BobbyG

In a week or two I start a new job that will see me return to daily bike commuting after an 18 month hiatus.

The business I worked for closed at the end of 2020 and I began freelancing from home while looking for work. My main goal was to secure a regular, full-time job with benefits. As much as I wanted a job that would be bike-able, I couldn't let that color my decision. I considered positions 60 miles away in Denver, where perhaps incorporating mixed-mode commuting. And others on the outskirts of Colorado Springs that were 20 miles from home, that might see me buying an e-bike.

Being 59, and now 60, I knew I looked ancient to interviewers in their 20s and 30s. I did get some smug satisfaction when I would ask about indoor bike parking and they'd ask if I intended to bike to work. In every case where the commute was bike-able I would use the potential jobsite as a destination for my daily ride so I could answer their question with, "Yes...it's only X-miles and takes about XX-minutes. In fact I rode here and back home the other day."

I was hired for this new job by some one closer to my age, who I've know professionally for quite a few years.

While I will exhale/celebrate on my first day at the new job, I will drive to work the first few days. The real celebration will be that first official bike ride to work.

I keep thinking about how long and difficult it was to get back in shape and back into commuting after a non-cycling injury kept me off the bike for a year when I was 48.

This return to bike commuting was difficult in a different way, and I know how fortunate I am to have been given this opportunity.

The anticipation is killing me...I think I need a ride right now!