I’m the first one to leave this morning at 7:45. The weather forecast is grim and I know from the start that this is unfortunately going to be one of those just-get-it-done days.
By 10:00 I start to notice a stiff wind coming from the east. I am riding northeast all day, so this is far from ideal, but at least it’s not raining. The scenery is a good distraction from the headwind.
A mist begins at 10:30 and by 11:00 it’s full on rain. Letterkenny is the official lunch stop at 89 km so I’m counting down the distance until I can take a proper break. Whenever it rains, I try not to open my waterproof handlebar bag to keep its contents dry. Reaching for food is difficult when I’m trying to keep my phone from getting wet.
At one point I come upon this wee lamb limping across the road, as if its front right hoof is injured. I wish there were something I could do to help.
It feels a bit odd being in an area like this, where there is seemingly no one else around for miles.
Eventually I reach the lunch stop at 89 km and sit down to hot soup and a sandwich. It helps take the chills away, at least until I go back out. It’s always a struggle to return to the bike after getting warm. At this point there is no one else at the café from our group. They would’ve left Donegal about 45 minutes after I did.
The rain continues for the last 40 km. I have to set small goals for myself to make my progress more measurable, or I could easily let the unpleasant circumstances get to me. A goal can be as simple as getting to the top of a hill or to a certain road sign, and then I focus on it until it’s done.
I reach the hotel at 3:25 and have tea to keep warm while I wait for the van to arrive with my luggage. The rest of the riders come in over the next few hours.
Tomorrow is the last official day of the tour and the distance is much shorter. I hope we get some sun, but it doesn’t look like we will.
Lynn's Bike Ride 
Well done on choosing to make the early start and end time for another weather weary day. What a sweet pic of that little lamb and satisfying pic of that end of day cup of tea. You’re so close to the end!!
Thank you! This was a difficult day for everyone in the group. The unrelenting rain and wind is typical around here, so we’ve now had the full range of Irish weather.
I’m quite sure I said this before,but what a trooper you are! I can’t imagine having your determination but I’m loving seeing all your photos! One more day! Hold on girl! Our continued prayers are with you! Can’t wait to see you!
Thanks Brenda! Your support is much appreciated!