Tick Tok...

[DDT (12)]

“What’s the hurry?”, I’d asked, as she darted around obviously feeling some anxiety. She had replied that she hates to be running late, and that she’d overslept… again… “It’s not as though you were on a schedule or anything,” I’d followed… She agreed and seemed to find some relief in the implications of my words. She did slow down to a more sane pace.
 
My ‘land-lady’ is leaving shortly to drive the one hundred or so miles to our daughter’s place for a visit of several days. I’ll be following tomorrow morning for a brief visit of my own. I’m not planning to stay overnight, though, but who can ever know… I will take some toiletries just in case, but… my ‘plan’ is to return tomorrow evening…
 
I’d already informed the one with whom I share a house that I probably wouldn’t be there when she returned… She was fine with that. She knows full well how I am and how my restless soul and itchy feet compel me to take flight constantly… Naturally, I don’t have any ‘plans’ about anything in particular, so I’ll just be heading out on some ride in some direction, for some period of time…
 
Although I will be packed and loaded for an extended ride, I don’t know just now if this will be the beginning of a ‘winter campaign’ or just another weekend jaunt… only time will tell… I’ve learned to be prepared for either whenever I put the side-stand up and ride off, then to return or not as the need, or urge, dictates… I have a feeling this could be one of those longer rides… We’ll see, won’t we…?
 
I’m fighting that same predilection I always have to face… Where will I go? What do I want to see? In what general direction should I head? Uncertainty is so fearful to us mere mortals! “How can you just ride off with no idea at all where you’re going,” I’ve often been asked…? Heck, I’ve asked myself that a few million times, too! A lifetime of conditioning has forced me into that habitual ‘normal’ mindset, and I’m still finding it incredibly difficult to break out of it!
 
Even after many years, now, of conscious effort and of doing precisely that, I still seem to automatically think in those ‘usual’ terms. Well, I’m going to fight that urge again… It is a constant struggle, but… I’ve already checked ‘Mapquest’ for some possible routes and destinations, and I’ve looked up motels in several places to see if and/or what might be available. I have not made any reservations, however, and I have not even locked onto a target destination.
 
Ideally, I’ll just exit our driveway Monday or Tuesday morning and go in some direction until I decide when to stop. I’ll then repeat that daily; that is, unless I decide to just stay put for some reason. Experience has taught me that ‘no plan’ is a very good plan indeed. Still, even knowing that and having practiced it so many times, it seems so counter-intuitive, and it is a bit unnerving… Wish me luck…
 
Whether or not to actually go for a road trip, however, has not been an issue at all. In times long ago, I would have needed a reason to leave, a purpose and a destination… Nowadays just the act of going is sufficient to get me out and about. Part of that is what’s really been lurking in the back of my mind lately, and I do need to address this… I hear the clock ticking… and ever more loudly as time goes by…
 
It seems more and more I’m finding out about friends and acquaintances who have died, are ill, or are otherwise unable to ride any more… That day is approaching for yours truly as surely as it is for everyone. I have no idea how many more days I may have left, but it surely can’t be that many… I feel a strong and growing urge to do all I can while I still can! Perhaps that’s part of the reason I automatically default to a ‘planning’ frame of mind… the need to maximize resources, time being the primary one, while the opportunity to go still exists…
 
DDT

[Rams]

I always enjoy reading your thoughts and of your adventures.   I also (at times) envy your situation and being able to go where ever, when ever you want or, don't.

And yet, I have no desire to roam with no intended destination.    A difference in human nature maybe, I don't know.   Bruce, you have a special spirit about you.    May you always enjoy your travels and share them with us.    You have taken us on jaunts most of us will never endeavor to take.   I'm sure there are experiences that you have not shared and that's OK but, I urge you to continue doing what you do and enjoy as long as you are able.    We all enjoy your travels almost as much as you do.    

Being alone on the road can be a lonely life but, it also has it's own rewards.   There's a treasure out there, I hope you find it.    That treasure may be the journey itself, I'm not sure.   I'm still looking.  

[Misfit]

Against the wind. I found myself seeking shelter, against the wind. Let the Cowboys ride, against the wind. Ride on my Gypsy friend. 

[old2soon]

Misfit nailed it-Gypsy blood or some such. Although my destinations were "given" to me It's the Why of me driving over the road truck as long as I did. When the 2nd X came back I tried-without success-to splain following the front wheel or impulses. While I don't range near as far or near as often I do in Fact relate to what you post and have posted here. Not many folks ask me anymore why I still ride "at my age". Love the look I git when I reply-cuz I can and it Will be taken from me one day-But NOT today. Enjoy the wind there my Gypsy Brother while you can-ALL of our Days are coming. RIDE SAFE.

[The emperor has no clothes]

 
Even after many years, now, of conscious effort and of doing precisely that, I still seem to automatically think in those ‘usual’ terms. Well, I’m going to fight that urge again… It is a constant struggle, but… I’ve already checked ‘Mapquest’ for some possible routes and destinations, and I’ve looked up motels in several places to see if and/or what might be available. I have not made any reservations, however, and I have not even locked onto a target destination.
 
Ideally, I’ll just exit our driveway Monday or Tuesday morning and go in some direction until I decide when to stop. I’ll then repeat that daily; that is, unless I decide to just stay put for some reason. Experience has taught me that ‘no plan’ is a very good plan indeed. Still, even knowing that and having practiced it so many times, it seems so counter-intuitive, and it is a bit unnerving… Wish me luck

DDT

I do wish you luck, (though I doubt you need it). If your winter non plan brings you west, send up some smoke signals.
    Take care my friend 

[The emperor has no clothes]

Tick Tok ? You aren`t going up to Alaska this time of year ? (just messing with you) 

[DirtyDan]

Bruce......stay warm n dry sun behind you

The journey IS the reward

You make it out this way you got friends.......

Dan

[DDT (12)]

I always enjoy reading your thoughts and of your adventures.   I also (at times) envy your situation and being able to go where ever, when ever you want or, don't.

And yet, I have no desire to roam with no intended destination.    A difference in human nature maybe, I don't know.   Bruce, you have a special spirit about you.    May you always enjoy your travels and share them with us.    You have taken us on jaunts most of us will never endeavor to take.   I'm sure there are experiences that you have not shared and that's OK but, I urge you to continue doing what you do and enjoy as long as you are able.    We all enjoy your travels almost as much as you do.    

Being alone on the road can be a lonely life but, it also has it's own rewards.   There's a treasure out there, I hope you find it.    That treasure may be the journey itself, I'm not sure.   I'm still looking.  

Ron, what a thoughtful and thought-provoking reply! I really appreciate you sharing your own thoughts along with your reactions to my posts. As I've gotten to know you better over the years, I've come to better recognize your own depth as a person and as a thinker. Positive feedback from one such as yourself is meaningful and greatly appreciated!

It is a special life... for me! Most folks can't know what all is involved that doesn't get shared, and very few I've ever met would be comfortable with all of the alone time. For me, however, that alone time is a new toy I've stumbled upon, and I am enjoying it more than mere words could ever explain...

The 'seeming lack of a plan' is more of an effort to free myself of restrictions, limits, and boundaries than it is anything else... Spontaneity reigns supreme for a reason... It opens far more doors than it closes, and the 'surprise factor' is always amplified to new levels! Everything about what I do is an experiment, and there are some deeper meanings for those than mere reversal of thinking patterns...

DDT

Against the wind. I found myself seeking shelter, against the wind. Let the Cowboys ride, against the wind. Ride on my Gypsy friend.  

I wear that mantle proudly! Actually, it also fits me to a tee! In my heart, I truly do enjoy being highly mobile, always on the go, and moving from here to someplace new... I truly don't want to live anywhere... I want to live everywhere!!! I paid my dues back in the day, and now it's time to explore our magnificent continent and luxuriate in all of the freedom that has found me!!! Glad you see good in it all...

DDT

Misfit nailed it-Gypsy blood or some such. Although my destinations were "given" to me It's the Why of me driving over the road truck as long as I did. When the 2nd X came back I tried-without success-to splain following the front wheel or impulses. While I don't range near as far or near as often I do in Fact relate to what you post and have posted here. Not many folks ask me anymore why I still ride "at my age". Love the look I git when I reply-cuz I can and it Will be taken from me one day-But NOT today. Enjoy the wind there my Gypsy Brother while you can-ALL of our Days are coming. RIDE SAFE.

I've known almost from the beginning that you are a kindred spirit! Your resume clearly indicates you are quite OK with solitude and long days facing whatever unknown surprise might come your way next. Your words here over the years have reinforced my conclusion! It means a lot to hear positive and insightful things said by one who really knows what he's talking about! Thank you very much!

DDT

 
Even after many years, now, of conscious effort and of doing precisely that, I still seem to automatically think in those ‘usual’ terms. Well, I’m going to fight that urge again… It is a constant struggle, but… I’ve already checked ‘Mapquest’ for some possible routes and destinations, and I’ve looked up motels in several places to see if and/or what might be available. I have not made any reservations, however, and I have not even locked onto a target destination.
 
Ideally, I’ll just exit our driveway Monday or Tuesday morning and go in some direction until I decide when to stop. I’ll then repeat that daily; that is, unless I decide to just stay put for some reason. Experience has taught me that ‘no plan’ is a very good plan indeed. Still, even knowing that and having practiced it so many times, it seems so counter-intuitive, and it is a bit unnerving… Wish me luck

DDT

I do wish you luck, (though I doubt you need it). If your winter non plan brings you west, send up some smoke signals.
    Take care my friend  

Thanks, Rob. Be very careful what you ask for... lol ... you just might get it! While I don't have any specific plans, of course, Arizona is always considered by me to be fair game for any winter-time trek... Reckon we could share a grin or two this time? I surely hope so... I really enjoyed chatting with you and your bride, and I know more conversation would be very rewarding!!! Thanks for your always positive and good feedback, too!

DDT

Tick Tok ? You aren`t going up to Alaska this time of year ? (just messing with you)  

Nope... twice this past summer was plenty for this year! Now, next summer is an entirely different kettle of fish!

DDT

Bruce......stay warm n dry sun behind you

The journey IS the reward

You make it out this way you got friends.......

Dan

Thanks, Dan. No idea what might lie just ahead, but... if it does involve Arizona, I'll be sure and sing out! I know you connect more than most folks with what I've been eluding to regarding doing things while we can... I hope all is going as well as they can for you these days, and I do wish you well as you continue to deal with a very serious challenge thrown your way...

DDT

[Thunderbolt]

Bruce might you consider changing "land-ladies"?  One that headquartered in say.....Missouri or Kansas.  That might save you some miles getting to the next destination........

[LandElephant]

Your writting remind me of the statement I made to you about 5 years ago when you asked me where I was going.  I stated "where my front tire leads me".

No truer now then when I said that to you 5 years ago.  "The wind soothes the soul" and some of us just have a restless soul. Good luck and God's speed my friend.

Charlie Morse
Landelephant

[DDT (12)]

Bruce might you consider changing "land-ladies"?  One that headquartered in say.....Missouri or Kansas.  That might save you some miles getting to the next destination........

Terry,

Yes, that would seem to be more practical... but then again, economy of miles is not something I obsess about! 

DDT

Your writting remind me of the statement I made to you about 5 years ago when you asked me where I was going.  I stated "where my front tire leads me".

No truer now then when I said that to you 5 years ago.  "The wind soothes the soul" and some of us just have a restless soul. Good luck and God's speed my friend.

Charlie Morse
Landelephant

Charlie,

We've had many deep conversations over the years, my friend, and yes, your thoughts do resonate loudly with this tired ol' trekker! Thanks for the good wishes... Hope to see you soon!   

[Rams]

I always enjoy reading your thoughts and of your adventures.   I also (at times) envy your situation and being able to go where ever, when ever you want or, don't.

And yet, I have no desire to roam with no intended destination.    A difference in human nature maybe, I don't know.   Bruce, you have a special spirit about you.    May you always enjoy your travels and share them with us.    You have taken us on jaunts most of us will never endeavor to take.   I'm sure there are experiences that you have not shared and that's OK but, I urge you to continue doing what you do and enjoy as long as you are able.    We all enjoy your travels almost as much as you do.    

Being alone on the road can be a lonely life but, it also has it's own rewards.   There's a treasure out there, I hope you find it.    That treasure may be the journey itself, I'm not sure.   I'm still looking.  

Ron, what a thoughtful and thought-provoking reply! I really appreciate you sharing your own thoughts along with your reactions to my posts. As I've gotten to know you better over the years, I've come to better recognize your own depth as a person and as a thinker. Positive feedback from one such as yourself is meaningful and greatly appreciated!

It is a special life... for me! Most folks can't know what all is involved that doesn't get shared, and very few I've ever met would be comfortable with all of the alone time. For me, however, that alone time is a new toy I've stumbled upon, and I am enjoying it more than mere words could ever explain...

The 'seeming lack of a plan' is more of an effort to free myself of restrictions, limits, and boundaries than it is anything else... Spontaneity reigns supreme for a reason... It opens far more doors than it closes, and the 'surprise factor' is always amplified to new levels! Everything about what I do is an experiment, and there are some deeper meanings for those than mere reversal of thinking patterns...

DDT

Bruce,
The depth of my thinker is like a half a hole.   There is always a void to be filled in.  

I also believe you're a cunning person who really does have a plan, it's just not one that most of us would recognize.    Your plan for life is an excellent example of one who may not have a specific route to the end destination but, always open to the options the road and winds offer.    Enjoy that journey and know that you are always welcome to pass through Kentucky and spend a night or three resting and gathering your thoughts for the next challenge or Y in the road.  

You (my friend) are a Columbus in search of the "New World".    Hoping you leave a bread trail so the rest of us can follow.   They didn't call me Wrong Way Ron for nothing when I was aviating.  

Edited:  Curious as to Ali, has she crossed that 600K mark yet?

[Valkorado]

Time keeps on keepin' on no doubt.  Your story reminded me of the song.

Watch the video, well worth the time.  https://youtu.be/N8uUTW9zPbM

We can't do much about time ticking away, but we sure can do our best to make the most of it.  You, sir, are a fine example of this notion. Carry on!

[DDT (12)]

Edited:  Curious as to Ali, has she crossed that 600K mark yet?


Ron,

Not yet... just rolled 579K... probably hit 580K tomorrow. We're hard at it, but we still have a ways to go...

DDT

Time keeps on keepin' on no doubt.  Your story reminded me of the song.

Watch the video, well worth the time.  https://youtu.be/N8uUTW9zPbM

We can't do much about time ticking away, but we sure can do our best to make the most of it.  You, sir, are a fine example of this notion. Carry on!

Thanks for sharing the vid! Wonderful sentiment, and it is something theoretically possible. Unfortunately, humans with all of our faults would have to be involved in a joint effort, and... you know... We can't individually save the world, but we can and should manage ourselves the 'right way'. I'm working hard to live up to that high standard!!! Thanks for the comment!

DDT