6Feb10-SatRide-Driftwood

27 Feb 10 - Sat Ride to Pleasanton, TX

It was Friday evening and I checked the Chapter U web site for information on the ride scheduled for Saturday morning. We were meeting at YOSA at 9:00 AM for a ride to Pleasanton and lunch at a place called “Fat Cowboy’s”. It had been a month and a half since I had taken Therapy out for a ride and I was in need of a strong dose of two-wheel therapy. Beth had some shopping to do so I got my kitchen pass for the day. After checking the weather channel and testing the temperature, I decided it was a good day for chaps and the liner in my jacket. I was on the road and realized this was what I had been missing. There was a chill in the air, but the sun was out and the sky was clear and blue. I was cruising on 410 toward I-35 and I thought I saw another Goldwing on the road ahead of me. I noticed it was a very clean 1500 and was pulling a trailer. I twisted on a little more throttle but before I could catch up the other Goldwing was taking the exit to I-10 east, so I gave him a wave and continued on my way. As I continued on 410 I was wondering what kind of trip the other rider was taking on his wing. Was he heading to Houston from Corpus Christi? Couldn’t give that much thought as I was concentrating on the mess of traffic that is at the 410 and I-35 interchange, once that was passed, I was settled into enjoying the ride. The Schertz exit was in sight and I could hardly believe it because there was the 1500 I saw on 410 earlier. Waiting to ride were Hilmer Merz (The owner of the 1500) and Sam Morris. I was so excited to be riding again that I almost forgot to fuel up my bike. I parked Therapy and soon other riders began to arrive. Archie & Sharon and their daughter Christy arrived, followed by Brad and Jill, Mike and Ako, Kenny and Connie, John Curtis, Charlie (Biggin) Ward (somehow Charlie got the name Ralph? You will have to ask John Curtis about this) rode with us too.

Archie was our road captain and gave us our safety brief and we took off in two groups. We headed south on 1518 and toward our destination. The traffic was light and the riding was very enjoyable as we made our way through New Berlin, Sutherlin Springs and Floresville. We made a quick rest stop at a Valero on the route. Archie had made reservations at the restaurant, so we were rolling again to make it on time. With all of the rain over the past few months the grass was green and we saw wild flowers along the road as we made our way to Pleasanton. JD Kvapil and Bill & Jane Johnson were waiting when we arrived at the “Fat Cowboy”. We had a room all to ourselves and soon the talk of riding and catching up with our friends was in full swing. The waitresses taking orders were outstanding and the food was delicious. We all enjoyed our lunch and conversation. JD had more riding planned after the meal but I was called into work and had to miss this portion of the ride.

I have received reports from the riders, that the ride around Medina Lake was enjoyed by all who participated. The lake’s water level is still low but this is still one beautiful area of our state. The weather is getting warmer so let’s ride and enjoy the friendship and the scenery.

Have fUn and ride safe,

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