Scratching...

[DDT (12)]

Scratching...  

All different types of itches, for sure, with some we can scratch in public, some obviously we cannot. The type I’m contemplating here right now is one that would absolutely require relief-seeking in public... no way around it. Yep, that old familiar longing for the open road has re-entered my consciousness yet again, and... Funny, the intervals between road tripping urges do seem to be shortening over time...  

Nothing that I've ever found can be done about those itches, either, except to go ahead and scratch them. So, I’ve informed my home-hosts that I’ll be checking the weather in earnest starting today, and I’ll take the very next weather window opportunity to get back out there... Naturally, they have a few questions... Folks are always curious about what might be on the mind of a gypsy when such announcements are made...  

"Where do you plan to go?” I dunno...“How long do you think you might be out?” I dunno... Typically, I immediately begin to notice total puzzlement expressions on their faces, followed closely by looks of utter bewilderment... I know what they’re thinking... “How can anyone just go like that?” “Are you being secretive for some mysterious reason?” Dang! It’s another of those ‘If I had to explain it, you wouldn’t understand no matter what I might say.’  

Heck, I don’t fully understand it myself. Consequently, I’ve long ago given up trying to find a succinct description to make it clear, even to myself. It just is, and the only way to even approach some semblance of understanding is to simply put our knees in the breeze and take life as it comes... randomly and completely unscripted. If we can muster the self-control to undertake such an Odyssey, as some of you already know, we will discover all the astonishing counter-intuitive magic that invariably comes our way.  

Naturally, things are a bit more complicated than that. An oil & filter change is due before departure, for example. This time a more or less direct course will have to be plotted so we can stop by Big Wolf’s place for a rear end service for our girl... can’t neglect those! But after that... Only tire wear and doctors’ appointments in September will be limiting our range. Well, there is that weather aspect that must be factored into every dimension of our journey. Not so random after all, huh?!  

Oh well, we do what must be done, and we deal with the consequences... those figured on and those unintended alike... just like Serk and Serk, Jr, did recently. I’m rather curious myself just where we might go this time... We’ll head north, of course, to hopefully escape some of the heat in the lower reaches of our great land, but we’ll most likely turn west just before the Canadian border; although...? Any trip of this sort will also be impacted greatly by weather forecasts, so a simple meander will probably not be in the cards, either... <Sigh> After a while, even a true coddiewomple starts to become... Umm... somewhat predictable! At least the broad overall outline seems so...  

Ah, but those not-laid-out-in-advance routes always present varying and exciting unanticipated details! Final route selections will be determined at the last moment... often even on the fly. And there is simply no way to anticipate the characters to be met along the way or the curious situations to be encountered... I'm excited at the prospects of all the glorious unknowns just over the next hill... just waiting to amaze and delight us!

All those wonderful things impossible to imagine in advance that can completely alter the direction of our trip or even the entire direction of our life’s journey. In my view, Snoopdog is spot-on correct in that beer commercial on a beach when he states... “No plan is the best plan...” while dropping a cellphone into an ice bucket. A surprisingly difficult concept to embrace at first, but one that produces rich rewards indeed for those willing to let go of lifelong habits and venture forth!

So it is that I once again find myself sitting at the keyboard of my laptop trying to capture my thoughts and make a coherent point or two... and to help occupy my time during this interlude. This could be thought of as a form of foreplay, I suppose... It does have the effect of elevating my pulse and heightening my excitement! Dang, I am sooooo ready to load our girl and point her north right this minute!!! Patience, grasshopper... Patience...

DDT

 

[Valkorado]

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=bYsztoaU9Ls

Great read tumbleweed!

Keep keeping on Bruce.  For several reasons I'm stuck slathering cortisone cream on my long trip itch for now. 

Like you say, patience.  I'm getting some chores and maintenance done.  It'll shine when it shines...

[Bigwolf]

“Where do you plan to go?” I dunno...“How long do you think you might be out?” I dunno... Typically, I immediately begin to notice total puzzlement expressions on their faces, followed closely by looks of utter bewilderment... I know what they’re thinking... “How can anyone just go like that?” “Are you being secretive for some mysterious reason?” Dang! It’s another of those ‘If I had to explain it, you wouldn’t understand no matter what I might say.’

I know that itch!  I also know that it cannot be explained to those that have not experienced it!  The freedom and will to let weather, circumstance, and whim decide the path sometimes brings opportunities that might never again be available.  Once in a lifetime experiences that I don’t want to miss!

Bigwolf

[..]

Bruce,

Be wary of the bloody wind in MT, WY and parts of UT.

It's a buzz killer if it's still blowing.

[DDT (12)]

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=bYsztoaU9Ls

Great read tumbleweed!

Keep keeping on Bruce.  For several reasons I'm stuck slathering cortisone cream on my long trip itch for now.  

Like you say, patience.  I'm getting some chores and maintenance done.  It'll shine when it shines...

Seth,

Thanks for the comments... Yeah, being a 'stationary target' always makes us easier prey. I knew when I headed this way that I'd probably have to wait-out some weather issues prolonging my visit.  Although it's always pleasant to spend time with family and friends, my 'calling' is being neglected with each passing day. And another thing... My SIL is an excellent cook! Dang, I'm going to have to get back on the road just to work off some fluff around my middle becoming more noticeable the longer I linger!

In your case, you're having to pay the 'opportunity cost' of living in such a rich riding area: Shortened riding seasons in exchange for enhanced riding zest... I agree far more patience would be required for your circumstance, and only the individual can evaluate the cost/benefit... We all make adjustments as necessary and... I can't rule out the possibility we might get to share some wind this season, but... The only guarantee I can offer is that it wouldn't be this coming week. I'm sure we'll get a chance, though... one of these days...

DDT




Jerry,

You do indeed know that itch! It's been a genuine pleasure to observe you doing precisely the things I've attempted to describe above! Many think they would enjoy that style, and most would... for a while. Very few, however, could do it indefinitely. You are such a person, I do believe! Perhaps we'll get more chances to explore the 'endless Odyssey'! Like Seth says... patience!

DDT



Paul,

Ah, the bloody wind! I hear ya, mate!!! Thanks for the heads-up, though... Even though we've been blown around all over the continent, I still typically forget to factor that into my non-plans, focusing mostly on moisture and temperatures instead. Many times, though, I've regretted that omission! Heck, if things get too tough, I'll just hunker down and read a good book... like the one you sent to me!

DDT

[..]

From my recent ride

Paintbrush Motel, Riverton WY.

Bar restaurant next door. I didn't go in it.

https://www.sundownerstation.com/lounge

Motel 6 Green River, UT Restaurant close by

Arrowhead Motel Sundance WY  bar across the road, diner across the road

Kansas Inn Independence KS WalMart close by

[DDT (12)]

Remember having to wait on special dates when we were kids? It's like that for this long rider now... I have managed to pass some time with writing, but that's not all... I'd begun to think those error messages on this smart box might be due to the smart box itself, so I took it to a computer repair shop used by my home-hosts... I ended up getting a new hard drive and all seems OK now. Of course, I lost some stuff I had on the old one, but... 'Progress' ain't free... Just ask the bungler-in-chief.

Anyway, I've also changed the oil & filter on our girl... Dang, almost didn't get that finished, as I was approaching heat exhaustion by the time all of that was completed! I've even done some laundry, and I've resorted to making (successfully both times, BTW) biscuits 'n gravy twice! However, busy-work can do just so much, then dealing with the actual issue is left as the only realistic option...

Only I can't right now! Nope, that danged old weather thing... persistent rain mostly, but I have been recently reminded that heat can only be ignored at our peril! I haven't seriously studied the wind forecast yet, but that's something I do need to address, especially since y'all have warned me so strongly! I'm monitoring the weather carefully and constantly, hoping to find that illusive window of opportunity... still several days off, it appears... Oh woe... will Christmas ever get here?

DDT

P.S. I just thought of something else to ponder! Wonder how Rob is coming along with that outhouse project in Alaska? There are also the issues of the Dutch oven he's been fooling with, and the 'close' challenges of so many people in such a confined space! We haven't heard from him in some time... I hope the bears haven't eaten any of his party!

[hubcapsc]

I have been recently reminded that heat can only be ignored at our peril! I haven't seriously studied the wind forecast yet

The wind has only been blowing eight or ten miles per hour here, and
the temp is only in the 90s, but I've walked out the door a few
times this week and been reminded of... South Dakota...  ...

We stopped for gas in eastern Colorado. I was on one side of
a big parking lot and the other guys were on the other side.
I was pointed in the right direction, I just put my feet on
the pegs and the wind rolled me over there...

-Mike "they have a lot of wind some places..."

[..]

This is worth a save.

https://earth.nullschool.net/#current/wind/surface/level/orthographic=-92.24,36.86,4200/loc=-52.279,17.894

[The emperor has no clothes]

P.S. I just thought of something else to ponder! Wonder how Rob is coming along with that outhouse project in Alaska? There are also the issues of the Dutch oven he's been fooling with, and the 'close' challenges of so many people in such a confined space! We haven't heard from him in some time... I hope the bears haven't eaten any of his party!

No murders yet  everyone is pretty good. They will be better when we get thru the paperwork of having electrical supply. Governments and monopoly utilities work much the same. I don’t know how many times now I’ve been told, “I don’t know, that’s a different dept”. I have been putting my supervisory skills back to work. Outhouse long completed. Now we are stocking up in case we get trapped over winter. 



Dutch oven skills are another thing. I had about given up. This morning was my first time not burning the concoction. The remnants of a breakfast casserole. But a longs ways to go before I advance out of the Dutch oven apprenticeship program.




We got spoiled with the weather. The first 4 weeks were sunny and 65*. The last 2 have been a typical Southcentral pattern of mostly rain.
I feel like a kid again. Hauling water and chopping wood. We’ve got the well in, but until we get the electrical hooked up, it’s the sound of a generator. Keeping 6 people with charged iPhones and iPads is a full time job. 

[Beardo]

Have a safe ride Bruce, wherever you end up.  I haven’t been on here much lately (we bought a boat and have been doing a lot of fishing) but I have taken the time to read your posts when I’m on…always such a great read.

Wife and I are leaving Monday for our trip…we’re constantly getting asked by family where we’re going. Probably west. And some south. Can you be more specific? Not really. Thinking Idaho and Washington and some BC  but we’ll see 

Picked up a new 3/4 helmet that I’m anxious to tour with. I like the full face but it’s often quite hot. Looking forward to the wind in the face a bit more.

…and that looks like a good time Rob 

[carolinarider09]

This is worth a save.

https://earth.nullschool.net/#current/wind/surface/level/orthographic=-92.24,36.86,4200/loc=-52.279,17.894

Neat.. Saved.

[DIGGER]

Love the way uou travel there Bronson....uh....Bruce.

[Rams]

Scratching...  

Oh well, we do what must be done, and we deal with the consequences...
  

DDT

I sincerely respect and envy the desire to "get out there".   Some things just gotta be done.   On my way north to Columbus, IN on a "Get Away" but as always, with a mission.   Stopped near Memphis to help my son with his outbuilding project.   Gambrel Barns are a bitch to get the angles just right and and all matched up perfect.   Regardless, we ran out of material so, I'll make my way on up to Indiana.   Spend a couple days with family up that way and then think'n I'll head west to KS and visit my mom.   By the time I head back south, my son should have more building material and we'll go forth and see what damage we can do.     Once done at his place, I'll head back to Hattiesburg.   Not sure how long this coddlewomple is gonna take but, what I am sure of is, the spousal unit will have the "honey do" list updated.  

Rams

[DDT (12)]

"We stopped for gas in eastern Colorado. I was on one side of
a big parking lot and the other guys were on the other side.
I was pointed in the right direction, I just put my feet on
the pegs and the wind rolled me over there..."


Mike,

I imagine it made you feel mighty proud to be reducing your carbon footprint that way... Give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back! The plains are... well, it can really blow out there!!!

DDT



Paul,

Thanks for the link... Wind is surely worth considering, but... One of the few weather aspects that don't automatically shut me down. So, while it is something I like to know about, it isn't a serious shop-stopper type of issue, therefore... I appreciate the always helpful suggestions you frequently and generously offer!

DDT


Rob,

Oh, my friend! What an amazing adventure for all of you!!! I am mighty impressed with the entire 'pioneer' experience, especially the future impact this most certainly will have upon the two youngsters in your group... those besides Brenda, of course! Yep, your grandkids' grandkids will in time know of this for sure!

Please tell Brayden for me that I'm impressed with the 'guns' he's sure to develop by swinging that sledge! Also, your cooking prowess is downright inspirational... Yep, your achievements are highly motivational for this novice cook... Good luck dealing with the bureaucracies of both the government and the monopolies... I spent most of my working life in that environment... Yeah, good luck is about all I know to say to ya... Oh, and congrats on the outhouse completion...

Really glad for the update. We all appreciate the sacrifice in terms of the 'recharge' associated with your reply! We also care about y'all and are quite curious about what's going on... This is 'book worthy' stuff, and if anybody should write one... it is you, my good friend...

DDT



Jason,

Thanks for the reply! For a big chunk of my riding career, I wore a 3/4 helmet. I'm one of those who enjoy the wind in my face, plus I find a full-face a bit more confining than I care for. For several years now, I've worn a 'half' helmet, and I've grown to really like it and prefer it to all others... That old saying does come to mind now and then however... "You don't need to protect anything you're willing to loose..." Oh well...

You've written many stories of your annual adventures before, and I've thoroughly enjoyed reading all of them! More than just good reading, though, the message contained in them tells of an adventurous, restless spirit who longs for the incredible discoveries waiting just down the road. You've experienced that nearly overwhelming urge, and you've learned of the rich rewards just 'over yonder'... I salute you, my kindred spirit, and I look forward to the next installment!!!

DDT



Jim,

You've proven to be quite the adventurer yourself! I agree wind needs to be a serious consideration, and 'saving' that link is a great idea. I've enjoyed reading of your travels, too, and I look forward to reading lots more! Safe travels!!!

DDT

Love the way uou travel there Bronson....uh....Bruce.

Keith,

Yeah, I'm rather fond of it too! Great meeting you in Hattiesburg, and also reading your posts on here. Looking forward to more of the same of both!

DDT




Ron,

My guess is you are who you are, where you are, doing what you do, precisely because that is where life has led you. I know you well enough to also know that if it didn't suit you, you'd make whatever changes were required. So, dream all you want about various things, but I know you find some measure of contentment in the life you've discovered. From this vantage point, it appears you've found one that has many rich rewards!

Thanks for the always nice replies and the 'left-handed' reaffirmation of my own journey being one worth pursuing... Ours' don't happen to be the same, of course, but they both are good for each of us... Looking forward to comparing notes again... soon! Best wishes on the upcoming 'quality time' projects with your son...

DDT

[msb]

Still reading a lot of your posts Bruce, as they are of course always well-written and also always contain a great analogy of, or perspective on life in general... or two, or three, or... But truth be told I'm really looking forward to seeing/reading some "on the road" posts of yours again. Hope it all works out and you get out there soon. Was sorry to have missed seeing you in Billings, it's too bad that wasn't in the cards for you. It was actually my first trip into the US in 2 years...the ID/MT/WY area has long been a favorite riding territory for me and it was real nice to get through that way again. If by chance the weather Gods cooperate and things work out so well for you to the point where you fall into that state where you're enjoying being out on the road so much that you lose all sense of time & place and suddenly wake up one morning and you're within spittin' distance of BC in early September, just remember that there's that little gathering of Northerners called Valhalla taking place just across the border, which you'd of course be more than welcome to crash 

[DDT (12)]

Mike,

Thanks for the really nice remarks! Yeah, I missed IZ and seeing all my friends this time... Glad you were able to make it at long last! I'm so encouraged by your crossing and recrossing as well as Serk's and Serk, JR's, that I'm toying with the idea of venturing north of the border myself! Yep, I am back on the road as of early this morning! Hot as a two-dollar pistol down this way, but I'm optimistic things will improve once I'm above I-80 again! Gonna go verify that, of course... Plan to keep going, too, and ride north of I-94 along US 2 westward.

I've been wanting to make one of the Valhalla Rides for years, but something has always prevented that for me... I do have two doctors' appointments in mid-September, but... I just may see about rescheduling them this time... I also have to think about tires... Both tires on our girl now have wear left, so my natural thriftiness inclines me to get more use out of them. On the other hand... Not sure they'd make a round trip out your way and back... Oh my, a for-real quandary... I'm going to stop by Big Wolf's place soon and get a second opinion from him... he knows tires, ya know!

DDT

P.S. I don't have a flowery Hawaiin shirt anymore, since I gave all my stuff away last year... Could I get a waiver on that?

P.P.S. Valker (Eric), if you're reading this, would you have any interest in getting in on any of this? If so, we can work out any details we might need to... If not, no sweat...