But if you don't see it, just as magical are the minutes when the big drops start to fall, and you keep thinking to yourself, "Is THAT the rain?" in between drowsy dreams and sound sleep.
In fact, I apparently missed the start of the rain this morning. I stepped out on the porch to hear birds singing and feel the air much cooler. It even smells dewy this morning, similar to those damp mornings camping when you first step out of the tent.
So when are these torrential rains and storms happening? They still look distant from my view of the WunderMap. Plenty of time for a ride today.
I tested out the new panniers a bit more extensively last night. J and I wanted grub and beer—I know, it's a rare occasion for me. We packed one empty growler, some rain gear and headed to Sluggo's on Cherokee for some delicious vegan noms. I got the Berliner, a vegan take on a reuben, with a side of mashed sw. potatoes and salad. Jeremy got the special—shells stuffed with soy ricotta, mushrooms and some other wonderful flavors, with polenta cakes, side salad and bread.
This is the one of the coolest new Chattanooga restaurants in my opinion—and further proof of a surge of young downtown folk. Started a few months ago as a northern branch of the popular Pensacola Sluggo's, this restaurant is the veggie standby for J and me. The menu boasts numerous tofu and veggie bowls, a full sandwich list, EXCELLENT pot stickers, other appetizers and full plates, which come with a side and salad. Located in the former whateverrestaurantthatwas building, Sluggo's has a large selection of domestic and imported beers, as well as four on tap.
While the food alone is reason to try out Sluggo's, the restaurant space is comfortable and relaxing. No waits, just order at the counter, pick up a board game, or just sit by the window and muse about the different folks trying vegan food. ("Satan? WHAT is that?!")
Anyways, I digress—this may be worthy of a full review on the North Chatt blog—wink wink.
After stuffing ourselves at Sluggo's, J and I went in search of his rain gear on the Southside. Pedalling through downtown on a Friday evening always brings surprises. From past summer experiences, we avoided the Walnut Street Bridge and the inevitable crowds. But before we even reached Cherokee and Market there was an obvious traffic "disturbance." The result of some flash/rash decision-making, two cars collided, one crashing into the traffic light pole in front of the SunTrust condos and spewing some sort of liquids.
J and I scooted through the traffic and right around the numerous emergency responders and headed south to witness the crowds around the aquarium. We picked up a few of his items for Ole Blue's continued restoration and headed back to Riverside for beer. (Finally, my product review!)
With both panniers, I carried a full growler of beer, a PBR "party pack," a 6-pack of Paulner, rain gear, a bike seat & post, personal items and Sluggo's leftovers. While I could have better distributed the weighty beers, Betty still cruised like a dream. Little to no wobble, easy to take on and off, no change in mounting and dismounting Betty. Who knows how much weight I had—but I would NEVER want to tour with that much weight.
The next test? Riding up to a friend's house at the top of the hill—with that much beer : ) Heh. I'll just pack the party in my panniers! More reviews to come.
Thanks for stickin around, dear readers, and enjoy the tumultous weather to follow today. I'll be sure to post about the panniers waterproof capabilities this weekend!
