Boy is it a drag to be leaving Prince George. Our team is closer than ever, and one day closer to being a full team, not just “Sierras.” We started off our morning with a nice sleep in (8 am!) and left the rec center spotless at about 10 am to meet up with Dorrie at the bike shop. After picking up our bikes, and doing our ride dedications, we said our final goodbyes to our hosts for Sierra’s last rest day until we meet up with the Rockies. The ride itself was really nice, the sun was shining but not too overwhelmingly hot. The hills were nice and gradual, and the wind was definitely manageable. About 30 miles in, we stopped at a local bar/grill where Dorrie had arranged for a hot lunch before we got to Vanderhoof. The meal was excellent—a beef and barley soup with vegetables and a biscuit on the side (also all the fruit and juice you can stomach!). Alas, we headed back on the road—30 miles left and I lead a paceline to our next rest stop. We averaged about 17 mph this stretch and it felt good. Waking up this morning, I had slight pain in my knee (I definitely feel it now), but while I was on the bike, I felt good and solid… just need to watch my cadence (pedals per minute—I want to keep a high cadence). When we arrived in Vanderhoof we were surprised with a dinner prepared for us by some members of the congregation. It was a lasagna dinner with baked beans, tossed salad, garlic bread, and a delicious assortment of desserts. Not to mention, they had some of the BEST beverages prepared for us. It was definitely a pleasant surprise because in our travel binder full of notes, there was no mention of a dinner prepared. After dinner, we headed to the local arena (Canadians are bigger on hockey more than anything... their arenas are as widespread as gyms are in the US) for some hot showers. After getting back, I cleaned my bike and spent some silly time with the teammates just chatting and relaxing while we still can. I think we’re starting to appreciate the time that we have left together—and it’s exciting to see us all mesh so well. It’s starting to get late, and we need to rise early (I think we have an 80-90 miler tomorrow). Until next time… take care and God bless you guys. Thank you for your continued support!