Ottawa to St. Jerome

The riders got off at the usual time.  Margie Lee and Steve tried hard to meet them along the way but those guys are too fast and it was hard to determine their exact route.  At our end, Gail came to the hotel to help me get loaded up.  Then John and Autumn took Olin to the park while Gail and I went shopping.  We were  down on everything it seemed.  Eventually hit the road with the Hoppers following.  We took the ferry across at Cumberland.  Olin had not realized that the car was going too!  He was gobsmacked on the crossing!  Our drive on the Quebec side took us through pretty countryside and small towns with lots of chip stands.  We resisted the temptation.  It seems that the riders didn't !  Picnic lunch was enjoyed before the raindrops fell.  Olin and I took the fast route to St. Jerome.  He fell asleep along the way after a busy time spent with his cousin, Autumn.  At the Super 8 we found a pool with a slide, and even better, another five year-old boy!  Gordon and Ward soon joined us, followed by our new crew, Marlie andTom.  It was so good to see them.  Marlie and I were required to make a trip to the SAQ (liquor store).  Our sommelier had let us down on the very first night!!  But we girls managed and even got a tour of the downtown as a result.   Returned to find all the men ensconced in Tom's room watching world soccer.  Tough life after a long day.  Dinner was at Villa d'Este.  Olin was intrigued with the decorations--armor, a wine cave, swords and shields.  Our long-time friend, Kathy, had arranged this restaurant for us.  She soon joined us but only ate dessert before driving back to her home in MorinHeights.  It was great to see her to catch up and reminisce.  Oh yes, Iforgot to mention that we had phone calls from Heln and Andrew!  So nice to have the support.