26th July, 2016 - 1st August, 2016
Days 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10.
These days were spent with the whole network of family and friends preparing for and getting our young couple married.
Family flew in from halfway across the world, arrived from Canada, drove in from Florida as well as Houston.
Preparations were in full swing.
With rehearsal, ceremony, reception and family gathering all planned and executed, we made a 3-day event out of it.
So the High School Sweethearts now married and all family and friends dispersed, my attention turned back to the road.
To me, the journey, the 2nd tour of the year for me was now to begin.
Tomorrow, day 10 of this trip, preparations for my departure would begin in earnest.
The ST required an oil change and a good bath/detail. She had more than earned it!
Right after breakfast, my granddaughter Sophs and I began the work of getting the bike cleaned and soon after that I linked up with my Buddy Charles.
Together, we spent the best part of the morning taking care of this much needed service in his workshop. He was anxious to give me a grand tour of his flourishing Sign-business. I’m so proud of him.
Back in the 90’s, we worked together repairing boats and marine outboard engines - and spent many a morning/day out on the Laguna Madre fishing.
As the day wore on I began to get ready for the return leg of my journey back to north east Ohio.
My plan was to be up at 3:00 a.m. and prepare for a 4:00 a.m. departure.
“Buster” and Jeff, 2 of my Texan riding buddies offered to meet up and ride with me to the outer city limits and see me off safely.
Like the true bike-touring enthusiasts we all are, it was a great reason/opportunity/excuse to get out and ride.