Mama Platy

[GirlGangRider]

This post has been percolating in my mind for over a year! I had wanted to post when my husband bought me my beautiful mermaid Platypus. The Platy was my push present (a rather humbling term for a gift that acknowledges the incredible journey of bringing a baby into the world). I had earnestly waited for it to be in stock and the moment my husband told me it was available, I was so excited!

After I gave birth to my first daughter, I found myself terrified to ride a bike again. Perhaps it was the memories of pregnancy and childbirth, or maybe it was the experience of riding a road bike that was far too big for me. Eventually, I found the courage to ride again, hoping to reclaim a piece of my pre-motherhood self. In July 2023, we made our way to Rivendell Bicycle Works with my eighteen-month-old daughter in tow, while I was seven months pregnant with our second.

I may not know all the components or parts of my Platypus, but what I do know is how liberating and enjoyable each ride has been. During my first test ride, I felt empowered, invigorated, and truly like myself again. Now, every time I ride—whether with my daughters or on my own—I feel rejuvenated, often accompanied by their adorable squeals of joy.

Our love for riding has clearly rubbed off on our 2.75-year-old daughter, who zooms on her balance bike faster than we can walk! I eagerly await the day she’s tall enough to ride my Platy, so I can share with her the story of how riding and motherhood have shaped who I am. I’m eternally grateful to my husband for this thoughtful gift and feel so lucky to be part of this bike-loving family.

[Bicycle Belle Ding Ding!]

This post made me deliriously happy in the break room at work today. Welcome, welcome RivSister. Is your name Andrea? Your little cherub is darling with her tiny Woom. I’m so glad you found your way back to cycling after having two babies and all the life changes that come with them. They are the best thing to ever happen to us, aren’t they? 

I got my first Riv, a Betty Foy, when my two boys were little. We went everywhere together on our bikes, for years. And as the girls get older you can go further and maybe even get them their own little Clems (or Platys, if you want to spring for them!) to take on bike adventures with you! I have one grown son now, who took a Clem to college, and one high school son who will take the other Clem to college. 

Anyway, if you feel comfortable, please DM me with your address so I can send you a little something for your Platypus in the mail. And I would love to read more posts from you as you continue on the journey. All the best to you, RivSister!

Leah

[Armand Kizirian]

Congratulations on overcoming those fears of riding a bike and now reaping the endless joys of the bicycle, with your budding family and a Platy no less! Thank you for sharing.

Armand - Fellow Platy-lover

[Christian B-H]

Congrats Platy Mama Girl Gang Rider, and Welcome!  My wife and I also have little girls about a year and a half apart and love biking them around. Your Platypus kid and bike hauler look awesome! 

Christian

[JAS]

Welcome to the wonderful world of Rivendell!  The beautiful bikes!  The lovely people!  I'm so happy for you to have re-discovered yourself and the joy of getting out on your Platy with your family.  Many miles to go...

RivSisters,

Joyce