I awoke and stared at the ceiling while the projector clock cheerfully informed me that my hopes of a civilised morning were misplaced. It was 0° C outside. The planned bike ride to the breakfast meet was immediately cancelled in favour of the car. With icy roads and a knee that now issues safety advisories, the vote was unanimous.
A brief journey cocooned in heated-seat luxury deposited me at the Emporium Tea Rooms (Clay Pigeon), our breakfast venue. Several members had already arrived and were seated, wearing the hopeful expressions of people who knew food was imminent but not how imminent. Slowly the place filled up.
Breakfasts appeared and disappeared in good order. Most members had arrived by car, demonstrating sound judgement. Two arrived by motorcycle — mad fools, possibly immune to cold, definitely immune to common sense!! Conversation flowed freely, plates were cleared, and Simon and Steve enjoyed their fifteen minutes of fame, courtesy of published articles on Simon’s Jota and Steve’s Ariel. Autographs were not requested, though the opportunity was there.
Second drinks were consumed — largely to avoid the outside temperature — before we eventually dispersed, retreating to our respective heated environments to recover circulation and dignity.
Mark.
