I'd like to introduce you to Myrtle, and tell you her story.

Myrtle is a 24 speed red Jamis mountain bike. She is going to be my best friend for the next two and a half months because we will be spending a lot of time together everyday commuting to and from campus (12km round trip). She came to me through one of the nicest and most hospitable interactions I've ever experienced. Let me tell you the story.

Again, this one starts with lovely Leila who has been an amazing friend, tour guide, and all around asset to me on this trip all the way from London, Ontario.

So I had told Leila that I planned on looking for a bike to commute while I was here. She suggested I give one of her friends a shout when I arrived because he was a cyclist and could likely give me advice on paths, routes, shops, etc. So last week I sent him an email and we chatted this weekend.

He was a super guy. We chatted about routes and where I might look for an economical and reliable set of wheels. We decided we would get together next week to grab a coffee/beer and talk more once I had my week schedule setup.

Then, five minutes after our chat, he rang me back. He said that he is with his friend and they have an old mountain bike in their garage that they wanted to get rid of; it was mine if I wanted it.

I was so surprised and so excited! This guy I've never even met just pulled the nicest, friendliest, and most welcoming stunt, literally saving me a couple hundred dollars and likely landing me a much nicer and more reliable bike than I would have found at any used or recycling shop. A Real Aussie Gem!

So that's how Myrtle came to me. I called her Myrtle because the street I live on in Myrtle Grove and it seems only fitting. I'm excited to spend the new few months worth of quality time with her once she's tuned up and road ready.

Cheers to Myrtle, the newest member of my Auzzie-Posse; keep it weird and stay posted for some exciting developments later this week!