The Red Shoes

Yesterday I attended a party at De Fietsfabriek, a Dutch bike shop, to celebrate the fall line of Po Campo stylish bike bags. I wore my lucky red velvet Marc Jacobs shoes and a vintage red bow.

The red shoes are lucky because I wore them when I met Tori Amos and the first thing she said to me was: “I love your shoes!” Then she hugged me. This is the kind of outfit I wear simply because it makes me happy like a little girl. RED BOW!

what's black and white and red all over?

If I may extol the benefits of fall riding a bit more, the weather was perfect. A crisp chill in the air allowed me to make it through the 4 mile ride unaffected by sweat. I pulled my helmet off and there was no need to comb my hair – red bow and all.

Chilly Sun and De Fietsfabriek Cargo Bike

De Fietsfabriek imports bikes from Holland, similar to my Oma. This cargo bike is super cool, the ultimate in kid-toting. There is a cushioned seat for two in the front of the box with seat belts, most helpful for keeping squirming bodies in place, I assume.

Ultimate child cargo bike

There was a good crowd there, including Elizabeth from Bike Commuters and Leah, who said four of my favorite words: “I read your blog.” (Read Elizabeth’s take on the night here.)

The four of us live in the same neighborhood, so we had a fun-filled ride home together. I love riding in small groups; it’s much more enjoyable than being alone.

The group at De Fietsfabrick

Elizabeth, Greg, and my arm in the bike lane

I set the pace in front because Oma and I are so fast, obviously. I’ve never known my speed on Oma, but based on Elizabeth’s speedometer, we were going 12 mph at a laid back pace. Then I kicked it up a bit for the remainder of the ride. How fast was that, EA? She said I have really good cadence. Sweet!

The red shoes being silly four years ago

Happy riding!

p.s. If you haven’t yet, head over to Being Totally Sweet in Chicago to read an interview with me about city cycling and blogging.

p.p.s. Watch “The Red Shoes” music video by the fabulous Kate Bush here. (Its the red shoes, they cant stop dancing, dancing).