Registration

OK so I have officially checked in. It was the first time I had seen Ralph and John. The Opas and I exchanged travel stories and then I asked about finding our bikes and putting them together. Much to my delight Opa John had taken it upon himself that morning to find the truck and our bikes and assembled them for us. Thanks, Opa! Already looking out for us.
The SAG crew has also taken an interest in my gear bag. Yes, It's big and it's heavy but remember the bike gear is coming out. Also they Love that it is on wheels. I love the colour as so far it's the only orange bag in a sea of dark neutrals!
Hey, Lots of interest and complements on the handle bar streamers, A few of the girls are looking to pimp their ride too!
Dinner and a meet and greet for the SeaToSea gang. For me, it was a lot like a public appearance as so many people said "You're Gayle Harrison. I've been waiting to meet you!" That is probably one of the nicest compliments you can get from a stranger but a little weird too. I never imagined that complete strangers would be so interested in my rambling- let's be honest, some of my closest friend's don't even read this thing! One woman came up and said that after reading this blog, she decided to do SeaToSea. Wow. When I read back on this thing, I start thinking that I'm crazy not that this is a good idea! Of course, in my head I'm thinking- sure I seem cool now but wait until we spend a few days on the road together. Did I mention that one of the special skills I have is that I can annoy complete strangers in 5 minutes or less? When I told this to one of my friends, they said "When did it ever take 5 mins?"
Also Opa Ralph came into town bearing gifts. Thanks to Albert and Sharon DeVries for the anit-chafting sticks and the wonderful note of encouragement.
It's been a busy but great day.