What is a BABE?

The BABES held a BABE meeting at the end of September, and this question was pondered there. The club has been in existence for 3 years now and we've grown some and we've shrank some in that period. We've also had time now to see what we like and perhaps don't like about our humble little club. We discussed things we do well, along with things we don't do so well. It was an enlightening conversation. An important conversation.

So what is a BABE? What do we want to be? What do we want to accomplish?

What does it take to be a BABE? Well, it doesn't take money. We've decided to terminate the dues effectively immediately. So now, it doesn't take a treasurer. It also doesn't take a president. Or vice president. It doesn't take officers at all. It takes time. It takes compassion. It takes a caring and concern for bicycling, for trails and roads we ride. It takes an understanding of other trail users. It doesn't take a computer. And it doesn't take a dedicated web site. Therefore, the BABE web site will no longer be maintained. All communication for "members" will be made via email, this blog, or a friendly phone call from another BABE. One thing I felt was important to save from the web site was the "F.U.N." picture. This picture has been on the web site since the first day. And it's there for a very good reason. I've always felt fun was the best reason for people to get together. We have enough seriousness in our jobs, our family lives and just in modern life in general. Why should a simple act of riding a bicycle not be fun?

Anyway, I'll elaborate more on all of this in future posts. But I thought I'd let you know the basic cut of the meeting's jib. We'll have another meeting either late this month or early November. But for now, I'll leave you with a conversation I overheard one day, a number of years ago, as I was putting on my biking shoes at the back of my vehicle. I had laid down a before-ride snack (a Clif Bar) on top of my post-ride refreshement container (cooler buddy)... and following conversation ensued as I laced up my shoes...

Clif Bar:
We're going to ride this ride faster than anyone here today. We're going to WIN!

Cooler Buddy:
This isn't about winning, it's about fun!

Clif Bar:
What's that?

Cooler Buddy:
Fun is when you... sorta like.... fun is about... What is fun? Here. Let me spell it for you.

Cooler Buddy:
F is for friends who ride bikes together
U is for you and me
N is for anywhere and anytime at all
With those who are really happy

Clif Bar:
F is for fancy rehydrating drinks
U is for unusual food
N is for no joy anytime at all

Cooler Buddy:
Clif Bar! Those things aren't what fun is all about! Do it like this!

Cooler Buddy:
F is for friends who ride bikes together

Clif Bar, interrupting:
No! That's completely idiotic!

Cooler Buddy:
Here, let me help you.

Cooler Buddy:
F is for friends who ride bikes together
U is for you and me... you try it!

Clif Bar:
N is for anywhere and anytime at all
for those who are really healthy!

Clif Bar:
Wait. I don't understand this. I feel all tingley inside. Should we stop?

Cooler Buddy:
No! That's how you're supposed to feel!

Clif Bar:
Well, I like it. Let's do it again!

Cooler Buddy and Clif Bar:
F is for a frolicking ride through the park
U is for you and me
N is for never leaving a man behind
Here with my best buddy!

(Laughter)