On The Road...

[DDT (12)]

On The Road…
 
“I've never read On The Road by Jack Kerouac,
have you? I saw this description:

The main message of On the Road is the pursuit of freedom and
self-discovery through spontaneous travel and experiences…

-Mike"
 
The above was a recent reply to my last post, and Hubcap Mike penned that quote and insightful bit of perspective. I recall thinking at the time that it very accurately summed up my journey. Upon further reflection, however, I’ve been forced to recognize another dimension to my journey that very definitely has crept into the mix of motivations and choices.
 
Sometimes the sound is so faint or subtle that I wonder if a timid young rookie Morman might be attempting his first missionary call at my door. Other times, the sound is so thunderous, I wonder if perhaps the big, bad wolf is about to huff and puff and blow my ‘house’ down! With either of those or something in between, the message is always the same, though… Is the ‘old man’ trying to get in again…?
 
That question has certainly progressed from being more rhetorical in nature to becoming one requiring constant evaluation… and an answer! Is it time? Have I come to that point where it is foolish to proceed as before? Are major adjustments the answer, and has that time now arrived? Aches and pains are a natural part of aging, but when one rides a bunch, those unpleasantries are amplified and impactful beyond what they might otherwise be. That ‘old man’ is quick to point those obvious things out, too!
 
Reflexes, sight, coordination, physical strength, stamina, skill and/or any skill rust are but some of the many things that tend to go downhill over time as the sand inexorably drains from the upper chamber of our life’s hourglass and pile-up below. There most certainly is an expiration date for sure, but when might that be? It’s apparently not the same time or stage of life for everyone, but… No one can simply ride on indefinitely.
 
I’m not ready to pack it in and return to a ‘normal’, solitary, sedentary life in some regular domicile with a big screen TV, a sumptuous recliner, a comfortable bed, and a well-appointed kitchen. I’ve tried that and learned how ‘our world’ can shrink and our quality of life slip away almost without our noticing.
 
I’m also not attracted to a retirement community where cards, board games, shuffleboard or horseshoes pass for an active lifestyle; but, neither am I ready to share a living space with anyone else. I detest yard work, and I dislike household chores… I also don’t enjoy writing checks each month to pay someone else to do those things for me either; although, that is a more tolerable alternative IMHO. A non-wandering lifestyle seems like Kryptonite to this ponderer...

I'm thinking a trike will probably be the next step, then perhaps some roadworthy cage - then...? Of course, some calamity or health issue could pop up at anytime and change everything. At some point, though, serious consideration will have to be applied and tough choices made... but not today...

At the moment I'm dealing with the cold snap that has invaded the southeastern USA, and I'm trying to pick my way farther south. Because of complications involving a desire to revisit CF Penn Hamburgers in Decatur, AL, I chose to deal with the cold in order to stop by for a palate pleasing treat. I did stop by, but now I'm picking up the rest of the tab...

Well, I'm still managing to keep the old man out, so the trigger does not have to be pulled in the immediate future... However, that old man does have my attention, and his influence seems to be growing... I'm banking all the two-wheeled adventure memories now for the time when those will be only memories and no longer current events... Does this mark the beginning of my dreaded descent into that murky, unpleasant ‘planning rabbit hole’?

DDT (12)

[GiG]

Oh, man, Bruce:
You are practically echoing my thoughts  
Along with aches being amplified, I also have family prevention strongly imposed.  Confidence plays a part for me because my balance is not what it should be ( working through it…). So, I have many memories, i hope they don’t fade too much .
Please keep on keeping on my friend, we know you will continue to be an inspiration and allow many of us to to live vicariously through your exploits.

Cheers  

Yeah I read On the Road, enjoyed it, but didn’t find it as Earth shattering as many seem to have…  

[Valker]

Good to hear from you in this sojourn. If I'm having an exceptionally bad physical time, I still have my convertible for an easier, yet still enjoyable time. It's really cold here lately, so I'm not riding nearly enough for my tastes. I am slowly organizing my shop and starting on the maintenance and repair part of my stable.
Our time together recently, especially the night riding parts showed me the need for an occasional nighttime wander. I just bought a set of VERY powerful driving lights for my Valk. They were far cheaper than an eye operation.
I hope we can share some more time soon.

[f6john]

I have to admit that I may be missing the vagabond gene. No matter the length of the trip, I’m always ready to top that last hill, see the house and ease the bike into the garage and myself into my self proclaimed mancave, be that as it may. I always receive a good measure of satisfaction in my limited travels of a day, a weekend or the super rare week excursion. Even still, I  count myself fortunate against the throngs who have to settle for four or more wheels for their adventures and may have never even considered the possibility of two wheels. But I have to tip my hat to those I most envy and they are the pilots who don’t even need roads and get a entirety different view of the world around us.

[Bigwolf]

Bruce,
I am learning that, as the sand piles up in the lower and wanes in the upper part of the glass, such thoughts become more frequent.  Life on the road is certainly more freeing and exhilarating than the monotony of everyday repetition of the same sights and obligations!  The opportunities for new and varied learning are also greater when on the road and something that I love.  Keep the "old man" out as long as you possibly can my friend! 

I am hoping that I get another window of time out on the road before the "old man" overtakes me.

Big Wolf

[Valkorado]

I'm trying to keep the old man out too, but the young man within is just trying to stay warm!  Enjoy yourself.

Currently -18° at about 7:00am, an improvement from yesterday's -25.  Weatherman just said Gunnison is expected to reach a balmy 10° for a high today!

https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=38.5507&lon=-106.9408&FcstType=

[DDT (12)]

Gig,

Your unfortunate 'event' is a major concern of mine in terms of the fact that it would probably be a for real show-stopper for this sad ol' carcass. Following that boo-boo I had in southern Virginia in late September, I haven't been able to shake the very real threat that poses, either! It did result in much lost riding time, and that added to the fear and uncertainty as confidence has slackened while skill rust has accumulated. The result of all that has been a substantial increase in doubts about the future...

Then there are the times I do ride... Nothing like an oversized dose of wind therapy to improve our outlook and sense of things. I had a large ride this very day, and even though it was cooler than I'd have preferred, it was still refreshing, renewing, and rejuvenating! My perspectives on things are considerably different than they were when I composed the above post.

Funny, I've gone from the worry about what I should do concerning my lifestyle to the delight of anticipating where our girl should transport us next! I haven't seen or heard from that old man since throwing a leg over the saddle this morning! It appears that the cause of most of my fretting orginates from between my ears and not from my abilities, joints, bones, muscles, or even bowels... I reckon I'd better just keep on riding...

DDT (12)



Eric,

Sorry your physical ailments have you on the sidelines... A kindred spirit like you has needs most can't relate to, but this gypsy rider happens to feel your pain! I hope you do have a speedy recovery! Yes, it would be great to share the road with you again! Don't look for me anytime soon, however... It's too cold for this boy where I am, so the Panhandle of Texas is out of the question!

Let's stay in touch. I'm still toying with the idea of a hamburger quest to Arizona this winter, so... perhaps that might produce an opportunity. My daughter traded an excused abscence for Thanksgiving for an agreement to show up for Christmas... If I do venture beyond the Rio Grande, it will be after New Year. Heal fast and get your scoot ready... We've got some grub to sample!

DDT (12)



John,

No two of us are exactly alike, of course. So, it follows that no two of us would have exactly the same riding preferences and/or experiences. What should match, though, is the enjoyment we each receive should make the juice worth the squeeze! (I got that expression from you, BTW, and I've been waiting for a chance to use it!) As near as I can tell, you've pretty much hit your prefered stride, so I can only say, "Ride on, my friend!"

DDT (12)



Jerry,

I hear ya, Man! You and I see so many things similarly, and we each enjoy the same type of riding experiences to the point we seem to 'mesh' rather well. I hope things do work out where we could take another epic road trip sometime... Let me know when you're ready!!!

DDT (12)



Seth,

Just part of the cost of living in paradise! Much of the year your area is some of the best, most scenic in North America... Winters, however, are for skiers, snowmobliers, and the like... not this tender boy! Hang tough, my friend... This too shall pass...

DDT (12)

[RNFWP]

Glad you found CF Penn Hamburgers open for your "fix". Trying them along side you is still on my 'list'.

I enjoy reading how your unplanned, self induced, mobile therapy has such a positive impact on you.
Your unique approach to facing up to, analyzing and seeking out peace with your ups and downs is inspirational.

Me thinks that all but the hermits among us watch the large majority of our friends, family, coworker and cohorts flounder consistently without peace. We all struggle (it comes with breathing) however, it seems that taking one the cultures popular (more accepted) approaches is what leaves us in a rut. Be it, simple worrying, self medication, constant distraction with entertainment or media, uninterrupted busyness with the task at hand or even a preoccupation with health and fitness. Non of it criminal, some of it productive, but just not useful when it comes to "making the most of life".

More than merely your unconventional lifestyle. Your unapologetic determination pursue life to it fullest and finding it in the simplest things, is one for the books. May all your "12's" call the shots.
As always, thanks for sharing your journey with us.

[GiG]

Bruce: seems as if you are reading my mind 
My issue is definitely between my ears! Self diagnosis is tinnitus 
Constant whistling through my empty head, balance is shot. ENT  Doc says I have water behind my eardrums (water head??!?) . Going back to see the good doctor soon, best I stay off motorcycles in the 12’  weather for awhile 

[DDT (12)]

Ross,

The single most significant reason I was that far north and became engulfed in cold air is because I had to delay my arrival in Decatur to a day I was pretty sure they would be open. I smiled as I approached wondering if I'd made a good bargain or not... I also recalled you and I pulling onto their parking lot that also cold day and finding out the sad news! I had made a good call, it turned out, but it came with a serious tab beyond the one I handed the girl at the cash register plus some cash. I look forward to our next attempt!

I truly appreciate your kind words. Compliments and positive observations don't always come our way, but when they do, they feel absolutely wonderful! Thanks a ton, my friend, you've made my day much brighter!!!

DDT (12)



Gig,

Our issues may both be betwix our ears, but yours appears to be more physical in nature while mine is almost entirely mental! You are most wise to wait until you are physically and mentally ready to ride before attempting that! Of course, humor aside I've always found you to be a pretty insightful person, so I know you're going to do the right thing at the right time.

I also fully understand the implications of PMS, and I know you must be climbing the walls by now! I'm fortunate to at least have been able to ride much of the time following my boo-boo, but like you, I've also tried to be smart about it and not rush recovery any more than I could help. It's paid off for me, but there has been a cost associated with that beyond the obvious: I've had to deal with mild doses of PMS during longer intervals, and that has had the side effect of producing skill rust and reducing confidence!

It's hard to preach patience when one finds that to be so difficult himself! Still, the only smart play is for us to go through the drudgery of waiting for the right time... And, promising ourselves we will be much more attentive and cautious when we do get our next chance to be behind bars...  And therein lies yet another hazard... Timid riding is also dangerous! Bold riding is not the answer; however, smart, careful but confident riding is... Best of luck to you as you impatiently mark the days remaining off your Calander...

DDT (12)

[GiG]

Words of wisdom, Bruce; Spot On! The difficult part is admitting to myself of the limitations I know are real - mental & physical  -  think about touring constantly day & night. PMS is putting it lightly  -  more like “Change of Life”   

[Hook#3287]

Bruce, I also am working diligently on keeping the old man out.

It's a battle I'm probably not going to win, but reading your excellent view makes me realize I'm not alone 

Keep on keeping on.

[DDT (12)]

Gig,

Keep on keepin' on, my friend! I know you will cope and make necessary adjustments for whatever fate has in store for you. Your intelligence, insight, and experience have prepared you to find quality of life in whatever situation you may eventually find yourself... I look forward to our next laugh session together!!!

DDT (12)



Bill,

Thanks for the compliment! No, you are definitely not alone, and yes, you will eventually lose the battle. The goal is to delay the arrival of that old man as long as possible. Simple awareness of 'his presence' juxtaposed with our ability to control to a limited extent the rate of our own decline is a giant first step. Deliberately but intelligently working to keep him at bay is another...

You obviously have both going for you, so I would only add: We need to not underestimate ourselves and give up too soon... We also need to not overestimate ourselves and go beyond the point that places us squarely in the crosshairs of calamity... I'm betting you'll thread that needle just right... Best of luck to ya!!!

DDT (12)

[DIGGER]

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19XC1oeMWi/?

[3fan4life]

On The Road…
 
Is it time? Have I come to that point where it is foolish to proceed as before? Are major adjustments the answer, and has that time now arrived? Aches and pains are a natural part of aging, but when one rides a bunch, those unpleasantries are amplified and impactful beyond what they might otherwise be. That ‘old man’ is quick to point those obvious things out, too!
 
Reflexes, sight, coordination, physical strength, stamina, skill and/or any skill rust are but some of the many things that tend to go downhill over time as the sand inexorably drains from the upper chamber of our life’s hourglass and pile-up below. There most certainly is an expiration date for sure, but when might that be? It’s apparently not the same time or stage of life for everyone, but… No one can simply ride on indefinitely.

I'm thinking a trike will probably be the next step, then perhaps some roadworthy cage - then...? Of course, some calamity or health issue could pop up at anytime and change everything. At some point, though, serious consideration will have to be applied and tough choices made... but not today...

You've pretty much answered your own questions.

While health is out of our control.

Ever heard the saying, "If you want to make God laugh, Tell him your plans" ?

There are options to keep us in the wind if and when we age to the point two wheels are no longer pleasant.

I’m not ready to pack it in and return to a ‘normal’, solitary, sedentary life in some regular domicile with a big screen TV, a sumptuous recliner, a comfortable bed, and a well-appointed kitchen. I’ve tried that and learned how ‘our world’ can shrink and our quality of life slip away almost without our noticing.

It sure sounds like you've given some serious thought to what this theoretical domicile should be.  

I’m also not attracted to a retirement community where cards, board games, shuffleboard or horseshoes pass for an active lifestyle; but, neither am I ready to share a living space with anyone else. I detest yard work, and I dislike household chores… I also don’t enjoy writing checks each month to pay someone else to do those things for me either; although, that is a more tolerable alternative IMHO. A non-wandering lifestyle seems like Kryptonite to this ponderer...

With the % of women being much higher in one of those retirement communities being much higher than the % of males, you might find living in one to be much more desirable than you think.

I read somewhere that the "Villages" in FL has an extremely high STD rate.

All of them "Old" people aren't just playing shuffleboard.  

I'm banking all the two-wheeled adventure memories now for the time when those will be only memories and no longer current events... Does this mark the beginning of my dreaded descent into that murky, unpleasant ‘planning rabbit hole’?

DDT (12)

The rest of us can only hope to have the bank of 2 wheeled memories that you have.  

[old2soon]

      Well hellz bellz Bruce "OLD" is in my club handle!  There ARE indeed days where feelin like crap IS an improvement. Here in my neck of the woods summer and winter merged in like maybe 2 days!  I Did as posted manage a ride on Veterans day and again bout a week later. And YUPPERS I are gittin used to the trike so much so we be lookin fer a GL1800 already triked! And Bruce the transition ain't bad at all as you Will Still be in the WIND!  And like on my old I/S aches and pains while Not dissapearing entirely were way more tolerable during and after a RIDE and that GRIN took a Long time to git back to almost normal. I am Hoping to RIDE to Inzane 2025 on an 1800 Honda ?Gols wing Trike or as I've heard them reffered to as Geezer Mobiles!  RIDE SAFE.