A wheely nice day out

When my son is away with his Dad I miss him terribly. It's like he took an arm or leg with him. This time he is away for two weeks. The first few days I moped around but pulled myself together a little today and tried to make the most of some time to myself. Embracing the spirit of my new exercise regime, I took myself off for a bike ride down the canal path.

It wasn't the most beautiful of days with heavy looming cloud threatening rain but at least it kept the temperature down. I enjoyed myself immensely. Living on the edge of town meant I was out in the countryside immediately and pootling along without a care in the world. However, there were a few things I hadn't accounted for. Firstly, the after-effects of yesterday's exercise (certain muscles are really none too happy with me), and secondly the bumpy terrain and hills. Yes, hills. What are they doing on a canal path? Perhaps I should have checked out the map in advance so I could spot the 12 lock flight.

Nonetheless I persevered and knocked the gears down a notch or two and day dreamed about paintings I might create based on the delightfully named canal boats I passed - Tanglefoot, Dreamweaver and Lady Bella... what perfect inspiration.

Aside from the watercraft, when you're by the water there are certain parts to the scenery that you are pretty much guaranteed - ducks and other water fowl, dragonflies, dog walkers. Today though I was presented with the entirely unexpected:

First was a crisp £10 note just lying along the tow path with no previous owner in sight. Thank you very much.

Secondly, I experienced a mysterious sudden temperature drop for no apparent reason. Suddenly the air was icy, then almost immediately back to normal. This was strange enough, but then I realised where I was - just a stone's throw from the haunted canal tunnel....

Finally, I met Father Christmas. Yes readers, I have discovered his secret summer hideaway. Of course, I can't tell you exactly where it was, because the poor man may find his peaceful retreat suddenly inundated with letters demanding lego and playstations. But I know... He waved a cheery greeting at me. Nice man!

I returned from my jaunt somewhat exhausted - not helped by the uphill ride from canal to home. Any sensible person would have taken the rest of the day easy, but no why do that when you can go dig the garden? To say I ache now would be an understatement.... Think I may paint for the rest of the day!