I just started a new job at a cooperatively-managed bike shop over in Minneapolis. I'm enjoying it; I really like the people there. They aren't pretentious, as one would guess. I am still not really convinced about the whole expensive bike thing, though. Sure, there are differences between parts, but usually not enough difference to really warrant a $1000 gap on the price tags. Nor do I really understand why people pride themselves on their knowledge of these expensive parts. Working at a store that definitely does not make bicycling accessible to people with less money makes me really appreciate Sibley. I understand how it fits into the scene a little better now.

I am sick of bikes!

In other news, I am about 95% sure that I want to put off the full-time internship/ career-starting move. If I can make the money work, I want to either go on a bike tour of organic farms around the US (maybe cross the country?) or travel in southeast asia and India. I admit that I am terrified. Seeing my friends around me take on jobs in high positions makes me anxious. I'm worried that I will drift around in a directionless, resume-damning funk for years if I don't hit the ground running. However, a dream I had last night makes me realize how precious my current freedom is--I can run off and do anything, with no time limit (only money limits) and no obligations to anyone but myself. I've never been in this position before, and I may never be in it again. I want to take advantage of it. I would like to think that as soon as this gets old, I will have both the will and the means to really really look for a job job. I know that I will not allow myself to grow stagnant. In truth I really only run the risk of ending up in my parents' basement, unhappy and alone for a few months before setting off on my power-woman path.