Wednesday August 30, day 60

Sort of rest day in North Sydney, as we are waiting for the ferry this afternoon to take us to Newfoundland.
My odomoter turned 6,808 km when I hit North Sydney last night. As far as I am concerned I have crossed Canada!! Then end of the land line. We arrive in Port Aux Basque tonight after 10 and will go to a church to spend the remainder of the night. Bruce, the organizer has let us decide on how we want to cross Newfoundland:
Option #1....cycle leisurely around 100 km per day and just take in the scenery.
Option #2....cycle from certain points, covering 150-170 km a day
Option #3....cycle as much and as far as you can daily before the Grim Reaper has to haul you in.
Bob and I are doing option #2. We feel that is doable. Number 3 would be quite exhausting and you would feel the need to constantly be rushing to get there. The young pacers and hard core riders will attempt that, and I hope they make it all the way!! The weather for day 1 is rain, so that will slow us down, also with a north wind....another draw back. Day 2,3 and 4 are supposed to be better.
Joyce and Don left on the night ferry and are camping at Gros Morne today and tomorrow. They will meet up with us to watch us ride up Signal Hill which is scheduled for 3 next Sunday, September 3. It should be exciting. We will then cycle to the church for the final ceremonies. Hard to believe that the summer has come to an end and that this journey is almost over!!!
Slept quite well last night ane we were able to sleep in until 7. Found the laundromat. Clothes now clean and packed back up until tomorrow,when they will get soaked again. We had breakfast at the Knights of Columbus hall and lunch will be at the United Church where we are camped. The church is beautiful, but unfortunately it will be closing because they can no longer afford the $37,000 per season oil bill!!!! And we thought we had it tough paying our church's power bill!!! Quite a shame. North Sydney is a rather depressed area and it has that sense about it. Mind you, it is drizzly and wet, and grey which adds to the depressed feeling. I did see the footprint of Angus McIssac which is enshrined on the ground. Other than the laundry mat and the bank, I think I have covered the major route. My trip to the bank was not pleasant....I thought I had money in the account??!!! I must have made a gigantic additon error somewhere along the line. Perhaps the bank has erred and "favour on my side to come??"...yea, wishful thinking!! I got an email from Tracey the other night, and it was good to hear from her....she has been doing the Jordive business (?????) for me while I was gone, but mentioned that she was looking forward to my return. I am sure it will take a few days to sort through things, so RON...GET THE RECEIPTS READY...NOW!! I am sure when I get back home it will day some down time to readjust....to normal living. I have actually forgotton how to think!!

Tuesday August 29, day 59

Port Hawkesbury to North Sydney, 150 km.
Slept fairly well with only one interrutption to the bathroom. Up at 5:30, packed up, loaded gear and had breakfast which the roadies prepared. On the road by 7:40. I had decided to don my rain jacket. Bruce warned us that it would be a long day as we had the two stops, one morning rest stop and the lunch break at the two churches....plus there would be many hills to encounter. It was a tad on the chilly side, but actually quite good for cycling. We hit many hills early, to warm us up quite quickly. Had gone about 30 minutes before the rain came. It wasn't heavy, but misty and steady. Arrived at Wycaugamah for rest break...at the United church. I was starving and all the crackers were gone...there was plenty of fruit but I wanted something more, with peanut butter. Carole went to Red Lightening and brought in some of our food. We then went on to Baddeck for lunch. The rain continued and we were quite wet and a tad on the chilly side when we arrived for lunch. It was a lovely spread at the Presbyterian church, plenty of food. When the red van carrying my day pack arrived I changed my shirt and jacket, otping for the lighter wind jacket and praying that the rain would stop...which it did. Praise be to God!! The afternoon ride was decent...hitting Kelly's Mountain and being able to view from the look offs. We arrived at the Narrows Bridge (Bras d'or) and had to wait for the police to escort us across. From there it was clear sailing to North Sydney....with several more good hills. We arrived at the United Church for a lovely dinner. We are camping out there as well. I went in the first load for showers. When I returned Mary said "your friends are here"....it was Joyce and Donnie. They are catching the ferry at 11:30 to Newfoundland, will go to Gros Morne and eventually meet up with us in St. John's on Sunday. It was great to see them. We went to the restaurant with them as they hadn't had supper. They are sitting besides me now. Tomorrow we will do laundry, clean up our wet gear and then catch the ferry to Newfoundland at 2 in the afternoon. Lord knows where we will go when we arrive in the pitch black at Port Aux Basque tomorrow night????

Day 58, Monday, August 28/ 06

New Glasgow to Port Hawkesbury, 132 km.
Had just fallen asleep last night when our cell phone woke me. It was Trevor with the # to acticate the Telus time card. We were down to only 2 minutes left on our pay and talk. It seemed to take awhile to get back to sleep. We had heard the howling and screaming of coyotes earlier...what a horrible noise that was. It sounded as if they had captured some dog!! Awful! I finally fell asleep and didn't wake up until 5. Rested until 5:30 when we dressed and packed up. Inna had a great breakfast for us. Last night Dave burned our photos to a CD. He had breakfast with us and was going to NB with a friend to pick up a generator. Inna drove us back to the Christian Fellowship church where we mustered and got ready for the day.

We have 2 new riders for this, our final Leg of the journey. Levina from PEI and Rod MacMillian (or MacIntosh?) from Saint John...go Saint John! yea.. We were on the road by 8. It was cool, but pleasant for cycling. Our first rest stop was in Kenziville, just outside Barney's River. From there it was on to Antigonish, a place where we lived from April 1982 until November 1983. We arrived at St. Ninnian's where we thought lunch was to be. Originally it was to be at St. Jame's United but it got changed. We seemed to spend tme just waiting about, not knowing what was happening. For me it was time wasted as I wanted to call an old friend, Nancy MacDonald, but I couln't tell her where we would be! We did end up at The Knights of Columbus Hall and had a wonderful meal of soup and sandwiches and carrot and chocolate cake for dessert. We didn't have much time to eat before we were on the road again.

Not long before our lunch stop, Joanne Derix had been injured in a collision with June. Apparently June made a sudden stop. Joanne's husband also crashed, but wasn't injured. Joanne went to hospital in Antigonish for x-rays as she injured her knee and elbow. She was quite shaken. We continued on the old #4 and the #104 when necessary. I enjoyed the gently rolling hils. There wasn't too much in the line of scenery until we hit Harve Boucher where we stopped at a Catholic church for snacks. I rode with Mary from Calgary for a bit today. She had done leg 1 with the group and surprised us by joining us in Charlottetown!

We headed down to the Canso Causeway where the police closed the road to traffic so we could pass. We were lucky in that the gate bridge opened to let some pleasure boats through, so got to see that! On to the Catholic church for supper. It was chicken drumsticks, flavoured rice, eggrolls...very tasty. Joanne returned from hospital...verdict: a broken kneecap! She is so dissapointed in not being able to ride anymore.

We are camping at a United Church. Great hot showers up the street at a beautiful complex which houses the Y. My odometer turned 6,660 km upon arrival here!

Sunday August 27, Day 57 rest day in New Glasgow

Had a great night's sleep. Actually slept until after 5 when I made my first pit stop. Then back to bed until after 7 and I woke up and finished the blog for yesterday and then went down to the phone. I erred in yesterday's blog saying that Dave's mom lived here...it is Inna's mom, Vaike, who is here. David and Inna's last name is Harrison and they live in a lovely setting in Lorne. Inna grew up here and moved to Saskatchewan where she met Dave. They were both teachers and retired 3 years ago and moved back here. We had breakfast, Dave took his motorcycle to church as he was "counting" afterwards; Inna drove Bob and I to Christ Church, their church, which is Anglican. It was very typical of most Anglican churches that I have seen lately. Middle to upper aged people, not many children.....beautiful old buildings and the front half of the church seems to be empty. Why is it that we all choose to sit at the back???? I spoke at the end of the service re our Bike for Bibles Tour, the purpose, etc. After the service Tamara and Trevor arrived and followed us to Dave and Inna's home. Their dogs, Sierra and Sage, both Shepherd mixes, were able to run in the back field. Trev and Tam had lunch with us and left around 3. They decided to head on to Sheet Harbour, and come back through Lawrencetown. Later Inna's brother, Karl and his wife Debbie, came for dinner. It was a pleasant afternoon and a lovely meal of fresh beans from the garden along with a lovely fresh salad, with all ingredients from Inna's garden. Yum yum. Also Dave BBQ'ed huge burgers, which were really filling and tasty. Had a neat dessert of apple cake with fresh fruit and ice cream. We took advantage of a washing machine earlier and I hung our stuff on the line to dry. The wind was blowing and our clothes smell lovely and fresh. You definitely can feel the coolness in the air. I have dug out my toque and heavier riding jacket for the cold mornings. My toe booties are close at hand as well as my gloves, which I have worn the past two mornings. It is around 8 pm and Dave has just burned all of our photos to a CD....thanks!! Can hardly wait to view them...all 700 or so!! It was a relaxing day and pleasant. I had called Wendy last night re trying to get together. Wendy realized that we may just want the day to relax, and not having transportation and a place of our own, it was difficult to arrange a get together. I know their thoughts and prayers are with us as we head into the final Leg of the journey.....I can't believe that we only have 6 riding days left....Where did the summer go???

Day 56, Saturday, August 26/06

Charlottetown to New Glasgow, NS. 103 km.
Kennie Martin and two of his children, Ross (12) and Emma (10) dropped by the church last night to see us. I used babysit this family when they lived in Quispamsis. My how the kids have grown...they still are beautiful looking and seem quite settled and content. Ruth who is now almost 15 was working...she runs the dishwasher at the Lobster dinner in New Glasgow twice a week. I would have loved to have seen her. Kennie was saying that she is now 5 feet 11 inches tall and will go to high school in September! Ross will start junior high and Emma goes into grade six. Carla also dropped in when she finished her shift at the hospital. She is still as pretty as ever! It was great to see them again. They left around 9:30 and we were in bed by 10.

Fell asleep but woke up at 2 to passer by's outside our window, sitting on the church steps talking. That continued for well over an hour...up before 5:30, packed up and we cycled down the street to Zion Presbyterian church for a great breakfast. Chakota said that he had met an old friend of mine named Barb when he was down on the quai last night...would have been my friend Barb whom we tried to visit earlier in the day! We had our devotion and on the road by 7.

Our rest stop was at the home of Joyce and Donald MacMillan, he is a CBS Board Member, and I was surprised to see Diane Haley and her husband Bryan who had come out to greet us! It really is a great feeling to see old friends. We had been sprinkled with rain, so were a bit wet. We continued on to the ferry, arriving just after 10 and put the bikes on the racks. Then we were encouraged to get into a vehicle to save the $13.00 walk on fee. I ended up sitting on a cooler in the back of Eagle 1 along with Chester and Mary. There were 7 others in the van, totalling 10. What fun!! We put the volume up full tilt and were rocking to Beach Boy music. Joking, laughing, steaming up the windows...we finally took our dancing to the street, besides the cars in line up for the ferry. Ever try dancing on wet pavement wearing cycling shoes with cleats?? Wendy hollered for us to get in as the line was moving on board. We gathered in the sitting area for the trip across to NS.

We walked off and as I was getting my bike I saw a green van pull into the handicap parking spot and recognized my mom and dad. They had come from Lunenburg to see us. Apparently they had arrived earlier but went to get bristol board and pen to make a "welcome" sign for us but unfortunately the ferry got in before schedule and we arrived first. We only had time for a few hugs before we were off on our bikes for Pictou.

We had a police escort from the ferry to Pictou and as we were leaving the area I noticed a man looking out the window of a black car. As I passed I automatically acknowledged the driver by saying "thank-you"...I looked again and discovered it was Trevor! He recognized me, but seeing I was in the parade of cyclists, I couldn't stop. We did see my parents again along the road and both they and Trev and Tam came to see us in Pictou. Mom and dad were heading back to Lunenburg and Trev, Tam and dogs were going to Caribou campground. We made arrangements to meet tomorrow.

Bob and I were having lunch at the host church and our cell phone rang...it was Wendy trying to make arrangements for her and Joanne to meet up with us. I told her I would contact her when we were settled at our billets. We had an hour to explore the waterfront at Pictou...and the Hector. Then we cycled around to New Glasgow to the church (forgot name) who fed us sipper. While there Brian and Linda Bezanson surprised us! They were in Superstore and heard that the cyclists had arrived....they were on vacation and were heading back home to Dartmouth. Lovely to see them! Had great dinner, a service and met our billets, David and Inna. We drove to their home in Lorne, 18 miles south on #374. We had a lovely evening talking about the trip with them and David's mom.

Friday August 25, Day 55 rest day in Charlottetown

We shared a room with Len and Iona again last night. They are a lovely couple from Saskatchewan and I enjoy both of them very much. For a night before a rest day we were in bed with lights out before 10. We are either getting old, or else are tired!! I coughed throughout the night but for the most part did sleep. We didn't get up until 7 although I was awake earlier. Had breakfast downstairs; many of the group were going on a bus tour to Anne of Green Gables, some were cycling out. There were a few who decided to take the day as a "rest day" and we stayed around the city. I had the use of Len's van, so Kim and I found the laundry mat and did some wash. Bob stayed behind to service our bikes. Kim and I hit a coffee shop, then found Value Village. She has lost lots of weight and was lucky to find a great pair of jeans that fit. I found a great outfit, chocolate brown crop type pants. Unfortunately I did not loose as much weight and could not fit into the size 4 that I had!! Guess I was being a tad unrealistic. Mind you I did get the button closed, but it was NOT a pretty sight. Back to the church where we were staying and I collected Bob and we hit the bike store. I purchased two for one...two new pair of cycling shorts. They were on the cheaper side, and the shammy not so good, but as I have literally been cycling with a rather worn and flat shammy (worn out) these will feel like a luxary. One pair was medium and the other large... for the now and after fit. We then went down to a restaurant on the wharf where I had a bowl of chowder and Bob had fish and chips. Then we wandered over to West Street to visit Barbie, but she wasn't home. Her son, Robbie said she was over at the cottage and offered to call her, but where we are on limited time I told him to tell her I will see her at the reunion in October. Last night I called the Martin's. A family I used to babysit in Quispamsis. Carla and Kennie were out to the theatre, but I did speak to Ruth. She actually recognized my voice, raspy from cold and all! I don't know if we will be able to connect as we are going to a BBQ tonight and will be bussed there at 5:45. I will try to call them when we get home. Tomorrow will be an early morning...to get packed up and on the road and to catch a ferry. I also meant to mention that on the rain day when we were cycling into Miramichi, Bob had gone to the woods for a brief moment and when he was coming out of the ditch a black car had stopped on the other side and hollered to him "Is Bob Lloyd with your group?" Bob replied. "your're looking at him!"...low and behold, it was Norm...a cyclist from our Wednesday night group. He did recognize Bob once he began to speak... Norm and his wife were on vacation and heading to Campbellton, I think? Well, I am going to hit the store for more Hall throat lozenges. After we got back from lunch, I did have a great nap. I fell asleep on my back, which was so comfortable, but woke up coughing. Then I dozed off twice more only to come to when I fell off my bike....the first time I slipped on wet pavement and the second time my tire got caught in a . Oh, Oh....I hope this isn't an omen!! On a good note, Mary, a cyclist from Calgary joined the group again to do the final week with us. Way to go. Also Miram, Robyn and Adrienne Lloyd's sister surprised them by rejoining us in Shediac. The sisters are now reunited and happy to see one another. Great family! Speaking of family, I have had the pleasure of seeing Aaron when we were in Victoria; Christopher and Claudine when we were in Saint John and we will see Tamara and Trevor in New Glasgow. Neat. I think my parents may venture along too....and am waiting to hear back from Wendy. Unfortunately I cannot give a meeting spot other than the church where we are to spend the night. St. Andrews on George street. We do not know what plans the organization has made for our rest day in New Glasgow..... from there it will be high out cycling until the end of the journey to St. John's.

Thursday August 24, Day 54 Shediac Cape to Charltottetown, 145 km

Slept quite well last night with only a few coughing spells. Up early, before 6 to pack our stuff and get ready. It was only 7 degrees outside so we had to don heavier clothing. It was still dark when we tried to find our bikes which we had parked in the barn the other day. We cycled 5 km into Shediac for our breakfast before we hit the road for the day. Bob had his first flat as we left from breakfast. Lots of glass on the road. I meant to say that when we were in Saint John yesterday and Chris and I were at Opera using the internet, well, I was reading the comments that people post on my blog and I was reading one from Judy Gillis when all of a sudden, I felt someone tap me on the shoulder and it was her husband Rod!! Neat to see him, and at that particular time!! The ride this morning was great as we watched the sun come up and the wind at our backs. The shoulder of the road was great as it was wide and we could ride side by side. I spent a bit of time talking with Berndt. We had our first rest stop in Port Elgin at about 45 km. From there it was on to meet the trailors for transporting the bus at the bridge. It was neat to ride over the bridge in the van as it is high and you could look over the sides at the water etc. It was a tad windy. On the other side Bob and I ran into Shandy, a friend and cyclist from our area. It was neat to see her. Back on the bikes and a lovely ride to Tryon where we had a wonderful lunch, my favourite. They had the tables set6 up so nicely, and the arrangement of food just wonderful. Apparently one of the instructors of the cullinary institute had a part in this, as it was just marvellous. We discovered just as we were turning into the lunch spot that June was still over on the NB side, having missed the last shuttle across. The roadies were not impressed!! Becky took Carole's car back to the PEI side as June had caught a shuttle over. I didn't see her riding anymore today.....punishment? The weather and the roads and scenery over here are marvellous. Great for my Wednesday night riding friends who are planning the long weekend in September as a trip to the Island. They will love it!! We had another rest break at the Presbyterian church in Clyde River...I only wanted a drink as I was dry. I am finding the constant food at the breaks just too much and I usually only have fruit and drinks. As I was sitting outside, just taking off my shoe to adjust a cleat, who should drive by but Becky and Bill Consolvo. I hollered out to them and they stopped to chat for a bit. Great to see them. Bill adjusted my cleat. They own Darling's Island Bike shop and are on vacation. We then headed off to meet just outside Charlottetown to be escorted by police downtown to Trinity United Church where we are camping for the weekend. Great facility. I also forgot to mention that the desserts from our trip to our church yesterday for lunch were made by the members of St. Andrew and St. David Presbyterian church uptown Saint John. Sorry for not acknowledging earlier. I loved the lemon pie, which was 3 inches thick and had a 6 inch thick meringue!! Great. I need to find the maker!! Anyhow Ed and I have found this interenet access in the Founders building (that Becky told me about). We have been fed by St. Paul's church so our bellies are full. We may wander around for a bit, but he has a cold and I am tired from mine....they have a tour planned for us tomorrow, but I am staying downtown as I hope to look up Barbie and then call the Martins. Bob had two flats today and also stopped to help Angela fix two spokes, at two different times and he also changed a tire for Dona......
Wendy and Joanne want to meet up with us on our rest day on Sunday in New Glasgow. Trevor and Tamara are camping in Stellarton and we plan to get together with them as well. Mom and dad also want to see us. I can tell you that we are scheduled to arrive at St. Andrews Church on George street. I think I have that right.?? We should be there sometime on Saturday afternoon and have Sunday as the rest day. On Monday we are heading to Port Hastings and the last busy week of cycling will begin.

Day 53, Wednesday, August 23/ 2006

Rest day.
Didn't have a good sleep last night although the accommoations were fine. I was worried about coughing and keeping others awake. Shouldn't have been because everyone seemed to be snoring. Up at 6 and bus arrived 6:45 to take us to breakfast and then on to Saint John.

We drove by the area where KC Irving had lived and where he raised his three sons. Then on to the Fort Howe area where we could overlook the harbour and watched a cruise ship make its' way to port. It was huge and seemed to sit high above the water, almost over shadowing the city. Next on to Reversing Falls before heading uptown. At this point I went on my own, stopping first to see Bev at her office and then on to the ABEC to see my son, Chris. Great to see them both! Chris and I went to the "Opera Bistro" where they had wireless so we could access his computer. Claudine, his fiance, joined us. It is always great to see her as she can light up a room with her wonderful smile.

I headed off to meet the bus as we were heading out to our church, St. Luke's in Gondola Point for lunch. I was eager to see my church family. They were all out front waiting..clanging on pots and pans; a huge sign acknowledging the 100 year of The Canadian Bible along with a welcome to the cyclists and a welcome to Jill and Bob. It was great to see everyone and get hugs! So many to greet us and I was
overwhelmed with joy. Besides the church friends (Joyce, Donnie, Donna, Lisa, Caroline, Susan, the 2 Heather's, Barb, Sarah, George, Martha, Karen, Rose, Winnie,..please forgive me if I forgot anyone). There were Jean and Herb, Diane and Blaine, Chris and Claudine, Bev, Judy, Pearl, Juliet, Phyllis sent regrets, Al and Susan Calhoun, Dana Nybourg, Dorothy. If I have neglected anyone I apologize. My brain doesn't work too well!

We had a lovely lunch put on by the church... thanks to you all for everything!! We also got a tour of our church, built in 1831 and restored in 1990. When it was time to leave here were problems with the bus and another one had to be ordered. We were on the road quickly and went to Bikes And Beans, the local bike store. Marci knew we were coming and had cookies waiting. Everyone seemed to enjoy the stop. It was great to see Marci and Steve, and Iva arrived just before we loaded the bus. I am presently on the bus heading to Shediac Cape. Tomorrow is an early morning as we intend to begin cycling at 6. For now, I am going to grab a nap and think so fondly of seeing everyone!!

Thanks for making my day!

(Jean sez - it was wonderful to see Jill and Bob - both looking so healthy and tanned ... and then we got to meet some of the cyclists. We got to put faces with names from Jill's notes. Terrific Group - Great day)

Day 52, Tuesday, August 22/06

Chatham-Miramichi to Shediac Cape, 123km

Coughed a bit during the night but rested. Awake at 5:30 and had shower. Had coffee and a quick chat with Audrey and Bud, our hosts. They were so excited with our cycling but moreover with the "mission" of the Cross Canada Tour. The whole experience for us being in the Miramichi area was unreal! The churches and community had been planning on our arrival since January and their preparation and organization was evident..A-1. They said we were a blessing to them for our devotion and dedication to have the word of God made accessable to all.

We had a chance to clean up the bikes and departed by 9:15 or so. Conditions were ideal, lovely sunny skies and west wind. The highway shoulders were good and we cruised along at 30 kph. Our first rest stop was at the MacDonald home, a private residence in Kouchibouquac. From there it was a 50 km ride to lunch in Bouctouche at the Irving property. We had aservice in the chapel at 2:15. I do not think it a wise decision to hold a service after feeding 60 ravinous cyyclists who are on a rest period! The rest continued in the chapel as many were known to have "nodded off". I came too when I was nudged by Bob, apparently I was breathing heavily. I told Bruce(our leader) that we could hear him snoring.

From Bouctouche it was an hour's ride to Shediac Cape where we are staying at Les freres de trillum....a lovely place that can house us all. Berndt, Warren and I went to the beach on the property, but the tide was low and we walked well out to find a deeper spot to sit. Water temperature was great. We went to the Lighthouse restaurant where our supper had been prearranged. It was Ralph Light's last day with us. He has been with us since Victoria and is a school principal in Lethbridge so has to be back to work now. I will miss him! He was always so encouraging.

Back at our lodging I did some laundry by hande rearranged my bag as I will take excess things to leave in Saint John tomorrow. The younger gals had music going and then the dancing began...what fun! We got rather sweaty!

To Adelard..thank you for your offer for when we got to Shediac..but our day off takes us to Saint John, so we may not have opportunity to meet. Sorry.

Day 51, Monday, August 21/06

Pokemouche to Miramichi , 100 km

I slept on and off through the night but didn't cough too much. I had 2 cups of coffee with the dinner last night so was buzzed. I was thankful to have use of the computer to catch up. We got up around 5:30 and packed up. Monique had prepared a lovely breakfast. She was familiar with Quispamsis as one of her sons, Pierre Napert Frenette, played hockey so she had been in our area. Pierre played on a team with Randy Jones, from Quispamsis, and she went to Prague with Randy's parents to watch them play hockey.

We were back to the church by 7, and the rain started. It appeared as if it was going to be a long day! I saw Bruce and John Best going over a map...and I was praying that perhaps they would skip going the extra 80 km around the coast of highway 11, scenic route. Turned out that Bruce arranged for a bus to take us to Grand Anse where a church provided a snack. There was now a strong head wind along with the rain and 15 of the hard core cyclists headed out from this point. The remainder of us enjoyed the comfort of the bus and went to explore the Acadien Village in Caraquet. We were able to play tourist for 1 1/2 hrs before bussing on to Pokemouche where the Catholic church provided lunch. The hearty soup was a great thing to warm us for the cycling from here to Chatham. Man it was wet. But not too cold. The highway was fairly decent and I ended up riding alone. My bike seems to work well in the rain and with the wind at my back cruised along at 33 kph for the 100 km ride. We did have a rest break at the Presbyterian church in Tabusintac. It was a good stop with a lovely array of food and HOT CHOCOLATE. Back on the bikes for the final 40 km. The rain seemed to let up somewhat and then we hit rough construction areas where they had scraped down the layer of pavement..so it was rough with grooves. I arrived at the meeting spot in Chatham and picked up shampoo, tooth brush and Hall's. We were then escorted by police across the bridge to our churches. One to store the bikes, the Anglican which was well prepared having plastic tarps on the floor and bags of rags for us to clean the wet and grit off. From there we walked to the United church for dinner and a service afterwards. This was very well attended by the church community who had been preparing for our arrival since last January. Quite awesome for us to be so well recieved. We were assigned with our billets, Bud and Audrey, along with Adrienne and Robyn Lloyd. They have a lovely home right on the Miramichi River. We are washing our wet clothes. I am coughing now due to the cold.

Tomorrow we cycle to Shediac and the following day we get to our church for lunch. It appears as if only half the group want to come to Saint John, so hopefully Paul Brown will confirm numbers with St. Luke's for meal preparation?

(Jean sez... St. Luke's Church are looking forward to the cyclists at 1 PM - any of Jill's friends are welcome to come and give their love and support in person)

Sunday August 20, Day 50

Campbellton to Bathurst, 117 km
Well, we managed to have a fairly decent sleep. I kept waking up with the sweats and did get out in the dark to find my way to the privy at 12:30. The next thing I knew I could hear commotion around us. I looked at my watch, but couldn't read the hands, finally I turned on the light and low and behold it was 5:50!! We were supposed to be up at 5 and have the gear loaded on the cube van as the bus was coming back for us around 6. Man, I brushed my teeth using bottled water and spit it out the cabin door. We all couldn't pack up at the same time as there wasn't room!! WE had wet clothes all over the place and seemed most disorganized, but managed to get things under control and our were the last bags to get packed on the truck. I didn't get to use the bathroom until we got back to the church where we were having breakfast!! We had a nice breakfast put on by the Knights of Columbus, who also did last night Roast Beef dinner for us. People were still talking about the conditions of last night and during devotions later some apologized for their behaviour; all caused by stress and lack of sleep. We did have a bit of time to clean the bikes and oil chains before heading off at 9. Our first break was at Dalhousie. A group of churches had tables set inside, with nice food set out...and good coffee. It was relaxing to sit for a bit. We knew it wasn't supposed to be a long day, so we took our time as we cycled along. We were facing some head winds, so the speed was down. We followed route #134 along the coast. Our lunch was at the United Church in Nash Creek. Before we settled down to eat, I had gone upstairs to use the washroom and could hear music coming from the church. It was Graeme (from Australia) playing the piano, Then John Snider suggested that we all come inside and sing a few tunes....so, informally that is what happened. It was great. We picked up the hymn book and a few people hollered out what numbers they wanted and we sang. A good healing for the day. We had a rest break at a camp along the Atlantic outside of Belledune and then high tailed to a meeting spot where the RCMP were to escort us through Bathurst to the church. As ususal, with the stops we were falling behind schedule and things become rushed and often we don't cycle with the care and caution that we should. We were heading to the meeting spot when we heard the sirens and saw the police speeding up ahead and then came upon another cruiser by the side of the road with some cyclists. At first I thought it was for our escort but soon realized it was more than that. Apparently, Robyn Lloyd, one of the young gals (will be 19 tomorrow) came upon some cyclists who had stopped for a light...she veared to the right and came in contact with a vehicle which was turning from the side road. She hit the fender and the side of the car, knocking off the car's mirror. She hit her cheek, and her lip and other than being shaken was very fortunate that she wasn't injured more. She left a good dent in the front fender of the car as well. She is a tough little cookie; we were lucky to have a Dr. from Edmonton join the group at lunchtime and will finish the ride with us. He checked her out and said she was ok. She was joking along with us later, so is good to see that she will be fine. We had showers and then went to the Catholic church for service before going to a chinese restaurant for dinner. Presently I am at a billet's home, MOnique. Lovely lady who is putting up Len and Iona, Lance and Bob and I. They have all gone to bed as it is a 5:30 morning for us tomorrow. Bob and I are downstairs, doing laundry and I am doing this. I hope to get at my journal as I am a day behind already. Tomorrow is another long day as we are taking the shore road all around Shippagan etc and will end up in Chatam at some point.... 190 km or so. I look forward to the rest day in Saint John. I am not sure how many of the other cyclists will opt to come to Saint John as it is a rest day and they may just need the time to stay in Shediac where we are supposed to be staying and just rest. Me, I am looking forward to seeing Chris, Claudine, Bev, and my church family, John's Girls....and anyone who ventures to St. Luke's for the propsed lunch. I think the time is 1:00 that we should be there. I also my see if the bus will stop at Bikes and Beans as Bob needs new tubes. He gave his last tube to Robert!! I also want some Liquid X lubricant.....and a few 650 tubes. Going to bed as it is now 11:10!! Ugh...hope I don't cough all night!!

Saturday, August 19. Day 49

Mt. Joli to Campbellton 178.46 km
Went to bed in the small room...with about 25 others. I did manage to get some sleep, although with the cold, I woke up with the sweats, snotty nose...the whole nine yards. There was one bathroom for us....a one seater. Needless to say I was up at 4:30 to make sure I took care of business. I figured if there were 25 of us and we each took 5 minutes then it would tie up the room for almost 2 hours!! I did doze until 5:30 wake up and pack up. We had a great breakfast of french toast and fruit and coffee before hitting the road at 7:30. Weather was cloudy, and a tad cool, but good for cycling. Scenery again lovely but you could see the changes coming from rolling farmland to hillier country and away from the water. We had a break at Sagusay (or something like that) and then on to Amqui for lunch. The people of the town along with merchants had provided the lunch break. It was nice to be greeted by them and the mayor. We ended up signing a covered bridge that the mayor had saved from destruction and had moved to this park location. As well two trees were planted; one being a maple in our honour and the other an oak for the people of the town. It was nice to be honoured but unfortunately we were 2 hours at this stay and it was already 1 o'clock (2 o'clock New Brunswick time to come) and we still had 125 km to cover!! We were all getting anxious. We hit the road again and were only out about 15 km when we were hit with heavy rain. Just enough to soak us. WE stopped briefly for cover and to remove socks. It became a stressful ride afterwards as we knew we were under pressure for time. It was a neat ride along the Matapedia River, seeing the private salmon pools and watching the fishermen. Very scenic but seemed to be a long ride of nothing but river and wilderness. Much like cycling in British Columbia, through the mountains (only hills here) and trees. We had drizzle and the spray from Berndt's tire kept spraying my glasses. We pushed onward, feeling tired. One of the new riders, Bruce, drafted behind me and then we saw Robert come up beside and then dropped back to talk to Bob who was at the rear of our group. As we came closer to Campbellton and faced some good hills I noticed that Bob wasn't in my mirror sight. I could see the bridge that crossed the Restigouche off in the distance and I felt a little sense of pride to be coming into New Brunswick. It seemed to take forever to reach the bridge and when I did, I could see most of the rest of our group mustering up ahead to be led by a police vehicle across the bridge and on to the church where we would be having supper. I was most disappointed that Bob wasn't with me to cross over into NB as that is how I envisioned it would happen. I came to discover that Robert had a flat tire and Bob had stopped to help him and then tried to be the engine and pull a few more along. Unfortnately the Grim Reaper had picked that group up as they needed to be brought to the bridge. I was so disappointed!! and angry....I feel that Bob always stops to help everyone else and that he should have had the opportunity to finish the day's ride. I couldn't find him anywhere during the ride across the bridge or to the church. Apparently he stayed in the van. I lost it at that point....he comforted me by stating that getting to the end of the day by cycling across the line isn't what this trip is about for him. It is to help those that need it. Certainly brings light to the message that Len is always saying '´it's not about me´'. I wish I could be as gracious and kind!! We had a roast beef dinner, but I was feeling miserable. My nose so stuffed up. We were to be bussed out to a camp for the night. We were told that we would like it.... well a big coach bus came to take us and we rode for 45 minutes, out to the end of nowhere, it seemed. Then the bus tried to make it up this tiny path for a road....just like it was an ATV. Of course it got stuck going up so we had to unload and we wandered up further to this camp. Well, put it this way, it wasn't what I had envisioned on the trip out!! Small, one shower (for 80 people) and one bathroom for males and one for females. It was 9 and getting dark. Temperaments flared, people were in a state of disbelief. How was everyone going to fit. The gals had a bunk house that seemed to be comfortable. Bob and I had a small shed like building as I was going into quarantine....it had two single beds. I offered the spare bed to Kim if she didn't mind being around germs; while Bob and I shared the other single. This hut was not larger than 8 by 6 feet. We put our air mattress and sleeping bags on the bed, hoping that no body parts touched the mattress....there wasn't room for our bags, so we had to arrange a path to the door. We opened windows and settled down, but not before we had a giggling fit. I guess that is good to relieve tension from the day. I started to hum the banjo tune to Deliverence....as we were way out in the middle of nowhere...and I mean nowhere!! The roadies, leaders and support crew all high tailed it back to civilization for the night. I figured Bruce was trying to teach us a lesson!!

Day 48, Friday, August 18/06

Riviere du Loup to Mt. Joli, 148.94 km.
What a night! We stayed at the Riviere du Loup Cegep. Went to bed and it was lights out at 9:30. Woke up at 1:30 to loud snoring, coming from all over the room....and it was very hot in the gym. I went up to the bathroom hoping to find a spot where I could drag my air mattress and sleep. It was hot up there too; and I figured I would be too noisy getting my gear out, so I found my ear plugs and jammed them in. Managed to doze off and on. I went to the washroom again at 4:30 and saw Bob sitting behind a desk numbering his photos and doing his journal...he said he had been up since 4! He did come back later for a little snooze before wake up at 5:30.

We packed up and again went to the convent for breakfast. Had crepes with raspberry jam, eggs, hash browns and orange juice. I have a sore throat and can feel a cold a coming. Found the echinechea and mouthwash this morning...hopefully I can keep it under control.

Bill Absolum did the devotion this morning and it was about "judging others" and he read a passage from scripture regarding and then relayed a little story pertinent . We were on the road at 8:30 with sunshine and again a west wind. There were some good hills and I managed to get ahead of many riders and cycled by myself until Bob came along. We stopped at the mandatory rest break. I was feeling feverish, sucking Halls to relieve sore throat. The lack of sleep and the effect of being together as a group for over 48 days...the different temperaments etc...well, shall I just say that things aren't always rosey! Sometimes we just need our own space without being rushed. Anyhow as we were leaving the rest stop I did mention to Bob that being this close to home is awfully tempting !!

Then after we had cycled about 10 km, we came to a spray painted spot that had been written in french that had a cross and mention of The Canadian Bible Society and 100 years celebration cycling tour. I hollered to Bob to read the greeting and then I saw next a big heart with "allez Jill, NB" and up further was "allez Bob, NB"... man what a feelng to see such a greeting, especially as I was feeling down. It really lifted me and of course I bawled. Amazing how this just appeared at the right time. I figured Chris and Claudine must have had a hand at this, so when I got to lunch at Le Bic I called their place and spoke to Claudine who confirmed the message was from them!! It was lovely to chat with her. They painted the message during their vacation assuming we would travel that road... she was excited that we we saw it!! The drive again today was through the most scenic and most beautiful countryside. I highly recommend travel on #132.

We are now in Mt. Joli at a mission church, awaiting supper. It is now 7:15. This church building is small. I wonder where we will sleep!!??

Day 47, Thursday, August 17, 2006

Quebec City to Riviere du Loup 190 km.

We were back from Quebec City last night before 8 and took time to pack things up in prepration for the long day ahead. We were up at 4:30, had a great breakfast and were bussed around the city to Levis on the other side. The original plan was to take the ferry but soon realized that 60 cyclists would interfere with the morning commuters crossing over hence the bus. We didn't lose any cycling mileage as we did start where we intended. The day was great for cycling. Another sunny day, but not overly hot.

We used route #132 and what a magnificant ride and day it was!! The scenery just wonderful as we followed the St. Lawrence all along and the hills outlined on the other side as backdrop. We got into fields on one side with the water and then a ridge of low mountain like hils on the other. I regret that all of our travels on this stretch prior have been on the Trans Canada # 20 and boy do you ever miss out on spectacular scenery.

We passed many cyclists going in the opposite direction...old, young, male, female, helmets, no helmets and smokers. The day was long as Bob had two flats; Betty had one;..and today was her birthday! There were an unusual amount of flat tires today. I also seemed to be hungry most of the day and ate constantly while cycling. We arrived in Riviere du Loup around 5. We are staying at a school and are encamped in the gym. We ate a great dinner in a cafeteria in a convent. I am exhausted tonight. Got a burn on my arms...must be the effects of the salt air? Going to brush teeth and go to bed. Tomorrow is a 5 am wakening.

Day 45, Tuesday, August 15/06

Place du Lac to Quebec City, 150 km.

Had a decent sleep. We got to sleep in until 7..yipee! We had the later start this morning to avoid the early traffic in Trois Riveriere. On the road at 9:03. Navigating the #138 through Trois Riveriere was ok. We seemed to go around in a circle, somewhat and then back to the country road. We followed the river, at times being close. The winds were strong from the west so our pace for the morning was 33 km per hour. The road was in great shape and again there were bicycle paths marked in the outside lane for a good part of the trip. I don't know if this is one of the roads that George Theriault rides when he comes to Quebec? If so, I can understand why he likes riding here.

The day started out with some sun but seemed to be muggy. At our first break, the 38 k mark I commented after looking at the clouds forming that a storm was coming. Sure enough we hit rain about 10 km further. Luckily the red van in which I store my day pack was pulled over and I was able to get my rain coat. When I was in Sault Ste. Marie I picked up a pink backpack and it holds a change of clothing, my rain coat, foot thongs, arm and leg warmers and another light nylon jacket. It only took me 25 days on the tour to become that organized!! I chose the pink bag because EVERYONE elses is black and hard to find when jammed into a van. Mine sticks out! Back to the rain....we had to find shelter as it was a torrential deluge and we even had some hail. We found a break and continued to the mandatory stop. The sky cleared and we saw the sun again for about an hour before the next downing.

I arrived at the lunch stop in Donnacona, the 105 km, drenched. Water in shoes etc! It was only 45 km to Quebec City. We set off trying to outrun the storms, but didn't make it. We had to find cover twice more as trying to navigate city cycling through heavy rain isn't wise!! And to boot, we were in rush hour traffic at 4:30. The water on the road and the puddles at the edge in the cycling lanes are dangerous as they can be filled with debris. Two cyclists fell...one hit the side of his face on a grate, but wasn't injured too badly..scaped his arm and hip. The other hit his shoulder and will go for x-rays this morning.

We ended up at our destination for dinner..it was like a soup kitchen, uptown where we were treated so well. They served the tables, a treat for us as we always queue for mealtime. We had a lovely soup, stew, salad and pie. Later there was a service upstairs. I was getting tired so was anxiously awaiting the bus to take us to the convent where we are now staying. It was 11:30 by the time we got settled and in bed. Tomorrow is a rest day...time to clean bikes and then tour Old Quebec City.

(Jean sez: Jill posted Wed's blog before she got this email off to me; in case you are wondering why blogs are out of order)

Rest Day, August 16 Quebec City

Hi....I am sitting in an internet cafe in Old Quebec city, waiting for laundry to finish...and jotting this. I have not sent my blog from yesterday as I haven't managed to find a pay phone to send it to my friend Jean, who posts it for me. It is done...just waiting to go.
This is a lovely city. Am anxious to spend the afternoon exploring, until my feet give out. I woke up early and we had breakfast and then cleaned bikes. Quite a procedure. The group left on the hired bus, but we stayed behind as we decided to find our own way downtown. Managed to grab a ride with Wendy, who drove the 15 passenger van along with Len, Iona, Bill, Marlene, Chakota and Andrea. Wendy has a great sense of direction and we arrived without too much askew. We had called the Canadian Bible Society, Quebec office, which is located on Rue St. Jean, right uptown. The gal went to arrange a parking spot for us....horray. I am starving, so will head back to put clothes in dryer and then find a bite to eat.
I was reading Christopher's blog and see that he did the half marathon, Marathon by the Sea, without training once again!! He said he bettered his time to 2:06. I figure if he did any training whatsoever he might be pretty good!! He always like running.
Claudine mentioned that she had seen my cats and they seem ok....I wonder if they are missing me... I do miss them. I hope that my plants have been watered too (can't find the question mark on this french keyboard)

Day 44, Monday, August 14/06

Repentigny to Notre Dame 99 km

My sincerest apologies to all the men whom I have accused of snoring. For the past two nights I have endured the loudest snoring coming from this little woman, whom I will not name! She had two good nights of sleep however.

I love Montreal! We did Old Montreal yestrday afternoon and I walked so much that my legs and feet ached! It is such a vibrant city. I saw so many neat things in the artsie store windows, just great. I knew I couldn't shop as my bag is already overflowing with no extra space. We stopped to watch the lock fill and some boats to pass through. We did China town and wandered an inside mall. Managed to ride the subway without getting lost. We ate supper on a patio at Dundees...Kim, Betty, Wendy, Dora, Bob and I. It was a pleasant evening and on the way back we stopped at Ben and Jerry's for Bob to get ice cream. I had 9 minutes left on my internet cafe card, so read Christopher's blog and deleted multi messages from my home account. Back to our room, showered and was gonzo by 9:10...my adopted son, Berndt, came in for a good night hug but he was too late! I had inserted ear plugs and woke up at 1:30 to snoring and no ear plugs. Groped around in the dark, found them, reinserted and back to sleep until 5:45.

We had breakfast and took luggage to landing to await bus; which arrived before 8. Lt. Col. St. Onge from the Salvation Army and his wife said a few prayers prior departure. We had the same driver as Sat. night, Allen. This is just an extra job for him as he works in the IT industry. He drove us back to Repentigny where we waited for the trailers with our bikes. We finally hit the road at 10:03, following highway #138 all the way. It was a great ride and I enjoyed it very much. Quebec has great roads and always allowances for bike paths. ONTARIO, YOU SHOULD TAKE NOTICE! We followed the St. Lawrence through different communities L'Ephanie, St. Joseph de-Sorel, Maskinonge,Yamachiche and are now encamped in a gym beside a convent in Notre Dame, on the outskirts of Trois Riviere. I thought of Sonya and Lisa as we stopped to watch the Para surfers. Man, it looked like hard work!! These huge sails waiting to catch the wind (like a kite) and once in the air they then pull them on their boards. I actually walked back to watch them once we settled in the gym but the wind had died.

We are now relaxing in the gym, awaiting supper. Andy from Calgary just delivered "Thinking of You" cards from Mary! How sweet. Mary cycled with us the first leg of the trip. Great cyclist and I hear she is is a demon downhill ski racer!

Hope Gary and anyone who participated in Marathon By The Sea had fun!

Sunday, Augsut 13, 2006 Day 43

HAPPY BIRTHDAY VICKI!
Well, after the confusion arriving and settling down to bed last night, I slept very little. Actually, had the worst night so far of the trip. Len, Iona, Bill (Grim Reaper) and his wife Marlene and Bob and I shared a room. Unfortunately the air conditioning on that floor was not working and I swear it was 90 degrees. Just too hot to sleep. I couldn`t even get comfortable. Got up after 6 and did yesterday`s blog. We had breakfast and then Sidney, Bob and I headed off. We are so centrally located, it is wonderful. We did an Anglican church service at St. George`s. Lovely old church. I found an internet cafe to check on things. Can read a few comments from previous blogs. Thanks Claudine for your offer of a billet in Quebec, but it is easier to remain with the group as I don`t know where we are scheduled to be staying so driving here and there is limited. Less rushed too.
I called Trev and Tamara to wish them Happy 7th Anniversary!! Spoke to Tam but Trev was off playing ball.
Rushing this as I have to get back to the meeting place as we are touring Old Montreal this afternoon and then Bob and I are eating out. I need steak!!
Looking forward to cycling in Quebec and seeing old Quebec city on Tuesday and Wednesday. Then on to Campbellton, and New Brunswick.
Joyce, if you are reading this, could you please pick up my cycling glasses that have been repaired from Diane and have them at the church hall when the group comes for dinner on the 23rd....this is a french keyboard and I can`t make the question mark work..

Day 42, Saturday, August 12/06

Vanleek Hill to Montreal 129 km
Last night we all were in bed and lights out at 10. Things quieted down immediately..then at about 12:30 I woke to the sound of a male voice yelling in his sleep followed by another male voice talking. Too funny. It was quite jibberish so I couldn't make much sense of it and I managed to fall back to sleep.

It was wakeup at 6...quite a site to see bodies all over the floor, in various states of wakeup. We packed up, got the bags loaded and walked to St. John's Anglican church for breakfast. The Rev. Robert Sears cycled with us yesterday from Orleans to Vanleek Hill. He was responsible for us at the community centre so was around to lock and open doors for us. We got bikes ready, had a short devotion and were ready to hit the road. This is the end of leg 6 and we will say good bye to Ben and Judy Tripp, Joe Schaeffer (joined us in Winnipeg), Cathy, Paul Abel (joined us in Caranport), Paul. On Monday when we begin Leg 7 there will be a few new additons. There are 51 who have started in Victoria and scheduled to do the entire route.

We were able to cycle along some bike trails. Quebec seems to be pro active in this regard providing the trails. We cycled through many communities following route 344 once we crossed into Quebec at Hawkesbury. Many neat places along the Ottawa River. We passed through Oka where the main industry is selling cigarettes and tobacco; and Bob said "sheds, was another as each property had a shed which was used as the store to sell the cigarettes! I burst out laughing. A store had this 8 foot lit and burning cigarette as their store sign. Quite catchy! We had lunch served by some church folk in Oka, where we met several people who are involved with translation of scripture into Mohawk. Harvey, the leader of them gave a prayer in Mohawk and later three of the women sang a hymn in the Mohawk language. This was quite appropriate coonsidering that some of the funds raised for this cycling trip will go towards translation for native peoples.
From lunch we were to stop in front of the IGA store for a photo as they had provided the food for the meal. Along the way, Yvonne from Australia, had rubbed a tire in front and crashed. She was still down and lying very still when we were flagged by. Always an unpleasant sight to see and causes great angst. Fortunately she did ride in for the photo shoot bruised, scraped and shaken. She said she had gone into a bit of shock and got the shakes and felt nauseous. The remainder of the ride wasn't enjoyable. We were in communities for the final 35 km of travel and although the lanes are for bikes it still felt rushed and busy.

We arrived in Repentigny at 4:30 where we loaded the bikes to be stored until Monday. We had a BBQ and then sat around until 8:15 waiting for our bus to take us downtown to the Salvation Army where we are billeted. The bus took us to the "emergency shelter" Salvation Army by mistake but once we got adjusted and navigated downtown traffic we were deposited at the proper location by 10...I was getting cranky and there was confusion with who were sleeping where...and then you needed someone with an elevator key to get to the 6th floor for woman's showers. CONFUSION PLUS.

Day 41, Friday, August 11/06

Orleans to Vanleek Hill, 97 km

Slept well last night. Got up after 6 and did blog for yesterday. Had shower. Julia and Greg have a great house and the master bedroom has the best shower! We ate and said farewell to Greg and Linda and Julia took us back to the church in Orleans to assemble for today's ride.

It was sunny but not really hot; you can tell it is August now. Bob attached the new bag behind my seat, It is lovely...larger thn most and just what I wanted. Holds most of the things a woman wants! I also put new cleats on my shoes considering the ones I had put on in Victoria were well past being worn out!! I doubt if they were 1/8 inch thick! I had purchased covers for them in Calgary, but they didn't exactly fit and I spent more time running around the ground looking for one, or both. Today I gave them to Graeme as they were the proper ones for his cleats. George has given me an old set and I have managed to get them to fit.

Today's ride saw us on a fairly busy road until after our rest stop at Jessop Falls. Bill, the Grim Reaper, gave a talk this morning about his presence at the tail end and about the stupid and careless things he has seen cyclists do in order to out run him. He wanted to reassure us that HE WILL NOT pick up the trail rider unless we are behind schedule or has been given an order from Bruce to do so. He did mention that one of the safest spots to cycle is directly in front of him. We witnessed that this afternoon when we went back to help Betty who had a flat, and then her brake was sticking. We travelled in a group of 4, for 30 km, in front of "the paddy wagon". It was a pleasant and relaxing ride. We got on some back roads and followed the river. Today the wildflower were beautiful. I am wondering why we bother to buy and plant annuals, perrennials when God has provided nature to do this on its' own. The colour arrangement varies and there is always a mixture..today the Queen's Anne Lace, chicory, a fuschia coloured spikey thingie, bull rushes, long dandilion type, another yellow mustard (that's what I call it), yellow eyed susans, straw grass, daisies...quite a sight, and gardens that never seemed to end.

We arrived in Vanleek Hill around 3:30. We are all camping on the floor. The showers in same complex, so convenient. Half the group ate at the Anglican church and the the others at the Presbyteran. We had a nice service later at the United. The choir sang, This Is Our Song For Canada. Chakota said it was the first time he has cried upon hearing it. Harold and his wife Lorraine will leave us tonight. Their organizational skills have been A1! Lorraine has prepared and organized such treats for food. We had hummus and pita for a lunch snack. Delightful! Betty and I tooted the final 30 km into town.

Good luck to Rhianan (sp) and Franchesco (sp) on their wedding day, Saturday. We wish you love and happiness...we will be thinking about you all! Celebrate and enjoy!

Day 40, August 10, 2006

Julia and Greg have a lovely home on Frank St., downtown Ottawa, which they have rennovated. They gave us their room on the upper top floor.....large with a marvellous huge bathroom. We had a good sleep but I awoke early as did Bob. I guess the mixture of wake up times, anywhere from 4:15 to 6:00, has tuned our bodies. He made coffee and bagels, Julia went to work and Greg was in a fun golf tournament. Bob and I left after 9:30 and walked uptown. As we were crossing Laurier we came upon the "foot soldiers" for the changing of the guard as they were marching. Great photo. We walked up Bank St. where we found a bike store and Bob managed to get his cassette and new chain. He also got a new bike computer having left his old one at the Paas home, our billet in Kingston. It hadn't been functioning properly so he was pleased to get a new one. I bought a rear saddle bag. Originally I had purchased a bag for the front of the bike which I used driving through BC and Alberta. Honestly, I swear it added 25 pounds to the bike as it was like a woman's purse!! Stashed full of goodies. It also was the cause of my shifting woes as it pressed against the cables. I ditched it in Saskatchewan, along with the two extra water cages. I have been carrying anything extra in my jersey pockets so the rear bag will be handier!

Once we had our biking needs taken care of I called Ingrid who knew we were in town and had been waiting to hear from us. She said she would leave right away to pick us up. I figured it would take her 20 minutes or so, so Bob and I went to the drug store around the block. When we came out and wandered back I said to Bob "isn't that Doug?" (Ingrid's husband) who was getting into a car. I called his name and he greeted us. Ingrid had called him at work and he was finished his meeting so was there to pick us up. He took us to their home where we had lunch together before he had to head back to work. They also have a lovely home in the Napean area. Ingrid was so pleased to see us and offered to do anything for us. We opted to just sit and talk and spend the afternoon catching up on news about our children, families etc. Their dog, Kelly, was entertaining us as well. It was a great afternoon. She drove us baack uptown, first to meet Doug again to retrieve Bob's hat which I had left on the back seat of his car.

Then it was back to Julia's where I did laundry and we chatted and had dinner. Greg arrived back from his golf day and awhile later Linda, another guest of Julia's, and we had a great discussion about the world's woes. Mom had called earlier so I chatted with her and dad. Bob just dug his bike computer out of his shaving bag, so he didn'tleave it behind!

Wednesday August 9, Day 39

I had an ok sleep, but was awake through night, but did rest. We were up at 4:15 and Jason put on the oatmeal at 4:30, we ate and he drove us back to the meeting place. They live 25 minutes from the church, so we had to leave early to be back on time. Jason had just had his two upper wisdom teeth removed, so it was kind of he and his family to host us. They had two other children, Aiden and Riley, but they were sleeping when we arrived last night and of course not up at the early hour that we were! We had a sunny and crisp morning to start. I had leg warmers and my light jacket on. At the 14 km mark I hit something in the road, perhaps a rock? and then had a back flat. Just got that changed and discovered I had a front flat as well. I only had one 650 tube with me, so we patched the front. The patch didn't hold. Luckily the mechanics truck came along and Bob reminded me that I had some spare tubes in that. He quickly found them and replaced the front....BUT the Grim Reaper, or the Paddy Wagon was on our heals. If I haven't discussed the Grim Reaper yet, it is the name we have given to Bill Bridle (the tour's chaplain) as his job is to remain behind the last rider. Bill drives the 15 passenger van, equipped with one of the trailor's to haul bikes. His job is to pick up the last rider when they are too far behind the rest of the group....NO ONE WANTS TO BE PICKED UP BY HIM!!! Actually the day before, when I was cycling along Lake Ontario by myself, going at a steady pace and enjoying everything around me, I glanced in my rear view mirror and saw what I thought was the Grim Reaper driving on the shoulder....man, what a scare. I discovered it was only a garbage truck. When you know that he is on your heals you definitely pick up the pace and cycle your ass off. Anyhow after my flats were fixed, Berndt, Bob and I had to race the remaining 42 km to our first rest place. It is always good when you pass another cyclist because you know that you aren't the last rider anymore, and you don't have to look in your rear view mirror to see the grill of the van.....which actually looks like a big wide grin!! Bill is a great man, but actually he has a big wide grin too!! We had our lunch stop in Smith Falls, and were escorted to the town hall by police cruisers where we had a photo shoot and then escorted out of town. We did get chocolate bars from the Hershey factory...I ate mine for lunch! Then on to Manotick for a mandatory break. At that point my odomoter was at 175, so I figured that we only had another 20 km to go as our original itinery posted 194 km for the ride. The roads got busier and a bit rough and choppy in some places...and we seemed to zig and zag here and there to avoid any main routes....and then it got long. Over to my left at one point I could see the buildings of Ottawa and we were driving away from it to Orleans. We finally arrived to cheering groups, CBC radio mobile was set up on site interviewing and was live on the radio and it was rather exciting. Made us forget the frustration of having an extra 23 km tacked on at the end of the day and not to mention a steep climb up a hill to the destination church. My good friend Julia was there to greet me, and it was wonderful to see her. Bob had hung back a bit to help draft and bring in Bill Absolum who was getting tired. Bob has to be one of the kindest, and most thoughtful of the cyclists. He is always there to help out anyone. He and Bill arrived about 10 minutes later.....
The group from the Bible Society from the Eastern Ontario region had done a top notch job of organization right from when we entered their district... I believe in Utbridge? The food breaks, church hosting etc has been fantastic. We have had lovely home made cookies at snacks, all the neat little things. Even in Kingston for our dinner, the tables were set up with party favours, the food was wonderful and even had garnishing decorations. Way to go!! I guess Anne (from Ottawa) was very intuitive in that she had read my blog and saw that Julia had posted a comment with her phone number. Anne had the forsight to call her and ask if she wanted to billet Bob and I!! Amazing. So, we are officially billeted by my friend whom I wanted to spend time with!! The rest of the group is going to do the tour of Ottawa, but seeing Bob and I lived here, we have done all of that so we are opting for the day to do our own thing. First and foremost is Bob hitting a bike store. He needs a new cassette and a new chain. I need more tubes. I have had flat #6...Bob has only had 1!!
We had a lovely evening with Julia and Greg last night, great food and fun just sitting around talking. We hauled out our map to show the distance we have travelled. My odomoter hit 5000 km upon arrival last night.
Am off in a few minutes to wander uptown...Julia and Greg live on Frank St., almost downtown.

Day 38, Tuesday, August 8/06

Brighton to Kingston 125 km
Actually I slept rather well in the arena last night. Considering everyone was bunked on the floor there was little noise...don't recall hearing any snoring although the occasional fart, which could have been worse due to the chili and corn we were served for supper.

We were up at 6, ate and packed up, on the road for 8. Again God has blessed us with a marvellous sunny sky without the humidity. Riding was easier this morning and I had no trouble settling in. We drove over the Trent-Severn Canal and headed into Prince Edward County, wine country. Our morning rest stop was at the Camilia Winery. They had wonderful coffee and muffins/sweets waiting for us. I couldn't help but think about the Quilts in the Vineyard that we did last year at the Gillis Winery in Bellisle. As I gazed upon the vineyard today I pictured quilts hanging while I sat at outside tables drinking delicious coffee from ceramic mugs. The countryside again was so lovely as we passed through different communities. There was Bloomfield, Wellington...and then we travelled along beside Lake Ontario again. It is so vast...and such a lovely shade of bluish green. We again saw some magnifcant homes along the water.

We had lunch in Picton and then a quick ride to catch a ferry from Glenora to the other side. It was very much like catching the ferry in Gondola Point across to the Kingston Peninsula. We followed a road beside the lake (highway #33) most of the way to Kingston. We did stop at a lovely park for a break this afternoon and were able to stay and relax for an hour. From there it was 25 km to Kingston. We hit the 4 o'clock traffic and got caught up in the rush. It is always very nerve racking cyling through a city, but going through one that you aren't familiar with is unreal! Our roadies direct us but when you get 4 lanes of traffic mixed in with the equation WOW! We arrived at the Bay Park Baptist Church at 4:30 and had a great meal...lots of different pastas, all different. My favorite was Alfredo Chicken.

I am now at the home of our billets, Sheryle and Jason Paas. Their 7 year old son is VERY interested in rocks and is showing us his collection. Leo is also here with us too. We will soon have to get to bed as it will be a 4:30 wake up as we have a 194 km day ahead to Ottawa. The good news is that my friend Julia and her husband Greg will be our host family. I am excited!

Day 37, August 7, 2006

UXBRIDGE TO BRIGHTON, 142 KM
Had a good sleep but woke up at 5 and dozed til it was time to get up at 6. Our billets for last night were Anne and Bruce MacDowall, a lovely couple. Anne is a VERY tiny lady with lots of energy and she was so much fun to talk to. She had lots of questions about cycling and the logistics of the tour. Bruce sings in a group and they will be going to Brazil on Wednesday. The group (I think called Jubilee??) was in Lunenburg in the spring. It was neat to eat off a picture placemat of the town which they were given...I showed them where my parents live. Anne dropped us at the church.

Bob and I were still "on duty" so were responsible for making the containers of gatorade. When we are on duty it is the evening and the following morning. In the evening we have to wash all the lunch dishes from the day; unload all of the support vehicles (5) of the water, gatorade jugs and food containers. All things have to be washed out and then repacked for the following day. It is time consuming and takes about 2 hours. The schedule is so that we only do it once every 9 days. The jugs are too heavy for me to lift, but we add the cans of powder and I can stir!

Anne stayed to watch the group depart at 8. It was stifling and steamy hot already. It took me a while to feel my legs and settle in. Once again we took back roads and it was fun. Great hills, up and down. Lots of farm land, fields of corn...it was neat as in some places you could see the breaks in the rows, like corderoy. There were places that the corn on either side of the road were taller than we were! We were driving through a corn tunnel. We had our first stop at the Marantha Church and they had snacks set up in the shade which was pleasant. On the back country cycling there we saw some affluent homes ...huge, almost mansion like! Neat area too.(Old Scugog Rd) We then took a neat road along Lake Ontario and on to Port Hope for lunch. I was glad to stop as the heat was getting to me! Then on again, more lovely back roads with picturesque scenery. Just too much to comprehend..we had another water break in Grafton at St. George's Anglican.

All of the places/churches who host and feed us are interested in our "mission" and we are treated very well. From Grafton we sped along for final 30km to Brighton. As we raced along at 30 km I felt like dropping off, as I was tired and wanted to stop but I knew that despite being tired it would have been harder cycling on my own. We are bunking at the curling rink. Our bellies have been treated to a feed of fresh corn on the cob. I have cleaned and oiled my chain and now off to find a phone.

Day 36, August 6/06

We got back to Fergus at 9:50 from our "day trip" to Niagara. Bill was there to pick us up. I went straight to bed as I was beat. I had a really good sleep. Only had to get up once..and then got up for the day at 6:15. We had breakfast and Bill and Florence drove us back for 7:30. They were a lovely couple and stayed to watch the group depart.

We were on the road just after 8. Another beautiful day...and we were on back roads all day long. I can't remember the order of places, but the countryside was superb. Lovely stone homes, mixes with fields of wheat, corn, potatoes...and then horses, cows. So picturesque. I remember Hockley, Beetery, Orangeville, St. Albert, Sharon, Bradford...all so very unique and beautiful. The ride was so pleasant with less traffic although we did have one transport pass us at 9:36! I felt like I was riding on the Kingston Peninsula, or the back roads to Sussex...some of our favourite riding places. There were plenty of hills which I have come to love! Most others complain! They are the young of the group... Scott,Jack, Joanna, Robyn, Dustin, and Vincent whom seem to literally fly by us, wheels barely seem to be touching the pavement. Oh to be in my 20's again!! They zoom by like the riders of the Tour du France!

We met as a group outside Uxbridge and were greeted so well by the church when we arrived. This church is the Free Methodist and one of our riders, Joe Schaffer, is the minister here. He was speaking at the outside service tonight in the park but Bob and I were on clean up detail so missed it. The choir was singing our theme song and I missed it!! Currently I am sitting in the church, in my stinky clothes, waiting to be assgned billets.

Day 35, Saturday, August 5, 2006

REST DAY
Am trying to write this on bus, semi darkness on our way home from Niagara Falls Little word of wisdom...Do not Take a school bus on a suuny 30+ Long weekend to Niagara Falls. We were held up in traffic and by the time we arrived we were like zombies. We had our own personal tour guide, Jeff, who was great and the area magnificiant. I must admit that I was a little awe struck to be out around so many people!

Ashamedly I admit that we have had little communication with the outside world, to the events happening in the middle east or the world in general. I feel so ignorant but I guess I choose that while we remain in our cycling cocoon...while we were in Saskatchewan we prayed for the two slain RCMP officers. We did hear that parts of southern Ontario were hit with tornadoes. In Fegus thre was evidence of strong winds that knocked tree tops and branches down.

Earlier today we visited the Mohawk settlement with the oldest protestant church in Ontario. Leona Moses gave a very interesting history lesson of the church and events of the time.

It is getting too dark to continue. It will be after 10 before we get back to our host family in Fergus. Tomorrow we head to Uxburg.

Julia, we will be in Ottawa on Thursday, overnight. I hope to call you on Tuesday seeing that this is the long weekend, I assume you will be away?

Day 34, Friday, August 4, 2006

Owen Sound to Fergus, 145 km.
Had a really good sleep in the church (Bob and I had a small nursery room with our own bathroom!). Up at 6, packed and had breakfast. We were ready for 8, but the roadies who had gone ahead to mark the way got lost so it was 8:30 before we were underway. Once out of the busy area the drive was pleasat. We encountered numerous climbs, which I didn't mind. It was a sunny and hot day, but not too humid. We were on some back roads so the cycling was so enjoyable and the scenery so pcturesque. Very much calendar sights. I loved the fields full of corn, potatoes and golden wheat.

Our stop for lunch was Flesherton at a United Church. We had a photo shoot following. Back on the bikes for the final 75 km. We diverted from the original itinery and did a number of back roads, which was so much fun. Good roads and spectacular countryside. It got a bit tense once again when we hit the #6 and Friday night traffic. Good to arrive at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church at 4:30.

I arrived just in time to get into a photo, with 4 others, that will appear in the local paper. The church was very organized, which was wonderful as there was no hassles with billet selection, etc. We had a great dinner and did not pig out! We had a choir practice for our song, This Is Our Song For Canada.

We then met our billets, Florence and Bill Van Ginkel. They are a lovely couple who showed us the town of Fergus. What a great spot! They showed us the gorge, the downtown core with the marvellous stone and brick buildings, the lovely homes...and then back to their place which is outside of town. They have 10 acres of land, and Bill plants on some. Florence has great gardens and Bob went for a swim in the pool. It is 8:30 and a tad too chilly for me. I opted for a warm bath. My first soak of the trip. We chatted for a bit, but I hit the bed at 10 and crashed for the night. Bob stayed up to talk and show some of his 500 photos! He has done well keeping account of his pictures. We did a laundry, non communal this time Joyce, and still have account of our own undies! I am writing this on the bus, enroute to Niagara Falls. Apparently there is a write up on our group in today's Toronto Star (Saturday).

Just looked up and Bob said we are tavelling through Cambridge, where his 2 sisters live. We found our bearings so were on the lookout for their home as we drove down the #24 AND WE SAW IT!! So close yet so far away. How wierd a feeling!

Day 33, Thursday, August 3, 2006

Tobermoray to Owen Sound, 119 km
We had a slight delay getting off the ferry due to a storm that had knocked out the power...they couldn't access the foot ramp. Once on land it was the confusion of matching billets to cyclists. Maureen Sloat was our host and she took us as well as John, Sandy, Luke and Becky Best, Yvonne and Sarah, June, and Janice. It was after 9 before we got there and Bob was later as he had stayed behind to help sort out the billets. Maureen's home was a wonderful place. It was designed and built by her husband (who passed away 2 years ago) and is situated in a great location, surrounded by close shading trees, walkways to Lake Huron...so beautiful. The rock at the shore line is full of fossils. Very interesting. Bob arrived before 10 and we did another communal laundry. I went to bed at 10:30 and had another good sleep.

I woke up at 5 and dozed until 6 when I got up to sort laundry. Maureen provided a great breakfast and once fed we were taken back to the firehall to begin the day's ride. The weather was ideal; some sun with breezes some at our backs to ease cycling and at times in our faces. The road had no shoulder and we departed early to avoid traffic that would come from the ferry. The scenery was more interesting today. Lots of fields filled with rolled hay bales and old abandoned buildings. The thing I noticed the most were the wildflowers that surrounded us. Nature certainly has its' own way of providing a colourful array....it really was beautiful.

The Bethel Baptist Curch in Lion's Head provided the morning snack.... toasted bagels were the treat! From there onto Wiraton to Jack Van Dorp's home for lunch. Jack is one one the younger cyclists, and the fastest! His mom and dad opened their lovely home and garden area to feed us a wonderfuul lunch. Some even went swimming in the pool. We enjoyed the relaxation for the hour and then it was back on the bikes for Owen Sound. We diverted from the planned route and took some back roads. It was marvellous...not too much traffic making it so enjoyable. I felt like I was back home cycling on the Kingston Peninsula!! The roads were in 100% better shape than the main drags that we have been on in Ontario. We arrived at First United Church, where we are staying, early in the afternoon. That was pleasant to have some free time.

Bob had to take his tire to the bike store where the cone had to be replaced. His tire started acting up in Lion's Head and he rode from there on Bruce's wheel.
We had a wonderful roast beef dinner at this church and then went to a short service. I was really impressed with their minister, Kristal MacGee. She had lots of energy, enthusiasm and personality.

We are 1/2 way done...my odometer turned 4,201 km. Tomorrow on to Fergus and a rest day...which will be spent touring Niagara Falls..

Day 32, August 2, 2006

Espanola to Tobermory 85 km
We had a wonderful dinner last night at the Pentecostal Church and then were introduced to our billets. We were placed with Laura Wright as well as Bill A, Carol and Neil, Wib, Dave, and Reg. Laura was a very interesting and motivated individual. She told us that when we were coming into town she cried. She had a son, David, who was an avid cyclist who at one time raced competitively and at aged 39 dropped dead while out running. She had been widowed and remarried 2 years ago to Cleveland Wright. Their home was lovely and large with enough room for us all. You should have seen the train set up in the basement! It belonged to her previous husband and covered much of the room. It was set up on tables that wound in and around, with tunnels made just like what we saw in the rockies! Then there were grain elevators and all sorts of reproduced buildings. It must have taken years and years of work. Laura said that he would work on it from 1-4 daily. We did a communial laundry and then just sat in the living room and talked. It was nice and relaxing. I went to bed at 10 and had the best sleep so far of the trip despite that I had to get up twice in the night!

We got up just after 7..Laura had made a lovely breakfast for us and then dropped us back at the Lighthouse Church to meet the group. It was raining very hard and Bruce has made the decision to trailer the bikes 20 km out as the road leading from Espanola to Tobermory had no shoulder and was in horrible condition. Bob and I were in the second group so enjoyed the extra time to relax. Pastor Jason played his guitar and Adrienne got on the keyboard and we sang. When we arrived at the meeting spot, it was still raining. It wasn't cold so it was bearable. There was traffic, but not bad. We had to stop at the Little Current Swing Bridge because it was open to let the larger recreational boats pass. Then it was on to Holy Trinity Anglican Church for lunch.

We then continued on, stopping at "Doug's"...which used to have lots of animal carvings and the band The Arrogant Worms wrote a song about. From there it was 13 km to the ferry landing to trailer the bikes. As I write this I am sitting on board the ferry, Chi Cheemaun, to Tobermory. I have just had my dinner so am full and happy and ready for bed. We will go to the Anglican Church in Tobermory to meet our billets. Tomorrow we go through Wireton... I wonder if we will see Willy?

Tuesday August 1/06 Day 31 continued

I am now in the library in Espanola....showers next door, but I opted for the computer first and I sit here quite stinky...after a 100 km ride in 36 degree heat!! It was a sombre day for us.....yesterday when we were cycling into a rest stop, we met up with a solo cyclist and asked him to join us for lunch at our stop. He came in and sat at a table with me and 3 others. Being a small group we were able to engage and talk. He was a 65 year old lawyer named Dugald Christie from Vancouver and he was cycling across the country for his third time and his cause was to push for greater access to the country's legal system for low-income Canadians. He also was collecting signatures for a petition that calls on the federal government to make the justice more accessible, quicker and more understandable. He was cycling to Ottawa and then flying to St. John's and then cycling back to Ottawa to fly back to Vancouver. When we finished lunch, we asked if he would like to join us in Blind River for supper. He never showed up and we learned this morning that he had been killed on the highway. It is tragic. The CBC News from North Bay reported that it was one of the Canadian Bible Cyclists that was killed. I couldn't help but think of him all during the ride today. I shed a few tears along today's journey. If anyone from St. Luke's is reading, could you please include Dugald and his family in your prayers and in church on Sunday. This incident shows that even though we are on a journey for the Lord, life is fragile...and reality hits.
It was nice to arrive in Espanola at a decent hour in the day, allowing us some down time. My friend Wendy asked "knowing what I know now, would I do the trip again?"...my answer would be YES.
We passed some interesting country yesterday and today as it is mennonite land and there are signs by the side of the road indicating horse and buggy. We hoped to see some along our ride, and were told not to do anything to spook the horses, no waving, talking but just to quietly ride by. But we never saw any. They provided the baked goods, breads, muffins etc at a few lunches that we shared at the churches along the way.
The steamy air is unreal. It is ok for cycling as we create a wind or else have had a bit of breeze. It is when you stop or at the top of a climb that you really notice it. I got burned today despite my 30 sunscreen.
Tomorrow we head to Tobermoray (sp?) and catch the ferry.

Day 31, August 1, 2006

I am sitting here on the lovely sandy beach at the beautiful home of Anne and Bob. It is only 6:30 and although we were in the most comfortable bed, I was awake through the night. I suppose the event of yesterday weighing heavily on my mind. Not to say that I have a few aches as well.

Last night Bob went for a swim and later Bob, Anne, Len and Iona (who are also staying)and my Bob and I sat out in the screened gazebo and talked, and then at 10, just before 10 we got in the hot tub. Our hosts are most gracious and I do feel like we are being treated like royalty. As I gaze out on Lake Huron and see nothing but water, it provides me with a calming effect. Way, way off in the distance I can see Manatoulin Island. It is going to be a steamy ride today as you can feel the humidity. Right here there is a lovely breeze blowing off the water.

Last night I did the blog on Bob's computerr so was able to access the comments. I love hearing from you. Glad Carol that you and Mary are getting in some riding. I don't think that I have lost any weight but I know my body proportions are shifting. I can pull my biking shorts up to my armpits now! Mind you the tops of my legs are as thick as telephone poles..

I must go and pack up...I hate to leave!! This place is amazing..a top notch resort! Thak you Anne and Bob!