Sunday, April 3, 2016

Part 1: Getting ready for outdoor operations.

April has arrived with not showers but a snow storm! We have had snow falling and accumulating all day today and it's forecast to snow most of the evening. To me it seems a good time as ever to think about my summer portable operations. A few weeks ago both Julie and I purchased new bikes and these bikes are amazing compared to our old ones. My plan this summer is to utilize my new bike for portable ham radio outings. My first step is to check out some areas in the neighbourhood were I can have my first few radio outings. I was looking for locations that would allow me to concentrate on my portable setup and workout the operational glitches. Each day I go out for a 40 min walk in and around the Lake we live on. These last few days while walking I was paying attention to spots that would be possible portable radio op spots. My criteria was close to home just in case something is forgotten, an easy ride to get there and sites that are easy radio setup and operation. This would allow me to work out the radio "stuff". Here are 3 locations I have scouted out so far......
This spot being right on the lake during a very warm day will have a nice cool breeze. Also if the sky is threatening rain I would have shelter to continue my operations.










This location is nice as it has a large bench to setup on but the weather will have to co-operate as it's out in the open.










Once summer arrives the trees at this spot will provide some nice shade plus it's a nice view to boot.

4 comments:

PE4BAS, Bas said...

Hello Mike, those are very nice spots for outdoor radio fun. Close to the water is always good. Hopefully time does allow you to do what you like. 73, Bas

VE9KK said...

Good evening Bas, this year I have decided to take some vacation days to get out and about and get some radio time in. I have lots of vacation time and I am going to use some of it for radio time. In the past I just played the wait and see if I can find some time but that never worked out.
73, Mike

Paul Stam PAØK said...

Hi Mike, I am glad spring is coming. I don't like winter time in the Netherlands, it's grey and wet. Real winters are rare. Nice spots for portable work. Have a nice weekend. 73 Paul PC4T

VE9KK said...

Very nice to hear from you Paul, this year over this way it was not a common winter. So far this April we have been breaking cold temp records! Today it was -11C with the wind chill. The other day it dropped to -12 during the evening. Next week spring like weather is to come and I am very much looking forward to it.
Have a nice weekend as well.
73, Mike