Riding Through the Seasons of Life
Riding has changed my life. I still remember the joy felt when I began riding my first scooter. A sudden thrill, a soaring feeling that I was alive and free from whatever weight I carried as a responsible adult. The adventures began as daily commutes to work. Seven miles on the direct route. Fifty or more as a meandering ride through the central Pennsylvania countryside when I left before sunrise so I could still arrive at work at an acceptable time.
As I sit here writing I’m grateful that I made a decision to buy that scooter, to brave the attendant risks that collected in my head from a lifetime of motorcycle naysayers, and just forged ahead into the unknown.
Years and thousands of miles of riding adventures and daily commuting gave way to the next season of my riding life.
Retirement Riding
Two days ago I was riding the Vespa through the valley. In part to drive the moisture from the oil and give the battery a charge as part of my “winterization” process, but also to recharge my own batteries. A ride still works its magic on me.
I thought I would ride more once I retired but it turns out daily commuting is a tough act to follow. Having a job and required to be there in person forced me out onto the road. And I loved it. Every day I rode, summer or winter, rain or shine, snow or sleet. And I am endlessly grateful for how that shaped my mind, body and spirit.
I have so much for which to be grateful from finding myself living in an area that cries out for me to explore on two wheels the the physical and financial ability to continue riding into old again.
On this national day of Thanksgiving I want to remember how grateful I am to be where I am, have the life that I do, and am able to walk (or ride) this earth.
Best wishes to each of you for a fine Thanksgiving holiday. I hope you find yourselves in a good place with a bright view of life.
As always, perfectly put Steve, living in and appreciating the moments our lives provide us. Thank you and Happy Thanksgiving sir.
Paul J
Thank you for the kind words Paul. Life is good. Even when I don’t take time to see it!
Have a great Thanksgiving.
Happy Thanksgiving Steve.
You too Jim!
Steve ,
I’m very Thankful for all the posts I’ve had the pleasure of reading and the picture perfect photos as well as the years go by,health,and seasons change. Our riding my change some yet always a time to recharge our mind just like a 12 volt system thats drives our rides. Peace and blessings to all on this special day today.. Dr.Don
I’m glad you find some value in the things I post. It’s still fun to share what I find on the road. And recharge my mind at the same time!
Have a great day Don.
Thanks again for great content! Not far away is an unsold orphan 125cc named. K-Pipe. If I pull the trigger , it’ll have 2year factory warranty. 4speed semi-auto gearbox & 17″rims. Unjustified really ,for me. But if it’s still LANGUISHING in February ,probably grab it. Single-track addicted folx know the deal! Love lightweight agile bikes now more than ever before. ☮️ to all of u guyz!!
Hey Steve, I’m sending this email from Denver. Elaine and I are traveling across country. From State College to Gorgia, Arizona, New Mexico, Denver. We are heading back zip code 16803-1137 around the 4th Dec. Let’s get together.
Happy Thanksgiving. Peace