If you remember the phrase, “Scotty, beam me up”, then you’ll appreciate the photo attached.  This Princess (image has been modified to protect the identity of the hill-climbing-adverse rider), is requesting an air transport up the next hill.  At some point in the day, I believe I heard her say “Gosh, golly, gee Colleen, not another hill!”.

Today was epic for the Princesses in terms of elevation gain in one ride.  We neared 1300m in 82km.  For those of you unfamiliar, Scott Lake Hill (not related to the ‘Scotty’ comment above) midway between Calgary and Canmore – is 1410m – above sea level.  We began with a 20km (sorry Sue, 21.1km) climb to Apex Ranch, then down to the HWY 3 intersection, and up to the Yellow Lake rest stop for lunch.  In actual fact, most of our elevation gain was completed before lunch… so I guess I should say that we probably had 1000m accomplished in 40km and the remaining 300m after.

After lunch and much deliberation (ok, I made an executive decision) we headed back toward Penticton via Twin Lake Rd, White Lake Rd past the Geophysical Research Station, and down into O.K. Falls.  The Princesses all raved about this ride… even Princess “beam me up”.  I had forgotten how beautiful it is along that road and look forward to the next ride there. Truly breath-taking.

Wednesday’s are “dinner out” nights for the Princesses.  This is the one opportunity through the week for the Princesses to escape the confines of the castle and order what they like for dinner, stay out late, be a little crazy… you know, kick up their heels a bit.  To our amazement, they were peering in the back deck doors asking to come back in at 7:00!  Evidently the pub they chose for dinner and to catch the hockey game was booked for a huge lip-syncing competition.  Who knew?  Penticton is a pretty wild place.

Tomorrow is optional ride day – but I think all are in for a spin down to Naramata.  Another lovely little cruise.  But first – sleep.  The first Princess just checked-out (it’s 8:05pm).

LiveSplendidly!