The Land of Opportunity

Thursday 11th June  Lady and I set off from Phoenix Stables to start my first stage in the United States.  Unfortunately most of the day was spent in a long tramp along main roads away from Port Huron.
I think this means No Overtaking in American.....

but I almost expected my way to be blocked by a medieval knight in shining black armour.  Certainly not by these tinny gentlemen relaxing on the wayside.....

Back home at last a bit earlier than I expected?...

 In fact this Wales was my first stop on the road in America  - at  Goodells Equestrian Center, where I was given a tremendous welcome by Charlotte Godfrey (shown below second from right with partner Mike) and the boarders at her friendly and well run centre, or should I say center now I am in the States.

I was taken out for a meal in the evening with some of the gang.  I tried pickerel for the first time - a local fish which was delicious. Many thanks to the effervescent Jill, who could not join us but treated me to the meal!
A bit of a late start the next morning  Friday 12th June partly as I had a good sleep on the couch and a relaxed breakfast, but mainly due to tackling problems with my new USA mobile. Not only had I been receiving odd calls from strangers, but I could not text home.  Magnificent Mike kindly helped out an old techno idiot and managed to get through to a live person to sort things out.  It transpired that my cell package which promised 'Free texting to a hundred countries'  amazingly did not include the UK .  Alas how the sun has set on the British Empire and what happened to Hands Across the Ocean!   But I set out with a new number and $30 of texting credit - thanks Mike!

For the next few days I was riding on quiet gravel roads through peaceful countryside....

past some beautiful homes....

Rick Dubay had arranged for me to stay with cutting horse friend Tom Janneke and his wife Mary-Ann near Alton.   Tom let me use his luxurious trailer with shower and double bed, while Mary Ann provided an ample supper.

The house that Tom built, with proud owner in front looking very spry for a great-grandfather.