Day 9. Kirby Stephen to Ecclefechan

Distance: 73.6 miles
Average speed: 13.12mph
Max. Speed: 36.07mph
Time in saddle: 5hr 36min
Total distance: 623 miles
Soreness rating of nether region: 2 out of 10 ( healthcare working )

So today we travel out of England a d into Scotlands, not so many hills, but mileage quite high.
Weather starts off lovely and warm and knock off 20 miles easily before stop at the local cafe come tea room.
Five minutes after the tea break the heavens opened and we get drenched. Fellow cyclists, who could only be five minutes ahead and behind, it transpires later, they missed all the rain. Our own personal rain cloud, how lucky we are.
Stop off at a farm an got great picture o a Peacock in full action, have chat with the farmer and he provides us with useful fact of the day. That is, Peahen's are very bad mothers and let their offspring fend for themselves when they need help, so farmer man has to help out.
60 miles of the day gone and finally make it into Scotland. A big sign is what I expected, but no, just small bridge with river to denote the border. Pictures have to be taken as this is quite significant, altnough we still have six full days of cycling in Scotland.
Mother, as you will sea, I have changed my cycling shirt now and wearing new vest and underpants, so please don't worry about me!
I had never been to Scotland before, so was surprised to see the sun shining bright. The last 10 miles to the end for the day was really hard work with a strong headwind, started to struggle. But you wouldn't want it to be too easy!
Eighty odd miles tomorrow, best get some energy drinks down me. Hope the bar serves John Smiths!