Winter?

Whatever happened to winter? It was like a mild spring day on the W&OD trail today. It was great to see so many people out on their bikes. It wasn't so great seeing the same bad behavior on the trail; joggers and walkers making u-turns without looking, which is the best reason there is to warn pedestrians when you're passing; dogs (and children) on long leads; people stopped on the trail; fast cyclists, some in pacelines, passing dangerously; etc. It's rare to have so much traffic on the trail this time of year.

We were on our way to the Falls Church Farmer's Market. It's one of the only nearby markets that is open year round. I attached a milk crate to my rear rack. It's a great way to carry lots of groceries. The jury is still out on whether it will stay.

We admired the two bikes you see in the photo on the right. One is an old Nishiki mite frame in great condition with nice leather grips, Brooks saddle, fenders, and a folding grocery-getter pannier. The other bike had an old lugged steel frame with equally impressive accessories, including a very nice, large leather bag on the front rack.

It's relatively easy to run errands on bikes on the weekends. It's also a great way to get some fresh air and exercise in the process.