I can't remember a time in my life when I didn't have a bike, the joys of a large family and lots of older siblings. I didn't really get into cycling until I was in college. My older brother spent a summer in France working and cycling. A rather dishonest person took his bike and he was forced to purchase an inexpensive bike in order to get back to his starting point and in turn home. When he arrived home he quickly sold me the bike for a whooping $12.00. It was a piece of junk but I loved spending time on the bike and exploring various roads and routes. I found that cycling was a great release from the pressures of my college course work as well as a great way to build up my strength and endurance (I was heavy into raquetball as well). I purchased my current bike back in 1986 with the help my brother and rode it until I finished grad school in 1989. Once I started teaching full-time my little blue bike spent a few years tucked away in my garage for I had no time to ride given the demands of my job. However, two years ago I decided it was time to pull it out, dust it off, get it working again and to climb aboard. Shortly after making this decision I met my current BF who just by chance happens to work in a LBS so he helped me tune my bike up, replace some parts and most importantly patiently rode with me that first season back in the saddle as I worked to gain my strength and endurance. I simply can't image not riding now. I so looking forward to dry warm weather so I can leave the confines of my living room and trainer and get back outside to soak up the sunshine and sights.