Canada Day Ride!!! Early

It started out it was just going to be a simple little ride to help out our new VILR'S that were going to be getting their licence soon. With just a little extra planning, I think we had a dozen bikes out.. Let me see if I can remember all the people that came out to play..
FLO,DRAGGIE, ROADIE, BLINGO,LOLA, SPYDIE, SON, ANA, JAN, GEARJAMMER, VIC, JOS, WYZ, TEE, GAZELLE, BABY...
Not bad..
It was a gorgeous day. Roadie came over to meet me, and with in 5 minutes, I had him putting on the bling...lol He put on my new skull levers, and fixed my clock as I was still on Florida time. What a guy!!

Everyone was complaing how hot it was, and I would just laugh and say, ain't nothing like Texas or Death Valley!!!
Draggie, Roadie and I left the DRIVEWAY OF DOOM, at about llam, to meet up with the first crew.
We pulled up to get gas in Duncan and met up with SCRC while they were fulling up. I met a whole bunch more faces that I can now put names too. Everyone is so friendly. We all went our separate ways to meet up with the gang in Chemainus.
We got there early and decided to continue a little farther down the highway to meet them, and I have to say... how cool it looked with them all coming our way in their Red shirts. We had a visit, big hugs and and lots of laughs. Spydy showin off on that spider again, burning rubber in the parking lot and nearly running me over. Video of that later to be showed.
Off we went to go over the Malahat...(HAT)...There we met up with some more sisters, Wyz, came out to meet everyone, in the cage today. To bad, the pickle wasn't there, but always next time. I met Gazelle , Tee, Baby, Marks sister.
So at this time, some are heading back to their part of the Island and brother Blingo says....Well, sis, sorry but we have to head back!!
I'm like...aww, come on bro, aren't you going to do the HAT!!! He tells me we just did it! I was shocked, I remember the Malahat, over the years as being this scary windy road. Whelp, I didn't remember this being the slightest bit scary...Shees I otta get out more!! At least on the Island..
And I just rode across America!!! How did I survive??
Good thing for the Conga Crew is all I can say.
So Vic and the chicks, baby chicks...lol we all headed out to do some nice twisties on the back roads. What a day, huge big smiles on the girls... It was totally awesome watching them cruising along. It was bringing back so many memories of the days I first started riding. So proud every time I found someone to ride with me.
TODAY WAS AN AWESOME DAY!!
Later we went to Draggies, with Vulcanator, and Tazzie, had a nice dinner and chatted about the day and how good things are going, getting lady riders together on Vancouver Island and of course how special the Cabana boys are too.

A Day with a Dragon!

My brother BigE and I came down to spend the weekend with a Dragon, or Roadrunner, whatever ya want to call her. Anyone that rides with her knows, that if you were to give her a cartoon characters name, it would be ROADRUNNER...MEEP MEEP!!! That girl rides!!!

Bro and I get off work and are suppose to meet her at the Arlington Pub. It is about 1.5 hours from where each of us live. That is of course, if you drive at a semi descent speed.... She might say.... that is... if...someone doesn't have to stop along the way to get her chrome fix!!
Ha! Brother Blingo, the Bling King, that works at Courtenay Motorsports along with Spydy I might add....It is all his fault. He posts on the forum....sis... I have the most Narliest pair of Chrome Skull mirrors in my hand.... I'm like really.. are they mine... for sale... can I ride down and get them?? lmao, almost ditched my other brother to run down and git my skulls.

We arrive 10 minutes to closing(I did wait for BigE).. I grab the mirrors start ripping open the package, and got me bros to start putting on the bling.. they rock!!
Needless to say, by the time, the mirrors were on, the Dragon was waiting at the Arlington. I was feeling a little guilty, that I knew we were going to be late, but no problem... I would just use her words...SIUP...Suck it up Princess.
By time, we got to Qualicum we called her and she had been waiting an hour. I don't think she has quite got to know me good enough yet!!
Anyway she whipped around and caught up with us in just a few minutes. Great ride to her house...until.........THE DRIVEWAY OF DOOM!!!!
Now ya know I have seen alotta driveways in the last 7000 miles!! them southern gals, got some nasty ones. This one makes the others look like a piece of cake. Holy shit Batman as she say....Sharp sudden turn , off the highway, and sudden right immediate turn into the DOD.. Sunny it was all day and I still had the glasses on, and all of a sudden we are in the friggin forest, shaded forest!!
Pot holes... gravel..dark.. curves, bumps, not happy with this friggin drivway.. I get it, she wanted to see if i really was getting used to the Gypsy Queen.
I refuse to tell you the words that came out of my mouth when I got down the driveway. I had to make a circle around the driveway as all of sudden it was a sharp left into a garage. Crikey, I was pretty proud for not having a STOP AND DROP!
The evening was lovely, a typical, Dragon and Flo evening,..get on the dang puter...We are trying, to organize a Canada Day ride with VILR. LADIES AND CABANA BOYS!! From Campbell River, which is only Flo... to Victoria to meet with Baby, the newbie.. A gatherin of friends. So far it looks likes we have a dozen people.
Jossie and Baby are newbies and haven't got their endorsement yet, so we figure it would be nice to get them out on a nice casual ride, beings the weather is suppose to be so nice.
Today, it was absolutely gorgeous!! BigE went to work in Victoria and Draggie and I went chrome skulling. We went to 3 different places... I managed to find some skulls.. A oil cap cover, levers, thingies for the tassels, do rag, t-shirt, and oh yes... the tail light, which will need some modifications, but I cant wait.

We buzzed here and there all over this end of the Island, and I felt Like I was still doing the Conga.. Maybe that is one reason, I enjoy hangin with the Draggie so much.
After all she did the Conga with me and knows where I am coming from. Hard to let it go. Well, other than she is a damn good Draggie and likes to git er done!! Hell's bells, she can even put on some chrome.

We also went to Ladysmith to JoVics Pottery. Wow, do they ever make nice stuff. We got in a nice visit, and our latest Cabana boy Vulcanator, brought us cold drinks.. He's an official Cabana Boy!!
Jossie's momma was there and gets out of her car to come give me a hug, and told me she watched me all the way from Florida. Heck she used to ride, cool lady!!
So now, I am back to bloggin, the Dragon just pulled in and is going to make dinner, so that's all folks...

Campbell River Poker Run Sunday

This is in front of the Quinsem Hotel. Our yearly Poker Run.  Actually this is the first run, that I ever did with brother Blingo. 
The gal that puts these Poker runs on every year works damn hard at raising money. Hundreds of people come from everywhere, even the main lad.They give out great door prices at these poker runs,  . Last year I won the main price and hand made would baby Harley Rocker. Still have it for my grandbaby, if I ever get one.

This is the FUHR FACTOR AND SON/NEFEW! Tyler, BigE's son. Future biker, just started riding with Dad.. Ha, check out the chaps, a tad short Aunti Flo.

Still riding like a pro MOTORMAN!!! Your bike is a hit Doc!

Look at that... and I used to like red so much. I would say she stands out just a little!!! That Queen!!!

Here we have Jippo, he is a Cabana Boy on VILR, and first officer for CMC. Jim, a long time client of my mine, and my friend and neighbour Randy.

This is Dr.Ruth.. Fun gal, and I would say she is flirtin there wouldn't you???

Cumberland.. end of poker run almost. Enough of that parking that big bike for me in a neat line in front of so many people.. I have to say though, I think I do better under pressure. I did it.... Motorman would be proud of me!!

Skulling with Dogdrifter!

After we had our skulling day, we stopped for coffee at the Hut in Qualicum and we met my X for the last leg home. Bro and I went to Shady rest for dinner.
Oops..we missed the Dragon!

After we went Skulling we decided to run up to Ladysmith and meet our other newbie,Mz Jossie, she rides a Hussy! Sure doesn't look like Dogdrifter and Jossie just met does it. Oh you have to love the biker comeraderie.
Jos and her hubby Vic took us on a little tour on a back road of their neighbourhood, before heading back. That is the first time I rode with Jossie other than the day of arriving back from the Conga.

So 2 new friends in one day is pretty damn awesome. I love VILR!! Many more rides to come.

Skull Cap!

Here is my first SKULL! I got a belt also but you realling can't see all the skulls and chains hanging of it.. Oh my what have I become. If my children could only see me now!


This is Dogdrifter, my new Skulling sister...lol. I met her on my forum VILR. She is a spontanious gal, just like me. I do believe there is going to be lots of miles with her. We just decided Friday night we would meet Sat, and go Skulling. Seeings I had decided to use Skulls as my theme on La Reina

Nationwide Party!! By Dale

This is my friend Dale....Sunflower's Hubby, now I dont have to tell you he is a real sweety as the picture tells all. This is the day we were leaving Gypsie and UEees house and they were going back home, and I was continuing the Conga with Gypsie and UEee and we were off to Tennesse.

Dale and Sunflower/Sundowner
From Dale....

Until recently I have only read about people that have ridden across countries, that is, until I met Flo.
Sunflower started talking about something called Conga. I thought it was some kind of party that her and her WWR friends
Were getting together, as they often do lunch rides, little did I know that this party was nationwide.

It takes courage, and lots of it to undertake a journey like that of the Flo’ster took on and with as little expierence as she has, she had a great teacher, whom I think this ride was about.
It never fails just when you think humanity is going down the drain something like this comes along and gives hope where there was little of. People, people that only know each other thru e-mails and posts in an open forum, come together for one cause to help a person realize there dream and see it come to pass. The motorcycle community goes farther than the community that you ride in or the state that you reside it reaches across boarders and welcomes, with open arms, each rider no matter the shape, size, or type of bike you ride. The old saying It’s not what you ride, It’s that you ride is what it is all about.

I want to thank you Flo for giving me hope that one day I will realize my dreams, and given others the courage that they can also make there dreams come true. I know that through all the up’s and downs along the way the people of the Conga, and people that followed the Conga, slept better at night knowing you were safe and could not wait till the next day to see what came at you next. We marveled at your sheer determination that you would ride that Queen through the toughest of times and show her who’s boss.

Thanks Flo for the courage you have given me and others I only hope that some day I can return the favor for someone else and help them realize there dreams.

Ride Hard and Ride Like A Pro

7000,00 miles ago today!!

The Queen with her new hair!!

My first skull!!

My second skulls!

Skulls on the windshield!

Donnathedoc in barbershop!
Wow.. I pulled into the garage, looked down at my whatchamacallit!! ometer of some kind, and it said exactly 7,000 miles.. Now.. go figure that into kilometers!! I have put 1200 miles on since I got home two weeks ago, with working and trying to keep house. (dont like keeping house anymore)

I left my sisa Donnathedoc, in Florida on the 21 of May!! Seems like yesterday and it was 16 days ago, that I returned.
Usually when you return from a vacation, a week or so especially after one returns to work it is all said and done. The memories start to fade and you just get back to a routine. It is so not happening. There hasn't been an hour, never mind a day, that I can't get things off my mind. I don't want to either. The emails still keep coming in about the trip and people talking about it all the time.

Crikey, it is like Flo's gone famous or something..lol Of course the news on A channel kind of told a few folk here on our Vancouver Island. So if I don't mention it, someone does.... I got my Gypsy Queen parked out in front of the Barbershop, and people just walk by and gawk at it. If they didn't need a haircut, they need to inquire about the beauty sitting outside. And what does the RIDE LIKE A PRO sticker on my bike mean they say...Well there's another big long story...

Today a guy came for a haircut, and we were yacking away, and then of course the bike in front of the window came into dicusion. He asked if it was mine... yes...how long ya been riding....3 years...ride much...yes..wow that is a big bike for a girl, ever drop it...yes... bla bla bla..

Then he proceeds to tell me that when he was with a bunch of riding buddies in Victoria a couple weeks ago, they were sitting talking about bikes and on came the news.... I'm thinking....yeeeees!!! I listen for awhile longer, he is saying... Ya it was pretty amazing, this gal traveled across America with internet friends. She was raising money for the guy that taught her how to ride.. I said, nice... he said...Ya...she'd only been riding 3 years... aparently these people she bought the bike from even took her in for a week and put her through a RIDE LIKE A PRO COURSE.... I said..yaaaa... he said...

yup pretty amazing and then he looked in the mirror, and then at me and said,... wow, she kinda looked like you, she was like from Campbell River.... I just smiled at him.........and said yes...

He jumped outa his chair so fast...turned around ... stuck out his hand, and said OMG...It is a pleasure to meet you!! you are her, aren't you???... This is fabulous, you are an inspiration, do you know that, to us guys even.. I'm like...ya... really?? So they say, but I just went for a ride!!
No, you didn't you did what all of us dream of doing.. I was like all nervous, he kept going on, and on, and I thought he was going to ask me for my autograph...lol
It tickles me pink that people think, that I did something so wonderful...ME???

The Palladinos and all the American crew and my Canadian biker friends are the wonderful ones. Amazing it all is!
Before he left he shook my hand again, and said.... this my friend, is awesome and I do believe it is going to take you places and I don't mean on the road. Some day I will ask you for an autograph.. He was a painter, and good things happened to him one day when he was discovered.. I chuckled and thought, only in my dreams, but hey, never stop dreaming, and get off your ass and write that book everyone is telling you to do!! Crikey, am I ready for another adventure.

How the hell can someone write a book that can't write, or spell, or come up with words that she is looking for???
Okay this only took 3 hours to write, and I have so much more to babble on about!!



My forum has gone crazy, a nice crazy. I try to keep up on mine and get over to WWR, DOC'S forum, but it keeps getting busier. Hers is too, since the Conga. Not that hers needed to be busier. She runs a damn fine forum and has a business to run, and people just love her, and she is my inspiration.



I have had no time to blog cause I get on the forum and can't get off. I have to say, I am loving it, meeting so many new people and getting closer to ones that I have met once or twice. Helping out the newbies that are so excited to get comfy riding.

We actually have a ride planned with a few of us girls to go help a couple of newbies to the forum and to riding this weekend. It will be a blast. We are off to Victoria on the other end of the Island.



Yesterday, I was desperate to add some bling to the bike. Bling is not an easy thing to find in this town for a HARLEY...Actually it is impossible I thought about what I wanted.. I don't usually like skulls. I checked the bike over and there was some cutsy little ones already on it so I thought, WHY NOT!! Skulls remind me of DEATH VALLEY AND TEXAS.

Letter from Michael!!

This is my friend Michael.. He waited for Vi, and I for hours as you will read in his letter. I am sorry Michael.. but not that I met you!! You are a gem of a friend, from the first moment I met you. I remember pulling into the gas station, feeling bad that we were late, and happy that you were still there.
Your are right.. instantly, I started thinking about all the things, I probably forgot..The most important thing. MY PASSPORT! I was thinking I wouldn't even get through the boarder with out it. You so gracefully, even thought you might have been pissed off at me, helped me RIPP my saddle bags, luggage rack and every other knook and cranny apart to help me find it. I was even more frantic in my mind that you could ever imagine.
Not to mention, you must have known how important my SEAT was because you got out your cleaning liquid and started to clean it up. Funny how these things come back to me as I read other perspective. Were we not all releaved after a phone call was made to Doc and she ramsacked all the stuff left behind to know it was safe and sound in the place it was suppose to be. The very last place I looked. you must have thought...This Flo is a piece of work!!!

There we are, me, you,Vi, and Dale, Sunflowers DH. We are getting ready to leave you behind after you just getting used to going with the Flo.

I have to say Michael, it may have been a short time, but very special. We had lots of laughs, even though, in 170 miles, we rode, ate, and looked at maps. You totally rule.. are really cool! I look forward to riding with you again, and thanks so much for taking the time out of your schedule to go with the Flo on the Conga 1.

Sorry about the pic of you eating. you still look good, and no one would have known it. I know I drove you nutz for a short time. The videos.... I had a Flo moment and delted 90% of them by mistake...Ask me if I hate myself for that.
Love ya!!
Flo,
Getting to ride just a small portion of your Conga (about 170 miles) with you was great, even though you and Vi made me frantic waiting for you!

There I was waiting patiently in Metter, GA, while y'all go gallivanting off to South Carolina (unbeknownst to me) just so you can say you've been there.

I was expecting you between 10:30 and 11:00 am. 11:15 comes, no Flo. 11:30, I'm getting worried, has something happened, did they pass me by? I call Vi on her cell phone, no answer. 11:45, getting REAL worried! Has there been some kind of catastrophe? Did they get stopped by the cops for some reason, has there been an accident? I have my eyes glued to the freeway off ramp, almost unblinking. 12:00 comes and I have almost convinced myself that nothing has happened, it's just that you and Vi forgot about me, when I hear a couple of bikes downshifting.


Then I see a Valkyrie and a Road King appear from behind the bushes lining the off ramp and I know that y'all are okay and I haven't been forgotten. Y'all pull into the gas station with huge grins on your faces, pull up to the pumps and, just as I am about to berate you, Vi explains that y'all just HAD to make a side trip into SC because it was so close and you needed to color in the state on your map.
Okay, I can understand that. Hell, I ride, too. But ya coulda called! LOL.
While you gassed up, I cleaned your bug-spattered windshield. Then I hear you bemoan the fact that your beautiful white seat is dirty, so I clean the seat for you while giving advice about what to use to keep it that way.
Then, for some reason, you think about your passport. Where is it? All three of us begin to unpack every piece of luggage on the bike and search through all of this stuff you are carrying.
Vi calls Donna to see if, maybe, you left it at her house and is it in your other stuff to be shipped home? Well, we finally find it on the bike and it is re-packed where it can be easily found.
Off to the Taco Bell/KFC next door to get lunch where you begin to get snap-happy with your camera, even getting a picture of me eating! After lunch, more pics, this time with the bikes, and video of me and Vi planning the route (whatever happened to that one? I haven't seen it posted).
Vi convinces me that I am to be the leader on my portion of your trek (Vi-"You're gonna lead." Me-"What? Why? Vi-"Because I don't want to lead." Me-"Oookaaayyy.") Off we go to meet Sunflower in Madison, GA.
Conversations and laughter at gas stops.
Pulling into Madison 3 hours later than planned. Meeting Sunflower and her DH. More pictures (how much memory have you got for that camera? Oh, the batteries are dying. No spares? Okay, time for y'all to go.)
Watching you, Vi and Sunflower pulling out and praying y'all will be okay on this next leg to Ellijay, GA. Flo, I've only known you for a few short hours, but you've made a friend for life. If you ever need something while down this way again, call me.


Ya know that you've gotta come back and color in Alabama. Maybe we can ride together some more. I hope so.

Michael Martin
Michael if you and your wife, ever get a chance to come our way, you know you have a place to stay...Hey, I'm a poet and don't know it.

Junuary 20

Hey Jude-Flo... Short but sweet visit in Willow point!

My little brother BigE, he is the one that bought Blinga my X!! Get that smoke outa the pic bro!!
I have heard it so much since I have been home June 9. "Junuary", and I can see why!
It is frickin cold!! I am not sure what the temp is but you know it is cold when you have to wear two coats, fleese undies, and chaps.
I am trying to get a little ride in everyday, regardless of the weather. Well if there is no liquid coming out of the sky anyway.


Tonight, BigE and I went to meet Hey Jude at the Driftwood parking lot, to see if in fact she really does ride. This is a lady that I met for one second at an ice cream stop last year and she was asking about our condo for rent in Mexico. Any way the second meeting was in Mexico. She was where I was for a month, not in our condo but in the same town.
I tried to entertain her and take her biking. I have 2 little 49 cc schooters. Whenever anyone comes down especially someone I know or that rides, I try and show them around. Can you believe it....she was afraid of it!! I have been teasing her,ever since, does she really know how to ride a motorcycle??? yup...she does!



The weather wasn't too promising so we decided to just go to Willow Point a 10 minute ride and have a bite to eat so we could say we rode together.
Very nice ride, and even better visit. Just as she was arriving she caught me sitting on my X.. BigE says....Step AWAY from the X!!



I tell ya, I love sitting on her, and probably shouldn't yet.
I am however starting to feel it wont be necessary pretty soon. The more I ride the Gypsy Queen, the more I start to know who is boss. For me that is why I like to ride every night, so I can stop feeling like a new rider again. The most important part is city driving, I mean town traffic. Stop, not drop, lean, scrape...get down, bring er up, don't forget the dip!!
I am hearing ya Doc....Dip..lean.. show the bitch who's boss. Honestly, it doesnt REALLY matter if your feet can't touch all the way. I''m hearin it, feelin it!! DOING IT!!!

Yee haa..Stick it to Yuckima!!

Meeting new Island friends.

Flo and sister Bea... sister as in FUHR FACTOR!!


Riders from Duncan and Alberni
Since I have finished the Conga good things keep happening. My forum is busier and it has brought alot of people closer together.
Me and Draggie have been hanging out she is a go getter,and knows alot more lady riders than I do.
We are trying to organize rides for the ladies. Of course the guys can come. There many ladies here on the Island alot of them newbies. It is not so intimidating to ride with the gals when you are learning.
We were meet in Qualicum which is a good 1.5 hours for me, to go meet some girls for an ice cream.
My sister Bea showed up as she does not live far away, and I hadn't seen her is 6 months.
I was introduced to a bunch of new people. Had met the others only once. I was telling tales of Conga and how my American friends were so good to me.
I headed back home alone, only about 100 km. I was about 27 km from home and the gas light went on.
Pulled of the freeway to ride the Ocean view,(which I ride every frickin day )to get to the first gas station in Blk Crk. Which way did Flo go....Wrong way!!
Unbelievable, how did I mangage toride across America... Right,,, I followed others.
I JUST managed to get the gas station before I run out of gas,I am sure it was fumes.
Another good day of riding since I have been home.

A Message from my Tennesse Connection-Kaye

This is my friend Kaye and her Hubby Phillip. You have to know if I was pick out who had the strongest southern accent,it would be this couple and Phillip would win. They have a great sense of humor. My first sighting of Phillip was when my bike was laying on its side for the 3rd time..(I believe.)
Phillip says..Now Flo.. I never expected yur bike to be layin down when I first met ya.. then he picked it up..Well he picked up 2 because Gypsie went down with me.

This is was suppose to be where I my first day off! The Palladinos must have threated because I sure did rest. I asked Kay if we could just go down town and back with her. She says... nope,you are grounded!! We took the vehicle and went shopping to one of my favorite stores and hers too...Good Will.

This is my very own little cabin. I could just rest, stay in bed as long as I wanted. Snore as loud as I wanted...ha!!! Great Cabin!!!

Kay has a great place to kick back and relax.

This is where we stayed at her families after not making it to Louisiana becauseofthe mini tornado,and why I missed Alabama.

Hey Dahlin! (In my very best accent, just for you)

I don’t think I even have to tell you how much fun I had meeting you and riding with you! (((((((FLO))))))

There ARE a couple of things I would change if I could: We’d have found a way to get Alabama on your map and do the stops at Graceland in Memphis and the Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale . As far as planning another Conga – If it comes ANYWHERE near me, you know I’m in!! Let’s just allow MORE time to see the sights and have fun! We also learned that there must always be a “PLAN B”. Rarely, does the first plan work exactly and has to constantly be refined along the way or even scraped altogether!! LOL

I am SOOO proud of the way you faced some tough challenges and rose up to meet them. I hope you realize now just how strong you really are.

You have made a place in many hearts all over the USA ! The welcome mat is always out for you in Tennessee !

Kaye

Not much to report

I'm not very happy today about the weather. I will get a total of 5 miles riding in. The weather sucks. Was nice when i left home ,but a 2.5 mile ride home is it! Hopefully the Ice cream rund to Qualicum, one hour or so will happen after work.
Very busy today, the boys stopping by to inquire about the new ride sitting out side the shop!! It is a hit, and they can't believe I can ride it...What they really couldn't believe was when I told them I could pick it up.
I think the shop is going to be a great place to sell RIDE LIKE A PRO dvd's. Also after telling of my Conga escapades, a couple guys said, maybe you are the gal to come and see when we need to buy another Harley!!

Dragon's reason for joining the Conga!!

Well as you know when you first asked what anyone thought about riding the Queen home, I didn't have to give you an answer, you all knew what I would say. Darn right!! If you have the time and finances then go for it. One of my own personal motto is "don't let fear or common sense hold you back" If I could I would do the same.

As planning began and it was clear that you didn't have any escorts for the wet coast, I agreed to do all I could to come down and meet you. Thinking it is also a chance of a lifetime for me. I didn't think about helping someone I had only met once or any obstacles there might be, I was coming to help you out and be part of your journey. And I am sure glad I did.
Call me naive, stupid, overconfident, but I picked a day to leave and I was heading as far south as possible to meet up with you. And not everyone knew I was going it alone!!! I didn't think anything of it but those that knew thought I was nuts.

This is Draggie and Therapy!! They suite each other alot!! I means check them out. This is what I had to live with for a couple nights.. lol (keeping in mind I met Draggie, once before this, the day at the end of season when I rode up with BigE on the back of my Blinga. The actual day that I started my forum VILR, come to think of it.

I really didn't want to stay in the same room with her. I find she is not one to argue with.. I snore Draggie...so,so so I.. I smoke..so so do I.. I stay up late and post...so, I will help you. The light will be on..so,if I am tired enough I will sleep any way..So...

We settled in our lovely room with 2 TV'S (no coffee pot) Ready to do some posting and up dating on the Blog. She knew how it important it was to me and sat there and helped me. But before we got started. Up she jumps and says....Flo, I'm going to Slay California!! I'm like what?? It's an hour away and she said look at how many States you got girl. I need another one, you just gave me a patch to fill in.

I didn't want her to go alone, and I didn't want to ride either...She was back in an hour.

You look scary Draggie!!!!!!

I headed out and travelled alone from the Island to the California border to meet you. I went through rain, drizzle and a snow storm, but none of the weather issues deterred me from getting as far south as I could in a day and a half. Yes, some of the weather was miserable but I was on a mission and I was going to accomplish it. On the way there I proved to myself that I am strong enough in mind,body and soul to venture off to places unknown and I don't have to worry about company.
Once I met up with you Flo, it was like we had known each other for years, or maybe separated a birth. You tried to dissuade me from sharing a room, but every excuse you had, I had the same answer. We were on the same page, just incredibly surreal somehow. Almost complete strangers and yet so much alike!

I followed the Conga daily, keeping track of your progress and also trying to pinpoint where I would end up meeting you.(how hard I would push myself) Your trials and tribulations were inspiring to both myself and all the riders following both your blog and the forums.

I could tell you were getting tired and I felt bad that when I arrived I was going to have to push you just a little bit more. But I knew in the end you would be so happy that I did. I had arranged behind the scenes to have both your brothers meet us along the highway to surprise you. Knowing how much it would mean to have your Bros there for the final push home. What fun would it be to know they were coming, better a big surprise to rejuvenate your spirit!!!!! I only let 2 others in on the secret, one of them being Doc, just so she wouldn't get mad that I was pushing you!!!

The surprise did exactly that, perked you up and you were ready to make the final trip home with the Bros by your side and a Dragon to lead you home. I was so honoured to be there for you and lead you and the Fuhr Factor home to the Island.

Would I do it again, damn rights!!! Would I go on my own Conga, YEP !!!

You have inspired many and accomplished alot. You are a hero to all and and inspiration to new riders and some experienced riders as well. As you have said, "If Flo can do it...."

You made it on a trip of a lifetime!! You have memories to last forever, you have formed lifelong bonds with many, all of these would not have happened without the common bond we all share!

On that note, I want to say CONGRATULATIONS to you Flo and CONGRATULATIONS to all the riders out there that helped inspire and escort Flo and La Reina home to the Island. That is what riding is truly about!!!!

My last blog before we headed to the Sumas Boarder. Got my Do Rag on for my American Conga buddies!!!! The Eagle will be landing soon!!

She got us to the Boarder on time!

She got us to B.C. Ferries, even if it was late!

Most of allDraggie, ya brought me my Bro's!! It was worth the push to Yackima! I will never forget that!! You are a very caring gal to have arranged that. Crikey I had only ever met you once.. Is that not what its all about ...the Biker Comeraderie!!!! It's strangers not really strangers.

This is on the Ferry! As drained and tired as we were,we are still smiling girl! Hey not to mention lookin like Pros!!!!

Love Ya Sista!

Been home a week now!! June 16

THE FUHR FACTOR-BLINGO-FLO-BIGE


Me and La Reina!!! Vancouver Island, Fanny Bay

Sitting Pretty!

THE FUHR FACTOR-BLINGO-FLO-BIGE
Holy Moly, a week has gone by since I finished the Conga. Not sure where to start.. First and foremost......I haven't dropped the Queen. I haven't had any close calls!!
Secondly, she got her first bath, I mean real bath. I had to get 4 layers of crap off her. Topped in with DEATH VALLEY DUST, More like little pieces of glass. Mud, the white walls were black. Sand down behind the stereo. It took me 4 hours of scrubbing and still needs to be pampered more. It is definitely not up to standards, of MOTORMAN OR BLINGO..Or me for that matter. But it was time to ride!!
I am sure my friend MOTORMAN is probably wondering...when, where or if it is going to happen. I am getting very comfy with her now.. Not afraid to venture out alone. Crikey I sound like a newbie rider.
I shouldn't be it's getting close to 6,500 miles not kilometers.
I have had the bars pulled up a little when I took the stereo off to clean it. I thought I would have to get new bars. But it appears this might work. I still miss the wide handle bars of my X Blinga.

I have sat on her numerous times, and man, the fit, I do so miss. My bro's won't even let me take her for a little spin.... I still do love her!
They say...."Step away from the X"
Anyway, I am going to take my lovely seat in and see what the upholsters say if it can be dug out a little. Then I will take my boots in and add 3/4 of an inch. Lowering it will be my last option. I don't want to do that.
Motorman tells me it will ruin the performance of the bike in turns. Probably hit bottom on speed bumps. Even with the height, I am feeling comfy except when it comes to parking in a tight line with other bikes. I did do it yesterday and got a big thumbs up from the Bro's. I think it is just a fear of hitting another bike.

My stops are almost perfect every time!!!!!!!!!!

When I parked her yesterday there was just the 3 of us, and I didn't think it out too much, other than... I hear Doc saying...lean it!! Don't be afraid to lean.Throttle, show the bitch who's boss...That is my favorite saying in my mind when it comes to the Queen.

I rode all weekend with my Bros and Dragon. Also ran into Spyerman, the guy who rescued me at the end of the Conga. He told me again, what a emotional moment it was for him riding the Queen home for me that day. He let me take the Spyder for a ride too!!

Blingo jumped on the Queen and took her for a Riiiip, down the road, came back with a smile and said...Ya know Sis, If I didn't work at a Honda Dealership, I could see me riding this. Now that is something...Cus he sure likes his big VTX!

We met with Jossie, Vic in Qualicum on Sunday. yike there was a show and shine of cars and the place was packed. I had to move it and was going to whip it in to a spot.....No can do.. No problem though as it sat out there for everyone to see...tee hee.. I have to admit, it is kinda cool, people drooling on her!!
This one couple there were all over her, and I walked towards her. they said "Is that your bike?" Yup it is!! The woman was my age and said how on earth??
Long story short, I told her my long story!! She was impressed and so was he.. Blingo says hey sis ya want me to move it for ya???
Not!!!! All nervous I pulled outa there like I knew what I was doing in a tight spot!
We all rode to Rath trevor and had a pic taken. Great day was had by all. Draggie Vic Jos left, and the FUHR FACTOR headed back to Campbell River.

We went to the fishing pier, for icecream, and lined the bikes up nicely the Queen in the middle. Along comes another couple and says...NICE BIKES!!
I told here thanks very much, which one do you like best??
"But of course the one in the middle she said"

We only rode for awhile today it was chilly. So far this week I put on 450 miles. Not bad for just riding across America a week ago. There would have been more if the weather cooperates.
Since I have gotten back things have changed alot on the VILR forum. It has become very busy. We are honored to have Donnathedoc, from Ride Like a Pro, be assistant manager. Even MOTORMAN makes the odd post! I have had hundreds of posts on all sorts of subjects. New people coming, lots of ideas, and have ridden with people I have never talked to before.
It is still as busy as ever for me on this computer. People are encouraging me to write a book. I hope I find away. It certainly wouldn't be about a woman riding across america, but the main thing, would be about the comeraderie of interenet friends and bikers. The caring of people. This is still a very nice world we live in!!
The fund raiser has raised almost $1700 and my goal is to get to $2000 by August. We will be donating the money to cancer in memory of the man who taught me how to ride, when I first learned. His name is Rod Wiseman from Comox Valley School of Driving. There will be a memorial ride put on by his wife in August.
Many thanks to all who have helped out!!

June 16 From my Sister Bea!

flo2.asf (7.3 MB)
This is what she emailed all her friends!!
Thought maybe some of you might be interested in my sister, Tannis' recent accomplishment that made the Island news. The news story depicted the major feat of being a woman riding a motorbike over 9,000 km, basically nonstop, across 18 states from Florida to Vancouver Island. The real story, from my perspective, is one of the power of the Internet, and the trust she so vicariously put in the hands of strangers met over an Internet rider's forum.

Hers is an inspiring story of hundreds of strangers who came together to form a Conga and on-line support group to see a single inexperienced woman rider, on the journey of a lifetime, arrive home safely. Her family did not want her to attempt this trip, but with her on-line support, the friends she met on the Conga, and through courage, determination, and sheer willpower, she completed this amazing feat in just three weeks.

Follow her daily blog from May 15th and see how she inspired women all over America and Canada. (Shadowlady from Nova Scotia says it all...). She had women crying, cheering, and praying for her. Some would not go to bed until they knew she was safe for the night. It brings tears to my eyes to read their comments and hear how she inspired them. It is not over for her yet, even though she has safely arrived home. It is all she can do to keep up with emails and comments that people are posting.

I am so proud of my sister!. What a story she will have to tell her grandchildren one day.

Message from Jan

Hey Flo:
I didn't ride with you in person but I did in spirit... you are an inspiration to us all .. Im going through the hardest time in my life right now after loosing my only child before Christmas.. a true test of strength and faith...

so many times in reading your blog I would want to tell you what I have learned these past 6 months in my journey .. Its all in how you look at things. You would write about not being able to ride any more.. being intimidated by your new bike, conditions were doin a number on you.. etc..

but, I would read a different version of your journey.. not in what you couldn't do and carry on .. but what you were doing and had done up to that certain point .. take a step back and look at it a whole different way. So glad you were able to pick yourself up and carry on.. Wow!!.. such an accomplishment -

something you will always be proud of and have many wonderful stories to tell. We CAN do anything we set our minds to .. you just proved that big time and look how far and wide your adventure has been shown. How many of us would be brave enough to set out on our own like that .. not really knowing for sure who would be waiting at the next line to pick up.. maybe be by yourself.. maybe not.. but you kept going... Way to Go Woman!

You have so much to be proud of... Im glad to hear you are home and safe... will continue reading your updates as they come. You will always be an example set.. from now on Im sure many will think... "well if Flo could do that.. then I sure can do what I need to do"... Thank you Flo for quite an adventure!
Jan

Vi's Version!!

All our bags are packed and we ready to go!!

Viola/Snowball/Avonlady leaving



This is my friend Vi. She was just arriving there to start the first send off from the Palladino's. Like she said she was the trip organizer. Got all the people together and kept track of it. Planned the route around the people that were offering there homes and time to ride. Nice bike Vi!!
Nice job, I know ya didn't plan DEATH VALLEY!! LOL

Vi is a newlywed. Bruce is his name. I never really got to spend any time there as we stayed one night and we went out to biker night for a couple hours.

That is Vi second from right on the bottom. She was the tail gunner on the Dragon. She wasn't ready for the Dragon on her new bike. Good for you for admitting it Vi.. Sometimes it's hard to admit, but safer..

Bike Night... We had to win those t-shirts. That was the best beer I'd ever had. Was a thirst girl! I see you hiding that cig...it didn't work.

How the days have flown by since the start of this Conga. From its conception to its finale...
I remember back when Flo first said how she only dreamed of riding cross country. I think I was one of the first ones to egg her on. I am glad I did....

I helped organize the stops and each individual person Flo would stay with to the best of my ability. Her main goal in the beginning sprang from her desire to ride "The DRAGON" and how we wanted to all do this with her.

I so enjoyed talking to each lady who held her hand up and could actually be part of this great expedition. I so appreciat e all the ladies who also raised there hands, but routing wouldn't allow Flo to come to them to. THANK YOU!

Okay, so the morning of May 21st, I get a call from the first hand off person "HighPriestess" who was so ill she couldn't make the trip. Sheila we were so sad that you weren't well and hope you will be available the next time.

I called Trixie-Cindy and said what time are you leaving. I had not planned to head to Florida and escort Flo but I did it anyway. I had a blast seeing Jerry and Donna again and meeting Hippie John.

So, as would seem to be the case throughout this trip we were running an hour behind getting to Flo and 2 hours behind schedule getting back into Georgia due to inclimate weather of which we avoided under an overhang at a truckstop. The 3 of us shared some laughs and got scared by some cloud to ground lightning. You would have thought a bomb dropped it was so loud...lolI hope Trixie will chime in with the gloom and Doom guy we encountered there. She tells it much better than I...

We got back to my parked the bikes for the night. Jumped in the Pickup and we went to bike night in Pooler, GA. Flo said to me...I am sure glad we parked the bikes first. She was a wooped puppy by time we ate dinner. We ran into the Toxic Twins...had a great dinner and both won T-Shirts from Low Country Customs. Came home exhausted but Flo had just enough energy to call Doc and say we were here.

May 22nd....the day to depart for Ellijay, GA to our wonderful Ms Wolfie-Holly's house....we had coffee and Flo made sure to log onto the forums and give an update. We actually left on time at 9am and decided we had to make a detour to pick up T-shirts and to scrape the edge of South Carolina....I almost feel selfish that I got to have her all to myself for over a hundred miles. We clipped SC and had already ridden 50 miles before we could even get out of the Savannah area of Georgia. Here is where we wind up 2 hours behind meeting up with Michael unfortunatley Miriam had to work. (btw Micheal I still have your map for all it's help....rotf).

We stopped and had lunch and headed to Jackson, GA another 100 miles to meet up with Sunflower Denise and her DH Dale. We were still running 2 hours behind. We were having a great day. Michael left us there and Dale went back home too! Now there is just the 3 of us. I finally got to lead more than one other person. We got misplaced once due to incorrect directions, but only for a few minutes. Between Dale's assitance over the phone and the guy who overheard we were lost...we got back on track. I was amazed by another lady who couldn't even tell us where we were and she lived there in Gainsville...

It was getting later in the afternoon and we still had almost 200 miles to go. Mountain Routes are no fun in the dark. Everything seems that much harder to navigate after it gets dark. We finally made it to Holly and Wolfie's around 10pm. Navigated the Driveway of Doom and had a wonderful spagetti dinner. Holly you did great and we all appreciate you lots...
I was worn out and hit the pillow and was the 1st one asleep. Flo and Sunflower stayed up on the computer for hours.
Just so you know Denise is truly not a morning person. We had the hardest time getting her to wake up...

May 23, the day to "SLAY THE DRAGON"....that was awesome and even though I followed in a Cadillac Escalade the trip was so worth it. It also gave me a feel for the roads I would negotiate by myself the next day.
Off we went to meet Gypsy-Cindy and Ueee-Bill. Of course Minnie Me-Beth and Danny were there and Sherry and Gene to meet us. We had 9 bikes and 10 riders and 1 me in the Caddy.
So many laughs and smiles this day. I would do it all over again and again. I enjoyed Ueeeeees U turn, I know Denise didn't but we went through this one lane bridge and the first road to the right was Lovers Lane. Wished my sweety had been with us...
Wonderful BBQ at Cindy and Bill's house, thanks guys had a blast looking foward to seeing y'all again this summer to truly slay the dragon on my own bike.

Sat. May 24 parting was really difficult. We were all leaving at the same time and everyone else was going left while I turned right heading home. I went 300 miles of beautiful roads alone and met up with my DH in South Carolina where I finished off a wonderful weekend at my home up there.

FLO what can I say! You have been an inspiration for so many Ladies and I am so elated to count you amongst my friends. I know the above is more like a ride report but I am not really good at sometimes putting my feelings down.
My heart is very full right now. I have truly been here for the whole ride and I have cried and laughed with you as I have read each Blog and post you made on the forum. Since my time with you I have only strengthened my resolve to do my own cross country tour. My DH and I are saving our pennies.
You have been such an inspiration to me and so many others. I would say not only have you fullfilled a dream but you have touched lives in so many positive ways that most of us never get to do. That in itself is living this life to it's fullest and you my dear have. I look forward to your many adventures and meeting with you again. I am so Proud of YOU!

I raise my wine glass to you my dear. I wish you many miles of smiles and sunshine and many friends to brighten you days.
God must Love you, I know I do...Big Hugs, Vi