The Schneider's

Memory Hot Pad Tutorial

2009-03-21T12:41:00.001-07:00

I was inspired to create a memory hot pad by Nanette Merrill’s Doll House Hot Pad Tutorial.

The following tutorial is made using a photo my husband took while we were in Hyder, Alaska in 2008.

Materials:

Digital photo (or scan a photo into your computer) – with a fairly large central object.
Photo fabric sheets (I used Miracle Fabric Sheets ™)
Thermo or Insulbright or cotton batting – NOT POLYESTER
Fabric for “frame” – as wide as the white area (two pieces 2 x 11 1/4 and two pieces 2” x 8 3/4).
Fabric for backing and edges – 13” by 11”.
Matching Thread
Contrasting Thread
WALKING FOOT for your sewing machine
Iron and Ironing board

Instructions:

Select a digital photo with a central subject.

Print the digital photo on fabric sheets capable of being printed on an inkjet printer – I used Miracle Fabric Sheets TM – follow manufacturer’s instructions.

Choose coordinating fabrics – I chose colors/patterns that compliment the side and bottom edges:

Cut your fabric – Measure the WHITE space around your photo – for each side add ¼ inch for the seam allow. (If the side is 1 ¾ inches wide your “frame” strips will be 2 inches by the length of the white area.)

Place the pieces on the photo fabric to check for placement:

After checking placement I decide that the black fabric needed to extend wider on the short end. For this photo I ended up with two pieces 2 inches by 11 inches – one in black and one in light blue. For the short ends I chose to use BOTH the black and the light blue to make up the width because of the objects within the photo.

Sew the long edges first. Place the fabric face down along the outside edge of the photo area. Press seam so that the fabric photo now has no white showing on the long sides.

Because my short ends have two fabric colors I have sewn the two together to create a single piece of fabric.

Now sew the ends on the photo fabric and PRESS:

Trim up your edges to create your final size.

Add the batting – I use the spray adhesive to hold the layers of batting and fabric together:

Center the batting and photo fabric on top of the backing fabric – wrong sides together. Measure around to make sure all sides are equal:

Fold the edge of the backing fabric toward the outer edge of the batting/photo fabric pieces and pin in place.

Do this on all four sides.

Miter the four corners – choose your own method. I’m not good at this and usually fall back on simply neatly fold the corners in place. Check the internet and someone will have a great way to miter a corner.

Fold the backing edge over the edge of the batting/photo fabric and pin in place. (This is why you made sure the fabrics were squarely centered on the backing fabric. This is your edging.

Sew around the inner edge of the recently folded edge.

Last step:

Stitch around the elements of the photo – in the gutter of each seam is a start. Next you decide what you want “quilted” – for this photo the pier braces and the perch for the eagle are stitched all the way around—where it is black I used black thread, where it is blue or white I used light blue thread. The eagle is stitched with gold embroidery thread.

Spring Trip

2008-05-24T08:25:00.000-07:00

We planned a trip to Sheridan, WY to attend our friend's celebration of his 40th anniversary as a priest with a visit to Alliance, NE to see Larry's family.

The drive to Nebraska was uneventful for us - not so for 3 travelers we observed in various single vehicle accidents. Sobering events to say the least.

With a little rain and little snow and lots of wind we made it to Alliance for a week's visit with family. We seem to bring lousy weather with us each time we visit - or at least that is what we are told.

The highlight of the trip was our brief visit in Sheridan. It was such a pleasure to be able to make it to Sheridan for this momentous event. It was so nice to see Tom Ogg - it has been a few years. What he has lost in hair Larry and I have gained in pounds and wrinkles! A lovely event, well organized with lots of nice people. We will pray that Fr. Ogg retires in 3 years as he has planned and that he gets to be less of an administrator.

Beware Cute Fabric!

2008-05-11T12:45:00.001-07:00

While a friend and I were on an escape day we happened into Walmart. I headed for the fabric section and while I was looking for something new I happened upon a cute fleece fabric with animals. Not only was it an interesting design, the fleece itself was velvet soft.

Fast forward to purchasing not only the fleece but a bunch of flannel as well. The end result is a couple of snuggles for babies as well as a couple of pillows made from the scraps. Isn't the animal print the cutest! I may purchase more for more projects!

Busy, busy, busy

2008-05-09T22:11:00.000-07:00

The last couple of weeks it seems like we have been riding, driving at every turn.

We flew to Spokane, WA and were picked up by the owner of the yellow Valkyrie trike and taken to Moses Lake - where we purchased the trike and stayed the night. If you are looking for a good place to eat Michael's is good.

It was an incredibly cold ride home. We left Mose Lake with temps below 50 degrees and I think the maximum was 55. We were in such a hurry I mistakenly agreed to forgo installing the wiring for our heated gear - stupid me! We ran into a mini blizzard in Crescent, Oregon but made it as far as Klamath Falls the first day. Thank heavens the Super 8 has a hot tub. The next day we waited until 10 a.m. to leave because it was once again below 50 degrees. By the time we rode to Weed, CA we were peeling off outer layers. Made it home safe, sound and reasonably warm.

We were home 4 days and headed for Coarsegold, CA for the brake upgrade on my trike. That was another 2 day adventure and chilly ride.

We now have 6 days to get ourselves organized before we leave for Nebraska and Wyoming.

Spring Continues

2008-04-22T17:55:00.000-07:00

While the skies have been clear and sunny the temperatures have been decidedly wintry.

Sunday we traveled to Santa Rosa to pickup a new laptop for a friend. I lovely drive in the Mustang. Daren and Kristie also came for a visit.

We visited with Daren and Kristie and then had lunch at Jack's Gaslight in Lakeport. Except for the fact Jack doesn't appear to have a heating system and it took forever to receive our food it was great - as usual. Daren's friend Jonathan visited with us during lunch.

Today was "use up as many oranges as possible" day - so I baked. I find it amazing that many recipes online request frozen orange juice, not the real deal. Go figure! I think I'm down to 20 lbs. of oranges we grew.

The orange tree is now covered in orange blossoms - they smell so nice.

The photo of the yellow trike is Larry's newest ride - which we will pick up in Washington state next Monday.

The bottom photo is of friends Carol J., Suzanne S., Michele P. and Chuck G. taken after breakfast last Sunday.

Enjoying life.

2008-04-18T20:16:00.000-07:00

I've taken a little vacation from my craft projects. They are calling to me so I'll get back to them soon.

Last weekend we went to Sacramento to begin our little group ride San Simeon. We departed the Sacramento area using the levee road to Locke where we met up with Bill, Eileen, Steve and Jo. We continued down the levee road beyond Hwy 12. We stayed off of the interstate and it made for a long day. The temperatures were in the 90s, but the traffic was reasonable.

We stopped in Gilroy for lunch at Famous Dave's BBQ. Larry & I wanted to see if it was as good as the one in Billings, MT. It is. Major YUM!

We arrived in San Simeon and had enough time to walk across Hwy 1 for dinner at the Mexican restaurant. The restaurant is the same as it was the last time we were in the area - not very good.

On Monday we went to Hearst Castle for tour number two. Lots of stairs. Nice weather and a very interesting tour guide.

We left San Simeon to 51 degree temps and riding over to Paso Robles it got down to 45 degrees. For me it was the first day I have ridden wearing my insulated gear all day long. I don't think it ever got above 60! We managed to stop at Famous Dave's again on the way home. Didn't want to miss the offer of a free dessert! At Gilroy we headed east and rode north on I-5. As we neared Sacramento we found lots of wind. Glad it wasn't for the entire ride.

I purchased a new camera and managed to leave it on the table in Sacramento so the photos posted of our little ride (800 miles round trip to Lake County) were taken by our friend Jo. Thanks!

Evening Wrap Instructions

2008-04-03T23:08:00.000-07:00

Here are the instructions for the 60" long evening wrap.

Materials Needed:

¼ yard of 60 inch sari or brocade weight fabric (FRONT)

¼ yard of 60 inch silky weight fabric for lining (BACK)

½ yard fringe – at least 2 inches long, even longer would be good

Double stick tape

Thread to match

Trim edges of fabric pieces. Make sure both pieces of fabric are the same size.

On the right side, narrow end, of the FRONT fabric place 2 inch sections of double stick tape an inch from the edges at approximately 2 inch intervals. Place the correct width of fringe on the tape. (Make sure your fringe is neat on the edges or it will not look good.)

Do the same thing at the other end. You now need to place tape on the top of the fringe (if you don’t the BACK won’t hold for sewing).

Place the tape on the long edges in the same manner.

Carefully place the BACK (right side) on the FRONT (right side) and fringe. Matching edge to edge.

The double stick tape will hold the fabrics together for sewing.

Starting about 5 inches from a corner begin sewing a ¼ inch seam. Sew all the way around stopping 3 inches from where you started.

Trim the corners and edges, except where the opening is.

Using the opening, turn to the right side. Using a long handled utensil, poke the corners so they are neatly squared.

Remove the double stick tape.

Press the seams. Top stitch the opening and around the entire wrap.

For a longer wrap purchase two ¼ yards of fabric for FRONT. Sew ends together. Cut to length you want. Do the same with the lining fabric (BACK). Proceed with instructions.

For a wider wrap purchase ½ yard of fabrics. Tape and sew.

If these instructions are not clear enough I'll do a step by step tutorial.

Heat Resistant Curling Iron Bag

2008-04-03T20:58:00.000-07:00

When we travel I do my hair just as we are leaving. I hate having to put the hot curling iron in the luggage. So once I became interested in sewing again I looked for a pattern to make something that will keep the heat from ruining anything. Saw where someone has a patent on some kind of curling iron bag, also saw advertisements for bags selling for $20 and up - didn't even look.

I tried to modify instructions from a tote bag I found on line but just couldn't get it to do what I wanted with two different fabric patterns and with the heat resistant lining. After trying four times and having all four not being what I was looking for I had an "Eureka" moment. So here it is - my first pattern. The pattern assumes people already know how to sew.

Copyright 2008. This pattern is intended for your personal use only. Please do not post this pattern on any other site or claim it as your own. The items you make belong to you and you may sell them at craft fairs, bazaars, and to family, friends, and you may donate them to any charity, as long as you give me credit as the designer. Please ask permission before selling online. Selling in mass to retail or wholesale stores is prohibited.

Suzanne’s Heat Resistant Curling Iron Bag

28" piece of ribbon, lace, cord or whatever you like
Thread to match or compliment fabric
Permanent fabric adhesive
Two pieces of cotton fabric 15 inches x 6 inches for OUTSIDE
Two pieces of cotton fabric 15 inches x 6 inches for INSIDE
Two pieces of Insul-Bright™ heat resistant lining 14 3/4 inches long x 6 inches (or whatever brand you prefer)

Using one piece of outside fabric and one piece of inside fabric - place right sides together and sew at narrow end. You should now have a single piece of fabric 29 ¾ long with two different patterns.

Repeat for the remaining fabric pieces.

Place and pin the long pieces of fabric right sides together – outside fabric to outside fabric, inside fabric to inside fabric.

Place and pin Insul-Bright™ pieces on either side of the OUTSIDE fabric BOTH sides. (The OUTSIDE fabric will be sandwiched between the Insul-Bright lining.)

Starting on a lower side of the INSIDE fabric end stitch edges together with ¼ inch seam leaving an opening long enough to turn right side out.

Remove pins, trim corners and edges (except for the open place) and turn fabric right side out – should be a 5 ½ inch wide by 29 1/2 inch long tube of fabric. Press the seams.

Top stitch the opening used to turn fabric.

Now – stuff the top 14 3/4 inches of fabric down into the opening – you will end up with a fully lined heat resistant 14 3/4 inch x 5 ½ inch tube.

Stitch around the top edge where ever you like – this will keep the lining in place.

Using permanent fabric adhesive on the outside 2 inches from the top opening place a 28” piece of lace, ribbon, cord, tape or whatever you like. Place the adhesive on the back and 1" on the front of the tube, put the ribbon on the adhesive. Allow to dry.

Place the curling iron in the bag – tie ribbon in a bow.

This may also be made with all the same fabric – simply cut two 30 inch x 6 inch pieces and pin right sides facing. Pin Ultra-Bright™ pieces to one end. Continue with the remainder of the instructions.

You could make this shorter if you just wanted a bag long enough to put the hot barrel in and not the entire device.

This can be this simple, or you could embellish the front with appliques, beads, sequins or whatever takes your fancy.

Enjoy.

One More wrap

2008-03-31T19:25:00.000-07:00

Decided to make one more item today. This wrap was created using 45" wide fabric 1/2 yard long. I had to cut the fabric in half lenghwise and sew it together and cut it to 60" to fit the black silky lining I had. The 2" fringe is okay, but longer would look even better. I think next time I have 45" wide fabric I will purchase more 60" wide lining and make a longer wrap. Not everyone fits in a 60" long evening wrap.

Still at it!

2008-03-31T17:42:00.000-07:00

The internet is such a great source for ideas and free patterns to excerise one's creativity!

A snuggle, a couple of heat resistant curling iron bags, motorcycle lady and teal/lavender lady.

I hope to make some more evening wraps and tote bags this week....in between dental appointments!

The Evening Wrap

2008-03-25T19:06:00.000-07:00

I purchased some lovely material to make an evening bag and decided that it was large enough and too nice to just make a bag. So I bid on some fringe on Ebay and won. Then I a few weeks later I picked up some lining material and thought it wasn't enough. So last week I finally had everything to begin the wrap.

It is so pretty!

Snuggle Quilt

2008-03-21T19:51:00.000-07:00

I once said I wasn't interested in sewing a quilt, even lap size. Then I saw a lady on Simply Quilts that makes tube quilts. Tube quilting means no little squares and no little triangles to cut and sew, but the result looks like you spent lots of time cutting and sewing.

This little number took a couple of hours to get together and then another hour to sew on the binding which I did in my own way, not necessarily the right way!

I found the fabric for this quilt at Walmart. Say what you will, whoever is doing the purchasing for their fabric department does an excellent job and the prices are reasonable too!

Drawstring Bag

2008-03-19T14:45:00.000-07:00

This bag is made from a fabric design that I love (I picked it up at Walmart!)

A big thank you to "Happythings" blogger! This project was great. I never would have tried a drawstring bag had it not been for the "magic"! I used grosgrain ribbon for the "string" because I couldn't wait for cording!

Little Yellow Bag

2008-03-19T14:40:00.000-07:00

This bag is about the size of a comestic bag. It was lots of fun to make with the fabric Barbara sent from Montana.

This was fun because the tutorial was precise and there was room for creativity!

Thanks to Crafty Ladies for the tutorial!

Two new ladies.

2008-03-14T13:57:00.000-07:00

The Sassy lady with the tangerine hair is for fun.

The Polka lady with the yellow hair was commissioned - just hope it is what she had in mind!

Next up - lady motorcyclist!

A little of this...

2008-03-13T19:53:00.001-07:00

and a little of that! Life isn't boring! Larry's has been cutting and chipping branches around the yard. His arms looks like he's been chewed on!

Today we had AWESOME Thai food at the Kour Thai in Lucerne, CA....hope this lady stays in business a long time.

I have made more ladies and some bags!

2008-03-10T10:29:00.001-07:00

While Larry is busy doing taxes at the senior center and walking dogs at the animal care and control department I'm trying to keep myself busy without getting bored doing one thing.
My latest projects are tote bags - found an awesome instructions to make a one-yard of fabric into a tote bag. I decided to see what would happen if I used 1/2-yard of fabric. A little small, but do-able.

I have 5 sitting ladies ready to begin the pretty process. I'll work on those between yard work projects!

By request and then some!

2008-03-05T14:54:00.000-08:00

The weather has turned into spring...hope it lasts. We've been getting some yard work done, as well as getting or things organized.

We had joined a woodworking class but that turned out to be a major joke - so we chalked up the $30 as a donation! Apparently the only reason people take the course is to use the tools, not to actually learn to use the tools and build something.

At the request of a friend I made the two garden ladies. I made the "freedom" lady as a raffle prize.

Today I made the tote bag for my niece out of a single yard of material. She is turning 7 so I hope it doesn't swamp her!

Wednesday's "Job"

2008-02-27T14:54:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I hit some thrift stores and found 2 wool sweaters to make into boiled wool "cloth".

After boiling or felting the wool I made a beret from a Martha Stewart pattern....I need to try this again, looks more like a beanie!

Last, but not least, my latest pieced apron. This one I let the fabric "talk" to me. I began the apron by using a purchased applique rose (from the dollar store) to a piece of fabric and went from there. Probably a little bazaar, but I think it is marketable!

Red Hat Lady

2008-02-25T18:07:00.000-08:00

This little lady was a request from a friend - and I got to have free license on just how I accomplished the task.

These are so much fun to make! Her "boobies" are little fuzzy pom-poms.

Rainy Days

2008-02-22T22:15:00.001-08:00

An embossed velvet wine bottle bag; a clutch purse; a pansy pillow (or giant pincushion); a Sitting Lady and a tote bag. The least favorite of mine is the clutch purse - the remainder all have varying degrees of - yes, this was fun and I'd do it again.

Another day - something new

2008-02-12T16:26:00.000-08:00

I learned how to piece an eyeglass case and a pansy pincushion. As I made the pincushion I kept thinking of my mom because pansies were her favorite flower.

I had forgotten how much I once enjoyed embroidering!

Fleece Hats & Chickens!

2008-02-11T23:54:00.000-08:00

Busy day while Larry helped prepare taxes. I made three fleece hats and 2 poultry pin cushions. I also washed and ironed what seemed like hundreds of yards of fabric!

The fleece hats were a snap to make and came out quite nice. The pin cushions were made by piecing together fabric scraps --- going to have to get some more little buttons for the eyes if I'm going to continue making these things!

More Cold Weather Projects

2008-02-08T17:08:00.001-08:00

Amazing what one can get done when there is rain and more rain. A chicken pin cushion, a log cabin pieced purple apron, a log cabin apron in multi colors, a manly apron for G and a crochet hook case for Susan.

Little projects that are fun to do.

We have already been out on our bikes during February. Tomorrow we are off to Yolo County for brunch and, hopefully, an awesome motorcycle ride.

Chilly Day Pursuits

2008-01-18T20:31:00.000-08:00

I will admit to being tired of the cold...and what little rain we have had.

That being said I have not remained idle! I've been doing lots of cooking
(freezer is filling), sewing and crocheting.

For the sewing projects I have chosen aprons - one type has a twill "skirt" with color cotton gusseted pockets (the blue with flag design). The other type is a log cabin pieced apron. Of the two I really enjoy the creativity of the pieced apron.

I've crocheted ditty bags and extenda bags from the Pattern's by Dot website. These are so easy to make and are finished in no time. The "extenda" bags are the ditty bags with an interior flap that comes up if you need more space or is folded like a liner when not needed. This has been a good project for using up little extra yarn balls.

I think I'll tackle the "bling" dog collars shown on the Martha Stewart Living website next.

December and January

2008-01-18T17:26:00.000-08:00

Christmas visitors. Quiet times. A trip to the emergency room.

Christmas saw Loren, Daren and Kristie with us for dinner. A lovely day for all of us. Unfortunately Daren & Kristie had to eat and run.

We drove to Sacramento so we could provide Loren a ride to the airport for his flight east to return to work. We used the opportunity to visit with friends!

The first Sunday in January saw us making a trip to the emergency room at 5 a.m. - Larry experience his (and hopefully last) kidney stone. All is well, but the process was excruciating.

My brother returned from his trip to Australia and New Zealand and is off looking at property in Nevada.

It has been a little too nippy for us to ride, but we are hoping for a change soon!

We miss Lucie. Don't have any desire to have another dog right now, but it seems that at every turn there is a reminder of our gentle friend :(

Our Lucie

2007-12-12T12:03:00.000-08:00

Today we gave our Lucie the greatest gift - peace.

For the last 5 months Lucie has been suffering with renal failure. She was actually doing quite well until yesterday. It seems she knew when the time was right.

She will have a very special place in many people's hearts!

Daren Visits

2007-10-28T14:37:00.000-07:00

We had the pleasure of Daren and Kristie's company for lunch. A rare treat for us! Kristie's new car is VERY nice!

Loren Visits

2007-10-27T06:20:00.000-07:00

Loren's new career as a truck driver has kept him out of California, so yesterday when he was able to stop in Lake County for breakfast it was a real treat. We enjoyed the visit!

We have been busy driving to and from Sacramento. Last week we had to go down for Larry's follow up CT Scan. This week we went down for the follow up appointment with the neurosurgeon. Happy to say Larry has no recurring meningioma. Next appointment in 2 years.

We continue to be amazed at how busy we are in retirement!

Larry had the bright idea to have a Halloween outfit for Lucie so she can go to the Doggie Fest today - with the help of a free pattern from the internet I sewed a vest with a Jack-O-Lantern design on the back. She also gets to wear a hat!

My friend and I took advantage of a wreath making class at one of the senior centers, so I've been having fun creating!

Patriot Guard Rider Mission

2007-10-13T15:59:00.000-07:00

We rose at 5 a.m. to get ready to ride to Novato, CA for a Patriot Guard Rider mission.

After a chilly ride into Lakeport we met Steve Biggs and rode over to Highway 101 via the Hopland Grade. Just a tad bit foggy - to the point that we stopped at the top and wiped the condensation off our windshields.

On arriving at the high school in Novato we joined around 20 other Patriot Guard Riders in a flag line leading to the memorial service for Cpl. Nicholas Paul Olson. Cpl. Olson lost his life while serving in Iraq.

I have been signed up as a member of PGR for a couple of years, but there has only been one other occasion that has been in our area. As it happens Cpl. Olson is the son of one of our friends here in Lake County.

The whole event took a couple of hours. One poignant moment came when a lady with a toddler came out of the memorial and as the toddler walked around the mother said, "Look at all the flags. Daddy would have liked the flags." The lady and toddler were the wife and daughter of Cpl. Olson.

Many people thanked the PGR members who made up the flag line. As far as I could tell, not one participant felt the need for a thank you, more like it was the least they could do for someone who had given their all for their country.

October

2007-10-09T13:27:00.000-07:00

<-Joel at RFK; RFK Ride; Larry at RFK (early) and the bottom two photos are of the Clear Lake Road Riders.

In the few weeks we have returned from our motorcycle trip we have traveled to Sacramento twice - once to attend Larry's retirement dinner (a lovely evening at the Sheraton) and this past weekend to participate in the Ride for Kids event in Woodland, CA.

The group we belong to had the 4th highest club donations and our local dealer came in as top dealer with over $27k attributed to his business.

We are Home!

2007-09-23T20:58:00.000-07:00

We waited to leave Fernley, NV until almost 10:30 a.m. - any earlier and we would have been wet before got out of town.

As we headed west of I-80 we saw many motorcyclists leaving the Reno area. Street Vibrations lost quite a few participants before the final day began.

Once we were beyond Reno the weather got wetter. On the way up to Donner Pass traffic picked up and the rain became less spotty. One group of Hell's Angels from Oakland roared by just as the rain really started coming down.

As we headed down from Donner Pass there were so many motorcyclists being cautious that they were keeping the car traffic to a SENSIBLE speed. It was the most sane trip along I-80 from Reno I have ever been on and the worst weather!

We turned off of I-80 on to Hwy 20 and encountered fog as well as rain. By the time we got to Marysville the weather had improved dramatically.

A nice lunch at Granzella's and we hurried home in time to pick up Lucie at the kennel.

Over 7,000 miles. What an awesome country. What awesome people we rode with and met along the way. Good to be home....until Wednesday! The map is of the route we took this September.

On our way home

2007-09-22T19:32:00.000-07:00

We left on Friday. Rather chilly ride to Pocatello, Idaho. Wind was bad around Twin Bridges, but became less of an issue as we continued to ride.

This morning we left to warmer temps - but not that warm! At Twin Falls we headed for Nevada. From Wells it was a fast ride to Fernley, Nevada.

Another chilly day, but not much precipitation. We either had awful side winds, or awful head winds. The trike got 20 mpg for the last 100 miles. We also had to deal with a dust storm east of Lovelock.

Can't really complain though, because we got here safely. We ate at the El Guadalajara Mexican restrauant - not too shabby.

When we arrived at the motel there were other motorcyclists who had attended Street Vibrations - glad we didn't try to get a room in Reno.

Tomorrow will be our ride home. We won't be riding out any too early - the weather in the Sierras is supposed to be wet and cold tonight.

Billings

2007-09-20T06:47:00.000-07:00

We are having a lovely visit in Billings. Can't say enough about how nice it is to be with Jack & Barbara.

Jack took us out to the old homestead properties. All I can say - those people were far more hearty then we are!

The house photo is of Larry's Aunt Mary's (Jack's mom) former home. The neighborhood has changed quite a bit - there are some very nice "disadvantaged people" homes going in across the street.

Yesterday it was a tad cool, but Larry & Jack braved the cool weather to change the oil in the bikes.

Later on Larry & I cleaned our filthy bikes - I don't think they were this dirty last year!

For dinner we headed to Famous Dave's with Jack, Barbara and Larry's Aunt Ida. Another WOW meal of ribs. (We have GOT to get one of these restaurants closer to home!)

Today we are having breakfast with Aunt Ida and in the p.m. I believe we will do a little sightseeing. Tomorrow we will be headed home.

Minnesota to Billings, Montana

2007-09-18T07:59:00.001-07:00

We left Park Rapids, Minnesota at 7:30 a.m. We had 84 miles of two-lane roads before making it to Fargo, North Dakota and Interstate 94.

The weather was pleasant - actually made it into the mesh jackets.

So - what is there to say about North Dakota along I-94 ----it is a great road to ride at 75 miles per hour because THERE IS NOTHING.

The original intent was to stay in Glendive but Larry heard it was going to be raining and cool in the a.m. so the decision was made to ride on to Billings.

Thankfully, Larry's Uncle Jack and Aunt Barbara were kind enough to have us stay a day earlier than we had planned. So 685 miles later we are nice and cozy.

It IS a little rainy today - hoping to have a great visit and head out on Thursday.

Michigan and Minnesota

2007-09-16T20:47:00.000-07:00

Last evening we stayed at a Budget Host Motel in Marquette, Michigan. Weather was cool leaving Sudbury, but improved somewhat. The scenery is awesome and it would be nice to spend time in the area sometime in the future.

The motel was rated by AAA as one of the lesser accomodations in the area - can't say enough nice things about Brentwood Inn. Very comfortable and clean. Couldn't ask for much more - except a coffeemaker and hair dryer in the room! For $50, it was SUPERB!

We left Marquette at 9 a.m. - in temps under 50 degrees (Larry tried to tell me it was 54, but no way). We were wearing every possible layer and managed quite well. We rode through Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota via Hwy 2 --- speed limit 55 and every one drove 65. Again - wow to the scenery. By this afternoon the temperatures were up over 70 degrees, so riding was comfy. So many motorcycles out enjoying the beautiful weather.

Tomorrow's ride should be far better as the low is only supposed to be 59 here in Park Rapid, Minnesota tonight.

Sudbury, Canada

2007-09-14T16:49:00.000-07:00

We didn't make it far...left Mississauga around 10:30 a.m.

My fearless leader didn't believe the GPS - so it took us nearly an hour to get OUT of Toronto using alternate roads.

Once we got on the road it was nice...the temps were around 75 degrees. Then the further we went the cooler it became. Stopped to put on some jackets and just the other side of Parry Sound we hit some really hard rain. The trike hydroplaned, but I managed to keep it on my side of the road. When the semi going in the opposite direction threw and wave of water over the top of me, I knew I had to stop. Had to back track to a gas station and eatery and wait out as much as we could.

Back on the road with all the rain gear and it never rained again.

Once we arrived in Sudbury it became obvious that IT WAS COLD and WINDY! Staying the night at a Super 8 - not a bad place, just more bucks than the last one and no pool!

Tomorrow we will be riding back to the USA - headed for Wisconsin via Michigan. Not leaving very early because the temperatures aren't supposed to be very high.

Toronto

2007-09-14T03:52:00.000-07:00

Perhaps not the most attractive photo! This was taken at the Blue Jays game last evening. A pitcher's game - ended up being 2-1 Blue Jays. We left at the bottom on the sixth.

It was a chilly game, but as soon as we got on the bikes to ride to the motel we felt warmer. Go figure!

Yesterday was a leisurely day. After getting up late we went to a couple of shopping malls so Dennis could pick up some stuff. He lost a saddle bag in PA as well as having no rain gear.

We lunched at the Pickle Barrel - nice place to eat, just that service was slower than a pedestrian with a walker in a crosswalk during rush hour!

You know how you travel into big cities and the air always smells like traffic? Not so Toronto - we kept smelling COOKIES or PASTRIES. The city is also very clean. The people aren't exactly the smiley kind, but we did get some of them to perk up!

We are heading out this a.m. - not in a major hurry and not sure which direction we will be going, aside from west.

Mississauga, Canada

2007-09-12T18:52:00.000-07:00

We are staying just outside Toronto.

A rather chilly ride today. We mirrored the ride we took up to Canada last year - just no rain and we made it all the way in one day.

We are at a Super 8 that wasn't rated very good by AAA, but the price was right so we booked. Not sure what the other motels are like but this is very nice - and $89 for the 3 of us (Dennis is with us).

Tomorrow we checkout Toronto and go to an evening Blue Jays game - they are playing the Yankees!

Daily American Newspaper Article

2007-09-12T05:04:00.000-07:00

I HOPE THIS IS NOT A COPYWRITE INFRINGEMENT...

Motorcyclists mark anniversary By DAN DiPAOLO Daily American 30 North ChiefTuesday, September 11, 2007 12:48 AM EDTSOMERSET — The sixth anniversary of Sept. 11, 2007, is being remembered at Shanksville today by thousands of people. For more than two dozen, the tolling of the bells will mark the end of a 10 day cross-country journey.The Torches Across America motorcycle ride started in Oceanside, Calif., on Sept. 1 and ended here today with the goal of memorializing those who died, those who served and to recognize all of the country’s first responders.
“This country was in a total state of shock,” said organizer Gary Covert of the ride. Responders came out, helped keep the country together, he said.The Branson, Mo., native, has seen 16 communities respond to the ride and declare a recognition day. Additionally, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives passed a resolution naming Sept. 12, “Emergency Responder Day.”“That’s why we ride. We don’t raise money, we’re not a foundation. They go because it is in their heart,” he said.For Covert, the inspiration for the ride came after he and his wife, Marge, explored the World Trade Center in late August 2001 on their way to see a terminally ill friend in Maine.“Eleven days after we left, it happened, so we all wanted to know what we could do,” he said.They chose a motorcycle ride because, according to Covert, there are no more patriotic people than bikers.Bar Porter, 41, of San Diego, is one of those making the trip with Covert. A recently retired Marine gunnery sergeant, he wears a tattoo with the dates Feb. 11, 1986, and June 30, 2007, on the underside of his right forearm. His date in, and then out, of the service.He said that he extended his service for a full year in order to deploy to Iraq with his military police unit. Once he arrived there in early 2006, he was stationed in the northern province Al Anbar and trained local police forces in the city of Rawah.The training had highs and lows, he said. Originally, there were 50 local trainees, and after a local insurgent leader had one of the men brutally beheaded, that number dropped to four, he said. But by the time he left, their numbers had climbed back to 175.“You’re trying to instill in them the idea that it’s about coming together as a country,” he said.This will be Porter’s first visit to Shanksville.(Dan DiPaolo may be contacted at dand@dailyamerican.com.)

Sept 11 Evening

2007-09-11T17:39:00.000-07:00

After resting for a few hours we joined Gary & Marge, Barry & Connien(PA) and Paul (PA) for dinner at Hoss's (a Sizzler like place). Steak wasn't very good, but the salad bar made up for it.

A lovely evening!

TAA Riders

2007-09-11T11:56:00.001-07:00

Dennis, Barr & Mark; Barr, Joe and Steve; Joe and Bruce; Ed.

TAA Riders

2007-09-11T11:43:00.000-07:00

Dennis; Barr, Mark, Clark & Kathy; Roger & his wife (American Legion Somerset) Joel and Nancy; Bruce and Dennis; Mike.

TAA Rider photos

2007-09-11T11:18:00.001-07:00

The Frank & Lil; Suzanne, Marge & Gary; Mark, Clark, Larry and Kathy; Joel and Gary

TAA Riders

2007-09-11T11:03:00.001-07:00

Kathy & Clark-NM
Michael-NM
Mark-CA
Frank & Lil-PA
Steve-CA

Sept 11 - Somerset PA Flight 93 Memorials

2007-09-11T10:34:00.001-07:00

We headed toward the Flight 93 Memorial Chapel after 7:30 a.m. - Mike had told us that we needed to be there by 8 a.m. because they would be providing a breakfast.

Well, when we arrived they weren't even set up. We milled around for a while. I helped make the coffee and managed to break a carafe!

There was a very nice service in the chapel. Following the service many riders left to go to the crash site memorial (contrary to what we were told by Mike, there WAS a memorial again this year). Some riders left to go into town to get something to eat.

We stayed long enough to eat at the chapel area and then left to go the crash site. We had been told you had to park as far away as we did last year - not so if you have a trusty GPS - Larry routed us to motorcycle parking directly in front of the memorial. We had missed the official service, but there were still many people there. Larry spoke to two young men who worked at the coffee shop where Nicole Miller purchased her coffee, hence the photo of the men with the photo of Nicole on their shirts. The photo in the center with the lei is an angel memorial with Nicole's name on it.

While there were fewer people at the crash site, there was still a nice turn out and more continued to arrive. Of course, it rained. At least there were no protesters this year. There seemed to be more flags and participation by locals in the area around the crash site than last year.

There was supposed to be a ride in the afternoon, but with all the rain we just headed for the motel.

We are meeting whoever is left in Somerset for dinner.

We have had a VERY enjoyable ride across the United States. Nice group of people to ride with. It really is too bad Gary Covert's trike had issues and he could not ride all the way on it.

This may be the last year Gary organizes the ride, but perhaps there will be a way to make it happen in a slightly different format. The vision Gary started with should be carried on - but not at the expense of one individual.

There is Torches Across America Troy, Inc. They will be raising funds to build a memorial in Troy, Illinois.

The people in Cambridge, Ohio are dedicated to the cause - but any rides need to be on some other day than Friday - interferes with football!

Seems to me, since this is about the First Call Responders THEY could become part of the process in a more direct way.

Perhaps the ride can be a relay with banners containing the important information Gary has been carrying around for the last 6 years. Perhaps there can be a corporate sponsor to assist. Maybe a hotel or motel chain? Don't believe any connection to a particular motorcycle manufacturer is the way to go because some people are so narrow they would not participate if it wasn't the manufacturer of the bike they ride. Definitely should not be connected with CMA if the current spokesperson is involved.

So, to Clark and Kathy, Frank and Lil, Joel and Nancy, Barr, Steve, Mark, Dennis, Michael, Peter and Pam, Gary and Marge, Joe and Mike - A BIG THANK YOU for helping to make the ride a pleasure!

Sept 9 & 10 - VA to NJ to Somerset, PA

2007-09-11T03:55:00.000-07:00

A quick note - rode from Vienna, VA to Secaucus, NJ on the 9th.

With the able leadership of Michael (NM) we toured DC - only stopped at the Air Force Memorial because everything else was blocked off due to the rally that day.

LONG HOT DAY to NJ - got stuck in construction traffic on the I-95 outside of Pittsburgh - 6 of us cheated and rode up the shoulder to an exit to cool off ourselves and the motorcycles.

On arriving in NJ we went to the Hoboken MC clubhouse - they hosted a pizza party and carted our butts to the PATH station. We took PATH into Manhattan. Walked down to Battery Park - back up to PATH and the train to NJ.

On the 10th we rode NON-turnpike roads (led by Frank & Lil) to Somerset, PA - with a stop in Hershey, PA. We arrived just in time to attend a dinner at the American Legion.

This a.m. we are off to the Flight 93 chapel and memorial.

Sept 8th - OH to Vienna, VA

2007-09-08T17:09:00.000-07:00

We departed Cambridge on the edge of a heavy rain. Once again everyone headed out at different times and different routes.

A hot day for a ride. I think we all thought we would be done with HOT weather.

Tomorrow a.m. we ride over to the Pentagon and then we are free to make our way to the motel.

Sept 7th - IL to Cambridge, OH

2007-09-08T05:29:00.000-07:00

We left Troy at 6 a.m. to ride over to Collinsville, Illinois for breakfast at the VFW....the ladies of the auxillary very kindly worked hard on an excellent breakfast.

Unfortunately we stayed 10 minutes and were on the road by 6:30 a.m. for a 500 mile ride to Cambridge, Ohio. We were trying to ride ahead of the storm....which I am happy to say was a success.

We arrived at the designated meeting place 2 hours early and visited with other riders as they came in. We had a fire department escort from the Zanesville Love station to Cambridge on I-70. We finished the ride with a gathering at the Walmart and a presentation by several people.

Clark picked up Kathy at the Columbus airport. Steve, Dennis and Mark got in early enough to check in at the motel, get cleaned up and take a nap!

Les Knauer and his wife made it to the ride. We also met Dave and Naomi who live east of Columbus, Ohio and had just heard about Torches Across America. What a nice surprise!

On to Virigina!

Sept 6th - MO to Troy, IL

2007-09-06T20:20:00.000-07:00

Three hours of rain....then the ride was dry.

Stopped at Gene's Gallery so Frank could see all the goodies he NEEDS for his new Goldwing.

On to Troy - a much better ride into Troy led NOT by law enforcement, but by Butch of the VFW in Troy until we got to the Illinois border. From Illinois the state troopers took over and the ride was similar to last year......once again Troy stands out!

Gary was approached by many people letting him know that this needs NOT to be the last year of the ride.....perhaps someone else can pick up the torch!

Sept 5th - OK to Branson, MO

2007-09-06T20:08:00.000-07:00

We rode the back roads from Tulsa, OK to Branson, MO - lots of drizzle, but not much real rain until we arrived at the motel.

Arrived early at the Fiddler Inn - ate a rather yucky Mexican meal with the guys at the restaurant across the street (learned later the good place is in the opposite direction). The weather deteriorated rapidly on our arrival - Peter & Pam arrived in the middle of an awful downpour.

Gary had arranged for us to attend the Bart Rockett show at a significant discount. Many of the TAA riders attended, but none of the first call responders he had invited.

After the show Bruce & Ed decided to cut short their TAA ride and head west for their other commitment.

Sept 4th - TX to Tulsa, OK

2007-09-04T17:09:00.000-07:00

Lots of little "groups" of riders - Larry & I were the smallest group. We opted out of going to the memorial in OKC, OK because Larry's brother-in-law was stranded in OKC, OK with vehicle problems so we were able to spend time with him just east of OKC, OK.

We got off of I-40 after visiting with Jay - ended up on OK Hwy 66 - which was the ride we took last year with the group.

Not too hot today - low 80s, lots of humidity. Riding was pleasant, but everytime you slowed down you melted!

Arrived at the motel around 5:30 p.m. just in time to unload the bikes and for Larry to join Gary & Marge on their way over to the American Legion. The remainder of the riders were riding up Oklahoma Hwy 66 headed for the American Legion.

There was a dude doing maintenance at the motel that could have been an Elvis impersonator - right down to the shades!

I stayed at the motel to do laundry!

Sept 3rd - NM to Amarillo, TX

2007-09-04T04:22:00.000-07:00

A bunch of guys got up bright and early to participate in the balloon take off....no one showed up at the balloon center as early as they did!

Back to the hotel - and then on to Cracker Barrel for breakfast. This was a special for us to get there early before the crowd. As far as service went, it didn't matter. Food was okay - just.

We departed at 8:30 a.m. with Victor (retired NM highway patrol officer) in the lead over the scenic route. We headed toward Santa Fe. By going this way we rode through Madrid, NM....where Wild Hogs was filmed. Somehow 5 of us stopped in Madrid and the larger group rode on.

We left Madrid and headed toward Las Vegas, NM - and on to Hwy 104 to Tucumcari, NM.

Frank, Lil, Marge, Gary, Larry & I were riding together (Mark and Dennis had met up with the other riders) and stopped for fuel before heading down Hwy 104. After fueling up Larry & I took off for Tucumcari (106 miles) and the other four stayed back to chat and have lunch.

Hwy 104 is pretty much straight south to I-40 downhill. When arrived in Tucumcari around 2 p.m. - as we were finishing up with the fuel stop, some of the other riders pulled in.

Picked up I-40 and Amarillo, Texas. Except for the gusty winds the ride on the interstate was uneventful.

Frank & Lil rode in sometime after 6 p.m. Gary's muffler had detached from his trike - missed hitting them, but needed to be put back on.

As of 9 p.m. last night Gary & Marge were still in Tucumcari trying to get the trike repaired. They did make it to the motel and have decided to take the trike home and pick up another vehicle before heading to Troy, IL.

We had another nice dinner at the Big Texan.

This a.m. we head for OK.

Sept 2nd - AZ to Albuquerque, NM

2007-09-02T19:55:00.000-07:00

We departed Kingman, AZ around 7:30 a.m. - the temp was in the low 70s.

I was able to ride at 70 mph for much of the day....we actually arrived at the designated meeting place in Gallup, NM 40 minutes early.

We were met in Gallup by a state highway patrol motorcycle officer. This single officer lead us the 115 miles from Gallup to the travel center to meet up with the Blue Knights and CMA members from Albequerque.

Approximately 25 bikes rode from Gallup - at speeds MOSTLY at 80 to 90 mph. What fun....how nerve racking with only one officer and SOME impatient trucks and cars. I didn't dare get a drink or adjust the radio - was holding onto the handle bars for dear life because there was no way I was going to run into the back of another rider.....turns out there were other riders who had never ridden that fast in such a large group.

From the travel stop into Albuquerque we had close to 40 motorcycles and the pace was considerably more sane due to the traffic.

Gary and Marge Covert arrived at the FOP before everyone was finished eating. There was a presentation of the NM proclamation for First Call Responders. We had pizza this year. There weren't as many officers at the FOP building because they have been working non-stop preparing for the funeral of the officer killed on duty during the presidential motorcade this week.

Larry has been taking the photos, so none of him!

Frank & Lil are also posting photos at pasilverwing.blogspot.com.

Overall a much nicer day than yesterday.

Tomorrow we are off to Amarillo, TX via Santa Fe and Tucumcari.

First thing in the morning (or the middle of the night) will be the balloon tribute. Larry will once again participate. I, on the other hand, have "been there, done that" and will sleep in for an hour before joining the group for breakfast!

Sept 1 - Oceanside, CA to Kingman, AZ

2007-09-02T06:20:00.000-07:00

September 1st has to be the most AWFUL day for riding we have ever experienced.

Left Oceanside at 9 a.m. (way too late given the heat). Rode to Victorville (only little over 100 degrees).

My trike does not like hot temperatures - therefore we rode at 55 mph (the posted limit for vehicles with trailers) most of the way. Gauge pegged out on the way to Victorville. We stopped twice to cool it and ourselves off.

After Victorville it just got worse. The grand plan was to meet up in Needles and take back roads into Kingman via Laughlin. About an hour before we were to get to Needles the radio reported that the temp in Laughlin was 117.....we decided the backroads to keep and would continue on the Kingman.

5 p.m. in Needles it was 116 degrees. We stopped for a drink and a soak. Engine heat on the mesh pants was excessive. Continued on to Kingman - within 20 miles the temps had dropped to 104....a few miles on the temps were down to 90.

Arrived in Kingman about 15 minutes late for dinner....fortunately dinner wasn't ready.

The people on the ride....Chief Bruce and one of his buddies from last year. Clark from Albuequerue, Mike Moehn (sp?) but not Teresa, and some other I just don't remember their names. Darryl from Bakersfield rode over to Victorville just to say hi!

John, Bob, Carol, Steve Biggs, Chuck, Steve & Jo --- everyone is asking where you are! People were looking forward to seeing you.

Frank and Lil from York, PA have ridden along with us. Even at slower speeds!

I loaned one of my cool vests to Lil, Larry loaned one of his to Marj Covert. I KNOW we would not have made it without the cool vests.

Gary & Marj were late arriving in Oceanside, but did make it. Same thing in Victorville and Kingman.

Temperature here in Kingman now is 73...and were are almost ready to hit the road.

Larry took photos....will post another time.

August 31st

2007-08-31T21:55:00.001-07:00

Today we met up with Clark & Kathy Flynn of Albuquerque, NM.

At 1 p.m. we went over to Escondido Cycle Center to have the parts installed on our respective bikes. Left there are 6 p.m. Can't say enough nice things about this company - VERY professional business. Went out of their way to accomodate us because we were from out-of-town.

Stopped by the motel - found Joe Sewell of the Tulsa, OK area. Joe, Larry and I headed for to Pat & Oscar's Restaurant for dinner with the TAA group.

The photos tell it all - good food. Lots of old faces, some new. Gary & Marj arrived a little late, but they did arrive on the trike.

Teresa won't be riding with Mike this year...says she's done it twice. She will ride as far as Victorville with the local CMA group.

Frank and Lil of York, PA arrived this a.m. - they had to stop in Vista, CA to replace a rear tire because they ran over something that damaged it.

Tomorrow we are heading for Kingman by way of Laughlin and Las Vegas....not looking forward to this route about way in extreme hot temperatures. We aren't leaving Oceanside until almost 9 a.m. Lots happening in Kingman that Gary's is excited about. I'm sure the long, hot ride will be worthwhile....at least that is what we are telling ourselves this evening.

Wayne isn't riding this year (last year we kept calling him Frank) and Frank isn't going either. It is possible that Bruce will be joining us tomorrow.

There are two guys form the Bay area - Dennis and Mark. They are riding all the way and having the bikes shipped back to CA....Dennis has a car rally to attend.

August 31st

2007-08-31T21:55:00.000-07:00

Today we met up with Clark & Kathy Flynn of Albuquerque, NM.

At 1 p.m. we went over to Escondido Cycle Center to have the parts installed on our respective bikes. Left there are 6 p.m.

Stopped by the motel - found Joe Sewell of the Tulsa, OK area. Joe, Larry and I headed for to Pat & Oscar's Restaurant for dinner with the TAA group.

The photos tell it all - good food. Lots of old faces, some new. Gary & Marj arrived

Made it to San Marcos

2007-08-30T14:31:00.001-07:00

We left Lost Hills at 5 a.m. - temperature was 86 degrees!

Actually got rained on the Grapevine. Saw some spectacular lightning - happy it was from afar.

It wasn't a bad ride down here - we arrived at Escondido Cycle at 10 a.m. As agreed they took Larry's bike in right away.

We left the cycle shop after 1 p.m. to return tomorrow for the installation of the parts they had to order today.

Not only are they fixing Larry's O2 sensor, they are replacing the defective trunk lock assembly on my trike. They also discovered a recall on my trike that had not been done and took care of that.

We are at the Ramada Limited in San Marcos - not too shabby for $52 a night.

Clark and Kathy Flynn have arrived!

Day 1

2007-08-29T21:51:00.000-07:00

HOT HOT HOT....105 riding south on I-5. The trike did its usual thing. As long as I didn't ride over 60 mph it didn't get TOO hot.

We road as far as Lost Hills at 8 p.m.

Larry's bike threw a code - right O2 sensor needs to be looked at. Going to Escondido Honda when we get there tomorrow.

My trike had a burned out headlight first thing today. Larry replaced it - much easier than when he replaced his in Billings! Later in the day the trunk open message kept popping up after going over bumps. ARGH!

Saw Don Whittier in Clearlake - he took our photo, but too tired to up load it.

On the San Marcos tomorrow EARLY!

Ready to go....

2007-08-29T06:46:00.000-07:00

Bags are packed and loaded. Motorcycles serviced and aimed for the road.

We will be riding as far south today as is practical. Stopping in Sacramento for haircuts and a visit with Loren (who, by the way, is now the proud owner of a California Class A license!).

Think kind thoughts, good roads and sane drivers!

Torches Across America Itinerary

2007-08-27T21:39:00.000-07:00

We finally got around to packing today. This time we have packed for COLD weather. Last year we didn't have enough warm gear.

August 29^th – Ride south as far as we want so that the ride to San Marcos is fewer miles.

August 30^th August 31^stRamada Limited San Marcos CA

September 1 Travelodge, Kingman, AZ

September 2 Comfort Inn, Albuquerque, NM

September 3 Holiday Inn, Amarillo, TX

September 4 Econo Lodge, Tulsa OK

September 5 Fiddlers Inn, Branson, MO

September 6 Super 8 Motel, Troy, IL

September 7 Holiday Inn, Cambridge, OH

September 8 Vienna Wolf Trap Motel, Vienna, Virginia

September 9 Redroof Inn, Secaucus, NJ

September 10 and 11^th Day’s Inn, Somerset, PA

Baking

2007-08-21T20:45:00.001-07:00

Just couldn't resist trying to make Italian bread - not that airy French crap, good hearty Italian bread.....it worked! Tastes as good as it looks!

Visiting

2007-08-20T08:25:00.001-07:00

My brother, Dennis, came to visit on Friday. He is on his way to Victoria, B.C. for some salmon fishing. Hope he doesn't get too wet on his ride up there.

Yellow Trailer

2007-08-17T09:40:00.000-07:00

Finally got to bring home the newly color matched Escapade trailer. Fortunately the decals arrived before the shop was finished.

We also received our new color matched helmets.....we are ready for TAA 2007!

Relaxing!

2007-08-10T17:24:00.000-07:00

Well, sort of relaxing. Since our return home on July 11th we have been resting up from all the heat. Not much riding - just around the lake a few times.

The red trailer is at C.A.R.S. in Lakeport to be painted yellow to match my trike. It looks very nice - just waiting for one last reflector to be glued on. Slight problem now is that the lid closed and locked and they can't get it to open with the key they had. Now awaiting the locksmith to make another key and get the darn lid open so I can have the trailer back!!

Ordered new helmets - this time matching the motorcycles.

This weekend we will ride to the Marin French Cheese Factory in Novato, CA - yummy!

Our next long distance ride will be Torches Across America - we leave August 29th.

The Ride Home 07

2007-07-12T14:46:00.002-07:00

On leaving Polson we rode to Lewiston, Idaho where Lynn and Jana stayed with relatives. The ride down the Clearwater River canyon is truly awesome. We had a nice lunch at a little place toward the bottom on the canyon. (Only other option was a lodge further up the canyon.)

Chuck misplaced himself just north of Lewiston - he and Peggie continued on home alone.

Larry, Steve and I stayed in Lewiston over night and headed for Klamath Falls, Oregon -- 500 miles the next day. Longest day's ride I've ever ridden.

On arriving in Klamath Falls we stayed at the Super 8 at the north end of town.

An easy ride home in temperatures that did not exceed 80 degrees. We stopped at the Bear Creek Vista Point on Highway 20 for a break before continuing into Lake County. While we were stopped, Chuck and Peggie rode by. It was nice to know they had made it that far safely.

2007-07-12T14:46:00.001-07:00

Big Sky Montana

2007-07-09T04:58:00.001-07:00

We rode out of Billings on July 7th - lots of pasture land getting to East Glacier. Stayed in a VERY cute motel, Mountain Pine. Little cabin like rooms in a mountain setting. We ate dinner and breakfast at the Whistle Stop Restaurant.

Would recommend both places with a return visit.

We left East Glacier for the Road to the Sun around 9 a.m. yesterday. Traffic wasn't too bad, the weather was great and the road was open all the way. Kudos the the park staff that keep that road in very good condition.

On leaving Glacier National Park we headed toward Polson, Montana. Stopped in Kalispell to have lunch at Famous Dave's BBQ - which was not as good as the food at the same restaurant chain in Billings.

We rode south on the West side of Flathead Lake to Polson and stayed at the Flathead Inn. An okay place, just no pool!

It is cherry season in Polson - so far haven't found at cherries cheap enough to buy!

Today we are headed to Walla Walla, Washington. Lynn & Jana will leave the group is Lewiston, Idaho and the rest of us will head home via Highway 101.

July 1 and 2

2007-07-02T20:28:00.000-07:00

We met Lynn, Jana, Chuck and Peggie at Highway 20 and Highway 53 at 6 a.m. on July 1st.

A lovely cool morning to begin the trip.

The ride turned into a major slog as the day progressed. We rode over to I-5, then to I-80 and on to Battle Mountain, Nevada. Between the heat and the wind the 450 miles seemed to take forever.

On reaching Battle Mountain we stayed at a nice Super 8 motel that had a pool, hot tub and WiFi - what more could we ask? A good restaurant would have been nice. We ended up eating at the McDonald's next door because we were so tired.

While at the Super 8 we met Dean the truck driver - he decided he was Larry's new best friend. On leaving the pool area Dean actually put his arm around Larry. After that he knocked on our door and offered us chili hot dogs for dinner......we couldn't decide whether he was just very lonely OR HE WAS THE PSYCHO TRUCK DRIVER YOU SEE ON TV. With relief we saw he had left the motel before we did this morning.

The ride from Battle Mountain over to Wells was nice. We then rode north on 93 to Jackpot where we had brunch at Cactus Pete's ----and my telephone rang. Steve Biggs was in Boise headed for Rexburg.

So the 7 of us are at the Super 8 in Rexburg, Idaho - another nice motel. Just no pool.

At a rest area between Pocatello and Idaho Falls we met two guys from the Bay Area headed for Billings. After talking with Marty I walked past the other guy and realized he was someone we had ridden with before....I did the "I know you.....we rode the Carlos Ramos Ride." John and Marty were on the C.R. ride a couple of times. (For the life of me I can't remember their last names!)

Except for meeting some nice and interesting people the ride has truly been uneventful - exactly what we were hoping.

Tomorrow we leave at 7 a.m. to go through Yellowstone, over Beartooth Pass and on to Billings.

Getting ready!

2007-06-30T08:06:00.001-07:00

Getting ready for our ride to Billings. We spent most of the day making sure the motorcycles were ready to go.

It is amazing how much JUNK we manage to load on the bikes in between long rides. Can't imagine why I end up with 5 cleaning cloths! I thought we'd be packed up by Thursday....still at it today.

Knowing how bad free radio is in Nevada we spent hours ripping our CDs to memory to use on the motorcycles.

June 29, 2007

2007-06-28T19:17:00.000-07:00

Today Lynn Hollenback and Larry spent the afternoon changing the antifreeze in our three motorcycles.

All went well...took about 1 hour per motorcycle. Not bad for two guys who hadn't done this before.

The maintenance was in preparation for our trip to Billings, Montana beginning July 1st.

There will be 4 motorcycles going together - two yellow, one silver and one gold.