Bike Date – French Restaurant in Lincoln Park

Last night Mr. Dottie and I enjoyed a romantic dinner at a fancy French restaurant. I wanted to wear my new Saja dress, so I wore it. This is not an ideal dress for cycling because of the length. However, when you ride your bike everywhere, it comes down simply to wearing what you want to wear. If I limited my wardrobe because of my bike, I would resent the limitations. If I took a cab to the restaurant instead, I would be incredibly lame. So I threw on some small shorts underneath, put my basket on Oma for the fig leaf effect, and pedaled in a ladylike manner. This was less revealing than a pair of shorts. Actually, the most challenging wardrobe issue was getting Mr. Dottie out of his cargo shorts and “fun in the sun” t-shirt. Turns out, he cleans up quite nicely. :)

Me and Oma in Lincoln Park

Dapper Greg in Lincoln Park

The restaurant had no bike parking and a sign reading “Do Not Lock Bikes to Fence.” This forced us to lock up to the fence in the park across the street. Ritzy people must use this park to walk their little dogs and then neglect to pick up after them, because I stepped in an unhappy surprise. Getting doggy do on my suede Prada pumps was not the best way to start my evening, but after some emergency cleaning in their ladies’ room, I was over it.

Greg in front of the restaurant

For those helmet fans – yes, I wore a helmet. I never leave home without my helmet, although I often put it in my basket when I’m riding through the park or bike path on Oma. I’m perfectly capable of assessing risks and there is little risk in riding a sturdy Dutch bike 10 miles per hour on a bike path. (Walking downtown, riding in a car, and running are all more dangerous activities for which I have never worn a helmet.)

Nutcase helmet

My shoes were a bit annoying because they slipped on the pedals a few times. I had rubber bands on my pedals to prevent this a couple of weeks ago, but they must have fallen off. For these particular shoes, I’ll probably throw them in my basket and wear flats for the journey in the future.

Slippery but awesome Prada shoes

Next time you have a date, consider riding your bike! If your companion does not ride a bike, forget ’em. No, I kid. If your companion does not ride a bike, simply offer to meet him or her there. Showing up on your bike will make you memorable. Trust me that he or she won’t be thinking badly of your slightly mussed hair and glowing skin ;)