CONGA II REUNION

HERE IS THE NEW BLOG AS I WONT BE POSTING HERE ANY MORE!

CONGA II REUNION

Adios!!!!!

I will not be posting anymore on this blog, if you want update or to Go with the Flo :)
You must come here... Add it to your favorite if you wish because I will be closing it soon. Or at least not adding any more. Thanks for going with the flo!

Go with the Flo Conga II Reunion

Flo Intersection Sept 22

3 months later with continued practise, I am riding like a pro. Thanks Motorman for sharing and helping me.

Recap in the parking lot!

I have just been looking at old videos since I have been back from the Cong... Omg, is it funny to watch now. I think it is great sharing the bad with the good, as then you know there is hope for anyone... lol Watching this now, I see why Motorman insisted I put my handle bars back down.
Any wonders I burned out my clutch too.

First time in Parking lot in Canada

Another letter in support of RLAP

I am hoping with letters like this and the support on the forum my friend MOTORMAN will be able to juggle us into their busy schedule. What an event it could turn out to be.

Hello Tannis,
I got your email address from Donna Palladino. The emails below will explain. Yesterday, I had just been thinking about our club and some future safety events and reports that I could put together. My wife Michele and I had just finished watching the DVD again, and I remebered meeting Rob last summer at the local Harley Shop. "Small World" Rob and I also new quite a few people from Ladner as I grew up in Tsawwassen. That included Russ Spooner, who I had not met until I joined the Club in Kamloops, but many other names were familiar.
I am the Safety Officer for our local HOG Club. When the Chapter takes in the Vancouver Motorcycle Show in January there are usually a couple of DVD's played on the Bus and I was going to play the Ride Like a Pro DVD for the Club members. It will get some exposure and maybe some orders for Jerry and Donna. Also after my talk wth Rob I was wondering if there are any plans that your club may be holding an event with them in September as Donna mentioned. That would be a great excuse for any interested members from Kamloops to make a trip to the Island. If so let me know and I will present ideas to the membership. If it is just planned as a local event no problem either, just let me know.
I am so impressed with what the "Ride Like a Pro Team" have put together, and personnally can't believe the difference in my own skills after 34 years of riding. Like Jerry says in the DVD after 20 years he had repeated 1 year of experience 20 times. How true.
Look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Tony Adshead

Can you believe it????

This is the bazaar part.. A lot of shit has been going on as we all know. I have come to the conclusion, it doesn't really matter any more. Simply what ever works, will work. I am always trying to figure things out in my mind to the point where I drive not only myself crazy but others. What I am always trying to do is the right thing. sometimes it is very hard to figure out.
So as I am sitting her pondering things, as to how I want them to work and how they should work, or how they will work. I knew it was causing a few problems between me and my man. Can't understand why really,..,,. Can you??? I know that you could probably figure it out better or at least faster than me... He is happy for me, but not happy that I am riding and he is NOT!!
He is busy fishing in Alaska, in all the months that I am busy riding like a frigging pro across America.... Ask yourself, would that piss ya off??? In the voice and look of Jim Carey..,., just a little bit...snap your head and not the way Motorman would!!
Okay so being the compassionate person that I am... don't laugh!!
Seriously, it is a problem, and I want to fix it, so from the time.. I made a ridiculous post about my new forum about the Conga... I walked over to my man and told him, I was serious, and had some serious shit to talk about... Grab a cigar and lets go smoke!!!
Rob, does not smoke!! About a dozen a year, so he grabbed his cigar and said.. OMG!!!
I told him of my Passion which he was not surprised AT ALL!! hmmm hmm! AND THEN WHAT??
The thing is... I start feeling again, I am all alone, in the world of RLAP... I can ride, but I don't know how to promote it.. He on the other hand is on his own, in the middle of the Alaskan sea, knowing what he is doing and got no one, that really knows what he is all about!! So... why not put these two Passions together, riding and being together!! Screw this 6 months apart shit, I will do what I want and you will do what you want... Let's do it together!!!
We both like riding.......right? Yupper!!
Can ya suck it up, and let me show you those 3 techniques??? Big freaking frown, would ya not believe??? I told him... Rob.. it will be tough... real tough, but only 4 hours...lmao
Ya know what he said??? I will learn it in an hour!!! So be it darling... please do... Let's Ride Like a Pro and do it together!!
He told me to get that bike home safely, it is his to help me teach him how to Ride Like a Pro!! whoo hoo! And then, look out, Rob will have all his ducks in a row, and we will be dancing...
Have I ever mentioned, that we used to teach dancing together??? Country!!!

Doc recieved this letter!

Donna,

Earlier this summer, having coffee, I met a fellow at our local Harley Shop in Kamloops, B.C. ( Rob Irvin). During our conversation I mentioned the DVD that I had bought from "Ride Like a Pro" and how great I thought it was. Rob then said, well actually my wife just bought a bike from Donna Palladino, and rode home to the Vancouver Island British Columbia. At the time he also mentioned there was a possibility the Ride Like a Pro team may be coming to Canada and in particular to Vancouver Island to meet up with Rob and his wife.

I am the Safety Officer for our local HOG Chapter here in Kamloops. If the Ride Like a Pro team has any future plans to head to British Columbia in conjuction with any other local clubs, and would like our support please let me know. If you have an email address that you would feel okay about giving me, I would like contact Rob and his wife, as the day we spoke we did not exchange addresses.

By the way I will be ordering your new DVD " Learn to Ride the Easy Way" for my wife Michele. After years of being the passenger, at 50 she moving up front. She will be taking the Local Safety Course, but we thought over the winter she can learn from the DVD.

Thanks,
Tony Adshead

Unknown Friend

I don't like posting anything that isn't on topic; bikes, humor, asking for prayers, etc. Drama has no place in my life. I just wanted to tell you privately to hang in there. I read your blog and really can't believe how jealous and petty some guys are to say the things they've said. Ignore them. It has been my experience that people get very empowered when they log onto a computer. People say things on the Internet they would NEVER say to your face. Everything you've posted on all the forums has been fun and entertaining; not to mention informative. Stay the course girl. Don't let petty people derail your train. You are inspiring a lot of newbies out there........hell, you inspire me and I'm an old rider. I love the enthusiasm. Keep it up and don't let the crap slow you down.

Was going to!!

Today is one foggy foggy day. I was being tempted by my nefew and by a Dragon to go for a ride. The only trouble is I am the only one with insurance at this end of the Island that I knew how to get hold of. The weather didn't look tempting enough for me to even pursue it. I have to say she really tried too, naggin me on msn, calling me.. Names at that.. Wimp, wus... princess.. Whatever Draggie, I hope you are having fun though. I been thinking about you all every time I glance out the window to see if it got brighter. It has not. I am freezing thinking about it!! The guilt set in a couple times but did not hang around long.
Maybe there will be sun next Sunday.
Ride safe all!!

New Blog!!!

I probably wont be doing much writing in the blog unless of course I get out to ride before I head south for the winter. Maybe just for fun the odd scooter ride down in Mexico.. Anyways pop in from time to time if ya wish.
I will post however on any updates to the preparing of the Conga #2 Reunion Starting in April..Here is the new blog and if you care to jump in and ride with us anywhere, it would be an honor!! Not to mention an absolute blast!!
If you have holidays around May -June 09 ... Meet the Canucks Conga Chicks somewhere.. They are on my new blog too.
If you have ideas of any kind. we would love to hear from you. Lets all put our heads together and conga across the US and Canada or for a mile or two...A state or two or a province or two, or merely follow us through this blog and the Canucks Chicks Conga..

Conga #2 Reunion

Public Apology

Okay so good things do come out when a person stands up and explains things, when given a chance. Now I did not give this persons name even though he was willing to publicly apologise to me.I really believe it takes a real person to stand up to their mistakes. Apology accepted, now lets just move forward.

Look Flo ... I f#@ked up ... just started listening to all the post season bullshit and stuck my nose where it didn't belong. I hear all the shit and thought I would be the one pass some of it along. Had I gotten to know you personally I'm sure this would have never happened. For what its worth I apologize for causing you all this grief. Its not like me and I feel really stupid. If we ever meet in person I will walk up to and apologize. I want all this to end now and am staying off the forums permanently. I will however make one exception and apologize to you on the forum of your choice if you wish. My balls are big enough to accept the consequences of my actions. FACT ... There was no excuse for what I did and once again I'm sorry. Sincerely #### ( I think I might have accidentally posted this on vancouver island lady riders so I guess if I did you have your public apology)

Ride Like a Pro and Canada

Later on, I talked to Docdonna and said, oh Flo, good for you, for sticking up for yourself and us. But we have decied we are not coming to Canada to teach. They don't like us there and Motorman says you will be full qualified by the time he is finished with you. I am totally saddened. I will not give up, and I told them it wasn't them they hated it was me.
I also said, it is only a handful of people, well maybe two handfuls and it is a large Island. You see we share everything and especially when it comes to resulst of the Conga #1

OVER-FLO!!

This is the kind of stuff I have been trying to ignore since I have been back from Conga #1 I could not take it any more, as I believe getting stuff out on the table if you have a problem. I asked this person who he was and here is his response in black. I responded in the red. I had had enough!! I have had enough! I stood up for what I believe in.

Who am I ? I am the person you met at the SCRC pig roast 2 years ago.
Fact... I was not at the pig roast 2 years ago... Fact you must be confused. It was 5 months ago or less. Get your facts straight! I remember thinking about you and thought how nice it was that you gave me a skull for my bike. Ha!! I like your girlfriend. Wierd how people can turn on people isn't it
You stuck your video cam in my face and asked me what I thought of your "epic journey". The beginning of the Flo phenomenom.
Fact I did not stick the video in your face to ask you about the epic journey. It was not something I would say. All I was doing was going around with a camera at a party and letting people say what they wanted. I was meeting people for the first time and my words to you, were... And who are you?
I never once brought it up.. You all did. Fact. I have the clip so I know exactly what I said. So again get your facts straight.
So lets talk facts then so maybe we (not just you and I but a large number of others} can put all this to rest.
Let's talk facts. Get your facts straight before you go causing a disturbance. So far your facts are false. Why can't everyone put it to rest?? If you do yourself a favor and stay off my forum you wont have to hear about it anymore. I don't plan on stop talking about improving my riding skills or helping anyone that would like help.
FACT ... what you did was great (the long ride from Florida) but not so great that we need be constantly reminded about it everytime someone browses the forums.
Fact.. What I did was a hellova trip yes.. I was not responsible for the what took place, I rode by bike home and people jumped in. I did not call in the news or ask people to read my blog. People that were there chose to be. I am not in control as to what people say good or bad. I am not even sure it is worth waisting my time talking about it again. I only talked about it if people wanted to. People still want to, that is not my fault.
Granted , you are not entirely to blame. Your buddies at RLAP pissed a lot of seasoned riders off by saying you were in the top 2% of riders especially since you openly admitted that you dropped your bike ... how many times? ... on the way back.
fact.. my buddies said that, because they believe it or would not say it. Are you jealous a woman can ride for gods sake?? what on earth is wrong, with you. they didn't call you down, they were mearly saying all my practise is paying off!!! yes I dropped to to exhaustion and not being used to the bike. I was not among the 2% at that time. I earned it, I guess you could say, as I came home and trained daily and worked hard at it. Even though I continued to drop while learning taking it to the full lock lean.
FACT ... your go with the flo /ride like a pro blog thingy thats also in your face everywhere you look gives the impression that you are teaching the RLAP.
Fact... my go with the flo/ride like a pro blog thingy is in my siggy. People are allowed to put what ever they want in their siggy. You can take what ever you want from that, and yes I plan to teach it. Right now I have been giving it away. Kind of a pay back. Want a lesson? Care for a dvd??
FACT ... your brother Plinko stirred up a shitstorm in the C.R. chapter causing Puff to quit and many others. Honestly Flo ... ya think they booted you out for non attendance ... think about it? (not a fact ...JMHO).
Fact my brother is Blingo not Plinko. How did he stir the pot. Wow...that is unbelievable, that when a brother supports a sister who belongs to a chapter, they are going to quite because of it.. Come on really!! How pathetic is that???There is a whole lot more to the closing of my chapter than you can imagine.

FACT ... my chapter is on OVERFLO ...lol ... guess they have had enough too.
Fact.. if your chapter is on OVERFLO, then get OVER IT!!!!

You started this pissing match by answering my post to motorman (with a completely ridiculous answer) then your little friend donna gave me the answer I was looking for. A PROFESSIONAL reply by professionals.
Fact.. I started this pissing match???? omg, you went over to WWR, a ladies forum... Asked a question, and I am a moderator over there. I wanted you to feel welcome and thought you were a newbie FEMALE rider. I was trying to make you feel comfortable until he got to you. You see that is the way we operate over there. Friendly bunch that try to make everyone feel comfortable. I was only trying to tell you they helped me. that alot of my friends who had been riding for years admited they needed practise too. I even called you sweetie... lmao...IMHO you came over there to stir shit and that is what you did. You could have said.. I am a man, and I am trying to start some shit with Flo.. My god, you know how forums run of all people.. You dont just go into a strange forum a ladies of all and pretend to be one.
After all the title of thread was called Hi Priss!!!!Lets face it, the fact is you wanted to start shit and you did.

That is why I said what I did about you not being totally qualified to hand out advice in their behalf. Your intentions are all good as far as I can see bur your way of promotion alienates others and just plain pisses some off.
Fact I never said I was instructor.. Yes my intentions are good, so why don't you just leave it at that. You know nothing about me. I only wanted to share what had been shared with me. And it is all about riding. I can not believe that wanting to share something with some one has turned out to be so ugly at times. It is a crying shame. Do you think that is how they treated Donna when she was promoting herself. If you keep on reading on WWR, you will find out just how we NEVER get sick of hearing about her and all the people she inspires and helps. Watching her improve to this day.. It is always a pleasure to watch especially woman improve in their riding skills or anything else in their life for that matter.
How do you think she got to where she is. She was a challanged rider, like the most of us woman.
honestly think about what you are saying. We WWR dont get sick of hearing about good things. She has inspired me to want to become an advance instructor, what is so wrong with that?? Theyn were proud of me advertising RLAP so why don't you get over it and mind your own business.
If you think your the messiah to women riders (and maybe you are) great ! If you want to ride with those of us with the same opinion as me (FACT ... and there are many) get off your high horse. And by the way that brother of yours ... Plinko ... is in my opinion your worst enemy. Tell him to admire you OFF the forum and YOU will be better off.
I have never thought I was a mesiah to woman, although they have told me a zillion times I am an inspiration. Does that make you jealous too. If I want to ride with you???? Are you serious?? why would I want to??
By the way, why don't you stay off my forum and blogs then you might get over-flo as the next trip is underway and we dont need folks calling us down for riding and talking about it. I was hoping that eventually Your girlfriend would be able to join the Conga at some point.. I guess that is a definate no. Too bad!!
That is what my forum is for, talk about riding as much as you want. If something good happens to ya, lets hear it. If it continues to happen, we would love to hear it. Ther and you can help anyone.. why the hell not.
Good luck with your dancing lessons.
Thanks on the good luck on my dancing, anytime you want to dance with me, in the parking lot let me know. I could probably dance circles around you now, and show you how to pick up your bike in 3 seconds or less.. When I become certified, will I not be able to tell my friends for fear it will piss you off??
Shame on you!!!

Playin hooky

I was at work today and it was the most beautiful days this fall so far. It was actually warm. There wasn't a cloud in the sky and all I could think about is jumping on my Harley and going for a ride. The trouble was, my Harley was not sitting out the door, or I would have immeadiately finished up my clients and played hooky. It was a busy morning and I had made enough in my eyes to justify playing hooky. If things didn't pick up again, I knew I could be out of their if I could get a ride home to get the Queen.
I sat down at the computer again to enter some writing in about my book. All of a sudden I heard this rumbling soiund of a motorcycle. The sound sounded very familiar, but it didn't sound like Rob's. Then I realized Rob's in insurance ran out today so I knew it wasn't him. I thought to my self, now that sounds like Ruthie on her vtx, as everyonce in a while she like to hop on hers and come for a surprise visit. It did sound like a vtx.
I swiveled around in my chair, to go see who it was and there was my brother bigE, reving up the engine, with a big shit assed grin on his face. Now he was the last one I expected to see.. He left the house early this morning for work. I aske him WHAAAT??? Thought you were at work. He told me, he couldn't stand it, that he thought it would be his last chance to get his last ride of the season in. It had been over a months since he road, due to weather and work. He just told his boss he was leaving for the day.
I got this sad look on my face and he kept grinning.. I thought to myself... I am the boss, why don't you go to the house and get my helmet and give me a ride back up to the house to get my bike. He did that with pleasure, laughed and said, that is what I was hoping you would say!
I didin't want to just ride to Courtenay and back, how many times have I ridden just to courtenay and back. I was so bored with that road. We wandered up MCauley road a road half way to Courtenay on a country road with a few twisties. I wasn't sure where it was going to go but basically in was just a 10 mile circle, and Eric had admitted he never had been down that road all the way.
We took the freeway to Dove Creek rode and were playing all the way. Hardly anyone was on the road so we opened them up to 100 per hour. Pulling up beside each other and back ing off and doing it all over again. He would give me his goofy Jim Carey look snap his head back open his mouth and I would be cracking up.
When we pulled up to the lights... he says...Ya baby....ya...best 85 bucks I have ever spent on myself not to mention a days wages. But I am worth it...
We just laughed and continued on our travels.
We stopped at CMS to say hi to Carl and Mark, and make them a little jealous and we did.. They were of course happy for us. We got our little visit in and off we went to comox along the water, and the back roads home. What a great day on November 10th.

Writing a Book

Every one who knows me pretty much now that I want to write a book. Or at least i think I have a story or two to tell. Since I have been back I have asked many people to help me or to write it for me. Take my blog and what ever it takes to make a book. Of course I have not writing every thing down. Alot needs to be added, and I have actually never read back at all. There is a woman that challenged me to write starting Nov1 and I went gung hoe for awhile, and get frustrated and stop. I get lost all the time or something goes on in my life and I get side stracked. What is really wierd I find, that once I do sit down and start typing my mind goes and my fingers are just typing away.
Hell, I never even typed before for 30 years. I can't believe what a person is capable of doing if they just put their mind to it. I was never good in school with writing or reading or paying attention period. So now trying to stay focused is a real challange for me.
So anyway, I have discovered some friends along the way that can really write. I approach them again. Of course everyone is so busy with their life too. I do believe, with help from a friend, we may have things going.
This is what this person wrote to me.
Omg, I think i got a long haul ahead of me.


Hey Tannis,
You know you are already a good writer yourself ... I read through
some of the stuff in your blog and it has a good flow and is
interesting.
I'd still like to talk to My friend first just to see if there's any
advice we could use.
I'd also like to contact this other person -- he has published a number
of adventure books and his mom and my mom used to be good
friends so there's a small connection there ... but maybe if he likes
the idea he could write an introduction to his publisher (maybe even
an introduction to your book!) and get things rolling!
What you can start doing is (if you have a printer) is print out ALL the
material you have on your trip ... your blogs, e-mails, messages on
forums, and any other correspondence you have ...
You should also try and write down everyone who participated on
your trip.
Collect all pictures you took ... pictures others took.
Talk to Donna and Motorman and see how they feel about
being in the book -- talk to your family and friends and see
what they think about being in the book.
And keep writing ... the more you write the better. About yourself,
about your family, about your friends and about riding.
And be prepared for a long haul ... writing fiction is easy -- it can all be made it all up --
writing non-fiction can be tough, tough, tough because we have to stick to facts.
If you want to do this, the work starts now.
:)

Letter from Melissa

I recieved this private letter today for someone down in NC.. I have never talked to her before. What a timely letter. Brought tears to my eyes.
Hey Flo,
I wanted you to know that I have now ordered my 2nd RLAP, coming across this forum has been a blessing for me. I have actually started to improve in my riding skills and feel a lot more confident with thanks to you the other ladies in these forums, and of course RLAP.
My husband was skeptical at first when I told him I ordered the "beginner" RLAP, but now even he will say it was worth me getting. He usually follows behind me to watch and critique what I do, ha we rode a little over 2 hundred miles today and he is sitting there smiling at me as I type with not a word to say.
He has actually watched some of your clips with me on You Tube.
My experience at the local community college a year and 1/2 ago was the worst I have ever had in my life. Out of 12 people in the class I was the only one that had never been a driver of a motorcycle and believe me when I say never, ever, in my life have I been treated so bad. I actually left the class in tears with only one day to go, because of the bullying, berating, and not teaching me anything. This was instructors and students acting this way. I ended up going and buying a 250 and taught myself with my husband and brothers guidance. (Big bro has a mile long private drive LoL) I now drive a HD1200
I went to this class to learn and was treated like crap because I didn't already know how to ride, I thought this was why is was called beginners class. It should have been called to lower your insurance class, anyway I have never been one to back down from anything, but that experience was so bad my confidence has not been the best. As I said before with thanks to all of you and RLAP I am getting there.
My goal is by next spring to have 5000 safe riding mile experience and my dream is a Road King, and ya'll have become an inspiration. Thank you from the bottom of my heart so much for putting your experience on this world wide web.
Melissa

RLAP RLAP RLAP RLAP RLAP RLAP RLAP RLAP RLAP RLAP RLAP

I have been doing al ot of thinking about things as I have just a month to go before I head south. As I have said a lot has happened since returning from Florida....5 short months ago today. My God, it seems so long ago in a way but actually feels like I am on my way to visit my friends again soon. I guess that is because time in the sun passes by so fast and before you know it.. I'm flying to Florida. Are ya ready for me MOTORMAN!!
Yup, things went a little haywire around here and I took it very personally at times. I have to say though it was just a handful of people that couldn't handle the RLAP phenomenon as it has been called. I kind of chuckle about it now, maybe I should take up advertising.
So bottom line.... with help from my friends... I pulled up my big girl panties and decided to just be me.....I am going to just continue on being me... and those that want to ride with me, I am honored.. Those that don't, that is okay. Those that don't like hearing about RLAP please stay of my blog and my forum. Because I will never stop RLAPING!!!! ENOUGH SAID!!
Those that want to learn about RLAP , I am happy to share!! Those that don't not a problem.

Sad day for Pinkat!!

MZ PINKAT, she came in today, a little sad, but a little happy. That girl is always happy, smiling, laughing hugging, a true pleasure to have in ones company. She is going to be a great addition to the rider community. Young, beautiful, outgoing, positive, excited, and very enthusiastic!!! Oh dear, have I created another monster??

Today was the last day of insurance for Stinky Pinky and it is pissing down rain of course. I asked her if she wanted to go riding as being a biker I would gladly go if she so desired. I gotta smile, because if I insisted, she would have gone. I looked at her and said... um... ya , no, we are NOT RIDING..Big smile!!

I am leaving in just a few days over a month, which means, she did not, will not,,get her MST, before she leave, or should I say before I get back in June. So what we are trying to decide, is how I can sign it over, or insure it when the time is right, even if I am not here. I am sure Miss Vgirl will want to take her out riding first thing come spring. I can just see it now, when i get back whe will be riding some big bike to show off.. lol... I know what us girls are like!! So I guess I best look into that before I leave, I mean, we cant leave this newbie rider, hanging in till June can we.

Not to worry Pinkat!!

Crap Fest

There has been many posts on the forums that I would have liked to defend myself . I have ignored them as hard as it has been somtimes. This post (in black)was from some guy to Docdonna in a post where she was defending me... Anyway here is ...My response if given a chance to speak would have been.... ( red)
This person is talking to Docdonna.......
I agree with you totally that we all learn from different means. That is exactly the kind of response I would have expected to hear from professionals. Unfortunately that is not the message that is coming from Flo.
I just said yes the dvd's will help you more than your friends. I thought you were a newbie woman rider as you came on the WOMAN WHO RIDE forum...You're first and only post. I was trying to make you feel comfortable, until MM or Doc could respond. I should have just asked you to go introduce yourself. You see there ya go, you already knew about forum ediquet, and didn't use it. You should have said... I am man and have been riding for years, and I am just trying to cause some shit, so I followed Flo over here.
You dont know how that forum runs.. We all respond if we have something to say... We are woman...lol For instance on VILR.... you know the one you lurk on all the time... Sometimes I post to Motorman, and because he is a very busy man, our Island Motorcop responds. Ya see , no problem, that is the good thing about forum. They are open. We are almost all frieinds and enjoy helping each other. Most of us are out to help not bash, or invent problems.
You say her skills are amazing ... in a parking lot maybe. I have spoken to many that say her road skills are not quite so amazing but that is not what this is about.
Why do you waste your time talking about me when you know nothing about me. If you ride with me someday, and I don't ride the way you like tell me.. If I can improve I will .
I believe as professionals you should not have someome teaching others or offering advice on your behalf when they are not qualified. She took your course and is teaching riders up here. Is that all I takes down there to become an instructor ... a couple of lessons. Hope not.
Why on earth would they not want someone who believes in their product so much and can obviously get the word out to to the whole biker community in less the 5 short months with out even trying. I am not teaching, I am showing people, friends, family, what I have learned. Teachers get paid, I have never accepted anything. Who ever uses my bike sometimes they put in the gas and sometimes they don't, it is cheap and fun, and my hobby, and I love to share. Have you never shared something without expectations??? Shame on you.
One of these days, after my next trip to florida I will come back certified, and then if I am any good, get paid... Fancy that!
You are far from here and probably have no idea that the Go with the Flo ... ride like a pro phenomenom has stired up a serious crapfest almost destroying her own chapter and causing the resignation of many good officers and others who worked incredibly hard to build them.
Yes my friends are far away, but we speak often, and are very close. They know everything and encourage me constantly. I am always asking for advice from them. They know everything I do when it comes to RLAP. Honestly I can not understand how RLAP phenomenom could destroy a riding club but rather enhance one. There always new riders coming in and let's face it even though we have been riding for years, there is always room for improvement.
I agree with you totally the CR chapter dimissed me not for lack of interest... possibly too much interest. Calm the waters about what?? Spreading the good word of learning to ride better... For shame!!
And just so you know I will not be backing off promoting good riding skills. It isn't about me, it is about helping others. Just like the Palladinos helped me.. Sort of like paying it forward. If it has caused a rift in our calm riding community because one person had something to share with other riders about riding, then there is something wrong. Why wouldn't it be in their best interest to have someone like me to get the word out about Riding like a Pro. I believe in them.
Toy runs and other events may suffer in their absense and it and has created a rift in our previously calm riding community. Also I cannot believe that the C.R. chapter revolked her membership solely on lack of attendance. They in my opinion were looking to calm the waters any way they could. Is it in your best interests to have someone like that promoting your product? And to you Flo ... respectfully ... just back off with all the self promotion and you will be fine. JMHO

Looking back

It has been quite a season since I have been back from Florida with my new bike. I have managed to put on almost 17,000 miles since May 21 when I left Florida. Wow, it has been a whirl wind really. Here it is almost time to head south to Mexico to our other home in the sunshine. I will be riding the 49cc scooter and walking the beach. Sunshine everyday, it always make the blues go away.
A little recap in my mind of how things went since I've been back almost five months to the day.... I met so many new people. Especially down the other end of the Island where my new found Friend Dragon was. I met people that I knew only by nicks from the Forums. I saw roads on the Island I had never been on before.
I was still only working 3 days a week so I had lots of time to ride. I went to Port Alberni and met so many new people there also. I got to know a great bunch. There was rides being planned here and there and everywhere.
My forum Vancouver Island Lady Rider VILR became one of the most popular biker forums on Delphi. We were all organizing rides and trying to jump in here or there with a friend for a scoot somewhere or a last minute hook up with someone. I was almost never home.
Of course I was so into RLAP that I talked about it all the time and found a parking lot to put all the exercises, with help from friends and family. I was wanting to share what I had been taught by the pros in Florida. For me it was just amazing to me how much one could improve their skills after riding for years. I never went anywhere with out RLAP DVD in my saddle bags. I wasn't out riding, you could find me out in a parking lot somewhere.
I was being critiqued by Motorman through video clips and you tube. Docdonna was giving me encouragement through emails and posts on my forum. I was honored that Motorman would give his time on my forum to help critique other riders that were interested also. The more time went on, the more I knew I was loving it, and by helping friends I knew I was seriously considering becoming an instructor as I so enjoyed helping someone improve.
I guess my enthusiasm drove some people nuts. Others just encouraged or joined me. It was fun and exciting watching each other improve our riding skills or conquer a difficult exercise. One gal in particular Vgirl, just a brand new rider, became as dedicated as me. She is doing some of the excercise better than me. That is so exciting watch a newbie become such an awesome confident rider so soon. Not because of ME... because of MOTORMANS dvd's., because of HER. Her determination!!!
I wanted to share, with those that wanted and even up in Port Alberni we had a huge group come out to practise these exercises in their parking lot. We were honored to have a local Motorcop join us and encourgae us.
I know I get a little over enthusiastic about things that I believe in. Wether it is about riding, running, working out, new diet , living in Mexico, planning a ride, or a fund raiser, an new book, a persons desire to become an great author.. Whatever !!!! ... if it helps me and I think may help others. I am enthused!!
I never for once wanted to show how good I was, but how good the DVDs were and just what you could learn from them. Hell, if someone like me could learn it.then why not share it.
Apparently that is not how I came across to some people and it caused a bit of an explosion. I will never understand, how sharing, giving, something you have ,can cause such a commotion. I wonder if I'd won a billion dollars and shared if it would cause the same commotion.
One other thing, I do not understand is why... if people have a problem with you can they not have the decency to email you privately or call you and just be up front and honest. Especially when you come right out and ask if there is a problem and they deny it or say they don't have any idea what you are talking about.
The long and short of it all is ...I seemed to have caused quite a commotion here on the Island. It is a very sad situation for many... myself included. I would like to say that I am sorry for anything that I have done that would caused such an upheaval, but for the life of me I can not figure out what it was or what I did. It was never my intention. I only wanted to share with friends. I have ignored all the nasty posts on the forums. This was the last one ...and I AM going to defend myself once and for all for everyone that reads my blog.
If only someone could have simply stood up to me and said something before this all grew out of proportion!!
TO BE CONTINUED....

End of Season.

Today is a gorgeous sunny day, and I am working.. wishing I could be riding. By the time I get off work it will be dark. I will be lucky to get another day in of riding before we leave for Mexico
We have 5 days insurance left on Stinky Pinky.
It's looking like it may not happen that Kathy gets her MST before I leave in the next 5 days.
It is a sad thought that riding season is over. There is only 5 days that I would be able to ride before my insurance runs out on the Queen. Praying for sun on Sunday.

A new rider.

A gal about my age came into the shop today said she was recommended to come and talk to me to help give her some practice on riding. I know who the client was as I told him about the bike I have to help friends learn to ride or get more practise and confident on a bike before they make their purchase.
I told her I would be happy to help her so long as she knew, that I was not an instructor, just a wanna be, and that one day I hoped to be. I could only show her what I know and ride the streets with her when she was ready or if she wanted to. The most important thing to do would be learn from the professionals and they are in this dvd I sell. You will learn alot as I did and then if you practise those skills you wont be scared any more.

I got a little chuckle because she was describing how she felt the first time in the parking lot when it was time to leave and head out on the highway, she was petrified on how to get to 5th gear and once she got there how to get back down to first. I said to her, my goodnes can I relate to you.. she told me she didn't complete the course and wants to take it again , and I told her I thought it was a great idea. Hopefully in the spring when i get back we could do some riding together. She said she has another lady friend that just learnt how to ride and is looking for someone to ride with. I gave her my card and invited her to VILR forum . There is more lady riders coming up all the time.
She bought the dvd, a leather coat off me and best of all another friend to ride with in the springtime.

Tanya Figure 8 oct 8

This is Tanya/Vgirl...I tell ya, she is riding like a pro. She just got her liscence this summer. Unbelievable. Riding like a Pro!!! Even the Motorman says...Excellent!!

Pinkat MST PRACTISE

Once we got the Pinkat to the parking lot we figured it was time to go over what they do for the MST. We actually took her to the actual Motor Vehicle Branch parking lot.

Between Me, Mark, and Tanya we got things figured out. It had only been 6 months since Tanya had done it so that was a help.

Looks easy we thought and so did she. Piece of cake after what she has been doing with the RLAP. Just use those 3 techniques and you will ace it.... NOT!! Well not for the firt few times any way but each time she did it of course she got better. A few more times and it will be all good. We thought that she had to wait 30 days since her learners. We started this on 14 days exactly. She called me in pure excitement few minutes ago...

It's 14 days today, I can do it!!! Alrighty then, lets get this out of the way.. Then there is 30 days after that, that she can be fully liscenced before I leave for Mexico in Dec. Boy things are moving fast. I see another Shawnboy coming up.

So what I have decided to do is lend her the bike untill I return from Florida and she is whipping that bike around like nothing. Having the desire for MORE POWER!!

I just don't want to see here waste money going to a 750 and then wanting bigger in a couple of months.

Gotta love that Stinky Pinky!!!

Oh dear she just called again, and said they do do that this time of year, so now she has called Courtenay and they will call her for the next opening when it is not raining.

Her is a couple of clips of her practising. Excuse the big mouth in the background.

12ft Biatch!!!

Tany and Mark came by at 3:30 to the barbershop to tempt me to leave early.
It didn't take much and I was out the door. I didn't go for a ride as it was too cold so I took off to the parking lot with my 20 cones for that horrid 12ft offset cone weave.
I just watched the dvd before they got there and thought to myself... I can do this.. I watched it over and over and over. Especially the part where little Miss Docdonna aced it her first try. Motorman sayin...its's easy I have even drawn you a picture.... Ya right... Easy freeekin peasy!!
Okay so no one is around ...I keep trying... I keep failing.. My blood is boiling, it is freezing outside, but I am cookin.
These guys come by,... just what I need!! Hey Lady, you some kind of instructor, we see you out her all the time, and you are with people and taking pics, and I just wanna tell ya... you can ride.
That is a pretty nice Honda ya got to... what is it?? I look at him and say it is a Road Queen thankyou very much..
So he asks if he can watch, him and his buddies.. Im like....CRAP!! Sure, be my guest, and I went over to the figure 8 and gave him a sparking show...lmao
So away they go, and I am back on the 12ft..I can hear him...Motorman
You lost your friction zone Flo... Dig in your purse and find it!!!!!!!!!!
Docdonna... don't over think it girl, just do it!! If I can so can you.
Away I go........I aced it, but only one way. Okay..I did not ace it, if I aced it, it would have felt easy peasy, but it so did NOT!!
Have you ever tried to do an excericise with 20 cones and knock some down every time. It's work getting on and off the damn bike.
So just as I was packing it in, along came Tanya and Mark. I told them how damn hard it was.. What the hell is wrong with me??
She proceeds to tell me, she thinks they are 2 ft short entering the gate. Are you bloody serious?? Any wonders, I am damn near putting the bike down in a full lock turn with the big ass end I have...(the bike that is)
I don't know for sure but, I am going to find out tomorrow for sure....Enough of that for practise, it was time to go get the Pinkat.

Pinkat parking lot.

We took Pinkat out for a little scoot through town. Vgirl, Dr. Ruth, me and Pinkat. I booked off early in the afternoon, when Dr.Ruth arrived at the barbershop. The sun was shining and it was another gorgeous fall day. Business on the slow side and I couldn't resist. We went for a short ride, and ended up stopping at Vgirls to see if she wanted to ride, and of course was gearing up with the same thing in mind.
She doesn't live far from me so we all went to my house and Pinkat was just arriving. We decided to let her take the lead an rode back to her house. She was doing really great. So we let her lead to the parking lot. The four of us went the parking lot and the practised started.
Actually Tanya kinda took over looking after Pinkat as we had our photographer
there who was taking pics of Dr. Ruth on her bike. This is the same guy that stopped by my shop one day and took a picture of the Queen.
He also took some pics of me in the mean lean in the figure 8. Really hard to get the right pose as he is a still photographer.
Tanya took care of pinkat making sure she was getting her lessons in. It is great having her and Mark helping out.
We are getting brave now, taking Pinkat out on the busy streets. She can do her MST on the 14th of this month and then leaves for Florida on the 15th. I am hoping we can get her licence before I leave for Mexico on Dec. 10...Whoo hoo, I am getting that much closer to Florida myself.
I think she has about 12 hours under her belt now. She is paying attention and picking up everything we are telling her.
It gets cold really early and dark, so every hour counts now.

Mount Washington

I got to ride DH's bike as he is away. He was pretty worried and I must say, I was at first till I got going down the highway. It does have a whole lot of power. It has a 103 engine, what ever the heck that is. May have alot of power, but sure wasn't as comfy as riding the Queen. Slight little lean, and I was scraping. It felt so small.
Spydie, lettin all the gals go for a little burn on the Spyder. It is always so much fun having him around and you always feel safe when he is tail gunning us. Sweetie bought us lunch on the mountain.

This is my buddy Jippo. His bike insurance ran out, and I really wanted a couple people to ride as the weather was so good.

I told him he could be Queen for the day..lol

We were heading back from Mount Washington. He doesn't look very happy does he??

He Looked at me, and said...hey Flo, what color bringingback next time???....lol

Me Gazelle, Vgirl, top of the Mountain to ya. We got up there had a short visit and headed back down.

Cold and crispy for some. I myself was toasty warm with my electric vest. Beautiful fall day!

Spyderman-Grizz-Jippo-Ram

Spydie escorted us gals up for lunch on the mountain and later the other 3 showed up.

This was all the snow that was left.

I think I may have created a Monster!!

Burger Bus

Today was a beautiful sunny fall day. I went to work, but kept thinking about everyone gathering at Rosies burger bus for the last day of the season. I really shouldn't have left work as my new barber, I don't think is quite ready to be left alone.
The way I looked at it though, is how could I not! The sun was shining, it's end of season, there was going to be alot of bikes for sure. I needed some therapy, and the Queen kept calling my name as I saw her sitting outside the window.
Unfortunately, there never seems to be anyone up this way to often to go for a ride, as others work Saturdays too.
So I asked the boss, and she said go for it!! I'd have gone no matter what she would say, hoping that I would get fired anyway..lol.. It has been a rough week at work. Welfare week is not a pretty site at times, and I was full up to drunks first thing in the morning, and smelly ppl..
Fresh air, breeze to the knees... The new gal said it was all good for her, so off I went. Everyone is always so surprised to see me still there.
After I was have way to Courtenay, I realized, I was suppose to have someone stop by today.. Darn it.. I missed her... A biker friend I have never met before.
Anyway, I am sure there were over 20 bikes, and every one is just so friendly. We had a great time, met a whole bunch more people I didn't know before.
We had the photographer that took a pic of my Queen take some of 3 other bikes. It is phenomenal work. I am thinking we need to do a calender for next year or should I say 2010.
I rode back home around 3 and could feel a huge change in temperature. No fear though as I hit the parking lot and RLAPED..by myself. Something is wrong.. I fell like I am loosing it!! My consintration is gone. I keep loosing my friction zone. I can NOT do the offset 12 foot at all. It is just nutz, how I can break now and cry all by myself in a parking lot. Calm myself down and just go at it again, with a good attitude and it doesn't work. I can even hear Motorman, telling me what to do. But I am not gettin it.
The only thing I never have trouble with is the figure 8 and the intersection and regular offset. What the hell is going on!!
Tomorrow is another day. and suppose to be the same as today. I just thought of Pinkat, I'll bet she is itchin to ride. It will be a full day, a ride to Mount Washington and some parking lot.

I got out to the parking lot last night with Vgirl and Pinkat. We only have an hour after work these days to practise before it gets dark.
Pinkat is on about her 8th hour of riding. She rides it from my house to the parking lot, practises for an hour and then rides it back to the house. So she is getting about 10 miles of road time. One hour of practising. She is doing awesome and is really getting the cone weave and figure 8 down good, with a nice steady friction zone, and I am not having to tell her as much to snap her head.
She always has such a huge smile on her face and is always so grateful at the end. It makes her feel a lot safer having Vgirl behind her tail gunning. I was totally impressed how she can take off on the steep hill when she is parked without any troubles. Gaad.. how I hated that hill when I was learning. Definitely got a future pro on our hands
Actually.. that Tanya is going to be teaching me a few things soon. I can feel it. I have not been able to practise much because of my new clutch and then spending time with Pinkat instead of practising my self. It is nice to have her support. It just shows ta go you... I am so not a natural.
Yikers!! The slow cone... I need practise and that damn 12ft wench of an offset. Terrible, terrible I say. I was literally in tears as I couldn't get it. Now put me on that figure 8 and it is music to my ears.

I guess it is soon time to just let it go until I get down Florida way with the professionals. Being off for 6 months, I can't imagine how rusty I will be.

Frienship Ride #2

This clip is the #3.. After my brother made the first I thought how nice it was to put all the pics together in one place for everyone to enjoy. I have a bazillion photos from over the summer.
This one in particular has caused a ruckuss. I did not by anymeans put this pic first. When you own load to You Tube it does it randomly. Now with all the shit going on in the clubs. There was some offense taken. I say.... I just don't get it!!! If you take the time to look at the pics, how could anyone take it offensively unless of course they think I put this picture up first. This person was giving me the finger because I was always in his face with the camer or video.
Some times I get tired of being afraid to do something nice for fear someone will take it th wrong way.
I hope you take no offense to this :)

Friendship Ride 2008 #1 Pics.

These are some of the pictures put together from the Friendship ride this past weekend. It was organized by Dr.Ruth of SCRC 394. Members and non members from all ove the Island joined. Thee was about 60 bikes. just to remember what it is all about the ride. We are all just people enjoing the same thing. Doesn't matter what club you are from or if you are. Or even if you like the person riding behind you. To be continued.

Letter from a friend I have never met!

I have never met this woman in person, but have chatted lots over the years, I recieved this letter this morning. I believe she lives in Ontario!

Hi Flo,
I can see by the forums that something negative has been going on with some club members and I'm sorry to realize that. I see Dr. Ruth's camaraderie ride did much to dissipate any hard feelings and that is wonderful to see. I hope things turn around. We had something much the same happen here a year ago in our SCRC club, and everyone left the club. There wasn't one group event or ride this year, there is no group, although they haven't closed the forum down. In spite of all that things change and life goes on. Most people joined the CMC and I ride alone or with the hubby.I see also some people have said negative things, whether about you or what you are trying to do, or something said... I don't know and it doesn't matter. I just wanted to tell you that most of us have dreams and it is the right thing to work on fulfilling those dreams, regardless of what anyone says.

My first book reading is tomorrow night and my presentation is about you. I wanted you to know that (in case your ears get burning). You have changed so much and accomplished so much in your few years of riding. I remember you hitting the forums, I guess 3 or 4 years ago now, full of questions and anxiety and uncertainty. Today you are a remarkable, confident woman and I am proud to be presenting the story of your adventures to my friends and acquaintances. I imagine you can expect some more hits to your blog after tomorrow... hahaha

Anyway, I'd better get back to my article on stress... lol .. lots of that going around.
Happy RLAPping and I'll see you on the forums.

It is amazing really how many people watch and care what is going on. I never really realize just how much one person can affect so many.. Good or bad reasons. Obviously she could feel the stress way over in her own province. I will be glad when all this stuff blows over.
One thing for sure....I will always wonder... what the real cause was. Was it RLAPING...it couln't really be lack of interest. I have put 11,000 miles on my bike since I returned from the Conga, and rode with SCRC all over the Island. It just so happened, I was hanging down Victoria way with my new friend.
Is it because I post too much, well , if I got something to say, I need to say it. Especially if it is encouraging.
I think the one reason RLAP is so important to me, is because I was one of the most challenged riders out there. Any one who knows me, knows that. I am never afraid to share that, to make me look bad, it is to encourage others, that if I can, it is possible for almost anyone.
To buy the dvd is one thing, but I had the honor of being there one on one with Jerry Motorman Palladino and Donna Palladino. Even though I thought I could ride when I got to Florida I really couldn't. I couldn't do the cone weave for the life of me. The u-turns were as MM might say, the size of 2 countries. I did not know I had to SNAP my head to look where I was going.
So to have, been given that for free, and to return home with the one on one again from Motorman... I felt it only right to share it, with anyone else that wanted it. Like paying it forward.
It was never meant to brag.... I know I am guilty for getting too enthusiastic over things from time to time, and now its plain obvious, it can get me in trouble.
I never even realized that it was at all possible to come close to riding like the pro's.. When the Pallidinos watched and told me and encourage and critqued me... It was then, that I realized I wanted to share it even more.
Especially to woman. It is important to feel sure and safe on the busy streets. I am learning more every day myself.
We all have goals is right, and to hang up my scissors and take a passion into a job is a pretty good goal.
Keeping my fingers crossed that I can continue and figure out a way to have the first Canadian RLAP.

Pinkat rides in hail storm

Well .... she is for sure a biker!! I got off work early as she was so excited to get to the parking lot. By the time we geared up and got the Stinky going,...we looked towards the parking lot direction. The sky was black. So we decided no parking lot, just go for a little short ride to fuel up the bike. We went about 5 blocks and the skies opened up.. With hail, pinking in my face like pellets. They were good size and collecting right in the pocket of my seat... Not funny!!
So why was I laughing?? I was thinking about poor Pinkat and couldn't get her off the road as we were on a main drag with no turns.
Travelling very slowly and safely, and was praying she was okay. We got to the gas station and both got off at the same time... laughing our fool heads off.
The gas attendents came on the intercome and told us to come in and get warm.
They bought us a hot choclate while we wait for it to blow over. Everyone was laughing at us, and we were explaing that she had about 6 m iles or riding time on the road.
Hey that is good practise riding in sleet.. Pinky did not like it either and on the way back to the house died, or should I say took a good rest in the middle of a busy street.
I was so proud how, Pinkat, calmly got off her bike signaled to pull over to the opposite side of the road which I was.
We got it home and had some more good laughs and says that todays ride earned her 5 more hours under her belt...
She can't wait to ride tomorrow. What a trooper.

FRIENDSHIP RIDE 2008

This is our frieindship ride. Just what the Dr. ordered. There has been some political trouble in the local chapters. Today everyone put their differences aside and set out to ride!!!
This ride is for Spyderman who has struggled so long to prove that doesnt matter what patch you wear, or what you ride, or even if you don't like 1 out of 60 people, you can still ride!!