That distinctive ripe, pungent smell of skunk filled my nostrils while riding down Phinney. It’s not often one gets the opportunity to “experience” the odors of wildlife, even roadkill, in the city. While repugnant, I still enjoyed the experience. At any rate, the nostrils cleared nicely by the time I got to Fremont and I can only assume I was treated by the hard-working chocolatiers at Theo Chocolate brewing up a fresh batch of their rich, bitter chocolate. The intoxicating scent covers several blocks of Fremont. I usually only smell it in the late evening, so this morning batch came as a welcome treat.

After looking at so many riders today, I announce today the day of biking in jeans. I saw at least 6 jeans-clad men. I still say biking in jeans is just OK. Biking in jeans in the rain is miserable.

I also announce today the day for other cyclists to speed past me with all they’ve got, even running red lights where they could, only for me to meet up with them again at a traffic light a few blocks later. I shaved a good 15 minutes off my commute time learning the light patterns, learning when it’s a good time to push the pedals and beat the lights, and when it’s better to save your lungs for the next block.

Fremont bike count: 16