my hyggelig

harumphy...

2011-12-27T12:54:00.009-06:00

So, Christmas is over
and I am feeling a bit harumphy.
I really shouldn't complain,
I mean look at the loves of my life up there!
Who can complain when this is your reality?!!
But...
I always dislike Christmas a bit.
Family drama I try to avoid, and then the guilt for avoiding.
I always feel a bit relieved when it is all over,
ready to move on to longer days
and Summer.

I really shouldn't complain,
I mean look at the weather we have been having!
50+ degrees and Sunny the day after Christmas?
Why...I feel so NorCal...

and YOU KNOW that makes this gal so happy.
So Happy.

I really shouldn't complain,
I have two great adventures planned in the next two months,
and a work trip is brewing to return to my hyggelig.
I have a lot to be excited about.

But then that winter melancholy sets in...
We used to be all about adventuring,
now it seems more like we have been forced to be about maintaining.
In a nutshell, it sucks.
I can take all that damn vitamin d,
throw that sunlamp on in the morning,
think positive thoughts,
plan trips,
but at the end of the day some days,
it just plain sucks.
There, I said it.
Now, on to being less harumphy...

Time to lose the winter weight,
get that head screwed back on tight,
and start figuring it out.
At 40.5, that clock waits for no one...

I am not sure where my hyggelig is headed in 2012.
I have been here for 5 years,
in fact this is post #681.
Typically at this time I take a hiatus,
to focus on life outside of the computer box.
I think I will continue that trend this year.
Right now I have no friday hyggelig's lined up,
no guest posts,
nothing.
I need to refocus.

I've got something pretty exciting planned for myself in January.
Something to teach me new things, take me out of my comfort zone,
to meet new people, to be independent.
I plan to be back here to talk about either how it completely inspired me or
how it completely deflated me. Likely the first...

Thank you to all of you who have stuck with me despite my divergent posts on biking, sewing, biking, family, biking, gardening, biking, art, biking... I may not have a singular focus, be controverisal, like to debate, or a professional bent, but the fact I have been here so long says something about this space. When I discuss quitting blogging with H, he so kindly always asks why I would want to and extolls all the great things about blogging. That's from a man who only tweets. Recognizing what makes us who we are, focusing on what is important, sharing that with others ~ that's what it is all about.

And thank you also to you newbies to my hyggelig. I see you out there, and I appreciate your visits. May you find something in this space in 2012.

For now,
I am officially ON HIATUS...
see you back here in 2012..

Merry Hyggelig Christmas!...

2011-12-25T11:37:00.001-06:00

okay...

2011-12-21T22:01:00.002-06:00

so that mini post turned into about 3 weeks of silence.
once again i question this space.
thinking a lot right now about some upcoming fun,
more about being there right now than here.
we'll see.
for now, this has inspired me.

still thinking...

2011-12-09T07:06:00.005-06:00

I can feel it,
I am starting to wind down
for my January Hiatus...
But I might have one more
mini-series in me
before then.

I will consider this the start.

Night Shot: Me and Lexa To and Fro

This Autumn I found myself riding Lexa
to a number of bikish meetings.
We had a lot of fun together,
Even in the cool and darkness.
What I determined
Is that I do not like the
Po Campo Pilsen
solution I have been trying.
It's a great bag,
but not for going to and fro from meetings
with the stuff I need to haul.
I found my items overflowing into a second bag to carry,
and eventually a backpack, which I am not a fan of.
The one thing that really sets me over the edge,
is that I carry two locks.
I just do.
And so,
as one who is always looking for the perfect solution,
I began to think....
and think....
and think...

still thinking...

subtle...

2011-12-04T20:00:00.004-06:00

How subtle can it get
and still work?
Pretty subtle...

I'm over at the MBC today.
Come visit.

get personal...

2011-12-01T06:32:00.005-06:00

I have finally made my baby gift
that I should have sent in July.
I'm not one to buy off-the shelf items,
so unfortunately I get to it when I get to it.
These Lotta bags are super easy to make
and are great flexible gifts for both baby and mamma.
The last one went to NorCal, this one Oregon.
Cranking out a sewing project is always gratifying,
sending it on to someone I care for, even more so...

And speaking of Lotta,
my local store for all things crafty just got in the new Lotta fabrics.
I took a lovely evening stroll the other night
just to check this new line out.
Love!
Now I need to quickly think of a project
before they all fly out the door!

Oh, and speaking of crafty...
It's been a few years,
but I'm headed back to No Coast this weekend.
If you are in the area, you should definitely check it out.
This year please think about feeding directly into someone's small business pocket,
rather than someone's corporate bottom line.

dear little one...

2011-11-28T07:27:00.006-06:00

photo credit: Camilla Engman
Image located here

In internet land
you feel like you get to 'know' people,
or in some cases
furry friends...
One of those bright spots in my days the last few years,
Morran, a dog from Sweden whose adventures knew no bounds,
has sadly passed on.

Thank you Camilla for sharing Morran.
Thank you Morran for, well, being you!

There is nothing like a furry friend.
Nothing.

In the last few months Camilla has been putting together an amazing book
with the help of some very talented people.
I hope when Camilla is ready to finish this project,
you will show your support.
Great submissions can be seen on Studio Morran.

From our past and present...

our hearts go out.

Rest in peace dear little one...

Camilla has a great Morran set on flickr.

Thank You Stellar November...

2011-11-27T07:50:00.003-06:00

Trek, Minneapolis, & Me
2012.11.25

I am really thankful
for having a few nice long days off.
AND
the stellar November weather this year.
Holiday rides are always the best,
quiet,
reflective,
meditative.
Holiday rides over Thanksgiving?!
Now those can never be beat.
Especially,
when you live in Minnesota,
and this time last year
winter
had already set in,
and hard...

I needed this time.
Each ride makes me feel better
physically
and mentally.

The only bummer is that we had one snow
and of course it became ice and required
lots of sand and salt that is still on the trails.
I found myself riding on the margins to stay out of the
wet and sand for most of my rides this long weekend.
Luckily as I turned to head home there was this nice stretch
of sand-free and sun-filled bliss.

Trek will probably be staying inside now,
and out of the salt and sand.
November,
it was fun while it lasted...

This was an accidental picture I took.
I rather like it.

repair and respect...

2011-11-22T06:15:00.008-06:00

For about the last two months of riding season
(which sadly I have deemed as officially over)
I had this nagging problem when I was out riding.
I ride a lot in this zone, and every time I did,
the bike began to have a mind of its own.

In early September I had a cable issue
that essentially turned my bicycle ride
into a fixie ride for a number of miles
until I could limp into my usual shop.
I thought the change in cables after this would solve the issue,
but it kept getting worse.

Anytime I could bring the Trek in, I wanted to ride,
so I just kept suffering through the annoyance.
Finally, after I rolled 1000, it was time.

H and I like to support good people doing good things,
so Trek was taken to a new shop.
I was a bit nervous because a lot of bicycle shop dudes
don't really speak 'girl speak' and turn to the guy to have a conversation.
Especially when they race together during Cross Season,
or so I feared.

Not Dan.
I told Dan my issues, and it was instantly clear he knows A LOT about bicycles.
I asked him to keep the Trek for a few days to really diagnose the issue.
He came back with another cable replacement
and a gold 'tooth' (ferrule).

And then, the snow set in.

So I haven't been able to get her out for a ride,
but I did officially begin my QTT this weekend
and she shifted with grace.
The forecast is predicting Sunny and 53 on Thanksgiving.
I think you know where I will be...

I appreciate that Dan treated me with complete respect.
And when I had stopped to take my cassette picture,
two groups of male riders yelled out "Everything Okay?"
to me as they passed by.
I always appreciate the bicycling community,
the fact that folks have got my back,
and knowing I am not out there alone.
And yes,
I was MORE thank OKAY,
I was on my bicycle and it was a beautiful day.

Trek and I have been together for nearly 4000 miles.
I think in the Spring she is going to need more than a cable.
I am looking forward to giving her some tweaks,
and taking her with me for the next 4000...

mesmerizing...

2011-11-19T06:00:00.000-06:00

There is nothing
about this
that I do not like.

and these shoes...
are you kidding me?!!!
they have me written ALL over them.
by far the most practical and beautiful
shoes
I have ever seen
at a fashion show.

And the music....
Soledad...
ahhhh...

color, please...

2011-11-18T06:32:00.003-06:00

I pretty much want to crawl inside
of the new J.Crew Catalog
and walk back out looking like this.

Life used to be black and white for me.
Black clothes.
White walls.
Until one NorCal day when I needed a raincoat,
and H pushed me into the blue.
I've never looked back.

Living in Minnesota,
I am thankful I began to embrace color,
because I NEED it here.

Winter,
here you come...
You test me everytime.
Color,
please carry me through...

booked...

2011-11-16T19:02:00.006-06:00

Now to begin the fun part,
research...

Better get reading.

love it...

2011-11-15T21:10:00.000-06:00

lovely, lovely, lovely...

2011-11-13T19:04:00.006-06:00

Lexa basking in the morning Sun

Yesterday was BeaUtiful.
I woke up to SUN
Hopped on Lexa
and rode off in warmth.

A Lovely, Lovely, Lovely
Morning.

turned in to...

very ready for happy hour...(that's Lexa there looking so "City" up on the bars..)

A Lovely, Lovely, Lovely
Day...

I have not been here much lately
because I have been busy
helping to organize a board retreat.
It has been a great experience for me.
The day went well.
The people great as always.
The conversation lively, engaging, smart, funny.

But what I enjoyed most of all was our ride after the meeting
over to happy hour.
I do not often ride with other people,
but there were 10 or so of us, silently gliding,
smiling, laughing, chatting,
out riding our bicycles.
It was a moment for me to cherish,
though not captured on film besides this,
it is forever captured in my heart.

What is better than bicycling?
Bicycling friends.

cheers to beautiful shoes and bicycles...

2011-11-03T12:55:00.005-05:00

I LOVE these shoes.
Oh YES I do.
I started stalking them before my NY trip,
it didn't work out to get them then.
Then...there was a brief moment in time
when they were available online.
And a few short days later
these beauties were on my feet.

What I like about the new shoes
is not only do they LOOK good,
but (wo)man oh (wo)man are they COMFORTABLE.
And comfort is my middle name.

And some of you may have given up on me
thinking I run around in lycra all of the time
and lost all my sense and love of good design.
Not so fast....
That will NEVER happen.

In fact, I'm such a freak about good design and beautiful moments,
that I had this photo shoot planned for the last three weeks
and was waiting for the perfect moment to execute.
Today was that day.
How boring would a picture of just a pair of shoes be?
You've got to accessorize those feet!

AND ~ Here's the Pashley again for you who keep thinking
she has gone into bicycle never never land.
The Pash is the perfect accessory (I know I should say bicycle...)
She is patiently sitting and waiting for me to
slow down
get bored with all this lycra business
and tool around the neighborhood.
I think she may be waiting a loooong time.

Cheer's to beautiful shoes and beautiful bicycles.
And Sun and Lovely Lovely Autumn.

ps ~ yup, that's the top I made all by myself.

40 +1000 +...

2011-11-01T13:05:00.008-05:00

I am pretty freakin' proud of myself.

Let's backtrack a bit...
-I am 40
and I have had a heck of a stressful first half of that.
-The key early summer months in Minneapolis were hindered by winter,
Summer really did not arrive until the week of July 4th.
Because of those two points,
my riding season was purposefully reduced.

I am not a hugely goal oriented gal,
but sometimes in life
you need to set goals for yourself.

Goal 1:
Knowing I would never match the feats
of my last two summers~
1400 miles
AND
1500 miles
I did have in mind
that a nice cool 1000
(hmmms sounds familiar)
would be respectable after a year like this.
Come hell or highwater,
with each ride
I could feel it getting closer
and closer
until it was down to that deceptively easy 300...

Goal 2:
To be able to ride through the end of October.
I need to set myself up for that winter weight gain
by going into it with what I like to feel is a respectably awesome me.
Usually by August I am looking
and feeling
fit
and can enter winter
knowing I will gain a few pounds despite my best efforts,
but I will be okay.
NOT SO EASY WHEN YOU ARE 40 and had a year like I have had.
I feel like I already have that winter weight, and I'm not happy about it.
But one thing that was important to me
was to at least get as much riding in as I could before the end of October.

I am proud to say I met both of my goals and I am a very happy girl.
I've been giving myself a mental pat on the back ever since Sunday.
At about the same time
and about the same place
as last year,
I quietly rolled 1000.
I stopped my bicycle,
gave myself a mental embrace,
and proudly kissed the Trek again.

One of the best things I ever did for myself
was to let H talk me into a road bicycle.
One of the second best things I have ever done for myself
was to use it.
I can't explain the elation I have felt for the last three years.
What I have accomplished has been beyond any goal I ever imagined.
One step at a time,
life begins to embrace us,
or we it.
Time passes.
I feel like 20-40 went in fast forward.
Where did it all go?
It's a difficult reconciliation.
But one thing I will never regret
is taking care of me,
accomplishing my goals,
and being the best me where I am now.

I love good design,
and dressing the part.
But even more right now,
I love fast bicycles
and lycra.
There is a time and a place.

I am much more fit at 40
than I ever was at 20.
Mentally maybe I'm struggling a bit,
physically this year I may be struggling a bit.
But some days I freakin' rock it.

Thank you fast lovin' lycra gal...

ps this doesn't include the miles I put on Lexa.
in fact, a few hours later we biked off to a bikish meeting together...

i do bikey things...

2011-10-25T06:34:00.005-05:00

i do bikey things...
one of my recent bikey things
has been coordinating the launch of
the Minneapolis Bicycle Coalition's very first t-shirt.

shameless plug:
the MBC has a membership deal going on right now
join
and get one of our t's for free.
sounds good eh?
if you live in Minneapolis -
do it
if you live anywhere else -
do it

it takes a lot to get a successful organization off the ground and running
i am proud to count myself as part of this group
i hope you will be too.

now back to regularly scheduled programming...

planting seeds...

2011-10-19T06:58:00.002-05:00

I haven't been here much lately.
When you have been blogging for over 5 years,
now and again you wonder if you want to continue.
You wonder why you bother.
You decide to focus on real life.

But I keep coming back.
Because this space is an outlet for me,
mentally
and
creatively.

I speak my ideas here
in pictures
and
in words.

We are all getting used to our new routine,
H with his new job,
Puppy and I with the new schedule,
and all of us with the Autumn darkness.

When things outside are slowly dying,
I feel some seeds being planted,
and am excited by the possibilities.

moments...

2011-10-11T21:15:00.000-05:00

This just in from Marc ~ I had to share!
Somehow when you run parallel to someone on the blogosphere
for so long, you begin to share moments.
Happy Moments.
Sad Moments.
Proud Moments.
Special Moments.

This is a Moment.

Thank you Marc!
Well done.

pretending...

2011-10-06T21:10:00.000-05:00

I am still here.

I am just still pretending it is Summer.

But I know better...

Life's rhythms have changed.

still not sure about this new blogger interface...

me, him, us...

2011-09-23T16:18:00.003-05:00

me: 40 years 6 months
him: 41 years
us: 16 years

nothing better than a lover's ride
with your sweetie
on your anniversary.

H, you've been pushing me for 16 years,
and today was no exception,
thanks for the nice ride,
today,
and always.

last days of 'freedom'...

2011-09-22T06:23:00.004-05:00

This is from a zen ride I had a couple of weeks ago.
I am hoping to have more of the same this weekend,
but suspect there will be more color in my field of vision.

Monday brings a new routine for this family,
H returns to the world of the employed.
And not only that, he returns to the world of
cubicles, copy machine chatter, and parking spaces,
he has worked from home for nearly a decade.
This is a big deal,
for all of us,
and it is time.

It has been a long ten months.
I lightened up on the bicycling this summer
and focused on our family,
but my 40 year old waist doesn't like it.
Time to hit the bicycle riding hard for the next few weeks
before winter sets in.
Though my cycle computer has logged 755 miles this year,
that's half where I have been the last couple of years.

More exactly,
it's been a hell of a long 5 years.
Minneapolis has at times brought me to my knees.

I have just never recovered from losing NorCal,
This annoys me to no end.
But it is Time to really move on...
To continue the work I have been doing on myself,
reflected in this space,
and for US to advance ourselves and do better.

It is not about letting go,
it is about releasing.
It Is Time.

We are excited for what the future brings, finally.
This fall is feeling like a rebirth.
A time to focus.
A time to nest.
A time to get fit.
A time to plan.
It feels good to turn down a new road,
and begin again...

Happy Friday Everyone!!!
At least it is for me.
H and I are celebrating his last days of 'freedom',
and our wedding anniversary,
by simply being together.

Enjoy those Autumn Colors and
the delicate and warm Autumn Sun!

glowing and dream state...

2011-09-20T07:01:00.003-05:00

I just finished my coffee,
looked up,
and this is what I saw.
Beautiful.
Glowing.
but sailors take warning...

Lots of change coming up around here,
I think it has been causing an interesting dream state
for me of late.
I am not a big dreamer (at night...).
Last night I dreamt I met Mikael.
My sister was there.
That's all I remember.
Friday,
I had a crazy involved work dream
with a rickety roller coaster
spiraling down around a huge Christmas tree.
The subconscious apparently needs an outlet...

bumps and air...

2011-09-17T07:48:00.004-05:00

It's been months since I touched a sewing machine,
but I had a friend coming this week from SF
with a little bump on her belly,
so I got to work and cranked out this super easy diaper bag.
It was so satisfying to actually create something again.
Like cycling, sewing is very zen for me,
turn on some tunes,
meditate,
and create.
I love giving gifts that I have created.
For good or for bad,
I'm just not one to go to the big box and get a run of the mill utility gift.
Making special friends feel special,
that's what it's all about.

Happy Saturday Everyone!
Autumn seems to be upon us.
Change is in the air...
I'm not sure if I mentally can handle where this is all headed,
but I will do my best
once again...

good things make life better...

2011-09-12T06:50:00.007-05:00

Late Summer Nights: Sunny on the way there. Dark on the way home.

we have had a LOVELY string of late SUMMER weather.
I had put on our schedules awhile ago a lecture I wanted to attend.
so I arrived home from work,
put on my favorite cycling skirt,
and off H and I went.

easy peasy parking - dusk to dark

there are many reasons why we rode our bicycles:
1. We live about 4 miles from the destination, an easy peddle on over.
2. Parking at the University is a pain and expensive, not so with a bicycle.
3. I needed to move my body.
4. It is a fun thing to do together, much more fun than sitting in the car.
5. With this gorgeous weather, how could one not want to get out and enjoy it?

I realized later that it was fitting I wore my favorite Japanese fabric skirt.
I want to make more of these skirts,
the waist is a little higher and I shortened the pattern to the perfect length,
both work swell when I feel the need to slip on bicycle shorts underneath
(like on a hot Summer's night going to a lecture when I didn't want sweat stains).

If you haven't noticed on this blog,
I have a thing for art, design, and architecture.
I also have a thing that's been brewing for awhile
for Japan.
I hope to continue to focus on those things here
because they are what make me me,
make my days more interesting,
stretch my brain,
and make the world a better place.

photo: Atelier Bow-Wow "Pony Garden"

Atelier Bow-Wow is my new favorite.
I learned so much at this lecture.
Most of all I appreciate their approach to architecture and space.
What a wonderful thing when the spaces we move in
change our behaviors for the better.
If we all could be so lucky to spend time in one of their spaces,
what a better place the world would be...

pretty big things...

2011-09-11T21:08:00.003-05:00

pretty little things...

2011-09-09T06:21:00.002-05:00

night life...

2011-09-08T07:08:00.007-05:00

We have never been much for nightlife,
but we do enjoy a good evening walk around the lake on warm summer nights.
Is this picture of the pup awesome or what? He looks like a strange alien super creature.
Photography surprises are fun.

We also found a nice little spot on a Holiday Sunday night to discuss

art, life, us.

I hate to say it, but sometimes Minneapolis just gets under my skin.

On another note, does anyone else out there use the new blogger posting template and dashboard interface?
I have stuck to the old blogger templates for the longest time, especially for posting, but I am trying to finally go with the new modern age. My beef with the posting templates in blogger (old and new) is that when you preview what you have done, they never look like they did in the draft. You have to monkey around with a lot of weird formatting to actually get it to look like it does when you are writing your post. Like for example in the new posting template, the text aligns to the right of my pictures, I want it underneath - I can't find a way to do that, so I have to return about 30 times and then return some more to get it to look right in the preview and then there are HUGE white space gaps in the preview. Then in the old blogger posting template, it doesn't read returns at the end of my lines correctly, so I have to go in and return on every line AGAIN. wtf?

Also, formatting pictures is more rigid with the new posting template. I can't be a free spirit, I am limited to small, medium, large, right, center, left. I HATE that.

Maybe I need to go to some blogger 101 after 5 years?! Any advice is appreciated.
I just had to go back to the old old blogger posting template and interface to get this to look how I wanted it to! Gurr!!!
I have been a loyal blogger for 5 years, but this is getting really annoying...

2011-09-06T06:50:00.000-05:00

Lovely to have a few days together.

To find Our Inland Ocean.

To hike Our Midwest Mountain.

yes, she's still with me...

2011-08-30T06:32:00.004-05:00

Where has the Pash been
since my last post about her?
Do I still have her?
Yes.
We had a bit of a reunion last Saturday.

You want more?
That's for a more philosophical day.
For now,
let's just say,
going somewhere you have once been
isn't always the same when you return.

about more than the bicycle...

2011-08-27T07:45:00.006-05:00

I am an absolute sucker for any move that plays over a minute
of an elegant French woman riding her bicycle around Corsica in a skirt
during the opening sequence.
I knew nothing of this movie
and initially the concept seemed odd ~ chess?
But not only was the bicycling beautiful, so was the message of the movie.
A seemingly simple path
does not mean a simple decision.
I loved it.
And yes,
I watched that opening sequence more than once...

Happy Saturday Everyone!
I am itching to go for a ride,
but Pups is begging for attention.
We will see what the day brings...
Sometimes life is about more than the bicycle.

I realized today I talk about movies more than I thought, so I have added a new movie label on the sidebar.
go here: movies

hus&hem inspiration...

2011-08-24T06:41:00.008-05:00

I have been drooling over
Hus&Hem
all morning whilst drinking my coffee.
Inspired for my patio rework,
inspired for a new kitchen someday,
inspired for a privacy solution for my backyard,
and inspired to go to my hyggelig.
Oh how I love Scandinavia
and good
clean
simple
honest
design.

and thank you
google translator!

morning...afternoon...

2011-08-20T15:41:00.002-05:00

Saturday morning...

Saturday afternoon...

So good to back in the saddle.
So good to be back with my boys.

when pigs fly...

2011-08-19T06:36:00.003-05:00

I am back from New York.
And something strange has happened to me.
I am actually glad to be 'home',
in Minnesota.

I have always felt
my ability to come 'home'
to Minneapolis,
and be happy about it,
would occur about at the same time pigs would fly.
Has five years beaten me down,
or has five years changed me?
NorCal will always be
where my heart is,
and I know someday I will go back.
But for now,
I am glad to be back where there is space,
where it is green,
and where I can freely ride my bicycle
all weekend long
to places that calm my heart.
Minneapolis has gotten a bit under my skin,
though a bit shocking,
not entirely surprising
given all that is good here.

Speaking of when pigs fly...
My co-op has a new mural.
It is fun,
light,
happy.
I want to hang out with that pig,
they've got it all goin' on!
I mean,
how cool is an overall-wearing,
backpack-toting,
pig on a bicycle?

Happy Friday Everyone!
Don't wait for pigs to fly,
make the most of where you are at now.
My plans are for lots of
bicycle happiness this weekend,
how about you?

Summer's evening ~ new york

2011-08-17T07:12:00.004-05:00

The area surrounding the High Line
on a delicately warm
Summer's Evening
is my new favorite.
Especially Chelsea Market.

New York,
when one isn't working,
could be oh so much fun...

I should say that I took that picture of the coffee shop exclusively because of the bicycle in the background. Visually a great accent to an already cool vibe. Yup, I'm bikey like that...

This...

2011-08-15T21:48:00.005-05:00

It was a long day.
NY was wearing thin on me,
and so was not having any alone time.

But this...
This...
was worth it.
I made it at last.

bicycle things ~ new york...

2011-08-14T06:00:00.003-05:00

New York grace, dodging those pesky cabs in the bicycle lane.

I arrived in New York
with my colleagues
Saturday afternoon.
Not free to wander alone,
I let my brain and eyes
take their own journey
as we walked the city together.
As always,
I was in my own world...

Looking at the beauty in the diversity,
the leggy model types at the French bistro,
and the leggy model being photographed
on the street corner.
Inspiration everywhere I turn,
the people,
the buildings,
the interiors.

My eyes at the same time
see bicycle things,
my brain thinks about bicycle things.

In SoHo people merged into the bicycle lanes
due to busy Saturday pedestrian traffic.

I was embarrassed that my cab dropped us off
in the bicycle lane.

My day in New York was also filled
with seeing bicycle lanes all over the city,
people on bicycles all over the city,
bicycles in store windows
(Madewell stands out, wish I could have gotten a pic),
bicycles parked,
a woman riding her friends bicycle
like it was the first time,
a family working their way down the bicycle lane,
people on expensive bicycles,
people on old bicycles,
people stylin' it,
people just trying to get home.
New York is perfect for bicycling,
it is flat,
a bicycle is more efficient than a car,
and you are part of the life.
It's just all those darn
cabs, cars, and people
you have to look out for.

I'm an SF gal,
but if I found myself here,
a Dutch-Style bicycle,
without a doubt,
would be a great way to traverse the city.
No need for speed here,
careful, steady, and strong is what you need.

New York,
it's been 7 years,
and I am impressed.
All those green bicycle lanes I have read about,
all those people spaces where a street used to be,
it's all true,
and I like it.
Just think how grand it will be if you keep going...

savor every moment...

2011-08-13T06:00:00.002-05:00

I am in New York for a few days.
All work,
likely no play.
The last time I was in New York
I arrived on this truck
with a few Chagall's
keeping me company.
That was unbelievably
nearly 7 years ago now.

Wow does life whiz by,
and oh how it changes.

Savor
every
moment.

content...

2011-08-11T06:56:00.004-05:00

I have been busy with family the last week.
One benefit of which was
enjoying a lazy afternoon
resting,
eating gelato by the River,
taking a walk,
and going out to what this City girl calls
"the country".
Once again,
playing tourist in my town
can be a refreshing break.
I may not always love it here,
but in moments like this
I feel very content.

Now off to pack for NY...

i've fallen...

2011-08-05T07:07:00.004-05:00

Out of Stock?!!!
Seriously?!!!!
But you JUST arrived.
OH Camper,
WHAT are you trying to DO to me?
I fall hard
and now I am left with nothing
but a broken heart.

PS I am in New York next week
I have mapped it ~ .9 walking miles
from my hotel
to the Camper store.
Don't think if I can break away from meetings,
I won't come looking for you...

it is beautiful...

2011-08-02T06:34:00.005-05:00

We have a favorite farm
from which a lot of the food we eat comes.
It is local, organic, and delicious.
Thing is, we had never been there,
until this weekend.
Thanks to some good folks in the area,
our farm, and others, were open to everyone this weekend,
to talk to the farmers, see the fruits of their labor,
and in our case, take home the first corn of the season.
yummmmmmm...

When I was little,
my parents best friends lived on a Wisconsin farm.
I spent a lot of time there.
Being around cows and fields
seemed like a great thing to be doing as a child.
Then I moved away to bigger, and bigger cities,
until I bounced back to the Midwest.

It has been about 30 years
since I set foot on a farm.
It has been far too long.
What a city girl needs more than anything,
is to escape the city.
See the bluest blue skies,
breathe the freshest of fresh air,
listen to the silent silence.

One of the biggest surprises of the day
was entering the garlic drying room.
Completely unexpected
and completely divine.
The smell, oh the smell!!

Many years ago
I came home to a very sick husband.
His body was rejecting something he ate.
After experiencing this a few times,
we began to deduce it was a reaction to pesticides on our food.
We started going to a new grocery store,
we began buying organic produce,
and we started to live.
Not only did H's body stop having violent upheavals
against the food he ate,
but our lives changed
bit by bit.
Our store started to become part of our community,
the way we ate became a way of life,
our eyes were opened and we became aware.
We understood that the choices we make
have direct results
on our livelihood,
and the livelihood of others.

Minnesota is difficult,
but when it shares its bounty
and you meet the people
and you eat the food fresh from the land
organic and vibrant,
it is beautiful...

H says it's cool...

2011-07-28T12:45:00.002-05:00

I received an e-mail at work...
"Hygg Scoop"
So here you go world...

Happy almost Friday!

together apart...

2011-07-27T06:34:00.003-05:00

alternate post title: encounters of the bicycle kind...

H and I both ride our bicycles a lot.
At the end of a work day we often both suit up
and head out,
together,
but apart.
Sometimes we love riding together,
sometimes we need to ride apart.
Not because we want to be alone,
but the fact is our skill level is different,
we finish our work days at different times,
and we ride different routes and miles.

We are both 40
and the winter was not so kind to us,
stress will do that to a person.
We both are strong believers
in losing our winter weight,
getting out and getting fit,
and the huge mental benefits
of bicycling.
Riding our fast bicycles in our lycra
is part of what we do.

It is always great running into a friend
when you are out on your bicycle,
but it is even better running into
the one you love.
Everytime we see each other from afar,
it is an electric moment,
we stop, we chat, we encourage each other.
These encounters are often the first time
we have seen each other for hours
and it is good to catch up,
set the stage for the evening,
and know we are both okay.
Then H heads home to let out the pup,
and I head out to let the day melt away...

hmmm...

2011-07-22T06:22:00.004-05:00

Hmmmm...
Last night we went to Bike Night.
It was a lovely evening,
a lovely setting.

I loved the families on bikes,
the gals in their fun skirts and shoes,
bicycles, bicycles, everywhere,
the relaxed vibe,
the warmth,
the music,
the pure Summerness.

In my past life of museum work
I can not say I ever saw the doors of a museum
swung open for people to ride their bicycles through,
I have to say ~ that was cool.

But there was something about it all...
If a tree falls in the woods,
and no one is there to hear it,
does it make a sound?
If a person rides a bicycle,
wears their hipster clothes,
and does bikish things,
does that make them cool,
if no one is there to validate it?
And smoking?
Why was smoking allowed at this event?!!
Gross.
And the movie selections?
The ones I saw were frankly horrible.
Just because something somehow circles back to a bicycle
does not mean it is automatically cool, good, or sending a good message.
Either something is cool, good, or sending a good message,
or it isn't.
The MIA is a community place, this was a community event.
Sometimes we bicyclists can really alienate others from enjoying things,
we can be intimidating,
unwelcoming,
off-putting.
That's not what this even was all about,
but that element definitely exists at every bicycling event I attend.
Yes, that's what makes the world go round,
but can't we dig deeper to do better?

When you attend a bicycle specific event
what type of reactions do you have?
What do you think?
Does simply riding a bicycle
or being at a bicycle event
make you cool?
How do you define 'cool'?

For good or for bad, I have never found the herd
to be a place I find comfort and validation.
Sometimes bicycling makes me really happy,
Sometimes bicyclist do such great things,
sometimes a bicycle gathering can be really inspiring.
And sometimes bicyclists
and their gathering
can completely turn me off.
I do my bikish things because I want everyone to feel good on a bicycle.
I often ride alone because though a bicycle is a big part of who I am,
it is not all I am.

anyday...

2011-07-21T06:50:00.004-05:00

I love Summer,
but the last couple of weeks have been challenging.
Rainforest humidity is not my thing.
Though I will take 116F heat indexes,
over -10F windchill
ANYDAY,
riding in the stuff is very taxing on the body.
So we have been inside far too much,
doing things like looking out the window longingly.
We have also found an interesting little film
to pass the time.
I love the beauty,
the quietness,
the tension between past and present.

I awoke to 72F today!
Can't wait to get out and ride tonight.

Celebrate the break in the weather
by attending the
MIA Bike Night tonight.

this is why...

2011-07-19T19:43:00.002-05:00

I am not a bicycle only blog...

recreating the basket, city style...

2011-07-17T08:05:00.001-05:00

You may have noticed for the last few months
that I have been displaying a banner
stating I was partnering with Po Campo.

What is it about?

Well, it all started back when I decided to bring Lexa into my bicycle world
to be my around town friend.

I am a basket gal at heart.
I love the basket on the Pash,
it is super handy for riding around town and throwing in my lock, purse, camera, water, jacket, and anything else I fancy to have at the tip of my fingers or need to haul around town for my urban jaunts.
One of the concessions with switching my city rides to a 'road' bicycle was that a basket was not really going to work.
I have that bad back issue and do not like carrying heavy backpacks or courier bags.
I tried the rear rack on Lil'C and really did not like the weight.
So I began to ponder how I could accomplish the task of carrying around the necessities,
get the convenience of a basket,
and have a bit of urban style.
Po Campo's bicycling bags came to mind.

Not one to advertise in this space,
and never having approached a company,
I decided to reach out to Po Campo to see if I could test one of their bags for awhile.
I sent off an e-mail outlining my dilemma and included a picture so they could see what I needed to bring with me on an average trip (lock, pump, lights, tool, spare tube, tire levers, wallet and phone).

Much to my delight, Maria wrote back in agreement.
After a few e-mails back and forth discussing what would be the best option for my needs,
a Pilsen Bungee Handbag arrived at my front door.
Part of my deal was that I wanted to take a couple of months to really test out the bag and get a good feel for it so I could share my impressions with all of you.

First a little Q&A with Maria:

What inspired the Pilsen design?

Po Campo started with the Rack Bag (now Armitage Satchel) and Handlebar Bag (now Streeterville Clutch) and we felt like we needed an in between size bag for everyday usage. We also wanted to design a bag that was versatile enough to go on both the handlebars and rear rack because we had learned that a lot of people don't have rear racks but still want to be able to mount a decent sized bag to their bike.

The design has a similar triangular profile to our other bags, making it surprisingly spacious. It is also "softer" (i.e. has less structure), which helps with attaching it to handlebars and makes it comfortable for carrying under your arm.

How many trial and errors did you go through?

Getting the placement of the bungee correct took a little trial and error because the bungee performs differently when use with the rear rack than with the handlebars. We also had to experiment with different style racks and handlebars to try and get a solution that worked on most models.

What do you like about the Pilsen and what would you like to change?

The Bungee Bag is one of my favorites because it feels small yet holds so much. I find the bungees useful for holding other things, too, like an umbrella or a magazine or newspaper. What would I like to change? Hmmm...maybe have a couple more scrunch pockets on the inside to help with organizing things.

The Pilsen was introduced in Spring 2010 and Maria says it has been one of their best sellers. I can see why. When you begin to look around for a functional and stylish handlebar bag, it can be difficult to find.

As soon as I opened the box I took the Pilsen out for a test ride. My initial thoughts were that the bag was a good size (everything I wanted to put in it fit), the straps seemed too skinny (I was concerned about them being able to hold weight), it attached easily to my bicycle, it was stable.

I took this bag everywhere with me the last few months.

-A memorial ride where it sleeted and snowed

-MBC board and committee meetings where it carried my necessities, board minutes, and notebook.

-Bicycle Dates where I could detach it from my bicycle, and have a stylish accessory to throw over my shoulder, clip my helmet on, and set beside me (no big bulky bags to tote around!).

-Around town explorations where I also threw in my non-phone camera.

-Open Streets where I had the usual reserves inside to get safely there and home.

-A Midsommar festival

and more.

With the Pilsen Design meets Function.

What I like about this bag is it is well designed and looks like a purse. I have a strong belief that everyday objects should be well designed for both style and function and am on the eternal search for that ‘perfect thing’. One only has to follow my search for that Perfect Dutch-Style bicycle to figure that out about me, and to know I am never done ~ I always keep searching for something better. I also have a strong affinity for textiles, before it became part of my profession it had become one of my passions. Po Campo blends all of these things well into a nice package.

I love taking the Pilsen on my bicycle journey’s because no one has any idea I am toting around a bunch of bicycle tools inside, yet I am prepared for anything. I can carry the Pilsen into places without looking like I am participating in an extreme sport. Inside there is a zippered pocket which works great for tucking my phone or small items in and keeping them in place. The outer pockets work great for chapstick, keys, or small items you quickly want to access. The bag is well made and well designed.

I found this bag to be extremely stable - I go over A LOT of city bumps. I was nervous that the small straps would not keep the bag in place and it would bounce all over the place when I hit a bump, but it is steady and stable ~ no movement, much to my delight. I still think the straps could be ‘beefier’, but perhaps I am looking for more structure and like the visual of Po Campo’s wider straps on their other bags. I do feel that the bag leaned heavily forward, but this really has no affect on its function ~ really just another visual thing for me. I experimented with attaching the straps a few different ways to keep the bag from rolling too far forward and keep the strap from flapping around. But as Maria says, the bag is less structured for a reason and the straps are intentional for their purpose.

Maria kindly sent pictures of how she attaches her bag and of course, this is one of the best attachment options. You really can’t access the contents of the bag while riding, but that’s not the best thing to be doing with a zippered bag anyhow. I often found that criss-crossing the straps was helpful as well. I did have some paint rub on the handlebars from the metal of the straps, but since this is my city bicycle I figure it just adds to the patina.

On the Lexa the gearing system is attached to the brakes ~ you push levers in on both brakes to change gears. The Pilsen never interfered with my ability to change gears. I also never had an issue with the weight on the front of my bag ~ I really never noticed the bag was there; it didn’t affect my steering or stability. The only time I had an issue up front was when I maxed out the bag with a second lock (sometimes I’m a two-lock gal) ~ that was too much weight. It stressed the straps and pushed the bag against my brake cables causing issues with the brakes. So though the bag can carry a lot, unless you have a rack system, I would recommend keeping the contents to the basic necessities. Since the Pilsen really acts as a purse, I often did not bring my wallet with me, just a phone and some critical cards ~ that helped to keep the weight down as well. Pack only the necessities.

I am still contemplating a light rack and/or courier bag or bicycle backpack because sometimes I need to bring a coat or a second lock and I feel I still need a better solution for those things, but overall, for getting around town and bringing the basic necessities, this bag perfectly fit the bill.

If you like to support manufacturing in the US ~ hurry and treat yourself to a Po Campo. They just lowered their prices to accommodate customer feedback, but take note… Next season they move their manufacturing operations overseas to keep prices down. Such a catch 22 we people create, we complain prices are too expensive, so manufacturing goes overseas, and then we complain about quality. You be the judge and let your voices and wallets be heard.

If you are in Minneapolis, Po Campo can be found at the Hub or One on One. Elsewhere, check here or purchase online.

Thanks Maria for letting me try out the bag! I look forward to following the growth and design trajectory of Po Campo. The Midwest, it ain’t all about snow and cornfields people!

Denver shout out's +...

2011-07-15T06:30:00.018-05:00

bike share at the Taxi Lofts,
one of our property scouting stops in March.

We lived in Denver for many years.
It has changed A LOT since we left.
We rode our bicycles often there,
as we have everywhere we have lived.
And on occassion I commuted to work,
as I have done everywhere we have lived.
I never found the options terribly grand,
but they were not bad.
When we were back in Denver in March
deciding about major life changes,
we were impressed with the bicycle improvements that have come about
in the years since we left,
but felt Denver still has a long way to go
to get close to Minneapolis.
However, with each day, new and exciting things are happening
in a lovely city with lovely weather~
the good foundations of a bicycle friendly city
for us more fickle design and weather-minded folk.

A good friend of H's is taking the leap into the bicycle lane,
living in a way, our dream,
and opening a shop that can you believe it?...
Sells the kind of bicycles I once only dreamed of
being available in the US!
They sell Pashley's for goodness sake!
I held on to my Pashley for the very reason I might be spending more time in Denver.
Denver is a great city for such a bicycle.
The Denver part didn't happen, but the Pashley is still here waiting for me.

So Denver,
get your bicycle over to
The Mindful Bike tomorrow for the grand opening,
support simple bicycles for everyday use.
It is an exciting day indeed!
Congratulations Jason!
Next time we are in town, you know where we will be...

H is always a good hyggspotter for me,
yesterday he came upon another Denver spot,
Urbanistic Tea and Bike.
Check it out.

Sounds like y'all in Denver could really make a weekend of it!

Photograph: Lionel Bonaventure/AFP/Getty Images
Look, Thor had a flat this week too!

And I talk so much about this guy,
I think he deserves his own tag.
H is aware of my fondness for ALL things Scandinavian, so hyggspots in this realm for me too...
My boy Thor had a glorious first week at the Tour.
We really suffer from our lack of cable tv this time of year,
A week from today is really the coup de grâce
If you are in Minneapolis, live coverage can be found here.

Photo: © Bettini

*Update: THOR's the Man!!

And lastly,
H's mates are over at the Capital tomorrow.
Come on over and support cycling in Minnesota,
and celebrate the end of the shutdown!

Happy Friday Everyone!
It's been a busy week.
8 more hours...
Looking forward to the weekend,
98 degrees and all (savor, savor, savor!).
Enjoy and ride safe!

click, click, click...phhhhhh...

2011-07-14T06:29:00.006-05:00

It's always a rough road after returning from vacation.
But usually more figuratively than literally.
Last night I needed to hop on my bicycle
for some meditative me time.
17 minutes into the ride
I hear a strange metal clicking sound.
I hop off, check the front wheel.
Can't figure it out.
I go again.
Click, click, click.
I continue this routine a few times.
Then I switch to the back wheel.
Finally I completely pull off the road
and
phhhhhhhh
flat tire.
Urgh!
I pulled myself over to a grassy area
and proceeded to find a staple
well entrenched in my tire.
I pop it out in disgust
and proceed to change my tire.
15 minutes later,
I head off to finish my ride
and enjoy the beautiful night.

I have had a flat tire on my bicycle twice,
almost exactly a year apart.
Both times the rear tire.
Having a flat on a rear tire can scare the dickens out of a person,
there is a lot going on back there to contend with in getting your tire on and off.
But don't fear!

My advice?
Know how to change your tires.
Practice, practice, practice.
Have someone show you how to do it and practice at home a few times.
Be sure that tube is not snagged on the side by your tire - keep it clear.
Having the right tools is invaluable:
Tire Levers (2-3),
A Spare Tube,
A Pump.

Being able to change my own tires on my own bicycle
gives me the greatest sense of
Independence
Empowerment
Self Sufficiency.
It is a great feeling.
And better yet,
I can continue my ride,
treat my body right after sitting all day,
and clear my mind,
instead of limping home defeated.

Do you live in fear of a flat or are you the master of your flats?
What are your flat stories?

elements of a successful staycation...

2011-07-11T06:00:00.002-05:00

Kick it off with a Happy Hour someplace new.

Ride your bicycles together as much as possible.

Spend every waking hour outside.

Take your pup on adventures.

Then send your pup to daycare
and enjoy a day on the water together.

Visit new places on your motorcycle.

Enjoy watching the Tour. Take yourselves out for a good dinner.

Catch up on reading and inspiration.

Soak in every single bit of SUMMER.
Relax, relax, relax...

Thank you for traveling with me last week.
I hope you enjoyed the European tour
as much as I enjoyed reminiscing and putting it together.
As you can see, we have enjoyed our times abroad.
So many memories, so many good times.
But life has changed a lot for us in the last five years.
Life is different. Very different.
We could chose to let the difference drag us down,
but for our staycation we chose to embrace what we have,
not only at our fingertips,
but what we have learned in our minds and hearts.
In essence,
this staycation for me
was the culmination
of five challenging years in Minneapolis
and learning to be happy
where I am
with what I have
in my everyday.
The girl that moved here,
could not have been the girl that enjoyed a staycation
in Minnesota.
Perhaps a bit of maturity,
but definitely a lot
of working on happiness.

We were lucky to have the best streak of Summer weather
Minnesota has provided in over a year.
SUNSHINE EVERY DAY.
Warmth every day.
Thank goodness for Sunshine and warmth,
it does a mind and body good.
It truly was a Summer vacation.

We needed this time,
and we very much enjoyed it
and spending time together.
Would I want to do it all the time?
No.
I want to go back to Europe.
I want to explore new places.
I want to someday be closer to the people we were and want to be
than the people we have been forced to become.
But, despite all the challenges,
life is good, we have learned a lot, and we know what makes happiness.
For this year,
the staycation was just what we needed.
We now move forward into the future
refreshed
and we continue
to work hard to enjoy the now...

Bohuslän Coast...

2011-07-10T06:00:00.001-05:00

I am on Mid-Summer Vacation.
Though I am not going anywhere, I am traveling in my mind.
All it takes is a little imagination,
some life lessons in how to make the most of where you are,
and a few wonderful memories of trips traveled,
to transport you wherever you want to be...

Happy July Everyone!
Come back and visit,
I will be posting from my
favorite European trips
all week.

Stockholm...

2011-07-09T06:00:00.002-05:00

Provence...

2011-07-08T06:00:00.000-05:00

Paris...

2011-07-07T06:00:00.000-05:00

London...

2011-07-06T06:00:00.001-05:00

Bath...

2011-07-05T06:00:00.000-05:00

Belgium & The Netherlands...

2011-07-04T06:00:00.000-05:00

Norway...

2011-07-03T06:00:00.002-05:00

Iceland...

2011-07-02T06:00:00.000-05:00

it's time...

2011-07-01T06:00:00.002-05:00

I have waited a LOOONNNGGG time for a vacation.
It has finally arrived.
And though I will be resting
and playing
in my backyard,
I will definitely be HERE in my mind.
All it takes is a little imagination,
some life lessons in how to make the most of where you are,
and a few wonderful memories of trips traveled,
to transport you wherever you want to be...

Happy July Everyone!
Come back and visit.
I will be posting from my
favorite European trips
all week.

in search of...

2011-06-27T06:21:00.000-05:00

June Gloom
is one thing,
but what we have going on here this year
is really starting to test my patience.
Trying to lift my spirits,
H came up with some outings
that would take me out of the clouds
out of the city
and out of my funk.
Thusly, we spent the better part of our weekend traveling in search
of Sun
and Scandinavian festivals.
We found both.

We have now sworn off of Scandinavian festivals
until the new ASI opens,
but we will never swear off
SUN.

What was accomplished
mentally
and physically for me
far outweighed
the actual time at the events.
It's not always
the destination,
It's the journey...

sunny disposition...

2011-06-24T06:54:00.005-05:00

The Sun is FINALLY out!!!
Just in time for the weekend.
I can not begin to express my happiness about this.
But I did find this video last night that exudes happy.
Sunny personalities,
lovely gals (not just looks) and their bicycles,
(don't you love how she only locks the back wheel - just like when I was in Sweden!)
fashion,
and yes Denmark!
A perfect combo for this gal.

Happy Friday Everyone!
May your weekend days be Sunny...

life line...

2011-06-23T06:22:00.003-05:00

I have a new life line for riding
and I am posting about it
over at the MBC today.
Come visit...

Today also marks the official entree of my hyggelig into the world of vimeo.

summer porch solace...

2011-06-21T06:00:00.001-05:00

The forecast has not changed here this week,
still calling out for rain, rain, rain.
More impetus to get our screened in porch finished.
I am dreaming of places like these...

Happy Midsommar Everyone!

big sigh...

2011-06-18T16:42:00.012-05:00

Get ready for a rant...
(I know I already did this but...)

I seriously am not sure how much longer I can take the weather this year.
Check out this dreadful forecast. Dreadful!
I seriously am going through Sun withdrawal.
All I want, ALL I WANT, is to sit in my back yard with the SUN on my face.
Is that so much to ask? Apparently.

It is raining AGAIN.
After an absolutely dreadful winter,
we have been dealt an absolutely dreadful Summer - if you can call it that.
I am pretty sure I could count on my two hands
how many times I have seen the sun this summer,
how many times we have had dry days,
and how many times it has been over 60 degrees.
Normally I try to maintain a positive air,
because what good does being a negative nelly do anyone?
But frankly,
this sucks.

The upside is, I have spent the last few hours with a sleeping dog and a computer. Finally getting to some of those projects I've wanted to do and figuring out some technology things.

I posted over at the MBC site today. Check it out here.
I finally started a flickr set called "Bicycling in Minneapolis".
I figured out some video things (more on that in a couple of days).
And last week I set up the MBC flickr site and group pool for Open Streets.
Only thing is the flickr group pool is not showing everyone's photos. I've got it set to as public as one can get and still only 17 of the 74 photos are showing - this frustrates me to no end. If you have any remedies - let me know.

We were over at the NVGP Uptown Criterium Last night.
SO glad it did not rain last night - woo hoo!!!
Total bummer on the crash on the last lap of the Women's race!

We ran into some of H's old cronies last night. One of the guys had an official NVGP post, another former teammate was a NVGP medic. H is over in Menomonie today serving as a Moto Marshall (aka "Moto 1") - he was in Cannon Falls on Thursday. He just phoned in his race report "It was fun again today. Probably the most fun thing I have done in a long time. I want to do it again next year." Interesting how they are all finding ways to be involved in the bicycle scene now that some of their better racing days are behind them. When you love something, you just figure out how to stay with it.

We were talking about me riding on the back next year as a my hyggelig moto 1 press correspondent - better start practicing now.

If it isn't raining tomorrow, we plan to be over in Stillwater again this year.

And lastly, I am excited for H.
He took a big leap this week - quit the old job.
I support him no matter what the future holds.
Time will tell.
Life,
at least for now,
is back.

Happy Saturday Everyone and Thanks!
Isn't it interesting,
Now I feel better.

introducing Lexa S...

2011-06-14T20:23:00.013-05:00

I waited 3 months for this day.
No Rain.
Sunshine.
The opportunity to ride Lexa over to the photo op
I had envisioned in my mind.
Finally,
the day came
and here she is...

Introducing
Lexa S

Yup,
a few months ago
I got my 'in-between' bicycle.

Those of you with a keen eye
may have been noticing her recently
in some of my posts.

dual computer bicycle search on a cold March day

H and I did a pointed and purposefully fast search earlier this year
to find a bicycle I can ride all over town
for my bikish meetings,
and my bikish ways,
and feel okay leaving outside at a bike rack,
getting 'city-ized' with scrapes and dings,
mostly non-descript, but good looking,
and fast, light, and agile.

What other bicycles did I consider?
A Soma Buena Vista, and other mixte options - but all of the reaches were too far for me with my short torso and my bad back.
A Salsa Casseroll, but not a one was to be found in stock and I didn't want to wait.
I had briefly considered another Trek road bicycle, but only briefly.
When we went to the store and no Casseroll's were to be had, I eyed up the Lexa S and swiftly we decided it was time and she would be a good friend.
Lexa S is a basic Trek Road Bicycle with the exact same dimensions as The Trek.
So I knew she would be perfect for me.

The first time Lexa was left alone..

We promptly took care of the 'cityizing' when we brought her home.
Yes, after JOKING about it,
we got distracted and drove her into the garage.
The worst part was I was on the phone trying to sell Lil'C!
Lexa got a rough start, but amazingly she was OK!
Note to all, if you have a roof rack, and put a bicycle on it, IMMEDIATELY put your garage door opener in your glove compartment so when you get home you have to dig for it, wonder why, and then the red light will go on that 'oh yes, I have a bicycle on the roof'.

Lexa and I haven't been on many rides because of all the rain we have been having this year and the personal stresses that have been occurring, but we have been together enough to know I love her.
My first love is truly the Trek, but Lexa isn't far behind.

I have made some basic citification modifications (besides the garage bling):
Changed out the florescent green bar tape for a subtle grey.
Added Planet Bike fenders
Added two-sided flat, light pedals.
I had the shop change out the quick release skewers for ones that require a tool to change out.
Added a bottle rack because I drink a lot of water thanks to living in Colorado for nearly a decade, and hey, I get thirsty.
I had the store set her up to my fit kit dims, but have since lowered the seat for city riding.

My only complaints are
that I have to have a small frame, so I can't fit a bottle rack and a clip for my u-lock within the frame triangle. Same issue with putting the lock off the back, too small to fit.
I clip my feet sometimes on the fenders, but no big deal.

What does Lexa S stand for?
Stoic
Silent
Steady
Serene
Strong
Lexa is my strong and steady friend, she stoically waits for me to return, and then silently and serenely we pedal off on simple adventures and everyday escapades.

I still wish for that perfect combination of comfort, speed, agility, and most of all - good design.
But I have learned that is a hard package to obtain all in one.
My good design does not get me as far as I like.
Speed is expensive and should not be parked alone outside,
Combination means leaning towards one side or the other to get the most out of what ideally you want.
I lean towards that fast lovin' lycra gal inside me.
If Lexa had the look of the Pash with the comfort, speed and agility of my Trek, it would be my perfect bicycle.
I used to think that combination would never exists, and I still mostly don't, but every season I see new brands trying, and getting closer.
Perhaps someday, my bicycle dreams will come true...

I have some more Lexa adventure posts coming in combination with another series.
Stay tuned.

weekend panda's...

2011-06-13T06:38:00.001-05:00

It was a good weekend
for riding a bicycle.
More on that later.
And you?

my hyggelig's Sweden...

2011-06-10T06:00:00.004-05:00

In honor of Lovely Bicycle
who is having a Swedish Bicycle Contest,
You all KNOW I love Sweden,
I have put together
a direct link to my Sweden Installments
from our fantastical trip

for those of you who weren't here with me in 2008.

Ahhh.....
Sweden....
How I miss thee.

Good luck to those entering to win!

p.s. I am not getting anything from lb for posting this
I simply just LOVE Sweden.

the street is Open...

2011-06-09T06:12:00.004-05:00

The MBC is hosting
the very first Open Streets
This Sunday.
I will be there
in a bikish capacity.
Hope to see you there!

all I ever wanted...

2011-06-07T06:28:00.005-05:00

Sunday night felt like a vacation.
A perfect day.
A perfect night.
This is what happiness looks like.

I have been thinking a lot about vacations lately.
Mainly because we had to cancel ours
and are not sure when we will be able to take one.
40 and life changes,
it's been interesting...

Within the span of a week
two people from San Francisco told me about two sites
new to me:
airnb
vrbo

And though I am loathe to tell you this because
I want to win and don't want any competition,
I have to do this just this once...
http://ohhappyday.com/2011/06/goes-to-paris/
I want a trip to Paris, what can I say?
Shameless.
It could do this family some good.

What are your vacation plans this year?
Please don't say you want to go to Paris...

let's try this again...

2011-06-04T14:58:00.004-05:00

Yes!! It's like the old happy NorCal me! yay!
I knew she was in there.
Amazing what SUN can do.

I know
I said this before,
but it didn't quite stick.
Today I mean it.

SUMMER...

It is OFFICIALLY ON!!!

What a GORGEOUS morning it was for a ride today.
What a GORGEOUS day it is to be alive today.

What do you have planned?
So far I've cycled, the dog has swam, a picnic was had,
and tonight outdoor dining with folks in the hood.
Not bad!
The less time I am inside,
the more I beam from within.

Happy Saturday Everyone!
Summer.
Bring it...

clever beauty...

2011-06-03T06:40:00.008-05:00

Woolly Pocket & Bacsac images

This is not a new concept by any means,
it has been floating around in the pages of Dwell and at Maison & Objet for a few years.
But I have seen this concept in two places in my life in the last week and have been giving it more serious consideration.
The textile garden.
Being I love textiles, am enjoying gardens more as I age, and love good design,
I am thinking I may incorporate some of these into my Summer.

OMG - Am I really sitting here having meetings right now?!!!

In fact, I had two meetings in this very spot last week.
Yes, even I was jealous of myself!!
And they had cleverly used the textile garden to great affect
on the border of the railings here.
Loved.

Wise Acre Eatery Ceiling - I am in love with it.

Then I ate a new restaurant in town and these things are all over,
on the walls on the inside, and covering the fence around the waste area outside.
Great concepts!
More on this place later.

Image: Flora Grubb

What do you think?
Have you used these before?

Clever beauty,
it's what makes the everyday
unique.

Inspiration:
Woolly Pocket
Bacsac
Flora Grub

total sucker...

2011-06-01T20:48:00.005-05:00

I am a total sucker
for this stuff.
I just never get tired of it.
I know it is advertising,
but its not the clothes I want.
What I am a total sucker for is beautiful images
of beautiful Dutch-style bicycles
with beautiful people
doing happy things.
This makes me feel like I am here.

Ahhh...
Summer
Beautiful Bicycles
Carefree
Sunny Days.

back in balance...

2011-05-31T06:40:00.002-05:00

Sometimes waking up
before the city
on a quiet Holiday,
taking the dog for a bath,
and heading out to explore
like tourists,
is exactly the therapy and time you need
to set you back in balance.

the people we once were...

2011-05-29T07:27:00.004-05:00

Long Holiday Weekends
are about spending time
with the one you love
doing the things
you want to do.

H and I needed yesterday.
An early morning lover's ride,
up before the city.
sigh...
Then in the afternoon
H took me for my inaugural ride
on his new motorcycle.
We picked up lunch,
had a picnic by the lake,
and purchased books
at our favorite bookstore.
We were to have left on vacation
yesterday,
but work changed all that.
So instead, we have taken what we have
and tried to make it what we can.

Five years is too long to let life pass you by.
It was so great to hop on the motorcycle
and remember
the people we once were.
So easily they were lost,
so hard we are trying
to get them back...

Happy Holiday Weekend Everyone!
May you be doing all the things you want to do.
And getting back in touch
with who you are.

Our book purchases:
The Dirty Life
The Summer Book
The Lost Cyclist
In Patagonia

seemingly minor moments...

2011-05-26T06:12:00.004-05:00

Mornings
have always been my favorite.
The world is quiet,
the possibilities for what lay ahead endless,
having a place all to myself,
and coffee.

My two mornings in San Francisco
fed my soul.
Sand, Sea, and Sun.
Coffee, Conversation, and Calm.

Refueled
and Refreshed
I carry these moments with me
now that I am back home.
Seemingly minor moments
in an ordinary every day
are anything but...

i love you my friend...

2011-05-24T23:19:00.005-05:00

Not one
to go around the touristy corner
to quench my thirst for water.
Not one
to sit in my hotel room
when I can go visit
my City.
I went up the hill
to the little corner shop.
I walked by old haunts.
My heart felt at home.

And on my way back down
I turned eastward
and like a wave
my past life flashed in front of my eyes.
Overcome by emotion,
never able to move past
my hyggelig,
tears began to form.

There are moments in life that are
so it,
so full of life,
so full of living.
I lived more in my time here
than I have since.
Every time I return
I yearn for what was,
I am comforted by what surrounds me,
and I wonder where I will go.

I love you my friend.
I just do.
I will never get over you.
Thank you for today.

i'm outta here...

2011-05-23T06:00:00.001-05:00

I am off to
My Hyggelig
for a few days.

It will be all work,
but I am squeezing in
a wee few
early am moments
of play.

See y'all back here soon.

icky crap tirade...

2011-05-21T07:23:00.003-05:00

H just called
he's on his way home after two weeks away.
I went on a bit of a tirade
about this horrendous Minneapolis weather.
7 months of essentially icky crap.
I am really at wits end.
He gets it, he feels it too.
But I called back and put on
a positive spin:
Belinda says the sun will pop out later today
and it won't be raining in the morning tomorrow.

More positivity:
one great thing about living here
is I am getting to know people
and share good things.
Last night at the salon,
my hairstylist sent me home
with two basil plants
and a tomato plant
that she started from seed.
She has a farm
and a huge garden.
How great is that?

Well, let's make it a Happy Saturday
Everyone!
I hope the sun is out where you are.

I'm definitely not off for a ride,
but soon my man will be home
and perhaps this family can
get a lake walk in
and reconnect before I leave
for
my hyggelig...

a different year...

2011-05-20T06:52:00.005-05:00

This year is different.
I finally just rolled 100
Tuesday night,
just...100...

I have been spending A LOT
of time with this guy.
He's fun and all,
but he's A LOT of work
somedays.

My free time seems limited
My time in this space
therefore,
limited.

Personal things are being challenged.
Vacation was forced early
and then cancelled.

The pretzel of life seems to continue to twist.

But I hope between the twist and turns
some sense seems to be made
some calm begins to occur
new friendships are strengthened
and current relationships put back on track.

Most of all,
I wish for some bicycle time
that feeds my soul
feeds my relationship
and gives me that vacation
I am so dearly missing
So I can feel like I am here

instead of here...

just me...

2011-05-18T06:32:00.005-05:00

For some reason
I get a rush
out of heading down the hill
on my own private bicycle road
no cars
no nothing
just me
gravity
and the power of an oncoming train.

Happy Syttende Mai!...

2011-05-17T06:33:00.005-05:00

it doesn't matter where you are...

2011-05-08T13:59:00.007-05:00

his...hers...

We have been talking about it
for months,
and last night
we were finally able to do it.
Warm Weather 2011 Bike Dates.

The Goals:
Time together.
A 'different' form of exercise.
The Rules:
Close proximity to the homestead.
Take the bicycles.

We always enjoy our Lover's Rides,
but in the last umpteen years, we have both ridden a lot
solo.
This summer,
because of where we are at mentally,
where we are at physically,
and where we are at literally,
we want to spend a little bit more time together,
on our bicycles,
doing something old,
that is new again.

I feel like I keep saying it,
but it has been one hell of a last 6 months.
One day your life changes,
and there is nothing you can do about it.
Sometimes the change moves in excruciatingly slow motion.
This seems to be happening a lot,
and it is filling us with stress,
apprehension,
anxiety,
and I guess a little fear.
We've been bummed,
and we are trying to work our way out.

It's time to
retune,
refuel,
redirect,
reconnect.

FINALLY!
A most oustandingly beautiful day.
Sun, 70, and outside ALL day.
Capping it off with a nice pedal
to our local Japanese restaurant.
Perfect!

they had THE coolest little lights at the restaurant.
hyggelig!!

left: H built up a new 'city' bike
out of an old racing frame, some parts cannibalized off of other bicycles, and some new parts.
had to fix one thing after we got going...still tweaking.

Right: of Course!
2 miles from home I remember~
I forgot the key to my bicycle lock!
need to stop doing that, it's a real bummer.
thank goodness for the spare cable lock!

headed home...

Success.
We had a lovely time.
We engaged.
We rode.
It doesn't matter where you are,
when you embrace what you have,
make what you want it to be,
and share it with the one you love,
suddenly the world looks different,
and so do both of you...

for those of you who pay close attention,
you may see something here that raises an eye brow,
or two.
more on that soon...

a whole new world...

2011-05-04T21:41:00.006-05:00

A few years ago I bemoaned the loss
of the online English version of Aftenposten.
Recently I discovered google translate

on google chrome ~ it automatically pops up

and translates!
A whole new world has opened up!
I can once again not only get my Nordic news fix,
but I can read it!

And not only that,
but all of the wonderful blogs
I could only enjoy the pictures from before,
I can now read too!

And on top of it all....
Sköna Hem ~ are you kidding me?!!!
THIS is phenomenal people.

The world really amazes me
sometimes.

cheering up...

2011-05-03T06:14:00.003-05:00

I have needed a bit of cheering up lately.
Not one usually into children's programming,
I have oddly found a few moments of solace
with a Penguin.

thankful for the long road...

2011-04-24T06:58:00.005-05:00

Yesterday was hard.
I went on my fourth bicycle ride of the year.
Fourth.
Pretty much most of the last 7 months,
7 MONTHS!
Have been crap and have looked like this...

I feel out of shape.
I feel angry.
I feel down.
As the cold wind was chilling my ears
and slowing me down
and the heavy clouds were feeling ominous
I forced myself to once again
get over it.

An incredibly sad event happened here this week.
A young woman, Kimberly Yeong Sil Hull (Audrey), was taken from this world.
She was riding her bicycle through an intersection I ride through
on just about every bicycle ride I go on,
hit by a commercial vehicle,
and died.
I was thinking of her my whole ride
and when I passed through the intersection on my way home,
and saw the flowers in her honor, I could not help but well up.
I sent my thoughts out to her and will think of her often as I pass this spot.
To be robbed of a life at only 25 years old immensely saddens me
and my heart goes out to those around her.
Then a city bus came up behind me,
and I had to return to the moment at hand.

So for all my complaints about the weather
how out of shape I am
and how few weekends of the summer lay ahead of me,
I have bright flowers to make the grey days beautiful,
I have sunshine today,
and I am thankful for what is hopefully a long road ahead of me,
because I have it.

Happy Sunday Everyone.
In a few hours I am off for a ride.
May your day be what you want it to be,
May you be thankful for what you have today and tomorrow,
and may you stay safe out there ~
make eye contact with those drivers,
cycle defensively,
don't assume.

There is a Memorial Ride for Audrey on Wednesday Night.
Information here.

solicitation...

2011-04-20T06:23:00.002-05:00

Now and again I receive solicitation e-mails

from bicycle related companies.

I am probably unnecessarily flattered,

momentarily,

and then I move on my way.

I have not advertised in this space,

nor do I post an 'advertisement' of something sent to me.

Until today.

Yesterday I received an e-mail with words that jumped out at me:

Spanish

Textile

Bicycle attached to a sewing machine...

Well, that hits my soft spot people!

No money or words have been exchanged,

I just like it.

So here it is, the video of solicitation...

These two friends,

The Sewing Machine and the Bicycle,

need just two more friends ~

Twins.

goodbye and thank you...

2011-04-17T07:42:00.005-05:00

Within 24 hours
I said goodbye this weekend
to two of my very good pals
Lil'C and Scoots.
They have both gone off with new pals
who will let them thrive and experience new adventures.
Scoots will be at University, experiencing a completely different life than she had with me.
Hold on Scoots - you haven't seen anything yet!!
Lil'C went to live with the cutest gal,
with freckles (like me)
who was so excited to have her very own bicycle
instead of sharing with her three sisters.
I will miss you both,
but what I am thankful for is all the memories we have,
all the experiences we had together,
and all that you taught me.
It was time to set you free...

okay, I give...

2011-04-11T21:35:00.004-05:00

okay Camper,
you've got my attention.
I give...

THE moment...

2011-04-09T07:47:00.003-05:00

We were at one of the bicycle shops we frequent
last night picking up some spare tubes for our rides today
and right when I walked in the door,
THERE SHE WAS!

This really was THE moment
I had started dreaming about back in 2007
and I was giddy with excitement
that the time had finally arrived.
What is this moment?
The moment when an average American
can enter a mainstream suburban bicycle store
and purchase a beautiful affordable quality bicycle.

Back when I began looking for my dream Dutch-style bicycle,
I could only hope that SOMEDAY America would stop selling
only mountain and hybrid bicycles to people, especially women.
I dreamed of an America where people,
not avid cyclists,
people,
would be able to buy a bicycle they would want to ride
around their neighborhoods
in their everyday clothes.
I could not find this bicycle then.

Yes, other bicycles have been coming on the market,
I saw the first real surge last Spring.
But THIS, this is THE moment where it all works.
The Globe Daily truly has the look.
And not only does it have the look,
it has what I asked for - an aluminum frame.
I have always said in my quest for beautiful bicycles for all,
that if only we could have Dutch-style bicycles, but lighter.
Many companies have been working towards this,
the Gary Fisher Simple City comes to mind,
but in my opinion this is the first successful bicycle
to meet the utopian vision of America I had dreamed of.
Is there room for improvement? Yes.
The bicycle is still fairly heavy.
I picked it up and it is lighter than Pash,
but still heavy.
One could argue for the Public,
but that is not what I am talking about here.
I am talking about that this is THE moment
where an ordinary American
can walk into an ordinary bicycle store
and have a choice.

Long may it last
and
Long may THE moment get better!

Happy Saturday Everyone!
At long long last,
I am off for a ride...