~ On the Way Home

 Okay, so it's not The Longest Yard Sale Adventure- You work with what you have. It often seems one comes across the  FINDS when you're not even searching,however; I must admit I have over the years learned to  have a mental list of sorts stashed in a 'back burner' file and it's like turning a switch, flipping that file open when we get out at an unexpected roadside flea market or walk into a nondescript junky [ say grunge] place-that mental list just seems to slide forward and as my face begins to show a
silly little "I've got a secret" kinda look, give the place a quick appraisal.  Yes, there are possibilities here! Wait, don't look so eager-you don't want to rob that shop keeper of the joy of actually making a pitch and wrapping up an easy sale because he is good at what he does. In other words-a little 'poker face' might be in order.The games we play-but what fun we have playing them.  Over so many years Ted has learned and occasionally he is even ahead of me. [remind me to tell you about the BURLAP BAGS]Anyhow~ there they are out along the two lane highway ..the small group of impromptu vendors. It hasn't been a good day & they're giving it up-loading up  their trucks/vans.
After a few minutes of  obligatory haggling over price and condition we quietly conferred, agreeing there was nothing unreasonable about the price of the bicycle. It had all the features I want..meaning NO FRILLS..it's  only speed is whatever physical effort the rider invests in it. Now I Would have no excuse for not exercising. No fitness center membership..no trip to town-no special equipment...Just me and my Bike. I don't think I have ever had a bicycle of my own [life long] only access to those of our kids.
No it was not new. No it was not perfect. Yes, it'showing some rust here and there. Yes, it can use some sprucing up but that's not major. Even the tires seem okay after My husband aired them up properly. He adjusted the seat to Low, Lower, Lowest [ hey I'm short people] and adjusted the handlebars to Mom angle. so now all I  have to do is FIND MY SNEAKERS. But-no, you will not hear about the first couple of trips up the hill to the baseball park. I will only allow you this much personal and personally embarrassing information-IT WAS A CARDIO WORKOUT. Oh, yes I almost forgot to drop the $$$ info -a mere $30. for my first wheels-at least it's not a tricycle. I just remembered in my 'basket' stash I have a woven [if not wicker] basket for a bicycle. It's a start..when we 'get all dressed up" I will share again , I promise!
[There is a part II to this 'stops along the way home' ]  jh