full; and the car didn't leave the house at all on 16 days so far. When it did leave, it was virtually always a carpool, to soccer or band or show choir or the homecoming dance. We are certainly finding ourselves up against societal expectations, though. It is clear that everyone just assumes that each kid at Rock Bridge will have their own car, so planning schedules to make catching the bus work, for example, just doesn't happen. I think this is a terrible situation for many reasons--the expense to families, the way kids whose families can't afford an extra car just can't do extra stuff, and most of all, the idea that we are creating an environment where parents actually WANT their children to be driving everywhere, despite the terrible toll car crashes, not to mention inactivity, take on American teens.
I am finding it really wonderful to turn to my bike first. Now that I'm not giving myself the option of driving to work, I don't have to weigh the pros and cons each morning. The rain has been a little hassle, but not too bad. I have driven 3 times this month, and the truth was, I didn't enjoy it much. It felt a little weird. But I'm sure I will be back to more driving as winter arrives--it's not the weather so much, but I do find the short daylight hours to be a problem.
I heard Gina on the radio Monday saying that over 150 people are signed up for one of the challenges. I think that's really incredible. I sometimes see people out walking and biking and wonder who might be a NCLCWC challenger!
I have had no trouble at all using my card as a bus pass, and hope to make it to Walt's tomorrow to take advantage of the discount on a few items, like a new helmet and gloves. Maybe I'll run into someone else flashing a pink card there.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Feel so crummy but can't seem to stop.
I usually ride my bike at least twenty miles a day; primarily this is done getting kids to and from school.
Every morning, I wake up at 4:30, make some coffee, read a little, do some work, get dressed, wake the kids, make breakfast, pack lunch, nag the kids until they are ready to leave the house, and head out the door shortly after 7am to begin my day in the saddle.
Max, my 12 year old son, and I pedal over to Again St. Park to meet the Bike Brigade kids and Ginny. My awesome friend who rides with us every single morning and most afternoons. Thanks Ginny! We stand around chatting, waiting for everyone to arrive and giving the kids a chance to drop their stuff in the bike cart. At 7:20, we head to Smithton to get the kids to school. Ginny and I drop the kids off and head back toward downtown.
Ginny heads to campus and I head back home to pick up Annarose, my 10 year old daughter. We hop on our bikes and head downtown to Annarose's school picking up Ella, our friend, along the way. I drop off the girls and ride to work.
Sometimes, if I am lucky I can even weasel my way into getting paid to ride my bike during the work day.
At 2:30 each afternoon, I head back to Smithton to pick up the Bike Brigade kids, then do the whole morning in reverse. Each morning and afternoon I ride about 10 miles back and forth to school and home.
I usually manage to sneak in a few more miles during the work day running errands, going to lunch, preveiwing ride routes, delivering stuff.
Except for today, there was no school today. I have been working from home in my pajamas all day. I have been sitting at my kitchen table in front of my computer for most of the last ten hours.
I feel like crap. I am so tired and brain dead, I can hardly stand it. I know why I feel so crummy despite the luxury of spending the day at home in my pajamas, it is because I haven't ridden my bike at all today. That stinks!
My husband just came home to save me suggesting a moonlight ride this evening. Yippee!
Every morning, I wake up at 4:30, make some coffee, read a little, do some work, get dressed, wake the kids, make breakfast, pack lunch, nag the kids until they are ready to leave the house, and head out the door shortly after 7am to begin my day in the saddle.
Max, my 12 year old son, and I pedal over to Again St. Park to meet the Bike Brigade kids and Ginny. My awesome friend who rides with us every single morning and most afternoons. Thanks Ginny! We stand around chatting, waiting for everyone to arrive and giving the kids a chance to drop their stuff in the bike cart. At 7:20, we head to Smithton to get the kids to school. Ginny and I drop the kids off and head back toward downtown.
Ginny heads to campus and I head back home to pick up Annarose, my 10 year old daughter. We hop on our bikes and head downtown to Annarose's school picking up Ella, our friend, along the way. I drop off the girls and ride to work.
Sometimes, if I am lucky I can even weasel my way into getting paid to ride my bike during the work day.
At 2:30 each afternoon, I head back to Smithton to pick up the Bike Brigade kids, then do the whole morning in reverse. Each morning and afternoon I ride about 10 miles back and forth to school and home.
I usually manage to sneak in a few more miles during the work day running errands, going to lunch, preveiwing ride routes, delivering stuff.
Except for today, there was no school today. I have been working from home in my pajamas all day. I have been sitting at my kitchen table in front of my computer for most of the last ten hours.
I feel like crap. I am so tired and brain dead, I can hardly stand it. I know why I feel so crummy despite the luxury of spending the day at home in my pajamas, it is because I haven't ridden my bike at all today. That stinks!
My husband just came home to save me suggesting a moonlight ride this evening. Yippee!
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