Two of the most relaxing feelings in the world, in my humble opinion, are lush green grass, or soft granules of sand, under my feet.  There is just something visceral about these natural, multi-component elements making the connection between the foundation of my body and the ground. Perhaps because neither are solid, I feel like... Continue Reading →

The meandering pace of my ride changed after San Diego.  I found out during this trip that the interment of ashes of a good friend, that passed away last year, was finally going to happen in Arlington National Cemetery in about four weeks.  This meant that, for me to make it back east in time... Continue Reading →

Family.   It’s a strange concept.   Traditionally, old Mr. Webster has defined it as a group of people with common ancestry.  Over the years, the word has taken on a more expansive meaning, encompassing a group of people with a common affiliation.  Coming from extremely strong family roots, I don’t use the word lightly.  In fact,... Continue Reading →

After several days relaxing and glamping in Joshua Tree, I didn’t want the pampering to end, so I decided to take my road-weary body just a little ride west to the Palm Springs area for a spa day at The Spring Resort & Spa in Desert Hot Springs, CA.  I knew that spas were a... Continue Reading →

At first glance, Joshua Tree National Park just looks like a brown, lifeless desert.  But once you get closer, your eyes adjust to the shades of brown in this place where two deserts meet, and you see so much more than just sand and cactus.  There are over 750 documented plant species within the park! ... Continue Reading →

Obviously, I had heard about Sequoia trees, but I didn’t know much about the National Park that bears their name.  And I certainly didn’t know anything about Kings Canyon and why it was always lumped together with Sequoia National park.  So, is it one park or two?  Of course, I had to look it up,... Continue Reading →

Still giddy from the amazing riding through Lassen Volcanic National Park, I went against the advice of local riders I chatted with at a rest area, and took CA-32 out of the park to Chico. Their warning about 15-20 minute construction delays turned out to be more like 30-45 minutes, but the bright red line... Continue Reading →

I usually hesitate for a second, when people ask me in which branch of the military I served. “Well, actually three branches, but I retired from the Army.” The follow-up questions usually include wanting to know why I served in so many branches.  Simple answer:  I followed the opportunities. Which leads me to the reason... Continue Reading →