Friday, July 11, 2014

New Beginnings

It’s a new season of life. In seeing that we all have to start somewhere, I invested in this new whip earlier this week and am looking forward to new adventures. As much impulsivity was involved in this (never fear, some research was too), it was the biking community that rallied around my family this past spring that drove this decision forward.

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A 2013 Fuji Roubaix 1.3 C, it was marked down to make room for the 2015 models coming in the coming weeks. Although the color isn’t what I would have ideally preferred, I couldn’t turn down the price for what I was getting. The specifications for the Fuji were comparable to bikes with an MSRP of 1200$+. My goal was to invest in an entry-level bike that would allow me to grow into it for a few years and withstand weekly use. As I’m just beginning to dip my feet in the waters of the cycling world, the Fuji just made sense for a girl on a budget.

Two rides in and only one fall, so let’s just say it’s a rite of passage. Indianapolis has a fantastic paved trail network, with the Cultural Trail (nationally recognized) through the downtown area as well as the Monon Trail connecting the northern community to downtown. Although I haven't invested in a computer to track my milage yet, I'd estimate each ride at 16 - 18 miles. I'm looking forward to branching out in the coming months to explore more parts of Indiana. Venturing out into the roads brings new challenges and emotions, which is why I'll be sticking to designated paths and side streets until I'm more accustomed to riding.

As for this space itself, I don’t know what direction this is going to take or where my goals are with it right now. I do not ever intend for this to be used as an account of my life, journal, or anything of that nature. Writing is an interest I’d like to expand upon, which is where this place has stemmed from. The ideas are still growing and encompass such a range. Broadly speaking, they revolve around health, community, and advocacy. My overall goal is to write with intention, honesty, and passion.