The best birthday present I ever received was a cheap, second hand bicycle.

I got it when I turned 10, in 1965.

And here's why it was the best: 

I guess I grew up poor. I didn't realize it back then, but we didn't have a lot of money. Getting this bike for me was a big effort on my parents part and it was just what I wanted. It was bright yellow. 20" rims. Not a Sting Ray, which cost $30 new. This one was only $10, which was still not cheap. These were the days of 29 cent gas.

It gave me freedom. I could now go blocks away from my house. Before, I could only go on my own block or cross the street if I asked my mom. My world expanded. I was growing up and this was a symbol of my new maturity and responsibilty.  It was a new, exciting time in my life. I was still a kid who liked to play, but I was old enough to have some real fun and travel the world.

 Wind in my face... I've never outgrown my love of speed. Maybe it's all due to that bike.

OK - Funny story about the bike. I had to learn how to ride it. I'll never forget my older brother pushing my by the seat post back and forth on this level street around the corner from our house. We lived on a steep hill, so I couldn't learn there. So, he's pushing me and I get going and I lose it, so he pushes me again. All of a sudden, I'm flying down the street all by myself. I look back and my brother is standing way back behind me in the street. It's just me riding the bike. My first time! The thrill of freedom coursing through my veins! The wind in my hair! The Speed! The Thrill! It was amazing!

So amazing that I forgot how to use the brakes. I ran into the curb across the intersection, tumbled over the handle bars, and almost hit a fire hydrant as I fell onto the ground with my bike falling on top of me. 

Good times.