Ground flight… I know that feeling. Something I seldom manage in cold weather because I’m mitigating speed so as to not be surprised by any slippery spots in curves. But when the weather is nice, I can feel the flight — on the Vespa or the BMW.

I’ve not ridden as much this year. The pandemic has played a role but so have other circumstances. I remain content though riding as I can.

I know I experience time differently depending on a variety of factors. Sometimes it is fast, and sometimes slow. All constructions in my head based on thought. It’s always a challenge to just be present in the moment where there is no time.

I used to fall asleep instantly and sleep soundly all night. That experience seems to have abandoned me. Not sure why but I miss a full night’s sleep too.

Riding the Vespa sort of opens my eyes to the various ways I’ve enslaved myself — sometimes psychologically, other times through chores and “responsibilities.” It’s good to gain perspective and that always relieves some of the angst.

Thanks David!

Boredom isn’t lurking here. It’s active and consuming. I fear winter will be a real challenge this year.

I’ve considered swapping the BMW for something like an XT225. A machine more at home on all these forest roads and without the mass of the BMW or the poor suspension of the Vespa.

Good wishes for your winter challenges. I hope you find some rejuvenation!

Thank you for your kind words Fred. I appreciate your thoughts on fall and the approach of winter, a reminder of why lies ahead.

I’ve been drinking a lot more cups of hot tea and cocoa already. I wish we had a big fireplace to doze in front of!

Hibernation. Something I am slowly coming to understand will be a part of my future. I still think I can keep both the scooter and motorcycle alive and ready to roll through the winter, but the cold has become more difficult for me to manage physically. While anything above 20F used to be fine to ride, I’m pretty sure that may be a problem now. Time will tell.

And I can relate to the bittersweet reflections at the end of a ride. I used to engage them in a cafe or diner. The pandemic has wrecked that important aspect of riding. So I may be joining you in musing over fall rides when the snow starts to fall.

Hopefully next year will be even better as there are more group rides and opportunities to discover new roads in the region.

Escape from the mundane…yes! I’ve noticed that too much routine usually results in my feeling like a gerbil on a wheel. In a cage. Wanting to break out. The Vespa helps relieve some of this tension.

Wonderful photos, as always!