A Tale of Two Mice

Okay, this is a fluff piece, but it's something I wanted to share.
Most of you know that I have a snake named Rex. The other night I went to buy two mice to feed Rex. I put the first mouse in and Rex ate him as normal. I put the second mouse in and Rex didn't seem at all interested in him. After a minute they just started sniffing each other and then that was it. For whatever reason Rex was giving this particular mouse a pardon.
What to do now. I couldn't just kill the poor little mouse. It's one thing to let the snake eat him so he can survive, but it's another thing just to kill the poor little mouse for no reason. Should we let him go? I didn't feel good about the either, he was born in captivity, how would he survive out in the wild?
Okay, I know some of you may not see my conundrum here, it would be pretty simple for most people, I guess, but I'm not most people. So....we now have a pet mouse named Pardon. And you know what? He is so cute, and very entertaining to watch. Dave and I sat for quite a while last night just watching him run around in his little wheel. He's so cool in fact, that this week I'm going to go and get him a friend.
I will post pictures later for those who might be interested in seeing our little rodents. :)

Life is Good....Busy, but Good!

Hi everyone. I know I haven't posted much of anything important lately. Work is super busy right now with Christmas parties, and since I am in charge of them from start to finish, I have been working a lot. When I'm not working I'm just taking care of the kid, making sure he is at school, and on time, so I don't get put in jail....more on that in a future post.
I do have some exciting things to post about, but they will have to wait until I have the time to devote to them that they deserve.
I hope everyone is enjoying this Merry Season and not stressing too much about all the crap that doesn't really matter. Enjoy your family and friends and remember that it's not about how much you can spend, but how much you love them!

Okay, I'll Play!

Ann put up a post several days ago asking us all to play along...okay, what the hell! :)
Leave a comment describing me using one word that starts with the 3rd letter of your name. Then repost this in your blog. Let's see what people come up with! And please.....be nice! ;)

It's Been Way Too Long Baby

It's been awhile since I've had a decent ride. Ever since I re-did my permit several weeks ago, I have ridden around town, to and from work, just little jaunts, all good, but nothing great!
I did have a couple of opportunities, like when we went to the corn maze a couple of weeks ago, but for some reason I just didn't. I can't really explain why, something just didn't feel right. I wanted to ride, but couldn't bring myself to. What's up with that? Maybe because I had been so sick I still didn't really feel like myself? Maybe because I was feeling pressure to ride, when one of the greatest things about riding is supposed to be releasing my pressure?
All I knew was that it really had been too long. It was time, now I just had to find the time. But isn't it nice how sometimes time just finds you?
Sunday I woke up early after being up way too late the night before. The sun was shining outside, it was a beautiful day, but I couldn't get my butt off the couch. I watched a movie with the kid, well he watched the movie while I drifted in and out of sleep. He had been invited over to a friends house for the afternoon so Dave suggested we get out for a ride. He wanted to ride over to Carmel to have lunch at this place he had been telling me about for awhile.
So Dave took the kid over to his friends house while I got ready. By the time I was ready Dave had pulled Patience out of the garage and Willy D. and Carol were waiting outside.
It felt good getting on the bike and knowing that I was going somewhere fun, not just to work.
I was a little bit anxious because the road we were going to take is a bit curvy with some pretty good drop offs to the right side. I actually had never ridden that road on my own, just on the back with Dave. When we first started out on the road I thought to myself, "Well this isn't as bad as I remember." But then we really got into it, and I found myself talking out loud again. Telling myself to keep my head up, look where I wanted to go, pay attention to the signs, all that good stuff.
After awhile I relaxed and realized I had been on curvier roads than this and done just fine. Then I was able to really enjoy being out. I was happy, it had been too long. Why did I do that to myself?
We had a great lunch at the Running Iron, it was just as good as Dave said it was. The only bad part about lunch was a lady sitting behind me downing glass after glass of wine and crying, seriously, crying about how horrible her life was and how nobody understood how good she was at taking care of her family. And how she was such an amazing person. Dave was trying to distract me, but for some reason I just wanted to turn around and punch her in the face. I don't know why it bothered me so bad, it just did.
After lunch I called to check on the kid, his friends dad, who also rides, said he was fine and just go ride and have a good time, pick him up whenever. Cool!
So we were off again, just riding around in the sun enjoying the day. I need to do this more. There is no guarantee how long I have to enjoy this, I need to enjoy it while I can. That's advice I always give to everyone else, but somehow I don't apply it to my own life.
I'm working on making my life better right now, I'm going to stop procrastinating. I'm going to get stuff done. Wow, isn't it amazing what a ride can do!

Expectations

I've been thinking a lot lately about expectations that we have. Expectations for ourselves, for our lives, for those around us.
I've been thinking about how many of these expectations have set me up to be disappointed in myself, in my life, and in those around me.
I've been thinking maybe it would be easier if I didn't have any expectations, no disappointment, no feeling let down.
But what would my life be without expectation? Sure, there would be no disappointment, or would there? But what kind of life would it be to just go without expectation. There is a difference between being able to shrug stuff off when it happens and just being totally indifferent. Indifference is a sad way to live, I've been there. I want to be able to feel the excitement when something goes exactly the way I expected it would, or the surprise when it goes better than I ever could have expected, I guess I even want to be able to feel the disappointment when it just doesn't work out. In the end I guess that's the only way I can truly appreciate the rest of it.
When I really sit back and think about it, expectations have brought me far more joy than disappointment. So I guess I'll go about with my expectations and just work on being able to put things into perspective, things work out the way they are supposed to, whether we like it or not.

How Old Are You....REALLY?

"How old would you be if you didn't know how old you were?"

That is my grandmother's favorite saying. She will be 85 in less than two weeks, but you'd never know it. She has a little trouble getting around because of arthritis, but her mind is young and sharp. There are two things my grams does everyday, and has ever since I can remember.

1. Complete the daily crossword puzzle in the paper

2. Go to the bar to hang with her friends.

She seriously does this everyday, whether she feels like it or not. Now, my grams lives in a very small town, and I think she is the oldest resident there. Her friends range in age from teenagers to senior citizens. Everybody loves her!

I've been thinking a lot about getting older lately. Now, don't get me wrong, I don't think I'm "old" by any means. But we all have times in our lives where we take stock. We think about all the things we haven't accomplished that we had hoped to by whatever age. But this got me thinking about the things that I have accomplished that I never even thought about trying. Riding being the most obvious for me.

A couple of weeks ago I put together a party at work. It was a 30 year high school reunion. It was funny to see how the people who showed up right on time were dressed very professionally and seemed rather stuffy. They all looked like they graduated 30 years ago, or more in some cases. Then about an hour after the party started a group of bikers come wandering in. Laughing, full of life, leathers and all. You could tell these guys enjoyed their lives. And they looked young, in fact some of them so young that I actually stopped them to make sure they were supposed to be at this 30 year reunion. They were, and it was a good thing, because I noticed how once they got there the stuffed shirts loosened up a bit. It was like they suddenly realized that just because they were the class of '79 graduates didn't mean they had to act like they were past all the fun.
Doing something you love keeps you young. It can be anything that makes you happy, whatever it is don't let it go. Health, finances, or family can alter how you enjoy it, but no matter what find some way to enjoy it.
So my friends....How old are you, REALLY?

I'm Feeling Better Now

Man, the last few weeks I've been getting really cranky. (Shut up Dave)

My permit expired and stuff kept getting in the way of me and the DMV. There were a few days that I almost rode to work anyway. The rebel in me said, "Go ahead, it's not that far, you'll be fine." But then the responsible mom in me said, "This could be the day that something goes wrong. Think about the consequences of your actions. Do you really want to screw up and then never be able to ride again?"

So I left my girl alone until I could get legal again. She was sad in the garage, especially when Dave would pull Tramp in after a nice little ride. I was sad and getting cranky. I hated even walking into the garage and seeing Patience sitting there with that sad little puppy dog headlight staring at me. Patience, mine was wearing thin.

Finally the end of last week I was able to get into the DMV and make my world right again. I was finally able to get out a bit this weekend. No epic rides, but enough to start boosting the mood meter.

Now I just have to get off my ass and take the ride part of the test so I don't have to deal with this crap again!

You Want To Ride WHERE? To Look At WHAT?

When I was first presented with "The Mission" it sounded a lot like the needle in a haystack scenario, but once I learned all of the details it sounded more like an adventure that needed to be had.
I felt honored to be allowed to participate in such a voyage. I opted for the title of "Pillion Queen" for the day. Seven hundred miles in one day is just a little out of my comfort zone right now.

So it was settled. Dave and I would accompany Ms. MQ01 on a journey for a dead tree. A dead tree that held sentimental significance for a man we consider a friend although we have never met. By the end of the day that same dead tree would hold significance for the new friendship that was formed on that day.

Riding with MQ was hard! I say that in a good way. She rides hard, and I'm thankful I chose not to ride my own on that day. I look forward to someday being as skilled a rider as my new friend. I really admire her as a rider, and also as a woman. She is an independent woman, but she also understands the importance of having good people in her life. I consider the addition of MQ in my life a positive one.

When I think about my blogger friends who I've been fortunate enough to meet in person, I have to say that I've not been disappointed. So far I've met six of you and you have all been just as great in person as you appear on your blogs. I may not have wealth, but I have some pretty great friends thanks to this stupid computer, so I am a rich woman.

Anyways, I digress, here are some random pics from the day, ENJOY!

These horses came all the way across their coral just to say hi and check out Dave's bike!

Richmond San Rafael Bridge

Getting close:

Does anyone know who this guy is?

Especially for Ann & Linda:

Especially for Big D. and AHD:


The destination:

Dave's dead end road:

HAPPY BIRTHDAY NASTASSIA!

Today is my niece Nastassia's 17th birthday. I remember the day she was born like it was yesterday. It makes me feel old. She was born the summer I graduated from high school, and this year she is going to be a senior. Wow, time flies!
Nats is such a wonderful young lady. She has gone through some stuff in her life that could have easily made her bitter and play the victim, but she has risen above and is working hard to make a wonderful life for herself. She is everything I would want if I had a daughter. She makes me proud to be her Aunt.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY NATTY! I LOVE YOU VERY MUCH!

I need to get caught up!!!!

My parents were here visiting from Tennessee for a week, they just left yesterday, and I finally have time to look at my blog. I feel like I've missed a lot, so I will be spending this next week trying to catch up. Maybe by next week I'll have something decent to post!

What's A Girl To Do?

Several days back Dave asked if he could take off with some of the guys for a few days to ride. I'm not the type of woman to tell Dave he can or cannot do something, that's what God gave us mothers for. Still I appreciate the fact that he cares enough to ask.
We all experience times in our lives where we would like to do something, but can't for one reason or another. So my philosophy is that if an opportunity comes up and you can make it work, then you should go for it. So I told my sweetie, "Have fun, be safe, and call to check in a few times a day." And then he was gone.
Then that left me with one burning question, What the hell was I going to do with myself? The kid is also gone for another week, so I would be completely on my own. I used to love solitude, but for some reason not so much any more.
Saturday came around, and I REALLY wanted to go check out the cage fighters at the Harley Dealership. It's not really my thing, but it's something you don't do every weekend so I thought it would be cool. But......I have been super neglectful in my housecleaning/laundry/yard work/shopping/errands for weeks. Since my parents are coming out next week from Tennessee I figured I better put some time in to get some stuff done.
I made a deal with myself: Saturday work, Sunday play. The first task for Saturday was errands. I decided to ride my bike to run all of my errands. I've ridden around town a bit by myself, mostly to and from work, but this would be the first time I was going to so many destinations. May not be a big deal to some, but a huge deal to me. I won't bore you with all the tedious errands I ran, but I can say that running errands has never been so much fun.
Saturday afternoon was just cleaning and laundry and yard work. Willy D. stopped by to check on me. (What a friend!) I told him that I wanted to ride on Sunday so if he and Carol were planning on going out they should call me.
I tried to go to bed around midnight, but couldn't sleep. So I got up. I found myself at two in the morning eating Ramen noodles and playing The Sims on the computer. A little bit later I remembered I had some strawberries and whip cream, yum. Next thing I knew, the sun was peeking through the front window. Crap, I need to go to sleep.
I got a few hours of really great sleep before Willy called to see if I still wanted to ride. I told him it would probably be a few and he said just to come by their house when I was ready. I called him back when I was getting ready to leave and told him that they should meet me at the coffee shop because there was no way I was going to survive the day without it.
We rode for a little while. Nowhere special, no epic ride, but it was great just to be out on the bike. And I really appreciate Willy D. and Carol for watching out for me whenever Dave is gone.
I had mentioned that on Saturday I had to wear a backpack on my errands, and Willy remembered that we had some old saddle bags in my garage from when Dave had his VTX. He said we should see if they fit my bike so we went to my house and in about two seconds I had bags! Yeah! I think they look pretty good, and they'll definitely serve their purpose. I'll put some pics up of my bike soon, there are a couple of other little changes I've made recently.
Then Willy D. and Carol went home and the rest of the day was spent doing pretty much nothing. Well, I did try to fix my broken garbage disposal but it's issues are beyond my limited skill in that area.
So, that is how I spent my weekend as a childless single gal. And Dave thinks he's having all the fun! LOL

You Find Out Who Your Friends Are

We all go through situations in our life when we really need our friends. Sometimes the people we consider our closest friends are the one's who bail on us when we need them the most. It hurts, it especially hurts when these people are the one's we've stood by in their worst times. But if we stood by them for the right reasons then it wasn't because we expected something in return. I guess a positive thing we can take away from a situation like this is that it weeds out the people we don't really need in our lives and it leaves us with more time, energy, and love to share with the people who really deserve it.

Amazing Arizona Adventure: All Good Things Must Come To An End

It's taken me awhile to get around to writing my last post about our Arizona trip. I guess it's because I didn't want it to end, but it did, so I guess I'll have to get over it and write about the ride home.
Ann was supposed to wake us up around 6:30. I woke up and the sun was so bright I thought for sure that she forgot, it had to be at least 10. Then I looked at the clock, it wasn't even 6 yet. Wow, it's never that bright that early in Salinas, NEVER.
There's something about the sun shining so bright in the morning that makes it easier to get out of bed. Maybe it's because you can actually see that you're 'burning daylight', or maybe it's because you can tell it's going to be a beautiful day and you need to get out there, or maybe it's just because it's too damned bright to sleep anymore.
Whatever the case, I was ready to get up. What I wasn't ready for was the fact that we had to go home. This trip was not nearly as long as it needed to be, but I guess I should just be thankful that I was able to make it at all.
We got up and visited for quite awhile before we decided we better hit the road. So we finished loading up and said our goodbyes. Kickstand was nice enough to escort us to the road we would need to take to get out of town.
The ride home was uneventful in the good way, but we did have fun at all our little stops that we made. We knew it was a long ride home, but none of us were really in any kind of hurry.
Right after we got into California I started to feel really yucky from the heat, it's probably because I had to put that helmet back on. I knew that we would be stopping before too long so I was trying to just ride it out, but I finally told Dave that we needed to pull off soon. Willy must have read my mind because he took the very next exit.
I was okay, but I knew that if I didn't take care of myself I wouldn't be. We hung out in the shade for awhile and drank about a gallon of water, and I put the water vest on. That made a huge difference. After that I was fine.
Fast forward I don't know how many hours and we were in Paso Robles at about midnight and it was freezing. We pulled into a gas station and I put on the chaps and some more layers. Dave and Willy were laughing at me because I had a beanie on and then my hood pulled up over that and then my helmet over it. I looked like a big dork....did I care? NOOOOO. I just wanted to be warm.
The last two hours of the ride were cold, freaking cold really, but it was still just awesome. The night was clear and I just stared at all the stars and thought about the really great trip we had. Every little bit Dave would give me the thumbs up to see how I was doing and I would give him my thumbs up to let him know I was still there.
It was almost 3 AM when we rolled the bike into the garage. I was really surprised at how my body held up. That was the most extreme trip I have ever taken. Somewhere around 1600 miles in 4 days, extreme heat, extreme cold, and I did it. And yes, I am patting myself on the back a little bit. I didn't complain, I didn't even feel like complaining. I loved every minute of it! And when asked if I would do it again, my replied would be, "In a heartbeat!"
I was glad for a lot of reasons that I decided not to ride my own on this trip, but next time......I think I'll be ready!

Four Missions And (almost) a Baptism

*One little note before I get started- I do still have one Arizona post left, but I guess I'm putting it off, because it's the trip home. :( I'll get around to it.

Now, on to today's story.

Several days ago, Dave told me that the "Thunder Riders" were having a Mission Run this weekend. I have gone to several of their events and have always enjoyed them so I thought that this sounded like a good way to spend a Saturday. They really do a lot for our community and I'm happy to support them.
As of yesterday I wasn't sure exactly where the run went and what missions we would be visiting so I considered just riding with Dave. I still only have my permit, and although I have ridden on the freeways I was worried that it would be too much time on the freeway and too much chance of me getting in trouble. But then Dave brought me a route map and I realized that the missions were all pretty close, hardly any freeway time, and good roads. So this morning I decided to ride my own, and I'm so glad that I did.
Dave had donated coffee for the morning sign up, so he was out of the house a little before 8 to go and take care of that. While he was gone I got ready and by the time he came back to the house I was all set to go.
After stopping for gas we headed over to Monterey County Harley for the sign up. Dave informed me that we would have to go in the front of the parking lot. Big deal you say? Well, I always go in the back way, because the front has this really messed up driveway and I have seen several riders go down either going in or out. He asked if I was okay with that, and I gave him my standard, "Do I really have a choice?"
We pulled into the parking lot, no problem, I was just glad that I had room and nobody stopped in front of me on the way in. After I got my girl parked, Tom (the one who is pretty much responsible for me buying my bike) comes over and gives me a big hug and tells me that I looked really good and really confident, that made me happy.
I was sad that Willy D. and Carol wouldn't be joining us for this ride, but apparently Willy thinks he has some kind of responsibilities or something.
They had group rides set up, but you could choose if you wanted to go in a group or on your own. We met up with a couple of guys, Paul and Jeff, who are both regulars at Dave's shop. We decided the four of us would go out on our own little group. The first few miles for me were spent just getting used to following someone besides Willy or Dave. Jeff was in the lead, then Paul, me and Dave in the rear. Jeff is a really great rider and I felt at ease with him as our leader.
I really felt like I was in the zone today. I'm sure some of you can relate that some days you just feel it more than others. There was one point where traffic suddenly came to a dead stop and the car two ahead of us locked up his brakes. I had to stop faster than I've ever stopped before. I remember thinking, I have to stop, I have to stop fast, and I need to make sure that the car behind me isn't going to slam into me. I came to a stop a lot smoother than I expected and thankfully the car behind was paying attention and stayed a safe distance back. I hear Dave next to me yelling, "GOOD JOB!" I never get tired of his encouragement while riding.
We made it to the first two missions with no problems, but then we couldn't find the third one. The route map didn't give good direction to this particular stop, but we finally managed to find it, thanks to this sweet older couple who came off their balcony when we stopped to turn around in front of their house. The lady was so sweet, she insisted that we take her map with us in case we needed it later.
Getting lost wasn't all bad. I had a lot of opportunities to practice my u-turns, which are getting pretty good by the way! Unfortunately, by the time we made it to the third stop the people with the cards had already left. Oh well, as long as I still got to eat at the last stop I would be happy.
We got a little bit of rain on the way to the last stop. Not too much, in fact I don't even know if it was enough for me to say that I've officially ridden in the rain. I thought I was going to be baptized, but it wasn't meant to be today. That's okay, I'm not too disappointed.
We got to the fourth mission and I couldn't believe how many bikes were there, it was crazy. They had the streets blocked off and several blocks of San Juan Bautista were all ours. It was very cool.
We were talking to Kyle, one of the owners of Monterey County HD and I told him that we had missed the cards at the last stop. He said just to tell them at the booth and we could get the cards for that stop as well as the last one. A lot of good it did, none of us won. They did the cards a really weird way, I can't explain it because I don't even understand it myself, I just know that I didn't win.
But I did get a fantastic meal. The food was so good, I was a happy girl.
We hung out in San Juan for awhile, ate, listened to the band, got ice cream, people watched (some people were watched more than others, by more than others of us), the usual. They announced that they had raised over $20,000.00 for youth programs. I think that's amazing!
We left San Juan and headed home, well to the coffee shop.
It was a great day, a great ride, and I'm really happy that I decided to ride my own. Today also is the most miles that I've ridden in one day on my own, 139! Whoo hoo!

Glass Houses

You stand on the steps of your glass house

you throw rocks at me as I walk by

you've never stopped me

to ask why I've done the things I have

you are too busy judging me

and finding your rocks to throw

what you don't know is that I can see inside your house

I also know the things that you have done

what you don't understand

is that I'm too busy living my life to condemn you for yours

I make mistakes, as you do as well

but while you are wasting your time finding and throwing rocks

I am trying to live my life the best I can

you can keep throwing your rocks, and I will do my best

to dodge them as I walk by, and to forgive you for your ignorance

Happy Independence Day

I hope everyone has a safe and happy Independence Day. I just wanted to share a few quotes that I found that I enjoyed.

"We must be free not because we claim freedom, but because we practice it." ~William Faulkner

"Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves." ~Abraham Lincoln

"And I'm proud to be an American,
where at least I know I'm free.
And I won't forget the men who died,
who gave that right to me."
~Lee Greenwood

"Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom, must, like men, undergo the fatigue of supporting it." ~Thomas Paine

"This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave." ~Elmer Davis

"Freedom has its life in the hearts, the actions, the spirit of men and so it must be daily earned and refreshed - else like a flower cut from its life-giving roots, it will wither and die." ~Dwight D. Eisenhower

Amazing Arizona Adventure: Day Three

Okay, so I won't go into a lot of details about the third day of our trip, but I will say that the ride to Big D. and Ann's house was amazing. Big D. suggested that we ride through Sedona, it was so beautiful. I'm looking back at the pictures, and they just don't do any justice to the amazingly beautiful scenery we saw.
After getting to their house, we just hung out and visited. It was just really nice hanging out with people you have a connection with.
We also were able to meet 'Kickstand' and Mike and Sarah(from the Biker/Hillbilly wedding). They were all really cool, and I hope to be able to have more time to get to know them all next time.
Big D. was cracking us all up. I had to pee, but I didn't want to miss any of the conversation, but then I was laughing so hard I thought I was going to pee my pants. It got late, and even though I didn't want to, I knew I had to go to bed.
So day three was mostly riding with a little visiting at the end of the day! It was another great day in Arizona.

Amazing Arizona Adventure: Day Two

Ok, so remember how I said that I would always wear a helmet, even if I had the option not to? Yeah, well, one of the first things I said to Dave Saturday morning was, "Hon, do I have to wear my helmet?" I was actually surprised when he said I didn't have to.
Now, I'm not trying to start a helmet debate here, and honestly I don't care to have one, I'm just sharing my own experience. I loved riding without a helmet, there, I said it, me, the "safety girl", loves, loves, loves, no helmet!
If you read Ann's post Taking The Road Less Traveled: Day Two then you will pretty much have much of what I was going to say about Saturday, Thanks Ann! LOL

A couple of things I would add to her story:

Me, bright eyed and bushy tailed? ummm, ok. I don't think anybody has ever used that expression to describe me in the morning, it must have been all the excitement. But at any rate, I'm glad you were impressed. And there was no way that I was going to miss the ride.

As soon as I met Ann and Big D. I knew they were exactly who I thought they were. They are just amazingly decent people. I already knew that Ann and I were a lot alike, and by the time we were done with breakfast I was convinced that we had been separated at birth.

Meeting Arizona Harley Dude and Linda was also awesome. We just all clicked so well, if you were a spectator of our antics, you would've thought that we had been friends for years.

The buffalo...hey, the sign said not to climb on it, it never said we couldn't lay under it. But I have to say, Dave has been making some pretty strange noises ever since we got back.

Dinner at the steakhouse was the best meal I've had in a long time. Like Ann said, we got some looks from the bluehairs, but they were just jealous cuz we were so hot and had ourselves such sexy men, okay, sorry, it just had to be said.

When we got to the bar I was super surprised when Dave asked me to dance, and he wasn't even drunk yet. Dave doesn't like to dance and I've never seen him dance, other than just goofing off at home. But he knows that I love to dance, and being the wonderful man he is, he wanted to make me happy.

Another funny thing that happened...Ann, Linda and I were all dancing together and this very loud, very drunk woman starts dancing with us and high fiving us all around telling us we're a bunch of hot women. I saw a strange look on Linda's face and didn't get it until we went to sit back down and she said, "Did that woman call us white women?" She felt better when we told her what the woman had really said.

It was an awesome day, and I loved the ride! I am definitely planing for this event next year. I was so impressed how welcoming the town was for this event, and how excited everyone was when we went on the little parade through town.

Hope you enjoy the slide show, some of the pics may look familiar from Ann's slide show, but hey, we were all at the same place. Also, I have no pics from Saturday night, they are on Dave's camera, I knew I would be in no shape to take pictures, or even be responsible for the camera.

Amazing Arizona Adventure: Day One, Part Two

While we were waiting in Weed Patch I called Ann to let her know that we would be delayed, and I also called our hotel to make sure that they wouldn't give our room away. They assured me that they were keeping it just for us.
I think it was almost five when we got back on the road. It was still hot, but I was wearing the water vest, so it wasn't too bad. Also Carol let me use her half helmet so I wouldn't have to suffer the heat in mine. It took a little getting used to since I have never ridden without a full face. Overall the ride was pretty comfortable, Dave made me a nice little cushion for my tush, and it helped a ton!
By the time we got to Barstow I was extremely glad that I had decided not to try my Patience on this ride. It was so windy I don't know if I could have kept her skinny ass on the road.
The skies were getting pretty dark, and I actually wouldn't have minded if it rained on us a little bit.
We stopped often to fuel up, drink lots of water, and goof off. I was having a blast already! I couldn't wait to get there. Ann had said she was going to wait up for us, even when I called her and it was obvious we were going to be way late!
As soon as we got into Arizona, we stopped so the boys could take off their helmets. I left mine on, I had always said that even if given the choice, I would always wear one...well....more about that later!
It seems like the last 300 miles we stopped more than we had the rest of the ride. It was understandable though, it was dark, getting cold, and we had all been up all day.
We finally got to Williams at 2:00 in the morning. It had started raining on us a few miles out, and once we got there the rain really started coming down.
The sweet guy at the office of the hotel was trying to tell us the best place to park the bikes. He said he had some cones we could use, but then he came back and said somebody had stolen them. This didn't make Dave feel good. LOL.
I called Ann, but apparently she had given up and went to bed, can't say I blame her. So I left a message to let her know we made it and told her to call me in the morning.
I was so happy to climb into a bed, definitely glad we decided on a room instead of camping. I hate sleeping in hotels, but I slept soooooo good that night.

Coming soon: Amazing Arizona Adventure; Day Two

click speaker for music!

Amazing Arizona Adventure: Day One, Part One

Friday morning Dave and I woke up late, big surprise. Thankfully we had almost everything ready to go the night before so it didn't take too long to get out of the house. I walked outside and almost fainted...beautiful blue sky in Salinas at 6:30 in the morning...unheard of. A great start for our ride.
I have to say that it took a little bit of adjusting to being on the back of Dave's bike again. He finally had to tell me that he didn't need my help to lean the bike, oops, sorry.
We got over to Willy and Carol's and they were waiting outside for us. I tried on a half helmet that Willy had hoping it would fit, because I wasn't really looking forward to wearing my full face helmet in the heat. It didn't fit so I was stuck with my Power Ranger helmet. Oh well.
After a couple of smokes and talk about the route we would be taking, we all saddled up and headed on our way.
Usually Salinas is super overcast in the morning, and once you drive a few miles out of town you can see the sun, well, that morning was completely opposite. Salinas was beautiful and when we got out of town it was cold and foggy. It didn't last too long before the sun came out again and I was a happy girl.
We were on our way. We made a few stops that were really not anything too exciting to write about. Once we got to Bakersfield it was getting pretty hot. We stopped for gas at a place called Weed Patch, Willy figured it would be an interesting place for a stop.
This is where the only regrettable part of the trip took place.
We stopped at Chevron and got off the bikes to gas up. Dave said something to Carol and when he got no response from her he looked at me and said, "Man, she doesn't look happy." Then he went inside the store. It was about that time that I noticed Carol was walking funny. At first I thought maybe her leg was asleep or she had a cramp or something. But then I could tell something was seriously wrong. Willy noticed about the same time and realized she was having a bad reaction to the heat. He was basically dragging her inside to sit down in the air conditioned building. When we walked in he asked the woman behind the counter (we'll call her BITCH just to keep things simple) if they had a chair. She very rudely told us that she did not. So Willy told Carol just to sit on the floor. As he was trying to help her sit she almost feel on her face and hit the shelves on her way down. BITCH says, "Be careful for those shelves, they're expensive!" I shot her the nastiest look I possibly could, and then she says, "Well they are and they're really fragile." I looked at her and said, "Yeah, well so is my friend right now, so thanks!" She shut up, for a minute.
Willy got Carol a Gatorade and left me with her while he went out to move his bike. Carol looked like she was going to throw up so I asked for a wastebasket. BITCH again showed her compassion by rolling her eyes and making a grunting sound. I said, "Look, I'll fucking clean it up, just give me a wastebasket now, she can't even fucking move!" At this time the poor guy working with BITCH looked very sympathetic and handed me the basket.
BITCH then decides she needs to show more of her character by saying, "I have other customers who have to come in here."
I looked at her with more disgust than I have felt in a long time and said, "I'm pretty sure your other customers will understand, I really hope nothing ever happens to you." I think that at this point she realized how close she was to being punched in the jaw because that was the last I heard from her.
Carol was starting to look more like her usual self and Willy and Dave took her outside to sit in the shade and put Dave's water vest on her. As I was cleaning up the wastebasket the nice guy who worked with BITCH came over and told me not to worry about it, he would take care of it. Thanks decent Chevron employee. He also later came out to ask us if Carol was okay and to apologize for BITCH's behavior. I thanked him and got the name of who I should talk to when I called to complain, because believe me, I will be making sure something happens to that poor excuse for a human being.
Carol was feeling better, but she and Willy decided it wasn't wise for her to continue on the trip, but Willy also didn't want to put her back on the bike and go back through the heat that had just caused her the problem. After looking at several options, Carol's parents said that they would come down and get her in the car. Now we had to figure out where this left the rest of the plans. Willy offered to go back home and not make the trip without Carol, but she is a good wife and insisted that he carry on without her. We were all sad that Carol wouldn't be continuing the rest of the trip, but none of us wanted to risk her health.
It would be at least three or four hours before they would be there to pick her up, so we all hung out over at the Burger King, they were so nice, they never said a word about us being there for so long. Even though the situation sucked, we were making the most of the time we had to hang out with our friends.

Okay, this is long already, looks like day one will have to have two parts.
Next up: Amazing Arizona Adventure: Day One, Part Two
Pics from day one will be with the next post........

Back In Cali

Well, we made it home. We rolled the bike into the garage at 2:45 this morning, one word...brrrr.
I have tons of stuff to say and lots of pics to share, I will need a couple of days to get my shit together, but to sum up our trip....Fabulous!
I really needed this trip, and it couldn't have been better. It was also good for Dave and I to share this experience together. We both already realize that what we have is something special, but times like this just reinforce the connection.
Coming soon.....Amazing Arizona Adventure: Day One

Just A Quickie

Hi everyone! Just a little quickie here! I'm sorry I haven't really had time to check in with any of you this past week or so. I've been busy getting the kid ready to go to his dad's and getting myself ready to go to Arizona.
We are leaving bright and early tomorrow, well, probably dark and early. I know I won't be able to sleep tonight, I'm so excited. I'm ready to get the f@#k outta here and have a good time!
I will take tons of pics and return with stories of our adventure! Hope you all have a great weekend, and to all of you dads:

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

Temperamental Patience

My usually sweet Patience was very temperamental this morning when I rode her to work. Hmmm, maybe it's because she's been stuck in the garage for the past two weeks, or maybe, just maybe, Dave's Tramp spilled the beans. I'll bet that's it! While they were in the garage that bitch must have let it slip that I'm taking a road trip and leaving her home.
I better ride her as much as possible before I go so she doesn't get really mad! And so I don't go really insane!

The Question Everyone Wants Answered

So, the burning question.....Are we going to get to go to party with Big D. and Ann?
The answer is......YES!
We are going to Arizona. I'm so excited I even had a dream about it last night. It was kind of a crazy ass dream, but I expect when we get out there it will be a crazy ass time!
Willy D. and Dave are also excited, so much so that when Willy showed up at our house Saturday morning he was already packed. I had to remind him that it's still three weeks away. But he's ready to roll.
I had thought about riding my bike, what an adventure that would be. But in the end I think it will be best to leave her home this time. We are on a tight budget for this trip, and it would be one more bike to have to gas up, and also one more bike to worry about any mechanical problems. So I will be riding bitch, but that's okay, I think I've only been on the back of Dave's bike two times since I got mine. It will give me an opportunity to take some great pics on the ride.
I'm really looking forward to this trip, and looking forward to meeting my long lost sister Ann, and Big D. of course!
I'm sure we will have some great stories to share!
I'm not one to wish my life away, but I sure hope the next couple of weeks go by fast!

A Big Day For Rexidoodle

Yesterday our baby Rex turned one! He has grown so much in the past year. I just wanted to share some pictures of then and now so you can all see how beautiful he is.

Then:

And now:

You can see how big he's gotten by his sheds, yes I keep them, I'm a freak like that!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LOVEY!

In honor of my Lovey's birthday, I wanted to give you all a little more insight on who he is with "The ABC's of Dave"
Dave is:

Adventurous
Brilliant
Compassionate
Devoted
Enthusiastic
Fearless
Generous
Hilarious
Intelligent
Joyful
Kind
Loving
Manly
Nurturing
Optimistic
Passionate
Quirky
Resourceful
Sexy
Talented
Unwavering
Vigorous
Wonderful
Xceptional ;)
Youthful
Zaney

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! I love you very much!

What A Year It Has Been!

Wow, it's been a year already! When Dave first started blogging, the kid and I would make fun of him relentlessly. It just sounded funny....blogger, so we had a great time teasing him and calling him "blogger" for days. Once I started actually reading his blog, and the comments that he would get, I realized what a great outlet this was, and how many really cool people he was meeting. That was when I decided to become a "blogger".
Most of you I know have been here from the beginning of my blog, thanks to Dave's head start for me, but for those of you who may not have been reading my blog from the beginning I have put together some links that will help you see where this year has taken me. It has been a really amazing year and I thank all of you for the friendship, support, concern, laughs, and advice I have received from you. Here's a look back at my year!

The Journey Begins -
My first post. I really had no expectations when I started, I just felt like chronicling my journey of wanting to move up front, and seeing where it would take me.

Musical Motorcycle Montage-
Trying on different bikes. I had my ideas of what I liked, but since it would be my first, I wasn't really sure what I would end up with.

The Most Exciting Laundry Day Ever-
The day I found "MY" bike!

Unnamed Baby Girl-
Pictures of my first bike!

My First Ride-
A hilarious video of my maiden voyage, in the parking lot.

Out Of The Parking Lot Into The Dump-
The day started out good, but ended on a bit of a low note.

B.B.'s Bike Garage-
Putting on my engine guard, and practicing the proper way to pick up my bike.

My First Solo Ride-
The title says it all.


Main Roads, and Back roads and Freeways, OH MY!-
Some more learning.


Okay, so this is more links than I had planned on, but it basically gives you an idea of how I started my adventure, and if you want to read my latest accomplishment read Blow Job and Outlaw B.B. over on Dave's blog. And you can always check out the archives to read any of my other silly posts!


Thanks all for coming on my journey with me, and hopefully I can get out of this block and start posting more! Love to you all! Ride safe, Ride Happy!

I'm Okay!

Okay, Dave is really annoyed with me....first that I went on Hiatus, and second that I made it so nobody could comment on that post, so he has been receiving a lot of emails from our concerned friends. So let me just tell you all that I am fine! Thank you all for asking and making sure everything was okay. I thought about just playing the whole thing off as an April Fool's joke, but I don't really like to be dishonest, and since that wasn't my intent, I won't tell you it was. Truth is I was just in a really dark place for a few days with some stuff to work out in my head as well as my life. I thought about not saying anything at all, but I seriously didn't know how long it would be before I got stuff sorted out and felt like hanging out here again and I wanted to at least let everyone know that I would be gone, so if you didn't see me commenting you wouldn't think that I didn't love ya'll anymore. So that's it, I have not been abducted by aliens, arrested, kidnapped by a biker gang, or beaten up by Dave. I'm here, I'm okay, and I'm truly touched that I have friends who care. So am I back??? Yes, but I may be a little scarce here and there, things are getting to where they need to be, but I'm still working out a few little kinks! You are all awesome friends and I appreciate you all very much!

On Hiatus

I'm going on Hiatus, don't know how long I'll be gone, but hopefully you'll all still be around when I get back. Ride Safe, Ride Happy!

Nothing Would Deter Me Today

I made a plan at the end of last week. My plan was that this week I would ride to work every day! Well, you know what they say about plans.
Monday- Well, I don't really remember Monday, but for some reason I wasn't able to ride to work.
Tuesday- The kid was sick, he couldn't go to school, so he had to go to work with me. Had to drive the car because A) I'm not supposed to ride with a passenger and B) He didn't want to sit on the fender.
Wednesday- Same as Tuesday.
That brings us to today. I woke up and the sun was shining through the window, beautiful, no clouds in the sky. I took the kid to school, went home to get ready, and by the time I got out of the shower.....no sun, nothing but overcast. Hmmm....fog, or rain clouds. Looks like fog, but then again....
I don't care, I'm going to ride to work dang it! If it rains...let it. Nothing is going to stop me today, I am a determined woman......Bring it on world.....I'm ready for you today!

Late Night Reflections

There is a peace that comes with being alone, but only if you are comfortable in your own skin.

There is joy in the love of friends, but only if you know who your friends are.

There is beauty everywhere in this world, but only if you take the time to seek it.

There is knowledge that comes from inner reflection, but only if you are willing to listen.

There is satisfaction in a job well done, but only if your heart was in it.

There is relief in letting go of regret, but only if you really mean it.

There is a lesson in every mistake, but only if you are humble enough to admit that you made one.

There is hope in that helping hand, but only if you are willing to grab it.

There is love around for each one of us, but only if you are able to realize you deserve it.




Okay, It's after midnight and I'm really tired, in fact so tired, that it's taken me a few minutes to type just this sentence because I keep transposing letters. Anyways, I just felt like writing, I've been very reflective the last couple of days, not sure why, but I just felt like dragging the rest of you along with me.

Maybe

Maybe . . we were supposed to meet the wrong people before meeting the right one so that, when we finally meet the right person, we will know how to be grateful for that gift.

Maybe . . when the door of happiness closes, another opens; but, often times, we look so long at the closed door that we don't even see the new one which has been opened for us.

Maybe . . it is true that we don't know what we have until we lose it, but it is also true that we don't know what we have been missing until it arrives.

Maybe . . the happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything that comes along their way.

Maybe . . the brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past; after all, you can't go on successfully in life until you let go of your past mistakes, failures, and heartaches.

Maybe . . you should dream what you want to dream; go where you want to go, be what you want to be, because you have only one life and one chance to do all the things you dream of, and want to do.

Maybe . . there are moments in life when you miss someone -- a parent, a spouse, a friend, a child -- so much that you just want to pick them from your dreams and hug them for real, so that once they are around you appreciate them more.

Maybe . . the best kind of friend is the kind you can sit on a porch and swing with, never say a word, and then walk away feeling like it was the best conversation you've ever had.

Maybe . . you should always try to put yourself in others' shoes. If you feel that something could hurt you, it probably will hurt the other person, too.

Maybe . . you should do something nice for someone every single day, even if it is simply to leave them alone.

Maybe . . giving someone all your love is never an assurance that they will love you back. Don't expect love in return; just wait for it to grow in their heart; but, if it doesn't, be content that it grew in yours.

Maybe . . happiness waits for all those who cry, all those who hurt, all those who have searched, and all those who have tried , for only they can appreciate the importance of all the people who have touched their lives.

Maybe . . you shouldn't go for looks; they can deceive; don't go for wealth; even that fades away. Go for someone who makes you smile, because it takes only a smile to make a dark day seem bright. Find the one who makes your heart smile.

Maybe . . you should hope for enough happiness to make you sweet, enough trials to make you strong, enough sorrow to keep you human, and enough hope to make you happy.

Maybe . . you should try to live your life to the fullest because when you were born, you were crying and everyone around you was smiling, but when you die, you can be the one who is smiling and everyone around you is crying.

I'm Not Really a Wine Drinker

I wanted to share this conversation with you that I had with my son, for those of you who don't know, he's nine.
Let me preface by telling you this, I have a bottle of wine that was bottled on July 4, 1976 in commemoration of our country's Bicentennial. Ok, that being said, here is the conversation:

Riley: Mom, are you ever going to drink that wine?
Me: No Ry, that's a very special bottle of wine. It was bottled on the 200th birthday of our country.
Riley: Oh, well you should drink it before you die. That would be a nice treat.
Me: Yeah, I guess it would.
Riley: Yeah, but you don't always know when you're going to die. But if you're in the hospital and you do know, then you should drink it.
Me: Ok, I'll make you a deal. When I'm an old lady and I'm in the hospital about to die, you bring me that bottle of wine and we'll share it.
Riley: No, I don't think so.
Me: Well, by then you'll be old enough to drink wine.
Riley: I'm not really a wine drinker.

I'm very happy to know that at nine years old, my son knows he isn't really a wine drinker!

It's raining, it's pouring, and things are getting boring!

We have been getting a lot of rain here in sunny California. It's great because we really need the rain. The Governator declared a state of emergency due to the drought we are facing for the third year in a row. It would just be nice if it could rain all night and then quit during the day.

When I took the kid to school this morning I was optimistic. There wasn't a cloud in the sky and the sun was shining brightly. I figured I could get a couple things done and then get some riding in since I have the day off from work. So just as I was getting ready to leave the coffee shop the rain started really coming down, no ride for me today.

Since I can't ride, and I don't want to go home to clean, I decided to share a couple of things that really peeve me!


1. I'm sick of people being in such a hurry all the time. I usually drive 5 miles over the speed limit, and I always try to stay in the slow lane so speed demons can pass me. But this doesn't seem good enough for those assholes who are in a huge hurry. I love it when some dumb ass rides my ass for 5 miles, finally decides to pass and then ends up next to me at the next red light. Here's a tip folks....if you're late for work, you're still going to be late no matter how fast you drive. Try waking up a few minutes earlier, or taking a shorter shower. Give yourself more time. Don't get me wrong, there are times that I like to drive fast, just to drive fast, but I don't tailgate, and I don't weave in and out of traffic just to get one car length ahead of someone.
This whole being in a hurry thing also applies to people waiting in lines. A few years ago Riley and I went to Disneyland for Christmas. I knew on Christmas Day it was going to be packed, and I resigned myself to the fact that we would be doing a lot of waiting. And we did, in line for the rides, the bathrooms, and food. I was amazed at the people waiting in line bitching about having to wait...what did they expect? And then they would be rude to the people working. Hey, give these folks a break, they're doing the best they can, putting up with assholes like you and doing it with a smile on their face.

2. I'm in a public bathroom, let's say there are ten stalls and I'm the only one in there. Someone comes in and has to use a stall right next to mine. Why does this bother me? I don't know, personal space maybe. Same thing at Dave's coffee shop. There are ten computers, I'm the only one here, and someone comes in and has to sit right next to me.

3. The lack of common courtesy. Someone holds a door for you, say thanks. How hard is that? The other day I saw a lady who had her hands full so I went out of my way to open the door for her and she didn't even smile or nod or anything. Now, I believe that we should be decent human beings without expecting anything in return, but it would be nice just to know that someone appreciates when you do something nice for them. People have told me before that I care too much what people think about me because there are certain conversations I won't have in public, or certain things I won't do, it isn't about what they think about me, it's about trying to be aware of other people's comfort levels. Do I think I need to change my whole life to accommodate others? No, I don't, but I also don't think it's too much to ask of me to move a few feet away while smoking so that it isn't blowing into the faces of people who choose not to damage their lungs. Or for me not to curse like a sailor in Chuck-E-Cheese and educate other people's children in all the different ways you can use the "F" word.

4. People who bitch and bitch and bitch about a situation that they could change if they wanted to, but they don't do anything about it but continue to bitch to anybody who will listen. Venting is one thing, and there are things in all of our lives that we cannot change. I complain about things, but I also try to change the things that are in my control.

5. Bill collectors. Yes, I understand if I owe your company money it is your right to get it from me, and I should pay it. You are doing your job and I understand that. Here is my issue...You call me and say my minimum payment is past due in the amount of $150. Ok, I'm out of work right now, I would really like to pay you something, but all I have in my account right now is $75. I would be happy to pay that and then pay the remaining as soon as possible. And then you say, "Well do you think you could pay $125?" Hello? I just told you how much I could pay, and that is what I can pay right now. Take it or leave it. Ok, you'll take it. You can set up a check by phone. Great. Oh, guess what there is a $25 fee for that. Well sorry, make that payment $50 then.

Ok, I think those are the only things I can think of right now. Thanks for letting me vent for a few minutes, now I think I can go home and clean. Oh wait, that's #6. Cleaning, I do it, it gets dirty again, what's up with that?

Forced To Give Up A Passion

Anyone who knows me knows that I LOVE food more than most people do. I love the way it looks, the way it smells, the way it tastes, the way it feels, etc, etc. It's amazing to me that my passion for food has not led me to obesity. I guess I have been blessed with my mother's super fast metabolism. It has slowed down as I've gotten older, but when I've noticed the pants were getting tight I would just work out more so I could eat the same.

Well, recently I found out that I have an ulcer as well as some other stomach problems. I have been placed on a very restricted diet, and by very restricted, I mean there are more things on the "can't eat" list than there are on the "can eat" list. I have done pretty good sticking to the lists. Two things I haven't given up that I'm supposed to are coffee and cigarettes. But, I have cut down, less than 6 ounces of coffee a day, and a few smokes.

The breaking point came yesterday when the Girl Scout cookies I had ordered came in, and I realized that I couldn't eat any. I wanted to cry. Then I got this overwhelming craving for In-N-Out Burger. When Dave got home I told him that I really (X about 15) wanted to go there for dinner. He of course, looking out for my well-being, said he didn't think it was a good idea. At that point I threw the cookies at him and said, "Fine! Enjoy your frickin' cookies!" Then we went to In-N-Out for dinner.

I promised Dave I wouldn't complain if I was in pain later, so I won't tell you how I felt after eating the burger, but I will say that it was worth it!

I know we all have to give up things now and then, The Sentimental Sasquatch is saying "So Long to Donuts." So I was just wondering, what passion have you had to give up, or revise, and how did you get through it?

You're Fabulous Darlings!

I was excited to see that Baron from Baron's Life thinks my Blog is FABULOUS! Thanks Baron. Okay here's the rules folks!

1. You have to pass it on to 5 other fabulous bloggers in a post.
2. You have to list 5 of your fabulous addictions in the post.
3. You must copy and paste the rules and the instructions below in the post.

Instructions:
On your post receiving this award, make sure you include the person that gave you the award and link it back to them.


So here are my addictions: (Not necessarily in this order)
1. Yucky cigarettes.
2. My son.
3. Dave.
4. My bike.
5. Eating, well until recently. (Future post to come)


Now for the 5 blogs that I think are FABULOUS!! Of course I think you're all FABULOUS, but the rules say only 5, and these are the five I picked, in no particular order.

1. Road Grits Cafe
2. Biker Chickz Blog
3. Fasthair
4. Big Daddy's Idle Thoughts
5. Glider Rider

Bloggers Anonymous

I wanted to post this comic I saw this morning, but it wouldn't let me, so click on the link:



Non Sequitur



I thought it was fun for the middle of the week!

IF TOMORROW STARTS WITHOUT ME

Last night I came across the obituary of someone I knew several years ago. It was a shock to see his name there. He was only 30 years old and he had a daughter about the same age as my son. My biggest fear in life is that I will die while my son is young. I know I have no control over when it's my time, but I just hope that when it is my time to go that everyone in my life will know how much they mean to me.
When I checked my email this morning, this was the first message I read, and I was so touched by it that I wanted to share it with all of you.

"A few weeks ago a woman was killed in an auto accident. She was very well liked, so the office shut down for her funeral and it was on the news and so on. On the day the workers came back to work, they found this poem in their e-mail that the deceased woman had sent on Friday before she left for home.

If tomorrow starts without me, And I'm not there to see,
If the sun should rise and find your eyes all filled with tears for me;
I wish so much you wouldn't cry the way you did today,
While thinking of the many things, We didn't get to say.
I know how much you love me, As much as I love you,
And each time that you think of me, I know you'll miss me too;
But when tomorrow starts without me, Please try to understand,
that an angel came and called my name, And took me by the hand,
And said my place was ready, In heaven far above,
And that I'd have to leave behind all those I dearly love.
But as I turned to walk away, A tear fell from my eye,
For all my life, I'd always thought, I didn't want to die.
I had so much to live for, So much left yet to do,
it seemed almost impossible, that I was leaving you.
I thought of all the yesterdays, The good ones and the bad,
I thought of all that we shared, And all the fun we had..
If I could relive yesterday, Just even for a while,
I'd say good-bye and kiss you and maybe see you smile.
But then I fully realized, That this could never be,
For emptiness and memories, would take the place of me.
And when I thought of worldly things, I might miss some tomorrow,
I thought of you, and when I did, My heart was filled with sorrow.
But when I walked through heaven's gates, I felt so much at home.
When God looked down and smiled at me, From His great golden throne,
He said, 'This is eternity, And all I've promised you.'
Today your life on earth is past, but here life starts anew.
I promise no tomorrow, But today will always last,
and since each day is the same way, There's no longing for the past.
So when tomorrow starts without me, don't think we're far apart,
For every time you think of me, I'm right here, in your heart '

Guess What I Did Today?

The day before yesterday while I was riding home from work my bike started sputtering and then stalled when I was stopped at a red light. After about two seconds I realized I was probably low on fuel so I switched over to my reserve. No biggie, I was actually pretty excited that I figured it out so quickly.
This morning I wanted to ride to work, but I wasn't really sure how far I could go on reserve. I looked in my owner's manual to see if it said, but I couldn't find anything about it. So, I knew I should just go get gas. Now for the crazy part. I've had my bike for 5 months and I've never put gas in it by myself. Sounds stupid, but every time I've gotten gas Dave has been with me, and being the gentleman that he is, he always pumped the gas for me.
Since Dave was at work, and I really wanted to ride, I figured today was a good day to grow up and pump my own gas. I rode over to the gas station, and thankfully it wasn't busy. I pulled right up and put some fuel in my baby. It really isn't a big deal, I know, but I was worried I would end up spilling gas all over the place. I didn't, not one single drop.
Since I made the gas detour I had to take a different route to work, which is always exciting. I was driving past the police station which has parking stalls in front, and I see this big black SUV with her reverse lights on, and she starts backing out right as I'm getting next to her bumper. In one movement, I honked my horn and swerved to avoid her. As I pull by she looks at me like she can't figure out why I'm honking at her. I just shake my head and ride away. Normally I would've saluted her and cursed loud enough for her to get my point. But today it just didn't seem important. She didn't see me, I was able to avoid her, and it was all good.
I have been riding to work every day and I'm so happy. I almost feel guilty because I actually live close enough that I could walk, but I'd rather ride my bike. Besides, I walk enough at work. When I ride to work, I get there feeling happy and accomplished. It's just the perfect way to start and finish the work day.
Anyways, that's all. I just wanted to share my little accomplishment of the day. I hope that all of you who are able to ride these days are enjoying it as much as I am, and for those of you who can't ride right now, I hope you are all enjoying the other pleasures in your life.

It Just Isn't Gonna Happen

I came to a sad realization today. As much as I have tried to stay in denial about the situation, it is time to face the cold hard facts........Dave & I will not be able to go to Sturgis this year.
I'm really bummed, but there is just no way it will work out. We can't afford it plain and simple. Besides the expenses of the trip, neither of us get paid vacations, so to take off for two weeks and not get paid would just put us in an even worse position than we are in now.
Dave just read this over my shoulder and said, "There's still hope, don't give up on the dream! You can't post this yet!"
Sorry babe, unless we win the lotto, this year is out! :(

My (kindof) New Job

Yesterday I started a new job, that is actually kind of an old job. Some of you may remember that I mentioned one of my old bosses sent me an email asking if I would like to come back to work for her. She owns a restaurant/brewery that she and her husband opened up about seven years ago. I started with them on day one when they opened.
I started out as a server, and I loved it! After a little while of serving they promoted me to a management position and entrusted me with their 'baby' while they would go on vacations or just take much needed time off.
I worked there for about four years and then finally made the decision to leave. The only reason I left was because I was working a lot of nights and weekends and it was getting too hard on me being away from Riley. I felt terribly guilty that he would go to school all day and then daycare at night. So I left and pursued other avenues that until recently made me very happy.
My new position with them is a server/management position, but it is a little bit different than what I was doing before. It is only four days a week, no nights, and no weekends. I will be waiting tables, which I love! I love being able to meet and mingle with the customers, and I've always made good money doing it. In addition I will be supervising the other servers, doing scheduling, and I will be the contact person for anyone who has complaints, questions, or needs to set up banquets (which we do quite a bit of). The really cool thing is that I will get paid a higher hourly rate to do the extra duties, but I still get tips from waiting. So even though it's only four days a week I will be making more than I was at my previous job. There aren't benefits, but sometimes you can't have it all.
I'm very excited about it all, and it felt so good to be back there. Oh, and one more thing......it isn't very far from my house, so I will be riding to work everyday that I can!

Saturday Ride With Biker Chick

*Disclaimer* If this seems rushed and confused, it's because I had to hurry and get this post up because some dumb bastard already put up a link sending people over here!

For those of you who read Biker Chickz Blog you probably know that she recently moved to Santa Cruz. What you may or may not know is that she now lives less than an hour from Me, Dave, Willy D. and Carol.

We have all been anxious to meet up and Saturday was finally the day. Becky wanted to check out Dave's shop so she said she would ride down and meet us here and then we could figure out the rest of the day.

Meeting Becky was like reconnecting with a friend who you haven't seen for awhile. She fit right in with our crazy crew. And for somebody to fit in right away with Dave and Willy D. could be considered a miracle!

We had some coffee and talked for a bit before hitting the road for a great ride on a perfect day.

We rode through Monterey into Pacific Grove. We stopped at Lover's Point in Pacific Grove and watched the waves hit the rocks. We hung out there until it got too hot (Sorry my snow struck friends). Then we continued along the road right next to the ocean. It was so beautiful! I love the smell of the ocean, and it smelt especially sweet that day.

After riding for a little while longer we stopped for lunch at McDonald's, and then headed back into Salinas to Dave's shop. We visited for a little bit and then decided that we would ride with Becky part of the way back up to Santa Cruz. Well....that was the plan, but Dave kept going all the way to Santa Cruz. I'm not complaining, it was great. I had a new experience on the highway with traffic stopping in front of us.......I didn't freak out too much. When we turned off at Becky's exit she went her way home and we turned around and headed home. I got to ride in the dark for a bit, which of course I loved!

It was a great day. I enjoyed getting to meet Becky and look forward to more rides together. Also it was the most comfortable I've felt riding overall. It's feeling more natural now and I just enjoy it more and more every time I ride.

Oh, and if you're wondering why there aren't any pics of Dave, it's funny, somehow when he gave me the pictures off his camera the ones I took of him were conveniently missing. But I'm sure Becky got some!