Gypsy Feet on "Abby's Cross-Country Ride"

"The campground had an area designated as motorcycle camping, and there were several tents in the area. I
figured there were a few separate groups until one of the guys started asking me about my trip. We spoke for a
while and it turned out that there were 12 of them that were on an annual trip together.

After I’d done my laundry, one of the guys stopped by and invited me over to their campfire. I was assured that
they were all good guys. Yeah. Not sure why I would believe that line, but I did. I guess it was my new social
tendencies. They were great. Each one was introduced by his name, profession, and marital status. Not all of
the 12 were there at first – or at any time really. A few had gone off on their bikes and hadn’t returned. Others
were snoring in their tents. I should mention that it was an eclectic group of motorcycles. Cruisers, sport bikes,
touring, Japanese, American, and probably others. As much of a mix as you could get in 12 bikes, they had it. I
felt like I was being interviewed by these guys, but it was fun being the center of attention and I didn’t feel the
least bit uncomfortable or out of place. They were perfect gentlemen and there were a lot of laughs. I keep
thinking of the noise of a fire ring getting kicked in the dark and I grin. Another group of new friends I’ll never
forget.

As I headed up into the mountains the next morning I thought of all the people I’ve met over the last two weeks. I
have not felt threatened or feared for my safety at all. Between the stunning scenery and the genuine people
this country has to offer, I feel as though my faith in everything has been restored - and that I now have faith
where none existed."

This is an excerpt from Abby's Cross-Country Ride - published online in the summer of 2007. It
is a chronicle of her solo bike trip from Lebanon, NH to the other side of the Golden Gate Bridge.

This excerpt tells of her meeting the GNO guys, and this particular section gave me an inkling that
she was probably going to find a way to move to Colorado. Her descriptions of the mountains told
me she was in awe of all she saw.

If you'd care to read some of her blog, it is still online at: Abby's Blog - Dec 2007 back