Ice everywhere this morning, but I'm 100% commute by bike so far this year.

Usually I have to run a gauntlet of middleschoolers on the trail I use. Usually they act like it's a huge inconvenience to move out of the way or occupy less than 150% of the width. Usually the skateboarders try one last trick before they allow bike passage.

Today there was a small group that watched me approach, I cautiously eyed them expecting a smartass remark or stupid move. They just smiled and one of them said "Have a nice day". I was flummoxed.

Then as I hopped the curb to continue on the street, a pair of girls shouted out "Good job riding your bike to work!" and "Thanks for sparing the air!".

What is WITH these kids today?