My Life on the road | Peaches Prattlings

{August 27, 2026} Day 4: 298.7 Miles, 1 Rainstorm, We made it!

It’s Day 4, we’re heading from La Junta, CO to Durango, CO for the ‘start’ of the trip! I know that might sound a little odd, but the first four days was to get us to a destination, kind of like the back end of the trip. Durango is where we’re going to start finding those roads that have the twists and turns, the roads that will challenge us, maybe because of a fear of heights, maybe having to execute technial riding skills, speed, you name it, whatever it is to you, it’s an adventure.

We were at a Hampton Inn, they always have a decent breakfast, meet at the bikes at 7a, load up, have breakfast, and KSU between 730a and 8am. I try to take pics of the bikes each morning, sometimes the sun hits the bikes just right, don’t you agree?! And if angle it just right, you can’t see the dirt! ha ha! One of the things we do, not every day, is try to clean off the bikes, at least get the bugs off the windshield/windscreen!

Get on the bikes, we have about 300 miles to go, a short day. I know, some people are thinking, 300 miles on a bike, no thanks, I don’t even want to go 300 miles in a car! fair point, but we’ve got a goal! I don’t know if I already said, but some days are going to be just about 200 miles, some days 300, some 400-500 miles. The crazier part, some of the days are going to be anywhere from 4 to 6 to 8, 10, even 12 hours. You read that right! We may only go 350 miles, but it will likely take more than 8 hours, another day might be 200 miles and take 5 hours, it all depends on the road, how technical it is, the twists, turns, switch backs involved, that’s one of the great things about being on a motorcycle!

I also just realized you might not know some motorcycle terminology! Switchbacks are sharp, zig-zagging u-turns or hairpin corners, I think it’s exactly what you’re thinking it is after that! usually on mountain roads and they take concentration, skill, and technical knowledge and ability. You don’t start off knowing how to do it, someone might tell you how to do it, you learn as you go, sometimes it’s instinct and you just know what to do, you do get there in the end. The most important thing I was ever taught and it’s a mantra I use sometimes “Trust the bike, trust the bike.” It doesn’t get any more straight than that. The bike is going where you point it, and similar to skiing, it goes where you’re looking! When you’re behind the wheel of a car, do you trust the car? You bet you do, trust the bike! The really funny thing, and PSM will tell you… I love the switchbacks and hairpin turns, let me loose on those mountain roads…put me on my own driveway or in a gas station parking lot and I am scared out of my mind to make a u-turn! What’s easy is hard to me and what’s hard is easy to me! Go figure!

Moving on…We have to get to Durango, CO this afternoon! Since we were there a few years ago, DJH and I knew where we were going for dinner! There were some great roads and we were making good time, we pulled into the last stop for gas before we got to Durango and what happened… the sky opened up. Actually, it had started to rain a little just before we got to the gas station, unfortunately, there wasn’t a place for us to stop and put on rain gear. So… we got gas, didn’t think it was going to be too bad, so just put on our rain jackets, to be honest, my upper half wasn’t too wet, my legs were already wet, I did not want to have to put on my rain pants over my wet pants, and we weren’t that far from the hotel, so…you can guess what happened.

Now, MB had been having a few issues with his bike that day and was concerned, the good thing was that we were heading to Durango and we were very familiar with Durango Harley Davidson. When we did our 3-week trip in 2023, some of the folks had been riding for a few weeks so they scheduled a service at the dealership. I had called earlier to see if they might be able to help MB out, and they were nice enough to try to fit him in to at least look at the bike, and VGT thought he might need a tire, lucky we were heading in that direction!

As we were riding, the rain came down harder and harder, always fun! So… needless to say, we were a little drippy when we got there. Take a look at my waterproof riding boots! Yeah… I didn’t bring my waterproof socks because I didn’t think I needed them since I had these waterproof boots.

While MB and VGT were working with the service team, DJH and I headed to the Junction Hotel & Hostel. We stayed in the hotel part, as youthful as I feel, I’m happy sharing a room with just my husband and a friend and no bunk beds, thanks! We unloaded the bikes, rung out our clothes, hung everything to hopefully dry by the morning, and took showers to warm up and dry off! While I called PSM, DJH called home to talk to the family.

When VGT got to the hotel, we reconvened, I ordered an Uber to take us to Steamworks Brewing Company. DJH, PSM, and I had been there in 2023, we were looking forward to going again! MB wasn’t back from the dealership yet, we were waiting on him. We didn’t have a reservation, put our names on the list and hoped to get a table, the place was jam packed for a Thursday! I struck up a conversation with a woman at the bar, who had her name on the reservation list and said we could take their spots at the bar when their name came up, score!

By the time MB showed up, it wasn’t great news, unfortunately, there were a few issues, I wish I could remember exactly what they were, but the bottom was…his bike was staying in Durango until it was fixed and MB was going home tomorrow. Definitely not happy news and not what we were hoping for. He didn’t know when the bike would be done, so he wouldn’t be able to ship his bike to one of our stops, so… he arranged for the bike to be shipped home when it was done and he booked a flight back to Boston for the next day. Bummer.

We squeezed in, sat down, relaxed, ordered food and drinks, I ordered an amaretto on the rocks, and if you know me, you know I’m not really a drinker, I might have one or two a year, and it takes me several hours to finish one! I really only drink when I’m pretending to be an adult! lol We chatted with the people to our left and the people to our right. Everyone we talked to couldn’t believe the trip we were about to do, or that we had ridden our bikes from MA and PA! By the time we were ready to head back to the hotel, MB’s spirits were lifted a little, as much as we could under the circumstances.

We also got a recommendation for breakfast, the Durango Diner, and ordering The Cure is a must! We looked it up and after DJH read what it was, he went to sleep saying “The Cure”, dreamt “The Cure”, and woke up saying “The Cure”. Guess where we’re going to breakfast! Uber back to the hotel, meet at the bikes at 7a, head to breakfast, then hit the road!

Thinking I’m going to leave the post here today, can’t wait to tell you about tomorrow’s ride from Durango, CO to Grand Junction, CO, via the Million Dollar Highway and Silverton, CO! So much to tell and what a ride!

Day 4: 298.7 miles, sunny skies, got warm fast, rain storm, rain in my boots. Tomorrow…Grand Junction!

{August 26, 2026} Day 2: 351 Miles, 4 States, Hello Kansas! Day 3: 494 Miles, 2 States, Hello Colorado!

Day 2: KSU [don’t forget, that’s kick stands up! and I’ll remind you a few more times, and then you’re on your own!] 7a. We were very done with this hotel, it was time to get going!

We packed up the bikes and we were off, first stop… gas, we didn’t get a chance when we got to the hotel because it was raining and we were done. We try to get gas just before we get to the hotel so we don’t have to think about it in the morning, we can just get up and go.

We decided to get on the road and stop for breakfast somewhere on the road. We rode for almost 2 hours, about 140 miles. We took I-70W, crossed into Illinois, you may have noticed that I have screenshots from when we cross a state line, it’s dorky, but it’s something I enjoy trying to catch. I love the icons they use for each state and I just found a site that has all of them!

We were looking for a place to eat and get gas, first order of business…gas, then food. There was a sign on the highway about the world’s largest golf tee in Casey, Illinois, we were SO close, but didn’t go to see it, but…we did pass by the Giant Antlers in Casey, Illinois! One of these days we’re going to visit every silly world’s largest things! Did I tell you a few years ago, when we lived in Missouri, we went to see the world’s largets bottle of Catsup?! It’s actually a water tower, but who cares! It was sooo cool!

Not finding food at that exit, we got back on the highway, found a gas station, then I got a text from DJH, he was at Niemerg’s Steak House in Effingham, IL, holding a table for us! Sounds good! The joint was jumpin’! We had a good breakfast, made up for the crappy evening we had, we are off to a good start!

After breakfast, we got back on the bikes and headed towards Kansas, riding through Missouri. As we were riding, we were passing a lot of the places PSM and I had spent time in while we lived in Missouri, it was bringing back such good memories, we really did enjoy our time there, we made the most of what Covid tried to shut down, we didn’t let that stop us! We stopped for gas near where PSM was headed for the week and here we said see ya, So long. Farewell. Auf wiedersehen. Aloha. Did that sound a little like the Sound of Music, you’re welcome! But sadly…we had to say see you soon to PSM, got back on the bikes, we headed towards Kansas and he was…. let’s just say… outta there!

A few hours later we crossed into Kansas and about 4p we were at the Ramada Topeka Downtown. It was a decent hotel, it reminded me a little of an Embassy Suites, where the rooms open over the center courtyard of the hotel. We got to our rooms, explored a little, ended up in the basement and when we got off the elevator, this statue scared the you-know-what out of DJH and I! At first it really looked like a person! I went to take a picture with it, pretending to sit on its lap and the entire top half moved, no thanks!

We got settled into the rooms, DJH and I took advantage of the pool and hot tub, some took a nap, then showers, I ordered an Uber, we were NOT getting back on the bikes! Let’s just say, when we got to our hotels, if we didn’t eat at the hotel, unless the restaurant was less than a 5 minute walk, it was Uber or taxi for us! It was the start of steaks, steaks, and more steaks! Not for me, no, but the fellas! There would be a lot of steaks on this trip! We went to The Weather Room, for dinner, the guys had steaks, and I had a really good strawberry and spinache salad, not as good as my mom’s but good! and grilled asparagus, I was very happy!

Then it was call an Uber, head back to the hotel for some well deserved R&R! The people in Topeka were very nice, both of our Uber drivers, the wait staff at the restaurant, the hotel staff, but downtown Topeka, there was a lot of construction happening, but not much else, unfortunately. It looked like it would be a nice city to explore, when they finish renovating.

Day 2: 351 Miles, Sunny Skies!

Day 3: Meet at the bikes at 7a, load the bikes, grab some breakfast, then take off by 8a. The woman at the front desk when we checked in, very nice, raved about the breakfast, we think she over sold it! But…we had some food, then it was KSU at 8a, we were heading to LaJunta, Colorado.

One of our stops, about lunch time, was in Hayes, KS. While I was pumping gas, a woman at the next pump started asking me questions about my bike and riding, she was about my height, and I let her sit on my bike to get a feel for it. She was very nice, she actually approached me and said “This might be creepy, but you’re about my height and that’s a big bike! could I ask you some questions?” Of course! We chatted for a while, her husband is 6’3 and rides a much bigger bike, she’s interested in learning and she showed me the bike she was looking to buy for a first bike, a very good choice!

We chatted for a few more minutes and she gave us a recommendation for lunch, Thirsty’s Grill and Pub, that’s where she was going! sounds good. We went and it did not disappoint! In the waiting area to the side, they had a red pickup truck, kids version, of course we had to pile into it! I tried to get in, I was able to get my head in, that’s all, so we piled on the truck bed! We got a table, and it was an eclectic place. Sports bar, lots of tvs, KS Chiefs memorabelia, astroturf looking floor, a stage with a piano, then decorated like a beach hut, driving scenes painted on the wall, and Marilyn Monroe. While we were there, I saw the woman from the gas station, we greeted each other like old friends! The food was as good as she said!

Back on the bikes and a few hours later, we crossed into Colorado! I was home! Some amazing winding roads we were on, DJH knows how to make what could be a boring road more fun. We stopped for gas and finally made it to the Hampton Inn La Junta. Unfortunately, the pool was not available, they were having some issues, no worries, cool showers for us! Then regroup and walk across the parking lot to Felicia’s Mexican Restaurant. The service was good, food was good, wait staff friendly, what more could you want?! Back to the hotel to crash and do it all again tomorrow!

Do you know those videos ‘tell me you xx without telling me you xx’? Well…look at my picture “Tell me you ride a motorcycle without telling me you ride a motorcycle!” This was just Day 3, more to come!

Day 3: 494 Miles, Sunny Skies, Hot Wind, Hot Weather, and it’s only getting hotter!

Tomorrow… Durango…then the real fun begins! G’night!

{August 25, 2026} 4 Weeks… 11 Thousand Miles… 2 Countries… 12 States… 29 Hotels… 8+ National Parks… 20+ National Forests… Countless Challenging Roads… Great Heights… Amazing Views… Outrageous Temperatures… A Trip of a Lifetime… Ready?… Let’s Go!

Yes, you read that right…the trip of a lifetime! Did we do all those things? Yes we did! Did we plan it all? Yes we did! Was it for everybody? Those that could go… Yes!

It all started almost 2 years ago, DJH mentioned a trip he wanted to take, and knowing him, we knew it would be epic! After all, we did a three week motorcycle trip together 3 years ago. After a lot of back and forth, DJH and his wife, MH came to spend a weekend with us last September, we had a great time, riding, hanging out, exploring, and… while MH and I hung out, PSM connected his laptop to our 30+” tv, then he and DJH planned our route.

The plan was a trip out West and beyond. They had both been to quite a few national parks and national forests and had an idea of where they wanted to go. PSM had been to British Columbia for a work trip shortly before then and knew exactly where he wanted to go. So… they put their heads together and came up with a game plan. Where to start, how to get there, which roads might be the most fun, which states, cities, national parks, forests, rivers, and streams we should visit, how to get the best bang for your buck. We had a plan.

DJH then went and planned the actual routes we would take, approximate mileage we would put on our bikes each day to get to the next destination. The three of us got on a call and started talking logistics. On the 3 week trip a few years ago, DJH and I would coordinate every day, what time were we meeting at the bikes, what time was kick stands up [KSU], I would text the group that information, then I would find a place for dinner each night. They started calling me Julie McCoy! You know… Cruise Director for that amazing sitcom from 1977-1987, The Love Boat, you’re welcome for the ear worm! So… now you have an idea of my role in this cast of characters!

That being said…PSM, DJH, and I got on a call and looked at all the places we would be staying and my job…find and book hotels for 6 people. Yes, you heard that right, find and book hotels for 6 people for a 4 week trip! Ok, well…we started with 6, ended with 4 and I’ll get to that, but… I went on Hotels.com, Hilton.com, and some one-off independent hotels and ended up booking 27 hotels for the trip, yes I know the title says 29, but I’ll get to that as well, later. That only took me 5 hours! And yes, I am in the process of working on becoming a certified travel advisor, after all of that, I definitely need to! Important information: Did they have laundry facilities, a pool [very important!!], did they offer breakfast, free parking?

Unfortunately, after I had booked a lot of the rooms, LGD had to drop out, so I had to cancel all of his reservations, DJH, PSM, and I were sharing a room, MB and VGT were in their own rooms. I had contact and credit card information for them, so off I booked!

I also did research into where we would go for dinner each night, I had to make sure it was something everyone might want and somewhere I could eat. During that 3 week trip, I didn’t have as many options as I would have liked, but I have to tell you, this trip, except for a few meals, we all ate really well! Yes, I’ll get to those too! You know my style!

We had the destinations, we had the routes, the sites, now we needed the people. The message went out to the usual suspects, who might be interested, unfortunately, even if someone is interested, they might not have the time to be away for that long. LGD, MB, VGT, and DJH…all retired, lucky bucks! PSM and I… vacation, so… 4 weeks for them, 3 weeks for us. Three weeks is nothing to laugh at! I was definitely ready for another grand adventure! And some of those amazing roads we took before, we were going to do them again!

I had ridden with all of them except VGT, PSM had ridden with him before, I was excited to get to ride with everyone again! We had a call towards the end of June, for me to ‘meet VGT’, see everyone, go over last minute details, and to talk about equipment and any tools we might be taking, such as air compressors, tire repair kits, first aid kits, gas transfering kit, and other essentials, so that we wouldn’t all have to carry everything for ourselves, since we would be together. During this conversation, while we’re talking about getting our bikes serviced and how excited we all were, they were talking about being retired and I said ‘I’m unemployed!’ It had literally just happened on Monday, this was a Thursday. PSM looked at me and said… ‘why don’t you go with them for the full trip!’ What?! I hadn’t thought about it. Mostly because I had just become a free agent, it didn’t occur to me!

The original plan…The 3 guys would come in from Massachusettes on Friday, they would take off and PSM and I would get our bikes serviced on Saturday, PSM and I would take off from the dealership and head to St Louis so he could work for the week, then we would head out and meet them the following Sunday in West Yellowstone. Change of plans, slightly. We changed the service date for the bikes to Friday, the guys came in from MA on Friday, we met for dinner, hung out at the house, then I took MB and VGT to their hotel, DJH crashed at our place.

Saturday morning, took the pups to camp at Glamorous K9s, I picked the guys up, we loaded the bikes, went to breakfast, and then we were off. One thing I noticed as we were taking off, my bike hit 25k miles!!! So…every day I took a pic of my mileage and I’ll share all of that with you. The game plan…ride 100-150+ miles, and that all depended on elevation how far a tank would get us, stop for gas, hydrate, get the wiggles out, and back on the road.

First stop for the night…Indianapolis, along the way, West Virgina, Ohio, where we hit a wonderul rainstorm, had to pull over and put on our rain gear. We were so wet, I took off my jeans and just wore my rain gear, my waterproof boots, not so much! First major tourist destination…Huber, OH Buc-ee’s! Yes, I finally got to a Buc-ee’s and wow, that’s all I can say, wow!

Wait… did I tell you what I packed for the trip? I don’t think I did. Ok, this is not everyone’s cup of tea, and as you can see, Eunice is only carrying this one bag! In said bag: 4 short sleeve t-shirts, 2 long sleeve t-shirts, 2 pairs of jeans, 1 long sleeve flannel, 1 pair of pjs, 4 pairs of socks, 8 pairs of bloomers, one pair of shorts, one pair of sandals, one pair of very light shoes, one small toiletry kit, my Indian Motorcycle sweatshirt, my MS Surface Laptop, Samsung Tablet, and charging cables, 15 laundry sheets, and that’s it. In the saddle bag on the right is my rain gear [rain pants, rain jacket] and cover for my bag. In the left saddle bag is a very light sweatshirt, one long sleeve flannel shirt, deck of cards, snacks, extra batteries. And that is it!

Back to Day 1. We rode through a crazy rainstorm in Ohio, it stopped just as we got to Buc-ee’s, we gassed up, we got some snacks, saw what all the fuss was about, and then got back on the road. Next stop was Indianapolis, Indiana, at a hotel we are not going to name. One of the rooms had been canceled because the hotel overbooked, but told me that Hotels.com had overbooked, it went back and forth. There was a cheerleading competition in town and that’s why it was so crazy busy. Our waitress at breakfast told us she was going to be going to Indianapolis for the competition herself on Sunday, what are the odds!

We got to the hotel, one of the rooms was not available, we were soaked, all the restaurants were closed. What else was going to go wrong? We got into our rooms…finally, the room PSM, DJH, and I were in…only one bed. Got them to give us a cot… it was more comfortable to put the mattress on the floor! We were wet, tired, hungry, so we put our clothes togehter in a dryer and I ordered pizza, it was something…

We decided on KSU, remember, that’s Kick-Stands Up at 730a, we look at when sunrise is and take off as the sun is coming up, but we aren’t in danger of encountering any wildlife. We also couldn’t wait to get out of this hotel, the front desk staff was great, the hotel, not so much! We headed into the sunrise, ha ha, for Day 2 on our way to Kansas. First stop…petrol, then breakfast.

Ok, I think that’s enough for the buildup to Day 1, don’t you? I’m going to post this, then tell you about the next few days in my next post. I haven’t decided if, after we get to Durango for the ‘start of the trip’ I’m going to group the days together, I’ll figure that as I go, but as always…I’ll take you for the ride! I cannot wait to share all that we did and saw, it was amazing! I’ll include our routes, Go-Pro footage, milestone, highs, lows, excitement, terror, triumph, victory, the thrills, the chills, no spills!

Something that’s going to be a little different…I’m going to keep using initials for people’s names, but you’re going to see faces, I know, crazy, right?! We had too many amazing adventures, saw so many wonderful sights, and took pictures in front of some iconic places, how could I not share?! In case you were wondering…now you know what I look like!

Day 1: 4 States, 577.4 miles, 1 rain storm.

Ok friends, here we go! I don’t know about you, but I’ve missed you and I’m so excited to be back! And what a story do I have for you! Ready… set… go!

{January 2, 2026} What a trip! What a year!

Oh, my friends, so much has happened since we last spoke! But where do I begin?!

There were motorcycle trips, family trips, father-daughter trips, local trips, international trips, auntie-niece trips, friend trips, cross country trips, graduations, birthday milestones, college, vow renewal, oh my! We met new people, reconnected with old friends [notice I didn’t say old people!], put some miles on the vehicles, retired other vehicles, dreamed, worked, didn’t work, worked again, all within the span of 365 days. That’s a year, right? We all know math isn’t my strong suit, but I do know that much.

I’m going to tell you some stories of travel, of milestones, but that will take time and I want to jump right in, so… I’ll give you one or two milestones per month and then I’ll tell you more as the year goes on, sound fair?

January 2025: PSM and I spent the last year of 2024 and the first week of 2025 in Hawai’i. GES, ACS, MGS, and EMS joined us on the Big Island for a week, we got to see Mauna Loa erupting, toured Volcano National Park, swam with manta rays, we rang in the new year riding motorcycles up some challenging roads, and before we left, did some stargazing at the Mauna Kea observatory, before biding farewell again to our beloved Hawai’i. ACS turned 54, I always say he’s my older younger brother!

February 2025: I drove to Atlanta to participate in the Hot Chocolate 15k again, and each year I say I’m not going to do it again, and what did I do? Signed up for 2026! I got to visit with some friends and family in Atlanta and on my drive there and back. We took a family trip to NYC with dad, GES, ACS, EMS, and MGS, went to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, walked through Central Park, went to a revival of Chiacgo, attended a memorial for a beloved family member. End of February, PSM got a new motorcyle.

March 2025: EMS turned 18! O M G!!! What a celebration! Where does the time go?! We explored Strasburg and discovered so much about the railrold and Pennsylvania’s impact! We even participated in a murder mystery train ride! We rode our bikes to Gettysburg and went to the National Military Park Museum, what an experience! And… they had air conditioning! That may have been the best part! PSM took said new motorcycle to Daytona Bike Week.

April 2025: SDL, Miss A, and I went to Amsterdam to celebrate Miss A’s 15th birthday! What a trip that was! The day I left for Amsterdam was my last day with IBX, I was a free woman! Came home in time to celebrate Passover with the family in Boston. While I looked for a job, I took the dogs for lots of walks at the Reading Arboretum, even got to take some friends with us! Spring was just beginning! We drove our two beetles to Volkfest, VWs for miles! We participated in a Biker Blessing with the Lebanon Valley Motorcycle Club. Not to mention trying new restaurants and distilleries here and there, but that’s every month!

May 2025: MGS turned 15! Just wow! Another great celebration! Dad and I flew to Edinburgh, Scotland to meet GES there for our first father-daughters trip! Dad even got to hang with the pilots on the way back! I finally got to pet a Scottish Highland COOOO!!! We toured Edinburgh and Glasgow, what an AMAZING trip! So amazing, we decided we needed to do another father-daughters trip again in 2026! I’ll keep you posted! We did a ladies carnival motorcycle ride with friends, a memorial day ride to the National Cemetary, then we had one of our trees cut down in our backyard. Went to Boston to…help throw my BABY sister a 50th, yes, I say BABY SISTER FIFTIEITH birthday party! That’s a WOW! And boy was she surprised! The same weekend, we took pictures with MGS after she got ready for THE PROM!

June 2025: Rode my motorcycle to Boston, first solo trip on a motorcycle that far! MUCH to celebrate! MGS graduated high school! We had a graduation party for said graduate! We got to celebrate my sister’s 50th birthday! I got to hug and kiss her on the date of her birth, and remember when we brought her home from the hospital in 1975! Then I got on my bike and rode home in the rain, as soon as I got to New Jersey, the sky cleared up, go figure! We had a new roof put on ourhouse, part of the reason we had to remove the tree in May. A classic car show and more motorcycle rides. Towards the end of June, we drove to Boston to surprise our friend’s son-in-law who was being deployed, it was great to spend time with friends and family, on the way back, we stopped at Tree House Brewing Company to bring some goodies back to one of the guys at Hernley’s Indian Motorcycle.

July 2025: Did I mention one of the great things about being between gigs…being able to meet dad for lunch during the week, exploring new places to meet and eat! PSM had a birthday, not telling you any more about that! I rode to spend a weekend with CWB, then rode my bike in the blistering heat, no thank you, then I rode into Manhattan to see Jinx Monsoon, one of my favorite drag queens, in The Pirates of Penzance, a show my grandmother took me to as a kid! And…I found vegan NY style pizza at Zillions Pizza! OMG! At home, we had our 4th bay cemented and finished out the blacktop on the driveway. I also got to swim in our neighbor’s pool, loverly! And best of all, well, so much is great, but…July 31, 2025, just over 3 years since I bought Eunice, my 2022 Indian Super Chief Limited, she hit 20,000 miles!

August 2025: We rode to the Berkshires in Massachusettes to spend dad’s 83rd birthday with him! It was great! We went to the Normal Rockwell Museum, The Clark Art Institute, Ventforth Hall, Chesterwood, Tanglewood for a concert, The Red Lion Inn for his birthday dinner, the Berkshire Botanical Garden, Frelinghuysen Morris House & Studio, and Williams College of Art. We were only there only 5 days! At home, we had the entire area where the tree had been done over into a beautiful landscape. K&D N came to visit for a weekend, PSM got DN on the back of his bike and KN rode mine, first time DN had been on a bike in a long time, she enjoyed it and felt safe! Here’s hoping for a weekend trip! We rode up to Wellsboro, PA, the Grand Canyon of PA with the Lebanon Valley Motorcyle Group, got to walk on the Kinzua Creek Skywalk, wow! The last week of August, I drove with a friend I met recently at the park with her dog, Oscar, across country to help her move from PA to Shelton, WA. We loaded up the trailer, suv, the dog, and the cat, and we were off! We even got to celebrate her birthday when we got there! We became fast friends and travel companions, and I’m happy we’re still friends! And JM, our nephew, started veterinary school in St Kitts! Good luck to him! We’re coming to visit, promise!

September 2025: First weekend of September, PSM and I rode up to Jim Thorpe, PA with some friends and took the scenic railroad to see the fall folliage, it was stunning! Unforatunely, I got some heartbreaking news the same day, it was rough riding home and for a while after that. Second week of September, we rode with RC to Ocean City, MD for Bike Week. Great ride down and back, some fun rides in between, and RC’s son joined us for part of it. I got to put my feet in the ocean on many beaches, we went to Assateague State Park to see the beach and wild horses. We got back and went to the famous Hinklefest, then discovered a new place for dinner. PSM started a new position at Bayer! Wahoo! He’s going to be traveling from time to time! Our friends D & M came for a weekend and we did some riding, went up to Hawk Mountain and saw some amazing birds, took them on some fabulous back roads, truly spectacular. I snuck in an interview for a long term training gig. Towards the end of September, we went to Boston for the holidays, then a car show in Myerstown. Since we’re adding birthdays, I turned 54, seriously?!

October 2025: I drove to Boston for the holidays and the Jimmy Fund Walk. I got to see PSM’s family that were in for the holiday, split my time between my our families, I represented! While I was there, I got the call that I got the gig! I will now be commuting from Lebanon, PA to Long Island, NY! Got to see EMS play in a college futbol game, she was great! Did the Jimmy Fund Walk with ACS’ Pink Warriors, and found the placard that dad and I were quoted on! Went out one night before I left and celebrated September and October birthdays with my sister’s friends, they’ve adopted me! I started the new gig by spending a week in NYC watching some training classes. On the way home one Friday, I went to a celebration of life for a friend that I had lost, his birthday is coming up in February, smiling. PSM and I went to the Golden Age Air Museum and took a ride in a bi-plane! I am SO proud of him! His brother and s-i-l drove their RV to PA and we met them in Bethlehem for brunch and then we toured the National Museum of Industrial History. PSM got a new truck! She’s pretty!

November 2025: We started November off by dancing the night away at the LVMC Halloween Party! PSM had his runes read at The Drunken Smithey’s Faerie Fest, we had some of the absolute best pancakes we have ever had at The Brickerville House, then drove to New Hampshire for the week of Thanksgiving, enjoyed some snow, baked several mock apple pies, visited his uncles, spent part of Thanksgiving with his side and the other part with my side. We also got to see K&D N, we love spending time with them, even got to see one of their kids while we were ther, where does the time go?! PSM was traveling so I had the dogs with me in NY before we left for Thanksgiving, they kept me company, they were great in the car there and back. We’re not sure what happened on the way to NH, but it turns out Bee might not be great for long car rides anymore. They were definitely happy to be home!

December 2025: Back and forth to Long Island, some of my travel days were awful! 4 hours there, but 5-7 hours home, no thanks! All good, we worked out a decent travel schedule for me! The best part about going back and forth, I stop at dad’s on the way there or the way back home. Sometimes it’s for lunch or dinner, sometimes it’s just to say hello and get a hug, whatever it is, it’s worth it! GES & ACS celebrated 21 years of marriage, I can’t wait for them to see what we got them! It didn’t make it in time to send to them before we went on vacation, but dad is taking it to them this weekend! Speaking of leaving…PSM and I drove to a Doubletree near JFK on Friday, December 19th, and VERY early Saturday, December 20th, we started our annual 2 week end of year holiday in… Grenada! What an amazing trip that was! The weather, the sand, the surf, the ocean, the fish, the people, both the locals and our fellow vistors, and the food. I will tell you all about it, promise! We brought in the new year at the top of a hill and it was spectacular! Some of you who are reading this as we speak are new friends we made when we were in Grenada. The funniest question I got from someone…what’s in Grenada besides you two?! Well… I’m gonna tell you…but not tonight!

For now, I am going to sign off and grab a few winks, it’s late, I’m a little knackered, my fingers are a little sore from ‘talking’ so much! I have to tell you, I’m excited to be talking to you again and I look forward to a long, happy, and healthy relationship!

A Happy, Healthy, and Wonderful New Year to you my friends! May 2026 bring you all you hope for and more! Good night!

{January 30, 2025} Ten years ago today, my world changed

Absolutely for the better, best! Today I went out on a date with a new guy that I had only emailed with for a week. Who knew…that first date would become the longest first date ever! We’re still on it!

January 30, 2015, well, January 2015, was a crazy month in the world, the weather, friends, the weather! That was the year no one went to school, work, or flew on a Monday in January in Boston! They called it snowmaggeden! ‘Nearly 95 inches of that winter’s snow fell between Jan. 24 and Feb. 22, completely burying the previous snowfall record for a 30-day period, which had been just 58.8 inches. The unprecedented month included four consecutive weeks of storms that dropped between 16 and 24 inches’.

I happened to be living with my sister’s family at that time, it was after I left Denver, before I got a place of my own in Boston. I know I’ve told you some of this story, but I’m going to tell you again, and more, maybe! My sister and her friend AT, who I knew, were talking and since everyone I knew in Boston, except for one friend from high school, were my sister’s friends, they thought…PSM and I were both single and we might get along.

Let’s see…we both love to travel, ride motorcycles, computer geeks, love movies, and skiing. Yeah, that’s about right! So… they gave us the other one’s emails and I honestly don’t know who sent the first email, but it went from there! We made simple chit chat, then our emails grew, a little longer each time. I will say the first email I sent, I waited…and wondered…and after a few emails, it was like we’d known each other for a long time, even though we were still getting to know each other!

I think I told you we started sending each other pick up lines, but not just any pick up lines, I sent him science-y pick up lines, I knew he had a background in bio-chemistry, and I think I told you…I still don’t understand some of them! ha ha, and in turn, he sent me computer-y jokes, they were hysterical! Luckily, he’s a techie, really smart and actually understood some of them! ha ha

After a few emails we decided we would get together the following week, yup, we emailed for one week and went on our first date, he came up with six ideas for a first date, what guy does that?! My fella, that’s who! We decided on an Irish pub, I had just gotten back from Ireland a few weeks prior, so that would be perfect!

He picked me up from my sister’s house, he came to the door and held my arm to get to his vehicle, made sure I didn’t fall or slip on the ice, held my door open, and away we went. We talked, laughed, got to know each other, and ended up closing the pub down, now…that’s a good first date if I do say so myself.

He took me back to my sister’s house, we were remiss to end the date, but it was late and I think one or both of us had something going on in the morning. We said goodnight with the promise to talk tomorrow. And we did, we talked, we texted, we talked, we texted. Oh! I forgot! During our first date…I told him there was a murder mystery dinner theater happening at my sister’s synagogue, which was not far from her house, and would he like to go with me? I know you know he said yes!

The murder mystery dinner was the following Saturday, he met me there and…he was wearing a suit! LOVE that!!! Oh, and get this…at one time in his life, he actually lived up the street from where my sister lives and…he used to go to the synagogue my sister’s family belongs to and where the murder mystery dinner was!

After the show, he and I went to a local pub to continue talking and getting to know each other and at some point I said…”so, when are you taking me skiing?” And his response…funny you should ask me that, I was going to see if you wanted to go next weekend?! How could I refuse such an offer?!

So…we talked and texted throughout the week and Friday came…it was Valentine’s Day weekend, and guess what was delivered…a dozen red roses, yes indeed! I was touched and felt a little spoiled! Let’s just say…when the women in the friend group found out…the guys started calling, not his fault he was making them look bad! ha ha!

He picked me up on Friday and we drove to his house in New Hampshire, I’ve told you about the ski house before. So it was PSM, his dog Mollie, and me. He did tell me not to wear black, great…everything I have under my ski gear and apres-ski…black! Mollie was a big white dog…go figure!

So…we went to New Hampshire, we skied, we apres-skied, hung out, got to know each other and we’ve been together ever since. You’ve been with us on this journey, on some of our trips, the good, the silly, the adventurous, and who knows what the future holds, but…

here it is January 30, 2025, ten years, how many trips and countries, three home states, three dogs, several motorcycles later and we are still going strong. I cannot wait to see what the future holds for us, but you know I’ll be sharing it with you!

We try to wish each other happy anniversary on the 30th of every month, well, not February, of course…but I just want to say…happy anniversary PSM, I love you. Here’s to our 10th year of dating, looking forward to the next ten, and the next!

{June 14, 2024} Au Revoir Nova Scotia…Bonjour New Brunswick!

Wow, we’re coming up on the last two days of our trip! How does that happen? It feels like just yesterday we were loading up the bikes, hitting the road and meeting a rainstorm in NY. Well…here we are Day 8, if we’re talking the start of the trip in Vermont/New Hampshire, or Day 9, the day we started out, well…either way, we’re still here in Tatamagouche, well, at least for breakfast!

PSM and I were up early, go figure…so, we got dressed and decided to walk…the 800 meters into town, yes, you heard right, the 800 meters into town. I am so looking forward to getting back to the states, I can do feet and miles, I’m terrible at meters and kilometers! The only conversions I can do is 5k [3.1 miles], 10k [6.2 miles], 15k [9.1 miles], and do you know why… those are all race lengths I have participated in! After that, I’m done! ha ha

Well…PSM and I took a lovely walk into town, and along the way we did see the strangest thing…a house on stilts…yup, you heard right, a house on stilts…they were raising it up from the basement. When one of the guys saw me taking a pic, he said “yeah, never thought I’d see that ever either!” interesting…It really was a lovely little walk, started off on the cooler side and very quickly heated up, yeah, we made it to the brewery in about 5 minutes and quickly turned around and went back to the hotel!

Since it was still early, we got a cup of coffee for PSM and a chai latte for me, and an oat bar and a strawberry/rhubarb bar, y u m! We relaxed a bit, then had one last stroll around the place while we waited for everyone else to get up. I really loved this hotel, so serene and peaceful!

We loaded up the bikes, headed to the Chowder House in downtown Tatamagouche, not a very long trip to get there. The place is a favorite with locals, the food was ok, what they got right, and it was open, the best part! Our bodies were fueled, then we headed out of town, stopped at the petrol station to fuel our bikes, then we were on our way!

We had a lovely ride along some wonderful long and winding roads, stopping once in a while to look at the view. Our goal for the next big stop was the Bay of Fundy. Per Google ‘The Bay of Fundy lies between Canada’s Nova Scotia and New Brunswick provinces, and touches the U.S. state of Maine. It’s known for extremely high tides, as at spots like New Brunswick’s Hopewell Rocks. These eroded “flowerpot” formations stand in water or on dry land, depending on the time of day.’

When PSM and I first met, I asked him what he wanted to do for his birthday weekend, he wanted to go to The Bay of Fundy…did I know what that was? Of course not! But we were going…we took the ferry from Portland, ME to Yarmouth, NS, same place we docked this time, but the last time, we went up to Hull’s Harbor, part of the Bay of Fundy, so we could see the tidal pools and walk out on the ocean floor. Ah-Mazing!!!

This time, where we stopped…the computers all went down, so we couldn’t get in. All good, almost the entire ride we were riding along the Bay of Fundy…you just had to look to your right and it was dry where it should have been wet! Stunning!

We pulled over for petrol and to use the facilities and MMH and I were wearing short sleeves and we were loving life. Somewhere on the ride, after we crossed the province line into New Brunswick, someone turned off the heat and cranked the AC! What?! We were ffffrrrreeeezing! I had goose bumps on my goose bumps! It was crazy!

I was SO very happy to see the hotel! Never so happy! That sweatshirt came out quicker than you can say bonjour! We were now in St John, New Brunswick , Bienvenu, welcome! Merci beaucoup! We checked into the hotel, a few of us decided to go to the local Harley Davidson dealership, gotta get a t-shirt after all! We were mis-informed…it wasn’t a dealership, it was a motorcycle shop that had bikes and some gear, but not a Harley place. Back to the hotel we went!

CDH and MMH went off to meet family and that left PBP, PSM, LDL, and I. I found the Pub Down Under, it was literally down under the hotel, go figure! Away we went! It was close, we didn’t have to get back on the bikes and my sweatshirt was enough!

The place was packed, bikers and non-bikers alike, those coming off the Cabot Trail, those heading towards it. We had some food and drink, talked to other bikers, made some friends, and regaled each other with fun stories, just took it easy and talked about what time to get started in the AM, we were heading back to the U S of A.

Everyone went back to their rooms, I caught up with a few people, then I came upstairs to talk to you and now friends, I am finally warming up! I am going to get into bed and pretend to sleep, it’s time to ride home tomorrow, not sure how far we’re going to get, but we’ll be home by Sunday.

So to you I say… g’night!

{June 13, 2024} Tatamagouche… Here we come!

Baddeck, NS was fabulous, the Cabot Trail… stunning…the Cabot Trail Motel…relaxing…but it’s time to bid all that farewell…and where are we headed to? Why Tatamagouche, NS of course! Yeah, I hadn’t heard of it either, but now…love it! Come ride with us!

One last sunrise, in Baddeck, don’t get dramatic! and one last walk to the water from the Cabot Trail Motel, that view! We loaded up the bikes and headed into Baddeck for one last meal in this town.

We went to another place on my list, the High Wheeler Cafe & Bakery, it wasn’t open early enough yesterday…resort towns, I tell ya! What a charming and tasty place to have breakfast! Good bagels, made in house, and being from NYC, I am a bit of a bagel snob, I’m ok admitting it! I had a very good chai tea latte and also ordered some of their specialty cookies, oat cakes with peanut butter, covered in chocolate…someone in the line raved about them, so of course, we needed some! We had a lovely breakfast, good conversation, route discussions, looking at photos from the day before and then…it’s time to hit the road.

We ride for a bit on the Cabot Trail and then we are on other roads. It’s a beautiful day, we’ve got some sun, warmth, cool breezes, it feels great. After a few hundred miles, we are in Tatamagouche! Ok, now it’s toasty! but we are at our destination, the Tatamagouche Brewing Company, perfect! It’s an open space, very dog friendly, they have tables made from barrels from Glenora Distillery, how cool is that. They have drinks, food, stickers, and magnets, what more do you want?! We chat with other bikers hanging at the brewery and then it’s time to get back on the bikes for the very long 3 minute trek to the hotel!

We are staying at the Train Station Inn, rooms available May through October, it was meant to be! The 5th most unique hotel in the world really is! It was built in 1887, in 1950 it was a bustling hub, in 1974 Jimmie LeFresne saved the train station from demolition, he had loved the station as a kid, worked there when he got older and bought it in 1974, in 1989 the Train Station Inn opened and it’s still running today!

This place transports you when you roll onto the property, you’re at a train station, and we get to stay here?! I would say all the little touches, and there are, but it’s the bones that make it. The 9 train cars, the lounge car, and the dining car, the greenery, the garden, the signposts, every detail!

There are nine train cars you can stay in, some sleep 2, some sleep 4, some sleep 8, the options are endless! We were in Caboose #10, we had a living room with a fold-out sofa, a kitchenette, a loft area with a table, a decent sized bathroom, and an enormous bedroom with a king sized bed, I think it was actually California King! We rolled and rolled and rolled and never touched each other! ha ha, the bed was huge! I can’t wait to sleep in it tonight!

But it’s not time to get in bed, there is exploring to do! The cafe with breakfast, lunch, baked goods, and beverages, the gift shop, the train memorabilia, the outdoor bar and seating area, play area for the kids, everywhere you look there is a trinket or treat to grab your attention!

We met in the lounge/conservatory car, chatted for a bit about the day and the hotel, and tried our peanut butter-oat cake-chocolate goodness, they had melted in the saddle bag, go figure, but I had put them in the freezer so they were a treat! We also shared them with some kids who were in the lounge with us.

We were able to go into the dining car a little earlier than our reservation, and settled in for a treat! Drinks, starters, a wonderful salad with goat cheese and edible flowers for me, dessert, and great conversation with us and then the people sitting behind us, who were celebrating their friend getting married. It’s nice to talk to someone in your same age group who’s getting married, we don’t meet that many people in that situation, it was fun!

We left the dining car, everyone else went to the bar to get some drinks while it was still open, I went to the cafe and got myself an evening chai latte, and PBP went to get his tin of Left-Right-Center, we were in for a fun evening!

LCR, I know it’s Left-Right-Center, but when you abbreviate, it seems to work better for LCR! PSM and I learned to play last year on the bike trip, we haven’t played since, it’s a lot of fun! It’s a dice game, we played with $3 for each person, you roll the dice and follow what the outcome is. L > give the person on your left $1, R > give the person on your right $1, C > put $1 in the center pot and if you get a dot…you don’t have to do anything. Now… you might have nothing left and someone rolls the die and you end up with something!

We were having a great time! PSM and I both said we’ve never won and guess what… PSM won a round and O M G! I won 4 rounds! I couldn’t believe it! It was fun, when I won one round, if someone needed the $3 to start, I gave them the $3, then each round was like that, it was so goofy and when it was over, I won the pot! We can’t say we never win anymore! Looking forward to the next time!

And now friends…it’s been a very long day and tomorrow…we say adieu to Nova Scotia, leaving one province for another, New Brunswick, here we come! So to you, my friends, I say g’night!

{June 12, 2024} A Ride…A Giant Fiddle…A Pub…A Distillery… and some rain…

Today started out early…again…well, for me anyway, go figure! Another beautiful, but cold day, do you love the gator that CWB gave me?! It matches my hair perfectly, who knew! It was KSU [Kick Stands Up] at 9a, another day we don’t have to load up the bikes with more than just us! We decided to go to a place for breakfast in town that was open, these resort towns, they don’t always open early or stay open late, all good, relaxing…

We started our morning at Bean There Cafe, don’t you love the clever names of some of these places! This is a charming, unassuming, and welcoming0 cafe that offers coffee, tea, bagels, brunch, lunch, and a few other baked goods. We waited in line, ordered one by one, then took our drinks outside while we waited for our breakfast sandwiches.

As PBP and I were outside looking for a place to sit, there was a young guy who asked us if we were on the bikes down the street, yup. We’re the two guys who passed you yesterday! What?! These are the two idiots who passed us going waaayyyy tooooo fast yesterday, uphill, there are 5 of us on bikes, MMH was riding with CDH again today. They passed all 5 of us going at breakneck speed! I can tell you when we had gotten off the bikes at some point, we were talking about the two of them and how crazy they were!

Too funny! What are the odds! I had to call everyone to come outside because of these two guys, who were sitting with their family and their poor mom, she just hung her head because of what she was hearing about her sons! Not that she was too surprised! We chatted with them while we all ate breakfast, then took a photo and we went in one direction, and they went in another.

Next stop…Sydney, NS! Home to the world’s largest fiddle! Yes, you heard me, the world’s largest fiddle! I kid you not! And friends…it was HUGE! It’s called The Big Fiddle because the fiddle and bow reach 60 feet! Do you have a scope of how big that is?! Look up…now look up further…further…further…does your neck hurt? um, yeah, that might be enough…

We walked around, took pictures in front of the giant fiddle, in the giant chair, walked into some of the shops, got a magnet, of course! Did someone say lunch?

Why yes, yes they did! LDL, CDH, and MMH went to a local brewery, Breton Brewery, to check out their selection and production, and MMH got me a magnet!!! while PBP, PSM, and I went across to Governors Pub & Eatery, it was a good looking Irish Pub and they had…yup, PSM’s mother’s milk…Guinness, they even had alcohol-free or non-alcoholic Guinness, imagine that! I tasted it, I couldn’t tell the difference, it tasted just like fully loaded sludge to me! ha ha. PSM could tell the difference, but I’m not a drinker, so I couldn’t tell and PBP was happy, and that’s what matters! Non-alcoholic beverages sure have come a long way! When I was first introduced, it was O’Doul’s, now the list is endless, and here is a site I found with a list, called Proof No More!

We had good food and drink, I love a pub…I can get a pot of tea without being looked at funny! Well, funnier than usual! Kidding. We had good food, drink, and conversation, and left just in time as a few raindrops started to hit our heads, but we were not deterred.

We met everyone at a petrol station near by and then it was on to our next destination…a whiskey distillery that we would have a tour, tasting, and dinner. A triple threat, sounds like a plan! We went to Glenora Distillery, we had passed it yesterday and a few of us thought we were going to stop, you should have seen the look on PSM’s face when we passed by, but not to worry…when we got to dinner last night, MMH called and made a reservation for us.

This place, let me tell you…stun-ning! It’s not only a distillery, it’s a hotel/resort. We were all mesmerized by the grounds, perfectly manicured, the flora and fauna were beautiful, then we went inside, warm, inviting, and welcoming. I know inviting and welcoming could be the same thing, but not in this case, you wanted to be invited in and felt incredibly welcome.

We sat down to have some drinks, a pot of hot tea for me, go figure, waters all around, iced tea for LDL, a non-alcoholic beverage for PBP, harder stuff for MMH and CDH, and for PSM, what else…a flight of their own whiskey. Truth be told, he wasn’t a fan, there was one that tasted like moonshine, straight out of the bottle, the others, I couldn’t tell a difference, but you know me, I don’t care of them, but I taste everything. For him, he approached it like he does all tastings, almost scientifically, go figure, he’s a scientist…

He listened to our server who explained what each one was, the age, the barrel, the best way to try it and try them he did. There was one he liked, it was smokey, but this whiskey just wasn’t for him, and that’s ok, not every drink is to everyone’s taste, and that’s what makes the world go round!

After a bit, it was time for our distillery tour, away we went. I have been on quite a few distillery tours, I may not be a drinker, but I enjoy learning about the process. In Ireland, I went to the Jameson Distillery, in Hawai’i, we went to the Ko’Hana Rum Distillery, in Branson, MO, we went to Smith Creek Moonshine Distillery, you name it, if there’s a distillery and I’m with PSM, we’re going!

We took the tour and learned a lot about the process, the water, the this, the that, the other, I honestly don’t remember, but it was cool and the stories are fun and at the end…a tasting. I tasted…well, a sip, then someone had to finish it for me! That’s my MO…I’ll taste it, then you can get drunk! kidding!

The tour was informational and entertaining, and now it’s time for dinner! We headed back to the restaurant and had a very nice meal. I think someone in our group had poutine at every meal! It’s french fries, topped with cheese curds and gravy. Yeah, doesn’t sound that appetizing to me, but I have to tell you…I had vegan poutine in Chicago years ago, I totally get it!

Dinner was good, the conversation was entertaining, the stories were plentiful, the drinks flowed, and then it was time to go. I got my toffee sticky pudding to go and we were in the parking lot at the bikes just as it started to rain, fun! It’s hard enough putting rain gear on when you’re standing, but standing in the rain…fun!

We made it back to the motel, got into warm comfy clothes, and started to pack up our stuff, in the morning, we’re off to Tatamagouche! I know, can you believe it! First stop…breakfast…next stop…petrol…then the Tatamagouche Brewing Company… then the coolest hotel ever! But that’s for tomorrow!

So for now…our last night in Baddeck, NS…sweet dreams…vroom vroom!

{June 11, 2024} Cabot Trail…Here we come!

Why oh why…even when we ride 500 miles the day before, and asleep between 11pm and 1am, am I up between 4 and 6 am? You are correct, there is something very wrong with me! And you know what? I’m ok with that!

So… as I said, up early, got dressed and walked across the road from the motel to the waterfront. There were almost no cars on the road at that time, easy to cross, walked down to the pier or boat ramp and just took it all in, and yes, I put my feet in the water, cold, but so worth it! I communed with nature about 30 minutes, then headed back to the room to get ready for our day. PSM was up by then, and after telling him how wonderful it was, so we took a stroll hand-in-hand to the water, we of course had to put our feet at the water, but not quite in enough to get wet, I wasn’t barefoot then, and you know my boots aren’t waterproof!

Back across the road, it was almost time to head out. Don’t the bikes look wonderful, gleaming in the sun, ready for today’s adventure!?

Of course my bare feet were in the sea! Ahhhh…

Just listen…

Just listen to the sound of the water…isn’t it divine!?

We got on the bikes, one nice thing about staying somewhere a few days, not worrying about our stuff, we unloaded last night and now, just hop on the bike and go! We headed left, please don’t ask me if it was east or west, we all know I have no idea! Left from the hotel, we were going to ride until we found a place to stop and get some coffee and breakfast fare, we had already done dinner in the hotel, let’s do something else.

We stopped at the Clucking Hen Cafe & Bakery, which was decorated in, yup, you guessed it…puppies! Kidding, sorry, totally decorated in chicken stuff. It was kitschy and cute, just what the Clucking Hen should be! I even got a shirt that says ‘No Clucking Around’! I thought the best sign was the one you see in the pic ‘I dream of a better world where chickens can cross the road without having their motives questioned!’

We all ordered food and drinks, I got a chai latte with oat milk, or so I thought…turns out it was real milk, but I was lucky enough to discover it with one sip and they fixed my drink straight away. They also returned my money, which they didn’t have to, so…when I asked if they had any magnets and they didn’t, they gave me a pen, which I turned around and paid for with some of my refund! She was a very nice human being!

Everything we got was tasty and delicious, especially the thing they are famously known for, their buttertarts and oh my word, they were AHmazing!!! We had one pecan and one raisin and just wow! I don’t know how anyone eats more than one of these things! PSM and I split the two and I think raisin was my favorite, but just thinking about it, I could go for another one right now!

Aside from the service and the food, the view was spectacular. We were on a bit of a hill, overlooking a meadow, leading to the water, wouldn’t you call that spectacular?! Overall, 2 thumbs up in my book. I’d go back for another meal!

Back on the bikes and back onto the Cabot Trail, I really need to get one of those 360 cameras, they take amazing shots and videos 360 degrees, gets it all [wish list!]. We rode for a while, then went down this one road and ended up at a beach, so of course… stop and take pictures and I put my feet at the water once again, I know, I know, not in…but I had my feet at the water’s edge. I stood there, eyes closed, face up to the sky and sun, arms outstretched, taking in the sounds, the smells, the feels, I was most assuredly in my happy place.

Back on the bikes, a few hundred miles more, up mountains, down mountain roads, twists, turns, scenic lookouts, more gorgeous views, stopping for petrol, then the Cardinal Points Gift Shop, a biker friendly souvenir shop, we had to stop of course! We got t-shirts, magnets, stickers, patches, it was a lot of fun looking and picking out some fun things to bring back. Always have to remember, you’re on a motorcycle with limited space, but…I have 4 outside pockets on my bag/backpack, and one is dedicated to magnets and stickers! Nice, small things I can bring home!

Eventually, it was time to head back towards the motel, but it was also time to feed the crowd! One of the things that got established, sort of, last year on our big trip out west, I would look for places to eat, so…I always have a list now, it’s something I do for any trip, I have a list of possible restaurants and sites to see, if we go, we go, if we don’t…oh well. Tonight, it was dinner in Baddeck, at The Narrows Cafe and Bar at the Inverary Resort, about a mile from the hotel and a loverly place for dinner.

We didn’t need a reservation, we could walk in tired and looking like we did, and they welcomed us and made food and drink magically appear on the table! It was a nice vibe and atmosphere, a decent size bar, big tables and a big fireplace, which I bet is toasty and inviting in the winter. Best thing for me…a really good veggie burger!

After dinner, half of us went back to the hotel, the other half went in search of libations for the rest of the evening. We dismounted, changed out of our riding gear, settled in on the porch and watched the sun setting. What more could you want?!

Now my friends, it’s time to say good evening, there’s more riding tomorrow, I have to go in and pretend to go to sleep and do it all again tomorrow. What a life! More, more, more!

{June 10, 2024} Almost 500 miles… but no rain! I’m there!

Slept well, at least I think so, up before the alarm again, go figure. Am I just excited or is this just par for the course for me? Both? No idea!

Well, first, got the text about 630a, “LDL and PBP reporting for duty. Luggage cart is in the hallway.” It’s nice, we arrive at a hotel and someone grabs a luggage cart and we all pile our stuff on it and take it to our rooms, and most of the time our rooms are near each other, works out nicely. Then in the AM or at least the morning we’re leaving, it happens in reverse. Team work to make the dream work! 7a meet for breakfast, KSU 730am. We’re never quite on time, getting to breakfast, pretty close, KSU, mostly!

One thing that we noticed and thought was funny…a bunch of people that were on the ferry with us were at the hotel, a lot of people decided they didn’t want to go any further with the weather, even in a car, and decided to stay at that hotel, some people, it was their destination. So we got to talk to a few folks, it was fun.

First stop…petrol station next to the hotel. The pump did not take a credit card, so first, you select the amount or Fill, pump, then you go in and pay. That is some honor system! Next stop…well…last stop is going to be Baddeck, but along the way, who knows, hopefully somewhere in Nova Scotia!

Our first stop was Bubba Mcgoos & Bistro, right near Peggy’s Cove, which was our main destination here in Halifax. Did you know that Halifax is one of the largest and deepest ice-free natural harbours in the world? I didn’t either until I looked Halifax up, isn’t that interesting?!

Well, Bubba Mcgoos looked interesting, there was a gift and fudge shop downstairs, upstairs, it was 18 and up, we’re all over 18, we went up! The only people there were the staff, but we went up again to a nice seating area with a beautiful view, I know it would have been more beautiful if it wasn’t overcast, but still beautiful. We were all pretty cold, I brought my rain gear in with me so I could warm up and then put it on.

It was beers for everyone and a very hot tea for me, you knew that, didn’t you? I also was fortunate to have a bowl of vegan chili and some delicious corn bread. For a cold day like today, that was absolutely perfect, forget that it’s JUNE people! We had a lovely lunch, good food, good conversation, lots of laughs, and as we were finishing, two other tables filled up, how nice.

When we left Bubba Mcgoos, rain gear on, we rode on to Peggy’s Cove and lighthouse. It was spectacular and somewhere along the route, Mother Nature decided to smile upon us! The sky was bright and blue, the clouds were fluffy and white, and it was just perfect!

We walked out on the rocks towards the lighthouse and the water, there were several signs “Warning: Injury and death have rewarded careless sight-seers here. The ocean and rocks are treacherous, savour the sea from a distance.” Wise words, a little jarring, but wise. And so…of course I had to lie down next to the sign, on one of said rocks, in a fainting manor. I respect nature, Mother Nature, and the sea, no worries about me!

We wandered on the rocks towards the water, but never getting that close. I have to tell you, there is nothing like this, close your eyes and just hear the wind, the water crashing on the shore and the rocks, and the smell of the sea, and the feel of the wind and sun on your face, what more could you want?!

I’m sorry I didn’t take a longer video.

After Peggy’s Cove, we got back on the bikes, I took off my rain gear, I was pretty confident I would be ok without it for the rest of the ride, and I was just fine. We made it to the Cabot Trail Motel, a lovely place across the street from the water, with a wonderful view. When we got there and checked in, the check-in was in the restaurant, we were lucky enough that the restaurant was still open and could and would take us and feed us!

The food was ok, they had hot tea, I was happy. We talked through the day, talked about what the plan was for tomorrow, KSU [Kick Stands Up] at 930, we’ll get some breakfast on the road.

Now it’s time to get to our rooms, unload our bikes, for a few days, wahoo! take warm showers, put on jammies, talk to you and get some sleep! Alarm is set for 845a, just to be sure we get up and get ready, think we’ll really need it? Nope, better safe than sorry though!

I don’t know about you, but 500 miles is a good number and I think I might be tired! G’night!

Email Subscription

What was I thinking?