Last month when the weather finally turned nice, I vowed to ride more. But where? My brain searched for destinations. Then it hit me -- I can travel to thrift-stores in faraway places that, because of their distance, I'd never been to before. It's a brilliant concept -- I enjoy the long rides there and get to shop in new stores.
Thrift-stores offer me treasures -- feminine clothing that not only expands my wardrobe but broadens my life-experiences. For an affordable price ($5-10), I get a ticket to female adventure. It's great fun to learn how maxi-dresses feel on your body, to grasp why bodysuits are loved and hated by many, and to explore new styles. Most of you know I have deep yearnings to attend a prom or fancy ball; wearing elegant gowns may be as close as I'll ever get.
Today was a good day. After knocking off work early, I rode my trusty steed (BMW K1200LT) to two thrift-stores in distant lands. At one, unknown to me, I was watched as I pulled in. As usual, I headed first to the fancy gown section to see what was available. I spotted an elegant, long grey gown that retails for $300-500. The price was marked $19.99 and, because it's Wednesday, everything in the store was 50% off. So I bought an expensive fancy gown for $10. That's a bargain!
As I was leaving, a well-dressed older gentlemen stopped me and complimented my motorcycle. He launched into a long conversation about how he's wanted to ride motorcycles his entire life. We chatted for over twenty minutes and he ate up my tales of motorcycling adventure. Many non-riders love the vicarious thrills we riders offer through our stories. The man and I had a nice time talking. Then I saddled up and headed off, as he admired the smooth poise of my graceful handling of a big machine. I control this 800-lb monster like a part of my body.
During our entire conversation, I was holding a woman's fancy ball-gown in my arms. Yes, there's something incongruous about wearing biker-gear (black leather jacket, heavy boots, etc.) and browsing through racks of dainty sundresses. But it's what I enjoy doing and, currently, it's legal.
Do you do things that surprise people?
It does not matter what people think. As long as you are happy with your adventures and how you turned out, that is all that counts. At least you are not boring ;)
ReplyDeleteThanks, Dale. I like your joke about not being boring!
DeleteI am tickled that you have that wonderful experience of having two of your passions intertwine, Ally! BTW, I intend to dress up for at one of the dinners during the +40 blog meet-up - it might not be a prom dress, but it'll be fancy!
ReplyDeleteNo one who knows me is much surprised by me, hee hee.
You are such an individual, Sheila, that I know you grasp this. I just booked my hotel-room for the Vancouver meetup and will be there to open my eyes wide in amazement at your fancy outfit!
DeleteThe paradox of Ally. Wrapped up in leather and pink bows, strapped to a fast machine and a twirling baton. What did I forget? Oh yeah...arguing in court. Like the Sesame Street song...which one of these things doesn't belong? That would be all of them. That is what makes you fascinating.
ReplyDeletebisous
Suzanne
Thanks, Suzanne. I gotta be me, I gotta be me, whether I'm right or whether I'm wrong, whether I find a place in this world or never belong, I gotta be me, I've gotta be me. What else can I be but what I am...?
DeleteGreat story. I was thinking it was going to end with you taking the man for a ride but I guess that would be too weird. Just thinking how cool it would be that he would have his desire filled right after you'd filled yours.
ReplyDeleteI'd have been up for it! If he'd have asked, we'd have done it. I've given (first) rides to dozens of people, including strangers.
DeleteAlly cat!!! That is a great story!!
ReplyDeleteGood plan for riding destinations! I love that your two favourite things have combined in this way - I can definitely see that making you smile on the inside and on the outside. I love how biking opens up opportunities for random conversations - people are drawn to bikes and like to share their stories, which is fun. When we were touring last summer a whole group of Japanese tourists got off their coach and wanted our photographs - it was hilarious but kind of awesome at the same time.
ReplyDeleteHilarious and awesome are a great combination!
DeleteThat's what makes you, you and I wouldn't change you for anything X
ReplyDeleteThanks, Sweetie!
DeleteSo nice to know someone else with contrasting leanings.
ReplyDeleteThe image of you with the ballgown dressed in leathers is so compelling. I love it! xo Jazzy Jack
Awesome post title, Ally - that describes me to a tee as well! :) I've always been the odd (wo)man out, the black (err, redheaded) sheep in the family, and the one with a thousand different interests and many true, deep, great loves. It can make time management all the more of a challenge, but ultimately, I wouldn't change that element of who I am for the world - and hope that you never will either.
ReplyDelete♥ Jessica
I recognize you as a kindred spirit, Jessica. It's why we're friends!
DeleteI'm so glad you've found a way to enjoy two things you love at the same time! You're a rockstar.
ReplyDeleteWell... I wouldn't go THAT far! But I'm flattered by your comment, Beth. :-)
DeleteOh I love this post! It's so you! If I host a prom party, will you come?
ReplyDeleteIn a New York minute!
DeleteThrift shops are Disneyland for adults. And EVERYBODY is odd! Name me one person who isn't odd.
ReplyDeleteUm... Donnie Osmond?
DeleteI love it when I find an expensive gown at a great deal! Thrift stores can have so much to offer :)
ReplyDeleteYup! They're filled with treasures and we can afford them!
DeleteThis was a fantastic idea. Can't wait to see the ballgown. Love your kitty costume. How fun! Don't ever let the little playful kitten in you go. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks, Lisa. I plan to wear the gown this weekend.
DeleteYour happiness is infectious! Rock on!
ReplyDeleteYou are super fun! Enjoy yourself girl, life is too short!
ReplyDeletewww.dressed2dnines.com
Having just read your post regarding the dress ... which is spectacular ... and then reading this one I had to giggle at the thought of the man chatting to you about your bike and you in your leathers with that gorgeous dress on your arm!!! You certainly know how to entertain us!!!
ReplyDeletethat's one on the most intriguing things about you in my eyes...you have the attractive feminine/masculine juxtaposition i always craved growing up. i wanted to be that girl who got on a motorcycle, gunned the engine, and sped off, haha.
ReplyDeleteIt's not too late to add some butch to your femme!
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