<- Read the previous post: Yahoo for Yorkton!

Day 20 May 27 Monday

Yorkton to Binscarth

Sorry if everyone is totally confused, but we have had some route changes, as I’m sure anyone following “Spot” has noticed.  We are now taking the Yellowhead to Portage la Prairie, rather than Hwy 1. We are finding the truck traffic much quieter, as it is not twinned, at least not where we have been cycling. The shoulders are also pretty good. In my last blog I said our next rest day was in Thunder Bay, but it is actually in Winnipeg, so we don’t have to cover Manitoba without a stop. My whoops!! But first, we had to bid a fond farewell to our dearest Ethel.

We had rain today almost all day, and our “friend” the southeasterly headwind was back, although not as strong as it had been. Although we were drenched, it was not too cold out, so as long as we were moving we were warm. And it gave us all a chance to try out our rain gear, and I’m happy to report that our identical MEC shoe covers are keeping our feet dry, and we are all so fashionable and matchy-matchy! Terry is stunning in his neon “nuclear accident” decontamination suit, Bill in his “Bob the Builder” construction vest with way too much Velcro, and I in my rain bonnet that makes me look like a giant insect. We make quite the statement out on the highway.

We took the same route that we had on Saturday, but we headed east instead of west. Let me tell you, it looks a lot different going the other way when it is raining and your glasses are fogging up. This time, we passed over the border into Manitoba – yay, another province under our belts!

We made it to Manitoba!

We didn’t do our Saskatchewan decal application until later in the evening, or else they would have slid down off our helmets, down our backs and into our cycling shorts, never to be seen again.

We want to thank a few people we met today. First, all the road workers, for giving us new shoulders to ride on. They make all the difference in the world – smooth sailing and much safer. And we all know there are just two seasons in Canada, right? Winter and road construction. Then there was Ken Wiens, of the Old West Lodge just outside of Langenburg, who let us park under the porch to keep our bikes from getting completely waterlogged. And Rita at the Binscarth Centennial Park Campground, for getting us out of the rain and providing us with a gratis RV spot. Both Ken and Rita gave us donations too – generous people who understand the importance of talking about mental health.

Crossing the border means putting our clocks ahead, so we are going to bed early tonight in order to adjust to an earlier morning tomorrow.  And prepare for more of the wet stuff.

See more photos from day 20

Day 21 May 28 Tuesday

Binscarth to Minnedosa

Today was another rainy, wet day. We got a late start this morning, for a few reasons. The time change meant we moved our clocks ahead, but more significantly, we woke up to the pitter-patter-splatter of rain drops on the RV. I think we all just snuggled down into our beds when we heard that, hoping it would lighten up, which it did – a little bit.

Bill had a tube issue I have never seen before – his valve stem broke off half way up. Remarkably, it didn’t leak all day yesterday, but he decided not to tempt fate and changed it this morning before starting. Over breakfast, we all discussed how he could best flatten his tire to get the tube out – that’s not a conversation many cyclists have.

Today was damp, damp, damp. There is a real trick to dressing for rain – you need to layer enough to stay warm and dry(ish), but not so much that you sweat to death going up a hill. In Terry’s words, we all looked like dorks today, but we were happy as we pedaled along. The only not so great thing was that  for about 60 kms or so today, we had absolutely no shoulder, unless you count soft gravel as a shoulder. This made for some tense cycling when big rigs passed, as there was limited visibility with the spray from vehicles, but as usual the truckers mostly gave us lots of room, and many of them slowed down as they passed. I have to say I’m surprised at the quality of the roads since we got into Manitoba, but hopefully that will improve as we get closer to some larger centres.

Because of the bad shoulders, we did leap-frog a bit today, and because we finished up earlier than we might have otherwise, Bill did an extra 20 kms past Minnedosa. I think Bill is part human, part rubber ducky, as he was just loving the drizzle and rain today, since there was little wind involved. While he was doing that, Sarah from the Minnedosa Tribune came to interview us, as she heard we were coming through and was following us on Spot. We got groceries, went to the bakery (yummy!!), and then headed to the Minnedosa Campground, which is right on Lake Minnedosa. Lovely area, lots of nice lakefront  “cabins” on the other side. The sun even broke through the clouds for a while in the evening, to tease us.

There is a big soccer field by our campground, and Bill went out to talk to the coaches of two girls teams that were practicing in the evening. We were treated to a great game between the U18 Minnedosa Girls (coach Brad Ross) and the Hamiota Heat (coach Tom Mollard).

We’ve certainly had some daunting days, but I’d like to quote Burt Bacharach……

Raindrops keep falling on my head
But that doesn’t mean my eyes will soon be turnin’ red
Crying’s not for me
Cause I’m never gonna stop the rain by complainin’
Because I’m free
Nothing’s worrying me.

Hopefully tomorrow will be a turning point, but if not, we’ll just keep swimming. That is what faith is – knowing that there will be sunnier days, and just hanging in until that happens.

See more photos from day 21

Cheers!

Sue

Read the next update: On the cusp of Ontario and June ->

<- Read the previous update: When Life Gives you Lemons…..

Day 18: May 25 Saturday

Today, we did a revised ride, to make up some kilometers, after heading to Yorkton a day early. We all got a chance to ride another great western Canadian highway, the Yellowhead. We drove out east to almost the Manitoba border (within about 50 metres – no cheating by crossing over before we properly completed Saskatchewan).

Not quite Manitoba

The weather was looking tentative to start, it was totally overcast and the clouds were kind of gray. But we ended up having an absolutely fantastic ride, I am thrilled to report.  We had a mild tailwind, and there was  absolutely no rain, just a little mist. This was the prairies I had remembered. Long, straight highway, no hills to speak of, peaceful and quiet. In between the rail tracks and the highway, which run parallel to each other, were lots of reeds, ponds and marshland. The birds were incredible, chirping and chattering, swooping  and gliding. Traffic was really light, so we could hear them serenade us all morning.

Terry

Bill

I think everyone should find time alone out in nature, where you can get fresh air and clear your mind. No to do lists, no meetings, no  pressing  issues – just spin, spin, spin. And on a day like this, your legs really go on autopilot. For me, it was actually a melancholy day, but in the sweetest, simplest way. I am finding this is one of the great gifts of this ride – to just be.

We’ve passed through many small towns, there is one about every 10 miles, settled during the time the railway was being built. Each has their own personality and claim to fame. Churchbridge, for instance, is home of Ruth, who created the winning design for the Canada 125th year loonie. In Langenburg, they were setting up for a hotdog fundraiser and swimming registration.  We made a deal that we would donate $10,000 to them, if they donated it to us right back. No one had a cheque, so Al ended up buying a “future” hotdog (they weren’t ready yet). We also visited a serene little cemetery just outside Insinger, with gravestones going back to 1907. It was sad how many were for children, it reminds me how far we really have come with healthcare – thanks Tommy Douglas.

We managed to do over 130 kms, and were still done by 4:00ish for the drive back to Yorkton, feeling pretty refreshed. Amazing the time you can make when the elements are on your side.

Staying at Ethel’s has been pretty special for me. All my grandparents had either passed away, or lived outside the country when I was born, so I never really had the grandma experience. I’m pretty certain I’m getting it now. I’m sleeping in the childhood room of Vicki, Terry’s wife, and imagining what it was like being a teen in Yorkton then. And Ethel is amazing. She is 91 (and a half – don’t forget the half!), still lives at home on her own, and is sharp as a tack. She is sending us on our way with homemade jams, and she made a delicious dinner tonight of ham and scalloped potatoes, and homemade banana cream pie. Another great home-cooked meal!  Did I mention we also had bacon and eggs for breakfast? We are really getting the royal treatment!

I also want to acknowledge the generous offer we received from the White Bear First Nations. They invited us to stay at the Bear Claw Hotel and Casino on our day off for rest and recuperation. Since we were already staying in Yorkton, we had to decline, but we really appreciated their kindness. Thank you Brennan!

We’re all looking forward to tomorrow’s rest day – we won’t have another one until Thunderbay, so we need to stock up on energy for all of Manitoba!

See more photos from support driver Al

Day 19: May 26 Sunday

We had a lovely, sleepy day off. Lots of laundry, and each of the cyclists went for a massage again, which was delightful. The spa we went to is normally closed on Sunday’s, but when the massage therapist heard what the cause was for (her great uncle recently died of suicide), she gave up her day off to take care of us. Thanks C!

Eating….Again!

While I was sleeping in, Al and Terry cleaned the motorhome from top to bottom! What a treat to have a clean start tomorrow. Terry is making a stew tonight, so we have some more ready-made meals on our long days. You get to know people a lot better once you live with them in a 31 foot RV, and I’ve definitely learned that Terry likes to be on the go, and has the energy to do it! If he’s not cooking pancakes, he’s doing laundry or getting  groceries. I want to start calling him “the Flash”, but that could have too many alternate meanings, so I’ll keep searching for a nickname for him.

After another yummy dinner, we cleaned our bikes, and started preparing for our next stretch on the bike. Plans will depend on the weather. Stay tuned.

See more photos from their rest day

Read the next post: Now Touring Manitoba: The Soggy Bottom Gang! ->

<- Read the previous post: Into our third province – already!

Day 16 Thursday May 22

Swift Current to Moose Jaw

You know how weather forecasts never seem to be on target? Well, the one time we want them to be wrong, they are right on the money. Another head wind day (sob).

Faced with another exhausting day of 169 kms, we decided to try a different strategy. Terry was raring to go early in the morning, as the wind is usually lighter at that time.  He left at 6:30 am (yes, you’re reading that correctly), and knocked off 45 km. He didn’t plan to be going that far, but the rest of us were late departing due to a plugged sewage line on the RV. I’ll spare you the photos (you’re welcome). Then, our 8:00 am grocery run was delayed as Safeway wasn’t open that early. We had to resort to going to a Big Box Store, which Bill despises and shall remain nameless. I do need to report, though, that besides the necessities we needed, Bill actually purchased sunglasses there. The sacrilege! The hypocrisy!  Bill insists that since there is no photo evidence and he paid with cash, it never happened. And I’ve also discovered that Al has impulsive junk food shopping tendencies. I think we should escort him for groceries from now on, or we’ll all gain weight and lose our teeth across Canada.

The bright side to this diversion was that we met Leanne, who saw our cycling attire and asked us about what we were doing.  We had a good discussion about schizophrenia, as she has an ex-husband who dealt with the challenges of that, and we mentioned that Bill will be connecting with the Schizophrenia Society tomorrow in Regina.

Once we caught up with Terry, we started leap-frogging. We took turns riding in 10 – 20 km stints, either alone or in pairs, with the RV in hot pursuit. Together we covered 115 kms, which is pretty commendable considering the conditions.

We want to acknowledge the truckers we have encountered along the Trans Canada Hwy. Most have been very professional and safety-conscious – giving us a wide berth, tooting their horns to alert us or just to support us, and some even wave. We so appreciate that they respectfully share the road with us!

The weirdest thing today was going through the salt flats in Chaplin SK. With the heavy winds, the air looked smoky at first, then like snow. Once we cycled through what seemed like a sand storm, my entire body was covered in fine white dust. I’m glad it was just salt, and not something more “sinister”, as I’m sure I inhaled a lot. On the plus side, we don’t need a spa treatment now that our faces have been “salt-blasted”. Laundry was definitely in order tonight.

We had a nice walk to dinner, even with the wind, and guess what? Bill made a trip to yet another not to be named Big Box Store and purchased a bathing suit. We’re not listening to his corporate rants anymore, as we know he has come to the dark side.

Have you seen Al’s photos from Day 16?

Day 17 May 24 Wednesday

Moose Jaw to Regina (kind of)

So if any of you were tracking our route today, you are probably scratching your head trying to figure out what the heck we did. The day started out similarly to the day before. Terry got an early start, about 7:20 am, and the rest of us in the RV caught up with him soon after, as no toilet malfunctions today. The wind was nastier than ever, and Terry only got about 4.5 kms in 45 mins. He was totally bushed from his efforts, and the wind gusts had threatened to blow him off his bike several times

Terry was quickly consoled by Miss Karma, the loving border collie who bounded into our RV to welcome us, and of course get her tummy scratched. She belonged to Jessie, the kind manager of the Esso.just east of Moose Jaw, who had heard about us on the radio this morning, and was waiting for us to come past. He offered to fill our cooler with ice, which we gladly accepted, let us get our fill of fur therapy, and then we were on our way.

We re-evaluated yet again, and decided on another new strategy – make our own tailwind! We shuttled about 70 kms to the east of Regina, and got on our bikes heading west. Riding with the wind for a change seemed like such a novel concept. Instead of moving at 7 km/hr, we were zooming along at over 40 km/hr – what a treat! And for those of you who don’t cycle, let me explain why it can be very eerie riding in a strong tail wind. All around you the trees and grass are madly swaying, the flags are flapping, but you hear COMPLETE silence, except for any passing traffic. It is like you are in a vacuum, you can hear your breathing, a slight hum of your wheels, but that is it. Utter peace spinning at top speed, even uphill. It’s every cyclists dream. One of the riders said it was even better than sex – I won’t say who to protect the spouses.

Our elation was short-lived, as the rain started about an hour later. First light, then heavier, then the wind changed direction and started gusting. We were going to soldier though and get back to the RV site for lunch, but the gusts got gustier, the rain got rainier, and the final straw was when two semi trucks passed in close succession and Bill and I wobbled like weebles who actually might fall down. I might start believing in conspiracy theories, with the weather luck we have been having. So we again packed it in.

The silver lining – and remember that there always is one – is that we could attend the Schizophrenia Awareness Day open house at the Schizophrenia Society of Saskatchewan in downtown Regina. We had a chance to meet with Anita and Ann and all the other staff and volunteers, and learn about the interesting programs they have. They have a stand up comedy class organized by and set up for individuals with mental illness, that runs every Tuesday. A few times a year, they rent out a space and put on a comedy show for the public. They have even made a short movie together. It’s great to hear about such innovative ideas to engage creativity and build an inclusive environment among their clients. The also have a partner program where they send out a team that includes a person with mental illness, one of their family members, and a mental health professional. Together they educate others on what mental illness is, what it is like for the person and their families experiencing it, and in the process remove the stigma veil that hangs over the topic. Kudos to you all at the Regina Schizophrenia Society, both the staff and their clients, we had some very interesting and eye-opening conversations.

Bill also received a phone call from Brenda, a suicide prevention counsellor who was unable to attend, but wanted to send us prayers, and would do a smudge for us. We are so blessed to have so many people enveloping us with good vibes.

After the open house, we did a few errands, ate lunch/dinner, and had another team huddle about what we would do for the next few days, as the forecast still is not looking promising. After some bantering about, and a tie-breaking decision made by our lovely server Chenise, we are now on our way to Yorkton, a day early, to stay with Terry’s mother-in-law Ethel for our rest day. We are hoping to have more flexibility on which day to rest, and have more options for where to ride tomorrow, where the wind maybe isn’t so devious. Maybe “somewhere over the rainbow…” Imagine me in ruby shoes, the tune will come to you.

Tonight we will all have real beds in our own rooms. You have to appreciate the simple pleasures of life! Thank you for all the wonderful comments you’ve been sending, it buoys us up on the tough days. I’m glad to know so many are following our journey. To help us meet our goals, we request that you spread the news and start a conversation about mental health. Listen to the stories that come up – sometimes it is the first time that someone has felt safe enough to talk about their experiences. And that is a humbling thought.

Have you seen Al’s photos from day 17?

Love and Hugs, Sue

Read the next update: Yahoo for Yorkton! ->

<- Read the previous post: Day 7 and 8

After 8 days and about 950kms later, we are enjoying a non-cycling day in Cranbrook. A day off from bike touring is remarkably similar to a day off from work when you’re at home. Laundry, house cleaning, grocery shopping, meal prep for the week and paperwork are all on the agenda. As you can see, we are catching up on our blogs and keeping connected with the world. We treated our bikes to a check over at Gerrick’s bike shop, and then treated ourselves to massages from Allison, the owner of New Energy Wellness (believe me, we needed both energy and wellness). On a long trip like this, it’s important to keep your equipment – both mechanical and biological – in top notch running order. Just knowing they didn’t have to get on a saddle today, my cheeks were smiling – and I don’t mean the ones on my face. I was recommended a good ladies chamois cream with a tingling, numbing agent in it – first it tickles, then you can forget where your butt has been. For those of you who don’t cycle or haven’t done multiple day tours, chamois cream is like diaper rash cream for adults.
Breakfast was at everyone’s favourite grand slam restaurant – Denny’s. Patrick was over the moon that he could order off the senior’s menu for the first time ever. It really burst his bubble when he realized he wouldn’t be carded, and that pretty much anyone could be  served from this menu.

A proud senior moment

Terry has been whipping up a turkey chili in our crock pot, for those nights we only have energy to push buttons on the microwave. Al has been loading pictures from about twelve different devices (cameras, iphones) onto the laptop so we can get them on the website. Today was the first real day I had time to get organized. After arm-wrestling over drawer space (kidding), I spent quite a bit of time ditching a schwack (technical term used in RVing) of clothes for Patrick to take home since:
(4 adults in a motorhome / Limited space) x mad rush in the morning to get ready = lost undies and socks
I questioned what to pack for 10 weeks, but I’ve quickly realized that being “one of the boys” means that I don’t need a smashing wardrobe, and can wear the same stuff over and over, as long as I don’t smell too bad.

In the evening, we had a big powwow to debrief about the first section of the trip, and the logistics once Patrick leaves with our second support vehicle when we reach Lethbridge (sigh). We are all grateful that the great big hills are behind us for the time being, and are looking forward to the next section of our journey.

I’ve still been having  slow WiFi, we’re trying to get caught up with the blogs  – thanks for your patience.

 Read the next post: Into our third province – already! ->

<- Read the previous post: You know you’re in the mountains when…

Night of day 4

So much to catch up on…..let’s pick up at the concert in Kelowna on Sat May 11th. It was held at the most unique venue ever – the heART studio. If I had to describe in one word the feel of this gathering, it would be authenticity. The owner of the newly-opened studio Carrie and her partner Jesse, spoke about both being bipolar (which they said with a laugh makes them quad-polar). Carrie spoke how the best thing that happened to her was getting diagnosed, so she could begin getting treatment and understand why she felt the way she had.

The Smiths

Sherri Funk, one of the many talented musical artists that night, talked very candidly about her husband Mike, who deals with schizophrenia. She eloquently conveyed how the family accepts this challenge openly and without fear, recognizing that mental health issues need to be addressed, but that they do not define him or their family. Her courage and insight was inspiring.

Sherry Funk

Candace Giesbrecht was the representative from the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), our partner charity in Kelowna, and talked about their services, including expressive art classes that are available to those with chronic mental health issues, free of charge. One particular point she made that stuck with me is how they assist clients successfully navigate the health system and learn what resources are available to them, which is much needed when first reaching out to get help.

They had raffles for a variety of artsy items, from jewelry and paintings to books and wine. Some of the glass pendants being raffled were made by participants of the CMHA art classes. They also had some paintings for sale, with the proceeds going to CMHA. I bought a stunning abstract acrylic called “…give me Butterflies” done by JoJo. Imagine my surprise when I realized it was done by Joanne, who I had been speaking with most of the night. She said it was the first piece she had ever sold, so I am extra-honoured to be her first official buyer, and it is a beautiful souvenir of our trip.

Big thanks to everyone else who played a part in organizing, performing and volunteering at the concert, including Tami and Andrew Smith, Suzy Gemmel, Michael O’Neill and Zachari Smith. Sorry if I have missed anyone. It was wonderful meeting all the supporters from the community too.

See more photos from day 4

Day 5

We shuttled home to Oliver very late that night, well after midnight, so we got a slightly later start the next morning, which was Day 5, Sunday. And guess what? Another big climb from the get-go, up to the aptly named Anarchist Summit (I kid you not – see the photo below). There were numerous switchbacks which make it a reasonable grade, but by no means easy. It is also a popular training spot for the local bike groups, as evidenced by the number of spandex-laden boys charging up the long hill. I barley noticed – really. It was definitely a grunt, but we have been getting well accustomed to spinning in our granny gears to save our knees and our energy. We were also very thankful that it was overcast, as we didn’t need another scorcher. Aren’t we fickle – first we grumbled that it was too cold to train with our late spring in Edmonton, and now we were bellyaching about it being too hot – humans, you just can’t please them!

Up up and away

Getting to the top was quite the contrast. You move from desert, wineries and lakes, to ranchland, rolling hills and farm animals in a quick transition once you hit Boundary Country. It was so tranquil at the top – traffic quieted down, and I could have sworn one set of sprinklers I saw had been choreograghed by the Bellagio. We gave a grateful wave to the highway crew that was sweeping the shoulders, removing the winter gravel for the upcoming tourist season – we were probably one of the first of that group to come.
It was to be a bit of a shorter day to Midway with the monster climb out of Osoyoos, but I had my eye on the next day – 148 km with another long climb. Memories of our climb to Princeton came back to me with great clarity, and I decided that I would much rather continue on a bit today and save me some pain the next day. I managed to get about 18 kms down the road, but was thwarted by the first flat of the ride, courtesy of a piece of wire from a steel-belted radial tire, I believe. I was absorbed with my tire dilemma, and was caught off guard when I had a small herd of sheep run up to the adjacent fence and bleat at me – actually, I almost fell over, as I was so startled. My savior Patrick came to my rescue in his red Caravan so we could get back for our BBQ chicken and pasta dinner, whipped up by Terry with sous chef Patrick.

After dinner, some of us went to the Hot-L pub (the “E” long ago burnt out on their Hotel sign, and the name stuck) to use the WiFi. We ended up talking to a couple of young tree planters working in the area. It never ceases to amaze me how everyone has been affected by mental health issues – either personally or through close associations with friends and family. Our friend spoke of his earlier battle with depression, loss of friends to suicide, and his challenges locating the appropriate support sometimes. I am happy to report he got through this difficult time in his life, and is currently doing very well.
We also got some unexpected compliments. Al, our trusty driver, was picking up litter at a rest stop near Princeton while he waited for us to slog our way up a pass. Isn’t Al just a sweetheart?!- we think so!! A vacationing couple home-bound to Midway spotted him and Bill on garbage patrol, and thanked them profusely as they said they had never seen someone do that before, especially visitors to the area.

Good Samaritan Al

It was a bit colder at this higher elevation, and we had to use the furnace in the RV for the first time this night.

See more photos from day 5

Monday Day 6 out of Midway started with breakfast goodies at a great bakery in Greenwood, a cool little mining town just down the road.
Patrick got me a massive cinnamon bun that lasted me two days, which he would periodically hang out of the van window as he passed me on uphills, to entice me to keep pedaling. They filled up our water jugs with the “best tasting water in the world”, which is actually an official title they earned through some competition. And I must concur, although when I’m cycling I could be drinking slough water and not notice a huge difference, as long as it’s cold!
The terrain and scenery began to change again, as we headed towards lake country, specifically Christina Lake. A nice descent going in, but I have certainly learned that a great downhill is inevitably followed by it’s opposite, so they’ve become a lot less attractive than they used to be. On the plus side, it was another overcast day, so that helped keep the temperature more comfortable. We actually got some short sprinkles outside of Grand Forks, which was nice as it brought out all the scents of the blossoms that are exploding all over the place. I remember now why they call it Super Natural BC. The climb from Christina Lake was again brutal – so long and steady. But we managed to conquer it, with energy coming from I don’t know where – must be the goodies Patrick and Al keep picking up along the way……

Bill up the Hill

Our amazing supporters

We were rewarded with a smokin’ downhill into Castlegar. The only bummer was that the wind had picked up a bit, and we had to battle it a bit to keep up our speed. This provided Bill and I with a great opportunity to practice some drafting techniques. And yes, Bill can draft behind me, but I know I get the sweeter part of that deal.
And what a treat we experienced that night. We received a gracious dinner invitation from Neil and Cathy Muth from Castlegar, through a series of coincidences. They had been in Victoria visiting their daughter, and had heard about the Need2 kick off concert through the local paper, so they attended. They followed us on the website and met up with us in Midway, spoke with Bill about our itinerary, and invited us to dine at their home when we got to Castlegar. How generous are they, and how lucky are we! I know we haven’t been away from home long, but it was lovely to get a home cooked meal, especially one we didn’t have to make. And it came complete with a homemade crisp and ice cream. Sure you don’t want to join us on the whole trip Cathy??
The Muths were wonderful hosts. Their neighbors Tim and Roberta joined us for dessert, and we had a warm discussion with topics including the trip and mental health issues , and also music and house concerts. Bill commented that the music selection playing that night could have been from his own CD collection, and he discovered they had some musician friends in common too. To quote Disney, it is indeed “a small world after all”. We went home with full tummies and happy tastebuds!

See more photos from day 6

Read the next post: Day 7 and 8 ->