Welcome aboard. Not sure if there are many other gals on here besides 1 in Florida that I know of. Women are a very small minority in the world of bikes, although I have noticed more and more are taking an interest in the 2 wheeled life. I bet you can find someone local easy enough.
Starting in the dirt is a good idea, but if you are doing so because you believe you are less prone to injury, then just know that hard sharp objects are everywhere, and often harder to see. Protective gear is always a good idea no matter where you ride. The only difference in the dirt is a lack of cars.
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