Jodi'sRiding

The Little Hussy is on the Road

2009-04-09T10:05:00.000-07:00

It was just a very short ride... but I got that bike on the road after school yesterday. My sweet Victor was here just waiting for me. He had changed the brake fluid and installed the new battery. I told him that I needed a coffee first. I wanted to chat about my afternoon... we sure had some shocking moments at school. Imagine kids smoking pot in front of the school sign. Imagine kids taking off from their co-op placement. Imagine attitude. Yes, these were some of the experiences I wanted to share before getting on that bike.

Then my sister called. She's a wonderful friend, but when we get to talking on the phone, more than minutes tick by. Golly, and we have so much to say to each other anyway. It was comical really, Vic was tying my boots for me, getting my riding leathers, helmet, gauntlets, actually dressing me for a ride while I talked on the phone. Who really wanted me out there?

I managed to get on my bike and ride up the road, wondering how much fuel was in my tank. I always set the tank to zero when I fill her up, and I've never managed to get beyond 130 miles on a tank (yep, miles, not kilometers... she's an American baby). Mileage was reading well over 160, so I knew it had been moved somehow and that meant I had no clue. As you might expect, I didn't get far before I could feel the bike losing power. I gave her a little more throttle and she picked up again for a moment or two... confusing me. Then she began to lose power again and I had that "oh, oh, I need to find the knob to switch to reserve" moment. That's easy to deal with when you're riding all the time, but on an inaugural, it's a bit of a panic. Found it quickly enough though (meaning before the bike came to a full stop), and switched, and though it took a moment for the fuel to power me up, my bike was soon responding and I was on my way to the gas station with a huge grin on my face.

I didn't stay out. I was tired. I just managed a quick detour out to the highway (you just know I wanted a little speed) before heading back home. But it was the 8th of April, and my first ride of this year... actually a full month later than last year's effort, proof that our spring has been slow to arrive.

Perhaps I'll blog more often this year, perhaps not. I just thought it would be nice to make note of this first ride and my sweet partner's efforts to get me out onto the road.

The battery...

2009-04-08T09:24:00.001-07:00

Yes, a new season is just ahead. I picked up a friend at the ferry terminal on Saturday. As we drove back to my home I realized it was warm and sunny and there were so many bikes out there enjoying the roads. That did it. I knew it was time for me to get some insurance on my Little Hussy.

My friend, MaryJoy, was all excited about the prospect of a ride as well. But our anticipation turned to disappointment very quickly, while I also learned a very important lesson. Start your bike before you spend the money on insurance. Yep, my battery is dead!

I was upset enough to send Vic off to get a replacement right away. It didn't matter that we had a dinner invitation, very little time, and lots to do that day. I wanted and needed my ride. Vic called Canadian Tire and they assured him they had two batteries in stock. Luckily, he brought my old battery along and quickly learned that what they had wasn't what I needed. He ended up going to the Honda Bike Shop in Nanaimo and ordering a new battery.

Sunday was glorious and I was saddened to see even more bikers on the road whilst I was not one of them. Perhaps the word here is jealous. Ah well. Monday and Tuesday too were gorgeous. Today I will get my battery; however, it's promising to rain later. Ah those plans... how often they go awry. Yep, it's a new season, but I'm not sure when I'm going to get to enjoy the ride.

It's October and the season is over for me!

2008-10-21T10:44:00.001-07:00

It's really hard to believe that this exciting year of riding is really pretty much finished for now. It's hard to believe that my intention to blog about each ride lost inspiration, making way for the riding instead. And I sure did put a lot of miles on that lovely Little Hussy of mine... actually over 9000 km!

For a while I figured that I'd be able to catch up on the blogs... look back over the photos (especially those in my friend Flo's photobucket), and catch up on the rides. But the truth is that the rides became so familiar by the last few months that I no longer needed to sit down and talk about what I'd experienced or learned. Riding has become second nature. I get on the bike, and though I might have a butterfly or two during some traffic situations, I don't have a whole bunch of them flittering around in my stomach before I start out.

One of the last rides I enjoyed with friends was just a week ago. Mir called early one morning and suggested we meet in Mill Bay. We joined up with Jenn after we'd had a coffee at the Timmy's and the three of us headed off to lunch in Cowichan Bay. On that morning ride I realized the season was pretty much finished for me. My fingers were losing their feeling, and riding requires good hand control of throttle, clutch and brakes. It was much better when it warmed up and the sun was so gorgeous too. Trees changing colour, and the beauty of the snappy fall weather are wonderful, but honestly a little hard to enjoy when you're too cold. I'll need some kind of heated clothing to take weather below 10 degrees C. Yep, pretty much finished.

There was one special thing that I need to mention here. I rode my bike on voting day. Yep, I arrived at the school in full leathers and got quite the happy looks from some folks... and a little mis-judgement from others. The thing that struck me though was the fact that my very first ride of the year was on International Women's Day (IWD)... and it looks as though my final ride of the year might just be Election Day. On IWD, I clearly remember thinking how it was a true privilege to be able to ride as a woman, and how there were still countries on this planet where women don't have any rights yet. On Election Day, as I rode I remembered that first ride and thought how here I am so priveliged as to ride to vote, as well as to vote, and that's something that Canadian women didn't get to do until about 70 years ago. What a great start and end for this 57 year old woman.

Yep, I've put more than 9000 km on my bike. I can ride! I have my class 6 license. All in all, it's been a great year.

Labour Day in Port Alberni with Robocop

2008-09-16T15:18:00.000-07:00

September 1, 2008

I thought I was ready for this event, but though I thoroughly enjoyed the ride to Port Alberni (it really is such a scenic and wonderful ride with loads of twists), my shoulder wasn't ready for the parking lot practice.

One of the PA riders, Chevy, has set up the parking lot by the College and Multiplex in Port Alberni. It has the slowcone weave, figure 8, slalom, intersection, and even a snowman marked out in paint, and Chevy (aka Wayne) also brings small traffic cones to really help with the visuals. The end result is a perfect "Ride Like A Pro" practice lot. It was terrific to see the huge turnout, and Dave Hay, the RCMP Motorcycle Trainer here on Vancouver Island, was there to give us his experience and some terrific training. He ended up setting up another rather difficult practice pattern called the Texas Star as well.

Stephen excelled at all of the patterns and sure made me proud. Vic does well with his riding too. I started the slalom and the off-set cone weave, but my shoulder was just bitchy with ache and the slow friction zone maneuvering wasn't kind. Oh well, it did give me the opportunity to watch everyone else and to sit and chat with friends.

The PA group is wonderful, and they had a barbecue set up cooking hotdogs for the riders and a huge cooler full of very icey water to keep us all hydrated. What an incredible day for all of us. We ended it with a ride to Starbucks and another delightful gab session before heading out to the highway and home again. Memories are made of days like this and I'm sure thrilled to have become a member of this fine group of people. Gosh how I've changed. I can remember driving to BC in 1992, and as I got to the midwest, I began to notice more and more motorcycles on the road. By the time I got to the Dakotas I couldn't find either a restaurant or a motel that didn't have more bikes than anything else in the parking lots. I actually started to feel nervous about this. After all, I was driving through the States all by myself. Where were all these bikers coming from? Where were they going?

Now I realize they were the best safety factor for me on this solitary journey. They were all heading to Sturgis where every year a good half-a-million riders come together to celebrate their bikes, each other, and all things to do with riding. Maybe some day I'll make it to Sturgis and enjoy that celebration with them... although maybe that's more bikes and people than I can cope with. It's something to think about.

This Much Time Has Passed?

2008-09-16T14:10:00.000-07:00

August 3, 2008 -- Rod Wiseman Memorial Ride

Well holy Hannah, I had no idea that it has been so long since I took the time to add to my blog. All I can say is that riding became a lot more fun and much more important than keeping track of it all. It seems every time I go out the door, provided it's not raining, it's on my Little Hussy.

There was a stretch of almost a month when I didn't do much riding because of a shoulder injury. That truly stressed me out. After all, this is still my first year as a rider, and I sure didn't want to be stuck here at home unable to go out.

I took part in the Rod Wiseman Memorial Ride, meeting riders from Victoria through to Cobble Hill in Ladysmith to head out to the parking lot at Vancouver Island University in Nanaimo. That was on August 3rd... and it was great being with so many of our biking community here on the island. It tugs deeply at the heart to know you're riding in memory of someone who spent so much time on a motorcycle. There's a truly emotional ache when you put your passenger pegs down in honour of that rider who is no longer with you. Rod was a motorcycle instructor, and many of my friends learned to ride with him and his wife Wendy.

On our way up island, we encountered an accident in Nanoose Bay, and we were fortunate to get past before all the emergency personnel came to slow traffic down to an impossible and impassable crawl. We'd broken up into 5 or 6 riding groups with a leader and tailgunner for each group. We did a nice little ride around Schooner Cove before getting back on the highway in Parksville and heading to Qualicum Beach... yep, to the Beach Hut. Oddly enough, thinking that we'd slowed some because of our little detour, we still managed to be the 2nd group in. And the waiting began! And some more waiting, and waiting. Another group finally arrived and informed us that they'd been held back because of the accident in Nanoose Bay.

Things became even sadder as we waited because the next group to arrive informed us that there'd been a crash between a couple of the bikes. It had happened just as they were heading out to the highway from Nanaimo. It was really shocking to hear that one of the riders had run into Wendy Wiseman, Rod's sister-in-law, and her new Harley. She was wearing all the right gear though, and despite minor damage to the new bike, as well as having her jacket shredded to the arm, she wasn't too bad. They did have to take her to the hospital and it sure put a damper on all of us to hear about this happening.

At this point I realized that my aching shoulder wasn't going to let me finish riding all the way to Campbell River... which also meant a three-hour ride home after that... so I said my sad goodbyes to all the great folks on the ride and headed home again. It was actually the start of a real slowing down for me, though I wasn't aware yet that it would mean no riding at all for a little while. But that's another story.

Road Test Passed

2008-07-24T17:57:00.000-07:00

July 22nd...

Well I headed off to Courtenay fairly early, not sure what kind of traffic I might be up against, but knowing I was to meet Flo at Courtenay Motor Sports (CMS) at 1:30, and my test was scheduled for 3:30, meaning I had to register at 3:15.

The ride up was delightful and I took the more relaxed ocean route for most of it. And so I actually got into town at 12:30. Time to stop, tank up with fuel (God forbid I should run out during the test cause that would be an automatic fail), and to have a bagel and coffee at Tim Horton's. I was still a little early, so I thought I would check out the leather shop, just a little way up from CMS. As I was looking at gloves there, who rides up? Flo... she was early too and spotted my bike. We stopped in at CMS and then headed into town for some practice. Flo thought I should do a few u-turns, and well, would you believe on my first attempt I actually dropped the bike. I was so freaked. She made me do about 12 more. I finally agreed that they weren't great, but they were more than good enough to pass the test and it was time to quit trying them. It made me feel sick that the one I had done on the previous test had been so perfect, and here I was struggling to make them smooth. Crikey.

We pulled into the access centre after I had some milk at the A+W just down the road from it. I felt I needed to settle my stomach. Nick spotted me fairly quickly and was really friendly and seemed glad to see me there. Before I knew it, I was miched and on my bike and off to do another test. We started out on a different route than the previous week, and before too long I was going up a hill and the lights turned yellow. I glanced in my rearview mirrors and decided to stop. It wasn't easy, but I managed to stop before the line. Phew.

On we went, me following directions, and yes, we did do the turning lane again. No problems there! Then my bike stalled at an intersection... oh my guts! I was freaked. But we carried on a little way and then he told me to park. I had a sick sensation at that point, but backed my bike into the 45 degree angle as if everything was fine, then turned her off expecting to get off, and suddenly I heard: "that's fine, just pull out again when you're ready." Wow, no needing to talk about hazards? I was so surprised. Off we went, and out onto the highway. By then we'd done the roundabout, done the slow speed playground areas, and I figured we were getting close to the end of the test. Sure enough... we headed toward Cliffe Avenue, and that's when I felt the dang earpiece slipping and couldn't make out for sure what Nick was telling me to do. I tried to shove it back and heard: "don't worry about it." Phew.

We were back at the Access Centre within a few more minutes, and Flo was there taping my arrival. And so was Judy, who gave me one heck of a great hug. What a relief, I not only passed, but got told I did a really good job. In fact, before it was over, Nick actually said: "excellent." I'm now official. I have achieved my class 6 status and all restrictions have been removed. Woooohooooo.

The Day Before the Road Test

2008-07-24T17:44:00.000-07:00

July 21st

I just had to get out and do some riding in Nanaimo. I wanted to find streets with lots of stops and opportunities for right and left hand turns, and uphill starts and areas to do u-turns. Most of all I wanted to find my comfort level back again. I had a test ahead of me the following day. I also wanted to spend time with Vic. Phew, I'm so glad we had this day. It all came back, the ease, the comfort, the ability to feel like I could handle my bike. Yep, definitely turned it around again. Got myself mentally ready for that test. And one of the things that helped me get there was finding my leather legs... they're just so wonderful! They keep my legs protected from any gravel or stuff. They give me a sense of se curity, and as nice as they look in this image, they're even better over my own red Doc Martens. And they're so great when the weather is too hot for chaps. They come from a great guy, Scott, who makes them to measure, and they feel great.

Saturday and Sunday Rides

2008-07-24T17:23:00.000-07:00

July 19th and 20th, 2008

On Saturday I headed out to the Beach Hut... yep, Qualicum Beach again. There was to be a ride with a bunch from Victoria and Port Alberni, Courtenay and Campbell River. What a shock then for me to see a whole crew of riders passing me as I was riding that part of the town close to our meeting spot. I honked and some waved at me and they kept going. I was stunned. I tried to turn around and follow them, but because traffic was heavy and it took a while for me to turn around, I lost them. I didn't know what to do. So I thought well I might as well have a coffee before I head home.

When I got to the hut, and was standing in line, Ms. Bling, Lisa, was suddenly there, and so was Dogdrifter. They explained that Eric needed something and though they'd been riding past me, they were coming back. What a relief.

We soon went off for a ride to Nanoose Bay and then down to Schooner Cove. I had no idea that there was such a twisty road back there, and Schooner Cove is absolutely gorgeous.

We really enjoyed that ride, but there was a very frightening moment for me at one point as I was rounding a curve: I hit one of those oil snakes with my back tire and suddenly felt my bike trying to slide out from under me. I thought for sure I was going down, but somehow managed to come out of it. Flo was behind me and was so proud of the way I managed it. The trouble is I really don't even know what I did right. All my actions were suddenly just based on instinct and I think pure luck.

When we got back to Parksville, I honked and turned off leaving this fine group and heading back to Vic. They were on their way back to QB, on their way home eventually, but since I live South, I felt it was time to part. I wasn't feeling fantastic anymore, that oil snake made me very unsure and I just wanted to get back to Vic.

Sunday ride to Cowichan Lake with Vic

On the Sunday afternoon, Vic and I took a ride to Cowichan Lake. I really wasn't feeling great. I couldn't find my wonderful leather legs anywhere, and still felt unnerved by the oil snake experience. But the ride was uneventful for me. Not so for Vic... he experienced one of those oil snakes. I guess in the hot weather they become more slippery, and it seems to me that they were fresh too! He didn't have any real trouble, but did tell me he felt his tire slipping on the thing. We had a much nicer ride coming back then going up... we used the main highway to get to Cowichan Lake, but came back by the Skutt's Falls Road which got us to Duncan. That road has a few very nice curves and the speed is slower and it's much prettier riding. But for some reason, I just wasn't having my usual amount of fun, and I was glad when we made it home again.

Port Alberni Practice Lot

2008-07-18T12:53:00.000-07:00

July 17th

I rode to work on Wednesday, but there's nothing special to tell about that. Golly, just riding that kind of ride is no longer exciting, though it feels way better than having to get there in a cage. What was exciting all day long was the prospect of riding to Port Alberni together to do the RLAP practice session.

Wayne actually set up quite a wonderful lot, using pylons as well as paint on the lot next to the MultiPlex. Vic and I headed off for this ride about 5:15 and by the time we got there, quite a few of our riding friends were already hard at the practice.

I was pleased that I managed the slow cone weave... actually did quite well on it. Also managed the other cone weave, well at least in one direction. The second set seemed closer together to me, and to everyone else as well. I think Wayne's going to check it and see whether it is somehow different.

I tried the figure 8 again, and though I can make one of those, it sure isn't the one intended. I'm way wide of the mark. I suppose I just need to keep trying. It sure is harder than it looks. I'm not even going to attempt the corner maneuvering yet. That's just so darned difficult.

We had a quick stop with the PA bunch at Starbucks after it was all over, and then had to head home, hoping to make it before dark. I should have brought my cell phone with me, but went as lightly as possible. I don't know why I even worry about it. The examiner at the road test laughed at me for it when I said I wanted to be free of the after dark restriction, saying: "It's not dark until 10:00 pm, and even then, who is going to stop and ask you, you're a really good rider."

It was just a few minutes after 10:00 when we pulled into the driveway. Mom was freaked. I guess it seems darker in our backyard, but it wasn't at all dark riding on the roads. For one thing, we didn't just have street lighting, we had an incredibly full moon. Certainly nothing to worry about.

The road to Port Alberni is an absolutely wonderful ride and the people that we ride with there are among the best of the best. What a great bunch, and they're all working so hard on that practice lot. Flo had a rough go of it this evening. I think she's putting a ton of pressure on herself to do it perfectly, and the result is that she was struggling. But she has more guts and determination than anyone I know, and soon she'll be dancing that bike through these courses. Donna Palladino makes it look like the bike is walzing. It's great to watch her! I sure hope my skills develop to that level in the next couple of years.

Gold River and the Fracking Road Test

2008-07-18T12:35:00.000-07:00

July 15th...

The test ahead of me, we started the day by riding to Gold River. What a great decision. It kept my mind focused on riding for sure. It's not surprising that this is considered one of the ten best motorcycling roads in BC: there are so many twists and turns, and it's absolutely breathtakingly gorgeous.

Flo decided to give me a beautiful leather vest in anticipation of my passing the road test. I wonder if that jinxed me? The ride was fantastic, and I felt so very confident when we finally headed off to Courtenay. Mind you it was cold up there in the mountains, and the wind in my eyes really hurt too. Flo loaned me a great pair of goggles and that really began to help.

We got to Courtenay on time to do a little more work on my u-turns and I felt truly relaxed and confident getting ready for the test.

Everything seemed fantastic. I made sure of my signaling and shoulder checks, made certain to stop at intersections before the white line. I slowed down to appropriate speeds in playground areas, and followed all the instructions. In fact I followed one of them too well. I heard: "take the next left," but when I looked it was just about 3 feet ahead of me and so I was looking up the road, scanning for the next available left. I put on my signal and went to make the turn and realized I was on a double left turning lane. Crap!

I was already into the turn, so I felt I had no choice but to complete it. The examiners didn't stop me, so I rode on. We did all the stuff that I'd heard about, some of it before that fracking lane showed up, much more of it after. We even went onto the highway. When we got back to the Access Centre, I parked the bike properly and got off smiling. That's when I discovered that I had failed the test! That one error is considered a traffic violation and an automatic fail! The instructor, Nick, actually said: "You're a really good rider." But nevertheless, I failed.

I could have been knocked over with a feather. Tears sprang into my eyes. I stood there dumbfounded. He left and I looked up to see my friend Judy standing there with a beautiful pink long-stemmed rose. Yep, she thought she was coming to congratulate me, and suddenly she was having to comfort me instead. Flo also arrived, and she was as dumbfounded as me. I think she was ready to deck the examiner. We talked for a few minutes, and then, with my back to the car the examiner had walked away from just a few minutes earlier, I said: "He's gonna call and try to get me in next week. He was really very nice." And suddenly I heard: "Yes, I'll call you." Phew... good job I'd just finished saying he was nice. If he'd come just a bit sooner, he'd have heard Flo ready to deck him. Oh my goodness, what a day.

We left to go to Courtenay Motor Sports, and I discovered that word about the fail was already spreading. I got hugs from Mark and Carl, and then we were going to do some riding and meet up with folks later that evening. Flo took me on a rather punishing tour through town. She wanted me to regain my confidence and feel more comfortable in Courtenay. We also rode out to a beach in Comox. It was really nice, but after four long days on the bike, and feeling so disappointed in myself, I can't really say I was into it anymore. For that matter, Flo was pretty exhausted too, so we both decided to call it a day.

I was lucky enough to spot Vic's bike in Qualicum Beach at the Beach Hut, and the two of us rode on home. It was after 8:00 before we made it. Man, talk about tired and sore.

The examiner did call the next morning, and I get to ride the test again on the 22nd... the only drawback is that it will be during rush hour. Ah well, he said I'm a good rider and I know that to be true. I feel ready to do it and get it over and done with.

Campbell River to Nanaimo & Back Again

2008-07-18T11:18:00.000-07:00

July 14, 2008

Four American guys that are touring Canada had contacted the forums to see if anyone wanted to ride with them. Grizz and a friend met them in Victoria. We'd originally planned a ride to Gold River, Vic, Michael, Flo and me. But when the posts about the 4 guys came, Flo felt that we Canadians should reciprocate the hospitality she'd been shown south of our own border.

Vic left Nanaimo, riding the slab (the fast highway) all the way to Campbell River. He called us from a gas station, and we rode out to meet him. Poor guy didn't even really get to finish his coffee before we hit the slab heading right back to Parksville. We'd heard from Grizz and now had plans to meet them there at the MacDonalds. Not exactly the ride Vic anticipated, and even while we were having lunch, he began to think about things that were waiting for him at the studio. More phonecalls with Grizz and we learned that they were just sitting down to lunch in Duncan. So we got on the bikes and rode to Nanaimo to Chapters to meet em there. Had a really nice coffee break and Vic decided to head back to the studio. I was kind of bummed at that, but did understand. He also understood Flo's need to return friendship to riders from California, so we waited. Flo and I both used the parking lot at Woodgrove Mall to good advantage, practising our u-turns. I actually managed to keep my turns within three parking spot distances and felt really good about my improvement.

When the guys arrived, we talked, took pictures and finally got under way. I told Flo I'd need to stop for fuel in Lantzville, but since she really didn't know where I meant, I ended up taking the lead for a little while. She took over again once I got my 94 octane at the PetroCan (the champagne of fuels for a motorcycle). And we took the ocean route all the way out to Campbell River. I couldn't believe how much it clouded over! Holy cadoodle, it got sooooo cold on that ride.

We got the boys to their gorgeous campsite, but they weren't interested in doing Gold River the same day. I think they just wanted to set up camp, and have a few drinks and dinner and get ready for their morning ride to Port Hardy. We tried to talk them into doing Gold River first, and Chris, one of the guys, really wanted to, but was outvoted. So we determined we'd do it ourselves first thing the next day.

Taylor Flats

2008-07-16T13:28:00.001-07:00

July 13, 2008

Five of us managed a ride to the Taylor Flats on Sunday, and it sure was wonderful getting out there. I did forget to stop for fuel before we headed out though and I have to admit that I had a few moments of grave concern. I actually decided to put her on reserve when we made a brief stop. I figured we must be getting close to a gas station soon. Much to my amazement, the Little Hussy didn't even take $10 worth. I'm so confused about how the gas usage seems to fluctuate. I suppose it must depend on the kind of riding I've been doing, and perhaps on how much idling is involved. I can't count on knowing when to expect to re-fuel at this rate. I'll just make sure I stop whenever I'm getting close to having done about 110 miles or so.

Anyway, once the five of us got back to Port Alberni, we rode to Starbucks, totally looking forward to a coffee fix. But the guys were waiting and ready to burn up the road, so no coffee for us. We were late, and they were ready to roll. Off we went, this time riding the Port Alberni hump again on our way to Parksville. It was totally gorgeous out, but we went to Rathtrevor Beach only to discover that every single parking spot was absolutely full. We were quite a way from the Beach Hut by the time we decided to ride onto a bit of grass and park the bikes. Then, instead of walking over to the Hut for an icecream or something, we got talking and Flo, Judy and I decided to get on our bikes and make our way to Courtenay. We knew we were still in for a long ride anyway, because Flo and I would also still have to ride on to Campbell River. But the Courtenay thing was really important to me. I don't know it at all, and I knew I was going to be doing my test th ere on Tuesday the 15th.

On the way, Flo decided it was time for a few new pictures, and with the water behind us, we posed, sans helmets for each other. Judy looks so great in her red leathers on her wonderful red bike. Flo is becoming a true Skully Queen, and when I took my helmet off to face the worst flathead, she put her skull cap on me for a picture too.

We did a little touring around Courtenay, sort of trying to understand what I might be up against on my road test, and then went to Judy's for a little visit. She's got a great place with an incredible yard and beautiful landscaped pond feature. She's living in a retirement community, and is really an exciting member of the neighbourhood for being a biking woman! Once we left her it was time to head out to Campbell River. Man oh man, by the time we arrived, I was sore and actually exhausted. But instead of heading straight to Flo's house, she had me doing some more practicing in another parking lot. I love this friend, she's a relentless force and she's gonna make sure I get tons of practice! I am learning so much from her... but was I glad when Eric showed up at the same parking lot and we had a chance to finally quit. Off to the grocery store for steaks, and off to Flo's home to relax! And that's very easy to do at her place on her back deck, looking at Mount Washington. What a great view.

Eric made dinner, Flo and I got onto our forum, and well, the evening was fantastic!

Port Alberni... The Bra Free Zone Party (BFZ)

2008-07-16T13:02:00.000-07:00

July 12, 2008

Full of anticipation, I took off on Saturday morning to meet up with a bunch of riders at the Beach Hut in QB... we seem to meet there a lot these days. But what a wonderful place it is for such meetings.

The first picture here is of a Suzuki Intruder that caught my attention. And it's for sale too. Yikes. The custom paint job alone has me dizzy. She's a big bike, 1500 cc's. The bike also has a windshield and saddle bags, but the owner didn't have them on for this ride. I'd really like to own this ride!

Anyway, we met up with quite a large group of riders and headed to Port Alberni for the BFZ party. Eric (Flo's brother and a recent rider) led the ride to PA and did an excellent job. I'd heard lots about the PA Hump (as it's called) and felt a little apprehensive at first, but soon relaxed into the ride and enjoyed myself tremendously. There are quite a few nice twisties and narrowing sections and gorgeous lakes and mountain scenes to please the eyes and heart. Once we were in PA I was asking about the Hump, only to hear that we'd done it. Well then, that's another one under my belt. There were 10 bikes in our ride up... the six men here and Judy, Flo and me. I've tried to get this picture of the guys larger, but it keeps staying small. Dang anyway.

We went to a Chinese Restaurant for lunch and suddenly the waittresses came racing out of the kitchen area, one of them with tears of fear in her eyes. It seems there was a fight going on in there, and one guy got shoved into the freezer. Wow, those poor girls were quite scared. I thought if it had been me working there, I'd have been out the door permanently. What a way to start the day. But it was just the beginning. We went searching for dollar stores in hopes of finding pylons to do parking lot practising. Didn't find them, but we found a few wigs that we ended up buying for the party. Judy and Flo and I actually put them on under our helmets and rode to PA with them. Perhaps we looked young with hair flying back, because we sure got lots of honking and waving at us. The girls in the dollarama were in stitches too. Not to mention the staff and customers at Walmart. Nothing shy about the bunch of us.

We went to Jilly's home and the party truly got started after we left the guys to go check out the Tall Ships. After all, it was a women's party to celebrate Flo and her accomplishments and also Dragon's birthday, though she hurt her ankle and didn't manage to make the weekend. Lisa and Linda also got wigs... in fact if you check out Flo's picture site, you'll find some hilarious footage as well as pics of our party.

Jilly was a fantabulous hostess and the food and drinks were fantastic. Flo and Judy and I stayed overnight, though the other PA gals all managed to get brought home. Pity cause it would have been great to spend the entire night with these women. Mind you, we were pretty tired and very glad to each find a comfortable bed around midnight.

And we love Gibby too, cause he made killer omelets for us for our breakfast before we started off on another day's adventures.

And Back to Campbell River

2008-07-11T19:29:00.000-07:00

July 7th

On Sunday, after the CR Toy Run, we managed some really great riding with each other... actually all the way to Parksville before Jenn and I headed back home. But the great thing was that I was going right back up to Campbell River again on Monday morning.

Janice wanted one of the RIDE LIKE A PRO dvd's and so we decided to get one from Flo. What a blast. She got here at 10:00 am and we were off like a pair of rockets by quarter past. We actually got to Campbell River by 12:45, and that's with making a stop for gas in Lantzville as well as stopping once along the highway for a brief break.

Dragon had suggested that I should let Janice lead because I tend to be a faster rider. I told Janice that, and well, didn't she just step on it. The highway to CR is fast to begin with, with limits set at 110 instead of the usual 90 km per hour. We sure did that speed and then some.

Once we got into town, we stopped at a Timmy's and called Flo... geesh she practically lives around the corner from that place. She came to escort us and we spent a few minutes at her place and I got the great leather legs from her, and then we were off. Well, we stopped for lunch at a Dairy Queen (they now serve wraps). Then we managed to ride a fair bit around Campbell River until Flo found the parking lot where we'd started the Toy Run off from. She wanted to do some practicing there. She made us do some u-turns and figure 8 maneuvres and I have to say I was quite pleased with my performance. I'm getting better at this all the time.

I asked Flo to try it on my Little Hussy and she admitted that it was difficult... yep, the Hussy has a lot of her weight up high. I'm glad I'm learning how to work with that, and I'm pretty sure I'll be just great by the time my road test comes up. Janice is struggling a little with the slow maneuvres... mind you, she's not used to the kind of bike she got herself, and she's probably thinking back to the smaller bikes she was riding some years ago. She's just great on the highway though, and sure sits that bike well. She's riding a Vulcan 500cc bike... would you believe that thing has cruise control. Flo did some practicing on it as well, and said it was easier for her than my bike had been. I think it's a question of getting used to mine.

We also rode into Courtenay... Flo took us on a nice twisty route to get there. We met up with Mark and Flo's brother Eric, and I entered the showroom and fell in love with a Yamaha VStar. Ah, if only I could win a lottery.

The Campbell River Toy Run, July 5th

2008-07-09T13:31:00.000-07:00

This was it, my first truly long ride alone! I got up early on Saturday morning, just praying the rain would hold off. I had to ride to Courtenay to meet up with Carl and Lolis, and we planned to ride to Campbell River together from there. As I started off, the skies were gray, but looked like they might hold off on that crappy rain thing. But NO, I was no sooner on the Nanaimo Bypass then it started. I knew I'd better slow down a little, and quickly regretted the fact that I wasn't wearing the Darth Vader helmet (Flo's nickname for my full-face helmet). I was also wishing that I owned raingear that fit. Before long the cages started passing me... they don't have to worry as much about oil slick on the road when it first starts raining. It infuriates me though how totally ignorant most of the drivers are. Cripes, they obviously see me because they do pass, but they cut in front as quickly as possible and splash me and my poor bike with an incredible amount of water spray in doing that. GRrrrr!

After a while the rain stopped and I started smiling again and got some speed up. I pulled into a gas station just north of Nanoose and filled up... running into one of the secretaries from Stu"ate Lelum and her daughter who were also on their way to Campbell River for a soccer match. So nice to have been recognized by my bike! And off I went again, really happy. Got onto the highway and where you're allowed 110 km per hour, well let's just say I'm glad the police weren't anywhere around because I wanted to make some time. Dang it all, though, as I started getting closer to Courtenay it started raining again. My face felt like it was being punctured by a thousand tiny needles... reminded me of getting that tattoo on my back! My feet were remarkably dry, proof that I'd done a good job of spraying for that reason the night before. But I'd forgotten to spray my gloves, and my fingers were beginning to ache from the cold wet gloves. I could also feel the cold and wet of my lower legs... probably mostly thanks to the cars that didn't seem to mind cutting in front of me! The chaps weren't able to resist those drenchings happening over and over. Yes, I'd sprayed them and my jacket (which kept me really dry), but like I said, the trucks and cars... GRRRRRrrrrr.

When I got into Courtenay I called Carl and he came to meet me at a gas station. He and Lolis took excellent care of me. My gloves and jeans were quickly put in the dryer. I was given coffee and had a chance to fall in love with and be totally adored in return by their dog Riley. They were amazed at how he took to me saying they'd never seen him behave that way with anyone. He even followed me into the bathroom when I went to get out of my jeans and temporarily into a pair of dry and warm jogging pants. Once I was dry, and wearing some of Carl's raingear over my own riding gear, we headed off to Campbell River.

Holy Mackerel! I found out later that there were 86 or so motorcycles in the ride. Apparently it was disappointing because many folks decided not to risk the rain. Well, I did it! But anyway, it felt to me like we were in the hundreds... the thrumming noise from all those bikes was absolutely amazing. We had police escorts and there were RCMP officers at all the intersections holding back traffic for us and letting us proceed through intersections regardless of red or green lights. What a thrill to be in the middle of such a pack of riders. I felt so deeply emotional about it, kept having to take deep breaths and thank God. We raised over $5000 and filled a huge cube van with toys for the local hospital. It was truly an amazing thrill to be part of this event, and though I thought the ride to Victoria was one of the best days of my life, I have to admit this ride beat it. I can hardly wait to do the Port Alberni Toy Run in September... I've heard they get as many as 1000 riders.

As if the ride itself wasn't enough, we headed out to Qualicum Bay to the Ocean Bay Resort for our Camporee. I've come to know a number of the riders through having gone to the Malahat Mountain Mixer, and from a few rides with folks that are on my forum. Of course I've become great friends with Flo and her brothers and Jenn. Flo and I shared a top bunk while her brother Eric and Jenn shared the bottom bunk in our very small cabin. Oh my goodness... I may not have slept all that much, but I haven't laughed that hard for so many hours in ages.

We had a huge pig roast, but before dinner, we also got to listen to some of the officers from riding clubs. There were many riders from different chapters of the Southern Cruisers Riding Clubs present, and Mark (Spyderman) who has become a Regional Officer for SCRC, talked about the SCRC and other riding organizations. He specifically mentioned our forum and called us a riding club. Jenn said, "we're a forum, not a club." But then Mark made it clear that we get together to ride... and that we support each other through the forum and through practicing with new riders like me... and well, he's right, we are a club. Mark even joked that the Vancouver Island Lady Riders get better turnouts on some of our rides than the SCRC chapters do. Well, ja, especially since they have joined our forum, some as Cabana Boys, and they ride with us.

Of course a Camporee isn't very serious... it's about partying with other riders. After all, once the bikes are parked, the booze can come out. Oh my goodness... it sure flowed. Jenn brought along a blender and we enjoyed the most delicious slushies: of course they contained pineapple rum too. By evening it seemed everyone was tipsy and full of great humour. We even sang a few songs around the campfire, led by Zeek who is one of the SCRC officers as well as a choir master. There was much teasing and laughing around some double entendres, but it was truly all in good clean fun. The cabin I shared with friends was also filled with laughter. Eric snores! Man if that's not an understatement... he sounds like a freight train. His sister Flo snores too--not near as loud, but still quite audible. Jenn claims to snore, but I never heard her at all, and I doubt anyone heard me: we were surely drowned out.

Our top bunk was incredibly close to the ceiling, causing Flo to retrieve some childhood memories when she and 4 siblings (they eventually got to 9 kids in her home) shared a bed. She said: "Eric, do you remember when you were about seven, and we lived in that little two-bedroom house in Alberta?" And so it began, the story of the ceiling falling down and the kids all in fear. It was just wallpaper, but it had us laughing. And then Eric started snoring and Flo yelled "Eric" and he yelled "What?" and that continued for some time, so now we look at one another and say: WHAAAAT? and the laughter starts.

Sunday morning's pancake breakfast was another friendly gathering and then it was time to hug a bunch of folks and get back on our bikes and head on home. It's hard to say goodbye when you've had such fun, but it was time. I felt so proud of the way I'd handled my bike all weekend, and really understand that these long rides are helping me to become a better rider. But the instruction and help I'm getting from Jenn and Flo is also totally invaluable. They rock.

Assorted Rides

2008-07-09T13:23:00.000-07:00

The week of June 30 through July 4

Okay, so the fact is that I'm pretty much riding every single day, and there's really not much that is altogether noteworthy in that respect. I've actually put well over 3000 miles on the Little Hussy now. I'm confident, though of course I will never allow myself to become over-confident.

After the Victoria ride, I had a dreadful back spasm. Actually one could call it a Charlie Horse... but instead of in the legs, where you can work those things out, it was under my shoulder blades. I tried to ride into town to pay our property tax bill, and my goodness, I thought I'd die with pain. So I spent a few days resting up, and looking forward to getting much better and realizing that the Campbell River Toy Run was coming up. My first big and I mean BIG ride event. I needed that shoulder well enough to ride.

Anyway, so much for blogging about every single ride. It's not gonna happen anymore. I'll just blog the special ones--the ones that test my skill, push my limits, help me reach new heights, or have some special friends and memories attached to them.

The Malahat is Easy to Ride

2008-06-30T11:09:00.001-07:00

June 29th: Our Canada Day Ride

This was an awesome experience for me. To begin with, Vic and I met up with a few friends from the forum at the Husky Station, just 6 kilometers from our place. Ed, Carl and his wife, Lolis, and Mark and his son, Ross, were waiting when I got there, and since Vic was dealing with a customer, we had a brief wait for him to join us. The fun thing here is that these guys are called Cabana Boys on our Vancouver Island Lady Riders Forum. When it was time for us to head to Chemainus where we expected to meet Flo and Jenn (Draggie), Anna and Janice, I asked who was going to take the lead. The guys said: "we're your Cabana Boys, so you'll have to lead." And I did! I had a grin from ear to ear riding the highway with the three big motorcycles and Mark's spyder behind me. All of us had red shirts on, and flags on the bikes and we sure got some attention. I felt like the proverbial Queen Bee.

It didn't take long for us to see other bikes heading north as we wheeled south and we got big waves. Of course, concentrating on the ride and position of the bikes behind me, I wasn't quick enough to realize that one pair of riders waving at us belonged to Jenn and Flo. I was actually nervous about doing the Malahat. But that proved to be a very ridiculous fear because it was an easy and fun ride. Jenn actually posted about the ride on our forum, and I've chosen to copy and paste her entry here. She's right when she claims she's the only one who knows where we went. I can say that the twisties on the backroads out to Metchosin were far more difficult than that old Malahat. But they were a delight and had me constantly leaning my bike left and right. Thank goodness the Dragon wasn't hurrying through these twists and turns. We newbies would have crashed for sure. But she took great care of us.

Jenn's Report:

Alrighty then, guess I have to carry this on as I was the only one who knew where the hell we went!!!

Anyways started off with Roadie, Flo and I heading north to meet with the northern boys and the Chemainus Gals. We stopped in Duncan for gas and met the Victoria SCRC group. Many hugs and chatting then it was time to leave again.

The Victoria group pulled out before us and then the 3 of us headed north. We arrived at the meeting spot in Chemainus but the group was not there yet, so we decided instead of sitting still in the heat we would head towards them and circle back if they passed us. Sure enough we were almost to Ladysmith when this group of 4 bikes and a spyder all in red went by us. We whipped around and then met them at the origianal meeting spot. After waiting about half an hour both Anna and Janice joined us and it was time to go.

At this point we had: Myself in the lead, Jos, Janice, Flo, Vic, Gearjammer, Roadie, Blingos, Anna and Spydermark bringing up the tail for me. Awesome job Mark did for a group of misfits that never rode together before! We headed for Mill Bay and an Ice Capp break before heading over the Hat. A few of the newbies needed to psych themselves up for the trip.

At this point Roadie left us and headed home. The rest of us set a good pace and headed over the hat en route to Langford to meet others.

We arrived in Langford in an orderly fashion. Jos was bouncing out of her seat, so happy for conquering the Malahat! What the hell was the big ordeal anyways! Flo was still waiting to go over the Hat. We were met shortly by Wyz in her Ladybug as the pickle was being pissy as per usual (can anyone say that 5 times fast? I can barely type it!) Shortly thereafter we were joined by Tee, Gazelle and finally our baby, Mir. More hugs and chat all around then finally our Cabana boys needed to return northwards.

Thanks SO MUCH FOR JOINING US TODAY BOYS!

After this a few gals headed in their own direction and the remainder headed out on a ride. So at this point it was Vic and the Chicks!

I lead the group out the back end of Millstream road, to Munns and Prospect Lake then out to W. Burnside, picked up the Colwood Crawl and down to the Lagoon for a photo op. Beautiful day and scenery and nobody was ready to stop. So we continue out Metchosin Rd to East Sooke and Gillespie Rd Ending at the 17 Mile for a refreshment. Great Ride and everyone did awesome. You newbies are doing great and we Mother Hens are proud of ya!

We headed back into Langford and Mir headed off to her home at Jacklin road while the rest of us headed back up the Hat (yes Flo we did the Hat twice!!Little playing on the way up the hill but all in good fun.

Over all it was a great day, great ride and great company!

Thanks y'll for coming out to play on our little pre Canada Day ride!

Cobble Hill Ride

2008-06-30T11:00:00.001-07:00

I rode out to a party on Saturday, and I sure wished I'd had some kind of saddlebags on my bike. I had to stop at the liquor store to pick up some coolers (couldn't show up empty-handed), and these got put into my backpack. It's not lined, and the weight and angle of that dang box on my back was truly unpleasant. But the ride to Cobble Hill was delightful. The weather is finally hot. I had my little red suede jacket on and wore the 3/4 helmet. When I tried to put the full-face job on I thought I'd pass out, and have to say that it felt soooo very constricting in this weather.

The party was for one of the teachers at Stu"ate Lelum. It was a birthday bash for a great woman who is leaving us for a principal ship in Tahsis... a good 4 hours away from here. I'd love to ride up there, but apparently a good long part of the way is simply gravel road and I doubt that the Little Hussy and I would enjoy that overmuch.

Karen had gone all out making us a splendid dinner that included salads, barbecued salmon and steaks, baked potatoes and well, let's just say that it was yummy beyond belief. I'd allowed myself two drinks before dinner, and then switched to water. I really enjoyed this gathering with the folks I've so enjoyed working with over the last few months. They are truly welcoming. Karen offered to let me stay overnight suggesting wine with dinner and finishing my coolers, but I opted for a ride home. Vic was planning to escort me home, and I had said I would call him. But it was a lovely warm evening and I knew I could make it home before dark if I left on time, so at 8:45 I made my goodbyes and headed out. I think I might have made it halfway, keeping my eyes open in case I saw Vic. I thought for sure he'd be looking for me too. It turns out he was, but he was looking for a rider wearing a black jacket and completely forgot that I was in red, and my black jacket was in his own saddlebag.

I got home, made Mom happy that I was back, and settled down to read forum mail. Vic got to Karen's discovered I'd left and turned around. He didn't regret the ride, because like I said, it was a gorgeous night to be out on a bike. There wasn't much traffic at all, and the air felt so very good. Ah, the riding life is really sweet!

New Front Tire

2008-06-28T10:41:00.000-07:00

We love to support local business, so we bought my new tire at Cedar Tire in, you guessed it, Cedar. We live in the Cedar-Yellowpoint area, some of which is considered part of Nanaimo and some of it, like our area, is Ladysmith. It's a terrific community with lots of trees, ocean views, and a terrific community of people. Cedar Tire doesn't however put the tires on the bikes, so we contacted Dragon Cycle, just across from the airport and about 5 minutes away from our place. I had mistakenly thought that they were a custom bike building and painting shop. But they had a display at the Cassidy Show 'n Shine last week Sunday and we discovered then that they're a lot more. They were great about putting my new tire on, though I think it gave a little trouble. It must have been stacked with other tires for a bit, and so it was a little out of round. That caused problems in getting a good seal onto the rim. It also needed a new inner tube. But Brent (I hope that was his name) was great about doing the job while I spoke to his girlfriend Christa. They do extremely great work there, and I'll definitely be hoping for a bit of a custom paint job on my Little Hussy sometime down the road.

Once I had the new tire on, I figured I should start to wear it in a little before Sunday, so I finally got a chance to ride into Nanaimo once again to exchange my cell phone. What a saga that has become. About 5 weeks ago, I needed to access my e-bill and was shocked to discover I could no longer remember my password. I contacted someone at Telus and got what I needed, but the rep told me that I should exchange my old phone. I admit it is a bit of a dinosaur as cellphones go. Anyway, I told her that I was happy with my existing phone plan and didn't want to spend money on another phone. She assured me that the exchange would be at no cost to me. I could keep my plan, but I would have to sign a contract to continue with Telus Mobility for another three years. I have their most inexpensive plan and expect to stay with them anyway, since no one else offers such a light plan. I went into the Telus shop and told the clerk there my story and she said that this couldn't be done. I would have to pay for it. Needless to say, I didn't do it. However, I was peeved that the Telus rep got this started only to have me disappointed in the end. So I finally got around to calling them again, spoke to a guy called Jeff, and he too assured me that I could have this done. He said they'd charge me $25 at the Telus shop, but that they would credit me the same amount on my account. Imagine how much more peeved I became when I went the 80km roundtrip back to the Telus store to be told: "Telus will charge you $25, and they can credit you that, but we also have to charge you $35 ourselves. In addition, it says right here on the file that you MUST change your plan." Those idiots, two of them by now, totally lied to me on the phone.

When I got home from this useless trip to the Telus store, I called and let them know how angry I was by this time. I'd wasted two 80km plus roundtrips, and wondered who'd pay for my fuel. I'd made it abundantly clear that I wasn't interested in changing my talksaver plan. I'd made it ultra clear that I wasn't interested in paying a fee for any change, and I'd be assured both times that the only thing required was an agreement to continue with my plan for another 3 years. Of course the representative I now, someone called Mel, had on the phone needed to get a manager involved. Within a few moments I was speaking to someone called Aziz. I went through the whole thing again, and he said he'd be writing a report on the two representatives who had made this mistake. I asked how that was going to help me. I explained again that it wasn't me who had suggested the phone exchange in the first place, and told him in no uncertain terms that I'm quite a clear communicator... for crying out loud, I have a Master's Degree in English. I know that I expressed myself clearly and repeatedly with both the representatives I'd dealt with.

Aziz was apologetic, and offered to send me a new Samsung phone. He explained a charge would show on my next bill, but it would also be credited back to me. He said I would not need to sign a contract, nor would I need to change my phone plan. He went on to tell me that Telus won't be earning a cent on me for the next year, since the phone value $150 was coming to me free and my plan costs me only $10 per month. Well, if he thought that was making me feel bad for them, he was wrong. I was only satisfied that they were going to exchange my phone, and after all, the whole thing was their idea in the first place. I think they want folks with the TalkSaver plan off their system and hope to suck them in with their promises. I wasn't about to be sucked in.

But as for the ride, it was glorious. The weather is so warm that I actually chose to ride with a three-quarter helmet. The full helmet nearly choked me in that heat. I can see that summer riding is going to be quite different than the spring stuff has been. I may have to start wearing a lighter jacket too, and who knows, the chaps might even end up being too hot and I'll have to go with just bluejeans. I'd better be extra careful out there. I wish the RCMP around here would make a huge effort to educate drivers about the fact that there are motorcycles on the roads and they need to keep an eye out for them. Too often we hear of cars turning left right into a motorcycle, and then the typical statement made is: "I didn't see him." I can only hope and pray that I keep myself visible!

Last Days of School

2008-06-28T10:14:00.000-07:00

Wednesday and Thursday were the last two days of work for me at Stu"ate Lelum for this school year. I rode in on Wednesday, while James brought his car. We worked like maniacs at switching classrooms, with James taking over Cameron's room. Since I've been there on Cam's behalf, it was logical for me to be doing the work with James. But I have to say that it was a total nightmare. Cameron's old room is large, James had the smallest room. Imagine the mess of moving all the books, the tools from the carving classes, the wood, the art supplies, and all sorts of student work... and that's just the beginning. We took shelving units off the wall and re-attached them by the ceiling in order to make room for computer desks below. We also filled the dumpster!

Of course the new room Cam is going to need was filled floor to ceiling and I figure he's in for a huge shock upon his return. By the end of that first day, I was KAPUT. I'd thought of riding to Nanaimo to see about switching my cell phone, but in truth, well I really was kaput. I had numerous bruises on my arms and legs. Lifting and moving desks and chairs and huge pieces of lumber took their toll on me. We decided to leave the desks on the porch until the janitor cleaned the floor, figuring it would make the job that much easier.

I rode in again on Thursday, taking the cell phone with me and once again expecting to ride into Nanaimo. On my way in the rain began to spit slightly and the skies weren't looking altogether friendly, but I still had hopes. James rode in as well. It's really quite delightful to see two motorcycles parked in front of that little building. Once again we got to work, and this time we pulled out the paint to touch up some of the mess from moving shelving and the like. I spilled a drop and took a damp cloth to wipe it off the floor and to my horror the cloth came up black with dirt. That prompted James to take a little cleaning spray and attempt to see what difference that might make to a small square on the floor. Would you believe that the dark spots we'd assumed were part of the congoleum pattern were simply there from years of grime. Poor Philip was asked to scrub the floors over the summer months. He's done his best with a floor mop, but I think it's merely moved dirt around and never really cleaned it. The principal brought him in to show him James' clean spot and explained that perhaps it was time for the floors to be stripped and he might just have to rent some kind of machine to help him get it done. I felt really bad for him, but hoped he understood that he'd taken over this job after years of neglect and with Len's desire for a cleaned school, he's going to be in for a summer of work. He's a wonderful man and seems more than willing to do what he's asked.

Meanwhile the rain was truly starting to come down, so now James decided it was time to put our bikes up on the porch too. And he went and got a cloth to dry them off so they'd be ready for us at the end of the day. I was delighted when the rain finally stopped and thought I'd be able to make that run to exchange my cellphone after all.

By afternoon, I began to try my best to organize Cameron's disastrous room somewhat. He'll have to go through everything anyway, but at least I had some kind of order back. The work was well underway, and we finally managed to get desks back into James' new, almost professional looking, classroom. At 3:00 pm, I glanced up at the highway and saw that it was at a standstill. Phil said that there was another huge accident up at the Husky Gas Station. It seems that there have been more of those since they put the lights in then we ever saw before. People just want to beat those yellow lights and while one is turning into the gas station, another comes flying through. I knew that there was no way I could head north and expect to get home without sitting in traffic for at least an hour. I left the school at about 3:35 and headed south to Chemainus to pay a bill in Saltair. It was quite a nice little trip down the highway for me. Kind of a long ride considering the Old Chemainus Road is torn up at the north end, and riding all the way to Chemainus is the only way to get to that little part of Saltair which is so much closer to Ladysmith and was where I needed to go. Of course I then had to turn around and head south again before I could head north. ( A little rant here: Now I'm hearing that the road is torn up so that Pamela Friggin Idiot Anderson can have some land developed for her own liking. She also wants variances that will allow Miss Boobs to have higher buildings and to build closer to the beaches. She's an embarrassment to this community and I wish she'd just stop letting the world know she's from Ladysmith and that she'd buy and develop her land in the USA where she's busy going back to her abusive ex Tommy Lee. ) When I came back up the highway, I took the turn-off to the road running along the highway, figuring I'd turn onto the highway by the school. BIG MISTAKE. That road was totally backed up too. I guess a lot of other people had hoped to cut their stalled-on-the-highway time by using it.

I kind of motored along on the side of the road for a while, thinking I'd head back to the school and wait it out. But at one point I came up to another motorcyclist riding a gorgeous Honda Sabre 1100cc bike. We got talking as we inched along, and she introduced herself as Charlotte and told me she works for the Town of Ladysmith. I'll be calling her to go for a ride with her one of these days soon. She convinced me to stay with her and try to get my way onto the highway. I actually did not get home until 5:20 pm. As you can imagine, I had no desire to go to Nanaimo anymore. I'd ordered a new front tire for my bike, and figured I'd ride into the city once that was on in order to get it worked in a little before the big ride to Victoria on Sunday. I'll be doing the Malahat for the very first time. Am I nervous? Heck ya! Am I excited? Oh yes!

My Skulling Friends

2008-06-24T15:49:00.001-07:00

Oh how delicious... my friend Flo has decided to add some kind of skull to her beautiful bike. She and another of the forum friends were heading for the Woodgrove Mall where there's a belt boutique selling, among many other things, skulls... some with lots of rhinestones. I thought it would be a great opportunity to meet up with them, and since I was somehow expecting they'd get there by 11:30, I set off. I actually got there at 11:00, early as almost always. The ride in was delicious, though I sure felt a few blasts from the wind.

I headed off to Starbucks (still thanking Pat for giving me that gift card for my birthday), and then went to get some halibut liver oil pills for the dogs. I went into a couple of shoe stores until I found some red shoe polish for my riding boots. But then, out of things to keep me occupied, I went to the belt boutique. No sign of my friends. I told the guy working there that I was expecting to meet up with a couple of biker women, and to make sure he told them not to take off without me. I seemed to be hanging around a lot. I wondered into one store after another, but wasn't really in the mood. I even went into LaSenza and tried on a few new bras. In between I kept heading back to the boutique. I waited until 12:45 pm and finally decided I'd better get home and get some work done. I really felt bummed about not seeing Flo and Linda, but what could I do?

After working on the computer for a little while, and trying to rehearse some choir music, I got a call. Flo and Linda were in Ladysmith. Linda had decided to go into Bayview Framing and Prints, figuring the folks at this gallery might know us, and sure enough, we got a call. Within 10 minutes we got to town and headed for coffee in the Ladysmith Bakery. It's amazing how quickly you can blast into town on a bike. And this time Vic came along for the ride.

We sat in the coffee shop talking, and of course began to discuss Flo's Conga Ride. She just didn't seem to understand why we're all so into this. I explained that while her ride was happening, I'd think of her and say some prayers for her at bedtime, and then wake-up in the morning to race to my computer to see where she was or if there was any news of her. Linda said she'd done the same, and Vic admitted that her journey was constantly on his mind as well. We explained that she'd gone and done something most people only dream of doing. Every single person on our forums, and many of our male partners too, lived her journey with her. She proved that you can do something that seems outrageous and crazy to others, and she'd put her faith into the universe, and it had responded in spades. She found friends every step of the way, and we all became friends too. I can honestly say that I now have friends in practically every State, and I know if I show up and tell them who I am I will receive an open-armed welcome. She has been a magnificent inspiration to riders all over North America. She might have been the one picking up a bike in Florida and riding it up to Campbell River here on Vancouver Island, but we were all with her in spirit, and the love that we all sent must have gone a long way to making this a huge success. We cried when she cried, we laughed when she laughed... though Linda had to add: "But we didn't drop our bikes in sympathy with you."

Here we were, 4 bikers, all crying in the coffee shop, and Linda said: "Hey Jos, whatcha doin makin a tough biker bitch cry?" Ah yes, some tough bitch! We're full of love for all the riders involved in this.

When we left the coffee shop, we decided to take Linda and Flo on a nice little tour of Yellowpoint Road, and actually managed to ride to the Malaspina University cut-off with them before saying goodbye and seeing them off. Linda's home is in Port Alberni, and Flo lives in Campbell River. It sure was wonderful to lead them through my local riding territory. We agreed to get together again on the weekend. It's Stephen's birthday coming up, and we're going to make it a family event.

You'd think that was enough riding for one day, but I no sooner got home before it was time to head out to the Potluck with my womens' circle. What a treat to ride there on my Little Hussy. Sheila was really impressed with my blond hair and my leathers. Actually everyone loved the leathers! It was a hoot having to tie a jug with soup on the back of the Little Hussy. I had a freaky moment when I tried to park her where Connie suggested on a hill. I felt like she'd slide away, and soon decided to move her to a safer spot on a terrace behind a wall. She's too precious to lose! So yes, it turned out to be a day of riding for me. A glorious day with friends to boot!

Vic totally loved Linda's bike too, it's a Kawasaki Drifter, a purple one, with a gorgeous fender. It's sitting here next to his... he just had to have a picture of the two Kawi's side by each! I have to admit I love the way she has it decked out. She's been riding for about 27 years, so I'm hoping she'll teach me a thing or two before long.

Fabulous Weather, Wonderful Riding

2008-06-22T19:51:00.000-07:00

Wow, now this was a great day to be out on the bike. We needed groceries, so Vic and I rode our bikes and Mom followed in her car. The weather was perfect, and though I felt nervous (after all, I knew Mom was watching my every move), the ride went smoothly. I told myself to relax, after all, in another month or so, I'll be riding with ICBC examiners following me, and that ride will take close to two hours. I'd better be relaxed then, so this was good practice. And Mom was really happy with my riding ability!

We got to Costco, managed to make it a very worthwhile trip, loaded the car... and I do mean loaded, and then I thought we'd head straight home. Not so, Mom wanted to go to Save-On Foods as well. The hilarious thing is that she didn't actually need anything there. But we made that into a quick stop for lunch and enjoyed their deli. Then it was off to Wal-Mart for cat food and a few other odds and ends from their grocery section, and finally off to home. Mom spent much of her time being a protective follower, but at one point she took the lead. I was fairly close behind her, but apparently not close enough for several idiots to decide to squeeze in. I really wonder, do they see us at all when we're on our bikes?

The ride was delicious, and incredibly short for such a day, so as soon as we unloaded the groceries, we headed out again. This time Stephen came with us, and since we both needed fuel, he decided to hit the Chevron. They have a great high octane that the bikes really love. I can feel the difference when I use it: my Little Hussy just seems to sing and delight in speed after such a fill-up.

Then for the question: Where to? We headed for the Beach Hut at Qualicum Beach. Had I known we were going that way, I'd have contacted Flo and her brothers to see if they'd like to meet us there. It's sort of a half-way point for us, with Flo coming from Campbell River. The Beach Hut is a great spot for treats, including Dutch krokets. The beach is gorgeous, the surroundings are amazing, truly panoramic with snow-capped mountains visible both north and south, and lots of islands to see as well. I know my friend MaryJoy would be thrilled to sit and relax at the hut or on the beach! It's becoming a favorite ride just for that spot alone.

But we weren't the only riders today. My Spirit Daughter, Raven, spent the night and this morning her little guy (Mattias is only 5) had his first ride, and later Stephen also took Raven out. Mattias came back saying he didn't want a car, he just wanted a motorcycle. He looked absolutely adorable on the back of Stephen's bike. For that matter, Raven looked pretty sweet too. All in all, this was a fabulous day. The Hussy got some nice speeds up, and I feel better and better riding the curves regardless of speed. Yippee!

Riding alone is good for me. It allows me to concentrate on myself and traffic and it allows me to get into the Zen of it all. However, in truth, there's just nothing as wonderful as riding with my family.

Saturday Morning Ride to Cranberry Farm

2008-06-21T17:27:00.000-07:00

Today's ride was all too short. Vic was setting up for a small craft show at the Cranberry Farm and I followed in on the Hussy. She's pretty today because she got washed and polished yesterday afternoon. I parked her and walked round to help Vic with the booth, and soon Grant and Justine came out to see who had come on a bike. They sure liked her, and made me feel great about having brought her over. Justine told me they had dreams of having bikes by the time they're 40, but they can't see that happening, cause they're already 37 and really don't see how they can manage that within the next three years. I had to laugh, telling Justine: "I'm 57 and just started this year, so don't get rid of your dream... there's lotsa time."

Such a little ride, but at least I got out today.

A Friday Run into Nanaimo

2008-06-21T17:20:00.000-07:00

Well, I said I'd record my first year of riding, and so here I am. But at this point, there's really so little to tell. I took off to Costco to pick up a prescription. Since I've now made that ride so often, there's no real excitement anymore... or is there? I decided to do the back routes. Made sure that I had lots of stopping and starting, including some on hills. I'm delighted to say that I didn't stall my Hussy once on a hill (and that was a problem just a few short weeks ago). That's not to say that my ride was completely problem free, because I did stall the Hussy once. I'm embarrassed to admit it, but I tend to slow too much for corners, and the stall happened when I was still in too high a gear for the slow turn, and suddenly the Hussy died. I'm so glad that there wasn't anyone behind me. Dang, this had not happened for a while, so it really got me down. But the ride along Hammond Bay Road and Stephenson Point Road was beautiful. I kept my eyes peeled for deer, and did see a few, but they were safely off the road and munching away.

Before too long I was home again. The ride helped me relax and I needed that! Ah, the Hussy is great therapy. And "Therapy" is what Draggie calls her bike... good name.

Riding to School

2008-06-19T14:01:00.001-07:00

I managed to ride into school on Monday and Tuesday. Actually it started to rain on Monday, just as I was getting onto my Little Hussy, and I have to admit that I had a moment of "oh good grief, maybe I should take the truck," but then I thought about riding to meet Flo in the pouring rain and decided to go ahead and ride anyway. I was thinking about oil slicks and fresh rain, but decided not to let that hold me back. And as you know, seeing as how I'm writing about it, that wasn't a problem.

There's not a lot to say about these rather short rides, other than that I made them. However, on Tuesday I also had to go to my choir practice. We meet from 7 to 9 pm in Nanaimo, and I knew that the sun would not have set as I left there, so chose to take the bike for this too. The hilarious thing about this is that Stephen was worried. "Mom, it will be dark when you're riding home." I told him that isn't so. We have yet to hit June 21st, and the days are getting longer, not shorter, and since it has not been dark when I've left choir for a few weeks, I knew I'd make it home before dusk. "Yes, but Mom, it's at dusk that all the deer come out, and you need to be extremely careful." I started laughing, and said: "Hey, the umbilical chord has been cut." His answer: "Oh no it hasn't!"

In truth his warning was appreciated. I have to admit that I was really watching for the deer, though I didn't spot a single one. I found the ride home rather chilly, and windy too. But I had a great ride, good speed on the highway, though you really have to fight the wind on some of the longer sloping turns. It's all good experience and I'm proud of my independence. Stephen was relieved when I got home! Vic had not been worried at all, but then again, he's been riding with me a lot more than Stephen has lately, and he knew the chord had been cut.

It was fun walking into choir practice wearing my leathers and the chaps! And I know that I'm getting a reputation as one gutsy broad. Apparently the kids at school having been talking about me too. At the graduation banquet last night I heard that they'd wondered which of the teachers would have the courage to go out on the ziplines at WildPlay, and they'd decided that I'd probably do it because: "she's got guts." Nice to hear, and it makes me proud and happy to know that I'm not just existing, but I'm grabbing life with both hands and yelling wooohooo as I go!

Qualicum Beach, Fanny Bay... a great riding day with friends

2008-06-15T21:27:00.000-07:00

A beautiful sunny Sunday, and a message from Flo and Dragon: "wanna play?" Oh yes, we did. That message on the Women Who Ride forum from Flo was all it took. We knew we were heading out a little earlier than our friends, so we made a stop in Parksville and enjoyed our favorite coffee shop (I'm going to have to reload that Starbucks card very soon). There were a couple of Triumphs in the parking lot we had to admire, and would you believe a Norton went by. That brought back some memories for both of us. I might have been all of 19 when Vic had his candy apple red 750 Norton Commando. The bike looked a lot smaller than I remembered it being back then.

It seemed that everyone who owned a bike was out there on the roads today... and they all seem to stop at the same places. We soon found ourselves in Qualicum Beach at the Beach Hut and I might have counted 30 bikes there. Whenever a few left, others took their place. The sun was glorious, and there were puppies playing in the ocean, and some kids too, but I have to admit the dogs were hilarious to watch. We even saw one on the back of a Harley. We arrived a bit early, so Vic suggested a ride up the road, and before long we were in Fanny Bay. I love the old highway. It runs along the water and it's absolutely breathtaking scenery. We finally turned around and headed back to Qualicum Beach, and sure enough, Flo and Draggie were there. What a treat to sit and have some nibblies with them while we waited for Flo's brothers who weren't long in coming. They both had their sons with them; a real father's day pleasure for them. We spent time chatting and looking at all the bikes and taking pictures, before deciding to start our ride back to Ladysmith. That was in good company, because Flo and Eric and Carl travelled to Parksville with us. We needed to stop for final Conga line pictures, wishing for an ocean view and finally settling for a field!

Then it was time to head for home and Jenn and Vic and I took off down the highway. Vic really put speed into this run, and I have to admit that I was a little freaked by the time we managed to pull off the highway. He's usually a grampa on the road, but my little bike was registering past 70 miles per hour... that's miles not kilometers... and we were weaving in and out of lots of traffic.

I got an email from Jenn (Draggie) who was behind me, and she said I'm doing really well, though she's got some pointers for me and has promised to ride with me and teach me what she knows. I don't mind a short burst of speed, but I felt like I had the throttle full out from Parksville to our turn-off on Brenton-Page Road. One thing for sure, I got a lot of high speed highway practice today. I also told Vic that next time he's in the mood for speed, he's going solo! There was just too much traffic for my liking, and though I managed all that weaving back and forth from lane to lane, I'd rather take it a little slower next time.

I am delighted to be able to ride with Vic. He's thrilled to have me for a riding partner too. Life can be so full and delicious. I seem to end many of my posts here saying that I feel lucky. I'm simply ecstatic. We've been blessed!

Ride, Ride Some More, And Then Some More

2008-06-14T20:34:00.000-07:00

What a fabulous day. I had to follow Vic to the Maritime Festival this morning, to help him set up for the day. It felt so good getting out on the road and riding in... and I'll admit it, seeing the admiring looks of all the men helping to set up for the show. They're always somewhat surprised and delighted to see women on bikes. I don't particularly want to impress them; yet there is a sense of pride that comes from being a woman on a bike.

While we were setting up, I realized that Vic didn't have enough display stands, so that meant a ride home to pick some up, and of course a ride back to bring them. The small helmet that Stephen bought last year wasn't here when I headed out first thing, and I had to use the three-quarter helmet we bought last year. But I've become used to a full-face helmet now, and really didn't enjoy riding with my face so exposed. Did I need an excuse to go for a longer ride?

Well, I found me a wonderful helmet at Spunky's Motorcycle Shop in Parksville! Yep, a nice long run down the highway all by my lonesome. Once I had found a helmet that fit and felt ever so good, I had to ride just a little further up the road into Coombs to visit my friends, Lyn and Shannon and Shannon's girls, Kenna and Maddie. What a great feeling, going to Coombs on my own, grabbing my freedom and celebrating my skill. I got a great email from Lyn saying that Maddie loves my bike and the girls are both impressed that I'm riding! Yippee. Now that's who I do want to impress, young girls! I'm thrilled to set this example for them.

The ride itself was splendid. There's a section of the highway that lets you do 110 km legally, and of course traffic tends to go beyond the limits. My Little Hussy is so fast. She didn't complain at all when I gave into the need for speed. There were so many bikers out there, and I loved getting all the waves and giving 'em back--the camaraderie among bikers is really delicious! I was actually disappointed when I finally got home. I felt sad having to stop. But the house needs some cleaning and I had to start on that job (not that I finished it).

Before I got half the job done, it was (thank goodness) time to go and help Vic pack up. I managed to ride right up to our booth, and I saw pride on my husband's face. Some of our acquaintances came over to chat... I heard Trevor say "hey there Motorcycle Mama." It seems Vic has been bragging about me. Gail Middleton also came over to chat, and told me she'd heard from Bev that I've been teaching at Stu"ate Lelum. I had the new staff jacket on under my leathers and got to show that to her. I am feeling so grateful... this job and the bike... wow, I'm lucky.

Vic wanted to have a ride too, so once we got home, and changed my spark plugs, we set off for another ride. We enjoyed a nice coffee at the Starbucks at the north end of Nanaimo, picked up some milk, and then headed down the old highway. It was rather windy on the way up, so I chose a slower route home, down the old highway. That's actually great practice because there are so many stoplights to contend with along this route. We decided to take a nice long ride on Yellowpoint Road... a familiar path for me, but I am taking it much more easily then I used to and I'm delighted with my progress. I put quite a few miles on the Hussy today. What a fantastic year this is turning out to be. Yippee! Oh, I'm including a little video Vic took of me leaving for school on Friday morning. And one of me coming home too. The next time he takes a video, I'll be wearing my new "Darth Vader" helmet. That's what Lyn said it looked like to her. I love my new helmet! Since I need to use a backpack to take stuff with me, I guess I'll be saving up for saddlebags next.

Lucky Friday the 13th -- I ride alone!

2008-06-13T18:59:00.000-07:00

I'm so delighted with myself. I rode into work again today, and I see the students looking at me with respect and even a little envy. We had a great morning, working on the beautiful art posters for next week's grad ceremony. Then we had a huge lunch delivered, Chinese food. We had guests, some parents, and the co-op employers and trainers to lunch and they stayed for the student awards ceremony. I was truly pleased that one of my students got an award for his artwork... though I was also disappointed one of the others did not get that award when I thought she deserved it too. I may just have to do a certificate for her myself! Another wonderful little tidbit about this day: I was given a new staff jacket. But this is supposed to be about my riding experience.

At the end of the school day I got onto my bike and headed for the north end of Nanaimo. I was about a quarter of the way down the highway when my bike ran out of gas. I had to switch to the reserve tank... but I was stunned. I had counted on getting to 130 miles on that last tank of gas, but actually only got 115 miles out of it. I'm hoping that changing my spark plugs will help. Golly, I did get 129 miles on the tank before. I was so glad that I was close to a gas station and could pull over into the left turning lane and get petrol quickly.

Once the tank was filled, I was able to blast along! Yep, blast is the right word. Traffic was pretty heavy, but I found that the freedom of riding alone made it even easier than it is when I've got to keep Vic or Vic and Stephen in mind as I change lanes.

It's a delight to pull into a parking lot, pull off my helmet, and see the reactions of people who just aren't expecting the rider to be a woman... let alone a woman my age. I had a delicious cappucino at Starbucks (Pat's gift for my birthday was a pre-paid Starbucks' card), and then went into the shopping centre hoping to exchange my phone (which I ended up not doing). Then I went to Canadian Tire to pick up new spark plugs for the Hussy. I have to admit that I even felt great pulling out my manual and going into the store to buy them for myself. After that it was time to go get my prescription filled. I had called Vic and told him I was in Nanaimo and he offered to come meet me there, but I really just wanted to do this trip solo all the way!

Traffic on the way home was even heavier than it had been going, but again, it seemed easier than ever. I can't begin to count the number of times I had to stop for lights and take off again, and all without any hesitation. My comfort level is definitely going way up, and there's a real sense of pride and freedom in riding on my own. Just writing about it here makes me want to go out again. Ah well, tomorrow morning I'll follow Vic's truck with my bike, help him set up for the Maritime Festival Craft Show, and then head home alone. I'll have time to clean the house and keep the studio open in the hope of some customers. More riding tomorrow. I'm happy!

June 12th -- Solo Ride to Stu"ate Lelum

2008-06-12T18:31:00.000-07:00

I'd been waiting for the right weather to ride my bike to school. After all, the students knew I'd passed my MST, and I'd promised I would ride in when the weather permitted. My leathers were finally dry, the weather was clear, and I finally got my chance. My only complaint: the ride was far too short. The school is not all that far from our place, and I should have left a little earlier so that I could take a longer ride. That said, it was sheer joy to ride in. It was pure heaven to head out on the highway all by myself. And what can I say about the looks on the faces of the students in the parking lot! They came over to look at the bike. One of our bus drivers, Stan, was right there too. He saw me lock the wheel and asked: "don't you trust our students?" I had to laugh. I do actually trust them not to damage my bike, but I also know that there would be at least one who'd get on. I told Stan that locking my wheel is a habit. It was something that the training course I took with High Rides stressed. They warned us that it doesn't take very long to steal a bike, and that we should just make it a habit. That's no lie; I really do lock the wheel wherever I stop and park my bike. I also had the pleasure of seeing one of my students, Jerome, sitting on the bike within a few moments of my having parked it. Yep, locking the wheel is smart. I'd hate to see a teenager think he can roll the bike around for a little fun. And who could blame him? It's such a temptation.

It was fun to walk between the buildings and see my pretty little hussy sitting there waiting for me. One of the teachers, who also has a license, came to me at the end of a stressful afternoon and said: "I could do with a little therapy... any chance I could try out your bike?" I gave him the key with a sense of pride and pleasure. I also offered him my helmet, but he was just interested in getting the feel of it in the parking lot. He was back within a second: "the cops are here, and I think I'd better get that helmet after all." Despite the fact that it isn't actually illegal to ride in a private lot without a helmet, we did both agree that it didn't set a great example, and when he got the helmet on, he was also free to take the hussy out for a little bit more than just a parking lot run. He came back with a big grin on his face. Yep, she's a great bike.

At the end of the day, I had another short ride home... much too short! But it didn't end there. Before long Vic was also suited up and we made a quick run into Nanaimo for some supplies from Costco and Walmart. There was quite a lot of traffic on the highway and in town too, but my comfort level is so much greater that I'm not the least bit phased by that anymore. What a pleasure to be able to feel that great sense of freedom. I feel hugely blessed. I'm one lucky woman and it's sheer delight to get out on the road.

Flo's back on Vancouver Island

2008-06-09T20:41:00.000-07:00

I'm so happy to have been able to meet Flo's ferry today. Mind you, we had to go twice, and it was absolutely pouring rain both times.

We got there at about 2:15... had a really nice interview with Bill MacFarlane from A Channel. Lisa also arrived and got interviewed. We were waiting with total excitement, expecting Flo and her brothers and Jenn and BC Biker guy to arrive at any minute. Good job I'd passed on the cell phone number for A Channel's producer, cause before too much longer we were told by them that Flo and Company had missed the 12:45 ferry and would be coming on the 3:15 ferry. Dang, we got soaked for nothing that time out. Well at least I got to ride my bike there. It was a baptism of sorts: my first ride in the pouring rain.

Silly me, I was wearing chaps, and let's face it, they don't cover your crotch. I got soaked! My boots got soaked. The chaps got soaked. The only thing that didn't get wet through and through was my jacket. I have to thank Stephen for waterproofing it some.

We turned back for home. I had to put my jeans and both pairs of socks in the dryer. Vic got soaked too... his rain pants didn't do much to keep his feet dry, and somehow the bottoms of his jeans were also drenched. Our gloves could be wrung out, but certainly would not get dry for our return to the ferry at 5:15 pm.

Yep, I rode "bitch" for that return. Not sure I like that expression, but it means I was Vic's passenger. This time out I wore my yellow rain suit, rubber boots over several pairs of socks, several sweaters under my leather jacket, and that under the rain suit. But the gloves I tried to warm and dry before leaving for this second run got terribly soaked again.

A Channel was there again, waiting for the riders to come off the ferry. Vic managed to speak to one of the ferry workers, and she called the boat to see which deck they'd be coming off and arranged for Vic to be able to ride out just ahead of them so he could lead them down the road to the A Channel van for an interview. It's going to air on the early evening news tomorrow and should be a great feature. Flo is looking beautiful, and her brothers are terrific. Jenn was there too, and Lisa. BC Biker Guy, another Victor, was there, but didn't stick around for the interview. A Channel filmed us riding toward the Tim Horton's at Southgate Plaza, and they followed us there too.

We were wringing out soaked gloves and creating a small lake in Tim's... but all soooo happy that Flo had arrived. Poor girl has about another two hour ride up to Campbell River. The forums are filled with posts about her... everyone South of the Border aching to know she's safe and sound at home. She's going to have a hot bath once she gets there, and then the trooper that she is (with almost 6000 miles under her belt and almost 3 weeks of riding), she'll go online and make everyone happy to know she's made it safe and sound.

I'm thrilled to have been a very small part of this wonderful Conga ride. Way to go, Flo, you make us all so very proud. You've shown us that we can do anything we set our minds to. My hat's off to you sweet Tumbleweed.

June 6th -- Ride up island for coffee

2008-06-09T20:37:00.000-07:00

Got home from school and realized that we'd better have a quick ride cause there wasn't going to be any free time on the weekend. It felt soooo good to head out to Nanaimo, though it was another windy ride. Lost Vic at one point because I made a yellow light (it changed just before I entered) and he was too far behind to catch me. That was kind of neat. I knew he needed gas and that he'd find me at the Co-op, so just went on. Nothin like knowin I'm legal and don't need him riding closely by!

We went to Starbucks and had a great cappucino, and then headed home again. But at least we got a nice ride.

June 2 -- I passed my Motorcycle Skills Test

2008-06-02T18:39:00.000-07:00

I did it. I can't believe how very nervous I was, and it didn't help that I was on a bike I really had not been using. My tummy was in knots, and I felt like I was going to throw up, but I did it. I'm so relieved. I can now get out there on my own... don't need a chaperone with a class 6 licence anymore. I do still have two restrictions until I do the final road test: I may not carry a passenger (like I'd want to? NOT), and I will still turn into a pumpkin if I go ridin after dark. Well, I'm not in a hurry to do that either.

It was amazing to drive back from Nanaimo, listening to Jana Stanfield singing "on the wings of Eagles, I can fly... all it takes is a little faith, and on the wings of Eagles I can fly." I felt like bawling my eyes out.

The woman at the counter at ICBC was sooooo kewl. She was born in Holland in 1951. Her family moved to Australia when she was a toddler. She ended up here in Canada. Wow... we were both stunned, neither of us had ever met anyone else with the exact same background.

I hugged Dave McKeown after I passed the test. I had been so nervous that I did have a couple of minor errors... put my foot down once, and also revved the throttle a little when I made the emergency stop. I felt sick and thought, "oh no, he is gonna fail me for this." So when I was finished I looked at the examiner with fear and said: "did I fail?" He gave me a huge smile and said, "no, you squeaked by." Dang bike, so unfamiliar, cause the one I hoped to ride needed some work and they didn't finish it last night. It's difficult with the Yamaha TW (an enduro) to roll back the clutch properly when you're slamming down on the front and back brakes to prove how quickly you can make an emergency stop. I was so happy I felt like crying right on the spot. Don't know how I held it all together.

It was so wonderful to see my Mom pulling into the parking lot at the end of my test. She'd been there before we even headed over to ICBC, when we were still at the Superstore parking lot for a last warm-up. I was freaked, and thought she planned to stay and watch, but she only wanted to wish me luck. It was a thrill to be able to hold up my new license and wave it about for her to see while I had a huge smile on my face. We quickly had a coffee and then I headed back to Stu"ate Lelum (Chemainus Native College where I am a teacher on call) to pick up a jacket I left behind. The staff that was there all congratulated me on my success, and I headed out the door. Just as I was about to drive out of the parking lot, the bus carrying our P.E. students arrived. I should have been with them this afternoon, and the acting Vice-Principal had to take them instead (they have their PE class at the Chemainus Native Centre down the road from our house and they're bussed back and forth). Natalie opened the window and called out to me: "did you pass?" When I said yes, with a great big grin, the whole bus load of students and Natalie and the driver all started hollering and waving their hands in the air to congratulate me. Danged if that didn't make me cry. What a great bunch to show me their happiness for my success.

Since I'm legal on the highway now, we made a quick run to Chemainus after I got home. The winds were insane and as Mom said, that was a baptismal experience for me. I hung on to my handlebars so tight. The bike was great, she didn't mind, but I felt like I might just get blown off the little Hussy. Yikes! And it was cold to boot. I thought we'd better take the Old Chemainus Road route home, but when we reached the construction zone, and knew we'd be in for about a 20 minute wait before they let us through, and all we were on was gravel, well... yes, you guessed it, we pulled a U-turn and headed back into Chemainus to take River Road out to the highway again, and got blasted by more winds all the way home. But it taught me that I can control that bike even under such windy conditions. Yippee. It's too bad the forecast is calling for rain all the rest of this week. My students are hoping to see me ride to school, and I'd sure like to do that for them... but not if it's raining. Ah well, there's still next week too.

High Rides

2008-06-02T10:17:00.001-07:00

Last year, in November, when it was cold and miserable and my fibromyalgia was kicking in, I took a motorcycle training course through Ziggy's in Nanaimo. It was my first exposure, and with a slight fibro flare, my muscles tensed, and my heart in my throat... well, let's just say I learned some, but not nearly enough to pass the Motorcycle Skills Test at ICBC. I did get over my initial fear, and I really enjoyed riding, but though I managed to do the slalom course correctly now and again, I just couldn't do it consistently.

Winter cold quickly followed and I knew I'd need to take another course in the spring. Dave McKeown, the instructor at Ziggy's at that time, was really encouraging, and told me that I'd be able to do it once I got calmed and relaxed. He suggested I come back. I'd heard he was planning to start his own riding school this year, so a few weeks ago I tracked him down and asked if I could do the course with him. My timing was perfect, and that alone told me this was the right thing to do. It's the way things that are meant to be fall into place. Dave and his new partner Brian were starting their first course on May 30th.

At 6:00 pm on the appointed day, I met with the four other students who would be taking the very first course offered by High Rides! Dave spent the evening reviewing our motorcycle knowledge, understanding of the rules of the road, rider formations, etc. He also made sure we saw the results when people don't dress right, or don't follow the rules. We all saw the grim reminders in graphic photos of accident victims--one of them actually beheaded. Yes, riding a bike requires focus, skill, defensive riding techniques, appropriate gear, and far more concentration than most drivers of cars could ever imagine. We were given some frightening statistics, again reminding us that we will be out there without a steel cage to protect us. Lots to think about, but for me, it was all familiar. I just couldn't wait to get out on the range.

Saturday morning at 9:00 sharp we were gathered and ready. High Rides invested in 5 different student bikes. Unlike Ziggy's there were choices and we weren't stuck with the hard to ride little Yamaha 250cc cruisers... now nick-named Viagra by our class because they're so much tougher to learn on. There is just one of these bikes at High Rides. Dave and Bryan have a few enduro cross bikes that are perfect for learning the tight curves and slalom techniques.

One of the bikes is a Buell, manufactured by Harley Davidson. This was the most difficult bike for Allison and me. The clutch action is self-adjusting on this bike, and so Dave, an excellent mechanic and bike builder himself, was unable to soften it. I rode the course just twice on this machine. For the rest of the day, my thumb ached. Of course, when you spend the day riding the clutch in the friction zone, you're bound to get sore hands. You have an iron grip and by day's end, it is painful. I raced home after the first day to get some ice on my hand, and then follow that up with heat. But I was so happy. I'd managed every instruction, felt comfortable, made ever tighter turns, and only knocked over a pilon on two of the rides. By the end of the day I was comfortable about the first two parts of the ICBC test. I felt that I needed to start concentrating on the speed run and emergency stopping. But I felt good!

Day two and we all came and practiced. I noticed that Maurice, who had been doing so well the day before, was struggling, and it wasn't long before I recognized the symptoms he was experiencing. He'd expected to be better at it, and his initial failures to do the slalom on this second day were upsetting him to a point of extreme tension. Gosh, I felt bad for him. But in truth, by the time I realized he was working himself into a state, it was already too late. Sadly, he ended up dropping our favorite bike, breaking the clutch lever. When he went down in the turn, Dave raced to him to help him up. I didn't hear a single word of concern about that bike, and certainly there was no suggestion that Maurice should pay for damage. Instead, there was concern about Maurice. Dave and Brian wanted him to relax, not to worry, and not to give up. They suggested he rest a while, but not leave. Maurice was so disappointed in his performance, and bravely did attempt another ride after a short break. But he realized he couldn't do it that day, and Brian and Dave arranged for him to come back again, at a really good price. I really was so impressed. I may have the same instructor I had at Ziggy's but the atmosphere and attitude to the students here is completely different. We're being empowered to learn.

We practiced the four parts of the test for a while, and then Dave tested us each individually. Ian, Gary (he's a hot dog and great rider), Allison and I all passed our test. All knowing we can do it at ICBC too, and the reward was a group road ride. Vic joined us, so there were seven of us out on the ride. Man oh man, the first part of this ride was, perhaps, the worst I've ever done. In part perhaps because I had to switch to my own, much heavier, motorcycle (my choice). In part because I was riding in the back where Dave could see everything I did, right or wrong. I stalled my bike within two blocks of leaving the range and that set me up for stress and it went downhill from there. I can't believe how many times I stalled that poor Hussy. The worst incident was when I was about to merge into highway traffic and I was in too high a gear and she stalled and stopped dead with all sorts of traffic coming up behind me. Poor Dave could have been rear-ended. But though authoritative in his approach to me, he was also extremely empowering. We rode to the Malaspina campus, all struggling. Allison later told me she stalled her bike about 15 times that day... but I could not tell from where I was, so I was just freaked about me.

At Malaspina, Dave made me practice taking off on a hill a number of times, making sure I understood how to use the rear brake, clutch and throttle to prevent the bike from stalling out. What a difference that little session made. From that stop on, we all seemed to ride better. We also relaxed and began to enjoy the experience. We ended up going to Quiznos for lunch, and riding up Hammond Bay Road past the school where Ziggy's students were training. They all waved and we honked hello as we rode by. The ride back to the range was perfect. We all felt huge confidence in ourselves by the end of it. And at the range we practiced the test maneuvres yet again. It was great that this exercise was broken up by a road ride... gave our hands a break from the constant friction zone riding. But I have to admit, I still needed ice and heat on those hands once I got home.

And today is the day I head out to ICBC for the test. I'll report on my results later. Barring examination nerves, I should pass this test with flying colours and from tomorrow on, I'll be able to ride with or without a class 6 riding companion. Freedom... here I come. Yippee.

May 25th -- Oil Change & Riding Day

2008-05-25T21:51:00.000-07:00

We decided it was time for an oil and filter change for my bike today. It needed a little warm-up first, and rather than just running it here, I took the bike out for a little solo ride. I headed out to a local school parking lot, did a few slow maneuvering exercises, and then headed home, but I found that the Little Hussy wasn't ready to enter our own driveway (you'd think she had a mind of her own), and she just blasted on by. So I rode on for a just a little bit, found another parking lot, did a nice little circle there, and then headed home. And then the fun began.

Why on earth was everything on the Hussy so tight? I'd have been really happy if I could have managed the removal of the old filter on my own, but that just wasn't how this worked out. We'd raised her up a little on a ramp, so that we could slide the oil pan under, but even so, we just couldn't get the old filter out. So I suggested we gently lay her on her side on the lawn, and that gave us better access. I admit it took a man to unscrew the sucker. I did replace it with the new filter, and of course once that was all set, I filled the baby with fresh oil.

Later on in the day, we headed out to Genoa Bay with Stephen and his friends Steve and Dawn. Steve got himself a big Honda Shadow (I think it's an 1100cc bike). It sure was a gorgeous ride until some stinging got to me. I felt frantic with the intensity of a burning stinging sensation and tried to rid myself of this nasty horror while riding, but it just felt like it was getting worse... darned near felt like my neck was in contact with stinging nettles. I had to signal and pull over to the side of the road. Stephen was ahead and since the road has many winding turns, he didn't realize I wasn't behind him anymore until he saw a truck coming up behind him. Vic, Steve and Dawn, all riding behind me, pulled over when I did, and they saw what flew out of my collar: a fracking bee. Geesh, the little pricker sure took a chunk. I'm awful happy that the folks at the delightful restaurant on the water were good enough to supply me with vinegar and a bunch of serviettes to get some of the sting down. Vic and Stephen are both extremely allergic to bee stings, and we didn't have any benadryl or epi pens with us, so I was glad I took the sting and not them. And of course we learned a good lesson: bring benadryl on the bikes!

Despite the sting, it was a glorious ride, especially on the way home. It's actually delightful to know I have to be home before dark; it affords me the opportunity to enjoy the most incredible sunset rides! We have some pictures, and I'll get them up later. For now, I just want to keep track of my rides. Sure love my bike!

May 24th -- Malahat Mountain Mixer

2008-05-25T13:07:00.000-07:00

We couldn't get away for the whole weekend, but we managed a wonderful greet & meet afternoon and early evening. The MMM was held at the Osborne Bay Resort and Campground, overlooking the Georgia Strait as it narrows between Vancouver Island and Saltspring Island. It's incredibly beautiful! But the best part for me was meeting some of the women I've been talking to on our forums: Vancouver Island Lady Riders and the Women Who Ride.

The picture I've included here first, in front of my precious little Hussy, is of Willi, me and Jenn the Dragon! What a great couple of women, as terrific in person as they've been on the internet. Harley Davidsons were certainly in the majority at this event, but we also spotted some other really beautiful bikes. I couldn't help but think about Everett and his Virago when we spotted one of those with an incredibly pretty paint job.

Just check out the gold finish highlighting the chrome on this pretty baby. But there were many other gorgeous bikes, including a very gorgeous Yamaha, and plenty of delightful little HD Sportsters owned by some of the women.

Dinner was fantastic. We had a wonderful roast, three different salads, and buns and chili. There was quite a bit left over too, so some of the single guys took home doggie bags.

I've gotta say that it was pretty scary for me riding down into this campground... a long gravel driveway descending to a parking lot near the water. I slowed at the top of the hill, looked at it, felt like I was getting queasy and then thought: "just go for it girl." And that's what I did. Man, I was pumped, so proud... and so grateful that I didn't drop the Hussy.

We had such a great time, and thoroughly enjoyed Willi and Big Daddy. Sure want to get together with these friends again. Big Daddy (Bill) has quite a great mustache!

It was over too soon for me. However, I had a fantastic ride home. The sunset began as we hit the highway, and the colors were absolutely magnificent! I got to wear the chaps my friend Lynette loaned me and that made the ride feel even better... no cold wind blasting my knees! Yippee. I can hardly wait to get out again.

My next learning curve will involve an oil change on my bike.... I'll let ya know how it goes.

May 21 -- Ride to Work and Healing Burns

2008-05-22T10:39:00.001-07:00

I never thought I'd be riding the bike to The Pottery Store, but did that today. Mind you, Vic accompanied me on his bike and returned at the end of the day to ride home with me again.

I quickly took the lead though, I just wanted to make sure we didn't head straight home. Gotta tell you... I'm sooooo hooked.

I also want to report on my burns. They're healed! I have never had a burn heal so quickly in my life. For 2nd and 3rd degree burns to be completely healed in a week? I'm still amazed. I was able to take a nice hot bath one week after my little accident, without bandages. I'd pulled them off, realized that the burn was no longer draining or seeping, and decided it was time to immerse the leg (with a little trepidation). No pain!

I have to attribute this incredible healing to my sister, Patricia, a reiki master! She's been working on me every day since it happened, and I'm here to tell you, if you're not a believer in this meditative healing technique, well, it's time to open your mind up and give it a try. I have a little pink skin, no scars... though it sure looked like I would have them when the skin around the burn was puckering and pulling just a few days ago. I've been using vitamin E capsules, breaking them open and rubbing that in, and I am delighted. Not that it's a lovely picture, but this is how it's looking now. I won't even be able to brag about surviving these burns in a few more days, because I won't have any proof anymore.

Thanks Patricia, you are one of my idols, and I'm so lucky to have you as my one and only precious sister.

May 18th -- A ride on Vic's tractor

2008-05-19T09:05:00.000-07:00

What a gorgeous day! We just had to finish it with a ride... but since we were heading out for an evening ride, I knew I couldn't take the Hussy. I don't have that class 6 licence yet, can only ride between dawn and dusk. Anyway, I thought it was time to pay attention to Vic's approach to everything from lane position to changing gears and turning corners.

He's been on his own lately, and found it rather different having a passenger again. But it was a great experience for both of us. We toodled up to Parksville, partly on the highway, and then enjoying some of the beautiful back roads.

Mom took a few pictures before we started out, and since it was so warm out, I didn't need to wear a turtleneck or anything and decided to go for the 3/4 helmet instead of the full-face job. That felt so delicious. Even on the way home, when it was decidedly cooler, I still wasn't cold.

The temperature is dropping again though and rain is in the forecast. We'll have to have a quick morning run and then may not get back out on the bikes until Wednesday when the forecast improves.

I think my mom would like nothing better than to be out riding again... but she hasn't been on a bike (other than as a passenger) since the late 50's or early 60's. Still, the longing is there. I sure understand!

May 17th... Cedar-Yellowpoint Ride

2008-05-18T08:02:00.000-07:00

As soon as the studio closed at 5:00 pm, we got ready for a ride. It was so hot. My bike's been sitting in the sun all day, sans cover, and the seat is hot. So this turned into a lesson for me! I got a rash on my keester from being toooooooooo warm! Found myself squirming on my seat with discomfort. Fancy undies are not meant for a bike ride... gotta make sure I stick with cotton. Wonder if I should warn Flo.... Nah, she's been riding for three years. Good old polysporin and I'm all better this morning. Anyway, discomfort meant a shorter ride than I'd been thinking about all day.

It does feel delicious getting some of that warm wind in my face, leaving the visor up and wearing sunglasses. My mom rode an Indian in Australia when I was just a little girl. She wore shorts, a sleeveless shirt knotted under her breasts... and I thought sandals, but just learned that she'd go barefoot. What delicious rides she must have enjoyed. But I can't help but wonder how the heck she'd kick-start with her little bare feet. And she liked her speed, and they wanted her to race professionally. She scared the crap out of my dad, and he finally convinced her that she could not race because she had two little girls to raise. I think she still wishes she'd done it though. She's getting up there in years, but plans to be a passenger on a few rides this summer. The picture of her here is with our oldest son, Everett, on his Virago just a couple of years ago.

My sister and brother have no real interest in riding... I guess I'm the only one that got that gene and it took me 57 years to figure it out. Better late than never!

I'm really happy about my calm riding in the face of a dog charging me as I rode by. I'd seen him and veered a little more to the left, giving myself more room if needed to avoid him. When he charged, I just gave the bike a little more juice and ignored him. His snarling and barking mouth notwithstanding, I somehow knew that there was little chance of him getting a chunk of me. I am an animal lover, and dogs, well I'm crazy about them. But if they want to charge me while I'm riding, well, it's me or them and guess who I'm protecting. That makes twice I've had a critter obstacle to contend with, and me and my Hussy have done well and I'm proud. It builds confidence to successfully cope with these kinds of scarey obstacles. The fact that I'm not freaking out just makes me so happy.

Flo's Conga Ride from Florida to Canada

2008-05-16T14:19:00.000-07:00

I'm delighted with the forums I belong to: Women Who Ride and Vancouver Island Lady Riders (Delphi Forums). I've been given the greatest encouragement here, as well as some extremely great advice from the women who ride. I found it difficult to relate to Vic and Stephen, though I rely on them hugely for instruction and protection when we ride. Both learned to ride as young men. As a grandmother, learning at this stage, I wanted some female role models. I found them. I want to celebrate them here too.

Let me introduce you to Flo. She started riding three years ago, and she's now 53 years young. She's picking up the new love of her life in Florida, and she will be riding her "La Reina Queen" all the way to Campbell River on Vancouver Island. But alone? Not really. She's going to have company almost every step of the way, and she's starting her ride with the best of the best: The Palladinos of Ride Like A Pro fame. Women from the forum (and some of their male partners too) will join her along the route, provide spare beds along the way, and generally help to make this an adventure of a lifetime with more support (thanks to the internet) than she could have dreamed. I'll be waiting for her with a lot of other island riders. WE LOVE YA FLO.

She arrived in Florida yesterday, and I just have to include a couple of pics. In the first, you see her with Donna Palladino at the airport. The next one is Flo meeting her queen. Does she look happy or what? Anyway, she has a blog too, so you can check that out if you like.

http://goinwitheflo.blogspot.com/

She should be arriving on Vancouver Island sometime between the 5th and 7th (personally, I hope it will be on the 6th). She's also going to take part in the Vancouver Island Ride for Breast Cancer. What a way to come home. We're all with her in spirit, and she, and Donna Palladino, and Willi, and Jenn the Dragon... they're the best role models I could hope for, and I'm lucky to be one of their number now. Yippee for me.

May 16th -- Genoa Bay with Janice, Vic and Steppie

2008-05-16T14:09:00.001-07:00

Wooooohooooo.... I got to meet Janice this morning. She came over to ride with us. We had a wonderful warm weather ride to Genoa Bay. And the picture here is taken there... we had to stop for a coffee.

I notice that I'm a little stiff when I start out. Maybe partly because we had not been out for a while. But once I warm up and relax, things are just soooooo much smoother.

At one point as we were negotiating our way through wonderful winding sections of road, I suddenly thought, "gotta be careful in case of deer." Wouldn't you know about a second later a beautiful doe jumped out and ran across the road in front of me. I'd already slowed instinctively when I had the aforementioned thought. The pleasure I felt in not being surprised, and being able to brake further without panic and simply ride on... ah, how do I express this... it was sheer delight. Stephen was riding lead and didn't see her at all, but Janice and Vic did, and Vic was so thrilled with my riding. Me too.

This is the first warm weather ride I've enjoyed on my bike. I love the windscreen... it sure cuts down on that buffeting that I had on my chest before... even seems to cut the buffeting of my head. I suppose the wind is directed up over me somehow, even though the windscreen is only shielding my body, not my head. The warm air felt so wonderful. Gotta admit, though, that stopping means instant overheating and I can't be fast enough getting the helmet and gloves off. Ah, the things we do for fun! I love my bike. I am nuts about my bike.

Got my Windscreen

2008-05-10T15:08:00.001-07:00

Well I'm not in any shape to ride the hussy today... the burn is just a little too sore yet. Truth is, it's really chilly and windy out there today too. But we drove into Duncan and picked up my new windscreen and mount. Yippee... that's going to make the rides on the highway a little more comfortable and keep some of those bugs from smackin' into me too.

But the windscreen is pretty and suits the 'lil Hussy' perfectly.

Yikes... it burns!

2008-05-09T15:05:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I'm an idiot. The proof is here, bandages around my knee and thigh filled with corn starch to kill the burn. But so far it's burning, burning, burning. I want to cry, but also want to laugh at myself. My mom's in the yard when it happens. Oh you want to know what happened?

Well, my men folk decided to adjust the handle bars on my 'lil hussy' for me. Raising them up a little in order to prevent me from leaning forward. They remind me that it's a cruiser, not a crotch rocket. "Mom, try it out and see how you like the handlebars this way," says Steppie (Stephen's nickname). I'm in the middle of glazing, wearing a pair of sandals and some shorts. "What the heck" I find myself thinking, it's just in the yard and driveway. I start my baby, ride it onto the grass, slighly uphill, and hit a bit of an obstacle (a dip in the lawn), my bike begins to tip over, my bare legs make contact with the hot pipes. Stephen had the bike going just a little earlier, so it's still hot from that.

Out comes the Corn Starch and some strips of fabric. We pad the burns with lots of the starch and the intensified pain of the burn tells me that I'm probably going to be okay... should be preventing huge blisters this way. Ah, I try to ignore it, get back into the studio to continue my glazing. We have a show next week to prepare for and I can't just quit when there's so little time left before the show.

The bandages are moving up and down with every step I take and I'm getting irritated. I want to cry like a baby, but also want to laugh at myself.

The Duncan Run -- May 7th

2008-05-08T10:23:00.000-07:00

With so little time out from studio work, Pottery Store meetings, teaching occasionally at the Chemainus Native College, looking after home and property, pets and family... there's just not enough time in the day for what I'd really prefer to be doing now.

Well, we did ride to Duncan today. And, with the Old Chemainus Road all torn up, we used the highway. Gosh, I hate to admit this, but I do like the speed. Anyway, at the Honda dealer in Duncan I ordered a windscreen and mount for my bike. I'm hoping that will truly reduce the amount of buffeting that the wind causes, especially when I am being passed by big trucks on the highway. It will also reduce the impact of some of those bugs.

I'm still occasionally forgetting to turn on my gas... didn't have that with the Virago... it had lock position, but I don't remember a special knob for gas. Maybe they just had the gas on and didn't mention it to the students. I'll have to get a closer look at one of those Virago's again.

I have 3 classes to teach on the 8th, but perhaps I can manage a ride in the afternoon. Sadly, it looks like it's going to rain a lot in the next couple of days, so the bike will have to wait once that starts.

Received the RLAP V dvd from Donna and Jerry "Motorman" Palladino. Donna included a few riding exercises for the three of us. I'm thrilled with the dvd... the very first thing I learned in watching the first few minutes was how to pick up my bike if I drop it. Gosh, wish I'd seen the video before going to Costco and dropping the bike there the other day.

The forums, Women Who Ride, and Vancouver Island Lady Riders, have both given me such inspiration and encouragement. There are three women in particular who seem to be ready to give give give. I'm extremely thankful for Flo, Donna and Willi. I love being a member of these forums and hope I'll be an inspiration for other new riders along the way.

I've signed up to greet Flo when she arrives here sometime in June... possibly the 7th. There's a conga line riding along with Flo from Florida to Campbell River on Vancouver Island. The internet is responsible for this amazing and wonderful camaraderie and protection. Flo is buying her bike in Florida and riding it home... but she won't be alone very much at all. Women from coast to coast have signed on to meet her along the way and to offer her their homes for the night as she makes her way back to BC. What a wonderful and beautiful thing that is to me. I've found myself in a new community, and I am so very happy to be here. Yippeeeeeeeeee... I'm one of the women who ride.

After School Ride After All

2008-05-07T07:51:00.000-07:00

And I was so sad that I would not get a ride. But, when I got home, Stephen was there polishing his bike, so I suggested that we ride to Chemainus to meet Vic. That meant a quick highway blast into town, and then a turn onto the old highway that runs along the water's edge between Chemainus and Ladysmith. I actually had a moment of tension when we turned onto the old Chemainus Road and discovered that there was "single lane" traffic ahead and possible half-hour delays. It was rush hour and unbelievably busy and I knew I'd have to be very careful in that situation. But I was following Stephen, so I thought that would be simple enough.

He stayed on the single paved lane, narrowly riding the right edge even when the so-called single lane traffic turned into traffic coming from both directions. There wasn't a flag person to be seen anywhere either. I followed him, but when I saw that we were going to need to share this single lane with oncoming traffic... well, let's say the broken unpaved gravel road suddenly looked better to me and I moved over. So did all the traffic coming from behind me and so I was suddenly leading traffic. The car in front of me was following closely behind my son and staying on that single lane, until finally that car too had to move right. Thank goodness it wasn't as long a rough ride as I feared and the fact is that it boosted my confidence for having handled that so well. Once we got to the Pottery Store, Stephen and I agreed that we'd take the highway all the way home and avoid that mess again.

Now for the last exciting part of this. Vic and I rode to our friend, Ken's place, and that meant I needed to negotiate a long gravel driveway too. I enjoyed a brief visit, but then I had to go to my choir and that resulted in my first solo ride. I know it's just a short hop, but it was still the first time that I was on the road by myself. It was so wonderful. I know that's weird, but it gave me more confidence again.

I do have one crazy little problem that I have to remember and avoid. I have a tendency to start my bike, but forget to open the gas line. That means I get started and take off, and seconds later feel my bike dying. Oh well, it's taught me how to find that little knob and turn it as I'm riding... a good thing too, cause it means I'll be able to switch to reserve gas in a smooth fluid motion. Gosh the things you have to learn. I love my bike!

Stu''ate Lelum -- not riding today

2008-05-06T12:03:00.000-07:00

I spent much of the night riding my bike and then woke up rather exhausted. It seems hard to think about anything else at the moment. Since I got called in to TOC today (teacher on call), I just won't have a chance. I have choir tonight as well. I was so tempted to ride in this morning... but who wants to spend a day teaching with a helmet head. Dang, that bike is a beacon. What is it that Willi says: "sunshine on chrome is the best alarm clock." I don't know about the alarm clock part, but it sure is a huge beacon calling: ride, ride, c'mon girl, ride!

May 5th -- The Shawnigan Ride

2008-05-05T15:48:00.000-07:00

Wow... what an incredible day. This was a great ride thanks to Stephen and Vic. There's no denying that there is a true sense of protection in being the middle rider; and that sure does help me to relax. The other fantastic thing is that it gave me a constant clue, lines to follow in cornering, speed to maintain... it all goes so easily in this pampered spot.

We had to make our short ride on the highway to get to Ladysmith. Yeah, that's technically where I am living, but since I am not in town, I need to get onto the highway to get there. I can go to Nanaimo and all sorts of other wonderful locations, but I cannot get to Ladysmith. What a hoot.

I have to admit that those short highway rides are a real turn-on. I love the way the "Little Hussy" handles at that speed. I feel as though I'm completely one with her and it's so delicious to lean into the gentle curves of such a nice piece of road.

The back roads are beautiful, and the reduced speed gives me all kinds of practice looking around and trying to determine potential obstacles. I keep thinking "look for obstacles" and I try to list them as I go. After all, that road test that now takes 1 1/2 hours includes the question of obstacles... at least so I'm told.

We rode through Duncan, down to Maple Bay and Genoa Bay. There's a little road called Mays Road that sits hidden in a valley running parallel to the highway, chock full of curves and so beautifully hidden that you almost feel like you're alone in a beautiful past with just a few lovely farms and some livestock in an amazingly pastoral setting. But the real thrill was the ride around Shawnigan Lake.

And speaking of this quaint and beautiful spot on our island... we went to the gas station in Shawnigan Lake. Of course I ride with total concentration on potential obstacles, rider in front of me, etc. I notice the beautiful scenery when we're riding along, but when you have sudden traffic and stopping and turning into gas station parking lots... well, let's just say I wasn't exactly taking in the scene. And a scene is exactly what we rode into.

The gas station had a big American flag. We like them... provided, of course, that there's also a Canadian flag. This is Canada after all. Stephen was instantly peeved... "What the #$) is this, I mean, man this is Canada." And then we admitted that it seemed really weird. There's a van, upside down... on it's head... glass everywhere. And then Vic said: "I don't think this place is open today." And we begin to take a look around and see more car wrecks... a few more upside down and on their sides. What?

It was at that moment a fellow came over to tell us that we were in the middle of a film set. They're doing a series, something to do with a meteorite hitting, and 38 days of something or another. It was all rather exciting. Though it had me a little nervous about finding another gas station.

Anyway, we had a great run, and turned onto the highway at Mill Bay and rode back to our place to stop in and check on the dogs and have a munch before heading out again. We did that too, after an hour's rest, we were onto the highway and off to Costco. So goodbye to the short blasts and hello to longer highway rides. Vic's got lots of room in his saddle bags so we can pack quite a bit in, and it's so much more fun going shopping on the bikes. I'll have to save up for some saddle bags of my own. I do have a small confession to make here: I dropped my baby in the parking lot at Costco. Well, maybe dropped is a bit too strong a word, more like gently laid her down. Well, that's out of the way. They tell me everyone drops their bike at least once, and I've got it behind me. I made much too sharp a turn and had my front brake on too, and over she went and I knew I couldn't stop her, so I just held her and laid her down gently. I felt like such an idiot. But hey. I guess if it has to happen, it happened in a safe environment. It sure humbles you.

My wish list is growing with each ride: windscreen for the bike, saddle bags and a back bag, heated riding vest, pants, gloves (oh that would be soooo nice), leather pants and jacket. And it would be wonderful to put a pink and silver detail on that pretty black Hussy too. Ah, I love my bike.

May 4th -- A Yummy Riding Day

2008-05-04T18:03:00.000-07:00

Now that's what I'm talking about... what a day! We rode all the way into the North end of Nanaimo... stopping at Serious Coffee, of course. I thought we could perhaps find a motorcycle course happening on Hammond Bay at the high school, but no sign of anyone there. We sure tried lots of back streets, and found some gorgeous back roads too.

Yesterday's ride is still fresh as we head out today, and I feel much more comfortable and confident. My turns are cleaner too, and yes, I'm remembering to shoulder check. Vic is telling me to make the wide apex turns and I'm trying to improve. My thing is to make sure I'm in the clear no matter what. And how cool is this: we rode to visit Lilach and Ron and their little boy, and they were duly impressed!

It's a totally different experience riding the lead. I'm excited about this, but nervous too when I'm in heavier traffic, or when we're on an unfamiliar winding road. And speaking of a winding road, there's a delicious one between Maple Bay and Genoa Bay. Yes, that's right... we rode the northern route for part of the day, and then turned around and road south. Vic joked that this was my very own little version of a dragon's tail. It may not seem much to some others, but I spent a good six hours on that beautiful bike today.

I have to admit that by the time we were on the last half hour of this day's ride, my right knee was aching with cold, my ears were sore under my helmet, my right thumb was starting to bug me. I didn't really want to stop riding, but my old body said: ENOUGH. Vic, on the other hand, took off again almost as soon as we got home. He didn't get enough speed out there with me today... just a short burst of highway travel for the two of us earlier. I'm thinking I'd like a windscreen on my baby. I wouldn't mind warmer riding clothes either.

Oh and one other very exciting and silly little thing... I ran out of gas and switched to the reserve and got to the station without having to stop my bike this time. See, I'm finding things easily now! Yeeehaw!

May 3rd -- Cedar-Yellowpoint Route

2008-05-04T17:52:00.000-07:00

Finally got back out on that bike again.... Yikes, I thought I'd have managed to get out sooner. But I need at least 13 degrees Celcius, and some companions. I only managed about an-hour-and-a-half today, and there wasn't anything special about the ride. We'd hoped to try a new area that my mother said might be good... but the road wasn't nice and we turned back. We ended up doing the Cedar-Yellowpoint loop a few times. I am pleased that I'm not struggling to find gears as much... there's no jiggling around on the bike as I try to remember where and what and how it all works. I feel more at ease with each ride.

Well, the truth is that when I first get on the "Little Hussy" I'm stiff. As a result of the tension in my body, the bike seems stiff too... like it gets what I'm feeling and behaves likewise. Vic is giving me pointers too, and tells me that I slow down too soon when I see a stop ahead or a turn. But he's so pleased with the progress he sees. By the end of the ride, I'm loose, feeling so much more at ease.

The Cedar-Yellowpoint route is nice for getting me relaxed. There's not a great deal of traffic and I don't have stops all over the place. That said, it's not going to give me the riding experiences I truly need. We'll have to venture further and do more on the back streets of Nanaimo. We'll be out again tomorrow. After all, the Saturday ride couldn't happen until work was done. Tomorrow is mine for riding!

April 22nd - EarthDay and my Birthday too

2008-04-25T10:42:00.000-07:00

This was it... the day that riding became a passion!

It wasn't quite as warm as I'd have liked (I'd been saying no go unless it's 13C out there. It only got to about 11 or 12 degrees... but it was my birthday and somehow a ride seemed the appropriate way to commemorate this event.

We left our home, Stephen riding in front, Vic in the rear, and me, so deliciously protected in the middle. We headed toward the Duke Point Ferry terminal to an Esso station to fuel up. Then decided to cross the highway at the Chase River and go the back route into Nanaimo. So far so good. I'm riding well. I seem to be able to gear up and down appropriately, can come to a good stop, nice and gentle too. Seem to be finding the right friction point for start off's from corners and intersections where I've been stopped. So I just trust in Flo and Donna and the other women from the forum and tell myself "if they can do it, so can I."

We come to Bowen Road in Nanaimo, and then turn onto the old highway, and the traffic is thick and I should be panicking, but I'm not. I feel good. I feel excited and thrilled and protected and most of all, capable of this. We turn down Departure Bay Road, and then turn onto Hammond Bay Road and I stall. Yikes. But I don't panic, even though I'm on an incline. I realize I'm still very much a beginner and I'm so glad to have the two very experienced riders there with me. And we manage it all very well and get going again, and before long the tension in my stomach is gone again. I can add that I'm so alert... so aware of the things that can go wrong... my senses are on high frequency.

Hammond Bay Road seems to continue forever, and I'm starting to chill. I want to stop. I think the little stall at the start of the Hammond Bay Road turn unnerved me a little and added to the chill that has set in. We head to the Canadian Tire Plaze at the north end of town for coffee. Somehow navigating all the insane traffic in this area actually manages to instill a bit more confidence in me, and by the time we've finished our coffee, I'm ready to head home.

In truth there was a great deal of meandering through back road routes to get into town, and we took our time, but the return was a little faster. My son determined that I could handle that old highway easily... we didn't need to exceed 70 km, and he thought it would be good to get home sooner rather than later. We managed the Cedar route to avoid the really fast section of the highway, and got home after a little more than three hours on the wonderful bike. Oh she's so glorious.

I got home and managed a lot of squealing and screaming and jumping up and down, taking a few deep breaths and starting the whole dance of excitement, stomping, jumping and screaming all over again. What a ride!

Yes, it was the best, so much so that an hour later we got back on those bikes again. I actually did a bit of fast riding on the highway into Ladysmith. What a bike. Another 1 and 1/2 hours of riding and that made this a 5 hour plus day on my wonderful Honda Shadow VLX 600cc dream machine.

April 13th -- New Rider Pleasure

2008-04-25T10:41:00.000-07:00

Another delightful 40 minute ride. I'm so glad to have this beautiful Cedar-Yellowpoint area to ride around in. There's enough variety to help me keep learning, but also feel so much pleasure in the rides. I know I'm getting better every time I go out. There's really not much to say about my riding at this time. It's improving, but I'm clearly still a very new rider.

April 12th -- Building Confidence

2008-04-25T10:33:00.000-07:00

Nice weather today and I have the desire to learn, so off we go. Inside I realize that if things go the way I hope, I won't be making this a short 10 km ride. Sure enough, not longer after we head out, I feel myself becoming comfortable with my ride. I feel that I'm shifting gear more smoothly. I'm not looking down at my handlebar to find the signal switch or horn anymore. I know I never should have done that ever... but you do it at slow speeds, cause golly, how else will you learn where they are. But all that getting to know what is where... well, it leads to herky-jerky movements on a bike. Finding things by feel and instinct keeps things so much smoother. I found that I was looking where I had to go, and sure enough, the bike followed through. I found pleasure replacing the tense knot in my gut. I suddenly understood the joy of this ride. Woohoooo!

I signalled Vic that I wanted to take the lead...! Then I went right past our driveway and I knew he was thrilled. There's a lovely loupe through beautiful winding roads near our home. It's a quiet enough ride, not too much traffic ever. It's pretty, lots of bends and turns, and some stops along the way. In short, what a great place to improve your riding skills. We spent at least 35 to 40 minutes on this ride and I got the bike up to about 70 km... so felt very thrilled.

Yes, it was a fab ride. We did what I'd call the Cedar Road circuit first. But so much fun did I have, I had to do it again later that day, and went a little further, riding the Yellowpoint Road route back. Oh how lovely. I know the pleasure of the bike. I know that I'll be able to hone my skill and confidence with lots of practice and encouragement.

I'm thoroughly excited by the support from the forums. Yippee... I'm a biker!

March 10th -- Fear Factor Strikes

2008-04-25T10:29:00.000-07:00

Oh yes, another ride... but halfway up the road it starts to rain, and the road is slick under me. At least that's what my brain is telling me. And I'm going uphill and I just want off! Panic. I pulled over and waited for my husband to come and turn me around. What a coward.

At this point I'm truly feeling scared. What if I disappoint Vic and Stephen... especially Stephen. After all, he must be hoping I will love my bike. Not many young men can boast of buying their mother a motorcycle for Christmas. I keep my mouth shut and I'm determined to learn somehow. I tell the guys that the weather has to warm up some more because it's turning far too cool for this old gal. Inside I'm struggling for courage. That's when I remembered hearing about the Vancouver Island Lady Riders. I went online, found the forum, joined, and in came the encouragement.

I might not have been riding throughout April, but I was reading and learning and falling in love with the thought that I would be able to ride if I just relaxed and allowed myself to believe in my own ability. I love the VILR and WWR forums. I kept thinking, if my sisters can do it, I can too.

March 9th Ride -- Twice the Distance

2008-04-25T10:19:00.000-07:00

Well, that first ride was good, only a short one with a bit of parking lot stuff. The next was double the length. I rode out of the gravel driveway and onto the road all the way to the parking lot and then home again. Vic and Stephen both with me, and both having a little concern when I veered over the lines around a corner that I took a little too quickly. Oh the learning curve! But I felt good. I even managed to enjoy this ride home for most of it. Good grief, there's so much to think about. What gear am I in? I'm having to adjust to shoulder checking, and signalling and changing gear and braking or accelerating and all so different from a car. It's hard to have a moment to relax when every move is so full of thought! But I made it and felt good and knew I was actually learning.

March 8th... International Women's Day

2008-04-25T10:06:00.001-07:00

It was a nice day here on Vancouver Island. My son had convinced us to put insurance on the bikes (he actually put 4 months on for us) because as he put it: "Mom, I didn't get you a bike to see it sitting in the barn."

I heard the delicious rumble of the pipes as the bikes came forward. My stomach started churning. What the hell had I been thinking? The guys, husband and son, were so excited and all I wanted to do was turn tail and run... puke, pass out, anything but get on that Honda Shadow. It didn't take long for Stephen to see the panic in his mother's eyes. I admitted my fear: "I've never been on this bike. I have no idea how she handles." The truth is I had two days on a 250cc Virago last November. The thought of riding a 600cc bike out of my gravel driveway.... oh my Gawd!

Stephen suggested that my husband ride the bike with me as passenger, and Stephen would follow on his, until I could get the feel for the bike in a parking lot about 5 km down the road. That's where we headed. I rode around a bit and got past the terror, and then rode home. First ride: 5 clicks. But hey, it was on International Women's Day and not a bad thing for a 57-year old grandmother to do to celebrate her own independence.

2008-04-21T13:16:00.000-07:00

Last May my son bought himself a bike... a 750cc Honda Shadow. He brought home three helmets, one for my husband and me. He also told his Papa to feel free to take the bike out anytime. Since he used his truck for work, the bike was often available and hubby began to ride.

Vic hasn't had a bike for over 25 years, so riding was a delicious and thrilling return to a past passion. By August, Vic had his own bike. And I suddenly became a regular passenger... always seeing a helmet in front of my face.

I took a brief course last fall, on a 250 cc Virago. For Christmas my son got me my own Shadow. It's a beauty, a 2006 Honda Shadow VLX 600cc "California Hussy" and I'm in love with her.

I'm a beginner. I've only had three extended rides and three very short ones. I've such a long way to go, but I have support all over the place.