I just finished getting caught up on reading your journal. Reading this news was disheartening and so sad. Susanna and I are thinking about you and your family. Our thoughts and hearts are with you all.

Hi Steve, not sure if you've had any success booking a direct train. Possibly you already know this, but you could definitely get on a couple of connecting TER trains. It's one change going via Le Mans, otherwise a change at both Orlean and Amboise. You'll need to book each leg separately. It's about 5-6hrs, but at least you'll get down there. Susan would likely be the person to tap into for more info if you need it. And if I can help at all in any way email me: carvan2 at me dot com

Thank you Ardell. Joni is a remarkable woman who indeed achieved great things. The steady stream of visitors she has had in the hospital are a real testament to how much she is loved. We take real solace from this.

Thanks Keith. We do indeed rely on each other, especially at trying times like this. We also draw great comfort from the caring and supportive community that Cycleblaze embodies.

Very true, but the wild variations in pricing does not seem that much tied to timing of bookings. Greedy corporate bastards, all of them.

Dear Dodie and Steve,
I am so very sorry to hear this news. I remember hearing stories of your daughter at our dinner many years ago and the joy she had in her teaching and students on an island I believe it was off the coast of South America. I hope you will take comfort from the memories of her accomplishments and achievements. I know you were wonderful and loving parents. I am so very sorry. Ardell

Booking five days ahead of a planned flight can go either way, either it's nearly full and the price goes way up, or not very full, and the price goes, if not WAY down, somewhat down. Flights are very full this summer, so the odds are against you. Good luck!

Hi,
Sue and I offer our thoughts at this terrible time. May you find strength in each other.
Keith

We definitely have Clos Luce marked out as a highlight visit. The grands are all super excited about the whole adventure, and so is their Papa if truth be told. And yes, we have every intention of letting the locals spoil the kids rotten in any way possible.

Thank you Carolyn, both for the warm thoughts and also for the helpful information regarding trains along the Loire which Ian has relayed to us.

It is a truly heart wrenching thing to go through. We feel sustained and supported, however, by the wonderful Cycleblaze community, those we have met and those we have yet to meet.

Thanks Kathleen, for the warm thoughts and the hospitality offer. We just may take you up on it since Dodie is reluctant to leave the hospital for very long.

That’s incredibly heartbreaking news. I can’t imagine. Hope you find some joy on your bikes with your grandchildren . Sounds like exactly what you’ll be needing.

Dear Dodie and Steve, I am so sad for you. So hard to watch your offspring go too soon. Love to you both.

Very cute!