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This sleeping in is getting to be a habit. Even though we left the truck hooked up last night we still did not get away until 11:00 AM. Partly cloudy when we set out but before long sunny and clear skies as far as the eye can see and at times it seems you could see forever. We went into Terrace Bay and hit the shell station for a fill up. The truck in front of us was a bell and he took forever to fill and pay. On the other side of the pumps a group of 14 motorcycles came - got all filled and most paid before the Bell truck moved out of our way. Immediately after leaving the gas station the road got more spectacular. Higher climbs, steeper drops (some at 7%), more switchbacks, harsher rocks, greater views. This continued on to Nipigon where it leveled out basically into Thunder Bay. At Nipigon we drove through the town rather than take the bypass but still came back to the highway to eat lunch. Small gas station lunch bar but good food, just us one table of locals and an OPP officer. Mary had Minestrone Soup and a Toasted Chicken Salad Sandwich and I had Cream of Mushroom soup (Thick and delicious) and a toasted western Good and cheap. The waitress was friendly, helped us plan the next leg of the trip and decide on a campground. On her recommendation we next hit an amethyst mine. Toured their gift shop and then wen to their mine pit and picked up likely stones. I smashed them with rocks to try and get good small pieces (cost was to be $2.00 per pound). I also smashed my finger - which was free including the bandage. Mary bought replacement earrings set number 2. The two daughters and the mother were friendly, pleasant and helpful. As we were leaving, and they were asking us about our trip I mentioned something about staying together for 6 weeks. After we got out the door the one daughter ran after us and presented us with a polished amethyst each as an amulet to insure we stayed together for the trip. After we left this small family mine we decided to visit the highly advertised mine. Bad decision. The road was long from the highway to the mine, steep, dirt, narrow switchbacks, and big ruts quite a challenge for the truck and 5vr. When we reached the top there was an admission charge (we avoided that) and everything in the gift shop was an exorbitant price. We did not stay or tour their mine. On to the KOA in Thunder Bay, Nice open grassy level spot just off of the highway but pleasant owner and good site. We set up and then went into town to the Finnish section and had dinner at the Hotto restaurant. Excellent meal I had Salmon (salt fish) and Mary had Finnish Sausage - meal came complete from Soup to desert and total bill including $3.00 tip was less than $27.00. After supper we found the hospital and visited my sister's cousin Carol Holmes. Not in great shape. Has resigned herself to a life of being cared for by others. I spent a good hour with her while Mary stayed in the car (SARS rules are one visitor only) Left when visiting hours were over. Carol is having a small operation tomorrow which has her worried - I may try and drop in tomorrow night to see that she is OK. Left there and went to Walmart for some necessities including a pillow and a set of pillowcases. Also bought a set of propane canisters as ones I have are getting low. Mary tried during the evening phoning her Ringette Buddy George. No answer but she left a message. By the time we got back to the trailer he had been to visit and gone but left note with work number Mary will phone tomorrow.
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