Pilfering for Parts

02Jul 

Last night as we sat on the balcony enjoying the best part of the day, I think they called it eventide in the olden days...there was the usual foot traffic gong from here to there and back; a few unusual stragglers from the weekend festivities and lo and behold...one lonely lady pilfering for parts at the bike rack. She strolled along the path in their direction, pulling with her a bike bereft of bars (handlebars that is). Carefully placing it at the end of the row, she set down her bags and proceeded to work her way along the racks scrutinizing each bike tethererd there as she went. Having established the inventory at hand, she selected the specimens like to ensure her success and got to work attempting to remove handlebars to refurbish her limbless ride. Failing that, she resorted to removing any and all parts that could be freed from their rightful places and carefully placed them in her bag. 

Once we determined what she was doing...yes, it took us a minute to believe what was happening right there at the front door!...I place a call and quickly ratted her out, by suggesting that security might want to get a bit of fresh air at the bike racks. Evidently madams security sensors were on high alert, because she quickly retrieved her bags and bike and started to make her exit. When the concierge stopped to chat, she pointed to her bike, no doubt relating that someone had relieved it of the handlebars and proceeded on her way. I’m not sure how many bikes she got parts from before we cottoned to her criminal caper...but I sure hope those cyclists give their bikes the twice over before hitting the road...or they just might!

Today we enjoyed a visit with our friends Frank & Lu, from London (Frank a former McCormick colleague of Carman’s). Frank had promised Carman that he’d treat at one of the gourmet hot dog carts found scattered thru the downtown area. Alas it was too humid for Carman to walk to the nearest cart, and Frank had forgotten his gourmet-cart dress code and didn’t bring a tie! We had to introduce them to The Blake House, where our now regular server, Heather, was working and served us up her friendly smiles, some cool brew and a tasty meal. Frank surprised us by covering the cost of our lunch. Yes, Ron - he paid for everyone!

After lunch they headed to the Eaton Centre for a bit, so Carman could meet his regular nap requirements, then returned (empty handed I might add) a couple of hours later. Although they didn't contribute to the daily profits at the EC, we sure enjoyed our time with them!

It’s so nice to be close enough for our friends to visit...we’re still working on them to come to the east coast when we get back there...

breathe!