It was countdown time again. Yesterday’s major achievements: my inbox was empty, my todo list ticked off, my packing list complete and Rosinante, my bike, was in the box and the box fitted in our car. Awesome!
This is always the most stressful part of getting ready. Plus the transition from busy work-life to traveller life is a challenge for me.
In the morning, we welcomed Caroline’s daughter Tabea back home. She returned home from one year as an Au Pair in New Zealand this very morning. Timing is everything.
Tabea brought me a bracelet from NZ made from green gem stones. It is meant to bring luck to travelers. I got a little emotional over this beautiful gift.
It was great to meet her again and have all family members on one continent – at least for a couple of hours.
This is a time full of memories. One year ago, Resi, Carolin’s mother, passed away while Tabea was leaving and I was gone, too. That was a terrible feeling leaving Carolin behind.
Today, Resi is still around in our memories.
After a short breakfast, Carolin drove me to the airport. Despite my inner tension, everything went very smoothly.
Actually, checking in bulky luggage is way more fun than regular luggage plus there is no waiting time.
Hopefully, this year Rosinante will make it onto the plane and to the destination in the first go.
With 3,100km from Toronto to Newfoundland, this is the longest ride I have ever planned. Let’s see how everything will pan out.
Since last year, I have lost around 20kg, mostly by changing my diet and doing more sports. My hip problems have gotten significantly better which means I can run 15k without any pain.
My preparation training this year was more running than cycling, simply for time reasons. I will probably have to adjust to the life in the saddle for a while – but I should be ok.
Can’t wait to get to Toronto now!