Second Corner Madawaska - USA Four Corners Journal Day 13 -

Wind is the best way to describe today’s challenge. The morning in Madawaska was partly sunny and cold. The road from Riviere-du-Loup to Montreal was overcast, cold, and windy. I rode into the headwind most of the day. Fortunately the sun came out around 5:00 p.m. and the ride from Montreal to Ottawa was pleasant and chilly.
I went to the post office at 8:30 and had them hand cancel my 2nd corner envelope. Then I went down the street and through Canadian Customs. I was on the road by 8:50. The first 60 miles was nice, but by the time I got to Riviere-du-Loup the weather closed in. The wind was blowing the smoke from a large chimney straight to the side. I’d have taken a picture if there had been a place to pull off, but there wasn’t so you’ll just have to imagine it.

I’m staying this evening at the home of Gary and Nancy. Nancy is a Motor Maid. Beth contacted several Motor Maids in the Ottawa area asking if they could host me this evening. Another couple, Nelia and Hillbilly, was going to be my host, but they had to go out of town because of the death of a close friend. Fortunately Nancy was able to step in and offer me a their hospitality. Many thanks Gary and Nancy.

There wasn’t much along the way to report on. I had breakfast at a nice cafe in Madawaska. Lunch was in a very nice restaurant adjacent to a motel along the way. As I mentioned, the wind was a big factor in the ride. I had to keep my speed down and keep the bars steady as the gusts passed by. My shoulders protested as they haven’t had to work so hard all of this trip.

I wore the rain suit all day to keep out the wind. Tomorrow I think I’ll put on the electric jacket and see if it will keep me warm.