Sunday, December 30, 2012
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Year End Close Out - no bargain basement s'miles here
December 29, 2012
Colorado, USA
Another year draws to a close. The talking heads on TV yammer on and on forecasting doom and gloom for our nation's future and fiscal cliffs and gun violence and the never-ending war waging among more talking heads in DC joined by the chorus of bobble-head laughing hyena-types in the mainstream media. And then there's the babble of lunatic commercials insulting my intelligence and testing my patience with year end close-outs and bargain basement offerings for products and services for which I never have and never will find a need. Good grief! It is no wonder the label on the mute button is nearly worn off of the remote for what I have come to consider a 32 inch monstrosity taking up far too much space at one end of the comfort zone. I would rather listen to the refrigerator running than all that garbage.
The cable TV went away last Spring. The streaming content networks went away earlier this week. Both due to mostly a lack of interest with cost running a hard second to that. More and more I turn the TV off and tune in to the comfort of books and sometimes an old movie and yes, most of the music in this house is still on CD. I will cling to the Internet as long as I may. As the winter lingers far beyond its welcome I turn to photos and pleasant memories of a summer just past taking in roads that had/have only one thing to offer -- one hundred percent wholesome made-in-the-USA reality. I would not trade one moment spent on the Harley with Tim for a contrived made-for-TV reality, or a brainless sitcom or anything like it. Not one moment. The reality of politicians and doom-sayers is not our reality. I look back on a year full of 12,369 s'miles and know that whatever the future holds - in the real world, the here and now world, only the promise of the freedom to ride the roads we have yet to travel of this great nation holds true value. We work. We look to the care and comfort of our own. We pay taxes. We ride. That is our reality.
The future is uncertain and always has been as far as I know so while we look to the future with great anticipation and contemplate the places we will go, we do so with an eye to the ground upon which we stand. Free ground. For now. There is no year end close out on freedom. There are no bargain basement s'miles in our world. The talking heads and hyenas may think otherwise but I reckon they will have a rude awakening at some point in the current discourse.
With that said, I close out the year with a Harley road planner in my lap and a file full of last year's photos that need editing and ample time to get to it.
Stay tuned in 2013... the real fun has only just begun. That's our New Year Resolution and we are sticking to it.
Happy New Year!
Colorado, USA
The cable TV went away last Spring. The streaming content networks went away earlier this week. Both due to mostly a lack of interest with cost running a hard second to that. More and more I turn the TV off and tune in to the comfort of books and sometimes an old movie and yes, most of the music in this house is still on CD. I will cling to the Internet as long as I may. As the winter lingers far beyond its welcome I turn to photos and pleasant memories of a summer just past taking in roads that had/have only one thing to offer -- one hundred percent wholesome made-in-the-USA reality. I would not trade one moment spent on the Harley with Tim for a contrived made-for-TV reality, or a brainless sitcom or anything like it. Not one moment. The reality of politicians and doom-sayers is not our reality. I look back on a year full of 12,369 s'miles and know that whatever the future holds - in the real world, the here and now world, only the promise of the freedom to ride the roads we have yet to travel of this great nation holds true value. We work. We look to the care and comfort of our own. We pay taxes. We ride. That is our reality.
The future is uncertain and always has been as far as I know so while we look to the future with great anticipation and contemplate the places we will go, we do so with an eye to the ground upon which we stand. Free ground. For now. There is no year end close out on freedom. There are no bargain basement s'miles in our world. The talking heads and hyenas may think otherwise but I reckon they will have a rude awakening at some point in the current discourse.
With that said, I close out the year with a Harley road planner in my lap and a file full of last year's photos that need editing and ample time to get to it.
Stay tuned in 2013... the real fun has only just begun. That's our New Year Resolution and we are sticking to it.
Happy New Year!
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
Wreaths for Vets
December 26, 2012
Colorado, USA
Texas - A quiet, pristine and humbling scene. This is the Wichita County Cemetery decorated with 548 wreaths placed on the graves of the mostly forgotten... Wreaths for Vets is a loose assortment of North Texas locals - Vets and Patriots remembering and honoring Vets... may we never forget the price of freedom or the loss of somebody's loved one...
(Photos by Ted and Nezzie)
Colorado, USA
Texas - A quiet, pristine and humbling scene. This is the Wichita County Cemetery decorated with 548 wreaths placed on the graves of the mostly forgotten... Wreaths for Vets is a loose assortment of North Texas locals - Vets and Patriots remembering and honoring Vets... may we never forget the price of freedom or the loss of somebody's loved one...
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Merry Christmas!
December 25, 2012
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!
Monday, December 24, 2012
Sunday, December 23, 2012
Saturday, December 22, 2012
Ride safe PGR
December 22, 2012
Ride safe today North Texas Patriot Guard as you welcome some of our bravest and best home for the holidays.
Friday, December 21, 2012
Yuletide Greetings on Doomsday 2012
December 21, 2012
Colorado, USA
Somehow this quote seemed appropriate:
Here is a test to find whether
your mission on earth is finished:
If you're alive, it isn't.
-- Richard Bach
Colorado, USA
Somehow this quote seemed appropriate:
Here is a test to find whether
your mission on earth is finished:
If you're alive, it isn't.
-- Richard Bach
Saturday, December 15, 2012
Wreaths for Vets
December 15, 2012
Colorado, USA
Texas - Just a cool shot (thanks Nubbin) of two of my favorite Vets (Tex and Frosty aka Ray and Dad) doing what they do - honor other Vets. It's amazing what a couple of old Vets can do when they get the mindset that something needs doing. Wreaths for Vets started with two wreaths on the graves of a brother and a son belonging to our Gold Star Parents Nubbin and Angela. Today with the help of other like-minded patriots they will lay hundreds of wreaths on the graves of Veterans in the Wichita County Cemetery.
Good job guys - as always - you make me proud.
Short video clip
Colorado, USA
Texas - Just a cool shot (thanks Nubbin) of two of my favorite Vets (Tex and Frosty aka Ray and Dad) doing what they do - honor other Vets. It's amazing what a couple of old Vets can do when they get the mindset that something needs doing. Wreaths for Vets started with two wreaths on the graves of a brother and a son belonging to our Gold Star Parents Nubbin and Angela. Today with the help of other like-minded patriots they will lay hundreds of wreaths on the graves of Veterans in the Wichita County Cemetery.
Good job guys - as always - you make me proud.
Short video clip
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Today's Anomaly is: 12-12-12
December 12, 2012
Colorado, USA
On a 11-11-11 we were riding in the Veterans Day Parade in Loveland, CO. If I think about it hard enough or dig through my journals I might could tell you what I was doing on 10-10-10 (I know we did not ride that day) or 09-09-09 (we were in Texas visiting with family and friends on a Labor Day Ride) and so on...
My Grandmother turned age 101 on 02-12-12. We have a friend whose birthday is today. So, make a note (as Mike Hammer would say)... take a pic... you might want to remember what you were doing on this day 12-12-12 ten or twenty years from now because darn it - there is not a 13-13-13 - is there? Too bad - we could have some fun with that one. Ha!
And the next anomaly this year will be: 12-21-12 otherwise known as Yule or the Winter Solstice or according to the Mayans - The End... smirk
We will see...
Colorado, USA
On a 11-11-11 we were riding in the Veterans Day Parade in Loveland, CO. If I think about it hard enough or dig through my journals I might could tell you what I was doing on 10-10-10 (I know we did not ride that day) or 09-09-09 (we were in Texas visiting with family and friends on a Labor Day Ride) and so on...
My Grandmother turned age 101 on 02-12-12. We have a friend whose birthday is today. So, make a note (as Mike Hammer would say)... take a pic... you might want to remember what you were doing on this day 12-12-12 ten or twenty years from now because darn it - there is not a 13-13-13 - is there? Too bad - we could have some fun with that one. Ha!
And the next anomaly this year will be: 12-21-12 otherwise known as Yule or the Winter Solstice or according to the Mayans - The End... smirk
We will see...
Friday, November 30, 2012
A Moment of Respect: USAF Vietnam Veteran
November 30, 2012
Colorado, USA
OK - Earlier this year, Dad rode up and reconnected with a couple of Vietnam buddies in Oklahoma. What a great reunion that was. Sadly, Dad is on his way back to Oklahoma to pay his last respects to one of those buddies.
"Yet will their remembrance be as lasting as the land they honored."
-- Daniel Webster
Our hearts go out to the family and friends of this Veteran. Rest in Peace Sir and thank you for your service. Thanks also for your friendship with my Dad all those long years ago in a place and time where friendship was the tether holding it all together.
Billy Carl Lundy, 78, died on Wednesday, November 28, 2012 at the farm home. A memorial service will be held in his honor at 1:00 pm on Saturday, December 1, 2012 at the Tryon Christian Union Church with Ted Gibson officiating. Strode Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Billy was born on December 22, 1933 in Oklahoma City to Clint Ellis and Minnie Mae (Kennedy) Lundy. He grew up and attended Nicoma Park schools, and later earned his GED. He enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1953, becoming a helicopter technician. He married Peggy Wrae Few in Chandler, Oklahoma on July 31, 1954. Billy served two tours in the Vietnam War during his enlistment. He was honorably discharged in 1973 with the rank of Master Sergeant.
2012 Vietnam Vet Reunion after 40 plus years - LaRosa - Foster - Lundy
40 plus years ago Lundy and Foster - Vietnam
Billy enjoyed working on the farm with Peggy, raising cattle, and helping prepare the garden. He loved working on old cars with the help of family and friends. He was always giving peppermint candies to everyone he met, and soon became known as the Candy Man. Billy never met a stranger.
He is preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Barbara Lee Collier and Corretta West.
He is survived by his loving wife, Peggy; daughter, Denise Adele Traynor; daughter, Valerie Gale McIntire, and husband, Larry; stepdaughter, Tammi Phillips; stepdaughter, Christi Hale, and husband, Chad; grandchildren, Eric, Brianna, Connor, Dana, Stephen, Tammi, and Christi; great-grandchildren, Landon, Barrett, Alyssa,Kieran, Abigail, Aiden,Ella,Kale, Linsey, Eric, Brooklyn and Destiny; sister, Mabel Beaman; sister, Jewell Criswell; and his faithful pet, Choo, of the home.
Memorial contributions may be made in Billy’s name to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org, or Tryon Christian Union Church at 104 N. 1st St., Tryon, OK 74875.
Condolences may be sent to the family and an online obituary viewed by visiting www.strodefh.com.
Source: http://www.obitsforlife.com/obituary/617432/Lundy-Billy.php
http://www.strodefh.com/book-of-memories/1425894/Lundy-Billy/index.php
Colorado, USA
"Yet will their remembrance be as lasting as the land they honored."
-- Daniel Webster
Our hearts go out to the family and friends of this Veteran. Rest in Peace Sir and thank you for your service. Thanks also for your friendship with my Dad all those long years ago in a place and time where friendship was the tether holding it all together.
Billy Carl Lundy, 78, died on Wednesday, November 28, 2012 at the farm home. A memorial service will be held in his honor at 1:00 pm on Saturday, December 1, 2012 at the Tryon Christian Union Church with Ted Gibson officiating. Strode Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Billy was born on December 22, 1933 in Oklahoma City to Clint Ellis and Minnie Mae (Kennedy) Lundy. He grew up and attended Nicoma Park schools, and later earned his GED. He enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1953, becoming a helicopter technician. He married Peggy Wrae Few in Chandler, Oklahoma on July 31, 1954. Billy served two tours in the Vietnam War during his enlistment. He was honorably discharged in 1973 with the rank of Master Sergeant.
2012 Vietnam Vet Reunion after 40 plus years - LaRosa - Foster - Lundy
40 plus years ago Lundy and Foster - Vietnam Billy enjoyed working on the farm with Peggy, raising cattle, and helping prepare the garden. He loved working on old cars with the help of family and friends. He was always giving peppermint candies to everyone he met, and soon became known as the Candy Man. Billy never met a stranger.
He is preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Barbara Lee Collier and Corretta West.
He is survived by his loving wife, Peggy; daughter, Denise Adele Traynor; daughter, Valerie Gale McIntire, and husband, Larry; stepdaughter, Tammi Phillips; stepdaughter, Christi Hale, and husband, Chad; grandchildren, Eric, Brianna, Connor, Dana, Stephen, Tammi, and Christi; great-grandchildren, Landon, Barrett, Alyssa,Kieran, Abigail, Aiden,Ella,Kale, Linsey, Eric, Brooklyn and Destiny; sister, Mabel Beaman; sister, Jewell Criswell; and his faithful pet, Choo, of the home.
Memorial contributions may be made in Billy’s name to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org, or Tryon Christian Union Church at 104 N. 1st St., Tryon, OK 74875.
Condolences may be sent to the family and an online obituary viewed by visiting www.strodefh.com.
Source: http://www.obitsforlife.com/obituary/617432/Lundy-Billy.php
http://www.strodefh.com/book-of-memories/1425894/Lundy-Billy/index.php
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Turkey Day Ride
November 22, 2012
Colorado, USA
Yeah, we got the Anniversary/Turkey Day Dinner ride in. We rolled out about noon mostly because the day was so nice with the idea if we found a turkey dinner somewhere along the way that would be OK. The buffets and restaurants serving dinner had lines out the door and around the building. We had just about settled on the idea the ham I had in the fridge at home (I always have a back up plan) would be better than the long wait for a mundane meal when we rolled past one of our favorite breakfast stops and noticed they were open.
What luck! We walked into The Widow McCoy's in Loveland and sat right down to a dinner in a quiet dining room - no wait - no crowd - turkey and all the trimmings plus a slice of pumpkin pie.
By the time we rolled away from the friendly service at The Widow, the wind had kicked up and the temps had dropped past our light jacket comfort level. So, we moseyed our way home and lit the fire and that is how we will see #41 out and #42 in.
Colorado, USA
What luck! We walked into The Widow McCoy's in Loveland and sat right down to a dinner in a quiet dining room - no wait - no crowd - turkey and all the trimmings plus a slice of pumpkin pie.
By the time we rolled away from the friendly service at The Widow, the wind had kicked up and the temps had dropped past our light jacket comfort level. So, we moseyed our way home and lit the fire and that is how we will see #41 out and #42 in.
Celebrating 41 years today
November 22, 2012
Colorado, USA
Today we celebrate our 41st Anniversary. Forty-one years ago today we stood in front of a Justice of the Peace and repeated words I cannot remember other than "I Do". Five minutes and five dollars later we walked out hand-in-hand - married - with absolutely no inkling of what the future held. Little did we know that 41 years later the future would be as much a mystery as it ever was. And, we are OK with that, probably more so now than all those years ago because we have learned to live for today - one day at a time. Life is too short and too volatile to clutter it up with worry over things that are mostly out of our control or our reckoning.
Sometimes we look over our shoulders and say, "Whew!" And then... we move on.
People often ask us to reveal the secret of a long marriage. Hmmmm... that's a tough one. I do not believe we knew we should have a secret until people started asking about it. Ha! We started young. We learned to depend on each other, always seeking counsel from within not from without. We learned to trust each other. We learned to believe in each other. We learned that money takes a back seat to all things. We learned to encourage each other and to test the limits of our individual talents and imagination and creativity. We do not take each other for granted. We learned to respect the passion of the other without demanding to understand it. We have common interests and separate interests and allow that we do not have to agree about everything. Neither one of us believe the other must compromise the principles of our characters to get along. We have learned that control is not power. Power is a force of two - acting as one. We learned that together we are a force to be reckoned with and that we can accomplish just about anything we set our minds to. We keep a part of ourselves private and we guard the vulnerability of the other as best we may. We do most things together and we make a conscious effort to keep on doing things together. We consider the other first and foremost in all things. We practice what can only be termed the ethics of marriage - honesty, respect, responsibility and accountability. We talk. We argue. We challenge each other. And, we laugh more than most I think. I make him laugh. He makes me laugh.
We keep it real. I guess more than anything else we have learned to appreciate those certain qualities in each other that defines our collaboration as US.
Through the last forty years or so we have been involved in many different activities, jobs, child-rearing, and past-times which we gave as much attention and devotion as we thought each required, all of which have added yet another layer to our diverse compilation as individuals and as a couple. A long-time friend comments that whatever we get into - we give it 100% and some... and while she was speaking of all the mischief we have gotten into in the past, she was referring to US in the present and that which makes US a threesome - the Harley.
There is no doubt about it - we love the Harley, but it's more than that as anyone who rides will agree and have just as hard a time explaining it. We are who we are but the Harley makes us more.
As usual I am sharing the photos of what we have done and where we have been over the past year and it should come as no surprise that the majority of the pics revolve around the fun we had while we were out and about on The Ride. We started riding in late Summer 2008. We have logged over 60,000 miles on two Harleys since then. Make that 60,000 s'miles. As I always say - there's a reason the word smiles is miles with an s tacked on the front of it.
When Tim asked a few days ago what we should do for our anniversary, I understood he was not talking about traditional shopping or surprises or cards and flowers (none of which interest me) so I answered accordingly. Shine 'er up. Fill 'er up. I reckon we will take a ride if the weather holds. And that's exacty what we will do. Since our anniversary falls on Thanksgiving this year, it is not a big stretch of the imagination to see us riding out in search of a ham and turkey dinner somewhere.
Slide show of year #41 beginning with the celebration of #40 in 2011 (fair warning - 190 photos):
I will eventually get the anniversary movie up - but not today...
Alternative link to this slide show
Stay tuned... #42 is coming right up.
Colorado, USA
Sometimes we look over our shoulders and say, "Whew!" And then... we move on.
People often ask us to reveal the secret of a long marriage. Hmmmm... that's a tough one. I do not believe we knew we should have a secret until people started asking about it. Ha! We started young. We learned to depend on each other, always seeking counsel from within not from without. We learned to trust each other. We learned to believe in each other. We learned that money takes a back seat to all things. We learned to encourage each other and to test the limits of our individual talents and imagination and creativity. We do not take each other for granted. We learned to respect the passion of the other without demanding to understand it. We have common interests and separate interests and allow that we do not have to agree about everything. Neither one of us believe the other must compromise the principles of our characters to get along. We have learned that control is not power. Power is a force of two - acting as one. We learned that together we are a force to be reckoned with and that we can accomplish just about anything we set our minds to. We keep a part of ourselves private and we guard the vulnerability of the other as best we may. We do most things together and we make a conscious effort to keep on doing things together. We consider the other first and foremost in all things. We practice what can only be termed the ethics of marriage - honesty, respect, responsibility and accountability. We talk. We argue. We challenge each other. And, we laugh more than most I think. I make him laugh. He makes me laugh.
We keep it real. I guess more than anything else we have learned to appreciate those certain qualities in each other that defines our collaboration as US.
Through the last forty years or so we have been involved in many different activities, jobs, child-rearing, and past-times which we gave as much attention and devotion as we thought each required, all of which have added yet another layer to our diverse compilation as individuals and as a couple. A long-time friend comments that whatever we get into - we give it 100% and some... and while she was speaking of all the mischief we have gotten into in the past, she was referring to US in the present and that which makes US a threesome - the Harley.
There is no doubt about it - we love the Harley, but it's more than that as anyone who rides will agree and have just as hard a time explaining it. We are who we are but the Harley makes us more.
As usual I am sharing the photos of what we have done and where we have been over the past year and it should come as no surprise that the majority of the pics revolve around the fun we had while we were out and about on The Ride. We started riding in late Summer 2008. We have logged over 60,000 miles on two Harleys since then. Make that 60,000 s'miles. As I always say - there's a reason the word smiles is miles with an s tacked on the front of it.
When Tim asked a few days ago what we should do for our anniversary, I understood he was not talking about traditional shopping or surprises or cards and flowers (none of which interest me) so I answered accordingly. Shine 'er up. Fill 'er up. I reckon we will take a ride if the weather holds. And that's exacty what we will do. Since our anniversary falls on Thanksgiving this year, it is not a big stretch of the imagination to see us riding out in search of a ham and turkey dinner somewhere.
Slide show of year #41 beginning with the celebration of #40 in 2011 (fair warning - 190 photos):
I will eventually get the anniversary movie up - but not today...
Alternative link to this slide show
Stay tuned... #42 is coming right up.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Anniversary Eve Ride
November 21, 2012
Colorado, USA
Today started the holiday weekend for us. I know. We have no imagination. Free time + blue skies = RIDE. Ha! We rolled out of the drive about noon, just happy to ride out in November in northern Colorado without leathers. We stopped at our favorite junktique store one town over (Loveland) and then found a great burger in another small town (Berthoud) at a little hole in the wall called Grandpa's Cafe.
Vik ready to roll on our pre anniversary/turkey day ride
Tim ready to roll on our pre anniversary/turkey day ride
First stop - our favorite junktique store
Second stop - burgers at Grandpa's Cafe
For starters - green chile - outstanding!
The prize of the day - steak burgers and sweet tater tots
I'd say our holiday is off to a great start! Tomorrow we celebrate our 41st anniversary on turkey day USA.
Colorado, USA
Today started the holiday weekend for us. I know. We have no imagination. Free time + blue skies = RIDE. Ha! We rolled out of the drive about noon, just happy to ride out in November in northern Colorado without leathers. We stopped at our favorite junktique store one town over (Loveland) and then found a great burger in another small town (Berthoud) at a little hole in the wall called Grandpa's Cafe.
Keeping a good thought for those who serve
November 22, 2012
Keeping a good thought for those in the service of our country
A Soldier's Thanksgiving Day Poem
Author Unknown
Instead of family and friends for Thanksgiving you will Chow with your comrades tonight One to your left, the other to your right. Your regiment, your battalion, Have now become family and friends Living day to day in a personal sacrifice On a mission to defend. ...You are the hero's who's faces we may never get to see But the pride and glory that's lives in a soldier heart Biers one word "Integrity" On this day We give thanks and honor to those brave and true Our banners, we will proudly wave The Red, White, and Blue We will give our thanks not only to our God but also to every soldier for our bounties, that be. For they give meaning to words Home of the brave Land of the Free. To the soldiers in the mess hall Eating their thanksgiving feast, to the troops in the desert eating another Meal ready to eat. May peace, hope and strength Travel with you along the way And may these wishes find you On A Soldiers Thanksgiving Day. Happy Thanksgiving to our Men and Women who have and are serving our country and their families... from a grateful American....
Keeping a good thought for those in the service of our country
A Soldier's Thanksgiving Day Poem
Author Unknown
Instead of family and friends for Thanksgiving you will Chow with your comrades tonight One to your left, the other to your right. Your regiment, your battalion, Have now become family and friends Living day to day in a personal sacrifice On a mission to defend. ...You are the hero's who's faces we may never get to see But the pride and glory that's lives in a soldier heart Biers one word "Integrity" On this day We give thanks and honor to those brave and true Our banners, we will proudly wave The Red, White, and Blue We will give our thanks not only to our God but also to every soldier for our bounties, that be. For they give meaning to words Home of the brave Land of the Free. To the soldiers in the mess hall Eating their thanksgiving feast, to the troops in the desert eating another Meal ready to eat. May peace, hope and strength Travel with you along the way And may these wishes find you On A Soldiers Thanksgiving Day. Happy Thanksgiving to our Men and Women who have and are serving our country and their families... from a grateful American....
Friday, November 16, 2012
A Moment of Respect
November 16, 2012
Colorado, USA
Texas - Our hearts go out to the friends, family and loved ones of the wounded warriors lost in the train tragedy in Midland, Texas yesterday.
Rest in Peace one and all and Thank You for your Service.
Army SSgt Joshua Michael
Army Sgt Maj Gary Stouffer
Army Sgt Maj Lawrence Boivin
Army Sgt Maj William Lubbers
Colorado, USA
Rest in Peace one and all and Thank You for your Service.
Army SSgt Joshua Michael
Army Sgt Maj Gary Stouffer
Army Sgt Maj Lawrence Boivin
Army Sgt Maj William Lubbers
Monday, November 12, 2012
Today in H-D History - 94 years ago
November 12, 2012
Colorado, USA
This Day in Harley-Davidson History – November 12, 1918 – Riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, Ray Holtz became the first American to enter Germany at the end of WWI.
Ray Holtz, a native of Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, rode his sidecar rig across the German border just one day after the signing of the armistice. World War I, then called the Great War, started on July 28, 1914 and ended on November 11, 1918.
During this time period, all Harley-Davidson products, including bicycles were painted olive green, and stayed that way until the 1930s. Harley-Davidson motorcycles were used during the conflict, and have been a part of every major world clash since then.
To learn more about the history of Harley-Davidson, please visit our website. www.h-dmuseum.com
Colorado, USA
This Day in Harley-Davidson History – November 12, 1918 – Riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, Ray Holtz became the first American to enter Germany at the end of WWI.
Ray Holtz, a native of Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, rode his sidecar rig across the German border just one day after the signing of the armistice. World War I, then called the Great War, started on July 28, 1914 and ended on November 11, 1918.
During this time period, all Harley-Davidson products, including bicycles were painted olive green, and stayed that way until the 1930s. Harley-Davidson motorcycles were used during the conflict, and have been a part of every major world clash since then.
To learn more about the history of Harley-Davidson, please visit our website. www.h-dmuseum.com
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Veterans Day 2012
November 11, 2012
Colorado, USA
I am a military brat. I am the proud daughter of a USAF Vietnam Veteran. I am the proud wife of a USAF Vietnam Era Veteran. I often joke that I have 28 years of service myself (a veteran's daughter for nearly 20 active duty years, a veteran's wife for 8 active duty years). All in all I have 50 some odd years of Veteran appreciation under my belt. I am the niece of Veteran uncles. I am proud friend to many Veterans. Needless to say, Veterans have always played a huge part in my life and continue to do so today. Talk about counting your blessings!
I saw an interview with children a good while back. The children were asked a simple question, "Who is your hero?" The children were very young so as you might expect, the answers were quite imaginative. Fireman. Policeman. Sponge Bob (Oh me!). Harry Potter (of course!). Batman (I had to grin at that answer). When a child answered with Dad or Big Brother, the interviewer asked what Dad or Big Brother did for a living. The children answered car salesman, teacher, banker and one child rolled his eyes and said in a duh sort of manner - he's a DAD.
What struck me as interesting about the answers is this in particular: Not one child answered Soldier. I am guessing there were no military children in the group because most military children are well acquainted with the concept that military/soldier/veteran types are heroes - by default. In fact, when I was a kid, the whole mine-is-bigger-than-yours base housing playground mentality was all about whose Dad worked on the biggest, fastest airplane. I thought about it and wondered what sort of answer I would have given then and now -- and I am fairly certain I would have answered My Dad is my Hero, followed by the proud announcement -- he is in the Air Force and works on jet engines!
Yep, that would have been my answer - then and now. My Dad is my Hero, he is a USAF Vietnam Veteran Patriot Guard Ride Captain.
Digression: I am assuming that most people think of heroes as male. A female "hero" in my day would have been distinguished with the sexist (or so some claim) label of "heroine". Personally, I do not see anything offensive about the word heroine. But then, I come from a gene pool of tough women secure in the strength and purpose of their gender.
There are many heroines in my life, the first and foremost being my lovely, supportive patriotic Mom, but that is another story.
I do not use this blog as a political platform. I have other outlets for that BS. But, with Veterans Day coming hard on the heels of the contentious USA presidential election I am going there for a brief moment - only to make a point.
When I was a child the answers to the interview question would have been similar in some regards. I am fairly certain that fireman and policeman would have made the list along with Batman and probably Superman. Soldier or Sailor, Pilot or Astronaut would have made the list. Perhaps a baseball or football player would have made the list. That's back when athletes cared enough to be positive role models. There is a decided shortage of athletes who fit that bill right now, in my opinion. John Wayne, The Lone Ranger and Captain Kangaroo certainly would have made the list. And, I am positive President Kennedy or another president would have made the list. All I can think is how sadly thankful I am that not one of this era's children named a politician or hollywood star of any sort as their hero including the sitting president. Ha!
Like a good many people concerned with the outcome of this particular election and even more concerned about the direction in which the country seems to be moving, I stressed over the outcome of the election - for about 24 hours. I guess you can say for a day I stomped around because somebody got on what Merle Haggard calls the fighting side of me. Ha! Then, I hopped on the back of the Harley for a mid-week BTGTW (before Tim goes to work) lunch ride and left all that stuff somewhere by the side of the road. It is amazing how a few miles with the wind in your face can dispel the blues of any magnitude.
Afterwards, I temporarily banished my worries about the future of my country by turning off the TV, the cell phone and disengaging from social networks and sat down to write the rough draft of this post for Veteran's Day. On my mind were the Patriot Guard Rider/Veterans in my hometown in Texas standing the flag line today (the day after the election) at a WWII Veteran's funeral services.
As I was sorting through the photos of my favorite Veteran (good ol' Dad) which I will share below, I suddenly saw the Veterans and Patriots of his acquaintance and mine in a different light and realized the solution for my woes was right in front of me. I mean, I was struggling with exactly how to be the Patriotic American I have always been in today's America... I felt sort of like an American-Misfit-Patriot-Outcast so-to-speak. Trust me, as I put the polish on this post I can affirm it was a temporary indisposition. I was making it all about politics and realized what I knew all along - duh - being an American has nothing to do with the tawdry business of politics.
Let's see if I can explain it: The Veterans I know have served their country in many different ways, for a variety of reasons and in different durations. Dad served in the USAF for 20 years including a stint with helicopters in Vietnam, friend Ray (aka Tex) served with boots on the ground in Vietnam for a couple of years before being wounded in what was a tour in hell, one of my social network friends served as a WAC, a couple of other friends served in the Navy somewhat removed from the center of the action and Tim also served a bit removed from the action in Vietnam (B52's on Guam) during his eight year USAF service. Aside from the Vietnam era, I have hugged the neck and shook the hand of Korean Conflict and WWII Veterans, not to mention many Gulf War Vets and young men and women currently serving. I know Veterans who served during peacetime and parents of Veterans who are serving and have served, some who have paid the ultimate price. I am proud and humbled to count Gold Star Parents among my friends. (I guarantee you know nothing about humility until a thank you gift arrives in the mail from a Gold Star Mother thanking you for the small contribution you made to a Gold Star Mom event.) (Or you see a WWII Veteran shake the hand of a Vietnam Veteran says Tim.)
A good many of the Veterans I know are Patriot Guard Riders (standing for those who stood for us), including Dad (my favorite Vet). Pictures of Dad and his Veteran buddies out and about doing what they do were the photos I was rummaging through.
And this is what was revealed to me:
Americanism is a matter of the mind and heart... Before my very eyes sat the best example of FDR's Americanism I have ever witnessed. Real Americans. The kind of American I am and will always be. I will never again doubt the veracity of it. No politician will ever again be able to redefine or undermine that which I know to be true. America is a force to be reckoned with and will not succumb to the whim of some arrogant, big-ear, pencil-neck, boot licking, kiss-butt, bureaucrat - not while my heroes are breathing.
Here are the heroes of my America - politics be damned. Veterans standing shoulder to shoulder, flag in hand, respect being the order of the day. Veterans astride motorcycles with flags streaming behind them. Veterans behind shades, chins slightly dipped in respect. Veterans snapping a misty-eyed salute as Old Glory marches by. Veterans getting a bit choked up when they get to the words o'er the land of the free and the home of the brave... Hoary-headed Veterans, grizzled, bone-tired, weary though they may be rising to the day's challenge. Veterans calmly going about the business of honor and duty with unfailing loyalty and firm resolve. Veterans who will go it alone if something needs doing. Veterans clearing trash from a neglected cemetery. Veterans placing a wreath on a forgotten soldier's grave. Veterans with a clear-eyed, stern countenance under bills of patriotic hats. Veterans with a firm grip on the elbow of other less able-bodied Veterans. Veterans ready with hands extended in camaraderie and friendship. Veterans offering the solace of huggable necks. Veterans who in the width of their stance and the pride of their bearing convey strength, integrity, endurance and unwavering courage. Veterans who in the core of their beings understand the ideology of America will thrive because men and women such as they have risen and will rise again without qualm and see her through whatever force of adversity places a stranglehold on liberty and justice. Veterans understand the cost of FREEDOM and still venture forth to pay the price.
Today American Veterans across the nation are engaging in patriotic activities honoring veterans past and present. Many of them I know are riding with the North Texas Patriot Guard as they go about the business of the day. Hopefully they will get a handshake and a heartfelt Thank You For Your Service! somewhere along their busy way today. Ride safe - Stand Tall. You make me proud.
This is my tribute to all Veterans today. I SALUTE YOU! THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE, INTEGRITY AND FORTITUDE. THANK YOU FOR BEING THE PERFECT EXAMPLE OF AMERICAN GRACE UNDER FIRE. In a world where alleged leaders have to "toot" their own horn and decimate the reputation of others to serve their own egotistical, self-serving agendas in tiresomely repetitive rhetoric - it is comforting to know that some heard the drummer and quietly and unequivocally answered the call of duty long ago because it was the "right" thing to do. Those few brave, independent souls are doing the right thing still. Today. Nobody tells them to do it. Hardly anyone ever applauds them for doing it. They do it naturally because being a Veteran defines them in ways that those who have not served will never understand. We know being a patriot is never the "popular" thing to do. Thank goodness for that - because there is not a Veteran of my acquaintance who gives a hoot about the mainstream perversion of principles dictated by popularity! I don't know about you, but I am still waiting for the American Veteran Reality TV Show because I cannot bear to watch the other c-r-a-p that passes for reality these days.
Finally, Thank You Veterans, past and present for reminding me who I am by being who you are. American Veterans - my Heroes one and all.
This is my favorite definition of a hero.
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
Here is a slide show of what my Veteran Dad (and a few of his buddies) has been up to this year (45 photos, more or less):
Alternative link to this slide show
Footnote: Yep! The Fat Lady may be singing in the other camp (for now), but I have faith that the Star Spangled Banner and a couple of dozen Old Vets on Harleys will drown the bitch out.
P.S. Tim says the beer is on him next time we meet!
Colorado, USA
I am a military brat. I am the proud daughter of a USAF Vietnam Veteran. I am the proud wife of a USAF Vietnam Era Veteran. I often joke that I have 28 years of service myself (a veteran's daughter for nearly 20 active duty years, a veteran's wife for 8 active duty years). All in all I have 50 some odd years of Veteran appreciation under my belt. I am the niece of Veteran uncles. I am proud friend to many Veterans. Needless to say, Veterans have always played a huge part in my life and continue to do so today. Talk about counting your blessings!
I saw an interview with children a good while back. The children were asked a simple question, "Who is your hero?" The children were very young so as you might expect, the answers were quite imaginative. Fireman. Policeman. Sponge Bob (Oh me!). Harry Potter (of course!). Batman (I had to grin at that answer). When a child answered with Dad or Big Brother, the interviewer asked what Dad or Big Brother did for a living. The children answered car salesman, teacher, banker and one child rolled his eyes and said in a duh sort of manner - he's a DAD.
What struck me as interesting about the answers is this in particular: Not one child answered Soldier. I am guessing there were no military children in the group because most military children are well acquainted with the concept that military/soldier/veteran types are heroes - by default. In fact, when I was a kid, the whole mine-is-bigger-than-yours base housing playground mentality was all about whose Dad worked on the biggest, fastest airplane. I thought about it and wondered what sort of answer I would have given then and now -- and I am fairly certain I would have answered My Dad is my Hero, followed by the proud announcement -- he is in the Air Force and works on jet engines!
Yep, that would have been my answer - then and now. My Dad is my Hero, he is a USAF Vietnam Veteran Patriot Guard Ride Captain.
There are many heroines in my life, the first and foremost being my lovely, supportive patriotic Mom, but that is another story.
I do not use this blog as a political platform. I have other outlets for that BS. But, with Veterans Day coming hard on the heels of the contentious USA presidential election I am going there for a brief moment - only to make a point.
When I was a child the answers to the interview question would have been similar in some regards. I am fairly certain that fireman and policeman would have made the list along with Batman and probably Superman. Soldier or Sailor, Pilot or Astronaut would have made the list. Perhaps a baseball or football player would have made the list. That's back when athletes cared enough to be positive role models. There is a decided shortage of athletes who fit that bill right now, in my opinion. John Wayne, The Lone Ranger and Captain Kangaroo certainly would have made the list. And, I am positive President Kennedy or another president would have made the list. All I can think is how sadly thankful I am that not one of this era's children named a politician or hollywood star of any sort as their hero including the sitting president. Ha!
Like a good many people concerned with the outcome of this particular election and even more concerned about the direction in which the country seems to be moving, I stressed over the outcome of the election - for about 24 hours. I guess you can say for a day I stomped around because somebody got on what Merle Haggard calls the fighting side of me. Ha! Then, I hopped on the back of the Harley for a mid-week BTGTW (before Tim goes to work) lunch ride and left all that stuff somewhere by the side of the road. It is amazing how a few miles with the wind in your face can dispel the blues of any magnitude.
Afterwards, I temporarily banished my worries about the future of my country by turning off the TV, the cell phone and disengaging from social networks and sat down to write the rough draft of this post for Veteran's Day. On my mind were the Patriot Guard Rider/Veterans in my hometown in Texas standing the flag line today (the day after the election) at a WWII Veteran's funeral services.
As I was sorting through the photos of my favorite Veteran (good ol' Dad) which I will share below, I suddenly saw the Veterans and Patriots of his acquaintance and mine in a different light and realized the solution for my woes was right in front of me. I mean, I was struggling with exactly how to be the Patriotic American I have always been in today's America... I felt sort of like an American-Misfit-Patriot-Outcast so-to-speak. Trust me, as I put the polish on this post I can affirm it was a temporary indisposition. I was making it all about politics and realized what I knew all along - duh - being an American has nothing to do with the tawdry business of politics.
Let's see if I can explain it: The Veterans I know have served their country in many different ways, for a variety of reasons and in different durations. Dad served in the USAF for 20 years including a stint with helicopters in Vietnam, friend Ray (aka Tex) served with boots on the ground in Vietnam for a couple of years before being wounded in what was a tour in hell, one of my social network friends served as a WAC, a couple of other friends served in the Navy somewhat removed from the center of the action and Tim also served a bit removed from the action in Vietnam (B52's on Guam) during his eight year USAF service. Aside from the Vietnam era, I have hugged the neck and shook the hand of Korean Conflict and WWII Veterans, not to mention many Gulf War Vets and young men and women currently serving. I know Veterans who served during peacetime and parents of Veterans who are serving and have served, some who have paid the ultimate price. I am proud and humbled to count Gold Star Parents among my friends. (I guarantee you know nothing about humility until a thank you gift arrives in the mail from a Gold Star Mother thanking you for the small contribution you made to a Gold Star Mom event.) (Or you see a WWII Veteran shake the hand of a Vietnam Veteran says Tim.)
A good many of the Veterans I know are Patriot Guard Riders (standing for those who stood for us), including Dad (my favorite Vet). Pictures of Dad and his Veteran buddies out and about doing what they do were the photos I was rummaging through.
And this is what was revealed to me:
Here are the heroes of my America - politics be damned. Veterans standing shoulder to shoulder, flag in hand, respect being the order of the day. Veterans astride motorcycles with flags streaming behind them. Veterans behind shades, chins slightly dipped in respect. Veterans snapping a misty-eyed salute as Old Glory marches by. Veterans getting a bit choked up when they get to the words o'er the land of the free and the home of the brave... Hoary-headed Veterans, grizzled, bone-tired, weary though they may be rising to the day's challenge. Veterans calmly going about the business of honor and duty with unfailing loyalty and firm resolve. Veterans who will go it alone if something needs doing. Veterans clearing trash from a neglected cemetery. Veterans placing a wreath on a forgotten soldier's grave. Veterans with a clear-eyed, stern countenance under bills of patriotic hats. Veterans with a firm grip on the elbow of other less able-bodied Veterans. Veterans ready with hands extended in camaraderie and friendship. Veterans offering the solace of huggable necks. Veterans who in the width of their stance and the pride of their bearing convey strength, integrity, endurance and unwavering courage. Veterans who in the core of their beings understand the ideology of America will thrive because men and women such as they have risen and will rise again without qualm and see her through whatever force of adversity places a stranglehold on liberty and justice. Veterans understand the cost of FREEDOM and still venture forth to pay the price.
Today American Veterans across the nation are engaging in patriotic activities honoring veterans past and present. Many of them I know are riding with the North Texas Patriot Guard as they go about the business of the day. Hopefully they will get a handshake and a heartfelt Thank You For Your Service! somewhere along their busy way today. Ride safe - Stand Tall. You make me proud.
This is my tribute to all Veterans today. I SALUTE YOU! THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE, INTEGRITY AND FORTITUDE. THANK YOU FOR BEING THE PERFECT EXAMPLE OF AMERICAN GRACE UNDER FIRE. In a world where alleged leaders have to "toot" their own horn and decimate the reputation of others to serve their own egotistical, self-serving agendas in tiresomely repetitive rhetoric - it is comforting to know that some heard the drummer and quietly and unequivocally answered the call of duty long ago because it was the "right" thing to do. Those few brave, independent souls are doing the right thing still. Today. Nobody tells them to do it. Hardly anyone ever applauds them for doing it. They do it naturally because being a Veteran defines them in ways that those who have not served will never understand. We know being a patriot is never the "popular" thing to do. Thank goodness for that - because there is not a Veteran of my acquaintance who gives a hoot about the mainstream perversion of principles dictated by popularity! I don't know about you, but I am still waiting for the American Veteran Reality TV Show because I cannot bear to watch the other c-r-a-p that passes for reality these days.
Finally, Thank You Veterans, past and present for reminding me who I am by being who you are. American Veterans - my Heroes one and all.
This is my favorite definition of a hero.
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
Here is a slide show of what my Veteran Dad (and a few of his buddies) has been up to this year (45 photos, more or less):
Alternative link to this slide show
Footnote: Yep! The Fat Lady may be singing in the other camp (for now), but I have faith that the Star Spangled Banner and a couple of dozen Old Vets on Harleys will drown the bitch out.
Veteran's Day Tribute Video
November 11, 2012
Colorado, USA
Same as slide show in the Veteran's Day 2012 post except it is in movie format with music.
Colorado, USA
Veterans Day Tribute for Dad
November 11, 2012
November 11, 2012
Same as slide show in the Veteran's Day 2012 post except it is in movie format with music.
My Everyday Veteran Hero
November 11, 2012
Colorado, USA
I cannot think of anyone I would rather have shared the last 41 some odd years of my life with than my own personal Hero/Veteran/Harley-Husband. Thank you for your service and for your endless patience and indulgence... I will always remember that you never balk when I say - let's ride under that great big flag one more time!!!
Have a good day Timothy! Tonight the beer is on me!
Colorado, USA
I cannot think of anyone I would rather have shared the last 41 some odd years of my life with than my own personal Hero/Veteran/Harley-Husband. Thank you for your service and for your endless patience and indulgence... I will always remember that you never balk when I say - let's ride under that great big flag one more time!!!
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
A moment of respect
November 7, 2012
Colorado, USA
Out of respect for a Veteran friend who was there - pausing for a moment of respect for the brave Blue Spaders who paid the ultimate price at the Ambush at Srok Rung, November 7, 1967 - Vietnam. May these heroes Rest in Peace and may their friends and loved ones know - they are not forgotten.
The following was shared with me a while back by the wife of the Veteran friend mentioned above. It seems an appropriate time to revisit it.
COMBAT VETERANS
Once the COMBAT PATCHES go on, they never come off whether they can be seen or not. It fuses to the soul through adversity, fear and adrenaline, and no one who has ever worn them with pride, integrity and guts can ever sleep through the `call of the wild` that wafts through bedroom windows in the deep of the night...
We wonder if he knows what he is leaving behind, because we already know.
We know, for example, that after a lifetime of camaraderie that few experience, it will remain as a longing for those past times.
We know in the world of veterans, there is a fellowship which lasts long after the uniforms are hung up in the back of the closet.
We know even if he throws them away, they will be on him with every step and breath that remains in his life.
We also know how the very bearing of the veteran speaks of what he was and in his heart still is.
Because we served, we envy no man on earth.
Colorado, USA
The following was shared with me a while back by the wife of the Veteran friend mentioned above. It seems an appropriate time to revisit it.
COMBAT VETERANS
Once the COMBAT PATCHES go on, they never come off whether they can be seen or not. It fuses to the soul through adversity, fear and adrenaline, and no one who has ever worn them with pride, integrity and guts can ever sleep through the `call of the wild` that wafts through bedroom windows in the deep of the night...
We wonder if he knows what he is leaving behind, because we already know.
We know, for example, that after a lifetime of camaraderie that few experience, it will remain as a longing for those past times.
We know in the world of veterans, there is a fellowship which lasts long after the uniforms are hung up in the back of the closet.
We know even if he throws them away, they will be on him with every step and breath that remains in his life.
We also know how the very bearing of the veteran speaks of what he was and in his heart still is.
Because we served, we envy no man on earth.
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
That's better...
November 6, 2012
Colorado, USA
Election Day USA! It means different things to different people. We voted several days ago because the choice to us was clear - vote to preserve our freedoms and the American way of life for posterity. Hopefully, everyone else voted for similar reasons.
Anyway, there's nothing like a BTGTWR (before tim goes to work ride) to clear political cobwebs from the head. We were not out of the neighborhood before all the propaganda via telephone/TV/email/mail BS disappeared in the rearview mirror.
Our riding comfortable days in northern Colorado are numbered, so we roll out without the leathers as often as we can now. It has been a really nice Indian Summer but ol' man Winter is knocking at the door.
Colorado, USA
Anyway, there's nothing like a BTGTWR (before tim goes to work ride) to clear political cobwebs from the head. We were not out of the neighborhood before all the propaganda via telephone/TV/email/mail BS disappeared in the rearview mirror.
Our riding comfortable days in northern Colorado are numbered, so we roll out without the leathers as often as we can now. It has been a really nice Indian Summer but ol' man Winter is knocking at the door.
Monday, November 5, 2012
Remember
List of those Killed
Michael Grant Cahill, 62, of Cameron, Tx.
Major L. Eduardo Caraveo, 52, of Woodbridge, Va.
Staff Sgt. Justin M. DeCrow, 32, of Plymouth, Ind.
Capt. John P. Gaffaney, 54, of San Diego, Calif.
Spc. Frederick Greene, 29, of Mountain City, Tenn.
Spc. Jason Dean Hunt, 22, of Tillman, Okla.
Sgt. Amy Krueger, 29, of Kiel, Wis.
Pfc. Aaron Thomas Nemelka, 19, of West Jordan, Utah
Pfc. Michael Pearson, 22, of Bolingbrook, Ill.
Capt. Russell Seager, 41, of Racine, Wis.
Pvt. Francheska Velez, 21, of Chicago. She was pregnant.
Lt. Col. Juanita Warman, 55, of Havre de Grace, Md.
Spc. Kham Xiong, 23, of St. Paul, Minn.
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Veterans Parade 2012 - Wichita Falls, TX
November 3, 2012
Colorado, USA
TEXAS - Patriot Guard Riders -- Dad (aka Frosty) and friends Ray (aka Tex) and Laura (aka the best of the three) riding in the Veterans Day Parade - Wichita Falls, TX.
Colorado, USA
TEXAS - Patriot Guard Riders -- Dad (aka Frosty) and friends Ray (aka Tex) and Laura (aka the best of the three) riding in the Veterans Day Parade - Wichita Falls, TX.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Happy Hallowe'en!
October 31, 2012
Colorado, USA
If you are out on a witchin' ride today - be safe in your travels. We are out enjoying a BOO Ride - Woo-Hoo!
UPDATE: What Luck! Hallowe'en in Colorado and it is nice enough to ride in denim! Woo-Hoo! We rolled out about mid-morning on the BOO ride in search of brunch. A short while later we stopped in front of a cafe in the tiny town of Eaton, CO we have visited several times. The Cowboy Corner Cafe... is no more. I noticed the change in signage, decor and wondered why there was plenty of available seating but not quick enough to warn Tim who barreled on through the front door like he owned the place. The cafe has changed their name to the Corner Cafe. Well, we sat down at a table near the window and looked over the now very limited offerings. Breakfast was already off the menu (where it had always been offered all day) so I ordered a BLT and Tim ordered a cheese burger. The elderly couple now running the place said they had reopened about a month ago. Uh-oh! Apparently, they had a falling out with their partner (a biker dude who used to run the place). Too bad. I believe he was the better cook. Anyway, it took forever to get our hum-drum sandwich and burger. I bravely gnawed my way through el cheapo bacon on dry white toast while Tim drowned his burger in mustard. I shoved my pasty fries across to Tim who managed to get them down with far too much ketchup. The bar and grill was doing a pretty good business across the street with the locals - I am betting the news is out. Oh well!
We spent the rest of the afternoon riding away from what we hoped was the last "trick" of the day. The weather was great and the winds light on the farm roads of eastern Colorado. We roamed up one country road and another, commenting on what the farmers were doing. Along the way the odometer on the Ultra clicked past the 42,000 mile mark. We slowly ambled our way home around a couple of the lakes we like to ride and snuck in part of a dam ride. We arrived just in time to light most of the house and treat the daycare kids who came marching across the street in high spirits. Then, we lit the rest of the house and enjoyed treating the kids and visiting with the neighbors who dropped by to tour the house. Yep! The house is "spooked" from top to bottom - inside and out.
This is my favorite time of year and my favorite holiday. Starting the day off with a BOO ride made for a great Hallowe'en Day and Night.
Hmmm... perhaps not the best advertisement for a SPA...
We are in the middle of the corn harvest.
This was the view in front of us as The Ride rolled over 42K - The Rockies glistening with their first snow.
A farmer with a sense of scarecrow humor... the table was set with beer bottles.
Not all witches ride a broom... ha!
Busted! Tim has been out with another witch - um - er - woman. LOL!
Slide show of the rest of the day's ride ( photos):
Colorado, USA
This is my favorite time of year and my favorite holiday. Starting the day off with a BOO ride made for a great Hallowe'en Day and Night.
Slide show of the rest of the day's ride ( photos):
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