03 May - Kenora, Winnipeg, Portage La Prairie

We woke up to a temperature below 0 but the sun was shining. I had to photograph the puddle behind our vehicle just to prove that we did have a good night's sleep despite the cold!

Today was mostly a day of travel at highway speeds through forest periodically meeting semi trailers. The road is paved (of course it is), but apparently has loose stones on it here and there. When meeting one semi carrying construction equipment we were startled when we heard a "crack" on our windshield. Initially we though a bug spot was the crack, but it didn't take long to realize that the crack site was at a different location and was spreading quickly in the direction of the driver's line of sight.

We were entertained by this fast moving crack for a while prompting our brains to kick into gear trying to determine our next steps. Several phone calls and a bit of online research later meant we had lined up a windshield replacement in Edmonton and knew that our insurance company would cover it minus our $500 deductible. We were not impressed with the expense but were grateful we could solve the problem as easily as we did.

Our hot drink making ritual an hour after hitting the road gave us some enjoyment.

We found a Recreation Centre in Kenora and they were happy to give us access to showers at the senior rate (still getting use to that concept) of $9 for both of us. Showers bring a new energy and lease on life!

We touched base with my niece, Maria, by FB Messenger thinking we could meet her for coffee. It didn't work out so we anticipate connecting with her on our way back.

We decided to pass right by Winnipeg and continue on to Portage La Prairie where we identified several iOverlander sites which we visited before selecting this beautiful little park beside a river and a small dam.