DAY 47 - TRURO TO HALIFAX - HOME SWEET HOME

Dad had a great ride into Truro with Gary Burns.  They arrived shortly after noon.  A BIG THANK YOU to Barb and Gordie Miller for hosting dad last evening.  So much generosity, warmth and hospitality.

Dad met with Wayne Smith at the Trees of Life in Truro.  Wayne Smith is the sculptor of the Trees of Life, which is three trees, each with 12 rings representing each month of the year and the 12 days of Christmas. Each tree has a butterfly on top symbolic of the cancer society and a ring on top, which is reflective of an angel's halo.

The sculpture also boasts of a poem, created by Smith. It's called the Tree of Life 2008 and states: Like the tree of life the memories still keep on growing. As we all grow older we have to share the time with others because we all need each other to grow together and be stronger.

 

The trees of life is in down town Truro off Young and Prince Street.

We were in Truro bright and early this morning. Brian and George Clark, another cyclist, joined up with dad in Truro to cycle into Halifax. Let's hope there will be others along the pick up spots. Katherine Guinan, a thyroid cancer survivor showed up at the Community Centre in Truro to wish dad well and to let him know what an inspiration he is. As I was leaving Truro, I saw three cyclists in Tim Hortons. They did not get far maybe 2 km up the road before having a break. I guess it is true, a trucker and a police officer cannot pass a Tim's.
 
Today dad is cycling from Truro to Halifax arriving in Halifax at Point Pleasant Park Black Rock Beach at 3pm to dip his wheel in the ocean. Please see the route below and please join in to cycle with him. If not cycling, be there to greet him on his arrival with some huge cheers! Let's make this as big a celebration as it should be. Hope to see you all there!!

BBQ at the Trinity United Church in Timberlea at 5:30 pm this evening to celebrate and share dad's stories of his journey.  Please come and enjoy!

DAY 46 - PICTOU TO TRURO

Good morning everyone, yesterday was a very rainy day for dad.  However he was on the 2:45 pm ferry from Wood Islands into Nova Scotia and this was his goal.  He was greeted at the ferry by Mayor Joe Hawes as well as the Warden of Pictou Co in the pouring rain.  FANTASTIC!  He was escorted by the RCMP into Pictou - THANK YOU MATT!  He is now in Nova Scotia - all provinces are now behind him!!

He had another cyclist join him from the ferry to Pictou, Susan Jones' brother Ken Hetherington - THANK YOU!

A BIG THANK YOU to his hosts Patti MacKenzie's parents.  Patti is an employee of Russel Metal Halifax.  She and Tim (also an employee of Russel Metals Halifax) and their two boys Keegan and Hayden were on hand to greet dad went he got off the ferry.  THANK YOU!  They had fireworks last night after the rain stopped.

Dad started his day at 7:30 am this morning at Tim Hortons where he met up with Gary Burns - Rev. Helene's husband.  He is joining dad today and they are cycling to Truro.

Tomorrow dad is arriving in Halifax at Point Pleasant Park Black Rock Beach at 3pm to dip his wheel in the ocean.  Please see the route below for his day tomorrow and try and join in to cycle with him.  If not cycling, please try and be there to greet him on his arrival with some huge cheers!  Let's make this as big a celebration as it should be.  Hope to see you all there!!

DAY 45 - BORDEN TO PICTOU

Yesterday dad arrived in PEI and was greeted by Harvey Stewart and his wife.  They were waiting for him when he arrived on the Island.  They went to Tim Hortons for a coffee and a few stories were shared I am sure.

He arrived at his host's place around 9 pm.  THANK YOU to Gloria Churchill who hosted dad last evening.  The chocolate with a butterfly attached was on dad's pillow.

Today dad is on his way to Pictou.  He has approximately 118 km to cross the Island to catch the ferry.  When dad was trucking the Island he waited for the ferry constantly - this time dad is considered a "walk-on" and should have no problem getting on the ferry when he gets there.  Hopefully no waiting today!

RIDE WITH GARY - ROUTE FROM TRURO TO HALIFAX (1k to 100 km)

You are invited to ride with Gary on the last day of his journey.  You can ride 100km from Truro's Community College or as little as 1km from Point Pleasant Park's Upper Parking Lot to Lower Parking Lot.  There are 5 pick up spots to join in the ride with Gary.  Bring your helmet and enjoy the ride.

Wednesday, June 30th starting at 7 am from the Community College in Truro located at 36 Arthur Street.
Left onto Willow Street - Hwy #2 Truro, NS
Follow the #2 Hwy to Waverley travelling through Stewiacke, Shuberacadie, Lantz, Elmsdale, Enfield, Fall River
PICK UP SPOT - Petro Canada in Waverley (25km to Point Pleasant Park)

Switch to Waverley Road - Hwy #318
Follow Hwy #318 (Waverley Rd/Braemar Dr) travelling through Port Wallace and Westphal
PICK UP SPOT - Grahams Grove Park on Lake Banook (across from Superstore) 10km to Point Pleasant Park

Down Prince Albert Drive around Sullivan's Pond to the Angus MacDonald Bridge
Up North Street, Left on Agricola Street past Commons onto Ahern Avenue
PICK UP SPOT - Citadel High on Ahern Avenue (3.5km to Point Pleasant Park)

Down Bell Road onto South Park Street, continue down South Park Street where it changes to Young Avenue; at the end of Young Avenue right onto Point Pleasant Drive
PICK UP SPOT - Point Pleasant Park Upper Parking Lot (end of Tower Rd and Point Pleasant Drive) 1km

Down Point Pleasant Drive into lower parking lot onto Black Rock Beach arriving at 3 pm.

DAY 44 - REXTON TO BORDEN

Brian and dad cycled to Rexton yesterday in sudden bursts of downpours.  The skies would just open up and the rain would beat off the pavement for 20 to 30 minutes, then it would be beautiful blue skies for a few hours.  At least it was warm.  The roads are under construction in quite a few places and the ride was bumpy.

I received an email a few days ago from Natasha, Russel Metals Halifax, advising that she would be on holidays and driving to Quebec and wondering where and what route dad would be cycling.  I passed the info along and sure enough, Natasha and Sean found dad cycling, stopped and provided him with some power bars and a drink.  THANK YOU FOR THE BOOST!

Dad and Brian arrived in Rexton in the sunshine.  I met up with them at Tim Hortons and from there we went to Rev. Galen Smith's place who hosted dad last evening.  She and her husband Richard had a beautiful meal prepared for all of us.  THANK YOU Galen and Richard for your hospitality and wonderful company.

Dad is off to Borden, PEI today.  Another province will soon be behind him and tomorrow he will be in Nova Scotia.  Four days until he is home.

DAY 43 - BATHURST TO REXTON

The arrival into Bathurst was absolutely amazing.  Dad was greeted with a police escort from the Big Stop to First United Church on St. Patricks Street.  Connor and I were there holding a welcome sign.  Dad was so blown away that he did not even realize that Connor and I were there.  He thought we looked familiar, but he did not fully put it all together.  The Mayor as well as a representative from the Cancer Society were on hand to greet dad.  Last evening we had an unbelievable meal with so many wonderful people.  There were luminary bags for all the thyroid cancer survivors lit along the fireplace that were in attendance.

A HUGE THANK YOU TO HELEN KNOWLES AND SANDRA PENTLAND  for arranging the welcome reception and their wonderful warmth and hospitality.  The place was decorated with butterfly coasters, butterflies on the napkins, and there were butterflies on the luminary bags as well - absolutely amazing.

THANK YOU TO SANDRA AND ED who hosted all of us last evening.  To everyone in Bathurst THANK YOU - WORDS ARE NOT ENOUGH!

Today Brian is cycling with dad to Rexton.  Connor and I will be there to greet them.

DAY 42 - CAMPBELLTON TO BATHURST

Received a phone call from dad around 2pm yesterday and he was still in Robinsonville.  He was getting ready to head out to Campbellton.  Yesterday was a relative short day compared to what he is used to.  He cycled approximately 40km.  Dad called mom when he arrived in Campbellton around 4:30pm.  It was raining the whole time, but he was not in the rain for a long time.  Dad was at Tim Hortons waiting to be picked up by his host who was taking him to Tidehead for supper.

THANK YOU to Jane and John who hosted dad in Campbellton.  Jane was up bright and early this morning and had breakfast ready for dad and Brian for 5:30am.  Yes, Brian is cycling with dad today from Campbellton to Bathurst.  THANK YOU for welcoming Brian so early and sharing breakfast with him.

DAY 41 - ROBINSONVILLE TO CAMPBELLTON

Dad cycled to Robinsonville yesterday from Edmundston.  This picture is taken from an overpass along the Trans Canada at exit 46 (St.Anne, NB) yesterday morning, just before St.Leonard, NB exit 58 (where he will exit to take Hwy 17).

He cycled the extra 20km yesterday to Robinsonville so he is able to stay a bit extra this morning and relax with friends.  His hosts, Art and Patsy Bacon are friends of dad's from when he trucked Northern NB.  Dad is enjoying his morning and not leaving from Campbellton until after noon today.
 
THANK YOU to Art and Patsy for hosting dad.  I can hear in dad's voice that he feels he is home; seeing friends and fellow employees of Russel Metals the last couple of days.

DAY 40 - EDMUNDSTON TO KEDGWICK

Same time zone and another province behind him.  Dad arrived in Edmundston last evening.    He is on home territory as he has trucked NB for over 20 years.  THANK YOU  Russel Metals Edmundston for hosting dad.  I received an email this morning with pictures of dad last evening spending time and enjoying a wonderful meal with employees of Russel Metals that dad has not seen in 15 or so years.  I spoke with dad last evening when he arrived at the hotel.  He knew he was to give Luc a call and maybe get together for a bite to eat.  I am assuming that this was a big surprise for dad.  The email mentioned a good time was had by all.

Today he is heading to Kedgwick.  He is actually planning on going to Robinsonville to spend the night with friends that he has not seen in 15 years.  He has a long ride ahead of him today as Edmundston to kedgwick is approximately 125km and then another 20km to Robinsonville.  This will give him a shorter day tomorrow so that he can spend a little extra time in Robinsonville tomorrow morning.

He is in Northern New Brunswick and the hills are back and the shoulders are narrow.  Rumor has it that the 17 has been improved since dad last travelled on this road, but he is expecting some hills today.

DAY 39 - ST. PASCAL TO EDMUNDSTON

"What a beautiful ride!"  Dad cycled along the river into St. Pascal yesterday.  It was absolutely breathtaking dad said.

I want to share an email I received from Russel Metals Ottawa in response to my thank you for hosting dad.  It is not the first thank you I have received in response to a "thank you" email, but it again shows the impact dad has on his hosts as well as the impact the hosts have on dad.

Hi Christina,

It is us that should be saying 'Thank You'. In fact the first thing your dad did when he arrived was to apologize for getting here so late! Imagine, biking across Canada and apologizing for arriving a little late - just speaks to his character. We had the easy part!

Your dad was very gracious, he did say thank you many times. He said he had no problem knowing where to go (because of the butterflies) and was very kind in allowing us to take lots of pictures. He presented my 6 year old daughter with one of his butterflies, and it is something that she will have forever. On the car ride home, my 10 year-old son said, 'pretty neat eh dad, meeting a Real Hero'. Well that pretty well sums up the way we all feel about your dad.

I sincerely hope that the little gathering we had in honour of your dad's arrival put a little wind at his back for the homestretch of his journey.

Love you Dad!  You have always been a hero to me!

DAY 38 - LEVIS to ST. PASCAL

Dad with Simon, his host in Montreal.

Yesterday dad started out in the rain.  He decided to go into Tim Hortons as it was raining so hard to get dried out a bit and to see if the rain would let up.  While in Tim Hortons he started talking with a couple from Nanaimo, BC.  They left Nanaimo on May 11th and could not believe that dad left Victoria BC on May 15th.  Did I mention they are travelling by vehicle.  For anyone who does not know where Nanaimo is it is also on Vancouver Island approximately an hour away from Victoria.  (It is where Connor was born).

Dad was told of a bike trail from Trois Rivieres to Levis that he could follow.  Dad said it was a beautiful trail.  He came across a couple who advised dad of a steep hill with a sharp S turn.  They spoke broken English, but dad told them it would be a piece of cake and they laughed.  This morning a guy drove pass dad honking and waving and when he got closer he smiled at dad and keep saying "good luck, good luck."  It was the same guy dad talked with on the trail probably on his way to work.

Today dad is off to St. Pascal.  This is dad's last day in Quebec.  Again THANK YOU to Russel Metals Quebec for hosting dad through Quebec.

DAY 37 - TROIS RIVIERES TO LEVIS

Dad had a beautiful day cycling yesterday.  The weather was great and the scenery was amazing.  He took his time and enjoyed the ride.

THANK YOU to Russel Metals Quebec who is supporting dad on his journey by hosting him in hotels while cycling through Quebec.  When he arrived at his hotel last evening and finished checking in, it had started to rain.  Dad finished his day without getting wet.

Dad arrived in good time, just after 6 pm.  Dad said he was just going to shower, relax and sleep.  The last few days he was up early and late enjoying the company of his hosts.

Today is the start of week 6.  Dad has cycled over  5,000 km.  Once today is behind him, he is on familiar territory as he trucked Northern New Brunswick over 20 years.  Today dad is heading to Levis.

DAY 36 - MONTREAL TO TROIS RIVIERES

Dad had a beautiful day of cycling yesterday.  He had a bit of jigging and jagging to get out of Ottawa to the Quebec Border, but once he crossed the border and turned right onto Highway #344 it was smooth sailing (or should I say smooth cycling).  That's right - the Quebec Border - another province is now behind him!  He followed the Ottawa River and the scenery was absolutely beautiful.

THANK YOU to Simon and his wife who hosted dad last evening. Another THANK YOU to Simon who got dad through Montreal.  We all know how crazy Montreal can be in a vehicle, imagine on a bicycle.  They ate out on the deck and dad had beautiful company and a wonderful meal.  Even their dog Bob stayed out with them and enjoyed the evening and conversation.

Today dad is off to Trois Rivieres.  The first 20km of his journey is on a bike trail, which Simon suggested and mapped dad's route to Trois Rivieres.  Dad gave me a quick call this morning from the bike trail and said how breathtaking it is.  He is taking his time and enjoying the ride.

DAY 35 - OTTAWA TO MONTREAL

Yesterday was a long ride.  Not necessarily in miles, but time as he had to go through Ottawa to arrive at Russel Metals which is on the east side of Ottawa.  It made for a long afternoon.  When he arrived at Russel Metals he was greeted by a crowd of Russel Metal employees.  Also waiting for dad was dad's brother's brother-in-law and wife (John and Chris).  THANKS TO ALL FOR GREETING DAD!

Joe Verville, Unit Manager Russel Metals Ottawa had these butterflies made out of metal and painted just for dad's arrival.  They were placed on either side of the entrance to Russel Metals for dad to see upon arrival.  Russel Metals Ottawa employees raised $1000 for thyroid cancer on dad's behalf.
WOW - THANKS!

Today dad is heading to Montreal.  Another long ride as he cannot cycle on the TransCanada.  Approximately 190km today.

DAY 34 - PETAWAWA TO OTTAWA

Here is dad and he is smiling; his North Bay escort; Mathias, was at John and Linda's at 5 am looking for his riding buddy. Mathias escorted dad part way out of town, what a guy for going above and beyond. Mathias was there volunteering right from the get-go, and John fully believes that Dad's enthusiasm will inspire Mathias to do a challenge of something similar in the not too distant future.

A BIG THANK YOU to John and Linda from North Bay for their hospitality, warmth and generosity.  After a hearty breakfast dad was on his bike at 6 am on his way to Petawawa.

A few comments from John I received in an email yesterday.

Your Dad is a delight, and rest assured; he does make a difference.  There is an easterly wind and the threat of light rain forecast for most of the day; somehow I get the feeling that nothing dampens his attitude as he has a special way of handling hurdles; I believe the wind is always at his back.

Today dad is off to Ottawa.  The weather looks good - definitely a day for sunscreen!  He is planning on a visit to Russel Metals in Ottawa where they have a few surprises for him that dad is not aware of.

DAY 33 - NORTH BAY TO PETAWAWA

Yesterday was a great day for cycling.  THANK YOU to Trinity United Church who came out and greeted dad upon arrival in North Bay.  I talked with dad briefly and received an email around 8:30 pm with pictures advising that dad was still visiting and eating.

THANK YOU to John and Linda who hosted dad in North Bay for the wonderful company and food.

Today the forecast is rain and dad is off to Petawawa approximately 193km.  Another long ride in the rain.  Keep those positive thoughts and comments coming!

DAY 32 - SUDBURY TO NORTH BAY

Yesterday started out as a beautiful day for cycling, but about 10 minutes down the road it started to rain and it rained most of the day.  Dad had headwinds yesterday as well, but the rain was warm.  Dad said it was a bit of a struggle with the winds and rain, but it was a beautiful evening when he arrived in Sudbury.  He called me from Tim Hortons feeling pretty good.

I received an email from his North Bay hosts and the weather is good for cycling today.  His trip to North Bay is approximately 136km, not a whole lot of hills and I am told only one Tim Hortons.  I am sure dad will find it and stop for a coffee.

DAY 31 - BLIND RIVER TO SUDBURY

In Sault Ste Marie dad stayed at the Est Bourne Manor.  THANK YOU to Janice who looked after dad with a wonderful supper, was up early and made dad breakfast, and the room was fit for a king.  It was truly wonderful.

Yesterday dad was off to Blind River.  He was to call me from Tim Hortons for the info on his hosts.  When he got to Tim Hortons he went to wash his hands, when he came out someone asked him if he was "Gary?"  It was his hosts for the evening.  They thought they would just pop by Tim Hortons to see if he was there and sure enough he was.  A BIG THANK YOU to his hosts John and Marilyn for their kindness and heartfelt warmth.

John and Clarence (a friend of John's) welcomed dad with a guitar duet - playing and singing My Nova Scotia Home in honour of dad's journey. I was told it brought a tear to dad's eye.  John is originally from Nova Scotia and he is also a thyroid cancer survivor.

I received the following email this morning from John and Marilyn advising that dad had left and is on his way to Sudbury at 8:15 this morning.

....warm morning but a very light mist in the air - forecast is for a sunny day with highs of 20...should be a good riding day. He had a hearty breakfast then went out to pack up his bike wearing his newly washed clothing and carrying his freshly filled water bottles and a packed lunch. A wee bit late on the start - but we were up till midnight trading "war stories" and enjoying each other's company. Your Dad is truly a wonderful, loving person with a fantastic outlook on life.....we really enjoyed every moment of his (all-to-short) visit with us!! Thank you for all you and your family do for him to make his journey run so smoothly.

This is an example of the truly wonderful and beautiful people dad has met and who have hosted him.  Words cannot say enough or express our thanks.

Today dad is on his way to Sudbury.

DAY 30 - THE SAULT TO BLIND RIVER

Yesterday was another nice day for cycling.  Dad had a tail wind  and arrived in Sault Ste Marie early afternoon and went to a bike shop that was suggested by his hosts in Marathon.  Dad stopped at the Voyayeur's Lodge and Cook House and said the food was out of this world.  The Lodge and Cook House have fact signs and dad mentioned that he has cycled 3611 km and 2366 km to go.  He was telling me, as he could physically see it on a map, how far he has cycled.  He was amazed himself.

He also saw a bear.  It was on the run and had ran out of the woods and across the street.  It did not even look left or right it just zoomed out of nowhere.  Dad was quite happy it did not see him!  A few days ago he watched a moose with her two babies.

Today he is off to Blind River.  His hosts live in Algoma Mills which is approximately 12km east of Blind River.  Blind River has a Tim Hortons which dad is going to give me a call from and then continue on to his hosts.

DAY 29 - DESTINATION SAULT STE MARIE

THANK YOU to Kaireen who arranged dad's hosts in Wawa and THANK YOU to his hosts in Wawa for their generosity and hospitality.  I received an email for Kaireen who had the opportunity to meet with dad and described him "full of enthusiasm and inspiration.  He is really amazing for 65.  Puts us older ones to shame."

Kaireen advised that when he left yesterday it was not raining, but it had started to spit a bit later in the afternoon.  Dad did stay out of the rain until later in the afternoon and he arrived in Montreal River around 3:30 pm and kept on going as he did not have a host.  He called approximately 78 km from Sault St. Marie.  It was pouring down raining by then and he decided to call it a day.

Dad said he had four good size hills and he is going around Lake Superior.  Lake Superior is the largest of the five Great lakes.  It is also the largest freshwater lake in the world.

Today Dad is off to Sault Ste Marie.

DAY 28 - WAWA TO MONTREAL RIVER

THANKS to Barb and Joe who hosted dad in Marathon.  They stayed up late chatting and watching the hockey game.  Dad left around 7 am yesterday morning after a great breakfast and some more conversation.  Dad left Barb and Joe's place full of energy and ready for his big ride.

Dad arrived in Wawa after a great day of riding.  The weather was perfect for cycling - cloudy and no rain.  When he called we were quite excited as we knew it was a huge day.  Dad called from a gas station, but he did mention that there is a new Tim Horton's in Wawa.  I am sure he will make a visit.

Today he is off to Montreal River.

This is a picture dad took while cycling in the Rockies.

DAY 27 - "THE MARATHON RIDE" MARATHON TO WAWA

THANK YOU to Mike and Eleanor Gould in Terrace Bay.  It was a great evening of hospitality.  They sent him on his way yesterday after a wonderful breakfast and with lunch for the road.

Yesterday the ride was fairly short (82 km), but it was foggy and pouring down rain the whole day.  Dad's lights on his bike are working as people have commented that they can see him even in the worst of conditions.  THANK YOU CYCLE SMITH.  When dad stopped to empty the water out of his plastic bags that he wears over his gloves in the rain, someone again asked "I know the answer is NO, but do you want a ride?"  And again, "thank you, but no thank you."

When dad called, he was at the mall in Marathon sitting on a bench.  He could see his bike and the coffee shop was behind him.  He was enjoying a coffee and he was warm and dry, however, his wet clothes were laid out on the bench beside him.

Tomorrow dad is off to Wawa.  He has a long ride (185 km), but he has heard that there are not as many hills as the last couple of days and dad says, these hills are nothing compared to the Coquihalla Highway!

Dad (well actually, Brian) put the butterflies on his bike before leaving for his Thyroid Cancer Awareness journey.

DAY 26 - TERRACE BAY TO MARATHON

Dad's hosts in Nipigon sent him off with a "farmers breakfast" which sounds a lot like a truckers breakfast - hash browns, sausage and eggs with homemade bread.  A BIG THANK YOU to Herman who got up and made this breakfast before dad left around 7:30 am.

Glena and Herman gave dad a brief tour of Nipigon, downloaded pictures off dad's camera and forwarded to me which you will see on the blog.  THANK YOU Glena and Herman for your hospitality.

Today will be dad's second day in Northern Ontario's big hills and windy roads.  From talking with other cyclists, this should be the worst stretch of hills in the North.  Today is not too long of a day, but he needs to save some energy for tomorrow's long ride to Wawa.

DAY 25 - NIPIGON TO TERRACE BAY

Dad left Thunder Bay yesterday morning in the sunshine.  He stopped at the Terry Fox monument.  I can only imagine how inspiring this monument would be to anyone crossing this country on their own power.  Someone kindly took a picture of dad at the monument.  THANK YOU TO his host in Nipigon who sent the photos.

A BIG THANK YOU to his Thunder Bay hosts.  They were up very early yesterday morning to see dad off and made him a big breakfast at 5 am.

After discussions with his hosts in Nipigon and Marathon, dad has decided not to cycle to Marathon today as the hills are big and the area is isolated.  Dad is going as far as Terrace Bay (104 km) and spending the night.  After Terrace Bay there is nothing until Marathon which is approximately another 100 km.  Destination for Wednesday is Marathon.

DAY 24 - THUNDER BAY TO NIPIGON

Yesterday the sun was shining.  Dad arrived in Thunder Bay early afternoon and went straight to a bike shop to have his bike looked after.  A BIG THANK YOU to Fresh Air Experience who took the time and fit him in and fixed up his bike.

When speaking with dad last night, he asked that a few things be passed along.

THANK YOU to Howard, Debbie, and brother David from the English Shore Resort.  They were so gracious and kind and it was like we knew each other forever!

When dad was cycling in Saskatchewan, a half ton truck flagged dad down.  He wanted to show him an antelope with its twins.  He handed dad a pair of binoculars to have a look.  He advised dad that this is something that is very rare to see.  The driver of the truck advised that his wife is from Bathurst, NB.

Dad spotted a doe walking with her fawn.  They were crossing the road and the fawn was still quite wobbly on its legs.  Dad stopped two cars to allow the doe and fawn to get across the street safely.

Yesterday, dad spotted a black bear.  The bear was walking the track, but by the time dad stopped to get his camera, the bear was gone.  Dad said he watched him for a couple of minutes and the bear was just sauntering along.

Dad met up with a group of people rollerblading across Canada for cancer.  Their slogan "Don't Stop Believing."

During dad's journey several people have stopped and said "I know you don't want a lift, but I have to ask - Do you want a lift?"  and dad's reply "Thank you, but no thank you."

Dad's destination today is Nipigon.  Today will mark dad's half way point across Canada.  I believe it is just after Thunder Bay.  The weather looks good, and he was told that the hills are not too bad today, but come tomorrow the hills are big.  Today's ride is approximately 70 miles (112 km).

DAY 23 - SHABAQUA CORNERS TO THUNDER BAY

Dad arrived in Shabaqua Corners (approximately 33 miles west of Thunder Bay).  He was in a lot of rain and wind yesterday and the hills are coming.  I have heard that the terrain is quite hilly and isolated between Nipigon and Sault Ste Marie.

Today dad is heading to Thunder Bay and spending the night.  He is going to give his bike a look over and some TLC and enjoy the company of his hosts.  He receives more than a nights rest, a warm shower and good food when he stays with a host.  He is rejuvenated by their kindness and caring they recharge his "Faith Hope and Attitude."  The hosts and followers of dad's journey provide the spirituality.  Today will be a shorter day for dad but this week involves some of his longest and most challenging days.

SCHEDULE UPDATE

Below is the schedule for dad's journey.

June 17th - Thurs - Petawawa to Ottawa
June 18th - Fri - Ottawa to Montreal
June 19th - Sat - Montreal to Trois Rivieres
June 20th - Sun - Trois Rivieres to Quebec City
June 21st - Mon - Quebec City to Saint Pascal
June 22nd - Tues - Saint Pascal to Edmunston
June 23rd - Wed - Edmuston to Kedgwick
June 24th - Thurs - Kedgwick to Campbellton
June 25th - Fri - Campbellton to Bathurst
June 26th - Sat - Bathurst to Richibucto
June 27th - Sun - Richibucto to Borden
June 28th - Mon - Borden to Pictou
June 29th - Tues - Pictou to Truro
June 30th - Wed - Truro to Halifax

DAY 22 - ENGLISH RIVER TO THUNDER BAY

The rain is back.  Dad woke up yesterday morning in showers and cycled the entire day in rain.  The wind is changing direction again and was in in face yesterday.  He spent the night in English River approximately 27 miles west of Upsala.  It was quite dark due to the weather and it is expected to rain with thunder through the evening so he decided to stay put.  He stayed at the English Shore Resort.  They are getting up early to make him breakfast and give him a sandwich for the road.  THANK YOU ENGLISH SHORE RESORT!

Dad is headed to Thunder Bay today.  His ride today is approximately 110 miles (180 km).  The weather forecast for today is pretty much the same as yesterday.  I know there are some hills to be climbed.

DAY 21 - UPSALA

When dad phoned last evening he was just east of Dryden.  It was a beautiful night and Tim Horton's is a couple of miles up the road so he thought he would camp in one of the many campgrounds around Dryden.  Wabigoon is approximately 10 miles east, but a whole lot of nothing around it.  He figured he would enjoy the night and know that he would be close to Tim Horton's for the morning to start his ride to Upsala today.

Yesterday he stopped at a park to refuel (a quick bite to eat) and there were a couple of ladies who were on their way to visit their sister.  They chatted with dad and they wanted their picture taken with dad to take and show their sister.  The people that dad has met has been unbelievable and very supportive.

Today the towns are few and far between.  When he leaves today the next town with food and accommodations is Ignace approximately 63 miles.  From there he has another 65 miles to Upsala.  This is another small town, but there is food and accommodations and he will be spending the night in Upsala.  Dad also mentioned that there were quite a few rolling hills yesterday. He is getting himself ready for some of the climbs that are to come his way.

DAY 20 - DESTINATION WABIGOON, ON

Yesterday dad left Winnipeg and headed to Kenora.  Dad is now in Ontario - another province behind him.  He arrived in Kenora last evening around 6:30 pm.

His hosts in Winnipeg were great.  THANK YOU to Jeff for his kind contribution to the journey.  Dad spoke with his host's sister who is a nurse on a cancer floor.  Dad gave a butterfly to his host and one for the host's sister as well.  A BIG THANK YOU TO KAREN IN WINNIPEG!

Last night in Kenora dad stayed with the niece of a retired Halifax Russel Metals employee.  They made dad an awesome breakfast before he left this morning.  THANK YOU CATHERINE & BILL!  Dad gave me a quick call as he stopped to pick up some more sunscreen.

Today dad is off to Wabigoon, ON.  This destination was not on his original schedule.  After looking at a map in more detail, talking with his host in Kenora, and talking with some other cyclists, it was decided to change dad's route a bit.  He is going to stay on Hwy #17 towards Dryden.  Wabigoon is approximately 10 miles east of Dryden.  He will be cycling approximately 101 miles (163 km) today.  Tomorrow his planned destination is Upsala and then on Saturday his destination is Thunder Bay (back to his original schedule).  He is in Northern Ontario and the towns are far and few in between.

It will take dad approximately the same amount of time to cover Ontario as it did to cover the Western provinces.  However, we do get another time zone change so even though he will still be in Ontario he will be one hour closer to his home time zone.

Dad, we are so proud of you!  Miss you lots!
love Faye, Christina & Brian, April & Joe, Meghan, Connor, Nathan
xoxoxoxoxoxxx

DAY 19 - HEADING TO KENORA, ON

Yesterday was another good day of cycling.  Dad got to the edge of Winnipeg around lunch time.  His hosts from Portage la Prairie made him a vegetable/fruit smoothie packed full of vitamins, and antioxidants and energy from full foods.  Dad had a wonderful breakfast that his hosts provided and wonderful conversation before heading off to Winnipeg.  THANK YOU LINDA AND MITCHELL.

Winnipeg is so big and Dad had approximately 10 miles to go until he reached Russel Metals in Winnipeg.  He had a good visit in Russel Metals and got a tour of the facility.  His host was another 10 miles away from Russel Metals, but going East.  When dad leaves Winnipeg today he is close to the Trans Canada and is now at the edge of Winnipeg on the East side.

Today he is off to Kenora.  I believe today is the longest ride of the journey.  He is  travelling 123 miles (197 km).  The weather looks good, the winds are small, and the road is fairly flat.

STORY FROM DAVID MOORE

Last night I received an email from David Moore Sr. and he wanted me to share his story on the blog.  It is my pleasure Mr. Moore.

I grew up in Truro, and I am a former RMI Ontario employee. My son, David Moore Jr. worked for the Russel B&T division in Stoney Creek, Ontario for more than 20 years. He died of thyroid cancer two years ago. He was misdiagnosed, or may well still be with us today. Therefore, your wonderful cause is near and dear to me, and my family.
Hang in there, and good luck the rest of the way.

Best regards;
David Moore Sr.

Mr. Moore offered dad accommodations if his journey took him through Owen Sound.  Dad is staying on Hwy 17 from Sudbury to Ottawa so unfortunately does not get the chance to meet Mr. Moore.

ACCOMMODATION UPDATE

A BIG THANK YOU to everyone who has offered accommodations, but we are still in need of a few.

Listed is the trip schedule. Should anyone wish to accommodate me (Gary Jones) for a night, (one meal, one shower, and eight (8) hours of sleep), please contact my daughter Christina at christina.cameron@ns.sympatico.ca. THANK YOU!

Day 24 - June 7th Thunder Bay to Nipigon (accommodation arranged)
Day 25 - June 8th Nipigon to Marathon (accommodation arranged)
Day 26 - June 9th Marathon to Wawa (accommodation arranged)

Day 27 - June 10th Wawa to Montreal River (looking for host)

Day 28 - June 11th Montreal River to Sault Ste Marie (accommodation arranged)
Day 29 - June 12th Sault Ste Marie to Blind River (accommodation arranged)
Day 30 - June 13th Blind River to Sudbury (accommodation arranged)
Day 31 - June 14th Sudbury to North Bay (accommodation arranged)
Day 32 - June 15th North Bay to Petawawa (accommodation arranged)
Day 33 - June 16th Petawawa to Ottawa (accommodation arranged)
Day 34 - June 17th Ottawa to Montreal, PQ (accommodation arranged)
Day 35 - June 18th Montreal to Trois Rivieres (accommodation arranged)
Day 36 - June 19th Trois Rivieres to Quebec (accommodation arranged)
Day 37 - June 20th Quebec City to Saint Pascal (accommodation arranged)
Day 38 - June 21st Saint Pascal to Edmunston, NB (accommodation arranged)
Day 39 - June 22nd Edmuston, to Kedgwick (accommodation arranged)
Day 40 - June 23rd Kedgwick to Campbellton (accommodation arranged)
Day 41 - June 24th Campbellton to Bathurst (accommodation arranged)
Day 42 - June 25th Bathurst to Richibucto (accommodation arranged)
Day 43 - June 26th Richibucto to Borden, PE (accommodation arranged)
Day 44 - June 27th Borden to Wood Island Pictou, NS (accommodation arranged)
Day 45 - June 28th Pictou to Truro (accommodation arranged)

DAY 18 - DESTINATION WINNIPEG

Dad started his day yesterday by going to the A & L Get Active Bike Shop to get two new tires.  THANK YOU TO BILL & BERYL his hosts in Brandon!  Bill took dad to the bike shop and then took him to get a hair cut and beard trim while the bike was being looked after.  Amy at A Hair Affair looked after dad and would not charge him or take a tip.  She just gave dad a big hug and said no trouble at all.  THANK YOU AMY!  Dad thanks Ron for the contributions to his ride.  THANK YOU to Cam and Sacha at the Bike Shop who gave dad a discount and gave the bike a much appreciated tune up.  Picture of dad with Bill & Beryl.

Dad arrived in Portage la Prairie last night around 6 pm.  Today he is headed for Winnipeg.  Checked the weather and it looks good for cycling.  Sunny with a few clouds & a high of 17 in Winnipeg.  The winds are blowing from the west.