Sooooo…..riding is unpredictable.  Broke camp and headed to Northern Canyonlands for an amazing ride full of canyons, twists and turns, and beautiful views.   “Someone” got hangry and hot by the time we made it back to Moab.  In my defense, my air cooled Harley cooks me like a little chicken, and I’m a redhead.  A burger and a beer set me straight.  (Please, I’m so dehydrated the beer barely made it to my stomach.)

We headed south towards lower Canyonlands where we outran a thunderstorm (barely) but saw some of the most beautiful light on red rock you could imagine.  Lightening? Ride faster.

Much to the joy of the Irish/Scottish dissent rider, the temp had dropped a quick 20 degrees by the time we reached Monticello, Utah.  We headed west towards Dove Creek with the Sicillian relieved that the highlander was finally in her comfort zone.  Never get too comfortable.

On the way to Dove Creek, CO, the rain came.  It actually felt pretty good after the scorcher in Moab.  Seeing that there were sunny skies ahead, we pushed on through beautiful wheat fields and incredible light that made me wish, once again, that I could stop and take pictures. More on that later.

Then came the wind.  Wind on a motorcycle is an interesting thing.  Wind in your face and all that….a given.  But bring in a strong crosswind and you’ve got a whole new situation.  You have to stay loose while you maintain control, which involves leaning in while you anticipate backdraft from trucks and deceptive protective levees.   (Parentals, please know that if the wind and rain had come at the same time, we would have pulled over.)

Time for Motorcycle Metaphors!

When the crosswinds hit you, keep your hand on the throttle, lean in and keep going.  You’re more powerful than you think you are. DO NOT let your guard down until you’re through that shit. Period.

Then, don’t forget to say thank you for the power that got you through it.