A String of Pearls

Start with this classic image.

Scrap the long dress that would catch in the chain.

An above-knee skirt is less problematic.

Until there’s a headwind.

That posture? Befitting for a school marm.

But a deliberate lean is required on a mountain bike.

And no slick white walls rolling here.

It’s knobbies. Because, you see,

We’re not in Kansas anymore.

Trade the hat out for a helmet,

Owing to modern bicycle fashion.

And pavement.

A fashionable scarf versus that little black tie,

And dangly earrings and sunglasses

To accessorize.

The shoes—the heels at least—

Resemble those of the cowboy boots

That pedal this iron horse.

Lose the baskets and add a backpack.

Heart rate equal, I’d say,

Based on the music of the scene.

Spice up that sepia with the colors of fall

Then turn that frown upside down.

And there you have it—

A picture of me riding to work.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4kiXh8YOzk