… no chills.

Today I threw in the towel and stayed indoors again – it was just too hot for me. I must admit to being a wienie in deciding that the air-conditioned house was more of a draw than walking in this heat and humidity.  Besides, the weatherman said the first of three potential Sunday storms was imminent, so I didn’t venture out.

The final stage, #21, of the Tour de France is today.   I think the thrill of this annual event has somehow gotten lost in the midst of the international and national turmoil, the 2016 election and the upcoming Olympics, and that’s too bad.  Though I’m not a big sports enthusiast, at least I can follow this bicycle adventure because it is easy to understand as there are not a bunch of rules or stats needed to enjoy it.  I’ve peeked on their website every day to follow the highlights, including the beautiful and breathtaking scenery.

Back when I worked on site, the small television in the conference room was always tuned in to the Tour de France for the three weeks that it took place since my boss, Robb, has been an avid cyclist for years. So, back then I’d wander in and out of the conference room, plop down on a comfy chair and take the time to watch the route, learn about the teams and personalities, their swag and their swagger.

Robb is on hiatus as to biking right now after taking a bad spill at Belle Isle ten days ago. At 69 years old, he is very athletic and swims one mile every morning at a community pool, and, weather and schedule permitting, takes an 18-mile bike ride daily to and from our office and around Belle Isle which is about three miles away.  Unfortunately, on that brutally hot day,  he reached to sip some Gatorade and the bike wheel hit a curb, spilling him onto the concrete and slamming his bare shoulder onto the ground.  Luckily someone called 911 and after several hours in the E.R., he was diagnosed with a separated shoulder.  He is encumbered by a sling for 6-8 weeks and must sit out swimming and biking until his shoulder begins to heal.  He knows he is fortunate that nothing was broken and now wishes he had opted for the stationary bike in his office that day instead of heading to the island.

I know I am wishing this oppressive heat and humidity will end soon, and, the near-daily threats of volatile weather leave me uneasy and weather weary.

This picture was taken at my favorite house on Emmons Boulevard. I love that cheery-looking clay pot man and his pooch, and, unlike the bikes in the Tour de France, this bike is going nowhere fast as it is laden with fabulous fleurs.