For the last few months, I've watched my savings account grow. I've been allocating a bit more than usual from each paycheck in anticipation of a big purchase: a bicycle.

A bike has been on my "want to buy" list for quite some time. The bikes of my childhood were generally passed down. Even during college I had a borrowed bike to get around.

Come to think of it, I'm not sure I've ever had a two wheeler that was just mine.

Biking has always been fun for me. So, after much careful consideration, I decided that it was time to invest in a quality bike that would last me a while — preferably before summer arrived. Luckily, I made that decision with time to save up for my big purchase.

As warmer weather arrived, I started to research my options. I even enlisted the help of seasoned biker Caroline to talk through the information I learned from several biking blogs and forums and by visiting local bike shops.

A few test rides later and I found her: my green beauty .

Speaking of green, I'm hoping shelling out this bit of green will help me save green in the future — and go green for that matter. (Aaah! Color overload!)

Instead of hopping into the car for a quick trip to the store, I'll take my bike instead. This way I save gas and don't overbuy (you think twice about putting an item in your basket when you know there is limited space to bring it home!). And even though the commute will be a bit of a trek, I'm hoping to bike to work on occasion.

Living green to save green: Caroline's wise advice stretches far past biking shorts recommendations!