How is your summer going? I have been busy trying to catch up with life, getting ready for some August birthdays, vacation plans, scrapbooking and finally, back to quilting! My extra hexagon paper templates have finally arrived at my LQS, ready for me to pick up. I have been at a standstill with my English Paper Piecing because I needed more hexies but actually it's perfect timing now as we get ready for a road trip so I can take them along in the car.
My fridge has been bursting with healthy food as the plant-based eating plan continues. Paired with my cycling schedule, I'm feeling like I'm in awesome shape this summer. The farmer's market has so many lovely fruits and veggies right now and I still reserve my baker's sourdough loaves each week, with perhaps a yummy buttermilk honey loaf mid-week. The shopping and food prep keeps me busy for sure!
I'm also riding each morning, still learning a lot about my bike and cycling in general, and survived my first mishap when the chain came off at the farthest part of my ride. I was able to get it back on although unfortunately, I had ditched my saddle bag of supplies thinking I was just in the city and wouldn't need anything. Sure, I didn't need tools for the job but my disposable gloves would have been really handy! Luckily I had one tissue in my pocket and got the worst of the grease off my fingers before cycling home. I'm just glad I didn't break the chain or get a puncture and lesson learned: even while fairly close to home, always pack the essentials!
My home bicycle workshop is coming along nicely. I re-organized the entire garage so I could dedicate a small area to maintenance. I cleared off the garden potting bench and converted it to a workstation. I had hubs install a peg board above it so I could hang some tools...not that I have any yet! I was inspired by a couple home shops I found on the net and simply had to make one for myself. I am pretty pleased with the progress so far. I don't plan on any big repair jobs or anything but even washing the bikes, which is really important to do, is easier when everything is ready to go. A clean bike runs better and just like when I wash the dog, it's a good practice to go over the bike and learn what is 'normal' so that I can detect any problems before they become worse. I'm having a lot of fun setting everything up (and shopping!) and it really is nice to have a place to put my stuff before and after a ride. I know the family appreciates it too even though they think I am crazy (I never go half way when I'm interested in something!). I plan on sharing pics when it's done and also starting a series of posts regarding taking care of bike maintenance yourself. I totally believe that (as women) we should be encouraged to learn how to perform these basic tune-up and minor repair jobs ourselves.
So that's what I've been up to in between Game of Thrones episodes (I was really, really late to the party but am caught up and thoroughly enjoying the series) and regular chores. I realized the other night that Over the Kitchen Counter has been a part of my life for almost 9 years now so I really appreciate any of you who take the time to visit and read. I know you have busy lives too! The blog world has really been quiet these past few months but if you know anyone who might be interested in what I have to say, please let them know about OTKC! Thank you!
Part of my morning routine, since 2011 I think, is reading OTKC. Never miss it!
Our lives overlap in many different ways, we seem to like the same things. Keep up the good blogging!
Posted by: Ann Megargle | August 03, 2017 at 09:50 AM