Tales from the O.C.: Fry Guys Rally '09

Sunday’s weather wasn’t going to be much different than Saturday’s. But while it didn’t rain, I don’t think the temperature moved into double digits all day. And just like yesterday, the plans for a group ride fizzled. We started the morning by having another family breakfast, this time consisting of the classic B&E (bacon and eggs). Later in the morning we all said goodbye to Kim and Mike who decided that two nights away from home was enough for Jolene. Plus, Jolene wasn't ready yet to experience a full-blown fireworks show that was going to happen at night.

Just before noon we decide to go for a family ride despite the cold weather. All that meant was that we had to wear an extra layer or two. As some of you know, it was exactly one year ago that Heather and I became engaged in the nearby Wilno. Jim decided that we’d go to Wilno through some back roads, then to Barry’s Bay, then back to the lodge. We also thought that it’d be a good idea to take a short cut to Wilno from Quadeville. It turned out to be less than a good idea as the road was a little rough and full of potholes. I even managed hit a deep one that sent me flying up but I managed to keep everything upright. I didn’t like the road but I was focused on doing my best until we hit smoother trails.

After almost an hour, we finally arrived in Wilno. And just like last year, we went to the Wilno Tavern. Unlike last year, we were accompanied by Sandy on today’s trip. At the tavern, Jim selected the Polish buffet, while everyone else chose entrees from the regular menu.

Then as we were about to leave, I encountered another problem. After a couple of unsuccessful attempts at starting my bike, all electricity was lost. Jim quickly traced the problem to the battery and after taking off the seat, he discovered that the wires were loosely attached to the battery. I figured it was either poor maintenance on my part or riding through potholes that caused the problem. Somehow, adventure always seems to find me. Anyways, Jim quickly tightened the screws, re-attached the seat and we were back on the road to Barry’s Bay.

At Barry’s Bay we stopped for gas to be ready for tomorrow’s ride home and also stopped by the historic water tower which is only one of two such wooden structures still standing in Ontario. I’m still researching the location of the second one.

At the water tower in Barry's Bay

When we got back to the lodge, we again tried to pass some time by staying warm before supper which again was great. There was another hour or two of downtime after supper before the fireworks display was set to begin.

The fireworks are usually split in two spots: on the beach and on the adjacent dock. Each location was handled by a team of two.