Blockhus 2023

Today was quite a practical day so this is quite a practical post.

Setting off, I felt noticeably in the cycling grove. I enjoy picking my way along a route and seeing towns along the way. It makes a change from the bussel of the coast and yes, the odd hill is welcome.    

I wanted to pick up some new inner tubes. Just in case. And then after checking the back tyre properly I decided that I would be better replacing it. It’s very worn and I suspect if I spend more time on gravel (inevitable) I’d never quite relax.  Luckily for me there were several bike shops on route to my next stop. The first one wasn’t very helpful although they were very nice. They are closing down the bike part of the business and their mechanic was off. They didn’t have anything in the right size so, I went for a look round town instead. I stopped for a coffee and cake in a shop with a very depressed owner. She served me reluctantly and then resumed sitting and staring dolefully out of the window. 

A few towns later on a route carefully planned to avoid gravel I found another bike shop. This time I did get what I wanted.   Along the way I’ve passed several very good yarn shops - all closed much to my disappointment. 

I enjoyed the change of scene being in land but, as I approached the coast the wind picked up. All very well until I turned direction making the last 5km of the day very very slow.   At the site I’ve made a far better job of replacing the tyre (it’s amazing how much easier it is when your hands aren’t numb with cold) and mended the old tube - just in case.