74 miles ridden – 430 feet climbed.

Another wonderful day. Temperature was great until about noon when it seemed to suddenly shoot up to 32C. We had a gentle tailwind for about 40 miles and the area we were cycling through was absolutely flat – fabulous. After yesterday’s 112 miles (for everyone except me) we needed an easier day or, as the crew told us, an ‘active rest day’.

Our first SAG was at the Reeves’ family farm. A number of years ago one of the ride leaders saw an old tractor in front of the house and knocked on the door to ask a questions about it. Mr. Reeves – now sadly no longer with us – not only answered his questions but invited all the riders in for a drink. Since then the ride stops at the farm for refreshment and facilities and is it apparently the highlight of his widow’s year. It was a very nice spot in a lovely area on a beautiful day:

Because it was a shorter day and we were expecting tailwinds we stopped in the town of Brant at the only bar/restaurant/cafe for lunch. Started with 4 of us and ended with 9 – great hot dogs and we probably made their day in terms of sales. While waiting to check in at the hotel in Birch Run two of the riders were talking about it and one of the reception staff said ‘I know that place, you guys really have been in the boonies’ (boon docks). Like so many places on our travels we had found ourselves immersed in a slice of real America.

The remaining 25 miles was spent on quiet lanes cycling in a group chatting and laughing which was really nice. Birch Run is interesting in that it was only established in 1955 and the only interesting thing anyone seems to be able to say about it was that it has an outlet mall. Having gone out for dinner I’d say that was fair.

Tomorrow is an 88 mile ride to Port Huron on Lake Huron from where we will cross on Friday morning into Canada. Weather forecast includes a headwind and rain – I will have to make sure I can remember these last two fabulous days.