LEAVING NEWFOUNDLAND ☹

What was supposed to be an overcast, rainy day dawned bright and beautiful as Fury and I bade farewell to our newfound friends.  I didn’t need to be at the ferry until 3 p.m. and it was only a 2-hour ride, so I slept in a bit and then had breakfast with Heather.   Afterwards, Heather and Junior took me down a little trail behind their house to see “the pond”.  Fox trotted along with us to make sure we didn’t get lost.  The trail is short and ends in a lovely little lake where the cares of the world would melt away in an instant. 
 
With this idyllic scene in mind, I finished loading up Fury and said goodbye to my amazing hosts.  The run to Argentia for the ferry was uneventful.  I took advantage of having lots of time to top up Fury’s tank before heading onto the ferry with the hope that I can dart out of the worst of the traffic off the ferry tomorrow morning by not having to stop for fuel.  There were only 3 other bikes on the ferry – all from Ontario!  Had a bit of a chat with the other riders before we were called to load up.  They load the bikes well before sailing time and give us lots of time to secure the bikes and unload our gear before they start loading cars around us.  Hoping I have secured Fury well enough from my memory of the trip to Port aux Basques, I took what I needed for the night and headed up to find my berth.  Knowing that I have a significant riding day ahead of me when I get off in the morning, I thought it best to be well-rested.  There were only 4-berth cabins left when I booked over a month ago, but it will be well worth it.  I suppose I probably could have sold at least one of my beds to other travellers, but I’m happy to be on my own.  I even have my own little bathroom and the beds up top can be folded against the wall for easier navigation in the room. 
 
There are 5 vehicle decks on this boat, then the passenger deck with restaurants, bar, leisure areas, and gift shop, then 4 decks of cabins and 1 for kennels.  It is a huge boat and I wandered it for a bit before the buffet restaurant opened for supper.  I might have actually eaten my money’s worth for once, not having stopped for lunch on my way down.  I met some folks in line while waiting and had a wee chat, which reminded me I didn’t have blog cards on me.  I went back to my “room” to get some.   At dinner, I was seated at a small table beside Dora and Ruby.  We had a grand time chatting!   One thing can be said for a trip like this – where you have pretty much ignored the news and opened your heart – it restores your faith in humanity.   I have met so many great people. 
 
I will do my best to retire early tonight.  After all, there’s not a heck of a lot to do but sleep.  Then off the boat in Nova Scotia to make my way to the RCMP detachment that has my purse.  Then on to Prince Edward Island for more exploration!