Scooter in the Sticks

Exploring life on a Vespa, Royal Enfield Himalayan, Honda Trail 125, and a Kawasaki W650

Riding Disruption

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COVID-19 rapid antigen test
A simple test for a complex problem

For Whom the Bell Tolls

After two and a half years of careful conduct, I’ve succumbed to the virus that has turned the world upside down. For me, the news that I tested positive for COVID-19 was slightly more worrisome because of my drug suppressed immune system. Along with several other unfortunate medical conditions.

It means there will be a riding disruption. It’s funny how that weighs on my mind.

After reviewing my behavior I can only account for the infection because I have become less resolute in wearing a mask. My history before the pandemic shows annual bouts of flu, colds, sinus infections, and pneumonia. Wearing a mask the past couple years eliminated all of that suffering. I was already a bit of a loner and didn’t congregate with people. So the mask was a sort of Holy Grail.

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The Terror of Change

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Vespa GTS scooter along a rural road
Riding has a way of generating thoughts and surfacing ideas that would otherwise remain hidden to me.

Change

Riding provides a landscape on which I can let my mind wander across thoughts and ideas the are either bothering me, or just spring to life as the scooter and I are running down the road. One of those ideas that has been bouncing around in my head — the ability to change.

It’s strange how often things occur to me while I’m standing alongside a road, alone, and relaxed.

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VLOG: Gratitude During the COVID-19 Pandemic

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Man jumping in air next to a Vespa scooter at sunrise
Finding gratitude and joy in memories of riding.

Remembering Good Times, Having Faith in Tomorrow

If I had to choose one photograph that depicts the joy I feel while riding it would be this one of my friend Paul Ruby leaping in the air on one of our many early morning rides. This photograph was made over ten years ago but that feeling has not diminished in frequency or power.

During the coming days and weeks, many of us may entertain our darkest fears and concerns.

I have. But I also have choices. I plan for the worst but continue to hope for the best. Part of that process stems from the fine memories I have of life in the rear view mirror, a strong belief that all things pass, and faith that there will be a new tomorrow. I just don’t get to know what it will be until it gets here.

Until that time I daily give thanks for what I have. Finding gratitude, even in a storm, warms my spirit and fuels hope. I produced a short VLOG entry on some of the things rattling in my head.

Thoughts on Gratitude during the COVID-19 Pandemic

I hope these words find you safe, healthy and with a positive view of life ahead.