There was some time when I didn’t hear the constant chirping of the birds. Now that spring is right around the corner, I am hearing all sorts of new sounds coming from the trees and hedges. I’m also seeing a lot more pedestrian traffic. Looks like the nicer weather is bringing out people as well. I would like to see some street cleaners out as well as maybe some paint crews to get some order back to the streets. This is the time cyclists are having the most flat tire issues because the debris from the winter is just pushed to the sides into the bike lanes from car traffic. It also amazes me how many flat vehicle tires I see and the drivers are just clueless. I see them just rolling down the street, the rim cutting into their tires and they just keep on going. What is the vehicle doing to our natural senses? People are closing themselves outside of the natural world as much as possible and I don’t like it.When I have a flat on my bike, I know. I even know the difference between 70psi and 100psi. Do you?

Back to the debris and paint issues. Please don’t throw your trash into the streets, out your window, etc. Think about where it is going. Buy compostable/degradable materials and or recyclable/reusable, make sure to put them where you should and we won’t have this issue. Just take an extra second to think about it is all I’m asking. Its getting harder and harder to find places to put all of it.

Also, I know cars need more room than bicycles to get places. That’s why we have roads, highways, etc. When there is a bike lane, it means there is enough room for both car and bicycle (at the same time) don’t show us how wide your load is and take up both with your oversized vehicle. I understand if you’re moving into the turn lane (thats why there are dashes) and I understand when you drive over the bicycle symbol with the arrows (that means we are supposed to share.) When there is a solid white line, it means Do Not Cross/Obstruct. Bicycle lanes were made for bicycles and to show cars we can get the same places by our own two feet and own human power as fast a car and with less effort and cost.

I think that’s it. Remember to pack your rain gear and have those fenders handy. It is unpredictable spring weather out there.