This journey has changed so much,in April I planned to work and save then in June/July go to France doing HelpExchange. This all changed when through HelpEx companions I met Anita. Who not only changed my plans changed my life. So instead of doing as planned I worked more travelled less.Even considered leaving my bike behind. This all changed in the blink of an eye when Anita decided not to travel with me.Who can blame her I travel by bike,I rough camp,live on strict budget.So now she is in Italy and I'm in France.
I left my daughters on the 4th by train to Portsmouth,then after an all to brief a meting with Anita. I joined the ferry to St Malo. After an uneventful trip arriving in St Malo at 08-15 5th Sept. THe weather dismal wet and windy two of cyclists favourite weather conditions. The first mishap new waterproof pants leg zip broken beyond repair,then overshoes not waterproof. So wet and cheesed off out of St Malo and toward Nante.
A dismal day full of excitment of a new journey,with a new travel companion.Whoes idea of riding in the wind was to sit on my wheel sheltering,then on each hill roar past waiting a few k down the road to repeat the performance.So he was quickly given the elbow and onto my first rule break,stopping in an official campsite.Being clean and warm more important than the cost.
So fed and slept well day two more wind more rain and just as wet to the Loire. The first change in the weather windy but dry so along the Loire and my next site another official one.
Day three weather better dry less wind and a bigger distance ridden,even gettin sunburnt.The feelings of sadness at being apart from Anita diminishing. A quiet wood away from prying eyes my next peaceful campsite,the only problem being at 06-00 being woken by a hunter. Tho we did share a coffee and parted friends as it were. Not that I could understand him or he me.
Into day four with a goal in sight Berthegon,a shower clean clothes and English (with a Scottish accent) spoken.A long day in the sun,2,6 ltrs of water drunk,sunburnt but deliciously happy.
Rest up now for 2 days helping in exchange for bed and food. Clean the bike wash my clothes and shoes.Prepare for my next ride and another host.
