Yesterday morning I left Niagara Falls, where I stayed with one of the most accommodating hosts yet, Bill. Despite living in a tiny, one-bedroom apartment, he made it work well. The falls were nice, but a bit too touristy for me, so I didn’t spend a whole lot of time there. I enjoyed my little private spot, where I could gaze down the canyon to the river below and see the mist rising from the falls, more than being right at the falls.

No real problems getting across the border, which is fantastic considering my track record. The guy asked me a bunch of questions, and I was completely honest again, but this time it worked and I passed through with no special treatment. Getting out of the Niagara Falls area found me on some really busy roads with scarcely a shoulder, save some big, rough gravel. Several kilometers later and I was on local highways amid vast farmland.

I was fortunate to receive some free plums and peaches from a woman at a roadside farm stand, and a while later I picked an ear of corn from a farm on the side of the road. I decided I was going to try to get through Canada without spending any money. Unfortunately that didn’t last long, as the produce stands became nonexistent the rest of the day. I had to stop at a dollar store to pick up some macaroni and saltines.

I camped last night for free at a campground on a lake. It was beautiful, and there were some friendly seasonals there who shared their fire and a few cookies. I was glad to have company and conversation. The night was chilly, but I stayed warm in my hammock with my rainfly on. It does a lot to insulate. The campsite wasn’t actually free, but I arrived after the ranger left last night, so I had to get out before 8 am this morning. I awoke at six just to be sure. I figured it was worth it to not pay. Actually, I couldn’t have really payed anyway, as I only have a few Canadian dollars- some coins left over from a previous trip. I didn’t exchange any money at the border because I don’t have much left, and I didn’t want to waste any in exchange rates and fees. So I’m trying to get by this whole time with only $5.50 Canadian. I have 2.48 left. I think I can make it, as I should pass into Michigan early tomorrow.

The rain has disappeared without a trace and left hot, cloudless skies. I don’t mind. Passing nothing but farmland for endless kilometers can be therapeutic, and people have been really friendly. Doing longer days has also been good for me mentally. It really helps me clear my mind.

I’m hoping tonight that I will be able to find someone to stay with. I could use a shower and a good meal. I’m not holding an expectations, though. As long as I stay warm, I’ll be fine. Now I need to get some work done and hit the road again.