Update;The Cherylann of the Hotel Jeffrey Benefit

The day was truly eventful in many ways. I asked a few of my friends if they would like to participate, and expected 2 bikes=4 people. Well we ended up with 7 bikes=13 people! How awesome!






Many people donated their time, effort, and items to raffle. It was only a 6 week project. This is what I mean, when I say that the Biker community comes together when someone is in need.







The total money raised; approx. $10,000! Can you believe that? Awesome!

Well, until the next run, ride, or benefit, keep your knees in the breeze, and your feet to the street!

Ritual or Routine?

Ritual: any practice or pattern of behavior regularly performed in a set manner.
Routine: regular, unvarying, habitual, unimaginative, or rote procedure.

I have come to notice that I have a 'routine' of sorts before going on a ride, and was wondering if I was just crazy, or do all bikers have a ritual or routine before getting on the bike?

• My biker clothes are kept separate; so they can be accessed at a moments notice


• Shirts are layered on (depending on weather); 2 tanks-a short sleeved-and a long sleeved


• A particular pair of pants only!


• Two pairs of socks; always


• Biker boots; of course


• Take important items; ID, money, etc. from large purse to smaller biker purse


• A light hoodie


• Jacket
• Put hair in pony-tail
• Last but not least; helmet, glasses, and gloves

This is all done in orderly fashion. I know it may seem normal to some, and weird to others. A rider may have a different ritual or routine, which leaves me to ask this question; Do you have a Ritual or Routine before getting on the bike?

'My' Therapy

If you own a bike, you have therapy! I know this has been said before, but riding the bike is very theraputic for me. We've been riding for about 5 years now, and I honestly think it has helped our marraige, and helps me to relax. I'm high strung by nature, and after a nice ride, I feel relaxed. Yes, a ride can be draining after a long haul, but it is also rewarding at the same time.


There is no radio, phone, or blabby distractions, just the sound of the bike and the thoughts of the day swirling around in your head. Sometimes an occassional song gets stuck in there, so I'll just pass the time that way. We take alot of back roads, so we see different types of wildlife which is pretty cool at times. (I think I've become quite the birdwatcher, and why not?) For the most part, you have 'time' to put your thoughts together and sometimes a revelation of sorts usually happens. Which has lead me to write this blog, but the problem lies with all the 'lightbulbs' hovering over my head during the ride, and nowhere to put them until I have arrived at my destination. Everything seems to come together when we are in motion, then when we stop or are at home, it flies right out of my brain! I'll 'theraputically' put this together eventually.
I guess therapy can be anything really, it just depends on what works for you. "Start the bike," It's time for my session!

Runs & Rides

We love to ride for charities and 2008 was an eventful year for us. I already have some lined up for us this year, which incudes The Sierra Hope Ride. (http://www.sierrahoperide.org/) This ride benefits MDA, for Jerry's kids. We've done this one several times, each one unique in it's own way. There are so many bikes and wonderful people that are very committed to this. One of the best parts of this run, is going through the city,(police escorted) like a parade! People are lined up for miles, waving, clapping and enjoying all the bikes coming through. It's just a wonderful feeling and very fulfilling.



This next run hits close to home for me. As you know, the biking community in most areas are like family, and when the time comes to help someone in need, you rise to the occasion without question. A dear lady, Cherylann and her husband Peter, own the Historic Hotel Jeffery. (http://www.hoteljefferygold.com/) They have old fashion rooms and great food! We have learned that Cherylann has been diagnosed with cancer, and they need help paying for treatments. Result: 'The Cherylann of the Hotel Jeffery Support Run', April 19,2009. I know that this will be a great event, and am looking forward to help in any way I can.