Submitted By: Claude Aiello (claudelind@aol.com)
Challenge
To contribute more to preserving our environment and feel good about it.
Solution Details
I travel often in Europe and I noticed how many people use their bikes instead of cars to do their shopping, visiting, going to work or just recreation. While there, my friend, who uses her bike for all these things, suggested I try it out. I discovered a whole new and very enjoyable world. We would go to the "farmer's market" or do other errands then stop for coffee. My pace was relaxed and I saw things from a new perspective - it was wonderful!
I asked my friend, who works in Vienna, if she road her bike to work in the winter. She said, " Oh yes, but I need to be careful of the streetcar tracks when it is raining or snowing".
This was about 4 years ago. I bought a bike while there and toured Austria. I brought the bike home and have been riding it since. At first, it was difficult to get on the bike instead of my car to go to the store or the bank. I have learned to slow down and now truly enjoy the relaxed feeling and freedom to look around.
My well being, strength, stamina and stress reduction, has improved dramatically. And, I feel good about helping to reduce pollution to say nothing about one less car in Lafayette.
