I celebrated my mileage with a cuppa in Wassy. What a strange place! It was one of those situations where everyone turned to look at you when you walked into the cafe bar. Eventually, someone asked me something so I explained I was English and that I was doing a cycle tour. The fact that I'd cycled from the other side of Switzerland and was now heading to Calais drew huge gasps from the crowd. As I left, everyone waved me goodbye and wished me bonne route and bon courage! So funny!
My favourite moment of today was cycling through a small village and a little old lady, who could barely stand, was hobbling out of her front door. I said bonjour as I went past. She threw her fist triumphantly in the air and shouted "bravo!". My strongest supporter yet!
The countryside has been so pretty. I started with a surprising 2 mile climb this morning through forests and then enjoyed some fabulous sweeping descents. The rest of the day was gently rolling. It's starting to get flatter as I pedal further North. Again, the space is vast and liberating.
I'm in Vitry le Francois in the Champagne Ardennes region tonight. I think there are only 2 or 3 other families at this campsite in addition to me, I've never seen a campsite so empty. It's actually really lovely! And I'm so pleased to be able to walk into town for provisions. You can only imagine what it's like trying to keep any fresh produce and items such as milk cool in this tremendous heat. So a huge bonus.
Then....disaster! A tent pole snapped and my entire tent collapsed! Bugger! Once recovered from the initial shock, I calmly sought out my replacement pole. Simples! Except the metal on my broken pole was stuck out at all angles so I couldn't get my replacement pole over it. I tried standing on mangled to reduce the mass but it wasn't sufficient. Reinforcements were needed! I went to get the lady running the campsite, she in turn went to fetch her husband. He arrived with a magical pair of pliers and some strong hands to reduce the metal. The tent is now 100% fine...for tonight. I don't know how it will be getting it up and down for the next couple of weeks. I may need a Plan B. I guess I'll find out tomorrow morning when I try to dismantle it. I'll also have a go at putting it back up again whilst I'm still here. Assuming that works, the next test will be all the storms forecast early next week, yikes!
I was supposed to be having a rest day today. But I didn't want to stay another night in the 25 euro campsite! I may have a rest day tomorrow but am keen to get into the main Champagne region. However, campsites may be packed there on a Saturday night on the hottest weekend of the year so far. The main thing I'm missing here for a rest day is....a washing machine! There may be a launderette in town. If so, I'd be wiser to rest and enjoy Champagne on a quieter Sunday evening. Decisions, decisions!
Have fabulous weekends everyone and I hope this French heatwave has also engulfed the UK :-)))
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HI sweetie,
ReplyDeleteLovely lovely surprise this morning,wonderful to have a chat with you. The time went very quickly. It will be lovely to have you come and stay with us. We have done quite a bit at the house now, it will look very different since the last time you came. I can't wait to show you!!
I am pleased everyone you are meeting is full of encourgement for you, it is a tremendous thing you are doing. Up to a 1000 miles now as well, quite the holiday!! You may need one when you get back home i should think!
Getting the paint this morning very exciting, not sure on colours we have one or two in mind. The dining room should be starting to take shape today and the rest of the house will be a mess!! It will be worth it i am sure.
I will keep you posted re Paul, he is ringing me again next week, i will then let you know what has happened.
Keep up the good work!
Take care
Lots of love
Mum xxx