Gum can be hazardous...

This is one of the toughest posts I've had to write- but I have to. As much as I've been frustrated and even angry because of someone else's driving distracted, I have to tell this so hopefully others won't get into the same situation.
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At one stop on our way home, I must have stepped in some gum. It stuck right at the ball of my left foot and I didn't notice it until we were on our way. By then, it was warm enough to stick my boot to my floorboard, which was very aggravating while trying to change gears. I could move my foot, but it was more of an effort than usual.
Since we were still in the foothills, we were going up and down hills, and around curves. I know I should have stopped as soon as I realized how much trouble it was giving me, but I decided to just wait until we stopped either for gas or a rest break, but I didn't. That was my first mistake.
As we rode along, we gradually fell in line behind several vehicles. Since the road was only a two-lane local road, we didn't get a chance to pass them, so we were going along about 50 mph or so. That ended up being a blessing. As we were riding along, meeting bikes and waving, (and me still worrying with the gum on my boot) the first vehicle in line needed to turn left, so they had to stop for oncoming traffic.
Since I was distracted by the gum (and the bikers we were meeting) I didnt' start braking quite quickly enough. When I did, I got on the brakes too hard - my back tire was squealing and it started sliding around to the right. The road conditions didn't help- it was a local road that had lots of tar poured on top of breaks and cracks, which made it more slippery.
I let off a bit, which stopped the sideways slide, but I was still too close to the car ahead of me, so I had to get right back on the brakes; I did finally get it stopped without going into the other lane, which still had traffic in it. If I'd laid the bike down, it would have gone under the SUV in front of us, or into the oncoming traffic, which was still mostly bikers. I'd hate to think I caused other bikers to go down because of my being distracted.
I've talked it over with Randy- we were pretty much riding axle to axle so I wasn't going too fast; I just didn't start braking the second I should have- only a second or two, but that's all it took...
I'm still not sure if I ended up using the front brake as well; if I did, it was God helping me do it, because I didn't jerk it. I do know at one point I was thinking 'did I let off the gas' but I knew I wasn't because the engine wasn't racing- guess you have crazy thoughts go through your head at times like that.
We couldn't pull over immediately because of the road and traffic conditions, which was even harder for me- I wanted to stop and lay down and cry right there. But believe me, I stopped at the very next spot I could find and got the goop off my boot and the floorboard. I also was super-careful not to follow too close until I could take care of it.
I will not make that mistake again- I'll check my boots just like I check my tires, and if I notice something that feels 'off' I'll stop as soon as I can, to correct it.
I know the good Lord was right there with me, because I didn't panic, I got the bike stopped without laying it down, I didn't immediately faint from fear, and I didn't throw up all over my bike when it was over. (and oh, did I want to).
I'm just thankful I had some help to get the bike stopped, and I didn't hurt anyone else. I'm also thankful the folks behind us slowed up and gave me plenty of room - they could see I needed some space and they gave it to me.
I've learned several lessons on this trip, but this was by far the most important.

The Perception of 'Bad'...

It always amazes me to watch someone make a snap judgment about a person, simply by the way they look: if a person is overweight, they're lazy; if they wear glasses, they're smart; and if they're bikers, they're obviously in a gang that's just robbed the church.
For some reason, black leather, doo rags, tattoos and biker boots means bad news, to adults, at least... a little kid usually has a totally different take on things. For example, while on our way home from Pigeon Forge, we stopped for a rest break. As we were walking towards the bathrooms, a little blonde cutie-pie came out holding her grandmother's hand. She took one look at my husband (big ol' teddy bear of a guy: full beard and mustache, dark glasses, gloves and boots, a smile as wide as the horizon and of course, a doo rag) and said "look, Grandma, a pirate!" with a big smile. Then she spotted me and said, "oh, another pirate!" She then made fast friends with my husband and talked to him for several minutes. We almost always get smiles and waves from kids.
We've had a few negative responses as well, usually from adults. They either don't like how we look, or that we're riding motorcycles. They look like they smell something bad...
But those folks are in the minority - most folks are about as friendly as they can be - I smile and they smile back. One little old lady at a bank patted my arm just like my grandma would have, and said, 'honey you just have air conditioning all the time, don't you? you be safe out there!" and then walked on with a smile.I always try to smile and be friendly towards other folks, to reach out to them and show them it's OK to smile at me and say hello.
I think the folks who judge me and mine harshly are those whose deepest heart's desire was once to ride, but something kept them from it - either fear, whether of judgment or of an accident; or someone with authority over them refused to let them ride.
So, I guess I should pity those who look down on us - they either want to be where we are, but don't have the strength to do it, or they think we're less than them because of who and what we are. Maybe we look like we're having too good a time to care whether our hair is combed, or that I'm not wearing makeup; maybe they can see on our faces that we're doing something enjoyable and don't care what others think; or maybe they just never learned to be happy. Either way, I'm sorry for them...
In the end, my newest patch says it all: Judge me all you want, just keep your verdict to yourself.

Kids, Trains and Motorcycles

My friend Chessie has a great post on train clubs, trains and motorcycles; it reminds me of how much I love trains (and of course motorcycles) as well.
How many of you remember hearing the train whistle when the train came through town? We always wanted to be in a spot to see it when it came by. It was even better when it crossed the street to the school- you had an automatic excuse for being late!
My dad and brothers had a train set when we were young; as much as I enjoyed watching them play with it, I never got to run it as much as I'd like-after all, I was a girl!
One of my favorite places to visit is Chattanooga - besides Rock City and Ruby Falls, they've got a great train museum downtown, complete with a miniature version of Chattanooga and the trains that run through her. You can also have lunch in a train car, or buy gifts in the gift shop.
And that brings me back around to motorcycles- as much as I loved trains as a girl, I loved motorcycles more. My older cousins always had bikes, and if I begged my mom enough, I could ride behind them.
I love to see kids' faces when I'm riding my bike. They almost always want to wave and smile (unless they're afraid of the noise) and of course, I wave back. The parents aren't always so friendly, but the kids are! One little boy in a Wal-Mart parking lot just kept yelling "hey motorcycle!" as I rode past.
Last year, when several of us were on a ride together, we stopped at a small gas station for a break before heading home. There were about ten of us, all in one corner, standing by our bikes, drinking water. A very small boy, about 3 or so, and his Nana, came out of the store, and started walking across the parking lot towards their van. All the way across, he kept yelling "Wild Hogs, Nana, Wild Hogs!" I walked over to them and asked if he'd like to come see our bikes a little closer, and he did. He wouldn't get too close (guess there were too many of us) but he did seem to enjoy looking at them.
I wonder what it is about our chemical makeup that makes us so drawn to bikes and trains? Do you think that maybe, even at that young age, we recognize that those things are outside "normal" for most folks? Or is it the sense of wonder and adventure we all have as children - when we see things that are different, we're drawn to it.
As we become teenagers and adults, most of us fight to fit in- we want to be just like everyone else, so folks don't think we're weird.
But for those few of us who want to be different... ah, the freedom to be who we want to be, no matter what anyone else thinks. Ride on!

What a great day!

I got up with some riding buddies of mine and we headed out over to the Pioneer Museum in Troy, Alabama. They were having their second annual "Butter Churnin, Syrup Soppin' Saturday" today and I knew we'd have fun.
They were finishing up the butter churning when we got there so we sat and listened to some old-fashioned music and checked out the displays in the main building. We saw some awesome quilts including one which was older than the US- it's been certified to have been quilted the country was formed. The pattern is a "Princess Feather" if I understood the lady at the museum.
We finally made it back down to the cabins where the food was being served- delicious homemade biscuits (by ladies in bonnets and aprons!), hand-churned butter, Carson Anne syrup, and smoked sausage - mmm, delicious!
Afterwards, we visited the other cabins and stores, including a military memorabilia place.
When we finally got ready to come home, it was a beautiful ride- enough wind to stay cool and sun and clouds made a beautiful picture to watch coming home.
And then...when I got home, the excitement really started. You see, I'd forgotten to take my house keys with me.
I tried the back storm door- it was hooked. I knew the front door was locked, but I knew if I could get on my backporch I had a way in the house (secret key and all that). But I couldn't get the door open. I decided to try to yank the door open using a large pair of pliers; I got very enthusiastic about it, but never got the back door opened.
Of course, Cookie's in the house barking- he heard the bike drive up and couldn't figure out why I didn't come on in.
I finally pried the screen off a window and climbed in using a ladder - Cookie barking all the time. Of course he never did anything brave like run up and lick me in the face, but he did bark from under the table.
I finally got in, and laid on the sofa to cool off a bit; then I went back out to put the screen back on and get the rest of my gear inside.
Nice to know my house is fairly secure and that my dog will at least bark when someone tries to get in.
I'm headed out in a bit to get another key made.

Just a little brag on Boss Bags...

My husband bought a 2000 Yamaha Roadstar about 2 1/2 years ago from a local bike dealer. It was dressed out, including good pipes, Corbin seats with backrests, and a set of Boss Bags.
When he bought the bike, one of the buckles was missing, but he didn't worry about it too much; the other buckle was there, and the lids are heavy enough to stay down even unfastened, unless he's REALLY moving.
Over the weekend someone mentioned to him that he might be able to get a replacement buckle from the company, so he came home, found the website (http://www.bossbags.com/) and emailed customer service for a catalog or part number so he could order the part.
On Sunday he emailed back and forth with a CS person, who found out what size bags he has, and whether they're a new design or an older one.
Last night, he got an email from customer service saying the new buckle was on the way; it came in today's mail.
Nowadays it's very unusual for this kind of customer service, especially since Randy wasn't the original buyer of the bike or the bags. I don't know who the young man was who worked with my husband, but I'd say he deserves a salute - great job!

Looking for Between-Bike Communication system

Last year, Randy and I bought Midland handheld radios for our bikes - we use a system that puts earphones inside our open-face helmets, wires run to radio and to 'talk' button mounted on handlebars.
I know we've got them wired correctly because they work - sometimes. Mostly it turns out that I can hear him, but can't talk to him. We've swapped radios and it seems to be in the wiring on my system, but there are no breaks in the wiring, and everything's connected completely. Another problem is that even when the system works, I can't always hear clearly what he's saying. The headphones are sitting as close to my ears as possible, without getting in the way when I'm putting on the helmet, and the sound is turned up as loud as possible.
My true preference would be a piece actually in my ear, rather than outside it - but then I'd run into it getting pulled out when I put on my helmet.
I'd also prefer to be using my half helmet, but after a friend of ours hit a deer, I've been thinking more helmet is better...
I like the Midlands - we also use them off-bike as well so I'd like to keep them. Any suggestions on a system that will work?

Escort Ride for the Wall that Heals

Viet Nam Memorial Bike
Originally uploaded by bethmrogers

I took a ride yesterday I will never forget - I saw things on that ride that made me proud to be an American (I know how corny that sounds but it's true). I'm also proud to live in a part of the US where it's a normal thing to show pride in our country and it's heroes.
We met in the parking lot of the Travel America truck stop in Marianna, Florida. Bikes were everywhere- I don't think I've ever seen that many in one place.
The local high school jazz band was there and made a very nice addition to the day. They played a nice mixture of patriotic tunes and songs from the 60s/70s. One young man did an excellent job with his solo in "What a Wonderful World".
There was a short briefing for the riders, then we started out about 10 - the trailer hauling the wall itself was led out by the bike pictured here. I don't know who the bike belonged to but it was amazing to see- it was covered with scenes related to the Viet Nam war. After the trailer rig got on the road, it was followed by several dignitaries.
The local LEOs made sure we all got out in one group, which I'm sure was an undertaking- someone said there were over 300 bikes, but Randy said he felt there were closer to 500. I also heard that the line of bikes was 2 1/2 to 3 miles long and it was a pretty steady line with very few big breaks.
There's no way I can tell you everything I saw, but here are some of the things that stick out in my memory.
We'd been seeing folks stopped on the side of the road, waving at us, all along. But at one curve in the road, a man stood by his bike, standing at full attention- I have no doubt he held that until every last bike went by. I don't know whether he was wearing sand camo or whether it was very worn olive drab, but I do know he held himself like a hero. That's where I first broke down...
The ride took us through several small towns- most every town had people standing beside the road in groups; some were waving flags, some were holding 'thank you' signs to the vets in the crowd. Flags were everywhere- from the very tiny ones stuck in the ground along the road, to the HUGE ones hanging from cranes over the streets we were riding.
Entire schools of children were standing by the roads, wearing patriotic shirts, waving flags, yelling and cheering. Some groups were even standing in the street, holding out their hands, wanting to 'slap' hands with us.
Vehicles pulled over while we drove by- one lady sat with her hand over heart while she smiled.
A whole group of veterans from the nursing home, sitting in their chairs, but sitting up straight, wearing their red, white and blue shirts, waving flags and cheering.
Policemen, state troopers, sheriffs and deputies at every intersection, holding traffic and saluting.
Junior ROTC from the local high school, in their uniforms, standing at attention on every corner of one town.
Drivers and passengers in every vehicles giving us a 'thumbs up' or a peace sign as they watched us drive by.
Whole families standing in groups, holding large signs with their military hero's picture and name on it. Some of those pictures were very old...
Fire department members standing on their rigs, waving flags and saluting.
A very old gentleman, standing in his yard, saluting us while he held onto his walking stick with the other hand.
This went on for ONE HUNDRED MILES. For a hundred miles, people cheered, waved and saluted the Viet Nam veterans who were riding among us, saluting the flag they'd defended, saluted us for being a part of that great ride, but mostly saluting our country and the great place she still is. She's got her faults, she's got her problems, but she's still one of the few places you can still live like you want to. We've still got the freedom to speak out against her when we want to, without worrying about who might hear.
I know how much taking this ride touched me - I'm not a vet and neither is my husband. Our middle son is serving in the Army, and so is one son-in-law. My husband's dad, my grandfather, an uncle, at least one cousin, my brother and several brothers-in-law have served, but Randy and I did not. I cannot imagine what it must be like. I do know what yesterday did to me, and I hope and pray that the vets who were there were able to receive comfort from it.

Playing catchup

Lots of things have been going on around here, so here's the 'cleanup'.
I went back to the doctor yesterday, fully expecting him to say I didn't have to go back- nope, not yet. He says everything looks good, incision is healing nicely; he said to stop using tape on the dressing since it's causing some irritation. Works for me- now I can shower and wash my hair without waiting for hubby to come home and help me change the dressing...I go back in two weeks - hopefully for the last time (not that I don't like Dr. Daley, but I'm ready to move on -LOL)
A very good friend of ours was involved in a bike wreck on Monday night- he was leaving a meeting and hit a deer. Not nearly as bad as it could have been- God had His hand on his shoulder. A few broken bones, some nasty road rash, scrapes and bruises, but he'll hopefully come home this weekend.
Another friend of ours is in the hospital with double pneumonia, so a friend and I went to visit him. We didn't realize how bad he'd been feeling until we saw him at the hospital this morning. He was joking with us, asking about our husbands and what they were doing. He looks so much better than just a day or two ago.
Our town's homecoming is finally here- we'll start things off on Saturday with an arts and crafts fair, then a singing lesson by Ms. Regina, then a bluegrass jam festival that night. Sunday will start with a community church service at the Primitive Baptist Church, dinner on the grounds and singing in the afternoon.
My folks' 50th anniversary is coming up and we're working towards getting everything done for the celebration. We're hoping lots of folks come and visit that afternoon.
Okay, back to your regularly scheduled blog. Thank you for your time.

Dixie Regional Gathering of the Guard

What a great weekend! Randy and I left out around lunch on Friday, trailering his bike with us. (I wasn't sure I could handle riding mine that far yet.) While I helped with the registration table, Randy went with the group to the state capitol to hear Gov. Riley proclaim Friday as Patriot Guard Day in Alabama. Here's the story in the Montgomery Advertiser.
That night we all broke for supper- some went to the American Legion hut for steaks; Randy and I sneaked away for supper at O'Charleys; we had southwestern twisted chips, which were awesome!
Saturday morning, we rode to the Prattville Walmart to ride in the Relay for Life poker run. The run was done in memory of Officer Darryl Mangrum, who died of cancer last year. Before we started the run, Mayor Byard greeted the riders and thanked us for all we do. He told us we were always welcome in Prattville and called us American heroes - not a dry eye in the place. Imagine big ol' bikers, made of hair, leather and chrome, being called heroes... Wow.
Before we started the ride, the police officers escorted us to Officer Mangrum's grave, where the family laid a wreath in his honor. Then we started the ride, which was great! About a hundred miles long, we saw all kinds of beautiful country. Since I was riding behind Randy I was able to get some good pictures of some of the ride.
We finished up at Pratt Park - lunch was served by Moe's, and it was delicious! A band was performing some very good music and we rocked while we ate.
Saturday night we all met up at one of the local members' home, who graciously opened his house up to us. We had burgers, hot dogs, chips and all the fixings. Great food and GREAT fellowship.
Sunday morning some of the members of the Christian Motorcycle Association hosted a bike blessing; everyone there received a book of Bible promises and a blessing sticker.
All in all, it was a great weekend- we met some new friends, who quickly turned into 'old buddies' - one in particular was Papa Bonehead. He was constantly carrying on some foolishness, which fit right in with Randy and I. I can tell he's going to be great fun to get to know. We also saw some old friends that we don't get to see often.
It was a great way to spend a weekend - riding funeral missions is an awesome privilege, but it's also very stressful, so this was so good for all of us. We were able to relax, cut loose, and just be ourselves without worrying whether someone would misunderstand.
I can't wait to see these folks again; the Georgia folks will host next year's regional gathering and I know they'll do it up right.

The road called today...

It's been a long week or so, and between the weather and my stuffy head, I haven't ridden like I wanted to.
But today, the road called and I had to roll with it. The weather was nice: mid-60s, with a light wind, and plenty of sun. I did a short run to the closest town with a Wal-Mart (I had to think of SOME excuse to ride, right?). The road has long slow curves and beautiful scenery, so it did my head and my heart good.
Doesn't matter that I'm still sniffing and coughing- I'd be doing that either way, and at least I got to ride. Picked up some beautiful red thread and some crochet hooks to make myself a set of 'gauntlets/fingerless gloves' to keep the wind from running up my coat sleeve when I wear my light gloves. These will be handy, but they're as much for looks as for warmth. I just love to wear red...
I ride quite a bit by myself; I prefer it most of the time, because I don't have to worry about anybody but myself. It often works out that I'm riding alone anyway; I have worked things out so I can be ready in as little as 5 minutes - just slip on my boots and put my wallet in my back pocket. Then out the door with my leathers, strap on my helmet and I'm ready to ride.
And when the road calls, I don't want to have wait for folks to gather or get ready.
I'm riding again tomorrow- apparently today only made the need to ride stronger; I've got an appointment in another town, so I'll just strap on my backpack and pack my camera and stuff in it.

I did it again

I found another blog to follow - Motorcycle Travel America - the author is in the process of developing a biker website that should be very cool and useful.
I'm watching and waiting - she's promising lots of very good information!

Relax!

Relax!
Originally uploaded by bethmrogers

The current assignment on the DPS forums is themed "Relax"; this is my entry.
My original idea was to have DH and L'il Red on hubby's bike, riding slightly behind me on mine. Red would take a picture using her P&S, catching her dad's shoulder and side of his head, framing me on my bike.
Well, you know what they say about 'best laid plans'... DH's bike is still in pieces in the carport, and the parts aren't in yet.
So... I just rolled my bike in front of my green backdrop and took some pictures.
Then I stepped out into the road in front of my house and snapped some more pictures. If you were one of the folks driving by while I was waiting to get in the road, no I haven't lost my mind, just having some fun.
Then I stepped back inside after breaking down the set (that backdrop support sure was very cost-effective, but it's not the quickest to take apart).
Photoshop is wonderful, and it wasn't too long before I had the shot I wanted (shown above). I've gotten several comments on it so far, and while it's not perfect, I'm pleased overall with how it turned out.
Now, if we can just get DH's bike back on the road- besides the problems he's already having, we got a recall notice in the mail this week, regarding problems with the gears - my favorite part of the letter refers to 'may cause rear wheel to lock up, which may result in a wreck, injury or even death' - four letters regarding this were sent to the previous owner, and I can't imagine why they didn't take care of this- there's no cost and it seems like a rear wheel lockup would put a serious dent in your riding fun.

Reflections of Gold

Reflections of Gold
Originally uploaded by Jim Vail Photos

Some of our bike group leave out on Friday, headed for a long weekend trip to the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. We won't be going- hubby can't get the days off.
One of my favorite places to go is the mountains - I love to stop beside the road, where the river is running over rocks; barefoot, freezing my toes off wading through the shallows (even in the hottest part of summer); driving along the river, waving to those who are canoeing or rafting in the deeper parts, wishing I was part of it.
My retirement dream is to live in the mountains; maybe owning a small motel, where we cook for visitors in the summer and fall, and spend the winter snuggled up in front of a fire...

New bike???

One of my sisters-in-law has decided she'd like to learn to ride, so she can get a motorcycle of her own. I'm very excited for her- since I've only been riding my own for the last two years, I can remember how much fun it is to learn.
She's asked me if I will help her learn a bit, and of course I told her I'd be glad to.
I can't wait to see what bike she gets!

On Speaking Publicly

This past weekend, I had to represent our town at a family reunion. Most of the family had moved away from our area, so the hostess asked me to speak on the history of the town.
I contacted someone from our historical society and got some great information, and sat down to write my speech. I'm sure that my speech wouldn't win any prizes, but I do think I did rather well, and most folks seemed to enjoy listening to what I had to say. Here are some of the things I did.
First I thought about how long I wanted to speak. I personally despise listening to long, dry, boring political speeches, and I hate to think about putting anyone else through that. I decided that 15 minutes was my limit, and I hoped to keep it less than that.
Next, I thought about all the things I wanted to say - I made about three pages of notes and ideas. My own personality is quirky, to say the least, so I knew I needed the speech to sound like me, and not a professional writer. I knew I wanted to bring some humor about living in a small town, but I didn't want to sound like I was making fun of our town. I also knew I wanted to pique the interest of those who were learning about Rutledge, so they'd be encouraged to learn more on their own.
You also need to know that the hostess found out I ride a motorcycle, so she asked me to invite as many of my riding friends as possible, to escort me in. The clothes I ride in (jeans, t-shirt, leather gloves and boots, etc) do not lend themselves to what you normally expect from a speaker, so I knew I had to keep things light.
Then I sat down and wrote what I'd like to say, adding things from my notes, and deleting things, until it flowed like my normal speaking pattern. I printed it out on half-sheets stapled together on one corner to keep them together, and read through it in front of my mirror until I was comfortable with how it sounded, practicing the parts where I tended to stumble over phrases.
I didn't memorize the speech, but I was so familiar with it, that I could work through it without looking like I was reading it, and I was able to vary a little on what I said.
By the time I was in front of the group, I was comfortable enough to make eye contact with different areas of the crowd while speaking.
I'm not going to say it was hugely successful, because only the listeners know for sure. But I was able to move through it, without my knees knocking too badly, and I did have several people tell me that they had learned something new about our town. That was my goal, so I feel good about it.
By the way, my friends sat in several areas of the group, so I was able to look at them while I spoke- it's amazing how a friendly face in a crowd can help you get through public speaking!

How thankful are you? part 2

We had to go into Montgomery on Saturday for Reid's birthday party, then afterwards by to see my folks.
We had also planned on upgrading two of our cell phones, so when my husband got off work, we headed over to the Verizon store. I figured out what I wanted, then went up to the counter. The salesman there suggested that we get online and order the phones because of the increased savings (how's that for customer service?), so that's what we did.
I was anxious to get home, because I had some things to get done. When we stopped at a small convenience store so my husband could get a soft drink, a lady hurried up and asked if we had a bike tool kit (hubby was on his bike). Of course, we said yes, and walked over. Their lights weren't working, so we stayed with them while they figured out the problem (thankfully, only a blown fuse). Since we were all headed in the same direction, we rode along with them, in case of more trouble... they ended up staying at the hotel near our house and came to church with us yesterday.
When we first stopped, I was ready to move on because of chores, but I was really glad we got held up- not only were we able to help someone who needed it, but we also made some new friends (who by the way, are about as crazy as we are - LOL).
Whether you're a Christian or not, remember that things happen for a reason - what starts out as a problem often can turn into a blessing if you'll just let it!
On another note- happy birthday to Reid, who is two today, and to Talan, who will be born sometime today. Papaw and Granny love you both!

Thoughts on the Weekend

It's been a long weekend... our town's mayor collapsed at work earlier in the week, and they found a plum-sized tumor near his speech center. Husband and I drove up to see him and his wife on Friday morning- things look pretty bleak, but we are all praying; and I believe that God is able to heal JD and bring him back home to finish the work he's started. Until that time, the rest of us are going to work as hard as we can, keep praying, and try to make sure that our little town is in the same good shape when he comes home as when he left.
Then Friday night our band/football team had to travel over three hours to the game (on the Mississippi state line). Whose idea is it to set these things up, and do they not care that gas is now $4 a gallon? Sure, we could have stayed home, but I want to be there for my child at every chance I get. We finally made it home and got into bed around 1 AM.
Up at 6 to get to the park for our bike group's poker run (this one benefits families in distress in our area). We had a very good turnout and raised about $600, which was VERY good- this was our first try at a poker run like this. We finished everything up around 2 and headed out.
After we left the park, we ran into some other friends of ours, who invited us to a wedding (yes, here in the south, that kind of thing happens). On the way there, we had a nice shower, so we sat in wet jeans during the ceremony (that's part of riding too). It was a sweet ceremony, and made me realize how fortunate I am that my husband and I have made a life together.
We finally made it home around 4 or so, got showered and cleaned up, and settled in for the night. I have learned/remembered some lessons that I'd like to share:

• everybody has problems - if you can get past your own 'stuff' and make others feel welcome, or cared for, you're doing good.
• some people are just naturally negative about everything- take it in stride when you can, but sometimes you just can't handle negative statements- when that happens, step away and regroup. Don't let a negative person make you doubt who you are, or what you are capable of doing.
• you can do a lot more than you think you can.
• for those of you who are Christians - God is in control, and His hands hold the future. Don't give up until the end.

Psalm 121
I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help [cometh] from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD [is] thy keeper: the LORD [is] thy shade upon thy right hand. The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.

Straightening out the curves...

This spring, my husband and I, along with several of our friends, drove up to Seneca, SC, to attend a biker revival.
The revival runs from Thursday through Sunday; we headed up early to get in a few days of rest and mountain riding. I'd been hearing about the Tail of the Dragon for several months, and I knew I needed to ride it, because ever since learning to ride last year, sharp curves have been my biggest challenge.
I believe God gave me my bike (due to many reasons I may cover in another entry), and I know He has promised to take care of me in all circumstances. I just needed to learn to trust Him in curves... so one of my goals during the week was to ride the Dragon, if at all possible.
DH and I talked to some of the others in our group, and we decided we'd leave out on Friday morning and be on the road by 8 AM to get there and back by supper (about 120 miles one way, through curvy small country roads). We saw some beautiful country and I got a TON of practice on curves; we didn't realize it but the road we took to Deal's Gap is nicknamed Hellbender...
I was escorted on my ride by some very nice guys- besides my husband, I had Robert, Donnie and last but certainly not least, my riding buddy Byron.
Robert knew how nervous I was about the ride, so before we left, he told me he'd had his morning devotional and had found a verse that God specifically sent to me. Isaiah 45:2 says in part, "I will go before you And make the crooked places straight"; I spoke that verse to myself on a regular basis during the day.
The ride was exactly what I needed- by the time we got back that afternoon, I had perfect confidence in God's ability to take care of me, and confidence in myself, that He'd given me the knowledge to do something I'd set out to do.
You see, I knew in my head how to handle those curves:

• keep your chin up so you're looking on out past your bike's fender to see what's coming up instead of worrying about what's right in front of you
  
• use your clutch and brakes to control how the bike traveled through the switchbacks
  
• keep speed as constant as possible- not so fast that the bike travels over the line, but fast enough to keep the bike moving smoothly
• adjust your sitting position so you're giving the bike as much flexibility as it needs
• relax on the bike so you don't wear yourself out

But what I needed was to know down in my heart that I could do what needed to be done, and that God was with me the whole time.
I'm a much better rider than I was, and it was all because I looked my fears in the eye, and took God at His word.
Keep your chin up!

Patriot Guard

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Originally uploaded by chevytruck542000

I am a very proud member of the Patriot Guard Riders. I'm not proud of what I do, but proud that I'm able to ride with such a wonderful group of folks, who do the right thing, even when it's not comfortable or popular.
I could describe how it feels to stand at parade rest in the hot sun, holding a flag, honoring a fallen hero, their family and friends while they mourn, but words aren't enough.
The breeze brushes the flag against your face, tears well up and run down your face, your chest expands til it's ready to burst, from pride and sorrow and thankfulness to this person who has made the ultimate sacrifice.
My son serves in the military, my son-in-law serves in the military; I've had a brother, an uncle, cousins, grandfathers, brothers-in-law who have served in the past; I'm proud of each one of them, and I ride for them.
I'm not pro-war - I can't imagine anyone wanting to have a war. But, I am pro-America, and I believe the only way we will ever have peace is through strength.
If you're not familiar with the PGR, please visit the site and consider joining. All they ask is that you have a desire to show respect for our heroes and their families - they don't care what you ride, or if you ride- just be ready to show respect.

Global Vision's 6 in 1 kit - biker eyewear review

A few weeks ago, I got a new set of riding glasses. They're " The Boss 6 in 1 Kit " by Global Vision. I normally ride using a half-helmet, and my bike has a windshield, but I still like having something to keep bugs and dust out of my eyes, so I'd been using my faithful shades from Wal-mart, but when I started using these, I fell in love.
First, there's one frame, with quick-change lens (clear, yellow and sunglass). Each eyepiece has a little foam pad that helps filter out more dust (and rain) . You can wear them as regular glasses, or take off the end of each arm and add a band that will hold the glasses firmly to your head. I've used all three types of lens, and I really like them. They all fit inside a nice padded case that's about the size of a compact day planner. The case zips up, so changing out lens in late day is only a matter of minutes. I keep the case stored in my left saddlebag, so it actually takes me longer to get the case out than it does to change out the lens.
One suggestion I will make - when you first use these glasses, make sure you snap the sliding lock firmly in place. The first two times I changed out lens, it took a second try to lock them- I was afraid I would snap them in too far. Don't worry about that though-they're very sturdy.
I got mine down at Valley Grove General Store - check with them before you go anywhere else. Lynn's customer service puts her far ahead of anyone else, and her prices are great!
They fit nicely to my face, and are very light; the arms don't bother my ears under my helmet. I think you' ll really like these.