6:00 a.m.—Not exactly the start I planned, but when the mind stirs, the body follows. After a quiet breakfast, it was time for last-minute packing. Essentials like my CPAP machine, laptop, toothpaste, and a handful of medications made their way into my travel gear.

8:40 a.m.—Wheels rolling and spirits high. The drive to Lucknow was smooth and uneventful. I made a spontaneous reroute. That detour turned into a meaningful moment, taking me past the home where I spent formative years in the 1950s and 60s. A brief nostalgic cruise through town set the tone for the day.

I met up with Evans and Barb, who warmly invited me to lunch, joined by Barb’s twin sister Beverly. The conversation flowed easily, and the meal was a lovely interlude. All too soon, though, lunch ended and it was time to continue north.

The drive to Tobermory was scenic and serene—a peaceful progression up the Bruce Peninsula. As part of my slower-paced philosophy, I kept the cruise control steady and precise. Interestingly, I may have been the only one committed to the speed limit, as everything from compact cars to a school bus confidently overtook me.

Arrival: 4:30 p.m.—Tobermory greeted me with charm and calm. I spent some time getting acquainted with the town and fine-tuning the setup in the Escape to maximize comfort and functionality.

Dinner was a modest affair at a local pub—a basic burger with slow service, but enough to satisfy.

Tomorrow starts early with a ferry line up before 7:45 a.m. Tonight’s goal: a restful sleep, ready to greet whatever Day 2 brings.

As the day wound down, I found rest for the night in the Escape, parked quietly behind the United Church. With the minister’s kind approval—granted through a quick email exchange—it became a peaceful spot to recharge.

Daily stats: 336.7 km traveled, fuel efficiency holding at 7.0 L/100km.