What? Me Worry?
Aiden is no Alfred E. Neuman but he definitely doesn’t worry about much. Food, sleep, walks, play, and cuddles. In my life he reflects the simple things in life. And right now he lays at my feet as I type, resigned that for the moment I’m sitting in his favorite chair.
The year has gone by quickly. A frightening pace especially considering my age. Something about the closing of a year makes me stop and think a bit about what’s happened. A year end inventory to help understand what the next steps may be.
Dog Holidays
I know, it’s for me and not for the dogs. But gee wiz, it’s strange to think that the dogs might be thinking of Christmas the same way I did as a kid. Anxiously awaiting some new, exotic treat. Or maybe just a big piece of chicken or ham. Whatever goes on in their heads, the do enjoy a trip to Wiscoy for Animals. They are treated like special guests and know we’ll depart with Kong squeaky balls, more food, and a bag of treats.
For our dogs, Christmas seems to come every day.
KONG Ball Obsession
At any given time there are six to eight squeaky balls in the garden. Enough to sate the obsessive pursuits of two Belgian Sheepdogs. Lily tends to be content with one as long as I continually throw it for her to chase. Her nephew Aiden is a collector. His goals is to steal every ball thrown and return it to a nest of green balls tucked into a pile of white pine needles.
I see this every day. A reasonable element of a year end inventory. I probably should add that there are few things more disgusting than the offering of a spit and drool laden ball. I wear leather work gloves.
Into Every Life a Little Snow Must Fall
Every year I wonder if my cold weather riding days are over. Strangely though, this year I have acclimated quickly to the cold and have felt comfortable riding in the 20s without much gear. It can change quickly though as my mind is perfectly capable of convincing me of the strangest things.
For now, I’m content to keep riding. The Vespa GTS 250 is the go to machine for the cold weather.
More Winter Protection
Santa brought me a new Tucano Urbano Termoscud apron for the Vespa. My old one ceased to function as the air bladders were tattered. I haven’t put it on yet but soon it will enhance the toasty aspects of winter riding.
I got mine from S.I.P. scooter shop in Germany.
A notable addition to my riding life and a worthy addition to my year end inventory.
The Honda Trail 125
I guess I have to include the addition of the fifth two-wheeled member of my fleet in the year end inventory. The garage is getting crowded and I wonder the wisdom of having so many machines considering how disinterested I am in maintenance. One is a pain. Five is, well, a bigger pain.
But I do love riding it. Along with all the other machines. So any decision about upsizing or downsizing is on hold.
It’s been an interesting year with a lot of ups and downs. But I’ve tried to stay connected to the moment in front of me since that is where life happens. But I also know I need to take a breath and look back. It is where I find gratitude.
Best wishes to all of you reading for the year behind and the new one approaching!
Have a good New Year Steve. May the weather spirits give us many good days to ride.
Steve – all the best to you and your family (dogs too!) for 2025. Some days I can relate to Lily lounging in the chair with a cup of coffee next to her … 2024’s had it’s ups and downs, some days are a slog, others go by too quickly (in a good way). Like you, I ride year around but it’s much easier here in California. Take care and Happy New Year!
Nice way to close out 2024, a nice post from u Mr. Steve.I hope u all readers included have a Super duper year full of good health ,love and much happiness.Two wheel life is for those who dare…
Best for 2025, Steve. Ya know, if you’d just give up winter riding, think of all the time you’d have to design that photo book of all your terrific pictures! And as always, thanks!