I began riding my own bike way back in 2000 or so. I’ve taken many day trips and vacations on the motorcycle along with my husband and good friends. Over the years we have experienced many break downs within our small groups. This year as I ventured out on my own, I had the good misfortune to break down. Not just once but, twice. Both times temperatures reached into the 90’s.

                I have been confident for many years, to take off alone on the bike, enjoying the wind, the road and local events. Recently, I was at an event waiting for the “Ride to the Wall Riders” to show up at a local V.F.W. Hall. It’s quite an eventful sight to see. So many bikes show up to honor our veterans. As I got ready to leave, my bike would not start. A dead battery. As confident as I am in my riding skills, I am not so confident in asking for help. Good thing I was with friends that knew exactly what I needed to do. Look for a motorcycle support vehicle. Soon enough, we found someone with a battery charger in his truck. That’s just what I needed to get my bike started!  I tried to offer him some money for his time and trouble but he politely refused. Before I knew it, I was headed home. Parked my bike in the garage and told my husband about the bike issue. I was sure he would know how to fix it.

                About a month later, it was time for a girls ride. Another hot day was in the forecast so we decided to head to the lake. Go for a swim, have lunch and ride home. What a nice afternoon we had sitting in the water, the shade, and drinking ice tea. We soon packed up our bikes and got ready for the ride home.  Yet once again, my bike will not start. UGH! It’s hot, my husband isn’t reachable and now I have to deal with this, again. We asked some locals if they could help and give my bike a jump. That didn’t work. I soon called a friend with a truck and trailer that was willing to come get me and the bike. The ladies I was with were nice enough to stay with me until my ride got there.

                We soon got the bike home and found out what it was that kept leaving me stranded.  The charging system went bad, which my husband was able to fix.

                I learned a couple of things through these mishaps.
1. It is very difficult for me to ask for help outside my family.
2. Bikers stick together.

I am very grateful for all who have helped get me back on the road and the ladies who stuck with me. Just when I think I’m independent, I have to learn to depend on others.

                Today as I got into my car, it would not start. Positive thinking, I was home and knew exactly what I needed to do. Whip out the credit card and call a tow truck to take the car to the dealership. Ride the bike to work.

                                                                                   Life is good.