Day 2 - Abbotsford to Hope, BC

Today was a day filled with connections with my childhood and family. Unfortunately I took very few pictures as I was in the moment. The early part of the day took me through the Sumas Prairie farmlands where I did alot of biking as a teenager. The familiar smells of farm country have a certain comfort for me.

I rode Past my childhood home and I was flooded with memories all over the place. Of course nothing is quite the same anymore and there is a new generation of kids in the hood - many of which are the grandkids of those who stayed.

Onwards to Chilliwack where I plan to connect up with my husband again and have lunch with my parents. On route to my parent's house I have some unexpected opportunities to connect with several of my cousins and aunties. It was so good to see them and to feel supported as I head out on this adventure. I may even have a place to stop by for a visit in southern Alberta when I get there - the thought of being welcomed in Alberta gives me something to look forward to.

It was great to have the chance to visit with my parents as I start out on this journey. My mom gave me two pairs of my late grandmother’s knitted wool socks and told me to zip up my jacket as I left.

Onwards to Hope, I pass the Seabird Island First Nations community. I recall the words an Elder from the community who shared with me that Ojibway author, Richard Wagamese speaks of the wisdom in the wind. I welcome and will be listening for this wisdom.

As I get to Hope, I come across my first bakery - heaven!! So many yummy carbs (exactly what I need for fuel). How my perspective on food has changed! I must fuel the machine…and get this…I can eat as much as I want on riding days. The tank empties very quickly on the bike.

I get to Hope and my lovely husband awaits my arrival. I was going to test my tent equipment, but decide that with the rain, there is no need to suffer. Tomorrow is Manning Park. It’s the part of the ride I’ve been most worried about so far. Best to get a good sleep tonight.

Day 2 - May 15, 2026

Start time: 7:00 am

Stop time: 4:40 pm

KM travelled: 96 km

Special Stuff: Family