Morning Commute

I rode my bike into work today.  Initially, I wasn't going to but it seemed so nice out.  And then I remembered that the car was low on gas.  A sure sign that I should be biking.  For me, this was a pretty spur of the moment decision.  Taking the bike requires a certain amount of planning.  I need to pack my pannier with work clothes to change into.  I need to be sure I leave a little earlier than normal.  Normally, I like to map this all out the night before so I don't have to think too hard in the morning.

I was already dressed for work when I made this decision, but it was early.  I ran upstairs and changed into a T-shirt and biking shorts.  I received new biking shorts for Father's day and I just love them.  They have a thick pad of something soft on the behind which I've found most pleasant while riding (walking is another matter - I kind of feel like a toddler with a "load", if you know what I mean).  The shorts themselves consist of two layers.  The inner layer is that classic, form fitting bicycle short.  The outer layer is much looser, more like regular shorts with lots of pockets with snaps and zippers.  Biking shorts for the modest man.  In my opinion, more people to switch to this style.

So, I packed my clothes and I was ready to go.  It really was a beautiful morning to be outside.  Oh sure, it was a pain that there was a sandbag in the bike lane in that narrow spot on Larpenteur.  That was nothing compared to the orange construction barrel tipped over in the bike lane on Como.  Neither of those compares to the driver who apparently did not see me as he lurched across the bike lane as I approached - I have never squeezed my brakes so hard before. (How do you not see a 6' 3" guy with a bright yellow helmet wearing an orange shirt and fashionable biking shorts?)

Anyway, even with all those distractions, it was a great day to bike into work.