Off and on for a while now, I’ve been in a few 100-word writing groups. They work like this: one person writes 100 words exactly about whatever they like. They email them to the group. The next person, using the first 100 words as inspiration, writes their 100 words, sending them along. And so on. Their purpose is to help spur creativity, encourage low-stakes writing, and build a writing community.
My writing teacher Edvige Giunta introduced me to this idea, and last night co-ran the eighth annual 100-word Reading Marathon in honor of Valentine’s Day. People were invited to register and share their 100-word pieces, all about love.
Sadly, I couldn’t attend. But, I wrote three 100-word pieces, all dedicated to bikes. I’d like to share them with you.
Ode to the road… bike
You know I love you. Yeah, I tried others, test-riding all over town. But you— that first ride sealed the deal. We’ve been inseparable ever since. Steel is real and so are my feelings.
We’ve had our ups and downs. Scratches and replacement parts for you, shoulder surgery for me. But we’re still here. You’re always my go-to bike for an easy spin around town, coffee rides, errands.
Change is coming. A new bike will be joining us. It doesn’t mean I love you any less. You’re going anywhere. But life is all about change. I think we’ll be okay.
Texts to my gravel bike in the basement
Hi– I know we haven’t seen each other in a while. It may sound cheesy, but it’s not you; it’s me. I think about you all the time, as well things we’ve done together: those sweet summer rides on country roads; seeing the sights on vacations. Even grocery shopping feels more special when we do it together. You’ve made my life better just by being you.
I’m gonna do better, I promise.
Honestly, I’ve just been busy.
Work’s been a killer.
Lots of personal stuff going on.
Once things get clear, it’ll be just you and me, baby, I swear.
First encounter with my future e-bike (this hasn’t happened yet, but it’s how I envision it)
Me: Uh, hi. I’ve wanted to meet you for a long time. Want to take a short spin?
You:
Me: Okay. Awkward! I’m really embarrassed, but I’ve never done this before. I was just so enamored of you as soon as we met, I wanted to ride together. That’s not wrong, is it? Too much?
You:
Me: Okay. I get it; You’re waiting for me to make my move. Fair enough.
*throws leg over the top tube, settles on the saddle, starts pedaling*
You: *motor whirring softly*
Me: Oh wow! You’re so great! Where have you been all my life?
Readers, I hope you’ve enjoyed my mini-love-letters. I encourage you to try this– 100 words, no more, no less. It’s fun, it’s fast, and it’s freeing.
Happy late Valentine’s Day from me and my bikes (only some of which are represented here…)
Love these 😉
So fun!