The Reluctant Cyclist

I am, without a doubt, a reluctant biker. It's not that I don't like riding a bike...or that I'm lazy. I actually love riding and have fond memories of riding on top of the wall surrounding a lovely old Italian town or being thrilled (and a bit terrified) on a mountain biking afternoon in Switzerland... It's just that here, in LA, I don't like playing king of the road with cars...

Fortunately for me, I'm allowed to ride on the sidewalk (or path to you non-American speakers!) However, this does pose a different set of problems...cracks that run parallel to my tire (or tyre)...forcing me into a groove I do not desire, blind driveways and the like.

So I've come to the conclusion, I think, that what I like and dislike the most about biking is that it makes me feel alive (and therefore also aware of my own mortality...) But, since it is my current, and only chariot (aside from my legs and feet) I am getting over my reluctance, exploring uncharted (at least for me) territories and enjoying the spring air, the scent of jasmine, orange blossoms and car exhaust...

* the picture is from the fabulous Lucca, Italy (sadly LA is not "quite" so picturesque!)

Il cibo belli d'Italia

Buon giorno! Just a little food (picture)tour of my recent trip to Bella Italia! Pizza! Always a must!!

Espresso! Morning, noon and night...and sometimes in between...

Fresh pasta with pesto, tomatoes and fresh basil...

Don't forget the vino!

Mmmmmmushroom ravioli with walnut cream sauce....amaaaaazing!

...and of course no trip to Italy is complete without sampling the gelato...everyday!

Now it's back to the grind stone with one more paper to write, then freedom! Summer! Friends! (and more blogging!) Ciao!!