school starts soon

[sfa]

My daughter keeps asking if she could ride her bike to school, and I really wish I could let her. We only live about a quarter mile from the school. Maybe less. But the road is impossible for a nine year old cyclist (the most dangerous part of my commute is turning left from our street onto the main road--there's a light about 20 feet down for a beltway entrance so the traffic is always heavy and NO ONE is looking for someone coming out of our street. They are all focused on the beltway ramps), and the sidewalk, besides the usual sidewalk dangers, involves crossing eight driveways to businesses like a convenience store, gas station and a McDonalds. The drivers going into and leaving those businesses are preoccupied with their Egg McMuffins and coffees. I've nearly been hit just walking the dog. Our rule is to always walk to cross those driveways, which makes her "ride" to school more like just pushing her bike to school. It seems stupid to take the bus that short distance (although they take a long way around to pick up further out kids), but definitely safer.

When she gets to high school it'll be nicer. It's a longer trip, but it's through a quiet hospital campus and some residential streets--much better for biking.

Sarah

[SouthernBelle]

School started 2 weeks ago here!