A break from the bikes ...

The last two days have been a welcomed respite from cycling! The ride from Ijsselstein to Sint Michielgestel was the longest - and wettest - of week 1. We're guessing somewhere close to 70km. Until we reached Den Bosch, our route was simple follow the National bike route LF7. From Den Bosch to Gestel we followed the red bike paths. Easy - peasy!

We were reminded that "it's a small world after all" as we crossed on a bicycle ferry at Heusden. Another couple on dutch bikes out for a day trip noticed that J's panniers were from
MEC. That started the conversation. Turns out that they are from Calgary and visiting family in Holland. The small world comes in when we discover that her sister owns Baan Thai restaurant in Victoria and that her niece and Anil have gone to school together since Kindergarten!

The last two days have been spent with Ben & Jeanne (Jäger) at their home in Gestel. It's been a wonderful time. We drove to visit their new "country" home in Nettetal, Germany but most of all enjoyed the company and the conversation. We hope that we can return the hospitality soon!

Today it's another short ride day to meet up with cousins in Mariahout. First though it's a ride through the town where mom (Anna) grew up and some picture taking.

Tot ziens ...