Have you ever wanted to…ride your bike to school?

I’ve heard over and over again what it was like “back in the day.” After hearing my grandparents complain about having to walk 10 miles in the freezing cold to get to school or riding their bikes everywhere, I decided to take on a challenge.

On the morning of Jan. 16, I set my alarm just a little bit earlier. By 6:45 a.m., I had layered up with warm clothes, grabbed a banana, threw on my super hip helmet, and set off in the dark. Fortunately, my mom agreed to lessen my load by taking my backpack to school for me as she had to drive my brother to school.

Luckily for me, my house is strategically placed at the bottom of a very large hill. After struggling to the top of the road, I began to realize how relaxing and peaceful it actually was outside.

Half-way through the ride, I was getting a little bit tired. Cars whizzed passed me, and I so desperately wanted to be driving instead. As I kept pedaling, I reminded myself what a great start to the day this would be.

As the sun came up and my teeth stopped chattering, I really began to enjoy the weather. I got to school around 7:20 a.m., which was much earlier than I had expected. I hopped off my bike and felt more refreshed than ever. The six-mile bike ride was a success.

It was truly an invigorating experience that left me with a little sense of accomplishment. I’m not saying I’m planning on riding every day because I cannot wait to sleep in and drive tomorrow, but I might just try it more often.

Hanna LeBuhn is a Lifestyles Editor for The Patriot and jcpatriot.com.