Bike Possessed

Decided to treat myself to a dose of pedal therapy, taking my new bike, affectionately dubbed “Ghost Rider,” out for its inaugural jaunt. The atmosphere was crisp, painted in the rich, late afternoon hues that make you feel like everything’s ticking along just fine in the world… or so I was led to believe before the “Ghost Rider” chronicles kicked off.

As Tuesday dawned, I was all set for another escapade with Ghost Rider. Yet, something felt off-kilter. The bike seemed… perturbed? Almost as if it held a grudge against me for abandoning it to the mercy of the night’s chill. I brushed aside the eerie notion, blaming it on my lack of morning coffee or perhaps the daring choice of breakfast—an expired yogurt.

By Wednesday, I was firmly convinced of a conspiracy. Ghost Rider appeared to have acquired a taste for unexpected adventures, transforming a simple errand run into a comprehensive exploration of the neighborhood. It reminded me of those tales where vehicles possess their own will, except it felt less “Christine” and more “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” with a twist of rebellion.

Come Thursday, the plot indeed thickened. Stepping outside, I was met by the sight of my old bike, Leader, “staring” back at me. If bikes were capable of expressions, I’d bet it was shooting me a look of utter disdain. Could inanimate objects harbor jealousy? If so, Leader wasn’t just envious; it was scheming—a bicycle rendition of sibling rivalry, if you will.

And now, it’s Friday. I’m semi-convinced that my living room, which has become the new abode for both bikes (because really, who needs furniture amidst such two-wheeled melodrama?), has morphed into an arena where they vie for their owner’s affection.

So, am I losing my mind, or have I accidentally found myself in a Pixar film where objects carry emotional baggage and vendettas? I’ll let you be the judge. In the meantime, I’m on the lookout for a bike exorcist or, failing that, someone interested in trading a queen-sized bed for a gently used, possibly spirit-possessed bicycle. Oh, and if you ever find yourself in Bozeman, drop me a line. We could form a convoy—you, me, and my bicycle nemeses.

As for helping your friends Paul, Lucy and their children visit Missoula, I’d be happy to provide some suggestions. Here are a few ideas:

• Recommend they look into renting a car or RV to make the trip more comfortable, especially with children. This will allow them to explore Missoula and the surrounding area at their own pace.
• Suggest they research family-friendly activities and attractions in Missoula, such as the Missoula Art Museum, the Montana Natural History Center, or the Splash Montana water park.
• Provide them with a list of recommended kid-friendly restaurants and accommodation options in Missoula to make their stay more enjoyable.
• If they need any other local insights or assistance with planning their Missoula visit, I’d be glad to help further.

Let me know if you need any additional information to help your friends plan their trip to Missoula!