The (Sub)Urban Explorer

I've lived in this neighborhood for-I just realized it's been 3 years this month! Wow, time flies whether you're having fun or not. I completely missed my move-in anniversary, I guess I'll have to drink to my 3rd year here. Anyway, Saturday I said some unexpected time so I hopped on my human-powered, two-wheel, environmentally-friendly mode of alternative transportation and headed out to chart new territory. I have to set the scene for you: I love overcast days and Saturday happened to be one such day. By nature I'm a melancholy cat, and usually hang dead-center, so when the sun dips behind the clouds, it balances me. I ventured west of the main drag in my city and discovered one of the nicest middle-class neighborhoods one could cycle through. The houses were surprisingly modern and custom. No two were alike. Some were obviously multi-million dollar homes. The tree-lined streets provided a nice canopy and I cycled through amazed at how I'd lived so close and not venture to this part of town.

The street seemed never to end. I rode until I found myself near the 405 fwy and one of my favorite live music spots. The sun was still relaxing behind the clouds and the coolness of the day splashed across my face. Discovering something exciting right in your own city can be a rewarding experience. I had completely avoided the west side. I mostly jogged on the east side near the military installation-a very sad and impoverished area. Who knew such lavish accommodations existed on just the other side of the boulevard?

Today I waited for the sun to set and mounted my bike and retraced my path. The trip wasn't as impressive but it was nice to see people out jogging, walking their dogs, and families cycling in the bike lane. Surprisingly, everyone was friendly; they all smiled and waived as we passed one another, which was unexpected seeing as how I was a stranger in their midst. Tomorrow I plan on venturing down some of the other streets and perhaps even spending some time in the park. I even discovered a public library at the mid-point in my journey which I'm sure I'll spend some time in real soon.

TPOKW?