Biking in the Loire Valley

For the first week we stayed with Tom's cousin Sophie and her family (her husband Eric and their 12 year old son Rafael).  They live in a very nice home in Juigne sur Loire around the corner from the house that we are now renting.  Rafael goes to school that is next to Gary's, so we are able to carpool to school. 

Last Sunday we went for a lovely 28 kilometer, 4 1/2 hour bike ride in the country through vineyards mostly on old gravel walking paths.  We left from home and biked through the Loire valley. We had beautiful views of both the valley and the river.

Sophie's good friend Anne and her three children joined us, as did Rex, who ran the entire distance. 

Bonjour from Sophie. She is a lovely lady and has been a great help to Genia. Whenever she speaks English, Genia says that it sounds like poetry.

Here is Sophie's husband Eric, who is a lot of fun and knows a lot about wine (more about that in our next blog).

We are off!

We biked through a few old small villages with medieval walls.

 Anne on her bike. She is Sophie's best friend, and just came back from living in Italy for three years.

Gary biking. He did well on the ride, and was usually at the front of the group.

Rafael, Eric and Sophie's son with Rex. 

Our first rest stop. Rafael had to put air in his tire, and ended up losing all the air because of the faulty pump. 

Group photo at our first rest stop, while we were waiting for Rafael.

Genia on her bike. She enjoyed the ride, and said that she would do it again! She says to come visit so that she can take you on the ride.

Our picnic spot by the river. We had couscous salad, hard boiled eggs, pork pate, cookies, bread, and good beer! 

Gale eating his sandwich.

 Gary in a really good moment.

 And Genia in her good moment!

 Margot and her brother Elliot.

Rafael finishing his lunch.

 Elliot playing with his brother Gale.

Sophie napping.

And the kids napping......
We were all quite tired by the end of the day.  (especially Rex)