Staying in Your Budget in Retirement

 Today I listened to a story on YouTube about a couple who financed an expensive RV during retirement.  It is eating a huge chunk out of their monthly budget.  I thought about my own strategy.  I drive an older car, and combine errands to save gas.  My hobbies are extremely inexpensive.  I ride my used beach cruiser with my dogs, read library books, play table tennis, and cook and bake.  Most of these activities are free.

I do splurge on travel, but get discounts through a close friend.  I also research and find what is most valuable to me.  As professional dancers, we traveled all over the world  together.  The company manager arranged our flights and the buses to the hotel.  With the Internet, you can really find the best deals and read up on boutique hotels and charming bed and breakfasts.  I have been very fortunate with the places I’ve stayed.  I can usually tell right away from the photos.

I have a few practice partners I meet with regularly to play table tennis.  We do exercises for accuracy  and work on drills.  It’s fun, social, and excellent exercise.  It’s much less expensive to attend the local senior programs than to join a club.  I still would like to have my own ping pong table at home.  My family had one on our back patio, growing up.  We would all play for hours.

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Switching To A Discount Brokerage In Retirement

 

Moving your retirement funds from a full service brokerage to a discount brokerage firm is surprisingly easy.  It generally takes about five business days for the stocks to show up at their new location.

Online banking and investing have become much simpler. Our computer skills as seniors can continue to grow.  I was able to do it all online, over the phone.  The woman from my new branch guided me verbally through the steps.  You need to know your account numbers, balances, and have a statement handy.  You can call the hotline for assistance.  Some offer 24 hour service! 

If your funds are in a trust, you will need that at your disposal so that you can upload copies of the title page, signature page, notary stamp, and any amendments.  They also will need a copy of your driver’s license.

You can ask the person helping you if they offer any promotions, and if they will pay for the transfer fees.  It’s a competitive business, and the rewards are excellent.  In my case, I received a $1,500. bonus, and they paid the transfer fees that my old brokerage firm charged.  I initiated the move through the new company.  This avoids any pressure to stay.  My old broker did call and asked me to return.  I thanked him, but explained that I am now ready to make my own trades, online.

Many women are intimidated by the stock market, buying and selling, and putting money into Treasuries or CD’s.  There are excellent opportunities available right now.  This gives you more money for the fun stuff.  If you manage your accounts yourself, that one percent an advisor would make can be spent on travel, day trips to the beach, or special treats from the grocery store.

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Enjoying Fall

 These gorgeous red apples were spotted on my walk to town last week.  There are apple trees everywhere in Wrightwood!  I love seeing all of the different varieties.  Some of the trees look decades old.  The branches are pruned, but the trunks look ancient and gnarly.

I have not noticed as much bear activity this year.  I think because of all the snow and rain we received, they have had more water.  Last Halloween I had one outside of my cabin at 7:30 p.m.  I think he or she smelled the candy from the trick or treaters.

There are several different types of berries out in nature.  I am hoping that my raspberry and blackberry plants do well.   It takes time for them to get deeply rooted and produce.  The Pink Lady apple tree that I planted is growing and looks happy.  I removed some baby pine trees to give it more sun.

The weather has been gorgeous down at the cottage.  I went for a lovely bike ride in Marina del Rey the other day.  I followed this section near Fisherman's Village, then turned south on the beach bike path and enjoyed seeing the wide expanse of ocean. It feels never ending.  The sound of the waves crashing always thrills me.  This is why I moved to Los Angeles.  (Well, also to pursue show business.)  It all worked out beautifully, and I am still so happy to live here.

Do you like where you live?

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Back Home From Santa Barbara

 

On Tuesday, I drove up the 126 to Santa Barbara, California.  I had purchased a ticket to see the Aretha Franklin Broadway show, RESPECT.  It was playing for two nights at The Granada Theater, on State Street. 

I felt a bit nervous about driving there.  The weather had been stormy, and we were expecting more rain on Wednesday.  Tuesday ended up being lovely.  I rode a rented bike from Wheel Fun Rentals along the scenic beach bike path for half of the day.  The views of the ocean, clouds, and mountains were spectacular!

I stayed at The Santa Barbara Inn, right on the water.  It was very clean and spacious, and they make a terrific pot of coffee, (which is free in the lobby each morning.)  I had lunch out on the patio, and my waitress, Renee, was very sweet and kind.  

I ordered the baby back ribs, and they were fantastic.  So was the bread, which was homemade, with olive oil and pesto.  I took the leftovers with me to my room.  For dinner, I enjoyed the Mercato salad and the flavorful lemon tart.  Both were divine.  My waitress that evening was a tall blonde, who helped me figure out directions to get to the theater.  She was surprised I didn't have a Smartphone with GPS.  Thanks to her, I got there easily and quickly.  She was so warm and helpful.

The show was a smash; I danced in the back row of the balcony for the entire second act.  It was like a concert.  I was so impressed with the cast, the choreography, and the music.  What a difficult and painful life Aretha Franklin had.  No wonder her voice and spirit reflected so much depth.  

I drove home early Wednesday morning.  Fortunately, I picked up the canines before the rain began to pound down from the sky.  It poured last night, but the dogs and I were safe at home, snug and warm.   I am so glad that the roof was replaced before it gave me any problems.  

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Hiking and Mountain Biking During Retirement

 

Having a regular exercise routine when you are retired is an important part of staying fit.  Health is key at any age.   I enjoy running my dogs along my bike on the Walkydog.  They look forward the daily exertion, and I enjoy the fresh mountain air, the gorgeous scenery, and an intense cardio workout.

Cooking and preparing your own meals goes a long way in fighting inflation and saving money.  Although I enjoy eating out when I travel, the rest of the year I save money by buying what's on sale at the grocery store, eating foods that are in season, and baking desserts when the weather permits.  Right now it's been too hot, but fresh pineapple, watermelon and sorbet are delicious substitutes.

I love these old cabins, their rustic fencing, and the wooden signs.  It all reminds me of how California used to be.  Things were simpler then; cars and homes were smaller, and people enjoyed spending time outside, doing chores.

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Living Near the Beach in Retirement

 

My bungalo is thirty miles from the ocean.  Although that sounds far, on the 405 South it is a fast and convenient trip.  (As long as you drive during off peak times.) 

Yesterday I took Jacques to Fisherman's Village, and discovered a new bike path.  It led us into Toe Beach, which is quiet, unpopulated and magnificent.  You could feel how excited everyone was to be there.  From the accents I heard,  it sounded like many of the visitors were tourists from Europe.  They were beautifully dressed and polite. I smiled at the women  I passed while parking my bicycle and entering the public restroom.   I could feel that they perceived I was a local.  I remember the chills I got on my first road trip to Santa Monica beach as a teenager.   I was a babysitter traveling with a family.  I knew then that I intended to live here someday.  

It can be much cheaper to live a short drive from the ocean.  Beach houses are extremely pricey.  There also is the issue of privacy.   I am so glad that I kept my first home for my old age.  It has plenty of parking, is close to the freeway, and is in a perfect area for bicycling.  Our bike paths on the west coast are thrilling.  The weather has been sunny and warm.  How fortunate we are to live in California.

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Making Fitness Part of Your Lifestyle

Today, after swimming, I stopped and chatted with a woman who had just worked out at the gym.  She was tall, with long grey hair, and  excellent posture.  You could tell that she worked out regularly.  "I'm 83," she told me.  I was so impressed!  She uses the weight machines every day.  I am meeting more and more seniors who are strong, fit, and disciplined.  They all make exercise a habit, and  seem happy, at ease, and self assured.

"I was watching you swimming; that's good exercise.  Is the water cold?" she asked.  "Yes, but I like it," I answered, enthusiastically.  I find hydrotherapy invigorating.  After doing my laps,  it feels wonderful to relax in the sun, enjoy a few snacks, and then slather on some sunscreen."  I like to absorb some vitamin D for the first half hour or so.    

I hopped on my bicycle and pedaled  back home.  Several neighbors waved to me from their cars as we  headed up the hill and around the bend.  Living in a walkable town is a great opportunity to leave the auto at home when running errands or taking  short trips.  It also helps the businesses, who may need the extra parking spaces for customers.  

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Kind and Encouraging Drivers

 

Today as I was pumping my way on my bicycle up the hill after a trip to the lake, three separate men offered me encouragement.  One gave me the thumbs up sign.  It seems that many men really like trailers.  The Burley Travoy that I have won an award in Europe.  It's an excellent design.  Mine has market bags that hook onto it; they fit on the dolly perfectly.  My mom bought them for me, when she was still alive.  They were expensive, but have been totally worth it.  I'm sure she's happy that I'm using them so frequently.  She always bought the extras with her purchases, and I'm starting to see why.

As I was pushing myself to make it up the incline, two cars needed to pass each other on our narrow mountain road.  I pulled off to the shoulder to let them pass.  The first young man said, "You are such an inspiration..."  He was really sincere.  I thought that was so sweet.  I have been pushing my body very hard lately, especially with the kayaking.  It feels healthy to get the muscles toned and strong again.

The next driver apologized to me for my having to stop to let them by... I could tell he knew I needed the momentum to keep going uphill.  It's not his fault, passing is tight with two cars squeezing by each other.  I laughed and explained that it was no problem, and that my sandal had slipped off my heel.  Both men seemed athletic, and I could tell they  knew about bike riding.  I am surprised that I don't see more adults on bikes here.  Many of the young boys ride small motorcycles.  I guess people are just used to driving their cars.  I think a lot of it has to do with stuff, too.  We carry an amazing amount of equipment  with us to the beach, the lake, and to campsites.

Another lady on my street asked me about the "neat contraption" I was pulling, too.  It's a shopping cart that snaps onto the back of my bicycle.  I told her that it really saves me money on gas.  I love leaving the car at home, and enjoy the intense exercise and fresh air as I cycle around town.  Gas has shot  up to over four dollars a gallon here in Clifornia.  Yikes!  I only drive if I have to, and combine my trips.

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Met a PCT Hiker Today

 

Today while I was running Lula alongside my bicycle on the Walkydog, I ran into a smiling, radiant woman wearing a hat.  She was walking a cinnamon colored dashhound mix.  The dog had long hair, and an intelligent, expressive face.  She told me that she is sixty, and is hiking the Pacific Crest Trail!  (For those who don't know, the PCT runs all the way from Mexico to Canada.) It takes months to complete.  She is doing it solo.  

I was so impressed,  That's something that I've always imagined doing.  I told her that I'd read all the books about it, and really admired her.  I asked her if she was scared.  "No," she replied.  "I  just stay aware as I do when going to the grocery store at night."  I asked her if she had done a lot of camping, and she nodded.   

I commented that she looked very stylish for a hiker.  They are usually dusty, and lugging these huge backpacks.  She laughed and told me that the woman who owns the cabin where she is staying let her shower, do laundry, and that she also lent her some clothes.  Her eyes were flashing with joy and adventure.  I could see that she was very spiritual.

A little further down the road I ran into one of my neighbors who was out on a walk.  I asked her how she was enjoying her retirement.  She answered  that she had just returned from driving from the West coast to the East coast on her own, staying with different friends along the way.  I smiled, nodded, and told her that she looked very happy and jazzed.  I think we all love adventure.  These women both enjoy their own company.  We are all exploring new ways of traveling.

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Learning from the Royals

 After watching snippets of the Oprah interview with Harry and Meghan, I came to several realizations.  Using your talents and following your dreams is crucial to happiness.  I was fortunate that I was able to train as a dancer and perform in Broadway touring musicals and nightclub acts.  It's what I always wanted to do.

As I've gotten older, I have put more focus on the home.  To me, a comfortable, peaceful living space is intrinsic to feeling safe and relaxed.  As I age, I see that having fewer possessions makes my life less stressful.  In my thirties, I had three dogs, a turtle, and two chickens.  Now I have one dog.  I prefer less responsibility at this stage of my life.  I also greatly value my privacy and independence.

Many people think that expensive weddings, a spouse, homes, and cars will make them happy.  It doesn't work that way.  You have to do the things you love, and spend time with people with whom you truly connect.  A deep soul connection is rare, and it's very valuable.  I love the spark of romance I see between these two.  I couldn't help but notice that the things that Harry enjoys most in California are the same simple activities that ignite a flame of enthusiasm in me: riding my bike, hiking, and going to the beach.  I hope they are able to enjoy their life together here, and can let go of the pain and unsuitability of the past.  I wish them the best.  They certainly have a gorgeous home.

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A Bike Ride Along the Beach in Santa Monica

Yesterday morning after breakfast I packed up my backpack with some tortilla chips, a large  bottle of water, and a few pieces of Ghiradelli peppermint bark.  I followed Lula to  the car, (she couldn't wait to go on an adventure!) lifted my bicycle onto the bike rack, and drove down the uncrowded  405 freeway to Santa Monica.  

I parked carefully at the mall, and made a note on my ticket of my parking spot, the floor, and the color of the bulding.  Lula and I rode on the Colorado Street bike path to the pier.  She galloped along beside me as we both gazed at the ocean.  I loved her excited reaction.  The beach is so vast and expansive.  There were other people out walking and running, too, leaving plenty of space for everyone to socially distance.  Many of us were wearing masks.  The other dogs were well behaved and on leashes.  It was calm and peaceful. 

We stopped after turning around, and sat on an empty bench.  I gave Lula a bowl of water, and one of her dog biscuits.  I quietly munched on the chips, and watched the other passers by and their dogs.  Everyone seemed comfortable and relaxed.  The weather was sunny and warm, in the 70's.  It's heavenly here this time of year.  It is a pleasure to drive the thirty miles to the beach.  I didn't take advantage of it for decades when I was busy with my work.  Now I relish the time and the scenery. 

We may be under lockdown again soon, so I wanted to take advantage of a short day trip while we could.  I drove home down San Vicente, passed through picturesque Brentwood, turned right on Wilshire,  and merged back onto the freeway, this time heading North.  There was very little traffic-one positive aspect of the pandemic.

I sang along to Christmas carols on the way home.  I love Holiday music.  Once home, Lula slept like a log for several hours.  I think the beach run exhausted her, but in a healthy way.  Where do you go to get your outdoor exercise?     

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Good Fortune

Yesterday I received a phone call from one of the ladies that runs the country club.  Each year in May they hold a lottery. They draw names to pick the new members.  It's a small place, and very popular with the locals.  My name was picked, and I am now a full fledged member!  I received my key card for the security gate.

This morning I got there early and took a refreshing swim.  I rode my bicycle from the cabin, and parked it at the bike rack near the office.  I packed some beef jerky, fruit and water,  and brought warm hand knit clothes, since the lake is cold and stimulating.  I love the charge our bodies get  from the chilly, fresh water.

I took a short walk on the hiking trail.  The views are exquisite.  I will have to take more photos for you.  I ran out of storage on my ipad again.  It's hard for me to part with my pictures.

I had the lake to myself!  I swam with the tadpoles.  The snow melt feels amazing.  It makes your body tingle.  What a relief to feel so relaxed and one with nature.  There is another nearby lake that just opened.  I was afraid it would be closed, due to the pandemic.  I am still wearing a mask and keeping my distance from others.  I may also buy a kayak and explore the larger lake, too.  It's near a public campsite.  There is so much to enjoy  in these mountains.  I am so happy that I found the cabin.  It has been a calming refuge during many stressful times.

Have you been swimming yet?

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Riding Your Bicycle In The Mountains

I have been really enjoying the new bike rack.  It's exciting to load  and head off to different locations.  It's so much safer than having to ride on a highway or through a busy, high traffic area.  Although right now, there are very few cars out on the road. 

these 15 foot tall lilacs are blooming in my garden

The lilacs are in bloom everywhere.  I love them.  Their gorgeous hues of purple, lavender  and white catch my eye as I walk Lula through our tree lined neighborhood.  Their heady fragrance is divine.  I picked a bouquet and placed them in a crystal vase that the seller had kindly left behind in the kitchen cupboard.  They smell heavenly.

The snow has melted, and the earth is warm.  Families are busy planting their gardens.  I love seeing the children connecting with nature and learning to grow their own food.  Vegetable and flower seedlings are flying off the shelves! 

How is the weather where you live?  Have you been spending more time outside? 

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An Early Morning Hike and a New Bike Rack

This morning I took Lula hiking on one of your favorite trails.  I didn't think it would be open, but I noticed the other day noticed that the driveway was no longer blocked off, as most of the others are.  There was only one other car parked in the lot when we arrived.  I made sure to leave very early in the morning.  We had the trail to ourselves.  It was glorious! 

California opened some of its beaches and state parks recently, but they will be closed again tomorrow.  (from what I understand.)  I brought my trusty mask that my friend made me.  Lula and I enjoyed the babbling brook,  fresh air, and the dense woods.  It felt incredible to be out in nature, on the trail.  Boy do I miss hiking! 

Today I bought a bike rack at our local bike shop, Canyon Bikes.  The owner installed it for me on my dad's Nissan.  I bought a lightweight used Schwinn bike that I've had my eye on to keep up at the cabin.  I have been wanting a sturdy rack like this for years, so I am really excited.  I also wanted to buy it from Sean, and not from a big box store.

I also purchased a bike pump.  It's handy to be able to keep air in your tires from home.  This one is easy to use, and it's well made. It's a Serfas floor pump.  I feel so relieved, now that I have it.  I used to walk or ride down the highway to the gas station when my tires needed air.  Now I am fully prepared.

Have you been able to ride your bike in this gorgeous weather?  I am so glad that we are still able to walk our dogs and take a bike ride.  It makes all the difference in my mental health.

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Closer To Closing on the Cabin

 
Tomorrow I am going up to the cabin to meet with the seller and to learn the details of the home.  I think it's so sweet of her to offer to show me around, and to explain how everything works.  I have a few questions.  I didn't really understand the combination traditional/gas fireplace when the inspector showed it to me.  I also need to learn how to turn on the sauna.  I can't wait to use it! I feel like a little girl anticipating Christmas morning.

I sent in some more paperwork to escrow by Docusign today.  It's exciting how easy it is, now that you can sign your paperwork online.  Yesterday I had a notary come to the house, and she talked me through a huge stack of papers.  I drove to Fedex and had them returned to Victorville.  There are so many details to remember.

I had the water, gas, and electric all put into my name and  turned on today.  The insurance agent sent me a quote. I plan to use the free wifi at the library and local cafe.  I spend most of my time in nature when I'm up there, anyway.   

Today I took my bicycle in and had the pedals replaced.  This bike is the latest one that I bought used.  It's in excellent condition, but the plastic pedals were falling apart.  I got a much sturdier pair, and they feel so much stronger.  I plan to take a bike ride tonight with Lula.  I have a front light and a tail light.  It's exciting to coast down the street when there isn't much traffic.

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A New Used Bike

my new used bike from Canyon Bicycles in Canyon Country

The other day, I decided to try and find a used bike.  I started at the Salvation Army, but they weren't open, it was too early.  That's where I got my last beach cruiser, and I've been riding it for the past five years. It was only $70.00.  The back wheel had become very wobbly, and it's not fixable.

I stopped in Costco to see if they still carry bicycles, but they said that I'd have to order one online. I thought about Walmart, but decided to try our local bicycle shop first, where I get all of my repairs done. I prefer to shop at small businesses.  I didn't think I'd be able to afford the bikes that he sells, but immediately spotted  one with an orange sale tag.   The owner got very excited when he told me about it.  The person he got it from had traded it in to upgrade to a new bike. "Perfect!" I thought.

bike trail below Newhall Ranch Road in Santa Clarita

It's very light, and I love the way it feels when I ride it. The owner let me take it for a spin, and I was sold. So, for $200.00, I have a very practical used bike. The front wheel, handle bars, and seat are all removable. I need to practice with the front wheel, but it will come in handy for taking the bike in my VW Beetle  up to Ojai.  They have some fabulous trails up there, too.   

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Using Public Transportation Instead of Your Car

Here are some more photos from my Sunday bus trip to Santa Monica beach.  I started out at this bus stop in Canyon Country. I drove the short distance from my cottage and parked the car.  It's free.  I love this park; it's so lush and green. There are so many pine trees.  They provide us with much needed shade in the hot weather.

Annenburg Community Center and Breeze Bike Hub

There were plenty of bicycles at this beach station. I got mine at Colorado and 4th, by the Metro stop. It was a quick walk from Ocean Avenue and Colorado, where we were let off the bus. They have special bike lanes that are painted green. One of them goes straight down the pier. I unlocked my bike and cruised down Main Street. From there I turned right on Ocean Park, and headed down to the sand.  As you can see, the Breeze bikes are excellent quality. I love the roomy baskets. They have bells and hand brakes, and you can easily adjust the seat to fit your height. The rear key pad shows you how much time you have remaining, and how far you have ridden.

I love this pizza delivery bike at Stephano's Pizzeria on the 3rd Street Promenade

The ocean is so expansive. It really opens up your mind and consciousness. I have always felt completely at home here. I first came to Santa Monica as a thirteen year old babysitter. I knew as soon as my feet touched the ground that I wanted to move here when I got older. It was love at first sight for me. 

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Putting Air in Your Bicycle Tires

The other day I rode my bike down to the nearby gas station. I had noticed that my back tire was getting  low, and  I needed to pump some air into it. I have a small travel pump, but it doesn't seem to  work very well.  I needed something more powerful.

I ran into my neighbor while I was there. He was picking up several bags of ice for a family  trip to the lake. He helped me with the pump. There are spaces on the machine to insert six quarters, but there is also a sign that says, "For free air, ask inside." He went in and they told him just to press the button. It's  on the left hand side.  I pressed it, the machine fired up, and the air came whooshing out through the nozzle.

He filled the back tire for me, and I added some air to the front one. It was quick and easy, and boy did it make a difference! I hadn't realized that you need to add air to your bicycle tires on a regular basis. I have spent so much money having the inner tubes replaced and adding tuff tube, maybe this is all that I needed to do.  Well, except for things that cause punctures,  like thorns and nails.  It makes me shake my head. I need to make it a habit. Even if your bike is just sitting in the garage, the tires can go flat.

My neighbor mentioned that he has a compressor pump if I ever need to use it. He's so nice. I usually stop and chat with his wife when I am out walking the dog.  I came home and oiled the chain. The owner of the local bike shop always reminds me that I need to do that whenever it gets dry.

When the tires have plenty of air in them, the ride feels completely different. You have support. It's the opposite of that feeling when your tires deflated or getting low. I am excited to be more proactive about this part of bicycle maintenance.  How is your tire situation?

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Bicycling to the Grocery Store

tile bench at Union Station

Today I hooked up my Burley Travoy bike trailer to my pale green beach cruiser, and rode to the corner bus stop. After heaving my bike on to the front bike rack and paying my fare,  I took a seat by the window. It was relaxing to be driven and I enjoyed the mountain view and a few chapters of my library book. I got off after about  five miles  and biked down the bike path to the Armenian market to buy my produce. On the way, the right wide pant leg of my flowered jumpsuit got stuck in the chain of my bike. I wasn't sure what to do. It was completely jammed, and I couldn't pull it free.

Theater in Newhall

Right then a petite blonde woman pulled up on a bike and  helped me. I lifted the bicycle while she back pedaled it and removed the loose material. It was hard to do because I have foot brakes. She was so sweet and cheerful. She was wearing spandex biking gear, tennis shoes,  and a helmet. I was in my hippie clothes, bike helmet, and Birkenstock sandals. I love meeting other bike riders. They always seem so fit and happy. "Be safe," she called out, as she rode on her way. I breathed a sigh of relief and said a prayer of thanks. She was like an angel, appearing out of nowhere.

I noticed that the city of Santa Clarita now has a community station at Newhall Ranch Rd. and Bouquet Canyon for bike repair. There is a large pump, and a tool kit for fixing a flat tire. I was very impressed. This city is so bike friendly!  Next time I'm down there I will add some air to my tires. I always forget to do that, and then they get low.  I have a pump at home, but I haven't figured out how to use it. The public pump is like the ones that they have at the gas stations. You can also get a reading for how much air you have in your tires.  I'm excited to use it.   

Newhall restaurant

I shopped at two different stores, and bought what was on sale. Sea salt caramel gelato was on special, two for the price of one! On my way home, I ran into a lady I've been taking the bus with for years. We had an animated conversation and laughed heartily.  I love the social aspect of biking and taking public transportation. I stopped and visited with a few different neighbors on my walk with Lula this evening. They were all outside, enjoying our gorgeous summer weather.  How are you doing? 

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Successful Ride Using Breeze Bike Share in Santa Monica

train tracks from my Saturday adventure

This morning I decided to drive back to Santa Monica and try using the Breeze Bike Share again. This time I brought the phone number of customer service with me, in case I had any trouble. There were several bikes available at the hub on the beach. I typed in my account number, but it didn't prompt me to enter my pin. This is what happened the first time I attempted to use the system, so I called them for help.

free parking is provided at Via Princessa Station

The woman there was excellent, and she talked me through it. I switched to a different bicycle with a keypad that was much easier to read and use. After entering my pin, I pulled out the locking bar, placed it in the pouch on the side of the bike, and headed up the beach bike trail. What a fabulous feeling!

outside courtyard at Union Station in Los Angeles

I rode up to Will Rogers Beach, and then back down to Main Street, in Venice. I was cautious about staying within the boundaries given on the maps. I had read stories of people going too far, and then being charged a fee for parking the bikes there.

waiting room at Union Station with live piano music and comfortable chairs

I felt elated. I rode for six miles, and was back in an hour. Next time I will ride for the full ninety minutes. It's so invigorating! The beach is just gorgeous. It's wonderful not to have to worry about cars or traffic. I think this is definitely going to be worth the $99.00 I spent for a yearly membership. You can ride ninety minutes per day!

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