Happy Canada Day

Well, it’s now official. I have spent a Canada Day on Parliament Hill. For what it’s worth, I wouldn’t say that going to Ottawa for Canada Day was on my list of “Things To Do Before You Die” – probably because I don’t have such a list. I’d heard a lot of things about it – both positive and negative. I have to say, I enjoyed the day. It was a long day. But a good one.

The shuttle (ie. school bus) left the campsite shortly after 10:00 and by 10:30 I was wandering through a sea of people (well, a small sea at this point) around Parliament Hill.

In contrast to cycling days, I decided I should start the day with some food (yes, I know – it’s supposed to be the other way around). Anyway, I wandered over to Major’s Hill and enjoyed a “grilled chicken sandwich at the 22nd annual Great Canadian Chicken BBQ!”. I’m not exactly sure how it happened but when I bought my food ticket I gave one person the money and another person gave me two tickets. I figured it was some funky system and didn’t think anything of it until I gave my TWO tickets to the folks handing out the food and received two sandwiches. Given how little I’d eaten lately I just took the sandwiches and ran (okay, walked away casually would be more accurate).

After exploring Major’s Hill for a bit I wandered back towards to Parliament Hill but got sidetracked by the Rideau Canal Locks. Simply put, the Locks are very cool. I think I need to get a boat just to go through them at least once.

By the time I finally reached Parliament Hill most of the early show was over which meant I ended up seeing pretty much exactly what I saw yesterday during the sound check. I’m not complaining – it was entertaining the second time as well. The storm clouds were rolling in near the end of the show but the rain held off until the show ended and all the VIPs had finished shaking hands with some of the masses. I guess I could’ve gone over to shake Steve’s hand but, then again, I couldn’t come up with a reason why I would want to do that. So, with the early show over the crowds moved out into the streets again – although plenty just stayed where they were. And then rain came. And then the rain REALLY came. And then the rain REALLY REALLY came. It was pretty impressive. There was really no shelter to be found so people just accepted it for what it was – and really, it was pretty refreshing. It was over in about 5 minutes at which point the sun came out and it was like the rain never happened.

So with the sun returning to do its thing, I did a little bit of a wander around and thought I should probably get something to eat – and that something was my first ever poutine. I know, I know. How have I never had poutine? I have no answer. Anyway, with no shortage of options I took the plunge and ordered (and devoured) a very tasty coronary in a box. My caloric intake for the day would definitely help offset the lack of such caloric intake of the previous days. By 4:30, I had eaten the previously mentioned 2 grilled chicken sandwiches, my first ever poutine, a sausage on a bun, and a slice of pizza. By 7:30pm you could add a burger, fries and a beer to the list.

At this point I had pretty much had enough of wandering around but with my return shuttle to campsite still several hours away I had time to fill. I ended up finding a tree to sit up against and just people watch. My spot was next to a guitar playing busker (it was some funky guitar) which was rather entertaining. Although, after sitting too long I suspect my tailbone might not be happy with me tomorrow.

So, all that was left for the day was the closing show and the fireworks. Once again, I missed the beginning of the show (I was having dinner) but probably saw the last 35 minutes – and despite not knowing any of the musical performances they were all good – although, while watching the show I thought that I really need to learn French!

All in all I’d say my first rest day was a good one and much needed. I won’t go into details but lets just say 460km on a bicycle seat over 4 days isn’t entirely comfortable (and that 50km bumpy trail didn’t help!). Although, I think I’m more sore today from the ride into Ottawa on the school bus. And sitting against that tree didn’t help either. We’ll see how I feel in the morning.