Every now and then there are opportunities to feel a deeper connection to this huge city we live in. In LA it's especially easy to exist mostly within whatever neighborhood or "side" of town you happen to dwell. The Eastsiders seldom venture to hang with us Westsiders. It can almost sound like we're motorcycle gangs or something. 

But occasionally that shifts. This past weekend we took part in CicLAvia, where long stretches of boulevards that snake through the city are closed off only to bikers, skateboarders, rollerbladers, walkers, or anyone without a motor. It was quite a sight to see. I think it was estimated that over 150,000 people made their way down 15 miles of Venice Blvd. that day, and that certainly seemed to be the case, as there was a sea of heads and glimmering bike wheels as far as you could see. There was an excitement that was palpable not only from being part of something important and unique, but also from seeing our city in a way only possible outside of a car. There were DJ's, food trucks, marching bands, arts-and-crafts booths for when you were ready to get off and take a break. 

It certainly took some bike skills to navigate all the folks who perhaps do not have such great bike skills, but all went well. After our ride, the kids promptly jumped into our friend's pool and soaked up the day. 

Here's a song from a great new artist that could also work well for a bike ride, if you're riding solo.