English Bay & Lost Lagoon on Toothache Tuesday

The title of this post is a bit misleading, since I don't have a toothache, just a non-vital (read, dead) tooth that broke under the strain of a Brazil nut, and had to be seen by a dentist today. But, toothache Tuesday had such a ring to it, and it almost fit.

Lots of biking today. To North Vancouver this morning to teach one class, then back over the Lions Gate and the Burrard bridges to visit my wonderful dentist in Vancouver, and back once more to school to finish the day's classes. Finally, home again. Lately, I'm having trouble finding a suitable route to get on the Lions Gate bridge after dark. The Low Road, as it is called, is perfect in dry weather, but is filled with very deep puddles when it rains. Passing cars, all in a hurry to get home, rarely slow down, and the result is an unwanted and temporarily blinding waterfall-shower. I don't know if there are any other cyclists commuting from North Vancouver to Vancouver who read this blog, but if there are, I would love to know your route. Coming off Marine Drive doesn't work. There is a bike trail that begins, but then veers towards West Van. I had to walk a small portion, crossing the entrance ramp to get on the bridge. I did it safely, as I met the eyes of the drivers before going, and I was decked out with six lights, but there must be a better way.

But, back to the post topic. On the way back to school after the dentist appointment, I saw these Bald Eagles doing aerial ballet over English Bay, before landing on the roof of a West End high rise.

There were also a few Surf Scoters on English Bay. Although I managed to get closer than the shots taken from the Lions Gate Bridge, I still struggle to come up with a passable photo. To see Ship Rock's excellent picture, check out this link. (I'll get there one day maybe, I hope.)
The sun came out today, contrary to the weather prediction. Looking toward Stanley Park, as I rode along English Bay bike path, the vibrant colours demanded a photo stop.
Next, a right turn, and along Lost Lagoon, on my way to the Lions Gate. This photo may not look like much, but it put a smile in my heart that hasn't faded. I wonder if you can tell what is happening here.
A Blue Heron sat right on the edge of the lagoon. I missed the open wing shot I was hoping for, but rather liked the swirling feathers.
This Canada Goose was drying its wings, after taking what appeared to be a very enjoyable bath. Something about the angle of the face made it look like the goose was sporting an old-fashioned wrap like people used to use for toothaches. (There. Another link to the title.) Everything about the expression and posture made me smile, but I do think it needs a caption. Any thoughts?
Love the wings in this one.
Necks, in the bird and animal world, amaze me. Even Black Jack can almost double the length of hers when she feels the need. Herons grow at least a few feet when they de-compress (not quite the right word, but the only one that comes to mind) their necks, and swans are the masters of neck manipulation.
This American Coot came right up to the pond's edge.
So did this American Wigeon.
My final up-close-and-personal shot was this seagull. I could swear it was eyeing my camera as it preened.

English Bay and Lost Lagoon were the perfect antidotes to dental woes today.

As always, thanks for taking time to read about my adventures.