I have never been separated from Jutta for this long since I can't remember when, so having her back in my arms was absolutely the best. It has only been a month and a half, which sounds short when you say it, but if you have to live it, different story. So great to sleep in my own bed, and not have to leave the trailer and go outside for a pee in the middle of the night........it's the little things.
We arrived at Owen Sound Hospital this morning, and were thrilled to see a large contingent of friends there to ride us home to the Georgian Bay Club. All the usual suspects were there, and we knew we were in for a spirited ride home. After some press work and photos's, we were on the road, headed for Meaford Hospital, before completing the ride to GBC.
It was terrific that the crew from the hospital came out to wish us well, and send us off down the road. Their appreciation of what we are doing means a lot, and gives purpose to The Ride.
Although the skies were hugely threatening, somehow we dodged the rain and had a great trip down to Meaford on a route planned by Kathie, our crack navigator, and it was a good one. What a beautiful surprise to ride into the driveway of the hospital to a warm and hearty welcome from staff and patients, again reaffirming the purpose behind The Ride. It was then that on queue, the skies opened up while we were under cover of the front entry, so we ducked inside and were treated to some hot coffee and muffins by the hospital. Truly a treat to chat with patients and staff during our visit, sharing stories from the trip, and answering all questions we could. It is amazing just how many people are interested in the condition of my ass and have no problem asking me about it.........just fine thank you.
Only a short stint was left between us and the GBC, and the crew who had pulled for us all morning moved aside to let Sid and I ride in at the front of the pack. So many thanks to all of you who came out to welcome us home. It was great to see everyone again, and know we will have a chance to catch up over the next few days. Send me some pictures if you can.......hfallon@rogers.com.......and I will get them posted for all to see.
We still have a long way to go, but couldn't have made it this far, or another kilometre, without the generous support of our sponsors. There is also no way we could have come this far without our trusty ground crew and co-rider......John H, Steve, The Bill's, John W, thanks for everything.
Leaving you with some random pictures from the trip, some stats, and heartfelt thanks for your support. Will be in touch over the next few days with an R&R update.
LYJ
So we are better than half way there........here are some stats from my trusty Garmin 1000 that I picked up at Squire Johns before leaving:
42 rides - 4,350 km - 190,778 calories burned - time 204hrs 2minutes
I am not sure what all that means, and I have to go through my history stored on the device to make sure it is correct, but this is pretty close.
Billy D balancing at Blind River rapids
Our business card........pass it along
Not sure where this is, but thanks for the pick-up today C3
Moose repairs in the Soo......apparently a target of visiting hockey teams
Cool picture by Bill Stennson.....check the reflection
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