My Diary Page - July 1999

I DIPPED MY TIRES IN THE PACIFIC OCEAN AND, IN EXACTLY THREE MONTHS, HOPE TO DO THE SAME IN THE ATLANTIC OCEAN. KEVIN QUINN AND I GIVING THE BIG HIGH FIVE AS WE BEGAN DAY 1 OF OUR CROSS CANADA TOUR

Scroll down to share in my adventure!

CANADA DAY July 1 (Thursday) Day 43

Had a later start from White River this morning. Before I left, I had my picture taken with Winnie the Pooh. After all, he originated in White River!
It rained all day! I was soaked and exhausted by the time I reached Wawa tonight. I am staying at the Sportsman Motel. Rachel Griffin works there and she kindly phoned the Viking Restaurant/Miclarr's Pub here in Wawa, where I was treated to dinner. Thank you!
Rachel's husband will contact the radio station and my tour will be talked about on air on Monday. That's great!
My asthma is starting to act up. It has been good up to now. When I was in the restaurant, I spoke to some fellows who knew what cycling was all about. They fine-tuned my bike for me! One of the fellows told me that when he did a cycle trek he picked fresh flowers every day and secured them to the front of his bike. He said it really helped him as he toured the country. What a wonderful idea.
On to Montreal River Harbour tomorrow. I hope the rain stops.

July 2 (Friday) Day 44

I cycled over 100 km today. Overcast and very humid. Lots of hills and awful head winds.
I have been warned about the terrible 1 mile hill outside of Sault St. Marie which I will conquer tomorrow. I had hoped to make it to Montreal River Harbour tonight but found I was just too exhausted.
I stayed tonight at a government campground in Agwa. I met Zeek there who gave me 2 delicious brownies. He told me he was a musician, that he plays the fiddle. He gave me a CD that has his fiddling music on it. Thanks Zeek!
I cycled a little ways with a triathlete. It was nice to have his company while cycling.
A fellow gave me $10 today to give to the BCPF - great! Thank you!
Phoned mom and she told me that I was in the West Kootenay Weekender paper today (Trail Daily Times). Ray Masleck did the story, "The Long and Winding Road". Mom said he wrote a wonderful article complete with pictures. Thanks Ray! We need to keep the "cause" out there.

July 3 (Saturday) Day 45

Left Agwa and headed for that terrible 1 mile hill outside of Sault Ste. Marie that many people had warned me about. At one point it rained so hard that it felt like I was in a gigantic shower (bathroom shower). The rain was so warm. The largest shower I'd ever been in! The rain was bouncing off the road so hard that I couldn't see the cars in front of me. Quite dangerous.
I conquered that 1 mile hill outside of Sault Ste. Marie! It was "Nada"! In other words a piece of cake, nothing!
I met one of John Ryan's crew members on the road today and we stopped and talked for awhile. One of my racks broke completely in half. It had been held together for a couple of days by duct tape! Thank goodness for that duct tape!!
There was a $100 donation made today, Mom said, to the BCPF because of the story Ray Masleck had written about me!!
My hosts Fran and Bob Burns of Sault Ste. Marie met me at the Trading Post. I am staying tonight in their beautiful home overlooking the lake. I will sleep well tonight!

July 4 (Sunday) Day 46

DAY OFF.
Went to a picnic with Fran, Bob and family. I swam in Lake Superior today, it was cold.
Bob worked very hard on my bike today and I think he has solved the problem with the racks. Thank you very much, Bob!
The humidity is quite bad and my chest hurts. I am also very tired. I had a lot of fun today and met many very nice people. My hosts have been wonderful. Tomorrow I leave for Iron Bridge, which is just over 100 km.

July 5 (Monday) Day 47

Extremely hot today! Had a late start.
MCTV (CTV) filmed and interviewed me at Fran and Bob's, my host's home, in Sault St. Marie. Also had interviews with CHBX, CJIT radios, the Sault Herald, and the Sault Star before I left town. Terry from the Sault Herald took me out to lunch. I must thank CTV for covering my story as I make my way across Canada. They have been good to me and have done nice reports.
Today I stopped to help a man and woman who looked as if they were having car problems. I asked them if they needed to use my cell phone but they had their own. They told me that they had seen me on TV.
I am staying tonight, with many thanks, to the Estok Motor Inn in Iron Bridge. I spoke to John Ryan's wife Penny and some of his crew members as they are staying at the Estok Motor Inn.
Tomorrow I will head for Massey.

July 6th (Tuesday) Day 48

Arrived in Massey. Did about 98 km today. Major tail winds and hot!
I phoned Erica Waters before I left town. She is with BK Radio in Castlegar, BC. Erica told me about the radio auction that BK Radio will be sponsoring along with Home Goods Furniture. This will be a fund raiser for the BCPF done over a 4 week period to finish up the day before I make it to St. John's! Thank you, Erica, that is exactly what we need to get those donations into the BCPF!
I saw the tree planters who had bought me lunch weeks ago. One of the girls gave me a big hug and 3 oranges. It was great to talk to them again.
A lady with a little girl that I met at an info centre today gave me 2 bananas, a can of coke and some juice. Thank you!
My neck is extremely sore lately. I look forward to arriving in Ottawa on the 12th where my partner Doug (Pookie) will meet me and we will cycle together for a few days. I leave for Sudbury tomorrow.

July 7 (Wednesday) Day 49

Left Massey. Rained today. The wind was at my back.
Susan from Victoria, BC who I met at the motel gave a $50 donation to the BCPF. Thank you!
I bought some blueberries (my very favorite fruit!) in a little basket and then the fellow there gave me a blueberry/bran muffin! Later today I saw some people picking blueberries by the side of the road, they gave me a container full. I also picked some. That was exciting!
Thank you Bob Burns for doing such a fantastic job of fixing my bike - the rack problem seems to be over! As I cycled along the road by a picnic spot a lady about 80 years of age stood up from where she was sitting and gave me the "thumbs up" and yelled "Yahoo". I smiled.
I met my host, Garnet Parcher, this afternoon at a bicycle shop upon my arrival in Sudbury. He later cooked us a wonderful meal. People have been absolutely wonderful! I phoned my mom at headquarters to catch up on things.

July 8 (Thurs) Day 50

Did an interview over the phone today with Drew Wilson from KBS radio in Trail, BC. Did interviews with CJRQ/CIGM, CHYC 90, CBSC (CBC - French Radio), Sudbury Star and the Sudbury Northern Life before I left today. I had MCTV coverage on the road (with Gord Nicol).
My host Garnet Parcher was a big help to me today taking me to the interviews and such. Also, he made me blueberry pancakes! Thanks Garnet for all your help. And especially for catching up to me on the road and returning the care package from my mom I had left behind!
A lady gave me a $10 donation today for the BCPF. Stopped at an info centre today in Sturgeon Falls. The fellow there was so helpful. Best info centre I have visited yet! Thanks for all your help!
I am staying at the Comfort Inn in North Bay - a beautiful place overlooking Lake Nipissing. Thank you for your generosity.
There are thunder storms brewing and I am concerned about the journey tomorrow. I can hardly wait to see Doug (Pookie) in Ottawa!! I can't pedal fast enough! I am also very exhausted!! Good night everyone.

July 9 (Friday) Day 51

Before leaving North Bay today, I did interviews with the North Bay Nugget, CHUR/CKFK radio and MCTV with Dan Dolan filmed on the road.
Major rains today and head winds. A lady gave me $10 for BCPF. Thank you!
Lorrraine Montreuil of the Algonquin North Outfitters store gave me a native pointed stone which she explained meant "strength" and "resilience". I am staying as a guest tonight, with Vic & Carol Jeske, at The Voyaguer Guest Home in Mattawa. They fed me a wonderful meal and we had great conversation. On to Renfrew tomorrow.
I have changed my schedule due to weather conditions. I will see my friend and partner Doug on Monday. I am so looking forward to seeing him!! I have missed him very much as I trek across Canada.

July 10 (Saturday) Day 52

Cycled just over 100 km today. RAIN.
Mary Lou Arrowsmith, Pres. of Mattawa & District Chamber of Commerce took a picture for the Mattawa Newspaper.
As I left Mattawa this morning, my hosts Vic & Carol Jeske took me to the confluence of the Ottawa and Mattawa Rivers. Vic gave me a cantaloupe which I ate later with blueberries!
Vic, you were right about the monster hill! As I was cycling up the hill I caught up to a semi truck - and passed him! As I cycled by, he yelled out the window that he had never been passed by a cylist before. We both laughed! Then he passed me after we hit the top of the hill.
Made it to Deep River, where I am the guest of Gary Grey who owns the Ferguson Stopping Place B & B. There is such a history to the building. It is a beautiful, rustic old place. Gary gave me some blueberry candies!
I am exhausted.

July 11 (Sunday) Day 53

Sunny. Left Deep River today. Had blueberry pancakes for breakfast! Gary gave me a bag of blueberry candies to take with me. Thank you!
I did over 100 km. Made good time as there aren't any more hills.
I have noticed a difference lately with the truckers - they toot in the distance as they come up behind me. I will then put up my left hand and wave and then they usually go around me! I feel much safer now! Thank you!!
I am the guest tonight of Tony, who owns the Valley Inn Motor Hotel here in Renfrew. Thanks very much, Tony. He made me a great dinner with Greek salad but would not tell me his secret recipe for the dressing. It was so good.
Tomorrow I will be in Ottawa. I am looking forward to seeing Doug!!
I will also meet with Eric Boyd who is the national managing director of the Canadian Paraplegic Association. I am looking forward to meeting with him.

July 12 (Monday) Day 54

Sunny & Hot. Left Renfrew today on my way to Ottawa.
Outside of Ottawa, my racks broke in half! My rim needed replacing, some spokes broke! There I was at the side of the highway my stuff scattered!! I broke down and cried.
I put my thumb out for someone to help me. A SWAT van drove by me, then came back. There were 2 members of a SWAT team in the van. They loaded my bike, bags and stuff into their van. There I sat in the van on top of guns, gear ammo and stuff. What an entrance into Ottawa! Not the way I had planned.
They drove me to a bike shop where I left my bike. Then they drove me to Benner's Bed & Breakfast where I would be staying - a guest of Marnie Benner. Thanks guys for stopping to help me!
Doug arrived minutes later! The Ottawa Citizen newspaper phoned. I did an interview. Doug and I went out for dinner. It was great seeing him!!

July 13 (Tuesday) Day 55

Sunny. Had an interview this morning with the Ottawa Sun with Donna Cassey.
The photographer drove me to the bike shop. I had to go back and forth to 2 bike shops today trying to tie everything up before I leave tomorrow. I had work done on my bike and bought some new racks.
I met Eric Boyd (National Managing Director) & others from the Canadian Paraplegic Association (CPA) as well as Bonnie from Jim Gouk's office at the Eternal Flame on Parliament Hill this morning. Then we did a tour of the Parliament Buildings. Amazing!
Bonnie took us out to lunch. Unfortunately, I had trouble with my cell phone today. I ran out of time to have the racks put on my bike and John Benner (Benner's Bed & Breakfast) put the front racks on for me, working very hard. John also helped towards the costs of the repairs! Thank you!
His wife, Merina, gave me a card with angels on it and a letter opener with a cross on it! Thank you Marnie, John & Merina Benner for your kindness. I really needed that! Good night everyone....

July 14 (Wednesday) Day 56

It was sunny and hot today. Left Ottawa after doing an interview with CJOH (CTV) by the Eternal Flame on Parliament Hill. I was really impressed with Ottawa - a beautiful city. I loved the tour around the Parliament Buildings. The gargoyles around the city were wonderful.
Mom told me she did an interview today with Drew Wilson, at KBS Radio in Trail.
I spoke with Eric Boyd, of the CPA before leaving town. Doug and I cycled 97 km today. It was nice having company as I cycled along.
A self-employed man gave me $5 today towards road expenses. Thank you. Arrived in Hawkesbury late this afternoon. On to Montreal tomorrow.

July 15 (Thursday) Day 57

CROSSED INTO QUEBEC

Sunny and hot. Left Hawkesbury today. My chest is sore with the smog. We cycled through Montreal. It is a fast paced busy city. We are staying on the outskirts, eastern side of Montreal in a place called Terrebonne.
Mom did a live interview this morning with Erica at BK Radio/Castlegar about my progress.
I have done a lot of smiling since Doug joined up with me. There are not as many trucks. We have cycled on shoulders, then no shoulders. I am quite exhausted at this point.

July 16 (Friday) Day 58

Hot, muggy & sunny. Arrived in Trois-Rivieres today. We cycled over 125 km.
It was beautiful as we cycled along the St. Lawrence River. Seems like everyone has a pool in their back yard and lots of lawn ornaments. It was fun having Doug cycle with me. He is great company! The churches are beautiful with their tall steeples. The cobble stone houses are such a sight.. What gorgeous cities in the Province du Quebec.

July 17 (Saturday) Day 59

Rained. Arrived in Quebec City today after cycling over 125 km. I find my asthma is quite bad and my knees are giving me a lot of pain.
What beautiful country we are cycling in. I don't know any French but communication has not been a problem for us.
Staying tonight at a B & B, Maison Le Sage. Our host,Yves Ruel, is very nice. He immediately set me up with 2 B & B's in the following 2 towns!
Phoned headquarters and mom told me about John F. Kennedy Jr., his wife and sister-in-law missing in a plane. How sad.

July 18 (Sunday) Day 60

DAY OFF. We spent the day touring around Quebec on our bikes. I took some videos with the camera Doug had brought with him. Our gracious host at the B & B drove Doug to the airport as it was time for him to go back to Chilliwack. I miss him very much already. He has been wonderful company and very supportive of me these last few days.
I sent my tent and gear back with Doug. All I have now is my sleeping bag and pad. That was an agonizing decision. However, it will make such a big difference as to the weight that I will have to carry.
I am looking forward to meeting Bridgett in Moncton, NB. She will be flying over from Sweden to cycle the last 3 weeks of my tour with me. We will cycle into St. John's, Newfoundland together!
I'll soon get back to the interviews again. I look forward to visiting the various Canadian Paraplegic Associations in the remaining provinces of Canada.

July 19 (Monday) Day 61

Left Quebec City and my host Yves Ruel. He was a great host, very helpful. I thank him very much.
I cycled 93 km today. It was sunny and cool when I left Quebec City. The weather has since changed to very strong winds and terrific rains. Sending back some of my camping gear has made a big difference. It's a bit easier to cycle now.
Met 3 brothers today who cycled with me from Quebec City to St. Jean Port Joli. I am a guest tonight of Francine Henri Bernier at Gite auz Vents et Marees B & B in St. Jean Port Joli. It's a beautiful B & B overlooking the lake - gorgeous view.

July 20 (Tuesday) Day 62

Sunny & cool. Great cycling weather. Did an interview in St. Jean Port Joli with the local newspaper before leaving town. My host had called the paper for me, and the interview was done at the B & B with an interpreter. That was fun.
The 3 brothers and I cycled to Riviere Du Loup. Along the roadside were many artisan shops. They were full of wonderful antiques and other items. It took us 4 hours to cycle 19 km!!
I am a guest tonight of Meridith Fisher at Les Rochers B and B. Thank you!  And a special "thank you" to Valerie, the desk clerk there, for all her TLC. It seems that 'angels' are placed on my path just as I need them, and Valeri sure qualifies.
This was once the home of the first prime minister of Canada, Sir John A MacDonald. I am sleeping tonight in his bed. What history! Watched the sun set. It was beautiful. Quebec is such a beautiful, quaint province. I had an awesome day today.

July 21 (Wednesday) Day 63

Left Riviere Du Loup. I did 98 km. It was beautiful when I left. It poured later in the day. I took an old railroad track which is now a bicycle route. The road was sandy and with the rain I was having difficulty cycling today. I am very tired. I was not able to do the kms I had intended to because of the weather and road conditions. I am just outside of Degelis in a motel.
I look forward to seeing my sister Bridgett who I will meet in Moncton next week. Bridgett is flying over from Sweden where she lives with her husband and 2 kids. She is bringing her bike and gear with her. We will cycle the last 3 weeks together into St. John's, Newfoundland to dip our tires into the Atlantic Ocean. I look forward to seeing her as it has been a couple of years since she came to Canada. Thank you, Bridgett, for being such a wonderful sister to come all that way!!

CROSSED INTO NEW BRUNSWICK

July 22 (Thursday) Day 64

I cycled over 91 km today. The weather was terrible - it poured, there was loud thunder and the lighting strikes came so close. The 3 brothers cycled with me to the Quebec/New Bruswick border, as they were concerned about me because I could not speak French. They were so sweet and kind. They told me that their bicycle tour had more meaning because they had met me! I told them that they were my adopted brothers and I thanked them.
I was pulled over today by a police car with the lights and siren going. I asked one of the officers what I had done wrong. He told me that they were video taping someone and that they had to use me as a diversion. He appologized that he frightened me. I said goodbye and continued on my way.
I am the guest tonight of the Best Western - Eres du Lac in Grand Falls. It's a wonderful place! Thank you!

July 23 (Friday) Day 65

Cycled about 100 km today. The weather was good.
Did an interview at the Grand Falls-Cataracte newspaper with Scott before leaving town. Received a donation for the BCPF today. Thank you!
Went on the bicycle trail today but because it was rough my front racks loosened. I cycled off the trail and came around the corner and there was a farmer and his 2 sons. They tightened up the racks for me. Thank you! The man said consider that a "pit stop".
A big fat old husky dog ran along beside me today until I stopped at someone's house and asked them to give him some water. He caught up to me and ran beside me for while. I continue to speak to people about the quest that I am on this summer - how important it is to so many people.
I am staying as a guest tonight in the Wicklow Bed & Breakfast.

July 24 (Saturday) Day 66

Cycled about 100 km today. Hot, sunny & cloudy. I went over the famous bridge in Hartland. This is the longest covered bridge in the world- 1282 feet long. Beautiful!
Went to the Hunter Bros. Farm Market today where the lady made a donation to the BCPF. They asked me to sign their guest book.
Met a family of 6 children at a rest stop today, Marie, Vincent, Sophie, Simon, Julie, & Christian and their dad Jean Luc Desjardins, who gave me a donation for the BCPF. They also gave me a sticky bun and a glass of milk. Thank you! The children all tried out my bike and helmet.
Also met a man who had seen me on the CKY TV in Winnipeg. He also made a donation for the BCPF. Thank you!
After arriving in Woodstock and eating my dinner, I cycled to a fair in the local park. I watched the smash-up derby and some country singers. It was fun. I am the guest today at the Stiles Motel Hillview in Woodstock. Thank you!

July 25 (Sunday) Day 67

I left the Stiles Motel today after the lady there bought me breakfast. The 2 ladies working there were very nice . Thank you.
Cycled over 100 km today. It rained all day. I find I am really tired and my asthma is bad. As I was cycling out of Woodstock today a dog started chasing me. I noticed that he was running abnormally, his back legs were misshapen. I stopped and his owner came out of the house and called the dog. I asked her why he ran so peculiarly and she told me that he had had an operation - a tumor removed from his spine. The nerves had been damaged.
I told her why I was cycling across Canada this summer! She invited me in for a coffee and some German pancakes. The lady's name was Shannon. Shannon gave me a donation for the BCPF. Shannon's cousin Constance from Nanaimo, BC was visiting her, and she then made a donation to the BCPF as well. Thank you both!
Shannon turned on her computer and pulled up my web site. I couldn't believe the red line on the map!
Saw the largest axe in the world today in a park in the city of Meductic. Quite a sight to see.
Staying as a guest tonight at the Howard Johnson Motor Lodge and Restaurant in Fredericton. It's wonderful there.

July 26 (Monday) Day 68

In the morning I took a cab to the Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation here in Fredericton. I met with Katherine LeBlanc, the director of the Centre. I was taken on a tour where I met Todd Watson and Lloyd Meehan who have suffered spinal cord injuries. I was so impressed by both of them as to their spirits, ambitions, and future goals seemed to be so clear to them. I told Loyd that I would say "Hi" to Sussex!. I very much enjoyed the tour - I was well taken care of.
Had alot of press - CBC TV, North Side News, Daily Gleaner, CIHI Radio, CIBX-FM. Exactly what we need.
Took a boat ride up the St. John River. Then had dinner. By chance I met and talked to the chairperson for Wheel Chair Sports for spinal cord injuries. I had an awesome day!
I am staying in the Carriage House Inn as their guest. Thank you!

If the place names are getting a little unfamiliar (for all you westerners), perhaps this will help. I'm in Sussex, New Brunswick.

July 27 (Tuesday) Day 69

Cycled 117 km. I talked to lots of people today.
Cycled to Sussex where my host Elizabeth picked me up at the train station. I am staying tonight as a guest at the Starks Hillside Bed & Breakfast "Inn Style". It is a really nice place. Met some people from British Columbia who are staying at the B & B.
My sister Bridgett will be meeting me in Moncton on Thursday!!

July 28 (Wednesday) Day 70

Left the B & B. My host Elizabeth made me a great breakfast then drove me to the highway. Thank you!
Got caught in a major downpour today. Cycled over 100 km. Arrived in Moncton around 3:30. Made great time. Feeling pretty good today.
When I arrived at the Downtown Bed and Breakfast, there were 2 golden retrievers greeting me at the door! Stepping inside the B & B, I noticed written on a sign board, "Way to go Darcee on your amazing tour!" That was pretty special! My hosts John & Jocelyne had my web site up on their computer monitor.
Judy Snow from the City of Moncton came to greet me at the B & B. She presented me with a book and pictures about Moncton. Thank you! Eric Gingles from CBC (CBA) Radio met me at the B & B where we did an interview.
Phoned mom and she told me my tour made the front page tonight in the Trail Daily Times. I have met so many wonderful people on my tour. I am so looking forward to seeing Bridgett tomorrow night!!! I am tired. Day off tomorrow!.

Bridgett

July 29 (Thursday) Day 71

DAY OFF. Sunny today. Did an interview with Angela Nickerson CKCW/CFQM Radio. Carolyn (Eric - CBC Radio) Gingles & daughter Catherine picked me up today and drove me around Moncton. Then we went back to Carolyn's home where she barbecued chicken. The lunch was delicious.
John, my host, lent me his cell phone today. He later drove me to the bus depot tonight where I met my sister Bridgett. Seeing each other was very emotional for both of us. I can't believe she is here and we will be cycling together into St. John's, Newfoundland!!
Our hosts, John & Jocelyne Harrison, of the Downtown B & B are treating us very well. The people in Moncton have been very hospitable. Also thank you Judy Snow.
Bridgett & I will find it hard to sleep tonight! Good night everyone!

July 30  Friday (Day 72)

Our hosts made us a wonderful breakfast before leaving Moncton. We were filmed by CTV Television and the reporter from The Times-Transcript came to the B & B for the interview. The people have been wonderful!
We cycled through the world's lobster capital. Took pictures of the largest metal replica of a lobster in the world. The Atlantic provinces are beautiful, just like I had hoped!
Because of the CBC radio interview people know who we are. We are given words of encouragment as we cycle. Great to have my sister with me. Bridgett is doing well.
We are guests tonight of Petra & Klaus Sudbrack of the Little Shemogue-County Inn in Port Elgin. Thank you. It is an unbelievable place!

July 31 Saturday (Day 73)

CROSSED INTO PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

Our hosts made us a delicious German breakfast before leaving Port Elgin. Thank you!
We were stopped by a police officer today. He motioned for us to pull over to the side of the road. He had seen the CTV interview and gave us words of support for my cause and shook our hands! He also gave Bridgett & I a pin. His words meant a lot.
The scenery is beautiful (lots of hills though)! Bridgett is doing just great. Arrived in Charlottetown at the home of Peter Morris & Barbara Nymark. Peter is the executive director of the Canadian Paraplegic Association in PEI. Barbara is the executive producer for CBC Radio. Thank you for taking us into your home.
I want to thank Ann Johnstone of Trail, BC, for being so supportive of me. Thanks Ann! Met and talked to so many people today. Thanks for your support, all of you.

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Keep checking this page and my details page for up to date news of my Cross Canada Cycle Tour.