Had some design work before and after lunch... all the while talking with Beth over email about the pros and cons between buying and renting a bike... we hit Gumtree.com - a classified here in the UK. I found a purty old classic for £110, and within walking distance - I called him during lunch and we were set to meet at 6:30.
This afternoon I had a brainstorm/sketching session which was great - it felt good to get my creative gears going again - it's been a while since all the traveling and settling in. So hopefully tomorrow is more sketching/brainstorming.
After work Beth and I grabbed a London Pride at Three Kings Pub, then walked all the way down Old Street [ended up being half an hour walk] to our meeting place with Simon. He was a character - I think he had an army green jacket on, riding gloves and his glasses had one tinted lens and one clear lens. Beth and Simon told me to take it for a test ride and I was a little nervous to leave Beth with him [he was fine]. I talked him 'down' to £100 and Beth and I were off on the road!
We stopped at this amazing organic pub/restaurant - had some organic pints and amazing food - I had a butternut squash with mozzarella and greens - fantastic!
It's been awhile since I rode, so I was slightly wobbly when starting from a standing point, but overall not a bad ride. It only has 3 gears, but in this city, I shouldn't need any more! I definitely want a basket [for groceries!], a lock, safety lights and a helmet. Look out London, here comes Christine and Rocket!
that looks like a really tall bike! (or maybe it's just cos you're not standing up?) still love your blog!
ReplyDeleteBike basket tip: Don't buy your basket at the bike store. Go to a thrift store. Pick a basket with a heavier reed, ex picnic baskets make great bike baskets if you snip the handles off. Use 3-4 zip ties to attach to your handle bars, no one sees them because they are behind the basket.
ReplyDeleteMy bike basket cost $2 and has made it 3 seasons, and I fill it with heavy produce at least once a week.
That actually crossed my mind, Savy! I figured I could rig something up : )
ReplyDeleteKJ - I think I still need to lower the seat a little.
Go Rocket, Go!!!
ReplyDeleteI am enjoying the blog updates. You're so prolific, I can barely keep up with your news! I'm glad you are adjusting so well. Hope you feel better, BTW!
Love ya,
Kathy
I have a feeling you and Rocket are going to have some GREAT times and it'll be hard to say goodbye. Lookin' solid!
ReplyDelete