The End Of The Road

The time has come to bring this journey to a close.
It has been a 54 day, 8,168 mile, moving, inspiring, and spiritual adventure.
I've seen some of the most beautiful sights this country has to offer, and visited with many friends and relatives.
My faith in humanity was re-enforced by friendly strangers, and I left all of my possessions on my bike unattended, at least 100 times, and nothing was ever stolen, or even touched. I had no flat tires, no mechanical problems, never ran out of gas, never got lost, never failed to get a room or a meal when it was needed, and never even had a close call with other folks on the road. I know that at least one angel was watching over me, perhaps more than one.
Most importantly, I was blessed to meet many wonderful new friends, families who struggle with the challenges imposed by Friedreich's Ataxia, the neurological disorder that took my dear wife Jan from this world on July 17th. It was both an honor and a privilege to have met these beautiful people. I met with six families on my trip, and received many loving and kind emails from many other families as I travelled around the country.
I want to thank the following people for welcoming me into their lives, for their thoughts and good wishes, prayers, and support.
  Mary Caruso and her daughters Sam and Alex Bode
  Zac, Suzy, and Gary Zies
  Aaron, Allie, Joe, Sue, and Mike Kittel
  Chelsea, Sandy and Steve Lane
  Stephanie, Carl, and Sharon Magness and Stephanie's friend Caitlin
  Brianne Konanz, her parents, and her boyfriend Trent
  Mary-Lisa Orth, Alex, (and Benjamin)
  Cornelia, Eric and Sophia Sieber
  Kathy and Aaron Smith
  Valerie Bennett, and Phillip
  Pam Andresen, Nick and Eric
  Terri and Loran Martin
  Mike Dwyer, Jamie-Lee and Samantha
  Marilyn Downing, and Bridget
  And all the folks at FARA, for all their caring and hard work.
I also want to thank my friends in New Jersey - Kamal, Sheila, Darshan, Tom, Karen, Elisa, the folks at 'The Valley', and all my friends at AM Best. Your help, support, and friendship has meant more to me than I can express.
Thanks also to Ron Coder and his family, Ron and Dianne, Kerri, my 'other' brother Darryl, John Williams, Boyd and the whole Machtolff family.
To those I missed on this journey - my apologies - I hope to see you all soon.
If you can HELP, please do, it means the world to us!    Thank You.

Arizona into Colorado

Left Kingman and rode east to Flagstaff, AZ.

Then - headed north through the Navajo reservation, through the 'Four Corners', and then into Colorado, through the Ute reservation, and back to Cortez, CO.

Most likely will be wintering here, as the weather and my back are indicating that this trip is just about over.

The Mojave Desert

Left Barstow at 11am, and headed east on route 40 towards Arizona.

The day started out cloudy in Barstow, but within 50 miles, the sun was shining, and I was in the desert.

Route 40 runs along the south edge of the Mojave desert, and it gets warm here. (who'da thunk) 85 degrees today.

Drove through Needles, CA, and ended up in a Best Western in Kingman, Arizona.

Barstow, California

Headed south today, down through Fresno, through Bakersfield, and through the city of Mojave, ending up in Barstow. I will be riding through the Mojave desert (not just the city of Mojave) tomorrow, about 20 miles east of here.
The latter part of the ride today was in the desert. It was warm and windy with a few dust storms just to keep it interesting.

Yosemite

Lodi just happens to be about 80 miles west of Yosemite, so when I left Lodi, I headed east.

The first half of the drive, there were just small hills, and not much scenery, but as I approached Yosemite, the sights were amazing! I took many pictures, which delayed my planned progress, so I ended up getting a room in Oakhurst, CA.

I can easily see how a person could devote a lifetime to painting or photographing Yosemite. It is an incredibly grand place, and there are incredible sights everywhere you turn your head.

I could post 100 pictures, but it is something you just have to see in person.
In the pictures, the waterfall is Bridal Veil Falls, and you can see halfdome in the bottom picture, off in the distance.

Remembering the skydive with Brianne yesterday, looking at all this beauty, I feel very lucky right now.

Lodi, California - Skydiving with Brianne

         



I rode my bike east today, following Trent and Brianne in her van.

We are heading to The Parachute Center in Lodi.

I like this place. It is beyond informal. A bunch crazy thrillseeker types, with green hair, and funky beards, work here. Had a brief orientation, and Brianne and I were harnessed-up. I had not jumped before, and I was excited. Brianne jumped today for her 21st time!

We climb to 13,000 feet, shuffle to the door, and just float out into the wind, tumbling over so that we are looking at the aircraft we just departed, shooting away due to our acceleration from gravity, and it's own flight path.

Then a quick flip so that we are looking down, and we freefall for the next 7,000 feet, whistling downward through the air at 120 miles an hour! The cameraman is 5 feet away, and we are face to face, both pumped up with the freefall rush, high-fiving each other in mid air, plummeting to earth. Just awesome!

We pop the chute at about 5,000 feet, and the guy lets me fly the parachute for a minute, making a few turns. He then takes over and does some more aggressive maneuvers, and we line up to land. A smooth, slide the butt on the grass landing, and it was a blast!

Brianne's landing was a little rougher, as the guy she was with was new to jumping with someone with leg difficulties, and they came in hard on the butt. But Brianne is tough, and she seemed to be ok, and felt better pretty quickly.

I was very glad that she was not hurt. We (Trent, Brianne and I) went and had some dinner and talked, and said goodbye.

I really enjoyed meeting them, and wish them all the best. Thank you Brianne - The jump was incredible!

The photos are:

1 - The aircraft we jumped from.

2 - Brianne about to land (in the Red parachute).

3 - Me (with the Blue Parachute)

4 - Me, Brianne and Trent, and Brianne's assistance dog Haley, before the jump.

Brianne Konanz and her family

Well I had a nice ride up through San Fransisco, over the Golden Gate Bridge, and up to Petaluma and Rohnert Park, CA. Just north of San Fran. I came north again to meet Brianne, her boyfriend Trent, and her parents. Brianne is really into Skydiving, and I am going to go with her tomorrow, for my first jump! It will be her 21st! Had dinner with them, and made plans for skydiving tomorrow.
As I departed north on Route 101 this morning, I saw a sign for Mission San Juan Bautista, and after losing my pictures that I took at Mission de la Soledad yesterday, I decided to stop and ease my pain.

The photos are:

2 photos of Mission San Juan Bautista

The Golden Gate Bridge

San Francisco from accross the bay

Salinas, California

Continued up route 101 north, and stopped at Mission de la Soledad. A Mission founded in 1791, and restored in 1955. Then I continued north, and ended up in Salinas. Enjoyed a very authentic Mexican dinner, with live music, in a place where I was the only person who spoke English.

Went to my blog to post some pictures of my last day at Boyd's house, and the Mission, and got a little angry at myself, as I accidentally erased all the pictures I took during the last two days. So - the picture I posted of the mission, is from the web, but is exactly the same as the picture I took today.

Solvang, California

Rested for two days, and got the bike oil changed.
Spent Friday night with my friends, and had another Boyd breakfast feast. Said goodbyes.

Headed north on route 101, and rode to Solvang. A small quaint town, with wine tasting, antiques, bakeries and galleries everywhere. Got some chinese food, went to my hotel, and fell asleep without ever eating. I can give you a good price on a luke warm egg roll, if anyone is interested.

I am heading north to Rohnert Park, CA, to visit Brianne and Trent.
I missed meeting them on my way south, so I am heading back north, before I head east.

Thinking alot about all of the new friends I've met. Some really great people, that I wish I could do more for. A lot of contemplation going on these days.

A Day Of Rest

Slept late. Everyone is at work, and I am talking with Midnight, the dog. She is not much of a conversationalist, but she does get all my jokes. We did some laundry (I washed , Midnight folded), and waited for the other humans to come home. A nice meatloaf dinner with my friends. I will miss them when I leave.

I added the latest trip map

So far I've been on the road for 46 days, and ridden 6,200 miles through 13 states.

I've met lots of very nice people, and seen many beautiful sights.

(my thanks to Carl for the quote from Abraham Lincoln - which I added to the top of my blog)

Angeles Crest Highway

Took a ride with Boyd today, up into the mountains north of LA, and in the Angeles Crest National Forest. Also rode up to Mount Wilson. Some beautiful roads, and a perfect sunny day, Had a nice dinner with Boyd's family, and I got to blogging, as I was a couple of days behind.
The photo is me and our bikes, at Mount Wilson.
(note to the Laundry Police - yes, that is the same shirt I wore to dinner last night. In my defense, I wore a clean shirt to dinner, and a dirty one to ride around the mountains. I promise to wash it before New Years day)

Carl, Sharon, Stephanie and Caitlin

Went north about 50 miles to have dinner with The Magness family, Carl and Sharon, their daughter Stephanie, and her friend Caitlin. It was a strange coincidence that Stephanie and Caitlin (who both struggle with Friedreich's Ataxia) live in the same small town, and went to the same high school, before they were introduced by a doctor who knew them both. We had a nice dinner at the Claim Jumper. Both Stephanie and Caitlin are really nice people, and I enjoyed meeting them, and Carl and Sharon. Thank you again guys for a wonderful dinner.

Familair places - good friends

Spent the day riding around a bit, visiting the USMC Air Base (LTA Tustin) where I was stationed in 1977-1978, old neighborhoods, and some familiar riding roads. A lot of memories for me here. Went for Sushi dinner with my friend Boyd, and his family. I have been good friends with Boyd for over 20 years. He is a cool friend, a great Dad, is the CTO (Cheif Technology Officer) for eAgency Mobile Solutions, and the drummer for Damage Inc. (If you ever see a heavy metal drummer with a pocket-protector, and tape holding his glasses together, that's boyd)

In the picture - left to right - are:
Samantha, Angelica, Boyd, and Jacob (their eldest son, Joshua is away at school)

Sandy, Steve and Chelsea

Enjoyed some of Boyd's good home cooked fried chicken for lunch, then took a ride with him around some nice local roads.

Had dinner with some new friends, Sandy, Steve, and their daughter Chelsea. Some of the best salmon I've ever had. Enjoyed meeting them very much, and sharing some good dinner and conversation. Some more nice people that I met through Mary Caruso. After dinner, I stopped to see my friend's band reherse. The are called Damage Inc. and they are a Metallica tribute band. Boyd is their drummer.

The picture (which I had to get online, as I forgot to take one with the Lane family) is Chelsea. She is a really cheerful, cool kid, I wish her all the best. Sandy and Steve, thank you again for a great dinner.

Los Angeles

South out of San Simeon, and on to LA. Going to visit my old friend Boyd, and his family. I have had an amazing time on PCH, the last couple of days has been great riding, and the nights with the beach to myself are awesome!

Staying tonight at a Holiday Inn where the 91 and 5 freeways meet near LA.

The pictures are:

The sun, on the Pacific Ocean, as I stopped along route 1.

And my bike, at the Monterey county line.

A dark night in San Simeon

Enjoyed the hotel in Oakland, with my own very private, balcony.I then intentionally left the 'fast lane' and went southwest to Monterey, and took the scenic Route 1 (PCH) south. This road is challenging, in the sense that you must be alert for many tight 20 mph curves, mixed in with swooping curves you can take at 70. This means you are getting a workout, because everytime you brake, then accelerate, etc, you are kind of doing a little pushup. And sometimes, when you've underestimated your braking needs, and suddenly you must compensate, qiuckly and hard, it is more than a real pushup!
The scenery was stunning, vast, and profound. It is one of those desolate, beautiful places, that spark magic in our imagination as we stop briefly to photograph it from our car. But - to be here without shelter, and weather it, would be true hardship. At sunset, I began to think I might perhaps get stuck in this dark and empty place, without having found a room, food, or gas. But, as the lord has done for more than 17500 days, I was provided for again, as I saw some wonderfully bright Sunoco, Quality Inn, and Comfort Inn signs appearing over the horizon. I checked into a Quality Inn, about 1 mile north of San Simeon Beach State Park, in California. Went and had some dinner, and as I was leaving the restaurant - All of the lights went out. I mean everything. You are already in the middle of nowhere, on the coast, so there is no ambient light coming from anywhere, so it was a dark, dark night in San Simeon. The blessing was that I ended up taking a walk on the beach, at night, around rocks the size of large homes, and the roaring surf. And San Simeon was kind of misty and magical, in the darkness, and all alone, with small drops falling, but not real rain. One dramatic difference between New Jersey and California: You can drive to northern California, and select, what is in essence, your own personal chunk of beach, a quarter mile wide. And you can do this in many locations. That does not happen in New Jersey. I returned to my room, still in darkness, and was pleased to find that the little magnetic, credit card room keys, still work during a blackout, since the door mechanism contains batteries. Used my laptop screen as enough light to get undressed, and prepare for bed. It is strange to have this blackout today, it has been three months, to the day, that the world lost an angel.

In the photos, you will see what looks like a cloud on the left, that is smoke, which is why I saw several helicopters coming in over the ocean to pick up more water to drop on the fire.

Oakland California

Rode some more beautiful roads down Pacific Coast Highway, and then through more redwoods on route 128, south to San Francisco, and Oakland. I am visiting a friend, John Williams, whom I worked with at AM Best for many years. We had a nice Italian dinner in San Fransisco, and talked. John is a good man. I value his wisdom and his example.
Heading south tomorrow - aiming for LA in two days, perhaps. The photo is more beauty on the Pacific Coast Highway.

Pacific Coast Highway California

My brother headed north, back home, and I headed south.
Aimed for route 1, the Pacific Coast Highway, or PCH. It is arguably one the most beautiful roads around. Hundreds of miles of beach on one side, and beautiful hills, homes, cliffs, or something that is always interesting, on the other.
One photo is the view coming down PCH.
The other is sunset on the beach, by my hotel.

I also made another trip map, showing the route I have taken. (over 4900 miles so far)

California Redwoods

Headed south, out of Oregon, and into California with my brother Darryl. Arrived at the James Irvine Trail, where I'd been before, and took a walk among some of the oldest and largest trees on earth.
You get a sense of humility here. These trees awe everyone who sees them. They are over 200 feet tall, and many are over 1000 years old!

Brothers

I am here in Eagle Point to visit my brother Darryl, and his family.

There is some beautiful scenery here with mountains in every direction.

Changed the oil again in the bike, and I gave in, and bought some small saddlebags, as the backpack would tend to leave a sore neck, at the end of a days riding, just due to poor riding posture.

So I am hoping to ride more comfortably hereafter.

The photo is my brother Darryl, and I, with our bikes.

I want to thank Valerie Bennett for the custom made CureFA.org bumper stickers she made for me. It is what you see on my front windshield.

Eagle Point, Oregon

Travelled North from Susanville, in some snow flurries, and lots of cold. Had to pull over every 20 minutes, just to stop the relative wind, and thaw out. The awesome views, made the insufferable cold sufferable, and I stopped and took a picture of my bike and Mount Shasta, about 30 miles away in the background.
Arrived at my brother Darryl's house in Eagle Point, Oregon at about 5pm.
Had a nice dinner, and talked about old times.

Susanville, California

Left Elko, Nevada and rode 372 miles today, through Reno, then north, ending up in Susanville, California. I love California, because it has just about everything. Miles and miles of shoreline, mountains, desert, snow, redwoods, wine country, and lots of unusual people. I was born in California, and it does feel like home sometimes. Did notice however, that folks on the East and West coasts are fast moving, in a rush, do it now, kind of folks, as opposed to the slower talking, more polite, calmer people in the midwest.
Cold, cold riding today, (45 degrees) bundled up heavily, but still extremely cold.
Heading to Eagle Point, Oregon tomorrow, visiting my 'other brother' Darryl.

Bonneville Salt Flats, Utah

Left Price, Utah and rode up through Salt Lake City, then west on route 80 to Elko Nevada. 347 miles today, in sunshine, but one of the colder days on this trip. Wearing two pairs of pants and two shirts helped a lot. As I was about to cross the border from Utah into Nevada, I stopped at a rest stop, and realized I was right next to the Bonneville Salt Flats, where land speed records are set.The highest speed achieved at Bonneville was 622 miles per hour, by the rocket powered Blue Flame in 1970.

In the photo, the salt flats are in the foreground with mountains about 10 miles away.

Strange place - Elko, Nevada. The 'Old West' is still here, just more high tech. In Elko, there are Saloons, Bordellos, Cowboys, Casinos, and Gold Miners. Just like 150 years ago, except with neon, cell phones, and Wi-Fi.

Utah

Departed Cortez, Colorado after lunch, heading toward Medford, Oregon.

Rode 234 miles today, past some amazing scenery.

Took a photo at a rest stop, showing the sheer size of the sights I am passing.

( that is not a kitten in the foreground, it is my motorcycle )

Ended up in Price, Utah for the night. Hoping to get to Nevada tomorrow.

Arches National Park

Took a drive to Moab, Utah today, to visit Arches National Park. I don't recall ever being in Utah before, but I must say it is beautiful! There are huge rock formations in SW Utah that are simply stunning. And when I say rock formations, I mean mountains made of solid rock! Hiked about a mile to Delicate Arch.

The bottom photo is of Delicate Arch (with Sam and Alex's pewter heart sneaking into the picture)

Above that is a more 'panoramic' shot of Delicate Arch, and if you look closely, there are two people near the bottom of the Arch, (one in the shadow of the arch, and one at the bottom of the nearer leg leg of the arch) revealing the immense size of the terrain here!

Mesa Verde

Still here in Cortez. Went to see Mesa Verde (spanish for green table) National Park, which is set around Pueblo cliff dwellings about 20 miles east of Cortez. This is a place that is very hard to describe, as it is an illustration of human ingenuity and fortitude. The cliff dwellings were built under massive sandstone cliffs, which provide a natural roof, and protection from the elements. Being built into cliffs, near the top of a canyon, they are difficult to get to, which made them easier to defend, as access routes are few, narrow, and steep. They are about 900 years old. On that note - while in Cortez, I see a lot of Native Americans (I'll not say Indians, lest I confuse you folks from Mumbai) and I am acutely aware that the land I am standing on, belonged to them (in European terms, as Native Americans did not believe a person could 'own' the land).

Cortez, Colorado

Left Silverthorne at 11am, and rode 330 miles in nice sunshine on some beautiful roads through the rockies. Arrived in Cortez, Colorado at about 6pm.
Total trip miles since leaving New Jersey (so far) 3,170 miles.
Averaging 45 mpg, no problems with the bike or the laptop.
Will be staying in Cortez about a week, visiting an old friend.
Took two pictures on the way to Cortez. Simply awesome views of the Colorado Rockies!
Also attached a map of the route I have taken so far.

God's country

We enjoyed sushi and football, then I said goodbyes, and headed west on 34 out of loveland. The route was recommended to me by all who could speak, so I had to take Trail Ridge Road. I have to say, it was likely the most beautiful road I have ever ridden upon. Thinking about all the people I've met on this journey, and looking at pure beauty. When I checked into my Hotel in Silverthorne, Colorado, I saw the sun shining kind of upward through the clouds, and I was lucky enough to capture it on camera. Thank you again to my friends in Loveland.

On a side note - at the hotel, where they post all of the "I really enjoyed my stay here" letters from past guests, down at the bottom, all by itself, was a quote "Life, at it's best, is not devoid of pain and sorrow. It is however, filled with peace and joy." I asked the manager, Steve King (whom I promised not to tease about his name) where it came from. He put it there. I thanked him. I always love it when the exact thing we need, simply appears before us.

There is far more going on in this world than meets the eye.

Hate to go

I want to thank Sharon for loaning me her guitar. I missed playing and her generousity provided me with an old friend. I am spending some of the morning with Aaron and Orie, his dog, who is a good assistance dog, but a better pet. For dinner it was fajitas and good family time with more music.
We took a nice walk around a sculpture park by the Kittel's home, with some beautiful works of art, many with a native american flavor, and it was very cool!
I can't really express how much I enjoyed my time with Joe, Sue, Aaron, Allie, and Mike. I guess sometimes we recieve far more than we could ever give.
It is going to be hard to say goodbye. Heading out tomorrow for Cortez, Colorado, taking two days to get there.
The top photo is Me, Mike, Aaron, and Orie.

The bottom image is an article in the Loveland Reporter Herald, arranged by Joe Kittel.

Music and vicarious family

I am spending some time in Loveland, with folks I know I will always know.
Lost my cellphone at the dump, where mud sticks an inch thick to your shoe, and rumbling bulldozers and trucks dumping waste are cruel to tiny electronic devices. Bought another, but of course all my numbers were gone. I figured, if people care about me, they'll call, and I'll press -save- , if they don't call, perhaps I don't need their number? :)
I enjoyed being welcomed into the Kittel's home, and I had a great time playing guitar while Allie played the harp, our own rendition of Scarborough Fair. Thank you Allie, that was fun.
Nice dinner, and a walk by myself before bed.

Strange coincidences

A couple of strange things today. I was talking with Joe Kittel about the Marine Corps (he was in the Navy), and we discovered, that while he was serving aboard the USS Tarawa, (an aircraft carrier for helicopters) which was undergoing sea-trials, and was not yet fully in-service, I was landing on the deck of his ship, on a Sea Stallion helicopter! Kinda strange that he and I were on the same ship at the same time. We also both remembered the same humorous story about the first man-overboard on the Tarawa. He was a guy in my Squadron, who fell asleep in the helicopter, then it was towed to the edge of the deck, with the end of the rear ramp hanging off the deck, over the water. Well - when this marine woke up (at night) and tried to jump the 3 feet from the ramp to the deck of the ship, he got quite a surprise, as he plummeted about 90 feet into the water! Luckily for him he was hollering on the way down, and someone heard him. Took the ship more than an hour to make a u-turn (these ships are huge, and they probably do a head count before actually making that long, costly u-turn)
The second small world story, was when I went to get my oil changed on my bike, the guy in the Service center saw my NJ plates, asked where in Jersey I was from, and it turns out he is from Long Valley, the very small town I just left. Weird!
Fun dinner and conversation with the Kittels. Enjoying Loveland.

A Tie-Dyed World

Helped Aaron re-arrange his room and computer desk today. Aaron loves anything tie-dyed, and is also a big fan of Yoda, like me. His mom and dad have done a great job raising their children. Aaron, Mike, and Allie are all kind, caring, friendly people. I enjoyed seeing how they all get along and genuinely care about each other, and others.

The picture is (left to right) Sue, Joe, Aaron, Allie, and I, standing in a tie-dyed world.

Loveland, Colorado and the Kittel family

Left Denver around noon, and headed about 30 miles north to Loveland Colorado, to meet the Kittel family, Joe, Sue, Aaron, Mike, and Allie (their other daughter Jennifer lives in Utah). I was introduced to them via email and Mary Caruso. They are really nice, cool, interesting people. I arrived at Aaron's house, and met him and his aide Drew. Aaron is 31, has FA, and is a really good guy. I will be in town here helping (or annoying) the Kittels for a few days. The rockies are about 20 miles west of us, and they are beautiful.

The Colorado Rockies

I left Salina early, and planned to go pretty far today. The wind was blowing from the south, at at least 30 mph, and gusting to 50! I see why they made The Wizard Of Oz here. It was wicked! I am travelling at 70, with the wind hitting me directly from the left at 30mph, then 45, then 30, then 50, then 20, then 40 - my lord! Just an incredible battle with the buffeting for about 3 hours! I found myself, without thinking, hollering some beautiful expletives, when it just got to be too much darn fun . Stopped at a rest stop, and busted out laughing, because I was parked, and the wind was blowing me around as if I was still doing 40mph.
Took two pictures today.
One was at the rest stop, where the wind wouldn't rest. It is a picture of time marching on, of change. There is an very old stone building, and about a half mile behind it is a huge, new wind turbine, about 150 feet blade diameter. I saw many arrays of these turbines in central Kansas. (in the foreground is the Pewter Heart I got from Sam and Alex)The second picture is of the Rockies, as you first see them heading west, about 30 miles from Denver. Every time I cross country, I always love this sight! It means the plains are over, and now the terrain is all 3D and interesting, and the roads actually have some curves in them now. Note that in this picture, the mountains are still 40 miles away!I am sorry, but those Kentucky Blue Ridge things, and those ripples in Pennsylvania, they are not mountains, they are hills. These are mountains.

Got all the way into Denver, despite the wind! 433 miles today.

Salina, Kansas

Left Blue Springs, Mo, and headed west on 70. I had taken a good look at online maps the night before, and understood that between Salina, Kansas, and Denver, Colorado, hotel pickins were slim. So, after only 195 miles, realizing that I am in Kansas, not Maryland, I stayed at a nice hotel, in Salina, and got some rest.

Kansas City, Here I Come...

Coffee and goodbyes to Ron and Dianne, and the dogs, Rocco and Bud. Rocco is needy and follows (or should I say leads) you everywhere, as if you are his shadow. He forever anticipates where you are going (or tries to), and constantly looks over his shoulder to make sure you are still coming. I must admit I intentionally sent him down the hall a couple of times just for fun, once I saw how his mind worked. The look he then gave me was priceless, 'cause he knew how my mind worked too. Bud, was quite different, one of those long wiener dogs, that has far too much torso, and far too little legs. He is about 130 years old, in people years, but just doesn't know it. Thanks Ron and Dianne, for your hospitality.
Departed Eureka, Mo, and took 70 west, towards Kansas City, Mo. I am heading for Loveland Colorado to visit the Kittel family. I anticipate the trip to Loveland will take three days, and I'll likely be staying overnight in western Kansas tomorrow evening. Saw a road-sign sign saying Nostalgiaville USA, 20 miles. Smiled, and stopped 20 miles ahead, to see all the old stuff. The building was pretty cool, and I had to take some pics. I liked the place because it was just so shamelessly tacky, but very interesting. About 250 miles riding today, in good Missouri weather, and stopped for the night in Blue Springs, Mo (about 20 miles east of Kansas City). No offense to the Blue Springians among you, but if this isn't the middle of nowhere, then it sure has got to be close by. Headin' west in the morning.

Gateway to The West

The Meramec River dropped dramatically overnight, as if someone pulled the plug. More than a foot per hour for 12 hours! Ron has his 30 foot backyard back (at least until mother nature needs it again).
Went into 'the city' which in this locale, means Saint Louis, and had a nice dinner at the revolving restaurant atop the Millennium Hotel with Ron and Dianne, then some drinks at a rooftop lounge that they like. The amenities were superior, with polished brass, and flowers everywhere, and cloth towels in the restrooms. Perhaps a little too nice for mere humble creatures, made of clay, but just right for that 'once a year pretend you're a millionaire' night out.

Beautiful views of the Arch! Returned to Eureka and reality and slept out in Ron's Winnebago, where I was bitten by a mosquito that could have airlifted troops, then slept like a rock.

I just want to say hello to Mary, Sam and Alex, and all the FAPG folks who have been so supportive and kind. My best wishes to all of you.

The Lord was willin' but the creek did rise

Stayed in a hotel in last night, and when I attempted to return to my friend Ron's house on the Meramec river, the road, which was dry the day before, was flooded, about 2 feet deep. Could not cross - unless you had a truck or jeep with LOTS of ground clearance. Got accross in my friends truck (he barely made it accross), and helped him work on his house a bit. Then we took a drive down old route 66, and saw these really cool caves, went up to one and took a picture to show how large the entrance is. Tomorrow - a little tourist time in Saint Louis, then Saturday, I depart for Loveland, Colorado, to visit some new friends, Joe, Sue, Aaron, Allie, and Mike. Will be blogging again on Sat night, as I'll have no internet on Friday night.

Portage des Sioux

Took a ride into Saint Louis, and took the obligatory picture of the arch.

Then headed northwest a few miles to Portage des Sioux, Mo, where we lived when I was 6 or 7. Portage des Sioux is right on the Mississippi river and has a long walkway, extending into the river about 300 feet, with a large (50 foot) concrete Virgin Mary at the end, known as 'Our Lady Of The River'. I was not able to get to her, as the Mississippi was also near flood stage, and the walkway is currently under about 4 feet of water. I learned to ride a bicycle here, getting my first taste of the wind in my face, and the freedom that two wheels brings. The roads, which were all gravel then, are now nicely paved, and it was strange to ride through town on the motorcycle on those same streets, with the same smells in the air. It was also a perfect, beautiful day, sunny day!

Took 3 pictures:

1 - My bike with the Gateway Arch about 4 miles away in the background.

2 - Our Lady Of The River, stranded in a flooded Mississippi.

(the road my bike is parked on normally goes out much farther)

3 - The Sign - Portage des Sioux population 351

(gotta wonder - do they really repaint that sign everytime somone passes on or has a baby?)

Life On The River.

Well, I warmed up, had a good night's sleep, and headed past St Louis, to Eureka, Missouri. My friend, Ron Hartle, who I worked for at Samsung in Ledgewood, NJ, lives here now, right on the Meramec River, with his wife Dianne. The river is almost at flood stage, and my friend was making preparations to move his goodies to higher ground. His house is on 40 foot stilts about 30 feet from the water, normally, but the water is now at the footings of his house about 18 feet higher than normal. The current is passing at about 10 miles an hour (very fast) and we saw a refrigerator floating by. Obviously someone upriver did not have a chance to move their goodies to higher ground.

The picture is Ron, and his two dogs, Bud, and Rocco, in front of my bike, which was under the house, as it is elevated. In the background is the Meramec River.

Carlinville, Illinois

Washed the bike a bit in the morning, went into town, and said goodbye.
Back to the farmhouse to pick up my gear, and say goodbye to Bailey, a big rust colored dog, who loves to hang out in the rain, and then wonder why no one is petting her. She was a cool dog.
Tried to wait for some sunshine, but none was coming, so I headed off with Saint Louis as my intended destination before nightfall. A huge barge (actually several barges, attached somehow), was coming up the Mississippi river, as I passed LeClaire Iowa. The weather took a turn for the worse, and I got pretty wet, combined with 60 degrees and 70 mile an hour wind on the interstate, bbbrrrrrrrrrrrrrr. About 60 miles from St Loius, I said no no no! Thats enough! Checked into a hotel in Carlinville, Illinois, and got some heat back in my bones.

Have Clippers, Will Travel.

A strangely therapeutic day.
Helped Ron trim some trees at a Funeral Home / Graveyard that he manages.
Sometimes when you wake up in the morning without a plan, you can end up in a place, or doing things you would not have expected. Letting things just take their course, seeing and walking around all the headstones was a clear reminder that no one is alone in grief. There is always a purpose to where we are and what we do.
More time with family tonight.

Home Cookin'

A lazy, rainy day. Spent mostly in anticipation of aunt Darlene's Barbeque'd Sausage Meatballs. My aunt's porch attracts friends and neighbors, like nectar attracts bees. The mailman stops to chat. I would not be at all surprised if Andy, Opie,and Aunt Bee came strolling up to the porch soon.

The photo is, left to right, Steve, Jim and Ron. Sierra, Scott, and Darlene, my cousins and aunt.

The meatballs were as good as we had hoped, as was the company.

Family and Friends

Clinton, in a strange way, feels like home.
Not because I grew up here, or ever lived here, but because the relatives here, all through marriage, treat me like family. I am always welcomed into their hearts and homes, with love and generosity, in a manner to which I am unaccustomed.

Went to pay my respects to my (step) mother, Donna, who was laid to rest here in 2002. I will always remember her loving heart, and her hearty laugh. She never treated me in any way other than her own son. Most of her family are here, and they are good people.

The rain looks like it may continue until Monday. Then it looks like five sequential sunny days after that. So I will be visiting with folks over the weekend while it rains, and Monday I will likely aim for Saint Louis, Mo.

Is this Heaven? No, It's Iowa.

Left Perrysburg, Ohio and rode 375 miles through Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois, to Clinton Iowa. Farms, farms, and more farms. Each doing their daily part in keeping us all fed. I realized two things: there are many more farmers than you might think, and they are unheralded, and undervalued.

Arrived in Clinton, and staying tonight with my very generous cousin Ron and his family (Scott and Sierra). The picture is of the mile long gravel road that leads to Ron and Scott's house. All around in every direction are cornfields, almost as far as you can see. And outdoors you hear almost nothing, perhaps just a few birds and your own breathing. If you enjoy peace and solitude, this is your place.

I am visiting many aunts and uncles here, and the weather is looking bad until Monday, so I am happily a Clintonite, for a few days...

Suzy, Gary, Zac, and Zane

Left Bedford, PA in brilliant sunshine. Rode 330 beautiful miles, through green rolling hills, with clouds just randomly floating about, just enough to remove boredom from a totally blue sky. Went to meet some new friends in Perrysburg, OH, just south of Toledo. (I have a feeling that the term 'new friends' is goind to get used alot on this trip) Suzy, Gary, their son Zac (13) , and his assistance dog, Zane. Nice people who took in a stranger for dinner. I enjoyed the steak and the conversation, and Zac, I hope your cold gets better soon. Thank you for your kindness folks!
The photo is Zac, about a year ago

A silver lining

The abundance of both rain, and friendly people, easily persuaded me to stay another day in Bedford, PA.
While I awaited sunshine, rays of light began to pour into my laptop, in the form of kind, supportive emails, sent by people, many of whom I have never met. They found my blog through a mutual friend, Mary Caruso, and I was touched by all of the caring and support. Thank you all so much.
Heading to Perrysburg, Ohio tomorrow. More to come...

Finally - On The Road

I am in a Quality Inn in Bedford, PA, about 100 miles east of Pittsburgh. Clean place, nice folks, fast wireless, and there are at least 10 places to eat within walking distance. I opted for two all beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions, on a sesame seed bun.

My laptop survived 200 bouncing miles, inside my jacket, up against my belly. I thought it would get pounded if I try to carry it anywhere else. Only 200 miles (did not get rolling til 2pm), tomorrow may rain...

I want to thank you all for the well wishes, and and yes! I will ride safely. I have a little pewter heart that two new friends Sam and Alex gave me, so that should help to guide me safely down the road.

The adventure begins...

Departure

I had planned to depart Long Valley NJ on Sunday, September 7th.
It turns out that preparing to float upon the wind,
requires far more planning and preparation than
Kwai Chang Caine might have led us to believe.
I will also be trying to raise awareness (and funds)
for FARA as I travel about.