family-style transportation

My favorite mode of transportation much of the year is an old cruiser bike. My friends ask why I don’t get one of the new models that look like the old ones but that are lighter weight, have gears and are bright and shiny. I know my bike might not be much to look at, but we have a history. This Schwinn Hollywood was given to my sister for Christmas in 1963. When my sister was more interested in cars than bikes (she is 14 years older than I am) my mom used to put a pillow in the basket and ride me around (ah… the good ol’ days). A few years ago I found this treasure in the barn at my parent’s and knew it was time for its resurrection. The Sears Roebuck odometer quit working just last summer – forever stuck on 1667 miles. I’ve added a few of my own flourishes – a cup holder (of course), bell and the EL-wire (the yellow, orange and red cable that is wrapped through the basket and around the frame) that lights up at night. My old cruiser may not be perfect, but it’s family.