After making a gut wrenching decision to not return to Chy and Di's for one final fairwell Sunday (it was raining, and I knew I would be delayed), I was off in a drizzle. Brad, I figured you had already left by the time I left, and I forgot to get your cell phone. Sorry. By the time I hit Atlanta, I was riding I-85 or whatever through downtown in a downpour. From the little I could see, I can tell you all that I was getting some funny looks from the cages. Shortly after turning further South on I-75 I hydroplaned a little and got a little sideways at 60+mph. No worries as the Avons grabbed quickly and my journey continued. I battled rain all the way to Valdosta but was able to average well north of 70mph into Florida. Once on I-10, I dropped the rain gear and high-tailed it to JAX and the final leg on I-95. That is where the fun really started! 50 miles from my home I ran into a 45 minute delay for an accident clear across the interstate on the far side of the road. Love those rubber neckin' cagers. Once clear I made it to within .75 miles from my exit when I noticed a distant, dark smoke hovering in the Western sky. Shortly, I braked from 90mph to around .0000001mph in a few yards (who says an America cannot brake?) and proceeded to ride my clutch in full leather gear and 85 degree temperatures for the next 45 minutes. Now within site of my exit, I decided to run the last few yards in the emergency lane and was quickly spotted and pulled over by a frazzled Deputy. He must own a Hardley as he let me go with the old, I thought my clutch was going to burn out bit. From the twisties to a 45 minute ride at under 1mph, it is amazing what our bikes can do. Anyway, it turned out I-95 South of my exit was closed because of a forest fire which has now burned over 1,000 acres and come within 5 miles of my house. Luckily, we are going to survive this one. 95 is still closed as I type but should re-open soon.
Chy and Di, I cannot say how much I look forward to spending a few days with you both. You are kind and gracious, and I hope we didn't make too many enemies for you at the Econolodge. Shhhhhhhhhhhh! Moe and Lynn, thank you for your kindness, kinship, and keen wit during our travels. Moe loves those Walmarts! Newt and Sue, anyone would feel at ease in your fine company. Phil and Janet, it was good to see you ride together on Raven. I know she loved it, and it was a great site to see. Gordon thanks for keeping me out of trouble. Hope you had time for that valve check and chain replacement before your flight. Brent and Jess, wonderful to meet you in person. I look forward to my next mint. Good luck with your family. To the Blue Ones (Big Jack and Diane, Mert, and Bayern), you know I think you are the best. Special thanks to Mert for the surprise of the weekend. The halucination became a beautiful reality! To my brethren from the Windy City (glazer, airguy, roundy), "Bear Down!" Steve Sixmil, I know we will see a lot of you in the future. Glad you made it back to the Heartland. Good work on the bike Pete. It was super to spend so much time with you in one piece this year. Englishyankee, glad to know you share my love of bourbon. I'll have to remember that around Nor'East time. Benz Tech and Honda girl who are still on the roads around Iowa, you are a perfect complement to each other. You fit. SmWasp, thanks for following me on the way back from Newnan. Next time, bring us some brisket! b717doc, you rode pretty darn well for someone concerned about a little rain. Let it roll off your back and ride my friend! Larkfarms, your bike is cool just the way it is. Thanks for riding such a long way. I promise to be a sober welcoming committee next year. Well, maybe not! Mr. Skillet, you missed Mrs. Bogie's wonderful 'naner puddin' and Larryshep's fine meal. We'll get you next time. Thanks Larryshep for continuing to set the bar on the twisties and in the kitchen (special thanks to your wife). KennyMC, heard you ride off in the rain about 30 minutes before me. It was still worth it, eh? Pat, thanks for showing me the great line Saturday. Can't wait until September. Jaymo, way to take life in stride bro'. Benny, all caging aside, you can ride with me anyday. You are one cool Sally. MrUnix is now a member of the Southern Ridin' Crew, so consider a trip to the Nor'East! DK1, nice to meet you and hope to hook up with you for some riding around Lake Michigan soon. I think I mentioned everyone, but if I did not, it surely was not intentional. I loved being with each of you. Actually, that is not completely true. To Mlessard and Yota, keep the f away from me, especially after drinking those sweet tart drinks.
Keep the shiny side up and looking forward to more adventures together. I am humbled and fortunate to count you as friends and riding partners!
into Florida. Once on I-10, I dropped the rain gear and high-tailed it to JAX and the final leg on I-95. That is where the fun really started! 50 miles from my home I ran into a 45 minute delay for an accident clear across the interstate on the far side of the road. Love those rubber neckin' cagers. Once clear I made it to within .75 miles from my exit when I noticed a distant, dark smoke hovering in the Western sky. Shortly, I braked from 90mph to around .0000001mph in a few yards (who says an America cannot brake?) and proceeded to ride my clutch in full leather gear and 85 degree temperatures for the next 45 minutes. Now within site of my exit, I decided to run the last few yards in the emergency lane and was quickly spotted and pulled over by a frazzled Deputy. He must own a Hardley as he let me go with the old, I thought my clutch was going to burn out bit. From the twisties to a 45 minute ride at under 1mph, it is amazing what our bikes can do. Anyway, it turned out I-95 South of my exit was closed because of a forest fire which has now burned over 1,000 acres and come within 5 miles of my house. Luckily, we are going to survive this one. 95 is still closed as I type but should re-open soon. 
