I woke Lucy from her late morning/early afternoon nap to go for a walk. The sun was shining and it was 62ºF -quite a shift from the downpours of the day before. As one might expect from a sunny, mid-March day, people were everywhere. Like many of the people I saw, I saw in a short-sleeved shirt. If this were August, we’d all be bundled up, I thought, chuckling to myself as I soaked up the warmth.
Lucy was poking along, enjoying the scents that met her at every turn. Only a bloodhound has a better nose than a basset. Her slow meandering gave me a chance to turn my face to the sun and bask in the glory of the day.
We turned the corner I and I could see the family across the street getting their bikes out. As they rode around in their driveway, I heard the son, sitting on the back of his dad’s bike, say, “We haven’t done this for a year.”
Dad laughed and said, “Well, not quite a year, but it feels like it.” The family turned their bikes into the street and dad called, “Okay everyone, test your bell.” The sound filled my heart with joy and I could still hear their bells ringing as they rode towards the park.
booksandbassets 
There’s something about a bike bell, isn’t there!? My wife and I both have them, and ring them occasionally just to hear that wonderful sound. (I still can’t explain her handlebar streamers, though–that’s just her.)
Oh I just love this! Our family are making a big move in a few months to a bike friendly place. I can’t wait for us to go on little biking adventures together! Ding Ding! I love the added sound clip!
I loved this! What a super way to end this story. And perspective is everything, isn’t it? Many times in the spring I have thought that we would be so unhappy if a day in the 60s showed up in August!
I love the word “meandering” — perfect. Beautiful story, and I love the ending too. ~JudyK
What a great way to spend a warm day in March. The sound a bike bell makes is unique. Summer sounds come early.
Love the use of sound here. Makes me feel right in the middle of it!
Now that’s the way to spend a sunny Sunday afternoon. Love the fact that Lucy’s meandering allowed you sunshine and to notice the family.
Loved reading your post – your bell sound effect made me smile too. I do remember from “walking” our beagle how the dog’s nose is really setting the pace and direction. I miss him so. Enjoy your Lucy.