The ‘Vacation’ Is Over

Laura and I are now headed for home after being in the Portland, OR area for about 11 days. We have become addicted to the fresh air and beautiful trees. I’m hoping this project becomes longer term – not only will I earn tons of miles, but I will have Laura come out for long periods of time and we’ll go out on hikes and many other out door activities… Things you can’t do in Houston in the summer.

I have some pictures posted now in my Oregon folder, but there will be more to come, so I’ll let you know when that happens.

Off to catch the plane now.

Hasta la vista!

Sopping Wet Biker

You know, riding in the rain is not fun. I got my first full-exposure on Tuesday this week. I came back from Austin and all was well and beautiful – until I reached Sealy. The roads got wet there – the rain had just passed through and my legs were starting to get wet from the tire spray. But it wasn’t bad. Then, I got into town and near Katy, the rain started. Rather, I caught up with the rain. Driving in traffic where cars and trucks are kicking up spray while rain falls on top of you and blocks your view as well… well, let’s just say it’s not the most fun time I’ve had.

I thought about stopping but the last thing I wanted to do was wait around until it got dark (which was fast approaching) and then try it again while it still rained. So, I pushed through. Hands numb, legs stiff and wet, feet submerged in water past my ankles inside my boots, I pressed on. Once I got within 1 mile from home, the rain stopped and a rainbow came out. Ironic? Nah. Training experience. I thought I could handle rain and I was right. It just is not an experience I relish or wish to repeat any time soon.

If any of you non-bikers are out there and you see a motorcycle riding in the rain, please be nice. Do not change into his lane in front of him – give him plenty of space! Don’t forget about your rear-wheel water spray! It makes seeing things very hard!

Super-Long Road Trip

I rode the bike all the way to Austin yesterday. I was not quite prepared for how numb my butt would get. It took me longer to get to Austin than it usually does, but I had to keep stopping to stretch my legs. I have to ride back Tuesday – no matter if it rains or not. I really hope it does not…

Laura and I rode to Fayetteville, TX on Saturday – kind of a trial run. It is about the half-way point between Houston and Austin. That is a nice drive – once you get off I-10, that is. I don’t like the Interstates on a motorcycle. Too many big trucks. They generate a level of aerodynamic turbulence that is intolerable for a person who follows too closely – or gets passed.