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Category Archives: Backroads

You Can Never Have Too Many Navigational Aids

Those of you who know me will get a kick out of this. What’s the one thing that I always have with me? Well I know I always have several things with me. But if you’ve ever been on any sort of trip with me no matter if it’s on the scooter or driving the truck camper what do I always have?

If you answered maps you would be correct. That’s right maps with an s as in plural. You see I usually take along several maps. I’ll have a large atlas or even a small atlas. Then I’ll also have the state gazetteer map for the states I’ll be traveling through. Now I’ve even stepped into modern times and purchased GPSrs. Yes that is an s on the end of that. I have two GPSr units. One for Geocaching and one for driving. The new GPSr has all sorts of info loaded onto it. Stuff like fuel stops, places to eat and lodging.

With all the money I’ve spent on things to help me find my way you’d think I could do just one simple thing. REMEMBER TO TAKE THEM WITH ME!!!!!!!!! That’s right, I forgot to take them with me this past weekend. No maps. No GPSrs, no nothing. I had one small map with me. The one map with the least details of any map I own. Nothing but the major roadways on there.

Oh wait. I need to clarify something. I did take one GPSr with me. I took the new Zumo that has all the handy-dandy info on fuel lodging and places to eat. Yes I did take it. There’s only on small problem. Yours truly had recently bought a larger sd card so that I could update said Zumo with all sorts of new info for the entire country. In preparing for this grand idea yours truly also deleted all the info from the previous mapping software stored on said Zumo.

So let me review all this. I have tons of handy maps and GPSrs to choose from. I take one of each luckily. The one map that only has the major highways and the one GPSr that I’ve recently deleted all the information from. So basically I have some slick toilet paper and a paper weight for said slick paper.

No problem. I’ve been all over Tennessee at some point or other. Granted I haven’t covered every square mile of our wonderful state. I do have most of it in my memory. Now I’m no spring chicken anymore. Sometimes it’s a tab bit foggy in the ol’ database upstairs. But surely I can pull something out of my ass and find that short cut I’m looking for.

Well eventually I did find the road I was looking for. Only after taking several turns through some picturesque bottom land. Nothing like flooded timber to sooth your mind when you are kicking yourself in the ass for forgetting all your navigational tools. Well other than hills and hollers that is. I did see some beautiful countryside while I was on my back roads adventure.

All is well now. I did make it to where I wanted to go. I did return home safely. So no harm no foul. I couldn’t help but laugh at myself. I even tried to call some folks so that they could laugh at me too. It’s pretty hard to do that when you are so far back in the sticks that a cell phone signal is something of myth. Hell I bet the folks that live around the places I drove through don’t get the Grand Ole Opry until about Wednesday night.

Ride Safe,

Ronman

New Year’s Eve 2011-2012

2011 has certainly been a harsh year.  I’ve learned a lot about myself and about other people as well. I can’t ever remember another year that I’ve been so happy to put behind me. It was nice to end the year doing some things I enjoy.  The weather here in Middle Tennessee was beautiful.  So I bet you can name at least one of the things I did on New Year’s Eve.  That’s right, a scooter ride.

I got in from work and took a short power nap to sort of recharge the batteries.  Then it was off to meet up with my normal riding partner Jody and three folks I’ve known for a while but hadn’t ridden with yet.  Lisa, Micky and Greg were all ready to enjoy some nice Tennessee back roads with us.  Our plan was simple. We were going to ride to eat lunch at a place Lisa, Micky and Greg knew about.  The prior evening we had all been at a party and planned our ride.

Ride planning for us consisted of talking about taking a ride.  We figured out who was in. Unfortunately one couple couldn’t join the rest of us due to work and a funeral. Once we decided a time and who was going it was then time to pick a route.  To accomplish this I was chosen to lead the ride.  So my question to them was simple. North South East or West?

First South was chosen. Boom I immediately had a destination in mind.  Moments later is was said another direction was wanted.  Not a problem. Another route was already working itself into my head.  With the information of the good eating establishment it was set. I think all five of us enjoyed both the ride and the company.

Once back from the ride it was time to grab the camper and join the rest of the group at the campground for our New Year’s Eve celebration.  Nothing like ringing in the New Year around a campfire.  I think everyone enjoyed plenty of great food. Certainly there were plenty of laughs from everyone.  It was fun passing high fives around to other folks.  It didn’t matter if you were next to someone or not. If you wanted to high-five them you just gave it to whoever was next to you and they would pass it on around until the intended party received it.

The nice thing about camping for New Year’s Eve is that you don’t have to worry about being on the roads with the drunks. You don’t have to worry about having a DD.  You can just enjoy the celebration and all you have to do is get inside your camper and go to bed.  So not only is it relaxing to enjoy the outdoors, but also its safe too.  Not to mention the kids are welcome as well.

We had one individual that it was their first time camping. They seemed to really enjoy it too.  What a memorable way to go on your first camping trip.  Start off the New Year with a new adventure. Hopefully it will be the first of many more camping trips to come for them.

How was your New Year’s Eve?  What did you do to celebrate? I trust it was safe and fun for all of you.

 

Ride Safe,

Ronman

Ahhhh! Scooter Time

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After far too long off the scooter I was able to enjoy a wonderful leisurely afternoon ride. I rolled out-of-town on back roads meandering around the beautiful countryside just soaking it all in. It doesn’t matter how bad things have been, if you get on your scooter and just ride it all seems better.

The route I was taking was a familiar one. It wound me through some majestic farmland. Physically and mentally taking me back to a simpler time. A time when the worries of life were far fewer. A time when I simply enjoyed just living. Today’s ride helped get me back to a place that I long to be. A place that I’m working toward. A place that I will once again live.

What do you do when you are wanting to simplify things? Do you get on your scooter and ride? What sort of places do you ride in order to take you back to where you want to be?

Ride Safe

Ronman

I’m thankful that old road Is a friend of mine

Seeing this line reminds me of all the years I’ve spent on the road.  It’s a life not for everyone. You’ve got to be about a half bubble off plumb to want to do it.  I’ve so many memories from the road. It truly is a friend of mine.

Countless are the miles I’ve spent over the past two score and three years. Traveling in automobiles, tractor trailers and on motorcycles I’ve seen some sights.  One day I’ll reflect long enough to write about it. Until then, like tonight, I’ll mount up and travel the highways and byways of this great land. Seeing the sights both in real-time and also in my mind’s eye.  For the latter are truly the special ones. Those etched deep within my very core. They are the scars that have made me who I am.

Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For

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Scenic Views Geocaches and Clearing My Mind

Taking advantage of some wonderful Fall sunshine I headed out to find a few Geocaches.  Just like with any adventure I wanted to make sure my scooter was up for the task.  I stopped at this local garage to check things out. Once the oil level and tire pressure checked out OK it was time to mount up and roll.

 

It isn’t difficult to find a scenic back road here in Tennessee to soak in some sunshine.  I’ve pasted this old barn for most of my life. I can’t count the times that I’ve said to myself that I need to stop and take a photograph. Today was the day.  There’s just something about old barns that appeal to me.  They all seem to have a story to tell. The weathered boards. Their shape. The purpose they have of providing shelter for both machine and beast.  A place to store sustenance for hard times. I hope I never loose my attraction to barns.

These lovely ladies seemed interested in what I was up to.  I suppose they couldn’t help but be curious. You’ve all see the Little Woman. She is quite the head turner.  Wouldn’t you really like to know what they were thinking?

Today I had many things on my mind and troubling my heart.  Like many of us do I turned to music to help.  In the CD player was spinning the tunes of Larry Cordle.  The album titled Pud Marcum’s Hangin kept me company. Some of these songs hit close to home.  One in particular, Angel on His Shoulder seemed fitting.  As I wound my way around historic Middle Tennessee I too had an angel on my shoulder and a devil by my side.  Just as in the song there is a war raging in my soul.

Stopping long enough in an area known as the Cove, I read the historic marker.  It told of families that have lived in the area for decades. It told of happenings that occurred during the War of Northern Aggression. There is so much history right at our fingertips. Most we don’t even have to dig for. It’s right in front of our eyes.  Take time to stop and read historic markers. The things you learn will amaze you.

The mixture of Fall colors and winding roads in the cool sunshine is just what the Ronman needed.  Add in to the mix grabbing a few Geocaches along the way and it’s a much-needed relaxing day.  Not far from Pull Tight Hill ,where these photographs were taken,  I stopped for a snack.

Coming to a cross roads I found a small country store.  I debated on taking a photograph of this market but decided better of it. I had rather you use the theater of your mind to picture what this market was like.  You know the type. There was an old church bench on the front porch.  People rode up in pickup trucks, cars and even horse back.

I sat on this bench and enjoyed a wonderful Sundrop and a bologna sandwich. You know one that has a thick piece of bologna with cheese, mustard, miracle whip and a tomato.  Just the way God meant for them to be. What a way to spend the day.

I hope you too can get out and enjoy a relaxing ride in the country. Take time to slow down and see the sights around you.  Do something new. Check out Geocaching. Learn about history.  Travel alone. Travel with others. Just get out and enjoy life.

 

Ride Safe

Ronman

Water Falls Winding Roads and Fall Colors

Water Falls

Winding Roads

 

Fall Colors

Carpe Diem

Things have been busy around here lately.  I have found some time to get in some much-needed riding.  I’ve done things such as an impromptu overnight ride. I left with no particular route in mind and I certainly found it.  I headed South and rode down near the Alabama state line only to wind up in Kentucky before the night was over.

 

How long has it been since you’ve enjoyed a picnic? I bet it’s been far too long.  Well that’s one of the things I’ve done lately that was incredibly relaxing. How much fun it is to ride off to some remote spot on a lake to enjoy the sights, smells and sounds of nature.  Talk about peaceful.

Fall is upon us now. How long has it been since you grabbed a close friend or two and headed out on a wonderful 200 mile Sunday afternoon ride around the countryside?  Well I recently have done just this.  I took some unintended turns that wound up being excellent roads.  The crisp air was refreshing.  As you can see from the above photograph, the roads were spectacular.

 

Get off the couch and get outside and enjoy this amazing Fall weather while you can. Soon we’ll be enjoying the cold bone chilling temperatures of Winter.  Now don’t let this time pass you by.  Seize the day!  This is what we dream about. Live the dream!

 

Ride Safe,

 

Ronman

Big Cypress Tree State Natural Area

Tennessee is blessed to have so many natural wonders and beautiful places for all of us to enjoy.  One such place is Big Cypress Tree State Natural Area.  You have to want to go there to get there.  I’ve had this on my radar for some time now. Thankfully I was able to drop by for a nice visit.  What a pleasant surprise it was to see such a peaceful area.  Not exactly what I was expecting but a nice treat nonetheless. The day I rode over there was a super hot day.  Hell most of the days this summer have been super hot.  It was nice traveling down the back roads of Tennessee. I love taking roads both old and new to me.  The countryside is always filled with the sights of wildlife. You never know what sort of oddity you’ll run across.  One sad thing I noticed was the empty shell of some old factories. What a shame these jobs aren’t here anymore.

Talk about the road less traveled. Now these are my kind of roads.  The shade was a welcome relief from the heat of the sun.  Amazing how much the temperature will drop in a little shade.  I truly enjoy these back road journeys.

There was a nice garden full of raised beds with all sorts of plants to enjoy.  Take for instance, I never knew there was such a thing as a Mexican Petunia.  Well there is and I have two pictures to prove it.

See I told ya so. There was this little sign to point out what this plant was.  In fact there were all sorts of signs to point out all sorts of plants.

This little guy was my tour guide for the gardens and playground. He sure did jump around a bunch. I think he was excited that I came to visit.

There is a really nice set of swings here at Big Cypress Tree as well as picnic tables and restrooms too. There’s a ball diamond and plenty of space for kids to run and have a good time.

There’s a great kiosk with lots of pictures and information about the area its history and the Big Cypress Tree.

Take some time to get out and find out about the many state parks or natural areas in your area.  Whether you visit Big Cypress Tree State Natural Area here in my home state of Tennessee or some area in your home state, enjoy the beauty of our countryside.

Ride Safe

 

Ronman

Warrior Spirit

The Hoka Hey Challenge has impacted me in so many ways.  I can’t really explain it, but I just know it.  One must find their inner warrior and use the strength they find from within to overcome the challenges they face.  Easier said than done for sure.  I was out on a soul ride and lo and behold what did I run across? This is the boyhood home of none other than Nathan Bedford Forrest.  That’s when it hit me.  Bedford Forrest is one of the greatest warriors of all time.  I don’t believe it was by accident that I turned down that road I’d never before been down.

I’ve often said that I believe N.B. Forrest was one of the greatest motivators of men to ever set foot on this earth.  If you want to learn more about Forrest I strongly urge you to read “Bedford Forrest and His Critter Company” by Andrew Nelson Lytle. This is a very informative book to say the least.I walked around the grounds and soaked in the moment. I tried to put myself back in the time period that Forrest lived here.  I wondered about the trees and such around me.  Which ones did he climb? Where did he sit in the shade?  I was grateful that no one else was around.  I tried to soak in the history that I was standing amongst.

 

 

 

 

 

I enjoyed spending this solitary time on this historic place.  I reflected upon my life. I searched deep within me for answers. I found inspiration. I thought of reading the diary of one of Forrest’s men back when I was in 8th grade.  I think I understand more clearly what the Hoka Hey is about.

Let me take a moment to say that in no way am I comparing myself to Bedford Forrest.  I only used this time, this place to inspire me.  Lord knows that I need inspiration lately.  I’ve been fighting many battles on many fronts.  I’ve lost so many that I thought I could depend on. I’ve made choices to stand with those that were left alone. I’ve learned so much about myself.  Not all of it has been good. On this I am certain, I’ve been honest with myself. I’ve done what was the right thing to do. I have no regrets.I learned from history on this day. I learned from my past on this day. I learned from within on this day. I learned that like Forrest, I will show no quarter to my enemies. I will draw strength from the warrior spirit of Forrest. I will draw strength from within myself. From now on I will only draw strength from a very select few other people.

 

I know not what is to come. Like Forrest rode King Phillip I too will ride my trusty steed into what lies before me.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this brief look inside of this historical location. You’ve also had a peek within me. Then again isn’t that what this blog is all about? Take time to learn from and be inspired by history. Take time to listen and search within yourself.

Ride Safe,

 

Ronman

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