This morning, I teleworked for a few hours before driving across the Connecticut River (to White River Junction) so I could finish my New Volunteer Orientation at the VA Medical Center (0845). I then drove a short distance to the Upper Valley Aquatic Center so I could do three volunteer hours (mulching the flower beds) that would count towards my new Volunteer Membership. Just after noon, I departed for Lebanon and picked up my dry-cleaning (first time I've had to do that since March 2020). Omer and Bob's (across the street) was having their annual Bicycle Consignment Sale so I explored the many bikes they had while I was in the area. After some Q&A with the staff, a short test ride and getting over a surprise that I found something I liked so quickly, I pulled the trigger (1230). Like “Ol’ Reliable”, the Diamond Back Response Elite (mountain bike) I chose was first produced in the 1990s. Regardless, this bicycle is much more sophisticated (and better maintained) than anything I’ve ever had and I look forward to many years of fun on the trail with it! I needed my bike rack to get the new cycle home, so I went back to my condo to get it. After a quick turnaround, I resumed teleworking and closed out my work week with few more hours. I had promised Michael H that I'd meet him in Enfield for a walk at the Lower Shaker Wildlife Management Area and I barely made it there by the agreed time (1600). We took a circuit of the trails and ended up logging about 2.5 miles in just under an hour. Afterwards, we drove over to his house in Canaan and his wife, Camille, prepared a delicious dinner for us. The three of us spent the rest of the evening having a nice conversation, eating good food and laughing. I didn't actually leave until almost 2130. I was able to drive home in the length of time it took me to listen to Genesis sing "Supper's Ready"... Great day!
