Farewell to my car: The 30 day Trial

Nature's Make Up-My Happy Place

2011-06-07T10:41:00.000-07:00

My fella and I kibitzed about our "happy place" the other day. Mine involved starting at the top of Island Street in Golden Hill and riding as fast as I can down the hill, without stop signs, oncoming traffic or the danger of being "doored" by some unsuspecting car owner. It ended with me laying on my back on a patch of grass in the park. Well, today, he inspired me to make my happy place a reality--at least a part of it. I had 2 meetings today, 1 in Southpark and 1 downtown. So---before going to bed I did my morning duties so I would have time to ride to the meetings. First meeting, 9 am, Grant's Market. I connected with an old colleague and it was awesome. 12 minutes via bike from my house to the coffee shop. One hour meeting, quick change into my tennis shoes and headed for Island Street. Got to the top and cruised all the way down. Wind in my hair, only a few pigeons in the way, and all the cars behaved unusually well. It made me wonder, "What ever happened with that Island Street project?" A local reporter said he has an update for me from SanDag so I will email later today to see the scoop. Hit the bank, grabbed a bowl of fruit and cup of coffee at COFFEE ART on F and 6th. This place is cool. Free wireless for patrons. The bathrooms are big....big enough for me to do wonder woman change, quick spritz and get some emails done for a couple clients before my next meeting. "Right Now" by Van Halen is playing in the background and I totally forgot how inspiring this song is. Remember what a rad video this was? I got a bowl of berries here, and it's delicious. Peaches, berries, bananas, plain yogurt and honey----nummalicious. For a cup of coffee and a huge bowl of berries, free wireless and a big wonder woman change bathroom--$8.00---pretty kewl deal. Kewl as in Miley Cyrus speak. Try it out....www.sdcoffeeart.com

Something I learned over the last couple weeks is the power of Nature's Make Up. My helmet serves as a flat iron and the wind serves as glowey rouge. I blow dry my hair just enough so the top is dry, I keep the bottom wet. By the time I get to my destination and take my helmet off, the wind and helmet work as a flat iron. When I take the helmet off, the ends of my hair are flipped so it looks like I styled it. After I go to the bathroom for wonder woman change, wash hands, splash water on face and apply lip gloss--the wind has created a special light red glow to my cheeks--looks like make up--but it's nature's make up. Thank you bike ride bliss.....

Bike to Work Day....

2011-05-22T14:00:00.000-07:00

It was 7:45 AM and I had 75 minutes to hit as many pit stops as possible on my way to the first appointment. I woke up Friday morning and it was like Christmas. So excited to hit the road, meet some people and ask some questions... With my back pack ready to rock with lap top, working girl attire, assorted vanity products--perfume, mascara, deodorant--etc... off I went. The route was Texas to University to 6th to Island to 4th, circle back to Little Italy for meeting.

I came upon surprise pit stop on the corner of Normal Street and University. This one was sponsored by KTUA. They are a planning and landscape architecture company in San Diego. I met a great guy names John. He said their company does a lot of the landscaping/planning for bike paths in San Diego and for master planned communities. I asked him if he's involved with any of the plans on Texas street, he said YES. But....only from University to Madison. We chatted a bit about the overgrown trees and debris on Texas. He said his wife experienced the same thing over on Aldine in Talmadge. She took some of his sheers and cut the trees. I think I will do the same for Texas Street. I took an iCommute sponsored flashing bike light and away i went...Whole Foods bound. Bike count after this stop: 8.

Cruised up to Whole Foods and met Ray. He was manning the pit stop here. He was a really nice guy, the marketing director at Whole Foods. He was genuinely interested in talking to all the bike to work pit stoppers. He spoke about "Health Starts Here" which is a Whole Foods company wide healthy eating initiative. He recommended I look up a fella named Rip Esselstyn who wrote "Engine 2 Diet". It's all surrounded around eating more raw and whole foods, and eating to live. Good fuel stuff. At the Whole Foods pit stop I met a cool dude who was obsessed with talking about this movie called Forks Over Knives. He said it was a compelling look at the power of eating plant based foods and whole foods. I just checked out the trailer and it looks good. Action step--go see this thing--it's playing at the Landmark in San Diego.
www.forksoverknives.com . I started talking about the movie Riding With The Dutch and that there will be a screening of it at the end of June here in San Diego at the Childhood Obesity Conference. Ray asked me how I knew so much about this stuff. I told him I learned about a lot of the active living stuff when I was working for hotels and booked a conference called Active Living Research. Right then, a girl who I had seen at the previous pit stop said, "We work for Active Living Research" We immediately looked at each other, took our helmets off and said, "Amanda is that you?" and "Mandi is that you?" And it was.... A gal I had worked with in contracting the conference a couple years ago was here at the pit stop with me. I hadn't seen her since February 2010 and it was great to reconnect. The organization is headed up by a dude named Dr. Jim Salas, who is chock full of energy, a music buff and a dynamic person to be around. I spent only and hour with Dr. Salas as we toured the hotel and discussed the meeting space but I knew he was someone that changes things. Some people are groupies for rock bands or celebrities, I was a Dr Salas groupie immediately after I met him. In preparing for the site inspection, I needed to learn everything about their business. ALR is very cool and is all about assisting with master planned communities, designing them to provoke an active living. Creating walking paths, bike paths and communities near stores in which you can walk and live healthy. After learning about ALR, it was shortly after I had started the bike commute gig and it was uber inspirational. I asked if Dr. Salas still had the drum sticks I gave him, and Amanda confirmed that he did. ALR does great work--and it was really nice to reconnect. Inspired and motivated, I charged on to pit stop #3, Island and 4th. However, along the way while riding on 6th, I was waved over by another pit stop---this one was sponsored by ReCon. I met a slew of people there, including 1 person dressed as an Owl, and another dressed as a cactus. They were biologists and planners for ReCon. They were dressed in costume to demonstrate the possible endangered species in San Diego. I asked the Owl, "If you were a bike what kind would you be?" She replied: "a road bike. I have a mountain bike, and have road bike envy" It was a suitable reply and I totally understand. My first bike was a mountain bike and was really slow, and heavy. I had road bike envy too, and appreciated her plight. I grabbed a Clif bar and headed to 4th and Island. This one was sponsored by Gaslamp Quarter Historical Association and a Real Estate company that I didn't catch the name. I met a great gal there who had a florescent orange bike pin on. I had pin envy. It was really cute, and she worked for a company called ALTA. She is a planner there and we discussed BIKE STATION. We still need a BIKE STATION in San Diego. 4 pit stops in 75 minutes and I still had an hour before my first appointment so I went to Brickyard for some coffee. I perched up on their patio ready to relax, reflect on the morning and sip upon my coffee... I sat, inhaled, exhaled, took a sip and then a loud, pounding jack hammer started across the street. There is construction on the street over there at G and Front street. Already set up I wasn't going to move so I dealt with the loud construction and carried on. Got to my Anthology gig, and got a text that my 2:30 Appt was cancelled, but added 2 other phone appointments in the meantime. Hopped the bike, headed to InFlux in Little Italy. While there, I solved some contract issues and eaves dropped on the 2 people on either side. From what I gathered, an interview was taking place to my right. 2 girls were grilling one. The candidate seemed polished and that she had a great shot at the job. I was ready to hire her. This came to a screeching halt when they asked her if she had a Facebook page. The girl did not. There was an audible disappointment in her answer. Next question was, "how much do you want to get paid?" she said, "Uh I dunno, about a thousand bucks...but I am really uncomfortable talking about how much you should pay me" I gasped and almost grabbed her by the hand to take her outside for a moment and give her a quick lesson on negotiating for a paycheck. After the facebook and payment issue, it seemed the whole interview went really downhill. Tuned out to the hen house to my right and tuned into the 3 hipsters to my left. From what I gathered they were into websites and fashion and hairstyles. Looks like they were putting on a hair show or a fashion show. One guy was in town from New York. The other hipster kept staring at me. I am not sure if he didn't like the looks of my chai tea or my "I want to ride bikes with you" t-shirt...but he had a starting problem. They spoke about a cool gallery on India street that is perfect for a party. I interrupted them and said, "I am so sorry, I was eaves dropping, but, you just mentioned an interesting venue. I find cool venues for people for a living, where is this thing?" They were oddly not bothered by the interruption and shared all sorts of details about it. This made the staring hipster crack a smile, and now his stares seemed a wee bit more of adoration, instead of angst. Result from this is there is some cool venue in little Italy--somewhere--with a loft space and a floor level and it's all bright white. I think I have to investigate more, they didn't know the name or the streets, and only knew it by walking back there. So, time will tell.

I took my 2 phone appointments sitting on a Little Italy Chair on India street. Slam Dunk--I scored 2 more Sales Coaching gigs. A successful work day and bike to work day down, I decided to head home. On my way, I stopped at my friend Chrissy's brand new sales office. She and her husband started a wine import business called "Quigley Fine Wines". www.Quigleyfinewines.com
Since I am a wine club member, a big fan of wine and had a great day, stopping off for a celebration glass of vino and to see my great gal pal was in order. Their office is awesome....and the sales energy is great. All the sales people were on the phones chatting away and selling wine. I had a glass of something involving the word Devil, and it was a real treat. Since it was "free public transport day" My bike and I hopped on the #2 bus and headed home. All and all, Bike to work day was a great success. I learned a lot about a lot, reignited the flame for ALR and Bike Station.....and have more healthy eating and healthy learning homework than ever before.

Action steps:
Get some sheers, cut Texas street tree obstacles
Learn more about the plan the city has for Texas Street improvements.
Bike Station--get back on the mission

Bike to work day--Plan of attack

2011-05-19T22:19:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is bike to work day in San Diego. My first appointment is at 10:30. This gives me plenty of time in the morning to bike to work and stop at the various pit stops. The plan is to hit the Whole Foods on 7th, then cruise downtown to 4th and Island pit stop, circle back to kettner/broadway, columbia/India--Superwoman change at Cafe Italia, blog entry then work. I want to ask several questions along the way of bikers and of volunteers. The entries tomorrow will be video and photo based, so--brace yourself--it will be seen through the eyes of a curious semi bike commuter. If you know of any good pit stops along the way....OR.....have any questions you'd like to submit for a Bike to Work Curiosity Killed the cat moment.....post your comment here....

Texas Street Hill--Revisited

2011-05-19T17:04:00.000-07:00

Well, I had meetings meetings meetings today and so we dart out on the bike to the meetings. With my Puma bag upon my back and my sassy shoes all packed, I took on the Texas street hill--again. I had a meeting at Maria Maria Carlos Santana's lunch spot at Hazard Center. This was motivation to pedal faster. Off I went with tacos on the brain and caution on my mind. Google maps said it would take 27 minutes. RideTheCity.com said 21 - 27 minutes. The route--Texas--straight down to SD River Bike Path to Hazard Center--really straight shot. Texas is an uber busy street through NorthPark and I know it's illegal and unsafe..but..I need my tunes to ride the bike. Adelle told me to do it, so, I did. As I cruised through Texas, passed University and to the corner of Madison/Texas I was stopped at several lights. The lights take forever. It occurred to me--when Bike Route Google Guy and RideTheCity Road Mapper are creating routes...do they take into consideration the time it takes at lights? I mean, how do they pinpoint these times? Who's pace are they using??? I figured I would know how accurate it was when I got there. So....I maneuvered through town, down the hill and proceeded with great caution passed the 8E and 8W merge. I have to admit--I have a dying urge to enter the highway at some point. Mark my words---at some point in my bike life, I will merge onto a freeway on my bike. It's that big big "no no" that just beckons my name every time I cruise past. It's like yelling really loud at church when it's totally silent or screaming "fire" in the airport line. All are illegal--or socially unacceptable--but---it's just so tempting. I made it past both merges without hopping on the freeway, then cruised over to the SD Bike Path--easy peezy. On my way down the Texas Hill I noticed the overgrown trees. They are overgrown more than ever before. At a couple points I had a choice to get hit in the head with a branch, or swerve to the left. So many cars speed down that hill so fast without regard for bike riders that swerving was not an option. However, I was not wearing protective goggles and didn't want to poke my eye out with a tree branch--so--I ducked. Four ducks and sore abs later I made it down the hill. Hopping on the SD River bike path is cool. Birds chirp, trees with a breeze are pretty but, there was an air of creepiness. I felt like at any moment a goblin was going to jump out and attack me on that trail. Note to self: do not ride that trail at night. During the day it is a good link from East to West in Mission Valley---Mission Center to Fashion Valley--perfectamundo! I made it to Maria Maria in record time. I got lucky with another HUGE bathroom at Barnes and Noble at Hazard center. Quick wonderwoman change and a lady spritz or two and away I went. I can never tell if people I meet with think I am crazy or cool when I am all decked out with my lipgloss and business attire but am sporting a grey puma back pack. It's like Trump meets Facebook or something. These are the treasures of running your own business but am still curious what my business cohorts think at first meeting. Post meeting I made my journey back up Texas hill home. I walked the bike most of the hill up, but still was it a good workout! Made it down there in 26 minutes and 59 seconds....google guy and ride the city were right--I don't know how because everyone's pace is different but they hit the timing on the head. The biggest thing I noticed about this trip was the road rage. On my way there, I think it was mostly due to it being lunch hour, everyone was in a hurry and were mad. I think drivers need to take an educational class on the rights bike riders have. I think that would make them more understanding and inspire less road rage. People get so pissed, and speed up passed you so quick when you are in the slightest way of the road. An old man came up to me as I waited at the light on the corner of Texas and El Cajon and said: "I will try not to punch you". Yes, an old man sans 1 front tooth, with a cane, on a street corner who looked like the wind would blow him over if it blew harder, he hit the walk button on the traffic pole and stared straight at me, with a smile and said, "I will try not to punch you." I smiled and said "Thank you". As I rode off--unpunched by a blue hair--I was stunned. What did I do to this guy? And....he wasn't even one of the road ragers....So crazy....

Anyway--that was the day---Texas hill did me well....no one ran me off the road...I got a great work out and did not get punched by an old man. Tomorrow is Ride your bike to work day---the official day---More details on plans for that--later!

Copy Cat Crime.....

2011-05-17T11:56:00.000-07:00

As you see, I started my bike adventure back in 2009. It's chock full of info, stories, research and follies along the way. Recently, I found a very similar blog in the local media. Copy Cat--you know who you are...come out come out wherever you are??? Copy Cat--I celebrate your adventures and am happy you are taking the bike challenge plunge--but--I do challenge you to a bike off..... Let's put our blogs side by side starting today--and see who can best illustrate our "pedal powered" experiences.... Are you in?

PS--it's raining today---how'd your first sopping cycle treat ya?

Bike to work day...looming

2011-05-17T11:17:00.000-07:00

Well, Bike to Work Day San Diego is this Friday, May 20th. If you go to iCommutesd.com you can sign up and track your trip. You will be eligible to win all sorts of prizes. In addition, there are pit stops names with various goodies including free chain lubes, Clif bars, visits from Zoo animals and the like. Most stops are from 6 a - 9 a. I plan on hitting a couple on my way into my Friday appts. The ones on my route and appeal most to me are the Fehr/Peers, 4th and Island--giving away some sort of "lifestyle" pass...sounds creepy--yet interesting--worth the stop for sure, YMCA downtown and Whole Foods in Hillcrest. The other open area is the topic of bike lockers. We mentioned these bike lockers before. We know they are all over San Diego at various transit stops---but I have yet to see one. In the spirit of Bike to work week/month--extravaganza bonanza--I am going to find one of these lockers and try it out. I am positive they won't be as good as Bike Station...but, let's try out the existing Bike Lockers and see what they got. I looked at the bike commute map on icommutesd.com and could not locate said lockers. Next step, send an email asking for addresses. Mission Bike Locker...here we come...

Finally--various bike sponsors in the city are giving 15% or more off on items purchased bike to work day. 15% off beer and pizza at Blind Lady to wrap up the day seems in order for me.

To the Brewfest

2011-05-16T17:32:00.000-07:00

And so we rode 11.4 miles from North Park to Karl Strauss Beach to Brew. It was fun. The glory of riding in a group is to have everyone go together. This day, we had all sorts of mishaps. My perfect day looks like this: We all meet at my house and travel in a wolf pack to the festival. We hold formation on the OB Bike path and we look like BMX bandits--+25 years. However, this day had all sorts of follies. One friend had a flat tire, and then the other friend did. 2 men down, we biked to bike shop, while they drove. 3 of us rode to Old Town to meet our friend the Woodsman. Now there were 4. With plans of the other 2 trailing us by truck to Fiesta Island, we set off for the adventure. My esteemed first mate, who knew of the route in advance, and insisted I don't write it down--because of course he'd remember...asked me "which direction we should go" in the first 5 minutes of the plan. I said, with patience, "Why don't we follow the route we planned--PCH to OB Bike Path to Fiesta Island to Mission Bay Golf Course--which is where we'd pick up Rose Canyon Trail". He said "I don't remember the way ports, but I know where I am going" What the hell is a way port? And...if you know where you're going, why are you asking me where to go? So.....off we went, we got lost a couple times. Each time I was infuriated with each pedal. I was thinking--why did you insist on me not writing it down, then tell me you know where you're going, but then ask me where to go. I let him lead. When we finally figured out the direct route to Rose Canyon, one rider and I were far ahead of the group. We looked back and realized "wayporter" and woodsman were no where to be found. We sat at the entrance to Rose Canyon Trail for 15 minutes before we got in touch with wayporter and woodsman. They decided to take a "quicker" route. In ultimate frustration I asked, "why did you go off the plan?" Wayporter said, "I'll explain later" I told him we were riding to the corner of Damon and Sante Fe and to meet us there. Guess what???? We got there first. Their so called short cut, was a long cut---he must not have known where the wayports were. Finally--we all rode to the entrance of the festival together--to meet the rest of our gang--and a day of fun, festivals and beer had begun. Word to the wise: Rose Canyon Trail is a great way to ride from North PB through Mission Beach. Love that trail. It's not very well lit at night, but, during the day it's great....goes under Garnet and Grande.

Helmet Shame

2011-05-10T21:27:00.000-07:00

It's crazy how many people on bikes on the road don't wear helmets. I didn't wear a helmet the first couple commutes....and was scolded by my very good friend/neighbor/avid bike rider...Angela. That was 2 years ago. I would not leave the house on my bike without my helmet. Today I saw 6 people without helmets. The grand finale was a dad and son. The son wore the helmet...the dad did not. Isn't that a bad example to set for your kid? How do you explain that to your son?? "Jr...you need to wear a helmet because it keeps you safe. Daddy doesn't need to wear one because his head is made of steel." His wife may agree, but, really?? You're going to go on a bike ride with your kid sans helmet... Bad news bears...

Shame Shame Helmet less people...you know your name...

Transporting Suits

2011-05-09T21:26:00.000-07:00

When my fella texted me today and said "honey, I need a real big favor can u ring me?" I thought, "how can I make this a bike adventure" Once I spoke to him I realized transporting his interview suit in my Puma backpack on my bike up to LaJolla would not be an ideal way of carrying out the mission. So...I drove.... Flaw #1 in bike commuting: when doing a last minute favor for someone, always have a back up car.

Back in the saddle

2011-05-09T21:14:00.000-07:00

Ok, well I hit the streets again last week and had great success.... My house to Anthology--17 minutes flat. I loaded up all my gear for a 5 meeting day, had dress clothes in the bag and bike rider clothes on the bike. I landed at Cafe Italia in Little Italy--mostly for the coffee and then for a quick wonder woman change. Much to my delight...the bathrooms at this place are huge! Perfect for a wonder woman change and a quick spritz and primp before a day of meetings. I grabbed my coffee, locked my bike and hoofed it 2 blocks for morning meetings. In the midst of the meetings, I had another client call who we were suppose to meet at 6 pm. I had just enough time between my 10 AM and my 3 pm to ride up 5th to Hillcrest for the next meeting. Then....ride home to grab my car and pick up my client for an airport drop off. Well.........6 p client wanted me to meet her at 1 p. I said, great...I will pick you up. Then...after we hung up, I realized I don't have my car and I can't pick her up. I crafted a plan to ride my bike to her hotel, find a pedi cab along the way and then pedi cab with her to lunch along the bay---I was real excited to do that because it was such a nice day and I thought it would be relaxing for her. Then.....she called again and said she was going to the mall before our meeting and I should meet her there... YATZEE!! I didn't have to do the pedi cab switch a roo. And...so we met...our meeting lasted longer than expected which would make me late for the 3 p meeting...so...I had to grab a cab to 3 p meeting. A gal pal ended up meeting me after the 3 p meeting and dropped me off. Whew--that was a close call. Along my ride in the morning to Anthology--it was such an awesome and easy ride. Florida is still so full of pot holes and although in a park, people fly down that street with little regard for the clearly marked bike lane. I always feel a little nervous riding on it. Pershing takes me straight to B and I rode that straight to Civic Center, cut through the court yard, cruised passed Downtown Johnny Brown's and then cruised over to A street to India. So easy..... Getting back in the groove was easy--even on a really hot day---the key is finding a large Cafe Italia style bathroom...

Updates from Bike Pasts....

2011-05-05T10:22:00.000-07:00

Car--I kept my car--bought it outright--no payments--no interest--I own it... good for puppy transport--however, I am still vying for a side car to the bike. I have actually seen some...

2 home dwelling--My fella and I moved in together back in January--Co-habitation Nation-I no longer bike prance between two homes--just one--and....it's on the park and so close to everything.

Island Street Project--I need an update--and am out of the loop. More details to follow.

Bike--no more baby blue Schwin for me...I bought a brand new bike last year---diamondback--road bike. I still have the schwin though...we use it as a "guest bike" Needs new tires.

Running 2 businesses, still work from home BUT have more appointments now than ever. I am guilty as charged for cheating and using my car for convenience, but, I am back in the saddle....starting tomorrow--with my standing Friday appointment at Anthology--I will ride down. North Park to Little Italy--Back in the saddle...let's do this!

Bike Month

2011-05-05T09:42:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since a post. And then..........................today I was blasted with bike stuff. A friend who works at SPARK posted an awesome video about teaching kids healthy habits early such as riding your bike everywhere. It reminded me.....why haven't I updated my blog? I have been bike riding, just not writing about it. Last night was the first meeting for 2011 Bike The Bay--my friends Andy and Sandy proudly started this awesome ride years ago, and was one of the bike inspirations for me. Another friend posted a question on her Facebook about daring people to ride their bike to work..I posted back about how riding my bike to work 2 years ago for 30 days changed my life...and then I went back to the blog. It's Bike to Work month, the weather is awesome and it's time to chronicle this stuff again. Going back to my blog I found an old comment from a local reporter that I never read...shame on me--I wish I would have seen it back in November when he posted...tisk tisk hand slapped...I called him back. His post said he's in the early stages of writing an article about bike commuting and wanted to ask me some questions about my experience. I knew I was late, BUT, if someone is going to write about it, I definitely wanted to weigh in...this experience changed my life. He left his contact info in my blog but before calling, I wanted to know who I was talking too. It was probably the OCD, sales person, Nancy Drew investigator in me that lead me to google him--but--I needed to know who I was talking too before I just called an alleged reporter...So...I googled Bob. Low and behold...Bob wrote an article about "Pedal Power" today. He tackled the Bachman Hill--a hill I have had a love/hate relationship with, and he wrote about it. I identified completely with his story of needing to be at a reception, not be sweaty, leave before dark...etc. Reminded me of when i first started bike commuting and I was not wearing a helmet, did not have night lights and sometimes rode on a flat because I didn't know how to change one.... So, I rang Bob. I said "Bob, I just got your comment on my blog about talking to me about Bike commuting and I realize I am really late. I just saw your article today in the newspaper and apologize for not getting back to you." He said, "well it might not be too late. I am in day 4 of bike commuting and still would like to talk" He asked what I was doing now and if I am still biking. I told him I am riding my bike every chance I get unless I have to drive to Orange County on an appointment, but, working from home makes my bike commute real easy:) I am excited to talk to Bob about all the silly things that happen when you make a change like this to your life, all the bag packing and time management, the community tools and resources that are available that I never knew about...and....all the bike-isodes...From finger wagging to Kamikazi red right running to quick super woman outfit changes.... I am really excited for people when they start this journey.....it's empowering. Between the bike to work month, the FB posts, and the blog comments--I am back in the saddle. I wonder if I do a reunion--30 day back at it trial????? And....after reading this I realize....I have a lot of updates to share regarding bikes....next post...update post.

Keep it or dump it?

2010-10-04T17:43:00.000-07:00

This November my car lease is up. I had designs to end the lease, and not get a new car--only bike commute. My dude could not believe this was possible. I went on a rant about the benefits of bike commuting and to really do it, and mean it, you have to do it without a car. Recently, he brought some important perspective to my attention:
1. what happens if I want to transport the puppy to and fro?
2. what happens if I have a last minute site inspection or client appt. to go too?
3. what happens if I have people in town and want to scoop them at airport?

there were a slew of "what happens"?''s..all of which I met with great answers regarding "Smart Car" for the day and rental car type stuff...However, we did a little financial analysis and keeping my car/extending the lease or getting a new car is less expensive than the budgeted last minute work stuff that may pop up. So....with more careful deliberation--I may be keeping the car come November. We will see how this shakes out. If I do keep the car, then, I am going to still commit to only use it when I have too.....

Tour De Fat...1 year anniversary

2010-10-04T17:39:00.000-07:00

Tour de Fat was this past weekend. Oh what fun we had. We volunteered and sold beer tokens for the San Diego Bike Coalition. We wore costumes and had fun. The best part....New Belgium had a storytelling booth. Anyone with a good bike story entered to win a rad New Belgium bike. Best story wins rad bike. The best story was about a dude that was riding his bike and got shot in the butt cheek with a pellet gun. He chased him down while calling 911 and got the guy arrested. Cool story, but, who was the mystery man?? Ironically--it was my dude's buddy from home town. They hadn't seen each other in 18 years and now they are connected. We hung with him and his rad bike the rest of the festival. I got to ride a bike that had car tires on it, AND, tires that were made out of tennis shoes. Super cool. The most amazing band with the most amazing horns were on tote and of course--the New Belgium beer was delish. It is a nice reminder of the need to ride your bike--all the time-and how easy it is...Just do it!

Chock Full of Info....

2010-09-29T12:13:00.000-07:00

This one is a good one. So much to share. First, I was introduced to a man named Michael Bauch. He is an independent film maker who did a house swap a couple years ago with a family in Amsterdam. The things he discovered about bikes and bike culture were amazing. Check out this trailer to his movie...very impactful. Go to YouTube and type in "Riding Bikes With The Dutch". The biggest message in here is that...Bike Riding is normal. It's not something people without money do, or crazy super fit athletes do or an impossible task. The culture in Amsterdam makes it seem that bike riding is just another form of transportation. No big woop. You don't have to proclaim that you're "saving the world" or "being green" or anything...you can just ride a bike, because you like too, and that's it. He said he interviewed some politician over there about the culture. The guy was wearing a suit during the interview. At the end...he hopped onto his bike and rode off back to the office-no biggie. In the trailer you'll see people that are sitting in traffic and are miserable in Long Beach or on the LA freeway--then it cuts too the freedom of being on the bike and the happy looks on everyone's faces. It's awesome. So...check it out. It inspired me again for sure. Some other cool things happening with the SD Bike Coalition are.... Island Street Bike Boulevard! There's an effort to remove as many stop signs on Island Street as possible to make it a 2 way bike road. There are some obstacles involving diagonal car parking spots and some weird little one way street jogs, but, if this can happen, it would be a bike commuter's dream to enter into downtown from Golden Hill/Southpark/Hillcrest and Northpark. There are also bike corrals being put up all over the city. Did you know that 30 bikes can fit in 1 parking spot? If you were a business owner--what impact would it make to have a 30:1 ratio? If you were a business that supported placing the bike corral in front of your store, you should tell everyone about it. As a bike rider, I'd be loyal to that business for sure. Also--there is a Bike Friendly Business Program. Many merchants in San Diego are now participating in giving discounts to people that ride their bikes. Google It...and look for the logo in your area business. Pretty cool stuff. Go to SDbikecommuter.com There are discounts for up to 15% at area places. So much more to talk about but...WOW...that SD Bike Coalition is really making waves here in San Diego. The most exciting news is that Tour De Fat is this Saturday. This is the New Belgium event where they dare you to trade your car for your bike. This will mark the 1 year anniversary of me becoming obsessed with the car vs. bike experience..... Who else do you know that writes about their obsessions???

Where Does My Tax Money Go anyway?

2010-09-23T17:24:00.000-07:00

So....I am organizing some pals to volunteer to show up to clean the OB Bike Path. San Diego Bike Coalition does it every other month. I am an avid rider of the path and believe it's the right thing to do to show up and help. I look at it as if it were my house. I live here, (i ride there) therefore I should take care of it--right? Why complain about it being messy or have graffiti or ugly when I can show up and clean it up and make it look pretty. Most of the Invitees agreed. One of them disputed my efforts. I welcomed the notions brought to me, but, want to explore the validity of them-just a bit. The neigh Sayer's position is: "Yeah, I ride that path all the time, but, why would I spend my precious time on the weekends that I don't have, cleaning up after homeless people that should clean up after themselves, or juvenile delinquents that should be looked after by their family, and my tax dollars are going toward the clean up. I already pay for it to be cleaned up, so, why should I have to do it myself." It was a position brought to me which I did not expect and I really appreciated it. This caused me to wonder.... Who is responsible for keeping the OB Street Path clean and safe? Is it the city? Is it the county? or is it us? Where do our tax payer dollars go? What % goes toward improving bike path safety, maintenance and cleaning? If anyone knows the answers to this....please reply or email me mkobasic@msn.com If you have a thought on it...please do share. I will spend some time researching this. If for nothing else than to learn---is the neigh Sayer making a stand due to "principle" or is it the neigh Sayer's subtle way of really saying, "I don't want to get up on a Saturday to do something good for the world?" We shall see.............

Night Ride.....

2010-09-23T09:51:00.000-07:00

Well...last night we went on a night ride. It was a harvest moon and it was awesome. University ave still needs some work. The road between 1st and kettner is dark and rickety--but--it's a nice night ride. We took PCH all the way into downtown and had a picnic on the bench in front of the Embarcadero. I HIGHLY recommend a night ride ending over here. You can look at the boats, have the grassy knoll all to yourself, and there's plenty of night light with the Hilton right next door, the Coronado bridge and the marina lights. It took 20 minutes from Mission Hills to downtown and 35 minutes back. Nice nice ride.

In other news....this morning on my bike I found a sign in the neighborhood called "The Ponder Post". Someone randomly posts quotes on a little piece of paper on the "Ponder Post". This week's ponder was about the value of reading a book. Very cool stuff. Anyway....Just another reason to ride a bike--the things you find along the way are things that have been there forever, you just never paid attention--or had too....

Back in the saddle....

2010-09-21T15:32:00.001-07:00

Well--we've made some strides the last couple of days. My car lease expires 11/24 and guess who's NOT getting a new car??? You got it--ME--that's right. I am going to be a full time 100% bike commuter.....chew on that Exxon Mobil.

My boyfriend still can't believe it's possible and is already thinking about insurance options for his other car. It's impossible for him to believe that one can just ride their bike everywhere.

I say, anything's possible with a bike and a blog...right?

Anyway---you have to check out this movie.... Riding with the Dutch. YouTube it. I am fascinated by the story and want to see more. I want to learn more about this guy and his family and how the bike stuff changed his life. More to follow.

I finally reconnected with the SD Bike Coalition today. Very excited to volunteer again at Tour De Fat. This time I am going to ride in it...then volunteer. Also, I guess there are some other awesome Urban Core things happening in the downtown area. Need to connect with Kathy at SDBCC to get back involved.

Easing back in....

2010-09-02T20:11:00.000-07:00

OK...now that I am back in San Diego I need to get back into my groove of biking everywhere. It's been a slow start as I am going between 2 house--my main squeeze and mine...I have a ton of running around to do for new job and house stuff...and the main squeeze has a dog..who unfortunately cannot ride a bike--YET. I got back into the groove this week and kicked off the inspiration with the annual Bike the Bay bike ride. WOW...what a great event. My friends Sandy and Andy created this great ride and they let me run the beer garden for it. How fun is it to greet bike riders after they just enjoyed a radical ride over the Coronado bridge on the San Diego Bay...and then have a delish cold brewski? Seeing all those bike riders this past Sunday was inspiring...so....we watched...we enjoyed and I kicked it back into bike gear. While riding this week I realized cars still do not like bikers. They are still real mad. On the road a couple days a ago a fella yelled from his car window: "You're suppose to be riding on the sidewalk...". I did not correct him, nor did I cite the law that states in a commercial area you are suppose to be on the road...but..if I knew that off the top of my head I would have for sure. Today while riding I encountered a man with a plastic pitch fork riding his bike on the opposite side of the road. He didn't seem mean...but...he did seem that he was on a mission...Yesterday on the way from a gal pal's house to my main squeeze's house I hopped on the trolley... There seemed to be a bit of a scuffle with some folks on the trolley and I started feeling unsafe, so...I hopped off and rode the rest of the way. I was suppose to get there at 830 and arrived at 9 but fret not....the spaghetti was hot and a glass of wine was waiting---DELISH! Today I rode 15 miles....rode from my house to doctor in U heights....then to Kinko's in Hillcrest..then Mission Hills for boot camp and back home. University street seems in the worst shape I've ever seen it. There are cracks and crevices that are not safe. That street needs to be fixed.... Onward and upward...stay tuned for my progress on getting my pedi cab lisence...yep...I said it...Pedi Cab Operator....

Back in San Diego......

2010-08-18T11:08:00.001-07:00

After a 6 month hiatus in Vegas, I am back in San Diego. Although I could--and did ride my bike in Vegas....I couldn't ride it for long. You see--in case you didn't know...Vegas is in the desert. I say this tongue and cheek--because--I know this--and---I still moved to Vegas--knowingly--that I wouldn't be able to ride my bike there. It was a good experience. Met some great people. Worked for a great company and learned some big things---about Vegas--and--about myself. The biggest lesson learned--I missed my bike. I am a bike commuter at heart..so...here I am back in Sunny SD..ready to revive my mission. Here's what we've got cookin' so far:
1. Tour De Fat (New Belgium awesome beer bike fest) is 10/2.
2. Bike The Bay (30 mile community ride over Coronado Bridge--) 8/29

I am in charge of the beer festival. My team of talented and capable beer pouring ladies are called the Brew Crew--OR The Beer Wenches. We will be there, pouring, 9 a. Come see us...but..first register for the ride.

3. I am taking a 3 week vacation in between jobs--so--I have some bike catching up to do. On the roster: is reconnect with bike coalition, reconnect with BikeStation in SD mission, get my pedi cab licence and drive a pedi cab for a day.

So-people--we're back in business. Let's bike this town...shall we???

Special Aromas and Compliments....

2010-01-25T21:17:00.000-08:00

Ride in today was easy peezy--super brisk--makes my face nice and red when I get into work--totally natural rouge style--who needs maybeline--I've got morning face burn:) After work I was doing my normal wonder woman change of costume from work wear to workout wear...and realized that not only am I using my neighbor's borrowed helmet--but--my bike light on the front went out--and--I left my pink light hat at home--Oh Schnikes-- so....I proceeded with caution on the way to the gym taking the most lit streets. Hit the gym--and walked my bike to the bus. On my walk--a man looked at me dead in the eye and said--in a perverse way, "Nice Bike Girl".... Now, I'm used to dudes looking at my boobs instead of my eyes when they talk to me--I've been "endowed" since I was 7. I'm used to a casual, "pretty face" comment--but, in a dirty weird voice from a seemingly normal person--"Nice Bike Girl"....weird. Even more weird---I have a Baby Blue Huffy that arrived to me in a box back in December 2008. My neighbor put it together--so--it's not even a nice bike. The front light is out, my back tire is flat and it's a Huffy--- Who knows--I took the compliment and ran. Got on the bus and 3 stops later a man with a HUGE back pack held together with a card board box and duct tape on the bottom got on the bus. He also was carrying a large box appx. 4 feet tall held together with bungee cord. Between the back pack and the box--we could barely see the guy. He sat down and immediately there was a wafting scent of sickening stuff lingering to the back of the bus. The man behind him got up and moved. The nice lady next to me put her scarf over her nose. It was apparent to me that I was not the only one smelling him. I couldn't figure out if it was him or some of those items he had in the box or the backpack...then--in a real morbid and imaginative moment--I thought: "What if that guy has a dead person in that box?" I know it's a weird thought--but--nothing could smell worse.... I got home safe and sound and took a shower right away. I needed to scrub the scent and the thoughts off me.

In other news----Dan Martin and Maria Filipi from SanDag emailed AND called me back today. Unfortunately, my day got away from me today and I had no spare time for my "volunteer" work to return the call. I am in sales--so, every minute that passes is a minute of something not sold..and today--we had a lot of buyers--believe it or not. I am going to propose a phone appt. for Thursday. I hope one of them can fit it in their schedule:)

Let's make this Bike Station thing happen. According to Dan's message--the biggest obstacle is funding....but...what if we could resolve that? Let's talk!

Baby Blue's Slumber Parties...

2010-01-23T13:20:00.000-08:00

Baby Blue has had alot of slumber parties lately. Last Friday, I had plans after work, so I left the bike at work and took a cab home after my extremely disappointing Friday night with Michael Vic "the dog fighter" dude. I walked down on Saturday, got my bike, and rode Market Street home. Market street is horrible to ride on. There are pot holes and crevices in the road. The cars go so fast on it. I like the challenging incline of that hill--but--WOW--that street needs some improving. Sunday, I rode Market again to East Village Tavern to meet my gal pals and watch the Charger game. A full day of drinking and another disappointing day--this time--The Chargers--I thought it would be best to take the bus home and leave Baby Blue locked up in front of Lotus Thai. Monday rolled around--I left her there--I did check on her on the way home. It was so rainy outside that I didn't want to put her in my car. Then.....I was coming back from an appt. and scooped her up, loaded her int he back of my car and took her home where she slept in her own space--just for 1 night. Rode her in on Wednesday and had a day full of meetings. After meetings, we had a company dinner, and then the company dinner turned into a night on the town. Most of the company friends had left. It was time to go home, load Baby Blue onto the #2 bus, and grab my Jansport.....All of a sudden, a sudden flock of men in suits came into the bar. I am a sucker for technology men--in suits--especially after a couple glasses of vino. So...there I was...with Baby Blue on the mind, still a lil' broken hearted from my previous Friday night, and what's a girl to do???? So...I stayed....I met an awesome guy. He is a runner--hiker--and bike rider. I explained I needed to leave due to the Baby Blue, #2 bus, Jansport situation...... He recommended we get a drink somewhere else. I obliged with disclaimer---"I'll go, but, I have to warn you. I ride my bike to work and I carry this huge, red, masculine, old, backpack on my back. It has my laptop, change of clothes, work stuff in it...and it's not pretty. I need to get that Jansport and if you want to take me to another bar to buy me a drink, the Jansport has to come with us." He said that sounded fun.....So...I grabbed the Jansport and off we went in the Gaslamp. Bike/Hiker/Running guy carried the Jansport on his back with great pride. He agreed it was very heavy and was quite perplexed how I ride my bike to and from work with this hefty thing on my back every day. Since that was quite a late night, AND, I had to catch a flight to San Francisco at 6 a the next morning.....I left Baby Blue at work--again--and took a cab home. So...Baby Blue has been through alot this past week---3 sleepovers, 2 dates, & a torrential rain storm. I understand if she's acting out a bit, and moving slow...I just hope she forgives me soon. It's alot of work up and down that hill with that Jansport---we don't have time for Baby Blue to act out...I gotta go to the grocery store....Neighbor/friend will look at her this weekend and I hope he diagnoses her problem so we can hit the road again.

Flipped Off by a Blue Hair......

2010-01-23T13:06:00.001-08:00

Ok...we all know I am a new bike rider. We all know that I am still learning the "rules of the road". In all my bike travels I am always nice to the peoples. Today, I was thrilled to ride my bike. I was in SanFran all week, it was raining on Monday & Tuesday--although I had my slicker--I was super excited for the sun I saw this morning....I walked down to work where I left Baby Blue for a slumber party. On my walk---I had the right of way. I was on the corner of K and 6th. Car was stopped. I crossed---the math on this was in line and good. The car behind stop sign #1--started speeding toward me. So......I stopped---right in front of that speeding car. I looked that dude right in the eye--gave him a big smile--and a finger wag--of course--and said--"Be Smart Mister---Be very careful" Then...I kept walking....I looked back, he beeped his horn really loud--rolled down his window--and flipped me off---times 4. There were 4--70+ year old dudes in the car--and they flipped me off. It was really funny--So....I ran to the corner---just before they turned right at the next stop sign.....I stood there, gave them a HUGE smile, and waved at them. They flipped me off again. I am normally a fan of the blue hairs. Typically, I'll soak up their wisdom or just be a part of their world since they have so much more experience than me. I rarely bump into an angry blue hair--especially when I am a pedestrian with the right of way almost getting barrelled over by a silver rental mini van--but--I have to say--this was the best angry driver moment yet. I scooped up my bike from the hotel and rode home. It's so pretty and sunny today. There's a lil' crispness in the air that reminds me of Ohio football weather...and...there is still a ton of debris in the road from all the storms. Something has happened to my bike in the last week. It was really slow going up the Island street hill and there's a clicking sound. I don't know what that is. If only there was a Bike Station near by---I could engage in a learning session with their station manager and he/she could show me the wonderous ways of my injured Baby Blue. Speaking of Bike Station---I sent an email to San Martin with Sandag today and left him a voice message. I have not heard back from Curt Letz from UCSD. I hear they are working on plans for a Bike Station up there. Our next Bike Coalition meeting is coming up and I'd love to hear from Maria Fillipi--of Sandag, Dan Martin--of Sandag and Curt Letz--from UCSD so I can be armed with some back up info and pitch the Bike Station idea to the Urban Core committee...........
My neighbor friend Curtis said he'd look at my bike for me. I hope he can find the secret to why it's so slow.

Tomorrow we head out on a nice bike ride to Point Loma.....

Bike Fringe Benefit Info--Tax stuff

2010-01-16T14:05:00.000-08:00

Tis' the season for your taxes--eh? So...I spoke with Deborah Jones from Sandag the other day. She gave me info on the 2 Fringe Benefits for commuters. This is all available on IRS website, but, she broke it down in layman's terms for me. Thanks Deborah. Here's the scoop:

Get the IRS Bulletin--132S is the document. This one of for a $230.00 pre tax payroll deduction that employers can take if they offer employees public transit. Employer can buy the tickets and give to the employee, or the employee can buy it and get reimbursed. This is new for 2009 and there's no limit to the number of employees in the system. So, if you want a monthly COMPASS pass which gets you on the bus/trolley--public transit in SD, your employer is eligible for pre tax payroll credit of $230.00. That means--it's free for you and somewhat beneficial for your employer. As your boss about it today.

Next--Bike Commuter Fringe Benefit--Employers can give employees $20.00 per month to help with bike expenses. $20.00 is taxable, so, employers can line item it in the payroll check. This is also new in 09. Benefit to employee--obviously--but the employer can write it off as a business expense...

Also...I learned that UCSD is trying to put a Bike Station up there.....I reached out to Curt Letz on Friday to see what their progress is...we'll get one here yet. Deborah was also helpful in giving me other Sandag contacts to talk more about a Bike Station in Gaslamp area.

We'll get one here come hell or high water.....

2010-01-14T21:38:00.000-08:00

I was on auto-pilot today. I work from home on Thursdays and go to boot camp every Thursday at 6 p. It was 5:15, I hopped on my bike, rode down to boot camp..I got all the way down there and remembered, it's cancelled today. So, I took advantage of the awesome night sky and rode over to Harbor Drive for a peak at the sunset. I rode around the bay--it was awesome. The Port of San Diego needs to clean off the lights on the path. It's low light and there are wacky lil' twists and turns in that path everywhere. I had a bday dinner to go to so I began my ascent to Hillcrest. I took 5th avenue from little italy all the way up to University. I have not taken that route in a while and it sure does seem like there is a new sushi place every 10 feet. I counted 5 Sushi restaurants between 5th/Ash and 5th & Robinson.. I also glided past a bar called The Tin Cup: Alientown. Looked like a dive bar--and a place I want to learn more about...anything named Alientown has potential. After my dinner I rode through Hillcrest on Florida home. WOW, Florida street is so so black at night. I went up 26th street hill. I have been partially riding up that hill for 4 months. I normally ride and walk it. Tonight--I rode the whole dang thing...Oh Yeah...I did it. It was so dark at night and so scary...and freezing cold---but...I did it!

#2--Networking Zone....

2010-01-13T23:46:00.001-08:00

So....dinner tonight was amazing. Picture this---awesome restaurant in North Park, great bottle of wine, stimulating conversation, and.......CONNECT 4..in the middle of the table. Oh yeah....we played rousting games of CONNECT 4. I won the first 2 rounds, then...I think I won round three out of gratuity. I took the win but I still think that someone threw the match--It was similar to the match thrown at the employee Olympics in the Teri Garr movie--Mr. Mom. It didn't feel like a real victory..but, I appreciate the thought....

We left dinner and hopped on the #2 bus. A favorite route of mine. Before I knew it, I was surrounded by the San Diego Beer Mafia. There was talk of a 47 and a 41 license. The great thing I learned from ease dropping was that APERTIVO is now owned by our friend...and that it will be a TAPAS Style place with great Spanish Wines...nice move. We got off the bus....had 1 last glass of wine at Alchemy---and away I went...Home at last.... If you're wondering...my bike is STILL on that bike lock in front of C and 25th where I left it earlier today prior to the Zoo experience. Thankfully, I work from home today, so.....i can snatch it up at some point tomorrow....

Amazing Race Morning...

2010-01-13T23:36:00.000-08:00

So...this morning I had to be at the San Diego Zoo at 8:30 AM. I had my Jansport all packed and ready to go. 8 AM I was on my way out the door and checked the Jansport one last time for the "Negotiation Scenarios" You see.....my boss had worked her bootie off on creating an AMAZING team outing for us. She used the book OUTLIERS, by Malcom Gladwell, as the backdrop for the day long outing. I read the book 2 years ago and fell in love with it...and was so excited for the adventure. She gave me 1 job, and 1 job only. I was suppose to create 3 negotiation scenarios, where we would break into teams, have an RFP, negotiate and "make the deal". We had 3 moderators, and had cheat sheets for each of us..... Guess What???? I forgot everything!!! I worked hard on Monday night to create the "scenarios". Tuesday was a real blurr...as work was pretty crazy.... I was sure I put the "scenarios" in the Jansport before the bike home on Tuesday night....and when I double checked Wednesday morning---POOF--they were gone... So.... it's 8 am, I have to be at the Zoo at 8:30 AM. It takes 11 minutes to get from my house to the hotel. It takes 20 minutes to get from hotel to the zoo. I've done this ride before, and it's all up hill...and a lady doesn't show up to the zoo from a bike from downtown in tact...so...not only would I be late if I went back to hotel to get these blessed "scenarios"..I'd be sweaty and gross from the hill and the speed. So...I called Amy--my trusted partner in crime... We agreed--she'd pick me up, we'd go to hotel, I'd get the "scnenarios" and we'd rush to the Zoo. She called it the "Amazing Race Morning..." and it sure was... She said, "I'm at 3rd and Laurel" what's my best course of action? I said, "Broadway", " I'll meet you at Broadway"...so...I hopped on my bike...and headed to Broadway... Amy found a shortcut and I bumped into her on the corner of 25th and C. I sped over, locked my bike at the corner, hopped off and jumped in her car. We raced to hotel, got the "scenarios"....and made it to the ZOO in the nick of time.... All was well..but, what a fun morning--AMAZING RACE

Loser Move....

2010-01-12T20:24:00.000-08:00

I yelled out at a city worker today who decided to park his truck--horizontally--at the corner of B and 25th. I was on my bike, in a groove, and couldn't believe my eyes...I yelled, "Dude...you are a loser." "That park job is a loser move"....then I sped past and just yelled, "loser". I don't know what got into me but I couldn't believe that he didn't think he was obstructing traffic--people, car and bike traffic on a main drag in golden hill. Riding a bike gives a gal a new persona--it's the righteous yell out things at people and wave your finger at them in shame persona. I like it. Bike girl is much more bold than car girl. Try it--next time you're on a bike---just yell out wrong doings and change the world "loser" at a time.

Random Acts of Bike-er-y

2010-01-11T20:43:00.000-08:00

Is it just me or are drivers super anxious & are there wierd things on the road in the month of January? I've seen the wackiest things on the roads the last couple of days..

Heading into downtown on C street under the bridge was a big bag of stale hoagie breads. Not one homeless person had claimed it--it just sat there, sad and staring up at me saying, "would you like a bite?" OR "can u feed me to a bird?" I did neither...but..it sure was weird.

On Island street heading into downtown yesterday morning was a bevy of shoes. No two matched, just a bunch of single shoes...hanging out--no rhyme--no reason--no homeless person in sight to claim the shoe....

The pigeons were stir crazy today---They should have hung out by that bread--at least they could have had a meal. Instead they were pecking around on the street--all casual and weird and then flying up at my face as I sped by.

Cars---I had to do the finger wag to at least 8 cars today. People were in a hurry, running stop signs, not paying attention, swerving all crazy--and all of a sudden, B Street from 25th to 22nd is super busy with really fast cars in the morning... I am normally used to a casual, slow saunter down the hill--not anymore--2010 has brought the NASCAR out in all the Golden Hill drivers. I have been ducking and bobbing and weaving more than Mohammad Ali in the mornings... It's good mental work though--keeps me sharp and ready for that morning meeting.

Turf Club--now serves lunch--so the flyer said in front of the building today.

Although I have a high power fancy LED light on my hat....Island Street at night is still so damn dark. That thing needs street lights from 17th - 25th. I am going to suggest that at our Urban Core meeting. So, the SDBCC has a new initiative in 2010 called "The Urban Core". It is going to educate people on bike riding, the ease of it, the safety of it, the laws, etc....to make bike commuting more friendly in "The urban core" I am involved in it..and can't wait for our first meeting. Of course--my soap box will be about getting a Bike Station in The Urban Core....but...I know other great things will come out of it.

Finally, as I left work today I saw in a distance 2 dogs fighting. Their owners were clearly stirred up and dishevled by the incident. Of course--I did not have my glasses on--so I couldn't see the owners--I only saw the spectical of hte 2 dogs. They were nipping and jumping at each other, their leashes were all tangled up. It was an out of control situation. AKA--OOO SITCH-- I almost went to the other side of the street b/c I was afraid they would lunge at me and try and snatch my Jansport. As I approached and rounded the curve, I realized Feisty Dog #1 was the dog of a fella I used to date. The last time I saw him he was super drunk and professed his undying love for me. I am confident he remembers nothing of the conversation, except for the couple of things that I told him about. Those things only scratched the surface of all the rest of the verbal vomit (some good & some truth syrm stuff--that i am sure he can't believe he told me about...definite--black mail) but...verbal vomit--none-the-less... Although he stayed quite connected while he was away on his recent vacation--I haven't actually seen him since he got back--so--I sped past--hoping he didn't see me in my workout gear and my bike helmet/LED hat and head lamp--out of fear for an awkawrd encounter...Then..I thought--this guy is dog fighting in the middle of the street like Michael Vic--what have "I" got to be embarrassed about? So, I made a lil' U turn--and missed him. Away I went back up the hill to go home. I had to drop my jazz off, unpacked my Jansport and head back out to the grocery. It sure was a nice night for a ride down 30th to IGA. Love that ride---got my goods--and here I am--at home--cooking my lunches for the week--I'll pack up my bags and start a new tomorrow.... Hooray for 2010

The weather has been awesome in San Diego---so--I haven't had to wear my bike slicker as much as I thought I would...which is good....Signing off for now...

First official commute of 2010

2010-01-04T19:35:00.001-08:00

Well.....when they say it's "just like riding a bike.." they were right. Who is "they" anyway? My routine started back up today, and...it was just like riding a bike. I didn't forget a thing. We added an important piece to the wardrobe--it's a weather proof pink baseball cap made by TOTES. It has a small LED light on the front that is blinding. The flashing red lights on the back of my bike were stolen, so, I flipped that hat around, and wore it backwards so I had my bike front light and fancy new hat light in the back. I was well lit--all around. The weather is awesome in San Diego so the ride on was nice.

Reunion.....

2009-12-27T20:56:00.001-08:00

Well, December has come and gone. I haven't written in ages...mostly because I haven't been on my bike in ages. I was in Mexico, then home for 5 days--my home for 5 days was littered with client events and work stuff--which made for 15 hour work days involving public transport and cabs...then--off to Ohio for holiday with family. No bikes there. I did manage to squeeze in a SD Bike Coalition meeting in the midst of my travels...and WOW--what an organization. The Big 5 was established and I am happy to see the addition of a focus on "The Urban Core" along with continued focus on "education". The biggest thing about education is really educating cars that bikes have same rules as cars, and educating people that commuting by bike is easy and can be done. We got to toss around some Bike Station talk too, which, always makes me happy. Come hell or high water, we are getting one of those bad boys in the Urban Core in 2010!! Mark my words..... So..I let Baby Blue have a sleepover while I was in Ohio. She's gingerly perched upon her bike rack at work. I wonder if she missed me? I know I missed her. AND.....Santa brought me the coolest hat. It's pink, and sweat proof, and in the shape of a baseball cap, but, it's a workout cap with a cool blinding LED light on the front. It's perfect for night time riding... It's made my Totes...and a portion of the revenue goes to breast cancer--it's a good will trifecta--well lit night riding, sweat absorbing, and philanthropic. That santa really knows a good gift for a bike commuter when she sees it! There's more thoughts of that awesome Bianchi bike too. My friends Kim and Bill brought me a catalog. I do need to consult with my neighbor friend--Curtis. I promised him that he'd be my shopping mate on the new bike adventure. So, between Bill and Curtis, we will have a great bike buying adventure. GOAL--new snazzy bike by President's Day!!

Bike Transportation Account....

2009-12-10T20:51:00.000-08:00

Have you ever heard of this? I haven't. I sit here and type with a brace on my right hand and a left eye that is pink, along with a sniffle and a sneeze every 20 seconds. I went to the doctor semi healthy and came out with 3 ailments. Needless to say, I have a bit of time on my hands tonight to research something new I learned today--Bike Transportation Account. Apparently, there is one. And..apparently in 2007 San Diego got NO money from it. Big ole goose egg. In 2008, we got $135K for signage-thank God. 2009--$1.8 million??? Where do these allocations come from? For the past 3 years the state of California has allocated $7.2 million same amount...not a penny more or less. So...one of the other counties aren't spending their money, so they don't bump it up for the next year, or, no one asked for more...or we're broke. It's probably a bit of all 3. I'm just learning about this, but, wouldn't it be groovy if some of this money went to the Bike Station plan? I think it would.

I need to know...who establishes this BTA? How do we get some money out of it for a Bike Station? Who's in charge? That's our next step. In the meantime, I found that there are 2 allocations out of the BTA 2009/10 budget. 1. $425K Class 1 Bike Way San Luis Rey River by Tyler Street & N. Sante Fe Drive. 2. $1.4 million bones to construct 2 miles of class 1 bikeway between Vista & San Marcos. What is a Class 1 bike way you ask? I had the same question... The following is a list of bike paths in San Diego County.
Class 1 Bikeway provides a completely separated right of way for the exclusive use of bicycles and pedestrians with crossflow by motorists minimized. So, how do these people get the money? What can we do to get the money for a Bike Station in San Diego? If I were a Bike Station jeanie...I would put 2 of them in San Diego. 1 in downtown San Diego and 1 in LaJolla/Sorrento Valley area. This is what I do when I don't ride my bike...I obsess about ways to make my bike riding life better in San Diego. Back to the bike. I haven't ridden my bike a ton this week because I have been working from home most of the week since I have this weird Mexican ailment. Saturday, it will rain. I need to be at work at 7:30 for a breakfast meeting. I then merge over to the Bike Coalition retreat. I love me a good brainstorm session. very exciting. Then....I go babysit for my friends. I will be on bike for all adventures. This may be my first activity day in the rain on my bike. Stories to follow...

Cold-Bike-Sick

2009-12-09T21:24:00.000-08:00

Riding in was good. No rain. Nice brisk air. Riding home was a sitch. I had a client holiday party, then back to work for my holiday party, then dinner with Uncle Dan. Uncle Dan had to reschedule due to a late appointment with a client. So I thought I'd ride my bike home. It was cold. I felt sick. And...I was waiting at the worst bus stop--Broadway and Park. That place has some interesting charachters. I dialed 511 from my cel phone and found the next bus was coming in 11 minutes. So..I opted to ride. I rode up Broadway which is normally pretty easy for me. Since I have this wierd ailment...I had to walk my bike up 18th - 23rd...I finally got home and am in my snuggie..thank the lord.

Rain+Bike = Good Times...

2009-12-07T22:18:00.000-08:00

The true test of this mission is to see if it can happen in the good times and the bad--sorta like a wedding vow. So--Dear Baby Blue--I vow to ride you in the sun, in the rain, in the cold and in the overly global warmed heat we have here in the thick of July and August. Tomorrow is going to be an experience. I've done 1 bike ride in the rain already--but--haven't done one to work yet. Tomorrow will be an adventure. If I am really serious about this lifestyle..I've got to go all the way. So--my bags are packed--slicker ready to go...extra time given in the morning...

I'll leave a wee bit earlier tomorrow for extra beauty bag touch up. Tomorrow I have work, then an after work event, then workout and grocery. If it rains at all during those adventures--I'd ready. The last time I rode my bike in the rain....I was so hot/sweaty when I got to my destination. I am hoping to manage the body temp sitch a bit better this time since I am on my way to work and don't want to be too gross when I get there. Wish me luck:)

Day 55--Not-on a bike....

2009-12-03T09:36:00.000-08:00

I'm in Mexico, and am still not driving. There is a shuttle that takes us "into town" and bikes everywhere. If there weren't men with huge guns (not muscles--but armory) outside the hotel and galavanting on the street, then, I would be renting a bicecleta from the hotel. So...we are going "into town"...I wonder what the Mexican bike rules of the road are???

In other news....I saw BIKE STATION on Tuesday. WOW--it was amazing. The location was perfect--in downtown Long Beach--right on the marina. It's easily accessible. You use a magic key--it's a key card--but in my mind it was magic...and that gives you access to your car. There are german bike racks that make it easy to load your bike on level 1 or level 2. There's also a repair person in the "shop" part that engages you in the bike fixing process--if you'd like. If I wanted to learn how to change my tire or tune up my bike---I can--Or he'll do it for me. There's a new bike station coming online--2 floors--showers, the whole deal. It's like a MEGA Bike Station. We met their CEO Andrea--who is awesome--and really passionate about the product. We need to get one of these in San Diego. I am hoping to go back up to that Bike Station to ask more questions and get a strategy down to get this in SD. It will happen..come hell or high water. I still have many questions and I had a sales appt. to go too...so, I felt a bit rushed--I rushed myself--but--I would live to dive in and ask more questions about the public vs. private sector...and how we group them together to make this happen. I know it can happen, just have to get a game plan down.

My friend Bill found my next bike for me. It's an Italian dream. Biancci?? (sp?) She's mint and red and black--I've already named her Bianca.

Off to town...to peruse the cobble stone streets...more bike info on mexico to follow. Arriba!

Modes of transport..I hit them all today...

2009-11-29T18:13:00.000-08:00

I started out the day on bike retrieval. I left it in University Heights for a sleepover last night. I slept in my own bed, and Baby Blue shacked up on a parking meter on Park Blvd in front of El Zarape. So, I left the house this morning on foot to hike up through the park, over the hill and into University Heights to retrieve Baby Blue. Along the way I had some objectives. I wanted to watch the Chargers game, buy a bathing suit, take photos of my car for the big car lease swap...etc. This would require going to many pockets of town in San Diego and many modes of transport including foot, bike, bus, trolley. So....off I went... 1st stop--Pizza! I went to a new place in U Heights called Gourmet Pizza Express on Park blvd. across from Small Bar. Had a panini, bottle of water and watched the start of the Chargers game. I got bored--they looked great---so, scooped up baby blue. She was in full tact, ready for the adventure. I rode down to Texas street and I TOOK ON THAT HILL!! Can you believe it?? It's a 15% grade, and cars were whizzing by me. I was a total wuss on that hill and had my breaks on the whole time. The interesting thing about that hill is that it's all down hill with a bike lane. Then POOF--just like that--the bike lane goes away and it becomes the merging on ramps for 8 EAST and 8 WEST. People fly down that hill and onto the highway....I was alert and afraid for my life...but...alas---I made it to Target. One trick about Texas street is although it is a bike lane, there are 3 HUGE pot holes in it. HUGE meaning 2 x 2 in circumference for sure. Thank goodness I was paying attention otherwise that would have been a real tire poppin' moment. I got my suit for my upcoming Mexico wedding....then...scooted across the street to the trolley. I've taken my bike on the bus, but never on the trolley. This was an experience. I had a little time on my hands and wanted to workout boot camp style down town...so...I hopped on the Green Line headed West to Old Town, where I planned to switch trolley to the blue line downtown. Trolley arrived, doors open, the stairs are steep!! So, on the trolley, there's no "rack" per say. It's every man/bike/anything on wheels for himself. I had to put my bike on my left shoulder because as we know I have a looming back injury on the right side. I had to push the button with my right hand, open the door with the same hand, use my left hand and shoulder to shelf my bike as I walked up 4 very steep and narrow steps to get into the trolley. The front wheel was flailing everywhere, it hit the guy in front of me, scraped my left forearm and I tripped up the last step. I got on that damn trolley and sat down. Getting off was about as awkward as getting on. Same story, except the door closed on me as I was leaving, and a very nice stranger pressed the button for me again. I was obviously a "challenged public transit goer". I switched over Blue Line and went to Sante Fe Depot. Off I went...ran a bunch of errands downtown, then did my boot camp. I have to practice up for the Mexico wedding. One day I am teaching the guests..."boot camp with Mandi". It will be a real treat. After boot camp, it was such a nice day with the sun blaring that I took a nice little ride on the Embarcadero. It was awesome....so flat, so pretty and riding on the water is so nice here in San Diego. Ran more errands and rode home--again--up that awesome Island hill. I also learned about my gears on the left. Kitty's brother was in town this weekend and told me the tricks of using my gears on the left. I only have used the ones of the right. Up Hill I'm at a 2. Down hill and most of the time, I'm at a 4. On 30th or 32nd street in Northpark--I'm at a 3. Adding the whole gear shabang to the left makes it much less challenging and slightly more complicated. I am still not quite sure what their purpose is, but, we'll get to know each other more over our tenure on our bike together. All & All......the trolley is super easy to use and very convenient. I was in Southpark, Hillcrest, University Heights, Mission Valley, Old Town, Downtown and Golden Hill all in 1 day in San Diego and NO CAR. It's easier than you think it is people...try it!

Florida Street--

2009-11-29T10:39:00.000-08:00

Florida street is the best life line between SouthPark to Northpark to University Heights. It's the main vein that runs between all the coolest little pockets o San Diego. It's got a cool lil' view, a bike lane, is pretty flat and great to ride. It's only downfall is that it's under improved. It's bumpy. There's lots of pot holes. It's uneven, and it's real tough on a gal's nether regions. I met some friends for lunch yesterday after a long hike. We met at SMALL BAR. It's a cool new bar/restaurant in university heights--right on park blvd. I love that place. Getting there takes 20 min on a bike, but, wowsers, it sure is a bumpy ride. The cool thing is that the parking meters in that area have bike lock/racks too. Very bike friendly zone. If only Florida street was a little more smooth---that would make me and my nether regions much happier.

Day 50--Prayers & Blessings...

2009-11-28T11:37:00.000-08:00

An 80 year old woman at Thanksgiving said "I am going to say a prayer for you every day". I appreciated the prayer. That sure was sweet. She said this in response to me telling her that I ride my bike everywhere and sometimes ride a bus. Who doesn't need an extra prayer or two? This spawned into a conversation about the Al Gore environment conspiracy theory. Many were of the philosophy that all the GREEN stuff is created to make money. I can see how creating an emerging market in a down economy can be a real drag.... (wink wink) Anyhoo--I had to clearly state the mission behind my bike riding was a personal choice--a lifestyle choice--a health choice and had nothing to do with GOING GREEN. This is a common misconception--one that I normally let people just have...but--in this circle--I had to clear up any misunderstanding that my bike adventure was for me to GO GREEN. I love riding my bike. I love the challenge of figuring out how to get places using a mix of bike/bus/trolley. I like it when people say they'd use public transport more if it were more convenient. Have you ever tried? If you try, you'll find, San Diego is very easy to get around using public transport. I admit--I am blessed--I live 2.5 miles from where I work. I live in a neighborhood that is walkable, safe and easy to get around. I don't have any kids that I need to transport in a car seat or to soccer practice...and I am a low maintenance gal. I don't wear make up and my hair pretty much looks the same all the time--under a helmet or out of a helmet--unless it's raining--then--my hair gets curly. Not a bad look though... So--I'm blessed and can do this journey...and I have an 80 year old woman praying for me....Thanksgiving weekend really makes a gal count her blessings:)

Day 48--Staring at people in their cars....

2009-11-26T13:33:00.000-08:00

So, it's turkey day. I know I will eat more than I should later today. I woke up and immediately hit the streets for a workout--sans bike---we're having a "break away" today. A "break away" is a term my Aunt Dena and I coined. We use it during our vacations together. The first "break away" was when we went to Prague in 2002. She really wanted to go to the symphony and I really wanted to sit with the bohemians on town square and watch them make up songs and strum on the guitar. So, we decided we'd part ways, each do our own activity, and meet up when we were done. We called it a "break away"...ever since, we've had them. In Croatia, 5 years later, we wanted to hike over to the local farmer's market--while our traveling companions wanted to layout on the beach. What did we do???? We had a "break away". I introduced the "break away" to my cousin AARON recently. He was in town visiting for his birthday. He wanted to go see USS MIDWAY. I wanted to get my nails done. What did we do??? We had a "break away". It's a no drama, little reprieve, from something--or someone--just for a short time. So, today, I'm having a "break away" from my bike. Tomorrow I have a bazillion errands to run--so, Baby Blue and I won't be separated for long. While I was having my "break away" today, I did a 30 minute boot camp using the stairs and picnic bench in the park behind my house. My old trainer LES taught me the best routines that you can do using your own body weight, and any raw materials--anywhere---. Uneven surfaces, steps, picnic benches, parking blocks--all good things for the home made boot camp. After the boot camp, I had some extra time until turkey day festivities, so, I went for a walk. I decided I would pay close attention to what people do when they drive today. One of the biggest problems with riding your bike everywhere is that you always have to be on the defense. If you choose to ride your bike on the road--as I do--all the time--you are in constant war with cars. The biggest problems with cars while on your bike is that--drivers don't pay attention. Mom's are yelling at their kids. Dads are checking out some bodacious babe. Everyone is texting or talking on their phone illegally. New lovers are making out. Old lovers are fighting. Everyone behind the wheel is basically doing anything, except looking at the road in front of them or around them. So...today, I set out, to look into cars. What exactly are people doing while they are driving? My findings were upsurd. I spotted 4 nose pickers, 3 singers--top of lungs singing...one song was "Proud to be an American"--I endorse that one since it is Thanksgiving and all. A couple guys were talking on their phone. 2 cars were talking to each other through the window, while driving... At a stop light, one guy--didn't event stop--he just blazed straight through. The moral of the story....if you're driving--PAY ATTENTION to the road and your surroundings. If you're not driving...make eye contact with as many drivers as you can and ride/walk on the offense. Be aware and prepared that no one behind a wheel is really driving or even paying attention to the road.

Staring into people's cars today was a great reminder for me. I enjoyed my 1 day break away from Baby Blue....and am looking forward to our reunion tomorrow. Absense sure does make the heart grow fonder...

Day 46--So many questions.....

2009-11-24T20:35:00.000-08:00

I've had so many conversations with my work peers and friends. These are the same people I've known for years and see every day. For some reason, recently, they have many questions about this bike adventure. I love it. Their questions are super interesting--quite thought provoking and even funny....

For example, my gal pals--the sisters--asked, "If you only ride your bike, and don't have a car, what would you do if you bought a mattress?" My answer: "have it delivered".
Another question: "How will you get all the things you want to sell at our garage sale to our house?" My answer: "Rent a truck" or "cook dinner for a friend and in exchange, i borrow his truck" I love the sisters. Their best and my most favorite question was, "What about COSTCO? How do you get stuff from COSTCO home?" My answer: "I don't go to Costco. I shop at the Farmer's market...". I hope I cured all of their curiosities. Since it's Thanksgiving Week, and I am all about the Gratitude Attitude....I am thankful for the thought provoking questions because it does help a gal think through these things.

My pal at work--Paul--said, "I was thinking about you the other day as I was wondering, how would Mandi do that?" He was referring to an emergency car ride OR having to take guests to and from the airport. Living in San Diego I am always having friends and family visit. The answer to that is simple--they take a cab. I am a great hostess, I'll just transfer my gracious hostessing from airport pick up to cooking their favorite meal, or having a great welcome gift when they get here--right? OR--throughout the visit, since I started this journey--Aunt Dena has come to town. She insisted we bike only. We actually rode our bikes on an awesome ride...so, it all depends on the visitor--but--I'm not afraid--there's solutions for this.

I also learned something great this past week. If you call 511 on your cel phone, SanDag will tell you anything you want to know about commuting and public transportation. Also, you can get a guaranteed FREE RIDE HOME up to 3 times a year if you pay a small fee. When I say small, I believe it's $5.00. So, crisis averted---when I get rid of the car, I am all set for all challenges. I do like to hear the questions though--it gets me thinking about all the possibilities and prepared for the future. Gratitude Attitude.

Day 45---

2009-11-23T20:27:00.000-08:00

Today I really appreciated my bike lights. Granted---they need to be tightened up and their sorta dangling on the front and the back--they're still in tact and visible. They're much more visible than those of a fella I almost ran into today while on the ride home from work. It's dark at like 4 pm now--it's literally like December in Ireland--it starts getting dark so early..so, when I leave work at 630 on a Monday night...it's dark. I rode up Island street--in my mind I convinced myself I was being followed by someone that wanted to steal my 14 year old Jansport--which of course forced me into a pedal sprint up that hill. I was literally heaving and hoeing up that blessed hill--made it to B street finally--when an object came riding at me. It was a fellow biker on the wrong side of the street without a helmet or lights. If I had more notice I definitely would have given him a finger wag---but--no time as I swerved out of the way. I did manage to slip in a "Wrong Side of the Road--DUDE"....it was such a burn. In other news---I got an email back from Dominic at Bike Station Long Beach. He told me to email me some questions and then we'll chat live when I am up there on 12/1 in between appointments. Very excited. I also emailed my employer the fringe benefits section of the IRS Commuter page. Apparently I can claim $230 less per month if I use my bike as my only mode of transport. There are other fringe benefits. I am hoping my employer takes this as seriously as I do. Not only could it be positive tax implications for me for 2010, but, it saves them loads of money on Payroll taxes. The amount of people that ride their bikes to my work need to be aware of this and we need to join together to be sure our employer takes it seriously and takes action on it. Both my management company and parent company cultures are all about Saving the Planet, Health and Work-Life Balance--it shouldn't be that hard to convince them to read the IRS doc and advise all of us what our options are. Just for good measure, I sent an email to the fella at the IRS and at icommutesd.com just to be sure I really understand. More to follow....

Day 44--

2009-11-22T09:36:00.000-08:00

I had a bike "date" a couple weeks ago. It was a set up/blind date. He's a friend of a friend and saw my blog. He's been wanting to ride his bike to work more so he suggested we ride our bikes in to work together in the morning before work. Pretty cool idea--and what a good sport. I warned him that I would be wearing athletic gear on the top (sports bra and t-shirt) and work gear on the bottom (dress pants or jeans). He predicted I'd look like a mullet. Party on the top--work on the bottom. He was right. We met at 7 AM on our bikes. He wore his work attire too--dress pants, dress shirt--you know--he looked like a morman cruising around town in dress clothes trying to convert people while on his bike sans The Book of Morman. We had coffee, chatted a bit then rode into work. It was a nice ride. I had to mellow out my kamikaze bike riding style a bit--you know--stop at all the stop signs--not rush through the red lights--and wag my finger at unaware drivers....for fear I'd appear like a crazy bike bandit. He did point out a very cool piece of art that is being erected on a new apartment building downtown on Island Street. It's done by a local artist and it's a big brown tree on the corner of the building. It's the prettiest brown tree I've ever seen...Every time I ride past it, one more block of the tree trunks are put up. I am excited for the finished product. He was a real looker, really smart/nice....He did ask me if I wanted to go hiking sometime at the end of the "date" but...we haven't heard from him yet. We'll chalk it up to a good bike/date story for the blog...

In other news.....I need to do some sales calls in Long Beach/LA on December 1st. I am going to visit the very first BIKE STATION which is location in LONG BEACH. Can you believe it's 3 minutes from my lunch appt. with my client? My colleague is driving and doesn't know about our Bike Station mission yet--but--I'll brief her on the ride up. Also---as far as we know right now--the biggest obstacles to getting a Bike Station in San Diego are funding and location.

If someone wanted to do this privately--any store front down town will work. Unfortunately for the former vendors and fortunately for Bike Station--there are many vacant store fronts in down town SD right now. If not private--and if looking for funding---apparently there is a renovation planned for Horton Plaza area, and a new development in motion where Sante Fe Depot is. If I had it my way, it would be over near the Hilton Bay front--I think they have open spaces there. When I go see the gang at Bike Station in Long Beach, I am going to ask him questions about funding, operating costs, etc. I am curious to see how they do it up there. Is it all privately funded? Do they get any rebates, abatement's, grants, help from local gov? Who goes there? What's the biggest challenge they face? Is membership really only $20.00 a year? It seems like a steal. In downtown San Diego, monthly parking is $65.00 per month for limited 6 - 6 p parking, and $180.00 per month for 24 hour access. All you get is a parking spot--you don't get a locker, or refresh station or bike repair, etc.... I want to see how they price it out and what they get with it. I am also curious about the square footage they have and the hours they actually staff it.... More to follow----on the Bike Station Mission...stay tuned!

Day 39--A Little More Progress--Bike Station

2009-11-18T20:47:00.000-08:00

A while back I reached out to SANDAG Planning Tech--Maria Filieppeli. Below is her response. We'll talk on Thursday..... it's small...but..it's a bit o progress to get a BIKE STATION in SD!

Email from Maria to me:
Mandi, Congratulations on your 30 car-free days! I 'm glad to hear of your interest in a bike station, it is something on our radar. To answer your questions:
1) To put a bikestation on City property, you''d have to work with the City of SD. If the desired location is a trolley stop, then you'd have to work with MTS since they own the trolley right-of-way.
2) Anyone can make a recommendation to the City or SANDAG to implement a bikestation. (Of course implementation relies on funding.) Have you contacted the San Diego County Bicycle Coalition (www.sdcbc.org)? I think they are looking at some bikestation locations.
3) The biggest issues are funding and location.
Feel free to give me a call to discuss further (# below).
Maria
Maria Filippelli
Planning Technician
619.515.1177
www.sandag.org

Day 36--Odd Errands

2009-11-15T11:31:00.000-08:00

Well, in the last 3 days, I've run some odd little errands. Have you ever done through a drive through on your bike? I have.... I had to pick up my perscription from Wallgreens....Rode straight through on my bike, got my pills, and scurried off. It was super easy. Next mission--A plumber's snake. So, my sick is clogged or my garbage disposal is broke. Don't know which, but, something is awry. So.....I pedaled over to my friends' Amy and Jay's house. They left me that plumber's snake. It fit snug as a bug in my Jansport....then went grocery shopping then home. 32nd Street out of NorthPark into South Park is still my fav. I just know bike riding that street over the holidays is going to be awesome....next stop...today----bike ride to go see Chrissy and Brendan's new baby...then...Bike ride to BBQ at Dennis' for his bday. All in the same area....gotta love South park:)

Day 34

2009-11-13T18:46:00.000-08:00

Had a partner in crime on the bike ride in today. It was a nice treat. Learned about a new condo project going up on Island street. It has a cool piece of art on it that looks like a tree spanning the whole front corner of the building. In other news....on the ride home I almost ran over a dog. It was a very small, pudgy dog and the owner let he and his leash span across the side walk like it was his. I was sure he was moving out of the way so I kept peddling..then, I slammed on my brakes, almost fell off my bike and poked my leg real hard with the seat of my bike. It was a real sitch. The ride home was great tonight---felt o so good. 4 miles today...but....didn't have much sleep last night, so, it was justified.

Day 32

2009-11-11T21:54:00.000-08:00

Crazy birds on the streets today. Cars were cutting cars off like wild turkeys. I had the friendliest bus driver from downtown to run my errands in NorthPark. Take the 7 from Broadway near my gym to NorthPark--it's a perfect lil' breather after a workout, then, you can hop back on the road and take 30th all the way home. 5.5 miles today.

Still researching the selling the car thing.

Day 31--Bike Station--some progress

2009-11-10T23:19:00.000-08:00

We made a little progress on the Bike Station mission today. Looks like Bike Station is on Sandag radar! We got a return email from them. It seems she has some reccomendations or advice...I am going to call her tomorrow. I think this will be a segway to another referral. We'll get this bike station come hell or high water...

To me from Maria:

Mandi,
Congratulations on your 30 car-free days! I am glad to hear of your interest in a bike station, it is something on our radar. To answer your questions:
1) To put a bikestation on City property, you'd have to work with the City of SD. If the desired location is a trolley stop, then you'd have to work with MTS since they own the trolley right-of-way.
2) Anyone can make a recommendation to the City or SANDAG to implement a bikestation. (Of course implementation relies on funding.) Have you contacted the San Diego County Bicycle Coalition (www.sdcbc.org)? I think they are looking at some bikestation locations.
3) The biggest issues are funding and location.
Feel free to give me a call to discuss further (# below).
Maria
Maria Filippelli
Planning Technician
619.515.1177
www.sandag.org

To Sandag from Me:
Wednesday, October 28, 2009 7:18 PMT
Subject: Bike Station?

Hi there, have you heard of Bike Station? I just starting commuting using solely my bike and public transportation. I am doing a 30 day trial to see if I can â€œliveâ€ without my car. In the process, Iâ€™ve learned that other cities such as Palo Alto, Long Beach and Seattle have convenient places like a â€œBike Stationâ€ for commuters. www.bikestation.com San Diego is suppose to be a â€œBikerâ€™s Paradiseâ€ but, I havenâ€™t found very many convenient commuter options such as the Bike Station. I was wondering if you'd help me?
Would San Diego consider putting a Bike Station or something like it somewhere in downtown San Diego? Near the convention center?
Who within San Diego government would make such recommendations?
What information, support or influence do you need from San Diego local government OR other bike organizations that would make a compelling argument to implement?
I am willing to do the work, just need some recommendations of people that are interested in the life of a SD Commuter. To view the â€œrealâ€ life of a San Diego commuter, check out my blog. It's the real deal of what SD needs to make it more of a commuter friendly city. https://www.car-go-bye-bye.blogspot.com
If youâ€™re not the right person to speak with, will you forward to the proper person, OR, will you share some names of people that can assist? Thanks in advance. Have a great day!

Day 30--I did it!!!!

2009-11-09T23:27:00.000-08:00

Well---30 days.....bike only as main mode of transport and I have to say--It was pretty easy. It was so easy, I've decided it's going to be my way of life. I am more aware, more alert, more healthy and more conscious riding a bike or walking everywhere. For those places that I can't get to in a jiffy on my bike or on my feet---I'll hop on a bus or a trolley. At last resort, I'll take a car... but...I have to tell you, I have been looking into selling my car. Anyone interested in a 2007 Nissan Versa? She's cute--she's cheap--and she's in great shape since I never driver her.

Biggest thing I've learned over the last 30 days.....PAY ATTENTION! Pay attention to everything.... people can be turning right, when you're cruising up to their right. Some drivers don't even pay any attention while driving because they're texting, or they're tourists, or they're totally lost--physically--or just lost in their mind from the wild day they had. So, do your part to pay attention. Second best thing I learned---San Diego is pretty amazing. There are so many nooks and crannies that one can never find unless on a bike or on foot...so, take some time, to pay attention to your surroundings. I bet you'd be amazed at the fantastic things, people, buildings, nuances that surround you once you stop, breathe, look left--look right--and just PAY ATTENTION to what's surrounding you. Life's too short to pass up the great opportunity to celebrate all that's great in your world...right now:)

Bikes, Balloons, Wind & Lip Gloss

2009-11-07T23:17:00.000-08:00

Yes--I said lip gloss.... But, let's start with the important stuff. My gal pal's wedding shower was today. I committed a while back to pick up 20 multi colored balloons that would go with the Mexican theme. Now that I am doing my no car gig, I still had to get the balloons. I ventured off to Vons--which was 3 blocks north and 2 blocks east of Regan's house. I got the balloons, and tied them to the seat of my bike. I rode in the street--stayed clear of the side walks due to fear of the trees--I should have been more concerned about the wind. The wind blew those blessed balloons everywhere including in the spokes of the bike. We lost about 4 on the journey. The pop was loud. The laughs and stares from passers bye--even more loud. The most troublesome part of it all.... the ribbons from the balloons were long and curly...they were wavy in the wind, and kept flying up at my face and sticking to my lip gloss... I know...you're thinking, "Why are you riding a bike and wearing lip gloss"?? 2 months ago I may have said the same thing...but...normally I wear chap stick. 2 months ago my boss turned me onto lip gloss. She wears it all the time--everywhere--it's the same as putting on shoes for her... She never leaves the house, her office, anywhere without lip gloss. She inspired me to buy a bevvy of it..and I am hooked. I always have it on now. I love lip gloss.. So, I am guilty as charged--a bike riding commuting lip gloss addict. Anyway--it made for an interesting ride. I dropped the balloons to Regan's--as I pulled up, a man was holding his baby and she was saying "Ba-lllll-oooooo-nnn-s" I am pretty sure it was one of her 1st 5 words in her vocab. We made the world--and her vocab better today. As I left the balloon drop off spot--I almost barrelled over a very skinny man, on the side walk, wearing shiny black leather pants. He should have been riding my bike, wearing lip gloss with the balloons.....

In other news----I made it home in 14 minutes from downtown today. It normally takes 25 - 30 minutes-- The Presbyterians were not singing today. tomorrow is Sunday though, and I'll be on my bike by 8:15 A.....Church and Sabbath worship HAS to happen tomorrow...right?

Day 27--The Finger Wag....

2009-11-06T23:46:00.000-08:00

Something I've gotten really good at over the last 27 days is the finger wag. Picture it... riding your bike, knowing you have the right of way because you stopped at the stop sign ions of time before the car at the other stop sign does...and guess what?? They start rolling through the stop sign... This is when I toss out a "finger wag"? You know what I mean... it's that 1 finger pointing at that person doing wrong, and shaking it at them... not rapidly, just slowly, with judging eyes, eye brows raised--just a shmidge...and a little smile.. Enough to tell them--"we both know you tried to roll through that stop sign", but, coy enough to not make them feel like they want to hit the gas pedal and run me over off my bike. It's a real simple--yet--effective technique...

So, I got to work in 13 minutes today..and home in 24. My time going home, up that hill is getting better. Riding through the ghetto, isn't as scary. Most of the homeless people just like to talk to themselves, and they can't chase me up that big ass hill anyway...I'm on a bike..and they have blankets and what not that hold them down should a chase scene pop up...so, I think the night ride home route is good. Tomorrow is a big day..... I will attempt to buy 20 multi colored balloons and ride them over to my gal pal's house where we're having a wedding shower. Imagine---1 girl, 1 bike, 20 multi colored balloons tied to the seat of my bike. If I can bring at least 1 smile or sense of wonder to a random passer-by...I will have done my work for the day...wish me luck...

Day 25...

2009-11-04T20:09:00.000-08:00

Well, today was interesting......I walked into work---on my way I found a co-worker at the bus stop at Broadway and 21st. She was wearing dress shoes--slight heel. I asked, "Would you like to walk with me?" She said, "sure"...and away we walked. It was nice to have an unexpected walking companion in the AM. I left my house at 7:29, and got to work at 8:01 A....just in time for an all morning meeting with an AMAZING organization--that--can you believe it??? They promote Healthy living! The stars were aligned and I wore my tennies all day with my work gear. They were quite inspirational. Next.....I rode my bike to the gym. It was "cardio day"....so, I did 32 minutes. 7 minutes rower, 10 minutes running on treadmill and 15 minutes on the bike--as if I didn't have enough bike action for the last 25 days. You see...I thought I was going to take the bus home, so, I got my "bike on" in the gym instead of "on the road"....I left the gym drenched in sweat, and the moon was awesome..the night felt so good and I didn't want to deal with putting my bike on the front of that rack on the bus...so...I decided to ride home... Last ride home at night was awesome--and I took my favorite street--ISLAND--but--it was a little dark--and I was a little scared for my life on 12th - 24th streets...so, I opted for Broadway the whole way home. The hill on Broadway is more steep, but, it's way more lit and much more safe. Along the way as I rode I heard cheers of people between 3rd - 10th from various pubs. World Series is on tonight--Phillies vs. Yanks--and the cheers supported both teams at various times as I passed. I got to 16th and couldn't ride anymore. I was beat. I had a 3 mile walk to work, a 32 minute cardio session and now I was going to ride 10 more blocks up a huge incline??? What is wrong with me?? So, I walked my bike, and called my sis. She and her hubby are staying at my parent's house in FL for the week. She was tipsy and her hubster was watching the world series. She celebrated the great day she and my mom had. They went to a play in Florida with all the blue hairs. While in the bathroom at the play, my lil' sis discovered that the woman just one stall over had only 4 toes---GROSS--of course she took a photo of it and texted it to me with a caption: "Just saw someone that reminded me of you.....". To be clear, I have all my digits in tact--10 fingers, 10 toes...however, I do hate feet. They totally gross me out. Had I seen that sitch in the stall next to me, I would have barfed for sure. Better her than me...but still, was a great picture text to get midday today. Lil' sis asked me if I wanted to talk to her hubby. I gingerly declined and told her that would be a dude's worst nightmare to talk to his sister-in-law on the telephone in the middle of the world series. She claimed I was a better woman than she, and shortly after, we hung up. I did promise a shout out to her... so, there ya go--Vikki---you've been shouted outed!! I hopped back on my bike and was home in 5 minutes. The Presbyterians were up to no good though... I noticed all the lights on in the church, but this time--all the blinds were drawn....and no one was singing..... Seemed a little more serious and less gleeful tonight... I wonder what they're stirring up in there......

Day 24--still on the honeymoon...

2009-11-03T18:57:00.001-08:00

I am still giddy and in love with riding my bike or walking as a mode of transport. 11 minutes flat to work today. Walking in to work tomorrow...need to be there a bit early for a meeting....but....looking forward to the workout and ride home tomorrow night. Something fun I learned that happens in my hood in the AM on the way in is that the Iglesia Presbyterian Hispanic church has a women's choir. They sing their hearts out. I am not quite sure when their practice is because I've heard them singing on the way home during week--appx. 730 p. I've heard them singing on the way in--appx. 715 a, and I've heard them singing on the weekends at various times of the day. As far as I'm concerned....it's a Choir Shelter for lady birds. Oh the things you become aware of along the way when you're not couped up in your car watching traffic, and you're in the fresh air, celebrating life and being concience of surroundings.....

Nostalgia

2009-11-02T20:12:00.000-08:00

I should write an Ode to my Jansport. I realized today that I have had my Jansport back pack since I was a sophomore in college. Who wouldda thunk it would stick with me all this time and make this wacky bike journey. 14 years old...and it's as sturdy as the day I bought it. Cheers to you Jansport. I will not trade you in--even if you make me look like a butch lesbian on a bike.

I think I'm getting faster, and Island Street is still my favorite. Made it to work in 13 minutes today. 4.3 minutes per mile. Then...I rode to the gym, worked out for an hour, and rode home in the dark dark darkness of Island Street. I made it home and up that massive hill in 25 minutes flat. It totally helped that I rode like a bat out of hell on 17th street through 24th street since it was so dark and there were homeless people and gang members eye balling me the whole way. I should have taken the bus home, but, the moon was full, and it felt so good under that night air.

Oh the things we see along the way....

2009-11-01T20:06:00.000-08:00

Day 22..Bike ride to Amy/Jay's today to have a date with Jaden. With my puffy letters, construction paper and musical instruments packed...I was ready for an afternoon with a 2 year old. 3.5 miles to their house, 20 minute ride...Still super slow--5.6 per mile. Dude, I'm light molasses. The positive is that I found a new route and there was so much beauty along the way...

I took 29th to Juniper to 32nd to University to Swift. Awesome Ride. the houses in the guts of Southpark on 29th and 32nd are amazing. Totally decked out for Halloween--still. Note to self....drive this route over xmas season...guaranteed to get any passer-by in the holiday spirit. Great ride there, great ride home. The plan was to go grocery shopping when I was done. I discovered I did not have any $$$ or id with me when I left Amy and Jay's...so....rode home-- 3.5 miles. Got shiznit...headed back out to grocery--2 miles RT. Overall it was a good, flat 9 mile trip on Baby Blue today. Amongst my travels I swear I saw a spitting image of Tyne Daly...remember her from Cagney and Lacey? Anyway...it was a brilliant Sunday! This week will be all about Bikes, Gym and Protein...

Day 20--Blessing In Disguise...

2009-10-31T10:13:00.000-07:00

Today I take on TEXAS HILL!!! I have eye balled that hill for years. I've walked up the hill and down the hill, but never rode up or down that hill. I need to go to Target to return somethings and go to Michaels to get the remainder of my Halloween costume. I am wearing all black, sunglasses, boots, hat, black rubber nose...and a sash with bright glow in the dark puffy paint that says "BLESS YOU". My costume--A Blessing In Disguise.... My house to Target is 5 miles. The ride will be easy, but, down that hill will be quite an adventure.

Day 19---5th avenue hill

2009-10-30T00:08:00.000-07:00

Well, 5th avenue hill looks good on paper. Most men i date look semi good on paper. Then.....we get to know them, and, well, we all know that story.... 5th avenue---same deal.

Mapmyride AND ridethestreets show that 5th avenue from work is a straight shot. 1.5 miles. This translates for me to be appx. 8 - 10 minutes on my bike--TOPS. I've driven 5th ave before, and walked 5th ave before...but...riding UP---5th ave with a 25 pound satchel of goodness on your back...different story. 5th avenue takes appx. 30 minutes to ride from 5th/L - 5th/Laurel...mostly because of it's classy ginger incline. The other piece is because getting out of Gaslamp with jack ass drivers and all those lights is a real sitch. Thankfully....my date was patient. So...note to self---on paper, 1.5 looks nice, but, once you get to know that journey, a little more of a raw deal. Change into workout clothes next time, and ride over to the park for self induced boot camp to round out the experience next time.

Day 18--Research

2009-10-28T21:05:00.000-07:00

I learned alot tonight about being an SD Bike Commuter. The online resources are endless. Although we currently don't have any "Bike Stations"...there are Bike Lockers several places in SD. The 2 that are downtown are in weird locations. Mission this weekend: check out these aforementioned bike lockers....I'm still not convinced.

This is an awesome website: www.icommutesd.com Check it out. You can go on TripTracker and evaluate the difference between 1 person in a car, vs. several carpooling. Also, it shows an entire list of what San Diego top public and private companies to for their employees that supports commuting. There are even financial incentives and tax breaks--links to IRS websites that outline. Something else that blew my mind...the Guarantee Ride Home Policy. If you're stranded somewhere without your bike, or have an emergency that you need to hop in a car...they have a GRH policy that you make a $3.00 co pay and 3 times a year, the GRH service will take you wherever you want to go. San Diego also gives an award to the top San Diego companies that are Best Places to work for Commuters.

Found another cool websiteL www.ridethecity.com Normally I use mapmyride.com to find the best routes. I've found that is not well versed on the 1 way streets, the streets without a bike route, and the streets that have no light. Ridethecity.com actually has 3 route choices: 1. direct route, 2. safe route 3. safer route. I re ran my most frequently traveled routes and still--Island Street--the best one---it's the safest, the quickest, and has a bike lane.

I sent 10 emails tonight to various people in SD Planning in SD local government to get advice on how we can get a Bike Station here...Stay tuned..who knows....maybe we'll email a list of all those HR people listed on the "Best Places to Work for SD Commuters" list....heaven help those people....

All this stuff about things employers are doing to reward their employees for riding safe and being socially responsibile got me to thinking, "What does my employer do for all this?"..So, I sent our HR person an email too. Along with that I posted a question on Facebook tonight. I haven't heard anything back yet..but, am dying to hear what other employers are doing to celebrate commuters....So...what does your employer do?

Night Riding....Lessons Learned...

2009-10-27T21:52:00.000-07:00

Day 17, and I rode 7 miles today. Have you ever heard the song by REM called "Night Swimming"? Apparently it's about skinny dipping. This post is not. However, the piano riff in that song is in my mind as I say to myself, "Night Riding" and replace the proper words to the REM song over and over on my ride tonight. Some things I've learned:

1. 3rd gear is the best gear to use when riding on 30th street between north park to south park.
2. Ear buds (basically iPods) are illegal to wear when riding on public streets on your bike.
3. The head light on your bike needs to be able to shine at least 30 feet in front of you.
4. One can not ride a bike on a side walk in a "business zone"..aka--the gaslamp district...
5. Island Street is still my favorite street to ride out of downtown---easy incline into Golden Hill, never many Kamikaze drivers to worry about, and I can cruise straight through...There are several homeless people and questionable "neighborhood-ish" people along that street, but, they are seemingly harmless when you're greased lightning like me on my Baby Blue.

Don't even ask me how I learned all of that in one night, but, let's chalk it up to another, "Trial and Error" moment or 4. So, I had a crappy day at work and decided to meet some friends at Toronado after work for beer and Mac/Cheese. Of course, I am on my bike, so I give the traditional disclaimer--"I think I'll be there in 30 minutes or so, but, give me an hour just to be safe". My friends are so awesome and supportive of this mission, so, they kindly go along.

So, I took Island to 16th to B to 19th to Pershing. The stretch between B, 19th, Pershing was super scary....it's really dark and there's not much of a bike trail. The climb up Pershing is awesome--and semi tough. It's super gradual, but, it's long enough to break a sweat. The cars speed up that hill. My new front headlight and back flashing light were installed earlier today. All it cost me was a box of chocolate chip cookies, and the promise of home made ones by next Monday. I made it to Toronado from downtown in 30 minutes flat...and that Plant to Pint Pizza Port beer was fantastic. The ride home was exhilarating. Brisk air, 10 minutes, totally flat--30th was awesome and Bloc Party was playing in my ear. I know, I know...it's totally illegal, but, it's all about the experience. Nothing could make me happier at that moment than to cruise down the street on a short ride listening to Block Party with the safe light flashing in the back and my 30 foot headlight on the front of my bike. Best part--I looked like a total dork. Picture this: pony tail, glasses, helmet, bike lights---It was a page straight out of Dork City--and I loved it!

Day 16...A New Route....

2009-10-26T20:50:00.000-07:00

So, I've been doing full gym workouts on the weekends, and just biking during the week. This week I decided to switch it up. Bike to work--all down hill--4 miles. After work, bike to gym .5 mile, work out at gym, take bus home. The bus system is starting to get super easy. Now that I am a pro at loading my bike onto the bus---it's my new favorite thing to do. After a good workout I hopped on the bus. WOW, what an experience that was. That bus from downtown to Golden Hill sure is weird and crowded at night. I am pretty sure I knocked over people's bags as I got onto the bus. My helmet was hanging out of my satchel, and I was all crammed in the corner. I got home in record time...but...I think i am going to ride home int he dark tomorrow. My new bike lights came in the mail over the weekend, so, I am going to rig those things up tonight, and see how night riding is tomorrow. Tomorrow we'll try--ride to work, ride to gym, do full workout, ride home--with lights... Maybe I can coin a new name--Night Rider...

Overall journey is appx. 10 miles.

Day 15...a ride to SMALL BAR

2009-10-26T20:47:00.000-07:00

Well, it's very easy to get from Golden Hill to University Heights. Our long time pal Matt Stringer was in town from Saudi Arabia. We were to meet him for brunch. I decided to ride my bike the whole way there, instead of hopping on the bus. The route is easy---Florida Street goes all the way between Golden Hill to University Heights. So, I glided down Florida, Left on El Cajon, Right on Park--super easy. Great way to get to those great resturaunts/bars...SMALL BAR...EL ZARAPE...LEI LOUNGE...etc. 3.5 miles...easy peezy.

We got there and learned that it was the LIVE WIRE pub crawl with bikes. We were in good fellow biker company.

Kick Gas Festival Was a Bust....

2009-10-26T20:26:00.000-07:00

Mid day....Day 14...I hopped on the #2 to meet a gal pal at the trolley stop downtown. While on the #2 bus, I met a fellow Croatian named Marco. He was multi tasking and sweating. He had a dress shirt on a hanger in one hand, holding it high so it wouldn't wrinkle and touch the ground. In the other hand he held his cel phone and profusely told his lady that he loved her and that he had a great day with her. As he hung up, he asked me if his shirt was bothering me. I told him NO. Then...he proceeded to tell me it was his first day at a new restaurant that was opening that night. It's called BICE. It's pronounced, BEACH-AYE. He said he's sure people will butcher the name and call it BITCH. That was pretty funny. Marco had a thick Italian sounding accent, however, he proved to me he was Croatian by showing me his Driver's Licence. You see--a true Croatian's last name ends with a "C"...Marco's last name, ended in a "C"...just like mine. We were Croatian brother and sister. We both got off at the same stop and I wished him good luck on his first night at BICE. He was a pro, and I am sure he did well on his first night. As we parted, Marco the Croatian gave me a proper Croatian farewell--double kiss on either side of the cheek. Check out the restaurant...I am curious about the wines... Marco insisted they were "REMARKABLE" http://bicesandiego.com/
As I waited for Kim I found The Red Zone. It's a sports bar on the corner of 5th & C. Looks like there's a new f/b license that was posted, so, Red Zone's days seem numbered. We met there and waited for the trolley. Took the BLUE LINE from downtown to OLD TOWN, we switched to the GREEN LINE and got to Qualcomm in a jiffy. As the trolley rolled up I could tell the Kick Gas Festival was NOT the place to be. It was on a HUGE piece of land. Barely anyone was there. They had 3 big stages. The stages were as big as the Radiohead stage from their concert in Embarcadero a couple years back. It was embarrassing--big stage--small acts---and loads of college kids. As we walked in, we found "The Ticket Booth". There was literally a hand made sign that said "Ticket Booth". We entered, and found a row of women in Bikini's....what they were selling, we're not sure--but--they were rightfully placed directly next to TONY'S SAUSAGE STAND. We walked further and found LLAMAS. Yes, there were LLAMAS. They were called, SOLAR LLAMAS. One had to be 70 pounds or under to ride the Solar Lama. We walked a bit further and found the beer garden. it was the biggest beer garden i've ever seen in my life. Imagine the La Mesa October Fest Beer Garden x 3...this was the same size. We got a beer and found a tug of war game starting just behind us. We saw a row of college kids grabbing the rope and one side and wondered who would be their worthy opponents. Of course...it's the bikini girls. VOILLA...they appeared out of no where. They had some help from some very kind college fellas...and guess what??? They won! The whole experience was really weird and at best reminded us of a 7th grade science fair. Everything was home made with magic markers, and there was no connection between the vendors, and saving the planet. I was happy that we rode the trolley in. It somehow justified the experience. It also justified us leaving in a huge Toyota Tundra with a cab on the back. Our friends took us home from the event...and we carried on from there. So, the good news---is that, the trolley is very easy to ride--and we learned about a new restaurant in the Gaslamp called BICE. The bad news is that San Diego has a ways to go before they have a fully evolved GREEN FESTIVAL promoting public transportation. I do think the intentions were good..and 5 years from now--Watch Out--KICK GAS FESTIVAL 2014 will be the place to be.

Day 14...Old friends...

2009-10-24T11:45:00.000-07:00

What a great morning on the bike. It wasn't even 11 AM and I had already logged 11 miles on my bike. THAT feels fantastic! This was the first day I "ran errands" on Baby Blue. It was so fun. Dry Cleaner, Grocery and Candle Store. My satchel of goodness was very busy today. Along the way, as I rode up Island Street (PS--this is the perfect incline from downtown to southpark---Broadway, and C are killer hills...) anyway, I as rode up Island street, I saw some pop up tents in the distance.... It appeared there was a mini neighborhood festival of sorts. Nothing makes me happier than pop up tents on a sunny Saturday. As I approached the tents, I bumped into 2 old buddies of mine--Ricardo and Gerry. It had been so long since I have seen them, and it was such a fortuitous treat. They both are doing great and just opened a new coffee shop in that hood called: Latte Mi Corazon. www.lattemicorazon.com I am definitely going to check it out next week. Had I never been on my bike, I would have never bumped into 2 of my favorite blasts from the pasts, and never would have heard about the new coffee shop. Another random act of kindness is that Kathy from the bike coalition sent me a helpful book called: "Street Smarts: Riding Confidently, Legally, and Safely". I definitely need to take a gander at that thing. My neighbor friend Angela called me "Kamikaze Mandi" the other day as she referred to my bike riding. I take that as a sign that I am not safe or legal on the bike. Thanks Kathy for the tips.

So, today, we are going to the KICK GAS festival. It is at Qualcomm. We are not riding our bikes there. We are taking the trolley--Blue line to Orange Line--easy peezy.

day 13,,,,

2009-10-23T23:14:00.000-07:00

Lucky # 13. WOW, those new tires make me ride so fast. I got to work 7 minutes faster today. So, now it only takes 10 minutest to get there. Riding my bike makes me realize what a horrible driver I am. I am painfully aware of cars that are turning right, or, merging into 3 lanes to the left...or are parked and about to open their door on my face and make me a mashed potatoe bike road mess. Tomorrow is the KICK GAS event. I can't wait. An entire day of Eco Friendly goodness.

"I'm gonna write a letter".....

2009-10-21T08:05:00.000-07:00

Have you ever known someone that everytime something goes wrong, they say, "That's It...I'm Writing A Letter". I have known many people to say this, and never do this. Well, I did it. The objective is to get a BIKE STATION in San Diego. I want one of these in San Diego so bad. We need one. I sent a letter to the exectuve team at BikeStation.Mobis Transportation. These people own Bike station. They were featured in last month's FAST COMPANY magazine. Long Beach and Palo Alto have a Bike Station. San Diego is such a "Biker's Paradise" but...we don't have anything like "Bike Station" and we need it. Join my mission to get San Diego a Bike Station. http://www.bikestation.com/ Check out the progress....

Letter--to Bikestation from Me 10/11/09:
Hello Andrea, Bill, Bruckner, Steve, Matthew OR Andrew! How are you today? I am not sure who in your company reads the general inquiries so a proper greeting to all is in order. A couple weeks ago I read Andrea's article in Fast Company mag. I was really intrigued by what she said. 1 week later I went to New Belgium;s Tour De Fat, where the Funeral of the Car was 1 of the many awesome bike enthusiast experiences. It got me to thinking...."What do we need to do to get San Diego a Bike Station?" What is your process of setting them up in Long Beach, Palo Alto-etc? Who do I need to write a letter too or harass a bit about the importance to have one of these in SD proper? I am sure in your business plan, you have key decision makers, and influencers. When you are soliciting cities for new business, who are your targets?
I am a rookie bike rider, but, am on board with helping to get a Bikestation in San Diego. Any advice you can give on who we reach out too in support of your business would be much appreciated.

Mandi

10/14/09: Email from Bike Station--Bill Ewing to Me:

Hi Mandi,
Thank you for your email and your interest in us. We do not currently have plans in San Diego. Bikestation are public infrastructure and it always starts with a few people pushing the system locally. I hope that might be you. The planners and transit authorities are usually the catalyst stakeholders. San Diego is one of the places we should have a few Bikestations.

All the best,
Bill
Bill EwingMobis Transportation Alternatives Bikestationwww.mobisinc.com www.bikestation.comT 562 733 0106 F 562 733 0107E bewing@bikestation.com

10/14/09: Email to Bill from Me:

Hi Bill, great to hear from you. I agree, everything good starts with a few people pushing the system. If I were to do some pushing, which job titles do you normally start with? Is it the city planner? All I need from you is a title of people that have made it happen in your other cities, and I will take it from here. I have plenty of other pushers that will help me too. If you can help me with the specific titles in Palo Alto and Long Beach that have made it happen, that will give me a good starting point. I 'd like to give some examples.
Also, do you have the main contacts from other cities with Bike Stations? If I can call them, and pick their brain, it will give me more ammo when I am speaking to the decision makers in our city.

Mandi

10/15/09: Email to me from Bill:
Each city is different and has their own fragmentation issues. Any title that has Planning, Transportation, Bike or Sustainability is a fantastic place to start. My regards,Bill

Karma Police...

2009-10-20T20:06:00.000-07:00

Day 7--Retroactive.... I know I am on day 10, but, I forgot to share something very important from Day 7. On my way home from dinner on Day 7, while on the bus, I checked my voice messages. My coolest neighbor friends ever left me a message. "Mandi, Curtis and I were at dinner and we were thinking your bike may go faster if you had different tires. We went to the store and bought you 2 new road bike tires. The cost is $25.00 and the labor is free. If you don't want to do this, no worries, we'll take the tires back. Curtis likes to tinker with bikes, so, it's no problem for him." What? Are you kidding me? How awesome is that? My neighbor friends are so friggin' cool that they bought 2 new tires for the bike, and installed them on the bike when I got back. All I had to do was give them $25.00. How amazing? I am so lucky to have awesome neighbor friends, and even more lucky that Curtis used to own a bike shop and loves putting fast tires on a slow bike. Guess what??? That 11 mile bike ride on Sunday was fast like greased lightning. It was all because of the random act of kindness from the Coolest Most Awesome Neighbor Friends--Angela and Curtis--on the whole planet!! Anyone reading this--PAY IT FORWARD. Go out and do something nice for someone today. It feels good to do, and it feels good to be on the receiving end of 2 new shiny wheels!

Boards, Bikes and Beer

2009-10-20T10:52:00.000-07:00

Day 8. The Boards, Bikes and Beer festival started at 12 noon at the Catamaran. Our friend Andy partnered with Andy to organize the event. Proceeds went to Discover PB, so, of course we volunteered to help the cause. It was Angela's birthday. For her birthday, to support Andy and his PB mission, and to add to the bike adventures....we rode our bikes to the event. 11 miles it would take. The "Johnson" sisters and I met at 10:30 in Golden Hill and made the trek. We took Broadway to Pacific Coast Highway to Sports Arena Blvd to Mission Beach. It took us about an hour, and it was stunning!! Down hill on Broadway through traffic, dodging buses and cars was just a teaser for the 5 lane highway with cars furiously merging onto PCH. I know I've said this before, but, for all you car drivers out there (me included) Cars are soooooooooooo unaware of bike riders on the road. As a driver---you have to watch for bikers on the right, when you're turning right. As a driver, you need to watch for bikers on the left, when your car is parking on the street and you're opening your car door. As a driver, if you're going to make a quick merge over 3 lanes on the road into the left lane....take a look in your rear view mirror--and look for bikers and other cars will you? For the love of Pete...I know I am a horrible driver, but, I never realized how my driving can impact bike riders until I became one. Once we got through PCH and rode over the bridge on the bike trail into Mission Bay--it was stunning. The best part of the ride was over the bridge, over the water and along the bay. Again, the water was super calm and the breeze in SD was perfect on Sunday. It's funny that I rode over the bridge. My family will barely believe me using the word, "bridge" and "happy place" in the same sentence. When I was a little girl, I was petrified of bridges. As a family we were watching Ripley's Believe It Or Not when I was about 7. There was a surge back in the 80's of drivers in HOLLAND that would drive into canals. Apparently, Holland was no good with their "Warning there's a canal 50 feet ahead" signage, and the road would end and cars would drive into them. For some reason that image of the car going under water and people being trapped in it stuck in my head, and I've been afraid of bridges ever since. (thanks Mom/Dad for the scar:) My fear of bridges was conquered when I moved to San Diego 9 years ago and drove over the Coronado Bridge for the first time. Now, I am the biggest fan of bridges. In fact---one of my favorite San Diego Landmarks is the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge. I used to run and ride my bike over it all the time when I used to live in Bankers Hill. It's a historical landmark and was built in 1913ish. Another notable bridge that's been there forever, but, I just found is the Musical Bridge. It's on 25th and Market and goes over the 94 highway in Golden Hill. If you walk over the bridge, grab a stick as you approach. You can run the stick over the "chimes" on the left side of the bridge and it really sounds like a bell or a musical medley of goodness. Apparently, it's another historical San Diego landmark. So, the bridge over the bay into Mission Beach was amazing. The event was amazing also. The "Johnson" sisters and I looked like a band of bike bitches walking with my big red satchel on my back, and our 3 helmets strapped to the back of it. I am sure we scared the very nice and polite brunch patrons at the Catamaran. We drank beer first, then volunteered. Along the way, I learned some things. I met this amazing couple who had just finished a 40 person bike ride from Phoenix to San Diego. They were raising money for Marines that served in the middle east and when they get back, each of them get $1000.00 to do whatever they want for them. They raised $140,000.00 total for the organization. I asked the one woman what her favorite part was, she said, "I was riding with some of the veterans who were injured. They were stronger than I was going up the highest hill, the highest point. When I got to the top, I cried." That was pretty powerful. They gave me their website, I need to check it out: www.therideofsemperfi.com

I also learned about Butt Butter. This is not something I will consider trying, but, apparently, it's most commonly used among the "male riders" for various reasons. I guess it's the best trick out there to protect the "nether regions".

So, 1 long bike ride down, another great event, and loads more info about bike riding.

Eyes Wide Open.....

2009-10-18T09:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday's bus/bike adventure was new in every way. I had to get from work which is downtown up to NorthPark for a quick bite to eat. I was exausted from the work marathon from the previous 48 hours, but, I didn't want to cheat--again. So....I learned if I ride my bike to the 12th/Imperial MTS station, I can hop on the 11 bus to Adams avenue, and that would take me to El Zarape, where I would meet a gal pal for a quick dinner. I've never actually put my bike on the bus rack, but had read horror stories about people stealing bikes off the front of the bus while the bus was stopped. I proceeded with caution. I was more concerned about jumping in front of that big bus to load my bike onto the front of it, and less concerned about the theft. Getting my bike stolen off the bus while I was actually on it, would probably cause some sort of chase scene, which would actually be a good story, so, my concern weighed more heavily on the bike loading sitch. (Sitch - situation in Mandi-speak) I rode over to the 12th/Imperial station, bought my $5.00 day pass which gets me onto any MTS transport anywhere in SD county--trolley, bus, etc. I was to look for the #11. It rolled up, I walked over to the bus driver's window, and said, "Excuse me, I have a bike, I've never done this before, can u help me?" Although she had a crew of new passengers loading the bus, she was very accomodating. She got off the bus, and showed me to pull the rack down, pull down the front lever, load my bike with the front tire, near the front lever, and clasp the lever. VOILLA! We did it. It was so easy. Then I looked at her and said, "Does this bus go to Adams Avenue?" And she said, "NO". You'll take the next #11 that will be here any second. I unlevered my bike, lifted it off the rack and waited for the "next #11". Thank God she was so accomodating and gave me a quick bike loading tutorial. Then..the next #11 came up, I was a pro in the bike load dept. I knew exactly what to do, pull down the rack, load the bike, secure the lever--and VOILLA! This time...we were on our way. I made my way to the back of the bus.. not in a Rosa Parks sorta way--but, in a "i like to sit in the back of the bus" sorta way. It's probably a throw back to being in 4th or 5th grade when all the cool kids sat in the back of the bus. I can't remember being that cool, but, I do remember the back of the bus was cool. Anyway, I ended up sitting next to a gal who seemed to be mildly normal. Anyone who has ridden a bus in any city knows that it represents the city's best and most diverse people. She seemed more like me than anyone else on the bus. She was asking the bus driver about a route, and I went in for the intro. "Excuse me, do you ride the bus because you don't have a car, or for environmental reasons?" Most people are agitated or mortified by my questions--but she was very welcoming. She replied: "Well, my husband is a hippie. We have 1 car, but, whenever possible we don't drive it. In fact, there is a festival next weekend called Kick Gass celebrating not driving your car and only taking public transportation. My husband's band is playing at it. It's sponsored by MTS and it's at Quallcomm stadium". WOW, I was so delighted to hear this. Had I never taken the next #11 bus, and never sat in the back of the bus, I never would have heard about this new event. We carried on a long conversation about various topics when I noticed she had 2 large bags with her. 1 of them was bright pink. So, I asked: "Where are you coming from with those 2 big bags?" She said, "TJ". "TJ??? Did you go shopping for the day?" She went on to tell me that she was in TJ for the week giving a stress relief workshop. She is a psychologist and was speaking to women about ways to reduce stress in their lives. She said exercise--bike riding and walking specifically--are the top ways. She also went on to educate me on Cortizal. She said that women get "grease" around their belly from Cortizal. I asked, "Grease" what do you mean?" She had a heavy accent so as she tried to translate what "grease" was I suggested she was talking about FAT. "Do you mean fat? like fat rolls on your stomach?" She said, "Yes". It was time for her to leave the bus, and as she got off she said, "I will leave a ticket for you next week with your name on it at the Kick Gass event"... I am totally going. Can't wait

I Cheated....ish...

2009-10-17T21:21:00.000-07:00

Well, alot has happened in the last 72 hours. Some notables:
1. I made it 1 week without driving my car!--HOORAY!
2. I am incredibly sleep deprived and am writing this with 1 eye open---
3. I've learned alot about bus/bike etiquette--let's just call this one-"trial & error"--mostly error--
4. I already knew my neighbor/friends were the coolest people in the world--but--their random act of kindness tonight, coupled with their endless knowledge of bikes--and the accessories to follow, bumps them into the rock star-a-rama category-for sure.

So, I cheated--I think. You be the judge and let me know. The Harvest Fest was great. The unicorn that scooped me up for the adventure was Kim--(my friend and Bill's girlfriend). She was a great driver. It was the 1st time I was in a car in 5 days. Previous to that--all bike rides. If there's 3 of us in the car, and it's not my car, and I am not driving--we're still saving gas and saving the planet--right? I call this the "little white lie" cheat. Harvest fest was fun, filled with wines o plenty, a dueling chef cook off, and a beer stand. We lost track of time when Bill made us leave in a mad dash realizing he was late to the concert. He forgot his phone in the unicorn's car, and my hands were full with my camera, beer and that weird plastic plate with the hole in the side that also holds your wine glass. Good for networking events--bad for girls with bad balance--like me. Needless to say, I was not looking at my phone--or the time--when we realized it was 9:15--YIKES.. We were suppose to call the unicorn for the pick up so Bill and Unicorn can go to the concert. The next thing I know I was racing outside with Bill. Let's add in that Bill is 6 foot 1 million and I am 5 foot nothing, so, his 1 stride is 7 for me. He was sauntering out the door--I was sprinting. Before I knew it, Bill was trying to give me money for a cab, I declined--I didn't realize until I got in the cab why we was flashing 20 spots at me like I was a Taiwanese Connect 4 Champion, and then I hopped in my own cab. We parted ways... I went home. Unicorn and I caught up on the phone and it seemed like everyone's night ended up OK. This was the 2nd time i cheated... Is taking a cab, with 1 other person--that person being "the driver" cheating? It was a moment of weakness with 20 dollar bills flying at me, and a mad dash was involved. I think I can also let this one slide as "the little white lie that never could?" I am going to pretend like it never happened. So, in 1 day, I had 2 car rides. Next day, I had to do the grand daddy of all packing when I had to prepare for being at work all day long, into the night, and to get myself home that night, somehow without cheating again. So...I rode my bike in--my back pack was so full, it was busting at the seems...literally. I got to work, and realized, I had to do 2 airport pick ups for customers. I had to drive the company car which is a Prius. Again, it's a Prius, and each time I had 2+ passengers---is that cheating?? I think it's an authorized cheat. What was I gonna do, tell my clients to ride on my handle bars?? I think this was an OK exception to the rule. The day and night went by very very fast and furious when I realized it was midnight, and I had to be back at work the next morning at 7:30 AM. All wound up, not being able to sleep, not having my head light for my helmet, and no reflective vest in sight...I cheated for the 4th time--I took a cab!!!! This one was a bad cheat. I could have taken the bus. I got home, laid awake for hours just trying to settle down from my very exciting 2 days at work, and finally fell asleep at 2ish. 530 rolled around the next morning, and I sprung out of bed. My bike is at work, i am at my house, and I can't take a cab in. So....I got ready, gave myself 3o minutes and walked in. It was a nice morning walk. It was a little sprinkly outside, which is weird for San Diego...but, it felt good. I went through my work day, again--very fast and very furious, and ended at 5pmish. So.....do all of these "cheats" really count? Could any of them be "prevented"?? The Unicorn carpool and the client pick up/drop offs in the Company Prius are acceptable. Definitely, hall pass worthy. The cab home from Harvest and from client dinner could have been prevented. I could have taken the bus each time. And....now that I am a near-expert with the bus routes in San Diego, and know how easy it would have been to get a bus from both spots...I should have taken it. To make up for my cheats, and now that I've told on myself....I will add 2 days onto the 30 day trial. It will now end on November 13th. I think it's fair...don't you???

More about the bus etiquette, the errors and the coolest neighbors ever, next time... For now...hitting the hay...all this cheating and fast /ferociousness is exhausting...

Pork Loin--$10.75

2009-10-14T20:11:00.000-07:00

This morning I gave my nether regions a break and walked to work. It takes appx. 30 minutes to walk from my house to work. Along the way I noticed many things I would not otherwise notice had I been driving my car. For example, as I walked past The Turf Club--a fantastic local dive bar that has cheap/stiff drinks and specializes in grilling your own food--they had a very small, 8 x 10 flyer posted at eye level that said: "Special Tonight: Pork Loin--$10.75" Who wouldda thunk? And...as I sauntered past Broadway as I entered into downtown at 7:40 AM...I found a new place---well--at least it was new to me....it was called "Wolfy's" yes, "Wolfy's" something about Chicago was on the sign, and a small derby style hat was over the "o" in Wolfy's. I am assuming it's a bar/eating establishment combo--but, still, I'd never seen it before. My normal route takes me down 8th through Petco Park and to the hotel. Although I was on foot...today was the same. I ended up biking home in record time. The nether regions feel tougher than ever and I am ready for my next ride. My friend Andy---who is an avid biker--among many things--invited me to volunteer for the Boards, Bikes and Brews event on Sunday in Pacific Beach. It's Angela, our gal pal's bday, so we decided to volunteer from 12 - 2, then join in the festivities after. As a team, we are going to bike our way there. We agreed--via email--that she would pick the route there, and I will figure out how to get us home. It's likely we'll be tipsy, and in an unrideable condition--so, putting the bike on the front of a bus will be a fun and new experience. Details will follow. Tomorrow is the Harvest Fest. Bill says he has the transportation all worked out. Tonight will be the first night in 4 nights where I don't pack my bag, and pick out my work clothes before I go to bed. No post slumber bag packing strategy---what will I do? I think I'll stay up 20 extra minutes!! It's like when we were kids and it got light later, where we were aloud to stay out until 8 p, instead of 7 p. Very excited.

Getting Creative...

2009-10-13T20:12:00.000-07:00

My nether regions still hurt. I need to give them a ride off. So, I rode into work, and walked home today. I rode into work today and got there in 17 minutes. This is 4 minutes longer than my average 13 minute ride in....but, I wasn't speed demoning it down the hill like I normally do. I had to look presentable, so, I coasted in this morning. Worked all day and was suppose to conduct a boot camp class at 6 p, then ride home. We had a long meeting that was very informative and quite nice....but, it took the energy straight out of me. I cancelled boot camp. The ride in front of me seemed daunting, especially since I had to go grocery shopping and carry groceries in my satchel while riding up that god forsaken hill. I decided I'd walk home today. I got my groceries, and began the journey. I talked to a gal pal on the phone as I hauled tofu, bananas, broccoli, chicken, assorted veggies, and my lap top on my satchel. As I was walking up that hill my satchel came loose and my bananas fell out behind me. It ended up jumping at the back of my ankle and I was sure I was getting bit by an animal. Oh no...no animal..just a jumping banana. Since it's dark, and i left my glasses at work, I couldn't see at first that it was my bananas. I stopped, reloaded, adjusted the satchel and headed back up the hill. In a moment of weakness I went to the local liquor store and got nacho chips, cheddar cheese and a 6 pack of beer. Am I emotional eating because I am stressed from the walk? Maybe....but, thank God I have my jumping bananas and Tofu to fall back on. It takes about 35 minutes to walk to work, so, I will leave extra early tomorrow, work for the day, workout at the gym after work, then bike it back home. As long as I don't use my car, I am still honoring the 30 day Trial.....but, my next magic trick will be to figure out how I will get to Balboa Park on Thursday for an event, and to LaJolla on Friday for another...My plus 1 for each is not aloud to drive me according to the rules....so, it's bike, walk or bus for both of us. Let's see if they're willing to play in the 30 day trial sandbox...

The Trip to the Airport......

2009-10-12T19:51:00.000-07:00

10/12/09, 7:52 PM...The Airport Ride....Well, I did it. I left my house at 5:15 AM this morning on Baby Blue, made it there by 5:50 for my 6:35 flight to San Fran. Made it back to SD by 6:15 P tonight, and home by 7:00 P sharp. Those are the basics. Here's the meat in between...

It's really dark in October at 5:15 AM. I couldn't find my helmet light, so, I opted for a reflective jacket. (mom, that was your influence..thanks for the idea) There is absolutely nothing on the roads in San Diego in the morning except for buses and homeless people. Buses are very cautious, as was I. The homeless people edge the outline of Harbor Drive. It is so Serene to ride on the bay so early in the morning. The water is so still, and it is so silent, so nice. I was having a moment of serenity on my bike, with my reflective vest, without my helmet light, in the dark, on the way to the airport, without my iPod blaring in my ears when I accidentally ran over a homeless man's hand. He grunted at me. I think it was a man, if not, it was a very masculine grunt from a very broad shouldered homeless woman wearing a Snuggie. You see....the edging of the sidewalk on harbor drive is real rickety. It twists and turns and curves, and frankly, I was too afraid to ride on the street because of the mad dash people were making for the airport. As I approached Harbor Island area, I started riding on the side walk, and discovered buffets of homeless people. In an effort to not fall in the water, and dodge the homeless man to my right, I ran over a homeless hand on the left. I said I was sorry and sped away. He/She seemed OK. If my iPod was blaring, I would not have heard it. Thank the heavens I was enjoying my moments of morning silence, otherwise I would have thought the homeless hand was just another curve, bump in the road. At least I got in an apology. Speaking of curves and bumps in the road.....can we all say a prayer to the bike Gods for my nether regions?? Riding a bike every day is great cardio and great for my quads, but, there has to be a solution to my ailing nether regions. I am not talking about my ass....use your imagination..but, I am sure I look like I have been riding a horse for 4 days. Do you think there is a special seat, or shorts, or padding a girl can find to protect her nether regions? The "nethers" only hurt as soon as I hop on my bike. It goes away minutes later when I have to refocus on the bumps in the road and dodging homeless people...but, the pain is insane. I have learned a recent survival skill which is to stand up off my seat when I go over a big curve. That prevents some of the nether region pain. I arrived at the airport at 5:50 A and found the bike rack in Terminal 1 near the parking lot. The bike parking area is about the same as what you'd see at McDonalds. It's 2 curly red racks. The bike racks at my work are more sophisticated, and secure. I was running late, so, I got through security, made a mad dash for the bathroom, changed out of my ride clothes and into my work clothes then borded the airpolane. I am pretty sure I looked/smelled like sweat at my meetings today. This is something I need to work on..because, it's gross, and not very presentable. I can only get away with the "I rode my bike in...." excuse so many times before I become "that girl" in the office.. Meetings in San Fran were great, I changed back into riding gear at SFO to ensure a comfy ride back, and saddled up my back pack for the ride home. Upon arriving back to SD tonight, there was my Baby Blue. She was all in tact and not stolen off the not-so-safe red rack. I realize....cars do not care if you're on the road. I am just as guilty of a driver as anyone, but, I made a maternal finger wag more than once at an inattentive driver or two when it was my turn to cross. They decided to just keep driving.....Come hell or high water, we'll raise driver awareness, even if I have to run over homeless people and wreck my nether regions...at least there will be better drivers out there.. So, here I am 8.6 miles later...safe and sound. I just ordered a new light for my helmet. (yes mom, I will go 2 or 3 days without my light)...but I will wear my reflective jacket as a decent substitute. My first big challenge is down, next one.....How to go to a fund raiser on Thursday with my friend Bill--without being sweaty when I show up....and not use my car??? I have 2 days to figure it out....any ideas?

Spreading the word....

2009-10-11T21:37:00.000-07:00

OK, the more people told about this wacky mission, the more I learn. In speaking with a friend, I learned there's a movie out called: "No Impact Man". Check out the trailer. It's pretty cool. A dude did everything he could for 1 year to make 0 carbon impact on the environment. It looks like a pretty interesting documentary--especially--since his wife seems to be a total gas guzzling, plastic using, SUV driving, energy sucking modern day American woman. Definitely a clash of the titans that I can't wait to see..somehow...some way. Rode home from work today in 25 minutes flat---not-too-shabby for riding all up hill. I'm totally geared up and ready to go for the 25 minute ride to the airport tomorrow. Luckily--it's all down hill, flat, and around the bay. It will be at 5 AM in the morning...but, it sure will wake me up and get me kick started on the day. I spend the day in meetings in San Francisco tomorrow, then, back home late tomorrow night. Bag packed, work outfit picked out...ready to rock it.... I am really loving this bike gig.

Very Humbling Stats

2009-10-11T13:40:00.000-07:00

10/11/09, I'm back again. I was researching how long it will take me to get to the airport tomorrow morning. In the process, I learned some very humbling stats.

Home to work: 2.3 miles.
Work to airport: 3.6 miles
Home to airport: 4.3 miles

A serious rider should ride 1 mile in 3 minutes, An average rider, 1 mile in 4 minutes...ME---I ride 1 mile in 5.6 minutes....That really blows. I am going to need to step up my game. So, now, we have a new goal---get to 4 minute miles before the end of the 30 day trial.

Some other interesting info.....The San Diego airport has a bike rack under the elevator in Terminal 1. It does not have a locker/refresh or bike station. Other cities like Long Beach, Seattle and Palo Alto have "Bike stations". Apparently, at a bike station, you can store your bike, get it repaired, buy equipment, and even get a quick refresh. That sure beats the beauty bag. I emailed a great lady at the San Diego Bike Coalition to see if there was anything like that in San Diego... details to follow. In the most recent issue of FAST COMPANY, a CEO named: Andrea White-KJoss is profiled. She is the CEO for Mobis Transportation/Bikestation. She gave some interesting info and stats: "Our existing transportation system has been built around the automobile-parking, service, fuel..." "The biggest reasons people give for not biking to work are fear of theft and inconvenience of showing up to work sweaty..." She goes on to talk about the beauty of the Bikestation, and that for every parking spot for a car, 36 bikes can be stored in the same sized space. It's interesting that in San Diego, such a biker community, that we don't have something like the Bikestation? Perhaps we do, and since I am a "rookie rider" I just don't know it yet. When I find out....I'll report in...

Resources so far:
Mapmyride.com
Fast Company September 09 issue
Good ole, picking up the tele and calling the SD Airport....

Shout Outs and Progress

2009-10-11T12:03:00.000-07:00

10/11/09: Day 2. Yesterday was easy peezy. I had to be at work and be all "prettied up" to meet with clients and walk around the hotel. How did I ride my bike to work in bike clothes, then be ready without looking gross for work? Well, I'm glad you asked.
In my satchel of goodness I packed: work outfit, high heels, body spray, lotion, a fresh change of skivvies, and hair clay. I like the hair clay--it tames my wild Croatian mane. I hit the road. iPod on my ears, Cake and Radiohead playing as the awesome SD breeze whisked past me. I was cautious down the big hill, because I forgot my helmet. It only took me 13 minutes to get to work from my house. It takes me that long to drive to work, so, we're seeing that bike vs. car on the way to work is a wash in terms of time. But, I don't normally hang my head out my window while I drive, so, bike gets a +3 for atmosphere on the work commute. Got to work, presto change-o, hopped out of bike clothes, got my beauty bag, into work clothes and ready to go by 5:50 PM for my appt. It was super easy. The key here is that I have a beauty bag in my office. My work mates know it's there and from time to time they enjoy a spritz of my hypoallergenic deodorant or some face lotion too. It's stocked with everything a gal needs for a quick primp. The best part is that it's PINK. All beauty bags should be PINK--don't you think? I'm lucky because my work has bike racks inside the parking garage, so, I locked Baby Blue up and went to work. A gal pal scooped me up to go to another gal pal's Halloween Harvest Party. This is where I learned I made a misstep in yesterday's entry. You see, I was double dared by a stranger at Tour De Fat to sell my car and only ride my bike or transport myself on foot. That was a big concept, that I couldn't quite get my brain around. While at "The Tour" I tossed the idea to my friends, and my fantastic friend BILL recommended I take it slow and try out a "30 Day Trial" with bike only. Then, that night, I went to see Julie & Julia, the movie. Between the blogging about Julia Childs and Bill's brilliant idea of the trial period, a Blog Was Born! Thank you Bill! Speaking of Shout Outs....my friend Kim is campaigning for her own personal Shout Out in the Dedication Page in my book. She gingerly suggested, "Just consider it"... And...I still am....

So, it's 12:17 PM on a Sunday. I am here at my house. My bike and satchel o goodness are down at work. Next step......walk to work, get my bike and satchel, and ride to the airport. I need to test ride how long it will take to get to the airport. Work to the airport and my house to the airport is about the same distance. I need to do some practice timing for tomorrow's adventure. I leave for San Francisco tomorrow on a 6 AM flight. It's a quickie in/out trip...but...I need to tote my laptop, various work items, and a change of clothes in my satchel, all while being at the airport by 5:00 AM. I'm thinking I need to leave by 4:30 A. I get back at 11:00 PM tomorrow night, so, that ride home is going to be interesting. Definitely a flashing light on the helmet moment. Let's see what happens...... More to follow tomorrow...

Score So far: Bike 3, Car 0.

Advice given or quotes so far from people after explaining this mission:
"I hope you don't get hit by a car"--random man in suit at Hammilton's Pub

"I think you need 2 more lights for your ass"--friend Bill. (I did retort with-"have you seen my ass? there is no chance of ANYONE missing that thing"

Day 1: No Car--Bike It or Bust!

2009-10-10T15:07:00.000-07:00

10/10/09: I did it! I made the commitment. Day 1, here we go. Last week I went to Tour De Fat, which is a bike and beer festival sponsored by New Belgium Beers. The whole event was inspiring. There were thousands of people riding their bikes, celebrating with beer, and preaching about using only their bike as their mode of transportation. They even had a parade called "The Death of The Car". It was a full on funeral procession of a car. There was a marching band, stilt walkers, people chanting and clapping and singing...all of them celebrating their bikes. So, today, I took my baby blue SCHWINN which my sister bought for me for Christmas last year, got the tire fixed, and began my social experiment. Starting today, I will not use my car for anything. I will transport myself via baby blue SCHWINN, by foot, by bus or piggy back, but, for sure...no car. I will do this for the next 30 days as a trial run. If all goes well, who knows...maybe I'll sell my car. Would that be crazy? I can't imagine what I would do without my car? I love my car. It's a very socially responsible good with gas car--BUT---someone double dog dared me at this festival to not use my car for 30 days....so.....here I go...the challenge is on, and the adventure has begun. Let's see how this goes....