tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46704892725245377002024-03-05T20:50:13.831-08:00Where's GeorgeFollow George and leave comments hereGeorge McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.comBlogger33125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-6697082674708331482022-04-04T11:17:00.000-07:002022-04-04T11:17:13.739-07:00 The New Edition; "The Alternative to War," is now available in 5 formats. <p> The New Edition; "The Alternative to War," is now available in 5 formats. Hardcover and Paperback are available in either large print or regular print, plus the electronic version is available for only 99 cents. </p><p>Details at https://www.9ca.ca/alternative/</p><p><br /></p>George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-85488069597146615162019-11-06T16:57:00.001-08:002019-11-06T16:57:07.896-08:00Settled down in Forest<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I had forgotten about this blog, so I haven't posted for a while. I've been in Forest for almost a year and I will likely settle down here. No more biking across the country to promote my books. I now have a car and will travel to give talks on many subjects. I have a lot of Web Presence, so I may discontinue this blog. Let me know if you want to keep it. If there is enough interest I may keep it going.</div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-49233543653624292062018-11-06T10:19:00.001-08:002018-11-06T10:19:52.986-08:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I moved temporarily to Guelph in June and will be moving to Forest in December. I had previously lived in Forest in 1974, so it feels like I will be returning to my post. </div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-44386763572878484172018-03-04T19:30:00.001-08:002018-03-04T19:30:25.503-08:002017-2018 update.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
After a couple of trips by bicycle to Guelph I returned by bicycle as far as Stratford were I got a job as a building supervisor. I am planning to spent at least a year in Stratford and I will try selling my books on the street. If it goes well I may stay longer and maybe even locate here permanently.<br />
I am still working on my third book as well as doing research for future books. I am also working on publishing a book of my mother's short stories and a couple of projects for my wife. Look for new releases soon,<br />
My third book, Spiritual Solutions to Economic Problems, has become more challenging than expected, but that is resulting in a superior product. It is my first attempt at non-fiction and my first time working with a professional editor. The editing is taking a lot of time, but it should be perfect when done. <br />
I still dabble in graphic design and created an animation for my book website. The website is completely redesigned and can be seen at <a href="http://www.9li.ca/books.html">http://www.9li.ca/books.html</a>.<br />
</div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-72999760924307082292017-05-31T09:48:00.001-07:002017-05-31T09:48:21.179-07:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I am now back from my first trip of the year. I spent much time with old friends and new friends. My first book is now returned to the regular price although Amazon is offering a small discount at this time. I still have copies I can sell for $25.00<a href="http://www.9li.ca/" target="_blank">Click here to learn more about my books.</a></div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-10603228792951902492017-05-03T10:29:00.002-07:002017-05-03T10:29:50.544-07:00Heading out today<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I have been busy packing and trying to find things I haven't used since last year. I am heading out today. Hope to make Stratford by tonight. Guelph one day next week. </div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-48202621539928555542017-04-29T13:19:00.002-07:002017-04-29T13:19:43.704-07:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQEbJ9iVT9xZ_QXbWmPIVe72L4yUqkq5jG0dna3hnPG9MZ3bnEV33qWahu75-DKXfrzHMyFns4y_aVZs8B8XOGOKfJNheiTV9jj_6Bi7kX2iJmEWHUXRnP2dp1y7CUKmnAlzKcULLzcKM/s1600/Alt+banner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="131" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQEbJ9iVT9xZ_QXbWmPIVe72L4yUqkq5jG0dna3hnPG9MZ3bnEV33qWahu75-DKXfrzHMyFns4y_aVZs8B8XOGOKfJNheiTV9jj_6Bi7kX2iJmEWHUXRnP2dp1y7CUKmnAlzKcULLzcKM/s320/Alt+banner.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I had "THE ALTERNATIVE" at a low introductory price of $19.95 USD and had a low sale price of $10.95 for the last month, however time is running out. On May 1st 2017 the price will go up to the new regular price of $29.60 USD or about $39.60 CND. If you are looking to buy this great book, do it today before the price goes up. 63% savings. </div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-71716986432609724112017-03-28T10:18:00.000-07:002017-03-28T10:18:34.517-07:00Special price on "THE ALTERNATIVE"<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVk_oLTWcnbop8crfkluoAiJj-6uHzhcBZFv2URJ1uofR8dSpMsqEI2RY5OTNwoLABgeKSFg65YsMxKVNQ4DbyfQgVHsaVT4480zDQvtzHAsbEyCo3-M76OmxejCFMMhjpA6U-Qb-nMd8/s1600/altban.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="131" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVk_oLTWcnbop8crfkluoAiJj-6uHzhcBZFv2URJ1uofR8dSpMsqEI2RY5OTNwoLABgeKSFg65YsMxKVNQ4DbyfQgVHsaVT4480zDQvtzHAsbEyCo3-M76OmxejCFMMhjpA6U-Qb-nMd8/s320/altban.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Special Price, <br />
In Canada<br />
was $27.40 CND now $14.74 CND<br />
In USA<br />
was $19.95 USD now $10.95 USD<br />
New low price on Amazon around the world<br />
Kindle addition was $9.99 USD Now $2.99 USD<br />
<br />
Now is the best time to buy. </div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-60275240206202610232017-03-25T10:40:00.000-07:002017-03-25T10:40:10.996-07:00New look for 2017<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-3yZ6-U9bv6w_av76LsrEanAtPVNUaJKkCYNfZfITRfD_aZ1HMAYAMgppaajRqcfStOOpqWirju9ViR8GnjPjqzK1eF38G2JPB6LqssVd_Rhh8nvWFJA2pipJRJvbePijaN7ZCczBqo/s1600/DSCF4125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-3yZ6-U9bv6w_av76LsrEanAtPVNUaJKkCYNfZfITRfD_aZ1HMAYAMgppaajRqcfStOOpqWirju9ViR8GnjPjqzK1eF38G2JPB6LqssVd_Rhh8nvWFJA2pipJRJvbePijaN7ZCczBqo/s320/DSCF4125.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
2016 entering Drayton</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNeAVCK-C2ywsgk5KKAd-Okd-K84vCBQBIORkGMpY3qGSU0ADSQ8QlNFIy6V7Gzc6JyMi0Fzp3eihqWZ2ynEpCoY-qqH_zdqqSt7rvPUJEg5ViHskX_viUMGO_y_hQWHg86LrDGnX-x60/s1600/DSCF4555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNeAVCK-C2ywsgk5KKAd-Okd-K84vCBQBIORkGMpY3qGSU0ADSQ8QlNFIy6V7Gzc6JyMi0Fzp3eihqWZ2ynEpCoY-qqH_zdqqSt7rvPUJEg5ViHskX_viUMGO_y_hQWHg86LrDGnX-x60/s320/DSCF4555.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
2017 on Wellington Street in London.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I have made some changes to my trailer. The old banners for "The Alternative" were too high and caught a lot of wind. It was great when I had a tail wind but very exhausting when I faced a head wind. <br />
<br />
I am now promoting myself as an author rather than promoting a single book. the new sign has both books on and my landing website, <a href="http://www.9li.ca/">www.9li.ca</a>. <br />
<br />
I am looking forward to getting on the road again. I am looking forward to seeing old friends and making some new ones. Let me know if you want me to stop by when I'm in your area. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI_t82QKYSi3EWFZhu-kv9Kmr2OqxQkUgZzMxQN8FqSNbb51xC54KAa0hdBh9ClFzZm530AL7p4bCCO8vOIkchc8NqAYV_akTwAtOrLuSgNE_5VVLhn7i7mroQYbMM-wvBydE7Rkt7DX8/s1600/frontcover+108b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI_t82QKYSi3EWFZhu-kv9Kmr2OqxQkUgZzMxQN8FqSNbb51xC54KAa0hdBh9ClFzZm530AL7p4bCCO8vOIkchc8NqAYV_akTwAtOrLuSgNE_5VVLhn7i7mroQYbMM-wvBydE7Rkt7DX8/s320/frontcover+108b.jpg" width="210" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Spiritual Solutions to Economic Problems is the book I am currently working on. I am hopeful of a release date before the end of the year. </div>
</div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-60688776642337295152017-02-21T16:25:00.003-08:002017-02-21T16:25:45.138-08:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">My second book, “<a href="http://www.singing.9li.ca/" target="_blank">SINGING INTHE CHAPEL</a>,” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>has been selling rapidly.
My 50 copies are gone, but Jason rip has offered a slight reprieve by allowing
me 10 of his copies. I can sign and deliver copies of this or “<a href="http://www.alternative.9li.ca/" target="_blank">THE ALTERNATIVE</a>,”
within London, or you can pick either one up at Beth Values Thrift store, 207
Wellington St. Cost of $15 for “Singing,” or $25 for “Alternative,” includes
taxes and delivery. For those further away, you can order from amazon. Click on these links for ordering information. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> <span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: Times New Roman;">“</span><a href="http://www.singing.9li.ca/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">SINGING INTHE CHAPEL</span></a><span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">,” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></span></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;">“</span><a href="http://www.alternative.9li.ca/" target="_blank">THE ALTERNATIVE</a><span style="color: #1d2129;">,”</span></div>
</div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-17615036136088724352017-02-18T09:14:00.000-08:002017-02-18T09:14:14.973-08:00Have You Seen George?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hi. If you have seen George biking around Ontario, please comment here and let us know where you saw him. If you would like him to come to you community, talk to your community group, organization or charity, also leave a comment or <a href="mailto:george@9li.ca" target="_blank">email</a> him.</div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0Ontario, Canada51.253775 -85.32321389999998529.934278999999997 -126.63180789999998 72.573271 -44.014619899999985tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-82325917809311729462017-01-26T19:26:00.001-08:002017-01-26T19:26:23.544-08:00In Fergus<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I will be spending about one week visiting my parents in Fergus, Ontario. I plan to be back in London on February, 1st, 2017.</div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-12420315880069439782017-01-22T17:20:00.000-08:002017-01-22T17:20:22.990-08:00Biking around London<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I am anxious to get back on my bicycle and travel, but the winter weather is not ideal for that. On nice days I still travel around London. Spring will be here soon and I will see were that takes me.<br />
<br />
I just released a second book, so there will be two to promote next year. They are available on line. <br />
<br />
For information on <a href="http://www.alternative.9li.ca/" target="_blank">The Alternative</a> and <a href="http://www.singing.9li.ca/" target="_blank">Singing in the Chapel,</a> simply click on the titles to go to the web sites. </div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-5455710842835907652016-11-12T14:10:00.002-08:002016-11-12T14:10:30.189-08:00Stuck in London for the winter.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I've been stuck in London for more than a month. You can sometimes see me bicycling within the city. Every once in a while I get an urge to leave, but we are no longer at an ideal time to travel by bicycle. We've had a fairly wet fall after a very dry summer. I don't mind getting wet when it is warm, but to be wet and cold with no place to warm up is not a situation I want to get into, so I will keep my trips short during the fall and winter. <br />
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
Meanwhile, my book is available on line at <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Alternative-there-alternative-war/dp/1519127235/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=" target="_blank">www.amazon.ca</a></div>
</div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-78699021799741416472016-10-07T16:25:00.002-07:002016-10-07T16:25:52.368-07:00Home again.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I left Guelph at about 5:30 Wednesday Morning and got home about 10:30 this Morning. (Friday October 7, 2016. The trip was very exhausting but rewarding. More details later.</div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-65378559927234088912016-10-02T16:09:00.000-07:002016-10-02T16:09:28.584-07:00Leaving Guelph on October 5, 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I am planning to leave Guelph early Wednesday morning to begin my trip back to London. If anyone would like to cheer me on, here is the route I will be taking for the first leg. I hope to make it to Stratford by nightfall.<br />
<br />
Bicycle 77.2 km, 4 h 15 min<br />63 Arkell Road, Guelph, ON to Stratford, ON<br />1.SW Arkell Rd to Gordon St 230 m<br />2. Right on Gordon St. 2.5 km 2.7<br />3. Left on Stone Rd W 2.6 km or Edinburgh to Kortright becomes Downey to Niska 5.3<br />4. Left onto Woodland Glen Dr. 270 m '" 5.6<br />5. Turn Right (Path from Woodland Glen Park) 59 m "<br />6. Path turns left 550 m " 6.2<br />7. Turn left onto Ptarmigan Dr. 120 m " 6.3<br />8. Right onto Niska Rd 1.3 km 7.6<br />9. Right onto 5 Township Rd / Whitelaw Rd. 750 m 8.3<br />10. Left onto County Rd 124 4.7 km 13 64.8<br /> 11. Right onto Kossuth Rd Regional 31 7.6 km 20.6 57.3<br />12. Straight through roundabout for Fairway Rd N Regional 53 1.7 km 22.3<br />13 Strait tthroug 'roundabout stay on Fairway 2.3 km 24.6<br />14. Right onto Dom Cardillo Trail 2.3 km 26.9 50.9<br />15. Slight right to stay on trail 400 m 27.3<br />16. Left onto Ottawa St. N / Regional 4 1.9 km 29.2<br />17. Right onto King St. E 200 m 31.1 46.7<br />18. Left onto Borden Ave. S 400 m 31.5<br />19. Right onto Iron Horse Trans Canada Trail 650 m 32.1<br />20. Left onto Stirling Ave S 28 m<br />21. Turn right onto Courtland Ave E/Waterloo Regional Rd 53 36m<br />22. Turn left onto Iron Horse Trans Canada Trail 650 m 32.8<br />23. Turn left to stay on Iron Horse Trans Canada Trail 650 m 33.5 44.3<br />24. Turn left to stay on Iron Horse Trans Canada Trail 1.8 km 35.3 42.5<br />25. Turn left onto Glasgow St 2.4 km 37.7 40.1<br />26. Turn right onto Fischer-Hallman Rd/Waterloo Regional Rd 58 280 m 38 39.8<br />27. Turn left onto University Ave W/Waterloo Regional Rd 57 1.5 km 39.5<br />28. At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Ira Needles Blvd/Waterloo Regional Rd 70 1.4 km 40.9 36.9<br />29. At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Erb St W/Regional Rd 9 / Continue to follow Regional Rd 9 14.6 km 55.5<br />30. Turn left onto Wilmot Easthope Rd (signs for Wilmot Easthope Road/Regional Road 9/Erb's Road) 300 m<br />31. Turn right onto 41 Line 1.4 km 57.2 20.6<br />32. Turn left onto 102 Rd/Road 102 1.0 km<br />33. Turn right onto 40 Line 15.4 km 73.6 4.2<br />34. Turn left onto Perth County Rd 119 2.4 km 76 1.8<br />35. Continue onto Mornington St 1.8 km 77.8<br />36. Slight left onto Waterloo St N <br />37. Right on Brunswick<br />Stratford, ON<br /><br />There may be some slight variations as I veer off to find food, etc. I also spent much time at Victoria Park in Kitchener as a teenager (1969 - 1970) so I may take a side trip to see the park again. I did most of my growing up in Kitchener and it would be good if I stumbled across some old acquaintances. I am also looking forward to meeting friends in Stratford. <br /><br /></div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-88629719014444402982016-09-22T12:49:00.001-07:002016-09-22T12:53:59.446-07:00Breakdowns during my recent trip<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
There was one anoying breakdown during my recent trip. This was very minor and not worth digging down to my tools to fix, but repeating failures made it annoying. It was my suspenders. As I was bicycling down the highway, periodically a suspender strap would fly loose. A pair of plyers could fix that, but why stop and dig out my tool box for such a minor thing.<br />
<br />
When I got to Listowel I noticed one of my trailer tires was worn right out and thought I better get it replaced before it blew out. I bought a new tire at CT and went to a spot on the bike trail to do the repair. All done, I packed my tools away and repacked the trailer. Then my suspender strap flew off and I remembered I should have fixed it while my tools were out. I decided to go back to Walmart to look around and I looked for a loose pair of pliers that I could borrow to fix my suspender. An employee asked what I was looking for and I told him. All pliers where in sealed packages, so I admitted what I wanted to do explaining my pliers were packed away at the bottom of my tailer. He picked up a pair of needle nose vise grips that worked for my purpose.<br />
<br />
Half way between Drayton and Alma is the place where I had to fix a bearing on a previous trip. I was now going the opposite way, but as I got closer to Alma I began to hear noises that sounded like a bearing begining to go. When I installed the tire I had spun the wheel to be sure everything was turning freely. It was the inside bearing on the opposite wheel that I had replaced a couple of months earlier. Perhaps it was the outside bearing on the same wheel, but no, the sound seemed to be coming from the wheel with the brand new tire. The noises came more often and eventually it was steady. As I got on the trail to Fergus at Elora, I noticed a wobble that indicated the bearing was completely gone. Luckily it had not seized up as the last one did. This was going to cause a delay, but since I was still rolling I reasoned that I could make it to my sisters house OK. (My sister, Evelyn, owns Jester's Fun and Games. Stop in to see her if you visit Fergus. They are the number one stop for Fergus on Trip Advisor.)<br />
<br />
Next morning with the help of Tim, my brother-in-law, I got the bearing replaced and was on my way by 10:30 am. I made good time getting to Guelph, was shopping early afternoon and got to my sister, Mary's house, by mid afternoon.</div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-3390383163351362282016-09-20T18:21:00.000-07:002016-09-20T18:21:05.486-07:00arrived in Guelph today<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
After biking more than 217 km over the last few days I have arrived in Guelph were I will be spending a couple of weeks helping my 90 year old dad fix bicycles.<br />
<br />
I left London last Thursday and got to Stratford about midnight. After attending a meeting on Friday night I was held up by rain on Saturday. I left about 7 am Sunday and got to Listowel mid afternoon. Replaced a tire on my trailer and scouted for a place to camp. I got downtown Listowel early Monday morning and waited for 9 am when the Listowel Banner office would open so I could thank Dan McNee for the fantastic story he had published in me August. Leaving Listowel about 9:30 am I arrived in Fergus about 8 pm. A bearing went out on the trailer and I installed a new one Tuesday morning with the help of my brother in law, Tim. Leaving Fergus about 10 am I arrived at Arkel Rd in Guelph about 3:30 pm. The 217 km from google maps does not include the extra running around I did within the towns I visited.<br />
<br />
I met many nice people during this trip which is proving to be a trip of self discovery. One gentleman who I met on a bike trail said he was following me on the internet. Three students in Guelph helped me up the steep hill on Gordon street near the University.<br />
<br />
I am planning a future book about the Betterment of the world. Every time someone does a pure and kindly deed, they make the world a little better. Those who have treated me so kindly have for sure made the world a better place for me. </div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-72893095449645105582016-09-17T15:24:00.000-07:002016-09-17T15:24:03.359-07:00rain delay<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
i went to a reflection gathering in Stratford on friday night. Rain delay today. I will be leaving Stratford tommorrow morning and heading to Listowel. </div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-4799428281663512012016-09-15T07:51:00.002-07:002016-09-15T07:51:55.383-07:00leaving London today<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I'm Heading out today and expect to be in Stratford by tonight. Stratford newspaper printed a very good story about my last trip there. <a href="http://www.stratfordbeaconherald.com/2016/08/16/london-author-markets-his-first-book-with-tours-on-a-bicycle-with-trailer" target="_blank">http://www.stratfordbeaconherald.com/2016/08/16/london-author-markets-his-first-book-with-tours-on-a-bicycle-with-trailer</a><br />
<br />
I am also planning on visiting Listowel, Fergus and Guelph on this trip. I will spend a couple of weeks in Guelph to help out my dad who is 90 years old and fixes bicycles. I also enjoy spending time with my mom who is 87. <br />
</div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-79766984675147185312016-08-17T16:04:00.002-07:002016-08-17T16:04:36.904-07:00Heading Home<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Heading Home</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Yesterday, when I left the Library, I determined I would
head home. As I unlocked my bike, a gentleman, who had been sitting on a nearby
bench, approached and asked about my book. When I explained it to him, he asked
if he could see a copy. He asked the price and I told him, regular price is $25
but I am selling my current stock off at $20.00. He paid me $25.00 for a copy
and asked me to autograph it for him. Perhaps he was the reason the wind blew
me back to Stratford when I tried to leave. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The first part of my journey was rough. The rain had stopped
and the sun was warming the air. The wind was not as bad as it had been, but
strong gusts would almost stop me. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Once out of the city the wind had picked up but it was
coming at me at almost a 90 degree angle. It would whip around a bit and it
sometimes pushed me and at other times stopped me. I determined I would turn
south on 119 towards Uniondale so I could take advantage of the wind, but it
was a struggle to get there and the wind was starting to die down as I approached
the intersection. However, the rest of the trip was comparatively easy and I
made it home shortly after 11pm. I showered, shaved and had a very good sleep
in my own bed. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I would love to head out again. All I need is an excuse and
a destination. Feel free to invite me to visit your home, speak to your group,
or volunteer for your cause. If you can provide a night’s accommodation and a
meal, that would be great. Check back with this blog to see where I will go to
next.</span></div>
</div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-80151367109360684502016-08-16T12:00:00.000-07:002016-08-17T16:04:05.445-07:00Success<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I left London about 9am on Wednesday August 10, 2016. I was headed, by bicycle, for Egerton, ON, a trip of 155km which google maps suggested should take 8 hours and 2 minutes. However, I am 64 years old and am pulling a trailer with about 300kg of equipment, so I allowed 3 days for the trip.<br />
<br />
On Wednesday, I got as far as Stratford. I arrived as the sun was setting and slept in the park that night, although I did not sleep well.<br />
<br />
I left about 6 am on Thursday and made it to Glen Allan by 3:30pm. I was exhausted and needed to rest a while. Around 5pm I considered starting out again. Rain was off and on and it started raining again which was enough of an excuse to spend the night in the quaint little park at Glen Allan.<br />
<br />
At 5:15 am on Friday I set out for my final day of travel before reaching Egerton. I arrived in Arthur before noon and the back tire of my bike went flat while I was resting. I fixed it then had lunch. after that I went into a park and waited out the hottest part of the day. About 4:30, I left Arthur. and got to Conn by 7:36 pm. I sold two books at Two different places in Conn and was in Egerton shortly after.<br />
<br />
Our family picnic, the excuse for the trip, was to occur at 11 am on Saturday August 13. A few had arrived when it started to rain. They decided to move to a park in Conn where there was a pavilion, but there was about 2 inches of rain on the ground, so my sister, Evelyn, had everyone go to her house in Fergus. Thus, she drove me to Fergus for the festivities. It was great to see so many of the family and meet grand nieces and nephews that I had not met before. Later my sister's husband drove me back to Egerton where I spent another night in my tent.<br />
<br />
I went to church in Conn in the Morning and biked back to the tent in Egerton. I had nothing planned after this point and thought I would leave it to the Lord's leading. A bit discouraged I felt it was time to begin the trip home.<br />
<br />
On the way back I went to visit the grave of my uncle in Arthur. The grave yard took me a little west of my planed route, so I headed south on the gravel road to see where it would take me. This way I felt I could go through Drayton on my way home to visit those who had helped me on my previous trip.<br />
<br />
The gravel road took me through what appeared to be the land of the gentle giants. The road cut through a line of 10 giant wind turbines. 5 at each side of the road stood with blades gently turning.<br />
<br />
I got to Drayton by nightfall and camped in a park there.<br />
<br />
Leaving Drayton about 8 am on Monday, I got to Stratford by 5 pm. and spent the night in my tent.<br />
<br />
Tuesday morning rain delayed me breaking camp. As soon as I got my tent packed up, it began to rain again. I found the visitor information office and learned the location of the Stratford Newspaper. Rain had stopped, so I headed for the Newspaper office that would be on my way home. High headwinds made progress slow and rain recommenced. I had a very good interview with Scott at the paper, and then went into a Tim Hortons to wait on the weather. The rain stopped but winds continued, so I allowed those winds to blow me back to downtown Stratford where I am now sitting in the library debating when I should head out. It is almost 3 pm and it would mean I would reach London in the wee hours of the morning if I left now. It will be so good to have a bed to sleep in after spending 6 nights in a tent. Also a shower would help to make me and others in my proximity feel better. However, seeing the leaves of trees dancing in the wind does not make prospects look good. Perhaps I will spend one more night in my tent, or maybe I will fight the wind which will hopefully die down as night falls.<br />
<br />
Come back to find out how this successful trip ends. This will be the first one were I made it to my destination and back without assistance. </div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-4600871987801757622016-08-09T08:03:00.000-07:002016-08-09T08:03:25.345-07:00More equipment breakdown.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">More equipment breakdown.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I left 8:30 am on Saturday August 6, 2016, to go to the
International Baha’i Picnic in Sarnia which would begin at 11am on Sunday
August 7. I got to Popular Hill about 2:30 pm. (I am not setting any speed
records) I needed a rest and stopped into the restaurant for a light snack. When
I returned to my bike, I noticed the tow bar on the trailer was hanging low. A closer
examination showed that it had cracked at the bend and was hanging on by a
thread. I am not sure how it had not broke loose before this. I knew if I tried
to tow it, it would break off on the first bump. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I got my tools out and luckily
found a metal bar among them. This I bent around the bend in the tow bar and
clamped it with the aid of a u bolt and a hose clamp. It wasn’t perfect but I
was hopeful it would get me back to London. The trip to Sarnia had to be
aborted.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">There was an auto wrecker that I
had passed about 4km before I got to Popular Hill and I was hopeful that it
would be open so I could purchase a better tow bar. When I got there, the gates
were closed but I could still see people coming out of the buildings. I got a
gentleman’s attention and asked if they were closed. He said they were just
closing up. I explained my situation and he felt they could help me out. Another
gentleman brought me a length of a rusty bent up pipe and asked if it would
work. It was much stronger than the shovel handle that I was using, so I said I
could likely make it work. He took a closer look at the broken bar it was to
replace and disappeared. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The first gentleman had also
offered me a ride as he said he lived in London and could go right through the
downtown area where I live. I got a price and paid $5.00 for the bar and looked
for my ride. He was getting gas in his truck. The other man came back with
another pipe that was larger, heavier and cleaner that the first. I told him I
already paid $5.00 for the first one and he said to take them both for what I
had paid. After this we loaded the bike and trailer into the pickup truck of the first gentleman. He gave me a ride right to my home.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Sunday, I purchased more hardware
to attach my new drawbar being confident that this one will never break. Since
the pipe was bigger, I had to modify the coupler on my bicycle. This required
removing the rear wheel kick stand, so I also put a new stand on the bike. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I was disappointed that I could
not go to the Sarnia Picnic, but will be heading out for Egerton this week. My
family is getting together on Saturday, August 13 and I am allowing 3 days to
cover the 150km distance. I am not sure yet were I will go from there. </span></div>
</div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-49699202612395329602016-07-24T15:17:00.000-07:002016-07-24T15:17:45.045-07:00Sowing Peace<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Sowing Peace<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">The
sowing peace initiative is my main focus. In “THE ALTERNATIVE” I give an
example of a cooperative society as an alternative to war. It seems that we all
could do a lot better if we would learn to cooperate. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">During
my travels I had a few mishaps. The friendliness and help received from small
town people was overwhelming. When a bearing fell out of my trailer near
Dresden, I got it replaced at no charge. Near Atwood, a man with a motorcycle
gave me his last twenty dollars to buy a book. People I had never met before
gave me a bed for the night and breakfast in the morning at Molesworth. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the Listowel Chamber of Commerce visitor
information center, the staff was very friendly, gave me the information I
needed, charged my tablet and allowed me to use their computer while I waited
out the heat of the day. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">In the
big cities it seems everyone is busy chasing the dollar. Although many are
helpful and friendly, this seems to be more prevalent in the smaller
municipalities. The atmosphere seems more relaxed and people are more willing
to spend time to help out anyone who has a need. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">This is
the main lesson I learned on my bicycle trip. I also learned that I should not
have a schedule to keep. Weather and breakdowns can lead to unexpected delays.
I accepted a ride from Tavistock to Guelph as I did not want to miss the anniversary
service at the Conn Church. On the return trip I accepted a ride from Tavistock
to London because I was not sure I would get home on time for my doctor
appointment. It would have been nice to bike the whole way, but strong
headwinds caused exhaustion and delay and then the heat made me fear a bout of
heat stroke. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">I would
like to try again but I would need to keep in mind that I will need a lot of
rest stops. I am comfortable with 40 – 60 km per day, but if I am bucking a
headwind, 40 km is plenty. I don’t mind a little rain, but the sun on a hot day
can be deadly. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">In the
future I may attempt a ride to Ottawa, a distance of about 700km. It would
likely take me three weeks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4670489272524537700.post-24367240420559977232016-07-14T19:01:00.002-07:002016-07-14T19:01:44.842-07:00Home at last<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
On Friday Afternoon, July 8th I took the wrong bike path out of Listowel and it suddenly ended at Tremaine Ave. I stopped in at <a href="http://www.andythalenenterprises.com/" target="_blank">Thalen Enterprises</a> were James and Christie Thalen were glad to give me direction. About 2.5km later I was back on the right trail heading towards Atwood. <br />
<br />
As I was leaving I began to think I should have had a meal. Although I wasn't hungry, I was not sure when I would next find food. When I got to 75 line, I took a detour into Atwood to look for a restaurant. It was about 5pm and the only restaurant had closed at 3. Does no one eat after 3 in these small places. I was assured that I could get pizza in Milverton if I could get there on time. <br />
<br />
Heading East on 72 line I met someone taking a break from their motorcycle. He spent his last $20 to buy a book. There was light drizzle and thunder when I reached Milverton about 8pm. I got a couple of slices of pizza and headed the warning of a passer by and sought shelter in the local car wash. There I ate my pizza and tried to nap as I waited out the rain. It was about 9:30 when it stopped and I considered looking for a place to pitch my tent, but I wanted to get to Tavistock before morning and decided to push on although it would mean reaching my brothers house about 3 am. I continued east on line 61 although it was getting dark. My direction told me to go south for 3km on road 116. I found this was gravel and quite soggy after the rain. I saw a schoolyard and decided to get off the road and nap for a bit. Sleep would not come and after an hour or so, I continued on. <br />
<br />
I am not sure what time it was when I reached my brothers house just north of Tavistock, but he had offered to let me sleep on his back porch when I was heading out from London, so, being careful not to wake them, I finally got some sleep. <br />
<br />
Later that morning, Saturday July 9, 2016, I was again offered use of the porch while my brother had some business to attend to. I took a tour of Tavistock and got some breakfast about noon. When I returned to my brother's, he had just got home.<br />
<br />
My tour of Tavistock made me aware that there was a wind out of the west. I had to contend with so many head winds that I wanted to wait this one out, however I did not know if I would make London on time. I had a doctor appointment on Monday and needed to be home by Sunday night. If the weather cooperated I could easy make it in one day, but what if the head wind persisted? <br />
<br />
My brother offered a ride that would solve that problem and, although I disliked the idea of not completing the trip on bicycle, I accepted. Home in mid afternoon, I crawled into bed and slept. All day Sunday I did little else besides sleep and eat. I had not realized how exhausted I was.<br />
<br />
It is now Thursday July 14, 2016. I am back in the old routine and longing for the freedom of the road. <br />
<br />
Coming up, What did I learn from my trip?</div>
George McNeishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18039968727739118477noreply@blogger.com0