Oh, totally, Mimi! I plan my long road rides based on where I can safely stop to use the restroom without leaving my bike alone. If I feel like a place is cool with the college, bike-commuter crowd, I'll bring the bike right in. I even know where the "big" porta potties are around town, and poor Myrtle has to hold her breath when I wheel her right in there with me.
Too much sensory stimulation...sorry ladies.
I am going to look at Sunrise Cyclery here in town. They recondition a lot of older, used bikes. I want something solid but not terribly enticing to look at...something I can put racks and panniers on and chug along. Something I can still love yet not feel like money is flying out the window if someone sets their mind to stealing it (and breaking through the wicked lock I am going to put on it the second I get it).
2007 Trek 5000
2009 Jamis Coda
1972 Schwinn Suburban
"I rejoice every time I see a woman ride by on a bike. It gives her a feeling of self-reliance and independence the moment she takes her seat; and away she goes, the picture of untrammelled womanhood."
Susan B. Anthony, 1896