Day 5 Part 3

28/5/2013

Yesterday ended up being the longest day and also the toughest. It's strange, because when you map out the routes you have an idea of what days will be hard and which will be relatively easy. However, the weather can completely change any preconceptions you have. With the southerly wind yesterday it was pure evil from the top of Shap down to Kendal. I had a hot chocolate, an Americano with plenty of sugar and a slice of cappuccino cake in Cafe Nero. I could quite happily just stayed there...
Once I managed to get back on the bike, it was a bit more enjoyable, but not much quicker. I eventually got into the hotel at about 9.30. Too late for food :-S
However, the receptionist was lovely and phoned up the local pizza place and ordered me a large Meat Feast and a bottle of full fat coke. We also had a chat about my challenge so far, which put me in a much better frame of mind than earlier in the day!
Day 6 sees me heading to Mom's house, where it sounds like a nice welcome gathering is to be expected. Onwards and downwards :-D

6 Comments

Alan link

28/5/2013 01:58:47 am

I'm sure your mum will be glad to see you Stuart. Well done! . . and keep peddling!

Stuart

29/5/2013 01:24:24 am

I had a welcoming party when I arrived at my Moms house :-)
As I was coming down the hill towards her house, I could see everyone outside waiting for me. It was really lovely.
Tonight I get to see my wife, kids, my wifes father and step mom when I arrive in Cheddar. I am also going to meet a good friend about 15 miles in to my ride today in Worcester. Could be an emotional day .

Mark Langford

28/5/2013 04:15:32 am

As I've said before Stuart, I don't know you but 2 of us are setting out from JOG on 9th June, I'm finding your blog insightful and inspiring.
You're doing a fantastic job and keep those legs spinning mate!

29/5/2013 01:30:51 am

Hi Mark, I'm glad that you are liking the blog. I must admit that when I have got into my hotel a few times, I have just wanted to sleep so have had to blog in the morning! The wind is the hardest part, coping with the rain is fine, once you are wet you just keep going, but the wind saps the energy.
My first three days up in Scotland were true inspiring and I wish I could spend the whole time just touring the first "big" days route as the coast was beautiful. I hope that you get the same weather as I did up in Scotland. Maybe not the same as I have had in England though! It must be nearly time for you to rest up those legs from training!

Alka

28/5/2013 05:23:28 pm

My husband and 2 friends are a day behind you doing JOGLE, hoping to finish at Land's End on Friday. They are going through the same weather issues as you and although I think your route is slightly different for the last two days I will look out for you on Thursday and Friday to give you a hot cuppa!
Keep pedalling!

Suart

29/5/2013 01:35:09 am

Hi Alka, t was beautiful up in Scotland, but as soon as I started off in Gretna and went over he border the weather completley changed :-(
The sad thing about that is that I have not taken many photos as I have been too worried to start opening my bag with thte torrential rain.
I hope your husband and friends are doing well and enjoying the challenge, despite the wind and rain!

My routes on the website are not exact, I have tweeked them slightly and also might make changes on the day if I think a road looks too busy.

Take care, Stuart

Day 5 Part 3

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