The great equalizer

Wind.

Today with a brisk SSE wind I returned to completely mediocre regular strength. *sigh* So much for the hot dog theory.

I rode over into Saint Paul where a tipster had promised that I could find a yard with "spectacular native plantings". Here is is:I am not able to comment on the relative nativity of the plantings but given that the tipster was completely correct about the yard being spectacular I believe I will accept that they are all native. In addition, that small sign near the top of the steps up into the yard identifies the location as a Monarch Waystation. I am impressed, it is indeed spectacular.

Here is another yard that I have pictured before. This one is quite near home. I took another picture today as the state of the various blooms is considerably changed from the last time I posted this yard.Again, exactly how native those plantings are, I do not know. I am willing to say that I like it a lot though, as I find the yard considerably more attractive than monoculture grass.

The Tour de France was fun today as the I got a chance to exclaim, "The God of Thunder" at the end. Tomorrow is the first day in the mountains, the first opportunity to sort out the GC contenders. I think Contador and Armstrong both look very strong. I predict that Leipheimer will fall out of the top 5 as will Cancellara. Beyond that? I guess I will tune in tomorrow to find out. A tip to others watching, something you may not know, as I didn't. Versus.com is streaming the coverage on the net. It is the same coverage you get on TV except there are no commercials so you get uninterrupted coverage.