I'm pleased to report that Indiana June and her support crew
have almost recovered from the launch party last night - thanks to
lashings of eggs benedict, gallons of ginger ale and a few deep
breaths of crisp Dublin air.
The night built up slowly, starting with a vote for my new theme
song. Bicycle by Queen scored the loudest cheer but was quickly
shown up by an impromptu comedy song by two new friends, wearing
red and blue velvet jackets. Think: Flight of the concords meets
Calgary surfer and Wicklow mountaineer! The lyrics involved a lot
of crisp-talk and a strong desire for me to cycle to Tokyo, pure
class.
Next up, was the big announcement of what Indiana June's first
destination would be. We crossed live to New Zealand to Trevor
Loader (web design guru) who revealed 4th place was Cape Clear, 3rd
was Bundoran, a close 2nd was Lisdoonvara and the winner... drum
roll please..... Killorglin, County Kerry to see the crowning of a
goat at the 398th Puck Fair.
Jodie the expert cake baker then presented me with a near
life-size chocolate cake of myself on a bike. It felt a little odd
chopping off a piece of my own butt, but I couldn't resist the
butter icing. We dove into the cake, boxerchips and all the beer we
could handle, great training for the ride ahead. While it was
tough to say farewell to so many great friends the beckoning
adventure made sure butterflies were never far from my stomach the
entire evening.
I've packed the panniers and I better sign off to go and enjoy a
final Dublin supper in Portobello, hearty shepherds pie care of
suey. Sister Roz has arrived in Dublin to cycle the first couple of
days. Tomorrow night we're staying in a B&B in Newbridge with
an old lady who says 'Hunky Dory' far too often. Can't wait.