Our Journey began bright an early Saturday the 14th of August. We met at Pete's house. The day was cool, moist, and overcast. But that did not dampen our spirits. We were prepared for a long adventure, a sense of excitement was definitely in the air. I (Ronnie) was joined by Pete, David, (Popeye), Eddie, Luke, Mitch, and Jerry. My coworker John joined us for a ride part of the 1st day. Before our departure Pete led us in a safe journey prayer and asked whether we all had passports! This will add to the sense of adventure as we near Canada.
Off we rode heading to Paso Robles where John realizing he had forgot his wallet borrowed some money heading on to visit his son in the bay area. Our group headed west to Kettleman for breakfast. Then north making our way to Red Bluff for our 1st night. Dinner at an Applebee's and a good nights rest. Oh yes a fake birthday pulled on Mitch. Jerry's quite the prankster. Day two Sunday We headed into Oregon riding hard covering a lot of mileage. Day warm desert of central Oregon. Some where along the line Eddie realized that he did not have his passport. So being a good plan B guy made arrangements to have it sent ahead, of course he had to borrow a phone his lost on the highway. His sense of purpose did not waver and everything fell into place and off we continued. We spent the night in John Day Oregon. The trip to this point was not the most scenic with central state deserts along out route. That would soon change.
Day 3 Monday began with breakfast as we headed toward Spokane Washington where Eddies passport would meet up with him. He and Mitch stayed there and the rest of us headed to the border. Which turned out to be an adventure all in itself. The Canadian's where sure interested in my behavior in the 70's. After a bit of delay they were reassured that I was not a threat to Canadian National Security. Off we went making our way to Osoyoos as scenery changes with rivers and lakes along the way that seemed the size of oceans. What a beautiful sight as we headed into town for a relaxing evening. I was settling in when Pete called to tell me that they were at the A&W for food. Out the door I raced I love A&W which are few and far between at home. I thought Luke and Jerry were still near the room which I failed to secure, Luke admonished me for that later. I hate getting in trouble, although I handle it well. My bad, Ill tell you the washcloth story later. Traveling with these guys is like being on a trip with my parents. God bless their souls
As our day began, we took a leisurely approach to our morning. Our departure from Osoyoos was not hurried, as we munched on the morning fare provided by the hotel. These morning lite breakfasts always proved to get us out the door and on the road. We knew the ride to Kamloops would not a long and grueling one, yet very scenic. Looming in the backs of our minds was Mitch and Eddie hanging out in Spokane, waiting for Eddies passport. So off we rode cruising the roads aligned with lakes and rivers heading to the warm and dry river vistas surrounding and flowing through Kamloops. Although we took a Jerry pace medium and easy. Jerry seemed to taste the end of the day and I sensed that he became energized. By mid afternoon we arrived into downtown Kamloops, circling the blocks around our historic Plaza Hotel and Commordore Cafe and Bar. As we settled into the sights and sounds of our intimate surroundings. The energy level went up a notch or two. As the afternoon wore on, we shuck off the road dust in the best way possible. Yes, of course, beers and shots. To our amazement Eddie and Mitch were already here and in record time. Great to have them back. I decided to check into the hotel and get cleaned up and lets get this party on. It became obvious that Commordore was party central. We returned for dinner and our meals were great.
Shortly thereafter Chris the owner showed up and the reunion was on. Chris is the consummate restaurant owner, his great energy and personality fills the room. And of course the Platinum Patron sent this party in motion. The ceremony with the bottle box from the previous trip was signed and took its place of honor behind the bar. The party continues until late into the night. Well past my departure. The next morning I awoke to a full blown farmers market on the street below our rooms. We met downstairs for breakfast. The guys seemed content to remain glazed over for most of the day. I went off to explore Kamloops, the historic downtown, the river that flows through the city, and much more. I caught up with the crew early evening and we gathered at a Mexican restaurant that Pete found, yes a great Mexican meal in Kamloops Canada, amazing. After our meal we went to Commordore to visit with Chris and company for some good cheer. I had one of the group photos printed and framed. These I presented to Chris and our group. I departed the scene, heading back to the hotel. Chris presented us with official Commordore shirts, very cool. The next morning we were up slow and easy. As I surveyed the skyline something was amiss. There was an odd haze about the city. We soon realized that smoke and ash from the fires to the west had made its way to Kamloops. This hastened our departure. So off we started journey to the sight of our next city of adventure Bamff
It seem as though this journey east along central Canada becomes more and more beautiful. The Trans Canada Highway is carved out through massive forests. We sighted Elk, a mother Bear and her young cubs tearing through the roadside. Along the way the overcrossings and under crossings are for the animals to cross the highway in peace and safely, very ingenious. I wonder how many rode kill it took to figure that one out? As we near Bamff the Rockies loom on the horizon. Vistas filled with snow packed mountains tops and the finger of glaciers reaching down from the sky. We arrived in Bamff and found our way to the hotel. Where we were met by Sheri and Sandy to spend the next couple of days with David (Popeye) and Mitch.
Throughout the days travel the weather was warm and sunny. We found a restaurant nearby for a wonderful meal with a generous supply of adult beverages. Oh yes it was Mexican, how does Pete find these places? Jerry managed to pull another birthday stunt. His victim this time was Sheri. This would prove to be our last dinner together as I would venture on alone the remainder of my trip. After our dinner I decided to check out the town. As I wandered about it became obvious to me this place was very similar to our very own Solvang. With its vibrant nightlife, younger people working, and living within town, it could best be described as a Solvang on steroids. As I mentioned I was heading our on my own. A couple of things make my decision not having allotted enough time from work and a dental situation which was neutralized, thanks to Dr. Jerry with anbesol. The next morning I prepared for my departure with the lite hotel breakfast. Jerry helped me map out my travel route and with mixed emotions I left this wonderful band of merry men whom I had shared so much these past few day. The camaraderie, fellowship, the light to medium banter might totally not be missed. But all the same we had become closer as a group and deeply cared about one others wellbeing. I headed east to Calergy then south for another run to the border. Trying to get as many miles under my belt before my assault on Yellowstone.As I headed east towards Calgary then south to Lethbridge at this point I was given a local route that lead me to the 4 crossing into the USA at the Port of Sweetgrass. Once again I was accosted at the border for not having a signed passport. That's funny the Canadians busted my chops! but didn't catch that. I'm not bitter. On we roll. As I make my way south I reach stop at Shelby Montana for a fuel break. Across the street is a visitors center, where I get great information for the road ahead. On I roll reaching Helena as the evening approaches. I grab a bit to eat and a glass or two of wine. I settle down for a nights rest. It's Saturday the 21st of August. On the road a week, second day solo. As I prepare for Yellowstone and prepare my bike I notice a rock has struck my headlight cover. And the light is out. So I head out wondering how this will play out I decide to take highway 12 rather then the 15. Guess what there is a motorcycle (Honda/Yamaha) shop. 15 minutes later I'm on the road again. I make my way east to Bozeman on to Livingston and the elusive 89 south. I make my entry into Yellowstone from Gardiner. As I make my way through, I realize why this one the jewels of our country. The sheer beauty and size is awe inspiring. I spend the greater part of the day touring the park and Old Faithfull. As evening approaches I leave Yellowstone out the West gate. Once again traveling as far as I can. I reach Idaho Falls as nightfall approaches. I hunker down for a restful night after a meal and some local wine. When I awake and prepare for my next days travel, we had had some weather overnight. As I gear up I prepare medium for drizzle. As I head south toward Salt Lake city I catch some drizzle. Not enough to stop. Once I head west on to 80 things change with more threading weather. I travel to Windover Nevada to stop for fuel and it starts to light rain. I add a layer of gear and head out enduring wind and an accessional light drizzle. I am very fortunate and end up in Sparks Nevada
for another night. This night was memorial for the colorful Motel 6 and the nearby casino. A lot of drama in and around this block of activity. Maybe I was just tired. After consulting my maps and AAA, I realized I was within sticking distance to Santa Barbara. The next morning I took my hotel coffee and hit the road. I must admit the the to West to Sacramento and the 5 South was as scenic with the river beside me as I traveled. When hit the 5 it seemed like I was riding a rented horse. And off I went and home after a coupe of meaningful stops was within my grasp. The final leg was filled with a combination of emotions. The excitement of reaching home the realization that so much had gone so right. The journey behind was filled with the awe inspiring sights and sounds. The days riding with Jerry, Pete, David(Popeye), Luke, Mitch, and Eddie were memorable to say the least. The friendship and camaraderie will be with us a lifetime. We shared so much and the laughter was contagious. These guys did so much for each other. Jerry's planning was loose yet precise, if that makes any sense. This was one trip warped up in two journeys. When I ventured on my own it was a journey unto itself. Even with the initial planning help from Jerry, much appreciated, it became obvious that each days planning was mine and mine alone. I truly believe in a higher being guiding our lives and it is at times like these when that source of faith plays really big in each and every moment. The things that happen for whatever reason give one a sense of of being guided by fate and destiny. Upon my returned I looked forward to so much. The routine we take for granted and sometimes perform on autopilot become exciting into themselves. The family, the friends, the coworkers, and yes our work as well. Looking forward to all of it. Did I mention the Gladys my sometime traveling companion was with me as you can see by the photos. She had a great trip. Always smiling and never a bother. Finally I want to thank all who make this trip a reality. I hope this provides you with a glimpse of my trip and this amazing adventure. Until next time, Be blessed, Ronnie enjoy the pics.