Both Puss and I were woken 5 minutes earlier than normal ("normal" being 4.30am) by a fire alarm sounding in the Compass Building at HMB Marina. We watched the activity from the corporate box (the deck at home), the security guard slightly confused after a very quiet night unsure what to do when pressed into action. It was apparent that he could not locate keys to open the building, and was busy trying to rouse people higher up the food chain for instructions. The arrival of the fire brigade 10 minutes later was reassuring - they quietly went about their business, although still unable to access the building, but a lack of flames and smoke indicated a false alarm so no need to break down the doors - eventually things sorted themselves out, and peace returned to the neighbourhood. Not being much into extended drama, Puss had finished his breakfast and gone back to bed, and I'd sorted out my morning podcast, out the door by 4.50, heading for Musick Point via Eastern Beach, My car was booked in for it's second service, having racked up just 10,000kms in 2 years (I know it is due for a service when the window washer needs refilling). I was thankful that Auckland traffic is still in the shoulder of holiday mode, only needing 40 minutes to get to Grafton from Half Moon Bay - I don't envy the poor buggers who have to commute during "normal" high traffic periods where an hour plus is nothing special. I've been to Singapore quite a few times over the years and love the pragmatic way they deal with congestion - they allow "X" number of cars on the road, and you pay for the privilege - if you can't afford the enormous cost, you use public transport.... obviously not something that would appeal to the feel good brigade, but it works for them. Work and rostering schedules meant that son Wade, mate Mickey and yours truly had a few hours to spare in the middle of the day we could dedicate to our Harleys - we headed northwards, intending to end up at the Riverhead Tavern for lunch. Just before the Silverdale turn off we could see traffic stopped on the motorway - a Bull Mastiff dog (quite obviously a "boy' dog..) the size of a calf, with a head like a nail box and probably 50plus kilos had taken himself for a walk, seemingly not phased by the traffic and the fuss he was causing - a concerned couple had persuaded him to remove himself to the grassy berm and the world returned to normal, He appeared to be in good humour, but probably ready to go home. So, apart from a moment of drama, our ride was comfortably uneventful, not too much traffic out in the countryside, a very warm and overcast day, and a cold drink and a meat and cheese platter to welcome us at the Riverhead. Comments are closed.
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Don MalcolmA perfect day involves being on my Harley with a long ride ahead.
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