I understand how fortunate I am, as a Haligonian, to have the Public Gardens. They are a great feature of the city and I frequent them as much as I am able. I even understand many of the rules they have instated over the years, due to the high volume of traffic through every day. But the other day my buttons were pushed. On the way to work in the morning, my boyfriend and I decided to walk through the Public Gardens - it makes for a great start to the day and it cuts a couple minutes off the walk. He had his bike with him, but because I was on foot he decided to walk it. We were about halfway through the Gardens when one of their not-so-kindly officers informed us that we would have to exit the Gardens immediately. I understand the rationality behind banning bikes from the Gardens - I do. However, walking a bike through the Gardens certainly causes less disruption, damage, and danger than the oversized, motorized vehicle the officer patrols about in to inform individuals like us that our actions are unacceptable. I am not opposed to the Public Gardens enforcing their many rules. And even though I do not see the rational of forcing out someone who is clearly walking their bike along the paths to get through, opposed to riding it, I do not mind remedying my actions if I am in the wrong. But the manner in which this officer told us to exit was unnecessarily rude. I would have left the Gardens that morning, even with my walk cut short, still happy... but because of the officer's decision to approach the situation with disdain my morning got off to a rather irritating and frustrating start. Thanks for ruining my walk. Next time I come to the Public Gardens I will be sure to leave the bike at home - but instead of being petty, I will continue to take my manners with me. Maybe you could try doing the same!

Not Overly Bitchy - I Keep Emotions Steady (NO BIKES)