Riders Log 2011

TOTAL MILEAGE SINCE SUMMER OF 2008 = 51409
TOTAL 2011 MILEAGE = 14383
TOTAL MILEAGE 2010 = 17674
Total Ultra Classic Mileage 2010 = 15858
Total Heritage Mileage 2010 = 1816

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12/31/2011 Year End Mileage = 30241
11/13/2011 Sunday Ride to Vet Memorial = 20 miles
11/11/2011 Veteran's Day Parade Ride = 82 miles
10/31/2011 Hallowe'en Lunch Ride = 55 miles
10/29/2011 Total Mileage = 30084
10/29/2011 PGR Mission, Denver/Longmont = 145 miles
10/28/2011 Chilly Birthday Ride to Denver = 86 miles
10/23/2011 Get Tim a present for Vik's birthday ride = 192 miles
10/15/2011 Denver Ride = 226 miles
10/14/2011 Quick Ride After Work = 74 miles
10/02/2011 Lunch Ride = 25 miles
09/25/2011 High Country Fall Color Ride = 184 miles
09/23/2011 First Day of Fall Ride = 244 miles
09/18/2011 Total Mileage = 28908
09/18/2011 Afternoon Lake Ride = 165 miles
09/17/2011 Total Mileage = 28743
09/17/2011 Freedom H-D Open House Ride = 182 miles
09/11/2011 Patriot Day High Country Ride = 224 miles
09/02-05/2011 Road Trip #6 - 4 days = 1361 miles
08/19-27/2011 Road trip #5 - 9 days = 2187 miles
08/14/2011 Sunday morning before clouds roll in ride = 32 miles
08/07/2011 Nother High Country Ride = 310 miles
08/06/2011 High Country Picnic Ride (Mount Evans) = 230 miles
08/05/2011 Friday Lunch Ride for Serious Texas BBQ = 52 miles
08/01/2011 Total Mileage = 24145
07/31/2011 Sunday Picnic in Wyoming ride = 217 miles
07/30/2011 Saturday afternoon high country ride = 95 miles
07/29/2011 Friday Lunch at Fatso's Ride = 28 miles
07/23-24/2011 Devils Tower/Deadwood Ride = 833 miles
07/19/2011 Tim's birthday picnic ride = 46 miles
07/17/2011 Sunday getting away from it all ride = 240 miles
07/15/2011 Double Dam Lunch Ride = 53 miles
07/14/2011 Total Mileage = 22633
07/14/2011 Dealership ride = 23 miles
07/12/2011 BTGTW Dam Lunch Ride = 73 miles
07/10/2011 Sunday Morning Cheyenne Ride = 126 miles
07/01-06/2011 Canyonlands Road Trip = 1707 miles
06/27/2011 HOG Million Mile Monday Lunch Ride = 27 miles
06/24-26/2011 Donkey Derby Days/ Tejon Bikefest Ride = 431 miles
06/22/2011 Picnic in the Park Ride = 56 miles
06/22/2011 Sent for our 40k HOG patches = 20215
06/20/2011 Total Mileage = 20197
06/18-19/2011 Father's Day Weekend Ride = 826 miles
06/14/2011 Flag Day Lunch Ride = 81 miles
06/13/2011 Service Ride Total Mileage = 19260
06/12/2011 High Country Ride = 307 miles
06/11/2011 Riding around the clouds = 72 miles
06/05/2011 Churning waters, smoke and snow ride = 247 miles
06/04/2011 Smoke & Sun BBQ Ride = 144 miles
06/01/2011 Total Ultra Mileage = 18470
05/22/2011 Clear our puny heads ride = 62 miles
05/21/2011 Riding out to Run for the Wall = 331 miles
05/08/2011 Mother's Day Sunburn & Helmet Head Ride = 351.4 miles
05/07/2011 No jacket needed ride = 174.5 miles
05/05/2011 BTGTW Sunny Day Ride = 86 miles
04/28/2011 Total Ultra Mileage (1 year) = 17408
04/28/2011 Birthday Ride = 54 miles
04/17/2011 Windy Sunday Ride = 76 miles
04/16/2011 Windy Saturday Ride = 80 miles
04/12/2011 BTGTW Ride = 20 miles
04/09/2011 Rolling over 17,000 ride = 184 miles
04/08/2011 Friday Evening Ride = 77 miles
04/03/2011 Total Ultra Mileage = 16782
04/02/2011 Windy Saturday Canyon Ride = 155 miles
03/27/2011 We rode, we froze, we thawed ride = 63 miles
03/26/2011 Late afternoon ride = 45 miles
03/21/2011 Spring is here ride = 130 miles
03/19/2011 After booting the kids out ride = 120 miles
03/10/2011 Dealership ride = 26 miles
03/03/2011 Over the Dam to Verns Lunch Ride = 22 miles
02/24/2011 Total Ultra Mileage = 16182
02/24/2011 Maintenance & new tires ride = 25 miles
02/19-20/2011 Winter weekend ride = 85 miles
02/16/2011 Too windy ride = 23 miles
02/15/2011 Breaking 16,000 = 49 miles
01/28/2011 First Official Ride of 2011 = 25 miles
01/27/2011 Long way in to work ride = 9 miles
01/23/2011 Darn cold car wash ride = 1 mile
TOTAL MILEAGE SINCE SUMMER OF 2008 = 37026
TOTAL MILEAGE 2010 = 17674
Total Ultra Classic Mileage 2010 = 15858
Total Heritage Mileage 2010 = 1816

Merry Christmas to the best of the best!

December 25, 2011
Colorado, USA

To those who have served or are serving our country. Know that in our collective Christmas hearts Americans far and wide wish you and yours the best of the holiday season and a Happy and Prosperous New Year. Bright Blessings! Thank you for your service!

Merry Christmas!

December 24, 2011
Colorado, USA

The Fat Man Cometh

December 23, 2011
Colorado, USA

Veterans Pay Tribute with Wreath Laying

December 18, 2011
Colorado, USA

Texas: In North Texas today a group of Veterans and other Patriots laid wreaths on the graves of Veterans in the Archer County Cemetery. This is the first annual Wreaths for Veterans campaign, a grass roots, all volunteer group who plan to adopt other North Texas cemeteries in the future.

Congratulations gang - on a job well done.

Biker Christmas Fun

December 18, 2011
Colorado, USA

Wreaths for Veterans

December 15, 2011
Colorado, USA

Yes, it is a little blurry but this photo is worth sharing. This is a fine group of patriotic people in North Texas who gathered to assemble nearly 300 wreaths which will soon be placed on the graves of veterans in a small town cemetery they have adopted.

Texas - Honoring Veterans is an Honor

December 10, 2011
Colorado, USA



Today is Wreaths Across America day. Patriots will be decorating the graves of American Veterans all across the United States.

It is Wreaths Across America Day... for those of you out and about participating in the events scheduled all across America today - thanks for your dedication in honoring those who have honored us with their sacrifice to preserve our freedoms.

The Folks, fellow riders and friends will participate in the day's events in North Texas... stay tuned for photos...

Dad after hanging the Coast Guard wreath today

Dad with the Coast Guard wreath

Mom with the Coast Guard wreath

Slide show of today's mission (49 photos):

Happy Birthday Friend!

December 9, 2011
Colorado, USA

Lookin' good girl - Happy Birthday! Remember today's priority is fun -- and cake - don't forget the cake! Ha!

Remember: Pearl Harbor

December 7, 1941

Seventy years ago today...

2403 brave souls lost their lives in the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.

US Navy: 2,008 KIA

USMC: 109 KIA

US Army: 218 KIA

Civilians: 68

Remembering with Respect and genuine appreciation the sacrifice of so many on Decenber 7th 1941 and the years to follow during WWII (1939-1945).

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Franklin D. Roosevelt's "Day of Infamy" Speech

To the Congress of the United States:

Yesterday, December 7, 1941 -- a date which will live in infamy -- the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.

The United States was at peace with that Nation and, at the solicitation of Japan, was still in conversation with its Government and its Emperor looking toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific. Indeed, one hour after Japanese air squadrons had commenced bombing in Oahu, the Japanese Ambassador to the United States and his colleague delivered to the Secretary of State of form reply to a recent American message. While this reply stated that it seemed useless to continue the existing diplomatic negotiations, it contained no threat or hint of war or armed attack.

It will be recorded that the distance of Hawaii from Japan makes it obvious that the attack was deliberately planned many days or even weeks ago. During the intervening time the Japanese Government had deliberately sought to deceive the United States by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace.

The attack yesterday on the Hawaiian Islands has caused severe damage to American naval and military forces. Very many American lives have been lost. In addition American ships have been reported torpedoed on the high seas between San Francisco and Honolulu.

Yesterday the Japanese Government also launched an attack against Malaya.

Last night Japanese forces attacked Hong Kong.

Last night Japanese forces attacked Guam.

Last night Japanese forces attacked the Philippine Islands.

Last night the Japanese attacked Midway Island.

Japan has, therefore, undertaken a surprise offensive extending throughout the Pacific area. The facts of yesterday speak for themselves. The people of the United States have already formed their opinions and well understand the implications to the very life and safety of our Nation.

As Commander-in-Chief of the Army and Navy I have directed that all measures be taken for our defense.

Always will we remember the character of the onslaught against us.

No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory.

I believe I interpret the will of the Congress and of the people when I assert that we will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost but will make very certain that this form of treachery shall never endanger us again.

Hostilities exist. There is no blinking at the fact that our people, our territory, and our interests are in grave danger.

With confidence in our armed forces -- with the unbounded determination of our people -- we will gain the inevitable triumph -- so help us God.

I ask that the Congress declare that since the unprovoked and dastardly attack by Japan on Sunday, December seventh, a state of war has existed between the United States and the Japanese Empire.

Franklin D. Roosevelt

The White House, December 8, 1941

Happy Thanksgiving

November 24, 2011
Colorado, USA

Celebrating #40 Today!

November 22, 2011
Colorado, USA

Forty Years! Who woulda thunk it?

Every time in the past year when we have mentioned we are working on #40 we most times get a look, usually a double-take that says - how in the heck did you manage that! Sometimes we get a congratulations!

Honestly, if we try to explain it - we just end up sounding tongue-tied and a wee bit spooky or like some sappy by-line from a romance novel talking about drop-dead love at first sight or first bite (smirk!) or explaining we were childhood sweethearts and so on or some other kind of sentimental, mushy forever and always destiny crap. Yikth!

You know what I see when I look back over a year's worth of photos? Or 40 years of photos? Smiles. Every step along the way - smiles. And yeah - most of the recent ones are compliments of the Harley. Harley smiles are S'miles. I think it is no mistake that the word smiles is the word miles with an S stuck on the front of it. S'miles.

You know what I say when someone asks how can you stay with the same man for that many years? I say, He makes me laugh. That's it. Plain and simple - the man makes me laugh. And, if you ask Tim - he'll likely answer the same - the woman makes me laugh. Like any marriage, we've been through our share of ups and downs. We always say we have survived the good times, the bad times, the sad times, the ugly times and the weird times. But how did we survive them?

We try not to take life or money or ourselves too seriously. As they say - nobody gets out alive, anyway.

For forty years, we have found the funny in the absurd and we laughed. There's not enough room on the Harley to carry forward any memories but the good ones. Somewhere along the way we learned to leave all the baggage behind and just carry around the important stuff. The good stuff. The fun stuff. The stuff that makes us laugh.

That's it - that's my anecdote for 40 years. If you have any doubts - take a look at the following video - am I right or what!

Tim and Vik Celebrate 40 years!

To Tim: here is your anniversary card/video. Thanks for 40 years of laughs - you make lovin' fun! -V- s.w.a.k.

Short Ride to Veterans Plaza

November 13, 2011
Colorado, USA

The statue at the new and not quite completed Veterans Plaza of Northern Colorado was unveiled today. We almost forgot about it. In fact, we had not really planned a ride today as winter weather is headed our way.

Still, there was enough sunshine to persuade us to do otherwise. We leathered up about mid-afternoon and rolled out for a short ride. One of our favorite lazy routes takes us through asemi-rural area we know is populated by eagles. Sure 'nuff they were roosting in a tree beside the road. I think it is fitting that a Veterans Day weekend ride include an eagle sighting.



Once we remembered about the plaza we turned the ride in that direction, arriving after the ceremonies had concluded and the military vehicles were pulling out. The statue of a soldier holding a young boy on his shoulder is wonderful.

As described on the website: A bronze statue further conveys the story of generations of sacrifice. The statue depicts a World War II American soldier with a young boy seated on his shoulder. The soldier’s left arm extends in a sweeping gesture as if showing the boy the promise of the future. The boy smiles as he realizes that his freedoms, his liberties, and small pleasantries like the park are a gift from those who have served and sacrificed for their country.

The park where the plaza is located is not very far from where we live so it will be nice to visit and hopefully we will see more Veterans ceremonies in our area in the future.

Here is a slide show (20 photos):

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The Veterans Plaza of Northern Colorado

Veterans Day Parade 2011

November 11, 2011
Colorado, USA

What a blast! Tim decided to take 11-11-11 off from work. A few days ago Charley Barnes of Journey 4 Justice broadcast on the radio and social networking sites they were looking for riders in the area to join J4J riders in the Veterans Day Parade in Loveland, CO. So, we accepted the invitation and I spent last evening decorating the ride parade-style.

We started out in full leathers but the sun was shining and breakfast at Fatso's Diner in Loveland was just what we needed to shake the early morning chill off. We then rode over to the staging area which was - in three words - chaos on wheels. Bikes and trailers and a huge assortment of military vehicles were parked helter-skelter over several blocks. We parked as best we could and eventually hooked up with Charley and the rest of the J4J crew.

We spent some time strolling through the bikes and military vehicles and socializing with Veterans including the WWII Veteran riding on J4J's float/trailer.

By the time we lined up (if that's what you want to call it - ha!) for the parade it was warm enough to ditch the leathers. What a great experience! We rounded a corner from the staging area to see the streets lined with veterans, patriots, parade-lovers and what appeared to be every school child in the Loveland area, most of them waving flags and cheering at the top of their freedom-loving lungs. The parade moved rather slowly and it was more a walk 'em and rev 'em parade so before we reached the end of the route we were smelling hot Harleys...


After the parade we joined the J4J crew for lunch at The Village Inn not far from the park where the parade ended. They welcomed us into their ranks and we spent just over an hour laughing and talking and munching.

We were reluctant to call it a day and rode off from the restaurant in the direction opposite from home. We rode as far south as High Country Harley-Davidson where we stopped for a stretch and a warm up with some thermos coffee. Clouds and chilly temps finally forced us to turn The Ride north toward home. By the time we rode in, it was cold. We are not complaining though - it is not often we get a whole day in on the Harley in northern Colorado in November.

Here is a slide show of today's fun (72 photos):

THANK YOU VETERANS!

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Journey 4 Justice is a great organization and the people we met today are a great bunch of bikers. We recommend you check them out and if you are so inclined - join a team and ride with them to Topeka for an exercise in free speech and a reckoning of justice, biker-style.

J4J Mission Statement:
1.To honor our fallen military men and women by exercising our right of free speech and displaying the American & State flags in all their glory.

2.To field teams that will travel to Topeka, Kansas to honor and defend the city by countering the vile and foul rhetoric from local hate groups.

3.To honor any and all people targeted by “hate groups” including, but not limited to the Westboro Baptist Church in Topeka, Kansas.

4.To respectfully obey all State and Federal laws in accordance with the 1st Amendment.

Veteran's Day Tribute 2011 - for Dad

November 11, 2011
Colorado, USA

Salute! And Happy Veteran's Day to all Veterans today but this is a special shout out to my Dad who I know is out early this morning... organizing and riding honor missions with and for other Veterans... I don't have to say it because you know it - but I will say it... you make me proud Dad. And, I am betting Mom is out there today supporting Dad and being her patriotic self saluting Veterans as well. You both make me proud.

VETERANS DAY 2011

I know you are not much on the whole photo thing Dad so thanks for indulging me while I show the world in my own way how proud I am to be a Veteran's Daughter.

About as great a definition of a hero as I have seen...

Down these mean streets a man must go who is not himself mean, who is neither tarnished nor afraid... He is the hero, he is everything. He must be a complete man and a common man and yet an unusual man. He must be, to use a rather weathered phrase, a man of honor, by instinct, by inevitability, without thought of it, and certainly without saying it. He must be the best man in his world and a good enough man for any world. -- Raymond Chandler

Veterans Day Tribute 2011 - for Tim

November 11, 2011
Colorado, USA

Happy Veterans Day to all those who have served and are serving!

I saw this comment posted out on the web... When our perils are past, shall our gratitude sleep? - George Canning

It is a question that some may puzzle over. My answer is NO! Not as long as I can stand or sit or lie with a flag in my hand... never. -V-

The following is a Veteran's Day Tribute to my Harley Guy... s.w.a.k.

VETERANS DAY 2011 - Tim

Yep! I am a military brat, the daughter of a Veteran and the wife of a Veteran. Today my Veteran Dad is out paying tribute at several memorial functions in north Texas. Today, I will ride with my Veteran husband and lots of other patriots in a Veteran's Day Parade in northern Colorado.

Gary Hart once said: I think there is one higher office than president and I would call that patriot. I would go him one better - there is no title that should claim higher regard in this land than Veteran.

About Veterans Day

November 11, 2011
Colorado, USA

This is last year's post and thought I'd share it again... not much has changed. All my good guys are still fighting the good fight and I am still out there cheering them on...

I was raised on patriotism although I did not know it as that growing up. In our home, pride in country, reverence for the flag and respect for the men and women who served in the military was status quo. We were proud Americans. We are proud Americans.

Veterans peopled my life... but, I knew them as Dad or Uncle or friends of the family. Veterans wives nurtured my life... but I knew them as Mom or Aunt or Mrs. The men served our country and the women as well, just in a different capacity. My perception was these are "the good guys", doing their "duty", fighting the "good fight". To me, they were all men on the same caliber as movie heroes John Wayne, Gary Cooper, Jimmy Stewart. Later, it should come as no surprise, I became the wife of a boy who became a military man. Carrying on in military family tradition came naturally.

My Dad served in the USAF for twenty years. He is a Vietnam Veteran (boots on the ground and in the air), but also a Veteran of other conflicts. My husband served in the USAF for eight years. He is also a Vietnam Veteran (thankfully, the closest his boots got to Nam was Guam near the end of the war effort). I say thankfully because war becomes a different animal when you can put a face in the midst of the chaos, when you hang on the words of the evening news broadcast and breathe a sigh of relief when your loved one's location is not spoken, when you wait for the postman to bring a worn envelope, worried by many hands as it made its way across the seas. Gratification was not as it is today... it was not instant via cell phone and internet... it was wait and worry, it was hope and carry on.

There were no flags waving or bands playing or fanfare when Dad returned from Vietnam. It was just US, the family, grateful to have his boots on American soil once again. There was no party when Dad retired from the USAF. One day he was active duty and the next he was retired with not much to show for it other than a document or two, a hard-earned bronze star and a few well worn uniforms. What I know to be an unspoken fact, is the sense of self worth, accomplishment and assurance that while it [his service] may have gone unrecognized - the contribution to society and this country as a whole was significant. The same goes for many who have served and those who serve today.

The key word here: unrecognized.

Veterans Day, as I remember it was acknowledged as an important remembrance day and the meaning and import of it was taught in our classrooms. I grew up attending military celebrations -- air shows, parades and fireworks where patriotic music blared across open fields and down city streets. We climbed in airplanes boosted up by powerful hands of men in uniform. We wore flags on our lapels. We stood and saluted the flag when it passed. We recited the Pledge of Allegiance and we sang the National Anthem (without question and without doubt).

I cannot think of a single faction of our society more deserving of tribute than an American Military Veteran. They deserve our respect, our homage, our heartfelt thanks. No single day set aside on our calendar could be more important.

A Veteran is someone, who at one point in their life, wrote a blank check payable to the United States of America for an amount up to, and including, their life. Sadly, we (We the People) have cashed the check on far too many soldiers without many of us ever pausing to remember their sacrifice, or the sacrifice of their families... When you hug the neck of a Gold Star Mom or Dad trying to hold it together while we celebrate their son or daughter, or acknowledge the price they have paid, try putting the face of your child in their child's place.

Nowadays, Patriotism is vilified at every turn by the powers that be and their minions (the media). Being patriotic is the new kooky. FYI: it's a kookiness I whole-heartedly embrace. People march down streets and rally at our national monuments carrying signs that proclaim themselves to be Patriots, real Americans. I've participated in a couple of rallies and enjoyed the overall experience, but I have to tell you -- after examining the motivation behind the guest speakers and politicians (all brimming over with eloquent rhetoric), I grew weary of the the double-talk and slander. Not enough speech is red, white and blue rhetoric. Not enough of what I hear is grounded in red, white and blue ideology. Real American Patriots carry Ol' Glory and vote. Real Americans defend our country from enemies no matter where the culprits may reside. Real Americans voice their opinion where it counts - the voting booth. And Veterans? Veterans are the best of us.

What I believe is We are All Americans (at least those of us who can legally call ourselves American) so it should follow that we are all American Patriots. That's the logic of it. Unfortunately, there is a glaring deficit of proof in regard to such logic. It's a rather revolting revelation to learn that not all Americans are patriots. On second thought, perhaps those people are neither - really.

Because of my association with and appreciation of Veterans, I do not have to figure out who I am or which side of the fence I am on. I am an American. I am a Patriot. I am the daughter of a Veteran. I am the wife of a Veteran. I am friend to many a Veteran. My ties are firm. My beliefs are set. I am not conflicted.

I am not kooky either, despite evidence to the contrary... evidence collected by those suffering from a severe attack of politically correct delusions.

I believe in times of chaos and uncertainty, it is the philosophy of the Veteran that makes the most sense. Country First. Veterans are American Patriotism personified. The character of a Veteran is earmarked with traits and respectabilities that are above question: Duty, Honor, Truth, Justice, Freedom, Liberty, Allegiance, Respect, Courage and Remembrance.

Veterans wear flags on their lapels (on suits and leather jackets) and on their backs. Veterans fly flags at their homes and take issue with those who disrespect Ol' Glory. Veterans stand and salute the flag as it passes. Veterans recite the Pledge of Allegiance and consider it an honor to do so. Those who dismiss the pledge as an archaic children's poem - would be encouraged to reevaluate that position by a Veteran. Veterans know the words of the Declaration of Independence... or, more importantly they know when words have been altered, twisted or omitted. Veterans know the words to the National Anthem aka Star Spangled Banner. They also know, another Veteran would never belittle a teary eye or a moment of choked off silence after hearing oh say does that star spangled banner yet wave..... o'er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Veterans are not politically correct. A thing is what it is. A truth is a truth. A lie is a lie. A wrong is something that needs to be righted.

An enemy is an enemy.

Case in point: Terrorism. Oh, that's right, we are not fighting terrorists... our sons and daughters have died correcting the course of misguided (albeit murderous) extremists. Say that to a Gold Star Mom or Dad and I guarantee your backside will be permanently embedded with a Veteran's boot print.

The Veterans of my acquaintance would not hesitate to stand again to defend this country or the ideals that make the United States great. When Veterans learn that military families need assistance, they band together and provide that assistance.

When Veterans learned that others planned to dishonor our military sons and daughters, they soldiered-up and found a way to silence the deluded and protect and honor the fallen and their families.

It should go without saying, there are countless Veteran-based organizations that provide services too numerous to mention, all of them worthy and selfless in their endeavors -- most of them formed out of a proclivity to serve their fellow man - not because of some political mandate.

Veterans never stop being soldiers. They are still "the good guys", doing their "duty", fighting the "good fight".

Veterans walk among us. Young or old - the least we can do, when we run across a Veteran is to say a simple and heartfelt - thank you for your service! And, if you run across a Gold Star Mom or Dad, the least you can say is -- thank you for your sacrifice. And, if that all seems too personal - fly the flag, from your house, from your car and wear it on your person. Trust me, they will notice.

Following in another post is my Veterans Day Tribute to Ted (My Dad). He was my first hero. This years images show Dad and his friends, riding out, on roads that are "free", protected by their vigilance, determination and the blood of the brave, flags unfurled behind their motorcycles, or standing the flag line, honoring veterans and their families and generally doing what is "right". We could all learn from their excellent example. And, there is a tribute posted as well for another Veteran with whom I share my life. He knows I am proud of him but I am saying it again anyway - I am proud of you Tim...

To All Veterans. My thanks to you today and every day. You know who you are. You make me proud.

Texas: Veterans Day Memorial Ceremony

November 11, 2011
Colorado, USA

Texas -- Today North Texas bikers rode out and solemnly stood in silent respect beside their motorcycles on a hill overlooking the Veteran's Day Ceremony at Crestview Memorial Cemetery in Wichita Falls.

Slide show of today's mission (41 photos):

UPDATE: Letter to the Editors of the Times Record News
Published November 21, 2011

Nezzie Foster, Wichita Falls

Veterans — Thank you for your service

The dedication of a lifetime.

This past Veterans Day meant a lot to a single man.

He woke early and prepared for the day's events. He wondered if the events so carefully planned would go as hoped.You see he is a 20-year veteran, serving his country in the U. S. Air Force and still serving with respect as a Patriot Guard rider. He was, as they would say in biker terms, "leathered up."

He went to the garage, mounted his "iron horse" with leathers on and American, POW-MIA and Patriot Guard flags attached to the bike. He looked at me and said, "I hope everything goes as planned and I hope my fellow riders show up to support me and the missions before me." I smiled and said, "Ride safe, stand tall and silent for you will be standing for those who stood for you."

He had two Veterans Day ceremonies to attend with the purpose to honor veterans. He is dedicated to his country, the flag and the men and women who have served and are no longer with us.

He supports the men and women of our military who serve our country today. He is not a young man, but is young-at-heart and devoted to doing the right thing for the right reason. I am proud to call him "my hero, my Veteran."

If you see him somewhere standing the flag line at a veteran's funeral, a homecoming for our men and women or riding in a parade with flags waving proudly, stop and shake his hand and say "Thank you for your service, sir." Those words mean more to a veteran than any other words.

He is a Vietnam veteran and served his country well. The missions of Nov. 11 were a great success.

He said, in his humble fashion, that he owes that success to all the Patriot Guard riders who helped him make the day special for him and for the other Americans who paused on 11-11-11 to honor veterans.

"Patriotism ... is not short, frenzied outbursts of emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime." ~~ Adlai Stevenson

Wichita Falls, TX - Veterans Day Parade

November 5, 2011
Colorado, USA

Texas -- Today riders in North Texas will roll in honor of all those who have served this country in the military. My Dad rides out to join his fellow riders as they roll through downtown Wichita Falls, TX in the annual Veterans Day Parade. Today's ride for Dad aka Ted aka Frosty as a ride captain this year is #50 - that's 50 missions so far.

You Rock Dad!

A slide show of today's parade (18 photos):

Never forget...

November 5, 2011
Colorado, USA

Today marks the two-year anniversary of the Fort Hood massacre.



1. Lt. Col. Juanita Warman, 55, Havre de Grace, Md.

2. Maj. Libardo Caraveo, 52, Woodbridge, Va.

3. Cpt. John P. Gaffaney, 54, San Diego, Calif.

4. Cpt. Russell Seager, 41, Racine, Wis.

5. Staff Sgt. Justin Decrow, 32, Plymouth, Ind.

6. Sgt. Amy Krueger, 29, Kiel, Wis.

7. Spc. Jason Hunt, 22, Tillman, Okla.

8. Spc. Frederick Greene, 29, Mountain City, Tenn.

9. PFC Aaron Nemelka, 19, West Jordan, Utah

10. PFC Michael Pearson, 22, Bolingbrook, Ill.

11. PFC Kham Xiong, 23, St. Paul, Minn.

12. Pvt. Francheska Velez, 21, Chicago, Ill.

13. Michael G. Cahill, Cameron, Texas [civilian]

Thirteen men and women, plus the unborn child of Pvt Francheska Velez died at the hands of jihadist soldier Nidal Hasan.

Never forget 11-05-2009.

As Veterans Day approaches...

November 3, 2011
Colorado, USA

Some people are doing more important stuff like protecting the right of others to be destructive in the name of -- well, ya got me there - what!

Hallowe'en Hitchhiker

October 31, 2011
Colorado, USA

Boo Ride 2011

October 31, 2011
Colorado, USA

What do you do on a sunny Hallowe'en Day in Northern Colorado?

First, you thank the Boo-Gods that it is a sunny Hallowe'en day fit for riding.

Second, you roll the Harley out of the garage in proper appreciation of the opportunity to ride.

And third, you give the resident witch a ride.

Finally, you don't ask a stupid question like "which witch?" Ha!

Hallowe'en around our house is like most major holidays in other houses. So we take off and goof off. We rolled out of here about noon for a 55 mile witchin' ride that took us to lunch at Nordy's BBQ where we dined on catfish! That required a stroll through Thunder Mountain Harley-Davidson to walk it off. Afterwards we took the long roundabout way home with a ride through the small town of Tinmath where the ghosts and goblins were already out looking for goodies.

Nordy's BBQ is one of the few places you can get catfish in Colorado - mind you, it's not Texas catfish but it will take the edge off the craving - grin.

Slide show (16 photos):

Out on a witchin' ride...

October 31, 2011
Colorado, USA

Many thanks to Colorado Patriots

October 29, 2011
Colorado, USA

Many thanks to the riders who stood beside us in the flag line today to honor a family member and veteran. We appreciate the frosty escort to the cemetery and know that you stood ankle deep in snow and slush as well as braved the cold winds that tugged harshly at the flags we held... We were proud to be in such good company - and comforted by your presence.

Standing the flag line today for family

October 29, 2011
Colorado, USA

Donald “Keith” Ulrich
April 2, 1954 – October 24, 2011

Donald “Keith” Ulrich 57 of Mead died October 24, 2011 at his home. He was born April 2, 1954 to Donald and Carolyn (McCune) Ulrich in San Diego, California. On June 21, 1975 he married Barbara Downing in Long Beach, CA.

Keith retired from the Navy in 2007 after 26 years of service. 2001 – 2004 he was the CU Boulder NROTC Executive Officer. He served two tours in Japan as a senior staff officer, last duty was 7th Fleet Force Protection Officer. He played baseball at Long Beach State in the 1970’s. He earned his Masters Degree from San Diego State in Education in 1986. He also earned a Masters in Strategic Studies at the senior Army War College in 2005. He loved baseball, playing his guitar, reading about history, talking politics with friends, and playing with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara, of Mead; his daughters: Arlynda and husband Steve Breeds of Thornton, and Trisha Ulrich of Westminster; Grandchildren Bryan, Katelyn, and Melanie Breeds of Thornton; His father Don Ulrich of Mesa, Arizona; Three Brothers and Two Sisters.

He is preceded in death by his mother Carolyn.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, October 28th at Carroll-Lewellen Funeral Chapel. A funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, October 29th at Calvary Community Baptist Church in Thornton (11980 Irma Drive). Interment will follow at Foothills Gardens of Memory in Longmont with full military honors.

Barbara Ulrich is Tim's cousin.

Frosty white birthday ride

October 28, 2011
Colorado, USA

I usually hold my breath every year hoping the weather will cooperate for a birthday ride... sometimes I get lucky. As it turns out we have snow on the ground and it is cold.

I did get a drive to breakfast before we layered up around noon and rode sixty some odd cold miles to the north end of Denver. We have a Memorial Mission tomorrow for the husband of Tim's cousin. We made a decision to ride south this afternoon rather than ride early in the morning with temps below freezing.

Snow on the ground makes for a frosty birthday ride

Frost on the pumpkin... or jack-o-lantern - lol!

So we are tucked away in a motel for the night after a great birthday stroll for supper at a nearby Chili's - shrimp tacos and a couple of margaritas gave us a proper thaw.

Celebrating #57

October 26, 2011
Colorado, USA

Texas -- The Folks, Ted (aka Frosty) and Inez (aka Nezzie) celebrate 57 years of marriage today!

October Afternoon Ride

October 23, 2011
Colorado, USA

We logged 192 miles on this fine October day just riding a wide circuitous route around our area, getting as far south as Longmont. The leaves are changing and there are pumpkins laying in fields and harvest festivals happening all around.

Tim thought we should stop at High Country Harley-Davidson and see if there was something I might like for my birthday that's coming up soon.

Hmmmm.... what's wrong with this picture?

I didn't find anything but I was happy to see Tim exchange the vest that makes him look a bit like Baby Huey ** grins ** for this new one.

Otherwise, it was just a pleasant, lazy day enjoying the Harley and my favorite time of year.

A Fine Day for a ride

October 14, 2011
Colorado, USA

RIP - David Hall, Belladier and Proud Patriot

October 11, 2011
Colorado, USA

David Hall, the patriot who conceived of and rang the Liberty Bell at the final services for fallen soldiers, their families and Americans everywhere is gone from our midst today. The bell of freedom now tolls for him.

Rest in Peace Sir and thank you for your selfless service to this country!

Purple Skies of Texas

October 5, 2011
Colorado, USA

Beautiful skies in Texas today... the folks are up early... and Dad is delivering the coffee before his mBSc ride.

TEXAS: mBSc Alert

October 5, 2011
Colorado, USA

Texas -- From an anonymous source... Beware, warning, attention residents of Wichita Falls and surrounding area

The mBSc riders are out and about this morning. Last I heard, they were on their way to Red River Harley-Davidson to have, free, must I say again "free" coffee and will probably be there until the pot runs dry. Then they will be in route to a location to drop off a bike trailer to some resident outside of Wichita Falls... So be aware! Who knows what might happen next. They have a habit of going for coffee and going to have more coffee and after that going to have more coffee until about noon. When the owners of whatever coffee-serving establishment start getting ready for the lunch crowd, then they move on to other things... There's no telling what mischief they might get into the rest of the day.

So if you see an "old" man with a beard, watch out for him because he just follows along with the others (yeah - right) and then watch out for a "less older" bearded man who seems to be in the middle of everything and then there is this younger guy that really gets them into trouble or maybe not exactly trouble but all are likely to pay a visit to Miss Behavior at any time... and Lord knows what sort of hijinx if the other two members are along for the ride. So beware of these guys on Harleys who ride around trying to find free coffee. Approach them with cautuon if they have to pay for coffee... because they may ask you to join them and stick you with the tab.

These guys are sometimes armed and dangerous with opinions that dominate their conversation about world problems and how to solve them...

That's their motto ya know: Solving the ills of the world... One cup of coffee at a time.

October! I love it!

October 2, 2011
Colorado USA

It is my time of year... when I am not out on The Ride wth Tim kicking up leaves as we roll down some country lane - I am out kicking up leaves while I haunt the yard and if we carry a few in on our boots - no big deal!

Happy Harley October!

October 1, 2011
Colorado USA

Jack-O-Harley - What everyone needs in their Fall decor... maybe I can get Tim to make me one of these... Ha! Or maybe we'll just ride...

POW-MIA Recognition Day

September 26, 2011
Colorado, USA

Today is POW-MIA Recognition Day. It is always the third Friday in September. We hoisted our new POW-MIA flag for the first time today and we are proud to see it waving beneath Ol' Glory.

Celebrating Fall with a High Country Color Ride

September 25, 2011
Colorado, USA

It started out as a "let's ride around the lakes" morning, maybe stop for donuts and coffee -- but it didn't take long to realize the day was so fine there was no way we would spend it any other way than cruising the whole of it on the Harley.

We did indeed ride around Carter Lake before continuing south and west toward our favorite park in Lyons where we stopped to devour our grocery store donuts washing them down with thermos coffee.

Coal Creek Canyon - Hwy 72

Where to next? Are you kidding - west and up - high country here we come. Well we rode Hwy 93 out of Lyons toward Golden deciding to ride Coal Creek Canyon. We have not ridden Hwy 72 in a long time and found ourselves wondering why. The scenery is spectacular and the road is fun. The aspens were putting on quite a show today and for this time of year - that's something - not all of them have turned yet.

We rolled by a huge herd of elk just outside of Estes Park - always a thrill.

We followed Hwy 72 and then Hwy 7 into Estes Park as the day began to wane. Shadows in Big Thompson Canyon on Hwy 34 as we headed down made for a chilly ride in but we are not complaining. Our days in the high country are numbered. Fall is here and with it will come snow and winter sooner than we would have them - sigh!

Slide show of the day's ride (78 photos):

It is Gold Star Mothers Day

September 25, 2011
Colorado, USA

TEXAS -- Patriots of North Texas (Wichita Falls area) honored four Gold Star Mothers and their families today. The following is a speech delivered by my Mom (Nezzie) during the event.

Greetings and welcome to this gathering in recognition of Gold Star Mother’s Day.

In the words of Gold Star Mothers Monument sculptor, Andrew Chernak: The loss of a child in any circumstance is a grievous blow to a family, but, uniquely so to the mother who bore that child. One group of Mothers that especially stands apart from the norm are the Gold Star Mothers of America's fallen heroes. They are patriotic, loyal, and sympathetic. They understand our nation’s freedom is not to be taken for granted. The grief and loss these women have endured never leaves them, yet the Mothers rise above their pain in tribute to life going on. The Mothers have collectively served millions of hours in volunteer work, personal service in our nation's Veterans hospitals, and to the Veteran and his family in their community. In serving this way, the Mothers have turned their grief into a positive force. If you want to know quiet greatness, spend a little time in the presence of a Gold Star Mother.

A child is the life’s work of a Mother. Being a Mother supersedes all other interests, goals, and desires. No work is more important to a Mother than the proper raising of a child.

Mothers of soldiers send their beloved sons and daughters out into the world instilled with a heightened sense of purpose, a love of country and a profound dedication to a duty that serves to protect all that is dear about the American way of life.

Mothers of soldiers stand proud as their sons and daughters venture forth to do the work so few in our society openly acknowledge as important. Mothers of soldiers somehow find the strength to support children who choose to serve our country, knowing in their hearts that protecting freedom often exacts a heavy toll.

When we hear about the loss of a soldier, we do not always acknowledge that this brave soul was some Mother’s son or daughter. Mothers of fallen soldiers live with the realization that they have contributed their life’s work to the greater good. We do not often hear that out of such tragedy emerges the Mother of a Hero, a Gold Star Mother, a woman shouldering a designation any Mother would gladly forgo.

General James A. Garfield said in 1868: They summed up and perfected, by one supreme act, the highest virtues of men and citizens. For love of country they accepted death, and thus resolved all doubts, and made immortal their patriotism and virtue.

Mothers of soldiers already know their children are heroes. Brave sons and daughters become heroes the day they sign on to serve and defend this country with the whole of their beings, including their life.

It is a humbling experience to be in the presence of Mothers such as these today -- the mothers of our bravest and best. Under the most abject circumstances, these women do their children proud by rallying to serve others, by helping to preserve and honor the memory of the fallen, and by embracing the soldiers who do come safely home.

To properly honor our dead, we must honor our living. With that said, it is an honor to gather in appreciation of Gold Star Mothers, on not only this day set aside for it, but also every day. We do that by surrounding these Mothers with our love, support and encouragement in return for what they have given us. We celebrate the face these mothers put on overwhelming adversity, the face of courage and quiet strength. We are proud of your soldier sons and daughters and we know they would be proud of you. It may not be your choice, but it is your legacy and every American’s charge to make certain we always remember your soldier’s service to and sacrifice for this nation.

The streets of freedom are paved with the blood of our brave and the tears of those whose lives are forever changed by the loss of soldier sons and daughters. The memorial we build in our collective hearts in honor of those brave souls is fostered in the spirit of unity, pride in nation, and a lasting culture of remembrance we create out of our commitment to build upon the alter of their bright and shining gift to humanity. The gift of Freedom.

If you carry nothing more away from this Gold Star Mothers Day, please know this: In the presence of a Gold Star Mother, we all become the better part of ourselves. Most Americans realize there is a debt, that you and yours paid in full on our behalf and we will remain eternally grateful for it. Because of your dedication to others, the families of soldiers who safely return home will celebrate that good fortune for the rest of their lives. In your presence, a grizzled Veteran stands taller, flag at his side and toughens his resolve to honor the fallen.

We gather here today to celebrate you; our Gold Star Mothers in appreciation of the work you do to keep alive our great traditions, and out of respect for the example you set that inspires hope and patriotism in your fellow citizens.

God bless each of you and your families…
God bless the men and women of our military who protect our freedom and liberty…
And God Bless America…
September 25, 2011