How many of you..

[missymaya]

Im guilty of this conversation piece (that and political science). My coworkers are mostly overweight, eat poorly, and most of them smoke, so when I mention what I do before and between work in the daytime and school in the evening, and what I do on my weekends, they look at me like I haven't 'lived' b/c I don't get trashed on weekends or smoke or eat the birthday cake (ok a little ice cream every once in a long while just to satisfy the taste buds!). This also applies to many of my pre-bike friends, and my fam, particular my sis. B/c I'm in school and work, cycling is practically the only thing extracurricular for me, so the conversation is either about poli sci or cycling (never work!)

[Batbike]

Biking is important to me, so I talk about it. Yet, I have learned (through blank stares, nervous responses, and sheer bafflement) to tone it down or avoid the subject all together with "those of less knowledge and understanding". Then again, there are those who have gotten use to it and know that 30 miles is a short ride; 100 miles is an accomplishment.

Most people who know me know "I ride a bike" for fun and exercise. I get asked questions (a lot) about overall fitness, bikes, and proper nutrition -- lots of times because people want to know and feel guilty they aren't doing anything. I am happy to give them web sites and other resources, but keep the subject VERY SHORT and explain that I am just a "middle-age woman who rides a bike and watches what I eat". I have found this relaxes people, frees them of their "guilt" and we can move on to other topics.

Now, with people who ride a bike -- what else is there to talk about?!! It is nice to have good friends who understand and are as obsessive as you ... makes life fun!!