Texas X Riders
VTX Related Rides => Archived Ride Board - For Reference Only => Topic started by: RD on April 24, 2006, 03:16:55 PM
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We all made it home safe yesterday afternoon. It was a great experience. Wayne, Jerry and I, had a great time, with lots of laughs. Special Kudo's go ot to John, Bill, Pat & Bubba for all the effort they took to spend time with us. As weel as our R.A.T. wannabe's Kenny & Tommy, who rode all the way to Beaumont from central Texas to ride home with us. It was great to meet everyone in Groves, and I hope many of you can attend the BBT III. I look forward to seeing you again.
RD
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How did you get all those durn stars under your name? I sure miss mean green icon.
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How did you get all those durn stars under your name? I sure miss mean green icon.
I don't know. Tapper must've put them there. Guess that means I'm a 5 star General, so, mind your P's & Q's. :P ;)
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You only get 5 stars when you become a 100%er...YOU should qualify for at least 1 star....since you are a 2/9er & did you see, he called us wannabe's.
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How did you get all those durn stars under your name? I sure miss mean green icon.
I don't know. Tapper must've put them there. Guess that means I'm a 5 star General, so, mind your P's & Q's. :P ;)
Oh Christ, I've heard it all now....
Glad you had fun on your ride, saddle sore at all?
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Recap? This isn't a recap, it's a blurb. I want at least 3000 words. How the hell can us cripples live vicariously through a damned blurb? Get busy!
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Welcome Home!!! Job well done. 8)
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We all made it home safe yesterday afternoon. It was a great experience. Wayne, Jerry and I, had a great time, with lots of laughs. Special Kudo's go ot to John, Bill, Pat & Bubba for all the effort they took to spend time with us. As weel as our R.A.T. wannabe's Kenny & Tommy, who rode all the way to Beaumont from central Texas to ride home with us. It was great to meet everyone in Groves, and I hope many of you can attend the BBT III. I look forward to seeing you again.
RD
I will try this again. I want to thank Jerry and RD. It was an experience I needed at this time in my life. Kathy and I are the guardians of our 13 year old grandson who has cerebral palsy who we have been taking care of for about ten years now. Kathy let me play for nine days on the bike and Jerry and RD put up with me!! I want to thank Snake (John) who saved us a lot of time getting us to the Tex/Arkansas state line for a photo op, and sharing Jefferson, Texas with us, he is a good guy! Warm thanks go out to Pat and Bubba who gave me southern hospitality like I enjoyed in Georgia, good food, great people, and thanks to Bill who's hospitality was unsurpassed, hope the neighbors enjoyed the noise... and thanks to the 2/9 RATS who rode from central texas to help us finish up, Thanks Tom and Kenny.....Good friends, good roads, friendly Texas Highway Patrolman, met alot of good Texas people in the strangest places/situations.
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OK, OK where the heck are all the pics. you guys have got to have some good pics! glad to see you guys had a great time. i have to agree with tapper though, 9 days of riding and this is all you guys have for a write up of "The Great R.A.T. Ride" come on guys you can do better. :)
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I have to get about three rolls of 35mm developed/converted to cd, I have some digital but had power problems will try to get those going.......I know RD and Jerry can't wait to get a photo of me with one of our finest State Troopers, more to follow.......... :) :)
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Recap? This isn't a recap, it's a blurb. I want at least 3000 words. How the hell can us cripples live vicariously through a damned blurb? Get busy!
With enough JD, I really could write a small book, to bad I ain't edumacated!
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;)sure glad you guy's had a good time, tom kept us posted on your progress, know ya'll must have a bunch of good stories, hope to hear a few at antonios this week.
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;)sure glad you guy's had a good time, tom kept us posted on your progress, know ya'll must have a bunch of good stories, hope to hear a few at antonios this week.
Well, I'll try but you know me, I'm not really that long winded, hope RD will be there, that way I won't have to say anything!!
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;)sure glad you guy's had a good time, tom kept us posted on your progress, know ya'll must have a bunch of good stories, hope to hear a few at antonios this week.
Well, I'll try but you know me, I'm not really that long winded, hope RD will be there, that way I won't have to say anything!!
:o ??? >:( :P
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Guess that means I'm a 5 star General, so, mind your P's & Q's. :P ;)
General, huh? And definitely a subscriber to the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy... :D
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You guys are most welcome at my dust bowl anytime. Every second of it was a blast. ;D
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Welcome back home. Ready for another ride any time soon.
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;)sure glad you guy's had a good time, tom kept us posted on your progress, know ya'll must have a bunch of good stories, hope to hear a few at antonios this week.
Well, I'll try but you know me, I'm not really that long winded, hope RD will be there, that way I won't have to say anything!!
:o ??? >:( :P
:-[ :-[ Didn't mean anything negative, just know that RD (General) has a much better gift/ability to put long sentences and words together to convey a meaningful thought. :-[ ::) :(
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You guys don't know what you missed by not being at Bill's house on Saturday night. I never saw grown men laugh so hard in a long time....I had a blast. Thanks again Bill.
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You guys don't know what you missed by not being at Bill's house on Saturday night. I never saw grown men laugh so hard in a long time....I had a blast. Thanks again Bill.
I laughed till I hurt Tom. Like I said, it was my pleasure. I will say this about a certain hairy face fellow. Lake Belton was my first time to meet him and with all the whiskers it was hard to read him. After Sat. night I can attest to him being one funny MF.
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jmdaniel the saying at the bottom of your post is one of my favorite, i have it under a pictue of 4 chocolate lab pups.
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jmdaniel the saying at the bottom of your post is one of my favorite, i have it under a pictue of 4 chocolate lab pups.
Glad you enjoyed it....
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I know everyone would like to hear about all the fun and excitement we had on the R.A.T. Ride. I'll try and make an attempt at telling the story. Quite frankly, there's a lot to tell, and it's pretty time consuming to type it all out. The best way, I guess is try to do it in "Chapter form". This way I can do 1 day at a time.
Day 1: Saturday
We decided on a meeting place that centrally located, and on the way, so we came up with Buckee's on I-10 in Luling. We met 2 other rider's, 1 from Conroe, and the other from theUK. They were just completing a trip to Mexico. The rider from the UK had a real rough looking Suzuki GS650. He told us that he had ridden all over the world, and that he usually flys to the country or region that he's going to ride in, and buys a motorcyle that is common to the area. That way it's easier to find parts, and people to work on them.
We left Luling, and headed to Gonzalez, where we stopped and looked at the Mission. It's part of the TX Parks Dept. We had a quick lunch at a Whataburger in Beeville, and met another X Rider, Leo, from the Houston area. We told him about the great M & G's in the Houston area, and told him about the board. Hopefully he'll contact some of you in the Houston area.
We rode on th the Port Aransas ferry, and took the short ride to Mustang Island. Tip: When taking this ferry, you can ride up the shoulder to the front of the line. They usually have room at the back of the ferry, and fill that area up with motorcyles. This will save you time, and at the back, you won't get wet.
We rode the length of Mustang Island, and crossed into Corpus via the JFK Causeway. After getting on Hwy 77 at Bishop, we rode south to Brownsville. We wanted to go to So. Padre, but it was going to get dark, so we opted to go there in the morning. We had reservations at the Super 8 in Brownsville and passed one on the way, but it was so far out of town, it couldn't have been the right one. We rode on for about 6 miles, and no Super 8, so we pulled off to fill up and call. It was the right one! On the way back.....we got the flat tire fear out of the way. Jerry must have picked up a nail. Remember my "product of the Month"? Even though it was "headlights on" dark, we located the hole, plugged it, filled the tire with air, and rode to the nearest gas station to top the air off, and check the plug. All was well so we headed over to the Super 8, just a block away. By this time it was around 8pm, and we were tired and ready to stop. We were unpacking the bikes and met a man and his wife from Michigan, Wisconson...? one of those states, who rode down on a Road King w/a trailer. They had a nice setup, and real nice people. There was a resturanr next door, so after a good meal, we turned in.
RD
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:) See how good your are!! I guess we shouldn't elaborate on the raccoon tail or the pantie drawer. Right? It was one of those "had to be there to understand", right?
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Is it possible to get a copy of the ride routes that were taken?
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I can email them to you when I get home, If you have Microsoft streets and trips..I tried putting them on the board before, but I think the software is needed. RD's primary post on the old board was accurate.
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Day 2: Sunday
We'd decided, that to be able to get the most riding in daylight, we'd have to get up early. The rooster crowed at 6am. :o We got our this packed, had a "complimentary breakfast", and hit the road. We headed to So. Padre Island, and drove up the main drag, then went to the beach. We took a couple of pictures, some on the beach, and 1 in front of the water tower to prove we'd been there. After going over the causeway, we stopped at the Port Isabel Lighthouse for another photo opportunity.
Back on the rode we headed toward Hwy77/83, then through Harlingen, and across Hwy83 to McAllen. We stopped in Mercedes around 11am for lunch at a Denny's. We ate early to avoid the "after-church" diner's. After passing McAllen, and Mission, the road funneled down to more of a country highway. We passed through several small towns, and after Roma, we stopped for gas at a store in the middle of nowhere. The weather had been great so far, too great, after stopping we could really feel that South Texas sun, and scrambled for some shade. We met the owners of the place, a man in his late 70's and a woman pushing the same. What a couple! The place was for sale, and they were just waiting for any "warm body" to come by. She said she'd sold it twice in the last 2 years, but, for one reason or another the new owner's couldn't make a go of it, and it came back to them. (They'd held the note) She latched on the Jerry, and was leading him all around the place, thinking for sure he'd buy the place. All the time complaining about how she wished she wasn't married to that "old man", cause she was afraid he was going to die on her. (I just think she was hitting on Jerry! What a woman: she could talk about 4 topic's at once, was very active, great personality, but, I was kinda scared of what she might look like if she took her wig off! :o) All this time, the "old man" was complaining to Wayne that he wished HE'D never married her, and wanted to get in his truck and leave. What a great relationship! After I got a pair of plier's, and pried her fingernails out of Jerry, we got back on the road.
We arrived in Larado around 4pm, and met our 1st traffic congestion. We were in stop light traffic, for about 20 min. going through town. At one stoplight, Wayne noticed A Bank sign, and it was 108* :o. Not too big a deal...if you aren't leathered up! We stopped at a truck stop, gassed up, dis-robed, and drank alot of fluid's.
We turned off I35/Hwy83, on to Hwy83 headed toward Carrizo Springs. We noticed several homes having large Easter parties, and 1 big party being held under a large lean-to. Kind of a strange looking Easter party. 15-20 men standing around the outside perimeter of the lean-to, which had chickenwire around it. And, there were cages with chickens in them, and other chickens staked out around the open lot. Sure hope nothing illegal was going on. ???
We rode on to Carrizo Springs, then Eagle Pass. It was about 45min to sundown, so we decided to push on to Del Rio. We made Del Rio before sunset, and checked into the Motel 6. Had supper at a Chinese Buffet within walking distance, and called it a day.
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RD, thanks for the narrative of the day. It sounds like it was a great ride. I see you got up at 6 and by noon you were still in the Valley. There is a lot of real estate to ride down there. I'm looking forward to reading about day 3. BTW, the new board is great overall. I see I converted from "Tejano" to "noob". ???
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keep em comimng RD, when is the whole book going to be available. ;)
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keep em comimng RD, when is the whole book going to be available. ;)
Consider this like a bed-time story. Something for you to look forward too. ;)
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:) :)You really are good at it RD! You the MAN! You probably won't forget tar foot, or the aliens....
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:) :)You really are good at it RD! You the MAN! You probably won't forget tar foot, or the aliens....
Shhhhh! :-X Don't give away the surprise ending, Wayne. ;)
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:-[Sorry, always operating mouth before engaging brain! It was great to see prong horns in the wild ;D ;D
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Forgot Abes' profile.... :-X
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OK! Do you want to write the installments?
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:-[ :-[ :-[ :-[ :( :( :'( :-X :-X :-X :-X :P
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Sh*%^, this forum is turing in a Sylvian TV comercial. ;D ;D ;D ;D the only thing yawl are missing this the to "to be continued" statement ;D ;D :D :D :D :D :D Keep it up and Ill have to enroll
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Where are the pics of this great state of ours?
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Day 3: Monday
We woke up early this morning to the sound of Jerry using some appliance that sounded like a "Dentist drill"! :o We packed up, and headed down the street to a great greasey spoon resturant. It's 1 notch below a Denny's, and 1 above a Waffle House. This is where we began our "customary, 2/2/2 breakfasts. 2 eggs, 2 meat, 2 toast. Jerry likes patties, no links, just paddies. :D Wayne and I, gave Jerry some "good natured ribbing" about assorted things during the trip. He's a good sport. You may read some comments through the chapter's, but, I'll give credit, where credit is due. If you have any...any questions about riding gear, you need to get in touch with him. I think he's checked out almost every product know to man. And the one's he uses....work!
We gassed up and check the air in Jerry's tire. All was well, and headed off down Hwy90 to the Pecos River bridge. After visiting the bridge, we rode to Langtry. The old gas station on 90 at Langtry was closed, and we really needed to top off our tanks. (Me) We took of to Sanderson, knowing we were going to push the limit on gas. A new store popped up in Dryden, since I was passed ther last year, so it warranted a peek. No gas, but a project Model A rolling chassis sitting in front of the store. We spent some time talking to the owner about her store, and the possibility of getting gas there in the future. She said that they were working on it, but didn't know when. She was really nice, and I hope they can make a go of it, out in the middle of nowhere. If you ever get by there, stop in for a soda water or a snack.
Well...still no gas, so we continued to Sanderson. We made it, and I had some to spare. I think I put in around 3.7 gals. Whew! That's pushing it for me. Tip: If you come into Sanderson from the east, believe me, you'll want to stop at the 1st place you see. Don't! It's a Shamrock station...not Diamond Shamrock(Valero). If you continue on through town, maybe a mile, you'll come to a real nice 6-8 pump Convenient store with hot food, and 10x's better selection of wares. Worth the extra mile.
Back on the road to Marathon, and the Gage Hotel. I was looking forward to a sandwich from a little shop close to the hotel. NOT! They weren't open. Marathon is a strange town...they're trying to become a tourist stop/destination, but, they don't keep thing open during the week. The only saving grace we had, was a small grocery store a block north on Hwy90. They had some homemade packaged sandwichs, but, we had to stand to eat them! ???
After gassing up, we headed south on 385 to Big Bend. We drove straight through the park, as we'd all been there before, (no bluebonnets :() then stopped for gas and refreshments in Study Butte. We did run into some road resurfacing in Lajitas, but, only a short distance, maybe 4-5 miles. They had started last year, and are almot completly done on the River Road stretch. A couple of intering points for people that know that area. The Overlook point where one ca view the Rio Grande, has been redone, and just before that, they've put in a picnic area with the new "Teepee" style covers over the table. Very nice stop. The curves, and low water crossings close to Presidio have been smoothed out, and widdened, making for a nice ride.
After a stop in Presido for gas, we headed up Hwy17 to Marfa. If you ever go this way, be sure to look for Lincoln's profile. The little peaks of the mountains, make true representation of Lincoln's facial profile lying down on the back of his head. Also, 17 is a FANTASTIC hwy to ride 65-75mph on. Great topography, sweeping curves, enough to keep you entertained fot the 70 or so miles it takes to get to Marfa.
We arrived in Marfa, located a nice motel on the eastside outskirts of the city, unpacked, and headed for supper. We stopped in Marfa's historic Hotel Paisano. http://www.hotelpaisano.com/ It's a little pricey, but, a nice stop for a good meal and atmosphere. After dinner, we drove east on 90 for about 10 miles to a viewing area for the famous Marfa Lights. http://www.marfacc.com/marfa_lights1.htm All day we'd been teasing Jerry, that if the Aliens came down, we were going to give him to them. When we arrived at the site, I went to the viewing area right away. Jerry came up a few minutes later, and I had to laugh out loud. Remember, this is a viewing area. It's pitch black dark so you can see the lights, but they have red lights lights the floor, and steps. I look over and see Jerry standing there with his jacket and helmet on. After teasing him all day, about the Aliens, he looked like a little kid dressed up as a "spaceman" ready to go.
After a cold ride (temp dropped 30*-no jacket) back to the motel, we readied ourselves for tomorrow.
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ROTFLMAO, Yep he was ready to be beamed up!!!
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ROTFLMAO, Yep he was ready to be beamed up!!!
Yes, But who was warm and who was cold? ;D
You keep em honest Jerry ;D :P
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Jerry, that's a pretty big bag on the back. Are you still hiding Jimmy Hoffa? :o
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RD i am loving the rat saga, it's like a soap opera and i can't wait untill your next story, thanks for sharing.
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Even though I talked to the RAT riders almost everyday of their journey, there wasn't enough time in the mornings for RD or Wayne to tell me of their happenings. Really enjoying reading this RD, keep it up. I know from the last day I rode with yall, I could tell how much fun yall had.
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Jerry, that's a pretty big bag on the back. Are you still hiding Jimmy Hoffa? :o
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My bad; somehow posted same message twice, hours apart. sorry
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Everyone...I was researching a reference, had an error, and lost the chapter for Day 4. >:( >:( >:( I'd been writing for over 1 1/2 hrs. To tired to start over. Please forgive me, I'll get the next installment out tomorrow. :-[
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Everyone...I was researching a reference, had an error, and lost the chapter for Day 4. >:( >:( >:( I'd been writing for over 1 1/2 hrs. To tired to start over. Please forgive me, I'll get the next installment out tomorrow. :-[
You know I can't sleep without my biker bed time story. But, since you have been pretty busy for the last 2 years I'll let it slide.
Good Night Mr President :-* ;D :o
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:-X :-X :-X :-XWaiting ;)
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Wow!!!! Great writing Mr. Brando...errr..ummm..I mean Prez (salute). I bet you guys had a blast!!! I wish I could have gone!!! Please don't forget the Jerry "hand signal"...opps...sorry...Wayne told us at the last bike night. I hope I didn't let the cat out of the bag ;D ;D
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Wow!!!! Great writing Mr. Brando...errr..ummm..I mean Prez (salute). I bet you guys had a blast!!! I wish I could have gone!!! Please don't forget the Jerry "hand signal"...opps...sorry...Wayne told us at the last bike night. I hope I didn't let the cat out of the bag ;D ;D
It must be all over town (State) by now. On the Sunday ride, there were guys using it that I met only a couple hours before. :) At one light or stop sign I look up and there were 4 guys flippin their index finger. ;) I thought I would laugh my head off. :)
I knew I was missing out on something by leading.
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Well, let's see, the bag had 12-8oz H20, 1 gal gas, 32oz Downey that was supposed 2b liquid soap for washing cloths, but turned out 2b fabric softener. a bulb syphen hose for when we ran out of gas, a hair dryer, 2 extra pairs of gloves, clothes, rain gear, tire repair kit, and lots of other junk. :)
Aren't you going to mention the bag balm and monkey butt powder? :P
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Day 4: Tuesday
We'd planned to eat breakfast at a Drug Store, turned Cafe, in Fort Davis this morning. We were up by 5:30am, and had to wait till the manager of the motel got up at 6am and fixed coffee. >:( (Don't mess with my consitution!) Finally coffeed and packed up, we headed out of Marfa.
Wayne had lived and worked in the area, so he lead us Hwy17 to Fort Davis. Just about halfway there, a DPS car went by us, turned his lights on , and turned aroun. Wayne pulled over, and Jerry and I followed suit. I thought we were just getting out of the way, but no.... he was pulling us over. :o He and his partner got out of the car and proceeded to get our lisc. and ins. info. After he checked us out on the State, Federal, CIA, NSA, and Interpol databases, he said he was only going to give us "Warning tickets".
We were supposedly going 75 in a 70. Everyone relaxed a bit, and just before he was got back into his car, I told him,"You must be deperate for conversation this morning, if you had to pull 3 old guys on bikes over." I did mean it in fun, and Thank God, he saw the humor.
We made it into town, without any other incidents, had breakfast, then stopped at a gas/grocery store. When I went in to pay for my gas, there was an old man at the counter. We struck up a conversation, and I told him of our brush with the law before 8am in the morning. He gave me a discription of the officer, and I said that was the one. Well, come to find out, this guy owned the store, and had for some years. He told Wayne and I, that our DPS officer used to work for him when he was in high school, and he had almost fired him several times. I'll tell ya, Wayne and I felt pretty good then, now having some "dirt" on the officer. I was kinda hopeing that we'd run into him again.
We drove past Fort Davis, all of us having been there before, and turned onto Hwy118, which lead us up to the McDonald Observatory. We bypassed the visitors center, and went right to the top. It was a nice crisp, and clear view early in the morning. We drove down and resumed our course on Hwy118. Great road! It winds through canyons, and over passes in the mountains, mostly ranchland, but a very nice ride.
We eventually hit I-10, when we had to turn into the wind and ride 130 miles to El Paso. I think the wind was gusting up to 30 mph, and at a 70 mph speed, it felt like my whole body was flapping in the wind. My arms hurt when we finally made it into town.
We located a motel and went to work locating a Honda dealership, so Jerry could get his tire replaced. We rode over there, and luckly they had one in stock, and had it mounted in 1 1/2 hrs. Now, the 3 of feeling that sence of security, that new tires give one, we headed to Barnetts Harley Davidsion with our cans of "Whoop-Cranberries". I had driven by there a couple of times, but never stopped in. All kidding aside, I thought it would be fun to see a HD Dealership that had more that 10 new bikes on the showroom floor. After you get through the t shirts, key chains, coffe mugs, hats, sunglasses, cycle phones, dog and kitty clothes, :o it's wall to wall chrome. Every model known-to-man, in every color made, x5. A very impressive store, and a must see if you're in the area. Funny thing though...I don't think any of us were asked if we could be helped. ::)
We had supper at a Texas Roadhouse, and went back to the motel. Since we had time, we'd gained an hour, I wanted to wash the bugs off my bike, so, we all went to the car wash. After I convienced Jerry and Wayne that the sprayer wouldn't take of their paint, the carwash didn't have any soap! We sprayed them down anyway, and got them cleaned up.
We got back to the motel.....and 2 cop cars were out front. ??? We went on in and 3 were in the parking court inside. We pulled up to our room, shut down, and stood outside a bit to see what was going on. The Police were all focus on the end room, on the same side as ours, but about 10 rooms down. I noticed a female officer talking to a woman, who had her arms folded in front of her. I told the guys, that by the body language, it might be some domestic disput. The door was open too the room and Police were going in and out, so, I figured the man, or whomever was still in there. After a few minutes they lead a man out in handcuffs, and put him in a car. The female officer, and the woman got into another car. Then everyone left. I noticed a man in street clothes, running to a grey Pontiac, that was parked directly across the court from our room. I watched to see what he was doing, and as he turned to get in the car, I saw the back of his shirt....US MARSHALL. This had been no domestic dispute.
We never found out what it was, but, starting the day with DPS, and ending with a US Marshall....it was time for bed.
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Another great adventure...Thanks again.
However........ :D Allow me to edit one paragraph..... 8)
"We eventually hit I-10, when we had to turn into the wind and ride 130 miles to El Paso. I think the wind was gusting up to 30 mph, and at a 70 mph speed, it felt like my whole body was flapping in the wind. My arms hurt when we finally made it into town", unlike the whimps that had the windshields ;D
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Another great adventure...Thanks again.
However........ :D Allow me to edit one paragraph..... 8)
"We eventually hit I-10, when we had to turn into the wind and ride 130 miles to El Paso. I think the wind was gusting up to 30 mph, and at a 70 mph speed, it felt like my whole body was flapping in the wind. My arms hurt when we finally made it into town", unlike the whimps that had the windshields ;D
Did ya read that crewsn? Wimps with windshields!!!! ;D ;D ;D
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Wow, each day I read, the more jealous I get. MAN I WANNA DO THAT!!!
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Day 4: Tuesday
We'd planned to eat breakfast at a Drug Store, turned Cafe, in Fort Davis this morning. We were up by 5:30am, and had to wait till the manager of the motel got up at 6am and fixed coffee. >:( (Don't mess with my consitution!) Finally coffeed and packed up, we headed out of Marfa.
Wayne had lived and worked in the area, so he lead us up Hwy17 to Fort Davis. Just about halfway there, a DPS car went by us, turned his lights on , and turned around. Wayne pulled over, and Jerry and I followed suit. I thought we were just getting out of the way, but no.... he was pulling us over. :o He and his partner got out of the car and proceeded to get our lisc. and ins. info. After he checked us out on the State, Federal, CIA, NSA, and Interpol databases, he said he was only going to give us "Warning tickets".
We were supposedly going 75 in a 70. Everyone relaxed a bit, and just before he was got back into his car, I told him,"You must be deperate for conversation this morning, if you had to pull 3 old guys on bikes over." I did mean it in fun, and Thank God, he saw the humor.
We made it into town, without any other incidents, had breakfast, then stopped at a gas/grocery store. When I went in to pay for my gas, there was an old man at the counter. We struck up a conversation, and I told him of our brush with the law before 8am in the morning. He gave me a discription of the officer, and I said that was the one. Well, come to find out, this guy owned the store, and had for some years. He told Wayne and I, that our DPS officer used to work for him when he was in high school, and he had almost fired him several times. I'll tell ya, Wayne and I felt pretty good then, now having some "dirt" on the officer. I was kinda hopeing that we'd run into him again.
We drove past Fort Davis, all of us having been there before, and turned onto Hwy118, which lead us up to the McDonald Observatory. We bypassed the visitors center, and went right to the top. It was a nice crisp, and clear view early in the morning. We drove down and resumed our course on Hwy118. Great road! It winds through canyons, and over passes in the mountains, mostly ranchland, but a very nice ride.
We eventually hit I-10, when we had to turn into the wind and ride 130 miles to El Paso. I think the wind was gusting up to 30 mph, and at a 70 mph speed, it felt like my whole body was flapping in the wind. My arms hurt when we finally made it into town.
We located a motel and went to work locating a Honda dealership, so Jerry could get his tire replaced. We rode over there, and luckly they had one in stock, and had it mounted in 1 1/2 hrs. Now, the 3 of feeling that sence of security, that new tires give one, we headed to Barnetts Harley Davidsion with our cans of "Whoop-Cranberries". I had driven by there a couple of times, but never stopped in. All kidding aside, I thought it would be fun to see a HD Dealership that had more that 10 new bikes on the showroom floor. After you get through the t shirts, key chains, coffe mugs, hats, sunglasses, cycle phones, dog and kitty clothes, :o it's wall to wall chrome. Every model known-to-man, in every color made, x5. A very impressive store, and a must see if you're in the area. Funny thing though...I don't think any of us were asked if we could be helped. ::)
We had supper at a Texas Roadhouse, and went back to the motel. Since we had time, we'd gained an hour, I wanted to wash the bugs off my bike, so, we all went to the car wash. After I convienced Jerry and Wayne that the sprayer wouldn't take of their paint, the carwash didn't have any soap! We sprayed them down anyway, and got them cleaned up.
We got back to the motel.....and 2 cop cars were out front. ??? We went on in and 3 were in the parking court inside. We pulled up to our room, shut down, and stood outside a bit to see what was going on. The Police were all focus on the end room, on the same side as ours, but about 10 rooms down. I noticed a female officer talking to a woman, who had her arms folded in front of her. I told the guys, that by the body language, it might be some domestic disput. The door was open too the room and Police were going in and out, so, I figured the man, or whomever was still in there. After a few minutes they lead a man out in handcuffs, and put him in a car. The female officer, and the woman got into another car. Then everyone left. I noticed a man in street clothes, running to a grey Pontiac, that was parked directly across the court from our room. I watched to see what he was doing, and as he turned to get in the car, I saw the back of his shirt....US MARSHALL. This had been no domestic dispute.
We never found out what it was, but, starting the day with DPS, and ending with a US Marshall....it was time for bed.
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OK i'm a wimp but after a long day in the wind i'm still felling good. heck i'm feelin good enough to kick an oldtimers butt if i need to. :)
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OK i'm a wimp but after a long day in the wind i'm still felling good. heck i'm feelin good enough to kick an oldtimers butt if i need to. :)
You'd do that for me?
Tonights' inflight movie is "Polyvinyl Perversity or You May Now Inflate the Bride." :o
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:D ;D ;DI tried to post a sensible reply but, I messed up, so all I can say is: I am wise enough and smart enouch to know better, enjoy changing out your food pegs to floorboards and highway pegs, don't throw bricks if u live in a glass house....stilll love u........................Wayne
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OK i'm a wimp but after a long day in the wind i'm still felling good. heck i'm feelin good enough to kick an oldtimers butt if i need to. :)
Crewsn,
There's a little story behind my windshield whimp comment. It has to do with day NUMBER NINE NUMBER NINE NUMBER NINE NUMBER NINE.........ooopps sorry, got off on an old timers magical mystery tour for a second. We'll see if 421 and 326 gets metioned. And no, I don't have West Neches desease.
By the way.....I'm a window wimp too. Put it on for the trip to Co. in 04. Took it off when I got back. Rode thirty miles without it. Put it back on and it only comes off for maintenance now. I'll give up chrome before I give up my windshield. >:( :P :D
Bill
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OK i'm a wimp but after a long day in the wind i'm still felling good. heck i'm feelin good enough to kick an oldtimers butt if i need to. :)
Hehe...can't out run a 9mm bro!!!! ;D ;D ;D
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RD...please keep posting about the RAT ride...we're like addicts now...need more RAT stories!!!!! :) :) ;)
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RD...please keep posting about the RAT ride...we're like addicts now...need more RAT stories!!!!! :) :) ;)
Guess we shoulda been there. Ride safe Kickstand.
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Q-S what is between you and Colo. IV Tom needs a roomie! It's gooing to be good! Ride safe. Great pic. Looks like a road to twist IT!
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:-\ :'( Thanks, Jerry
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Jerry, Put up the picture that has Wayne in Handcuffs! ;D ;D ;D ;)
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Jerry, Put up the picture that has Wayne in Handcuffs! ;D ;D ;D ;)
That one we have to see.....
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Hehe...Wayne would be in cuffs with blue tickets from Woods for bike night....and his "flamer" dew rag!!!! LOL!!!! ;D ;D ;D
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Ok, who's hogging all the pic's.............................. :'( :'( :'( :'(
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Ok, who's hogging all the pic's.............................. :'( :'( :'( :'(
What he said........again
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Hey guys, you must of had one great experience, I am so jealous that I want to scream out loud for not being able to go with yall on a hell of a trip. I guess the next time something like this happens I will have to be there and enjoy every moment. ( I will have to get my wife to sign the permission slip ;D) Then I will able to go.... :D
ps I cant wait to read another chapter. :)
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wayne please tell me the cuffs were not flaming as well.
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::) Please don't show the cuffs :-\ :'
No Jeremy, they only had the cold hard steel ones ;) ;)
I am the best prograstinator of all, I still haven't got the film developed and the digital ones loaded :( :o
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wayne please tell me the cuffs were not flaming as well.
ROFLMAO!!! ;D ;D :D :D ;D ;D
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RD are you ever going to finish the RAT ride recap? Please, we need our fix!!!!
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Yea, we need the "rest of the story". :D
Pat
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I know! Sorry. I've been putting all the last minute things together, and haven't set down to write. I'll try and get every day written, by Thu. :)
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I know! Sorry. I've been putting all the last minute things together, and haven't set down to write. I'll try and get every day written, by Thu. :)
OMG!!! Thursday???? Geesh worse than a movie premier with the red carpet!!!! ;D ;D :D :D ;D ;D
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If you just had your wings! you could have offer him a ring too! LOL That's a great picture. :)
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I know! Sorry. I've been putting all the last minute things together, and haven't set down to write. I'll try and get every day written, by Thu. :)
Nope....Want work cause I'll miss it. Unless you're going to do a live version by campfire light.
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>:( :'( He is stalling, he knows my memory is going and I won't be able to refute any erroneous information.
I am really impressed with my VTX though. We pushed these bikes longer than I have ridden one and not even the first hickup, heating problem or anything. These are great bikes!!!
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Day 5: Wednesday
We were up, packed, and out of the Motel by 6am. Stopped at a Denny's Diner for our 2/2 & 2 breakfast. We had over 400+ mile to go today, plus we were going to lose the hour that we gained coming into El Paso. We felt like we were behind the 8 ball, just getting started.
Knowing that our first opportunity for gas was over 150 mile away, we drove as far out of El Paso as we could, and still get gas. Tip: Wayne had a great idea. On the back of your driver's lisc. is an 800# for DPS. He called that # and asked about any gas locations along the way. The operator didn't know, but, gave him the # to the Sheriff's Dept. They said there was gas at a mid-way point. Even though we were carring 1 1/2 gals with us, this did set our minds at ease. No one once to push 750lbs trhough the desert.
We pulled into this station, just west of Salt Flat, TX off Hwy180. It didn't look like the place was open, but when I pulled up to the old analog gas pump, I notice a handmade sign taped to it. "1/2 OFF COLORED EASTER CHICKS" Being that Easter was just the Sunday before, I figured the place should be open. We chatted with the 2 old men that were there, and I had a coffee and played with the chicks.
All filled up we hit the road again. We passed the Guadalupe Mountains S.P. and stopped just short of NM for a photo op at an abandoned store at the intersection of 180 and 652. We took 652 and headed across the desert to Orla. We found a General Store/Gas Station/Post Office in Orla. I passed it, and had to turn around and go back. Everything looked abandoned in this little crossroads. Weathered and worn, and hadn't seen paint since the Dutchboy was a baby. Inside the stor sat this little old lady, Jerry told me later that she was 87, and she ran the place. Jerry chatted with her, and she told him that her kids wanted her to move to the city with them, but, she wouldn't have anything to do with that. She said if she did, they'd start telling her what to do! Good for her.
All gassed up again, we headed to Midland. We stopped to see the CAF Museum next to the airport. They have some great displays and a beautiful museum. We were able to walk into the hanger and see several of the planes, and military ground equipment upclose. In the museum, the had a gallery of plane nose art diplayed. Very interesting, and a must stop if you're in the area. We also visited the Permian Basin, Viet Nam Memorial. They have a bronze statue of 2 men helped a third wounded man, and they're waving down a real medivac chopper that is mounted to a metal pedestal about 20' in the air. It's all lifesize!
Very impressive, and very well done. A must see also.
Back on the road, and gassed up, we left Midland around 5:30pm, and still needed to travel another 70 mile to Seminole. We arrived at the Seminloe Inn, and checked in. Make a note of this motel if you're traveling in a group. We got one of their corner rooms. It has 3 full size beds, refrig, mircowave, and the room is HUGH! $69.00 a night! If Jerry would've had an AARP card, like me, it would've been cheaper!
We unpacked an looked for a good place to eat. We've been trying to hit Mom & Pop places, anywhere we could to get the local flavor. You just don't get that in an Applebee's or Outback. We hit paydirt! Maxine's! Stuffed Hamburger steak, it's ground meat with peppers & onions cooked inside like an omlete, with baked potatoe, green beans, salad, and homemade dinner rolls that had to be 4"tall & 3" across. All for $7.95! Great place, and very nice people.
All feed, and with a bed for each of us, we turned in for the night.
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Is there going to be a sequel? ??? ??? ;)
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Day 6: Thursday
We woke up to the weather forcast this morning. Tommy called early, and told us about a storm that was coming in from the west, and headed for our location. After seeing the size of it, we packed quickly, and headed back to Maxine's for our 2/2 & 2 breakfast. After eating, we gaseed up and headed north on Hwy385. It was overcast, but no rain. The sun was trying to poke it's head out, but there were alot of low level clouds. Finally, after about 30 miles, we saw a break in the clouds, and we could see the sun shining on spots of land to the side of us. After a few more miles, we came out from under the clouds, and were in sunshine. We pulled over in Levelland, for a coffee, and looking back from where we came, we could see the front moving across. After a few minutes we realized it was still moving toward us!!
Back on the bikes we continued due north, all the while hopeing we could ditch this storm. We pulled over in Dimmitt, for lunch at a Sonic. We wanted something quick, and while we were sitting outside eating, we could see lightning, and cold wind coming from the front. We jumped back on, and headed out again.
When we turned east at Channing, on Hwy354, we finally had out run the storm. We found out later, that it was a large front stretching across the state from north to south, and moving N N/E. It was the hail storm that dropped hail from pea size to softball size, across the middle part of the state.
Hwy354 crosses above Amarillo, and the land isn't quite what I thought it would be. It's more rolling prairie, and very dry. If it's irrigated, as some areas were, it's very green and lush. Lots of cattle, and farm land. We'd seen several Prong Horns, in the pastures along the way, but, I looked up and had one standing in the middle of the road. Jerry tooted his "truck horn" and she jumped across the road. You always see the game, when you don't have your rifle!
We rolled into the town of Stinnet, and stopped to get some gas, and a drink. 2 men came out of the store as I was parking, and they asked where we were traveling. We chatted a while about bikes, he's a rider, and about our trip. I found out he was a Councilman for the city, and he invited us to spend the night at his house. We still had a few miles to go, and begged off. It would've pushed our schedule back too far. We still had some miles too go. I asked him about "Adobe Walls", which was close by, and on our way out of town. It was where Quanah Parker was in a battle, and in another battle, Kit Carson, and Bat Masterson were there. We were told that nothing was left, but a plaque, and we had to take a dirt road to get there. Well, we were close, but we passed on that.
We headed north on Hwy207, and just outside of Spearman, we saw a several windmills. I recognized what it was, and pulled in. I had seen this as a story on the Texas Country Reporter show. There were over 25 different windmills in a park setting. This was part of a collection that Mr. J.B. Buchanan had collected and refurbished the better part of his life. He had grown up in the Panhandle, and was fascinated with windmills. The City of Spearman, and benefactor's, build this park for part of his collection, while many businesses in town erected some of the windmills on their property, and maintain them. There's almost 50 total. Mr. Buchanan, was alive to receive this honor, and now he's past. What great community pride they have. It was fun to drive through the town and see all the windmills.
We arrived in Perryton, our stop for the night, and set up residence in a motel on the traveling edge of town. We stopped for supper at a local BBQ buffet. When we walked in, there were two ladies standing behind the counter. We said hello, and I stood there waiting to be seated. Jerry and Wayne were either behind me or just coming through the door. The lady and I looked at each other for a second or two, and I realized something was up, so I just said, "Darlin', I've been away from my wife for over 5 days now, and I need a woman to give me direction." She laughed, and told us that it was an "all we could eat buffet" for $8.95, and we could sit anywhere we wanted. After we sat down, we noticed that the building was a remodeled convenient store, and the display case, was actually the cooler doors. They'd put up a wall, with shelves behind the doors, and filled a 15' span with local sports memorabailia. I grew up on a farm near a rural town, just like this one. The kind of town that the businesses fight for ad position on the football, or basketball teams calandar. I remembered when we came in, they probably know everyone in town, and don't really have to tell any customer's where to go, or what to do.
After supper, we had to take on that dreaded task........going to the laundrymat! We asked where one was, and found out it was the only one in town. We gathered our dirty clothes, and off we went. I had forgotten just how much wasted time one can spend in the laundrymat! Luckily, we did have a couple of colorful characters to keep us occupied.
We were faced with the longest leg of our trip tomorrow, so we settled in a soon as we could.
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WOOOHOOO!!! Thanks for the update Mr. Prez!!! Now keep them comming!!! :) :)
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;D Yep, the laundermap is something else, we met a guy who wrecked a bike years ago but never got it fixed, dogs fault, then a couple of guys were a little testy "wanted to know who took their clothes out of RD's dryer", I was gettin' excited!! then the owner said he did, so we couldn't pound any heads!! Oh well!! Maybe nextime.
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(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/txgaboy/RAT%20beginning/th_d0fd5b4d.jpg) (http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/txgaboy/RAT%20beginning/d0fd5b4d.jpg)
(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/txgaboy/RAT%20beginning/th_caa45bb2.jpg) (http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/txgaboy/RAT%20beginning/caa45bb2.jpg)
(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/txgaboy/RAT%20beginning/th_2fc3f7b2.jpg) (http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/txgaboy/RAT%20beginning/2fc3f7b2.jpg)
(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/txgaboy/RAT%20beginning/th_34160010.jpg) (http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/txgaboy/RAT%20beginning/34160010.jpg)
(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/txgaboy/RAT%20beginning/th_34160009.jpg) (http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/txgaboy/RAT%20beginning/34160009.jpg)
(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/txgaboy/RAT%20beginning/th_34160007.jpg) (http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/txgaboy/RAT%20beginning/34160007.jpg)
(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/txgaboy/RAT%20beginning/th_34160005.jpg) (http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/txgaboy/RAT%20beginning/34160005.jpg)
(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/txgaboy/RAT%20beginning/th_34160004.jpg) (http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/txgaboy/RAT%20beginning/34160004.jpg)
(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/txgaboy/RAT%20beginning/th_34160003.jpg) (http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/txgaboy/RAT%20beginning/34160003.jpg)
(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/txgaboy/RAT%20beginning/th_34160002.jpg) (http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/txgaboy/RAT%20beginning/34160002.jpg)
(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/txgaboy/RAT%20beginning/th_34160001.jpg) (http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/txgaboy/RAT%20beginning/34160001.jpg)
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;D ;D
Trying to posts some pics of the RAT. Yep, needs more work :'(
I had taken some panaramic pics, they didn't compute to well.
These are from South Padre to Del Rio toward Falcon Lake before Sanderson.
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keep em coming guys.
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Pic's......Lets see if they come through...
http://s77.photobucket.com/albums/j74/rdntx/?start=all
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I think we need a password Mr.Prez.
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I think we need a password Mr.Prez.
When I click on the link, it goes right to the pics. Did you try scrolling down?
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I think we need a password Mr.Prez.
When I click on the link, it goes right to the pics. Did you try scrolling down?
You will go to it because your password is stored in your cookies. :)
OK Cookie! rdntx 15826
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Very niiiiiiice!! :)
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;D ;D
RD, ya did good!! They look just like I remembered!!
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OK, now for some more bedtime stories. ;D
Pat
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8) ;D Yep, does seem to be a couple days short. Maybe next week the Pres will honor us with more great writings!!
We can only hope..... ::) :-X
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;D OK, Mr Prez, we need closure! Time is slipping away. Thank You.
Also we need to start thinking about next years RAT. 8) 8)
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Don't make me come up there. >:( >:( >:(
Pat ::)
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::) ::)
Somebody might get butt kicked!!! ;D ;D
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:( zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz :'(
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Guess who's gonna get exlax in their gumbo next time? ;)
Pat
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;D ;D ;D O0
ROTFLMAO.....
Just make sure he gets the right bowl!!
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I really think I am being ignored. :-* ;)
Pat
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I think he OWES you a response O0 O0 You go MAW MAW
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I really think I am being ignored. :-* ;)
Pat
No, not ignored :-\ Been real busy here at home, getting things ready to go before we leave for Vegas, and then a week later, Colorado. Small personal crisis....daughter. Large business crisis.....6 properties w/hail & wind damage. Just tryng to get all the ducks in a row.
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Large business crisis.....6 properties w/hail & wind damage. Just tryng to get all the ducks in a row.
Hey! Give the good Mr. Trump a break! He has prop-it-tees to attend to, ya know.... ;D ;D
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O.K. O.K. some people have a life!!!! I can't get things done without a life!!!!!! :D :D :D
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Large business crisis.....6 properties w/hail & wind damage. Just tryng to get all the ducks in a row.
Hey! Give the good Mr. Trump a break! He has prop-it-tees to attend to, ya know.... ;D ;D
;D ;D
I think next year someone should take a puter along to do a day by day and be done!! or not......It's just that he does do it well, whenever he does it ::) 8)
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OK, I'll cut you some slack. ;) But, I won't wait forever. >:( :-*
Pat
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OK, I'll cut you some slack. ;) But, I won't wait forever. >:( :-*
Pat
Pat, Could you & Bubba be talked into riding the full circuit with us on a R.A.T. II (same time same place)? O0
Sounds like fun, but we will have to see. I go in for another MRI tomorrow on this damn knee. I think I must have torn the ligament again when I went down in Colorado last year. It is just not getting any better.
Pat
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:o Time to stir it up, closure is Goooooood.
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Wayne we know the end of OUR story!!!!!!! I think he has time to post what HE wants!!!!!! He is all over the Big board...... I think he has issues!!!!!!! We will see him tomorrow!!!!!! :D :D :D ;D ;D >:( >:( >:( O0 O0 O0
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:o :o I guess the "road goes on forever", ::) ::)
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HMMMMMM ;D ;D :D :D ;D ;D
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8) This would be good to do next year, any takers??
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Doesn't look like we are going to get the "rest of the story". :'(
Pat
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8) This would be good to do next year, any takers??
You'll have to go counter clockwise next year to hear the story about the right side of Texas. :-*
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:)Well, you are probably right Bill, we would probably kick it off in Grove/Lumberton. Again, it would be good to bring along a laptop, (waterproof). Pending weather, April 15th was a good time. Also, to have an equal number to split the room costs, or more sleeping bags. It was really all great, especially Maw Maw's gumbo and hospitality (sourthern style)! Of course yours' included, thanks again. 8) 8)
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>:(No doubt the spoelling police with git me for this one also. Just gotta let it roll off. ::)
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I'm still waiting for the "rest of the story". ;D
Pat
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I'm still waiting for the "rest of the story". ;D
Pat
And your bowl back? 8)
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Jerry and Wayne would you guys please finish the story!!!!
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I'm still waiting for the "rest of the story". ;D
Pat
And your bowl back? 8)
Hey Bill, thanks for reminding me, I had forgotten about it. Did you ever eat the gumbo?
Pat
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I'm still waiting for the "rest of the story". ;D
Pat
And your bowl back? 8)
Hey Bill, thanks for reminding me, I had forgotten about it. Did you ever eat the gumbo?
Pat
Yes I did and your bowl has been sitting on my table waiting for me to bring it back for a couple of months. I know for sure I will be back in PA next week and I will get it to you.
Thanks,
Bill
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I'm still waiting for the "rest of the story". ;D
Pat
And your bowl back? 8)
Hey Bill, thanks for reminding me, I had forgotten about it. Did you ever eat the gumbo?
Pat
Yes I did and your bowl has been sitting on my table waiting for me to bring it back for a couple of months. I know for sure I will be back in PA next week and I will get it to you.
Thanks,
Bill
No hurry.
Pat
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BUMP O0 O0 O0
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BUMP O0 O0 O0
Ya know, we might have to form up a posse and go get him. >:( ;D
Pat
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Pat,
I think I know what it is. :)
The right side of Texas is so good that words alone can't discribe it adequately. ;)
Besides that, the old fart probably can't remember that far back now. :D ;D ;D
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;D ;D RD, you are definitely challenged...we know you are smarrtteerr than me, and have the gift, soooo, lplease inspire us with the finish, I might not ask you for anything else!!!!! Whoooops, I would like a copy of the disk of pictures, Jerry gave me his and I have a guy who can make a movie of them.....the ball, so to speak, is in your court, thanks for all u do for us.......your RAT buddy, who slept on the floor!!
Wayne. :( :( 8) ::)
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Pat,
I think I know what it is. :)
The right side of Texas is so good that words alone can't discribe it adequately. ;)
Besides that, the old fart probably can't remember that far back now. :D ;D ;
;D ;D O0