Howdy Joy: Welcome to the board. There's a thread under Open titled "getting to know you" gives you a chance to meet us and - if you're so inclined tell us something about you.

As for a new bike: Some of the suggestions I've heard, and you'll get more are: try the want ads, police auctions and pawn shops if you don't mind used. You might be able to find a really good bike cheap. There are lots of people here that will have more ideas too. Good luck on the search and let us know how it turns out!