Not Solo Twisties

The guy I met on my last post took me out today and helped me out a bit in the skills department.  Big thanks to him, and great burgers at Alice's!

Solo Twisties

Rain, rain, go away.  Today it did.  With that, I headed to the hills to do some "real" riding.  Well, that's what it's called here but I kept the speed real low to test the limits of my abilities without ending up at the bottom of some narrow valley.  So low was my speed that a friendly biker passed me, turned around, passed me on the other side offering a thumbs up, turned around again and caught up to me.  We pulled over.  He wanted to be sure I was OK because I wasn't approaching the speed of light like most everyone else on these roads.  I explained that this was my very first time, I valued my life, we talked shop for a bit, and then exchanged some contact information.  Nice guy.  Anyway, it was fun.  

Hypothermia with a Side of Frostbite

Bruce, I do appreciate all the wonderful gear, but I guess I have a lot to learn.  I thought that the stuff I have for riding would be just fine for my very first trip on a freeway down to Monterey.  So I got dressed and grabbed my shiny new license and insurance card.  This is fun but I froze my A$^ off!  I had to pull into a Cycle Gear in Gilroy and replace my gloves, get some pants to go over my pants, and a neck thing for my neck.  I arrived in the store shivering and with a dead middle finger.  By the way, I've been to three of these stores, and these guys are really helpful.  I brought my finger back to life and concluded my trip under surprisingly pleasant conditions. The trip went from complete misery to pure awesomeness.  I refrained from a purchasing a cold weather jacket and put on the extra hoodie I had with me.  Cruising down the freeway at just above legal speeds on a motorcycle is a great experience.  Thanks to the old man for the photo of me on my bike and a great lunch.

   

Ava's First Frame

Only had my iPhone in this low-light condition but I got a couple of this momentous occasion.  Yes, she almost beat me!