Vacation Boot Camp

 Our first outing in Cape Breton was to the Highland National Park up in the northern part of the island.  We were vacationing with friends and all of us brought bicycles, so we decided to take a ride in the park.  Some of us probably envisioned a quiet leisurely ride on a nice shaded level road with breaks along the way to enjoy the views, or have lunch, or an ice cream...  some of us, I might add, had never vacationed with my husband before.

I've actually recommended our vacations as fitness programs in the past.  

This particular road seemed to be uphill both ways.  I always thought that was a silly cliche, but now that I've actually experienced it, I have more respect.  Our breaks were less to admire the views, and more to check pulses and let our hearts settle back into our chests...

Rick, of course, remained cool throughout.

 Gus was a trouper.  At six years old, he biked  the entire 13 km of hills.  I have to say though, he did get a bit warm--as evidenced by the hairdo.

Rachel grinning and bearing it!

Lydia turning an alarming shade of red as she does under exertion.

Moriah, as quietly determined as ever.

              And at the end of the road, we didn't find a restaurant for lunch, or an ice cream stand, but this  waterfall to cool the feet, and shade to rest in, and that seemed like reward enough.

Rachel and her good friend E. relaxing at the waterfall.

And with the promise of finding food and ice cream Somewhere, the kids all turned around and did the hills again.