What’s the Mission?
I’ve been bicycle commuting through all weathers this winter in Portland, Oregon. In December we had a week of sub-freezing temperatures, as well as the usual rain. A snowfall, fortunately, came while I was on winter break, and I didn’t have to ride in it. Last week, we had the rain that wouldn’t quit. Today [...]
Because I’m not. I looked out at the downpour this morning in Portland, Oregon, and promptly went into whine mode.
Yes, we’ve gone from sub-freezing temperatures to a soaking rain. Temperatures are getting into the 40’s, so at least we’re not so cold. The problem is that I don’t have rain pants I had some, but [...]
I almost called this post “Cheating?” Because I felt like I was cheating during some of last week.
First, on Sunday, I messed up and forgot to not drive. Then on Monday, I had to take my daughter to an event at the local Masonic lodge. I’d thought about biking, but in the end, it came [...]
Well, that was different!
Today I didn’t ride my beloved Radish. There’s a steady rain falling in Portland, which actually had me wishing for a car. That’s not an option for me, so instead I rode my old bike to the bus stop and then rode the bus most of the way.
I’d forgotten how different my [...]
I should be leaving RIGHT NOW, but just had to share this excellent video explaining the Idaho Stop Law. It’s about four minutes — please take time to watch it, especially if you live in Oregon.
Bicycles, Rolling Stops, and the Idaho Stop from Spencer Boomhower on Vimeo.
I literally share the road for most of my bicycle commute. I don’t get to ride in a bike lane most of the way. The only real section of bike lane I ride in is for a few blocks on East Burnside; the rest of the time, I’m on residential streets (or, for a few [...]
If I could have one do-over for my life, I would never, ever take out a car loan. I’m certain that this would have saved me both money and trouble over the years.
But I did do it, and in some ways, I think I’m still paying for it, even though the loans are long since [...]
“I’d like to ride my bike to work, but I just don’t think I can do it,” said my husband this morning. “I’m not in good enough shape to make it up that big hill.” [that's the hill up NE 102nd Avenue in Parkrose]
“I ought to ride my bike,” said a co-worker, “but it’s just [...]
