It seems the kinder people are the more difficult it is for me to leave a place. After zipping up to Saskatoon from Calgary and going distances I've never even thought possible for a day of cycling, let alone back to back rides... it was great to rest and relax with Joyce and Nikki in beautiful Saskatoon. Saskatoon is very similar to Hamilton... a university, the blue collar working town as many are employed in the mines. A beautiful waterfront (along the South Saskatchewan River: the one that is flooding the province further sourth, a jazz festival (not so sure if Hamilton has one anymore), and a bit of a skyline.
While I was in Saskatoon, I learned how to say "Saskatchewan," the way the locals say it - unfortunately I didn't do it that well... I also toured the city a bit on my bicycle and went to the Bike Doctor (bicycle shop) where the owner said I've been lucky especially considering the fact that I hadn't been carrying a spare tire (the entire duration of my trip to both NZ and for the past 1777.78km)... of course now I have an extra - so more weight to pedal...
Todays ride was picture perfect - winds were from behind and helped me average about 32km/h (well above my usual average of 25km/h). Of course I had a late start from Saskatoon as I really didn't want to leave, I think my body goes into slow motion when my brain starts to think about the journey ahead and leaving the comforts of a beautiful home. Thanks again to Joyce and Nikki for putting me up or rather putting up with me for the past 3 nights, the steak, the salmon and your hospitality (will never be beat). You were AWESOME and you truly made me feel more than welcome in your home. Can't wait to eat the granola and the muffins tonight and tomorrow (obviously they will be gone by the time I post this to the net).
The prairies continued to be long and straight (with a few curves along the way). I was lucky enough to photograph a young fox (as you can see in the pics with todays post).
Camping has brought on a completely different element. Setting up a tent, dealing with rain and how to dry things and also being proactive when it comes to mosquitos.
Highlights:
- sun, warmth and a refreshing rain upon arrival at the campsite
- seeing the fox
- realization that I'm in the 3rd province on my trip across 10 and that Manitoba will be quite quick as it is narrow - then I'll be home to Ontario.
- low points - saying goodbye to Joyce and Nikki - although it wasn't a tearful goodbye I was definitely quite emotional by the time I reached Preston Ave (where I had to stop and control my emotions)
- having to fix my front pannier... hopefully I've tightened it enough to ensure that I'll make it to Regina
Distance travelled: 141.65
Distance to date: 1919.43
So great to meet such wonderful folks along the way!
ReplyDeleteThanx for taking the time to blog Nathan, stay safe.
Nathan, I am so impressed and proud of you!!!
ReplyDeleteI enjoy reading your blog and looking at your pictures; I am seeing a part of my country that I haven't had the opportunity to see yet through your eyes!
Keep on cycling! and I am anxious to see you soon!!