Any weekend will end right when it starts off with an invitation to a movie viewing on a Billyburg rooftop, with a smoldering grill to roast marshmallows and assemble s'mores.
Even better when that invitation is extended by bike friends, and the movie is "Tuff Turf," starring an insanely young James Spader and Robert Downing, Jr. Not to mention the insanely fabulous outfits.
Maybe that's because I absolutely love the 80s. The crimped hair, the scrunchies, the best friend necklace crazes...it brings back memories of growing up in New Jersey, where I first learned how to ride a bike, attempting, desperately, to keep up with my older sister. By then the differences between us were starkly evident. My parents, resolutely oblivious, still bought matching whatever for us to wear.
Back then, I resisted it. And even now, I balk at getting identical handbags, accessories, dresses, whatever with girl friends. I rationalize it by telling myself that my identity shouldn't have to be given material form or some indication that I belong to a certain group. It just feels sort of weird.
Then of course, I went and contradicted myself.
But it involved an 80s/early 90s icon: the Swatch. And bicycles! Because NYC Velo just decided to bring them back.
Heading back into the city from a training ride, Brett apparently needed a battery for his Swatch. That turned into the NYC Velo staff pulling out and dusting off their own respective Swatches, including Justin's limited edition Renzo Piano beauty.
So naturally, I was all too easily cajoled into purchasing one for myself, [especially because I've been lacking an everyday wrist watch for a small eternity]. Of course, I also felt a little special being the first non-official-employee sporting one into the shop.
Then, later, back in Boston, I felt a lot special when Mike, cassette, and I ended up on the Rapha blog [yup, even with the bags under my eyes in the posted picture]. But, as usual, more on that later. For now, go get yourself a new Swatch.