Escort..

Lovely Paul from PanAm wants me to fix his Ford Escort Mk2- we bought it a year or so ago and its been a real sweet ride, but something in the valvetrain has gone 'ping' and now it rattles like its about to die. Which it is.

Problem is its winter, its raining, its dark, I have no tools or workshop, and Im busy at work- I'm going to have to tell Paul to take it to a mechanic.

Paul is going to Melbourne for 6 months later this year too, and he wondered if I would like to look after the escort while he is away- of course I would! kermit-green 2 litre Mk2, who wouldnt... but I suspect that 'looking after it' will involve swapping the old worn out engine for a reconditioned one, fitting the 5-speed he's been hoarding, and generally giving it a good tune-up. Maybe if I could convince Ford-loving Husbear1 to help during the weekends it might be an idea, but if I was being honest I'd admit I'm too busy with my own projects right now.

I HATE letting people down, and in this case the letting down involves passing up the opportunity to drive round in a sporty classic for 6 months.

Hmmm.

the fuzz..

1130pm and Growler has just finished work. Although, come to think of it, 'finished' conveys a false sense of finality- Growler has merely postponed work for a few hours. in any case, Growler is sleepily driving the Mighty Wedgemobile (tm) towards Verona Cafe, where he hopes to find coffee and cake.

Red light blue light red light blue light..... Hmmm, thinks Growler. I've seen this pattern before, but never in my rearview mirror. Best I turn into this dimly-lit and notorious lane before stopping. (not the cleverest plan in the world but hey, he hadnt done anything wrong...)

Cute skinhead policeman: Evening sir, may I see your drivers license?
Growler *hands policeman his license, smiles, checks out policeman's crotch. Nice crotch.*
Policeman: Whose license is this? *points to picture* That's not you.
Growler: Yes, thats me five years ago when I had hair on my head and none on my chin.
Policeman: This could be anybody. *bends down to check out car's registration. Growler checks out policeman's butt. Nice butt.*
Growler: This would be the only one of these left with a rego I bet...
Policeman: You dont see many Lotuses on the road.
Growler *laughing on the inside* : No, not many like this at all.

Update: What the Policeman saw: