Got a good soaking on the way home at night. After 11 hours at work (yes I'm crazy) I'm happily on my way home when it starts to sprinkle. No problem, little water hasn't hurt me yet and the front fender will keep my shoes dry. A few minutes later it's getting heavier, no problem. Ten minutes after that I'm in the middle of a freaking thunderstorm with nice cross winds that want to push me into traffic and it feels like someone is hitting my head and face with a stick. (it's raindrops plus wind plus my speed = ouch).

I was completely soaked, other than my shirt which under the jacket I wear was almost completely dry. All other clothing however I had to wring out in the garage.

My panniers held everything nice and dry. They are officially NOT waterproof and not marketed as such but a little tent waterproofing spray did wonders (thanks Jeffo).

The clothes inside which I hadn't even thought about until I got home as I was too busy squinting and taking a beating in the cold rain, came out of the bag nice and dry .

This morning was peaceful by comparison. Strong headwind and getting cold out there. Sweatted a little in my new kayaking gloves - first time I wore them and wish I had them yesterday.

Wish that wind kept up until 5 or 6 tonight so it could push me all the way home. Bets it changes directions