Thursday, November 18, 2010

New Bicycle

The gang took a break from each other today.  Everyone has been enjoying Paris and exploring as a group, but just wanted to explore a little bit alone; to discover and experience things themselves and on their own terms.  We officially rendezvous tomorrow at 10:30 AM at Miss Manon boulangerie although Greg emailed late today saying he has made a reservation at Oscar Brasserie for tonight dinner.  Diane and I have RSVPed “qui”.  I expect Dayton and Gaye (…those little love birds…) are off on their own having their own escape.

I BOUGHT A BICYCLE!!!!!   It’s a Gazelle Impala model made somewhere between 1900 and yesterday.  Even the French refer to them as “Holland” bicycles, in that they are those old beautiful cruisers that are quintessentially Dutch.  Gazelles are indeed made in Holland.  The French like them too.

My Gazelle is exactly what I was looking for; very “vintage” looking (read, “rusty”), has drum brakes, mechanical brake linkages, a cable actuated 3 speed internal hub, a dynamo-driven headlight, leather Brookes saddle, full leather chain guard etc.  Tres cool.

The only problem with the darn thing is going to be getting it home.  Lufthansa wants to charge $200.  Gulp.  Assessing options (… which may be limited).

… Oh yeah, … Diane did something today.  I am not sure what, I think maybe she went to a movie and did some shopping.  Right now she is on the Skype phone with Laurie P.

1 comment:

Unknown said...

The heck with a beret, a bicycle is a much better choice for a Parisian transformation. Magnifique! Your new ride is tres cool however the seat looks tres uncomfortable. And though the cost to ship your Impala home seems pricey, the joy it will bring and the wonderful memories it will evoke, priceless. I am afraid this lifestyle will be difficult to leave behind.

Heureux sentiers pour vous.
Laurie p.