Day 42

June 23 - 0km (Newport)

While, yes, the detour was enabling me to escape the smoke of the wildfires, the deeper reason of my journey into central Maine was to see Sandy and Stan, my family friends. Sandy had been my babysitter in Presque Isle (where I was born) and was part of the happiest memories of my life. Along with the other kids she looked after - Grant, Jordan and Zoe - we had some great adventures! Everyone tells me I was a very naughty child, but I have no idea what they’re talking about.

Unfortunately, when I moved to Canada, I lost contact with Sandy and Stan. I felt guilty about that, and when seeing how close Maine was to New Brunswick, it felt like the logical move to reconnect with Sandy and Stan. I wanted this bike trip to be an endeavour in personal growth, and being that one of my flaws has always been communication with loved ones, seeing Sandy and Stan was one of the best decisions I made on this journey.