I’ve been making the conscious effort to choose going by bike in lieu of taking the car as much as possible. It’s practical, economical, refreshing, and I’m digging this slowed down pace of life.

Going by bike has forced me to be in the moment. While I frequently will have my head in the clouds, lost in day dreams (another wonderful side effect to riding), I am fully enjoying the ride. I’m not multitasking. There is no phone checking, texting, making calls, changing radio stations, etc. It’s just me, my bike, my thoughts, and navigating traffic.

And if my zen-like mood isn’t reason enough to opt to go by bike, my little side kick has become quite keen on this mode of transportation as well. So much so, in fact, she sulks in protest when she realizes we are going out the side door instead of the back door – the obvious difference between going by bike and going by car in her wild little mind. But if I’m being honest, her little fits of protest demonstrate exactly how I feel as well.

I guess she is my kid.