I finally felt better today, which meant it was time for a bike ride. New Orleans is treating us to 80 degree weather in late November, so lucky me hopped on the Surly and headed to the lake. After getting stuck in a series of cul-de-sacs over near Lakeshore–that’s what happens when they close my route for levee construction–I finally made it to Lake Pontchartrain, where I sat, listened to the wind, ate a banana, and felt thankful for my health and a most perfect afternoon. As I was pedaling away I spotted this bird just hanging out, enjoying the day. I love this part of New Orleans, where you can step outside and see a giant egret snacking on your lawn, or ride your bike just a few miles and see water all the way to the horizon, fish jumping, and this grey (or great?) heron taking a stroll. I rode back downtown against the wind for a quick trip to the gym, and then back to Mid-City to lie in R.’s hammock and stare at the clouds moving underneath the stars. Yes, yes, it’s good to be home.