We're on the way, we're on the way...

...on the way to Opa's house!

We had a great pit stop at Raleigh Falls for a picnic lunch. It was just off the highway and provided a short hike after eating as well as a lovely, if loud, view while we ate right beside the falls. Both kids are remarkably good travellers, but a three year-old boy definitely needs a lot of running around to keep him cheerful on long trips. So every time we stop, we have a hike or exploring session. Fi just needs lots of books and conversation to keep her happy on the road. She thrives on discussions in the car.

It took what felt like forever to finally find our hotel in Thunder Bay as we took the looong way around to it. But, on the bright side, we found Kakabeka Falls, where we will be camping on the way home. By the time we were all checked in everyone was cranky and hungry.

My DH sent me out for a run while he sat with the not-so-settled Sprouts who were supposed to be going to sleep. Honestly, who can blame them for being just a bit wired on the first day of our Grand Summer Adventure? So, when I got back from exploring Thunder Bay's downtown on foot they were still wiggling under their blankets. I think that I was asleep before Fiona.

Today we got an early start, which was great because it was a long driving day! The drive around Superior is always the most beautiful part of the trip. It is also the most exhausting. Not very much fun to feel the need to get nine hours of driving done, while there are so many interesting places to stop and explore in this region that tempt us off the road. We have started a list of the places we want to stop and swim or hike on our way home. Thankfully on that part of the trip our timeline is much more relaxed.

After today we recommend Old Woman Bay as a great place to stop and enjoy the beach. It is in the northern half of Lake Superior Provincial Park. The beach has lovely sand and there are lots of smooth pebbles for throwing in the water. The water is a bit chilly, but we were able to have a good wade today. There are many spots to hike or enjoy the water in Lake Superior Provincial Park. It would take many trips, or camping here for a week or more, to enjoy them all.

Each time we drive through the city, we remember that we would like to explore more of Sault Ste. Marie. We have only driven through in a hurry, four times now, but never had time to stay and enjoy the sites. LK wants to see the locks, I want to wander downtown, and the Sprouts will love any park or destination with something new and interesting. If there are big machines, Jo is in heaven.

So, tomorrow is on to South Baymouth. And then Friday morning we ride the Chichimon. Fi has been telling Jo about the big boat we will ride. They are both very excited. I am so thankful that we have the chance to travel with our kids. It is a treat to get to see the world fresh through their eyes. And we have a whole new appreciation for construction.

Each time we approach an area of construction, Jo goes on machine watch. He gasps, with awe in his voice, the name of each machine we pass. He quivers with anticipation as we round each curve, to see what wondrous machine will be hard at work around the bend. To think that I never noticed the wonder of construction season before!

So, our Grand Adventure has begun, and we are having a wonderful time. I look forward to many more enjoyable adventures as we wind our way around the province. Looking forward to seeing so many loved ones in the next few weeks!