Day 98 August 12, 2011 Dryden to Bee Lake 71km – Mike’s View

We were up early and ready to go, when we went to pull in the extensions on our RV and they refused to slide in.  The battery was dead.  The RV has 2 batteries, the first to start the engine and the second to start the generator and run the lights and electrics for the house.  It was the second battery that was dead.  We could start the engine, but could not drive away with the extensions out and the steps down.

CAA arrived about 45 minutes later, and was able to jump that battery to the point that we could get our generator started. 

We decided to run the generator all day as to charge the battery.  The back-up plan was that if the generator died, I was to lock the door to the RV immediately to stop Riley from entering that way, which would release the stairs automatically, but then they would not retract again with a dead battery.  He would stay outside all day until he finished, and then he would enter through a window.  Luckily, this did not happen, and the day went as planned.

The day was clear and sunny with perfect running temperature!

Riley stopped on the side of the road and pointed out a large Buck sitting next to some large rocks in a farm enclosure.  The enclosure had fences all the way around and were at least 7ft. high.  I had come to the conclusion that the Buck lived there, however, he quickly proved me wrong by wandering over towards the far fence then effortlessly leaping the tall fence.

This morning’s 2-hour delay caused a newfound energy and efficiency in Riley's running and breaks.  We both wanted to reach the end of the day as soon as possible so that we could enjoy the time at Riley's cabin that evening.

On Riley's 50km break, Mike from Dryden stopped in and said hello.  He wanted to see how we were doing, as well as the inside of the Mobile Command Centre.  He quickly noticed our large garbage bag full of water bottles and offered to take our garbage and recycling.  This was an offer we could not refuse, as the amount of recycling we had was starting to take up valuable space in the MCC.  Thanks Mike.

I finished listening to my audiobook an enjoyable book about the secret operation of the US Navy Seals.

The end of the day arrived as we pulled into a beautiful pull-off, between 2 lakes.  Riley stretched, then we drove 57kms into Kenora, where we parked the RV and were met by Riley's very eager and excited girlfriend, Sarah.  

We arrived at the island, shortly after 8pm, where we ate dinner and then went straight to bed.