The garage looks like a 50's service station right now, and the bike is in kit form.  Amazing how much work a few simple tasks can be when it comes to automotive.  The bike is getting new front and rear brake pads, oil changes for the engine, transmission and gear case, and a new front tire.  It helps to take off a bunch of things like seat and saddle bags to get access.  It's coming together.  And we're raring to ride.

Little Joe, my pet monkey, likes turning a wrench too.  He likes grease under his fingernails.  He's been in great spirits since he learned about the ride this fall.  Still have to get him a decent seat belt.

This trip has been brewing for two years.  Summer 2006 on a Harley ride to Michigan was an incredible journey.  And there's been a nagging need to do something like it again.  This time, heading south.  Time to return to my parent's final resting place in Safford, Arizona.  Two years ago, to encourage young brother Dick who was struggling with heart troubles, I made this offer.   When you get well, we'll meet in Arizona.

Both of us have lived for that day ever since.  And it's real.  Dick has a great bike and great health again.  Me and Little Joe are raring to go.  Launch date for me is August 31, for Dick a few days later.  We'll meet in Safford on September 5.  Already have a motel reservation.

And very exciting opportunity for is a classmate visits.  Mary in La Jolla will be in town.  We're planning a nice dinner out, and a chance for me to see La Jolla and maybe the California beach front.She's such a dynamic, high energy lady.  Can't wait to see you again, Mary.  Last time was Houghton, 2006!

The bike is getting a little tuneup, oil change, GPS mount, and a new front tire.  With only 25,000 miles on it, it's still a new bike.  Little Joe has been grumpy for a year sitting in the corner by my computer, glaring at me, muttering something about "Live to ride, ride to live.".  I mentioned that we were headed for the desert and he lit up all smiles.  Seems he grew up in the Southwest, migrated to the mountains of Colorado where I ran into him, and has also had a hankering to see the great monuments and canyons of the American Southwest again.

On the planning list after we rendezvous in Safford is Grand Canyon, Canyonlands, Mesa Verda, the Rocky Mountains, and a dozen places in between.

Let's roll - - -