Big fat deal, FOR REAL

October 23, 2014

Some big sh*t went on around here this morning. I RODE MY BIKE AROUND THE BLOCK.

Yep, you heard me!

I rode that sucker around the whole block. And that’s not all. I saw two cats (that didn’t belong to me) while I was out there. I even sat on the sidewalk and got in a lot of pets with one that I’m pretty sure wanted to hitch a ride back to my place. Finally an update for the tumblr. Wahoo!

I have to tell you, it felt great to be outside. ON.MY.BIKE.

Yesterday was not a great day. I went to acupuncture and found out I’m retaining water on the right side due to lack of circulation. Even though I don’t have a lot of feeling in my hand/arm and foot/lower leg, it was something I hadn’t considered.

I tried really hard not to get upset.

On the ride home I tried to think of things to get my circulation moving. All I could think about was my bike. I called Chris at work and told him I was thinking about giving it a try in the morning if I wasn’t too tired. For once, Benjamin Franklin brought himself into the house ON HIS OWN ( (after screaming at the door) at 9pm. Apocalypse?, I thought. And then went to bed myself.

Circulate that.

When I opened the back door this morning and saw that the FedEx guy had gone out of his way to come all the way around the back of the house – and up the stairs – to drop a delivery, I took it as a sign.

Chris got the bikes down and we agreed that I would just do what I could, no pressure.

I couldn’t go far and was pretty shaky, but I did it. And then I cried all the way home.

Back on My Bike!

If you’ve been praying for me, THANK YOU. I mean it, thank you so much.

This is such a huge deal for me and I appreciate all of your positive thoughts, prayers and encouraging words more than I could ever say.

*Also, Chris took about 180 pictures (like maybe 12) so if you follow me on Instagram I’ll try not to pepper spray the feed over the next few days. No guarantees.

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15 Comments

  • Reply Dawn January 2, 2015 at 6:04 pm

    I read your story via Public’s most inspiring customer email. High five sweet girl! Keep pedaling and I’ll be praying. The very best to you in 2015.

  • Reply Sara Hirsch January 1, 2015 at 9:15 pm

    Bravo, brave woman. You are an inspiration which you do beautifully. Your circulation will improve and you’ll get better and stronger each day! Happy New Year!

    • Reply This Free Bird January 3, 2015 at 6:00 pm

      Thank you and Happy New Year, Sara! I’m definitely going to keep at it!

  • Reply The Public Blog» Blog Archive » Most Inspiring Customer Story of 2014 December 27, 2014 at 12:02 am

    […] chronicled her experience on her blog, This Free Bird and wrote after that inaugural loop around the […]

  • Reply Courtney October 24, 2014 at 12:30 pm

    It’s the bike ride of triumph (and cute cat watching) – and hopefully it’s the first of many!

    Courtney ~ Sartorial Sidelines

    • Reply This Free Bird October 27, 2014 at 7:44 pm

      One cat was a calico with some nice orange spots. You would’ve loved!!

  • Reply rosalovesdc October 24, 2014 at 10:37 am

    This is amazing girl!!! I am so happy for you, huge step and an incredible one.XO

    • Reply This Free Bird October 27, 2014 at 7:43 pm

      Thank you, Rosa! Provided lots of fuel (and naps) for the weekend. Haha!

  • Reply lena October 24, 2014 at 5:10 am

    F’ING AMAZING–and you did look damn good doing it!

    • Reply This Free Bird October 27, 2014 at 7:42 pm

      YEAH!!! TWO DAY CRAZY BUN HAIR FTW!!

  • Reply Closet Fashionista October 23, 2014 at 11:56 pm

    YAY!!! Such a great step to take!! Before you know it you’ll be able to ride to the beach again 🙂

    • Reply This Free Bird October 27, 2014 at 7:42 pm

      One step at a time, but very exciting to think about!

  • Reply Lori October 23, 2014 at 11:40 pm

    Woohoo ~ good for you!! I know it is a big deal and I just want to say that you look so good riding high on that bike! xoxo

    • Reply This Free Bird October 27, 2014 at 7:41 pm

      Thanks Lori! Best day ever!!

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