BMW Marg

Missoula Trip 2012 Additions

2012-02-21T18:17:00.000-08:00

My friend Carol just sent these pictures of our trip to Missoula to me today and I had already done the blog so decided to just add them on. There is one of me in the restaurant at Somers, Mt and a picture of some photos on the wall of the cafe.Then a photo of me with my trophy in Lincoln.Mt and then some of the road east of Lincoln to Lethbridge...Feb!! Look at the copious amounts of SNOW????

Trip to Missoula

2012-02-20T19:55:00.000-08:00

Feb 17/2012
At the last minute I decided I needed to get out of town so with my friend Carol I headed for Missoula Montana. We left about 1PM and as it was getting dark and I was getting tired we decided to stay at the Motel 6 in Kalispell. We had stopped at the Hummingbird in Arlee and bought some licorce which they are famous for. After we checked in we walked over to Los Corporales and had a lovely dinner. That night it snowed a bit on the vehicle but was still quite nice so the next morning we headed out and stopped at the Somers Cafe for breakfast. I have been here a few times and it is a really great breakfast spot with great decor. Then on to Missoula. On arrival we went directly to the Harley shop because I wanted to buy a shirt and then on to Big Sky BMW where I put an offer on the 2007 R1200RT I have been looking at. They will let me know on Tuesday if they accept the bid or not. Chuck Reaves and Mike McIntry were there from the Western Montana BMW club and they will be at the meeting tomorrow also.
We then went over to Tingley's the Yamaha dealer to say Hello to Mike and Betty. Always good to see them and tell a few jokes and tell them about my adventures. Then we went to the Book Exchange so I could get some reading material and then to Brooks Street Motor Inn to check in. Later that evening Betty and Kifflen and Carol and I went to Appleby's for a girls night out. Then off to bed.
The next morning Carol and I enjoyed a great breakfast at the Lucky Strike in Missoula but a lot of the gang I usually have breakfast with were away so we ate alone and then went to the Safeway Gas bar to say goodbye to Betty. Then Carol wanted a few things from WalMart so we stopped on the way out of town and who should be at the checkout but Gill..One of the fellows who used to be in the old group but I had not seen him for a long while. Good to check in with old friends.

Then we got on the road heading north on 200 to Lincoln, Montana. We were a little early so I took Carol to the Hi-Country Meats place. This is a must stop if you are in Lincoln. They sell the best beef jerky and they are a gift shop as well. I want one of everything. So we managed to drag ourselves out of there a little lighter in the pocketbook. And continued on a few miles to The Pit Stop on the east end of Lincoln. The owner made homemade pies for us...Lemon Meringue..Coconut Cream and Chocolate Cream..Too die for.

There were about 20 at the meeting and none of them could believe that I had come all the way from Calgary for this event. But they did award me with the high mileage award for last year. It will stay at Big Sky BMW in Missoula with my name on it.

After the meeting I was a little concerned about the snow flurry passing through Lincoln but 2 miles down the road It was clear and dry and there was absolutely no snow all the way to Lethbridge. We called Ann and went over to her house and then Ann, Linda Liptak, Carol and I went to Boston Pizza for dinner. We had a nice visit with Ann and then turned in and this morning on the news it said there was a bad snowstorm in Calgary and the roads were icy, lots of accidents..etc so we got on the road with a little trepidation. It was clear and dry all the way to Calgary..I kept wondering when we were going to hit the bad roads.
Tomorrow I have to go to work???? Guess I do not have that retirement thing quite down yet.

Jan 2/2012 The Next Day

2012-01-08T21:18:00.000-08:00

After leaving Borrego Springs I headed back to Palm Springs and arrived safe and sound at Ken and Karen's. After visiting for a bit It was decided that after I turned the bike into Eagle Rider in the AM Karen and I would go up on the Palm Springs Tram.
Up to that point I did not even know such a thing existed and apparently it is the second steepest Tram in the world. The car holds 80 people and the floor revolves 2 and 1/2 times on the way up. Monday was a bad day to go as for most people it was a holiday in lieu of New Years Day so we spent most of our time in 1 line or another but it was still something to see and experience.

This was taken out the door of their mobile home the next morning. The following are pictures of the Tram ride.

There was a little bit of snow at the top as we were at 10,000 ft elevation on the top of Mt. Jacinto

That evening we went to Marketplace Fish and Seafood Restaurant on Palm Canyon Drive where we dined outside. The food was excellent. The snow was in contrast to the next day when I walked to a nearby Cactus garden and enjoyed a wonderful array of desert cactus.

This is what it was like just walking down the street from their place.

This is truly a beautiful city and I really longed to stay but unfortunately I had to head home the next day.
Ken took me to the airport and what a beautiful airport it is and so little stress. The checkin is tight out front Outside! Just stop, walk a few steps, Checkin, Drop off luggage and carry on through the security checkin.
The flight was great just a little bumpy landing in Calgary because of the wind. The next pictures were taken in the Palm Springs airport. Again what a beautiful place.

So until my next adventure.....ENJOY!

Jan1/2012 Happy New Year

2012-01-06T21:22:00.000-08:00

Sunrise Jan1/2012 Place Ocotillo Desert, Southern California. Awe inspiring. Beautiful. Incredible. I felt I was in a dream. All to soon I had to pack up and continue my adventure.

What a beautiful campout with beautiful people and now on to Borrego Springs to Turk's New Year's Day Party. The following is Burt from Ontario, California throwing out my air mattress which never held air after me lugging it all the way from Calgary.

Turk lives at the Road Runner Golf Course in beautiful Borrego Springs and every year has this party for the San Diego BMW people. There must have been 45 bikes drove in. The following are pictures of Turk and some of the attendees.

Okay after filling my face once again I headed out for Palm Springs. I was amazed at the campers and motorhomes scattered throughout the desert in circles of 8-10 and everyone with dirt bikes, ATV'S or Dune buggies. I mean there were literally hundreds of these units from Borrego Springs to the Salton Sea. Anyway I arrived in Palm Springs without incident and went to Ken and Karen's We had dinner and I crawled into a BED for the first time in days. The next day Karen and I went up the Palm Springs Tram and I think I will save that for the next Blog tomorrow. Right now I am badly in need of some sleep.

New Year in the Desert

2012-01-06T20:08:00.000-08:00

I am still working at Fleet Brake for one more month so after such an uneventful Christmas I decided to treat myself to something totally different and on Dec 29/2011 flew to Palm Springs. I was nervous, worried my bags would be too heavy etc..the usual trepidation but no problems at all and after a 3 hour flight I was met at the airport by my good friend Ken Maki. We collected my baggage and headed out to his and Karens home. The next morning, under a beautiful, warm, sunny sky (They must get so bored) We drove Karen to work and then took Ken's van in for some repair and he drove me to Palm Desert to the Marriot Resort to pick up the motorcycle I would be renting for the next 3 days.

This is Karen's shop in Palm Springs
After picking up the motorcycle I got on I 10 and at the top of the pass determined that I had missed my exit as I was headed for Blythe,,not the Salton Sea. So I managed to get turned around several miles away and then exited heading south and proceeded down the east side of the Salton Sea. I do not know too much about this area. There were several State Parks you could camp in but not too many towns or facilities until you reached the southernmost end. I stopped for fuel in Calpatricand headed west. I passed the Sonny Bono Wildlife Refuge and turned south after stopping at the Border Patrol station...What I failed to see is why the Border Patrol is so far away from the border? Anyway I was headed toward Julian, California and saw the sign for Agua Caliente Regional Park. At this point I was thinking that any of those people who think the desert is flat are sadly mistaken. One has to go over several mountain Ranges and many twists and turns in this area. Extremely beautiful.

These pictures were taken at our lovely campsite in the park. There were about 50 BMW Airhead enthusiasts
camped in this lovely location. We had a gorgeous Hot Springs to soak in and a couple of the San Diego clubs are chefs and we had the most beautiful meals served in this rugged campsite. I was surprised that the cost was so reasonable at 40.00/person we had 5 meals and camping and beer and wine. I came to find out that at a store called Trader Joe's one can pick up a very nice bottle of wine for 2.99. WOW!
What a diverse group were gathered here and I can hardly wait to go again. Although I had to use the hot rock in my sleeping bag trick to keep me warm...No one else would volunteer, I had a warm and cozy welcome to this desert campout.

The following day I had an unexpected side trip to some mudcaves about 10 miles down the road. We went in a Jeep as it was truly an off road experience. These particular mountains are of a very porous, clay material and when it does rain it erodes channel in them and one can explore in many of them. The following pictures give an idea of what one can see.

Then we went over to another area of the park and hiked to see the "dinosaur bones" Unlike Drumheller these were not truly fossilized bones but there was a very interesting array of T Rex and early man and woman. Their "parts" were truly amazing.

Guess which part I wanted to take back to camp? I will publish this post and continue with the New Year in the following post. Hope you enjoy.

Christmas 2011

2012-01-06T18:54:00.000-08:00

My Christmas was very quiet and uneventful. I stayed home,Went to church and had a very quiet and peacful few days. Wishing and hoping all my friends enjoyed a Happy and Wonderful holiday.

Where did the weekend Go??

2011-11-13T17:20:00.000-08:00

Friday Nov 11 was a holiday so on Thursday after work I headed out. Yes AFTER Work..I am back at Fleet Brake for the time being doing a project til about Christmas. I did not get away right away so did not get on the road til dark and decided to spend the night in the Crowsnest Pass. The Super 8 at Pincher Creek was 90.00 so I continued on to Blairmore and stayed at the Highwood Inn again..50.00 Big difference. The next morning as the sun rose over the hills This is the view I had of what was developing into a very nice day.

I crossed into the US west of Yak, BC through Eastport and traveled south on 95 to Athol, Idaho

I stopped at a scenic overlook shortly after crossing the border and took these photos.

I swung over to Hwy 41 and stopped in to say hello to Billie and Dave Leonard but unfortunately they were not home. I then carried on to I90 and west to Spokane Valley and the Super 8 on Argonne Rd as I knew Carol Finlay and her daughters would be there and I would have some company. I could not find them right away as they were out shopping and it was still early so decided to go see Jordeane. She is the girlfriend I traveled to Sipapu, New Mexicao with and she was in a very serious motorcycle accident in Spokane about a month ago. She got numerous broken bones and now has more steel in her than you can imagine...If she flies anywhere she will be setting off all the alarms in the airport.
She has a good doctor and appears to be healing well but being such an independent sole she finds it frustrating to not be able to do anything herself. By then I had contacted Carol and they were back at the hotel. So I headed back and after visiting for a bit..we all headed to Cheap Shots in the pouring rain. Dave and Shannon(the owners) were very busy but we got a bite to eat and headed back to our hotel for a swim and a much needed rest.
The next morning there was a skiff of snow on the vehicles but I had breakfast at the hotel where I bumped into a couple of my former cub scouts..Small world. The roads were wet and not too bad til I got to the mountain Passes..Outlook and Fourth of July were very icy and there were a lot of semis everywhere pulling off to chain up. I stopped once more to see Jordeane and took her some flowers hopefully to brighten her room and spirits.

As I approached Missoula the sun was shining in the Bitteroot Valley.

I went to Big Sky BMW to say Hello and they have a really nice R1200RT for 9999.00

My price I am thinking.

They I went to Art and Betty's and went to dinner with them at the Outback in Missoula. It started snowing while we were eating and so I left with a little trpidation but it was not too bad except for a couple of places. The pass out of Polson was just 2 tracks in the snow at higher elevation but I arrived at the Motel 6 in Kalispell safely. This morning I headed home and for the most part roads were dry albiet a bit breezy in spots.

Now I better head out to my meeting or I will be late and that is what I hurried back for..That and work tomorrow.

At home and still riding

2011-10-24T08:01:00.000-07:00

Here it is almost November and I have managed to be out every day on my motorcycle. I have been in contact with many of the members of the tour and Marc and Manon from Montreal have sent me some lovely photos which I would like to share.

These were taken in Monument Valley. Definitely good memories to enjoy in the cold winter days ahead.

Coming down out of Bryce Canyon we go through Red Canyon and these 2 tunnels. Truly beautiful and the snow made it even more stunning.

Then into Zion and even more awesome rocks and landscape. Manon being a passenger was able to take so many pictures we could not get.

Is this not gorgeous. Every turn had just beautiful sights to see and all were different.
Well I must get back to all the many things I have to do. Cub scout planning tonight, Halloween party with Beavers, Cubs and Scouts tomorrow. I just finished baking cookies for them to decorate. Then Group Committee for scouting where the adults tell what their plans are and then popcorn order is due in and I am heavy into helping with that. So far retirement has been great and I hope the long winter months do not drag too badly but I am not really worried about that. I seem to manage to keep busy.
Tuesday last week I rode by my self to Forget Me Not Pond and Elbow Falls. It was a beautiful day and I enjoyed the peace and tranquility. Wednesday I rode and had lunch with Annie. Thursday I rode and had coffee with a friend. Sunday I rode to breakfast and to church. Then in the afternoon I went to the Beaupre Community Hall out west of Calgary to meet with some BMW friends and enjoy photos of Audrey and Ekke Jr's ride to Norway this year. They always have some wonderful adventures and take such beautiful pictures to tell their story.Again it was quite cold zero degrees Celsius in the morning but warmed up micely for the afternoon.
This last week I met Mac on Sat afternoon and we went to Renegades in Turner Valley and then through Chain Lakes to Nanton and back to Calgary. The wind got up in a couple of places but all in all a good ride and this time so enjoyable to do it with someone. Well I will conclude with this joke which I have been sharing with everyone.
Cowboy goes into a drugstore and orders 3 packets of condoms.
The clerk asks, Would you like a paper sack with that? The cowboy replies..Nah She ain't that ugly.

The Journey Home Oct 7/2011

2011-10-12T19:38:00.000-07:00

As mentioned in my last Blog I could not fly so I rented a car to take me to Whitefish. It was now late but I decided I wanted to get out of Las Vegas before stopping. I missed a couple of turns and ended up on 215 little realizing that this is a ring road all around Las Vegas. It took me almost an hour before I finally found I15 and headed away from the bright lights. Finally I arrived at the city of Mesquite where we had fueled the day before. To signs along the highway that said 24.95/ night and free breakfast I turned into the Virgin River Casino to find it was 49.99 and not even free coffee. Ah well it was late and a place to lay my head.

And I did not have to be a virgin to stay here. Sunrise the next day I had breakfast and headed north through the canyon I had gone through on the motorcycle the day before heading into Las Vegas. So I took a few photos as I drove.

It had been very windy coming through here the previous day but this morning it was beautiful. I continued north on I15 as it was the fastest and most direct route home and suprisingly a gorgeous drive.

That evening I stopped in Idaho Falls Idaho. I probably could have gone further but was quite sleepy. I went to the Shilo Inn and they were pretty pricey so stayed at the South Fork Inn just off the Interstate and quite new.

I had the best rest here for a long time. The next morning I again rose early and drove through some really beautiful country into Montana. When I reached Deerlodge I called Art and Betty in Missoula and stopped and had lunch with them before heading on to Kalispell and my favorite Motel 6. I am comfortable here because I have stayed many times.

Early Monday morning Carol called and she was already in Eureka. So I packed up and headed for Whitefish to turn in the car. Finally I would get home although I really did not want it all to end. What gorgeous country I had seen. What wonderful people I had met. What a glorious time I had.
Can hardly wait to do it again.

Las Vegas

2011-10-11T09:04:00.000-07:00

Our Hotel Excaliber

The Luxor

What can one say about Las Vegas that has not already been said? Ken Maki was up from Palm Springs working at the Rodeo and so we arranged to meet for lunch. I had a day to waste. Plane was due to depart at 6:50 so planned on being at the airport at 4:50. I met Ken in front of the hotel and we went south to a quiet mall and had lunch at California Pizza. I had an asparagus and arugula salad and foccacia bread. So delicious. Then I had Ken drop me off south of my hotel so I could walk and get some photos.

Mandalay Bay What a gorgeous Hotel

At the dinner the evening before I took these pictures of some of my fellow riders. I definitely did not take enough as I see I am missing all kinds of photos of the great friends I met.

Okay Now for the continued part. I get to the airport. My passport expired Oct 3. It is Oct 7 I cannot fly.
So after talking to the Canadian consulate I was advised I could fly anywhere in the US without a passport and I could drive back across the border. So I tried to fly to Missoula as I have many friends there but there were no flights til Monday. So I went to the Rent a Car Place and for 625.00 I rented a nice little car and drove to Whitefish Montana and my friend Carol picked me up on Monday and finally I am at home.
I guess I just did not want the journey to end.

Bryce Canyon to Las Vegas

2011-10-10T19:50:00.000-07:00

Well today is the last day of the ride and started out in a most auspicious way.
SNOW!!!

It was decided that it would be too dangerous to head higher up in elevation so we did not actually go to Bryce Canyon but retraced our steps aways from the day before and stopped in Red Canyon for photos.
What beautiful colors with the red rocks and green trees and white snow. Kind of like Christmas and we rejoiced with songs like Jingle Bells.

It was a bit of a culture shock for many on the tour and in particular the Brazilians and our Australian Troy

They had never ridden in anything like this before. Anyway we left Red Canyon and headed for Zion National Park. A whole other world of rocks and beauty. I never got a whole lot of pictures here because when you are riding it is difficult to take photos as well so I only got the following,,,,,

One of the many phenomenon I had forgotten about Zion was the Checkerboard Mesa which you pass on the way in to Zion I tried to look up how this happened and could only find that it was etched that way by sun and wind and rain. It is like someone actually took a marker and a square and drew lines all over the rock. Quite a sight to see. The one picture is where we are all lined up waiting to go through the big tunnel.
Once through this amazing National Park we headed for our final destination Las Vegas and our Farewell Dinner. It was sad to have to say goodbye to our newfound comrades. We returned the bikes to EagleRider and headed over to our hotel The Excalibur. Checked into our rooms and headed for our dinner at The House of Blues in the Mandalay Bay Hotel. We never had to go outside just walked through the Luxor and even had moving sidewalks to ride on. It is like a maze and I would never have found my way back had I not had Steve for a guide. We said our farewells and I headed for a card playing machine and won a whole $1.25 before returning to my room to find my key would not work. So had to go to the front desk and try again. Read on to see what happened next. My particular adventure was not over.

Monument Valley

2011-10-10T16:14:00.000-07:00

Well I've lost all track of day and time and where I happen to be at the moment but Boy What A Ride!!!
We arrived in Kayenta last night and were supposed to go on to Monument Valley but it was raining and not at all feasible. So it was decided to get up early and start out to catch sunrise in Monument Valley and it happened. We were on the road at 7:30 and when we arrived the jeeps were waiting to take us out into the valley. We saw the wonderful formations close up and on the return Stopped at t picnic area and had fry bread topped with beans lettuce onions tomatoes and black olives. What a delightful way to enjoy this wondrous place.

From our hotel room we had a view of this monolith which only wetted our appetite for the next day.

Hopi huts at the entrance.

Boarding the jeeps to go to the valley.

The Three Sisters.

Sunrise in Monument Valley

The camel Mesa

On departure we drove up the road aways and pictures were taken of the group riding from a distance. Then we headed for Bryce Canyon and on the way went back to Kayenta and over the Glen Canyon Dam and past Lake Powell. Arriving at our hotel in Bryce Canyon in the pouring rain again.

Grand Canyon and onward

2011-10-09T06:22:00.000-07:00

After a good sleep in Williams at the lovely lodge we had breakfast buffet at their restaurant and were on our way to the canyon rim. I had a swim in the pool here and soaked in the hot tub. The last picture is a picture of a picture in the elevator. I had a fabulous supper the night before A salad with greens, blueberries, strawberrys raspberries and black berrys and feta cheese. And even got up and danced with the Indian children in their traditional dance.
Now onto the Canyon Rim.

There is not a lot one can say about the Grand Canyon it kind of speaks for itself. There was a turkey vulture soaring the heights and it was a relatively clear day for views and we stopped at 2 viewpoints and then headed out into a little rain which turned into a lot of rain. Hard as we tried to make Monument Vvalley for dinner and sunset It just did not happen. Everyone was happy to get to their room in the Kayenta Inn and have dinner in their restaurant. Monument valley in the AM.

Nice hair !!!!!!!!!

Addition to Palm Springs

2011-10-09T05:41:00.000-07:00

Somehow I managd to miss a very important picture in my Palm Springs Blog and because I am still there Here are my friends Ken and Karen. I am still behind because some of the internet connections are very frustratinng and I have been busy also. I am still in the USA as my passport expired while I was here and they would not let me fly home so that is also part of the adventure. Driving to Whitefish in a Rent A Car and getting my friend Carol to pick me up and getting me home sometime tomorrow. Fun Fun Fun!!!

Palm Springs to Laughlin Nevada

2011-10-06T08:14:00.000-07:00

That's what happens when you try to catch up from behind. I started doing this one and then ended up doing Laughlin to Williams instead. Anyway left Palm Springs after breakfast at Ruby's. Beautiful day and Ken and Karen saw me off.

Theses photos were all taken at the hotel before we left Springs. We journeyed through Joshua Tree National Monument. What an amazing place. Thousands of Joshua trees in this one place on earth and rocks appearing to be piled on top of one another. God does good work.

From this fabulous place we headed further along Route 66 and when we reached Roy's place there was a film crew waiting for our German celebrity Wolfgang Frieder A tour bus was there and also a Dutch actress and the antics were lively. People laying on the road and dancin on Route 66.

Then on to our hotel in Laughlin and that is already written up . As we traveleled on Route 66 to Laughlin there were several dips in the road. I just want to know what a ambiguos dip is Some one suggested maybe they could not decide if it was a dip or not.

Laughlin Nevada to Williams Arizona Oct 3/2011

2011-10-05T20:30:00.000-07:00

I did omit word of the beautiful rainbow that greeted us as we entered Palm Springs. But was reminded as we had a beautiful rainbow greet us in Grand Canyon and of course another one today as we approached Monument Valley. Of course there is no rainbow without some rain and we got that also but for the most part it has been dry. We left Laughlin Nevada after another very extensive breakfast buffet. Headed back into the Mojave Desert. We climbed to a little town of Oatman where they cater to the tourists and often the burros come down out of the hills to say Hello. Unfortunately they did not come today. We shopped a bit and I ran into some fellow Calgarians and some people from Lacombe who know my cousin. So they took a picture and are going to say Hello for me.

In Oatman we also had a drink at a bar that had $1.00 bills pinned all over the walls. The best part though was leaving Oatman individually and running the hill to a small shop owned by George. We all lined up there for a photo. The curves were wonderful and I really got into it on this motorcycle. Wanted to go back and do it again. Part of the joy of doing a guided trip like this is that on your own you may never know these roads exist. When we left George's place we headed down Route 66 to Saligman for lunch I had bought a wet cool vest from Ken Maki and boy did it ever work. 103 degrees and I was fine.

The above picture was taken after the hailstorm just before Saligman. We arrived at Lilo's restaurant just in the midst of it..No power but we still had a marvellous lunch.

We wanted to see the Grand Canyon at sunset but settled instead for the sunset from my room. in Williams,Arizona. Grand Canyon tomorrow.

Marriot LA to Palm Springs Sat Oct1/2011

2011-10-03T22:27:00.000-07:00

Up early to have a delicious breakfast buffet at the Marriot and then luggage and bags to the lobby by 8:30. Then we headed over to Eaglerider to pick out our motorcycles and get our jackets. Great store and facility and joy oh joy I am able to handle the BMW R1200RT

So finally after a lot of Rigamarole we headed out. Straight south on the Interstate and then east on the Ortega Highway. Everyone was excited to finally get some twisties to try out their new motorcycles.

We had a bit of a fiasco at Hell's Kitchen. It was decided to order ahead to speed up the process but 3 guys got lost and they would not give separate cheques and so cheeseburger and fries turned out to be 24.95 ea. They will not do that again. This spot is a local biker stop and there were some pretty neat machines there. I sure liked the BMW in these photos.
This is our fearless leader Steve Heather

Then it was on to Palm Springs. All the groups ended up mixed together and we did a group photo overlooking Palm Springs.

We drove past this large lake. Lake Elsinore. It was a tired bunch that finally stopped at the Palm Mountain Resort. Beautiful place. I phoned Ken and Karen Maki andwhen they came over Tom and I bought cool vests and Ken sold a few cool scarfs. After we had reached as many as we could Ken put his merchandise away and he and Karen and I went to Palm Canyon ( a local street) with all kinds of eateries and entertainment.

It was a beautiful evening and there were many people walking about. We had a light dinner at Ruby's place and I had a picture taken with a bronze of Sonny Bono Jr. Looks like I'm playing with his knee? Then we called it a night.

New Adventure Wild West Tours Guided Motorcycle Trip

2011-10-02T22:04:00.000-07:00

Friday Sept 30/2011
Flight to Los Angeles leaves at noon so be at the airport by 10:00AM
Stressed to the max. Will my bag weigh too much? Will I be able to take my helmet?
Bag weighed 23lbs nowhere close to 50. Helmet no problem. Flight was excellent and arrived LA 2:06

Caught the shuttle to the Marriot where we were greeted by our guides and sized up for jackets and met some of our fellow riders and given our room keys. Then we headed for our room. I went for a swim in the marvellous pool right ourside our door. Then in to change for welcoming dinner. This was different ..They bussed us to an outdoor restaurant The Rock and Brew where we were treated to breaded squid..Cheese bread and pizza and beer. Then to bed because we had to be up early the next day to get breakfast and go to Eaglerider to get fitted for our bikes.

Livingston Montana to Kalispell and Beyond

2011-09-20T05:33:00.000-07:00

Well we traveled the Interstate to make some time and stopped for fuel at a Flying J and at Drummond and then we parted ways. Jordeane exited at Bonner and went on to John and Joanne's early and I went through Missoula and to the Motel 6 in Kalispell. The next morning I went to Army and Navy and bought a new pair of boots with some tread as mine were extremely smooth and slippery when there was sand or dirt on top of concrete..Almost dropped it a few times. Then I stopped at Super One in Columbia Falls and bought the Cilantro John needed for his chili and fixings for a tossed salad. And some tortilla chips (you know they don't make those grocery bags as strong as they used to. I tied the bag on to my sack and when I got to John and Joanne's all I had was the grocery sack No tortilla chips)....I ate way to much as they had enough food for 30 people and only 15 came. To those 15 who said they would be there and did not come you missed a really good time but not too worry I ate enough for you all and I certainly did not need it. I know some have really good reasons but a phone call would have been great to advise that you could not make it. This happens all the time for me and it does get my dander up a bit.They have the greatest group of friends I have ever seen with their neighbors Jowanna and Stanley and their chiropractor Delaney and his expectant wife Theresa. Plus the BMW people who came (A lot from Canada) We managed to not attract the bears or cougars who were roaming the area. Forgot to mention Stanley brought over a game called Cornhole and some played that for awhile.
Sunday morning I packed up and after 2 breakfast buritos headed home. Good to be home. Great trip.
Now I have cub scouts and camp at Bergen this weekend. No rest for the wicked.

Lander Wyoming to Livingston Montana

2011-09-19T08:33:00.000-07:00

Today was quite a day because we had stopped sooner than we had wanted we had a few miles to travel. So we packed up and had breakfast at the cafe in the lodge and headed out, Unfortunately we did not stop a lot for photos so I bought postcards and then took pictures of them to kind of give an idea of the beautiful country we traveled through. (No I am not intelligent enough to be able to label my pictures on the photo.)
These pictures are just outside of Dubois, Wyoming. I was there about 30 years ago and remember going to the grub and tub to do laundry and so convenient to eat lunch at the same time but it was torn down about a year ago. I would definitely like to go there again a spend some time hiking in the hills.

As we continued on we went over Togawotee pass. It had road construction and we had to be led by pilot car. The mud and gravel were a little wet and slippery so I was very nervous but found I was able to handle it Okay. We got down off the mountain and ended up at Moran Juntion and headed north into the Teton's and Yellowstone Park. I was a little put out at having to pay $20.00 to drive through the park and the roads were terrible. One would wonder what they do with all that money. Anyway we decided to go up the west side of the park ...less traffic and quicker. The bison were out in their glory. Standing right beside the road and the tour bus ahead of us stopped. We stayed back aways and then when the bus passed and stopped further up we scooted on by. Kind of a touchy situation because I heard of one of them tossing a Harley and his rider a fair piece but then he asked for it because he reached out and touched it as he went by.

Saw some mud pots and I did not realize how big Yellowstone Lake was. We saw more bison and elk as we traveled through. We stopped just south of Mammoth Hot Springs and took this next group of pictures. What beautiful terrain. We exited the park at Gardiner and at the service station I was pleased to see the inventive way the local scouts raise money..selling firewood. We headed north again hoping to reach Butte but there was a very strong north wind and we were so cold when we reached Livingston chose to stay there. We stayed at the Livingston Inn $96.00. A little rich but just to cold to go on. The next morning there was another BMW parked next to mine and while we were packing the owner James from San Francisco came out and we went for breakfast together. I was able to give him my park pass and save him the $20.00 entry fee which made it seem more worthwhile. Another young man from Edmonton on a BMW came in but it was too much for him so cold as he was he traveled on.

Craig Colorado to Lander Wyoming

2011-09-15T20:52:00.000-07:00

We left the Bear Valley Inn in Craig headin towards Yellowstone. After riding through some stunning scenery we approached the Interstate and headed east. As we neared Rawlins, Wyoming just at a off ramp to a Flying J service station Jordeane's bike ran out of gas. This was no problem because she has 2 gallons with her at all times. However when the gas was put in the battery was not quite able to start the bike so I headed up to the Flying J to kind a kindhearted person to give us a boost. Just to put our plight in perspective..the person who volunteered to help was there with his whole family and 4 dogs in a suburban and an old jeep.

They were moving from South Carolina to Courvallis Oregon and had an accident in Tennesee and the suburban and their trailer rolled so all their worldly possession were in their 2 vehicles and Paul and Sherrie were waiting for some insurance money to come through and yet they were so very willing to help out. Continuing on our way we did stop at viewpoint looking over the wind river range and a gentleman from Colorado shared a home grown apple with us and it hit the spot.

We stopped in Lander for fuel and looking ahead there seemed to be a large storm so we opted to stay at the Frontier Lodge . It was very unique and really caught our eye.

Salida Colorado to Craig Colorado Sept 12/2011

2011-09-14T21:34:00.000-07:00

We left Salida Colorado and headed out. We stopped at Leadville for lunch at the Silver Dollar saloon for lunch. Leadville is noted for its lead carbonate rock which produces silver. Leadville is still industrious in mining today.Leaving there we headed for Steamboat Springs, Colorado. We walked through several of the stores including the F M Light store which had been advertised along the roadway for about 50 miles. They sell western ware and I could not help but tell the clerk my Cowboy Boot story. This couple went out west and he went shopping and bought himself a pair of cowboy boots. He went back to the room wearing his new boots and strutted up and down in front of his wife and said "Notice anything different"! and she replies"No!| So he struts up and down once again and asks again,"Notice anything different"? Again she replies No! So in frustration he goes to the bathroom and takes of all his clothes and comes out t wearing just his new cowboy boots. Now do you notice anything different?. She responds No It's hanging down..it was hanging down yesterday and it will be hanging down again tomorrow. He angrily replies You want to know why its hanging down It's looking at my brand new cowboy boots!!! She said Should have bought a hat Sam Should have bought a hat..This store also had a selection of jackalopes. We had dinner at a BBQ place and I had a little chat with Ben Franklin. and then headed out again, We finally stopped at the Bear Valley Inn in Craig Colorado. We had gone through a little shower and looking into the sun found it difficult to see where we were going.

Addition to Sipapu to Salida

2011-09-14T20:15:00.000-07:00

I forgot to mention that just past the Rio Grande Gorge bridge we saw a very phenominal site. Earthship a biotecnological community where all the buildings were built from the earth and are self sustaining. Incredible looking homes. Built into the earth of recycled materials such as bottles or tires etc.

Sipapu to Salida, Colorado Sun/Sept 11

2011-09-14T08:34:00.000-07:00

Packed up very wet and headed out for home. Again Jordeane's bike would not start. Battery is low and does not appear to be charging as it should. But after plugging in for a bit we were on our way. As we neared Taos there was a very beautiful cemetery which we stopped to take a picture of..

A few miles down the road there was construction on the bridge over the Rio Grande Jordeane drove off the road on the viewpoint where vendors were selling their wares. When she went to go back on the roadway she scraped the bottom of the sidecar unit and the bike thought her sidestand was down so when she put the bike in gear it quit. A wonderful man named Badger came quicky to our aid and found the problem immediately and we were on our way.

Next stop for lunch in Alamosa at a Mexican restaurant where Jordeane proceeded to misplace her key to her bike. She found the spare she had but never did find the real one. So we proceeded on without further incident to Salida and the Mountain View motel. A beautiful little spot across the road from a 7-11 where I had my junk fix.

Walsenburg to Sipapu Thursday Sept 8/2011

2011-09-12T20:22:00.000-07:00

Got going pretty early this morning. Continental breakfast 9:00. Had a pretty good sleep and then on to Sipapu. We had a Mexican lunch at Michael's Diner in Taos. Taos is kind of neat even the MacDonalds is adobe style.So 25 miles to the SE is the Sipapu ski resort. Pulled in and there are Turk, Dennis, and Tim. Pretty hard to beat those boys. I think Turk was surprised. Unfortunately the weather did not cooperate and it was a very cold, wet weekend but everyone just made the most of it.
Vonnie and Paul Glaves were also there and Vonnie had achieved her 1 million miles on a BMW award and I was delighted to be there to see her presented with it.

Got a great picture of her and Jordeane in front of the lodge.
They had a band both nights in the lodge but it really was too small to accomadate everyone. Breakfast was served in the lodge cafe upstairs every morning to the tune of $10.17 It was a good buffet but very pricey. They also served the Saturday night dinner which was excellent Mexican food. I was pleased to receive the

the long distance award. I was given a 100 year centennial belt buckle for New Mexico which one of the fellow BMW members had designed. Beautiful! And one would be remiss to not include this wonderful picture of 3 dogs and Lucky. Here are just a few more pictures of the rally and all the bikes.

Monument to Walsenburg

2011-09-12T08:25:00.000-07:00

Reluctantly we left the Sundance Mountain Lodge at noon. We had a great breakfast for 3.99 at the Lodge restaurant and proceeded to pack up. Jordeane was not feeling well and wanted to stop at a vitamin store in Colorado Springs. We exited the Interstate and went to the vitamin store and fueled up and just before getting back on the road we stopped at a red light and her bike quit and would not go again. She pushed it round the corner and started to disassemble everything. A truck pulled up with a couple in it and he offered to help. Our guardian angels Dave and Becky. He took Becky to work and ran home and got some tools all the while thinking about what could be wrong. Came back and suggested FUEL FILTER. Took it off and Jordeane and him went to several parts stores eventually finding one that would work. I think he nailed it and that is what was wrong with the bike all along. He is the Honor Guard Commander for the Colorado Springs American Legion. He was truly in the right place at the right time for us. So we continued on to Walsenburg HMMM! Very unusual quaint depressed little place. It used to have a very large prison there which has been closed down and mining is pretty much done. We traveled a few miles west to the RIO Cacharas Inn.
We were kind of taken by the name. Let's just say it had ambience. Run by a couple of fellas who were partners in every sense of the word. It had a somewhat archaic charm. We went back to town for dinner

at Huerfano Restaurant run by 2 ladies one of whom was a former guard in the prison. So interesting to talk to the local people and learn about the history and people of these places. And so ended another eventful day

Laramie to Monument Sept 6/2011

2011-09-09T16:29:00.000-07:00

Jordeane and Lucky and I set out from Nancy's place and headed to the motorcycle shop in downtown Laramie. Jordeane's bike had been giving her grief..poor gas mileage and gutless on the hills so it was decided she should have new spark plugs. This gave a decided improvement and we carried on to Loveland Colorado where she had a new front tire installed. Finally on the road we made it through rush hour traffic through Denver dry. After Denver it started to rain and of course night befell us. We exited at the first sign of lodging and found the Sundance Mountain Lodge prepared to pay anything for a room. For 79.00 we had the most beautiful place with a beautiful restaurant..Great food and great service. We really lucked out and we really appreciated it because we were cold and wet. The last picture is the wonderful breakfast we had the next day.

Continuing the journey to Sipapu

2011-09-09T16:04:00.000-07:00

Had a light breakfast at the motel and set out for Laramie Wyoming. Very uneventful ride and I arrived in Laramie and called Jordeane and her and Nancy came and found me and led me to Nancy's place. What a delightful family. I visited and helped make dinner which we all enjoyed. Afterwards we took the dogs Lucky and Jitterbug for a riverwalk.

Sat Sept 3/2011

2011-09-07T21:02:00.000-07:00

Today all ten of us went to breakfast at the Nite Owl again. Then we all kind of parted ways. Chris and James an Larry and Fran and I went into Whitefish to harrass store owner Steve Mcgill at LN Company.
We certainly left him laughing and I bought a new shirt with Bling and Fran bought a new purse. Back at the campground Art and Betty's friend arrived from Missoula and they went to the House of Mystery. Chris and James had gone to see the bears and brought back a Huckleberry Pie for dessert. Betty prepared dinner..Chili Cheese dogs and salads. It was a beautiful evening and enjoyed everyones company at the picnic tables. Afterwards we all went to the Blue Moon to enjoy the dancing and fun.

The next morning SUNDAY we awoke to ice on the bikes and I packed up early..Betty made breakfast and I headed out on my next adventure. I rode all day with only fuel stops and when I reached Billings I contacted Con's friend Wally who is in a nursing home there now. My stop was Hardin Montana at the Super 8 I was tired and definitely needed a break.

Sept 2/2011 The next day

2011-09-07T20:48:00.000-07:00

It had been cool that night and managed to roll out fairly early NEEDED COFFEE!! So Karl, Bo. John and I headed for the Owl's Nest. The boys headed off to do some shopping so I went back to the campground and just relaxed. Art and Betty arrived from Missoula and set and plans were made with Chris and James and Larry and Fran to eat dinner at the Sizzler in Kalispell What a great dinner it was Lots of food and just delicious and 10 of us all together.

Canpout at Columbia Falls

2011-09-07T20:35:00.000-07:00

Thursday Sept 1/2011

Left Calgary around noon headed for Columbia Falls , Montana. The mountains were white with snow but it was cool and sunny.On the way down a magnificent moose crossed the road in front of me as I turned off Hwy 3 and headed for Roosville After crossing the border and heading between Eureka and Whitefish I saw another phenominal site...a pink flamingo crossing. One must always be wary when on a motorcycle. They can be surreptious little buggars. Arrived at Glacier Peaks campground around 6PM. Karl and Bo had just arrived and set up camp and decided to go to grocery store and pickup supper. Then John Colebank arrived and I went over to see Connie Con's daughter and pick up his motorcycle vest that she wanted to give me. We had a short visit as she was flying off to Seattle the next day. I took a picture of mallard ducks in her yard having dinner. Went back to the campground and had dinner and James and Chris who had rented a cabin came over for a visit. It got cold and dark so we settled in for the night.

Asthma Ride Aug 28/2011

2011-08-30T14:02:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful day for our Asthma Ride. Something we have not seen for awhile. Despite the lack of media coverage and early preparation we did very well. I believe through the sponsorship of Trans Canada Pipelines we managed to raise over $20,000.00 for Asthma research and equipment for the University of Calgary. Despite all efforts young peoples lives are still cut short by this affliction and through ours and many others efforts it can be prevented. Thank you to all who participated. It was as usual a great ride and a worthwhile event. Photos to follow.#1 This is a photo of the Asthma Team. #2 Vilma and Jen and grandson Elijah.#3 Mike Quesnel from Transcanada Pipelines.#4 Ready to go.#5 Yours truly at Longview.#6 Some of the bikes at Longview.

Last day of this Adventure Aug 26/2011

2011-08-28T05:45:00.000-07:00

Today I was up bright and early to go to visit Betty and get my STUFF Art had finished the backrest on my blue machine and my Western Montana BMW shirt and pin had been picked up by Betty. We had a great visit and I went back to the motel and got Jordeane and we went up to Lolo to meet the rest of the gang for breakfast at the Hayloft. Then back to the motel to pack and headed over to Big Sky BMW to say hello...then we were off like dirty shirts..Me heading home to Calgary and Jordeane to Tech days in Helena.

I arrived home at 10:30 PM. Don't like traveling at night and it had been a long day. I had word that Jordeane arrived safe and sound in Helena and so ends this particular adventure. Last night I enjoyed the finale of the Globalfest fireworks competition and today, Sunday, is the Asthma ride and on Thursday I am beginning a new adventure.

Thursday Aug 25/2011

2011-08-27T15:04:00.000-07:00

This morning we packed up and headed for Missoula, Montana. But no taking the short way for us. We headed for Kamiah and then over Lolo Pass. So I have now seen the rally site for the UMCI International next year and what a beautiful central spot it is. I wish I had a photo but the top of the hill looking over Lewiston Idaho is an awesome site. I had never ridden these rodes before so it was delightful. The only drawback was the heat. It was near 100 degrees and as we descended it was like dropping into a blast furnace. Once we got into the shade and started over Lolo pass it was much better. We arrived in Missoula rather late and stayed at the Brooks Street Motor Inn and walked over to the Manchurian Wok for dinner.

When we reached the bottom of the pass and stopped at the first place for gas. I was filling up and Paul from Colorado and no place in particular walked by and said I know you. He travels with Rex from Lethbridge and Bob from Billings and was with them at the Lunatic Fringe rally in June. Small world

Weds Aug 24/2011

2011-08-27T14:50:00.000-07:00

The next day Jordeane and I traveled around part of Lake Couer de Lane. We went to the town of Harrison for lunch and saw so many lakes it was too hard to keep track. At Harrison we had lunch at One Shot Charlie's overlooking the lake. Saw a sign today: If it weren't for your plumber you'd have no place to go.

However we had to hurry back as Jordeane had volunteered for duty at the North Idaho fair. So I tagged along and managed to boost the Idaho economy somewhat. I really enjoyed the displays of animals and livestock and fruits and vegetables and quilts and handicrafts. Everything a fair should be. We ended up enjoying ourselves and so did not get back to cruisers. Ah well...leaves something for next time.

At the fair I saw the largest kohl rabi I have ever seen. And as you can see we managed to find a couple of cowboys with very short legs playing it to the max. What fun. I also had baby kitten to share my room with. I did not however manage to get a photo of Jordeane's dog Lucky. We had extremely busy and funfilled days.

Another day of the journey Aug 23/2011

2011-08-27T14:25:00.000-07:00

I got on the road at a reasonable hour today with the thought of breakfast going through my mind. I never did stop as I realized where I was I headed over to Rathdrum Idaho to visit with Billie and Dave again. These are the people I met on the way to John Day earlier this year. After a wonderful visit I headed out again to Couer de Lane and found Jordeane's home with no trouble. What a delight. She insisted I stay for 2 days.

In the afternoon we headed over to the Helmet Outlet and I purchased a new helmet. and a few other things including a Plexus spray for windshields. It is pricey but works so well on bugs it is worth every penny. Then Jordeane took me over to Hauser Lake and we drove around it and headed to the Thirsty Moose for a drink. After which thinking of my stomach as usual I suggested we go to Cheap Shots in Spokane for supper. Dave and Shannon have really fixed the place up since the last time I was there. The motorcycles park around back on the patio and the hamburgers were huge and delicious. After dinner we went to another biker bar in Spokane where you drive right into the bar. Cruisers. They however were just closing for the evening so we headed home. A good nights sleep was in the works.

Continuing the journey Aug 20/2011

2011-08-27T10:35:00.000-07:00

Reluctantaly I had to pack up and leave everyone at Nakusp. Turk would not let me follow him nor would Bob..something about riding alone and not knowing where they were going..So for once in my life I did not know where I was going also..I just knew it was not home. I knew I wanted to take the Needles Ferry at Fauquier, BC because I had never been that way before and if you will recall in my last Blog this was to be a journey of connection with old friends. At the ferry I was in line with Rob and Colleen from Lethbridge and my first photo is Rob with his new Spyder. From the ferry we stopped for lunch with a lot of other bikers in a resort this side of Lumby. I carried on to Kelowna and when I got to Oliver was going to check into a hotel but was able to call Barb Pomeroy and spent a lovely evening with her. I even had a man who would sleep with me there....Zak her very large tabby cat took a shine to my moose quilt. We had a lovely visit. Thank you Barb for your hospitality.

BMW Rally, Nakusp,B.C. Aug 18-21/2011

2011-08-27T07:07:00.000-07:00

Home again for the moment. This rally for me is always one of the best. The sense of community, closeness and sharing ar ultimate. The adventure started Wednesday afternoon when I met Tom and we started out. Stopping at his lovely home in Canmore overnight. Early Thursday heading to Nakusp via Trans Canada and south at Revelstoke. A different way to go for me as I have not been this route for many years.

This was to be a journey of meeting friends the whole trip. But I digress. At the ferry 2 BMW's pulled up behind us and there were my friends Lisa and Marshall. On to Nakusp where more good friends are already gathered and set up. I got my tent pitched and soon it was time for dinner. One of the 3 beautifully catered dinners by Deb and her crew.
The weather was absolutely delightful throughout the whole event. Friday the bikes and sidecars went to the home to visit with the seniors and I took the young man with MS that I took last year and he really seemed to enjoy it. I gave him my rally pin for his hat. I also took a young man Simon who has just started working there for a ride. Then I drove Bob Vietske up to a nearby parking lot. Got off...Climbed in the sidecar..And let him drive..Of course he picked it up right away and we drove back to the campground. Saturday I rode up to the hot pool. Here again I was delighted to find many, many friends who had made that same decision.
Vonnie Glaves who must have her million miles on BMW's now, David Hough, Doug and Marlene Nault,

Jordeane, Robin, and Bob Vietske and many many more. Campfires each night with a group of good friends are also a highlight. Sat afternoon were also the field events. I am not as keen on these as many risk life, and limb and motorcycle to entertain the rest of us for a $25.00 prize but many enjoy showing off thir skills and are very good. Sunday is time for farewells, packing up and leaving. For me a tough time as I so enjoy this place that it is hard to say goodbye. This time I had no idea where I was going. Just knew it was not directly home..so with some tears and misgivings I finally packed my tent and headed out to begin a new and very exciting adventure. And no BMW rally would be complete without our infamous Phil Funnell. World traveller extraordinaire.

UMCI Alberta Rally Standard, Alberta

2011-08-14T11:33:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful rally, Thanks to all who came..Thanks to all who helped..Thanks for the wonderful weather..Thanks for the great places to travel and see. I arrived on Friday afternoon and Karl and Dodie,
Howard and Karen, Dick Summers were already there set up in their motorhomes. Every campsite had a tree for shade. Absolutely beautiful place. The only thing was that for those who don't cook..the only place in town..The Standard Hotel did not open til 11:00AM. So I sweet talked the owner into coming in and serving breakfast at 9:00 on Saturday. 18 of us enjoyed a great breakfast.

Friday after I got set up people started arriving. 26 in the campground and 30 with those who visited the next day and stayed for dinner. After breakfast on Saturday Peter and Nellie Benders from Edson, and their guests from The Nederlands (Toos and Gheera) went to the Tyrell Museum. Several of the others went to the Indian Museum Blackfoot Crossing. What a beautiful exhibit of artifacts and history of the Siksika Nation
We met Dan and Stephanie Magee and Ken Forbes at the museum. They had just come from Medicine Hat
We kind of split up a bit here some going back to the campground and Don from Prince George and Hanz from Castlegar going elsewhere to visit. Back at the campground Karl and Dodie and Howard and Karen got our orders and headed into Strathmore for Chinese Food and we ate it at picnic tables at the campground. We ordered for 30 but I think we got enough for 50 but better too much than not enough and a lot of us are having lunch today. John Wetherell was of course the oldest male to ride his motorcycle to the rally. At 84 he is still racking up the miles. Ann Odell from Lethbridge drove her van as she had been in Kamloops visiting and came directly from there. There were no other older females there riding their motorcycles (HA HA) So no takers for that offer.
At this point I would like to send a special thanks to Stephanie Magee for the special quilt she made me.
The one side was a pattern I had admired in Helena on the May long weekend and the other is a beautiful warm flannel material with moose on it. Absolutely beautiful! Thank you.

With campfires each evening and wonderful food, friendship, and fun..This was the epitomy of a great rally.
No sex, drugs or rock and roll. Just an absolutely delightful time. New joke: Guy and his wife are at home watching television and as usual the guy has the remote and is flicking from a fishing show to a porn channel.
Finally his wife is getting very annoyed and
says. Oh for heaven sakes Leave it on the porn channel You already know how to fish!!

BMW Rally Republic, Washington

2011-07-27T06:14:00.000-07:00

I arrived Friday and got my tent situated before dinner. Unfortunately dinner was very disorganized and we waited in line for an hour and the meal was A piece of BBQ chicken, Reesers potato salad and beans. It was sufficient and I felt sorry for the caterers as they seemed so unprepared. They had a live band on Sat night but many just sat in their little groups and visited. Turk..my friend from Borrego Springs was camped next to me and Bob Bivalet from Orcas Island was there. As well as Duncan from Salmon Arm. Doug and Marlene Nault who used to live in Calgary and now hale from Crawford Bay were there also. El and her husband who were at the Lunatic Fringe Rally from Colorado were also there. What a diverse bunch and what an interesting time. When you arrive you have to sign up if you think you are eligible for any awards.

I did not So happily a woman 3 years younger than I won Oldest female to ride her bike to the rally. For some reason it is not an award I want to win. Instead I won the 50/50 for 180.00. Much nicer. The next day I packed up reluctantly to head home and decided to treat myself to a motel in Libby, Montana. A wonderful couple from Georgia pulled in next to me and we had dinner and shared stories of our journies. They were coming from the CMA International rally in Moses Lake. That it truly what this motorcycling journey is all about.

UMCI Rally John Day, Oregon

2011-07-26T21:14:00.000-07:00

On Sunday July 17 I headed out early for Rathdrum, Idaho where I was to meet up with friends and continue on to John Day the next day. Billie and Dave welcomed everyone and had a great BBQ that evening. Everyone pitched in and we had a wonderful time. The next morning we met our fearless leader Scotty 84 years young at a restaurant in Post Falls Idaho. There were 9 motorcycles in all with 6 being bikes and sidecars. We traveled south without mishap except Scotty made a wrong turn in the Tri Cities area which is not hard to do and we all had a much welcomed rest in a park along the river. Ann Odell said once we left Rathdrum it would be baldheaded prairie all the way...Except once we turned off the Interstate on 395 we went over 5 mountain pases with twists and turns galore...Some bald headed prairie!

Beautiful little town. No wonder so many motorcycle rallies are held here. We had 147 in attendance with the furthest away being from Portland, Ontario. I was delegated to do 1/2 hour of jokes at the banquet as entertainment. It is so good to enjoy the camadarie of all ones friends. There were several rides but the only one I took was to the John Day Fossil Beds and museum. What a diverse region and so different from our Drumheller. In my quest to find someone to share my retirement gift with I was bugging Ron Pratt from La Ronge if he was ready for his audition yet. Finally at the banquet he said he was ready but I would need 4 cotton balls..I finally asked what for? He responded 2 for my nose and 2 for my ears. I can't stand the smell of burning rubber or screaming women. And on that note I left on Friday AM to head out for Republic Washington to the BMW rally there! ALONE! I negotiated all the twists and turns heading the opposite direction on 395. No problem but I only met about 6 cars in 150 miles til I reached the Interstate. I was a little freaked out by the mention of the tight turns on Hwy 21 down to the Keller ferry. Your traveling along in this flat farmland and then all of a sudden the bottom drops out and you wind your way down to the ferry, Again I was all alone but I managed just fine and arrived in John Day early Friday afternoon.

BMW rally

2011-07-26T20:40:00.000-07:00

Our BMW Lunatic Fringe Rally was down in numbers this year with only 40 attendees but it was fun and lots of great people to meet and old friends to greet. I went for a ride with Roy Sidebottom up the forestry road til the pavement ran out, It had been many years since I traveled this route and it was beautiful and brought back lots of memories. A large group went to a car show in Calgary with David Shipley leading and the 3 from Minnesota went to the Columbia Ice Fields.

Motorcycle trip to UMCI rally in John Day Oregon July 11/2011

2011-07-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

Friday July11 Packed and starting out for the Lunatic Fringe Rally at the Beaupre Community Hall west of Cochrane. Who will be there? What new friends will I meet and what old friends will I become reacquainted with?