Back in the running

    Hopped out of bed at 7:20, apprehensive about my ability to ride today given my throat cold, I packed up, had breakfast and clicked onto the pedals. A long steep hill out of Eu confronted me just as I cleared the town center. Rather than start off hard, I dismounted and walkered. From the top of the hill, off I pedaled gaining confidence with each mile. My throat and chest felt fine and the bike was working well.  A bit hilly on my way to Dieppe but I felt great.  Rolled into town and the sun was shining. Dieppe is a thriving seaside city.  The harbor square was bustling with fish mongers and a few artisan tents were set up. Met three English speaking French men and one told me about a cafe where I could have a nice lunch.  Right in the town square a block back from the harbor, I had a goat cheese and bruschetta sandwich on a baguette.  A delicious sandwich sitting outside of the cafe with the sun at my back, I was loving it.  Local people were gathered doing the same thing. I could have hung out all afternoon.
       After over a hour of chill time, I climbed on the saddle and headed for Saint Valery-en-caux.  Nice ride, a few hills, the ocean off in the distance to my right, huge modern windmills turning, farmland surrounding me and I felt great.  Upon arriving in town, I stopped at the tourist informatio office. A bike loaded up was parked outside. Inside, I met a fellow biker going my way.  It was a breath of fresh air.  Petre Schultz, a Dane from southern Jutland, 65, just retired is doing exactly what I am doing. How cool is that! We found a cafe by the harbor and had lunch together with a celebratory beer.  We rode to a nearby campsite, checked in and set up our tents.  An apple tree was at our site where I was able pick several ripe apples.  We hit it off and will ride together tomorrow.  Forty miles ridden, feeling great and now a riding buddy to hang with.