Whenever the weather is nice, and I’m not feeling lazy or hungover – hey, we’ve all been there – I ride my bike to work.

My ‘riding to work’ attire usually consists of a tank-top and the usual – jeans. I’m one of the lucky few who get to wear jeans to work. [Note: Still waiting on the giant slide and fireman’s pole that Google offers but, hey, beggars shouldn’t be choosers.] The tank is essential, especially since it’s getting warmer and warmer these days - darn summer AND global warming (more on that later). By the time I arrive I’ve worked up quite a sweat – despite having rolled up my right pant leg, mostly so it doesn’t get caught in the chain but also for ventilation purposes.

You may be asking yourself; Why does she ride her bike to work?

I thought you’d never ask!

Here’s why:
1. I live 5 miles from my office
2. It saves me gas
3. It’s better for the environment! No emissions!
4. It keeps me from getting parking tickets – Richmond parking meter people are vicious!
5. It’s a great way to start off my day; gets the ol’ heart pumping
6. And I get to sing as loud as I want to my iPod as innocent on-lookers stop and stare (was that YOU I passed the other day?)

I’ve been doing this off and on for about 2 years. I have a feeling a lot more people would ride to work if they lived close enough. Right? (I hope you’re agreeing otherwise my heart would hurt!)

I thought this a timely topic because of all the recent talk of Global Warming (yes, I believe it’s real) and rising gas prices. I wouldn’t consider myself an eco-enthusiast – my motivations aren’t solely for saving the planet – but I do like to think my small efforts make some difference.

TIP: Here’s one of my favorite places to get “green” tips: The Ideal Bite. It’s a daily newsletter with all kinds of great eco-friendly tips. Here’s the website: http://www.idealbite.com/ and here’s a link to sign up for the newsletter: http://www.idealbite.com/subscribe/. I just get the daily tip but there are city-specific ones, as well. Unfortunately, richmond hasn’t gotten quite that big yet

TIP2: favorite song from my latest ‘pedal to work’ mix:
Born ruffians – ‘Badonka Donkey’ – watch it: http://youtube.com/watch?v=HD2MIIm7xcA
Close second:
Interol – ‘Pace Is the Trick’. Check it out here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qF6C_zZOrdE