Mid-Life Crisis?!

Denise and Cathy, two fun-loving women, were having a quiet coffee at a local cafe when I walked up and asked if I could photograph their bikes.  The women posing with the bikes definitely enhanced the photo.  They labelled the bikes and their pleasure in travelling around the neighborhood with these colourful cycles as "a mid-life crisis" but I tend to differ with them.  I think that these two are wisely enjoying life, drawing attention to their great spirit,  and living in the moment. You go, girls!!

Another self-image

Our cyclists certainly dress differently than those on one of my favorite blogs, Copenhagen Cycle Chic.  Check it out; you'll enjoy the photos. After looking at this shot, I thought about how many times I inadvertently take my own image while trying to capture something interesting: click here and here.

ABC Wednesday-"R" RESPECTFUL RIDERS

Both yesterday and today I decided to post photos for  ABC Wednesday. Last Sunday I posted this photo of a real Bozo who broke all the safety rules of the road for cyclists. By contrast on the same day and on the same street, these two RESPECTED all the safety rules that put no-one at risk.  Well...ALMOST since she is not wearing a helmet, which I've discovered is a Minnesota law! After observing the "bozo" I decided to read the law to be sure that I know what they are and to follow them to stay as safe as possible. There are too many "ghost bikes" standing alone.  Love riding my bike because  it's a recreational sport that can be healthy, convenient, and fun for all!

To see more photos from bloggers from around the world who participate in ABC Wednesday,  go here and enjoy.

Meet Bozo

We followed this Bozo for many blocks.  Although he was riding in the proper bike lane when I snapped this photo, he managed to break many cycling rules as we followed him: ran ALL the red lights, passed unsuspecting and surprised motorists when there weren't bike lanes, cut in front of turning cars at intersections, and even rode several blocks on the wrong side of the street; therefore,  he puts himself and many drivers at risk.  He represents one of my PET  PEEVES--cyclists who do not obey the rules of the road! As a cyclist myself, I appreciate careful motorists and try to do my part. It's a two-way street. I'm annoyed at "Letters to the Editors" that excoriate motorists who do not respect cyclists.  To put it mildly, Bozos like this guy enrage me!!

Cyclists #2-Family Day

This is a common sight during the summer months, especially since so many streets are now clearly marked with paths for "Bikes Only." Great fun for families!

St. Paul Cyclist

There is a blog that I love and visit religiously every day which concentrates on cyclists. Because I like to bicycle, I am attracted to it for several reasons. The riders dress VERY differently than American cyclists: no fancy-pancy riding clothes, no helmets, but lots and lots of class and chic! It has inspired me to try to photograph American cyclists, which is tough since they whiz by so fast. I bet you'd like to see the blog! Copenhagen Cycle Chic.

TODAY IN MINNESOTA: 1820-Captain Stephen Kearny's expedition to find a road from Council Bluffs, Iowa, to Fort St. Anthony (later Snelling) arrives at Lake Pepin, having lost their way. Kearny then marches his men north to the fort. (MN. Historical Society http://events.mnhs.org/bookofdays/)