Well, Jen and I had been thinking of a great ride to take that would get us some seriuos miles and a good days riding in during this long weekend. We decided that it would be to Patti's Settlement in Grand River, KY. Now, if you have never been to Patti's and you are within a days ride of there, you might want to consider a ride over for one of there world famous 2" think pork chop that will melt in your mouth. They also have some of the biggest pieces of cake that I have ever seen on a plate.
I posted my ride plans on our local chapter chat board and got a few takers for the journey. Steve and Jan, there friend and now our friend Randy, as well as a new rider to our group, Alison. After a short breakfast at Hardee's for a little body fuel, it was off on Hwy 96. It was 4 bikes and 6 souls headed on a long days adventure. We took hwy 96 through Franklin and up to Fairview where we headed north to Clarksville. Once we took a short break in Clarksville it was off to Dover and the Trace that will take us the 40+ miles through LBL(Land Between the Lakes). This is a beautiful ride through LBL which takes us into KY after about 20 miles and on to Grand Rivers. Once at Patti's it was time to put on the feed bag again for an awesome lunch. Now, I want to tell you about the cheese sticks appetizer. This had to be some of the biggest dawgone cheese sticks that I have ever seen. They were as big as a brautwurst. Deep fried with a real crispy outer shell and probably half a pound of mozarella in each one. Damn, they were good!
Now this journey started out at about 8:30 am and it was now 3:30 by the time we were fueled up and headed back towards home. We had nearly 200 miles yet to ride and dark thirty was going to catch us before we could get home. Once we were back down the Trace to Dover and we caught Hwy 48 which took us south down through some awesome backroads and little communities and eventually into Dickson. We then caught Hwy 46 S. out of Dickson and down until it turned into Hwy 7. Once we passed the Nathez Trace Pkwy it was a turn left on a breathe taking road that winds through some of the most beautiful country side in middle TN. This also called for a stop at the little country store in Leipers Fork for a cold drink and a snack, as most of us were still about to pop from the lunch at Patti's( and those huge cheese sticks!). Now there was music and people every where in Leipers Fork as it is Saturday night and this little nole in the road turns into the happening place on the weekends and holidays.
Regretfully this is where we headed home on Hwy 96 from Franklin and once in the Boro the riders start peeling off in the direction of home and the day comes to an end as the sun has set on our backs and has been gone for almost an hour. Once home Jen and I peel our butts out of the saddle and into the house as another great day of riding is in the books. We road 380 miles today and got to spend it with some great new found friends that I am sure we will spend many a day in the future together riding some more.
Sorry we missed you Ron, I thought about you and the 2" pork chop. We will make this ride again soon.
Brian
Monday, May 26, 2008
A Relaxing Afternoon Amongst Friends
Well the day started with me finally out of Jury Duty and the whole day to waste on riding and relaxing before heading back to work after 7 long weeks of Jury Duty. I was trying to think about what to do today, when it struck me that my pal Ron was off for vacation and was probably going to ride somewhere. After a text message or two and it was decided that Ron needed a short power nap since he had been burning the midnight oil. At around 11:30 I gave Ron another text and from there it was a fact that Ron and I would be riding somewhere(does the destination really matter!).
Ron had a few more state parks that he wanted to catch on his tour of taking pics at all the TN State Parks. I took the choice of west and we headed out of town towards Nathez Trace State Park. Now I am not sure what roads we took getting over to Franklin but they were pretty nice. Once in Franklin we headed for one of our favorite trails, Hwy 246 & Hwy 247, that run west through some absolutely breathe taking farm land. We then caught Hwy 100 which would take us through Parsons and over the TN River. We then turned right on a road that I cant remember but it was one of the most relaxing and scenic roads that you could ride. I dont think we passed a single car or saw a single person as we were soon in the park.
We then made a decision to hit one other park that Ron had been trying to catch for some time. I was open for anything as long as it included more riding. We hit the big hwy for a few miles just to make up time and then it was up to the big town of Camden. After a quick bite to eat for dinner at Wendy's( which included the killing of several large sides of beef), we heade over to Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park. Now, I didnt know a lot about this man but my pal Ron sure does. If you ever get the chance to read up on this great war hero, do so. 
It was then off to the house, which I regretted had to happen as I was having so much fun. I dont get the chance that often to just get out and ride with a great friend. We were just two guys riding the back roads with not a care in the world. It was a ride that I will always cherish as I got to spend the day with a great friend and it allowed me to melt away all the stress of the 7 long weeks of sitting in a court room doing my civic duty. Now, my accessory of 9 years might hate that she missed this ride, but she understands that there are times when it is necessary to just get out with a friend and recharge the bateries and get in some buddy time.
Thanks Ron.
Brian
Monday, May 19, 2008
Relaxing May Weekend
Well, this weekend was about as relaxed as you get for riding. Jen and I didnt put many miles on the bike but we got to spend time with great friends on Saturday and then we just rode some backroads and dodged the clouds on Sunday. I think all in all we only rode about 240 miles for both days but it was on some of the prettiest backroads that I have ever seen.
Saturday had us join the Boro Chapter and Bumpus HD for a large group ride to Bell Buckle, TN for Motorcycle Days. Tom Bumpus needed a few Road Captains to help with the train of bikes that stretched nearly two miles. Jen and I volunteered to ride sweep and to keep everyone together from the rear, plus normally this is a place to get some awesome photos. As fortune would have it, our camera was acting up and we were not able to get any photos. Once we got the train of bikes to Bell Buckle, we signed up for the Poker Run. We road with a small group of about 10 bikes which included some of our close chapter friends and Tom Bumpus and his daughter. Now, I have riden all over the backroads of TN, but we took some roads on this Poker Run that I have yet to venture and oh my were they pretty. It was a reminder to me that I need to get out and explore like I used to. I call it blind riding, because you dont get your map out until you are truly lost or you need to figure out where you are to head home. You just take off and turn on roads to see where they go and what is on them. Today was a great relaxing day that covered about 140 miles total but it was a very relaxing and casual passed day. I made sure of it since I was the leader of the group. We rode at a comfortable 45-50 mph most of the day. Just slow enought to soke in the scenery and sun of a absolutely beautiful day.
Sunday had Jen and I in the saddle around 11 am for a some what late start to the day, but we werent sure what the rain was going to do today. I finally said lets go put some miles on the road while it is pretty outside. We headed out of the Boro on Burnt Nob Rd over to Hwy 162 and then onto another backroad over to Triune, where we topped off with fuel. Back onto Hwy 41A towards Eagleville where we caught Hwy 99 back to the Boro. We did make several small loops through some backroads along the way as well, but I couldnt tell you what the names of the roads where or if they even have signs on them. That is the kind of roads that are fun to explore. After reaching the Boro, we headed for ice cream at Jen's favorite place, Marble Slab. Then we headed home for a little R&R in the recliner and Jen on the couch with Morgan(our yellow lab).
This was one of those weekends that you feel so relaxed and refueled after some great rides. We didnt burn up the odometer but we did refuel the soul, at least until next weekend. Ride safe and ride free.
Brian
Saturday had us join the Boro Chapter and Bumpus HD for a large group ride to Bell Buckle, TN for Motorcycle Days. Tom Bumpus needed a few Road Captains to help with the train of bikes that stretched nearly two miles. Jen and I volunteered to ride sweep and to keep everyone together from the rear, plus normally this is a place to get some awesome photos. As fortune would have it, our camera was acting up and we were not able to get any photos. Once we got the train of bikes to Bell Buckle, we signed up for the Poker Run. We road with a small group of about 10 bikes which included some of our close chapter friends and Tom Bumpus and his daughter. Now, I have riden all over the backroads of TN, but we took some roads on this Poker Run that I have yet to venture and oh my were they pretty. It was a reminder to me that I need to get out and explore like I used to. I call it blind riding, because you dont get your map out until you are truly lost or you need to figure out where you are to head home. You just take off and turn on roads to see where they go and what is on them. Today was a great relaxing day that covered about 140 miles total but it was a very relaxing and casual passed day. I made sure of it since I was the leader of the group. We rode at a comfortable 45-50 mph most of the day. Just slow enought to soke in the scenery and sun of a absolutely beautiful day.
Sunday had Jen and I in the saddle around 11 am for a some what late start to the day, but we werent sure what the rain was going to do today. I finally said lets go put some miles on the road while it is pretty outside. We headed out of the Boro on Burnt Nob Rd over to Hwy 162 and then onto another backroad over to Triune, where we topped off with fuel. Back onto Hwy 41A towards Eagleville where we caught Hwy 99 back to the Boro. We did make several small loops through some backroads along the way as well, but I couldnt tell you what the names of the roads where or if they even have signs on them. That is the kind of roads that are fun to explore. After reaching the Boro, we headed for ice cream at Jen's favorite place, Marble Slab. Then we headed home for a little R&R in the recliner and Jen on the couch with Morgan(our yellow lab).
This was one of those weekends that you feel so relaxed and refueled after some great rides. We didnt burn up the odometer but we did refuel the soul, at least until next weekend. Ride safe and ride free.
Brian
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Poker Anyone?
Well today was one of those Saturdays that there was nothing planned and it was too nice to waste doing something other than riding my bike. My sidekick(and spouse) got up fairly early to run a few errands and then we headed towards the dealership to sign up for the Poker Run. We love to support our local charities and I truly love supporting the local athletes. This poker run was for the Eagleville Football program and it was the 2nd Annual and is sponsored by one of the salesmen at Bumpus HD, Tucker, whos son plays for Eagleville.
While we get signed up I run into a few friends that I met several years ago when we took the Riders Edge Beginners Class together. Terry and Danny are super good guys and they were riding with several other folks and asked Jen and I to join them. So, we obliged and taged along for the first few stops. Now it was obvious to me that my poker hand had already gone south as I had a 5,9 and 2 of all different suits. Not a good start, but who cares it was for the boys and we are riding. After what was only about 40 miles and Terry's group had made 3 stops to take breaks and shoot the breeze. Well, Jen and I love to ride, not sit around and chit chat, so we said our goodbye and headed off on our own to enjoy some real riding. We took a few longer routes as the Poker Run route was a little too short and it was too pretty of a day to not take advantage of the weather. Once we completed the Poker Run and was back at Bumpus HD, we ran into several our great friends in the H.O.G. Chapter(Ron, Tom and Jodie).
Seeing as it was about 1:oo it was time to find something to eat. My co-pilot was crying for Toot's, so who am I to deny her craving for good food and I can get my wing fix for the week. Tom and Jodie Teegarden join us for a great lunch and plenty of great conversation, mostly dominated by my other half of course. See really does love to talk and everyone seems to love her for it.
After a short stint at home in the recliner and to feed and let Morgan, our Yellow Lab, out to relieve herself, it was off to my mom's for a family cookout. Now I don't know about anyone else, but my mom can shore throw together some great food for any occasion. I was not about to miss this one. It was a great dinner and afterwards an awesome ride home on a nice warm spring evening. Another great day of family and friends and we even got in a little over 100 miles of riding today.
Brian
While we get signed up I run into a few friends that I met several years ago when we took the Riders Edge Beginners Class together. Terry and Danny are super good guys and they were riding with several other folks and asked Jen and I to join them. So, we obliged and taged along for the first few stops. Now it was obvious to me that my poker hand had already gone south as I had a 5,9 and 2 of all different suits. Not a good start, but who cares it was for the boys and we are riding. After what was only about 40 miles and Terry's group had made 3 stops to take breaks and shoot the breeze. Well, Jen and I love to ride, not sit around and chit chat, so we said our goodbye and headed off on our own to enjoy some real riding. We took a few longer routes as the Poker Run route was a little too short and it was too pretty of a day to not take advantage of the weather. Once we completed the Poker Run and was back at Bumpus HD, we ran into several our great friends in the H.O.G. Chapter(Ron, Tom and Jodie).
Seeing as it was about 1:oo it was time to find something to eat. My co-pilot was crying for Toot's, so who am I to deny her craving for good food and I can get my wing fix for the week. Tom and Jodie Teegarden join us for a great lunch and plenty of great conversation, mostly dominated by my other half of course. See really does love to talk and everyone seems to love her for it.
After a short stint at home in the recliner and to feed and let Morgan, our Yellow Lab, out to relieve herself, it was off to my mom's for a family cookout. Now I don't know about anyone else, but my mom can shore throw together some great food for any occasion. I was not about to miss this one. It was a great dinner and afterwards an awesome ride home on a nice warm spring evening. Another great day of family and friends and we even got in a little over 100 miles of riding today.
Brian
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
POSSE RIDE 2008
Well it was a short 4 days of riding that started on Thursday with me riding from Murfreesboro to Memphis to meet my Posse, which unlike me, were off all day to ride down early. My Posse Ride experience started with getting a late start out of the Boro at around 5:10pm right during the rush hour in Nashville, so I took I-840 to Hwy 31E and went around to I-40 the back roads and then on to Memphis. After a quick stop for fuel and an Arby's roast beef sandwich just before crossing the Tennessee River on I-40. I normally try to avoid the Interstate but with such a late start and it getting dark on me, I opted for the route that I could hall ass and get there quickly. 4 hours and 5 minutes later I arrived at the Econo Lodge off Exit 12 in Memphis. I was too late for the kickoff party but my Posse picked up my packet, whick included my passport to get stamped along the way, road maps for the route each day and of course my pin and patch for my vest.
Now let me tell you about my Posse. It included a small group of our Mufreesboro H.O.G Chapter members. My partener in crime for the weekend would Ron, which is who I would be sharing a bunk at each stop. Before you start thinking bad thougts, we had seperate bunks each night. Remember.......What happens on the Posse Ride, stays on the Posse Ride. At least you hope that is the case and you never know with our group and who is going to whip out the camera and the most opportune time and pow, there is the evidence. But, it is all in fun.
Friday, the first day of the actual Posse Ride. We got up to dark clouds and a light sprinkle of rain. We decide to hit I-40 for the 70+ miles from Memphis to Jackson in order to outrun the rain. Haha! Wishful thinking. We hit the rain just a few miles out of Memphis and we ran hard trying to get ahead of the clouds all the way as we got a light rain on us. Once to Jackson we made sure we had on all our rain gear and were ready for any kind of weather. Which was a good thing since we pretty much rode in the rain from the time we hit Hwy 421 just out of Jackson until we got into the Boro around 2:00pm. After a short break and stopping to feed Ron's dog, we hit I-24 in a ball of fire on our way to Clarksville. We had heard that the weather had broke up for a short period of time and it was clear of rain for this stretch of our ride, so we hit the blacktop running. I dont think the rubber touched the road but in a few high spots as we headed north. Now we did make it into Clarksville and to the HD dealership for our 3rd and final stop of the day dry. But, we didnt make it to the Hotel dry. We sat in rush hour traffic in the hardest downpour of the day. It was real nice!
Day 2 of the Posse Ride had Ron and I up at our usual hour of 6:00am and ready to roll out on the wet streets of Clarksville around 7:00. With the sun up and damp streets slowly drying up, it looked like it was going to be a good day. After a quick refuel and a bite to eat at the Waffle House, we were on our way up Hwy 79 into Kentucky which would take us on a beautiful morning ride through some breath taking country side of southern KY. We then headed through Owensborough and up to Evansville,IN for our first stop of the day. After a barbecue sandwich at the HD Dealership we headed west on Hwy 62 to the Ohio River where we had to pay a toll of $.60 total for two bikes to cross the bridge into Illinois. We then hit Hwy 45 or 54, I cant remember which, over to Hwy 13 into Marian, IL to Black Diamond HD for our 2nd stop. Guess what we had to eat.......BARBEQUE. I think everyone that had food for us got a deal on barbeque for this event. We then headed south on I-57 t0 I-24 to Paducah,KY for our last stop of the day and the final stop of the Posse Ride.
I want to thank my buddy Ron for being a great companion for these two days. We have a good time together and we are a lot alike in many ways. It is nice to ride with someone that has a lot of the same riding interests. We also got to spend some very special time with some of the folks from the Memphis H.O.G. Chapter on Saturday and we had a blast. Some real nice folks.
The ride home Sunday from Clarksville to the Boro was one of sorrow. See I dont get the chance to get out and just ride my bike for several days very often. This is a rare occasion, but one that I will remember forever thanks to Ron, my fellow Boro H.O.G. Chapter family and the new friends that I made with the Memphis Chapter. Other than the rain on Friday, it was an awesome ride. The only thing missing was my usual co-pilot, Jen. She chose to sit this one out as 1200 miles in 3 days was just a little too much for her posterior to handle, but you can bet she will be there next year.
Brian
Now let me tell you about my Posse. It included a small group of our Mufreesboro H.O.G Chapter members. My partener in crime for the weekend would Ron, which is who I would be sharing a bunk at each stop. Before you start thinking bad thougts, we had seperate bunks each night. Remember.......What happens on the Posse Ride, stays on the Posse Ride. At least you hope that is the case and you never know with our group and who is going to whip out the camera and the most opportune time and pow, there is the evidence. But, it is all in fun.
Friday, the first day of the actual Posse Ride. We got up to dark clouds and a light sprinkle of rain. We decide to hit I-40 for the 70+ miles from Memphis to Jackson in order to outrun the rain. Haha! Wishful thinking. We hit the rain just a few miles out of Memphis and we ran hard trying to get ahead of the clouds all the way as we got a light rain on us. Once to Jackson we made sure we had on all our rain gear and were ready for any kind of weather. Which was a good thing since we pretty much rode in the rain from the time we hit Hwy 421 just out of Jackson until we got into the Boro around 2:00pm. After a short break and stopping to feed Ron's dog, we hit I-24 in a ball of fire on our way to Clarksville. We had heard that the weather had broke up for a short period of time and it was clear of rain for this stretch of our ride, so we hit the blacktop running. I dont think the rubber touched the road but in a few high spots as we headed north. Now we did make it into Clarksville and to the HD dealership for our 3rd and final stop of the day dry. But, we didnt make it to the Hotel dry. We sat in rush hour traffic in the hardest downpour of the day. It was real nice!
Day 2 of the Posse Ride had Ron and I up at our usual hour of 6:00am and ready to roll out on the wet streets of Clarksville around 7:00. With the sun up and damp streets slowly drying up, it looked like it was going to be a good day. After a quick refuel and a bite to eat at the Waffle House, we were on our way up Hwy 79 into Kentucky which would take us on a beautiful morning ride through some breath taking country side of southern KY. We then headed through Owensborough and up to Evansville,IN for our first stop of the day. After a barbecue sandwich at the HD Dealership we headed west on Hwy 62 to the Ohio River where we had to pay a toll of $.60 total for two bikes to cross the bridge into Illinois. We then hit Hwy 45 or 54, I cant remember which, over to Hwy 13 into Marian, IL to Black Diamond HD for our 2nd stop. Guess what we had to eat.......BARBEQUE. I think everyone that had food for us got a deal on barbeque for this event. We then headed south on I-57 t0 I-24 to Paducah,KY for our last stop of the day and the final stop of the Posse Ride.
I want to thank my buddy Ron for being a great companion for these two days. We have a good time together and we are a lot alike in many ways. It is nice to ride with someone that has a lot of the same riding interests. We also got to spend some very special time with some of the folks from the Memphis H.O.G. Chapter on Saturday and we had a blast. Some real nice folks.
The ride home Sunday from Clarksville to the Boro was one of sorrow. See I dont get the chance to get out and just ride my bike for several days very often. This is a rare occasion, but one that I will remember forever thanks to Ron, my fellow Boro H.O.G. Chapter family and the new friends that I made with the Memphis Chapter. Other than the rain on Friday, it was an awesome ride. The only thing missing was my usual co-pilot, Jen. She chose to sit this one out as 1200 miles in 3 days was just a little too much for her posterior to handle, but you can bet she will be there next year.
Brian
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Did someone say Cornbread?
Today we made had a modest ride of about 180 miles down to the 12th Annual Cornbread Festival in South Pittsburgh, TN. It was a great ride down Hwy 41 up to Monteagle. From there we went south on Hwy 126 which took us across the mountain and down into South Pittsburg. The ride down Hwy 126 is a beautiful ride through the Franklin Forrest and miles of wilderness.
The weather was pretty nice for the most part. It was a little cool as we left the Boro at around 10:00 am. Once we arrived in South Pittsburgh at around noon it was rather warm as we peeled off all the leather and jackets from our journey. The remainder of the day was around 70 degrees.
The Cornbread Festival attracts people from all over the U.S. and possible the world. I dont know how many people were there today, but it was so many that you could hardly walk down the street for wading through the sea of people. It is a very interesting mix of people considering that South Pittsburgh is still a very rural area and then you bring in all the outsiders and it wakes up the sleepy little old town.
Once we made our way through all the people to the food court, we were able to obtain a few orders of pinto beans and cornbread. Mine without the onions of course, but Jen had extra. Between the beans and onions it was sure to be an interesting ride home in such close quarters. Sure is a good thing that I am always up wind!! Too bad for Jen. LOL.
Sorry for not having some wonderful pics of our adventure, but my accessory was enjoying her ride so much that she forgot to take out the camera and take some pics. I must say that it is a wonderful ride up and across the mountain going south on Hwy 41 and especially Hwy 126 which has very little traffic and the road surface is great. If you are looking for a quiet and desilate road to ride and get away then take a journey down this road into the sleepy little town of South Pittsburg; and make sure you go by the Dairy Freeze(which has been there for a long time) for a burger and a shake.
Ride Safe and Ride often.
Brian
The weather was pretty nice for the most part. It was a little cool as we left the Boro at around 10:00 am. Once we arrived in South Pittsburgh at around noon it was rather warm as we peeled off all the leather and jackets from our journey. The remainder of the day was around 70 degrees.
The Cornbread Festival attracts people from all over the U.S. and possible the world. I dont know how many people were there today, but it was so many that you could hardly walk down the street for wading through the sea of people. It is a very interesting mix of people considering that South Pittsburgh is still a very rural area and then you bring in all the outsiders and it wakes up the sleepy little old town.
Once we made our way through all the people to the food court, we were able to obtain a few orders of pinto beans and cornbread. Mine without the onions of course, but Jen had extra. Between the beans and onions it was sure to be an interesting ride home in such close quarters. Sure is a good thing that I am always up wind!! Too bad for Jen. LOL.
Sorry for not having some wonderful pics of our adventure, but my accessory was enjoying her ride so much that she forgot to take out the camera and take some pics. I must say that it is a wonderful ride up and across the mountain going south on Hwy 41 and especially Hwy 126 which has very little traffic and the road surface is great. If you are looking for a quiet and desilate road to ride and get away then take a journey down this road into the sleepy little town of South Pittsburg; and make sure you go by the Dairy Freeze(which has been there for a long time) for a burger and a shake.
Ride Safe and Ride often.
Brian
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Mid April Weekend
Well, another weekend of riding adventures in the books.
Saturday was one of those days that you can't tell if it is going to rain or not. It was Bike Show Day at Bumpus HD in Murfreesboro,TN on Saturday. There were probably 50 bikes entered in the contest. There is only one thing that a bike show does to me.....give me ideas for things that I can add to my bike. All in all a lot of really nice bikes entered in the show. As far as riding goes, we didnt get much done other than riding across town, dogging the rain drops for a little while, and then stopping at Five Brother's hamburger joint to have lunch with a few friends.
Sunday however had us riding to Chattanooga,TN to get some ribs and barbecue at Sticky Fingers down by the river. We met the group as they headed out of town on Hwy 41. Boy what a group it was today. There were bikes stretched out for a quarter mile staggered formation. It was a great site to see as this is one of the biggest turn outs for a HOG Chapter ride that I have seen. It was also great to see a lot of new members getting out and being active with the chapter.
After a plate full of ribs, the group split up as some wanted to run the interstate, some went a different direction, and a small group of us headed back down Hwy 41 towards the Boro. 228 miles later we were back at home safe and sound. It was a wonderful day full of plenty of sun shine, friends new and old, and another day spent out on the bike.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Southern Journey
Sunday saw a group of about 10 bikes take a journey south from Murfreesboro,TN to Huntsville, AL. We journeyed down Hwy 231 to Huntsville, where we catch I-565 which takes us to Rocket HD. After a short visit, and my accessory getting another charm for her new braclet, we head down the road for a group lunch at a local bar. Once we fill up the body, it is off on the trip back to the Boro. After a short trip with the group, Jen and I must split off and get back double time. The trip home takes I-65 to Exit 14 in TN. We then take Hwy 64 into Fayetteville where we catch Hwy 231 back towards the boro. The sun makes our afternoon ride a pleasure as the temps have probably climbed into the upper 60's. It is the time of year where you can feel the warmth of the sun on your skin and you feel the crisp air as it warms in your every breathe.
I love riding with our friends, but the journey home was a nice and peaceful ride. It gave Jen and I the opportunity to relax and travel at our pace for a few hours. We stopped only one time on the trip home to get gas and use the facilities. I would love to have ridden some more but it was a great day out on the roads of both TN and AL. We will plan another ride one day to Huntsville to see the sites and journey in other directions in AL.
We covered 238 miles today. Not a marathon by any means, but we got to spend time with our close friends and some time alone as well. We did miss a few of our riding companions as they did not make the journey today.
Be safe and enjoy the journey.
I love riding with our friends, but the journey home was a nice and peaceful ride. It gave Jen and I the opportunity to relax and travel at our pace for a few hours. We stopped only one time on the trip home to get gas and use the facilities. I would love to have ridden some more but it was a great day out on the roads of both TN and AL. We will plan another ride one day to Huntsville to see the sites and journey in other directions in AL.
We covered 238 miles today. Not a marathon by any means, but we got to spend time with our close friends and some time alone as well. We did miss a few of our riding companions as they did not make the journey today.
Be safe and enjoy the journey.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Ride to Work
Well today was another day at work. Riding my scooter into work made it a much better day. It was one of those mornings where the air was crisp but warm, as it was already in 60's at 8:00am. I didnt want to make the right hand turn into the parking lot at work. I wanted to just keep riding and enjoy the beautiful day.
After watching the sun and warmth through the window at work, I busted out of the door at 5:00 with the feeling of 73 degree warmth on my face. I wish I could have taken the long way home but I had honey do's tonight and I had to head straight home. Do you ever feel cheated? That is the way I felt as I unsaddled from my scooter. Shut it down and put it up for the next few days as it is supposed to rain tomorrow. Guess I must wait for the Hog Chapter ride on Saturday morning to Calsonic Arena in Shelbyville,TN for the Swap Meet.
Hope everyone had great days to ride as I have this week. The weather is turning for us to get out and enjoy the roads in the evenings after work. Every one ride safe and enjoy lifes journey.
After watching the sun and warmth through the window at work, I busted out of the door at 5:00 with the feeling of 73 degree warmth on my face. I wish I could have taken the long way home but I had honey do's tonight and I had to head straight home. Do you ever feel cheated? That is the way I felt as I unsaddled from my scooter. Shut it down and put it up for the next few days as it is supposed to rain tomorrow. Guess I must wait for the Hog Chapter ride on Saturday morning to Calsonic Arena in Shelbyville,TN for the Swap Meet.
Hope everyone had great days to ride as I have this week. The weather is turning for us to get out and enjoy the roads in the evenings after work. Every one ride safe and enjoy lifes journey.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Anniversary Ride
Well it is that time of year. Jen and I have been married 9 years today. How she has put up with me that long I will never know, but whatever it is, I must be doing it right!
Yesterday, I was called in for Jury Duty and for the second day in a row, I was sent home and not selected. I promise you, this does not disappoint me as it is 73 degrees with no rain. Guess what I am thinking. I get home just before lunch and ask the Accessory if she would like to ride to Nashville to have lunch at the Boswell's HD Grill. She jumps at the idea and in a short time we are off on our journey to eat a HOG burger. After a cheeseburger and fries, we are off back towards the Boro. Our lunch ride takes us a couple hours and we ride 80 miles.
The day is not over yet. Dont forget it is our 9th Anniversary. What does everyone do on their anniversary. Get on their scooter and ride to have a nice dinner somewhere. I dont have to do more than open my mouth about dinner and Jen asked" we are going to ride arent we?" I am one foot out the door and ready to do some more riding. After a short ride into town we end up at Carraba's Italian Grill. Let me say this: There are a few things that Italians definately know how to do. One being to stuff your body to extent of being misserable with bread and pastas. It was hard but we found a way to get back on our scooter and head out of town for a few more miles before the sun sets.
I have to say, this was a great Anniversary for me. We got to ride about 100 miles today, had two great meals out and I spent it with the greatest accessory that a man could ask for.
May we have many more great anniversaries just like this one.
Brian
Yesterday, I was called in for Jury Duty and for the second day in a row, I was sent home and not selected. I promise you, this does not disappoint me as it is 73 degrees with no rain. Guess what I am thinking. I get home just before lunch and ask the Accessory if she would like to ride to Nashville to have lunch at the Boswell's HD Grill. She jumps at the idea and in a short time we are off on our journey to eat a HOG burger. After a cheeseburger and fries, we are off back towards the Boro. Our lunch ride takes us a couple hours and we ride 80 miles.
The day is not over yet. Dont forget it is our 9th Anniversary. What does everyone do on their anniversary. Get on their scooter and ride to have a nice dinner somewhere. I dont have to do more than open my mouth about dinner and Jen asked" we are going to ride arent we?" I am one foot out the door and ready to do some more riding. After a short ride into town we end up at Carraba's Italian Grill. Let me say this: There are a few things that Italians definately know how to do. One being to stuff your body to extent of being misserable with bread and pastas. It was hard but we found a way to get back on our scooter and head out of town for a few more miles before the sun sets.
I have to say, this was a great Anniversary for me. We got to ride about 100 miles today, had two great meals out and I spent it with the greatest accessory that a man could ask for.
May we have many more great anniversaries just like this one.
Brian
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Short cruise after work.
Well, it is 70 degrees again and I cant resist going for a short ride before dark. We head out at around 5:45 and head straight for the back roads to get some great cruising in for an hour or so. We head South to the community of Bradyville where we turn towards Beech Grove. Once we reach Manchester Hwy in Beech Grove we turn back towards the Boro. After a few miles we take a right on Big Springs Road which takes thru some more beautiful countryside and back to Bradyville Pike where we take a left turn back towards home. We pull into the driveway just as the sun is disappearing and the temp starts to drop quickly. We have been riding for a little over an hour and cover 49 miles of all back roads.
Great stress relief and the fresh air is good for the soul. It is like hitting that Easy Button on the Staples commercial. It just resets the brain and you forget anything that was negative in your life. I recommend it to anyone that loves the outdoors and just soaking in the surroundings.
Brian
Great stress relief and the fresh air is good for the soul. It is like hitting that Easy Button on the Staples commercial. It just resets the brain and you forget anything that was negative in your life. I recommend it to anyone that loves the outdoors and just soaking in the surroundings.
Brian
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
SPRING has arrived!! I think?
Today started out to be one of those days that you sit at work thinking about how pretty it is outside and what you would give to be off work and riding your bike. Well, about 11:45 I was talking to my boss who told me that I could take some time off during the week for the 4 hrs that I worked last Saturday. It took me all of 2 seconds to say, "what about today?". It was 12:15 and I was headed out of the building and home to knock the dust off the bike and put a few miles on her.
It turns out that it was so dusty that I had to do a quick wash before heading out. While I am doing all this, my wife is all over me about how I get to ride and she doesn't because she has to work( by the way, she works from home). With all the riding gear on and bike all shined up, it is time to ride. Now it is about 1:30 and I am off on my journey. My wife is standing in the door giving me this look like I cant believe you are going without me. All I know is that I am riding today if it kills me, and from the look on my wife's face it might happen if I don't come back in a little while and pick her up.
I head out of town North through the back roads. I go right by my mom's house(no one home) and decide that I am going to venture some roads that I have never ridden before and just see where they take me. Knowing the whole time that I have about 2 hrs before I have to be back to pick up my accessory(my wife, its a long story that I will tell sometime). The weather is so nice today with a mild breeze and the temp is still rising into the lower 70's. Riding along at about 40 mph and just cruising the back roads with no one else on them but me and the occasional farmer. It's rides like this that I do my best thinking and processing of what is going on in my life. It just seems all the stress of work, and now school, just slip away and the next thing you know you are smiling from ear to ear like a shit eating possum.
Oops it is 3:15 and I need to head home. 4:00 and we are out the drive and out on the road headed to who knows where. All I know is we are riding somewhere for the next few hours. We head out of town going Southeast on Hwy99. Cutting through the Barfield community over to Barfield Rd. We hit Armstrong Valley Rd and turn towards Shelbyville. We catch Midland-Fosterville Rd towards Hwy 231 where we take a right for a few miles and then we catch the road over to Historical Belle Buckle for a quick stop at the Cafe for some good ole country veggies. I have the Beans and Cornbread with a side of New Potatoes. Jen has a chicken salad sandwich. We get through fueling up the body and we are off again out of Belle Buckle headed towards Christiana and our friends house to stop in for a quick visit. After the visit with the Patterson's we head down Hwy 231 back towards the Boro and home. We pull into the drive way just as the sun is setting and the temp is quickly dropping. 102 miles today is the verdict and two souls that are healed for a few days from a wonderful ride on some back roads.
Brian
It turns out that it was so dusty that I had to do a quick wash before heading out. While I am doing all this, my wife is all over me about how I get to ride and she doesn't because she has to work( by the way, she works from home). With all the riding gear on and bike all shined up, it is time to ride. Now it is about 1:30 and I am off on my journey. My wife is standing in the door giving me this look like I cant believe you are going without me. All I know is that I am riding today if it kills me, and from the look on my wife's face it might happen if I don't come back in a little while and pick her up.
I head out of town North through the back roads. I go right by my mom's house(no one home) and decide that I am going to venture some roads that I have never ridden before and just see where they take me. Knowing the whole time that I have about 2 hrs before I have to be back to pick up my accessory(my wife, its a long story that I will tell sometime). The weather is so nice today with a mild breeze and the temp is still rising into the lower 70's. Riding along at about 40 mph and just cruising the back roads with no one else on them but me and the occasional farmer. It's rides like this that I do my best thinking and processing of what is going on in my life. It just seems all the stress of work, and now school, just slip away and the next thing you know you are smiling from ear to ear like a shit eating possum.
Oops it is 3:15 and I need to head home. 4:00 and we are out the drive and out on the road headed to who knows where. All I know is we are riding somewhere for the next few hours. We head out of town going Southeast on Hwy99. Cutting through the Barfield community over to Barfield Rd. We hit Armstrong Valley Rd and turn towards Shelbyville. We catch Midland-Fosterville Rd towards Hwy 231 where we take a right for a few miles and then we catch the road over to Historical Belle Buckle for a quick stop at the Cafe for some good ole country veggies. I have the Beans and Cornbread with a side of New Potatoes. Jen has a chicken salad sandwich. We get through fueling up the body and we are off again out of Belle Buckle headed towards Christiana and our friends house to stop in for a quick visit. After the visit with the Patterson's we head down Hwy 231 back towards the Boro and home. We pull into the drive way just as the sun is setting and the temp is quickly dropping. 102 miles today is the verdict and two souls that are healed for a few days from a wonderful ride on some back roads.
Brian
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Snow days in March
Wow! It is March 8th and we have 2-3 inches of snow on the ground. It was just a few days ago we were able to ride and it was nearly 70 degrees. Crazy Tennessee weather. I was always told growing up " If you dont like the current weather, just wait a day or so and it will change". That is about true. Even though it doesnt give us much of an opportunity to ride this weekend, the snow sure is pretty to watch and get out in and play.
Looking forward, our group has a lot of riding planned in the up and coming months. Starting in about mid April until mid June we have something going on every weekend and some overnighters as well. I am really looking forward to the Posse Ride in May. It will be the most riding I have done in a short 3 day span since my start in riding bikes. We should cover nearly 1300 or so miles in those 3 days. Should be a lot of fun and I am sure my butt will remember in the days after. I sure hope to get some work on my seat or a replacement for the ole factory seat before then. If not, I may have to sneak out of the house with one of moma's little pillows. We also have our TN State Rally coming up in June for 4-5 days up in the hills on East TN. Love riding in this areas of TN. Lots of mountain passes as well as the Dragon and the Cherahoowa Pkwy where you are riding at over a mile above sea level. Nice and cool in the summer months up there. A small group of us are also going down to Memphis for the weekend to stay on Beele St and hang out overnight. I am sure there will be some good pics and stories that come from this ride, but then again, there is always a few good stories and some very interesting pics that come out of our rides. I will just leave it at that for now.
Well, I bid good riding to those that are able to ride right now. I will be out there as soon as this snow thaws out and rodes are clear again.
Live to Ride and Ride to Live!
Brian
Looking forward, our group has a lot of riding planned in the up and coming months. Starting in about mid April until mid June we have something going on every weekend and some overnighters as well. I am really looking forward to the Posse Ride in May. It will be the most riding I have done in a short 3 day span since my start in riding bikes. We should cover nearly 1300 or so miles in those 3 days. Should be a lot of fun and I am sure my butt will remember in the days after. I sure hope to get some work on my seat or a replacement for the ole factory seat before then. If not, I may have to sneak out of the house with one of moma's little pillows. We also have our TN State Rally coming up in June for 4-5 days up in the hills on East TN. Love riding in this areas of TN. Lots of mountain passes as well as the Dragon and the Cherahoowa Pkwy where you are riding at over a mile above sea level. Nice and cool in the summer months up there. A small group of us are also going down to Memphis for the weekend to stay on Beele St and hang out overnight. I am sure there will be some good pics and stories that come from this ride, but then again, there is always a few good stories and some very interesting pics that come out of our rides. I will just leave it at that for now.
Well, I bid good riding to those that are able to ride right now. I will be out there as soon as this snow thaws out and rodes are clear again.
Live to Ride and Ride to Live!
Brian
Monday, March 3, 2008
Just a tad windy
Windy? Hell yes it was windy today. I think I was almost blown off my bike a few times. But that didnt keep me from putting 50 miles or so on my bike. Not a lot of riding by any stretch but it was better than nothing and it mike keep me going for a few days because I think we are in for some more rain and cold weather for the rest of the week.
First it was into town to stop and get some of the world famous Toot's chicken wings. After getting fueled up on wings I headed up to our local dealership to see what was shaking. I ran into one of our local chapter members and we chatted for nearly an hour about Jury duty. I dont know how many people have ever had to serve on Jury Duty but I have just been selected for the first time in my nearly 41 years here in Murfreesboro. Who knows, maybe it will be fun and interesting.
I then headed for the backroads of southwest rutherford county to do some cruising at a little lower speeds and maybe the wind would spare me the beating that it was already dishing out on my out of town. After a few hours of putting around in the county I headed home to hang out for the rest of my day off. I always hate putting the bike up knowing that it could possible be several days before I get the chance to saddle up again. Until then, be safe and ride free.
Brian
First it was into town to stop and get some of the world famous Toot's chicken wings. After getting fueled up on wings I headed up to our local dealership to see what was shaking. I ran into one of our local chapter members and we chatted for nearly an hour about Jury duty. I dont know how many people have ever had to serve on Jury Duty but I have just been selected for the first time in my nearly 41 years here in Murfreesboro. Who knows, maybe it will be fun and interesting.
I then headed for the backroads of southwest rutherford county to do some cruising at a little lower speeds and maybe the wind would spare me the beating that it was already dishing out on my out of town. After a few hours of putting around in the county I headed home to hang out for the rest of my day off. I always hate putting the bike up knowing that it could possible be several days before I get the chance to saddle up again. Until then, be safe and ride free.
Brian
Begin the beginning
Well here we are at the beginning of my blogging adventures. This is all new to me and I hope to do my best and not bore everyone that reads this to death. I will be writing about all my days of riding the backroads and the adventures with my riding companion(Jen my wife) and all my close friends that we have grown to love this last year.
I have owned a Harley Electraglide Standard for almost 2 years now and have loved every minute of it. I wouldnt take anything in the world for the time spent under my helmet and saddled up on my bike. It is truly an extension of my laid back and easy going personality.
With that being said, I will close up for now and I will be back later with some riding adventures.
Brian
I have owned a Harley Electraglide Standard for almost 2 years now and have loved every minute of it. I wouldnt take anything in the world for the time spent under my helmet and saddled up on my bike. It is truly an extension of my laid back and easy going personality.
With that being said, I will close up for now and I will be back later with some riding adventures.
Brian
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