Sunday, July 23.....Day 22

We had a late dinner last night, and didn't finish until almost 9. I was getting tired, so headed to room to pack up and organize gear for the week. I did a few e-mails and then bedded down. I was awake through the night....must have been the late tea?? Then afraid of oversleeping. As it was, we were late rushing breakfast. we said our goodbyes to Mary Jo and Norm drove us back to the church. It was a quick pack up, loading gear and checking tire pressure. We had a little devotion and then were on the road by 6:45. It was a greyish morning, we had some rain before we left Norm's place...but it was peaceful and very pleasant for riding. The scenery was great as we passed so many places where the lake crossed from side to side, some just marsh area, more lake areas...really neat. There were good rolling hills which I love and although we had some head winds, it was a nice ride. We passed a pretty spot, resort sort of in Sioux (something??...forget the last part). We stopped for lunch in Nestor Falls where the United church provided a lovely lunch. This was at the 114 km mark. Back on the bikes, but the weather had gotton very hot and I was feeling very warm...you could feel the heat coming off the pavement. I was sweating and having more "short" issues. It was hard to get comfortable. I just wanted to nap and was hurrying along to the next rest break at 175 km so I could catch a 10 minute zizz. I feared falling asleep at the wheel. The drive through Finland was rather boring. The scenery had changed as we got away from the lakes. Roads flat and with inclines and you could see 8 miles ahead, I'm sure!! It was not fun. I managed to keep drinking but the water was now as hot as tea. When we finally got to Emo for a break it was at the 186 km mark, and almost 40 degrees out. No wonder I was so hot. High humidity as well, which really zapped my energy and spirits. It really was a tough slog. Back on the bikes for the final 40 km into Fort Frances. I was struggling to keep up with the pace line, so told Bob to ride ahead with the others. I had no energy left but tried to keep a good pace, knowing it was going to be over an hour before I reached the destination. I had a little cry now and then....wondering "what am I doing out here!!" Then of course, Murphy's Law strikes and I flatted at the 200 km mark. Luckily Jason came along to assist and I was back on the road in 6 minutes. We were sweaty, hot and I was getting cranky. Once we arrived in Fort Frances we discovered we were staying on the other side, so another 6 km to go. Just what you wanted to hear!! Arrived at the Victory Church where I cleaned up. I was exhausted and grumpy....look out. Bob and I are now at Pastor Sandy's apt. She offered to put us up for the night, which is delightful. The sleeping arrangements back at the church were a bit cramped. I am hoping that a good night's sleep may refresh and rejuvenate my body and spirit. Today was a tough 218 km ride. We have an easier day tomorrow with only 154 km to go. It will seem like a little training run.