Decided to spend my training time today making life a little easier. So, peddled down to the local DIY store to find found there are no bike racks. Undeterred I padlocked trusty steed to the nearest post and blocked a car parking space. Guerrilla cycling in action :-)
Unfortunately they didn't have the type of lock I wanted for our back gate which will allow me to lock it from both sides - currently I have to open gate, put bike on pavement, lock gate, run through house cursing hubbie who is not assisting and out the front door. But did purchase desired tool storage widget and peddled a little unsteadily back balancing it on the handle bars with one hand and steering/braking with the other; possibly not quite in accordance with the Highway Code.
Shed now has a clear space around the bike and I won't have to fight with the rake/spade/fork etc every time I take him out. Lock on order from Ebay. Other half press ganged into fitting lock immediately it arrives so all is well with the world. Only moral of today is that if you don't want half of Hertford to get a view of your unmentionables don't cycle in a floaty summer skirt :-)
I visited Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos in 2002. One of the things that really struck me about the countries was the indefatigable people, the welcome extended to visitors and the simple joy taken in small pleasures. But, having visited the Museum of the American War in Ho Chi Minh City, seen the 'Danger UXB' signs in Laos and read the good news headline in a paper in Cambodia: ' Deaths from UXBs down to 3 this month. Only 40 maimed.' I was acutely aware of the toll still being taken on the population.
Over the years I have pondered the munitions still there and this year I have finally decided to get off my bottom and do something. So I have, somewhat impetuously and with little regard for my physical fitness, cycling ability or dodgy left knee decided to join the MAG cycle ride from Ho Chi Minh City to Ankor Wat. I will be doing this the first week or so in Feb 2011 and it does involve a couple of days of over 100km in 30 degree heat. Having signed up I have been told that neither a rickshaw nor an electric bikes are options and that doing the distance on my own pedals is expected.
Donation link is further down on the right - I have paid for my own flights and contributed enough to cover living expenses so all money raised from sponsorship will go to MAG.
This is my blog of my progress to get on the road and when I am there - assuming I will be capable of rational thought after a day of unaccustomed exercise.
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