I used to dismount by jumping down with both feet at once The problem with that method is that if there should be something on the ground that you slip on, then you go down with a bike between your legs with little control - I have the scars to prove it

At this time I can, barely, touch my tip-toes to the ground when I am in the saddle. It isn't low enough to harm my knees, but it is fractionally too low. I think that being attached to the pedal will help me to start properly - I think that I am afraid of my foot slipping off the pedal so I can't start quite right - it is very close - but not quite "right".

I have had major foot surgery on my left foot, though I do not think that has anything to do with why I both mount, and dismount, with my right foot. I think my right ankle might be just a little more flexible than the left, but it doesn't keep me from anything

I appreciate all of the encouragement and it is good to read of different approaches. On my long ride Saturday I am going to pretend that I am clipped in and rotate my foot like I am unclipping as part of my stopping routine.

Sunday I am riding with a friend who hasn't ridden in years and had knee surgery last year - we are riding the flat section only of my favorite park - after she leaves I will switch shoes and commence practicing