You know, I always laugh because I have the worst luck. If I order something offline, or am doing a house project, something is bound to go wrong. It would only happen to me. However, this trip was probably one of the coolest things I've got to do, which I consider pretty lucky.
Not only did I get to go to 18 different states in 18 days pretty much. But I got to develop a now unbreakable bond with Starry and Mary. I had never vacationed with them before. I would see them at some family get togethers. I've obviously always liked their company, how could you not? But this opportunity really allowed me to get to know them.
With Mary, you just know what you are getting. She will ask you any question that is on her mind and she is the most social person I have ever met in my life. Oh, and you cannot forget that she hugs everyone. Mary make inappropriate jokes, she likes to make people feel awkward, and she likes to just say things how they are. Mary is just...Mary. But gosh darnnit, she is freakin' hilarious. I probably think this, because I tend to be the same way.
Then there is Starry. (I actually started to get his name right about the day before we left). Granted, Larry wasn't around so that could have played a big role in it too. I'll let ya'll know the next time I am with them both. Starry, I was always curious about his personality. Ya know, you hear stories from other family members, mostly my mom and Mike. But then you also see some things on Facebook. So I was quite excited to get to know him a little better, and he didn't disappoint. Starry is the 'responsible dad' of the group. He had to keep us three ladies in line majority of the time. However, I feel as though he has been doing this for awhile now (him and Mary just celebrated 30 years together). Don't get me wrong when I give him this title though, him and I had our light hearted picking on each other quite a bit, and I fully enjoyed it. He sits back and observes the environment, because...well Mary doesn't really let him talk. But once he gets going, he is hilarious. He just throws one liners out there (some funnier than others), and he will just hold onto one simple thing you said and make it a big deal, but in a hilarious way. It's hard to explain, but it's so delightful. Or he will randomly do something unexpected. Like make a ridiculous face, and then when you (meaning me) capture it on camera and laugh at it for twenty minutes he is just cool with it. Or if you've been following the blog, I posted a picture of him showing off his butt, captured on accident, but probably one of my favorite pictures, because thats the type of funny he is!
Mary and Starry together is just a whole new world to me. I usually see them in bigger groups, like family get togethers. Any time Starry did something 'less impressive' Mary would yell "Thats my man! My man!"with an emphasis on 'my'. Also, if Mary is being slightly outrageous there is this certain way that Starry says "Mary" that just cracks me up. I have been practicing my impersonations, but I'm not fully there yet. Starry's is so good-- it is literally the exact same every time. If you have ever heard it, you know EXACTLY what I am talking about.
One thing I really appreciated on this trip, was the encouragement we got from each other. I can't tell you how many times Mary and I did our animal calls, and were in fact encouraged to do so. Or if someone did something dumb, we'd sarcastically encourage them. Things like this. Okay, maybe it was more making fun of each other than it was encouragement. For example, Starry when he couldn't figure out the windshield wipers. Or when he had to Austin Powers to back up. Or when he kept putting his sunglasses on instead of his readers. Don't worry, we made fun of Mike too.
But back to the luck thing. How lucky am I, that I got this great opportunity to get to hang out with my aunt and uncle for 3 weeks. I came late to the game, about what like 17 years later? I got to meet them after my mom and Mike started dating, but now at 28, to have really gotten the opportunity to spend quality time with them and to have learned more about the personalities and formed this bond that will forever be there? Thats pretty freakin' cool, and not many people get to say that. Not only did we go on this adventure together, but we have all of these crazy memories together. I mean seriously, that is just mind blowing to me. I mean words can't even describe how much that means to me. I will forever cherish and value that time that I got to spend with Starry and Mary. (I mean Mom and Mike too, but this blog post isn't about them).
There is so much more I could say about Starry and Mary and how amazing of people they are. But words could never do them justice. You are better off just meeting them. If you don't, I'm sorry but you are missing out.
I could not have been luckier to have experienced this trip of a lifetime with these two people. Like I said before, I value the time I got to spend getting to know them even better, and will forever be grateful and appreciative of how cool of an experience this was with them.
<3 <3 <3
Friday, September 28, 2018
Thursday, September 27, 2018
I don't know about you
but I am really missing the Cannonball right about now.
I am sitting here at work, hardly working apparently, and have been getting a lot of question about my trip. "You've been gone forever! How was your trip?" "It looked like you had so much fun!" "Explain this thing to me." Everyone seemed to be amazed by the Cannonball. It really made me miss it.
Don't get me wrong, I have fully enjoyed doing nothing at home the last few days. I mean, it was like pulling teeth to get myself to go to the grocery store (this is normal behavior anyway). I also have continued to love to snuggle my cat, and she hasn't really left my side either -- awwwww.
Anyway, coming back and being home and back to "real" life, you start to think about the trip you just took. Holy balls, what a great adventure we just partook in. The opportunity to meet all of these wonderful people that we otherwise wouldn't have gotten to meet. People from all over the world. We made great friends from Ireland, New Zealand and then some in the United States too, Ohio, Wisconsin, Kansas. You name it! When the time came to say goodbye--or see ya later, it seemed like not too big of deal. But you get home and you want to talk to those people and see them because you just saw them every single day for the last 3 weeks. It's so unreal.
When you try to explain the Cannonball to people who have never gone or experienced it, no matter how you explain it, they just don't get it. It's definitely something to experience. You get excited to watch your new friends cross the checkpoint line, and you jump in to help when you can. Okay, I mean I can give a push start, thats about it. I guess I took a sliver out once. haha. I did tell Mike I was going to start Youtubing stuff so if he does it again, I can be more help. Thats what night shift is for right?
I truly just wish that I could see all of these people again right now, and it's literally been 5 days.
I'm just going to sit here in self pity and remember all my fraaaans.
I am sitting here at work, hardly working apparently, and have been getting a lot of question about my trip. "You've been gone forever! How was your trip?" "It looked like you had so much fun!" "Explain this thing to me." Everyone seemed to be amazed by the Cannonball. It really made me miss it.
Don't get me wrong, I have fully enjoyed doing nothing at home the last few days. I mean, it was like pulling teeth to get myself to go to the grocery store (this is normal behavior anyway). I also have continued to love to snuggle my cat, and she hasn't really left my side either -- awwwww.
Anyway, coming back and being home and back to "real" life, you start to think about the trip you just took. Holy balls, what a great adventure we just partook in. The opportunity to meet all of these wonderful people that we otherwise wouldn't have gotten to meet. People from all over the world. We made great friends from Ireland, New Zealand and then some in the United States too, Ohio, Wisconsin, Kansas. You name it! When the time came to say goodbye--or see ya later, it seemed like not too big of deal. But you get home and you want to talk to those people and see them because you just saw them every single day for the last 3 weeks. It's so unreal.
When you try to explain the Cannonball to people who have never gone or experienced it, no matter how you explain it, they just don't get it. It's definitely something to experience. You get excited to watch your new friends cross the checkpoint line, and you jump in to help when you can. Okay, I mean I can give a push start, thats about it. I guess I took a sliver out once. haha. I did tell Mike I was going to start Youtubing stuff so if he does it again, I can be more help. Thats what night shift is for right?
I truly just wish that I could see all of these people again right now, and it's literally been 5 days.
I'm just going to sit here in self pity and remember all my fraaaans.
Tuesday, September 25, 2018
Day 15 -- Sept 23, 2018
The Dalles, OR to Stevenson, WA
51 Miles
Holy Moly Batman. The journey has come to an end! What an amazing experience. We had a late start today, the first group didn't even leave until 11:00 am. The short ride for the support crew was beautiful as always. We followed the Columbia river the whole way and mountains were right beside it. This proved to be such a beautiful sight. No matter how I describe it, I could never get close to giving it justice.
The riders had to cross some bridges that were quite frightening, making it seem like they weren't driving on anything, and if they fell they would essentially be falling onto a cheese grater. We did get to go over the "Bridge of the Gods" which had views to enjoy.
Once we got to the lodge, the parking was crap. There was pretty much no parking available. Starry struggled to back the trailer up, significantly (I'm not saying any of us could do better), we had to call in some reenforcement from fellow support crew member, Magic. He did it like a champ.
This lodge has some cool stuff. You can axe throw, do zip lining, and a ropes coarse. I'm mad, because time doesn't allow us to enjoy any of these things. however, when you step outside into the back of the building, that view is only something you'd see in a movie.
We had some friends show up, we had Mike's friend show up Steve and Jenny also my friend showed up Lynnae with her baby girl Lily. Just like all of these events, there was a large group of people to watch the Cannonballers come in for the grande finale. It's always just a really cool thing to witness how interested people are and how supportive everyone is of all of these riders! Not only are random people cheering for these riders, but all the other support crew members are too. We have spent 3 weeks with these people and have gotten to know them and enjoyed their company. We've all showed support and needed support in return, and everyone is willing to give it. You are excited for everyone who gets across the finish line.
Between the arrival of the riders and the banquet, we were able to grab drinks, rest, catch up with people, etc. Nothing too exciting happened. The Butts did their own thing then met up at the banquet.
At the banquet at our table we had Mike, Mom, Starry, Mary, John and Tom (from Ireland), Charlie, Magic and me. It was the perfect table! Although, I had had a whole glass of red wine just spilt on me -- luckily I was able to get it all out. Magic felt pretty terrible about it, but if you know me, I need to make fun of people and give them crap as much as possible. So, I did.
The banquet food was delicious, which was to be expected. They showed some pictures taken by the photographer, which were amazing! I think we will get to see more of them as time goes (I hope!). We talked about some firsts that happen on the trip. My favorite being that the Cannonball did make it to Minnesota slightly. They awarded riders that made it through all of the miles, which Mike did. Plus some other awards! One being best wrencher, one given for determination and always willing to help and who is a great inspiration. plus there were some other ones. Also, there was a first of a engagement proposal!!!!! One of the riders proposed to his girlfriend in front of everyone at the banquet! It was bomb-diggity.
After the banquet we had to say good-bye to some of our friends. And you know, these people were complete strangers three weeks ago -- but they are like family now. It's like we are going to miss them all so much! We are used to seeing them every day, we've got our routine down!
51 Miles
Last day of the 2018 Cannonball
Last time putting route chart together --super windy
Holy Moly Batman. The journey has come to an end! What an amazing experience. We had a late start today, the first group didn't even leave until 11:00 am. The short ride for the support crew was beautiful as always. We followed the Columbia river the whole way and mountains were right beside it. This proved to be such a beautiful sight. No matter how I describe it, I could never get close to giving it justice.
The riders had to cross some bridges that were quite frightening, making it seem like they weren't driving on anything, and if they fell they would essentially be falling onto a cheese grater. We did get to go over the "Bridge of the Gods" which had views to enjoy.
Once we got to the lodge, the parking was crap. There was pretty much no parking available. Starry struggled to back the trailer up, significantly (I'm not saying any of us could do better), we had to call in some reenforcement from fellow support crew member, Magic. He did it like a champ.
This lodge has some cool stuff. You can axe throw, do zip lining, and a ropes coarse. I'm mad, because time doesn't allow us to enjoy any of these things. however, when you step outside into the back of the building, that view is only something you'd see in a movie.
We had some friends show up, we had Mike's friend show up Steve and Jenny also my friend showed up Lynnae with her baby girl Lily. Just like all of these events, there was a large group of people to watch the Cannonballers come in for the grande finale. It's always just a really cool thing to witness how interested people are and how supportive everyone is of all of these riders! Not only are random people cheering for these riders, but all the other support crew members are too. We have spent 3 weeks with these people and have gotten to know them and enjoyed their company. We've all showed support and needed support in return, and everyone is willing to give it. You are excited for everyone who gets across the finish line.
Between the arrival of the riders and the banquet, we were able to grab drinks, rest, catch up with people, etc. Nothing too exciting happened. The Butts did their own thing then met up at the banquet.
At the banquet at our table we had Mike, Mom, Starry, Mary, John and Tom (from Ireland), Charlie, Magic and me. It was the perfect table! Although, I had had a whole glass of red wine just spilt on me -- luckily I was able to get it all out. Magic felt pretty terrible about it, but if you know me, I need to make fun of people and give them crap as much as possible. So, I did.
The banquet food was delicious, which was to be expected. They showed some pictures taken by the photographer, which were amazing! I think we will get to see more of them as time goes (I hope!). We talked about some firsts that happen on the trip. My favorite being that the Cannonball did make it to Minnesota slightly. They awarded riders that made it through all of the miles, which Mike did. Plus some other awards! One being best wrencher, one given for determination and always willing to help and who is a great inspiration. plus there were some other ones. Also, there was a first of a engagement proposal!!!!! One of the riders proposed to his girlfriend in front of everyone at the banquet! It was bomb-diggity.
After the banquet we had to say good-bye to some of our friends. And you know, these people were complete strangers three weeks ago -- but they are like family now. It's like we are going to miss them all so much! We are used to seeing them every day, we've got our routine down!
Look at these views!! Waiting for the riders to come in
Jeff and me
Mike, Mom, Jenny and Steve
This river and mountains <3
Miss Lily
Lynnae, Lily and me
Mike received this at the banquet for completing all the miles of the Cannonball!
Keep checking back, I plan on writing a few more things and adding some videos from my go pro!
Monday, September 24, 2018
DON’T WORRY
Yesterday Mike did finish the Cannonball with ALL miles!! I started writing the blog but couldn’t keep my eyes open, so I apologize. I am in the airport getting ready to fly back to Minnesota but when I get home I will definitely update it for all those who are worried! I know the race is over, but keep checking back in the coming days for pictures and videos.
Saturday, September 22, 2018
Day 14 Sept 22, 2018
Spokane Valley, WA to The Dalles, OR
303 Miles
When we first woke up, the weather seemed to be quite lovely. Slightly warmer than expected. Mike again got off to a good start, and we were off to The Dalles. I again...slept pretty much the whole time. Mary and my mom think it is quite funny to take pictures of me sleeping. I am not a "cute" sleeper. I'm surprised I didn't have drool hanging out of my mouth.
For the riders the drive was probably the worst yet. The roads were crap, especially with bikes that have little to no suspension. The body takes a lot of the shock. Mike noticed that the bolts from his gas tank started coming loose. He actually lost one of them. The bike was shaking and moving that much. On top of all that movement, there was a crap-ton of wind. When we pulled into the parking lot (about the time I woke up) the trees were almost horizontal. Okay, I may be exaggerating slightly, but you get the point. And if you've ever driven a motorcycle, these are not ideal conditions. I guess that's why they call it an endurance run.
We got back to the hotel a few hours prior to the riders. These were the afternoons we had been hoping for the whole trip. Everyone decided to just relax and pretty much do nothing, because lets be real, we have been doing something since Sept 3rd. or whatever day we got to Portland, Maine.
We went to downtown The Dalles, where they had some roads closed off. We were tracking Mike so we could cheer him on when he came through the checkpoint line, but somehow we still missed him. Go figure. Anyway, we did find him. He actually had some stories for us!!
If you've ever been told a story by Mike, you know he tells them with great enthusiasm. Unfortunately, I am unable to fully show this enthusiasm through this blog. The first story goes something like this; Mike and Charlie were just riding along on the motorcycles when all of a sudden a cow just comes out of the ditch and decides to come onto the rode and doesn't move so Charlie and Mike both have to weave. The cow goes back into the ditch, and then the cow comes back!!! Luckily no one or cow was hurt.
The second story was something about how this other rider was cold and decided to get in front of some female riders and do some push ups right in front of them. Apparently Mike thought this was quite hilarious.
Lastly, and I am unsure if I should even put this out there, but hell, I'm going to. Another rider, who will be left unnamed, had just filled up his tank, was trying to get his bike started and somehow manage to fall over, with his bike. Mike could not control himself and continued to laugh. While telling this story he realized that maybe he should have helped the guy. He said the guy stayed on the ground for awhile, but thought maybe out of embarrassment. Holy moly, I just wish I would have seen that one. I would have been rolling on the ground laughing.
The Sedition Brewing Company put on the dinner, and let me tell you folks, this dinner was delicious. Fresh Salmon caught today! I truly wish every one of you could be on this trip because we are just pure entertainment. There is always something going on. Either it's Mom and I messing around, Mary goofing around, Magic (he's a support crew member who has been adopted into our group) and I picking on each other, or Starry and Mike making weird faces. There is just something going on at all times. Today was one of those days were stuff just kept happening that was funny. One of the last examples was Starry trying to back the truck up to the trailer. It was like Austin Powers, backward, forward, backward forward, about 5 million times.
Mike was EXHAUSTED. He fell asleep at about 8:00pm. He was pooped. But we don't set off for the 50 miles until 11:00am tomorrow. We cannot believe that our journey is almost over.
303 Miles
Tough guy Mike, he did this pose on his own.
For the riders the drive was probably the worst yet. The roads were crap, especially with bikes that have little to no suspension. The body takes a lot of the shock. Mike noticed that the bolts from his gas tank started coming loose. He actually lost one of them. The bike was shaking and moving that much. On top of all that movement, there was a crap-ton of wind. When we pulled into the parking lot (about the time I woke up) the trees were almost horizontal. Okay, I may be exaggerating slightly, but you get the point. And if you've ever driven a motorcycle, these are not ideal conditions. I guess that's why they call it an endurance run.
We got back to the hotel a few hours prior to the riders. These were the afternoons we had been hoping for the whole trip. Everyone decided to just relax and pretty much do nothing, because lets be real, we have been doing something since Sept 3rd. or whatever day we got to Portland, Maine.
We went to downtown The Dalles, where they had some roads closed off. We were tracking Mike so we could cheer him on when he came through the checkpoint line, but somehow we still missed him. Go figure. Anyway, we did find him. He actually had some stories for us!!
If you've ever been told a story by Mike, you know he tells them with great enthusiasm. Unfortunately, I am unable to fully show this enthusiasm through this blog. The first story goes something like this; Mike and Charlie were just riding along on the motorcycles when all of a sudden a cow just comes out of the ditch and decides to come onto the rode and doesn't move so Charlie and Mike both have to weave. The cow goes back into the ditch, and then the cow comes back!!! Luckily no one or cow was hurt.
The second story was something about how this other rider was cold and decided to get in front of some female riders and do some push ups right in front of them. Apparently Mike thought this was quite hilarious.
Lastly, and I am unsure if I should even put this out there, but hell, I'm going to. Another rider, who will be left unnamed, had just filled up his tank, was trying to get his bike started and somehow manage to fall over, with his bike. Mike could not control himself and continued to laugh. While telling this story he realized that maybe he should have helped the guy. He said the guy stayed on the ground for awhile, but thought maybe out of embarrassment. Holy moly, I just wish I would have seen that one. I would have been rolling on the ground laughing.
The Sedition Brewing Company put on the dinner, and let me tell you folks, this dinner was delicious. Fresh Salmon caught today! I truly wish every one of you could be on this trip because we are just pure entertainment. There is always something going on. Either it's Mom and I messing around, Mary goofing around, Magic (he's a support crew member who has been adopted into our group) and I picking on each other, or Starry and Mike making weird faces. There is just something going on at all times. Today was one of those days were stuff just kept happening that was funny. One of the last examples was Starry trying to back the truck up to the trailer. It was like Austin Powers, backward, forward, backward forward, about 5 million times.
Mike was EXHAUSTED. He fell asleep at about 8:00pm. He was pooped. But we don't set off for the 50 miles until 11:00am tomorrow. We cannot believe that our journey is almost over.
In the midst of a story
Team Butts!! #65 Best support crew ever!
The riders/support crew
Great hosts!
Ninja skills
Mom and Mary want a caption contest on this picture...please leave your ideas in the comment area. You don't win anything, I'm sorry.
Friday, September 21, 2018
Day 13 Sept 21, 2018
Kalispell, MT to Spokane Valley, WA
254 Miles
I need to publicly apologize to Jerry for not updating the blog in a timely fashion. Please forgive me! It's a tough life we live here on the road :)
I also feel bad because things have been going well, so I don't have too many updates. The start of today went great. Mary managed to get all her hugs in. She has a list of people she needs to give hugs to before they start the race for the day. Her favorites (don't tell the others) is Shane. Shane is apart of the Rip Rap Road Group from Ohio, we met him one of the first days we were in Maine, when he was crabby and Mary told him he needed a hug, the rest is history. He is the best hugger (per Mary). We also all got our hug in from Jeff! We can't forget about Jeff because he is a great hugger too.
Here is a picture of Mary and Shane:
During our drive to Spokane Valley here were a large amount of deer we saw in the ditch. They are EVERYWHERE!! Also during the drive, many of the support crew vehicles happened to be caravanning. It was super fun looking. Here is the video:
This hotel we are staying at is a maze...again. Some of these hotels are just crazy insane. You get lost trying to find your hotel room. Even the signs are hard to understand, but at least they have them. A small group of us ended up sitting at the bar in the hotel and getting some apps and drinks before we headed over to the Harley Dealership where there was the dinner. They had support for dogs, some food trucks, adult beverages, and a live band! It was very cool!
Mary was giving Mike's legs a massage and a support crew member cam up and said I need myself one of those! He then went to say that he had had himself someone who gave himself a massage, but his wife didn't like her. We all laughed.
They do have a live band in the hotel tonight -- who knows what will happen.
Our journey is almost done. One last big lag then the last one is short and we've made it across the country!
254 Miles
I need to publicly apologize to Jerry for not updating the blog in a timely fashion. Please forgive me! It's a tough life we live here on the road :)
I also feel bad because things have been going well, so I don't have too many updates. The start of today went great. Mary managed to get all her hugs in. She has a list of people she needs to give hugs to before they start the race for the day. Her favorites (don't tell the others) is Shane. Shane is apart of the Rip Rap Road Group from Ohio, we met him one of the first days we were in Maine, when he was crabby and Mary told him he needed a hug, the rest is history. He is the best hugger (per Mary). We also all got our hug in from Jeff! We can't forget about Jeff because he is a great hugger too.
Here is a picture of Mary and Shane:
During our drive to Spokane Valley here were a large amount of deer we saw in the ditch. They are EVERYWHERE!! Also during the drive, many of the support crew vehicles happened to be caravanning. It was super fun looking. Here is the video:
This hotel we are staying at is a maze...again. Some of these hotels are just crazy insane. You get lost trying to find your hotel room. Even the signs are hard to understand, but at least they have them. A small group of us ended up sitting at the bar in the hotel and getting some apps and drinks before we headed over to the Harley Dealership where there was the dinner. They had support for dogs, some food trucks, adult beverages, and a live band! It was very cool!
Mary was giving Mike's legs a massage and a support crew member cam up and said I need myself one of those! He then went to say that he had had himself someone who gave himself a massage, but his wife didn't like her. We all laughed.
"Look I'm taller than him"
A man and his bike
This is how Mary has to look at her phone
They do have a live band in the hotel tonight -- who knows what will happen.
Our journey is almost done. One last big lag then the last one is short and we've made it across the country!
Day 12 -- Sept 20, 2018
Great Falls, MT to Kalispell, MT
242 Miles
Today started with us, the support crew pretty much forcing Mike like a child, to wear his winter gear. "I'll be fine".. haha yes and then complain to us about being cold. We have learned.
The road the bikers took was "go to the sun road". Mike said that the bike ran like shit up in the mountains, it kept popping. Once he got down into "normal" elevation it ran fine. It was coldish weather in the 40s, but he was dressed warm -- he was almost too warm (go support team!!!) It rained and sleeted on this ride. They even had couple tunnels that they had to go through. There were also these 3 foot blocks down the side of the road that went all the way down the side, and then on the other side of the road the rock went straight up. (I don't know about you guys but I can only picture the straight up cliff).
Mom asked Mike what his favorite parts were about the Motorcycle Cannonball, he said it was the camaraderie, bonding with your support crew, to say you did it, to go across the country, the experience, the travel, the personal satisfaction and the accomplishment. He also said "to become one with nature," but Mike said it goofy, and we were like...come on lets be serious. Man of many words, Ladies and Gentlemen.
From my view Mike is doing really well. You can tell that he is exhausted. I mean we all are, but he is more. He gets back from riding, if he gets in early enough he will take a nap, which has been a saver at some points. If we have a hosted dinner, we go to that, come back do what we need to do to the bike, then go to bed. Hopefully nothing continues to come up. It definitely is a continuous busy atmosphere here. Once Mike's head hits the pillow, he is out, which is good. But if you all know Mike, a little tiredness isn't going to stop him. Even if he is completely exhausted he won't even complain. I've done a million times more complaining about being tired than he has. Whoops!
Before Mike got to Kalispell, Mom and I got to get our nails done -- well deserved if I do say so myself. We also grabbed some beer with Starry and Mary from a local brewery.
Once Mike got back to the hotel, him and Starry did some regular maintenance on the bike, because it had been popping quite a bit, they looked into that. Mike said that it was running better after they worked on it a little bit, like adjusted the carburetor (I had to ask about that one). So once it cooled off from the long ride and going into higher elevation it was back to normal. Some local people with a young boy were walking around and they got a picture with him on the bike. Who knows, maybe in 18 years we will see him racing the Cannonball.
As we ran to Harley to grab a poker chip (& apparently more apparel) they were very accommodating and had been getting questions about the Cannonball so we were able to answer that, and in return they gave a slight discount -- how awesome!
To save our spot in the parking lot we put cones in the parking area. When mom was getting the cones ready to put in the parking area she decided to impersonate Madonna -- look at Starry's huge smile! Also, please listen and enjoy the wonderful singing of Mary and Mom, they have been very entertaining. Another support crew member from the Ohio group has been joining us to dinner, and Mary likes his muscles and the way he smells, so she was VERY excited when we had to squish into a booth and he was next to her. They had fun making inappropriate comments and gestures together, definitely kept all of us entertained.
242 Miles
Today started with us, the support crew pretty much forcing Mike like a child, to wear his winter gear. "I'll be fine".. haha yes and then complain to us about being cold. We have learned.
The road the bikers took was "go to the sun road". Mike said that the bike ran like shit up in the mountains, it kept popping. Once he got down into "normal" elevation it ran fine. It was coldish weather in the 40s, but he was dressed warm -- he was almost too warm (go support team!!!) It rained and sleeted on this ride. They even had couple tunnels that they had to go through. There were also these 3 foot blocks down the side of the road that went all the way down the side, and then on the other side of the road the rock went straight up. (I don't know about you guys but I can only picture the straight up cliff).
Mom asked Mike what his favorite parts were about the Motorcycle Cannonball, he said it was the camaraderie, bonding with your support crew, to say you did it, to go across the country, the experience, the travel, the personal satisfaction and the accomplishment. He also said "to become one with nature," but Mike said it goofy, and we were like...come on lets be serious. Man of many words, Ladies and Gentlemen.
From my view Mike is doing really well. You can tell that he is exhausted. I mean we all are, but he is more. He gets back from riding, if he gets in early enough he will take a nap, which has been a saver at some points. If we have a hosted dinner, we go to that, come back do what we need to do to the bike, then go to bed. Hopefully nothing continues to come up. It definitely is a continuous busy atmosphere here. Once Mike's head hits the pillow, he is out, which is good. But if you all know Mike, a little tiredness isn't going to stop him. Even if he is completely exhausted he won't even complain. I've done a million times more complaining about being tired than he has. Whoops!
Before Mike got to Kalispell, Mom and I got to get our nails done -- well deserved if I do say so myself. We also grabbed some beer with Starry and Mary from a local brewery.
Once Mike got back to the hotel, him and Starry did some regular maintenance on the bike, because it had been popping quite a bit, they looked into that. Mike said that it was running better after they worked on it a little bit, like adjusted the carburetor (I had to ask about that one). So once it cooled off from the long ride and going into higher elevation it was back to normal. Some local people with a young boy were walking around and they got a picture with him on the bike. Who knows, maybe in 18 years we will see him racing the Cannonball.
As we ran to Harley to grab a poker chip (& apparently more apparel) they were very accommodating and had been getting questions about the Cannonball so we were able to answer that, and in return they gave a slight discount -- how awesome!
Day 12 Sept 20, 2018
Great Falls, MT to Kalispell, MT
242 Miles
Today started with us, the support screw, pretty much forcing him like a child, to wear his winter gear. “I’ll be fine”... haha yes and then complain to us about being cold. We have learned.
The views were beautiful! For the height factor, Mike said it wasn’t as bad as bad as Pikes Peak
Thursday, September 20, 2018
Day 11 Sept 19, 2018
Billings, MT to Great Falls, MT
248 Miles
Going into the day we (the support crew) new the day was going to get pretty chilly. Mike had plenty of warm gear to wear but said he would be fine in what he was wearing. I kid you not, 45 minutes later, he stopped and texted mom to tell her he needed insulated coveralls. WE TOLD YOU TO WEAR WARMER CLOSE. Kelly, another rider, had come up to mom and asked her to zip up his jacker “maybe if I suck it in, you can zip it up.” He had many layers on including leather overalls and his leather jacket. Pretty freakin’ hilarious. 
Anyway, the scenery was absolutely beautiful on the drive.
At the Harley store — which was the stop today— Kelly, couldn’t get his bike started. Mom and Steve tried doing a running start which didn’t help. So Mary had to run the sweeper truck down.
After getting back to the hotel, Steve and Mary were nice enough to do the maintenance on the bike while Mike, Mom and I ran to Scheels- because apparently he doesn’t have warm enough clothes. Before we left Mike decided to take off his long underwear in right by the truck, Mom was very embarrassed, and Mary saw this and started running up wanting to take a picture and Mike was trying to get back into the truck. Mary did not have her phone on her thankfully, for Mike. But this came for some huge entertainment.
I was fortunate to be able to go to a bar called the Sip ‘N Dip. This place was absolutely everything you could ever want it to be and more! They had... wait for it............. a MERMAID!!!!!! She was swimming behind the bar!! It was mesmerizing.
I guess while I was gone my mom had heard someone trying get into the room. So she opened the door saying “BOO!!!” It wasn’t me... it was a rider... hahahahaha!!! Luckily he was trying to get into the wrong room, she did explain she thought it was me, but how hilarious!
Tuesday, September 18, 2018
Day 10 of Cannonballing (they don't count rest day) Sept 18, 2018
Sturgis, SD to Billings, MT
299 Miles
I'm BAAAAAAAAACK!! Today was a good day, we woke up to colder weather this morning in Sturgis. I had to put on a warmer jacket, but luckily as we got closer to Billings and as the day went on, the weather got warmer. Mike got off to a good start, however, he did forget to turn on his gas this morning. But better that than something major. According to Jerry, it happens to him too. So, Mike is off the hook. As we left Sturgis, Jerry and Deb, and Zach headed the opposite direction to go back home. We thank you guys for coming out and helping as much as you did! The more the merrier!
On our way to Billings we saw antelope! We were hoping for something more than that and deer, but thats about all we got. Another day maybe. Mike did say that he was "dressed perfectly" for the drive today. This consisted of a T-shirt, long sleeves, jacket, and jeans. A man of very few words.
Some other things that we (the females in the car) found rather hilarious was the fact that Starry could not for the life of hime, figure out how to turn off the darn windshield wipers. He was getting so frustrated. Mary and I were sitting in the back laughing our butts off (if only laughing worked literally). It was going at the slowest set pace it could, so just as you thought maybe Starry had finally gotten it figured out, it would go off again. Then he was having problems with signally because they are on the same control. Oofta, just hilarious. He kept saying it wasn't his fault, so we ended up playing the song "It ain't by fault" by Brothers Osborne for him. He did enjoy that. I did tell him I would teach him how to do it properly. He was able to stop the wipers from going off -- but he didn't know how he actually got it stop.
Mike against arrived early, so he just came to the hotel. He just looked exhausted. Like he just worked 20 days in a row, with a butt-ton of overtime. He needed up taking a nap, and when it was time to head over to the Harley store to show the bikes and grab dinner, he forgot to turn the gas on again! We now will remind him every time to do it. The food they had at this dinner was the BEST. Brats, hamburgers, fried chicken, desserts, and chips. Plus no one was complaining that you could buy beer. When we left, Mom and Starry had to push him to start -- because he had forgotten to turn off the bike, so the battery was dead. Add that to our checklist.
Once we got back to the hotel, Starry was backing up the truck to get the trailer back on the hitch. Well the van we pulled up next to, happened to have a stripper pole thing (like a bobble head, or Hawaiian lady) on the dash. There was also a man right next to the van that was taking off his shirt. Between these two things happening, Starry came VERY close to almost hitting the can. We are still unsure if it was the stripper pole, or the man with his shirt off.
Anyway, things are going well on the road. The truck is fixed and running well. The trailer is still doing good. We are all surviving. We are learning a lot as we go. If we were to ever do this again, we would have a better idea of what to pack and how to organize things. Currently, Starry and Mike are doing minor maintenance on the bike. We got word that Zach made it safely home with his bike troubles. I'm sitting here nicely in a chair drinking a beer in this beautiful state of Montana, my first time here. Mary, well whose turn was it to watch her? She's probably off socializing.
Tomorrow is supposed to be a lot colder, with a high of 52 degrees between Billings and Great Falls, MT, with possible rain. Please keep the good thoughts coming our way, I think these last few days through the mountains and to the finish line are going to be the most challenging.
Late note: Mom has deemed herself the MVP today as support crew member. She has found the missing gloves that have been missing for about a week now! Of course Mike's response "I knew we had them." They were stuffed in a stupid container. Well deserved Mother, well deserved!
299 Miles
I'm BAAAAAAAAACK!! Today was a good day, we woke up to colder weather this morning in Sturgis. I had to put on a warmer jacket, but luckily as we got closer to Billings and as the day went on, the weather got warmer. Mike got off to a good start, however, he did forget to turn on his gas this morning. But better that than something major. According to Jerry, it happens to him too. So, Mike is off the hook. As we left Sturgis, Jerry and Deb, and Zach headed the opposite direction to go back home. We thank you guys for coming out and helping as much as you did! The more the merrier!
On our way to Billings we saw antelope! We were hoping for something more than that and deer, but thats about all we got. Another day maybe. Mike did say that he was "dressed perfectly" for the drive today. This consisted of a T-shirt, long sleeves, jacket, and jeans. A man of very few words.
Some other things that we (the females in the car) found rather hilarious was the fact that Starry could not for the life of hime, figure out how to turn off the darn windshield wipers. He was getting so frustrated. Mary and I were sitting in the back laughing our butts off (if only laughing worked literally). It was going at the slowest set pace it could, so just as you thought maybe Starry had finally gotten it figured out, it would go off again. Then he was having problems with signally because they are on the same control. Oofta, just hilarious. He kept saying it wasn't his fault, so we ended up playing the song "It ain't by fault" by Brothers Osborne for him. He did enjoy that. I did tell him I would teach him how to do it properly. He was able to stop the wipers from going off -- but he didn't know how he actually got it stop.
Mike against arrived early, so he just came to the hotel. He just looked exhausted. Like he just worked 20 days in a row, with a butt-ton of overtime. He needed up taking a nap, and when it was time to head over to the Harley store to show the bikes and grab dinner, he forgot to turn the gas on again! We now will remind him every time to do it. The food they had at this dinner was the BEST. Brats, hamburgers, fried chicken, desserts, and chips. Plus no one was complaining that you could buy beer. When we left, Mom and Starry had to push him to start -- because he had forgotten to turn off the bike, so the battery was dead. Add that to our checklist.
Once we got back to the hotel, Starry was backing up the truck to get the trailer back on the hitch. Well the van we pulled up next to, happened to have a stripper pole thing (like a bobble head, or Hawaiian lady) on the dash. There was also a man right next to the van that was taking off his shirt. Between these two things happening, Starry came VERY close to almost hitting the can. We are still unsure if it was the stripper pole, or the man with his shirt off.
Anyway, things are going well on the road. The truck is fixed and running well. The trailer is still doing good. We are all surviving. We are learning a lot as we go. If we were to ever do this again, we would have a better idea of what to pack and how to organize things. Currently, Starry and Mike are doing minor maintenance on the bike. We got word that Zach made it safely home with his bike troubles. I'm sitting here nicely in a chair drinking a beer in this beautiful state of Montana, my first time here. Mary, well whose turn was it to watch her? She's probably off socializing.
Tomorrow is supposed to be a lot colder, with a high of 52 degrees between Billings and Great Falls, MT, with possible rain. Please keep the good thoughts coming our way, I think these last few days through the mountains and to the finish line are going to be the most challenging.
Late note: Mom has deemed herself the MVP today as support crew member. She has found the missing gloves that have been missing for about a week now! Of course Mike's response "I knew we had them." They were stuffed in a stupid container. Well deserved Mother, well deserved!
Monday, September 17, 2018
Day 10 - September 17, 2018
Sturgis, South Dakota - Rest Day
This blog’s main contributor officially took a break from blogging today so you’ve got me, Mary. Today was a rest day with no route maps, check-ins, gas stations or mileage. It’s a day for general maintenance and/or seeing the local sites.
As you may recall from a recent post, our check engine light went on in the truck. Mike and Linda took the truck in and it was an issue with the emissions/DEF system. It could either be a computer reset/refresh or we could need a part which would need to be shipped and could take several days to fix. While we were anxiously waiting for the diagnostic testing, Linda started Plan B by checking into a rental vehicle. Thankfully, it was a minor issue that was resolved in a couple of hours (whew!). We were so happy, Linda and I hugged and joked with Levi, our mechanic, how could we thank him (flowers, chocolate, whiskey, etc.). He laughed and said the last one would be the best but quickly added it’s just his job. We brought him a 12 pack of beer - the standard thank you gift in Sturgis!
Mike, Jerry, Steve and Zach all worked to check and restore of the valves on the bike. They prepped the bike and took it to Competition Distribution to grind out the valves and then came back to put the bike back together again. They are all amazing mechanics and team mates to get all this work done in such short time.
Only one incident: Jerry sliced his finger on the tappers but having a doctor and nurse on staff really helped. It didn’t slow Jerry down one bit.
So many people continue to stop by and ask what is going on with all the old motorcycles. There are many questions and many smiles in learning about the Cannonball and lots of interest.
Zack had issues with his bike’s starter. Unfortunately he has to store his bike with family and drive home in a rental because parts weren’t available.
One funny thing happened in the trailer. We were loading up and Mike patted me on the butt. I don’t know who was more surprised - me or Mike when he realized I wasn’t Linda. Funniest thing ever!
We were very thankful for the catch up day for maintenance and that these things could be fixed rather than potentially break down on the road. We will be turning in early tonight for an early start tomorrow and back on the road for more adventures.
Also see the picture of a bible verse Brianna and I “stumbled upon” which was quite inspiring. Psalm 144:1 - Blessed be the Lord my strength which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight.
NOTE: I guess I need help from Brianna to load the pictures. I’m being technically challenged. You’ll see these soon.
Update per Brianna:
Day 9 Sept 16, 2018
Pierre, SD to Sturgis, SD
295 miles
The support crew had the choice of leaving before 7:00 am to go sight seeing or after 9:00am to not go sight seeing. Well we decided to go sight seeing, the problem with this, is that we left before Mike did so we couldn't help him with his route chart. So, we left this very important task to Larry. Of course being them, they called Mom in a "panic" saying they couldn't get it. Fear not my friends, we didn't fall for it. However, later in the day we found out that there were changes in the schedule of the day WHERE WERE YOU ON THAT ONE LARRY!!!!
As support crew, we enjoyed our time taking in the sights. We stopped at the Badlands. It was extremely windy but breathtaking. Mary enjoyed identifying poop that we found on our walks to look around. We found butterflies that we tried to get pictures of for about 5 minutes. Don't you worry, we got the pictures. This also happened with a baby bunny. It was just so cuuuuuuuuute. We ran into two couples who were slightly older, and one of the gentlemen seemed slightly afraid of heights, needless to say, he got his picture taken with his wife and friends with a beautiful background.
295 miles
The support crew had the choice of leaving before 7:00 am to go sight seeing or after 9:00am to not go sight seeing. Well we decided to go sight seeing, the problem with this, is that we left before Mike did so we couldn't help him with his route chart. So, we left this very important task to Larry. Of course being them, they called Mom in a "panic" saying they couldn't get it. Fear not my friends, we didn't fall for it. However, later in the day we found out that there were changes in the schedule of the day WHERE WERE YOU ON THAT ONE LARRY!!!!
As support crew, we enjoyed our time taking in the sights. We stopped at the Badlands. It was extremely windy but breathtaking. Mary enjoyed identifying poop that we found on our walks to look around. We found butterflies that we tried to get pictures of for about 5 minutes. Don't you worry, we got the pictures. This also happened with a baby bunny. It was just so cuuuuuuuuute. We ran into two couples who were slightly older, and one of the gentlemen seemed slightly afraid of heights, needless to say, he got his picture taken with his wife and friends with a beautiful background.
We were then off to Wall drug, which was pretty cool. Nothing to exciting happened there. Shopped a little bit, then we headed to Mount Rushmore. At Mount Rushmore we learned about the construction of it, how long it took. It was really neat to see it in person. You really don't think it's necessary to see it in person, but I do have to say it was pretty unique to see it. I later found out through a fellow support crew member, Mike, that there is a tunnel behind Abraham Lincoln's head. I looked it up briefly and according to the National Park Services I guess it was going to be made into a Hall of Records for important historical documents, like the Constitution of the Declaration of Independence, famous Americans and list of U.S. contributions to the world in scent, industry and the arts. Anyway, it was halted because Congress wanted to concentrate on the faces. Also the death of the artist, and involvement of America in World War II, work on memorial came to a close. I did learn that in 1998, repository of records was place in the floor of the hall entry.
On the National Park Services Website " The repository contains sixteen porcelain enamel panels. Inscribed on the panels is the story of how Mount Rushmore came to be carve, who carved it, the reasons for selecting the four presidents depicted on the mountains and short history of the United States. This repository is not accessible to visitors but is left as a record for people thousands of years from now who may wonder how and why Mount Rushmore was carved."
There you go a little history lesson.
At this point we got to Sturgis, had some reservation mix ups, had to find a new hotel. We got it figured out though, had a sponsored dinner, went back to the hotel and I personally crashed.
Mike said his ride was nice, slightly chilly, but not to bad. Sorry everyone, I'm trying to get him to tell us more. Bike is running really well so far. Mike physically is doing great. Let's keep our fingers crossed.
Sunday, September 16, 2018
Day 8 Sept 15, 2018
Spirit Lake IA to Pierre, SD
314 Miles, the longest lag
Again, we started the day without any issues. Have we got this thing down? Probably not, I'm sure something will come up. I've got terrible luck, within time something will go wrong. Everyone that came the night before minus Andre and Tony came to see Mike off. I believe it is fun to see the riders off too, the energy is tangible and the rest of the world is sleeping (except for people who are being woken up at the hotel that the riders are leaving at). Also, the smell of the oil and gas is unlike any other.
The trucks check engine light came on, but who knows whats going on with that. We may or may not have chosen to ignore it for now. We will call for help if we get stranded. The drive wasn't too bad, South Dakota isn't much to look at, however, once you get more West, it does get prettier, I will give it that. We went over a river with some rolling hills in the back, that was beautiful. We follow Mike's journey on our little tracker thing, it seems as though he had a good drive as well. They got to go through Minnesota, that was pretty cool!
I guess the first stop that Mike made to fill up with gas, a random gentleman swiped his credit card saying that it was on him. He said that the bikes they are riding are really cool bikes, and that he appreciates what the riders are doing. Mike and him chit chatted a little bit more about the ride and the bike. Mike said it was pretty fun talking to him.
We arrived to our hotel early, we didn't have to run errands, we didn't have laundry to do, so we napped. I napped like a champ, I am a light sleeper and didn't even hear Mike come in. He came in earlier than expected so he got to relax before they (the riders showed their bikes). Right before my nap though, I realized I had forgotten my awesome new Bose sleep buds. They play white noise and are easy to sleep in and drown out other noise, like people snoring. Which came in handy on this trip. Lets just saying I'm kicking myself big time. I had them by the rest of my stuff and accidentally put the bed covers over it before I left. But luckily the staff found them and I mailing them to me. Now to see if they get to me -- fingers crossed.
Jeff, a support member had heard through the grapevine, or Mary had told him (who knows, Mary tells people a lot of things, we can't keep track of everything that comes out of her mouth) that her hair dryer had stopped working. It had worked however minutes into it, it had stopped. Jeff had found an old time hair dryer for curlers at a garage sale. He bought it for Mary so she never had to miss doing her hair. How thoughtful!!
We were able to help Vicki (one of the staff of the Cannonball) sing live on Facebook Happy Birthday to her dad. None of us knew where we were, which is completely comforting. As I went to grab drinks with a fellow support crew member, apparently Steve went into the dark trailer and couldn't see anything as he tried to read something with his readers on. He had his sunglasses on instead. He has continued to do this multiple times, and we have continued to make fun of him..multiple times.
314 Miles, the longest lag
Again, we started the day without any issues. Have we got this thing down? Probably not, I'm sure something will come up. I've got terrible luck, within time something will go wrong. Everyone that came the night before minus Andre and Tony came to see Mike off. I believe it is fun to see the riders off too, the energy is tangible and the rest of the world is sleeping (except for people who are being woken up at the hotel that the riders are leaving at). Also, the smell of the oil and gas is unlike any other.
The trucks check engine light came on, but who knows whats going on with that. We may or may not have chosen to ignore it for now. We will call for help if we get stranded. The drive wasn't too bad, South Dakota isn't much to look at, however, once you get more West, it does get prettier, I will give it that. We went over a river with some rolling hills in the back, that was beautiful. We follow Mike's journey on our little tracker thing, it seems as though he had a good drive as well. They got to go through Minnesota, that was pretty cool!
I guess the first stop that Mike made to fill up with gas, a random gentleman swiped his credit card saying that it was on him. He said that the bikes they are riding are really cool bikes, and that he appreciates what the riders are doing. Mike and him chit chatted a little bit more about the ride and the bike. Mike said it was pretty fun talking to him.
We arrived to our hotel early, we didn't have to run errands, we didn't have laundry to do, so we napped. I napped like a champ, I am a light sleeper and didn't even hear Mike come in. He came in earlier than expected so he got to relax before they (the riders showed their bikes). Right before my nap though, I realized I had forgotten my awesome new Bose sleep buds. They play white noise and are easy to sleep in and drown out other noise, like people snoring. Which came in handy on this trip. Lets just saying I'm kicking myself big time. I had them by the rest of my stuff and accidentally put the bed covers over it before I left. But luckily the staff found them and I mailing them to me. Now to see if they get to me -- fingers crossed.
Jeff, a support member had heard through the grapevine, or Mary had told him (who knows, Mary tells people a lot of things, we can't keep track of everything that comes out of her mouth) that her hair dryer had stopped working. It had worked however minutes into it, it had stopped. Jeff had found an old time hair dryer for curlers at a garage sale. He bought it for Mary so she never had to miss doing her hair. How thoughtful!!
We were able to help Vicki (one of the staff of the Cannonball) sing live on Facebook Happy Birthday to her dad. None of us knew where we were, which is completely comforting. As I went to grab drinks with a fellow support crew member, apparently Steve went into the dark trailer and couldn't see anything as he tried to read something with his readers on. He had his sunglasses on instead. He has continued to do this multiple times, and we have continued to make fun of him..multiple times.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Grand Finale
Doffo Winery Doffo Winery Right before take off Right before take off Cindy and Jen Larry and Cindy Me leaving for the l...
