Winter Courage - Missoula, Montana

"Get a bicycle. 
 
You will certainly not regret it.
 
If you live."  

– Mark Twain (Samuel Clemens), US writer and humorist (1835-1910)

Interestingly enough, this particular bicycle was parked outside that venerable Missoula beverage establishment, Charlie B's.

Optimism, Missoula, Montana

“Sorry, old girl," I said to [the bicycle] Gladys in the gray dishwater light of early morning, "but I have to leave you at home."

I could see that she was disappointed, even though she managed to put on a brave face.

"I need you to stay here as a decoy," I whispered. "When they see you leaning against the greenhouse, they'll think I'm still in bed."

Gladys brightened considerably at the thought of a conspiracy. [...]

At the corner of the garden, I turned, and mouthed the words, "Don't do anything I wouldn't do," and Gladys signaled that she wouldn't.

I was off like a shot.”
- Alan Bradley, A Red Herring Without Mustard

Winter Driving, Missoula, Montana

Bundled up as I was - in big boots and toque - for an evening stroll, I was astonished at how many bicycles were parked downtown in Missoula. Even after this weekend’s prolific snowfall, I saw cycling commuters in this morning’s traffic. Brave or desperate, one can only hope a good story is behind such a transport decision, particularly as we actually have a public transit system.

My Groovy Blue Bike

Since I’ve mentioned biking in a previous post, here’s a portrait of my trusty wheels.
It’s such a happy blue - just seeing it in the garage kindles hope for spring.
I bought it at a flea market shop for $15, then had Valley Bicycles & Ski tune it up & replace the tyres.
A cool bonus is that it still has the original Ross decals on the frame, as well as a sticker from The Spoke Shop in Billings, MT.