In protest against the fare hike put forth by the Chicago Transit Authority, I brought the Iron Horse out of hibernation. I haven't been back here for a week, but I've already spent $26 on transportation. Unacceptable. The reunion with the 'ole girl was bittersweet. I do enjoy riding my bike places-- it's a win for everyone-- the environment, my wallet, my heart, etc. However, her sabbatical did not bring any healing to her ailing gears. Every third or fourth pedal stroke her gears slip. I guess she's still ride-able. Just not quite as steady or efficient as I'd like. I was surprised at my temperature during said bike ride. It was a warm 20-something outside, and I was wearing my fantastic new winter coat, so I guess it's not shocking that I wasn't hypothermic.
While I've missed IH, the ride to the pool tonight (which by the way ended up being closed for an intramural swim meet-- those are good things to post on the website, folks!) just confirmed that I need a new bike. I've been saying that I want to do a half ironman this summer (August 1st), but with my new inability to run more than 3 miles and my continuous lack of a race-respectable bike... my hopes of said race are slowly sinking. We'll see, I guess. I know I need this new bike, but I don't even know where to start looking for it! Who would have thought it'd be this overwhelming?
And just for the record, I know I chose to live in Chicago-- fully aware of its weather patterns. The thing that is different now than the previous winters I've endured here is that I am no longer on a college campus where everything I need is within a quarter mile of where I reside. I work 4 miles away, my gym is 3.5 miles away, the grocery store(s) are hardly a short walk. While these are rather short distances in the grand scheme of things, without a car they become quite the hike. Before, I could make a mad dash and be outside 5.. maybe 10 minutes until I reached the desired destination. Now any outing is an event. And I have learned that I don't like it; that I am not cut out for cold climates. It is unfortunate that this epiphany came when there is still so much of winter to endure.
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I really am rooting for the old girl. I remember when your parents bought you that thing, and am amazed she's lasted this long. I'll cross my fingers she lasts a little longer.
If I had a bike, I would give it to you. I feel your pain on the heart stopping wind chill as well. I'm definitely against it.
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