Got my sparkly wheels on!

I just got a new ‘chair a few weeks ago and I’m enjoying the smooth ride, the comfortable fit and the return of smiles evoked by sparkly wheels.

I fell in love with light-up front casters many years ago when they were popular on wheelchair basketball chairs. When I ordered my last chair, I specifically asked for the sparkly wheels. These small diameter wheels light from within when the wheels rotate. The faster you go, the brighter they are.  (The first night I got out of bed to visit the bathroom in the middle of the night, they startled me by lighting up the whole room. Now I try to move VERY slowly in the dark lest I wake my hubby!)

I had to give up my wheels when I discovered that the small diameter wheel combined with that chair’s ultracompact footprint and short wheelbase make me front-end tippy. Sadly, I retired my glittery look and returned to boring old grey rubber in a larger diameter.

Years later, I’m on to my next chair and frame adjustments have allowed me to return to the small diameter wheels. I’m adapting to my new footprint – a longer wheelbase and somewhat wider front caster position makes for a larger turning radius. In these first few weeks I am trying to be mindful of my new maneuvering space to prevent dings all the new wood cabinetry in my house. Meanwhile, I’m enjoying how much better my new chair rolls (all those brand new wheel bearings haven’t had time to get gravelly) and how light I feel (better than a diet!)

The best part, no fail, is the reaction my sparkly wheels bring. When I roll through the airport, no longer do I suspect folks thinking “that poor thing in that wheelchair.”  I can see they are smiling and frequently hear “Wow, rad wheels, there!”  They bring attention to the joy of a great fitting, great rolling chair.

I’m lovin’ my sparkly wheels!