June 22, 2010
184 km
Today was day two of the crazy death mountains of the 97c and it was hard and discouraging but a nice lady offered me juice and a banana at the summit which made my day. When I called home I received the news that I was denied my application for OSAP for the fall and instead of panicking like I usually do I stayed calm and rational, that is how I know I finally found what I was looking for on this trip. I am so proud of myself for how far I have come, both geographically and mentally. I no longer fear being alone, talking with strangers, asking for things, and deep water. My self confidence is through the roof and I am 100% satisfied with how the trip turned out. I know I can accomplish anything and I know I am smart, determined and can do anything I want. However the greatest truth I have discovered is that life is better when shared with others. The best times on this trip were with friends or people I met along the way. That being said I have seen enough and I have learned everything I could about myself for one adventure so I have decided to fly home from Vancouver. Tomorrow I will reach the west coast and will spend 10 days there and fly to Toronto to visit with Genny for a bit and to see my sister in London. Don't think this as a failure but rather as an early success. I am proud of what I have done and I know I could do it again if I wanted to. The only reason to stay would be for other people and I have nothing to prove to anyone. I am very happy and I will be very happy to come home with my head held high. Now I just need to face my fear of airplanes.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Day 36 - Kelowna, BC - Merritt, BC
June 21, 2010
139 km
I was sad to leave Kelowna as I had so much fun and I knew I had two of the worst days ahead of me. At least one is down now. For the first 50 km of the day it was a constant hill with a summit at 1700 m above sea level, then came the downhill part that was muzzled by the strong wind. I am getting low on money and food so I spent $20 in Merritt on a good supply of groceries which leaves me with $20 till Vancouver. The groceries should last until Abbotsford. For the first time on the trip I was brave enough to bike around asking people if I could use their backyard and got one near the highway with a nice family. It feels so good to have self-confidence and little anxiety. This trip is helping me so much. At times I do feel like quitting but then I think about all the great things I would have missed if I had given up then. So off to bed bed I go in my tent for the first time since Saskatchewan after eating my canned chili. I will try not to think about how painful tomorrow will be.
139 km
I was sad to leave Kelowna as I had so much fun and I knew I had two of the worst days ahead of me. At least one is down now. For the first 50 km of the day it was a constant hill with a summit at 1700 m above sea level, then came the downhill part that was muzzled by the strong wind. I am getting low on money and food so I spent $20 in Merritt on a good supply of groceries which leaves me with $20 till Vancouver. The groceries should last until Abbotsford. For the first time on the trip I was brave enough to bike around asking people if I could use their backyard and got one near the highway with a nice family. It feels so good to have self-confidence and little anxiety. This trip is helping me so much. At times I do feel like quitting but then I think about all the great things I would have missed if I had given up then. So off to bed bed I go in my tent for the first time since Saskatchewan after eating my canned chili. I will try not to think about how painful tomorrow will be.
Day 35 - Kelowna
June 20, 2010
First thing is first, Happy Fathers Day. I found a payphone and had a conversation with my dad for a half hour. By the time I got back Dillion was awake so we went for coffee and discussed graffiti art which ended up in a political conversation. The best part about this trip is meeting new people and discussing any topic. I am learning new things, I am getting better at debating, I am becoming more open minded and more tolerant of opposing viewpoints. When Chris got up we spent and hour picking cherries and then took the canoe across Okanagan Lake to Bear Creek park. We made it after consuming a few too many beer and then hiked a hill/trail. A storm had started to build but we had no choice but to paddle back against the wind and rain. It was probably a bad idea as there were no other boats on the water, there was lightning and strong wind but we made it. We were all tired and I was sore so the extra day off didn't do much. We made dinner and watched a Ralph Nader documentary. Sadly this will probably be the last time I see Chris and Dillion.
First thing is first, Happy Fathers Day. I found a payphone and had a conversation with my dad for a half hour. By the time I got back Dillion was awake so we went for coffee and discussed graffiti art which ended up in a political conversation. The best part about this trip is meeting new people and discussing any topic. I am learning new things, I am getting better at debating, I am becoming more open minded and more tolerant of opposing viewpoints. When Chris got up we spent and hour picking cherries and then took the canoe across Okanagan Lake to Bear Creek park. We made it after consuming a few too many beer and then hiked a hill/trail. A storm had started to build but we had no choice but to paddle back against the wind and rain. It was probably a bad idea as there were no other boats on the water, there was lightning and strong wind but we made it. We were all tired and I was sore so the extra day off didn't do much. We made dinner and watched a Ralph Nader documentary. Sadly this will probably be the last time I see Chris and Dillion.
Day 34 - Kelowna
June 19, 2010
It was the nicest day I have ever seen since starting this trip. In fact it is so hot out that I am really glad that I don't have to bike today. I walked around downtown before everyone was up and got some groceries. When I got back people were waking up. Late last night Chris ended up taking in two more couch surfers and they keep eating all my food which is pissing me off because I am so poor. I found a cherry tree in Chris' front yard that fills any spare time I have, it's so delicious. We all hiked a mountain in the afternoon and hung out at a beach followed by some amazing Indian Food for dinner. I found out the highway to Merritt, the Okanagan Connector, is the second highest pass in BC and that the Coquihalla from Merritt to Hope is pretty bad too, so I am dreading those rides. I decided to stay one more day to rest up and hang out with Chris and his roomate Dillion.
It was the nicest day I have ever seen since starting this trip. In fact it is so hot out that I am really glad that I don't have to bike today. I walked around downtown before everyone was up and got some groceries. When I got back people were waking up. Late last night Chris ended up taking in two more couch surfers and they keep eating all my food which is pissing me off because I am so poor. I found a cherry tree in Chris' front yard that fills any spare time I have, it's so delicious. We all hiked a mountain in the afternoon and hung out at a beach followed by some amazing Indian Food for dinner. I found out the highway to Merritt, the Okanagan Connector, is the second highest pass in BC and that the Coquihalla from Merritt to Hope is pretty bad too, so I am dreading those rides. I decided to stay one more day to rest up and hang out with Chris and his roomate Dillion.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Day 33 - Revelstoke, BC to Kelowna, BC
June 18, 2010
197 km
I am sore and really exhausted, probably because I thought it would be a good idea to compress 6 days of riding in the mountains into 3. Its hard not to push myself though, I am so excited for Vancouver and I am so close. The scenery has changed a bit, I am now spending the majority of the day in low valleys with the densest forests I have ever seen. I think I am in the Okanagan Valley. Once I got to Sicamous it was time to leave highway 1 for the first time since I crossed into Manitoba. I have chosen the southern highways as there is more to see. I got a flat tire right outside of Sicamous but this one was understandable, it was a huge long piece of metal. A couple from the UK stopped and drove me back to town to pump my tire. From this point on it was rolling hills into the wind but it was beautiful lake country. I stopped for lunch in Vernon and for some much needed Booster Juice. Vernon seemed like a nice place but I was determined to make it to Kelowna, mainly because I had someone to stay with. My host today is Chris and he and his roomates are quite fun. I really pushed hard to get here but I think it is going to be good. Weather is nice, tomorrow is Saturday and I am in Kelowna for a couple nights how could it not be good.
197 km
I am sore and really exhausted, probably because I thought it would be a good idea to compress 6 days of riding in the mountains into 3. Its hard not to push myself though, I am so excited for Vancouver and I am so close. The scenery has changed a bit, I am now spending the majority of the day in low valleys with the densest forests I have ever seen. I think I am in the Okanagan Valley. Once I got to Sicamous it was time to leave highway 1 for the first time since I crossed into Manitoba. I have chosen the southern highways as there is more to see. I got a flat tire right outside of Sicamous but this one was understandable, it was a huge long piece of metal. A couple from the UK stopped and drove me back to town to pump my tire. From this point on it was rolling hills into the wind but it was beautiful lake country. I stopped for lunch in Vernon and for some much needed Booster Juice. Vernon seemed like a nice place but I was determined to make it to Kelowna, mainly because I had someone to stay with. My host today is Chris and he and his roomates are quite fun. I really pushed hard to get here but I think it is going to be good. Weather is nice, tomorrow is Saturday and I am in Kelowna for a couple nights how could it not be good.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Day 32 - Golden, BC to Revelstoke, BC
June 17, 2010
153 km
Today was suppose to be my mother's birthday and I find it suiting that it should be the same day that I wake in British Columbia for the first time, or that it is one month from when I left home or that today I meet with Roger's Pass, the hill that I have feared since I started. I dedicated today's ride to her even though she would have never wanted me to go she would have been the first person to say how proud she was of me. It didn't take long for the climbing to start. Even before Roger's Pass I had to climb Donald hill. I spent 80 km of a 150 km day climbing. This was the most beautiful and intimate day with the mountains so the reward out weighs the struggle. I am still not quite sure what a glacier is but I saw them all day. By 2 o'clock I made it to the peak of Roger's Pass (That is 3 hours behind Soo time as I am now in Pacific Standard Time as of today). Everyone at the Roger's Pass vistor centre was very encouraging when I spoke with them and they were very excited to tell me that it was pretty much all down hill to Vancouver, aka all uphill on the way back. In Revelstoke I called Chad, my couchsurfing host here. He told me that he would not be in until way late but to make myself at home. I cooked bean burritos, potatoes and corn and watched Back To The Future. I am hoping to get to Kelowna tomorrow which is almost 200 km but if I can't make it I have other cities along the way that I can stop in. NO FLATS TODAY although my back tire is starting to make a noise. It sounds like me spending more money that I don't have.
153 km
Today was suppose to be my mother's birthday and I find it suiting that it should be the same day that I wake in British Columbia for the first time, or that it is one month from when I left home or that today I meet with Roger's Pass, the hill that I have feared since I started. I dedicated today's ride to her even though she would have never wanted me to go she would have been the first person to say how proud she was of me. It didn't take long for the climbing to start. Even before Roger's Pass I had to climb Donald hill. I spent 80 km of a 150 km day climbing. This was the most beautiful and intimate day with the mountains so the reward out weighs the struggle. I am still not quite sure what a glacier is but I saw them all day. By 2 o'clock I made it to the peak of Roger's Pass (That is 3 hours behind Soo time as I am now in Pacific Standard Time as of today). Everyone at the Roger's Pass vistor centre was very encouraging when I spoke with them and they were very excited to tell me that it was pretty much all down hill to Vancouver, aka all uphill on the way back. In Revelstoke I called Chad, my couchsurfing host here. He told me that he would not be in until way late but to make myself at home. I cooked bean burritos, potatoes and corn and watched Back To The Future. I am hoping to get to Kelowna tomorrow which is almost 200 km but if I can't make it I have other cities along the way that I can stop in. NO FLATS TODAY although my back tire is starting to make a noise. It sounds like me spending more money that I don't have.
Day 31 - Canmore, AB to Golden BC
June 16, 2010
170 km
It was a usually crappy morning with my daily flat tire so I had to find a bike shop before leaving. Apprently the problem was that my tires were so worn that everything was eaily breaking through and stabbing my tubes. So I spent $125 on new thicker tires. It was terribly cold outside, felt like winter but none of this can bother me because I can see the Rockies. Also sweet existentialism provided me with my first elk sighting on the way back into town as well as two black bunnies. The ride was enjoyable and pretty flat to Lake Louise. Once I got there I called my couchsurfing host and he did not answer his phone so I can called a host in Golden and he was able to take me in early so I moved on. This is where the mountains came in. It was called Kicking Horse Canyon and it was so long that it was nicknamed 10 mile hill. Fortunatly 75 percent of the time I was going down hill but that just means I have to do the opposite when I turn around. I nearly had a heart attack earlier in the day when I was slowly climbing a small hill and saw a black bear with two of the smallest, cutest cubs ever. I almost hurt myself trying to get away, I even got my bear spray ready just in case but they could care less and just walked away. Not even one minute later as my heart started to slow down I look out of the corner of my eye to see the biggest moose I have ever seen running at me so I let out the loudest scream and he just did a quick 180 degree turn and ran away. Once I got to Golden I started to hear a noise and found out I lost two bolts to my rear rack. Somehow they fell off but luckily for me there was still a bike shop that was open. John, my couching surfing host, had prepared a delicious meal for when I finally got there, it was very thoughful and it felt so good to have a home cooked meal. I felt a bit bad eating as much as I did but he didn't seem to mind and I was so hungry. I am so excited to say I am in British Columbia!
170 km
It was a usually crappy morning with my daily flat tire so I had to find a bike shop before leaving. Apprently the problem was that my tires were so worn that everything was eaily breaking through and stabbing my tubes. So I spent $125 on new thicker tires. It was terribly cold outside, felt like winter but none of this can bother me because I can see the Rockies. Also sweet existentialism provided me with my first elk sighting on the way back into town as well as two black bunnies. The ride was enjoyable and pretty flat to Lake Louise. Once I got there I called my couchsurfing host and he did not answer his phone so I can called a host in Golden and he was able to take me in early so I moved on. This is where the mountains came in. It was called Kicking Horse Canyon and it was so long that it was nicknamed 10 mile hill. Fortunatly 75 percent of the time I was going down hill but that just means I have to do the opposite when I turn around. I nearly had a heart attack earlier in the day when I was slowly climbing a small hill and saw a black bear with two of the smallest, cutest cubs ever. I almost hurt myself trying to get away, I even got my bear spray ready just in case but they could care less and just walked away. Not even one minute later as my heart started to slow down I look out of the corner of my eye to see the biggest moose I have ever seen running at me so I let out the loudest scream and he just did a quick 180 degree turn and ran away. Once I got to Golden I started to hear a noise and found out I lost two bolts to my rear rack. Somehow they fell off but luckily for me there was still a bike shop that was open. John, my couching surfing host, had prepared a delicious meal for when I finally got there, it was very thoughful and it felt so good to have a home cooked meal. I felt a bit bad eating as much as I did but he didn't seem to mind and I was so hungry. I am so excited to say I am in British Columbia!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Day 30 - Calgary, AB to Canmore, AB
June 15, 2010
116 km
So I fixed my flat, ate breakfast and discovered that my tire was flat again. I feel like I am going to explode over this tire business. I keep checking the tires and there is nothing in them to cause a flat so I have no idea why it keeps happening. I had a bit of a difficult time trying to get out of the city but eventually figured it out. The hills started growing gradually, then the rock started showing up, next the forest was turned on and at last as I bomb a hill around a corner I see the amazing Rocky Mountains! This may have been the first time in my life that I gasped at something beautiful. As I got deeper into the mountains it just kept getting better. They were even more amazing than I expected and it was weird to see snow in the summer (although it hasn't felt like summer). I stayed with another friend from the Soo, Maggie, who lives in a place with the best mountain view ever. Even as I sit here I know they are out there looking great and it is so exciting. Almost in BC!
116 km
So I fixed my flat, ate breakfast and discovered that my tire was flat again. I feel like I am going to explode over this tire business. I keep checking the tires and there is nothing in them to cause a flat so I have no idea why it keeps happening. I had a bit of a difficult time trying to get out of the city but eventually figured it out. The hills started growing gradually, then the rock started showing up, next the forest was turned on and at last as I bomb a hill around a corner I see the amazing Rocky Mountains! This may have been the first time in my life that I gasped at something beautiful. As I got deeper into the mountains it just kept getting better. They were even more amazing than I expected and it was weird to see snow in the summer (although it hasn't felt like summer). I stayed with another friend from the Soo, Maggie, who lives in a place with the best mountain view ever. Even as I sit here I know they are out there looking great and it is so exciting. Almost in BC!
Day 29 - Calgary, AB
June 14, 2010
I spent way too much money in Calgary but it was fun. I wouldn't want to live there but it was nice to see. I checked out the sites downtown, got to see the Saddledome but it was mostly restaurants and clothing stores everywhere. I ate at a place called Tubby Dog and ordered a veggie dog smoothered in peanut butter, jam and captain crunch. It sounds gross and that is why I ordered it but it was actually suprisingly tasty. After eating I donated blood at the local blood services building which may end up killing me as I go into the Rockies. The nurse was so concerned for me that se gave me $20 to buy some iron rich foods, which I did. I got some new tubes as everyday I seem to need one and of course today was no exception as I discovered my 5th flat tire in 5 days straight. I am really getting tired of this. For dinner I tried Pakistani food at a place aclled Mirchi, it was spicy and very different and I would defiently eat it again. It is probably one of the most different tasting foods and it is a nice change of pace. Later in the night everyone decided to go to the movies and see the A-Team. I didn't want to spend the money but I love going to the movies so I went anyways.
I spent way too much money in Calgary but it was fun. I wouldn't want to live there but it was nice to see. I checked out the sites downtown, got to see the Saddledome but it was mostly restaurants and clothing stores everywhere. I ate at a place called Tubby Dog and ordered a veggie dog smoothered in peanut butter, jam and captain crunch. It sounds gross and that is why I ordered it but it was actually suprisingly tasty. After eating I donated blood at the local blood services building which may end up killing me as I go into the Rockies. The nurse was so concerned for me that se gave me $20 to buy some iron rich foods, which I did. I got some new tubes as everyday I seem to need one and of course today was no exception as I discovered my 5th flat tire in 5 days straight. I am really getting tired of this. For dinner I tried Pakistani food at a place aclled Mirchi, it was spicy and very different and I would defiently eat it again. It is probably one of the most different tasting foods and it is a nice change of pace. Later in the night everyone decided to go to the movies and see the A-Team. I didn't want to spend the money but I love going to the movies so I went anyways.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Day 28 - Brooks, AB to Calgary, AB
June 13, 2010
207 km
I am clearly getting stronger as 207 km is my longest day yet and I don't feel nearly as exhausted as I have in the past. It did help that the sun was shinning again and I got another tail wind. When I left Brooks I finally got a whiff of that meat packing plant and it was pretty awful. Gas stations were few but I stopped and bought something every time I seen one knowing that I would need all the energy and fuel I could get. I stopped for some Taco Time in Strathmore and then proceeded on the home stretch. I got my first glimpse of the Rocky Mountains from about 100 km out and came across the Calgary skyline at 50 km. I didn't get to see much as my only goal was to get to Jamie Penno's apartment, which was where I was staying.
207 km
I am clearly getting stronger as 207 km is my longest day yet and I don't feel nearly as exhausted as I have in the past. It did help that the sun was shinning again and I got another tail wind. When I left Brooks I finally got a whiff of that meat packing plant and it was pretty awful. Gas stations were few but I stopped and bought something every time I seen one knowing that I would need all the energy and fuel I could get. I stopped for some Taco Time in Strathmore and then proceeded on the home stretch. I got my first glimpse of the Rocky Mountains from about 100 km out and came across the Calgary skyline at 50 km. I didn't get to see much as my only goal was to get to Jamie Penno's apartment, which was where I was staying.
Day 27 - Medicine Hat, AB to Brooks, AB
June 12, 2010
118 km
Finally after several weeks of rain and wind I got a break and it felt nice. The sun was warm and the wind was on my back. I tried out listening to a movie on my iPod while biking and it worked well as a good distraction. There wasn't many small towns on this stretch so I didn't stop often. The only thing I saw was bulls, mule deer, and some alpacas. Everyone said Brooks smells because of the meat packing plant but I never smelled anything. Being as Alberta thinks they are Texas I suspect more Taco Time and Brooks was no exception to that. Genny set me up with a bed at her cousin Sharon's place which was pretty sweet. I also took some time to re-route my return trip to make it more enjoyable among other things.
118 km
Finally after several weeks of rain and wind I got a break and it felt nice. The sun was warm and the wind was on my back. I tried out listening to a movie on my iPod while biking and it worked well as a good distraction. There wasn't many small towns on this stretch so I didn't stop often. The only thing I saw was bulls, mule deer, and some alpacas. Everyone said Brooks smells because of the meat packing plant but I never smelled anything. Being as Alberta thinks they are Texas I suspect more Taco Time and Brooks was no exception to that. Genny set me up with a bed at her cousin Sharon's place which was pretty sweet. I also took some time to re-route my return trip to make it more enjoyable among other things.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Day 26 - Swift Current, SK to Medicine Hat, AB
June 11, 1010
55 km
The first thing I heard when I woke up was the rain so I was already not feeling it. The rain stopped briefly enough to allow me to pack everything up. I then snuck out of the campground without paying and headed for the nearest gas station to change my flat. Once I got on the road it started to pour and it was freezing and I was even half expecting it to start snowing. I could not feel my fingers and toes after an hour. The closest town was called Gull Lake and it was 60 km away so I decided to just pedal and not stop till I got there. After 55 km I looked and saw another flat at which I responded with the loudest scream I have ever let out. I started to walk knowing I wasn't far from Gull Lake when a man pulled over and gave me a lift. I knew something was wrong because it was the third flat on my front tire in three days so I figured I would have to get to Medicine Hat to get a new tire. After a warm lunch and several hot cups of coffee I began to ask for rides. I met a man named Rory, who worked for an oil company, and was was traveling my way had agreed to give me a ride. He was very nice and had lots to say about everything. It felt very cheap crossing a provincial line in a truck but what choice did I have. It turned out that there was a giant piece of metal lodged in the tire it self that I missed somehow and it had to be pried out with a pair of pliers. I called my host of the day from couchsurfing.com, Derek and Katie, who came and picked me up. Even though this was a short stay we had some good fun. We ate at a fantastic Pan-Asian restaurant, made our own tortillas for burritos and watched Enemy at The Gates. I even had a Falafel Pita in salute to Genny back home.
55 km
The first thing I heard when I woke up was the rain so I was already not feeling it. The rain stopped briefly enough to allow me to pack everything up. I then snuck out of the campground without paying and headed for the nearest gas station to change my flat. Once I got on the road it started to pour and it was freezing and I was even half expecting it to start snowing. I could not feel my fingers and toes after an hour. The closest town was called Gull Lake and it was 60 km away so I decided to just pedal and not stop till I got there. After 55 km I looked and saw another flat at which I responded with the loudest scream I have ever let out. I started to walk knowing I wasn't far from Gull Lake when a man pulled over and gave me a lift. I knew something was wrong because it was the third flat on my front tire in three days so I figured I would have to get to Medicine Hat to get a new tire. After a warm lunch and several hot cups of coffee I began to ask for rides. I met a man named Rory, who worked for an oil company, and was was traveling my way had agreed to give me a ride. He was very nice and had lots to say about everything. It felt very cheap crossing a provincial line in a truck but what choice did I have. It turned out that there was a giant piece of metal lodged in the tire it self that I missed somehow and it had to be pried out with a pair of pliers. I called my host of the day from couchsurfing.com, Derek and Katie, who came and picked me up. Even though this was a short stay we had some good fun. We ate at a fantastic Pan-Asian restaurant, made our own tortillas for burritos and watched Enemy at The Gates. I even had a Falafel Pita in salute to Genny back home.
Day 25 - Moose Jaw, SK to Swift Current, SK
June 10, 2010
175 km
I had so much fun in Moose Jaw, it sucked to have to go back to the bike. I got about a 5 minute tail wind before it turned back into the crippling head wind. I met another cyclist who was riding the same bike as me so that was kinda neat. When I got to Chaplin, which was where I was suppose to stop, I decided to go on. I passed a salt mine which was cool because it made the landscape look like it was covered in snow. 25 km from Swift Current I got a flat. The sun was going down and the mosquitoes were out in full force so I had to work quickly. When I did get to Swift Current I got a second flat which I will deal with in the morning. No one was in the office at the campground so I didn't pay. Hopefully I can slip out undetected in the morning.
175 km
I had so much fun in Moose Jaw, it sucked to have to go back to the bike. I got about a 5 minute tail wind before it turned back into the crippling head wind. I met another cyclist who was riding the same bike as me so that was kinda neat. When I got to Chaplin, which was where I was suppose to stop, I decided to go on. I passed a salt mine which was cool because it made the landscape look like it was covered in snow. 25 km from Swift Current I got a flat. The sun was going down and the mosquitoes were out in full force so I had to work quickly. When I did get to Swift Current I got a second flat which I will deal with in the morning. No one was in the office at the campground so I didn't pay. Hopefully I can slip out undetected in the morning.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Day 24 - Moose Jaw, SK
June 9, 2010
I woke up right with a huge bowl of cereal then we were off on a packed day of sight seeing. We started with some Tim Hortons and Mac the Moose, the Moose Jaw mascot. Then came the best part, we drove down the highway to a small town called Roleau, the home of Corner Gas. I got pictures with the Dog River grain elevator, downtown, Ruby's, the gas station itself and even Emma and Oscar's house. Peter even got me a Corner Gas key chain to remember it by. Next on the agenda was historic village which was kinda a snooze except for this messed up boat. Last was the Moose Jaw tunnels where Al Capone used to smuggle alcohol during prohibition into the states. The tunnels had live actors that took you through each section and interacted with wou. The end of the day was just a huge feast of Boston Pizza, homemade Vegan pudding, chips, chocolate waffer cookies and beer as we watched Roseanne and then Walk The Line. I had some a great time Peter in Moose Jaw and he was so generous and nice, I hope I run into him again at some point in my life. The forecast is calling for more rain for the next two days and then I should be home free for the rest of Alberta.
I woke up right with a huge bowl of cereal then we were off on a packed day of sight seeing. We started with some Tim Hortons and Mac the Moose, the Moose Jaw mascot. Then came the best part, we drove down the highway to a small town called Roleau, the home of Corner Gas. I got pictures with the Dog River grain elevator, downtown, Ruby's, the gas station itself and even Emma and Oscar's house. Peter even got me a Corner Gas key chain to remember it by. Next on the agenda was historic village which was kinda a snooze except for this messed up boat. Last was the Moose Jaw tunnels where Al Capone used to smuggle alcohol during prohibition into the states. The tunnels had live actors that took you through each section and interacted with wou. The end of the day was just a huge feast of Boston Pizza, homemade Vegan pudding, chips, chocolate waffer cookies and beer as we watched Roseanne and then Walk The Line. I had some a great time Peter in Moose Jaw and he was so generous and nice, I hope I run into him again at some point in my life. The forecast is calling for more rain for the next two days and then I should be home free for the rest of Alberta.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Day 23 - Regina, SK to Moose Jaw, SK
June 8, 2010
75 km
As per what I expect from the prairies it was raining and it was really windy but it was a short 65 km to Moose Jaw. After all the long days I have put in 65 km seems like a lesiure ride. I got my third falt riding around in downtown Moose Jay today. I have been pretty lucky that all my flats have been in town and not on the side of the road. I had lunch buffet at a crappy Chinese Restuarnant called Jade Garden. After lunch I met up with my fourth host from couchsurfing.com. His name is Peter and he is really nice but he insists that I call him a freak on my blog so I will. He has been really awesome and accomadating. We got some snacks, some beer, went for a swim in a mineral water pool at a fancy spa, ate dinner at Bonaza and watched Fargo. Since I am a day ahead of myself still I decided to hang out in Moose Jaw for another night. I am hoping I can wait out the bad weather and get an awesome ride from here to Calgary.
75 km
As per what I expect from the prairies it was raining and it was really windy but it was a short 65 km to Moose Jaw. After all the long days I have put in 65 km seems like a lesiure ride. I got my third falt riding around in downtown Moose Jay today. I have been pretty lucky that all my flats have been in town and not on the side of the road. I had lunch buffet at a crappy Chinese Restuarnant called Jade Garden. After lunch I met up with my fourth host from couchsurfing.com. His name is Peter and he is really nice but he insists that I call him a freak on my blog so I will. He has been really awesome and accomadating. We got some snacks, some beer, went for a swim in a mineral water pool at a fancy spa, ate dinner at Bonaza and watched Fargo. Since I am a day ahead of myself still I decided to hang out in Moose Jaw for another night. I am hoping I can wait out the bad weather and get an awesome ride from here to Calgary.
Day 22 - Regina, SK
June 7, 2010
I woke up fairly early this morning but not as early as everyone else as Maggie was going out the door by the this time. I went and got groceries including my favourite rest day treat; cereal. Then I spent the afternoon biking around town. I ate at Taco Time and Booster Juice for lunch, saw the Royal Saskatchewan Musuem and the Mackenzie Art Gallery. The best part of the day was going back to the RCMP base and watching the Sargent Major's Parade, it was really neat to see what Jay had to do when he was training. Since it was raining and I didn't want to tent it again, I tried calling Jack again and this time I got through. He was out of town by set me up with a bed at a guy named Jeremy's house. He was a pretty interesting guy and we went out for dinner to the Classic Buffet and I ate until it literally hurt. Lastly I got in some sweet sweet TV time befoire going to bed.
I woke up fairly early this morning but not as early as everyone else as Maggie was going out the door by the this time. I went and got groceries including my favourite rest day treat; cereal. Then I spent the afternoon biking around town. I ate at Taco Time and Booster Juice for lunch, saw the Royal Saskatchewan Musuem and the Mackenzie Art Gallery. The best part of the day was going back to the RCMP base and watching the Sargent Major's Parade, it was really neat to see what Jay had to do when he was training. Since it was raining and I didn't want to tent it again, I tried calling Jack again and this time I got through. He was out of town by set me up with a bed at a guy named Jeremy's house. He was a pretty interesting guy and we went out for dinner to the Classic Buffet and I ate until it literally hurt. Lastly I got in some sweet sweet TV time befoire going to bed.
Day 21 - Indian Head, SK to Regina, SK
June 6, 2010
89 km
I actually really enjoyed Indian Head and it was really nice in the morning. I knew I wasn't far away so I took my time all day. When I finally got to Regina I was so excited to go look around but first I stopped for some Extreme Pita and then made some calls to people from Couchsurfing.com. I orginally planned on staying with a guy named Jack but I couldn't get a hold of him so I called Maggie. Because I was a day early again Maggie was out of town but said I could set up my tent in her backyard until she got home. On the way to her house I saw alot of nice parks, The University of Regina (which made me eager to do some learning in the fall), and the Mosaic Stadium which is where the Saskatchewan Roughriders play. After getting changed I took a walk to the RCMP Heritage Centre which was really fun but way to far of a walk and then I ate some dinner at an amazing Viet-Thai restaurant in the Cathedral Village part of Regina.
89 km
I actually really enjoyed Indian Head and it was really nice in the morning. I knew I wasn't far away so I took my time all day. When I finally got to Regina I was so excited to go look around but first I stopped for some Extreme Pita and then made some calls to people from Couchsurfing.com. I orginally planned on staying with a guy named Jack but I couldn't get a hold of him so I called Maggie. Because I was a day early again Maggie was out of town but said I could set up my tent in her backyard until she got home. On the way to her house I saw alot of nice parks, The University of Regina (which made me eager to do some learning in the fall), and the Mosaic Stadium which is where the Saskatchewan Roughriders play. After getting changed I took a walk to the RCMP Heritage Centre which was really fun but way to far of a walk and then I ate some dinner at an amazing Viet-Thai restaurant in the Cathedral Village part of Regina.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Day 20 - Moosomin, SK to Indian Head, SK
June 5, 2010
174 km
Todays bike ride felt great. I turned off my odomter and didn't worry about my distance and just rode. Every 25 km or so there was a small town so I got lots fo good resting places. Rain and hail came and went quickly but I made it to Wolseley no problem. I got some groceries and a great deal on a campsite but a huge hail storm moved in and chased me out of town to Indian Head, the home of the show "Little Mosque On The Prairie". I searched everywhere for a free place to stay but gave up and paid $25 for KOA. Regina Tomorrow!
174 km
Todays bike ride felt great. I turned off my odomter and didn't worry about my distance and just rode. Every 25 km or so there was a small town so I got lots fo good resting places. Rain and hail came and went quickly but I made it to Wolseley no problem. I got some groceries and a great deal on a campsite but a huge hail storm moved in and chased me out of town to Indian Head, the home of the show "Little Mosque On The Prairie". I searched everywhere for a free place to stay but gave up and paid $25 for KOA. Regina Tomorrow!
Day 19 - Brandon, MB to Moosomin, SK
June 4, 2010
140 km
The rain had stopped by the time I woke up but since I was in a low valley the fog was so bad I couldn't see 5 feet in front of me. It was windy right out of the gates which was a bad sign. I got my second flat today, 7 km outside Virdin, MB, I pumped it, biked 5 km and walked the last 2. In Virdin I bought groceries, ate lunch, and fixed my flat but I wasn't sure if I should stay or move on as it was only noon. I called my dad and Genny and they helped me during my frustration with the terrible wind. If it wasn't for them I would have stopped so thanks for saying all the right things guys, todays ride goes out to you. I finally made it to Saskatchewan but it is just more of the same. Everytime I see a cute animal I think of Homer which isn't helping my already intense emotions. Birds, Prairie Dogs and Baby Cows all look like Homer. Once I got into Moosomin I asked for directions to the campground and a man that worked there offered me his backyard. It wasn't until after I setup that he said he was charging me $10 but it wasn't so bad cause I got to watch the hockey game. I am surprisingly relxed right now and I got some good couchsurfing coming up soon so I am excited to hang out with all those people. I am glad the sun is back if only the wind could go away too.
140 km
The rain had stopped by the time I woke up but since I was in a low valley the fog was so bad I couldn't see 5 feet in front of me. It was windy right out of the gates which was a bad sign. I got my second flat today, 7 km outside Virdin, MB, I pumped it, biked 5 km and walked the last 2. In Virdin I bought groceries, ate lunch, and fixed my flat but I wasn't sure if I should stay or move on as it was only noon. I called my dad and Genny and they helped me during my frustration with the terrible wind. If it wasn't for them I would have stopped so thanks for saying all the right things guys, todays ride goes out to you. I finally made it to Saskatchewan but it is just more of the same. Everytime I see a cute animal I think of Homer which isn't helping my already intense emotions. Birds, Prairie Dogs and Baby Cows all look like Homer. Once I got into Moosomin I asked for directions to the campground and a man that worked there offered me his backyard. It wasn't until after I setup that he said he was charging me $10 but it wasn't so bad cause I got to watch the hockey game. I am surprisingly relxed right now and I got some good couchsurfing coming up soon so I am excited to hang out with all those people. I am glad the sun is back if only the wind could go away too.
Day 18 - Portage La Prairie, MB to Brandon, MB
June 3, 2010
145 km
The day started great, I was up early, the sun was shining and it was cool. Then it all came crashing down, almost literally. About 75 km into my ride a hit run with a small car and a school bus happened right beside me and I had to stay as a witness. The people were not hurt but the bus didn't stop or even slow down. The RCMP arrived quickly and got my statement right away so that I could be on my way. Then the rain started and I was cold and wet and had no where to sleep. I talked to campgrounds, locals and motels all over Brandon but it was all too much. So I left town and found a sketchy provinical park called Grand Valley and setup in the puring rain.
145 km
The day started great, I was up early, the sun was shining and it was cool. Then it all came crashing down, almost literally. About 75 km into my ride a hit run with a small car and a school bus happened right beside me and I had to stay as a witness. The people were not hurt but the bus didn't stop or even slow down. The RCMP arrived quickly and got my statement right away so that I could be on my way. Then the rain started and I was cold and wet and had no where to sleep. I talked to campgrounds, locals and motels all over Brandon but it was all too much. So I left town and found a sketchy provinical park called Grand Valley and setup in the puring rain.
Day 17 - Winnipeg, MB to Portage La Prairie, MB
June 2, 2010
125 km
Once again it was very hard to leave the safety of friends. Jay and Joce treated me like a king and I love them. It took me 50 km just to get out of Winnipeg but from there it was smooth sailing. I played with a stray cat during my lunch and he reminded me of Homer which made me sad. I also saw a new animal today, a prairie dog, or what I assume is a prairie dog. Once I arrived in Portage La Prairie I began looking for a place to stay and I ran in to two girls cycling for Heart and Stroke and 4 guys riding a tandem bike. They scored us all free camping and I got a delcious meal cooked for me. Who knew onions and fruit was so good together. The biggest surprise was the money that was hidden in my bag by Jay and Joce despite me asking them to stop being so awesome to me. Thanks guys.
125 km
Once again it was very hard to leave the safety of friends. Jay and Joce treated me like a king and I love them. It took me 50 km just to get out of Winnipeg but from there it was smooth sailing. I played with a stray cat during my lunch and he reminded me of Homer which made me sad. I also saw a new animal today, a prairie dog, or what I assume is a prairie dog. Once I arrived in Portage La Prairie I began looking for a place to stay and I ran in to two girls cycling for Heart and Stroke and 4 guys riding a tandem bike. They scored us all free camping and I got a delcious meal cooked for me. Who knew onions and fruit was so good together. The biggest surprise was the money that was hidden in my bag by Jay and Joce despite me asking them to stop being so awesome to me. Thanks guys.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Day 16 - Winnipeg, MB
June 1, 2010
I was sad that this was my last day in Winnipeg but we made it count. We ventured around Selkirk and did some grocery shopping before eating lunch at Mongo's Grill. I ate too much and my stomach hurt for awhile. Next we went searching for a new bike helmet and I even managed to find the same one I had in another colour. Jay and Joce insisted on buying it for me as well as a new canadian maple leaf jersey. We continued on a tour of Winnipeg before seeing Iron Man 2 and retiring for the night to some burgers and How I Met Your Mother. I loved my time in Winnipeg but on to Stage 3.
I was sad that this was my last day in Winnipeg but we made it count. We ventured around Selkirk and did some grocery shopping before eating lunch at Mongo's Grill. I ate too much and my stomach hurt for awhile. Next we went searching for a new bike helmet and I even managed to find the same one I had in another colour. Jay and Joce insisted on buying it for me as well as a new canadian maple leaf jersey. We continued on a tour of Winnipeg before seeing Iron Man 2 and retiring for the night to some burgers and How I Met Your Mother. I loved my time in Winnipeg but on to Stage 3.
Day 15 - Winnipeg, MB
May 31, 2010
Finally got to have some cereal this morning, the greatest luxury of the day off. Had some more Taco Time and basically just ventured around Winnipeg all day. Had some BBQ burgers for dinner and picked up Joce at the airport. More cereal and How I Met Your Mother before sleep.
Finally got to have some cereal this morning, the greatest luxury of the day off. Had some more Taco Time and basically just ventured around Winnipeg all day. Had some BBQ burgers for dinner and picked up Joce at the airport. More cereal and How I Met Your Mother before sleep.
Day 14 - Winnipeg, MB
May 30, 2010
Jay woke up late because he worked late so I spent the morning watching TV. In the afternoon we took a drive into the city, checked out the malls and had some Taco Time with desert of Soy Iced Coffee. On the way back we stopped at a park and watched pelicans catch catfish. I was pumped, I had never seen a pelican before. We had a veggie stir fry for dinner then took a late night drive through Selkirk and on an epic journey to find soy milk at 2:00 in the morning. The night ended with beer, salsa and 3 episodes of How I Met Your Mother.
Jay woke up late because he worked late so I spent the morning watching TV. In the afternoon we took a drive into the city, checked out the malls and had some Taco Time with desert of Soy Iced Coffee. On the way back we stopped at a park and watched pelicans catch catfish. I was pumped, I had never seen a pelican before. We had a veggie stir fry for dinner then took a late night drive through Selkirk and on an epic journey to find soy milk at 2:00 in the morning. The night ended with beer, salsa and 3 episodes of How I Met Your Mother.
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