There are five grocery stores within a one mile radius of my house. For years I have been threatening to ride my bike to the store for groceries. The ownership of a Surly Disc Trucker complete with Ortlieb panniers has left me with little excuse.
This morning I used the last of the milk, the nature of milk being what it is replacement was assured. On the way home from work I could have stopped and did my shopping but I had already decided that today would be the day I used my bike for something other than fun.
I got everything together and was on my way. I was careful to make sure I didn't forget anything, lock, reusable grocery bag, you know bike stuff. If I keep this up I'll bring the panniers inside and have the bagger load them up but I didn't want to look like a hipster. This isn't Seattle after all.
With items purchased it was out the door and time to transfer them to the pannier. Everything fit fine so there was nothing left to do but roll home. On the way to the store the goal was getting there as quickly as possible so the most direct route was chosen (the same route I would have driven). The way home was more lackadaisical and circuitous. I cruised by one of the other grocery stores to check if they had a bike rack (which they did), then hopped a curb in Kohl's parking lot and rode down a little grassy hill, then behind the Sylvan learning center. From there I rode by Qdoba and wondered why I never eat there. Through the Arby's parking lot and by the pool. Back in the residential area and on the home stretch. The route I took home reminded me of when I was a kid, and used to ride my bike all over town. My mental map of O'fallon, Illinois had alleys, parks, and greenways featured just as prominently as roads. I knew which parking space in the Mcdonald's parking lot had the best transition to the Hardee's parking lot. I knew where the city crews had piles of rocks that could be used as sweet jumps. I know I got at least three feet of air one time. Those were great times in my life and I was glad to revisit them.
When I got home I put the bike in the shed and the milk in the fridge. It felt good. Dare I say right.
Riding a bike to the store to get some milk is not a new or innovative idea, but still worthwhile. Try it and see how you like it.
