Week 16

Day 106:
The weather didn't disappoint as I started my journey to Timmins. The snow was blowing and the roads getting slicker as I kept slogging onward. My car was starting to suffocate (as I later found out) from all the snow so I had no choice but to pull over for a bit to let it rest (its idea, not mine ;). I was tempted to stop at Thunder Bay and call it an early day, but I decided to plow ahead. The roads were getting less and less visible as I approached Marathon so I figured I'd stop in for gas and get some info on the road ahead. Talking with the attendant revealed that the highway was closed up ahead and, since my car was complaining again, I decided to stop and stay at the motel across the street (which I just made it to).

Day 107:
My fears were realized as I attempted to start my car. It ran for a few minutes and then sputtered and died. I put in the call to the trusty CIBC Roadside assistance and they were able to arrange a tow. Part of the problem became evident as the car was hoisted up and large amounts of snow occasionally fell from under the hood. After a quick look, I was informed that the engine compartment had become clogged with snow and that the air filter was unable to do its job of supplying a good mix for combustion. With all that uncombusted fuel, my oil had become contaminated so an oil change and new filter were needed.
With blue skies overhead and a reopened, plowed highway in front of me I headed to Timmins. Grabbed lunch in Chapleau and arrived around 6pm. I picked up the local paper and called a few places for an apartment with little success. I called on my new co-worker and was able to stay at his place for the night.

Day 108:
Got up and looked at a few apartments with little luck. After unloading some of my gear at Tom's place, I headed for home. The drive was long but pretty uneventful with just a few flurries keeping me company.
Drove up to my place in Whitby at 7:13pm with the odometer reading 151,738km, 21,238km from where I'd started ;)