Today I experienced some of the strongest winds I've ever encountered while on a bicycle... they were ruthless. Constantly in my face I trudged along at a meager 15km/h (willing them to change direction - but no such luck). I will never post the my speed in this blog again as I think that I may have cursed myself into a bit of bad luck.
Also, after about 25km the front left pannier of my bicycle broke off. Let's just say I was none to pleased. Had a wee moment of frustration at the side of the road (although I was thankful that it happened on a wide paved stretch of highway - small blessings). I looked at the situation and realized that the bolt attaching the pannier to the bicycle had snapped (not a good thing, and it wasn't even overloaded). I realized that I had three options: 1) sit and cry (least productive and likely I would've become dehydrated as the wind and sun would make moisture disappear before leaving my tear ducts. 2) carry the pannier in my left-hand while cycling (awkward and heavy to do especially in the wind, so not a viable option). 3) use DUCT tape... Ron my friend from Calgary had given me duct tape before I left and well... once I fixed the pannier with it I sent him a "Thank you" text, as without it who knows how much I would've struggled. The adventure then continued.
Anyway, arrived at Kathy and Evanna's by 6:30pm - ate a wonderful meal with them and they truly made me feel comfortable in their home. Decided that I will stay for two nights and then head further East and meet up with the Trans-Canada (after my detour).
Sun-kissed and wind burned - glad to be in another big city where I can have my bicycle looked at and made well.
Despite everything that happened yesterday, I'm in good spirits and ready for the next part of this journey... hopefully all will be good as I continue across more prairies. I am figuring 2 more nights in Saskatchewan and then into Manitoba, but then again things could change...
Distance traveled today: 114.95km
Total Distance traveled: 2034.38km
Sunny, windy day with some clouds.
MAc Gyver from Canada :-))
ReplyDeleteI like that you always goes with the appropriate mood facing the problems, that's the best way to move on :-)) Big Hug from the Swiss-Man !
only way to face life when looking down a highway is with a smile. I mean I love my job... but this adventure changes every day. thanks for the comment Yvon.
ReplyDeleteWhat a quote you just wrote re: 'the only way to face life....' So much for me to still learn from you. I admire your enthusiasm, determination and positive attitude always. Let's hope the wind switches to behind you for sure. Love as always, dad...Fantastic fox picture
ReplyDeleteWow!!! 15KM...that means I would have gone 5KM ;)
ReplyDeleteReading your blog makes me even more proud to have you as a friend...you are always so positive and see the good side of a not so great situation. I am glad that you had duct tape with you (thank you Ron!)
have a safe ride!
Suzanne... thanks for your support. Love your comments - heck love reading what people think of my blog etc... Anyway, last night in Saskatchewan... wow Canada is smaller than I thought...hehehe
ReplyDeleteDuct tape, I love it, so Canadian.
ReplyDeleteRide on bro,
JV