take ten

 Take the bicycle through the pedestrian zone, slowly, there are so many pedestrians and children and all. One is allowed to use the bicycle here, but it is better to go slowly. There is no point in causing an accident. Having left the pedestrian zone behind pedal the bicycle up the long straight road towards the railway station. There are many junctions on the way, cars suddenly poking their snouts out and getting in the way. There are many red lights.

It is a silly errand to the waste depot. The yellow plastic bags at home have run out, and the next place where they are obtainable is at the depot.

The sun is bright and strong this afternoon, and the bridge over the railway lines is long and quite a steep climb. But pedal on steadily, reach the top and roll down the other side. It is a long road now, beside the railway tracks and the cycle paths are confusing. After a junction this path becomes very wide, and there are cycles now coming the other direction. Keep out of their way.

At the depot, ask a man whether or not one can take a roll of plastic bags from the box perched on the window ledge. He says one can in a completely offhand manner. So take three rolls and place them on the carrier. And then head back home again, a distance of some three kilometres. Take a different route going home, suddenly there is traffic everywhere and no cycle path. 

Cycling is not pleasant in the town, regardless of the amount of paths and amenities provided. Arrive back home soaked in sweat, place the rolls on the kitchen counter and lie down in bed.

And lie there for at least ten minutes.