A Room of Her Own

[Helen]

Yes, that's it... a room of our own.

Pretty simple, pretty basic... often neglected.

I'm a child of the 60's. The feminist movement was in its heyday... it was on the muscle years!... Shoot a girl could get lost in that.

With all the posturing... with all the rhetoric it was definitely an exciting time... perhaps too exciting. I grew up and grew away with the mere, simple thought of a room of my own.

A place to think... a safe haven where I could curl up with a good book or my journal, or pen and ink or watercolors or table saw or welder or back hoe and skid steer... the possibilities were endless... are endless.

I'm old now... I have that room of my own... actually a whole house of my own... a motorcycle of my own, dreams of my own, ambitions, hopes, fears... all of my own.

I'd like this to be a place where I can sit in a comfy chair next to you and share all the things I've found ... where I can hear about the things you've found...

We have all grown... we've found the stuff inside... many of us are still looking and would appreciate a caring understanding guide...

This is a place to be a woman... to be a rider... to have adventures... to blossom and share those things we all carry in a pocket somewhere.

Where do we begin? wherever we are.

I've read some interesting books lately, "Ellen Foster" by Kaye Gibbons... a young girl creating a family... "The Hakawati"by Rahib Alameddine a wonderfully intricate tale of ancient traditional Syrian storytelling mixed with today's world of family and loss.

Family and loss... common threads... This community has become my family, a found family based on nothing more than a desire to ride these silly machines... based on traveling and adventure... based on.. what?

I spent this evening with my ex-husband... the good-ex... the one that introduced me to riding many years ago... we still have that in common, but we've both grown and become all that we are. What a delightful thing.

It's family ... it's riding... it's who we are... where we've been and where we are going.
What a cool thing...

So can you pick up your bike? can you put it on the center stand? do you ride alone? do you love to travel? do you hate rallies? can you pee standing up? Does any of this matter?

If it is you... it does. If it is me, it does... no judgements... no quick fixes...

Come on in, slip your shoes off and sit on the comfy couch... what can I learn today?

[Voni]

Helen, you are pure magic!

Maybe, for some of us, our bike is the first Room of my Own we've ever had. How fun to share this knowledge with others who truly understand.

Voni
sMiling

[Newstar]

What a great post, Helen! I wish I had your way with words!

Thanks to all the ladies and men of the MOA who helped make this "room of our own" happen. I look forward to reading and learning from the wealth of experience that I know resides on all of our forums here.

[Helen]

Maybe, for some of us, our bike is the first Room of my Own we've ever had. How fun to share this knowledge with others who truly understand.

Voni
sMiling

You know I think you are right, Voni. One of the things I especially love about riding my own bike and riding alone, is the quiet space in my helmet to think. It's a lot like yoga for me... you are in a state of hyper awareness... totally focused... that frees your mind to expand and go places without interruption.

Anyone else? ...and what do you find yourself thinking about?

[sudani]

Anyone else? ...and what do you find yourself thinking about?

Going down a tree lined backroad on a sunny day...no traffic anywhere...opening up to a lush green field with a farmhouse off in the distance.....I'm lost in the moment. It seems so peaceful...so perfect. Very different feeling to what I'm feeling while sitting in traffic. I love riding backroads where I can just "be"....no figuring out anything, no stressors.....no what's next. It's all about enjoying the moment. I had many of thoes feelings on my solo ride to TN.

[k75karol]

You know I think you are right, Voni. One of the things I especially love about riding my own bike and riding alone, is the quiet space in my helmet to think. It's a lot like yoga for me... you are in a state of hyper awareness... totally focused... that frees your mind to expand and go places without interruption.

Anyone else? ...and what do you find yourself thinking about?

That's one of the reasons I don't listen to music when I ride....I'd hate to be "boppin along" to some tunes, and miss the eagle flying overhead, or notice the sunflowers following the sun.

I relegate the radio/cd player/IPOD to the car which gets me from point A to point B. The bike is about being in tune to everything around me, and my preference is to enjoy my surroundings and not be distracted with "noise".....
(Of course going across NE and Kansas (sorry Voni) I might be tempted:dance:dance)

That's the great thing about riding it's all about personal preference!!

[Helen]

Going down a tree lined backroad on a sunny day...no traffic anywhere...opening up to a lush green field with a farmhouse off in the distance.....I'm lost in the moment. It seems so peaceful...so perfect. Very different feeling to what I'm feeling while sitting in traffic. I love riding backroads where I can just "be"....no figuring out anything, no stressors.....no what's next. It's all about enjoying the moment. I had many of thoes feelings on my solo ride to TN.

Yeah!

Or that RAT-A-TAT-TAT strobe effect of the late afternoon sun streaming through the single line of trees at the road's edge....

Or the cool air in the hollows on a warm summer's day....

Or the smell of the ozone as the first rain drops evaporate on the hot asphalt...

Or the cows becoming black clots of shadow under the trees beyond the field's edge...

yeah.

[BklynPete]

Well, Voni sent me this thread today, and when I got the email and the title was "Women of the MOA", my mind went to " neat, a calendar, where's my credit card". Then I thought, maybe a new online dating service. To my surprise, it's a room that is long overdue. I have met many MOA women over the years, and I cherish them and their riding experiances. I'm happy to see a forum that you may tell your insights, and share your experiances. Good luck to you all...

Pete

[Helen]

Well, Voni sent me this thread today, and when I got the email and the title was "Women of the MOA", my mind went to " neat, a calendar, where's my credit card". Then I thought, maybe a new online dating service. To my surprise, it's a room that is long overdue. I have met many MOA women over the years, and I cherish them and their riding experiances. I'm happy to see a forum that you may tell your insights, and share your experiances. Good luck to you all...

Pete

Welcome and thanks for the good wishes, Pete!

See that didn't hurt at all did it? Your masculinity is all intact, right?

Keep the good attitude and don't be a stranger!

[BklynPete]

Welcome and thanks for the good wishes, Pete!

See that didn't hurt at all did it? Your masculinity is all intact, right?

Keep the good attitude and don't be a stranger!

LOL, thanks Helen, be well, and hope to see you at The Blitz in April... Now where did I put those black pumps....

[vanzen]

I Hope this will not be perceived as an intrusion (being that I am not a woman)
but I just couldn't help but to say how completely refreshing
to suddenly come upon a "motorcycle forum" among all the countless "motorcycle forums"

who's participants seem quite willing to sit back, relax, and simply share with their words and experiences
"the pure joy" that is both the essence and the best of any motorcycling experience !

Reading of a 'correct procedure to preload a wheel bearing' will be informative, sure,
but the simple knowledge of that will never be so telling

as one's expression of the passion:
"riding backroads where I can just "be"....no figuring out anything, no stressors.....no what's next."

or a sensual delight coaxed from the depths of memory:
"the smell of the ozone as the first rain drops evaporate on the hot asphalt"

Please don't lock the door !
Your room has every potential to be extraordinary !

[Helen]

I Hope this will not be perceived as an intrusion (being that I am not a woman)
but I just couldn't help but to say how completely refreshing
to suddenly come upon a "motorcycle forum" among all the countless "motorcycle forums"

who's participants seem quite willing to sit back, relax, and simply share with their words and experiences
"the pure joy" that is both the essence and the best of any motorcycling experience !

Reading of a 'correct procedure to preload a wheel bearing' will be informative, sure,
but the simple knowledge of that will never be so telling

as one's expression of the passion:
"riding backroads where I can just "be"....no figuring out anything, no stressors.....no what's next."

or a sensual delight coaxed from the depths of memory:
"the smell of the ozone as the first rain drops evaporate on the hot asphalt"

Please don't lock the door !
Your room has every potential to be extraordinary !

And a welcome to you too Vanzen... make your offerings to the gods of speed, but whenever you are ready to sit back and relax come join us... I hope this will be a very special place for all of us.

To all... forgive me for not welcoming the other women that have posted here... they didn't come in the front door... they live here so the thought never occurred to me.

The "key" to this room is acceptance, support... no muscle... except when needed to pick up a bike and even then we'll all pitch in.:)

[Newstar]

Anyone else? ...and what do you find yourself thinking about?

I do listen to music when I ride. But not always. If I'm on a back twisty road or someplace where I feel I need some added focus, the ipod is off. If I'm on the highway or just putzing around, I'll listen to music and sing...loudly! :groovy I've been told by my hubby that singing is not permitted at stop signs because he thinks I'm trying to get his attention.

Other times, I like to just be alone with my thoughts, whatever they may be. I'll look for deer, hawks, eagles, admire beautiful farms and their livestock, smell the foliage, etc. It's the kind of a zen experience that I'm sure many of you can relate to.

Welcome Van and Pete! Thanks for testing the waters!

[jdmetzger]

I do listen to music when I ride. But not always. If I'm on a back twisty road or someplace where I feel I need some added focus, the ipod is off. If I'm on the highway or just putzing around, I'll listen to music and sing...loudly! :groovy I've been told by my hubby that singing is not permitted at stop signs because he thinks I'm trying to get his attention.

Other times, I like to just be alone with my thoughts, whatever they may be. I'll look for deer, hawks, eagles, admire beautiful farms and their livestock, smell the foliage, etc. It's the kind of a zen experience that I'm sure many of you can relate to.

Welcome Van and Pete! Thanks for testing the waters!

I have always found listening to music while riding distracting, but it's quite possible there could be some singing going on inside my helmet. :whistle

[88bmwJeff]

Well, some of us guys just can’t leave you women to talk amongst yourselves. Go figure. Anyway, followed much of the thread about getting this forum started and I’m glad it came to be.

I do listen to music when I ride. But not always. If I'm on a back twisty road or someplace where I feel I need some added focus, the ipod is off. If I'm on the highway or just putzing around, I'll listen to music and sing...loudly! :groovy I've been told by my hubby that singing is not permitted at stop signs because he thinks I'm trying to get his attention.

Other times, I like to just be alone with my thoughts, whatever they may be. I'll look for deer, hawks, eagles, admire beautiful farms and their livestock, smell the foliage, etc. It's the kind of a zen experience that I'm sure many of you can relate to.

Welcome Van and Pete! Thanks for testing the waters!

I have always found listening to music while riding distracting, but it's quite possible there could be some singing going on inside my helmet. :whistle

I like listening to music while I ride. The right music at the right time keeps my mind from wondering to topics I shouldn’t be thinking about while riding. So, I find that I’m able to concentrate a bit better with music playing. However, it’s illegal here in CA to have earphones in both ears.

[rspennachio]

I wanted to post earlier today but no other guy had done so and i was afraid to be te first. Now that a few other have tested the waters i just have to ask....

What is the likeyhood that the dino vs. Synth oil debate will ever happen here?

:jester

[Helen]

I wanted to post earlier today but no other guy had done so and i was afraid to be te first. Now that a few other have tested the waters i just have to ask....

What is the likeyhood that the dino vs. Synth oil debate will ever happen here?

:jester

Oh just keep watching... just keep watching...:evil

[98lee]

Congratulations Ladies! Glad to see that this came to be. :thumb

I will pass the location of your "room" on to my wife. She'll probably look through the window for a while to see what's going on, but I'm sure eventually she will join in to seek advise, share experiences, and find that her riding needs and goals don't always have to coincide with mine to be correct (she knows this, but there IS strength in numbers).

Your room is a great and much needed addition to the MOA house.



:dance:dance:dance

[womanridge]

Congratulations Ladies! Glad to see that this came to be. :thumb

I will pass the location of your "room" on to my wife. She'll probably look through the window for a while to see what's going on, but I'm sure eventually she will join in to seek advise, share experiences, and find that her riding needs and goals don't always have to coincide with mine to be correct (she knows this, but there IS strength in numbers).

Your room is a great and much needed addition to the MOA house.



:dance:dance:dance
Super. Tell her to stop in for coffee!! She's always welcome, and you are too.

[vanzen]

...What is the likeyhood that the dino vs. Synth oil debate will ever happen here?




Actually, I am one to prefer sesame oil, especially when cooking in a wok ...
And a wok, by the way, is a simple, single, versatile, if not universally capable cooking tool
that packs quite easily on a bike and can double as a plate or a bowl.
When traveling and intending to 'cook out',
a wok can be the sum total of my cooking / eating kit –
with a pair of chop-sticks, of course.
A good solution when traveling solo & packing light !

[KGT1200]

Ear issues got me away from music when I am riding. I had sudden hearing loss in my right ear, about 30%, and left me with insane ringing; at first wanted to rip the ear off my head with a constant distraction, but since getting fitted with internal inside the ear plugs, and simply getting used to it, my suffering has lessened.

The only place, however where I do get as close to silence as possible is on the bike with the earplugs in. The tinnitus becomes nothing at all.

Music is gone while riding for now, and as Karol said, leaving me more room and a bigger attention span to fill it. Why I and others do what we do on motorcycles is a project I've been working on for quite some time. The end result? I have no clue, other than a quest for understanding. Maybe a screenplay? Naaaaa-not me!!!

I've talked alot about why we ride in other forum threads, and find many men, who are like me have somthing to say, and a few who are offended I ask. But very few women who talk about "inside their room" over in campfire, so this thread is refreshing, to say the least. You women have some good words here.

If you don't mind an english challanged, spellin deficit guy posting over here once an awhile, I might come back.

[Voni]

Actually, I am one to prefer sesame oil, especially when cooking in a wok ...
And a wok, by the way, is a simple, single, versatile, if not universally capable cooking tool
that packs quite easily on a bike and can double as a plate or a bowl.
When traveling and intending to 'cook out',
a wok can be the sum total of my cooking / eating kit –
with a pair of chop-sticks, of course.
A good solution when traveling solo & packing light !
I'll have to try that! Simple, yet elegant!

Voni
sMiling

[Voni]

I've talked alot about why we ride in other forum threads, and find many men, who are like me have somthing to say, and a few who are offended I ask. But very few women who talk about "inside their room" over in campfire, so this thread is refreshing, to say the least. You women have some good words here.

If you don't mind an english challanged, spellin deficit guy posting over here once an awhile, I might come back.

Any one with a positive learning spin is welcome here!

Voni
sMiling

[sudani]

Tricky ear problems. I deal with sinus/allergy related issues that just love to mess with my inner ear, especially in the Fall. Leaves me to take it day by day how much riding I can do during allergy season.

I hesitate to use my earplugs. I'm thinking that I need to wear them around the house for short periods just to get used to them. So far, haven't done that. Still don't like the idea of blocking out sound.

[sudani]

Welcome iHop. I see you've been a member since 2008 and this was your first post. It's nice that you decided to join us.....keep posting!

[88bmwJeff]

For those of you who like to ride with music, I highly recommend getting a custom pair of speaker earphones. They are very comfortable, and block out a good portion of the wind noise. As such, the volume can be much lower, which protects your hearing and the ability to hear other vehicles, etc. Given how well the earphones work, I'm able to keep the volume on my MP3 player on 1 or 2. To protect my hearing, I usually set the volume at a reasonable level before taking off. Occasionally, I have trouble hearing the music, but I'd rather have that scenario than to damage my hearing.

[womanridge]

Ear issues got me away from music when I am riding. I had sudden hearing loss in my right ear, about 30%, and left me with insane ringing; at first wanted to rip the ear off my head with a constant distraction, but since getting fitted with internal inside the ear plugs, and simply getting used to it, my suffering has lessened.

The only place, however where I do get as close to silence as possible is on the bike with the earplugs in. The tinnitus becomes nothing at all.

Music is gone while riding for now, and as Karol said, leaving me more room and a bigger attention span to fill it. Why I and others do what we do on motorcycles is a project I've been working on for quite some time. The end result? I have no clue, other than a quest for understanding. Maybe a screenplay? Naaaaa-not me!!!

I've talked alot about why we ride in other forum threads, and find many men, who are like me have somthing to say, and a few who are offended I ask. But very few women who talk about "inside their room" over in campfire, so this thread is refreshing, to say the least. You women have some good words here.

If you don't mind an english challanged, spellin deficit guy posting over here once an awhile, I might come back.
I bought an I-pod last year thinking it would keep me company over the "Long-Miles". I've come to realize I like the silence. 500 mile days or 1,000 saddle-sore. Silence is my friend. Don't get me wrong, I love a variety of music, but 'in my helmet' is not the place for me to get lost in the sound. We are all different. Isn't that cool?:dance
Nice to meet you last weekend, Redclfco.:hug Writng from Schenectady, NY (or something like that??)

[womanridge]

When I'm just riding around town, I usually do not wear earplugs. When I'm on a long trip, I wear the soft squishy type. They do not block out all the sound. They just make it more tolerable. I still hear train whistles, car horns, bike engine, sirens, they're just not as loud.

I also listen to music when I ride. I just started listening to music while riding this year. I was always hesitant to do so as I thought it would be a distraction. However, I find that if I keep the music low, so I can just hear it it makes for a pleasant ride. I can still hear what's going on around me, have some nice background noise, don't get bored. I can even ignore it if I want.

-June

Welcome iHop! Nice to meet you. Stop by anytime. This is a nice place to get to know everyone!

[From MARS]

I bought an I-pod last year thinking it would keep me company over the "Long-Miles". I've come to realize I like the silence. 500 mile days or 1,000 saddle-sore. Silence is my friend. Don't get me wrong, I love a variety of music, but 'in my helmet' is not the place for me to get lost in the sound. We are all different. Isn't that cool?:dance
Nice to meet you last weekend, Redclfco.:hug Writng from Schenectady, NY (or something like that??)

Same here. The I-pod interferes with the music in my mind which is accompanied by the background sounds of engine, wind, tires, etc. Usually the melody changes with the miles, but sometimes I get stuck on some tune to which I can only remember one verse, and it keeps "playing" over and over and over..... :banghead

Tom

PS: I like this kinder, gentler forum.:thumb

[PHMarvin]

Hi,
For those who don't like earplugs or for those for whom earplugs are uncomfortable, there are many, many sizes, shapes and materials. Find a store which stocks safety items. They probably have more earplugs than you can count.

Helen, I'd love to sit down with you and listen to your many adventures. I have heard some, but I'm sure there are many more. But only if the Magic Cooler is close.

I no longer listen to music on the bike. I hit a deer with my K1100LT and none of my K75's has a radio. I'm too much of a Luddite to get an iPod or something like that. But when I had the K1100LT, I often listened to Classical music during long, boring rides. I can still remember Wagner's Ride of the Valkyries blaring through the headphones as I rode north on the toll road from Torreon heading toward Chihuahua!

[vanzen]

Hated wearing earplugs –
I have tried every over-the-counter type and material ever made !
No exaggeration !
Some were better than others, but one of two results was inevitable:
the plug would ooze out of my ear just enough to make it ineffective,
or it would remain in place and be painful !
Turns out that my ear canals are quite narrow and take a sharp bend –
universal fit plugs just won't work for me.
Years ago, I was fitted with a custom molded set – and these problems were solved.

Silence is GOLDEN !

Nope, no audio for me while riding ...
the distraction would only interrupt quality "meditation time".

[nrpetersen]

Ear issues got me away from music when I am riding. I had sudden hearing loss in my right ear, about 30%, and left me with insane ringing; at first wanted to rip the ear off my head with a constant distraction, but since getting fitted with internal inside the ear plugs, and simply getting used to it, my suffering has lessened.

The only place, however where I do get as close to silence as possible is on the bike with the earplugs in. .........

this thread is refreshing, to say the least. You women have some good wordsSame thing happened to me here, except loss my previously only good left ear is about 50 db (I presume yours is 30 db?)

It's really good karma to read how the other half enjoys M/Cs too.

[Sue]

Just catching up on this forum after being offline for 2 days for BMW MOA stuff. I missed you - and feel, now, like I am home.

As far as the earplugs and music thread - I always wear earplugs, and never listen to music. I long for the solitude if the bike, and I find myself "burning a lot of brush" as I ride.

[beemergirl]

Well, I logged on a couple days ago to find this forum......very nice! I'm almost back from my vacation time....17 days mostly solo on the bike, home less than 48 hours and then a car trip to help my newly unemployed SO move his stuff.

I've been riding about 4 years and am on my third bike. Two in the garage now, other sold.

I did the 3 Flags Classic this year from Mexicali to Lethbridge, Alberta and then went up to Lake Louise and Jasper National Parks, and came home the long way needing to bag a few northern CA National Parks for the California Parks Adventure. That took 17 days....my longest road trip.

What did I learn? Use paper maps to check Ms Garmin. :laugh:laugh After about 2 hours or 85 miles on a nicely paved road national forest road, the last 7 miles were dirt and gravel. There was no way I was turning back though. My RT with GSing! It did really well but has the same problem as my GS, it falls when it comes to a complete stop, the back wheel slid, and down we went. But then so did the ZX 14 that was with me that day. No injuries, lots of fun. A few more battle scars on the sidecase, so big deal.

I'll catch up with the forum when next weekend when I'm finally home. Great to meet you all!

[Voni]

I am finally home, after spending the summer on the bike. What a fantastic time, but it's great to be home!

Can't wait to hear about your adventures, Beemergirl! Love your sense of humor!

Voni
sMiling

[womanridge]

Speaking of books...................
Well, Helen mentioned it.
Anyway, does anyone remember the author that spoke at Voni's seminar at the National this past summer? I hoped to order her books, but don't even remember her name.:hungover

[k75karol]

Speaking of books...................
Well, Helen mentioned it.
Anyway, does anyone remember the author that spoke at Voni's seminar at the National this past summer? I hoped to order her books, but don't even remember her name.:hungover

Melissa Holbrook Pierson

.

[womanridge]

Melissa Holbrook Pierson

.

Thanks, Karol.

[criminaldesign]

I find that I talk to myself quite abit if im not listenig to music while riding. Nothing crazy... It starts with my mind rambling on the random stuff that infiltrated my one of my senses, then I'll get a saying or a verse of a song stuck in my head which in return I start reciting them in different pitches and tones...

when i was a kid with a paper route, i had scenarios and roll playing to pass the time while throwing papers. I think it all stems from there.

I like to have the option of music if I'm in the mood while riding. I keep a little ipod shuffle in the jacket pocket.

[Sue]

I like this "room." It's comfy here.... my friends are here, and I can feel pretty confident that I won't be on the receiving end of someone's "rant".

Over the last several days, in another part of the forum, things have gotten a little ugly. I'm glad I can come back in here to breathe, relax with my friends, and remember why I volunteered to serve in this fine club.

And so - here is a big thanks to Karen, Steve, Irene, Voni, and anyone else who hung in there to make this "room" happen. It keeps me grounded.

[womanridge]

I like this "room." It's comfy here.... my friends are here, and I can feel pretty confident that I won't be on the receiving end of someone's "rant".

Over the last several days, in another part of the forum, things have gotten a little ugly. I'm glad I can come back in here to breathe, relax with my friends, and remember why I volunteered to serve in this fine club.

And so - here is a big thanks to Karen, Steve, Irene, Voni, and anyone else who hung in there to make this "room" happen. It keeps me grounded.

You are very welcome. I'm glad we made this possible.
And, I was just thinking the same thing this morning. Sure seems to be a lot of confrontation out there. :fight
Grab your slippers and "binkie" sip on some hot chocolate and grab a good book, maybe by one of the authors mentioned on another thread in the Women's forum.
There's no place like home. :hug

[Oldhway]

You are very welcome. I'm glad we made this possible.
And, I was just thinking the same thing this morning. Sure seems to be a lot of confrontation out there. :fight
Grab your slippers and "binkie" sip on some hot chocolate and grab a good book, maybe by one of the authors mentioned on another thread in the Women's forum.
There's no place like home. :hug

Winter is upon us and people are gettin' crabby already. The Mod team is aware of it and watching.

Oh well, so much for the peaceful Summer...., hopefully folks remember we're all community here.

[martinPH]

I like this "room." It's comfy here.... my friends are here, and I can feel pretty confident that I won't be on the receiving end of someone's "rant".

Over the last several days, in another part of the forum, things have gotten a little ugly. I'm glad I can come back in here to breathe, relax with my friends, and remember why I volunteered to serve in this fine club.

And so - here is a big thanks to Karen, Steve, Irene, Voni, and anyone else who hung in there to make this "room" happen. It keeps me grounded.

Sue, The rants are from just a few, remember there are 30,000 + moa members not ranting! Thanks to all the board who make this such a wonderful club.
Martin.

[womanridge]

Just finished "American Borders" by Carla King. She rode around the U.S. on a Ural w/side car. Fun read. She confirmed what Helen said: "Don't be afraid to ride alone. Just do it and use the same common sense you use every day of your life." Anyone else out there want to recommend a good book?

[martinPH]

Snip

Finally! After running into as many problems as a lawyer would attending a seminar on honesty, I am happy to say that the books are finally out, done, available and real. The official unveiling is taking place in Victoria BC at Evedar’s Bistro on the 14th of November from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.

Whoops! My fault! I guess I am too psych'd. The first book is called Two Wheels through winter" it is about my 2007 record breaking Cross Canada trip on my motorcycle from Victoria BC to Cape Spear Newfoundland from the 1st of January to the 19th. it sells for $28.79
The second one is called "Iceman VS Labrador. This one is about riding from Victoria BC to Goose Bay Labrador in January of 2008. This is the trip where I rode the 2200 kms of ice roads and hit temperatures of -61C. it is the also $28.79
Both books are about 300 pages and filled with 150 pictures in each. soft bound with color inserts as well.
Paul Iceman Mondor


I just came across this.
Martin.

[criminaldesign]

Just finished "American Borders" by Carla King. She rode around the U.S. on a Ural w/side car. Fun read. She confirmed what Helen said: "Don't be afraid to ride alone. Just do it and use the same common sense you use every day of your life." Anyone else out there want to recommend a good book?

I have to say there is a very liberated feeling traveling alone. It's all on you and do whatever you want. When I travel I really have no itinerary or schedule. Get there when I get there. A bit serene. Some days I may see how far I can travel, some days I may not go anywhere while on the road.

I've had to hang out at truckstops and restaurants for multiple hours taking care of work. That makes it a bit hard traveling with others at times.

At times it can be a bit lonely. seeing something cool is always nice to share with someone.

[Voni]

At times, I've had to stop total strangers to tell them of my excitement at seeing incredible sights!

Either that or explode!

Voni
sMiling

[tourunigo]

Just catching up on this forum after being offline for 2 days for BMW MOA stuff. I missed you - and feel, now, like I am home.

As far as the earplugs and music thread - I always wear earplugs, and never listen to music. I long for the solitude if the bike, and I find myself "burning a lot of brush" as I ride.

that is the most precise phrasing of the process that I have ever heard. thanks for that one. - Bob

[Astir]

At times, I've had to stop total strangers to tell them of my excitement at seeing incredible sights!

Either that or explode!

Voni
sMiling

Hi everybody, thank you for sharing the room you have created! Voni, love that quote!

My room has a ritual for entry... dawning of boots, over pants, jacket, gloves, helmet... It can take a bit to warm up and start to relax. Move the daily noise out of your head and be in the moment. But an hour or two later I feel like a new person. I lost that room for a while in my earlier years, but am so happy to have gotten it back.

[womanridge]

Welcome Astir, and post often. Our room is meant to be comfy!

[sudani]

I remember as a little girl of about 9, wanting so many things, dolls, cool things, things I knew I wouldn't get. Thinking it was that Christmas that I got nothing but clothes. (I'm sure, with 4 of us kids and me being the only girl, that is what was needed.) In particular, I remember to this day the deep purple, full box-pleated wool skirt and matching horizontal purple/white stripe sweater to match. My gawd, I was so happy when I outgrew that outfit! But then, I always peeked at my presents before having to open them on Xmas morn. Definitely took the sting out of the disappointment. You learn to deal.

What do you remember?

[womanridge]

I remember my sisters and I always setting out cookies , milk and a coffee cup for Santa and his elves. Never failed that the cookies were always partially eaten, the milk was gone and the coffee cup was used. I wondered how they did that and still made it to everyone elses house.:scratch

Ahhh, the innocence of childhood

[Helen]

I remember as a little girl of about 9, wanting so many things, dolls, cool things, things I knew I wouldn't get. Thinking it was that Christmas that I got nothing but clothes. (I'm sure, with 4 of us kids and me being the only girl, that is what was needed.) In particular, I remember to this day the deep purple, full box-pleated wool skirt and matching horizontal purple/white stripe sweater to match. My gawd, I was so happy when I outgrew that outfit! But then, I always peeked at my presents before having to open them on Xmas morn. Definitely took the sting out of the disappointment. You learn to deal.

What do you remember?

I have almost the exact opposite memory... The one and only time I snooped into the presents...for some reason I usually did what I was told, go figure??... I found this beautiful sweater, It looked my size, had blue in it (*my* color)... I could hardly wait for Christmas!!

Imagine my disappointment when my sister opened HER present with MY sweater in it! Of course I couldn't mention it because I wasn't supposed to have looked. I have never sneaked a peak since!

Then there was the Christmas Eve that I had to sleep in the attic because we had so many house guests and was besieged by pirate ghosts all night!! whew... scary!

[womanridge]

I have almost the exact opposite memory... The one and only time I snooped into the presents...for some reason I usually did what I was told, go figure??... I found this beautiful sweater, It looked my size, had blue in it (*my* color)... I could hardly wait for Christmas!!

Imagine my disappointment when my sister opened HER present with MY sweater in it! Of course I couldn't mention it because I wasn't supposed to have looked. I have never sneaked a peak since!

Then there was the Christmas Eve that I had to sleep in the attic because we had so many house guests and was besieged by pirate ghosts all night!! whew... scary!

Hey Helen, good to hear from you.;)

[Sue]

I remember as a little girl of about 9, wanting so many things, dolls, cool things, things I knew I wouldn't get. Thinking it was that Christmas that I got nothing but clothes. (I'm sure, with 4 of us kids and me being the only girl, that is what was needed.) In particular, I remember to this day the deep purple, full box-pleated wool skirt and matching horizontal purple/white stripe sweater to match. My gawd, I was so happy when I outgrew that outfit! But then, I always peeked at my presents before having to open them on Xmas morn. Definitely took the sting out of the disappointment. You learn to deal.

What do you remember?

That is so funny, Sudani! It made me remember a certain hand-me-down when I was in 7th grade (or thereabouts). I never thought of us as being poor, but we certainly were on the lower edge of the income curve. Hand-me-downs were a part of life.

My older sister outgrew a winter coat that was passed onto me. It was bright magenta (the ugly pink) with loopy mohair or wool fabric. Oh-my-God, it was hideous.
:sick I refused to wear it.

That was the winter that I had only a lightweight cotton jacket to wear throughout the bitter Wisconsin winter. I can still remember how cold I was that year, waiting for the bus. But at least I looked good! :laugh

[BexBmr]

I remember as a little girl of about 9, wanting so many things, dolls, cool things, things I knew I wouldn't get. Thinking it was that Christmas that I got nothing but clothes. (I'm sure, with 4 of us kids and me being the only girl, that is what was needed.) In particular, I remember to this day the deep purple, full box-pleated wool skirt and matching horizontal purple/white stripe sweater to match. My gawd, I was so happy when I outgrew that outfit! But then, I always peeked at my presents before having to open them on Xmas morn. Definitely took the sting out of the disappointment. You learn to deal.

What do you remember?

Eew - horizontal stripes. :laugh

I remember my brother getting into fights at school over whether or not there was a Santa Claus. He believed until he was 14. He would ask my mom every year if Santa existed and she would say, "Of course. There's no way I could ever afford to buy all this stuff." Note: we grew up with little money; however, every year there were tons of presents under the tree. I think a family member helped my mom with our presents - so yes, for us there was a Santa Claus.

[sawalt65]

I remember as a little girl of about 9, wanting so many things, dolls, cool things, things I knew I wouldn't get. Thinking it was that Christmas that I got nothing but clothes. (I'm sure, with 4 of us kids and me being the only girl, that is what was needed.) In particular, I remember to this day the deep purple, full box-pleated wool skirt and matching horizontal purple/white stripe sweater to match. My gawd, I was so happy when I outgrew that outfit! But then, I always peeked at my presents before having to open them on Xmas morn. Definitely took the sting out of the disappointment. You learn to deal.

What do you remember?

I remember wanting a horse...a REAL one. There was only one problem; at the time we lived in an apartment! I told my Mom I would keep it in my closet.

Years later, we actually moved to a farm and I was able to live out that wish. I quickly realized that there's a lot more to owning a horse than just admiring their beauty! Kind of like owning a bike. I love to ride, and do so all year round. I hate it when I have to leave it for more than a day for maintenance or, in next weeks' case, the installation of fork lights.

Thanks for keeping this forum going, Ladies! It's a pleasure to know there's so many of us out there!

-Steph
2004 R1200CL

[womanridge]

And thank you Sawalt65 as well, for keeping this forum alive. This is your room too. Stop by often.

[womanridge]

To all those that helped make this room a success this year. Looking forward to a fun 2010 on the Women's Forum.
:hug

[sudani]

To all - have a happy new year. Let's keep our fingers crossed for 2010!

Can't wait for Spring to fire up my baby....

Best wishes for a fabulous year to you all,

[PHMarvin]

To all - have a happy new year. Let's keep our fingers crossed for 2010!

Can't wait for Spring to fire up my baby....

Best wishes for a fabulous year to you all,

Hi, Susan,
If you happen to get to El Paso this winter, let me know. I have 2 K75 bikes (and a friend is giving me a K100RT which I'll have to get here and running). You'd be welcome to take one for a spin, just to remember what it's like and prepare for Spring! I hope you'll have a Happy New Year!

[sudani]

Hi, Susan,
If you happen to get to El Paso this winter, let me know. I have 2 K75 bikes (and a friend is giving me a K100RT which I'll have to get here and running). You'd be welcome to take one for a spin, just to remember what it's like and prepare for Spring! I hope you'll have a Happy New Year!

What a tease!! :)

Happy New Year to you, too!

[Voni]

No tease by Phil. He means it or he wouldn't have posted!

Voni
sMiling

[650flutterby]

Happy New Year to all! Looking forward to riding and meeting our friends new and old. We may go on a New Years Day ride if the weather cooperates.:laugh

[SheRides2]

What a lovely post...