Darla and Going Green

Living in Tempe, I've noticed people are much more outgoing and naturalistic. I love it! I've noticed mass transportation is widely used as oppose to hopping in the car for the first resort. When we visited a Art Street Fair down Mill Avenue a few weeks ago, I noticed alot of bicycles and parking racks. It reminded me alot of when I visited Holland. Bicycles used more than cars in downtown areas. Usually parking lots are for cars- not here. There were limitless rows for bicycle parking. Busy mothers and fathers biking their kiddos via bicycle attachments to and from points of interest. With that, I've done some research to see what options are locally offered to make life a little easier in the event "Plan B" ever occurs

(if my lil' vavoomba breaks down).

The Banner I work for is in San Tan Valley where no mass transportation is available. I can carpool or ride the bus as far as I could. Monthly bus/light rail passes can be purchased from human resources at a discounted price of $25. On the other hand, when I work St. Lukes there are a few more options.

Orbit is a small community transportation line that offers 5 routes throughout the City of Tempe for Free. The flag down method seems reasonable for the short, blue shuttle buses. It is a good resource for shopping, entertainment, transport to the light rail or all about getting around town.

The City Bus is always a great option. Although there is a fee, the discounted monthly pass I can get from work will be fantabulous for this. The City Bus can transport me to school and local errands. Not to mention, it has a bike rack.

I am proud the announce I am the proud owner of a vintage bicycle I thrifted from a local thrift shop. Originally priced, $25 brought down to $17.50 with the Saturday 30% discount. It's old and could used some TLC but she works! The paint is worn, the tires are sun dried and the chrome could use a shine. She did come complete with her original front headlight and rear light, in which I am in hopes of restoring. I can't wait to fix her up and make her sparkle. I plan on adding a basket for future errands, a cup holder for drinks and a ringer for safety. Seeing the bicycle brought back old, childhood memories of my brother, Brian, and I fixing up and riding our bikes everywhere in California. I immediately named her Darla! Name seemed fitting enough- she looked like she may have been born in that era.

I took her for her first ride down the canal last night. I rode from Rural Rd. to McClintock down the well lit path. She clicked and spun like a dream for an old gal. I think I was more nervous than she was. Last time I rode I bike, I biffed it pretty hard in Holland and landed a huge bruise on my thigh. Yeah- THAT was a fun one to explain after returning from vacation when my boss (at the time) walked me into her office and asked me if I needed help getting out of a "bad situation".

I think I may have rubbed off on the boy though- he wants one of his own now so he can ride with me.

When school starts, I can used the City Bus to the Light Rail or carpool with classmates.

All healthy, green options! Time consuming, but great options.