one of the best things about mike is how friendly he is. this is also one of the most awkward things about him, especially in a town like new york city.

biking home, he pulled up next to another biker at a stoplight. he turned, smiled at her, and said something about the weather (it was cold). her return look was of the get-the-%$#^&-away-from-me variety.


some people, though, are a little more pleasant. take, for example, the traffic cop. as he sped by, mike called out "i appreciate what you do!"

the cop smiled back. "not everyone does," he responded.


but, best of all, was the guy on the harley. they were both stopped at a light and the harley guy commented on how mike probably had an easier time through the traffic. mike thought the power of the harley would make it easier for that guy. then the light turned green and it was suddenly a race.

twenty blocks later, when they pulled up together again at a red light, they called it a tie.