Travel | Peaches Prattlings

{September 10, 2026} Day 10: 259.5 Miles, 7.5 Hours, 2 States, 5 Cities, 2 National Parks, 1 National Forest, 1 Continental Divide, and 1 Waterfall

Day 10 started nice and liesurely! Why, you may be asking? Because we’re staying at the same hotel another night! Kind of a luxury on this trip, wouldn’t you say?! I think I mentioned that this is the kind of trip where we’re at a new hotel almost every night, so to be able to take it easy, get on the bike, not have to pack up and load the bikes, a treat!

We decided to meet for breakfast at the hotel. When we were there in 2023, we really enjoyed the breakfast, this time, not so much. And that’s ok, we’re here for the hotel, the location, not the breakfast. Oh, I completely forgot! Yesterday was when Spain won the World Cup!

Admittedly, I am not a futbol fan, even though I played in high school, it didn’t stick with me, but… I come from a futbol family! My dad played 4th grade through college at his alma mater, Guildford College in Greensboro, NC! My b-i-l played, and still does, my sister and I both played, and against the school our dad was a coach, both EJS and MGS play, and EJS is playing for Endicott College in Beverly, MA! I told you, I might not play or be a huge fan, I am a fan of my family and love to see them play!

I digress…we happened to have just come from the pool when the final match was on tv and everyone was rivited! Even if you aren’t a futbol fan, the World Cup swept everyone up in the excitement! I was swept up in the excitment as well! We watched the last 15 minutes with everyone else and saw Spain beat Argentina 1-0 in extra time in South Africa to win it all! I will just say WOW!

Back to our regularly scheduled program…That was Day 9! Back to Day 10!

One of the things we realized was we had a little too much in the way of clothing and needed to lighten the load a bit! PSM and I had originally gotten riding pants that would work with all weather, which we decided to nix at the last minute. Since we had already packed and loaded the bikes, we didn’t feel like undoing all that work, so we just threw on another pair of jeans, that was one pair too many. We also had heated vests that we knew we wouldn’t need for more than maybe a day or two, if that, and as much as we might use them for those two days, they were puffy and take up a lot of room. PSM had a leather jacket that was definitely taking up too much room. The thing is, when you’re packing, even though you’re trying to pack as little as possible, you’re still trying to pack for all eventualities. DJH had a bunch of things he also wanted to send home.

So…first stop of the day… Post Office! 8:55a, loaded up the things we were shipping home, got on the bikes, shipped our items, felt lighter, and then we were off for another day of adventure!

We headed into Yellowstone and rode through to our first picture spot, the Continental Divide. The Continental Divide runs for about 115 miles through the southern and western portions of Yellowstone National Park, it separates the Pacific Ocean watershed from the Gulf of Mexico/Atlantic Ocean watershed. 37 sec video, 48 sec video

Next stop, Lewis Falls, While the falls are only 30 feet in height, the width of this waterfall is the full width of the river and is quite impressive. You can often see anglers casting their line just below the falls and from there downstream about 2 miles before the river enters the canyon. It was absolutely stunning, and peaceful, you could feel how much everyone enjoyed it. Doesn’t the sound of the water just fill you with peace and joy?

After a nice respite, back on the bikes and on to Grand Teton National Park. Have you ever wondered how Grand Teton got its name? Better yet, do you know what it translates to? The name Grand Teton comes from the French phrase les trois tétons, which translates to the three breasts or the three teats. In the early 19th century, French-Canadian and Iroquois fur trappers working for the North West Company named the prominent peaks after noticing their resemblance to female breasts. Ya loin’ something new every day! Grand Tetons…unreal!

Next stop…Jackson. I know, I know, you’re asking yourself, but JJ, isn’t it Jackson Hole, WY? Why no, no it’s not! I was schooled while we were there! Jackson is the main incorporated hub located at the southern end of the valley, famous for its elk antler arches at Jackson Town Square. While Jackson Hole is a 55-mile-long valley in western Wyoming framed by the Teton and Gros Ventre mountain ranges, serving as a premier gateway to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Who knew!

The ride through the park was lovely, then we were stuck, and I mean stuck…to get to Jackson we were stuck in traffic trying to leave the park, we were probably sitting for about 30-45 minutes, maybe more, which is not fun by itself, but when you’re sitting on a bike that gives off heat, your calves are near the pipes, and it’s close to 100 degrees, well, I think you get the idea. We finally made it into Jackson and found parking, thankfully! and made our way to the Roadhouse Brewing Company. Ice waters all around for my friends!

After lunch it was time to head back to West Yellowstone. The ride was beautiful and moved a lot faster than getting to Jackson! And we rode through Caribou-Targhee National Forest, this country is just beautiful! When we got back, it was pool, relax, find some food. We went to a Mexican restaurant ant we didn’t really enjoy that much, so no mention here. Video: Ride through Caribou-Targhee National Forest

Back at the hotel, we hung out a bit by the firepit and planned tomorrow’s ride. What more could you ask for?!

Day 10: July 20 Relive

Day 10: 259.5 Miles, 7.5 Hours, Post Office, Grand Teton, Yellowstone, tomorrow…more of the good stuff!

{September 4, 2026} Day 9: 146.1 Miles, 6 Hours, 4 Cities, 1 National Park, Old Faithful

Day 9 started liesurely, I know crazy, right?! I told you PSM was catching up with us and we were going to meet today in West Yellowstone at the hotel, he spent the night in Billings, MT, which was only about 2 hours from where we were at the Comfort Inn Bozeman, he said if he had realized that, he would have joined us last night, go figure!

So…he got up early to head out to meet us, so that would be why we decided to start a little liesurely and we got a text at 945a from PSM “I am here.” You know what I did, right?! If you guessed that I jumped up, ran out the door, down the stairs, and out the front door of the hotel in my jammies and barefoot…you would be correct! One thing you may not know about me, I am a barefoot baby! If I can go barefoot, I will. Needlesss to say…that’s how PSM found me when I literally ran into him! Finally!

Back to the rooms to regroup, get dressed, pack up, take everything downstairs, load the bikes, load the riders, and take off! We headed to Tru North Cafe, it was charming inside and we got there just in time, I snagged a table before we ordered, good thing too! right after we ordered, the line was out the door! PSM and VGT had already eaten, so it was coffee for them and breakfast for DJH and I. Y U M!

We came out and there was a family admiring our bikes, they had 2 small kids and we offered for them to sit on the bikes, gotta love when they get on and get that look on their faces! We are definitely the type of bikers who will allow others to sit on our bikes, some aren’t like that! Never, and I mean never touch someone’s bike or sit on it without asking, that’s just rude! But if someone offers, if you’re game, go for it! Just like the woman we met in Hayes, KS, I’m happy to encourage anyone to get the biker bug!

Back on the bikes, petrol first, then vroom vroom, weeeee! We rode about an hour and we were at one entrance of Yellowstone National Park. PSM, DJH, and I had been there on our 3 week trip in 2023, but VGT had never been, score! And…DJH promised on this trip, we’re going to stop more and take pictures, so far, he’s held true to his word!

The first stop, Fumaroles, an opening in the Earth’s surface that releases hot steam and volcanic gases, oooh! an you see the steam? Thank goodness we weren’t close enough to smell the sulfur! And no…we did not coordinate our shirts, we all just wore something from the red family! 1.5 minute video, 5 minute video

Next, we stopped at the Old Faithful Visitor Center. Old Faithful si noe of nearly 500 geysers in Yellowstone and one of six that the park rangers currently predict! Isn’t that wild! And the reason it’s called Old Faithful? Becuase it errupts with high regularity and predictability! It is so predictable that there is a clock that tells you approximately when the next erruption will be! It errupts every 60 to 90 minutes, and let me tell you, the clock was spot on!

There were so many people gathered, ready for this natural phenomenon, it was set to go off about 10 minutes past 2p and wouldn’t you know it…they truly don’t call it Old Faithful for nutin’! It did not disappoint! There was something so magical about watching it errupt and the effect it had on everyone watching! Isn’t this spectacular?!

After watching Old Faithful with everyone else, we got patches, stickers, and I got my magnet, we headed back to the bikes to head to the hotel, the Kelly Inn, located in West Yellowstone. West Yellowstone is just outside the West Entrance to the park. We stayed at the Kelly Inn 3 years ago on our 3 week trip, we knew we wanted to stay there again.

I will tell you, this is not an inexpensive hotel, but definitely worth it, hence why we stayed here again this trip! This is also the only time we spend two nights in one location! I have to tell you, it’s nice not to have to pack up our stuff and load the bikes the next day! The hotel is charming, they have bear statues all over the property, including climing up the side of the buildings!

We unpacked, then took advantage of the hot tub and pool, regrouping to head out to dinner at a place everyone really loved the last time, Bullwinkle’s Montana Italian Steakhouse & Saloon. The service and the food did not disappoint the second time! We walked around a bit after dinner, the guys were in search of ice cream to cleanse the palate. Then we headed back to the hotel to relax and enjoy the firepits before turning in for the evening. Tomorrow, we’re just riding…

Day 9: July 19 Relive

Day 9: 146 Miles, 6 Hours, Old Faithful, Yellowstone National Park! The views! Tomorrow…Grand Teton!

{September 2, 2026} Day 8: 369.7 Miles, 7.5 Hours, 2 States, 1 National Forest, 1 State Park, 6 Cities, 1 Amazing Pass

Day 8 started about 7am, load the bikes at 730a, breakfast right down the road at the Pony Expresso! Do you love it!? It was a drive through/walk up coffee/breakfast place with a sign on the door that says “STOP, Employees Only, try our walk up window to the right”…guess where the guys tried to go? VGT earlier for his first cup of coffee, next DJH when we walked up to get some food.

Did I mention that VGT is a bit of a coffee snob? Yeah, and he didn’t sleep that much on the trip, so…there were many mornings he would be up early and go in search of coffee, sometimes happy, sometimes not so much. So, we got breakfast, chatted about our upcoming ride, so excited, we’re going to ride Beartooth Pass!

Oh! I think I mentioned yesterday that it was also the Riveton Rendezvous Balloon Rally weekend, well, it definitely did not disappoint! I wish we could have stayed and watched, but we did get to see a few hot air balloons as we were loading up. I’m not 100% sure what this was, but it looked like a turtle with, I don’t know, 20 legs! lol

Now we’re off! The GoPro was aimed and ready to go, finally getting the hang of controling it while riding! There are tricks to it, especially controlling it with your phone. First, when you put a new battery in, if it takes a battery, is to turn it on, so it talks to the phone, if you don’t, then sometimes they don’t talk, and when you’re riding, not fun!

We rode Hwy789, which reminds me of the bad dad joke “Why was 6 afraid?” “Because 7 8 9!” Say it out loud, you’ll get it! HA HA. Here are a few videos to enjoy the scenery! 30 seconds 4.5 minutes

The hard part, with the scenery as amazing as it is/was, limited battery and SD card space, you have to pick and choose what you’re going to take pictures and video of. PSM and I always had 2 batteries constantly charging in our saddle bags, they went fast!

Eventually, we entered Shoshone National Forest, just look at it! wow! Then we were on US Route 212, a section known as Beartooth Pass or Highway, in Montana and Wyoming between Red Lodge and the NE Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. It is 68.3 miles and is comprised of steep zigzags and switchbacks, you may remember us talking about them a few days ago, they are hairpin turns and wonderful! The first time I did Beartooth Pass was in 2023 when we did our first 3 week trip, and I did it without a helmet, no, I am not a fan of going without a helmet, it definitely wasn’t intentional! After that experience, I totally get why some people choose not to wear a helmet, but I promise, I am not one of them!

The half-way point of Beartooth Pass is Top of the World Store, it’s also a vacation rental destination. This is a biker’s hangout if you ever saw one! You have every type of bike, rider, skill, everyone just hanging out, sharing stories, a drink, food, enjoying the camaraderie, kindship, and common interests. The store has all the good touristy items you’re looking for; patches, stickers, magnets, tshirts, and all the other branded stuff you might want! You heard that, patches and magnets, who’s in heaven? You guessed it!

After a brief stop, purchase, and bathroom break, we were off again! The sky, the road, the view, there is nothing like it! And…it’s July and there is still snow on the mountain, I hope you can see it in some of the pics and videos! We stopped at at Quad Creek Scenic Overlook to marvel at Mother Nature and three green MGs pulled up, what are the odds?!

Here are a few more videos of our ride: 5.2 Minutes, 11:51 Minutes. I’m working on creating a YouTube channel that can host all our videos, I’ll share when it’s up!

We came down off Beartooth Pass into Red Lodge, MT, yes, somewhere along we crossed into Montana and I missed my Google Maps State screenshot, and stopped at the Red Box Car for lunch. It’s a 100-year-old boxcar! They have burgers, fries, salads, ice cream. It’s a 1903 Box Car from the Rocky Fork Line that ran from Laurel, MT to Red Lodge, MT. 1903, how fitting, Harley Davidson started in 1903! It was right next to a stream, so peaceful!

The, back on the bikes to Livingston, MT, we were staying at the Comfort Inn Bozeman. The funny thing…it’s called Comfort Inn Bozeman, but it’s in Livingston, MT, go figure! We settled in, then headed down to the pool for a dip, then tried to get an Uber to one of the restaurants I found, but it turned out there were a few weddings in town and we wouldn’t be able to get an Uber or taxi for hours, so…we walked across the road to Big Sky Thai and what a treat that was!

There was only one other person in the restaurant, I have a feeling everyone was at one of the weddings! But…while we were there, several people came in for to-go orders, a good sign. Our server was great and her helper, the son of the owners, a charming and spirited 8 year old who charmed DJH! And the rest of us, of course! He was so excited to take our order, but jumping all over the place, it was great!

The food was really good, again, another great meal, we’re on a roll! After dinner, we headed back to the hotel to chill, then crash. Tomorrow, we’re heading to Yellowstone and guess who’s meeting us there?! PSM! YES!

Day 8: July 18 Relive

Day 8: 369.7 Miles, 7.5 Hours, Hot air balloons, Twists, turns, and switchbacks! Tomorrow…Yellowstone!

{August 31, 2026} Day 7: 308.2 Miles, 4 Hours, 2 States, 6 Cities, A Bad Meal, A Car/Motorcycle Parade, and a Good Meal!

Day 7 started kind of liesurely, I think I mentioned I had an interview, so we waited for me to complete it before we took off. Since it was going to be a later departure, we slept in until 730a, well, the alarm was set for 730a, DJH is really good at sleeping in, unlike me! We met at the bikes to load up about 8a, then breakfast about 830a, could have been earlier, not sure. And no, I haven’t heard anything about the interview results, after a month, I don’t hold much hope, not losing sleep over it!

We got on the road, destination Riverton, WY, and heading closer to seeing PSM! He would be joining us Sunday! And…DJH put his GoPro mount on my handlebar, and I was going to be taking video of our rides! So…the images should be much better! Some of the pics when I first starting using it might not be the best, but with practice, they definitey got better!

There were some really, really, really, long stretches of road, some pretty, some not so much, but it was wide open road and allowed us to drop the throttle and get up there, wind therapy, here we come! And…if you’re thinking just because we’re moving fast, 99+ degrees is refreshing, hot wind is hot wind, no matter how fast you’re going! We rode from Loveland, CO into Wyoming through Rawlins, The Buttes, and Laporte, CO.

We stopped for lunch in Rawlins, WY, unfortunately, the town was a bit dead and there weren’t a lot of food choices, but we were sticky hot and hungry, so we settled on Shogunz Pizzeria & Bar, the atmosphere was welcoming and the decorations were fun, DJH had a great sandwich, VGT wasn’t thrilled with what he got and I ordered a flatbread, well, a pizza with no cheese and the toppings I asked for weren’t there and what I asked to be removed, there, so, one out of three of us had a good meal. I believe I mentioned that all but a few meals weren’t great, this was one of them. The people were nice and the beverages were cold, that was a big plus!

After lunch, back on the bikes heading towards our destination for the evening, the Super 8 Riverton, it was a place to crash and rest our heads. We rode through Three Forks, finally getting to Riverton, WY. Turns out, they messed up our reservation, they only had 2 king rooms for us, I ended up getting a cot, which was fine for me, and gave DJH the bed. The only bad part for DJH, was that I was right in front of the AC and if he could, he would probably sleep inside it! lol. He loved to turn the air down to 60 no matter where we were! Let me just say… brrrrr!

As we were riding down Federal Blvd towards the hotel, it seemed like everyone from Riverton was setting up their chairs on the road for something, and it looked like Main Street was blocked off for a block party, good for us? Turns out, we arrived just in time for the Rocky Mountain Rebels Car Show and Riveton Rendezvous Balloon Rally weekend! It started with the parade of cars, it went on for a very long time, felt like there were at least 100+ cars, both classic and modern, motorcycles, trucks, busses, you name it, they were there!

As we stood there watching, there was a family next to us, and luckily for them, they were throwing candy from the parade to the spectators, those kids lucked out! After the parade, we were trying to get an Uber to take us to Main Street, but that wasn’t going to happen any time soon. But…we were in luck, County Commissioner Ron Fabrizius and his wife offered us a ride to Main Street! He is a 3rd generation farmer, rancher, and manufacturer. They were lovely people who seemed to know everyone!

We got out at Main Street, walked up and down, looking at the cars, bikes, and other vehicles that had been in the parade. We also tried to go to one or two of the restaurants I had on my list, but they were closed for the event. We ended up at Taqueria Los Amigos, unfortunately, they don’t have a website, but if you’re in Riverton, WY, definitely go! They are at 712 E Fremont Ave, Riverton, WY 82501. They offer authentic Mexican street food, the staff was friendly, and the food was terrific! It wasn’t on my original list, but it is now!

We tried to get an Uber back to the hotel, but…because of the street fair, it was proving very difficult and we eneded up walking back. VGT had taken a shower when we got to the hotel, unfortunately, DJH and I were still in our riding attire and our riding boots, my feet needed to breath! It wasn’t that far from the hotel, just under a mile, but when you rode all day and it was hot and sticky, then walked the few blocks of the street fair, even a quarter mile feels like 20!

All-in-all, a good day of riding that ended with a parade and a festival, what more could you want?! And tomorrow…we’re off to Montana!

Also…this is when I started recording our rides using the Relive app. It’s an app that tracks whatever you ask it, could be hiking, cycling, running, skiing, boating, driving, fishing, you name it, it can probably track it, and for us…motorcycling. It tracks from whenever you click start to finish, and it will add any pictures or videos that you take. It gives stats: Duration, Distance, Elevation. It also shows different cities and states that you enter and cross, speeds you may achieve, and it shows you the route you took. I’m still perfecting how I use it, but I’m going to start including the recordings, I hope you enjoy!

Relive: Day 7

Day 7: 308.2 Miles, 4+ Hours 99+ degrees, and a parade! Tomorrow…Montana!

{August 30, 2026} Day 6: 357.6 Miles, 8.5 Hours, 4 National Forests, 8 Cities, and a Hornet Attack

Day 6 started casually, VGT’s bike was at the dealership getting attended to, so…wake up at 8a, what? oh yeah! You know me, I don’t sleep a lot, and this trip was no different despite riding for 6/8/10/12 hours, some nights I just couldn’t sleep past 3 or 4am, fun…

We met at 830a for breakfast at the hotel, took our time, when we were done we went outside to sit on the patio, finish our coffee and tea, chat, and just enjoy the liesurely morning. At one point DJH went inside for something and VGT and I moved to another table, all of a sudden I felt something, turns out it was a hornet, actually several hornets…not sure if you can see how swollen my wrist became, but it wasn’t fun. And boy howdy did it hurt! We looked under the table and there were 2 nests, terrific. When we went inside, I told the front desk, they said they would take care of it, but…I spoke with a maintenance worker who was stung last week, and told the hotel…

I put some ice on it, which helped a little. VGT looke up stings and ice and a wet teabag were the immediate solution, and it helped a lot! As the days wore on, I realized there were more and more stings, I lost count after 7!!! Eventually the swelling and itching went down and then away.

When VGT got word that his bike was ready, I offered my bike to ride over and I jumped on the back of DJH’s, that was surreal, I’m not usually on the back of a bike. When we got to the Teddy Morse’s Grand Junction Powersports, I asked VGT what he thought, first thing he said “Can you say back rest?!” I don’t have one and I don’t really mind. When I have my bag strapped to the bike, then I use that as a back rest, but the rest of the time, I’m ok.

VGT went to the service area and DJH and I walked inside, first thing I see…little Amira, an 11 week old Doxie puppy. What a doll baby! We walked around, DJH needed a new rain jacket and I got a t-shirt, just a momento from the dealership. PSM and I have a stupid number of dealer t-shirts, it’s a great way to remember where we’ve been and we have quite a few Harley Davidson ones, especially if there isn’t an Indian Motorcycle dealership nearby. Well, VGT was ready to roll and we all headed back to the hotel to load up and take off!

And they’re off! We headed out on I70W, a major westbound highway that spans about 2,150 miles across the United States, running from Maryland to Utah. We rode through Fruitvale, Paraschute, Silt, White River National Forest, Dotsero, McCoy, and a bunch of unknown locations until we stopped for gas at this really charming gas station, Egeria Fuel Station and Liquor Store in Toponas, CO, very unassuming on the outside, but inside, the front had all these great framed alcohol advertisement images, and quite the colleciton of wine, hard alcohol, and moonshine, just to name a few, for sale. And the guy who worked there…charming! I bought PSM some wee dram bottles of things I knew he liked and one local for him to try. Since I’m not sure what he would like, outside of what we have at home, I never buy him anything more than a nip bottle, just in case it’s not his cup o’ tea, so to speak!

We rode on and stopped in Walden for petrol, more unnamed roads, Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Arapaho National Forest, Roosevelt National Forests, and Pawnee National Grassland, you could see where some of the wild fires had taken its toll on the trees, and finally making it to Loveland, CO, where we were spending the evening at the Hampton Inn Loveland.

We got settled in, DJH and I went for a dip in the pool, VGT went to grab a shower and a rest. Eventually I called an Uber and we went to the Lazy Dog Bar & Grill. Our driver to the Lazy Dog Bar & Grill was great, very chatty, in a good way, talking about Loveland and other things, our driver back to the hotel, not a fan…the music was really loud, don’t get me wrong, I like the volume in my car to be up so loud the mirrors shake, but I’m alone, not driving other people around, hoping for a tip… just saying…

The Lazy Dog Bar & Grill was enjoyable! The atmosphere was great, it was a sports bar, but it was also very dog themed! All the pics on the walls were dogs, the signs for the restrooms, you name it, it was kitschy and I loved it! The food, really good. So far… except for the first night, we’ve had some great meals!

Back to the hotel, let’s get some laundry done, it’s about time! A later start to the day tomorrow, I have an interview at 1130a local time, so…breakfast at 8a, I’ll do my interview and then we’ll head out!

Day 6: 357.6 Miles, 8.5 Hours, hot temps, a hornet attack… tomorrow Wyoming!

{August 29, 2026} Day 5: 176.2 Miles, 8.5 Hours, 1 National Forest, GoodBye Durango, Hello Silverton, Million Dollar Highway, Hola Ouray, At Last…Grand Junction!

It is Day 5, we are in Durango, Colorado, at the Junction Hotel & Hostel, our clothes are 98% dry, a little chilly putting them on, but…it’s going to be warm today, so they will dry as we ride, works for me! We were excited to get on the road, but sad to be losing MB. We assembled at the bikes and convinced MB to join us for breakfast, you know where… The Durango Diner, of course! We had to, DJH woke up “The Cure, The Cure, The Cure”!

I ordered an Uber, off to the Durango Diner. What a cute place! They have been Durango’s hometown diner for over 60 years! They have a long counter and about tables, and it’s very narrow. We took the last 4 spots at the counter and DJH and VGT ordered, what else, The Cure, “Hashbrowns topped with melted american cheese, your choice of bacon, ham or sausage, and two eggs. All stacked and smothered in our Durango Diner Green Chile Sauce.” That’s the classic/original, you can get it 5 different ways, whatever takes your fancy.

MB and I ordered something different. One of my favorite breakfasts is huevos rancheros, I ordered it from the ‘lite’ menu options, which I didn’t realize I had, it was ok, but not enough. Luckily…we would be back in Durango in 4 weeks and I would be able to get something better, and…PSM would be with us, so he wouldn’t have to miss out. It really was a great place for breakfast, did not disappoint on atmosphere, service, and charm!

Back to the hotel, MB took the Uber to the airport, we checked out of the hotel, got on the bikes and took off. Just a note…until Day 7, all photos of the scenery are taken with my phone, then I got to use DJH’s GoPro, they will get much better! We headed out of Durango on US Route 550, lots of twists and turns, here’s an example of a video with my phone, you’ll see what I mean! DJH and I had done US Route 550 in 2023, it hasn’t lost its charm! I know VGT agreed, we could ride it over and over, I’m sure we will again!

The halfway point, and start of Million Dollar Highway is Silverton, Colorado, home of Silverton Harley-Davidson, their claim to fame, The World’s Highest Harley Store, at 9,318FT! The woman who runs the store, Kathy, remembered us, maybe it was the hair, or she has a really good memory! It was nice catching up with her, she is from South [I hope I got that one right!] Carolina and spends her summers here in Silverton. Ruby was her new pup, unfortunately the sweet pup she had the last time had gone over the rainbow bridge. Ruby was worn out! They had gone for a walk and she jumped in a stream and had a good long doggie paddle, she was wiped out!

Back on the bikes and it is time to ride the Million Dollar Highway! It’s 25 miles that runs from Silverton to Ouray. It was constructed in the late 19th century as a wagon trail. Today, it is a scenic byway winding through the San Juan Mountains, starting in Silverton, the highway climbs up and over Red Mountain Pass, reaching an elevation of 11,000FT! The road narrows and winds, has shart curves, and steep drop-offs, it can be challenging for any driver, and then heading down towards Ouray, you have switchbacks, which make up Million Dollary Highway!

If you look at the Frequently Asked Questions at the bottom of the page, you’ll find out why it’s called the Million Dollar Highway, and as it says, it all depends on who you ask! One of the questions, which I just discovered and had to chuckle…”Is it dangerous?” It is one of the most dangerous roads in the United States, I can understand that, especially since there’s no guardrail, riding in one direction can be nerve wracking! The reason there are no guardrails? In the winter, they plow the snow off the side of the highway, that makes sense! Yeah, tell that to PSM and his dislike of heights!

Part of US Route 550/Million Dollar Highway was through the Uncompahgre National Forest, we stopped for some pictures at Bear Creek Falls. DJH is getting so much better! One of the things I rib him about is not stopping enough to take photos! This was stunning! The pics just don’t do it justice. And no, DJH and I did not dress alike intentionally! He’s had that flannel for years and I got mine, happens to be the same color, that I got at Hills City Harley Davidson in 2023. I have to tell you, I la la la love this flannel! It goes with me almost everywhere, and it’s definitely on every bike trip, it’s a great layer or could be a light cover. I digress. This stop, along with the views along the route, were breath taking!

We wound our way along Million Dollar Highway to Ouray, the Outdoor Recreation Capital of Colorado, situated at 7,800FT above sea level and surrounded by 12,000-13,000FT peaks, dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and scenic mountain valleys that create some amazing and breathtaking landscapes. It also turns out this year is the 150th anniversary of Ouray, lucky us!

We stopped at the Ouray House Brewery the sign outside said Grumpy Pants Brewery, loving that! The guys had cold bevereages, and I had a pb&j, I was hungry! Remember my lighter side huevos rancheros! This was just the pick me up I needed! We were also a wee bit toasty, it got up to 101 out there!

Back on the bikes, we wound our way to the Grand Vista Hotel in Grand Junction, CO. We were happy to be there! And…lucky too, VGT was having some issues with the computer on his bike, so…off to Teddy Morse’s Grand Junction Powersports the guys went to have them look at his bike and I went to change into a bathing suit. I have to say, there were some very nice pools at some of the hotels, with really pretty murals on the walls. I’ll have to share some pics of all of them in another post!

When they got back, VGT went to relax, DJH and I went to the pool for a nice relaxing dip and a relaxing soak in the hot tub. After cooling off and feeling refreshed, we went back to take showers and meet VGT for some dinner. We went to Oliver’s Restaurant & Bar for dinner and we were in for a treat! They had really good Indian food! We all got a different curry and it was delicious! Happily, for me, it wasn’t too spicy! I don’t always have luck with Indian food, this was yummy!

The nice part of dining in the hotel restaurant, we don’t have to get on the bikes, take an Uber, or even leave the building, just go back up to our rooms! Tomorrow is going to be a late, casual start, we need to wait on VGT’s bike to be ready to pick up, here’s hoping it’s something they can fix so we can be on our way!

Day 5: 176.2 Miles, 101 Degrees, 8.5 Hours…. tomorrow… Loveland!

{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!

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