My Own Ramblings

Novembr PieRun: Edom, TX

2008-11-22T12:36:00.000-06:00

Well, it was certainly a long day. After only five hours of sleep, I was up and getting ready to head out pre-dawn with Scott (M38A1) in the chilly 40-something air. We slabbed it up to Huntsville and made it to Tourmeister's place right on time.

From there, we headed up to Edom through various FM roads, all the while waiting for the sun to come out from behind the clouds and begin to warm the air.

Scott

Deb

Some of the bikes lined up at The Shed

The food was great, and the staff did a great job of keeping everything moving. I had the baked chicken, mush potatoes, and baked beans with a bottomless cup of coffee.

Sarah

Chuck tried fitting her into his topcase...

On the way back, we came to a small county road and I was sure Tourmeister was leading us towards an unpaved section. Thankfully (since I was on the FZ1) it remained paved - although badly potholed, rutted, and bumpy in sections.

We made a quick stop at the Bradford Cafe and found that they do lunch, homemade desserts to order, and can seat 90. Future pie run? I suppose someone will have to "take one for the team" and head there for lunch one day to sample the menu.

Near Madisonville, I hopped on I45 and zoomed towards Houston. The darker the sky became, the worse the traffic flowed. I aimed the GPS for the Toyota Center and got there with just 25 minutes to get into the parking garage, change into jeans, and head into the arena to watch the Aeros game.

Barely able to keep my eyes open, Jamey offered to ride the bike back after the game and I went back in the truck with the kids and some friends. By the time I got home, it was probably less than a half hour before I was in la la land.

October Pie Run: Blessing, TX

2008-09-27T12:40:00.000-05:00

We met J and Lilia at the Starbucks for the ride down

Most of it looked like this. Not too interesting as far as riding goes, but it kept us off the main lanes most of the way down and provided for a quiet ride.

For Lilia's first long ride, she seemed to really enjoy herself!

The food was good, although the choices somewhat limited.

After lunch my camera battery went dead, so I went out to the bike and swapped out to my spare - which was [I]also[/I] dead :doh: so that's the end of my pics.

I got a ride on Grover's Tiger before we departed, and when he, Michelle, and Chris (dirtrideroader) and Mike (mikeylikesit) joined us for the ride home I got the green light to trade off for an even longer, curvier test ride.

The Tiger is now on my short list for potential next bike.

August Pie Run: Marble Fals, TX

2008-08-30T12:45:00.002-05:00

Ok, so it took a while...

Our group met up in Navasota

Then hit the road for pie...

Then I took a picture of Bill's new wife Justin: :lol2:

And this horrific lens-shattering picture ended up on my camera somehow :shrug:

Ride-To-Eat: Kedra's Roadhouse

2008-08-16T12:48:00.000-05:00

I didn't take the camera out much on the road for some reason (even when it was sunny and dry) but I did get a few.

Tina and neither of her husbands :lol2:

The other half of our table

Jack's table

Hardy's table

We met a bunch of folks ducking out of the rain in Ellinger. It was the first covering we could find once the deluge started and lucky for us it had a table and chairs in the back. We got some snacks, watched the radar images on J's phone, and waited.

These two were headed back to Austin from Houston and were still in pretty good spirits. ;-)

When the rain let up enough to continue on, we went down a few exits to get J some rain gear at Columbus Cycle Shop. I'd always seen it on the side of I10 but I'd never stopped - they had a pretty good selection and very friendly folks that let us park up on the curb (under the awning) and drip all over their store.

By the time he'd bought rain gear and we were ready for the push for home, the sky was starting to clear up a lot more.

Big thanks to Jack for taking the initiative to put these diet-undoing RTEs together, and thanks to Kenny and J for putting up with my routing ideas and, um, guesses... :doh:

June Pie Run: Hico, TX

2008-06-28T12:52:00.002-05:00

My Saturday started off dark just after 6am with Jamey (JAR675) from Stafford. This just isn't natural for me... :yawn:

Met the NW Houston group in Navasota at the corner of Hwy 6 and 105. No, not that one - the [I]other[/I] one. :doh: Thanks to Chris (DirtRideRoader) for joining up in Hempstead and knowing where the meet-up was. ;-)

As we headed out up Hwy 6, I took advantage of a slow(ish) 4-lane section to get a rolling roll call:

David (Maverick)

Corrine (SchooterGal)

ToroGuy(?)

Tim (Abby)

Greg (Gregwithsomenumbers)

Deb (Snoopster)

Jamey (JAR675)

Chris (DirtRideRoader) and his daughter Erin

Incline? What incline?

Mav's bike left its mark on the tarmac... (and unfortunately the tarmac left its mark on his bike)

"Who me? Oh, I'm just waiting for Maverick. Silly guy, he dropped his bike in the parking lot!"

And we hit the road again

A few of the "originals" - Deb and Chuck with their vintage name tags

A bunch of people were already leaving at 11:30 when our group rolled in, and many more were gone by noon when we got as many as we could to gather for a group picture.

We needed to decrease the mileage between stops as the day wore on. It was just too hot to ride the route we'd planned, so from here (some town with an L?) we decided to cut south for Temple.

At another shaded rest stop at a Dairy Queen, the asphalt not only wanted to swallow my kickstand, but it wanted the kickstand plate too! :eek2:

Ten Minute Call... :sun:

Hotel time! The sun was starting to set, bellies were rumbling, and the dogs were barking...

Messican! :eat:

We can still see you :-P
(There's TWO fingers up, not just one!)

Brian (Nixx) and James (?) from Austin joined us for dinner before splitting off for home.

Whitebread (Robbie?) is in the blurry-faced witness protection program. :lol2:

But if you sneak a picture when he's NOT being blurrified, he'll give you the evil eye! :giveup:

Shower. Sleep. Morning. Pack. Breakfast at IHOP.

Jamey departed north on 35 towards Kansas City to start a two week riding/family vacation. :clap:

With a smaller group and more time to play, we stopped more frequently on the ride back.

This was ShooterGal's first ride that exceeded 100 miles! Considering she probably topped 600 miles in 100+ degree weather, she has certainly proven she's gotten over her "should I just give up" thinking. :cool2:

We split off in Navasota and went back from whence we came.

The gals:

The gents:

"Hey, what's that noise? It sounds like my bi..."

"What the?"

"Where's he going with my bike?"

SQUID! :phead:

Sayonara! Until next time... :bigokay:

2008-05-11T02:52:00.001-05:00

Day 16
May 11 - heading home

I woke up refreshed and as I packed the bike for the last time on this journey, it was apparent that I’d burned up oil somewhere along the way. I hadn’t been checking it because I was not too far over my oil change interval and the Strom hadn’t been known for burning oil before.

I topped it off with almost a half quart. Good thing Jamey met me up here, he’s the one who noticed it. He’s also the one who was able to get the bike up on the center stand while loaded, something I still struggle with.

Much better.

I ate breakfast - my decadent chocolate pie that I’d saved from dinner the night before.

Then Jamey went to check us out of the room and return the key. This was the only hotel I’d stayed in that had a real key instead of those plastic programmable cards. It felt good to hold a hotel key in my hand for some reason.

As we headed out, the plan was to head across to Oklahoma on the Talimena Scenic Drive, then head south across the Red River into Texas. Although he’d joined me for the last leg home, Jamey insisted he was just escorting me home and that I shouldn’t change anything about how I’d ride or handle stops along the way just for him. He’d be my shadow.

Well, my shadow didn’t plan for the weather and despite the bright shining sun it was chilly. I was doing ok with my jacket liner and rain pants, so I offered him my thermals so he could add a layer.

I stopped at the border

And he stopped up ahead at a turn-off, so I did what any good friend would - took pictures of him half dressed on the side of the road. : P

The elevation on the Talimena isn’t as bothersome as other areas, since there are more rolling hills than cliffs and jagged rocks-of-death to contend with.

We made it to town just in time to fill up on gas and grab some (real) breakfast.

I really couldn’t have asked for better weather to carry me home.

That - over there - is that what I think it is?

Yup, I was crossing over the Red River and had arrived in Texas!

Spank was glad to see some familiar signs too

And Jamey was just glad we’d finally pulled over!

We made our way down to Lone Star for lunch (kinda fitting, don’t ya think?)

It was Mother’s Day, but we’d missed the hectic lunch rush. It also meant we’d missed out on almost everything they were serving on the buffet, so we ordered up a few plates and talked about the rest of the route while we waited for our food.

Chopped steak with onions and hush puppies, although I’m told these aren’t “real” hush puppies and I’d have to try them again sometime.

We were, um, hungry…

Once done and back outside, Jamey just BEGGED me to ride my bike, so I agreed.
(Ok, so I just really wanted to ride the FZ and I convinced him by BS’ing something about how varying pressure points would help make his long ride more comfortable)

I took the reins of ye ‘ol FZ1...

As we mosey’d on down the road I spotted a sign for a town I wanted to check out. It made a good stop to trade bikes back, as I wanted to be with mine in the picture(s).

Beckville, Texas.

Most of my family calls me Bec, so it made me smile to know they’d get a kick out of my find.

The first sign that had the “H” word on it since I‘d left two weeks prior:

Longer shadows

Strangers falling in line behind bikes they see going their way

The setting sun. I would lose the race against daylight for the last time.

Downtown Houston. Blurry, but visible. No time for stopping, I could take pictures of this any day.

Minute Maid Park, aka “Orange Juice Field” - home of the Astros.

And the last traffic light before my house. Yup, I got caught at a red.

“Arriving at home” appeared on the GPS as I pulled under the carport. It was bittersweet - I wanted to be out on the road still. Making my way across states, traversing miles and miles of scenery, pavement, and memories - but at the same time, I longed to be home. In my comfort zone. Sleeping in my own bed.

I turned the key and returned to reality. It was over.

Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas
468 miles and one great shadow of a riding partner

2008-05-10T20:22:00.002-05:00

Day 15
May 10th

I woke up to a dismal sky filled with fog and mist, but was surrounded by like-minded adventurers. Since I had a level, safe area to work I popped the side cases off and got the bike up on the center stand so I could adjust the chain again. I busted a knuckle open loosening up a bolt, but otherwise it was uneventful. Passers by stopped to chat and Traci attempted a dead-lift with one of my ammo cases. "Yup, they're heavy." LOL

I walked down the hill towards the restaurant/bakery for breakfast and met up with a wide-eyed version of the group I'd mingled with the night before.

I think this cinnamon roll fed six of us.

I ordered my eggs scrambled, but it took almost an hour for a plate to appear before me so I just ate what was on it.

On my way back to the bike to gear up, I caught this man staring at the tail end of a paper-plated KLR. He says he just got it, and his father got the matching one parked beside it. He was still in the "admiring my new bike" phase and I don't blame him one bit.

After a quick chit chat over a map, Scoon, Ian, and I had a plan for me to follow some twisty bits into Arkansas to meet up with Jamey (jar675) in Mena for dinner and the final leg of the trip home the next day. Most everyone rolled out of camp before I did, so the goodbyes were minimal.

I followed Hwy 5 down into a state I'd ridden in before - Arkansas. Without much of a shoulder to park on, I tip-toed the bike in a narrow ditch to get the state sign from the saddle.

I didn't feel completely awake, mostly because the sun had no intention of coming out to greet me. The weather report wasn't looking good at all - threats of afternoon tornadoes in the northern half of the state meant I had to keep heading south to avoid them.

A scenic vista. Well, not-so-scenic if the fog doesn't let ya see it.

But it turned out to be a worthwhile stop. As I backed away from the bike for a picture I noticed Spank had come loose and was dangling from a bungee cord. YIKES! After all this poor monkey has been through, having him jump ship on the road would almost certainly cause my friends to disown me!

Snuggled up tight, Spank and I continued on our way - until the fog rolled in, the rain poured down, and the wind picked up. I ducked under the awning of a closed shop to clear my visor and see if it would calm down at all.

The wind would gust and swirl, but it wasn't constant and I managed to creep my way south at 50-75% of the posted speed limit. I was just as afraid of someone speeding through the thick fog and slamming into the back of me as I was crashing into something ahead because of poor visibility and loss of traction. Anytime I heard an approaching vehicle or saw the glimmer of lights in my mirrors I'd flash my brake lights until I was certain they saw me. I pulled to the right and waved most of the traffic around me, but one car hovered a few lengths back and "kept watch" over me for a while.

This is NOT my idea of fun.

I was so nervous, my arms and shoulders couldn't relax the death grip I had on the handlebars. I pulled off for a potty break as soon as I saw the shoulder open up enough to park safely.

To top off a perfectly terrible mood, my GPS decided it didn't want to abort the route we'd programmed and just take me straight to Mena.

Ok, I'll do it myself then. There are people who tell me I should try to rely less on the GPS and just ride where I feel like going. I turned off the routing feature and continued south on 7 through Jasper, opting to head west then south towards Clarksville on 21 instead of 16 or 123, the "Pig Trail". Even on a bright, sunny day I would have been terrified on the mountainous curves that run through this region - today was testing the limits of my patience.

I was glad to be riding solo so that my speed (or lack of) wasn't getting in the way and I could stop as often as I wanted to take a break and try to relax. On the flipside, I didn't have anyone to follow through the turns or reassure me that we'd make it down the mountain in one piece. Nobody to sing me the "chicken dance" in my helmet this time around.

Is the glass half empty or half full?

I don't know, but I hadn't realized how empty my belly was until I passed through Ozone and caught a whiff of something cooking. I turned around to see what the speck I'd seen on the side of the road was and decided I'd just found lunch.

The Ozone Burger Barn.

I ordered up a bacon patty melt and some fries, then sat down at the picnic table with a map and my GPS. It was still giving me fits, so I started deleting things to see if I'd just over-filled it. Sure enough, it started to play nice again. Whew!

Yummmmmm! The burger barn gets four out of five stars - they lost one because the guy at the window put my food on the ledge when it was done without even alerting me.

While I was there, a hi-viz-yellow-wearing VStrom rider went by with a wave. I was certain it was one of the SLAP boys that had wandered out this way, but when the bike came back I met Moriyama out on his own cross-country adventure.

We sat and chatted for a bit while I finished my fries and he chomped away at his burger. I used my back-up maps to formulate a plan, and decided that the quickest route south to the interstate would help me get down out of the elevation and, hopefully, the fog.

Not five minutes down the road from lunch, small bits began to hit my head and hands. I couldn't believe that it could be hail, so I slowed and held my hand out to catch some - and sure enough, they were the size of green peas. They came down harder, and felt like golf balls smacking helmet. I've never ridden in hail, so I took the already slow pace down another notch to avoid sliding on the ice marbles laid out before me.

The camera was the last thing on my mind. I had actually started to worry that I'd pushed myself too far and thought I might need to find somewhere to pull off and call it a day - but I'd shipped my camping gear home and needed a hotel.

Slowly but surely, I inched my way down the mountain and onto the highway. I stopped in Clarkesville for gas and to charge my GPS which was now low on battery power. I can't charge it while its in the "powered but non functioning RAM cradle" so I spent a little extra time looking over a map and making a few phone calls. As I began to gear back up, the clerk came out and asked if I was Rebecca. "Uh, yeah... why?"

I'd dropped my wallet in the restroom and she found it when she went in there to mop the floor. Wow, that could have been a crisis!

I motored on south on 71 towards Mena, and stopped in Boles to check in with Jamey and find out what hotel I'd be looking for. I had a text messsage, "Call me ASAP".

The first thing out of my mouth was "are you ok?" He was riding up from Houston and I was worried he'd hit bad weather or something had gone wrong.

"I'm fine. You need to get here fast. First hotel you see when you get to town, Sun Country Inn. It's on the left."

I can't rush. I knew he was anxious to see me but changing my pace isn't going to... "The weather is headed right for you, and it's bad. Just get here."

"I'm on my way." The phone was tucked away, and for the first time since my mad rush through New Jersey I was in a hurry. Within a few minutes, the sky got dark and the wind picked back up and was gusting, pushing me over the yellow line a few times. There were no other cars out here with me, so I stopped fighting it and let the bike wander a bit.

Then the rain started, and it went from droplets to buckets within seconds. I could feel the temperature change a few degrees, but my liners were in and other than my hands I was staying dry. I had to slow my pace. Hurried riding in conditions like this can only lead to mistakes.

I made it to Mena and quickly found the hotel. Jamey's bike was up on the sidewalk and mine joined it after a quick hop up the curb. As my helmet came off, I got a hug that made the last day of misery worth it.

Most of the local TV channels were being interrupted by severe weather alerts. As much as I'd ridden through, it seems I may have missed the worst of it. Tornadoes has touched down in a few places, and damage reports were still rolling in.

I rid myself of all the layers of clothes and took a long, hot shower. Jamey kept his eye on the weather and by the time I was done and dressed, it was drying up. We decided to head into town for dinner 2-up on my Strom.

The view from the back of my bike:

We circled the town looking for something good, but it was almost deserted. There was a Mexican restaurant and a Dairy Queen, neither of which got our vote. We crossed the railroad tracks and eventually found the Chopping Block Steak House Restaurant. Splurge time!

Sorry, I forgot to take a picture before I ravaged my pepperjack chicken.

Jamey and his cheesecake:

I ordered a slice of silk pie for dessert, but had it boxed to go when I realized I was overstuffed and couldn't properly enjoy it after the meal. As Jamey rolled the bike backwards and I got ready to hop on, the sign caught my attention...

"Welcome swingers and open moms"

Uh, what?!?!?

Either they'd run out of sign letters and abbreviated poorly or someone was messing with the sign. Here's the other side:

I think I talked his ear off with stories of my trip, but Jamey was happy to hear them first-hand and assured me tomorrow's weather wouldn't be nearly as exciting.

Missouri, Oklahoma, Arkansas
313 ugly miles

2008-05-09T23:49:00.000-05:00

Day 14
May 9th

I woke up and prepared for another wet day in the saddle. The jacket liner had been in since day 2, I think. A quick email check and a glance at my ride reports revealed this:

Flashstromer: "Get yer ass to southern MO for SLAP."

Good 'ol Gordon. I met his sorry Strom-ridin self in Big Bend during Ride the Rio a few months back, so he and I exchanged quick PMs and a phone call to aim me in the direction of the (now annual) ADV rally in Dawt Mill, MO.

I prepped the bike by wiping the lights, blinkers, and mirrors to remove the grime from the previous day. I gave the chain a good dousing of lubricant. It's filthy, but a quick inspection showed no kinks and the tension was still within acceptable limits.

Someone had asked how I was carrying the SPoT tracker to maintain a view of the sky. It's stored in the small zippered pocket in the bag on my pannier. The bag isn't waterproof, but the SPoT is water resistant and within easy reach for OK check-ins at stops but out of sight when I'm away from the bike.

I headed over another bridged state line, but stopped for a pic from the other side. This was the Ohio river, which I'd crossed yesterday as well.

And the interstate. Again. They're a means to an end. At least out here, there's greenery and elevation to keep from getting too bored.

Crossing Illinois, I ignored the GPS's desire to cut south and instead headed farther west on I64 towards Evansville. My stomach was growling and telling me to pull over, but a billboard for an Amish buffet had caught my eye. I'd hold out another 25 miles for it instead of defaulting to fast food again.

The food was delicious. It had a very family-friendly feel to it, despite being a rather large store and commercial restaurant.

With my full belly loaded back on the bike, I headed out and saw this:

Odd as I am, I took this opportunity to lick the inside of my helmet because it was funny.

Only after doing so did I recall the sneezing fit I'd had inside my helmet the day before.

EEEEW!

Another photogenic bridge:

With a state line on it:

The bigger/beautiful sign was out of reach within construction on the other side of the crossing. It seems most of the midwest is being repaved this month. Yay.

There was more sun calling to me up ahead:

And clouds and wet weather hanging out to the rear:

As I left the interstate, the twisty roads of Missouri showed themselves.

In addition to being wonderful for riding, they are miserable for finding a safe spot to pull over to snap a picture or take a "break" without parking in the roadway.

I found a driveway that, while gravel, was suitable for a quick park-n-pic.

It was another race against the sun. I needed to make it to Dawt Mill before dark.

I got there just as the overpacked beer-laden delivery car was arriving, so as any good ADVer does, I stood by watching and snapping pictures as the round keg was placed in the square box.

Now that there's some ADV engineering for ya!

Gordon scrounged a spare bed for me to sleep in (thanks a million Ian & Jasmine!) and then introduced me to the natives.

Well, to one Native and a bunch of other guys n gals.

Man get wood.

Man make fire.

Fire pretty and warm.

Drunk coyote lays on box

Not a good place to sleep. Beer is in box. Drunk coyote is moved.

Tinks smiles pretty.

Before I secured a bed, she was kind enough to offer up space in her tent with her and her hubby. She's awesome and I'm glad I finally got to meet her, Bonnie, KCD, and all the other fine folk out there at SLAP. Any long trip that can incorporate a rally on-the-fly is a good one.

Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri
487 miles

2008-05-08T12:13:00.001-05:00

Ok, so where was I…

Oh yeah. Day 13
May 8th

Although Salome insisted, I declined to sleep in and spend the day being lazy around the house and avoiding the rain. She wanted to cook me breakfast, but I didn’t want her to go to too much trouble. I’d use the light hunger as incentive to get a hundred miles or so covered before stopping.

“Where ya goin? Can I come too?”

The Strom packed and warming up, I said goodbye to Dennis’ Harley

Salome, cute as a button (and not looking anything like the grandmother she is) in her high heels and works clothes helped me push the bike backwards out of the garage and onto the gravel. She handed me a pack of Pop Tarts and we said our goodbyes.

The drizzle wasn’t bad, but the roads were slick and my visor was fogging horribly. I snuck into this parking lot, the first place I could find with an awning to duck under to properly dry the inside of the visor and get it on my head without rain getting back in.

Sunshine?

Must be an old sign.

Reese’s 1830 Mercantile at the corner of PA 18 and PA 30. If you blink, you could miss it.

As I was clearing the visor and adding more soap in an effort to keep it clear, a gentleman came out to his car and asked where I was headed. The people up here in New England always seem amazed that I’m this far from home. He suggested I go inside for a breakfast sandwich and some coffee, and it sounded like a good idea. The banner near the door boasted free Wifi, so I’d try to get some pictures uploaded.

I have to say - this was THE best egg sandwich I’ve ever had. It wasn’t fried, either. Sliced hard boiled eggs, ham, cheese (maybe provolone?) and a pesto-type spread on crunchy, toasted bread. If you are ever near there, you simply MUST try one!

After the relaxing break, I headed out towards the thin sliver of West Virginia that must be crossed to get from PA to OH.

Rain and construction. I hate the combination.

I decided to pull into a rest area to add my thermals to the multiple layers of clothes I had on.

The Eisenhower Highway. Interesting.

License plate - check
Monkey - check
Helmet - dropped off the seat and rolled halfway through the parking lot and almost got run over by a minivan before I could get to it. Ugh.

I made up more time by taking I70 towards Columbus, where a friend from Houston had moved a few years ago. Attempts to reach her on her cell phone to meet for lunch failed, so I dined alone at the McDonalds.

Here I met Helen (who refused a picture), a state employee working on the road system who rides a Rebel 250. She asked about my luggage, my Camelbak, my GPS - she was absorbing all the details about how to make herself more of a distance rider. She also shared with me the fact that up ahead was a section of road called “suicide alley” - the tar snakes had been laid out of spec, and until they can be repaired motorcyclists should avoid the interchange between Interstates 70 & 71. Duly noted, I detoured south around loop 270.

A few miles shy of Cincinnati:

Lucky 13? Well, that remains to be seen. I'm writing this while sitting on the floor in the lobby of an Ohio interstate rest area. Bathrooms to the left and right of me, a map on the wall with a pin indicating "you are here" and people coming and going; most looking at me like I'm a deranged idiot for being on a motorcycle.

Well, at the moment I'm NOT on a motorcycle. Like I said, I'm sitting on the floor. I found an outlet for the laptop so it can charge while I type just in case I get caught somewhere down the road without power.

And the reason I'm here on the floor typing instead of out there riding away the miles? The weather. I'm 20 or so miles northeast of Cincinnati and a line of storms is moving through the region. I can ride in the rain and I can ride in the cold. I can even ride in the cold rain. What I can't ride in (or rather WON'T ride in for the sake of my own well being) is the downpour that creates almost zero visibility. The rain from above, the road spray from below, fog rolling over each bridge I cross, trucks passing me at full speed, water running down the inside of my visor despite NOT lifting it for any reason, and of course the fogging in the visor that won't quit even when I hold my breath.

I called a friend and he says the worst is still to come. I asked if I had enough time ahead of the squall line to make it to a hotel, and it was recommended that I just stay put for an hour or so. I can't pick up a WiFi signal here (I wish I had one of those USB internet do-dads), so I'll have to trust him. He says after that moves through I'll be safe to resume my travels.

After the rain settled down, I headed back out and made my way into Indiana.

The dark clouds remained behind me the rest of the day.

The mighty Ohio River.

I decided to ignore the GPS and follow the water once more. I was aiming for Louisville, KY for the night but I had a few hours of daylight left. I followed SR156, and signage indicated this was a “scenic byway”.

Rising Sun. There’s a big casino here, but there wasn’t time for gambling on anything but weather and roads.

A few sections of roadway were visibly damaged in what appeared to be landslides. I’m not sure how often the river gets out of its banks, but with the pavement this close, it takes its toll.

Switzerland County courthouse. I guess there was a large Swiss population that settled here.

In Switzerland, I found this sign for SR56, which appeared to parallel SR56 up in the adjacent hills. I wasn’t about to try it, but some of you that are near there would probably enjoy it.

Chasing the sun again, probably squinting age lines into my forehead for an hour or more.

But worth it.

I finally crossed over the river and into Kentucky.

I made it back to the highway as it got dark. I prefer to be on major roadways after the sun sets.

I got a room east of the city and settled in with a pizza to work on the ride report.

But I, uh, fell asleep with the computer on my lap and gave up.

446 miles
Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky

2008-05-07T08:09:00.000-05:00

Day 12
May 7th
My Birthday

The whole reason this ride was planned for early Spring during such tumultuous weather was because of today. I wanted to be on the road on my birthday just like I was last year and how I hope to be in future years. I like traditions. I like looking forward to things. Regularity

Well, the trip itself has been anything but "regular". As Mollie said, if everything were going perfectly this would be a vacation, not an adventure. There have been moments that I wished this was a vacation though, sitting on a beach with an icy fruit drink in my hand. Most of the time that thought is the farthest from my mind. An adventure it shall be.

I woke up to a few phone calls and text messages reminding me that I'd grown a year older (seemingly) overnight. Why should we feel like we're a whole year older on this ONE day when its been creeping towards us all year?

The bike had been parked right outside my hotel patio door throughout the night and was easy to pack up.

The bugs that had smashed themselves against my visor had also encrusted most of the front of my bike. I took soapy water and a rag to the lights and blinkers to aid visibility.

Having typed up a day or two of ride reports but not uploading them due to lack of WiFi at the Motel 6, I decided to stop for a liquid breakfast to get that done.

After two iced caramel macciatos (sp?) I was ready to roll.

Westbound

I found myself following water again. You can see it in this picture off to the right of the road.

I've found peace with water. It doesn't like to run along mountain ridges, so it tends to allow for twisty roads at lower elevation. It's a safe bet.

Not sure what's up with this FEMA area.

Miles and miles of construction slowing me down.

The state line was tangled up in this mess, and with state police sporadically placed to watch the flow of traffic, I didn't risk weaving through to the other side of the barrier for a picture. I ventured off the highway to escape the smell of fresh laid asphalt.

About an hour into the ride, my MP3 player decided to quit. It signaled low battery and turned itself off, but I was sure I'd charged it. I took it as a sign that I should be thinking more than singing today, so I left the earphones in to block the wind noise and motored on. I caught myself repeating some of my riding music over and over, but I got a good hour or two of thinking done as well.

No, you don't get THOSE details. As much as I share on this ride, there are things that nly I will know once it's over.

In the next town, I pulled over and swapped out to my "backup" MP3 player. It's shown it's age and has no LCD glass, but it plays music and I'm a creature of habit.

Hills and valleys

Expansive interstates

With the late start, I'd almost forgotten to eat lunch. It was already well into the afternoon when I pulled off for gas and found Aungst's Family Restaurant.

I've always found that restaurants with "family" in the name are worth stopping for, and this one was no exception.

I splurged on a loaded bacon cheeseburger and fries.

When the waitress cleared my plate (yes, it was empty except for the pickles) and asked if I wanted dessert I instinctively said no. I did a double-take though and remembered that it was MY day, so I asked what my choices were.

If this place were closer to Texas, I'd say we need to have a pie run here!

A slice of peanut butter pie and a hot up of coffee were the perfect cap to a great meal.

Back on the road, the skies grew darker as I made my way across PA.

As the drizzles began, I stowed the camera and started to make a plan for the night. If I could make it to Columbus, OH I had a friend I could stay with. The backup plan was a colleague of my mother's that lived outside Pittsburgh.

The rest areas along the interstates are much cleaner than I remember from my childhood. I stopped at this one to let some of that coffee out and to put the liner back in my jacket.

I was making good time on the highway when I realized I was nearing 200 miles on the current tank of gas. I'd been pretty good about refueling well before I needed to, so when the flashing beacon of stupidity blared at me for 15 miles I actually started to worry.

Thing is, I worried less about what I'd do if I ran out and more about how I'd never live it down with the Monday night crew... go figure...

Turns out I still had a half gallon or so to spare.

I made the decision to head towards Darlington, PA where Salome (pronounced Sol-oh-may) would gladly accept me into her home for the evening. She rides a Harley with her husband and has been following my journey on my blog.

She warned me that they lived "in the boonies" and offered to come meet me in town and lead me back to the house, but the GPS said it knew how to get me there so I declined the offer and wound my way up the dark, wet hills and right into their driveway. As I rolled to a stop and put me feet down on the gravel, the garage door magically opened before my eyes and I nestled the soaking Strom in for the night.

Cheyenne said I could share her house as long as I pet her for a while.

After her husband Dennis went to sleep, Salome and I stayed up for a while drinking coffee and talking before finally calling it a night. She offered to let me sleep in and leave when I felt like it or even stay another day to stay warm and dry, but I regretfully had to decline so I could (again) try to make up the miles getting back home.

Oh, how I long for the day I can hit the road and not have to "be" anywhere.

New York, Pennsylvania
363 miles

Follow me: http://share.findmespot.com/shared/gogl.jsp?glId=0niqJ8tjMVyEOT91cDaNW9QJxINAVSS9q

2008-05-06T15:15:00.000-05:00

Day 11
May 6th

Just another day, but this one started late. I woke up at the not-so-early hour of 9:30, but I stayed in bed listening to the sound of the birds chirping in the mountain air and the dog chasing the cat through the hallway. Keith's house is the perfect mountain retreat, and his offer to "stay a few days, the road can wait" was all too tempting.

I caught up on some postings from the weekend and sorted out my pictures, then packed up the bike once again. I said goodbye to Abby with a game of catch in the yard, then thanked Keith for his hospitality. I tried to convince him to come down to Houston sometime, but I don't think he was going for it.

"Free pool tonight at the bar within walking distance!"

He couldn't convince me to stay, but I can't blame him for trying. I was very tempted.

Down the road I go...

Unfortunately he had some work to do and couldn't break away for lunch, but he had recommended the Vermont Country Deli just a few miles through town.

Brattleboro, Vermont. A quaint little town that, according to Keith, has everything you'd want without the sprawl of an urban city.

I had intended to get breakfast (despite it being well past noon) but the baked three cheese macaroni caught my eye. I got a half pound with a fresh baked roll and some coffee.

Hwy 9 was also highly recommended as a scenic alternative to the interstate system.

I concur!

100-mile lookout. The day was clear enough to see what this great Earth had to offer.

Slowing down through each town that appeared, this caught my eye.

MOOOOOSE!

And this had me thinking of my sister. (Hey Nicole, what do you have planned for June 7th?)

Welcome (back) to New York! This time I was entering on land instead of by bridge/tunnel as I had down in the city.

Spank agrees, this is a HUGE state that not may people realize stretches as far as it does. We'd be spending the rest of the day just getting across it.

And cross it we did. With the sun shining, it was almost warm with my jacket liner in. I was able to ride with mesh pants without even a hint of a chill.

Albany. New York's state capital. Like most states, the capital is not the primary city but houses the gub-ment entities and has its fair share of towering office buildings.

I was on the New York Thruway, but I didn't want to be - so I wandered off. Another $1.20 toll (New England sure gets ya on toll roads and crossings) and I was free and wandering the Catskill region. Instead of following a set route, I turned off the GPS navigation setting and opted instead to follow the lines that looked twisty and went in a general southwesterly direction.

Game Farm Road. It was shaded by the tree canopy and just what I was looking forward to.

Until this.

So I backtracked and found some other squiggly lines, but this time I scooted the screen over a bit to make sure they went all the way through.

Glamorous, ain't I? LOL

Chasing the sun. I have a feeling I'll be doing this just about every afternoon until I get home.

I made my way through Woodstock and wanted a picture of something cute and "hippy" with my bike, but it wasn't like I'd expected. It's turned into yuppy art studios and little sidewalk cafes. I'm sure everything is overpriced and the hippys of yester-year are baby boomers trying to squeeze every penny out of their 401k plans.

I decided Binghampton was as good a stopping point as any for the night, so I pointed the GPS to it and kept following the squiggles. I found Hwy 28, which has a 40+ mile stretch from Delhi to Deposit that I would LOVE to ride over and over again!

The road twists and turns over water and between mountains as it makes its way through a valley. Curves are posted between 35 and 55 mph, and although the road surface leaves much to be desired, I found my groove and started to (finally) scrub off some of the rubber on the sides of my tires. It was invigorating! If it hadn't been so late in the day, I probably would have turned around and done the section again. The elevation was around me - but it went up, not down. The curves weren't tight enough to make me nervous, and there was very little traffic to deal with.

I was in heaven.

After Deposit, I made my way via Hwy 17 into the sleepy college town of Binghampton. I hadn't expected to be in this area, so I had to stop at a gas station to load the GPS basemap. It's one of the few downsides to the Quest I have, but since I road trip with a computer it's not much of a problem, just an inconvenience.

The bugs made sure I'd need to pull over to change out my visor anyway.

Vermont, New York
286 wonderfully lazy miles

2008-05-05T10:22:00.000-05:00

Day 10
May 5th

Leaving my family is always difficult, but this time I wasn't being driven back to the airport for a quick flight home. Home would be almost a week away - hopefully - and the journey would have a few milestones to write home about.

Gas prices on Long Island are the highest I've seen the entire trip. Is it something with NY taxes, or just greedy station owners that are trying to squeeze every penny out of the seemingly well-to-do suburban dwellers?

I hopped on the Long Island Expressway and took the HOV lane until it ended, It didn't get me past traffic, but it kept a wider cushion between me and the crazy cagers.

After leaving I495 on the east end, the landscape morphed into countryside - wineries and asparagus farms abound. I passed Pindar, a local wine producer that I know my sister has always liked, but there was no way I'd be able to carry a bottle the rest of the way without breaking or mutilating it.

Land gave way to water, and soon it was on both sides of the rooadway as I headed all the way out to Orient Point.

I arrived at the Cross Sound Ferry in time to buy my ticket, take a few pictures, then board for the hour plus ride up to New London, CT.

Once parked, we were not permitted back down to the parking deck. I later thought that I should have brought the SPoT tracker upstairs with me to have the "blips" continue across the water. Oh well, next time.

It was a beautiful day for a boat ride. The water was mostly calm, the birds were hovering overhead, and the sun warmed everything it touched.

I grabbed an egg sandwich and some apple juice from the on-board cafeteria, then settled wandered the ferry decks looking for interesting things to take pictures of.

New London, CT

Spank says he's got a cough now. I shouldn't have left him down there with all the cars and fumes.

I wasn't able to get a picture of any "Welcome to Connecticut" signs because we crossed over the state line somewhere in the water. I did notice that CT smelled like cedar. Maybe that's just my imagination.

Before too long I was crossing into Rhode Island.

The "Ocean State" - ok, now I gotta pee.

The people in Rhode Island are rude, or at least the few that I met were. I stopped at a gas station to fill up and use the ladies room - but was told there wasn't one available to the public. Even for paying customers? "No restroom" was his repeated response.

Ok, so I went up the road to the next one and there was a sign on the door that there were no facilities. I don't see how the cashier puts up with that...

The third station didn't have a sign on the door and I spotted the powder room in the back. The door was open so I snuck in despite the "Employees Only" sign. Hey, it's not like I had to go through a stock room to get to it, but I reaaaaally had to go! I came back out, refreshed s ever, and proceeded to buy $5 worth of overpriced drinks and snacks as a sign of my appreciation. As I got to the counter, the woman behind it looked up at me, wwalked around the counter to the bathroom, and closed and locked the door from the outside. She came back up front and rung me up, told me to have a nice day (all the while giving me "the look") and I left.

Hey lady, would you rather I just drop trou behind your store?

Onward I go, past Purgatory

Through Massachussets, which I didn't see a sign for, but it smelled like pine trees. Or maybe Pinesol. Is it state-wide spring cleaning day?

Into New Hampshire I go.

Chugging along, I kept my GPS zoomed in so I would know when the crossing into Maine was coming up. I wanted to be ready! A I approached, I realized this would be another state border created by water. The bridge neared.

Did you see that? I bet you didn't. It said State Line - Maine - Vacationland.

Here's a close-up:

I was disappointed. I'd come all this way to get the sign and THAT was it?

I was (slightly) relieved when I got to the end of the bridge and found this, a larger sign welcoming me to the far northeast state. But there was also a small sign next to it that prevent a better picture.

Living in New York for most of my formative years, I'd traveled repeatedly to Vermont and New Hampshire for family vacations, skiing, hiking, and general "get away from the city" vacations, but I'd never stepped foot in Maine until now. As minor an occurrence it is for most, it was a big deal for me. I was smiling from ear to ear, the sense of accomplishment was almost overwhelming. I'd done it. And the naysayers (you know who you are) can all kiss my big, tired, sore behind.

I found a gas station with decent food and beverage offerings to grab some dinner and make a plan for the night. My sister and I have a friend from college that lives somewhere in Vermont, so I called her to get his address and phone number. I left him a message and headed his way.

I wasn't able to reach him but left a message with my ETA around dark:thirty. As I rode through southern New Hampshire, the setting sun was directly in my face and I put my sunglasses on under an already tinted visor.

Both are polarized. Now I couldn't see the GPS screen. DOH!

My shadow grew longer as it followed me west

I stayed on Hwy 4 and Hwy 9, which were fun. I spotted a Moose crossing sign but didn't get the camera out in time - but moose this far south? Really?

I found a small bridge traversing the creek/river I'd been following

And had to be VERY careful riding on and parking in the thick layer of sand that had accumulated on the roadway over the winter.

It sure is beautiful up here

Vermont! I'd crossed over on another bridge, then caught the sign on the other side.

I rode up the unpaved street and into his driveway, but Keith wasn't answering the phone or the door. I called my sister, the coordinator, to see if I was at the right house. Just as she reached for her cell phone to check his number two cars pulled into the driveway. Keith! ":long time no see!"

It had been years, literally. We determined the last time I saw him was at my sister's wedding back in 2001. Since then he'd moved up here to a small town just outside Brattleboro, VT and was working from home. Ah, the life.

I was afraid my last-minute overnight request might have been interfering with his plans, but he and his friend Bryan assured me they were just planning on hanging out for the night and that I was a welcome addition.

I guess they needed someone to beat at darts.

I'm glad I could fill that void.

Our old friend George showed up and we talked for hours about the past - good times, bad times, strange times. We eventually made our way out back and built a fire in the pit.

And as every proper Vermont homeowner should, Keith has a hot tub and coaxed us in. I made do with some Under Armour shorts and a shirt and relaxed away the miles. I must have been in there over an hour, my hands looked like prunes!

New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Maine
406 miles
One HUGE milestone, and the turning point towards home again

2008-05-04T10:04:00.000-05:00

Day 9
May 4th

A slow and sluggish start to the day-after-ladies-night-out.

But nothing some bagels and coffee can't cure!

Kat and my brother Heath brought Emma back over to hang out at Nana's house.

And Noah went for a ride on Poppy's tractor

But wasn't able to get the key away from Poppy so he could drive by himself

Heath gives Ethan a boost

And then Nicole tries to keep up with the conversation

She wasn't behaving so we put her in time out inside the pen

And she couldn't figure out how to escape!

Her boyfriend Matt eventually let her out to end the suffering

"Look! Poppy's making chicken!"

"What? I can't hear you. I have lawnmower ears on."

Emma and Kat enjoying the shade

While Nicole enjoys the sun

And the rest of the family eats. We're professionals. Don't try this at home.

"They say lunch is done but I'm still hungry"

Country bumpkin

Noah learns to ride his bike, which he's been talking about since I got to the house with my motorcycle.

"Race Ya!"

An early birthday cake

Noah helps me blow out the candles

And Emma said goodnight to Spank before going home

2008-05-03T09:38:00.000-05:00

Day 8
May 3rd

When you leave a camera laying around, it's an open invite for a three year old to start taking pictures.

It's time for Aunt Becca to start packing up her things. I'll be riding from NJ out to Long Island, NY to see mom and the rest of the family.

It was foggy up at elevation, but it cleared as I neared Manhattan.

George Washington Bridge. Brian loaned me his EZPass to make the crossings go a little easier.

Ah, New York City.

I rode around for a while trying to find a good spot for a picture but it was impossible to get away from traffic. I was almost crushed by a cab driver that felt that I would just HAVE to lose the merge despite 75% of my bike being out front of his bumper. As he came over at me I looked at him and he just stared at me as he continued to push me into the next lane. Luckily, the next lane had enough space to accept me. If I'd been wearing my MX boots, he'd need to replace his headlight.

Another bridge. I think I took the Queensboro after unsuccessfully negotiating cross-park traffic. Twice.

I stopped at my younger sister Nicole's job to surprise her. She knew I was in the area, but didn't think she'd see me until later tonight at dinner.

The Islanders practice arena

I got lucky and the local F.D. still had the doors open for this pic. Kenny, my step father, is a volunteer here and is a career fireman with the city of New York.

I don't think I ever realized how twisty the roads near mom were until I started riding a few years ago.

Cassidy, the Westie

Oliver, the Old English Sheep Dog (after a recent shave)

Out to dinner we go. Italian food in NY is about as good as it gets without needing a passport

Of course you have to deal with characters like this showing up while you eat

The Mommy

My sister Nicole and I

Mom stayed home and Melinda rove out from NJ to meet Nicole, our sister in law Kat, and me for Nelson Ladies Night at Dave & Busters. Emma, the newest Nelson gal, joined us in her stroller.

Nicole

Kat (quick on the smile even with candids)

Cool ceiling fans, all belt driven and working off the same motor

Some hoops

And trivia

And diaper changes

We were all exhausted and needing to be at my mother's for a BBQ the next day so we said out goodbyes and retired for the night.

New Jersey, New York
114 miles

2008-05-02T09:07:00.000-05:00

Day 7
May 2nd

Still in New Jersey staying with my sister, her husband, and their two boys.

"I'm with the band!"

"I has a foot"

Easy fries with lunch

Which, as it turns out, are not so easy

We ran some errands around town for most of the afternoon. It was drizzling, so Noah got to use his new Crayola umbrella.

Ice Cream!

Then over to the book store, where apparently it's more fun to sit on the bookshelves than it is to look at the books themselves.

2008-05-01T22:31:00.000-05:00

Day 6
May 1

My riding boots will collect dust for a few days as I step into a pair of sneakers and enjoy some down time with my family.

Cereal and fruit for breakfast. Noah's choice - a combination of Rice Krispies, Kix, and Special K.

He wanted to know how I got here from Texas on my "bicycle", so he commandeered my GPS to figure out the mystery.

His brother Ethan wasn't quite bright-eyed yet this morning.

After breakfast, we had some play time before getting ready to go out and enjoy the day.

"I'm gonna play my rock star guitar!"

Spank made a new friend that was also a guitar player.

Goofin' with my gear

We got everyone dressed (not a simple task) and loaded up the mini van.

We headed for Easton, PA - home of Crayola, known to my nephew as the "color factory". I don't know if it was my sister's driving or the fact that I hadn't been in a car for over a week, but I got very nauseous on the way there. We opted for lunch before heading into the hands-on museum and factory.

Also located in the building is a museum dedicated to canals. Noah and Ethan loved playing in the water, learning how the locks work to get the ships across.

To prevent additional car sickness, I drove us all home, but just in case I didn't know where I was going my sister had the GPS up on the dash.

GPS: Turn left in point five miles
Noah: Becca, you gotta turn left to go to our house. Mommy, which way is left?
Melinda: Left is when your hand makes the L. Right is the one you write with.
Noah: (hands in the air making L shapes) Becca that way is left. We gotta go that way.
GPS: Turn left in four hundred feet
Noah: It says go left Becca. Mommy, Becca doesn't know where our house is.
Melinda: Becca will be fine honey.
Noah: But it says go left.

This continued for a while until I figured out how and why my sister can drown out the sound of her own children when appropriate. We turned on the Sirius kids channel and had some grown-up conversation.

2008-04-30T19:16:00.000-05:00

Day 5
Wednesday April 30

The original plan had me landing in New Jersey at my sister's place for the night, but that was many miles an states away from Durham, NC. I have to stick to interstates if I'm going to make it there before my nephews' bedtime.

Spank, you ready to hold on tight? This is going to be a high speed day!

Headed north up 85 and got my Virginia welcome sign on a cool, shaded shoulder.

Stopped just shy of Richmond for a quick lunch and refueling.

Made it to DC by early afternoon.

I decided that if I was this close to national monuments, I might as well take the time to stop and get some proper pictures with my bike.

After struggling with tourists on foot, in cars, and in caravans of busses I hit the highway to head north again. DC doesn't feel the need to put up signs, so I guess nobody is welcome here.

Now I had to fight my way towards Baltimore with mass commuters trying to make it home for the night.

I'd made it into Maryland but without a Welcome sign letting me know when it happened.

Bridges

And tunnels

And bridges

And then there was Delaware. Tiny state, big sign.

Then more bridges.

Welcome to New Jersey!

It was the homestretch. I was in the state, all I needed to do was make it north to Hackettstown before it was pitch black.

I was losing the race with the sun.

Off the interstate and northbound on 206, all I wanted was a hug when I arrived.

I got more than a hug. I got to read him not one, but TWO bedtime stories!

North Carolina, Virginia, DC, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey
516 miles

2008-04-29T09:27:00.000-05:00

Day 4
Tuesday April 29

I left my mark on the carpet in the room. Oops. Nobody said the Strom was light.

Packing the bike back up is getting just a little quicker and easier. Or maybe I've just learned to not unpack as much overnight so there's less to do in the a.m.

First thing's first - head south to "tag" South Carolina, then motor my way northeast.

The plan is to get a good push on mileage so I'll have an easier day getting up to New Jersey to see my family. As much as I'm enjoying the solitude of the trip, I'm social by nature and the casual conversations with strangers while on the road just aren't cutting it for me.

I've not wrapped my arms around my sister for a hug in nearly a year. I'm overdue.

It was chilly, but the miles went by quickly out on the interstate.

At the state line, there was a truck loaded with cement blocks parked next to the sign. Maybe the driver was a wanted man in SC and afraid to enter? I don't really care what his reasoning was - it made for a sucky picture.

So I headed up towards the Blue Ridge Parkway. After reporting how enjoyable the Natchez Trace was, RocketBunny advised I'd enjoy the BRP.

I made it 10 or 15 miles in when orange signs blared the announcement that the Parkway was closed up ahead. I followed the detour signs down to I40 - "Parkway North Detour Exit 86".

I just got on at exit 55. This is one heck of a detour.

Um... did Robin need help finding it?

A few exits from my intermediate goal, I decided the restrooms at the Chamber of Commerce were calling me.

I stopped in, bought some post cards and a map of the Parkway for $1, and learned some local knowledge about the BRP around these parts. The woman at the desk advised I head up Route 80 as an alternate to the scheduled detour, then backtrack south to Mount Mitchell to see the highest point east of the Mississippi River.

As I made my way up 80, I realized this was going to be as twisty as the Dragon, or at least a close second. What had I gotten myself into? There wasn't even a sticker to be earned for this one!

I wasn't going to be able to take pictures along the way, and I needed proof that I tackled this one - so I rigged the camera on my left mirror stalk using my mini tripod and set it to take video. (I don't have video editing software with me, so that will have to wait until I get back home.)

It was nerve wracking. I did most of it in first and second gear, and there were two switchbacks that really had me regretting the decision to head up the side of a mountain. Making it even worse were the locals that would come flying at me using almost half of my lane.

Once atop the Parkway, I headed south but it wasn't long before the beautiful scenery was overshadowed by the sheer drop-offs, lack of guard rails, and overall altitude intensity.

Acrophobia sucks. It turns what should be a beautiful ride on a curvy road into a terrorizing event that seems to go on forever.

The more miles I'd backtracked, the closer I was to the goal of Mt. Mitchell. I couldn't turn back now - I had to do it. I had to prove to myself that I could. This was NOT going to be another "Coronado Trail incident".

The overlook area was large and flat enough for me to safely park the bike and decide my next move.

We were so high up, there was still snow on the ground within the shade of the pine trees. Not one to pass up an opportunity, Spank tried to make a snowman. There wasn't enough, so he made do with a snowball.

What you can't see here is that Spank is giving the construction sign the finger.

We decided that we were cold and hungry, but there was no telling how much longer it would be before we'd reach anything resembling a town. Out came the Jetboil and some camp food for a mountain-top picnic.

We decided to head back, but the cold was overpowering my ability to stay relaxed through the curves and elevation. I needed to head back down off the ridge, but there was no way I'd take 80 again. Instead, I opted for the scheduled detour back down to Marion.

Which was just as bad as the ride up! 10 and 15 mph switchbacks, warning signs for trucks and RVs, and lots of blind turns. After a while I got tired of holding the clutch in, so I put it in neutral and coasted down feathering the brakes.

The interstate was boring, but I was just glad to be back on (mentally) solid footing. I'd made a full circle out of the BRP 'event' and lost a half day or mileage.

I motored east, heading for Greensboro.

My shadow got longer...

I was glad the setting sun was behind me and not straight in my eyes.

As I neared my intended destination, I was just getting my second wind. I needed to make up for the mileage I'd lost earlier so I pressed on for Durham, NC.

I made it there but got mixed up finding the hotel I'd selected - I hadn't loaded this section of the state into my GPS because I had no idea I'd be traveling this far east on the trip. I saw the glowing green and white calling me from a Starbucks sign and headed there to grab a cup o' joe and get my bearings.

I ended up at the Howard Johnsons, a very clean and friendly place just minutes from the Duke campus.

North & South Carolina
375 miles

2008-04-28T00:53:00.000-05:00

Day 3
Monday, April 28

Waking up and figuring out if the clock is reading CST or EST is confusing. Either way, I'm running late getting a jump on the day. I load the bike and hit the wet roads, although the rain was all but done falling from the sky.

The clouds loomed overhead for most of the morning. I was nervous about heading towards Deals Gap - US 129, known to riders everywhere as the Tail of the Dragon. 318 curves in 11 miles that makes motorcycling hearts go pitter patter at the thought of scrubbing tires through each winding twist and turn. For me, it's a nervous anticipation, and with the threat of wet pavement I wasn't "feeling it".

I was also cold, and cold = tense. I stopped to add a layer of clothes, opting to include my ducky pajamas and my TWT tee.

The sky was getting brighter, but the clouds stuck around.

After a late breakfast/early lunch break, the sun started to work its way out to dry the roads an restore my spirit.

The first few miles before the Tail started wandered around the water and gave scenic views of the surrounding hills.

We'll have to wait and see what ZeeFoto and Killboy got of me out there, since my hands were NOT coming off the bars for pictures on the Dragon. I tried second gear for the twists but felt like the bike was lugging up, down, and around the turns. I dropped down to first and stayed there for most of the ride, which made input on the throttle jerky at best.

I managed to pull off for the North Carolina state line sign:

And turned around to get the Tennessee sign since I'd missed it the day before.

Once safely at the Crossroads of Time, I picked out a few souvenirs and scoped out the riders hanging out at the cafe.

I got my dragon sticker! I certainly earned it.

Heading out. One dragon slayed, a thousand miles left to tackle (give or take)

US 28 was still twisty, but not nearly as much as the previous 11 miles had been. I started to relax, and the curves started getting smoother and I was able to flow from one to the next.

Lots of riders out on the road, but not in overwhelming numbers.

By early afternoon, Mother Nature had provided an amazing backdrop.

Fontana Dam and recreation area

One of the locks at the dam

More twists and turns. Lots of pics from the saddle.

The sun and the trees made mosaics that lay before me

Towns, fields, farms, and barns. It's what this country is made of.

Once out on the highway, I thought I would be bored with straight, flat, traffic-filled main lanes - but I was pleeasantly surprised by the winding ribbon of pavement that presented itself. I'd stumbled onto the Great Smoky Mountain Expressway. This is what I call a road!

I finally made my way towards Fletcher, just south of Asheville. I was near the airport but tucked away on a back road. I had to get a smoking room in order to get a first floor with outside access.

After seeing folks of all shapes and sizes come and go while I unpacked the bike, I decided I wasn't all that sure about the safety and security of my beloved Strom.

I did the only thing I could think to ensure his safety.

Yup, I popped the panniers off and powered it up over the curb and straight into the room. It was a close fit at the bard, but a little wiggle got it in without having to remove the bar ends.

I walked over to the Mexican restaurant for dinner to go. It was the only thing within walking distance, but the desolation inside the restaurant wasn't saying much for their popularity.

The food was good though. I was surprised to find decent Tex Mex this far from the Rio Grande.

I tried to settle in and get caught up on the ride report, but the internet access wasn't cooperating and I couldn't manage to get pictures uploaded. Oh well, it can wait.

Tennessee, North Carolina
219 miles

2008-04-27T23:20:00.000-05:00

Day 2: Sunday 4/27

I woke up and panicked that I'd overslept and missed the early start I so desperately needed, only to find out it wasn't even 4am yet. I put myself back to sleep, but had a repeat performance at 6. As much as I tried, I couldn't get back to sleep again so I started to (slowly) get my things together and get ready for the day.

I'm so used to sharing hotel rooms when I'm on a ride, I had rebelled by sprawling my things across the room. This solo thing is pretty cool! Nobody to have the "what time do you want to wake up/eat breakfast/get on the road" debate with. Nobody but me would get to make any decisions on this trip.

Well, except Mother Nature. She seems to make her own decisions and there's nothing anybody can do to stop her. She'd decided I would be getting wet today.

Much to my surprise though, the sun was trying to peek out from behind the clouds while I packed the bike. Spank was pleased.

We stayed up there on the second floor. The woman at the desk, a cruiser rider, said the bike would be fine and she'd watch it overnight. I wasn't worried about the bike as much as I was worried about my back - having to carry the pannier up and down the stairs was a chore.

I headed up Hwy 25 and it was a boring, wide, empty four lane snooze fest.

I could see the clouds looming, but I resisted pulling off the road to don the rain gear as long as I could. By the time I was doing the roadside dance, it was coming down pretty hard. Away went the camera...

Tiny little towns popped up all along the way. Every one of them seems to have a Main Street that once, back in its day, was a bustling meeting place for the locals.

As quickly as the rain had started, it stopped again. Off with the rain pants, out with the camera.

Welcome to Alabama! The sun was shining and there was almost no traffic on the backroads I'd picked. I pulled over and took this picture of Spank.

Then he took this one of me.

Stopped for lunch along th way. I prefer to stay away from fast food whenever possible, so finding Micki's Diner was a pleasant surprise.

Fried chicken, mashed potatoes, mac n cheese, and cole slaw. A bottomless glass of sweet tea made it the perfect southern lunch.

I was mingled with the after-church crow and the locals could tell I wasn't from 'round these parts. A few of them stopped by my table to ask about "that big bike out there", where I was headed, and if I was riding there "all by myself". It sure makes people open their eyes wide when I tell them my eventual goal is to get to Maine. They ask me to repeat myself, as if they didn't hear it right the first time.

The GPS was telling me that at the rate I was going, finishing my planned route would put me in Chattanooga after 9. I told it to hush up and just get me there, and it corrected itself to say 5:30. That would get me into the campsite with enough daylight left to set up camp, make dinner, and get some writing done.

So I found the slab and made use of my throttle lock.

As boring a highways can be, Mother Nature once again decided to throw life at me. Curveball. I swung and fouled this one off. I saw the rain up ahead and ducked under the overpass to get my rain gear back on before getting drenched.

Within minutes it was pouring down again, and the passing trucks (polite as they were to move over a lane) were atomizing the rain as it collected on the roadway and sprayed it up at me beneath my roadway roof.

I decided I didn't want or need to be on the freeway. Chattanooga wasn't going anywhere, and with the weather potentially soggy I decided I'd once again be sleeping in a hotel bed. I wandered onto 111/US11 which followed the freeway just a few hundred yards to the side but a world apart in sights, sounds, and smells. At a gas station, I met a local officer who rides a Victory cruiser. When asked if 11 would take me to Chattanooga, his reply was, "It'll take you to Canada if you want to go".

Sorry boys, this one's ladies only!

Dusk now quickly approaching, I got back on the freeway. Sure enough, the rain came back with it.

As it started to get darker and the rain was falling more steadily, I realized I'd made the irreversible mistake of lifting my visor to scratch my nose in the rain. Seasoned riders know this is a sin - and one that only the sinner will be punished for.

Water ran down the inside of my visor, and although it didn't fog up visibility was hampered. I had been watching the road between droplets and didn't realize how quickly the state border was nearing. As I looked up and saw it from the left-center of four lanes, my heart sank. I need a picture of that sign. I'll have to turn around and go back...

But the next exit wasn't for four miles. I took it, went over the freeway, and re-entered the roadway in the opposite direction. I thought it would be funny to post a picture in the ride report of another Alabama sign - but missed that one too, confusing it for the exit sign for a tourist information area. Oh well, I'll just take the next exit and get my picture over on US11.
I was crawling along the slow-winding two lane road and motioned to the pickup behind me to pass as I creeped toward the narrow shoulder. He stayed back there, crowding me. I tried waving him past again, but he wouldn't budge. Just then the GA state line passed right by me. UGH! I pulled into the next gravel driveway so I could turn around, and discovered the reason the truck didn't want to pass me was because he was turning into a parking lot a few hundred yards up as well.

Back I go. At this point I hate Georgia. This freaking state is doing nothing for me but causing grief.

I get to it. I park. I hop off the bike for the picture.

The sign sucks.

Georgia sucks.

They put a second sign a little ways up.

"Welcome. We're glad Georgia's on your mind"

I gave Georgia a piece of my mind for a few minutes in my helmet as I rode away.

I pulled into the nearest gas station to get my bearings, a hot cup of coffee, and a Room Saver - a free brochure full of coupons for travelers. The best part is that they give you a map of each metro area with dots for each hotel that has a coupon. Find a good deal, check out their offerings (wifi, continental breakfast, pool) and then find them on the map. I picked an easy $35/night outside of town and set sail.

I could have used a sailboat. It came down in buckets. Sheets. Bathtubs full of water. I was on a freeway in the dark with poor visibility, splashing from cars and trucks, grooved pavement, and huge interchanges as I approached, traversed, and escaped the "city" of Chattanooga averaging 38-42 mph. Mind you, the rest of the freeway was still doing 65 or better.

I gave the "Welcome to Tennessee" sign the finger as I passed it.

I got to the hotel, threw my stuff in the room, and walked next door to the Waffle House for some hot food. Bacon cures everything, right?

Oh - and it stopped raining just in time for me to walk there, eat, and walk back. Go figure. There was lightning and thunder most of the night but I never bothered to poke my head out the door to see if it was still raining.

Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee
432 miles

And for those o you that haven't seen it, I can be tracked throughout the day here: [url]http://share.findmespot.com/shared/gogl.jsp?glId=0prkGaxNu7TZxuGCWefXtUfZjWkosk1cY[/url]

Down The Road I Go...

2008-04-26T22:25:00.000-05:00

As i finished packing last night, thunder and lightning rolled into Houston and rain soaked the area. I was sure the wet weather would be gone by morning, but that was wishful thinking. By the time I rolled out onto the road it was don to a drizzle, and the weather map showed it was dry north of I10. That made the decision between slabbing east on 10 and heading northeast an easy one.

I skirted the rain for a while, but it caught up with me as I passed into Louisiana. I almost dropped the bike for the picture - the ground was soft and the kickstand started sinking fast. Luckily, I was close enough to the bike that I caught it and got the kickstand plate down under it in time.

I was reluctant to add a layer of rain gear, since it makes it feel like I'm riding in a sauna. I pulled into a gas station for a snack and decided it was the safest place to do the "rain gear dance", and not three miles down the road the sky opened up and dime-sized raindrops were pelting me.

I opted for an easy lunch at Arby's and recalculated a route that might get me closer to Chattanooga than I'd originally routed.

The roads got straighter and more boring, although I was making good time. I decided to stop for some ice cream to load up on sugar.

Before I knew it, I was crossing a huge bridge and sure enough, it was the mighty Mississippi. Because of the wet weather, the camera was tucked away in the tank bag and I missed the opportunity to get pics from the bridge itself. I pulled over for my sign shot:

And turned around for a quick shot of the bridge:

I was in Natchez, MS and I'd been advised that the Natchez Trace was slow and boring, so I headed for US 61. As it crossed over the trace, I couldn't help but notice how green and lush it was. I turned around and hopped on it for a few miles, telling myself Id get back on 61 after a few miles and a couple of pictures.

I was amazed at the beauty that was before me. Mile after mile of greenery hung over and around me, and despite the lack of sun it was exactly what I needed to get some thinking time in.

The speed limit was only 50mph, but this seemingly-isolated road had me so calm that I found myself going as slow as 40 at times. There were very few cars on the road, so my speed (or lack of) wasn't bothering anyone.

I could stop in the roadway and snap pictures at will. I passed multiple chances to get back onto the highway, but found myself compelled to just continue on at the sedate pace I was keeping on the Trace.

I decided to push on past dark, so I stopped in a hotel just east of Jackson, MS. I've got my camping gear loaded on the bike but I'm not intent on pushing safety just for the sake of camping, After this, I would have veered off the main lanes and onto side roads that aren't lit.

Here's a link that will (hopefully) let you know where I end up riding tomorrow:
http://share.findmespot.com/shared/gogl.jsp?glId=0prkGaxNu7TZxuGCWefXtUfZjWkosk1cY

Hopefully the sun will peek out and I'll be able to get some more pictures to share with you.

444 miles
Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi

Counting Down...

2008-04-25T14:49:00.002-05:00

About 16 hours until I launch. I'm nervous and excited, but not (yet) finished packing. If it weren't for this silly J-O-B getting in the way, I might be ready to leave tonight instead of at sunrise.

Will I head east then north? Or northeast? Or something in between?

I guess we'll see when I thumb the starter and clip the helmet on in the morning.

Getting Ready

2008-04-18T15:51:00.002-05:00

I'm almost ready, both mentally and physically, for the "BIG" trip. I'm nervous and excited all rolled into one. I've got a few last minute things to buy and do (including changing out my fluids and replacing some leaking clutch parts that *should* be here by Tuesday) before I can finally say I'm packed and ready to go.

Taking advice from others that have gone before me, I liked this short list that Flyred on ADVrider.com posted after a 6000 mile trip:

1) Travel light. Use the weight loss section in the trip planning section then take more out of your bag. I mailed home 23lbs of crap that I hadn't used in the first week, and I could have sent a few more lbs later.

You dont need cook pots and a camp stove, and a liter of spare fuel. An Esbit cooker, fuel tabs and a Ti coffee cup will do everything needed and take a 10th the space. Eat jerky, dried fruit and nuts, a can of tuna, then in a few days, stop at a good diner and enjoy a good meal.

Jetboil. Check.

2) Use the Tent Space list to get a warm floor to sleep on once in a while. Your back will thank you.

List reviewed and computer coming with me in case I don't end up sleeping where I think I'll be any particular night.

3) If you own a 990 ADV get the TourTech big kickstand foot. I wish they made one for the centerstand.

Check. I made a kickstand plate and it lives in my tank bag.

4) Go it alone. I wasn't sure about it when I left home, but the longer I was out, the more I liked it. Go where you want, when you want, stop when ever to take a pic or investigate a dirt road that beckons. There is never a discussion about someone not wanting to do that.

Sleeping alone, in the middle of a desert under a star filled sky on a ground sheet and your sleeping bag is amazing. And waking up at dawn and watching the morning light creep up the walls of a canyon while you heat water for a cup of coffee is a religious experience.

I'm going as solo as could be.

5) See #1. You dont need anywhere near as much stuff as you think.

Hmm. I'll rethink the wardrobe selection...

6) It will frequently not be "fun" but it is always an adventure. You will be sore from long days in the saddle, from sleeping on the hard ground. You will be cold, wet, hot, thirsty, tired of the desert winds that blow your stuff all over the camp if not carefull. But after a while, you will gain experience and become an old hand with it all. It is a steep learning curve and using ADVrider.com as a resource is a huge help.

6) Now go out there and have an adventure

Yessir!

Inks Lake Campout

2008-04-13T23:54:00.001-05:00

Met Deb in Fulshear bright and early Saturday morning for a ride out to Inks Lake State Park for the Two Wheeled Texans Spring Hill Country Rally.

We got caught up in the MS150 bicycle race mess for a little while, which I thought I had routed us around to avoid. Oh well. We were in no hurry.

We finally made it through to Hwy 290 when traffic came to a standstill - the annual Chappell Hill wildflower festival was under way.

We detoured around the madness and eventually needed to u-turn, which brought us to this structure. It looked too good to pass up the photo op.

The day was beautiful. Blue skies, white clouds, and temps in the mid 70s.

Deb and I eventually got to the park and found the loop Matt had reserved for the group. Since the boys were nowhere to be found, we set up camp and went for a walk around the park to take advantage of the remaining daylight.

We found a group that had a band playing on the other side of the park.

The boys eventually made their way back and we had dinner, made fire, and reveled in stories and jokes for the remainder of the evening.

What happens at Inks Lake stays at Inks Lake....

It was c-c-c-cold overnight. I remember trying to duck down into my sleeping bag and closing it over my head to try to warm up, but I'd fall asleep and start to inch back out.

We emerged from the tent after Matt shook it thoroughly - I'm sure he was just trying to help knock some of the condensation off. Right, Matt? I ate breakfast (and it was yummy no matter what the numbers on the back of the package or my campmates say) then Deb and I set to packing up the gear.

We hit the road. Or at least we tried. Deb and I were in the back and by the time the first intersection appeared the guys were nowhere to be seen. We were supposed to go right, but that would have meant a change of course - and surely they'd be here waiting for us if that were the case. I convinced Deb we'd continue left at the fork since the group would have stayed on the same-numbered road and we headed up Park Road 4. We got a few miles in before we pulled over into a paved driveway. Still no sign of the guys. Was this the right way after all? Were they back at the fork in the road wondering what happened to us?

We turned and headed back, and as we reached the end of the road Matt and Roger pulled up behind us. Yup, we'd gone the right way - we just hadn't gone far enough to see where they'd been waiting on us. :doh:

The weather was once again cooperating quite nicely.

Somehow I was leading from the back. I'd been sober enough the night before to get a general idea of a route from the guys and program the GPS with help from Matt's atlas, but I had no way of getting it from my GPS to Brad's. I'd give Matt the next few intersections to look for and approximate mileage between them, then I'd drop back to sweep and give him the next set of turns when we finished those.

Cow Creek Road sounded familiar, so we took it. I'm sure the group was wondering what kind of unpaved mess I'd gotten them into, but we continued on through gravel, potholes, dry water crossings, and cattle guards.

Hey Mat, show us your Daffy! :lol2:

It's kinda fun to ride in the back. Nobody to watch my lines, nobody having to wait while I take pictures...

Cow Creek twisted and turned following the water, crossing over it several times.

We popped back out on the main road, and the view of the area was great. I just wish there had been somewhere to pull off for better pictures.

We made our way down to Bee Cave for lunch at Sonic (for lack of a better option open on a Sunday) and after lunch we said our goodbyes.

I led Deb out towards Lockhart for another fuel stop, then she headed for Huntsville while I wandered my way home to Houston.

I'm getting used to solo riding. Before this past year, I'd not gone very far on my own. I'm getting ready for the longest solo ride of my riding career and I'm trying my best to not worry about being "alone out there".

I've decided it's not so bad - I can stop when and where I want, and for as long as I want. I can take my time or take the super slab at will.

When I spot a sign that says "scenic overlook 1 mile" I can either keep going or check it out.

And most of all, I can take time to think.

Crash & Burn: Corpus Cristi Overnighter

2008-03-30T23:15:00.002-05:00

Met up with the SW Houston crew at Starbucks in Sugar Land to head down to Ingleside for lunch.

This cute doggie was in the drive-thru line waiting for his morning java.

The sky was grey and would remain that way for quite a while.

In Palacios, Duke (dixonduke) joined us and fell in line with the gang. The sun finally started to appear.

We were only ten minutes late for the pie run, but apparently everyone else was early.

(Photo courtesy of Gilk51)

(Photo courtesy of M38A1)

Scott (M38A1) put his map making skills to the test.

It was good to see Scott (bluedogok) and Naomi again.

(Photo courtesy of Jbay)

Kurt (txmedic) was heading back across the ferry after lunch, so James (jar675) and I followed his lead to check out the potential for camping on the beach near his hotel.

Once across, we spotted a photo op that I just couldn't pass up.

We wandered onto the beach and I waved James ahead, since his XR was more suited to the conditions than my Strom. I guess once I was following him, I forgot I wasn't on the XR with knobbies.

I got going a little faster than I wanted to be going, so I deployed the outriggers and either
a) grabbed the clutch
b) chopped the throttle
c) grabbed the front brake
d) a&b
e) a&c
f) all of the above

The front tire plowed into the sand and took the bike down on its left in what felt like half a second. I remember launching up over the front right of the bike head first and hitting the ground on my right arm/shoulder and rolling over to my back then back to an almost seated position.

I caught my breath and raised my arm so Kurt would see I was ok, then started moving limbs and joints to make sure they were all there and still working. The first thing I remember hurting was a burning sensation on my right elbow/forearm. I was wearing mesh gear, and as I hit the sand it came up into the jacket and rubbed against me while I rolled. As I got up and got my jacket off, I noticed some light red marks in the area but it was just a light abrasion. My elbow was hurting a bit, but I had full motion.

Kurt and James got the bike righted (I heard some grunting, yes - the beast is heavy when it's loaded for camping!) and rolled out of the path of beach traffic. A quick once-over showed I'd knocked the right blinker stalk loose, but the blinker cover was recovered from the sand and reattached. The wiring was all in tact. Kurt noticed the brake lever/handguard assembly being a bit out of whack, which we later adjusted back to a comfortable position.

The top mounting point on the luggage rack that accepts the lock from my pannier was damaged, so the lock could no longer keep the bag in place. I dug out a tie wrap I keep under the seat and slung it around all four handles of the bags to keep the left one on with tension from the right one. It wasn't pretty, but it would do and I could still get in and out of the panniers.

We got some offers for help from passers-by checking to make sure I was ok. One couple that was walking on the beach said they saw everything and told me I rolled quite nicely.

James said that he didn't see anything in his mirror, but he knew something had happened when he heard my engine rev real high.

I programmed Kurt's number into my phone in case we needed it, then said goodbye to find ourselves somewhere to pitch our tents and get some campfire dinner started.

We rode down the island and stopped in at Mustang Island State Park, but the camping area had loose, deep sand that I didn't want to attempt to cross. The day use area didn't look bad at all, and it had a parking lot and picnic tables.

We continued south to Padre Island National Seashore. Between James' State Parks Pass and my National Parks Pass, these check-it-out trips weren't costing us anything.

The National Park area had too many RVs and generators, so we decided Mustang Island was it for us. We headed back to the grocery store over the bridge in Corpus and loaded up on food and drink. By this time, mother nature was just being cruel - there was a steady drizzle that only let up while we were inside the store.

We picked up some firewood from the gas station so we could grill some steaks and potatoes.

Well we couldn't make a fire. We tried EVERYTHING - fire starter gel, paper, tissues, even gasoline. We'd get a minute or two of flames, but they were no match for the wind and rain. I pan fried the ribeyes, added them to the seasoned potatoes and onions, and called it dinner.

The wind was going strong most of the evening, but it calmed down enough to lessen the threat of collapsed tents while we slept. I think a few stars even appeared before bedtime.

Knowing I'd be sore from the fall, James was kind enough to let me sleep in until a little after 9am.

We wet for a walk down the beach, and I brought my camera.

The water was cold, but inviting. We walked out onto the jetty and got splashed by the crashing waves.

It was warm out, but not 'summer hot' yet. I guess I didn't realize how long we were out there walking, but I'd forgotten to put on sunscreen. I made breakfast tacos with scrambled eggs and the remaining meat & potatoes from dinner, then we started packing the bikes for the ride home.

James mentioned I was starting to turn pink and suggessted I put something on over my tank top to block the sun.

As we left the island, we headed back across the bridge to Corpus Cristi. It was much less intimidating without the wind, rain, and fog like the night before.

I wanted to go see the big boat. (Yes, Lady Lex - but I called it the big boat) so we headed back towards Ingleside.

Gettin' artsy...

We headed back up the coast, this time with no plan other than to eventually get back to Houston.

More bridges.

I saw a sign for the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge and wondered what it was. It was still mid-afternoon, so we headed the way the signs pointed and eventually got there.

The visitor's center was closed, but we looked around and took a break. It was here that I got my first look at my sunburn in a mirror...

While I was putzing around taking pictures of flowers and scenery, James said "Hey, look at that!" I turned and almost jumped out of my (burnt) skin.

I was just amazed at the size of this thing. I'm a city girl - and even though I live in a bayou city, I'd never seen a gator up close. I was nervous, but stayed safely behind the bikes and just kept snapping pics until he was across the parking lot.

While heading for home, mother nature opened up the skies and let it rain down. Unlike the night before, this time I pulled off the road and donned my rain gear so I'd be slightly less miserable for the rest of the ride. I was getting chills and was in pain from the sunburn, and exhaustion was setting in. My shoulder and arm were getting stiff, and fighting the gusting wind wasn't helping matters.

One last stop at Jack In The Box to refuel our bodies before the final 70-mile stretch for home. I welcomed the air conditioning blowing on my shoulders.

My weekend has now been dubbed "crash and burn"

Louisiana Dual Sport Ride

2008-03-15T02:35:00.000-05:00

Decided to head out to LA for some dual sporting last weekend.

Vid is broken down into 3 parts for uploadability...

Part 1:

Part 2:

Part 3:

Meunster, TX

2008-02-11T16:16:00.001-06:00

Scott: Have you shown this stuff to your family? If so, what were their reactions?
Me: They think I’m nuts.
Scott: Well right… but what about the motorcycling activities?

Red River Motorcycle Trails is a private riding area up near the Texas/Oklahoma border. It was the home of three consecutive Last Man Standing competitions in recent years, and is open on weekends for daily use by guests. At only $15 for the day, it is a great value offering a wide range of terrain to learn, practice, and enjoy some good ‘ol dirty fun.

My day started very early. Some would call it late. I guess it all depends on whether you consider days to start at midnight or upon awakening. I left work at 11pm to pack up the truck and trailer and headed north to Bill‘s house in Arlington, knowing that the sooner I got there the sooner I’d be taking a nap.

I got as far as 5am when this happened. I was going ~72mph in the center lane on the freeway and it scared me senseless, but I got off the road and as far onto the shoulder as I could before grinding to a halt.

Out here, there wasn’t much. There was enough light that I wasn’t immediately worried about getting run over, but it wasn’t where I wanted to be for very long.

As luck would have it, the GPS told me I was only 18 miles from the town Chris lived in. He had told me to call him if I got close and was too tired to continue on to Bill’s, but that would only mean opening the garage for me. Instead, he became my rescue plan.

After getting the rig back to his house and stealing an hour of sleep on the couch, I woke up to meet his three year old Eli. He was playing a game in the kitchen, and apparently he was winning. Loudly. We moved my trailer to Chris’ truck and headed out with his eight year old Nathan.

Two food stops, a fuel stop, and two ATM machines later, we got to Red River and unloaded the toys.

Gummy worms! A great snack to feed a child that can’t put on or take off his helmet unattended.

It was his first "big" ride on his quad, and he did great - and cute as a button to boot! ;-)

The Red Bull barn, used for the Last Man Standing PR.

I was shown the infamous hill that had thrown Chris to the ground on his previous trip here with Bill. I would never even have tried to go up that thing.

Father and son

Chris and Nathan split off to ride the four-wheelers in the sand pit for a while, so Bill led Rachel and I through some trails. Bill went ahead to get these video clips of Rachel and I:

Poor Rachel. She took the wrong line coming up the hill and the bike went over. She was fine, but Bill had to go back down to get her and the bike.

And here’s how it’s supposed to be done! (Nate on his XR400R, like mine only newer)

On our last run, we decided to go play in the water to get some photos. There’s a creek that runs through the property, and four-wheelers had been running up and down it all day.

Thing is, they knew which way to go.

Bill didn’t.

The "blue submarine" story as told by pictures...

Photojojo left his posse on the other side of the field long enough to come say hi and help out with the flooded WR

While the men cleared the flooded submarine, I got to play with the Katoom sans-clutch

Dual Sporting - East Texas Style! 1/26-1/27

2008-02-02T16:10:00.001-06:00

Some highlights from the East Texas Dual Sport Ride:

Staging. See me leaned over while balancing on one foot....
(third helmet from the right, white fender/number plate/knuckle covers)

This is what I looked like just moments later. DOH!

Hmm. I see a bike, but where's the rider?

Oh, there he is! Went for a swim it seems.

Danny's bike seems to like being in the back of the truck. His wife doesn't.

The folks at Harborlight catered FOR us and TO us all weekend. They made it very clear they enjoyed having the group stay there, and they're looking forward to hosting us again in the future.

The fire was roaring all night and brought out great conversation, story telling, and joke-telling...

Bud Light cans melt slower than Miller Light cans apparently...

Do I hear banjos?

Have we mentioned the mud?

As the weekend was coming to a close, the sun finally appeared. :sun:

[/QUOTE]

Here are some pictures from some of the other participants…

Me in the sand

I’m in the back, white helmet & black jacket. David to my left on his Husky 610 and Bill standing in front of us with the blue helmet.

Graeme got himself a little sideways and a lot stuck.

Men make fire.

Stickers!

And the rest, in no particular order…

My Nephews

2008-01-30T23:53:00.000-06:00

I got them this bouncing Tigger toy for Christmas, and they love jumping and bouncing along with it. Ethan even imitates Tigger's noises!

2008-01-22T12:45:00.000-06:00

Still have to adjust the pilot screw, but it's running.

Last night I changed the chain & sprockets, added a tailbag, and bled the rear brake. Next up is the front brake and the oil/filter change and it'll be ready for the romp in East TX this weekend!

The $4 chain plate tool (Mike's?) was PERFECT for pressing the plate on - I highly recommend it! The hardest part of the process was getting the VERY stuck bolts off the back sprocket. I had to get some Liquid Wrench and work on them for a while before they would budge.

I also realized that I'd ordered stock gearing but that's not what I took off the bike. One of the previous owners had it at 14/51, but I put on stock 15/45 - probably better for this DS ride anyway, but I'll have to hold onto the 14/51 combo for trails and such, or look into a 12 or 13 front if I want to avoid adding links to the chain when I change it.

Light Dual Sporting with 'Da Bunny

2008-01-20T12:46:00.000-06:00

Carb Follow-Up

2008-01-20T12:44:00.000-06:00

Ok, before turning the fuel back on this morning I took the tank back off, drained it, then got a fresh batch of gas. With the idle screw all the way out the bike fired but didn't run. Quarter turn of the choke for each kick and I knew I was getting closer.

When I finally got it running, it was idling pretty quick. Choke off, idle screw down a tad, but I can tell the pilot screw will need more adjusting.

I started getting a LOT of white smoke off the right side of the bike near the (?) exhaust header so after about three minutes of warm up I cut it off. I'll let it sit and then give it another go, hopefully it's just extra cleaner that got down there and needs to get burned off.

Thanks to all for the help and advice! Hopefully I'll be able to keep it running and get the other maintenance done for the DS ride next weekend!

(and yes, I'm kicking myself for it likely being just bad gas but at least I learned about carbs in the process so it wasn't a total loss)

Carbs 101

2008-01-19T12:41:00.000-06:00

The XR still won't start/run. With starter fluid and almost all of the energy I could muster I got it started but it would die almost immediately. The longest it ran was about 10 or 12 seconds.

I was a little nervous about doing this kind of work myself, but I pulled the carb based on the service manual guidelines. Clean as a whistle but I went at it with some more carb cleaner anyway. Needle and jets all looked fine. Float had no irregularities and was free-moving.

Since the tank was off the bike, I tested the petcock in both the ON and RESERVE positions and the gas flowed freely. Tomorrow I'll dump it and put fresh gas in, but I doubt that's the problem.

Spark plug is good. Did the "touch it to the side of the motor" trick and got blue spark. Fuel filter is in/behind the petcock so opening the petcock while the tank was off showed no slowing of fuel there.

Air filter is a new-looking K&N that was cleaned and oiled before the last ride and shows no signs of dirt or crud.

Booth, TX

2008-01-06T12:36:00.000-06:00

I had a great time meeting and mingling with folks down in Booth, TX for Ara & Spirit‘s visit. The food was excellent, the company outstanding, and the weather held up its end of the bargain. Thanks a million to Carl and Colette for hosting and to Ara for setting up the spread.

Saturday Ride 1/5/08

2008-01-05T12:33:00.000-06:00

433 miles door-to-door for a Saturday jaunt from Huntsville to Colmesneil for lunch.

Some cumulative pictures from Deb and myself:

Lunch at the Texas Star Cafe in Colmesneil:

After lunch, the ladies decided that despite looming clouds and threatening skies, we'd head east in search of more twisty bits to enjoy.

As we neared 190, the rain started and we pulled over to complete the waterproofing, or as much as we could. Other than our gloves, we were sealed and ready.

After completing a wet and wild ride through 777 and 1414, we stopped in Burkeville to regroup and decide the best way home. We were soggy, to say the least. Crinkled fingertips and purple hands were discovered.

It was a great day with friends despite the weather. It was certainly a long day in the saddle, and the straight and boring highway miles sure feel like they take twice as long to traverse as they do in real-time.

My 2007 Year In Review

2007-12-31T12:40:00.000-06:00

Year End Pie Run

2007-12-30T14:24:00.000-06:00

College Station, TX

Two Wheeled Texans Have Been EVERYWHERE!

2007-12-30T12:17:00.000-06:00

This was the TWT 2007 project, and has been widely viewed and praised. I hate to say that my participation was minimal, but hopefully I'll do better next year!

The 'Rents

2007-12-24T21:48:00.001-06:00

2007-12-10T09:24:00.000-06:00

Wandered to Taylor the not-so-direct way to meet a bunch of multi-forum folks for BBQ at Meuller's. I had a route planned, but I broke away from it more than I followed it. I tried to add some dirt here and there, but generally just picked roads that looked like they were off the beaten path. Riding alone, I just did what I wanted as it happened.

These pre-steaks blocked the roadway and then started lazily walking down the road. Every attempt to rev the engine and honk the horn only caused more confusion, not the "startled and running away" effect I was going for. It took almost ten minutes for me to get enough space to get past them.

Something about two paths in the woods comes to mind. I went right.

And it brought me here (eventually)

(Click on the pictures to see a larger version)

I followed Graeme back to Houston, but about 80 miles into the ride I realized we were only twenty or so miles from where we started. I hadn't even noticed we'd made a big loop!

The weather couldn't have been nicer!

This beastly machine was nice enough to move over a smidge so we could get by in one piece.

We stopped for a long break to talk and rest as the sun was starting to set, then headed back for home.

2007-11-24T14:25:00.001-06:00

Pic A Day: Saturday, Nov 24

Salad Extraordinaire

2007-11-22T17:22:00.001-06:00

Pic A Day: Thursday Nov 22

Giving Thanks

Rio Bravo MX Park

2007-11-18T23:21:00.001-06:00

Took these

Out here

With this guy

The bikes ended up looking like this

And we got to watch some of this

Light rain kept the dust down, and the clouds kept the sun from warming things up too much. Fun day!

2007-11-13T12:25:00.000-06:00

The Big Bend panoramics have been stitched together - take a look at them in full size!

Near the entrance to the park

Boquillas

The Campground

The Observatory View

2007-11-11T23:08:00.000-06:00

A plan was hatched and oh, what a plan it was: The Quest For Chili.

The moons had aligned and the trip for Tom, Duke, and myself got underway in the late evening on Halloween. For me, this meant already being in my pajamas at work and simply transitioning those same PJs to the cab of the truck for the long drive west. We all hit the powder room one last time, loaded up, and headed out.

Duke’s (dixonduke) plan for the weekend involved both paved and unpaved riding, hence the need for a truck and trailer. Having already ridden the boring, flat, and straight route there and back myself in the past, I gladly accepted his offer to add more bikes and riders to his mode of transport.

The Katy Freeway.
Interstate 10.
The highway that connects two oceans.
It’s a freeway without character, but it serves its purpose well. Without lifeless freeways we could not so easily span the continent on journeys, trips, and adventures.

Every now and then these continental arteries are closed. A minor stroke, if you will, in the flow of the country‘s travelers. One such coagulation presented itself in San Antonio and forced a few loops and detoured backtracking just to stay on the same road we’d been on for the last three hours.

Very appropriately, we decided to watch the first episode of Long Way Down on a video iPod thingy - like a docking staion, but we piped the audio through the truck’s aux input. If there was a way to travel more comfortably across this huge state on wheels, I don’t know what it could possibly be.

The GPS displayed the ever-increasing altitude as we crossed through the Hill Country. As it was now well past midnight, the deer were everywhere and I was glad to have the protection of the cage around me. If I’d been on the bike, things could get ugly out there.

As the clock continued to tick away the minutes, late night ended somewhere and early morning had taken its place. Mollie was awake and checking in while preparing to throw a leg over and meet the other Houston-area riders for their two-wheeled version of our midnight ride. A few minutes later, Graeme checked in from their meet-up point to check on our progress. We were getting off the freeway for another break and some fuel. Even with an auxiliary tank, we were towing and climbing so fuel economy was lower than normal for the big diesel. As we pulled into the fueling station and aimed for one of the truck lanes, the truck began to shudder.

Well, you see the truck ran out of gas.
Yes, in the gas station.
Fort Stockton, TX.

No, I wasn’t driving nor did I have any affect whatsoever on the determination of fuel economy or location selected for the next fuel stop. Let’s just get that out of the way so y’all don’t have to remind me that I don’t pay attention to a fuel gauge.

What I didn’t know at the time was that unlike my car and bike, this truck wasn’t going to start back up just by adding more fuel to the tank. There was priming/bleeding to be done and for that, tools are needed. Tools that might normally reside in the truck when one has not cleaned out his truck in preparation for a long haul with cab-mates.

Here he is trying to get a pair of pliers to get it done, but unsuccessfully.

It’s pitch black outside, but pre-dawn hours in an oil, gas, and mining region means trucks coming and going - and with those trucks goes tools. Duke quickly befriends a local and help is on the way.

I don’t know his name, but the guy in the striped shirt was our hero. They had their truck backed up to Duke’s, tools out, and air bled from the system within minutes. I was trying not to be rude by flashing a camera on these guys, but I was reminded that it’s all just part of the adventure. Documentation is required.

Our good Samaritan took a face full of diesel for us. I felt horrible, but I was glad he was able to get us back up and running. Karma. Think about it.

The Good Sam adequately thanked, we got to washing the fuel off the truck and topping off the tanks. It was decided at that point that we’d NOT rely on the gauge for the aux tank for the remainder of the trip. Twice as many fuel stops makes for half as much worry about making it there.

The sun started to rise and I decided we’d play a game to pass the time and stay alert. It worked to keep us kids quiet for long drives to the grandparents’ place way back when, so I introduced the game of Geography to my driving mates. They seemed to catch on quickly, but it began to peter off when our brains decided this wasn’t the time for thinking. How many hours have we been awake?

My body now physically exhausted, I started to doze off. I was losing the battle to keep my eyes open.
Pilot to copilot: We’ll have none of that now, ya hear?
But, I…
Nope, you made it this far, we’re inside the park so you’re staying up.
Fine. Be that way.

My eyes closed again. I couldn’t fight it.

Suddenly, the truck veered sharply and Duke let out a quick yelp. I jumped from my sleep and looked over to see him chuckling.

If I kill him now, there’s no way Tom and I will be able to unload the bikes by ourselves. I guess I’ll have to let him live for the time being.

The front gate was unmanned and the visitors center was closed.

Mother nature welcomes us with her beauty.

We headed for the camping area and settled on three adjacent unreserved spaces within easy walking distance of the restrooms, yet far enough away as to not let the lights disturb our sleep. We quickly filled out envelopes and dropped them in the box, then set to the task of unloading the trailer and setting up camp. I had renewed energy. We were here. I knew that once we’d gotten the tents up we wouldn’t have to worry about it for three days. I quickly learned to watch my step - the thorns were large and sharp enough to punch straight through my slippers and river shoes on separate occasions.

Storage lockers were located at each campsite to keep the roaming javelinas from getting into everything. Being the city girl that I am, crawling furry things and the idea of them going through my stuff freaks me out. Yes, I know we’re camping. I’ll get used to it.

Despite wanting nothing more than sleep, our bellies reminded us that we hadn’t eaten a meal in quite some time. We unhooked the trailer and made a run for the store just up the way, with a quick stop into the visitors center to pony up our dues.

Here Duke shows me some tall thorned cacti just outside the window. During his last visit in the Spring, they were in full bloom. Now they just look like sticks with throns.

We got back to base camp and made lunchmeat sammiches, then hit the sack for a nap. We didn’t want to waste the day, but we’d be dangerous on the road with as little sleep as we’d gotten.

It was hot. The vents on my tent’s rainfly weren’t allowing enough air in. No matter how still I lay, I was sweating outdoors in November. This is nuts.

It was a forced sleep, and not very restful. I awoke and stood outside my tent just enjoying the light breeze for a few minutes. It was apparent that I wasn’t the only one who needed more air.

It reminded me of the dog sleeping in front of the fridge in the winter to keep warm. Duke had found a spot in the shade on his cool metal toolbox.

[img]http://squeaky.smugmug.com/photos/218291310-M.jpg" border="0" />

With the sun already well into its descent, we geared up, turned up the helmet tunes, and went-a-wandering on some of the roads inside the park.

Facing the camera into the sun washed out this “3 mouseketeers” shot

With this much sun in the lens, my bike actually doesn’t look dirty…

Here, Duke and Tom are:
a) Discussing the layers of rock formation on the adjacent cliffs
b) Deciding where to go from here
c) Plotting to ride off without that slow girl that gets nervous when the elevation changes by three feet or more

I like riding when I can just relax and enjoy myself. The park itself has some rolling hills, but nothing like the mountains we’d get to later in the trip.

Although not an all-out mecca for riders, Big Bend offers a great combination of scenery, twists, turns, history, nature, and seclusion.

We stopped for pictures in/at the tunnel. It looked scenic and there was almost no traffic to speak of.

Note: Either Duke has gone deaf at an early age or those noise-cancelling earphones he’s got are worth their weight in gold. Time and again I’d try to get his attention when out of his line of sight, but it was no use. I think I finally threw a glove at him once before the weekend was over.

Stunning. The colors in the pic are way off because of the light. I offer no apologies - go see it for yourself instead of just reading my version!

With the sun and haze as it was, the mountains in the distance seemed layered as if painted that way.

We decided to head to the hot springs, but it meant taking an unpaved road. The GSA and Strom were up to it, but was Tom’s Connie up to it? We let him decide for himself.

Must be that Adventure Connie…

These two old Harleys made it in this far, too.

Someone had been decorating with downed palm fronds outside the old store

The walk down to the springs was not very dirt boot friendly. These are the times when I long for my touring boots, but they offer so much less protection compared to the A*s. Ugh.

He backed up so far to compose a pic, the thorns tried to overtake him.
Duke: 1
Thorns: 0

Petroglyphs carved into the rock wall. Sadly, vandalism has made its way into places like these. Disgraceful.

On the other side of this narrow river is Mexico.

We didn’t think it would be warm enough to take a dip, nor did we have time with the setting sun. Next time I’m going for a dip.

The R12GSA. Playing in dirt, just the way it likes.

Shadows grew longer

We thought we would have seen the Houston group on the road by now, but they never passed us. We headed up to the Chisos Basin Lodge, but to Duke’s disappointment (and my relief) we got stuck behind a slow-moving SUV for the tight switchbacks.

We parked the bikes and strolled into the Lodge for a quick snack and some rehydration, all the while enjoying the view of the sun setting all around us through the walls of glass.

Riding back down the switchbacks in darkness was not my idea of fun, and my grip on the bars was almost painful. I was constantly reminding myself to relax, but I guess I didn’t want to listen. As long as I kept Duke’s multiple driving lights within my line of sight I could pace him, but as he started to slip away I had to slow down my pace.

Heading south and arriving back at camp, we were greeted by a bunch of smiling faces and meat-a-cookin’ on the grill.

Chef Biwwy

Dinner was capped off with chocolate cherry cobbler, and soon after it was gone folks started to fade away to the solace of their tents. It had been a long day for us all, and there were roads waiting for us in the morning.

Day 2: River Road (the paved one)

Waking up before the sun is up is not something I often look forward to, but on the road it was different. It was the promise of more riding, more fun, more frolic. Out here we rarely had to look at the time - the sun was going to dictate what we did and when.

I got the Jetboil going and had hot cocoa keeping the chill away within minutes. Graeme’s balloon-inflating stove eventually got his water to a boil, but he will probably want to find and fit all of the stove’s parts before his next trip.

Well, unless his next trip is in a hot air balloon. Then it’d be ok.

Bill was hard at work shredding potatoes for hash browns while bacon was crisping and Brandy was frenching the toast on a nearby camp stove.

The reason Kris’ new nickname is Sk8erboy:

With the group riding the paved River Road (170?) today, Duke was set to take the KLR down the unpaved version here inside the park. The KLR had other plans.

[Scotty]She hasn’t got any power, cap’n[/Scotty]

Bill and Brandy made sure we ate like royalty all weekend.

We cleaned up, geared up, and grouped up for a pre-ride meeting. It was essentially a quick heads up of the day’s plan, a reminder about signals and pace, and setting up a general order of lead/sweep.

Most of us had decided to ride out with liners and/or heated gear. To date, my new heated grips had been too hot to leave on low for more than a few minutes at a time. This morning, I would be able to use them as they were intended.

Everyone’s got a different pre-ride ritual. For a “people watcher” like myself, this period of time can be quite interesting.

Exiting the park, I was grouped a few bikes from the back.

We stopped in Study Butte for fuel. As we pulled in, we noticed a familiar sidecar and were greeted by Ara (Beemerchef) and his dog Spirit. Read their story here.

Moose was occupied with a small problem - the lack of a passenger footpeg. Not that he needed it at this moment, but it would have been nice if it hadn’t decided to jump ship somewhere between the campsite and the gas station.

We headed west toward Presidio and detoured for a break at the Terlingua Ghost Town.

You’ll have to sit through lots of boring words now, sorry. My camera battery went dead while at Terlingua. I had a charger back at camp, but I hadn’t realized how low it had drained and hadn’t prepared for it to run out. Oh well. Hopefully the others will make up for it.

We headed out onto 170 and rolled through the hills to Presidio for lunch, stopping at a scenic overlook for pictures. There must have been thousands of pictures taken between all nine of us this weekend - we were shutter happy! LOL

We had lunch at the small Mexican restaurant in town, but I don’t recall the name of it. It seems almost everyone got “the special” except me. Always original I guess. I borrowed a camera to take a pic of the meal, so it’ll show up eventually.

After lunch we turned around and rode through 170 again, and I felt a little more relaxed this time. I’ve noticed that I tend to ride better after lunch for some reason, but the music selections being piped into my helmet also help a lot.

After we crossed through the park entrance gate, Duke and I split off for Old Maverick Road, which was unpaved but maintained by the park (according to reports). The loose rock wasn’t very difficult, but the sand was killer. I had the advantage of watching Duke bounce over washes and ruts to pick my lines and he was my advance warning beacon to deploy the outriggers and paddle my way through a sand trap or three. We went down to Terlingua Abajo and Santa Elena Canyon, with many sections making me wish I was on my XR. At one point I was veering out to avoid a rut and whacked my helmet right into a tree branch that was hanging down into the road. I’m glad I leave my visor down!

I think I was more worried for my bike than for me. I could hear rocks flinging back up into his belly and hoped he’d be Ok. I only have a plastic belly cover; my aluminum one is at home collecting dust on a shelf. Don’t ask. At the end of the unpaved section, I came up on Duke with his camera out - but he’d missed the shot (hmm, I wasn’t as slow as he thought I was going to be?) so he motioned for me to turn around and do it again. YAY! Finally, a riding partner that takes as many pics as I do! hehe

We wound our way back to base camp through Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive (I think?), up past the basin, then back down to the Rio Grande Village. He’d run ahead and I’d just roll along behind him, but completely out of sight. I kinda liked it that way, but I guess when he’d pull off and wait for me to catch up he wasn’t quite sure how long to wait - he had turned around to come looking for me, but found me just lazing along through the curves. He swung back around, then caught up to me and motioned for me to pull over.

I was confused as Duke dismounted and came up toward my bike. He reached down and in a blur, was stuffing my license plate into my pannier. Huh? It’s been safety wired since I lost three in a row back in the early part of this year. The plate had vibrated off with all the rocks and washboard gravel we‘d done, and (for who knows how long?) I’d been riding with my license plate flapping around in the wind behind me. It had hit my tire and hoisted itself in and out of the air like a kite. It looked like it had been mashed under a herd of rubber-shod elephants.

Oops. This should be good for a laugh or two back at camp.

We hit the store on the way back and picked up more ice, and somehow found a way to get four bags of ice back on the top of a BMW’s panniers, since neither of us had empty space in our luggage to accommodate it. Resources and brainstorming are key when the temperature of the beer later that night is at stake.

Once back at camp, we rushed to get what we needed and head over to the showers, since they locked up at 8. I had to beg and borrow six quarters, since I wasn’t prepared for there to not be a change machine for the vending machines and showers.

We chowed down on burgers and dogs, then told the tales of trips that we all love to hear while shining flashlights on innocent bugs that have wandered into our circle. It was like an eco-friendly camping episode of National Geographic.

The wind had picked up, but it was still warmer than the previous night. Sleep came more easily with the breeze around me, but while I was cool - I was never cold.

Day 3: The Roads of West Texas

Breakfast was spectacular yet again, with Bill at the helm serving up eggs, bacon, and has browns.

Tents were lowered (to prevent the javelina from tearing them) before leaving the campsite.

Lined ‘em up and rolled ‘em out.

Video, best played at half-screen

A cool idea for a photo op that Bill thunk up. It was so empty out there, we were able to line up, dismount, all take pics, then all get back on and ready to ride before any other vehicles appeared. It was amazing, and it felt good.

Bill & Brandy waiting on the group to get saddled up and ready

I was allowed to ride sweep out of the park, but would have to fall back into the group after we fueled up, since the elevation changes would become a factor.

We stopped at the border patrol station, and although the Canadian got through without issue, the Scottsman got pulled off to the side for a quick check of his paperwork.

While Graeme was sitting in the shade of the check station, the rest of us were discussing Duke’s now-finicky final drive. He’d been burned on the road once before by the BMW’s infamous drive failure and he sensed a repeat sooner than later. He’d monitor the situation and turn back for camp if the need arose.

Rolling into Alpine for fuel

It wasn’t a great riding road as far as curves go, but it was scenic and it was getting us to the good stuff.

We found the “old soda shop” in town. We’d come here without knowing what it was called or where it was located, but how big could the town really be? As it turns out, the name of the place is the Fort Davis Drug Store and Old Texas Inn. It was small and quaint and perfect.

Pistachio shake that was sooooooo yummy!

L to R: Brandy, Bill, Incognito Graeme, Duke, Kris

L to R: Tom, Mollie, Al

The food was delicious and plentiful. I had a steak burger with tater tots and toast.

From here, we headed up to the McDonald Observatory. Tom headed back toward the Museum of the Big Bend, since he’d been up this way already.

This part was splendidly scenic - well, for the parts I could take my focus off the road for a mere instant, anyway. Once at the top, we watched Moose work on his airhead, saw a grown man in full cowhide lay on the pavement for a smoke break, and saw a big telescope and drawings of telescopes. Yup, in that order.

It was way high up. I coasted down to the next parking lot level.

The giant sundial was off by 20 minutes or so. Must be a daylight savings thing…

We went into the visitors center, but most of us just hung out in the gift shop while others looked around. A few of us picked up stickers to add to our panniers.

We headed back down toward town by way of the infamous loop.

In some parts, the road was long and straight, varying only in elevation by a few dips.

I took this opportunity to pull up alongside the line of bikes and see what I could capture one-handedly.

Mollie (BMWBabe)

Duke (Dixon duke)

Graeme (Calgary-Yogi)

Kris (Sk8erboy)

Bill (DFW_Warrior) and Brandy

On our way back into the park, I decided to send the sweep rider on ahead so I could stop for some pictures. (here’s where the mini tripod in my tank bag comes in handy)

*sorry about the incoming sun again

(and yes, that’s a bag of charcoal on the back of my bike. We made a pit stop at the grocery and liquor stores while in town)

Riding out here alone now, I fell into my “groove” and the roads got smoother under my tires as the classic rock tunes had me singing along inside my helmet. This was the riding I love. Nobody to catch up to and nobody catching up to me. It was less work and I was reaping more rewards.

Back at camp, Ara and Spirit had found our base camp by the tell-tale KLR that was left behind and Tom milling about, his trip to the museum complete. We had fun looking through pictures.

Story telling by the light of a propane lantern. This is what I call a vacation!

Spank decided that since this was the last night of our trip, he’d partake of the hard stuff.

Ribeyes, grilled to order and served with potatoes with onions and bell peppers. Delicious!

Ara and Spirit said goodbye and headed out for their journey home. I’m jealous beyond words that so many people get to call this place home.

Day 4: Long Way Back Home

Sunday morning. Time to pack it all up and head back to the lives waiting for us back at home.

Although loading up on the trailer, I wasn’t sure where I’d be debarking this train. I loaded the bike and only took my gear and tank bag into the cab.

Locked and loaded

We couldn’t have asked for better weather this weekend

Fog rolled over the mountains and through valleys

We stopped in Marathon for a quick look around at the Gage Hotel

A group of KLRs was parked out front, and at least three or four of them were new 08s.

The dash started alerting us to a problem with the trailer wiring. The incessant dinging was driving Duke crazy. No matter how loud we made the music, it simply couldn’t drown it out. Unplugged goes the trailer.

We stopped for lunch at a small mom & pop shop along the way, and this young lad was climbing outside on the window ledge. It seems he is here quite often, and does this every time.

The burger and onion rings were as good as any fancy place in suburbia. The couple that runs the small café overlap serving and cooking duties between the two of them.

Instead of going all the way back up to I10, we decided to head east on 90. It was a boring drive made tolerable by great conversation. We listened to 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea on XM radio and already started talking about coming back here with smaller bikes to get through the unpaved River Road.

We decided to stop in Del Rio and found this motley crew

We chased trains

Got some karma

San Antonio went by in a blur

And before long, the outer limits of Houston were laid out before us. We made one last stop for some drive-thru lasagna, then rolled into town.

Thanks to everyone who helped put the trip together. When‘s the next one?

Video montage

2007-11-05T07:33:00.000-06:00

Some teasers...

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

2007-11-04T16:33:00.001-06:00

Status : citation, but not mine. I still feel bad about it though.

--
==================================================================
This mobile text message is brought to you by AT&T

2007-11-04T14:46:00.001-06:00

Status : some practical jokes apparently aren't very funny to the person they're played on.

--
==================================================================
This mobile text message is brought to you by AT&T

2007-11-04T09:37:00.001-06:00

Status : heading out of the park. At least this time we'll have daylight to see the sights along the way!

--
==================================================================
This mobile text message is brought to you by AT&T

2007-11-02T16:11:00.001-05:00

Status : lunch in presidio and a visit to the big chili cookoff. Next up is some dirt and gravel roads inside the park.

--
==================================================================
This mobile text message is brought to you by AT&T

2007-11-02T11:41:00.000-05:00

Terlingua ghost town. Headed up to Presidio for lunch.

--
==================================================================
This mobile text message is brought to you by AT&T

2007-11-01T07:21:00.001-05:00

Once we get south of Marathon I expect to be out of range. I'll try to post updates when we ride north to the Davis mountains.

--
==================================================================
This mobile text message is brought to you by AT&T

2007-11-01T07:17:00.001-05:00

The fuel system has been bled of air thanks to a local good samaritan. Headed south towards the park.

--
==================================================================
This mobile text message is brought to you by AT&T

2007-11-01T06:11:00.001-05:00

Ran out of gas as we rolled into the gas station. Trying to see if the diesel truck will need to be primed.

--
==================================================================
This mobile text message is brought to you by AT&T

2007-11-01T02:46:00.000-05:00

Mile marker 275. Should roll into the campground shortly after sunrise at this pace.

--
==================================================================
This mobile text message is brought to you by AT&T

2007-10-31T12:00:00.000-05:00

Is it time to go yet???

2007-10-27T02:39:00.000-05:00

Puppies!

2007-10-27T01:42:00.000-05:00

Sis

2007-10-23T01:41:00.000-05:00

Despite the cold front pouring down on me earlier,
I was glad I was on two wheels today.
It felt good to be out there.
Getting out of work later and gearing up with my thermal liners,
I knew I didn't want to stop.
But,
stop I did.
I met my friends for Monday Night Football,
but the Colts were too good to even make it interesting.
I ate dinner and left shortly after halftime.
I turned the bike for home,
but he resisted.
We headed East,
and just went.
Slowly.
Cautiously.
There was very little traffic,
but I was very aware of my surroundings at these speeds.

2007-10-21T18:52:00.000-05:00

2007-10-16T02:03:00.000-05:00

Pic A Day: Monday, October 15

Billy crashes bike night (but not his bike!)

2007-10-15T01:12:00.000-05:00

Raul (houstonredrider) and I met bright and early (ok, not that early - 10:05) north of Houston so I could show him some of the local unpaved county and forest service roads. Since purchasing a Vstrom 650 a few short weeks ago, he’s been wanting to get out and explore but has never been offroad in the area. I was to act as a tour guide of sorts. Wait, ME? Uh, I usually just follow…

I got to the gas station and filled up, then looked over his bike as he pointed out what it came with and what he’d done with it so far. He asked me if I had any tips or advice for riding the big bike on loose surfaces - I explained the opposite lean, standing on the pegs, staying loose, and staying off the front brake. These are things I can remember being told when I started, but I honestly don’t remember as much of the details as I should. I just kinda point myself in the right direction and go. I can’t (and shouldn’t) teach that.

I did make mention of HATING sand and to shift your weight to the back to keep the front wheel from plowing. I think. Oh geez, I hope I said back…

The paved roads grew more narrow the farther we got from suburbia, and painted lines were soon absent. Concrete curbs gave way to loose tumbled rock and pastures surrounded the ribbons of asphalt.

The dust was everywhere. This is when being the leader on dual sport rides works out in your favor - you can ride with your visor open for air while the rider(s) behind you inhale the grit and grime you’ve kicked up. By the time we arrived in Navasota for lunch, there was a coating of the fine powder all over Raul and his bike.

Yes, it’s a black rim.

A beautiful pair of Zuks.

Raul - thank you for insisting on me handing over the camera. I usually hide behind it but then complain when there aren’t any pictures with me in them….

I figured I could give poor Raul a break after lunch, so I waited until we had a long section without directional changes and sent him on ahead. We did a few runs practicing locking up the back wheel from first and second gear. It’s something I was taught when I started, so I figured I could pass it on. It helps you get used to the feel of the bike doing its own thing - it’s about relinquishing control for a few seconds and trusting that your inputs will have the right effect.

The advantage of being behind the lead rider in a group is the heads-up warnings you get. If you see the rider ahead of you wobble, wobble, plow, POOF! (huge puff of sand getting airborne), it means DON’T follow him into the beach-deep sand with any speed!

I hit the sand and got my own pucker before seeing Raul hit the deck. I deployed the outriggers and brought the beast to a halt, then asked if he was Ok. He was already up and answered yes, so I told him to stay still. I grabbed the camera - which is what any good friend would do after getting the “I’m Ok” from a downed rider. LOL

I almost let my bike’s weight down on my kickstand before realizing my bike was going over . Out comes the kickstand plate, which I’m very glad I put back in the tank bag! As I got to Raul, he was trying to get the bike up but the back end was sliding. I was able to hold the back end still while Raul grunted the weight back up onto the tires. The clutch lever looked like it might have gotten bent, but of all places to land on the ground, this fluffy sand was about the softest he could have picked.

We continued on, and at least one CR listed on the map has either become private property or a property owner is WAY out of line to build where he/she/they did. It’s as if they dropped their house right ON the road. Grr

As we crossed over Hwy 30 southbound into the Sam Houston National Forest, the smell of fire wafted in the air. Raul and I agreed it appeared to be controlled brush fires to clear out the dense underbrush.

We played hot potato camera

Then headed for more of this

The surface become less sandy and more rocky the farther east we went. We got to one of the trailhead parking areas and there were a few riders milling about, so we went in to take a break and look around. Nobody I recognized, but there was a pair on a GS and a Strom leaving as we arrived.

We took the opportunity to park the bikes and stretch for a few minutes, and Raul got a call that his presence was requested for dinner in the Woodlands. We’d let the day stretch on long enough, so we remounted and headed for I45, slabbing south. We waved adieu as Raul took his exit, and I wrestled my way through traffic back down into Houston. Mother Nature decided to pitch in on the bike and gear cleaning effort, opening up the skies with showers after I'd entered the loop, not stopping until I was a few blocks from home.

Purple - proposed route
Yellow - track log of today’s ride

234 Miles
Start 09:15
End 18:31

2007-10-11T01:13:00.001-05:00

I got the call today - Patrick telling me my bike was ready! YES!!!

2007-09-30T23:13:00.000-05:00

Pic A Day: Sunday, Sept 30

Children are the fountain of youth.

2007-09-29T23:12:00.000-05:00

Pic A Day: Saturday Sept 29

Bikes? What bikes?

2007-09-28T00:54:00.000-05:00

I'm already slacking on my pic-a-day duties.

I think the camera remained holstered yesterday because it was not a day I want to remember when I look back on this project. The day I had a short-term goal ripped from my hands.

Yes, I'm being dramatic. You'll get over it. I will.

Rather than cheat myself by posting a picture that wasn't actually taken today, I'll simply get back on it tomorrow.

"Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending." -Carl Bard

2007-09-27T00:39:00.000-05:00

And so I sit here at home in the solace of my bedroom; adorned in duckie pajamas... but I should be out on the road. I should be on the first leg of a journey consisting not only of miles, but of memories.

My first ADV rally.

My longest solo ride.

Tagging FOUR more states for my "Ridden In" map.

It just wasn't meant to be.

After settling down my emotions and cancelling my precious vacation time, I was asked a very good question: why not just drive out there?

Well, because... uh... I dunno. Quick, think of something to answer here... Because I can't get the XR there without a pickup.

Then I wondered what was wrong with going by truck. I realize the goal is to arrive BY or at least WITH a bike or access to one, but what if that wasn't possible - why not just drive?

Because driving to Georgia to hang out with people that were going for a ride and leaving you behind all day is a waste. A waste of time, gas, and patience. Those kinds of miles, when done in a cage, can literally make a person feel trapped. Sharing the ride adds an unspoken dynamic - I enjoy road trips, but not driving alone.

Well, by the time this line of thought was perusing my inner neurons it was too late anyway. The truck wasn't ready for that kind of mileage, and I had successfully pleaded to get the vacation days returned to me unharmed. Now I'm stuck here at work for two more days this week - and yet another Monday. I like weeks that start on Tuesday. I'd already started my psychological vacation metamorphasis, so returning to the office is dreaded more now than ever.

2007-09-25T20:50:00.001-05:00

Test post from my cell phone. Prepping for my longest solo ride to date.

--
==================================================================
This mobile text message is brought to you by AT&T

2007-09-25T15:12:00.000-05:00

Pic A Day: Tuesday, Sept. 25

Our Bags Are Packed!

2007-09-24T23:10:00.000-05:00

Pic A Day: Monday, Sept. 24

Illiteracy Kills

2007-09-23T22:37:00.000-05:00

Pic A Day: Sunday, Sept. 23

Route Planning Begins

2007-09-22T23:07:00.000-05:00

Pic A Day: Saturday, Sept. 22
Sparkalicious

2007-09-21T23:35:00.000-05:00

Pic A Day: Friday Sept. 21

High-Flow Technology

2007-09-21T01:59:00.000-05:00

Pic A Day: Thursday Sept. 20

Waiting for lunch

2007-09-19T23:59:00.000-05:00

Pic A Day: Wednesday Sept 19

Infusion day. Yum.

2007-09-19T01:59:00.000-05:00

Pic A Day: Tuesday, Sept. 18

Need some juice

2007-09-18T01:59:00.000-05:00

Pic A Day: Monday Sept. 17

Recently, members of Adventure Rider have participated in a "pic a day" thread, allowing the rest of us to see just a glimpse of their lives one day at a time. It shouldn't take long to compose, upload, and post one picture a day so here goes nothing...

Tom's purdy new Connie.

2007-05-26T13:38:00.000-05:00

It's been too long since I've updated the blog. Sorry about that.

I've been busy with painting a bike, working on my bike,

and going on long trips whenever I can!

A quick summary since the last post to get you caught up:

Cornerworked and stood under an awning as it

hailed and sleeted in Texas - in APRIL!

Celebrated Mollie & Bryan's anniversary at Doubleshots

Snuck into CheapSTOC with the "Safety Vest Twins"

Decided to go to London...

And while I was there, I hopped over to Dublin!

Yay me!

Hung out with the ladies at the lake

Went fast for half a day at Texas World Speedway

Finally got to cross Oklahoma off the list of states visited!

Biwwy went boom

I got VERY wet

Got to watch my friends go fast from the best seat in the house

And then a week later I got to go fast ALL DAY!

2007-03-31T23:44:00.000-05:00

A photo slideshow of my ride on Saturday for pie in New Ulm. A major storm woke me before the alarm even had a chance to get me itself, so it was bound to be an interesting day.

Video is here:

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=7649073101695102500&hl=en

Since the slideshow goes pretty fast, here are just a handful of my favorites with captions:

The storm brought major destruction to my house.

A plant fell over! The horror!

Waiting out the morning didn't help Jeff meet up with the group, but it sure helped the rest of us avoid having to ride through the real heavy stuff.

On sport bikes stickers add horsepower.

In the dirt, they must cancel out the weight of the big beast or something.

I had my eye on Kurt's new toy. I got to ride it, but as I went down the road I realized I would have to just keep going - after all, there was nowhere to turn around that was big enough for me to not need to put my feet down. On this bike with the seat Kurt added, I can just barely get my toes on the ground. I felt like I'd need two peole on standby when I got back to spot me (ok, catch me) when I came to a stop!

Ride Review:

The big GS is certainly confidence-inspiring with its upright ergos and stocky overall design. The Corbin seat Kurt added is wider than stock, thus causing the tip-toe trickery. Once moving, the Fastway footpegs were a nice touch (I've already started looking for a pair to add to my bike, and I was extra annoyed each time my feet got wet and slipped on my pegs for the remainder of the day). I like having a gear indicator, and the dash is well setup. The Garmin 2720 was even set up to show me an angled view of the road ahead!

This (or it's little brother the F650GS) is probably the bike I'd want to get if money weren't an issue.

But it is.

So I'm not.

Back to pie. I was quite impressed with the way lunch was planned. There are pie runs that we have to sit and wait for our food and we're starving because of the size of the crowd, but at the Lone Star there was a small salad bar so we could munch while we waited. The pie was also set out on a table with coffee so we could partake whenever we were ready.

This little one didn't feel like smiling. She's got a pretty smile, I promise! It seems her dad likes to pick horrible days to ride and she got wet on the way over from Katy.

Was getting stuck in the mud worth this shot? Probably not.

Was it worth the pics that Bryan and Duke took of me, maybe.

I know it's illegal to pick bluebonnets, but if my bike just happens to swerve off the road and ito a big patch of them in a field, would it be illegal for me to squish them into the mud and otherwise abuse the poor little petals?

That's Bryan on my Strom watching Ken cross the high water.

I'm waaaaay back on his KLR (perfect timing for a bike swap, don't you think?) shaking my head at him NOT to try it on my baby!

What you can't see in this picture is the water that was dripping off his head, his haz-mat suit, and the buckets that he calls boots. He had to take them off and turn them over at least twice.

Bryan made it across after I hopped off the KLR for him, but only after getting to the small bridge on the other side did he realize he still had his wallet, phone, etc. in his pockets.

Oops.

Duke made it there and back too (at least that's what it looks like...)

This is my dollhouse on the hill. Duke is going to buy it for me. LOL

To top it all off, I stopped at the corner roach coach for some dinner.

2007-03-28T01:10:00.000-05:00

Went out for a ride with Steve, Rita, Deb, Erik, and Howard. We met up in Conroe, I scarfed down some breakfast, and we were on our way to Independence for some pictures in the Blue Bonnets.

We found Kent along the way and he decided to join the group.

I always think it's cute to see a couple fuel up together.

We got to Independence and took these...

Bob was with us.

Deb, Me, Rita

Steve & Rita

Erik is contemplating a treehouse.

Erik & Deb

2007-03-26T00:45:00.000-05:00

I found out today why my new riding pants seemed a little too long...

They are made long with the zipper ending 5" above the bottom edge and velcro holding the last few inches shut. This allows the pants to be tailored to the "perfect" length.

Awesome! Now I just have to find someone that can pin them for me while I'm wearing them so I can start the tailoring process.

2007-03-25T17:48:00.000-05:00

I have a passion for gardening but no skill to back it up. I love the idea of making things grow and tending to them, but it's probably better for everyone involved that I'm growing plats and not children. About half of my plants didn't survive the winter.

I've started the process of wandering through garden centers before work, after work, on weekends, and even on my lunch break. I wander and read and think and imagine...

I imagine a patio that is a dream to enter and a shame to have to leave.

The sight of trees, bushes, flowers, water; all set against a man-made hardscape backdrop.
The smell of nature. The aroma of jasmine wafting past your nostrils with every other step.
The sound of leaves rustling, of birds calling out to one another "I've found it!"
The touch of a wayward vine against your leg as you wander down a path through nature's overindulgence.
The taste of sweet fruit picked right from the vine that is the fruit of your labor.

I imagine myself spending lazy afternoons in this backyard nature escape, probably in a hammock. I have yet to buy or even attempt to mount a hammock in my yard because that is the last step in the long process of designing the patio.

While my mind makes decisions and I continue to wander the stores, here's a glimpse of what I have to work with so far. My yard is a whopping 22.5 ft x 17 ft.