Random musing on sunny March days

Just for the hell of it, I can't help but wonder if this is the weekend to take the studded tires off my MTB. Sun's out. Snow's melting. My sweet Trek mounty (aka. the Blue Pony) is calling from the garage. But I'm home working. I guess it won't be today.

May 18th. A fortuitous day in Spokane many years ago as the sky darkened on a sunny afternoon and the aftermath of Mt. St. Helen's eruption blanketed our world. It wasn't the last dark day here. We've lived through many more. Especially all the days we've had to hear about cyclists and pedestrians injured or killed by distracted, drunk or aggressive drivers.

This year, let's lift the blanket of darkness and join together for the Ride of Silence. Quietly, thoughtfully, we can spread the message that we all share the roads and are in charge of protecting one another.

The second annual Ride of Silence in Spokane is the perfect first ride of the year if you're not a regular cyclist. It's short... easy and you'll learn a thing or two about hand signals, riding in groups and most importantly, safety on the roads.

The sun is out today and we should keep its bright omen on all days. For drivers. For pedestrians. For cyclists.

Why I like bike people.

Bike people are so nice. So regular. My bike people are anyway. I'm not talking the snooty, fancy pants roadies who can't be bothered to smile or acknowledge you. I mean the people who ride their bikes for the pure five year old pleasure of doing so. These are the people that speak to my soul. And sure... some of them do wear those fancy pants outfits, but they still have the kid thing down. They want new and better bikes. They want sunshine. They want to win. And they want beer afterward. Well, at least most of MY bike friends want beer afterwards.

Why are these friends so damned appealing to me? These are my pals who give a shit about the same things I do. No they're not all flaming liberals, but they do seem to care about the same stuff on this planet. And while their approach to issues like safe roads, the environment and how to manage getting too many kids to different soccer fields at the same time... I like the fact that they're thinkers and doers. They participate... in life.

How about we all try that on for size today?