Training begins

We have overcome the emotional challenge of leaving Ian at Cornell.  It was harder than we thought it would be, especially since he has no people there.  At least Erin has my mom right down the subway line in Toronto.

Anyhow, after we left New York state yesterday, we headed up for a little getaway and training in Ontario.  We were held up by a line of thunderstorms, then had to fly around a bit avoiding another line, but finally made it to the Niagara Regional airport. We put on our packs, covering them with pack covers due to the threatening sky, and headed off for the Prince of Wales Hotel in Niagara-on-the-Lake, 10 miles away.  The walk wasn't terribly challenging, as the route is dead flat, but it was hot and sunny trekking along the lines and concessions between the fields of grapes. (it is wine country here) By the time we reached the trail along the Niagara River, the clouds were gathering and we started to hear thunder.  The last half hour into town was a torrential downpour.  We were soaked in seconds, but it felt great after sweating it out through the fields.  People huddled under trees and awnings seemed a bit confused by us happily strolling along in the monsoon. I'm not sure what the staff at the hotel thought of us dripping all over their beautiful parquet floors.

The pack covers performed perfectly and will definitely be coming with us to England.  My pack might be a bit small.  I'll try Erin's slightly larger one when we get home. After feeling tired and having a bit of hip soreness right after the walk, I'm happy today to be feeling great and not sore at all. 

After our day of rest wandering around town, we head out tomorrow for another training walk to Niagara Falls, 13 miles away with the added challenge of climbing the Niagara escarpment at Queenston Heights!