HURRAH...someone has lent us a computer!

We have been going for 5 days now and have cycled about 160 miles; Charlie and Dan, our first crew headed back to the Uk yesterday. They were fantastic to have on board and had the caravan ready and waiting when we  arrived back each night. The weather has been hot and sunny and we have developed the habit of a mid cycle beer....rocket fuel !!!! Our route so far has taken us from Calais, down to Licques across to Aire sur la Lys, then to Violaines near La Basse, Marchienne and now a really lovely, friendly village called Semeries. For the last two days, Sal has taken the caravan to the next site and then cycled back to meet me. Its working well but I look forward to Rob arriving so we can cycle together again.
Not too many near misses but one or two. We have both started off on the wrong side of the road, and today I cycled down the slip road to the A2 autoroute thinking the exit I wanted was on the way. I had a very red face on the way back up!!! Im going to try and put some photos up but am on a french computer and everything is upside down and the wrong way round. Internet is def at the next camp in Chimay tomorrow night. Don:t give up on us !!!!

Internet Problems

Hello! We are in La Basse which is South East of Lille. Everything is great and the weather is fab. Unfortunately we are struggling with the internet connection so this is just a short message. Pics will go up soon.

Lots of love Mary Ann and Sally (by proxy!)

We've done our first 20 miles !

Sal seems to be fine. Charlie and Dan drove us to the centre of Calais and we had a wonderful couple of hours finding Liques mostly along a canal. Sunshine all the way (sorry Andrew!) and a cold beer at the end. We did have to negotiate one very long , fairly steep hill that seemed never ending but we flew down the other side ! (I didn't use my brakes once Bruce!!!) Photos tomorrow...we have arrived at a great camp site but now need to plan tomorrow and get to bed.

Oh No! Sally's poorly.

With just 2 1/2 days to go, Sal is in bed with acute tonsillitis and no voice. She also fell over in the farm yard last week and her hand is very puffy. GET WELL soon Sal...I need you. xxx  

Count Down to departure

This time next week I will be staying at the Howells. Sal will vote in the morning and then Charlie Howell and his friend Ben will drive us to Dover where we will catch the ferry to Calais. THEN we will be on our own!!! Sal and I will cycle the canal route to Liques.....about 18 miles. A nice gentle starter ride.

Our home for the next two months! We need a name..any suggestions?

Thankyou Bruce and Rob

You've been stars! We know that you have both had to take VERY deep breaths at times but we really appreciate your support, help and  financial input (!!!!)   We'll try our best to make you proud xxx