In Montreal - wet and exhilarated! (Mr. Frei)

A feast in Montreal for Brian and Mr. Frei

Greetings, gentle reader,

We have arrived in Montreal wet and exhilarated after a 31 mile downwind run from last night's Quasi-emergency bail-out point at St. Placide. This afternoon we ran into quite a squall and were intercepted by the Canadian coast guard (three young guys in a high powered orange boat) who simply wanted to confirm that we were not in distress. They hinted that in 30 knot winds and high waves, it would be prudent to wear life jackets. Then they bid us a good day and drove off into the rain. Good guys. Our sense is that they have seen more inexplicable sights than us.

So....we are at the top of the Lachine canal and will row through Montreal tomorrow morning. The row through Ottawa was as if we were strolling through the park with the joggers, bikers, and roller-bladers, and transiting Montreal may well be the same. I hope so; one could not hope for a more relaxing way to see a city than by Adirondack guide boat.

We're holding up well. Yesterday (Tuesday) was especially tough with the wind on the nose all day, so today's change of wind was welcomed and appreciated. Last night Brian rolled out of his boat onto a pitching dock as if he was taking the ball in off tackle from the two.  I signaled "touchdown" to an amused couple on the dock. We were tired.

Tomorrow we should be in the St Lawrence, enjoying a strong current and dodging the ocean-going ships that ply those waters. We'll hug the shore and use our wits and wiles to make good time safely.

I am in Brian's debt for being able to use his Internet machine...as well as for his wonderful contributions to the blog. And, truth be told, he brings a kind of refinement to the journey that I might not have been inclined to seek were I alone. As I write this, we dine at la strada, a white table cloth italian restaurant across from the park. We can see out tent homes across the street. 

I'll be in mine soon, wet and satisfied with a good day, with garlic on my breath.

Mo Latah.

Thanks for moving the pledge paddles. They are moving, right???

Big ups,

Mr Frei