As I've shared on my website,  I've been car-free for three years this month! I was flattered when I was recently contacted by a USA Today reporter that was doing a story about American's going car-free. 

In the article, they also share the stories of other American's making the decision to live without a car. They share the challenges and rewards they've had while living a car-free lifestyle. Click below to read the article.

​Two years ago, I had to say goodbye to my faithful friend, Ace, and the void left by his absence is still palpable. The bond between a pet and their human is a special one, and the passage of time does little to diminish the fond memories and profound sense of loss. 

​Two years have passed, yet it feels like just yesterday that Ace would welcome me home after a hard day's work. Look at me with those eyes and rest his head on my leg. The day I thought was so hard suddenly wasn't hard at all.

​I'm grateful I took so many photos of Ace and look at the them often. A friend gave me this beautiful gift that is on a shelf and I look at it many times each day.

​Every pet leaves an indelible mark on our hearts, and Ace was no exception. His playful antics, unwavering loyalty, and comforting presence are memories that I cherish. While the pain of losing Ace is still present, I find solace in the knowledge that he lived a happy life filled with love and care. 

 I read a quote by Anatole France: "Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened." Ace awakened a part of my soul, and his memory will continue to live on in my heart.
​​Thank you Ace, for coming into my life!

With the forecast calling for highs between 105 and 110 this weekend, I took an early morning bike ride to take care of some errands before it got too hot.

My first stop was the Post Office to check my mailbox. While there, I had a lovely conversation with a gentleman cleaning the lobby.

From there, I went to the bank to get some cash. After the worldwide IT issues a couple of days earlier, I want a backup should something similar occur again.

Then, it was on to the grocery store. I came across a family standing outside their vehicle that had broken down. They were trying to push it out of the roadway, and I stopped to help them. I jokingly told one of them that I would keep my bike. She noticed my panniers and asked if I use my bike to get groceries. I told her I was going to the grocery store and mentioned that this month marks three years since I've owned a car. She had a puzzled look on her face and replied, "Really?" We talked for 5 minutes, wished each other well, and I continued to the store.

After getting a few things, I headed back home. All along my ride, I was saying good morning to people out for a walk and waiving to several other cyclists out to get a ride in before the heat set in.
What a fantastic way to begin my day and all before 7:00 AM!

As you'll see by ride map, I only went slightly over 7 miles. This goes to prove that even a short ride can have an amazing impact on your day, life and perhaps someone else too!