Coil Cars

A freight train slowly creaked across our path. Google Lens identified these as “coil cars” for carrying large rolls of sheet metal. A Google Search for CNW 19221 brought up photographs of the actual freight car and confirmed its purpose.

Categorized as Cycle

Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam

A surprise on our Sunday morning walk: Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam was open to the public. We peered into massive spaces normally hidden from us, and experienced the calm of the lock chamber contrasting with an unusually turbulent Mississippi.

Behind Bars

In a part of town where there’s small businesses with names like “Ruff Love” (dog daycare) and “Eat My Words” (used books), took my bike to “Behind Bars.” Splashed out on “the most puncture-resistant pneumatic tires on the market.” I’m cycling hopefully, while not expecting miracles.

Categorized as Cycle

Pasties for Lunch

Today I was reminded how lard makes pastry light and flakey. Out cycling with a friend, stopped to pick up Cornish pasties at a serving hatch. Savored the melt-in-the-mouth crust and tasty filling upstairs and outside at a picnic table.

Categorized as Cycle

Off-Peak Cycling

We cycled a loop: Hiawatha LRT Trail, Midtown Greenway, Chain of Lakes, Minnehaha Creek, back up the Mississippi. On a weekend, this route is busy, but not on a Monday. Stopped for a late lunch at Longfellow Grill, greeted by staff who’ve worked there since before the pandemic. Spring comes late here, and the section…… Continue reading Off-Peak Cycling

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We Always Stop For Trains

Most weeks, when the weather is fair I go cycling with my friend, Dave. I always look forward to our bicycle adventures: we indulge our curiosity about the world around us, the conversation flows, and we get some exercise. Yesterday our cycle ride included the recently completed Robert Piram Trail in South St. Paul. When…… Continue reading We Always Stop For Trains

Categorized as Cycle

Swedish Treat

Went on the longest cycle ride, so far, this year, with a mandatory DQ towards the end. My friend had a two-for-one coupon to use before it expired. The DQ was closed, so instead we continued to Fletcher’s for first-rate lingonberry ice cream, a nod to the area’s Swedish roots.

Categorized as Cycle

Pedal and Patisserie

Defied the chill, wrapped up well, cycled with a friend. Almost cleared out Patisserie 46’s inventory of almond croissants.

Categorized as Cycle