Motorcycle Rides 2008

Motorcycle Rides 2008

12-31-2008 Total Mileage 4643
12-29-2008 Junk-tiquing in Loveland
12-28-2009 Around town
12-02-2008 Total Mileage = 4576
11-30-2008 Thanksgiving rides in Texas = 553 miles
11-27-2008 Tim & Ted Turkey Day ride Wichita Falls to Holliday, TX
11-26-2008 Total Mileage = 4444 miles Wichita Falls, TX
11-25-2008 Tim rides with Ted in North Texas
11-24-2008 Tim rides with Ted in TX and OK
11-23-2008 Saint Jo Ride with Dad = 193 miles
11-22-2008 Wichita Falls Toy Run
11-17-2008 Total Mileage = 4004 miles
11-02-2008 All Souls Day of the Dead Ride = 132 miles
11-01-2008 All Saint's Day Ride = 96 miles
10-31-2008 Hallowe'en Ride = 26 miles
10-25-2008 Saturday Flat-Land Ride = 121 miles
10-18-2008 Saturday Ride - Estes Park = 132 miles
10-04-2008 Saturday Ride - Poudre Canyon = 67 miles
09-30-2008 Total Mileage = 3292
09-27-2008 Laramie - Cheyenne WY = 196 miles
09-26-2008 TGIF Ride - Horsetooth Dam = 22 miles
09-25-2008 Short Solo Ride - Horsetooth Dam = 22 miles
09-23-2008 Total Mileage = 3032
09-18-2008-09-21-2008 Weekend in and around Colorado Springs = 616 miles
09-13-2008 Peak-to-Peak Highway = 145 miles
09-11-2008 Short Solo Ride - Rist Canyon = 53 miles
09-09-2008 Total Mileage 2139
09-07-2008 Short Sunday Ride
09-06-2008 Total Mileage = 2086
09-06-2008 Fort Collins - Sterling - 246 miles
09-01-2008 Fort Collins - Estes Park - 78 miles
08-31-2008 TWO-UP! Fort Collins - Cheyenne WY - Laramie WY 195 miles
08-26-2008 Poudre Canyon - Rist Canyon 57 miles
08-24-2008 Fort Collins - Estes Park - Lyons 95 miles
08-17-2008 Sunday Ride - First Two Up 27 miles
08-09-2008 Total Mileage = 1053
08-09-2008 Fort Collins - Cheyenne WY - Laramie WY 205 miles
07-01-2008 Total Bike Mileage = 65
06-25-2008 Purchased 2008 Harley-Davidson Softtail Heritage

A Soldier's Christmas

Merry Christmas, My Friend...

Twas the night before Christmas, he lived all alone,
In a one bedroom house made of plaster & stone.
I had come down the chimney, with presents to give
and to see just who in this home did live

As I looked all about, a strange sight I did see,
no tinsel, no presents, not even a tree.
No stocking by the fire, just boots filled with sand.
On the wall hung pictures of a far distant land.

With medals and badges, awards of all kind,
a sobering thought soon came to my mind.
For this house was different, unlike any I'd seen.
This was the home of a U.S. Marine.

I'd heard stories about them, I had to see more,
so I walked down the hall and pushed open the door.
And there he lay sleeping, silent, alone,
Curled up on the floor in his one-bedroom home.

He seemed so gentle, his face so serene,
Not how I pictured a U.S. Marine.
Was this the hero, of whom I'd just read?
Curled up in his poncho, a floor for his bed?

His head was clean-shaven, his weathered face tan.
I soon understood, this was more than a man.
For I realized the families that I saw that night,
owed their lives to these men, who were willing to fight.

Soon around the Nation, the children would play,
And grown-ups would celebrate on a bright Christmas day.
They all enjoyed freedom, each month and all year,
because of Marines like this one lying here.

I couldn't help wonder how many lay alone,
on a cold Christmas Eve, in a land far from home.
Just the very thought brought a tear to my eye.
I dropped to my knees and I started to cry.

He must have awoken, for I heard a rough voice,
"Santa, don't cry, this life is my choice
I fight for freedom, I don't ask for more.
My life is my God, my country, my Corps."

With that he rolled over, drifted off into sleep,
I couldn't control it, I continued to weep.
I watched him for hours, so silent and still.
I noticed he shivered from the cold night's chill.

So I took off my jacket, the one made of red,
and covered this Marine from his toes to his head.
Then I put on his T-shirt of scarlet and gold,
with an eagle, globe and anchor emblazoned so bold.

And although it barely fit me, I began to swell with pride,
and for one shining moment, I was Marine Corps deep inside.
I didn't want to leave him so quiet in the night,
this guardian of honor so willing to fight.

But half asleep he rolled over, and in a voice clean and pure,
said "Carry on, Santa, it's Christmas Day, all secure."

One look at my watch and I knew he was right,
Merry Christmas my friend, Semper Fi and goodnight.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This piece in many versions sees wide circulation every Christmastime. It can be attributed to: James M. Schmidt, who was a Lance Corporal stationed in Washington, D.C., when he wrote the poem back in 1986. The story is that while a Lance Corporal serving as Battalion Counter Sniper at the Marine Barracks 8th & I, Washington, DC, under Commandant P.X. Kelly and Battalion Commander D.J. Myers [in 1986], wrote this poem to hang on the door of the Gym in the BEQ. When Colonel Myers came upon it, he read it and immediately had copies sent to each department at the Barracks and promptly dismissed the entire Battalion early for Christmas leave. The poem was placed that day in the Marine Corps Gazette, distributed worldwide and later submitted to Leatherneck Magazine. Schmidt's original version, entitled "Merry Christmas, My Friend," was published in Leatherneck (Magazine of the Marines) in December 1991.

Look what just rolled in under our Christmas tree

December 17, 2008
Fort Collins, CO

Biker Santa is guaranteed to chase the Grinch out of any Biker who is out of sorts because it's just too durn cold to ride... just ask Tim. Ha! He rides to the classic rock tune Born to Be Wild by Steppenwolf of course. It is cold here... we might get up to the freezing mark by Friday - they hope. Otherwise, we're mostly in the single digits which is a bit frosty for even a seasoned biker I'm thinking. HO! HO! HO!

Look what rolled in under our Christmas Tree...

Riding with the Patriot Guard... thats my Dad.

December 15, 2008
Fort Collins, CO

WAY TO GO, DAD!

Operation Angel 21 honors 'littlest heroes'
Cindy Kahler Thomas, For the Times Record News
Monday, December 15, 2008

Children of deployed military parents celebrated Christmas early with Operation Angel 21 Day at MD Hangar Sunday.

Operation Angel 21 was the brainchild of Judy Nielsen, owner and operator of Make Believe, a business that provides children with costumes, tiaras and almost anything they need to become princesses, knights and rock stars.

Girls were princesses for the day right down to the fairy dust in their hair. Boys weren’t left out either. Jacob Locke, 10, was a knight for the day. His father is in Korea this Christmas season.

“It is just an idea I have had for two years since my son was in Iraq,” Nielsen said, “The last three Christmases he has not been at home. Thankfully, this year he is at home. I started making phone calls to Project Jody, the Patriot Guard Riders and the VFW, and things took off.”

The name Operation Angel 21 refers to the children as angels, and the number 21 was her youngest son’s favorite number. He was killed in a farming accident.

The children played games, rode in the Shrine Maskat train and welcomed Santa with fanfare as he rode up with 31 Patriot Guard Riders leading the way on their motorcycles.

And jolly Old Saint Nick brought presents for the children.

The Love Pledge Group, Love Me Duex, a branch of the Faith Masonic Lodge’s Rainbow Girls helped with games and dress up.

Jody Pacheco, creator of the Project Jody veterans support effort, called the children of the deployed the “littlest heroes,” and Patriot Guard Rider Barbra Johnson agreed.

“They all serve together,” she said, “When one goes off to war, it is as if they all go to war. They (the deployed parents) are taking their time to protect us, and it is the least we can do to help them take care of their family at home.”

Patriot Guard Rider Ted Foster added, “I am retired military, and I just wish someone would have done this for my kids when I was gone. This is what it is all about — taking care of the kids.”

And even the music was about military children. The CD that was played was called “A Lil’ Heroes Christmas,” and was sung by children who all lost their fathers in Iraq. Proceeds from the sales go back to the children in birthday wishes and other things they need.

Source: http://www.timesrecordnews.com/news/2008/dec/15/operation-angel-21-honors-littlest-heroes (dead link)

Video on Texoma's Home Page: http://texomashomepage.com/content/fulltext/?cid=27011">http://texomashomepage.com/content/fulltext/?cid=27011 (dead link)

December 13, 2008: Wreaths Across America Day

December 13, 2008
Fort Collins, CO



Wreaths Across America Day
http://www.wreaths-across-america.org/

United States Senate Resolution

SRES 717 IS

110th CONGRESS
2d Session
S. RES. 717

Designating December 13, 2008, as `Wreaths Across America Day'.

IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

November 20, 2008

Ms. COLLINS (for herself and Ms. SNOWE) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary

RESOLUTION

Designating December 13, 2008, as `Wreaths Across America Day'.

Whereas, more than 15 years ago, the Worcester Wreath Company, a for-profit business in Harrington, Maine, began a tradition of donating, transporting, and overseeing the placement of Maine balsam fir holiday wreaths on the graves of the fallen heroes at Arlington National Cemetery each December;

Whereas, since the Worcester Wreath Company began that tradition, through the hard work and generosity of the people involved in the Wreaths Across America project, hundreds of thousands of wreaths have been sent to more than 200 national cemeteries and veterans' memorials in all 50 states;

********
Whereas, in December 2008, the Patriot Guard Riders, a motorcycle and motor vehicle group dedicated to patriotic events, with more than 65,000 members nationally, will continue their tradition of escorting a tractor-trailer full of donated wreaths from Harrington, Maine to Arlington National Cemetery; *******

Whereas hundreds of volunteers participate in the escort each December;

Whereas Morrill Worcester, President of Worcester Wreath Company, has been nominated for, and received, several awards for his humble service and exemplary patriotism to our Nation through this project; and

Whereas Wreaths Across America will continue this proud legacy on December 13, 2008: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Senate--

(1) designates December 13, 2008, as `Wreaths Across America Day';

(2) honors Wreaths Across America, the Worcester Wreath Company, Morrill Worcester, the Patriot Guard Riders, and all other companies and individuals involved in this worthy legacy; and

(3) recognizes the sacrifices our veterans and service members and their families have made, and continue to make, for our great Nation.

Decatur Texas - Not Wanted - Vietnam Vets on Motorcycles

December 8, 2008
Fort Collins, CO

My response to an article written about the banning of a motorcycle escort for The Wall That Heals in Decatur, Texas.

The decision not to allow veterans on motorcycles (many of them Vietnam Vets themselves) escort The Wall That Heals (not the Moving Wall as stated in the article) into town is a shame the city of Decatur and residents of Wise County will not soon live down. These veterans on two wheels who are nameless in the article written by Mandy Bourgeois are called the Patriot Guard Riders. They are ALL Patriots on a scale the likes of Bobby Harris and Jim Donovan could not begin to measure. [RE: Bobby (Harris) and I feel that it's solemn and hallowed ground, and it's a memorial to our brothers who died so I don't want bikes making noise," Donovan said.] Did you serve in the armed forces Mr. Harris? Can you really call the names on the wall your brothers? For shame! You have no excuse, Mr. Donovan. If you are indeed a Vietnam veteran, the good deeds of The Patriot Guard Riders cannot have escaped your attention. My Dad is standing tall with the Patriot Guard this very day in Wichita Falls, Texas at a young serviceman’s funeral. Yesterday, he rode to Dallas to escort that young man’s hearse to Wichita Falls. Where were you? Perhaps you are ignorant of the fact that one of the sponsors of The Wall That Heals is Harley-Davidson Motorcycles?

Members of the Patriot Guard perform a service no one else is willing to do. They put themselves between the bereaved and those who would dishonor our veterans. They stand with flag in hand at funerals and memorial services. They ride countless miles in the cold and rain and wind and heat to escort a bus of soldiers deploying for Iraq and other places in the world. They ride, flags waving behind them to greet the soldiers who return. They provide escort for hearses of fallen soldiers returning to their homes all across the United States. They sponsor and contribute to toy drives and food drives and benefits for the families of veterans and abused children. They do all these things without asking for your tax dollars or recognition. They do it because they are true Patriots.

The Patriot Guard motto is: Riding with Respect - Standing for Those Who Stood for Us

Once again, the Vietnam Vet is silenced in a rather insidious manner by the very people who profess to honor them. When my Dad – a twenty year USAF veteran - deployed for Vietnam there was no one to see him off but his family. When he arrived home from Vietnam there was no one to welcome him home but his family. My husband served during the Vietnam era, too. In my recollection of that time, there are no high school bands (talk about noisy), no flag wavers, no color guards, no honor guards and thankfully, no hometown idiot mouthing about noisy motorcycles when he apparently has no clue what he’s talking about. No, we have pinhead organizers in Decatur saying the Wall dedicated to soldiers who served and lost their lives should silently slide in and out of town without a proud and respectful escort of the ones who actually served beside those brave souls. I have never witnessed a Patriot Guard escort that was disrespectful by way of excessive noise. It is my opinion The Wall should roar into town. The Vietnam Vets (those memorialized on the wall and those still living) deserve all the noise and fanfare and respect we can give them.

If the City of Decatur wants silence, I’m thinking they will get it. Count my husband and I, my parents (Patriot Guard members all) and a good many others I know willing to by-pass in the future the restaurants, antique stores, gas stations and so forth in Decatur, Texas we have formerly patronized. Never again will we darken your prejudiced doors with our presence.

Correction: Dad did indeed ride to Decatur to join fellow Patriot Guard members escort the hearse into Wichita Falls, but he did not attend the funeral as Mom was not well.

Also, to be fair here - the organizers of this event protest loudly (especially Mr Donovan) that they did not say bikers were not welcome but that is the quote and the paper has not printed a retraction or correction. Me thinks they do protest too much -- no matter, loose words are hard to take back no matter how much you wish you had not said them.

One more thought: While organizers may say they don't want bikers at an event - they really have no right or protection under the law to forbid law-abiding citizens from attending any public event. Nor do they have a say in what sort of horse one rides in on... They cannot dictate effectively who uses the highways in and out of their town. Even the drivers of memorials like The Healing Wall cannot dictate who rides with them (although they say they claim they can choose NOT to have an escort.) In reality, they don't have a choice -- the roads are free people -- that's why we ride.

Read the Patriot Guard Mission Statement at:
http://www.patriotguard.org/AboutUs/OurMission/tabid/60/Default.aspx

Read about The Wall that Heals at:
http://www.vvmf.org/index.cfm?SectionID=3

Source of my irritation:
Moving Wall opens Thursday
Some upset motorcycle escort won’t be allowed
By Mandy Bourgeois| Published Sunday, December 7, 2007, Wise County Messenger
http://www.wcmessenger.com/news/content/EkklVAuEVuxhtezKNa.php">http://www.wcmessenger.com/news/content/EkklVAuEVuxhtezKNa.php (dead link)

Harley-Davidson
3700 W. Juneau Avenue
Milwaukee, WI 53208
(414) 343-4056.

City Officials in Decatur. They are next on my list... http://www.decaturtx.org/contact.html">http://www.decaturtx.org/contact.html (dead link)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Article:

Moving Wall opens Thursday
Some upset motorcycle escort won’t be allowed
By Mandy Bourgeois| Published Sunday, December 7, 2007, Wise County Messenger

A replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial will be on display in Decatur Dec. 11-14, and organizers are expecting large crowds while "The Moving Wall" is on here.

"We may have more, but 10,000 visitors is a good estimate," said Jim Donovan, a Vietnam veteran and a member of the veterans group bringing the wall to Decatur. "We've been getting a lot of calls. We get at least five a day at my house from Fort Worth or Dallas because word has gotten out at the VA Clinics. I consider it probably the biggest thing ever to hit Wise County."

The 250-foot replica memorial will be located at the Decatur Middle School campus between the tennis courts and the school. The wall will arrive Wednesday morning, and Donovan invites volunteers to help put the wall together.

"The more the merrier. We could use anybody," he said. "They can also volunteer to work during the week."

The group will begin working at 9 a.m.

With the wall comes a traveling museum and information center, as well as a computer database that allows people to quickly find the location of a name on the wall.

The wall will open to the public for viewing Thursday morning and a ceremony honoring Vietnam veterans will be held at 5:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, at the middle school's multi-purpose building.

Donovan has spent the last few weeks talking to students in Wise County schools and said that several schools have arranged for students to view the wall.

"We've talked to just about everybody in the county. Chico has promised to bring nine buses on Friday loaded with students. Bridgeport is going to be shuttling students back and forth," he said. "It's really taking off. I'm really happy."

As the day the wall is scheduled to arrive gets closer, Donovan has been overwhelmed by the support and interest of the county and surrounding areas.

"I really envisioned a local interest. I didn't really realize that just because we'd put up a sign at the VA clinics and hospitals that it would get so much attention," Donovan said. "The school kids have been very receptive. I can't get over how well-behaved and receptive they were to something like this."

Donovan praised the Decatur school district for their support of the program.

"Dr. Gary Gindt has just been wonderful in getting help from the maintenance men, the custodial staff and the principals - they have worked hard," Donovan said. "Everybody has been very, very nice."

The organizers have worked for months to raise money to fund the event, and Donovan said they are still raising money. However, he said that any money raised before the wall opens stays in Wise County, with extra funds going to needy veterans and scholarships for veterans' children. Any money raised Thursday and after will be given to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund.

While much of the response to the event has been positive, the decision to not allow an escort into town has ruffled a few feathers. Veteran motorcyclists groups expecting to provide an escort were saddened when organizers opted not to have an escort.

"Bobby (Harris) and I feel that it's solemn and hallowed ground, and it's a memorial to our brothers who died so I don't want bikes making noise," Donovan said.

Kathleen Renfro of Newark said that the move "is like a slap in the face."

"This is a hot topic for me. What would it hurt to let the other vets ride in with the wall?" she asked.

Renfro is a good friend of Dorothy "Mamma" Schafernocker of Newark, a mother of a Vietnam soldier killed in action. Schafernocker holds picnics twice annually at her land near Eagle Mountain Lake for veterans, which attracts many motorcyclist groups.

"I have met them and I have talked to them. It just seems cruel," Renfro said. "Mom puts great care into these picnics. I've met them over the last eight years. Our Mamma Schafernocker, she is a very sweet person. She lost her son in that war. For them not to let the bikers come - I don't get it."

Renfro feels that allowing the veterans to provide an escort would be another therapeutic outlet.

"They would get comfort from being able to escort it into town. These men and women have feelings, you know? In a perfect world, they would all just get along and be able to ride in with it," she said.

Renfro said that Schafernocker was in Rogers at another wall ceremony this week but said she will be home in time to attend the Decatur event.

"Just in case somebody shows up that might need her, she'll be there," Renfro said.
Copyright 2008 Wise County Messenger
PO Box 149, 115 South Trinity, Decatur, Texas 76234 | 940-627-5987 | FAX 940-627-1004| www.wcmessenger.com | webmaster@wcmessenger.com

Next Stop - Oklahoma!

November 28, 2008
Mountain Park, OK

No trip to Texas is complete without swinging through Oklahoma to visit our friends Don and Nancy in Mountain Park. We departed Wichita Falls about mid-morning, stopping by Red River Harley-Davidson on the way out of town. The day was cool and cloudy and threatening rain but Tim suited up for the ride -- he was determined to get to Oklahoma on two wheels. The day cleared as we headed west and north and the winds were calmer than the last few days so the ride went well, other than a couple of stops for wardrobe adjustments (1-helmet, 2-warmer gloves).

True to form (that being a most excellent hostess) Nancy had a pot of homemade chili simmering on the stove. No one ever goes hungry at the Perrin B&B and no one ever leaves so much as an ounce lighter either. Ha! We dined on homemade Chili, steaks and baked potatoes, pizza, ham and eggs and my favorite Mississippi Mud Cake. Thanks Nancy, for catering to the chocolate lover in me. YUM!

Nancy, Tim and I shopped the antique malls in Snyder, OK. while waiting for Don to come in from plowing a field. Nancy has booths in both malls. It's always fun to shop in Snyder and I usually come home with a few treasures. This year I brought some vintage Santa pieces home, several of them compliments of Nancy. One Santa I rescued from her trash can. Ha!

Later in the afternoon, Nancy's granddaughter Krisee (about to turn 14) got her first ride on a motorcycle - correction - Harley. First, she just sat on The Ride for pics. A little while later she returned. Nancy teased, you just want another look at the Harley. Krisee replied, no I am looking to get a ride on the Harley. I popped my helmet on her head and Tim rode her a few blocks around Mountain Park but that wasn't enough. After a quick call to Cheryl (her Mom) she had permission to ride to Snyder and back (about 2 miles one way).

Next, Don and Tim decide (who cares how they got there?) they will try to move the purdy red building Nancy's been pining after for months now. Check the next post for pics...

In the evening we had pizza for supper and visited as long as we could keep our eyes open but following Don's example we made our way to the comfy bedroom for a good nights rest.

Here are a few pics.

Twas the Night Before Christmas for Bikers

Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the pad,
There was nada happenin', now thats pretty bad.
The woodstove was hung up in that stocking routine,
In hopes that the Fat Boy would soon make the scene.

With stomachs packed with tacos and beer,
My girl and I crashed on the couch for some cheer.
When out in the yard there arose such a racket,
I ran for the door and pulled on my jacket.

I saw a large bro' on a '56 Pan
Wearin' black leathers, a cap, and boots (cool biker, man).
He hauled up the bars on that bikeful of sacks,
And that Pan hit the roof like it was running on tracks.

I couldn't help gawking, the old guy had class.
But I had to go in -- I was freezing my ass.
Down through the stovepipe he fell with a crash,
And out of the stove he came dragging his stash.

With a smile and some glee he passed out the loot,
A new jacket for her and some parts for my scoot.
He patted her fanny and shook my right hand,
Spun on his heel and up the stovepipe he ran.

From up on the roof came a great deal of thunder,
As that massive V-twin ripped the silence asunder.
With beard in the wind, he roared off in the night,
Shouting, "Have a cool Yule, and to all a good ride!"

Thanksgiving - Biker Family Style

November 27, 2008
Wichita Falls, TX

Happy Thanksgiving - Here's how our day went.

Lunch at Luby's with Mom and Dad. YUM!

The four of us visit with Grandma and Alice in Henrietta.

Dad and Tim leave to get back to Wichita Falls and ride their bikes to Holliday.

Mom and I visit with Grandma and Alice a while longer, stop by the house in Wichita Falls to change and meet the guys at TedJr's house in Holliday for a visit and a bite or two of Lamesa's desserts. We're talking awesome pies and cheesecake and Death by Chocolate. Oh me! YUM!

Then, we all pose for fun Harley pictures.

Making New Friends

November 26, 2008
Wichita Falls, TX

Mom and I spent the morning shopping. We went to a neat Christmas Store just a few blocks from Mom's house where I found a few chenille Santa decorations. And I made a really great buy - a witch doll/elf by Mark Roberts - signed by the artist at half price! Color me happy! Mom bought my lunch at Somewhere in Time Tea Room. That was fun and tasty!

The folks were resting in the afternoon so Tim and I hopped on the bike and met with John Bailey and his lovely wife Janice at the Pioneer on Southwest Parkway. John is the author/creator/photographer of a really great blog. I found John's blog a few months ago when I was searching for biker photos or blogs in Wichita Falls. I happily discovered that John was a great photographer and occasionally posted pics of Dad on the blog. We finally had the opportunity to meet in person at the Toy Run last Saturday.

John and Janice are really nice and we enjoyed the meet-n-greet. John says they may swing through Colorado sometime next year. We say come ahead and welcome!

Saint Jo Ride

November 23, 2008
Wichita Falls, TX

Sunday morning the day dawned a bit chilly and gray and the winds were kicking up, but we had all been waiting to make this ride so make it - we did. Dad's friend Kenny joined us so there were four us us riding motorcycles (me, with Tim) and Mom followed in the car. We were enjoying riding in Texas with Dad so much that the stout cross-winds we endured most of the day were of no real consequence.

Kenny, Dad's friend was a HOOT to ride with. He scouts for Indians in Oklahoma, looks for wildlife (sign says Watch for Wildlife) and ice (sign says Watch for Ice on Bridge) and rode in lazy circles in the middle of the road when we were not keeping up.

The Nocona Dairy Queen was our first stop of the day. It was time for coffee. Afterwards, we rode to Saint Jo's Biker Roadhouse on the square. It's about the only store on the square but we enjoyed shopping there. We bought patches and pins and a denim vest for Tim.

The next part of the trip took us North out of Saint Jo over the Red River into Oklahoma. Most of the time Tim and I had no clue where we were or where we were going but it didn't matter, we were happy to let Dad and Kenny be our guides and just enjoyed the roads and the scenery.

After stopping for gas in a little Oklahoma town (the name escapes me), we had a late lunch (CATFISH!) at the Peach Orchard. Yum! I haven't been to the Peach Orchard since I was a kid. We enjoyed it thoroughly. Tim and I agree at this point that this was shaping up to be one of the most fun anniversary weekends we've ever had.

The road was loooonnnng back to civilization. If you don't believe us - just ask Mom. Ha! We parted ways with Kenny in Henrietta and reluctantly rode the rest of the way into Wichita Falls, not really ready for the fun day to end. It's like that when you're having fun riding a motorcycle -- you want the road to go on forever.

And, we were having fun.

Here are a few pics I managed to take despite the wind.

Wichita Falls Toy Run 2008

November 22, 2008
Wichita Falls, TX

We began our Thanksgiving vacation by leaving Fort Collins Thursday night (the 20th) and drove all night to Wichita Falls, Texas. The roads were clear but the winds howled out of the west the whole trip and it was bitter cold. In Amarillo, we stopped for breakfast at the Cracker Barrel. Before leaving town we made a quick stop at Tripp's Harley-Davidson where we purchased a couple of t-shirts. We arrived in Wichita Falls in the early afternoon. It was good to see the folks. Mom had a great stew simmering on the stove. We had stew and cornbread for supper and brownies for dessert. YUM!

Today we celebrated our 37th wedding anniversary by riding with Dad for the first time ever in our first organized ride. TedJr rode with us, too so that was another first. We gathered at Memorial Stadium in Wichita Falls to register for the ride. Upon arrival, I had the pleasure of meeting John Bailey aka Snapshot. I've been reading John's excellent Blog for months now and nabbing pics of Dad when he posts them. We posed for pics with a Biker Santa, met lots of friendly people and generally had a great time.

John's Blog: http://www.jjskewlstuffii.blogspot.com/

The ride was from the stadium to downtown Wichita Falls where we donated our toys and socialized some more. I met a good many of Dad's friends, including Bob who rode his scooter all that way. Afterwards, we met at P3 for Famous Enchiladas of course! (TedJr and Lamesa's treat). We dined with other bikers who had ridden in the Toy Run today as well.

Of course, the day wouldn't be complete without a stop by Red River Harley-Davidson for our free T-Shirts and some shopping.

Here are some pics of our great day. Some pics are courtesy of John Bailey - thanks John.

Thirty-Seven Years

November 22, 2008
Fort Collins, CO

Tim and Vickie (that's US) celebrate 37 years (1971-2008) of marriage today. I know. Who woulda thunk it? Ha!

After 37 years of looking over a coffee cup every morning at each other you'd think we'd be a veritable fountain of wisdom on how to stay married to one person for that long. So, if you're askin' - here's the secret. It's called Hang In There. Yep! Stick it out through the good times, hard times, sad times, confusing times and the we don't know what the hell happened times. Stay true, honest and try to always remember what's really important at the end of the day, week, year, decade. Oh, and it helps to have a fully developed sense of humor.

We've had our ups and down, trials and tribulations, smiles and tears and NO, we didn't come through all that unscathed -- we have our scars -- but we're still here and we're still together. Just when you think it can't get any worse - it does. But you hang in there and you muddle through somehow. Just when you think it can't get any better - it does. And you hang in there with sense enough to enjoy the ride.

This year started out like so many others and like so many others evolved into something we didn't expect and couldn't have predicted. That's life. If I had to analyze it, I'd say this is the year of the Harley. This is one of those times when you start out sort of stale, in a rut, but you hang in there and all of a sudden it gets better, then worse and better again. A physical therapist said to me (after my bike accident) that most people settle down when they hit their fifties. I told her that isn't how it works in our family... Example: Dad is riding again in his seventies. We don't really have a cut-off date for adventure.

The following is a clip of US enjoying life, the Harley and each other. It's about the places we've been and seen and things we've enjoyed. We do almost everything together and go almost everywhere together and just in case you haven't guessed - we're in it for the long haul. The journey just got much more interesting thanks to The Ride - stay tuned...

Here's an Anniversary Card - to US!

Thirty Seven Years 

Texas - Here We Come

November 20, 2008
Fort Collins, CO

The Ride is loaded and ready to go the 750 miles or so to Wichita Falls, TX. The plan is to ride with Dad and some of his buddies, visit with family and friends, maybe make some new friends, enjoy Thanksgiving and have fun!

Hawg Wild Swap Meet

November 15, 2008
Fort Collins, CO

It is Saturday. We ran around a while today before Tim went in to work. We went to breakfast and then to a craft show which was in the same complex as the Hawg Wild Motorcycle Show and Swap Meet and of course we made a run by Thunder Mountain. Hawg Wild is a Custom Chopper outfit out of Loveland. Breakfast was good. The craft show mediocre. And the swap meet was very interesting and looking at all the stuff was fun. I've never been to a swap meet for motorcycles. If you were looking for something in particular - it was probably to be found. There was a big crowd of bikers from all over the place. Some of the die-hard bikers had to have braved temps in the twenties and a bitter wind out of the north to get there this morning. We were there around noon and it was still in the thirties. Most people were like us - in their cages (4 wheel vehicles). Tim found a leather jacket at one of the leather booths and I finally talked him into buying it. It looks good on him.

Here are a few pics.

The Patriot Guard in Action

November 11, 2008
Wichita Falls, TX

Photographer: John Bailey aka Snapshot

Yesterday, Dad and other members of the Patriot Guard attended the funeral of a Naval War Veteran. The following is an excellent portrayal of what the Patriot Guard does - honor Veterans.

The photos were taken by a friend of Dad's who runs an excellent blog which I visit frequently - it's how I keep tabs on Dad... haha! Hopefully, I'll have the priviledge of meeting John when we visit Texas over the holidays.

Veterans Day Patriot Guard Mission

November 11, 2008
Wichita Falls, TX

Dad (Ted Foster) rode with the Patriot Guard today to the funeral of Lupe Ozuna Sr, a Vietnam War Naval Veteran at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Wichita Falls, Texas.

Veterans Day Tribute 2008

November 11, 2008
Fort Collins, CO

On June 1, 1954 President Eisenhower signed legislation changing the name of Armistice Day to Veteran’s Day. Was it 1954 Dad - when you signed with the US Air Force? Why don't I know what day that was in 1954? Dad answered this question - July 19, 1954 - and yeah I knew it -- let's call it temporary amnesia.

Other dates of personal significance in 1954:
July 19, 1954 - Tim is born
October 26, 1954 - Ted and Inez get married.

We often take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude.

With that said, today is not one of those days in this house. Veteran's Day ranks high in observance in this household. We will fly the flag. We will pay our respects. I grew up an Air Force brat, attending parades and air shows and other military observances in honor of our Veterans. Later, I became an Air Force wife. Today, I honor my Dad (USAF retired), my husband (USAF - 8 years), and many others who have so valiantly served our country. I honor the soldiers who have made the ultimate sacrifice and the families of those men and women who have so selflessly endured the commitments made by their loved ones to preserve our freedom.

Dad continues to honor and preserve the memory of all Veterans by participating as a member of the Patriot Guard Riders. Many of the pics in the following clip in which I have made DAD a star were taken at various events he attended this year. And, I threw in a few oldies just for fun. There's music - so turn it up.

Finally, I just want to say -- Way to go, DAD.

Veterans Day Tribute 2008

I had fun putting this together. I knew the song I wanted for it, but the title escaped me so it took a while for me to find it. Here it is - my first slide show movie - starring DAD. Enjoy! -V-

SONG OF THE PATRIOT
Johnny Cash - Marty Robbins

I'm a flag waving, patriotic nephew of my Uncle Sam
A rough riding fighting Yankee man
I love mom and apple pie,
And the freedoms that we all enjoy across this beautiful land

I work hard and I fight hard for the old Red, White, and Blue
And I'll die a whole lot harder if it comes to where I have to
I'm a flag waving, patriotic nephew of my Uncle Sam
A rough riding fighting Yankee man

And when I see old Glory waving
I think of all the brave men who have fought and died for what is right and wrong
And when I see old Glory burnin, my blood begins to churnin
And I could do some fightin' of my own

I don't believe in violence, I'm a God fearing man
But I'll stand up for my country just as long as I can stand
Cause I'm a flag waving, patriotic nephew of my Uncle Sam
A rough riding fighting Yankee man

I'm a flag waving, patriotic nephew of my Uncle Sam
A rough riding fighting Yankee man
And I enjoy the liberty of being what I want to be and achieve any goals that I can

I was taught to turn the other cheek, but daddy used to say
Walk soft and pack a big stick, but never walk away
I'm a flag waving, patriotic nephew of my Uncle Sam
A rough riding fighting Yankee man

And When I see old Glory waving
I think of all the brave men who have fought and died for what is right and wrong
And when I see old Glory burnin, my blood begins to churnin
And I could do some fightin' of my own

Cause I love all my brothers and were proud of our group
We've got the greenest country here on God's green earth
I'm a flag waving, patriotic nephew of my Uncle Sam
A rough riding fighting Yankee man

For more about the History of Veteran's Day see:
http://www1.va.gov/opa/vetsday/vetdayhistory.asp

Graven Not So Much On Stone...

November 8, 2008
Fort Collins, CO
News from Wichita Falls, Texas:

The sun sets in the western sky, silhouetting the Huey helicopter mounted atop a pole at the site of the National Vietnam War Museum east of Mineral Wells, which hosted a dedication of the replica Camp Holloway Memorial Wall. -- Libby Cluett

Graven Not So Much On Stone
As In The Hearts Of Men
~~ Pericles ~~

Dad and friends rode as Patriot Guard members to a war memorial dedication in Mineral Wells, Texas Saturday. As a Vietnam Veteran, Dad had the awesome honor of signing his name on the seat of a Huey helicopter. He knows all about these birds as that's what Dad was doing in Vietnam -- making them fly.

The replica Memorial Wall contains the names etched on brass plates of 326 soldiers who were killed while stationed at Camp Holloway in Peiku, Republic of Vietnam.

The original wall was built at the U.S. Army’s Camp Holloway, which was home to many units of the 52nd Combat Aviation Battalion serving in Vietnam. The original memorial wall was dedicated in February 1966, with Gen. William Westmoreland giving the memorial address.

For more about the original wall see the web site, which also lists the names of the soldiers to whom it is dedicated and hosts an extensive collection of vintage war-time photos and historical information. http://my.core.com/~campholloway/memorial.html

Source: http://www.mineralwellsindex.com/local/local_story_312104319.html">http://www.mineralwellsindex.com/local/local_story_312104319.html (dead link)

All Souls Day Ride

November 2, 2008
Fort Collins, CO

Yesterday while we were out and about, we noticed a couple of roads we haven't been down in the Loveland area, so we rode over there today and checked a few of them out. The main road we were interested in was one that went to Carter Lake. What a great ride! It was cloudy and cool but never cold, even when we went up a few thousand feet. The road we traveled took us on to Flatiron Reservoir and a neat little campground we didn't know about with a couple of cozy camper cabins. We stopped at the little campground and stretched our legs. A road went up from the campground to another lake named Pinewood Lake. The road ends there so we back-tracked a bit. We ambled down country roads into Longmont where we stopped for gas and coffee. We chatted with another older biker for a bit. As we were leaving Longmont, yet another biker came roaring up right next to us as we were stopped at a light. He and his little dog were out for a ride. The dog was sitting in his lap and looked like he was having a great time. Too funny. We weren't quite ready to call it a day so we rode east across I-25 and south through the bedroom communities of Firestone and Frederick. These towns used to be sleepy little farm towns. Now, they are stacked with row after row of new houses. On the way home, we stopped at a Popeye's Chicken on the interstate for supper. Tim tied it down on the back of the bike and we ambled on back to the house, where we lit a fire in the chiminea and enjoyed a beer or two and chicken. What a great day!

All Saints Day Ride

November 1, 2008
Fort Collins, CO

Our Saturday ride took us out of the drive about 11 am, up and over the tooth, into Masonville, on to Loveland and beyond down a few roads we haven't been down before. The main street of the little town of Berthoud was under construction and muddy. Nope, that wasn't too much fun. We had coffee at the McDonald's in Johnstown and watched a good many motorcycles pass by. We were not the only ones out - it was a perfect day for a ride.

Dad rode with a large group of bikers from north Texas and Oklahoma to the Veterans Hospital in Oklahoma City today. On this annual Spook Run, the bikers fill backpacks with toiletries and candies and deliver them to veterans. He said they had a tour of the hospital and got the opportunity to visit with some of the veterans. I'm looking for pics of the event -- stay tuned. The return ride included a stop by Jake's Ribs in Chickasha, OK and Chaps My Ass leathers in Medicine Park, OK.

Hallowen Ride 2008

October 31, 2008
Fort Collins, CO

We have been blessed with a long Indian Summer. Hallowe'en Day was warm and clear. The Ride took us to our favorite Mexican food restaurant for lunch, Tortilla Marissa's. I had a birthday coupon to spend. We had nachos and quesadillas. Afterwards, we stopped for a little window shopping downtown Fort Collins. We knew we needed to get home and get a few things done as we were entertaining later in the day but we managed to sneak in a short ride by taking the long way home. The pics don't show anything in particular but are indicative of how great a day it was.

Tim gets BOOED Biker-Style

October 26, 2008
Fort Collins, CO

No, there's no stopping them... The Browns BOOED Tim last night with this amazing and fun addition to our Hallowe'en display.

Saturday Flat-Land Ride

October 25, 2008
Fort Collins, CO

Yes, it was a little chilly Saturday morning in Colorado. So, we simply lingered a little longer over our coffee before heading out about 11am. When we rolled the ride out, our neighbors Al and LeAnn flagged us down to chat for a few minutes. They snapped a few pics of Tim and myself (without helmets this time).

The plan for this ride was to have no plan. We thought we'd head out on Hwy 287 south and look for another pumpkin patch. The further south and the more aligned we became with Longs Peak, the harder the wind blew. We finally decided to get off Hwy 287 and headed out on Hwy 52 east. We stopped at High Country Harley-Davidson for a pit-stop, had a cup of coffee and browsed around.

We continued east to Fort Lupton and then turned north again on Hwy 85 which took us back through Greeley. We still had winds but not as vicious as they were blowing on the west side of I-25. As the shadows began to grow long, and the temps began to drop, we stopped in the small town of Eaton for ice cream before heading back into Fort Collins. We arrived home just after 4 pm.

Our flat-land ride today took us up and down a few country roads we have not traveled before, past farm houses, corn fields, pumpkin patches and small lakes, down roads lined with trees whose branches are beginning to look bare.

Total mileage this trip = 121 miles

Saturday Ride

October 18, 2008
Fort Collins, CO

The amber-hued skies and crisp morning air of Autumn in Colorado beckoned...

We left the house about 10 am but not before neighbor Al snapped a few pics of us ready to ride in front of our spooky Hallowe'en lawn display. With no agenda, we rode south and west to Longmont and stopped at the Rocky Mountain Pumpkin Ranch festival. It's mostly for kids, but we stopped and roamed around through the pumpkins (every size and variety you can possibly imagine). The young man who was helping park cars, found a good spot for The Ride and put a No Parking sign next to it so no one would park too close. Ha! I had a taste of pickled green beans in the produce market. YUM! I think I'll go back and get some. They were in glass jars and I sure didn't want one of those to break in the saddle bags. The ceiling of the produce market was filled with bunches of Indian corn. There was a hay maze and a corn shuck teepee for the munchkins, many of them in costume. Too cute!

We rode west to Lyons and stopped at Wild Bills for lunch. Lyons is a favorite biker destination. The day was so nice, we headed west and up and before we knew it we were at Estes Park. It was a bit windy and on the chilly side on the peak-to-peak highway just as we lined up with Long's Peak. Half of Colorado was in Estes Park. We rested for a spell, chatted with a woman biker who had ridden up from Boulder. She was fun and interesting -- said her boyfriend spends a good many weekends on his own. He doesn't ride. Ha! We strolled down main street to stretch our legs and to get a scoop of Bluebell ice cream, one of the few places in Colorado you can get Bluebell. Afterwards, we rode down to Lyons by a different route and home. We got home about 4 pm.

The digital camera's memory card reader bit the dust this weekend, but here are a few shots.



Total Mileage = 132 miles

Unless, we get a long Indian Summer, this is likely the last mountain ride this year.

Dad rode solo, over 200 miles in north Texas and Oklahoma. He ran into a woman in a Waurika cafe who recognized him as a Patriot Guard rider. She is the mother of a soldier who was killed in a helicopter crash recently. Dad rode with the Patriot Guard when the soldier was deployed. The Patriot Guard provided escort to the reservation where he was buried. The woman wanted to buy his lunch, but Dad declined. Still, a heartfelt thank you for the little one can do to show respect from someone who has lost so much is all the vindication one needs to do what feels right.

Thanks from the 2-149th

October 9, 2008
Fort Collins, CO

Reality Check: While the rest of the USA and the world stresses over the price of gas, food, health care and other sundry and mundane things, while others wonder about how politics will affect their tiny little part of the economy... while the majority sit around watching the debates on TV and argue about the merits of our not too stellar Presidential candidates - somewhere in a distant land, a soldier faces the ultimate challenge - how to stay alive. And this captain struggles to find the words to bring comfort to family and friends of his fallen compatriots.

No matter how tough your life is - it does not compare to those who pay the highest price so that you can worry over the little things.

The Patriot Guard and various other volunteer-based, military-oriented organizations provide assistance where they can. They do their part to show respect for our armed forces -- one has to wonder, why is it so many of us do not?

Thanks for doing something, Dad.

---

I've included the following in it's entirety as I received it.

From: Stillinger, Randall M. CPT NGTX
Thanks from the 2-149th

Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: NONE

Gentlemen,

Throughout the last week, as my battalion faced the tragedy of seven fallen soldiers in a helicopter crash on September 18th, the Patriot Guard Riders were present at all events. I continue to be amazed at the dedication of the people in your organization. I did my best to thank as many of you as possible, but time did not allow. I wanted to share with you an e-mail that I sent out to the families of our deployed soldiers after a long week of funerals and memorial services. That e-mail is below and I encourage you to pass it on as appropriate.

I appreciate all you do for us and look forward to seeing you at the battalion’s homecoming next June…and not before then (no offense).

CPT Randy Stillinger
Rear Detachment Commander
2-149th Aviation Regiment

Family and Friends of the 2-149th,

Well, it’s been a long two and a half weeks for our battalion. We were saddened and shocked with horrible news and have now said farewell to our fallen heroes. It’s been emotionally draining and tiring for all involved, especially for those who lost a loved one on September 18th. Please forgive the long e-mail ahead, but I wanted to take some time and roll up my thoughts and share a few things with you.

As I attended each funeral, I noticed many things that caught my attention. Many of them similar, some things different from one to another. There were seven flag-draped caskets, seven renditions of taps, seven 21-gun salutes, seven fly-overs, and seven families going through what is probably the most difficult time in their lives. While many things were similar, as is the custom of military honors, I took mental notes of the things that caught my eyes and ears at each event:

We started in Kingston , Oklahoma last Saturday to honor CPL Thompson. Kingston is a small town near the Texas border and has all of the great qualities of a small rural town. The size of the town meant that many people knew our fallen soldier on a personal basis. Other than the very large flag that hung from the ladder of a fire truck, the thing that truly impressed me was that, as we processed from the high school to the cemetery in a 3-mile long convoy, everyone stopped their cars and got out to pay respect. I also remember farmers taking a break from tending to their fields, taking their hats off, and then placing them over their hearts as the long line of cars went by. It is something that I will never forget.

Oklahoma City was our next destination for a memorial service to CW3 Rudolf. The thing on Sunday that initially caught my attention as we walked into the church was the honor guard spread out along the stairs in the front of the church. They stood there at parade rest for quite some time protecting our fallen soldier while honoring him and his sacrifice. After the service the entire congregation followed the family outside and stood there in silence as the four CH-47 Chinooks approached from the distance. It made the hair stand up on the back of my neck and brought many to tears as the Patriot Guard stood by in silence.

That evening we made the long drive down I-35 to San Antonio to be there for the services and interment of SGM Ordonez on Monday. During the service, a beautiful song was done in Spanish. Although I don’t recall the name and didn’t understand the words, it was no less moving and poignant. I think the reminder to me was that we live in a multi-cultural country where people of all nationalities have stood up to defend American values and our way of life. After the drive to the national cemetery, we stood and watched as the horse-drawn caisson pulled up with the flag-draped casket. As they pulled away, I caught sight of the rider-less horse with empty boots turned around in the stir ups and was blown away by the significance of it all.

On Tuesday, many of us went to Denton , TX to honor and remember Mrs. Diane Reeves, the wife of SFC Ben Reeves. Many soldiers and co-workers showed up to support SFC Reeves and his family. We also went to pay respect to a wife who has endured the anxiety and fear of watching her husband deploy overseas, like so many are experiencing right now. After the service, we spread out to attend three different homecomings at three airports in the Dallas /Ft. Worth area for CPT Vallejo, CW2 Edwards, and SSG Mason. At each of the arrivals, the crew of the C-130 poked a large Texas flag out of an opening in the roof of the aircraft as it taxied to its parking space. When the aircraft stopped and shut down, the honor guards went on board led by a Chaplain. As our fallen heroes were carried down the ramp of the aircraft, reality set in for many who showed up to pay their respects.

Wednesday evening many of us split up to attend the visitations and prayer services for CPT Vallejo and CW2 Edwards. I was able to attend CPT Vallejo’s visitation and witnessed friends and relatives come up one by one to talk about their memories of CPT Vallejo over the years. It brought a very personal side to a sometimes regimented process that is typical in the military.

Thursday was a long day. The thing that stood out in my mind about CPT Vallejo’s funeral was when Hillary’s dad got up and sang a flawless rendition of The Lord’s Prayer. First of all, I don’t know how he maintained composure through it all, second he is an incredible singer who took the opportunity to share his talent with the congregation on a day that his son-in-law was being laid to rest. As the convoy of vehicles processed to the D/FW National Cemetery, the Ft. Worth Police Department literally shut down interstate highways to allow us to go by. Vehicles were not allowed to enter the ramps and others were not allowed to come up from behind. We had the highway to ourselves as the ever-present Patriot Guard Riders led the way.

CW2 Edwards arrived at the pavilion at the D/FW National Cemetery in a horse-drawn carriage reminiscent of the Wild West. After the carriage arrived we stood in silence as American flags waved in the breeze. We stood on a hill overlooking the cemetery and watched as Apache helicopters appeared on the horizon to pay tribute to CW2 Edwards, who spent many years serving in the 36th Combat Aviation Brigade. As the flight approached, one aircraft broke off to symbolize a missing man. The precision of the honor guard always impresses me as the flag was taken off the casket and folded with extreme care before being presented to the family by MG Mayorga.

After the interment of CW2 Edwards, we drove up to Springtown for the visitation for SSG Mason that evening. The funeral the next day (Friday) reminded me of Kingston , OK where we began this journey almost a week prior. Springtown is another small town whose residents turned out in droves to honor their hometown hero. The flags of the Patriot Guard flew proudly as we entered the church. A large replica of the Liberty Bell rang every 15 seconds or so adding an ominous feeling to the situation. It was incredible. Just like in Kingston , people lined the streets as the convoy went from the church to the cemetery. Policemen blocking traffic stood at attention and saluted as we went by. Others waved flags. I acknowledged their show of respect by mouthing “thank you” to them as they stood by. At the grave site, I vividly remember the bagpiper that marched slowly towards the casket playing Amazing Grace, stopped, and then turned marching away into the distance as he played a familiar Irish tune until he faded away completely.

Friday evening, SGT Cabiness and I drove back to Oklahoma City and spent the night there before going down to Norman , OK for the funeral of SGT Eshbaugh yesterday. Unfortunately one of the images that will be stuck in my mind will be that of a few hateful protesters who showed up to preach their hatred for those of us who wear the uniform, and those who support us. While it’s a shame that this image has been etched in my head (and almost regret even mentioning it here), I was able to look at the big picture and realize that these cruel people have the right to do what they were doing because soldiers like SGT Eshbaugh have died to ensure that they have that right. I also take comfort knowing that they were surrounded by the Patriot Guard Riders and shielded by members of the University of Oklahoma ROTC holding large American flags. After the funeral, we drove to Ft. Sill National Cemetery , the final resting place of SGT Eshbaugh and thousands of other heroes. The quiet rolling hills of the area were a fitting place for the final tribute to our seven soldiers who died on September 18th.

It’s been a long few weeks for all of us and I pray that we never have to go through it again. I realize that tensions are high among the families of the 2-149th and that many of you are still losing sleep because of fear and anxiety. Even as we were driving home yesterday, news on the radio mentioned another helicopter crash in Iraq and we started the process all over again. I know that many nerves were again rattled because the phone calls started coming in again. Thankfully for us, no 2-149th soldiers were involved and we were able to confirm that pretty quickly.

Because anxiety is very high among the families of deployed soldiers, I encourage you to seek help if it becomes unbearable. We have a great group of Army Chaplains in the area that are more than willing to take the time to meet with you to talk it out. They are trained professionals and know more than most people what you are going through. There are also a number of other resources available to deal with this stress and I encourage you to check out the resources on our web site or contact your company FRG Leader.

Finally, I want to thank the many people who stood up to respond when news of the accident came out:

First and foremost, thanks to the officers and NCOs who were called to do a difficult job on September 18th. Your role as Casualty Notification/Assistance Officers was critical in the care of the families of our fallen heroes. I know you will continue to care for them in the coming weeks and months.

As always, the FRG jumped into action and were there ready to support our soldiers, our families, and also the Rear Detachment as we handled the administrative and logistical details over the last few weeks. I appreciate the big cup of Starbucks coffee that appeared on my desk every morning. I’m disappointed that time usually didn’t even allow me to finish it.

Thanks to CPT Casterline, CPT Fuller, and CW2 Brite for coming up from Austin to assist with all of the administrative and logistical details. Thanks also to COL Meehan for taking the media by the horns and keeping them in line. We were definitely overwhelmed by this tragedy and your assistance made it all possible. I owe you all lunch.

Thanks to MSG Morgan and my staff for working many long hours. Since the battalion left in August we have been kept very busy with Hurricane’s Gustav and Ike, and now with this. They have stepped up to the mission and have been very supportive of me through it all.

Thanks to Chaplains Combs, Vaughn, Wallace, and Bender, and also to Reverend Bucy for stepping up to assist during a dark period in the life of the battalion. I asked Rev. Bucy, the father of one of our soldiers, to help out on the morning of the 18th and he proudly said yes. He was “baptized by fire” by the Army on a very difficult day. I appreciate all of the chaplains who have helped out over the last few weeks and appreciate the times that you pulled me aside to see how I was doing.

Thanks to my higher headquarters at the Brigade, Division, and State levels for responding to all of my requests and granting them without question. This was a group effort requiring work on all levels. COL Schultz, Brigade Commander for the 36th CAB, also made it to all seven funerals over the last week and has endured long hours to make it happen.

Thanks to Mrs. Terri Brock, Mrs. Tanya Kubista, and Chaplain Hokkanen for coming down from Minnesota to represent COL Brock (34th CAB Commander) and the rest of the 34th ID as they traveled with us to each funeral.

Thanks to LTC Harrison, W01 Snow, and our other friends in Oklahoma as we paid tribute to our heroes. Although we will butt heads on the football field in the coming weeks, it didn’t matter what side of the Red River you were on over the last two weeks. We went up there and they came down. It was mutual respect at its finest.

Finally, thanks for all of the calls and e-mails of encouragement from so many of you. It kept me going. I had the pleasure of meeting many of you during our travels and it was great to put faces with the names.

As we go forward with the mission, as we must, we can not forget the families of our fallen soldiers. As I met with them over the last few weeks, I assured each of them by saying that they are always in our battalion’s family, no matter what. One of the great aspects of the Army National Guard is that we take good care of our own people. This is true now more than ever. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

Respectfully,
CPT Randy Stillinger
Rear Detachment Commander
2-149th Aviation Regiment

---

Source: received via email from a Patriot Guard member in North Texas.

Texas Insider Article 09/23/2008 http://www.texasinsider.org/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=4704">http://www.texasinsider.org/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=4704 (dead link)

US Department of Defense Release http://www.defenselink.mil/releases/release.aspx?releaseid=12224">http://www.defenselink.mil/releases/release.aspx?releaseid=12224 (dead link)

Poudre Canyon Ride

October 4, 2008
Fort Collins, CO

Gray skies could not keep us from riding this day. The Poudre Canyon, as many of you will know, is a favorite drive for us. We've driven it many times, we've camped along the Poudre River, fished it, hiked it, had countless picnics, one of our favorite watering holes is at the top of Cameron Pass, but this was the first time we rode it together on the motorcycle. And riding through the canyon with nothing but sky overhead and the walls of the canyon looming large puts a dimension on it that is hard to describe.

This remarkable ride is literally out our front door. It's only a few minutes to Ted's place, a favorite supply stop for anyone enjoying the Poudre and the first place inside the Colorado border for Wyoming folk to get a Lotto ticket. The road through the Poudre Canyon winds along the river over Cameron Pass and if you follow it far enough to Walden, Colorado and further on Steamboat Springs. We can't wait to do that next year -- but the weather forecast was a bit ominous (snow) for the high country so this day we rode the canyon to the Stove Prairie cut-off and followed the twists and turns, ups and downs back into Masonville where we stopped to rest and shop at Nostalgic West leathers. After that, we rode into Loveland, stopped at The Village Inn for pie and coffee before heading back into Fort Collins.

The skies were gray so the pictures reflect that... plus, this ol' digital camera is getting a bit cranky. But, there are enough good pics of the road to give you an idea of how great the ride is. Check it out Dad - did I mention this ride is just over the first hump? And the short version of it is just over 60 miles.

Total Mileage = 67 miles

Falls Fest 2008

September 27, 2008
Wichita Falls, TX

Ted (my Dad, yellow shirt) and Teddy (my brother, far right) line up with buddies to ride in the Nuts and Bolts Run which started at Red River Harley Davidson and ends with a motorcycle parade of sorts into the grounds of the Falls Fest in Lucy Park.

Dad, tough ol' son of a gun that he is, rode with pneumonia today.

The weather was bright and sunny and got a bit warm in the afternoon. The ride went well. Dad got home after 7:00 PM.

Mom said she took the following pic when she noticed a girl on a hot-pink Harley in a matching halter top pull into the parking lot with all eyes following her... including Dad and my brother, right hand side of the pic. The brother is sorta in trouble now with his other half who apparently hasn't heard there's no harm in looking. ha!

Saturday Wyoming Ride

September 27, 2008
Fort Collins, CO

About mid-morning we hopped on The Ride with a loose bearing of heading north-west in mind. We thought it might be a fine day for a ride up the Poudre Canyon or maybe Wyoming. As we suited up we noted that the day was somewhat overcast. Clear skies was the forecast. We were thinking the weather man missed on his predictions. We took them along, but chose not to wear our leather jackets, a fact we somewhat regretted a few miles out as the morning stayed gray and chilly.

Poudre Canyon is a ride up in elevation so we opted for Laramie which is also a ride up in elevation but it is also across flat lands. We got weak sunshine and a southerly wind on our backs about halfway to Laramie, but it was a nice ride.

Just inside the city limits is an indoor flea market called Bart's, so we stopped to stretch our legs and look through the booths. Tim found a Marcrest plate in remarkable condition for our collection. They wrapped it well and we slipped it into one of the saddle bags and cushioned it with the bike's dust cover. It made the trip home in one piece.

We were hungry! So we rode the streets of town, looking the restaurants over, filled up with gas and rode back to a restaurant called Shari's situated on 3rd Street in the same parking lot as the Hastings book store where we sheltered a few weeks back during a downpour. Neither one of us ever remember seeing it. We were delighted with the food and the coffee at Shari's which we discovered is a chain restaurant in the northwest. We both had a bowl of baked potato soup - very good! then, Tim had a colossal burger (man was it!) and I had chicken and dumplings.

After lunch, we took a look at the clouds building over the valley we just came through and decided against going back the way we came. We know all too well how quickly the skies can change in Wyoming. We rode east on I-80 to Cheyenne. That southerly wind that was on our backs the trip up was now a stout broadside wind. The gusts nearly took our heads off time and again. The few pics I took along the way didn't turn out well, too much wind to hold your hand up and steady.

By the time we reached Cheyenne, we were ready for a rest and a stretch of the legs and another sip of coffee. We had coffee in a thermos in the saddle bags so we stopped at Holliday Park. There, we were delighted to see hundreds of Canadian geese around the little lake. There was a large domestic gray goose and several domestic white geese and ducks as well. We fed the geese animal crackers, which is the only snack we had with us suitable for them.

A couple of miles on down the road we found Maverick Motorsports, the local Harley-Davidson dealership and some. We stopped to browse the bikes and the clothing. Tim bought a throttle rest to go on The Ride. Afterwards, we decided the wind might not be as bad on Hwy 85 as on I-25 going home so that's the route we took. Basically doing the trip the way we had a few weeks ago, only in reverse. We stopped one more time in Ault to stretch our legs and rolled into Fort Collins about 5 pm.

We spent the evening on the patio with a beer and a fire in the chiminea, talking about the fun we had on our ride today.

Total mileage = 196 miles.

TGIF Ride - Just Out Our Front Door

September 26, 2008
Fort Collins, CO

Today we took a quick TGIF ride up and over Horsetooth Dam and wound our way back on Lory Lake Road and Overland Trail. This amazing ride is literally out our front door, about 22 miles and takes just over half an hour. It was a beautiful morning for a ride.

The weekend plan is to ride (day trip) somewhere tomorrow, we haven't decided exactly where yet. Maybe up the Poudre Canyon, maybe over to Laramie - who knows? We say we'll hang around here Sunday and get a few things done -- but I wouldn't bet on it - if the weather is fine. LOL!

The yard is covered in leaves, it needs weed-eating and mowing and some of the flowers need cutting back. The gutters are full of leaves. the squash and maters need picking. The house needs a good cleaning -- blah-blah-blah. I think it should be written somewhere when you buy a Harley that you should move into a GARAGE so there are no mundane chores to worry about. Ha!

Dad rides over 500 miles

September 24, 2008
Wichita Falls, Texas

Motorcycle Run for the Troops

September 20, 2008 While we were riding around Colorado last weekend, Dad rode over 500 miles in a single day from Wichita Falls to Nolanville (near Waco) in the 4th Annual AT&T Pioneer Volunteers Motorcycle Run. Over 300 riders attended converging from San Antonio, Waco, Austin, Fort Worth, Mansfield and Abilene. Proceeds benefited many military charities.

Source: http://www.motorcycle-run-for-the-troops.org/2008/photos_tx.php">http://www.motorcycle-run-for-the-troops.org/2008/photos_tx.php (dead link)

We rode over 600 miles in 4 days. I'd say Dad kicked our butt in mileage - wouldn't you?

Colorado Weekend - Day Four - Road Home

September 24, 2008
Fort Collins, CO

Colorado Weekend - Day Four - The Road Home

We were less eager to rise this morning, because this was the day we had to return to reality and home.

After a continental breakfast, and a last chat with our new Georgia friends, we packed up the bike and suited up for the ride home. We thought about going back the way we came but, nixed that idea. Been there, done that. We thought about the route through the mountains which would take most of the day, but storms were already building and agreed that wasn't such a great idea. Finally, we decided - ride I-25 to Denver and we'll figure it out when we get there. The ride went well. It was early so the traffic wasn't bad. It was cold at Monument Hill and going over the Palmer Divide.

We stopped for donuts and coffee at the Krispy Kreme just off of C-470 and I-25 in Denver. There, we decided to ride C-470 around the south end of Denver, go through Golden and take Hwy 93 on to Boulder. This was a pleasant drive, one we've made several times - just never on a motorcycle. We stopped for a coke and a short rest in Boulder and made the trip into Fort Collins fairly quick.

It's been a long time since we've had such a good time in the mountains. We have The Ride to thank for that. This will likely be the last long weekend of the summer, but there are plenty of short rides just out our back door and we're looking forward to each and every one of them.

Total trip Mileage = approximately 616 miles

Colorado Weekend - Day Three - Bishop Castle

September 23, 2008
Fort Collins, CO

Colorado Weekend - Day Three - Part Two - Bishop Castle

More about Bishop Castle
http://eagleriverpewter.com/history.html

Colorado Weekend - Day Three - The Ride

September 23, 2008
Fort Collins, CO

Colorado Weekend - Day Three - Part One - The Ride

Once again, there are too many pictures for a single slide show so I've split this day into two posts: The Ride and Bishop's Castle.

We rose a little later than the day before, grabbed a quick bite at the continental breakfast bar at the motel, said hello to our new friends from Georgia and headed out about 9 am. Today, the idea was to head south toward Canon City and San Isabel Forest...

I won't say we were lost (because, as Dad always says, we still had gas), but we spent a while driving the streets at the base of Cheyenne Mountain. We found the entrance to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and Seven Falls, noted the direction of Helen Hunt Falls, drove past the vast estate of the Hotel Broadmoor, I saw the statue of Will Rogers on the side of the mountain and more. We finally back-tracked to where we might have made a wrong turn and sure enough found Hwy 115.

It was a great morning to be on the road. By the time, we neared Florence, it was time to gas up and stretch our legs. We stopped at a Shell Station, apparently the best place to fill up a motorcycle because there were about twelve in the parking lot and at the pumps. We filled up, and rested a while at a picnic table while many more bikes stopped or passed by in groups and pairs and singles. One biker we met, pulled in next to us. While chatting, Tim found out he was originally from Wichita Falls. He had been in Colorado about twenty years.

Next stop - San Isabel Forest and Bishop's Castle. The morning had warmed, so we shed our leather jackets, a decision we somewhat regretted a few miles down the road. The road near Westcliffe turns south into San Isabel Forest. We had forgotten the road went over Bigelo Divide (Summit about 8000 or so in elevation) so it got cold quick. Bishop's Castle is about 12 or 13 miles into the forest on the west side of the twisting, turning road. It was a great ride. We haven't been to the castle for several years and were eager to see the progress.

Soon, we rounded the bend in the road and laid eyes on the castle. Across the highway, was a long row of parked motorcycles and lots of people walking around in leathers. The castle has grown considerably over the years and the story is interesting. It is a castle, made from native stone, the handiwork of three generations of the Bishop family over nearly 40 years. The castle started as a stone cottage for the Bishop family in 1969. They lived in primitive conditions for many years. We explored and climbed and marveled like most of the kids running about. We did not climb to the top. It is 160 feet to the top of the tallest tower.

We enjoyed the visit until some liberal left wing lunatic started spouting anti-American hate speech to the crowd. We made the last few rounds and left along with the rest of our fellow bikers before we killed the SOB. We drowned him out with the horn and the sounds of motorcycle engines. Too bad. The castle operates off of donations... they didn't get any money from most of us that day.

The road took us past San Isabel Lake, as peaceful as ever, eventually out of the forest and onto the high plains into Colorado City where we stopped for a stretch at the rest stop beside I-25. We met a couple at the rest stop, up from Austin and on their way to Estes Park for a week. The man graduated from Old High (WFHS) in the sixties.

We rode I-25 north into Pueblo. I said we have to stop at The Cracker Barrel to eat. Imagine my surprise, when Tim drove past the Cracker Barrel to The Outpost - Harley-Davidson Dealership. The place was packed with bikes and people. The dealership was having their annual open house, HOG party and bike rally. We mingled in the crowd for a few minutes until the too loud rap music drove us inside. We bought a couple of t-shirts and left soon after. I threatened Tim with his life if he rode past the restaurant again. ha!

After a good meal and a little rest at The Cracker Barrel, we rode I-25 back into the Springs. Relaxing in front of the motel for the last evening, we visited with the folks from Georgia and a biker lady from Iowa who pulled up a chair, with her cigarette and mixed drink and asked if we knew a better way back to Iowa than through Kansas or Nebraska. We thought this was a trick question. Tim showed her the east-west highways out of Colorado on the map. Nebraska requires the wearing of a helmet across their state so we figure they took I-70 east across Kansas. We watched two young deer haphazardly cross the street at dusk and graze for a while in front of the motel. We were still full from our late lunch so we walked to the Subway down the street and had an ice cream in a waffle cone before turning in for the night.

Total mileage - Day three - approximately 195 miles