Spinning My Wheels

Spinning both figuratively and literally!

Upper Falls split by Canada Island.

The literal wheel spinning gives a nod to an increase in mileage out on the bike.  While not up to the mileage of old, I am pushing an average of about 150 miles per week.  This is much better mileage than logged during the winter and early spring months of indoor training.  Good to get out in the pleasant weather before the daytime temperatures nudge the thermometer up into the 90s.  Doubly good to get the roadwork in before the hazards of negotiating crosstown traffic make the journey a bit stressful until I can get out onto the relative safety of the bike path and relax.

Upper Falls, South Channel

Saturday morning's ride saw me stopping on the Post Street Bridge for a brief snack break in the middle of downtown.  Breakfast consisted of downing a couple pieces of sushi while I enjoyed the pleasant view of the Upper Falls before making the long and hot climb back up the South Hill and home.  With no measurable rain for more than a month and the mountain snowpack long gone, the Spokane River is running low with both Lower and Upper Falls showing their mid-summer, natural state of exposed rock and reduced water flow. 

Lower Falls under Monroe Street Bridge

The figurative wheel spinning is happening on the hobby front.

Following the series on Mortimer's Cross battles and the chronicling of those very enjoyable games, returning to the keyboard and painting table has been difficult.  After wrapping up a series of battles, I am frequently distracted by what might occupy the table next.  That research continues.  After suggestions, a return to the 18th Century may be in the cards.  Early candidates include War of Austrian Succession and War of Polish Succession battles.  Which one to tackle first is still undecided.  

Another distraction is that Nancy and I brought a new dog into the family.  We all are adjusting quickly and this fellow has every hint at being a very good dog.  His calm and friendly disposition is unmatched by any dog we have had before.  The animal shelter says he is a poodle (mix?) but when I conducted an image match, a Spanish Water Dog came up as a close look-a-like.  Time (and possibly a DNA test) will tell, I suppose. 

Lee delivering a bow rake into Steve after I softened him up!

Finally, I did get a game in this week!  Reject Richard hosted another of his superbly directed playtests for the Age of Sail rules he is designing and developing.  Game ran smoothly and Lee and I came away with a victory.  Great fun!

Jon delivering a stern rake into Dan to seal the deal!

Richard's account of battle can be read at Naval Playtest 4 - Nearly There!

Next time, maybe some new units to parade?  By the way, the dog is asleep at my feet as I type, snoring...