Need I say more...

This is my favorite David Mann print...

Amen to this quote....

I found this quote on East Side Girls' blog and I stole it!

No presents this year!
All these silly, shiny things
Don’t say “I love you”

Her family...like mine...agreed to opt out of gift giving. What is gift giving anyway...it's not the real meaning of Christmas. At least it's not to me and I'm not just saying that because I'm broke...I've truly always felt that way!

Merry Christmas to you all. May you and yours have a wonderful time together, sharing the love of the season!

:)

Merry Christmas

Cut and past the link below into your web browser and get ready to smile! This is the cutest thing I've ever seen!

http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=1509819767

America's Legendary Daredevil...

has passed on. Evel Knievel died today at age 69.

Alive Day Memories

I just watched a documentary called Alive Day Memories. It's a must see. James Gandolfini interviews 10 Soldiers that became disabled because of the Iraq war. It made me love our Troops all the more. We need to stand by them and support them forever because they have given such a huge sacrifice for us and our country. The show will rip your heart out but I feel everyone should watch it.

Snowmen Love to Ride Too!

I was driving home today from my Sunday grocery run and found this awesome holiday decoration. It's a motorcycle riding Snowman! Too Cute!!!

Love this song!

Take Me There Video

Take Me There lyrics - Rascal Flatts lyrics

Rascal Flatts Music Videos

Music Video Codes by VideoCure

Saturday Morning Walk

Saturday morning it was cold and crisp outside. Great weather for an early morning walk. I drove down and parked my car near the entrance to the trail in Johnston. The first amazing thing that I saw were two military choppers,chinooks is what I think they are called, coming in from the East. Camp Dodge is located in Johnston so there is always a lot of military activity going on all the time. I stood frozen watching the choppers approach, looking up at them as they flew directly over me. Not sure if they saw me but I raised my arm and waved. I knew that this was going to be a great morning walk. Wish I would have remembered I had my camera phone so I could have got a picture as they flew over.


I placed my earpieces in my ears and cranked my favorite walking tunes. I love listening to this pod cast called Podrunner. It's upbeat and sets me in motion for my power walk. The trail that I take has amazing sites that you wouldn't think you'd be seeing in the city. One house along the way has two goats that always make me laugh. There are a couple more homes that have horses which are beautiful creatures. Sometimes I stop and just watch them for a few minutes.


Months before I'd noticed that the city was lengthening the trail to go under Interstate 80. It was finally completed so I decided to see where the new trail went. It wrapped around and took me right to the Interstate. I stood for a long time and watched the cars, SUVs, and Semi trucks pass by. It's so much fun having new adventures along the way. I'm a little sad though because my trail walking will be coming to an end once the snow appears. The trail is closed during the winter months.

While I was walking back to my car I looked down and noticed how long my shadow looked. I've always wished I was taller and my shadow definitely was on Saturday.

I'm so excited!!!!!

I sold two more t-shirts!!! Thank you so much to the 3rd ODB Shopper! Things are looking up for this girl.

Happy Birthday Marine Corp!

I am very honored to share my birthday with the United States Marine Corp!! Ooh Rah! Semper Fi!! I sometimes wonder if that is why I'm so damned patriotic. Could be...but I think it's more likely because my parent's brought me up that way.

Today is also Dan and my 7 year Anniversary. It's been a roller coaster ride but we still manage to hold on. Happy Anniversary, Dan!

The sun is coming up...it's kind of faint orange...I love this time of the day. It's so calm and peaceful. The geese will be flying over soon...heading back to Saylorville Lake for the day. Hearing and watching the hundreds of geese fly over my house is the most amazing thing...you can actually hear the movement of their wings in the air. It is a sight I look forward to witnessing daily.

I'm crossing my fingers that we get a little ride in today. It's supposed to be in the high 50's. That's a heat wave for November 10th!

Wish you all a...

MySpace Comments & MySpace Backgrounds

Check out this COOL Old Dirty Biker!

A big thanks to Dean for buying one of my new creations! Looks Awesome!!!!

Check out Dean's blog at www.eternalbiker.blogspot.com or click on Musings of a Contemplative Biker under check out these blogs!

Thanks again and I hope you wear it with Pride!!! :)

Poor Annie & Eric

I don't know the people in the picture to the left(I think it's the owners of AE Dairy) but it was the only picture I could find of Annie & Eric, the AE Dairy Cows that sit on the corner of Hubbell and University in Des Moines. They are a landmark here in Des Moines,since 1966, and last night some JACKASS hit them and then stole Eric the baby cow. I know to many of you out there you will be like...oh well who the freak cares, but seriously, if you live here in Des Moines it's something that makes you smile and gives you that warm fuzzy feeling when you drive by them. And it just makes me sad that someone tried to destroy them. Eric was recovered a few blocks from the scene but the spokesperson at AE Dairy does not know when they will be able to replace Eric and fix Annie's leg. I hope it will be very soon because it will just look really weird to drive by the AE Dairy plant and not have them there in full glory. I hope that they catch the JACKASS that hit and hurt Annie and Eric and that he/she has to maybe spend a little time doing hard labor on a cattle ranch or something.

Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!

It was a little chilly today for a ride but damn did it feel good! If I don't get to ride for a few days I get really anxious and boy oh boy was I feeling anxious! This is my look during the winter months if we take the Zippy Pickle for a ride in the snow white tundra called Iowa. I know...probably should wear the full face but I don't like being all closed in like that. This works just fine for me and no one ever messes with us because I look like a bank robber. HA!

Bring it on Winter...I'm ready for you. NOT!

Get Your ODB Wear Today!!

I love Old Dirty Bikers and thought...what a great logo for a t-shirt! Trust me it's a great nickname to have...in my book an ODB is a man that lives for his motorcycle and if he had to make a choice between his Ol Lady and his motorcycle the motorcycle would win everytime!

I've created a few items in my ODBWear store so go check em out. I'm just starting with this so you'll have to check back often because I will be adding new items. Click the CafePress icon below and it will take you right to my store!

I have to be honest, the money that I make from selling these t-shirts is going into my motorcycle fund so that I can get my own ride!! So please support me and help me make my dream come true!!! :)

It's 7 a.m...what am I doing up already??

Wow...the sunrise is so beautiful. I hope you were able to enjoy it where you were waking up this morning. I'm sitting here blogging and watching the Food Network. If my father reads this he will laugh because he knows I'm not a cook. For some reason though I love watching the Food Network. Strange.

Last night I went to the Roosevelt High School homecoming game with my friend Michelle and her family. Unfortunately Roosevelt lost the game to Ottumwa. It was so much fun watching the kids though. Things haven't changed...the kids run and hang out with their friends and their parent's watch the game. The girls scream and hug each other and there are the random boys who are already interested in them. We were all laughing because we all admitted that we would have to find someone to let us know the score of the game before we went home because we knew our folks would ask.

I've started a new book. It is called "The Ladies Auxiliary" and is about an Orthodox community in Memphis, TN. It's a little slow going because I haven't really had time to read it. I love to read. Books are amazing. I've never gotten into books on tape because I'd rather hold the book in my hands.

My friend Larassa needed a pair of roller skates (from the 80's) for her latest art creation. I was home last weekend to see my folks and remembered that my old skates were in their basement. There in my old skate case were my skates with the neon orange wheels and the yellow glitter laces. I loved roller skating. It was so much fun. Every Friday and some Saturday nights we would go to the Black Hawk Rollerdrome and skate. Gosh those were simple times....

A couple weekends ago Dan and I took a little trip west on Zippy Pickle(if you haven't followed my blog that's my name for the Street Glide) and it was quite an adventure. I think Dan thinks that "Road Closed" signs do not pertain to him because this is the 2nd trip we've taken where he has ignored them. This time the consequences were not as bad as the last time but for me I was a little nervous. If you know me in "real" life, you know that I'm a little bit of a control freak, so when you are bumping down a dirt road as a passenger on a motorcycle it's a little unnerving. This is why I need my own ride.(i'm thinking of having a charity run for myself and I'd call it...the Run for Steph's Ride.) Ok so I made it through the off roading through Panora but on the way back we took another detour...We are stopped in the highway waiting to turn onto a gravel road...I'm thinking in my mind...huh...gravel?? HUH?? Well I find out the reason as we stop next to the new Ethanol plant that this is the place Dan hauled dirt from a couple days this spring. Riding with Dan is always an adventure...he is a long distance rider, rarely stopping unless he is hungry or the bike needs fuel. I try...I really do but sometimes I can't make it to the next stop...I think Harley thinks all women are skinny model chicks because the seat they give us is itty bitty! Another reason why I need my own ride. LOL.

Well it's time to start my day. Have a great weekend!

Support Our Troops!

What did she just say?

I caught segments of the Democratic debate tonight and Hillary Clinton totally cracked me up when she said the word "dissing". Hey Hillary...it's actually pronounced dissin'. Too funny!

Dive Bar

I've had a couple people ask me this week what the heck is a dive bar? Is it a bar that snorklers and swimmers hang out at or what? Dive Bar = Bar that is a Dive.

Damn Crotch Rockets Anyway!!!!

Ok...I'm a little bit upset still about what I saw last night. I'm driving home from a night out with my co-workers and a group of bikers come down the ramp onto Interstate 80. That's all cool because I love seeing a bunch of bikes traveling together...very cool site! Most of the riders were on Harleys but there was one stupid ass on a crotch rocket that decided to use the 3 lane interstate highway as his stunt lot. The traffic behind the bikes literally had to slow down so that this jerk could preform for the others he was with. I'm hoping the other riders were thinking good god almighty what a jackass, but who knows. Anyway...I probably shouldn't get all upset about this because it's this person's life that he/she is holding in their own hands but I seriously don't want to see a fellow motorcyclist die even if it is because of his/her own stupidity. So...I feel a little better. Got that off my chest.

Have a great weekend everyone! I need a Martini!! :)

Do you ever??

Do you ever just feel like you want to stay in the shower all day long because it feels so damn good? I wanted to this morning but then I got to thinking...it would end up getting cold and I'd end up all prune like, so I got out! LOL

Have a great day!

A little Art and a couple Brews!

I attended a Conversation on Art with Enrique Chagoya. I met my friends Larassa, Michelle and Stacy for the 2 hour lecture. It was very interesting. Very political. His art was very much my taste. A lot of mixed media. It is so awesome when you can sit and listen to the artist explain their pieces to you so that you can hear what inspired them to create it.

After the lecture we ventured over to the Greenwood Tap on Ingersoll Ave. What a great dive bar. Loved it!!! Loved the dogs playing cards tapestries on the walls. They added a certain ambiance to the place. While I enjoyed the conversations that my friends and I were having I also always find myself looking around. I love to people watch. You see so many interesting things when you just sit there and watch.

Ok...time for bed. I keep forgetting this is only Tuesday! Night!

Are you thinking what I'm thinking?

I think if Alan Greenspan would have been our President for 8 yrs, we would be a little better off then we are right now. I listened to an interview that he did on 60 Minutes last night and wow...what a intelligent individual.

Goo Goo Dolls - Iris

Yes, I'm still here at the puter. This song came on and I had to post something about it.

Goo Goo Dolls - Iris

This song gets me right in the heart everytime I hear it. I know the song is from 1998 but there are just songs that always get to you for your entire life and this is one of them.

Here are the lyrics...

And I'd give up forever to touch you
Cause I know that you feel me somehow
You're the closest to heaven that I'll ever be
And I don't want to go home right now

And all I can taste is this moment
And all I can breathe is your life
Cause sooner or later it's over
I just don't want to miss you tonight

And I don't want the world to see me
Cause I don't think that they'd understand
When everything's made to be broken
I just want you to know who I am

And you can't fight the tears that ain't coming
Or the moment of truth in your lies
When everything seems like the movies
Yeah you bleed just to know your alive

And I don't want the world to see me
Cause I don't think that they'd understand
When everything's made to be broken
I just want you to know who I am

Enough said...have a good one!

Sunday Morning Thoughts...

Good Morning America How are Ya? Not sure why that song just popped into my head but it did. It looks like a beautiful Sunday morning here in lovely Johnston, IA. I'm sitting here listening to some Soft Rock and drinking my coffee. The thoughts are just swimming around my head so wow...this could all be kind of random so bare with me.

Brittney Spears...why the heck do we keep pushing this nut case to the top of the spotlight. I find it very sad that she had kids with K-Fed just so she could say that she had them and now she has turned into psycho nut job mom of the century. Seriously her handlers or parent's need to guide this girl down the right path and maybe get her some help because I think she might have a major case of Post Pardom Depression or something. And once again we reward someone for their fame even though they are not emotionally stable and parade them on a stage at the VMA awards. Sad...it's very sad how this beautiful girl went so out of control. She seriously could have been a role model but now she's just a headcase.

Michael Vick...I think this jerks sentence should be getting duck taped and setting pit bulls loose to attack him. What right minded person participates in dog fighting. SICK! And to all the parent's in this country who continue to let their teenage kids sport his football attire...what the hell...do you even pay attention to your kids and what they are doing? Do you actually condone dog fighting? Burn the shirt for godsake!

Ok...off the celebrities. I seriously try not to pay attention to them but those two kinda have gotten under my skin. And please boycott the MTV VMA awards with me. These people are not our Heroes!

Last night I was at Border's chilling and looking at magazines. This couple comes in an sits down and about 20 minutes later the woman's cell phone rings. Instead of getting up and going outside to talk, it was a nice night out, she blabs for 15 minutes so we all could hear. What ever happened to the days of letting people leave messages and calling them back later? This whole cellphone thing is out of control. Has society forgotten how to be cordial to their fellow man/woman? Is your life so important that you need to share your 1/2 of the conversation with all of us? Please...when you are in public turn your phone on mute. Let the call go to voice mail. Worry about the call when you get home and if you can't go to a place where you are not broadcasting the conversation to everyone else!!!!

On a lighter non-bitching note. My bestest biker girl friend Kristen and her business partner Monica, celebrated their 2nd year of business at Blondie's Beauty Parlor. Yea Girlies! I went out with Kristen and the girls of Blondie's to celebrate on Thursday and we had so much fun. Those chicks are a hoot. And I found my Pretty Woman Movie quoting soulmate, Betsy....she and I were standing at the bar ordering and she started quoting Pretty Woman and I was like...OMG, I thought I was the only one that did that. LMAO...too cool! "Gimme a name...a name? The pressure of a name...Cinderfuckingrella! OMG...too funny.


Wow...this song brings back memories. Bon Jovi...Never Say Goodbye. I think that might have been my Senior Prom theme. LMAO. I can't remember though, but I think it was.

Need more Java...

So I haven't blogged at all about Billy Lane because I pretty much wrote him off my list of favorites. I was wondering the other day though what was up with him. Looks like he'll be in court the 21st of Sept and could face up to 15 yrs in prison. That's all I have to say about that...

Because of my new blogger bud KT DID I've found some truly cool new blogs. One being Rippin Kitten. She's a cool biker chick and has a very cool site. I've added it to my list of blogs I visit so you'll have to check it out.

I'm pouting...I wanted to go riding today but it looks like it's going to rain. Rain Clouds BE GONE! Didn't work! Well...Have a great Sunday and a great week! Ride Safe...Ride Free...Ride it like you stole it! LOL I sound like a t-shirt.

Have a good one and Support Our Troops and Vets!!! Remember the Fallen Heroes and boycott the MTV Video Music Awards with me!!!

:)

Dale - The Movie

Ok...I was never an Earnhardt fan and never really that into NASCAR. After watching the movie "Dale" on CMT tonight, I totally get why so many people thought and still do think he was the greatest NASCAR driver of all time. He was down home and real. He looked out for himself and his family. He was a Hero to many. He was the Intimidator. Dale loved to race and he died doing what he loved to do. I can see why his fans miss him. It isn't too often that someone with that much charisma graces a sport. There really isn't anyone in the sport of NASCAR at the present time that has that many fans and empowers that much respect as Dale did. I would recommend watching this movie. It really did make me understand why his death made grown men cry.

Labor Day Weekend

Wow...Can you believe that Summer '07 is drawing to a close? The years just fly by once you cross over from the age of 25. I'll be 39 this year and I'm thinking, where did it all go? I know...I'm still young...I hear it all the time but it's just wacky how you think you have so much time ahead of you to accomplish things you want to in life.

Thanks Dan for taking me to all of the bike nights this summer. I always feel safe when I'm riding two up with you. Had good times this summer with Dan, Kristen, Brent, Big Don, Jack and made new friends with Vance and Kris. I know...the season hasn't ended yet...thank god! Hopefully as in years past we have until November.

This weekend Dan and I took a trip up to Northeast Iowa on the Zippy Pickle and stayed with Greg and LaRue, my folks. I had to kid Dan because I only required the use of one saddlebag for all my stuff. He had a saddlebag and a knapsack. HA HA HA! The trip up there was really nice. We rolled in about 8:30ish and you could tell Greg and LaRue were very happy we had all the gear on. Especially the helmets. Iowa does not have a helmet law so it's the rider's choice. On Saturday we were up early so we could ride in and hang for a while at Silver Eagle HD. My Dad wigged a little because we didn't have the ole helmets on. I guess it is a little selfish of me for not considering his feelings about it since he is my father but it is my choice and most of the time I go without. The ride into Waterloo was so nice...it was cool, crisp, refreshing. There wasn't anything going on at Silver Eagle but the staff, as always, was friendly. Talked for a long time with one of the sales guys Ken and I got to go back and look at the new '08 Fat Bob that they just got in. It was pretty sweet!

My mom wanted to go out to the new casino in Waterloo so once we got back to their place we headed in on 4 wheels to the Isle. It was a really nice casino. It made me feel like I was in Vegas. I didn't win big, but I never do. I just don't get why I don't have the luck. Once we were done there we went for dinner at Texas Roadhouse in Cedar Falls. YUM! Funny thing...I wanted a Margarita and without thinking I said to my Dad...I'm going to get a Margarita, I'll give you the money for it. I looked at him and was like...OMG I can't believe I just assumed you are paying for dinner. Wow...I felt like a heel. Well he did pay for dinner...thanks Dad.

Sunday we got up and took off for Waverly around 9. Stopped by the Kielman's to check out their new house. Totally beautiful. Took off for home around noon. Stopped in Hampton for a burger at McD's. Dan got to talking to this older gentleman who was so excited to tell him he rode motorcycles too. He said he had to give it up last year when he turned 76. His wife told him that it was just time and he agreed. You could tell it made him sad. He also told us he was a prisoner of war in Korea. I thanked him and he was so modest and told me I didn't have to thank him. I wanted to hug him...he was such a cute old guy and you could tell it made his day that we were listening to him. I love the stories you hear from our elders. I could sit and listen to them for hours. They lived extraordinary lives and we need to take it in before they are gone.

We made it home to Johnston about 3:30 pm. What a great weekend and it was made even greater because we rode the Zippy Pickle and were outside feeling all the elements and clearing our heads from all the mumbo jumbo that goes in and out of it all week long!

Adios Summer...Welcome Fall and more good times ahead!

Apples and Wine

My Aunt sent me this great e-mail. It goes like this...

Apples and wine

Women are like apples on trees. The best ones are at the top of the tree. Most men don't want to reach for the good ones because they are afraid of falling and getting hurt. Instead, they sometimes take the apples from the ground that aren't as good, but easy. The apples at the top think something is wrong with them, when in reality, they're amazing. They just have to wait for the right man to come along, the one who is brave enough to climb all the way to the top of the tree.

Now men...men are like a fine wine. They begin as grapes, and it's up to women to stomp the shit out of them until they turn into something acceptable to have dinner with.

Share this with all the good apples you know! :)

Thought that was cute. Don't get mad guys. It's just a little chick humor! he he!

Thanks KT DID!

I was reading Sasha Mullin's blog "Down the Road a Peace" which I read very regularly. Sasha is one of my biker chick idols. Anyway...I ran across a posting by a KT DID and went to this blog. It's so awesome how the internet let's you meet the coolest most like minded people across the country and the world. I posted a comment to KT DID's blog because I could tell that she values her biker friends as much as I do and she just seems like she'd be a fun loving real cool chick. Well KT DID came to my site and posted a comment on my blog. And even better yet, she added a link on her page to my site. Thank you KT DID! I added KT DID's blog to my list of favorites so click on the link and check her out! Oh and KT...if you ever end up in Iowa...ha ha...let me know and we can kick back and drink a few really good Martinis and shoot the shit! LOL :)~

Silk N Steel MC

I love looking at MySpace pages even though I don't have one. What's up with that? HA! I ran across this group of women riders who have started their own MC called Silk N Steel. Very freaking cool! Loved the song on their page too...Bad Reputation by Joan Jett and the Black Hearts. My thoughts exactly!!! I think it is awesome how much motorcycle riding empowers females. Whatever Boys can do Girls can do better is what I always say!

Blah! Blah! Blah!

I love this Harley ad. I framed it and put it in my bathroom. It makes me smile every morning when I look at it. :)~

Closing in on Fall??

The geese are flying again. Sounds like Fall is just around the corner. Where did the summer go? Oh My!

The Elegant Gathering of White Snows

This is an amazing book. I am passing it on to my very good friend Melinda who has had a few bumps in the road this year but who remains a source of strength to all who know her. I have left instructions in the book to continue to pass it from woman to woman after it has been read and to include a rock with the book when you pass it on. The rock is to be kept by the next woman reading the book and she is to include a rock and so on...(you'll need to read the book to find out the meaning behind the rocks) I've also asked that they log onto my blog and let me know where they are sending it next. Hopefully this will work and if it doesn't it doesn't. Sometimes things do not influence another person the way it has you. I'm crossing my fingers though that this book will touch many women's lives and they will find inspiration in it like I have. Time will tell.

Another cool thing about the author of this book is that she rides a motorcycle. Very cool! I didn't find that out until I ended the book and read about her on the back cover. Thank you for the amazing book, Kris Radish!

Love this License Plate

Note to All War Protestors

Click on the Picture to Enlarge...

Support Our Troops because they support you each and every day of your life!!

Thanks for the Advice Biker Chick!!

Dan and I got up early this morning to get some riding in before it got too hot. We headed north on Highway 141 finally stopping to look at the map in a little town called Willey. I always forget how friendly small town Iowans are. I needed directions to Carroll, IA because Willey isn't on the Harley map...lol. The woman I asked for directions was so darn nice I was simply amazed. We found Carroll and ventured into town before heading back and stopping at the Harley Dealership there. I had a few deja vu moments from my Sturgis trip in 2004. I don't think I've been to that part of Iowa since that trip so I had some memory flash backs. I ride with Dan because even though I have my license I can't afford a bike right now.(I'm taking donations...LMAO!!) Seriously, I do have a "Saving for my Motorcycle" piggy bank that I bought at J & P Cycles. So anyway...back to my story here...lol....I was sitting on a Sportster because I thought that would be a good bike to start with. There were a couple Biker Chicks that had come in and one of them walked over to me and said...you don't want a Sportster, you will hate it after a 1000 miles. Start with the big bike. This is the second time I've heard this from a woman rider so I'm definitely taking her advice when I'm finally able to buy my dream!! I've had so many male riders tell me I don't want a Sportster but when it's coming from them you are like thinking...don't tell me what I need to get. All you ladies out there know what I mean. HA! So anyway...it was great to hear from a female that she thought the Sportster was a mistake. She even let me sit on her Deluxe. It was a sweet ride. So we left there and I was having I wish I was riding my own ride pangs as we made our way to Boone. We came across a stranded couple on a Street Glide with a flat. To every biker out there...even if you have no knowledge of how the hell to fix a bike...for godsake stop and offer assistance. We stopped and you could tell they really appreciated us checking on them. I'm sure countless bikers passed em by without even giving it another thought...that's just freaking RUDE!!! It's a brother and sisterhood we have with our fellow riders and we need to stick together and support one another. Ok...I'm off track here...So we got to Boone and drove around the town for a bit. Stopped at Kum and Go and then got back on the road heading for Ames. Go Cyclones!!! Rode out to Zylstras...boring...nothing exciting going on at that dealership. LOL It was beginning to get HOT HOT HOT so we went for lunch and headed back south to Johnston. It was a great ride...I enjoyed every minute of it. I always do...each ride is a new adventure...a new journey with exciting moments all around. I seriously Live to Ride. It's in my soul. I love it!

I love this quote...

For you Sex and the City fanatics...Carrie says almost the exact quote after she walks away from Big and spots a horse going wild in Central Park. She relates the spirit of the horse to her wild spirit.

Oh and have you heard...THERE IS GOING TO BE A SEX AND THE CITY MOVIE!!!!! OMG...it's a dream come true!!!!

Oh Baby...Talk Dirty to Me!!

Last Saturday Mitzi, Todd, Dan, and I traveled over to Newton to see Veins of Jenna, Great White, Dokken, Ratt, and Poison. Great White was actually not too bad and Poison ROCKED the Speedway. I've been to many a concert in my life. The best concert I've seen to date was Rob Zombie but Poison has now pushed Rob down to number 2. I totally felt like I was 17 again. When Bret and the boys ripped into Talk Dirty to Me I had an image of myself in scary Larry's basement hearing that song for the first time and just loving it! I was hooked!! Now all these years later with his long rocker hair(still wondering if it is really a wig) and his rock star look, Bret Michaels was amazing. Thanks for making me feel like a wild teenage girl again! I let out a big whoop when he mentioned Sturgis before he sang Ride the Wind and he brought tears to my eyes when he sang Something to Believe in. I took a few pictures on my phone.(Bret's Bus, Great White performing, Jack Russell, and the crowd during the song Something to Believe in.) They are not the best but there are a few highlights. My final comment on this exciting Saturday adventure is...Don Dokken...hang it up...you SUCK!!!!!!!(you walked off the stage after 15 minutes when I saw you back in the late 80's and buddy...you should have just kept on a walking!)

Oh...and Baby...ahhhhh...Talk Dirty to Me!!!

Cairn by Greg

My father, Greg, built this amazing Cairn in the front yard of their home in Northeast Iowa. He found inspiration from a Cairn that was built at the Des Moines Art Center by Andrew Goldsworthy. Each piece was stacked by hand and no mortar has been used to hold the pieces together. It's truly an amazing work of Art. I'm very proud of what my father has created and wanted to share it with the world. It's beautiful, Dad!

Minneapolis

All involved in the horrific bridge collapse in Minneapolis...you are in my prayers!

Veterans Rally Winter Park, CO August 17 - 19

Click on the picture and it will make the flyer larger. Support Our Vets!

I think this guy had FUN!!!

Here are the effects that hundreds of miles on a bike and too many beers will have on ya! Thanks for the picture dude!!! He's passed out under the tire of a semi...I hope the driver looked before he/she pulled away!!!

The Sturgis of Bicycle Riding...Ragbrai 2007

Friday, July 27th thousands of bicycle riders ascended on the town of Dyersville, Iowa. And since I'm always on the search for a fun time and the fact that my sister and her husband live there I trekked up to Northeast Iowa to see the action. Margo and I got up early and went down to where the bicycle riders were entering the town and welcomed them with Morning greetings...clapping and cheers. It was fun to see all the different people come through the tunnel that the volunteers from Dyersville had created. During the evening we went down and partied with the riders on their final night and had a great time. I did keep thinking the entire time though that I wished that the bicycles were motorcycles and that I was actually in Sturgis, South Dakota partying with all my fellow bikers!

21 Shrines

For the longest time this Catholic Chick...meaning me...thought that Shrines to Mary were called Novenas. WRONG! I did a little research and the Novena is actually the prayer or prayers that you say during a 9 day period of time or something like that. OK so funny story...my sister and her husband live in a very Catholic community in northeast Iowa. One weekend I was visiting them and we were driving around. We started counting Shrines to Mary...one, two, five, ten...the three of us were laughing and marveling at all the different shrines...twelve, fifteen...it got to the point were we had to find just one more...we were shooting for 20 and would yell out loud when we would see another one. Kind of scary that 3 grown people were finding thrills in doing this on a Saturday night. Well before we returned to their home we had counted 21. I would have to say Tim and Margo live in a very Blessed Neighborhood with 21 Shrines to Mary watching over them.

Bike Down to I-Town

Kristen(left)Stephanie(right)
Me(above) with the Street Glide aka Zippy Pickle!:)

Kristen, Brent, Dan, & I traveled down to the best bike night in Iowa on Friday! It was awesome to hang with Kristen,Brent, and Dan. Great Ride and Great Friends. Beers and Fun! Love I-Town!!!! Can't wait til the next one!!

Jasmine Cain - The Inside

I listened to the most incredible female artist that I've heard in sometime. Jasmine Cain's album The Inside is incredible. Holy Shit...the entire album is awesome. The song that got me the most was November. It was so haunting and brought tears to my eyes. The other song that really got me was Sweet Euphoria. Jasmine is from South Dakota so naturally she will be in Sturgis for the big rally. Check out her myspace page for the dates and times. www.myspace.com/jasminecain

How do you like me now?

This is probably silly but whenever I post my picture I always get that song from Toby Keith in my head...How do you like me now? This year was my 20 yr class reunion and I kind of failed to attend even though I was so going to. I think I look pretty damn great for 38 yrs old! Yep that's right...I'm 38 yrs old and damn proud of it. And this 38 yr old chick is going to be an Auntie! My sister Margo and her husband Tim are going to have a new baby in March!!! I'm so darn excited. I think baby Ketels will be a girl and she will drag race cars and ride motorcycles. And if a little boy is born he will drag race cars and ride motorcycles. LOL :)~ Boy or Girl doesn't matter as long as he or she is healthy. So anyway...Congrats Margo and Tim! I bet LaRue has already been to Von Maur and bought up some baby rack bargins. LOL!

Share the Road!

I have a plea to Cage drivers...SHARE THE ROAD!!!!(for those of you that read my blog and are not motorcycle riders or passengers and don't know the biker speak...Cage = Car,Truck,Van,etc.) Don't drive right on top of us when you are behind us. Don't try to share our lane with us. If we meet on a two way street and you have to wait on the other side before you can pass by the cars on your side then wait...you don't try to go when a car goes by, don't you usually wait until they are past so you don't hit each other?? YES!!! HELL YES YOU DO!!!! Don't think you can out run a motorcycle by turning in front of us...we are coming at you faster then you think. I realize we are sometimes difficult to see but you also need to look around...don't just look in your mirrors...turn and look in your blindspots too. It could save a life!

113th Cavalry leaves Camp Dodge, Johnston

Troop A, 1st Squadron, 113th Cavalry is based at Camp Dodge, Johnston and performs reconnaissance and surveillance missions to assist commanders in planning and executing combat operations, the release said. The unit was last deployed for peacekeeping operations in Kosovo from September 2003 to September 2004. - KCCI.com

The 113th left for Camp Shelby, Mississippi before their deployment to Iraq. May your guardian angels watch over you during your deployment to Iraq.

God Bless America and God Bless Our Troops! Keep them in your hearts always. Without their selfless acts we would not have the freedom we so take for granted. Freedom isn't free! Don't ever forget it!!

Best Bike Night in Iowa!!!!

Ok...I'm voting this the best bike night in Iowa! The third Friday night of each month bikers from all over Central Iowa show up in Indianola, IA for the best bike night! If you love live music, beer, good eats, 1000+ motorcycles, and good looking biker men then this is the bike night for you. Oh geesh I forgot...for the guys there are good looking biker women too. Hope to see ya'll on June 15th!

Big Barn Harley Davidson

Ok...so they sold and changed the name of the Harley Dealership in Des Moines. Granted the building was constructed to look like a big huge barn but that didn't mean the new owners needed to take it so literally. Over night it went from Zook's to Big Barn Harley Davidson. They could have at least made the name more fun and called it like Hawg Farm Harley Davidson...Big Barn??...Come on.

Remember Our Fallen Heroes

Please pause for a few moments this weekend to remember Our Nation's Fallen Heroes and the sacrifice they gave for our freedom.

Virginia Tech

My thoughts and prayers are with everyone involved in this horrible tragedy. And this is probably very cold to say but I hope that the gunman is enjoying his after life in hell!

Blessing of the Bikes

I've always heard about it but have never had a chance to go, so I was so happy that I finally was able to make it to the Blessing of the Bikes Saturday! I'd say there were about 200+ bikes at Zook's HD. I love being around all my fellow bikers. It's such a great feeling to be in the company of like minded people. If you've never been to the Blessing of the Bikes before you have to go. It made me feel so good asking God to watch over us while we travel the open roads this summer and fall. We need all the prayers we can get everytime we leave our house and go on a journey. Ride hard but Ride Safe this summer and fall. And first and foremost, having a wonderful time doing it!

Poor Imus!

Ok...so the guy made a mistake. Hasn't everyone?? I guess the media must have got bored with the death of Anna Nicole and decided to pick on him instead. Yes...what he said was something he shouldn't have but are we even sure that he knew what a Ho was? Or was it more about the Nappy comment? My father in law had no clue and he's around the same age as Imus. I have decided to be done with all media, with the exception of my beloved internet.(giggles) I think I'm going to watch the local news and that's about it. I'm tired of all the stuff that the media tries to influence us with. I think it has poisoned our society.

The thing I don't understand is that both of the companies that fired him...did they even take into consideration the good he did for others in our country. I mean seriously people...he helped kids with cancer and our soldiers coming home from the war. I sure hope even with what has happened to him he continues the good he has done. I have a feeling he will.

FINALLY!

We finally got the Zippy Pickle out today and took her for a long spin! I'm so glad I wasn't Ms. Tough Chick today...I was so happy I decided to wear my leathers...it was still a little chilly with the wind. It sure felt good though. I love riding...it's just such a spiritual experience for me. Makes me feel one with the world. Lots of people knock Iowa but there are some awesome country roads out there with great twisties. And now that Spring is finally going to happen it's going to begin to look so beautiful once again!

Happy Spring and Happy Riding to all Motorcycle Enthusiasts out there!

I knew I was asking for trouble...

I belong to an artist challenge group even though I'm really not a real artist. Our last project was to create a mask. Well if you know me you know that I'm very All American and I support our military! My mask was red, white, and blue and I had a star coming out of the mouth of the mask that said Support Our Troops. I shared my mask with the group and gave my little speech of why I created it. After I was finished I was attacked about my beliefs about the war and our country. I guess I should have expected it but it blows my mind how many people just don't get it. And it really blows my mind how artists say they are so open minded but yet if you do not have the same views that they do you are suddenly ignored. After my experience last night I'm thinking of discontinuing my attendance of these events. I'm never one to judge someones opinion on something. I'm open minded to their beliefs and thoughts. I guess I expected more from these people. They all tend to forget how lucky they have it for being able to do as they wish each and every day of their lives. And who knows what this war is really about...maybe it's about oil, maybe it's about stopping terror, maybe it's just GB being a bully...I don't know...I just know that without our military watching over our country and other countries we would not be able to live the way we TAKE FOR GRANTED each and every day of our lives.

Saturday Evening Thoughts...

Wow...we had one huge winter storm here in Iowa. March sure did come in like a lion and I'm more than ready now for spring! I keep dreaming about the wind in my hair and long rides on the motorcycle.

I was out at Zook's HD a couple weeks back and sat on the coolest Sporty I've ever seen. The 2007 Sportster XL 1200N is one cool looking bike. It's the perfect size for a shorty like me. It would look really awesome in black with the HD Skull package of accessories.

Caught an interview on Imus in the Morning with Bob and Lee Woodruff. Bob Woodruff is the ABC Anchor who survived an attack while covering the war in Iraq. Bob and Lee wrote a book about his recovery and what it has been like for him and his family dealing with his brain injury. I have to say that Lee Woodruff is one of the most amazing women I've ever heard interviewed. She has turned this experience with her husband into something positive by helping wives of injured American Soldiers deal with what they are going through. She's an amazing woman!

My new favorite reality tv show is Real Housewives of Orange County. My favorite house wife is Vicky, probably because she's actually a Midwest Gal who moved to the OC and she is just so fun. It's just fun watching these women and their glamorous lifestyles. I do really think that Lauri wouldn't have gone after George if it wasn't for the fact that he lavishes her in expensive gifts. He looks like a regular joe made it rich. But hopefully I'm incorrect and she's not that shallow. And hats off to Jo for moving to LA and living her life for herself. Anyway...love the show.

Don't forget to say a prayer for our Soldiers in Iraq and all over the world!

What No Power??!!

This morning at 7:15 am the power went out. You truly do not know how much you rely on electricity always being there until this happens. You would have thought the world had come to an end! At about noon the silence was just too much and we had to go to Border's for a break from the deafening silence of the townhouse. Thank goodness it's back on and as you see the Internet is working too so I'm able to blog this horrible event. I'm kidding about it being horrible. Now my parent's on the other hand are still without power in NE Iowa. Hopefully they will get that back very soon!

I also have a plea to everyone out there. DO NOT WATCH THE OSCARS TONIGHT!!!! I talked to my sister this afternoon and she reminded me that they were on tonight. I said to her that I was boycotting all award shows and she said "WHY?" I gave her my explanation and she told her husband. He is wishing that my sister was joining in on my boycott. Sadly she will not be. Sorry Tim!

Ice, Wind, and Snow OH MY!

Wow...this is one yucky day. I'm ready for spring, oh so ready! I have had a chance to read today. I bought "4 Blondes" for 4.99 at Borders. It's by Candace Bushnell, writer of "Sex and the City". It really is a great book. Almost finished with it, which is amazing because I usually take forever to finish a book.

Last night I watched "Jarhead". I had wanted to see this in the theater but never made it there. It was a very good movie. I'm a sucker for a good depiction film about any war though. I remembered sitting at home in Cedar Falls watching the beginning of Desert Storm. I was sitting at the kitchen table at my parent's home...I had a candle sitting next to me and lit it and said a prayer for our Troops. I remember watching it everyday. My sister and I attended a support march for the soldiers that were called to duty from Waterloo. My family sent a care package to a young soldier named Thad Smolinski. I wrote him and another guy named Rowdy...or something like that. After the war I never heard from them again so hopefully they survived. I'm sure they did. I still have the letters somewhere.

I've been doing this insane workout called, "Fighting Fit, Fighting Fat". Wow...I feel like I'm back in Jr. High in Mr. Schultz's gym class. He was a Marine Drill Instructor turned Jr. High PE teacher. I was always scared of him. He was a major hard ass guy. I was just looking at the Peet Jr. High website and it looks like old Mr. Hardass retired but Mrs. Bolger is still there.

Gosh, I sure hope the power doesn't go out. It just doesn't stop raining. Actually maybe it is sleeting now. And the wind is blowing like crazy. Glad this weather keeps happening on the weekend because I'd had to fight my way to and from work. I have no problem driving but some people just don't do well in this stuff.

So Vilsack dropped out of the Presidential race. Go figure...go on Leno, drop out of the race. He says it was because of money but I have a feeling it's more about, NO ONE KNEW WHO HE WAS!!! I really like Rudy Giuliani even if he is a Republican. I think he handled 9-11 very well. He kept New York City going even after that horrible day. He did good things for the city of New York even before 9-11. While in office crime in NYC decreased, he cut taxes, turned NYC from being in the red to being in the black, welfare reform, improved education, made New Yorkers want to remain in NYC since a poll noted that 59% were ready to leave the city, and he also began an agency to protect the children of NYC. Anyway...I like him and if he's the nominee I will vote for him in 2008.

Hmmmmmmmmm...well...I think I'll get back to my book. I'm interested in seeing what happens to Princess Cecelia next. She's so insane! LOL

Say a prayer tonight for our Men and Women in Iraq.

My Boycott is on...

I am boycotting all awards shows and I think it is good that I am. My blood would have boiled last night watching the Dixie Chicks win. I used to be a huge fan of theirs and they do have every right to voice their opinion about how they feel. I just think that even though everyone has different views on the war that we all need to put those aside and support our Troops. Maybe the Chicks do but I haven't seen any evidence of that. If you have some please leave a comment so that I can find the articles.

The reason for my boycott is because I'm tired of all of the celebrities being put on a pedestal. They have created these award shows to pat themselves on the backs in front of the world. It's kind of sick if you think about it. They are such pre-madonnas showing off their gowns and tuxes. Maybe I'm the only one that feels this way but I kind of doubt it. As in a previous post I stated that we should have award shows for our Troops and Civil Servants instead. Why do we make celebrities so important? Some of their lives are so scandalous and we actually celebrate them?? It blows my mind. Don't get me wrong, I love watching a good movie or listening to good music but I don't see why they need to parade across a stage in front of the world to receive an award. Anyway...I could go on and on about this forever and it probably won't ever change. I just don't have to waste my evening partaking in it. It really has no value to enhance my life. I'd rather read a good book and expand my mind a little bit that way.

Good Girls Go to Heaven, Harley Girls Go Everywhere!

Plane tickets to and from Vegas - $250
Hotel Room in Vegas - $79
Riding down the Vegas Strip on a Harley - Priceless!!!!

I had lots of fun in Las Vegas. The Karaoke bar at the Tropicana was fun. Karla and Mitzi were Hilarious! My stomach is still hurting from laughing so hard. And of course I had to go out to the Harley Dealership and buy a couple of things. Every trip that I take I have to go to the local Harley Dealership. The one in Vegas was huge. The best night of the entire trip was the night that we met Sherry and Carlos. They were sitting on the patio at the HD Cafe. Mitzi and Karla started talking to them while I was inside looking at shirts. Well because of them I got a ride down the Vegas Strip from Carlos. He was the nicest guy and his woman Sherry was very cool for letting him do that. I can't thank them enough.

I love Las Vegas and can't wait to go back again. It's ever changing and never a dull trip! Plus the Margaritas at Margaritaville are the best I've ever tasted.

Super Bowl Sunday and Other Thoughts

It's Super Bowl Sunday! GO COLTS!!!

I'm really excited, Mitzi, Karla & I leave for Vegas on Wednesday. It's finally almost here. It's going to be great leaving this bitter cold weather for the mid 60's. I would have to say Winter is my least favorite season. It's alright at first but then it just drags on. I start thinking about riding and I get anxious for spring to arrive. I know it's only a few months away, I'm just ready for it now!

I've stayed true to my resolution of getting in shape this year. I just have to keep going and I will.

This year is my 20 year High School class reunion. Wow, where does the time go? If I knew than what I know now I would have looked at life a little differently. But hey Coulda, Woulda, Shoulda, right? I was a wild teenager and didn't really care to much about school. I was a boy crazy girl. But with all that said I've made more out of myself than I ever thought I would. I think it's shocking to my folks too because man did I put them through some times. One thing that I did get from my Father was his good work ethic. I don't think that man missed hardly a day of work at good ole John Deere the entire time he worked for them. My folks gave my sister and me a really good life and I'm so thankful for that. There are so many kids that don't have all the things that I did growing up. Another thing that is shocking to me is that I've actually become a pretty good driver. I did some major damage to my Camaro a couple times during HS and my Dad always teased that my real dad was really Richard Petty. My folks also took us on great trips around the USA the entire time we were growing up. Pretty damn lucky is all I have to say.

So I wonder who is going to be the Democratic and Republican candidates for President? The thing that worries me most is what is going to happen with the War in Iraq. I want our troops to come home but I also think that Iraq isn't ready or may never be ready to run their country on their own. I fear if the US Military leaves there we will have to deal with more terror threats and that a dictator like Saddam Hussein will take over again. Sitting here in my home in the Midwest I tend to forget how much we are hated around the world. I take so many things for granted. Today a reporter was interviewing a retired Military Commander and he said that at the end of each day we need to take a moment to think about the Men and Women serving our country around the world and give a prayer of thanks for what they do. I think of the Toby Keith song American Soldier...they are doing their job, protecting us, dying for us...what a sacrifice and what a total love for ones country. It gets me right in the heart when I think about it that way.

The geese keep flying over by the hundreds. They are beautiful when in flight. I love watching them in their V formation. Hearing their honking gives me a sense of calm. I love it when they fly over the house around dusk each night. It makes me wonder where they go each day. The seem to be flying toward Saylorville Lake. Maybe they land somewhere by Camp Dodge. Maybe someday I should follow them and find out. :)

Almost Super Bowl time. Prince is performing during 1/2 time. Love Prince...it will be interesting to hear if he sings any old songs. He said that after his last tour he was only going to sing new stuff. I found my Prince Shrine the other day when going through a box of stuff. I remember sitting in my room with candles lit, listening to Purple Rain, Controversy, and Dirty Mind. He was amazing to me. I finally got to see him in concert the last time he came through Ames. I went with Margo(my sister). It was amazing. So amazing that I couldn't help but cry.

Well...pregame time. GO COLTS!!!