It was Easter Sunday 1966. The family was gathered with relatives for Easter Brunch. Ridge, my cousin had purchased a new cycle, Bridgestone 175. I watched as Ridge took us through the mechanics of the bike. I thought this is going to be fun. I had to let my brothers try first to drive it as they were certain they could teach me a lesson or two (right). I watched as they struggled and could not get up a simple hill without killing the bike. I laughed and then it was my turn. I mounted the bike took off up the hill with no difficulty and took off for an hour or so forgetting about the time. I was grinning from ear to ear and having the time of my life, what a great feeling the wind in your hair, bugs in the teeth (no windshield) I was hooked on the cycle experience.

I returned to the family gathering after that hour and my mother was furious, she thought I was in a ditch somewhere. I, of course, wanted to get right back on the bike, no such luck. I was not old enough to have a license yet, so as soon as I could, I purchased my first bike a Honda 350. I have, to date, owned six Honda's -- what a joy.

In the early years I used to ride my motorcycle in shorts and a swim suit, not too bright but I wanted to get the ultimate tan and this was a good way to do it. The swim suit had to be strapless as well, don't want those tan lines.

I was riding with my two brothers to Devil's Lake State park, it was a beautiful Sunday very warm and yes, I was traveling in my shorts and suit.  It was perfect day until we pulled into the parking lot and tried to park the bikes. I saw two older men sitting in lawn chairs and they were watching us approach the lot. I started to put the kickstand down on my bike and as the stand hit the asphalt it started to sink, I felt the bike starting to go down I tried to stop the fall of the bike and as I tried to do this I had another big problem I was also losing my swimsuit top, oh my. The dilemma of harness the ta-ta's or save the bike, well as you can imagine neither was safe. The bike hit the asphalt and the ta-ta's were flipping in the breeze.  I thought the brother's would step up, but I was so wrong. I watched as they put their hands together and started clapping, yes clapping.  (Priceless) they said "Nice entrance" and the guys in the lawn were laughing hysterically. 

I have had many great memories on my bike and the memories continue with the addition of my Women On Wheels® family. I have enjoyed new friendships, laughter and the many winding country roads of Wisconsin, so, thanks to all for that experience.

I was adopted by the women in Madison who ride with Women On Wheels®, Karlette, Lynn H and Donna O.  I have learned many things from these women and had many great laughs. What I have learned:

Karlette buys motorcycles like I buy socks. Karlette also has an odd affection for those goofy Rustic Roads. What is that all about?  The rustic road signs aren't even cute!

Lynn H may tell you that she is going to be early for coffee before the ride but I can tell ya, “it just ain't so.”  Lynn's  been locked out of her house, had gas spitting out the back end of her bike, (that was a short ride) and rides in any kind of weather, God bless ya.

Donna O tells me my bladder is good for about 40 miles, always good to know. Riding behind Donna O is always a trip.  I will leave it at that.

I can say I have had some of the best burgers in the state, I enjoy the fact that Karlette Lynn and Donna are always up for an adventure and they have taken me on some of the most beautiful rides. Karlette also says all roads lead to 60. I appreciate when one of them leads the ride as I get lost in my own back yard. 

Thanks for the memories; I can hardly wait till next year.  Ricki