tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23163365510562830412024-03-05T01:08:28.185-08:00Life Behind Bars– handlebars that is... I grew up riding horses & dirt bikes, but I really didn’t start living until I began working at a Harley-Davidson dealership. Then my life got even better when I began riding my own Harley motorcycle. Since then I haven’t looked back. After all, if you’re going to balance on two wheels, you’ve got to #KeepMovingForwardDawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.comBlogger121125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-53787098653388462712020-10-19T17:42:00.001-07:002020-10-19T17:42:41.037-07:00Does Harley have a new, more affordable Electric Motorcycle coming?<p><span style="font-size: large;">Because of what I do, I've got a lot of 'feelers' out in the world. So I wasn't too terribly shocked to see <a href="https://www.autoevolution.com/news/electric-harley-davidson-revival-concept-aims-to-appeal-to-younger-generations-149659.html" target="_blank"><b>an article about a new electric motorcycle</b>,</a> but I was surprised to see Harley's name attached to it.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">For those that don't know, Harley is the first major motorcycle manufacturer to bring an all electric motorcycle to market: the <a href="https://www.harley-davidson.com/us/en/motorcycles/livewire.html" target="_blank"><b>Livewire</b></a>. Initial reaction to the bike is its price tag, coming in at $30K (which is $8,300 over what MSRP is on a vivid black 2020 Road Glide - a popular touring model).</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUcEF5Y8lPxVqD8YCeLhrW6yDgRgiUqG-pFbKEdeCS6gvWz1h4r6y6fCesJTjL2IHEwI5yMCwRZovIzSRexmDN121De7-kz6xv45ngteBfguMYDxuzth2uM3Y4EvlGm25iJ5zF35S3ZV3R/s2048/high-res+jpg+-+012a1978_wide_5.jpg%255B10000_-1xoxarxbg%2528white%2529%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1699" data-original-width="2048" height="423" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUcEF5Y8lPxVqD8YCeLhrW6yDgRgiUqG-pFbKEdeCS6gvWz1h4r6y6fCesJTjL2IHEwI5yMCwRZovIzSRexmDN121De7-kz6xv45ngteBfguMYDxuzth2uM3Y4EvlGm25iJ5zF35S3ZV3R/w510-h423/high-res+jpg+-+012a1978_wide_5.jpg%255B10000_-1xoxarxbg%2528white%2529%255D.jpg" width="510" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">However, the Livewire does have a few extras to justify the price, such as Brembo brakes, RDRS Reflex Defensive Rider System, SHOWA suspension, and more. Plus you might even get a tax rebate for buying an electric motorcycle depending on where you live. </span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">And now the bikes play a main roll in the new series <a href="https://www.harley-davidson.com/us/en/current/long-way-up.html" target="_blank"><b>A Long Way Up</b></a>, also staring Ewan Mcgregor and Charlie Boorman. You can catch it on Apple tv - follow along as they ride Livewires from the tip of Argentina, all the way up South America to L.A. Quite the adventure!!</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihqovuqLUJiDPKkc3xwxGP594G014lNGxH0PE3rBfItMYseDQkRZRGZRl8zF_yYV0BHZZInd1Xpz8wkjpapxzJe_H7Hmi8ywUrlAHEY-MsXAwvFgDyo1CaOeneni43xZB2dIJIUtY4LSoI/s1130/Screenshot+2020-10-19+20.25.11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="1130" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihqovuqLUJiDPKkc3xwxGP594G014lNGxH0PE3rBfItMYseDQkRZRGZRl8zF_yYV0BHZZInd1Xpz8wkjpapxzJe_H7Hmi8ywUrlAHEY-MsXAwvFgDyo1CaOeneni43xZB2dIJIUtY4LSoI/w626-h312/Screenshot+2020-10-19+20.25.11.png" width="626" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">But, with all that is going on (the pandemic, presidential election, climate change, etc.), is Harley really coming out with another electric motorcycle now?</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Of course I dived into the article, which mentioned the same things I just did about the Livewire. Notably, the price. So a more affordable electric option would be nice! While we were in Milwaukee last summer for the annual dealer meeting, we did get the chance to hop on a Livewire and take it for a spin. What a blast it is to ride!! Smooth & quite -you really zip right along. And easier to ride too: no clutch or shifting gears to worry about, you just twist the throttle and go!! But, as previously mentioned, that $30K price tag is a bit much for me just now, even with a tax break.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4RZUjcgz1nYeXrSzhdILbbVIG1XQhyphenhyphen32R39IL95dfC-vor0Gtik8Us_Y3w_arnxBuNr16pWXlT9bjcr_pOnZPYx_Ftbfi_ACAYYCPYXftPsVaSsn_ytH6Blgca31Af0VhGWWPbcQYdceV/s2048/1548_hdlivewire_monicasemergiu.jpg%255B5040_-1xoxarxbg%2528white%2529%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4RZUjcgz1nYeXrSzhdILbbVIG1XQhyphenhyphen32R39IL95dfC-vor0Gtik8Us_Y3w_arnxBuNr16pWXlT9bjcr_pOnZPYx_Ftbfi_ACAYYCPYXftPsVaSsn_ytH6Blgca31Af0VhGWWPbcQYdceV/w471-h314/1548_hdlivewire_monicasemergiu.jpg%255B5040_-1xoxarxbg%2528white%2529%255D.jpg" width="471" /></a></span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The same day this article caught my eye, our District Manager for Harley-Davidson popped in the dealership for a visit, so I asked him about it. Did he know anything? There's no 'Revival' (the name of the 'new' bike) on <b><a href="https://www.harley-davidson.com/us/en/products/bikes/future-vehicles.html" target="_blank">Harley's 'Future Vehicles' webpage</a> </b>or<b> <a href="https://www.harley-davidson.com/us/en/products/bikes/future-vehicles/electric-concepts.html" target="_blank">their 'Electric Concepts' webpage</a></b>. Unfortunately he did not, although brought up the possibility that it might have been leaked. After all, when the MoCo was getting ready to release its newest motor (the Milwaukee-Eight), that had been leaked as well.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">So I investigated further. Enlarging pictures of the 'Revival' (that's what the bike is named) that are attached to the article, I could read the text which mentions that customers could swap out the battery for a fresh one at a H-D Kiosk. They wouldn't actually 'own' the battery, just exchange it as needed -which would help to reduce the overall cost of the bike. The pictures also say that there is a way to plug in to recharge, so you can get to a 'swap station' or dealer. Still, Harley does not list this as a 'future' bike on their website, and no mention of when this bike would be seen in the market tho... </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Next step was for me to Google the name mentioned in the article: Tanner Van De Veer. Turns out he's a recent graduate from the University of Cincinnati College of DAAP, and he's designed for more than just Harley. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The bad news is that his concept, the Harley-Davidson Revival, was Tanner's thesis project, created in an academic setting for educational purposes only. It is not in affiliation with Harley, at this point anyways.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The good news is that more and more people are thinking about the MoCo, coming up with ways for it to continue its success for another 117 years down the road. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I've said it before and I'll say it again: Electric Vehicles are our future. Most major car companies have cars and trucks already in the market or working on them. Sure, right now charging is another issue (mainly because Tesla EV Charging Stations won't work with other electric vehicles), but the tide will turn there as well. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">As the technologies get better, the prices will come down. I'm old enough to remember when microwave ovens first came out: BIG pieces of equipment that could barely fit on the kitchen counter, expensive but didn't work very well... Who else remembers those icy cold middle parts of your meal?? And there was plenty of people that said, "I don't wanna nuke my food!!" But of course now you're hard pressed to find a home without a microwave, and you can buy them new for less than $100. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Best of luck to Tanner!! I hope to see his concept bike come to fruition in the near future with Harley.</span></p><p><br /></p>Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-70161223722670949152020-09-13T18:06:00.000-07:002020-09-13T18:06:18.416-07:00A L O N E -tips for women traveling solo <p> Just like everything else, there are pros and cons to traveling alone. However, as a woman traveling solo there are some things you need to know and to watch out for. </p><p>The pros are numerous, which is why more and more women tend to be taking to the road on their own. You can stop when you want, take time to soak in the sites, eat where you want, and more: the freedom that comes along when traveling solo and the independence is something I got easily addicted to. </p><p>The cons can seem overwhelming, but tackling those head on will help you get yourself going if you have yet to try solo travel. If you're serious about traveling alone as a woman, you'll want to make the most of it - have the most fun, the biggest adventure, while being safe so you can return home and share your experiences. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlafnKKCfyCUck64syp1ERPn7NsP2xf0gEyaFacSMengcJzTEjYw-98AR2j0FrOR4Zwj31zwAKC9mjbT5_S1MfvMWkZiXMssupn-WxCTT55WwJ8AHDztXp01bYHpo1DeIQz4VoVpxn3OD7/s4032/20190821_075855.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlafnKKCfyCUck64syp1ERPn7NsP2xf0gEyaFacSMengcJzTEjYw-98AR2j0FrOR4Zwj31zwAKC9mjbT5_S1MfvMWkZiXMssupn-WxCTT55WwJ8AHDztXp01bYHpo1DeIQz4VoVpxn3OD7/w375-h500/20190821_075855.jpg" width="375" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>In 2019 I rode my motorcycle from Northern New York to Milwaukee and back -round trip it was a little over 2500 miles all on my own! Even though I didn't leave the United States, I still found it fascinating to see how others like me lived their lives. And it gave me a chance to talk with others, learn about the area from more than just a website or travel book. </p><p>So without further ado, here's my tips for you:</p><p>Before You Go-</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Have your motorcycle serviced at the dealership -they have factory trained technicians who know your bike. If you're in-between services (i.e. you're at 27K miles & your next service is at 30K), ask about getting a "Pre-trip Inspection." Prior to my Milwaukee trip, I was told I'd definitely need a new rear tire when I got back since my wear bars where showing. I had them replace the tire before I left because I like tire traction! </li><li>Make sure you have roadside assistance and I also recommend getting trip interruption insurance. I have both through the same company that does my motorcycle insurance, and it wasn't that much more either. Like the old saying goes: It's better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. Still, you'll want to read exactly what is covered, how to make a claim, and when you can expect to get your money - often times you'll have to fork out money for expenses until you're back on the road or at home, and then you'll be reimbursed. In other words, you've got to have 'emergency money' readily at hand.</li><li>Speaking of insurance, check on any limitations with your medical insurance. Of course in an emergency you'll most likely be taken care of, but what if you get sick (like stomach flu or food poisoning) and just want to see a doctor... will you be covered? These are the questions to ask before your trip rather than having to deal with the headache of wondering if the insurance company will foot the bill. </li><li>Do your research as you plan your route. I leave it up to you -if you want to plan your stops out and make reservations or just ride until you feel like stopping. Either way, know the route you'll be taking, the areas to avoid, and the places that are safe. Personally I plan out about 8 hours (on the map) between stops, so research the places to stay -since I have rewards points with Best Western I'll look to see if they've got one in the area. Then I research that hotel in particular, pouring over the guest reviews to get a sense of the area. </li><li>Pack light: take what you need to but don't go overboard. That dress or heels you plan on wearing one special night- leave 'em at home. Use pieces that go with several outfits -jeans, riding pants, moisture wicking tops, a cardigan, flats for when you're off the bike. Leave room in your bag for souvenirs you want to bring home!</li></ul><div>During the Trip-</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Eating lunch or dinner, I like to sit at the bar (if there's one) so I can engage in conversation, usually asking more questions than I'm answering. But even so, typically I don't speak to anyone unless I'm spoken to. I don't reveal I'm traveling alone, or where I'm staying. And I don't drink excessively, preferring to keep my senses intact. </li><li>You'll definitely want to keep your head up!! Now is not the time to bury your face in your smartphone- look up and look around, and know what's going on around you. Off the bike, walk with your shoulder's square and a confident stride. Your body language sends lots of information out to the world, so you'll want to project confident strength. </li><li>Have a Plan A, Plan B and Plan C, so that way you can keep moving. Plan A is what will most likely happen most of the time, but - if something goes wrong with that plan - you don't want to waste precious time trying to figure out what to do next. You'll want a Plan B, salvaging what you can to keep going (or to get back home). On my way to Milwaukee, I stopped to refuel in Ohio, only to find the power out so gas stations didn't have a way to pump fuel. I got back on the interstate to the next exit, only to find the same thing... I wasn't desperate for gas (my 'gas light' wasn't on), but it would be soon. Nothing left to do but get back on the interstate to the next exit, but if the power wasn't on there, I had my 'plan b': calling for roadside assistance for them to bring me enough fuel to get to a working gas station. Luckily at the next stop they had power and I was able to fill up.</li><li>Jewelry is something to consider -if you wear any at all you might want to wear a wedding ring (even if you're not married). For some reason, even when you're traveling alone, giving others the appearance you're attached and there's a 'significant other' waiting for you at home helps. </li><li>Consider keeping a travel journal, taking a few moments each evening to write down what happened that day. Not only does it help preserve the trip for you but also for your future generations.</li><li>Get up early, start out early, and then you can get to your destination early -that'll give you time to get your bearings, see what you want to see, and plan out your next day. You'll also want to be your own best company -all too often our negative thoughts can squash the good time waiting for us. Be nice to yourself, relax and have a good time.</li><li>And of course the obvious: safeguard your credit cards, cash and travel documents (driver's license, passport, I.D.), whenever you're traveling. Never ever flash wads of cash around, and you'll want a way to shut off your cards should they come up missing (through an app on your smartphone or have your bank's phone number handy). </li><li>Last but certainly not least: trust your instincts and act on them!! If something seems out of place or you're feeling threatened please seek help immediately. Many times women have went along when their gut told them not to just because they didn't want to seem rude (and that's what the perpetrator is counting on!). The kindness of strangers is also a real thing, so I'm not saying that you should shun everyone you meet. Just be aware of your surroundings, your own personal limits, and know when and how to get help should you need it.</li></ul><div>The best travel advice I have for you is to be the type of traveler you'd like to meet in your own home town. Kindness, respect and a smile go a long way. </div></div><p></p>Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-33339083822554829842020-08-29T04:20:00.000-07:002020-08-29T04:20:03.423-07:00It's all there -you've just gotta go get it 👍<p> My apologies for my absence from blogging!! I've been very busy creating content for my and FXCHD's YouTube channels (here's <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-tzl2wxH3JU696N6w9LPww?view_as=subscriber" target="_blank"><b>my #LifeBehindBars</b></a>, and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOxg2hZtUj6Dr2LXRMcAObg" target="_blank"><b>the FXCHD channel</b></a>), riding, and now editing, plus having fun. I did get some vacation time, and had planned to work on my videos while taking some time off, <a href="https://youtu.be/H57Fufkl7WQ" target="_blank"><b><i>but the Universe definitely had other plans!</i></b></a> </p><p>Often I have my friends and co-workers asking how I can afford to live the life I lead -seemingly always riding here, staying overnight there, taking time off from work. Here's my secret: I just go do it!</p><p></p><blockquote style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>The Universe loves to prove you right, no matter what you're mindset is, so make it a good one!! </i></span></blockquote><p></p><p>Of course there is a little planning involved, so I'll give you my tips & tricks on how I grab Life by the Handlebars and have a great ride-</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">1) It's not you, it's about how you deal with it</h3><p>I've heard the phrases, "How could this happen to me?" "S/He's doing that to get back at me!" "If it weren't for _________ (insert who or whatever you're going to blame here), I'd be a millionaire by now." Guess what: things go wrong as often as things go right. It's all in how you deal with it... Is it a challenge for you to overcome? Or is it something blocking you from your goal? Your perspective is everything!! Do not allow something to destroy you - you have a choice on how to proceed. </p><h3 style="text-align: left;">2) It's already all there for you</h3><p>Sure there are times when it can feel that Life just dumped a load of crap on you. Realize that these are challenges designed to improve yourself, your well-being. None of us were born knowing how to walk, but we learned even though we fell a number of times. And learning how to walk gave way to other adventures. There's that old saying, "If it were easy everyone would do it!" By learning how to meet and overcome that challenge, you're developing skills that will definitely lead you on the path of abundance. The biggest lesson here is that you've got to do the work -no one else can do it for you, there is no magic wand or super pill to bring you what you're looking for.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJC6gk3fUgsRLjevxhwwBuvtHHh6uTMbZLbVSQadYbKSKIE4uuF739iQJe9O2H1emybtApjcNVJz20a6kvTKGb2WJivqYHdY8CAFhtHiLnNm1T9UFdozTLswFm0ORNQVfpa_0PDoEUiIf-/s2048/melissa-walker-horn-J4_4o_HmaQE-unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="person holding jar of different kinds of money" border="0" data-original-height="1367" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJC6gk3fUgsRLjevxhwwBuvtHHh6uTMbZLbVSQadYbKSKIE4uuF739iQJe9O2H1emybtApjcNVJz20a6kvTKGb2WJivqYHdY8CAFhtHiLnNm1T9UFdozTLswFm0ORNQVfpa_0PDoEUiIf-/w640-h426/melissa-walker-horn-J4_4o_HmaQE-unsplash.jpg" title="Photo by Melissa Walker Horn on Unsplash" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><div data-test="say-thanks-card-tablet-up-ad-placement-request" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"></div><p></p><div class="Vffy3" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; border-radius: 4px; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 0px 4px 8px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #111111; display: flex; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; overflow: hidden; padding: 16px; position: relative; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><div class="_3Hx4x" style="box-sizing: border-box; flex: 1 1 0%; min-width: 0px;"><div class="_1Pp3a" style="align-items: center; background-color: whitesmoke; border-radius: 4px; border: 1px solid rgb(209, 209, 209); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; padding: 4px 6px;"><div class="mof3x" style="box-sizing: border-box; flex: 1 1 0%; min-width: 0px;"><div class="_1l8RX _1ByhS" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 4px; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;">Photo by<span> </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@sugercoatit?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: initial; box-sizing: border-box; color: #767676; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Melissa Walker Horn</a><span> </span>on<span> </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/money?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: initial; box-sizing: border-box; color: #767676; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s;">Unsplash</a></span></div></div><div class="_30Nmi" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: -4px -6px; position: relative;"><button aria-label="Copy to clipboard" class="_1DS6W _3d86A" style="appearance: button; background-color: initial; border: none; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; color: inherit; cursor: pointer; display: flex; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; overflow: visible; padding: 10px 6px 10px 12px; text-align: inherit; text-transform: none;" type="button"><svg aria-hidden="false" class="VOdqX _1xWye" height="32" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 32 32" width="32"><path d="M21.3 4h-16v18.7H2.7V4c0-1.5 1.2-2.7 2.7-2.7h16V4zM28 14.7V28c0 1.5-1.2 2.7-2.7 2.7H10.7C9.2 30.7 8 29.5 8 28V9.3c0-1.5 1.2-2.7 2.7-2.7H20l8 8.1zM25.3 16h-6.7V9.3h-8V28h14.7V16z"></path></svg></button><div style="box-sizing: border-box;"></div></div></div></div></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">3) Money is just Money</h3><p>For all those who think money is the root of all evil, that those who are rich must have done something 'bad' to get all that money, that all your dreams could come true if you just had the money you deserve, think again. Money is just a piece of metal (coin), paper, or numbers in a computer (online bank account) -<i><b>it's the value</b></i> that you're placing on those inanimate objects that's tying up your time and energy. And when you try to horde it, keep it all to yourself, you're really cutting yourself off from others and the potential for more. Think of a person trying to hold onto something -they're holding it tight to their body, often with their fists closed and their head down, and that very body language is telling everyone/thing that you don't want more. When you learn to <i><b>see the true value of your worth as a human being</b></i>, and the value that others bring to you, you realize how truly wealthy you are.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">4) Recognize when to let go</h3><p>Obviously there is some routine we have to follow in order to survive. Our ancestors worked to raise farm animals & crops so that they could eat. Now we have the convenience of stores to buy the food with the income we get at our jobs. There's heat & electricity for our houses, gas for our cars & motorcycles. We have bills to pay. That in no way implies that you have to stop living! The Universe will bring to you opportunities that will bring you happiness -you can take a moment and enjoy the little things. Often I take the long way home on my bike, taking in the summer sunshine. I'll splurge on that dress, even if I'll only wear it once (then I'll send it off to Thredup.com so someone else can enjoy it). I'll have that night out with friends. It's moments like that where I'm grateful that I can afford it that keep me going.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">5) Get it out of your Head</h3><p>If you're a typical American, you are bombarded with about 5,000 ads a day. Television, radio, emails, websites, streaming services, product placements in movies and t.v. shows, billboards, coupons, sales deals, etc., etc. Even when you go grocery shopping you'll get the commercial packaging blasting you from the shelves. All telling you what you want rather than what you need. </p><p>Cut out all that noise, get quiet for a moment, and ask yourself if you really need to have that 60" 4K HDtv or if you can live with the t.v. you have now. If you get a new living room set now, will it add value to your life or can you live with the couch you have? Do you really need that carton of cigarettes or bottles of booze when both are slowly zapping the life out of your body??</p><p>You could blame me for adding to the noise, I am the Marketing Manager at FX Caprara Harley-Davidson after all. I'm devising ways to "sell you" something that you don't need for your survival: a Motorcycle. </p><p>Although I say you really would benefit from having a motorcycle in your life -it's a connection to the Universe that I haven't been able to reproduce elsewhere in my life. Riding my Harley really brings me a lot of value, joy, and happiness into my life. Think of it as "Wind Therapy". </p><p>And let's say that is your goal, to one day own a Harley of your own. By thinking "they're too expensive" or "I can never afford one" you are actually blocking your own path from obtaining the very thing you desire! </p><p>Cut those negative thoughts from your head. As long as that's your mindset, you will continue to see 'roadblocks'. The Universe loves to prove you right, no matter what you're mindset is, so make it a good one!!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHz7G2Xv6Rw3LBeuKijaAC_0xRrXPOUPITq_4Qq5TlAowey827SP1-rDez8rHExR8UsIYDodUtSjRkDrfuPfAhzYmUifIZzm_HeD8mN5em8Qys5tFQUckviGhj0DIDFeMDgSG0s_Pggiqm/s2048/paige-weber-KRNk8oosHTg-unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1783" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHz7G2Xv6Rw3LBeuKijaAC_0xRrXPOUPITq_4Qq5TlAowey827SP1-rDez8rHExR8UsIYDodUtSjRkDrfuPfAhzYmUifIZzm_HeD8mN5em8Qys5tFQUckviGhj0DIDFeMDgSG0s_Pggiqm/s640/paige-weber-KRNk8oosHTg-unsplash.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@paigewtothew?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #767676; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Paige Weber</a><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/starry-night?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #767676; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Unsplash</a></p>Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-77043536176595741792020-06-26T13:10:00.001-07:002020-06-26T13:10:31.457-07:00Game Changer!! Helmet Communication HeadsetsAnyone who has been on a motorcycle ride with one or more people knows what a challenge it is to communicate with other riders and passengers over the exhaust & traffic noises. Your passenger is yelling at you to turn around and go back to the scenic overlook. You're trying to tell your friend riding along with you that you need gas. Hand signals only go so far... 👋<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://youtu.be/ZyRFRtmKnMk" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1366" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix2V0rg8r1hhzNHoBOqQzjMwOErpLG9ZWBTSSLIvnCXPWsPsas_52bthpts6KV2CiYRpWO7VlAnhjpYcI3ySog8c4ssIyKpE4UgKF7sj3h_Ziti6i5NMOJzq-r1gXEKgtaad7W3tFeK6g-/w500-h281/Screenshot+2020-06-26+15.55.13.png" width="500" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Good thing we're in the 21st century! With today's technology we have the Harley-Davidson Bluetooth Helmet Communication Headsets. These are a game changer because with them you can easily talk to one another with just the push of a button - literally. </div><div><br /></div><div>Helmet headsets can be used with half, 3-quarter, full face and modular helmets. These headsets will also work with your bike, no matter what bike you have. It can be a Harley-Davidson Sportster, Softail, Dyna, Touring - or even another brand of bike all together. With or without a sound system in your bike, you can use these headsets.</div><div><br /></div><div>Before you were screaming to be heard, making wild gestures, and then getting frustrated when the other riders didn't hear you. Maybe even just leaving the group all together and going your own way, missing out on the fun.</div><div><br /></div><div>Now you can talk regularly, and the other riders in your group can hear you. And then they can reply. Newer riders can talk with experienced riders who can share their wisdom. Those in the front of the group can let others know about hazards in the road. </div><div><br /></div><div>Not to mention the fact that you can listen to your own music- through your phone, your MP3 player or your touring bike (but again, you don't need a bike with a sound system in order to use the helmet communication headsets).</div><div><br /></div><div>You might think you'd only use it on the long trips, except for once you do use it, you'll wonder how you lived without it for so long. Being able to talk and be heard, all in real time as you're riding along, will have you grinning from ear to ear.</div><div><br /></div><div>There are different headsets for what you want to do... Here's the breakdown:</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN78N680CO2njKViep2I6HNOB-_0gGQg1486HqWiaTlE54dtxltgcE9UPKAgcyDUYBX9YcYz__s5pQVzJ-jrDoSNz19mGah136cDY1RwA5C9SANap5B3vHKZ5DJEOLEJxoWvQz_6vYyYdf/s3300/bluetooth_flyer_update-page-002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3300" data-original-width="2550" height="781" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN78N680CO2njKViep2I6HNOB-_0gGQg1486HqWiaTlE54dtxltgcE9UPKAgcyDUYBX9YcYz__s5pQVzJ-jrDoSNz19mGah136cDY1RwA5C9SANap5B3vHKZ5DJEOLEJxoWvQz_6vYyYdf/w600-h781/bluetooth_flyer_update-page-002.jpg" width="600" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">All the headsets have ambient noise cancellation, automatic volume boost, 10 preset station memory for FM radio, audio from both speakers for all functions, the ability to connect with any headset via Bluetooth, and the ability to wirelessly communicate with other riders.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So if you're ready to talk and be heard, then stop by FX Caprara Harley-Davidson -we'll show you the headsets and break it down to see which one would be best for you. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Come on over -exit 42 from I-81 in Adams Center, NY. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Let's talk.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZyRFRtmKnMk" width="320" youtube-src-id="ZyRFRtmKnMk"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><br /></div>Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-37132406534601352892020-03-11T05:53:00.001-07:002020-03-11T11:16:44.141-07:00Finding Your Right Road (aka Finding Your Authentic Self) -part 1<span style="font-size: large;">The world today... Viruses, terrorism, climate change and the stock market fluctuations to name just a few. And the media in all this, with their hype and conjectures certainly isn't helping anything. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">There you are, just cruising along when all of a sudden you find yourself in a ditch. It's real easy to find yourself stuck there, with all the hate and anger at the situation, at everyone around you. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Or maybe you found yourself in a rut -doing the same thing again and again and again because it feels safe. And you didn't even realize you dug this rut yourself, but now there you are. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: , "blinkmacsystemfont" , "san francisco" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "ubuntu" , "roboto" , "noto" , "segoe ui" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@wilstewart3?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #767676; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Wil Stewart</a><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: , "blinkmacsystemfont" , "san francisco" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "ubuntu" , "roboto" , "noto" , "segoe ui" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/stuck?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #767676; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Unsplash</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">With all that doom and gloom that seems to be looming over us, it can be difficult to see the positive things in life. You might even be tempted to fall for the negative bullsh*t, allowing it to mess with your self-esteem.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">That's where knowing you're on the right road sure comes in handy. And by that, I mean you know your authentic self: who you are and what you stand for. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">But what if you haven't found it yet? What if you did but then lost site of who you are? That's where this blog comes in 😁</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Unfortunately there are many people who live in a constant state of fear. They're stuck just like you, except they aren't ready to move forward -it takes a lot of courage!! And staying in 'the negative' is a lot easier for some than doing the work to get and be better.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm telling you that because those people that I just described might just lash-out at you. They might even be close friends or family. It's just with you moving forward they're reminded of how stuck they are. Remember: their resentment and negativity is not yours to try and fix; only they themselves can do that. You stay in your own lane.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: , "blinkmacsystemfont" , "san francisco" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "ubuntu" , "roboto" , "noto" , "segoe ui" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@fx24?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #767676; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Fernando Jorge</a><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: , "blinkmacsystemfont" , "san francisco" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "ubuntu" , "roboto" , "noto" , "segoe ui" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/stuck?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #767676; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; transition: color 0.1s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.1s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Unsplash</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now, if you're ready, you'll want to take the next step. Find a way to get quiet; find a way to be still. Clear out all the noise and distractions. Of course the easiest way I can do that is by riding my Harley... except it's winter and my bike is in storage. So for now I meditate and hang out at the barn with the horses.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's very important for you to find the quiet, where your mind is still -be it through riding, meditation, in your man cave/she-shed, maybe even shaving! That's because it allows you to tap into your creativity. It's been proven that when people do something as simple 'turning off their mind' they were better able to make decisions and be more effective. There's just something about letting your brain relax that allows you to open up to possibilities and creative discoveries. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">See that you are a fierce human being and learn what does and doesn't work for you. This isn't about you trying to be someone else. It is about finding your purpose, your frequency, your energy. And when you do it'll feel like a pair of comfy slippers, a cozy sweater, the perfect easy chair to kick-back in. In other words, pure happiness. </span><br />
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Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-82024726089658967872020-02-23T18:01:00.001-08:002020-02-23T18:01:06.842-08:007 Out-of-the-Way NYS Destinations where Bikers Ride to<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The boldness, grittiness, the intensity that is New York State. We might have more people moving out than moving in, but we still have some pretty great destinations that 253 million people visit on vacation. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sure we've got the Statue of Liberty, Times Square and Niagara Falls that draw the BIG crowds. And if that's where you want to be - following the crowds - then great. Of course they'll be crowded as well as <i>priced</i> accordingly.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">But if you're wanting an authentic New York experience AND have a bit of money left over afterwards, then you'll want to ride the same roads and enjoy the destinations that we do.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">BBQ</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.dinosaurbarbque.com/syracuse/" target="_blank"><b>Dinosaur BBQ</b></a> got their start providing good food to Bikers at motorcycle rallies and festivals all over the northeast before settling down in Syracuse. They now serve some of the best bar-b-que in eight locations across New York, Stamford, Connecticut and Newark, New Jersey. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Providing fresh, homemade, high-quality BBQ in a great place to have some fun is what runs the Dinosaur and keeps loyal customers coming back for more.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS3_oxX9-M9BR1SaSRL1FibX6xCSyntbQBBVrMRlAkC5XXpZMrtPiIvZSJaSRZb94SUkgzoL8VTQaGasE5LmbyaHen6RMJDwkM2EcE1oSNTAW2lNuq1BVp8lakP9avcpqYmGaUHPNh5l7-/s1600/iEVAl0nvQj23bpjbLt65_Dino_BBQ.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS3_oxX9-M9BR1SaSRL1FibX6xCSyntbQBBVrMRlAkC5XXpZMrtPiIvZSJaSRZb94SUkgzoL8VTQaGasE5LmbyaHen6RMJDwkM2EcE1oSNTAW2lNuq1BVp8lakP9avcpqYmGaUHPNh5l7-/s400/iEVAl0nvQj23bpjbLt65_Dino_BBQ.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Coffee</span></span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Knowledgeable staff, great prices (a cup of coffee & a fresh bagel are under $5!) and delicious coffee and other treats make <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheBrewHaHa/" target="_blank"><b>The Brew Ha Ha</b></a> in Watertown our pick for the java juice.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Live Music</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Celebrate the good things in life -that's what the <a href="https://www.lovincup.com/" target="_blank"><b>Lovin' Cup</b></a> in Rochester is all about. A comfortable environment, that transforms from morning to night with deliberate attention to detail when it comes to the vibe: handcrafted tables, rotating local art, ambient lighting, and most prominently their beautiful wine rack. A crew of people who not only take care of your needs, but get to know you. A wide-range of events and music every night of the week! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Their biggest driving force? They truly take pride in their conscious understanding of what a community-driven environment is all about.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Gastronomy</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The sense of community, sharing and connecting over food, drink, and oftentimes desserts, keeps us going back to <a href="https://gramsdineradams.com/" target="_blank"><b>Gram's Diner</b></a> in Adams week after week.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Their place in the historic row buildings of downtown Adams was carved out many years ago. However, their mission has always been the same: Serving people homemade food, at good prices, that makes them feel like they're eating just like they're at home.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUqTitwpkqg3XSmZRBHCvqoTTb-5b6FLmH7FX70lk2OO6zqC_7sBa577rvTZFg7rjIipYTm39IOcwHTyL2_da4rtMU2c9CnqipSVvrDiH54fRRuahsFr3FfbeMTlm-1-3Nrgf_RRcIam1Y/s1600/gramsdiner-food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUqTitwpkqg3XSmZRBHCvqoTTb-5b6FLmH7FX70lk2OO6zqC_7sBa577rvTZFg7rjIipYTm39IOcwHTyL2_da4rtMU2c9CnqipSVvrDiH54fRRuahsFr3FfbeMTlm-1-3Nrgf_RRcIam1Y/s400/gramsdiner-food.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Lakeside</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Natural beauty with towering mountains and glistening waters make up <b><a href="https://www.visitlakegeorge.com/" target="_blank">Lake George, NY</a> </b>-right along the shores of a lake of the same name. Fun and recreation are always mere minutes away with untouched wilderness that is destined to remain "Forever Wild."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">It's also home to <a href="https://www.americade.com/" target="_blank"><b>Americade</b></a> -</span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">proudly known as "the world's largest multi-brand motorcycle touring rally" drawing an estimated 100,000-200,000 visitor days each year. It truly is an event you have to see for yourself, whether as a rider or a spectator.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Outdoor Voices</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The name Adirondack is thought to have come from a Mohawk word meaning 'eaters of trees,' and the earliest use of the word to describe the mountains between Lake Ontario and Lake Champlain dates back to the 1700s. The <a href="https://visitadirondacks.com/" target="_blank"><b>Adirondack Park</b></a> is a place of great relaxation, which is probably why it is also home to many of the Great Camps.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">With </span><a href="http://gotourny.com/" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>GoTourNY.com</b></a><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> you can </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">d</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">iscover scenic country roads that piggyback along mountain ranges, through pristine wilderness areas and travel old logging trails. For a few dollars in gas - the six million acre Adirondack Park is yours to explore. Find quaint towns without stop lights or villages with more cows than people.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Street Party</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">That award goes to the <a href="https://tiriverrun.com/" target="_blank"><b>Thousand Islands River Run</b></a> -it takes place towards the end of each June in <a href="https://www.visitalexbay.org/" target="_blank"><b>Alexandria Bay</b></a>. Located in the "Heart" of the Thousand Islands, A-Bay (as we call it) is home to Boldt Castle and a short ride to Canada across the Thousand Islands Bridge -all of which you can see with an Uncle Sam Boat Tour.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">During the River Run you can visit the vendor area where custom bikes are displayed, update your Biker Gear with vendor products, enter a "Ma and Pa" Custom Bike Show, and enjoy the "Live Music Fest" throughout the day and into the night on James Street. Not to mention the local flavor of unique gift shops to search for the perfect gift to bring home.</span></span><br />
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</span>Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-37362460730101154792020-01-11T16:56:00.000-08:002020-01-11T16:56:52.462-08:00How Bikers Survive The Winter Months<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">When your passion is living a life on two wheels, but you live in an area where snow dominates the landscape four to six months out of the year, you learn certain survival skills. </span><br style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.524px;" /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.524px;"></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Here are some crafty ways we in the north endure:</span><br style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.524px;" /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><br style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.524px;" /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><u>Making plans to escape:</u></span><br style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.524px;" /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">There are numerous motorcycle rallies throughout the year: from <a href="http://www.officialbikeweek.com/daytonabikeweek/" style="color: #993322; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Daytona Bike Week</span></a> to <a href="http://www.laconiamcweek.com/" style="color: #993322; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Laconia</span></a>, from <a href="http://www.laughlinriverrun.com/" style="color: #993322; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Laughlin River Run</span></a> to <a href="http://www.sturgismotorcyclerally.com/" style="color: #993322; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Sturgis</span></a>, and all the small town rallies in-between. Our own local bike rally, the <a href="http://www.tiriverrun.com/" style="color: #993322; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Thousand Islands River Run</span></a> takes place in Alexandria Bay, NY every June. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDypE6mmjhAoC2DGAHTpj4zh1xYHQN0K5lf38iGSPENpmNdnvOAKPbdRQpOlhRsUp0Fhs65kDum_9Bj49U5NqhzVytGrSgCRxd8pzHExlhWkMuOkS2e86gJgdRcJ8zsZM8ZQrp-8JS8arj/s1600/ben-_MG_7181.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; color: #993322; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDypE6mmjhAoC2DGAHTpj4zh1xYHQN0K5lf38iGSPENpmNdnvOAKPbdRQpOlhRsUp0Fhs65kDum_9Bj49U5NqhzVytGrSgCRxd8pzHExlhWkMuOkS2e86gJgdRcJ8zsZM8ZQrp-8JS8arj/s400/ben-_MG_7181.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: none; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.5) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 8px; position: relative;" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">There's also weekend trips, week long, cross country - how ever we plan on riding, Bikers are plotting where and when we'll be riding to this upcoming season.</span><br style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.524px;" /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /><u>Windows into other worlds:</u></span><br style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.524px;" /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Even though we're surrounded by snow covered hills, we still have ways to ride - it's just through others in print or on the screen. Reading books like Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, your H.O.G. Magazine, The Harley-Davidson Reader allows us to escape through our mind's eye.</span><br style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.524px;" /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.524px;"></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Or there's television series, documentaries and movies that provide a nice break. I recommend Harley and the Davidsons, 21 Days Under the Sun and The World's Fastest Indian. If we can't ride, then at least we can watch other people riding.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUvoYKOLucX4R42RErm5YGDAhNvUkGxwbQjEXiD-uIMQCOUbGgJITaREys-juF6HbfJt7rRVIMA8VSv-7Q6DABIl03Q5EN9MDv4o3IzlCF-JTN8b-DA3wGLDyLnSlkbMJZZc59fYQtrU91/s1600/12398910_10153637765990804_1590181911_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; color: #993322; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUvoYKOLucX4R42RErm5YGDAhNvUkGxwbQjEXiD-uIMQCOUbGgJITaREys-juF6HbfJt7rRVIMA8VSv-7Q6DABIl03Q5EN9MDv4o3IzlCF-JTN8b-DA3wGLDyLnSlkbMJZZc59fYQtrU91/s400/12398910_10153637765990804_1590181911_n.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: none; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.5) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 8px; position: relative;" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><u>Out and about:</u></span><br style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.524px;" /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Riding ATVs and snowmobiles - for some of us just the fact that we are outside and moving is enough to help us get through. At FX Caprara Harley-Davidson always has events throughout the winter as well. </span><br style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.524px;" /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /><u>Adding that special something:</u></span><br style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.524px;" /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Now is the time of year most of us have our bikes up on a lift adding new exhaust, a sissy bar backrest, doing an engine upgrade, adding extra speakers to our sound system so we're ready to spring from winter's lock down. </span><br style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.524px;" /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.524px;"></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><u>Saving some dough:</u></span><br style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.524px;" /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.524px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Hotels, dinners, gas, gear and the like - bikers tend to save some extra money now to help offset the expenses later. Having a friend cut our hair or just cutting it ourselves, grabbing a free cup of coffee at the dealership rather than at the dinner or coffee shop, taking on a side job or two -all ways we keep our expenses light so we can live large in the Riding Season.</span></span><br style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.524px;" /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.524px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.524px;"></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13.524px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Do you have a way to get through winter? Let me know in the comments below!</span></span></span>Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-79725367948263395062019-10-27T17:03:00.000-07:002019-10-27T17:03:34.141-07:003 Things to Know as we get into the Shopping Season<span style="font-size: large;">Since Halloween is happening pretty quickly, and the fact that I already put my bike up in Winter Storage, that means the Holidays will soon be upon us. And with that, holiday shopping is about to kick-off.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This list is to help you get through the so-called 'silly season' and keep your sanity intact.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1) Shop early, shop often, and get it done</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">It's going to be a looooong November and a short December. What am I talking about?? November still only has 30 days, while Deceber has 31... BUT, this year Thanksgiving comes late, November 28th, right at the end of the month. So there's only 3 full weeks in December before the week of Christmas. The sooner you can get done with your shopping, the better off you'll be.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT7hwdy-0RxU4QuaN8t8f2VlAmhcbSXuBpRb4bt1PEh53GgxpNJZae_kAQ3sOdR4-R0aaHdNCV7vxs2jeYielXoorzdHGqhncVeiEV76ePKC0f7ZJg66LUv4VC6NhwkMz7joWWQr2QGkad/s1600/12343394_10153600017130804_269796449_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT7hwdy-0RxU4QuaN8t8f2VlAmhcbSXuBpRb4bt1PEh53GgxpNJZae_kAQ3sOdR4-R0aaHdNCV7vxs2jeYielXoorzdHGqhncVeiEV76ePKC0f7ZJg66LUv4VC6NhwkMz7joWWQr2QGkad/s400/12343394_10153600017130804_269796449_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">2) Love 'em? List 'em!</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">In the interest of time, I am definitely creating my lists of who I'm shopping for and what I'd like to get them. And when it comes making THAT decision, I go to one of my favorite guidelines: Want, Need, Wear, Read.</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Want -something that THEY say they wanted and not something you <i>think</i> they will want. There is a difference! I was given a book once for my birthday -not from any of my favorite authors or on a subject matter that I usually read... but the person who gave it to me said, "But you love books!" Which I do, it's true. Although when it comes to giving a gift, I want mine to be in line with what they person has said they actually wanted, not just what ever is "hot" at that time.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Need -it might not be fun or fancy, but if it's something they need then the gift will truly be appreciated. Spark plugs and an oil change kit might not seem sexy, but if they need it to help get their bike back on the road, then wrap that shit up!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Wear -pretty self explanatory... although this is your chance to get something that speaks to that person's style. See a scarf that'll go perfectly with that new dress? Get it. A dress-up Harley-Davidson shirt for him to wear to the party? Absolutely. The only caveat is to get a gift receipt so that they can return it for the right size if needed. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Read -again, pretty self explanatory. That being said, a cookbook is still a cookbook guys. If you're loved one really loves Harley history, then I'd suggest getting her a book like "The Harley-Davidson Reader" and NOT "50 Shades of Grey" (yup- looking at you Mom!). Get them something from their favorite author, or a subject matter you know they enjoy. They don't have enough time to read? Audiobooks would work in this instance.</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Another favorite guideline is the Holiday 50/50 Rule for the other side of the coin (them shopping for you): one for them, one for you. For each gift you're giving your spouse/boyfriend/girlfriend, you also treat yourself. You're there anyways, it'll save your significant other the trip and the time, and you know it's something you'll like.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsoFsvuE03qzH3P0vzQu6rJiWnbZKHtLzAdDKARuudCh-4el7yLT0QfoPTfffSvn2GU1zEmqs6yf03SODFEmFUg97lYaei5iS3MdS8nyRjQHacrS3YpgseDtUiiqcf7UHc5EWPqazbE8sR/s1600/new_year_christmas_tree_night_holiday_home_hogh_contrast_hd-wallpaper-35329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="984" data-original-width="1600" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsoFsvuE03qzH3P0vzQu6rJiWnbZKHtLzAdDKARuudCh-4el7yLT0QfoPTfffSvn2GU1zEmqs6yf03SODFEmFUg97lYaei5iS3MdS8nyRjQHacrS3YpgseDtUiiqcf7UHc5EWPqazbE8sR/s400/new_year_christmas_tree_night_holiday_home_hogh_contrast_hd-wallpaper-35329.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">3) Protect and Defend</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Even though I work at a traditional brick & mortar store, and would absolutely love it if you came in and do all your shopping at FX Caprara Harley-Davidson, I know that's not going to happen. It's far more easy and less time consuming for you to go online and get at least part of your list checked off.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">However there are just as many bad guys out there waiting to take advantage and steal your money. Phishing scams, fake websites, and those rip-off artists who have pirated a brand name to 'sell' you items that don't exist. Here's some tips to help keep you safe:</span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Pay with a credit card rather than using your debit card (easier to dispute transactions).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Don't save your credit card info online. Some sites will offer to keep your card info in order to speed up the check out process on your next purchase, but remember those data breeches over the last year or so? Yeah- enough said.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">When buying, selling or even checking your bank account do not use public/open Wi-Fi. Just imagine someone looking over your shoulder whenever you think about doing a quick purchase while on Starbucks open network.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Check the website address -bogus sites subtly substitute similar characters (AMAZ0N.com versus AMAZON.com). </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Same with the brand logo - I once got tricked by a Harley-Davdson jacket I bought online (well before I started working at a dealership of course) because my mind saw what I thought was a complete logo.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">The price is simply too good to believe. Cuz if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Check the seller -if an individual has 20 of the same handbag just in different colors, you should definitely think twice. Individuals are not licensed by the manufacturer to sell, they're most likely selling fakes.</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Of course the best way to get a good deal online, along with the real product, customer service, and easy returns, is to shop with an authorized dealer. Go to that brand's website directly, like H-D.com/store or RalphLauren.com. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">And, to be ultra secure and know for sure that you're getting the real thing, head over to the actual, physical store location. You'll get a more personal shopping experience as well as an actual human interaction. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm-oJnTqa-8fa_gN90x43yJmie6euDOzw2hHtHoFq_5qsf1yUXc2sSwAKjuWaI6TwZUEA37MO7TIWIQlB9nKIwo3VXAOhuzc0ah0DJtZQrWvy1a_I7IYwl5gOBHszf0PMMM9w0rWgUtIua/s1600/happy+HARLEY+days+with+FXCHD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="437" data-original-width="686" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm-oJnTqa-8fa_gN90x43yJmie6euDOzw2hHtHoFq_5qsf1yUXc2sSwAKjuWaI6TwZUEA37MO7TIWIQlB9nKIwo3VXAOhuzc0ah0DJtZQrWvy1a_I7IYwl5gOBHszf0PMMM9w0rWgUtIua/s400/happy+HARLEY+days+with+FXCHD.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-71966865762888671752019-09-26T11:23:00.000-07:002019-09-27T06:14:28.397-07:00The Wheel Keeps on Turning<span style="font-size: large;">Today I'm reminded of the song by Journey (one of the great rock bands of my youth): <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ez-lRQAklV4" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Wheel in the Sky</span></a>. You remember that song, right?</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">Ooh, the wheel in the sky keeps on turning</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">I don't know where I'll be tomorrow</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">Wheel in the sky keeps on turning... For tomorrow</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Why? Because here we find ourselves at the end of September... already. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX77GcQcjzX8KPkNIzMiEW_ZInICQf2GRzSUHJUjBY4KN8xYwLAA_9pjpKSloi8zg50Z4ic36HYyg0rQzUV7dOz6XYtpmNo9Gem84LfXJS8tEyXRWuJv3iZS-Ah1a8bEJSkb8g6eJgc8KR/s1600/42e62bfdd2103db99fd536bac7f0b7ba.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="573" data-original-width="564" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX77GcQcjzX8KPkNIzMiEW_ZInICQf2GRzSUHJUjBY4KN8xYwLAA_9pjpKSloi8zg50Z4ic36HYyg0rQzUV7dOz6XYtpmNo9Gem84LfXJS8tEyXRWuJv3iZS-Ah1a8bEJSkb8g6eJgc8KR/s400/42e62bfdd2103db99fd536bac7f0b7ba.jpg" width="392" /></a></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">SPOT CHECK: Where are you on your New Year's Resolutions? </span></h3>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Most bikers I know have only one "<a href="https://fxcapraraharleydavidson.blogspot.com/2017/12/biker-resolutions-for-going-into-new.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">New Year Resolution</span></a>": to ride more miles in the new year than they did the previous year. Last year I rode a total of 8,465 miles, and I've almost reached my goal to surpass that this year... '<i>almost</i>'<i> </i>being the key word. I haven't reached my goal just yet.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">With Halloween on the horizon (which kicks off the holiday trifecta) some of us living in the North Country might think that the Riding Season is over. Think again!!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm here to tell you that there's still time to get out and go ride!!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv2hg9pTduRq5gUJDkZl-5BKigXUo7S8pKBPVnIt-AflFVbsN87NqyLKtbC9Py_TYoKY9yoRVpQ-nNI3DRwlxYiVbRn6fqdak9tzl8qMkw8gDjfeuXQlTTyTLHuaXOGpmPCVp2IFrInTvr/s1600/0500811_MW_MY20_191302+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="406" data-original-width="1492" height="108" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv2hg9pTduRq5gUJDkZl-5BKigXUo7S8pKBPVnIt-AflFVbsN87NqyLKtbC9Py_TYoKY9yoRVpQ-nNI3DRwlxYiVbRn6fqdak9tzl8qMkw8gDjfeuXQlTTyTLHuaXOGpmPCVp2IFrInTvr/s400/0500811_MW_MY20_191302+%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Yes you can squeeze every mile out of the Riding Season. Windproof gloves and jackets, heated grips, jacket liners, waterproof pants & seats, and face masks or neck gaitors (to name just a few). All to keep you comfortable and warm while you're riding.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">And, of course, all available at <a href="https://fxcapraraharley-davidson.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>FX Caprara Harley-Davidson</b></span></a>. Along with our staff -most of whom ride as well- to give you the right recommendations for what you need.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">PS- for those H.O.G. (aka Harley Owners Group) Members logging miles for the Mileage Recognition: remember to have your mileage verified with me, <a href="https://fxcapraraharley-davidson.com/meet-our-work-team-xstaff" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Dawn at FXCHD</span></a>, or at your local Harley-Davidson dealer.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQej_QE3lfiwgGG_BYu4MKnv2HxM3yhyphenhyphenaT8fNmsAeuILj6FHcjlWDj6JxVR0xhrhu70TEo9nR0q5pkgzrN3pMWBsPS2jYT1P5JBYAuvcQoaLhPyY7ZJnETk3MbMXzm-wOSDCOWwOGCvpOW/s1600/5090365453_fc69096234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="334" data-original-width="500" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQej_QE3lfiwgGG_BYu4MKnv2HxM3yhyphenhyphenaT8fNmsAeuILj6FHcjlWDj6JxVR0xhrhu70TEo9nR0q5pkgzrN3pMWBsPS2jYT1P5JBYAuvcQoaLhPyY7ZJnETk3MbMXzm-wOSDCOWwOGCvpOW/s400/5090365453_fc69096234.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-79875806013799576622019-08-17T13:46:00.002-07:002019-08-17T13:46:42.220-07:00Forward Thinking Way Back When...<span style="font-size: large;">Last year saw a lot of firsts for me: my first new Harley, my first trip 'home' to Milwaukee, and my first week-long motorcycle adventure to celebrate 115 years of all that is Harley-Davidson.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYaehZjNhLav83zrElvoPiKIpd_j4NqiwhBSEfq6IaJmiEUeVxR-nClkT7_fqkYoIXGB6Pa6ZKnkyl7xa9BnjoNicx3wnzqOLZRAMiyxyUHS9TJpKXkJGeIQT6dskwZ9RsaKJjmnv6N81a/s1600/Screenshot+2017-09-25+12.02.06.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="510" data-original-width="1345" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYaehZjNhLav83zrElvoPiKIpd_j4NqiwhBSEfq6IaJmiEUeVxR-nClkT7_fqkYoIXGB6Pa6ZKnkyl7xa9BnjoNicx3wnzqOLZRAMiyxyUHS9TJpKXkJGeIQT6dskwZ9RsaKJjmnv6N81a/s400/Screenshot+2017-09-25+12.02.06.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">This year will find me back to Wisconsin, my first solo trip by motorcycle, and my first Annual Dealer Meeting in Milwaukee. In fact this year marks the 100th Anniversary of Dealer Meetings.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK1dbgjxQgSexUlBBFOMKoLYs9VjC36Z1GEB5h_kpdacCcE8UAC5puXISjF0YMFVBHjWfQy3NCB4LnIdPLLRUaViB9RZl6SzpOGoKXjrJvoJtDHY6xlJrBRDXQ5Q4UKZgePoeQxt9Zjebh/s1600/20190816-dm1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="633" data-original-width="900" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK1dbgjxQgSexUlBBFOMKoLYs9VjC36Z1GEB5h_kpdacCcE8UAC5puXISjF0YMFVBHjWfQy3NCB4LnIdPLLRUaViB9RZl6SzpOGoKXjrJvoJtDHY6xlJrBRDXQ5Q4UKZgePoeQxt9Zjebh/s400/20190816-dm1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First Convention Booklet Cover</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Just before the annual motorcycle show in Chicago, the founding fathers invited dealers to Milwaukee -that was November 1919. In the years prior many dealers flocked to the factory, since it's close to Chicago, and conveyed what their customers wanted as well as to get technical training.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBK8MMDeoWCvjASIMN840sQmViIYhLOTlCoWNpGQaZmPCPJfSfaAoXFG8SagYeI-tTacyexvm7oK2hQhfWsEgcpNyxIVqnpUtY_SeW4rPdB95XcJwM3W3xJqT8SwdGkxjXcFxj5OKRwS_s/s1600/20190816-dm2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="697" data-original-width="900" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBK8MMDeoWCvjASIMN840sQmViIYhLOTlCoWNpGQaZmPCPJfSfaAoXFG8SagYeI-tTacyexvm7oK2hQhfWsEgcpNyxIVqnpUtY_SeW4rPdB95XcJwM3W3xJqT8SwdGkxjXcFxj5OKRwS_s/s400/20190816-dm2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dealers getting briefed on the 1936 EL, November 1935</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The first ever National Dealer Convention was quite noteworthy!</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">"It was truly a successful event... from the standpoint of the dealers and those who troubled to pack their kits to come to Milwaukee, as well as from the standpoint of the promoters of the idea." ~</span><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Motorcycle and Bicycle Illustrated</i>: </span><span style="font-size: large;">Nov. 27, 1919 </span></blockquote>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPf5_bbJ3cp7LKWrcm-KsBaoDfi1gZ7UzaivXbDTBYsZtWYgcwxoOgJtrp9afGEEO-o-7UPu1rGIo9MP7gvyTgHNlwtg_G7pcSseqUyBz3oL2LSWmFskdoxcuESpPC7zvxqmhzZG5q7cFi/s1600/20190816-dm3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1129" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPf5_bbJ3cp7LKWrcm-KsBaoDfi1gZ7UzaivXbDTBYsZtWYgcwxoOgJtrp9afGEEO-o-7UPu1rGIo9MP7gvyTgHNlwtg_G7pcSseqUyBz3oL2LSWmFskdoxcuESpPC7zvxqmhzZG5q7cFi/s400/20190816-dm3.jpg" width="318" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A welcome as BIG as it gets!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Harley-Davidson recognized even back then that their dealerships are 'on the ground' with the customers, and were quick to listen to what they were saying.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi01Wy7qwYhztNY-jCF_2vroSKL3Z4H5IY-6Egab3v5qrELtmPU7-3vhQ1EdWolmRrESnkGd67b5FsHmLFt-bhGbTAr0QjQsfpHoBqmrnsk5Pxr5TLJPgEPG3CO9nLhNI7ZBoTaeHCHSDze/s1600/20190816-dm4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="744" data-original-width="900" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi01Wy7qwYhztNY-jCF_2vroSKL3Z4H5IY-6Egab3v5qrELtmPU7-3vhQ1EdWolmRrESnkGd67b5FsHmLFt-bhGbTAr0QjQsfpHoBqmrnsk5Pxr5TLJPgEPG3CO9nLhNI7ZBoTaeHCHSDze/s400/20190816-dm4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Legendary "Dot" Robinson and a 1957 K Model</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">With that in mind, fast forward to today: What is it you'd like us <a href="https://fxcapraraharley-davidson.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>at FX Caprara Harley-Davidson</b></span></a> to convey to the MoCo for you??</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf5mien80dpkJ7KfLBIO7QiUMDS_9MHlnnEt8JGbC3G6Fn_Sc0u0YrFUE9yK6w6kkKmASg75OyZDipnTu800DaIRaNyL8FKswCND8RWsLz360IQb-atTYxG_lpx4djET4V4W2TPZv9cSKT/s1600/20190816-dm5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="699" data-original-width="900" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf5mien80dpkJ7KfLBIO7QiUMDS_9MHlnnEt8JGbC3G6Fn_Sc0u0YrFUE9yK6w6kkKmASg75OyZDipnTu800DaIRaNyL8FKswCND8RWsLz360IQb-atTYxG_lpx4djET4V4W2TPZv9cSKT/s400/20190816-dm5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-41162869522831169942019-07-17T16:00:00.000-07:002019-07-17T16:00:39.714-07:005 Things You Do Not Need to Take on a Motorcycle Trip<span style="font-size: large;">Taking a long trip by motorcycle is a wonderous thing! No matter if you're going it alone or with a group of friends, you're going to have the time of your life.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Although you might be a seasoned traveler, successfully navigating through airports, TSA, flight delays and lost luggage, trekking by bike is something else all together. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq3VXRZxdxJPEzQ6r-7AZfgy6MSrrp0ammjgvr8aGjzilSuT9jwd3yPXdDGXAJzx2817ngKMpDKerrYdoEVzL83I5sA7VOZDoARdeFs8BLS1tTi73PPRCWjq9Bxp1KnlUdmIxVEhkmAgh-/s1600/harley-davidson-xAHtaYIHlPI-unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq3VXRZxdxJPEzQ6r-7AZfgy6MSrrp0ammjgvr8aGjzilSuT9jwd3yPXdDGXAJzx2817ngKMpDKerrYdoEVzL83I5sA7VOZDoARdeFs8BLS1tTi73PPRCWjq9Bxp1KnlUdmIxVEhkmAgh-/s400/harley-davidson-xAHtaYIHlPI-unsplash.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: , "blinkmacsystemfont" , "san francisco" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "ubuntu" , "roboto" , "noto" , "segoe ui" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@harleydavidson?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Harley-Davidson</a><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: , "blinkmacsystemfont" , "san francisco" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "ubuntu" , "roboto" , "noto" , "segoe ui" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/search/photos/harley-davidson?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Unsplash</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I remember when I first started traveling by motorcycle, packing everything I could fit into my bag, straining it to the seams. Now, nearly 10 years later, I know exactly what I don't need to take with me. And they are:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">1. Hair Dryer</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Why? Because your hotel room will have one and space is a precious commodity on a motorcycle.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">2. Towels</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Again, your hotel room will have them and the more space you save the better. There's only one towel you need to bring, a small one - or better yet a travel chamois cloth - to wipe the morning dew off your bike. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">3. Books</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You might be thinking you'll have time to read once you check into your hotel. And then you realize you just got to your destination -where are you going to eat dinner. Oh -and there's that live music you just found out about. Planning to read in the morning before check out? Remember that you'll be packing your stuff onto the bike... Unless it's your H.O.G. Touring Handbook, you're not going to have time to read it.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8jQL-LbyoDS4RUgvcemDE_lVHPsQ_hwZ7SQjuAsISjVpVV0CgUaEmjNn1cI7OqB2SRs3iOKxT2SbiGUvruvd7T1Zbh_hSlqP2wLVCux_uJq-p0OOkcxjk_KKAKqH7SrJ3KXFjXvyP2TJR/s1600/jj-jordan-vMa1z9kH-s4-unsplash+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8jQL-LbyoDS4RUgvcemDE_lVHPsQ_hwZ7SQjuAsISjVpVV0CgUaEmjNn1cI7OqB2SRs3iOKxT2SbiGUvruvd7T1Zbh_hSlqP2wLVCux_uJq-p0OOkcxjk_KKAKqH7SrJ3KXFjXvyP2TJR/s400/jj-jordan-vMa1z9kH-s4-unsplash+%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: , "blinkmacsystemfont" , "san francisco" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "ubuntu" , "roboto" , "noto" , "segoe ui" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@jjjordan?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">JJ Jordan</a><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: , "blinkmacsystemfont" , "san francisco" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "ubuntu" , "roboto" , "noto" , "segoe ui" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/search/photos/silk-blouse?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Unsplash</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. Clothing that doesn't do double duty</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You'll want to bring a sweatshirt you can wear on cold days while riding and cooler temps at your location. Not that special cashmere sweater or silk blouse that cost over $100 and you plan on wearing only once. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">5. Too many shoes</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This is a hard one for me! But I have to remember I really only need 3 pairs: my riding boots, a pair of sneakers, and a pair of flats. The temptation will be there, so just remember you're going to want to save as much space as possible. And also remember to put your socks and/or underwear inside your shoes -again, to save space.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I think it must have been a biker who came up with the phrase, "Less is More," because it is absolutely true on a motorcycle!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJv9AaFKIYSEAoFxwVVpibZt57bT99nGxqgnLu1XXBfS3fz11C412N4e78mkQuJgAwy8_v8GeiXlbiEM2QDuv90dnuHpLF5OSR7IOuYme28Smjuyn0LGM_VCMX9lCGAvb_YWfK9gi-arGH/s1600/20180716_170136+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="426" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJv9AaFKIYSEAoFxwVVpibZt57bT99nGxqgnLu1XXBfS3fz11C412N4e78mkQuJgAwy8_v8GeiXlbiEM2QDuv90dnuHpLF5OSR7IOuYme28Smjuyn0LGM_VCMX9lCGAvb_YWfK9gi-arGH/s400/20180716_170136+%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My 2018 Heritage all ready for our next adventure!</td></tr>
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Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-3136658619342072102019-06-26T10:25:00.000-07:002019-06-26T10:25:25.687-07:00Going out doing what I love... My Passion<span style="font-size: large;">Call me crazy, but I have dreamed of my death. In my dream I'm old, probably in my 90s, laying in a bed surrounded by my children and their children. Which is all well and good, but that's not how I wish to depart this reality.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">All of us will eventually shuffle off, leaving only the memory of us in the ones we love and who loved us.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp3XSslHaW0qBQCtTcjo5SDpC4ftazYTGtWWGYkzA7fE8kB1y3BxAJQ8B7FCepnTAoP9iGOHRMQTWqK4oSoZOrIG9Yl3HHXj0SjdhOoy4U-h9ZCCqpNGVwd1OLZpsONwusqggSsaQAqySx/s1600/debby-hudson-1tCQcTjLoRQ-unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp3XSslHaW0qBQCtTcjo5SDpC4ftazYTGtWWGYkzA7fE8kB1y3BxAJQ8B7FCepnTAoP9iGOHRMQTWqK4oSoZOrIG9Yl3HHXj0SjdhOoy4U-h9ZCCqpNGVwd1OLZpsONwusqggSsaQAqySx/s400/debby-hudson-1tCQcTjLoRQ-unsplash.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; white-space: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@dhudson_creative?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Debby Hudson</a><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; white-space: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/search/photos/memories?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Unsplash</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Although, technically I'm not even supposed to be alive! As a child I was diagnosed with All Lymphatic Leukemia, and back in the early 70s the survival rate wasn't exactly the best. At one point the doctors told my father they needed to operate to remove the lymph nodes in my neck, and when he refused the doctors proclaimed I would die. "We are <i>all</i> going to die... No one gets out of this alive," was my dad's reply</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Obviously I survived... they never did operate and a little while later I finally went into remission. That instilled the mantra into my head as I grew up: </span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">It doesn't matter how we die, only how we live.</span></blockquote>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb7sl1R2mz71I16X4OEvdsVvh5fcnqRNgSaQ7xbksAf2pz79QG70lNSVg26ECzeY4vWFejTek6tZT3eegviYzhhfRLXx8eWGlXHEAS8v7NnzfleMpkGohl30nZdgY97V8b4ljbr5MVdYma/s1600/harley-davidson-zGzXsJUBQfs-unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb7sl1R2mz71I16X4OEvdsVvh5fcnqRNgSaQ7xbksAf2pz79QG70lNSVg26ECzeY4vWFejTek6tZT3eegviYzhhfRLXx8eWGlXHEAS8v7NnzfleMpkGohl30nZdgY97V8b4ljbr5MVdYma/s400/harley-davidson-zGzXsJUBQfs-unsplash.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; white-space: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@harleydavidson?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Harley-Davidson</a><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; white-space: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/@harleydavidson?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; text-decoration-skip-ink: auto; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Unsplash</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Last weekend, while I was in Alexandria Bay at the <a href="https://tiriverrun.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Thousand Islands River Run</span></a>, I heard <a href="https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/400-bikers-pay-tribute-motorcyclists-032141354.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">the news from New Hampshire</span></a>. Word of the accident spread quickly through our biker community not only because we're somewhat close to the area (just a day ride), but also because we've got Fort Drum Army Post literally in our back yard (and most of the victims were former Marines). </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Going back to my youth again, growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area in the 80s and 90s, I had quite a few friends pass away from a terminal illness that left their bodies weak and frail. For some it was all they could do just to sit up in bed. There was no way for them to do what they loved, even if that was just a walk in the park.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">This past weekend there was also news from Hawaii: a plane carrying skydivers had gone down. <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/hawaii-crash-skydiving-plane-was-involved-in-prior-incident/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">In the news coverage</span></a>, the girlfriend of one of the victims had said, "...he loved what he did and he died doing what he loved, so it was beautiful." </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX77GcQcjzX8KPkNIzMiEW_ZInICQf2GRzSUHJUjBY4KN8xYwLAA_9pjpKSloi8zg50Z4ic36HYyg0rQzUV7dOz6XYtpmNo9Gem84LfXJS8tEyXRWuJv3iZS-Ah1a8bEJSkb8g6eJgc8KR/s1600/42e62bfdd2103db99fd536bac7f0b7ba.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="573" data-original-width="564" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX77GcQcjzX8KPkNIzMiEW_ZInICQf2GRzSUHJUjBY4KN8xYwLAA_9pjpKSloi8zg50Z4ic36HYyg0rQzUV7dOz6XYtpmNo9Gem84LfXJS8tEyXRWuJv3iZS-Ah1a8bEJSkb8g6eJgc8KR/s320/42e62bfdd2103db99fd536bac7f0b7ba.jpg" width="314" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Yes, both accidents were tragedies. And yes, both should never have happened. However, that is as much a part of the circle of life as life itself: birth, life, death, repeat.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">And, if given the choice between a long suffering illness where my body and/or mind could betray me and I'm left virtually helpless, or a quick accident where I was doing something I enjoyed, I'd take the later. If at all possible, I'd like to go out doing what I love.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaqaTcFZ1dQFWiGBFCcgyXNKqad9JWDFR9rTf8ZGW54KCn3CrzpXrA4ZJEWnuxW26JyLMwt51VDkB-5QQe7lB1OR4FrRTzJWya1_bAwg_XXOquQJFgfngl6E3m0XnpoIrhyphenhyphen4esSuGYT6sU/s1600/60597502_10156379986140765_6053303675504295936_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaqaTcFZ1dQFWiGBFCcgyXNKqad9JWDFR9rTf8ZGW54KCn3CrzpXrA4ZJEWnuxW26JyLMwt51VDkB-5QQe7lB1OR4FrRTzJWya1_bAwg_XXOquQJFgfngl6E3m0XnpoIrhyphenhyphen4esSuGYT6sU/s400/60597502_10156379986140765_6053303675504295936_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-22271702285422026912019-05-14T10:23:00.000-07:002019-05-14T10:23:43.357-07:00Bottoms Up! <span style="font-size: large;">The sun is out, the bike's are out of their winter storage... The new Riding Season has begun!!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The Biker Life is usually depicted in movies and television series as "Ride. Drink. Party. Repeat." And honestly, that's not too far from the truth. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">After all, one of the main reasons why we ride motorcycles to begin with: the Freedom it gives us as we fly along. That feeling that you can do anything!! The community, the family, and the freedom all rolled into one passion that bonds us together. A life on two-wheels.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">So, when we get off the bike, we want to keep that feeling and the fun going. Most feel that a beer or two while on your lunch break, with your cheeseburger and fries, is ok... it's no big deal to then get back on the bike and finish the rest of the ride. More than a few times I've even heard the old joke, "You can't get better at drinking and riding without practice!" </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I myself have pushed the envelope more than once in this area. My reasoning was that I probably wasn't 'legally' intoxicated (which in NY means having a blood alcohol level (BAC) of .08% or higher), so I was fine to ride or drive. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcAoP95G7bqtqnMU-6j0q_QjVvTcTdhtktXEyUcQTAW0dqMWUBX8mlScrgNUl57cEw9Zq1qU7CtAnoarFQLyvB8PmMh91B5RHpRoFFQ8Rrixi1SF7SvUEcD4WxnTbcG0us-B2MSX9VGuD0/s1600/Life+magazine+1947.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="880" data-original-width="596" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcAoP95G7bqtqnMU-6j0q_QjVvTcTdhtktXEyUcQTAW0dqMWUBX8mlScrgNUl57cEw9Zq1qU7CtAnoarFQLyvB8PmMh91B5RHpRoFFQ8Rrixi1SF7SvUEcD4WxnTbcG0us-B2MSX9VGuD0/s400/Life+magazine+1947.bmp" width="270" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #999999; color: white; font-size: x-large;">I was sh*ttin' kittens folks!! Hands at 10 & 2, </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #999999; color: white; font-size: x-large;">cruise control set at 55... the Whole. Way. Home.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And there was the last time I went to dinner with friends and drank A LOT of rum & cokes. I guessed I probably was over the legal limit, but I wasn't really <i>that</i> drunk... so I drove home anyways (my truck, not riding my bike -another calculation in my poor perception)... </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">That was before I knew what I know now:</span><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Alcohol affects a Rider's ability to "SEE" -the acronym we learned in our basic rider's course to <u>S</u>earch ahead for potential hazards, <u>E</u>valuate how much of a threat that hazard is, and <u>E</u>xecute an action to avoid the hazard that could possible injure us.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Even with a BAC of 0.01%-0.04% your reaction time is slowed. And having a BAC of 0.05% increases your chance of getting in an accident by a factor of forty... Whoops!! Remember the scenario I started this blog off with? I'm drinking and riding with a group of friends... now the danger far outweighs any reward.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">That New York State Law voids your PIP (Personal Injury Protection/no-fault) when you're driving your car while intoxicated and get in an accident. So any medical coverage is coming from your medical insurance... How much is your ER co-pay??</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Of course, if you've been to any of the <a href="http://www.northernnewyorkhog.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>NNY H.O.G. Chapter</b></span></a>'s Annual Motorcycle Insurance Check-Ups (held every April at <a href="https://www.fxcapraraharley-davidson.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>FX Caprara Harley-Davidson</b></span></a>), you know that Motorcyclists do not fall under the no-fault rule while riding, and motorcycle insurance does not provide PIP coverage. You can get medical payments coverage, and when that runs out your medical insurance may pick up the balance... but again, how much is your co-pay??</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #999999; color: white; font-size: x-large;">What it all boils down to:</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #999999; color: white; font-size: x-large;">How much are you willing to risk?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Oh, I know myself. I know how to handle a bike (or drive a car) - I've been doing it most of my life!" you say to yourself. "I know how much is 'too much' - I've got good judgement. I 'drank responsibly' as they've asked me to." </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">But here's the thing: Yes, when you're sober, you have good judgement. But add alcohol to the mix and your judgement becomes impaired. You are less critical of your own actions. So your so-called good judgment is now bad judgement, and you're no longer in a place to make that judgement call.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Remember the time <i>I knew</i> I was legally intoxicated but choose to drive home anyways? Yeah... between Watertown and Natural Bridge (25 miles) I had either a Watertown Police Officer, a Jefferson County Sheriff or a NY State Trooper, right behind me for 23 of those 25 miles. I was sh*ttin' kittens the entire time folks!! Hands at 10 & 2, cruise control set at 55... the Whole. Way. Home. I was praying to who ever was listening, "If I can just get home safe I promise I'll never do this again!!"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I didn't want to have to pay one of those "DUI Guys" a large sum of money I didn't have in the first place. I didn't have the money for increased insurance payments. I didn't have the time off of work to appear in court, or to get counseling, or to go to jail. I didn't want to really be behind bars!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Luckily for me I didn't get pulled over that night. My prayers were answered and I've kept my promise.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg34g6MXpXPfQ1s84fbml7Xg_gb-O-TpT9OixyeQOjShhexXJIdyaxf5ACy9IPD9Loc1aMUPeuir8d-qyxhCKi7Dpp0Zdx2lRlDg_wRvd9PpiJlDBUkv0NvJe47-TrmbR2bAcH33syAB4O7/s1600/Michigan-Niagara+August+Trip+FB+Banner+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="592" data-original-width="1600" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg34g6MXpXPfQ1s84fbml7Xg_gb-O-TpT9OixyeQOjShhexXJIdyaxf5ACy9IPD9Loc1aMUPeuir8d-qyxhCKi7Dpp0Zdx2lRlDg_wRvd9PpiJlDBUkv0NvJe47-TrmbR2bAcH33syAB4O7/s400/Michigan-Niagara+August+Trip+FB+Banner+collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Don't get me wrong - I'm not saying you can't have any alcohol (or other things to get you impaired...). Drink up me hearties, yo-ho!! Drink to your heart's content. Drink till the cows come home. [Insert medical warning here.]</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I've got DNA proof I'm Irish, so you can believe me when I say I enjoy my fair share of drinks. It's just that now I only drink at home when my bike (or car) is parked for the night. Or, when I'm out & about, I have a plan to get back safe -Uber, Lyft, Taxi or the Designated Driver. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Please, enjoy your libations my Biker Family and non-riding friends alike! If that's your thing, then by all means, party-hearty. AND have a plan to get home safely and/or stay home.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i>○Slainté</i></b></span></div>
Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-52587103152295535542019-04-22T18:07:00.000-07:002019-05-02T06:35:16.529-07:0017 Do's and Don'ts for your First Group Ride<span style="font-size: large;">Many Bikers who've been around the block a time or two have a routine down when it comes to going on a group ride. Most like to arrive early to meet up with old friends while making new ones. Others prefer to register for the ride first and plan where they'll be riding in the group.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">If you're new to motorcycling or new to group riding, here's a list of "do's and don'ts" <a href="https://www.fxcapraraharley-davidson.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>right from FXCHD</b></span></a>. These tips are good to follow if you're riding with friends or on a larger charity ride.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">DO start off the day with a full tank of gas. There's usually a gas station close to where the ride starts, so plan to fill up there. Nothing's worse than having the ride starting out and less than a mile into it you've got to signal you need gas.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLSnDU5HeV64XlEghjJ3gvAEe6lKjQLI-QWd08Vxeh0oTN_7_xIQbQBEUoh_fUm1QpPSDsRnRq7-KzvKjekb3hcgkSthadC0-bRKfWN1CoJOr_1vN8dvYbunSXjOsQuYlM97nHDmaHxRFE/s1600/imageedit_5_8862212788+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="468" data-original-width="1146" height="162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLSnDU5HeV64XlEghjJ3gvAEe6lKjQLI-QWd08Vxeh0oTN_7_xIQbQBEUoh_fUm1QpPSDsRnRq7-KzvKjekb3hcgkSthadC0-bRKfWN1CoJOr_1vN8dvYbunSXjOsQuYlM97nHDmaHxRFE/s400/imageedit_5_8862212788+%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">DO get to know your group riding signals. Sure lots of riders have bike to bike communications, but not everybody! So it's useful to know how to use signals to communicate and understand.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">DON'T forget to do a <a href="https://www.msf-usa.org/downloads/T-CLOCS_Inspection_Checklist.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>T-CLOCS inspection</b></span></a> <i><b>before</b></i> even leaving the house. You'll be really embarrassed if a cop pulls you over because your tail lamp is out.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">DO have water with you so you can stay hydrated as the day goes on.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">DON'T be afraid to ask questions and speak up! If the person leading the ride isn't pointed out to you, ask who you're supposed to be following. If you know the route they're taking is tore up, let the group know ahead of time.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">DO take lots of pictures if that's your thing. Not only will it help you to remember the fun you had that day, they also make great birthday or Christmas gifts later on.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">DO ride up to the pumps and gas up when the group stops for gas. Only after filling up your fuel tank do you empty your bladder (unless it's an urgency) or grab a snack to eat. And, even if you think you don't need gas, fill up anyways because you never know.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">DO ride your own ride (meaning ride with the group and reasonably stay within your comfort zone). The nice thing about riding in a group is you'll usually have more experienced riders that can tell you're ready to take your ride to the next level, so they might have you go through some twisties that you didn't think you could handle. That being said...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">...DON'T be pushed too far beyond your riding abilities. Say you've never ridden on the interstate and the group is planning a 'turn and burn' out to Buffalo (speeding down the Thruway just to get there and then get back). If this is not your style then say so! Do not ride faster than your Guardian Angel can fly.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">DO make your last phone calls, texts, tweets and Instagram, Facebook, etc. posts well before the ride starts.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Q8YmhbRIflBBtSPO1Gwfpi6nA5lqelsAQxFevBIzn34GCwaqSd-wG3f7-taPchQiYs_3wJYp4FqyKriZSip5aCgxLss0khfqB8Q9fu8RQ7pnRd_6A-4SPCYmAmKYtFKXaW0Nqr4tAzFE/s1600/FXRG_Shot69_70_12022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Q8YmhbRIflBBtSPO1Gwfpi6nA5lqelsAQxFevBIzn34GCwaqSd-wG3f7-taPchQiYs_3wJYp4FqyKriZSip5aCgxLss0khfqB8Q9fu8RQ7pnRd_6A-4SPCYmAmKYtFKXaW0Nqr4tAzFE/s320/FXRG_Shot69_70_12022.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">DON'T be "that guy/gal" to be putting on your helmet, gloves, selecting your radio station or getting your earbuds in, etc while everyone is already ready to ride and they're waiting on you. When the Road Captain says to get ready to ride, that is not the time to start an in-depth conversation or perform a T-CLOCS inspection. Go grab your stuff, put it on and start your bike.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">DO take your rain gear with you. Even if the Weather Wo/Man says there won't be any rain, you might still find a need for it. Waterproof = Wind-proof. If it's not raining you can put on your rainsuit to help block the wind and keep you warm.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">DO be familiar and be comfortable riding in a staggered formation. Most groups do this, it's only when Bikers have been riding together for years that are confident to ride side-by-side.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlTaaejCO-6CLXGgjGqwnOpG9RTP56f2BXSdNhx2LoQg-76CXcygHiIz8pQmoNkgnSVzcIFPSdyQLKVjeeSI4v9gFNXQrDGzODNGgsw2ulsTh6OwsumgbwY-l5Ms5c034wsQC8uhcmTRT0/s1600/formation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="160" data-original-width="468" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlTaaejCO-6CLXGgjGqwnOpG9RTP56f2BXSdNhx2LoQg-76CXcygHiIz8pQmoNkgnSVzcIFPSdyQLKVjeeSI4v9gFNXQrDGzODNGgsw2ulsTh6OwsumgbwY-l5Ms5c034wsQC8uhcmTRT0/s400/formation.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">DON'T miss the Ride Briefing -with most rides they'll have a small period before KSU (Kick Stands Up) where they'll go over who the Road Captains are, what riding signals they'll be using, how they plan on handling stop lights & heavy traffic intersections, what the route will be, and what the road conditions are (if there's construction going on, gravel down, etc.). Sure you'll see it on the ride, but it is nice to know about it before hand as well.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">DO wait for other members of the group on a ride. Keep an eye on your rearview mirrors and let members in the group ahead of you know if others have fallen behind. This can happen on small group rides with friends that you'll run into this situation (most larger charity group rides will also have someone riding 'sweep'). Someone maybe got a flat tire, stalled out their bike, or ran out of gas... If you no longer see them in your rearview, signal to the others, pull over and wait for them to catch up. If you don't see them in a few minutes, chances are you'll probably have to double back and go see what's going on.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">DON'T drink and ride, group ride or riding on your own. First of all, the ride really is intoxicating enough. Second, most groups don't allow any alcohol before or during the ride - it's just not safe and puts others at risk. Third, if you do have an accident the police and your insurance will insist on a full investigation, and if they find you're legally intoxicated you'll be in for fines, license suspension, possible jail time, and increased insurance premiums.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Last but not least: DO take the time to enjoy the ride and make new friends. After all, you know you already have one thing in common: riding motorcycles! This is your time to relax, have fun, see new sites and roads, and maybe even learn a new thing or two. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI3FkCR8XZPFzrH8ESJO2zd2ugM6c9CruTdk_rWDuDvWL_A4ZNkrGlBfBZPpiqt5Rwq2_f2QA-SBh12vrhqwqdojs96HSaFrYKmMyg7DswN4ulkKRKl4r6U5gwHSRF_Os6WmsXeFK4j5eJ/s1600/have+fun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1290" data-original-width="1600" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI3FkCR8XZPFzrH8ESJO2zd2ugM6c9CruTdk_rWDuDvWL_A4ZNkrGlBfBZPpiqt5Rwq2_f2QA-SBh12vrhqwqdojs96HSaFrYKmMyg7DswN4ulkKRKl4r6U5gwHSRF_Os6WmsXeFK4j5eJ/s400/have+fun.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-2627902802056800792019-03-27T11:50:00.000-07:002019-03-27T11:50:17.468-07:00Getting Ready to Spring from Winter's Lock-Down!!<span style="font-size: large;">An early Spring was predicted by the Groundhog this year... but we're not feeling it up in Northern New York - at least not yet. Winter keeps stormin' back in as if to say, "And another thing!!"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">That being said, while we're waiting for April Showers to wash the salt & sand off the roads, here's some things you can do now to prepare for the upcoming riding season from <a href="https://www.fxcapraraharley-davidson.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>FX Caprara Harley-Davidson</b></span></a>:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRJ3uS6nI3XM7CkCsGUGhdbvwSTdGRGXul0fI503oyw6Swf8D9-Z_SjK_Zkha13bt2Y6GyjKS394ykJtTDbFkMoJIkLLebb53bAX7nnleilIixF9a_xGS8xV9sCHWmcuSdBuCtIAqVDjrD/s1600/owners+manuals.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="482" data-original-width="718" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRJ3uS6nI3XM7CkCsGUGhdbvwSTdGRGXul0fI503oyw6Swf8D9-Z_SjK_Zkha13bt2Y6GyjKS394ykJtTDbFkMoJIkLLebb53bAX7nnleilIixF9a_xGS8xV9sCHWmcuSdBuCtIAqVDjrD/s320/owners+manuals.png" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">1) Dust Off Your Owner's Manual & Give it a Good Read</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Take a break from your Spring Cleaning (you know you want to!) and do a read through. While we're giving you basic information here, you'll find specific information on YOUR bike -like tire pressure, load limits, security codes and more.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Can't find it your manual? You can <a href="https://serviceinfo.harley-davidson.com/sip/vehicle/lookupForm?utm_campaign=Prepare-for-Spring&utm_medium=landing-page&utm_source=web&utm_content=find+it+online+here" target="_blank">find it online here</a>.</i></blockquote>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2) It's been a while... Catch back up with your Bike</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you've stored your bike at home, hopefully you <a href="https://pages.e2ma.net/pages/38598/11858?utm_campaign=Prepare-for-Spring&utm_medium=landing-page&utm_source=web&utm_content=%3Cstrong%3EProperly+Hibernated%3C%2Fstrong%3E" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>Properly Hibernated</b></span></a> your bike. If not, it might not be too late: get out to the garage NOW and hook-up your bike to a Battery Tender, check your tire pressure and put a breathable cover on her.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Remember: your bike's battery & charging system are not the same as your car!! Your bike has to be under power (aka you need to be riding it) before the bike charges back to the battery. So just starting your bike and letting it sit and idle is actually doing way more harm than good. I covered this in FXCHD's #WhatsUpWednesday S1:E2 -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c1s3s8haXp0&utm_campaign=Prepare-for-Spring&utm_medium=landing-page&utm_source=web&utm_content=%3Cstrong%3Ecatch+it+here%3C%2Fstrong%3E" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>catch it here</b></span></a> on our YouTube Channel.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now, if you usually store gasoline at home to fill up with, make sure you've put a fuel stabilizer in the can as well. Old fuel that hasn't been treated has probably lost its combustible properties, which will make any motor run rough.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Staying well rounded is also key - check your tire pressure! And while you're at it, check your tires for wear. Please, please, please don't try to squeeze extra miles on worn out tires - you only have two and they're pretty important to how your bike handles and the safety of your ride.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3) Going Mental... Mentally Preparing for the Ride</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We've already started playing everybody's favorite game: "How <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Deep Is That Pothole?" That, along with the salt & sand those wonderful plow trucks have left behind will be the things to watch out for.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Even though it is extremely hard, we at FXCHD <i><u>highly</u></i> recommend waiting until there has been at least two good rains to wash off the roads most of everything winter has given us.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you do decide to ride your bike early, we won't report you for Harley abuse... but your bike will suffer and so will your trade-in value. (See our blog "<a href="https://fxcapraraharleydavidson.blogspot.com/2018/06/5-ways-to-ruin-your-bike.html?utm_campaign=Prepare-for-Spring&utm_medium=landing-page&utm_source=web&utm_content=%3Cstrong%3E5+Ways+to+Ruin+Your+Bike%3C%2Fstrong%3E" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>5 Ways to Ruin Your Bike</b></span></a>.")</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">4) To See or Not to See... it's usually the later</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Those behind the wheel of cars & trucks (aka "cagers") haven't <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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seen a motorcycle on the road in months. And now that you're about to be riding your bike out and about, you must remember this!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"But of course they'll see me, I'm 'new' to them," you think. Think again.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">These last 5-6 months drivers have been lulled into thinking motorcyclists don't exist. And the way our brains are wired, when motorists are looking for space to turn or merge, they see only the absence of a car and <i><u>not</u></i> the presence of a motorcycle. Don't believe me?? Check out <a href="https://youtu.be/vJG698U2Mvo" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>this science experiment</b></span></a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Wear appropriate riding gear, take anyone waiting to turn left in front of you as an immediate threat to your life, and constantly play the "What if?" game.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">5) You've Lost that Riding Feeling... (I hate when that happens!)</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The main reason drivers haven't seen motorcycles in the last few months is because we haven't been riding... (Thanks Captain Obvious!!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And the old adage is true: If you don't use it, you loose it. Your riding skills were much sharper last September versus now.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">There's a skill set when it comes to riding and to maintain that it takes practice, practice, practice. So, for your first ride of the year, we highly suggest you plan to ride over to the local school parking lot on the weekend (when there's likely to be less parked cars) and practice the basic stuff: slow turns & figure 8's to re-master your clutch/throttle, emergency braking and maneuvering drills.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">You can always take an <a href="https://www.gomotorcycling.net/other-msf-rider-courses/?utm_campaign=Prepare-for-Spring&utm_medium=landing-page&utm_source=web&utm_content=%3Cstrong%3Etake+an+Advanced+Rider%27s+Course%3C%2Fstrong%3E" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>Advanced Rider's Course</b></span></a> (sometimes <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgafNlDVSCoqx4OAsFK3kcwCu6vP2AvQeS2_5ZEUUKaw26SIdAJBjWVN6Z-Mv66_IlvLwEbaZH3JBsoN-PdWGsvTGgMVS4W71pRKgm0-ybCRK_1R2bPpvyY544hDmAMScv0WPMdlRV4gJOQ/s1600/Mark_Payton_Cone_Course.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="476" data-original-width="625" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgafNlDVSCoqx4OAsFK3kcwCu6vP2AvQeS2_5ZEUUKaw26SIdAJBjWVN6Z-Mv66_IlvLwEbaZH3JBsoN-PdWGsvTGgMVS4W71pRKgm0-ybCRK_1R2bPpvyY544hDmAMScv0WPMdlRV4gJOQ/s320/Mark_Payton_Cone_Course.png" width="320" /></a></div>
called the Basic Rider's Course 2) through your local MSF Riding Academy. There's no classroom time - all your learning is done using your motorcycle out on the riding range. They'll teach you about counter-balance, cornering, swerving and more. Added bonus: you'll probably get a discount on your auto & motorcycle insurance policy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The other issue is that we are our own worst enemy in that we're too impatient. We are chomping at the bit to ride and that first fine Spring Day will have us like 🌞🌎💞😍!! But, in our eagerness to get out and ride, we decide not to take the time to put on all our gear... And we may neglect to re-assess our skills, getting into a corner way too hot. Patience is a virtue and it'll also keep you safe!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It'll be a nice long riding season, unless you injure yourself and wreck your bike.</span></div>
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Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-5908653679334335982019-02-16T11:14:00.001-08:002019-02-16T11:14:20.820-08:00Be Your Own Cupid<h3>
<span style="background-color: orange; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Decide to Believe in Yourself more than anything else.</span></span></h3>
<span style="background-color: #fce5cd; color: #333333; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cupid, Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy, the Easter Bunny - as a kid these magical creatures just showed up and gave us stuff.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fce5cd; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now, even though we've grown up, some still believe that somehow, someway someone will magically appear and give them just what they've been wishing for. That long lost, rich aunt leaving you a ton of money in her will. You've got THE winning lottery ticket. The one time that Nigerian e-mail scam is actually true. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fce5cd; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><b><i>As the old saying goes: "If wishes were horses, beggars would ride."</i></b></span></span></blockquote>
<span style="background-color: #fce5cd;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">We at </span><a href="https://www.fxcapraraharley-davidson.com/" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>FX Caprara Harley-Davidson</b></span></a><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> believe that YOU should be the maker and creator of your desires. Let go of the fear that's holding you back and take action to make your dreams come true. Love yourself, find inspiration in others and see the mistakes as lessons - soon enough your dreams will become your reality.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u><span style="background-color: #fce5cd;">Step 1: Dress the Part</span><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv7IfUHcgplunLKgQYqns3042O-kkloe-KBnjdedlgzggrhmbVHLhWaTxb9fGWZXENn6JJg7aonvCwzELHmDLbYhSjbZQpWOgG1VkycBEyB3ufOISoZInd3e4nsp8uMlqBQMSwWjpVtn3M/s1600/FREE-er+to+take+action+square.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv7IfUHcgplunLKgQYqns3042O-kkloe-KBnjdedlgzggrhmbVHLhWaTxb9fGWZXENn6JJg7aonvCwzELHmDLbYhSjbZQpWOgG1VkycBEyB3ufOISoZInd3e4nsp8uMlqBQMSwWjpVtn3M/s320/FREE-er+to+take+action+square.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fce5cd; color: #333333; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Harley-Davidson Motorcycles were made from dreams into reality over 100 years ago -dreams for a faster, easier way to get out to the fishin' hole. Use their achievement and their clothing to fuel your own dreams and build your legacy.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fce5cd; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">We've got new arrivals for Spring Fashion as well as good steals to be had on select end-of-season apparel.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fce5cd; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Are you ready? Then let's start now - after all, we're all in this together. Come on over to FXCHD, Alysha, Krissi, Alyssa and myself will be happy to help.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fce5cd; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>°It all starts with the clothes</i></b></span></span>Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-61788816370647071832019-01-27T08:31:00.000-08:002019-01-27T08:31:46.129-08:00Life's Not Fair... (Get Used To It)<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">That's what I was told growing up by my father. Even though I have a half-sister and half-brother (my dad's first marriage), they were in their late teens when I was born, so I was essentially an 'only child'. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Of course I had chores and I thought I worked my butt off, so when I was denied the pony I thought I deserved after all my 'hard' work, I cried, "That's not fair!!"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">My dad would come right back with, "Life isn't fair... might as well get used to it now."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I thought that was incredibly cruel. This was my father -the person who was supposed to protect and fight for me!! But up until my 8th or 9th birthday I'd go to him with some perceived injustice only to hear the same response:</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Life's not fair D.C., get used to it"</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">My parents divorced when I was 12 and my mom was granted custody. I'd visit my dad during the holidays and for a month in the summer, although I stopped going to him for help. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I was surprised at age 18 when he bought me my first car -a 1982 Ford Escort with a 4-speed manual transmission. Of course I didn't have a clue how to work a stick-shift, so he gave me a quick lesson and then left me to figure it out myself. I wanted to cry, "Why couldn't you have gotten me an automatic??!" but knew I'd only hear the old reply... I must have stalled that car at least 500 times! Although I eventually figured it out for myself, with the help of Kim (my BFF from high-school).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Fast forward to January 2019. Krissi (<span style="color: blue;"><b><a href="https://www.fxcapraraharley-davidson.com/" target="_blank">FX Caprara Harley-Davidson</a>'s</b></span> Motorclothes Manager) and myself head out to Phoenix, Arizona for the General Merchandise Rally (formerly known as the Winter Dealer Meeting) put on by the MoCo each winter.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNqxWOPVS7ZL4eN86FqtwIGFhLfWrn-wYjlEFc5RTaMR2u6ptmb50XgFK3TzkTL0t48DhhWu8XTXTQ7AejPugjeYv3SXiiHbof6Icbdw5qdlAU2TF8GKGbEka-JMRB5u55KB5D7IXT4piw/s1600/20190118_090632.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="577" data-original-width="769" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNqxWOPVS7ZL4eN86FqtwIGFhLfWrn-wYjlEFc5RTaMR2u6ptmb50XgFK3TzkTL0t48DhhWu8XTXTQ7AejPugjeYv3SXiiHbof6Icbdw5qdlAU2TF8GKGbEka-JMRB5u55KB5D7IXT4piw/s320/20190118_090632.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's our chance to see the clothing that Harley has coming out for Fall & Winter 2019 up close, trying them on, seeing how they fit (there are certain details you just don't see in a catalog). You can see the H-D Moto, 1903 and Garage collection runway shows on the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-tzl2wxH3JU696N6w9LPww?view_as=subscriber" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>Life Behind Bars Youtube Channel</b></span></a>. Licensed Vendors are there too, with their t-shirts, jewelry, purses, wallets, barware, signs, holiday decor, and more.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Because the rally only lasts two days, we took advantage of the 70</span><span style="font-size: large;">°F temps and sunny skies, getting outside every chance we got. As tempting as it was to stay, we both have family & friends we wanted to come home to (and who wanted us home!). </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">But Winter Storm Harper had other ideas. At first we were supposed to fly on Saturday to Charlotte, and then on to Syracuse, except that was landing 6:30pm EST -right when the storm was expected to hit. So our flight was changed to Chicago and from there to Syracuse, landing at 2:30... however the storm had hit Chi-town first and our flight from Phoenix was delayed 2½ hours (but that did allow us to see a desert sunrise). </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXFYPSyWy0rG4GdWZ_OegO65-Go0IBZwvYyg2dCcJ5QeubyJ0DrIrbAwjgQRt-L3Bbtp_pDjEgi85cup3rdzv7LBfqinI8qQhCp-MexH3ZNsWQ7ofzdsSUIoQZuN7Nyw5HrX9wOTj8rytD/s1600/Screenshot_20190119-055907_Weather+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="324" data-original-width="324" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXFYPSyWy0rG4GdWZ_OegO65-Go0IBZwvYyg2dCcJ5QeubyJ0DrIrbAwjgQRt-L3Bbtp_pDjEgi85cup3rdzv7LBfqinI8qQhCp-MexH3ZNsWQ7ofzdsSUIoQZuN7Nyw5HrX9wOTj8rytD/s200/Screenshot_20190119-055907_Weather+%25282%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsJaPzwHryPSgwpJ3xc025QyduhLWfFAnbB5hjZVdHQ9T1o0jKM8-46Otbo-5L2DGXtGdWG6kDJHU6Z5R8OaKqkEjMt50OdwU2eC8XdqclNHy9PI_fhw7xwJQ-UrB7pl20X0ZAHUmHPS9B/s1600/20190119_070514.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="577" data-original-width="433" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsJaPzwHryPSgwpJ3xc025QyduhLWfFAnbB5hjZVdHQ9T1o0jKM8-46Otbo-5L2DGXtGdWG6kDJHU6Z5R8OaKqkEjMt50OdwU2eC8XdqclNHy9PI_fhw7xwJQ-UrB7pl20X0ZAHUmHPS9B/s200/20190119_070514.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Eventually we did make it to Chicago, only to learn our connecting flight to Syracuse had been cancelled. Called the airline- they got us on a flight to Boston to get a flight back to Syracuse on Sunday... so we spent the night at Best Western O'Hare with Shoeless Joe's Ale House & Grill right next door. Krissi and I had the best meal of the entire trip there!!</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0pMcrDBB4stqtpiaFB2cJlk4B6a2wRfEOxbtK1zbe5k-tByThoGBLShlFSa7pZ3R1lDGiwvsAhkd-yhEaToK8t2pKy7dFtr3ofpmydDVIj3qVSeKQKS0QTa4PZysLTNyR_yUnmyxwgUV7/s1600/20190120_065944.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="577" data-original-width="433" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0pMcrDBB4stqtpiaFB2cJlk4B6a2wRfEOxbtK1zbe5k-tByThoGBLShlFSa7pZ3R1lDGiwvsAhkd-yhEaToK8t2pKy7dFtr3ofpmydDVIj3qVSeKQKS0QTa4PZysLTNyR_yUnmyxwgUV7/s320/20190120_065944.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And then later that night, with Winter Storm Harper still pounding the Northeast, we learned our connecting flight from Boston to Syracuse had been cancelled. The airlines wouldn't be able to get us home until Wednesday.... three days later!</span></span><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"> </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglrCdXLUOl-cgWzuAjMNnGZ227MCv3hmvfIgxozUwprwAy0mtsDv-kimSs5ax3xFd-m7Ts_nYGIu7XGS9LKV-MXNt17h3SEkVyiNPx26sHxq00F6UkGFfWq5Jsgtxjbw6ROIHIfI301tdf/s1600/Screenshot_20190119-205959_Chrome+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="324" data-original-width="324" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglrCdXLUOl-cgWzuAjMNnGZ227MCv3hmvfIgxozUwprwAy0mtsDv-kimSs5ax3xFd-m7Ts_nYGIu7XGS9LKV-MXNt17h3SEkVyiNPx26sHxq00F6UkGFfWq5Jsgtxjbw6ROIHIfI301tdf/s320/Screenshot_20190119-205959_Chrome+%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Left to our own devices we decided to rent a car and drive the 12 hours (under normal conditions) back to Syracuse -thanks to road conditions and a couple patches of lake effect snow that turned into 15 hours with the big, beautiful Wolf Blood Moon to guide us.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip5TG4UzzZXKM9S8sn_OKLsVMohRgWpoBDe5kX1wNxMQes7r0iVw1_sq7sDMnM5fAkPwA5TskBa53FtXRP82cjZTuSpXKE9R9EtF84-LRTAwQYrcBUmovV8SYLsnpHN78DybBYbkh-8F9S/s1600/20190120_174725.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="470" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip5TG4UzzZXKM9S8sn_OKLsVMohRgWpoBDe5kX1wNxMQes7r0iVw1_sq7sDMnM5fAkPwA5TskBa53FtXRP82cjZTuSpXKE9R9EtF84-LRTAwQYrcBUmovV8SYLsnpHN78DybBYbkh-8F9S/s320/20190120_174725.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Along the way Krissi and I talked about a number of things (and also some car-pool karaoke!), and our upbringing was one of the topics. I told her about my dad and his quote... and how I realized years ago that my father's so-thought cruelty was actually love, instilling me with certain survival skills. Giving me a 'Biker mentality'. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The knowledge that Life isn't fair at times has given me the ability to appreciate the small victories when they come and to carry-on despite what others see to be a set back. More than a few people would be stopped in their tracks, playing the victim and screaming how life isn't fair. Of course there's a grieving process, but we must keep moving forward if we are to survive. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">By learning that life isn't and will never be fair when I was young has given me the ability to discard one plan to get home and make another one. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks Dad!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQcT6LKVHoBIPdNlblUzLKHkpqYnz5HH4_7RndBgl6z0yz6fOABj0oI2CUVBckglNqMyy9D7yoI0rbK5YTnZfQes6ssmMS0dSLQjN8Hbbs_kSmEHAhenHI7KdDG59Tum0UkH3sjjm_MnDg/s1600/dad2+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="453" data-original-width="452" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQcT6LKVHoBIPdNlblUzLKHkpqYnz5HH4_7RndBgl6z0yz6fOABj0oI2CUVBckglNqMyy9D7yoI0rbK5YTnZfQes6ssmMS0dSLQjN8Hbbs_kSmEHAhenHI7KdDG59Tum0UkH3sjjm_MnDg/s320/dad2+%25282%2529.jpg" width="318" /></a></span></div>
Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-62187181977668059652018-12-27T07:03:00.000-08:002018-12-27T07:03:36.412-08:00How Bikers Ride Into the New Year<span style="font-size: large;">As the year winds down, many like to take a look back before looking forward and making resolutions. It's just something that happens naturally -we look to see what went right and wrong, and vow not to take the same roads that took us to the painful endings.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGS2psN8-JmRJ6qz19OvTkTz8_EruMkQSO5rd0Jsqh5T5Hy2lk1YvJ5j_WMw7Ff1sthfXsoobnqSKMEh68AMN725y0NbKkiVsQ-uWGkp-WHPlxTAsqcNLaM9DTHhA3s2t3QW9R_rQ7bJKb/s1600/annie-spratt-178364-unsplash2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="424" data-original-width="1600" height="105" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGS2psN8-JmRJ6qz19OvTkTz8_EruMkQSO5rd0Jsqh5T5Hy2lk1YvJ5j_WMw7Ff1sthfXsoobnqSKMEh68AMN725y0NbKkiVsQ-uWGkp-WHPlxTAsqcNLaM9DTHhA3s2t3QW9R_rQ7bJKb/s400/annie-spratt-178364-unsplash2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/Ef1H5YTTmZ8?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Annie Spratt</a><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; white-space: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/search/photos/new-year?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Unsplash</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">At first glance it might seem that Bikers do the same, but if you dig a little deeper, you just might see that:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Bikers keep moving forward</u>: We don't keep looking to the past, wishing things could stay the same as they were. Bikers realized long ago that change is the only constant -and that not getting stuck in the past allows us to move forward. And we know what's coming is usually better.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Bikers are in control</u>: Even though our world is constantly changing, we know we are in control. Not of what's happening around us -nobody controls that but the Big Guy. But we are in control of our own thoughts, emotions and reactions. After all, the past is the past, the future is yet to come, so all we're left with is the present - and that allows us not to take our lives for granted. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><u>The by-product of that is</u>: Bikers are happier (generally speaking). That's because we're not hung up on having things turn out exactly as planned, and then getting upset because everything's ruined. Bikers are happy because we don't need these illusions or expectations. When you don't have a particular outcome in mind, you're free to enjoy what does happen! </span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The other thing that comes along with the new year is resolutions. Except that Bikers usually don't do resolutions, but this year I'm making one for me: trying something new.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">No worries- it's not going to be climbing Mount Everest or competing on DWTS! Besides, by having one big goal and not hitting it is not the Biker way of doing things.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWrUSU2aj94sid3DQfMD-LmWSD6oUjhaEMFvDUaJXYPabx3YocwxufY9WEBLwYlcJ3aIYPbR8HJDKT6G0Dbuvfq2rB0OGJgM74FPGRUmHbkkrzqqe3EpggCln-NAaiLBbUnUInr5PHd2fx/s1600/roadAhead.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="1600" height="91" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWrUSU2aj94sid3DQfMD-LmWSD6oUjhaEMFvDUaJXYPabx3YocwxufY9WEBLwYlcJ3aIYPbR8HJDKT6G0Dbuvfq2rB0OGJgM74FPGRUmHbkkrzqqe3EpggCln-NAaiLBbUnUInr5PHd2fx/s400/roadAhead.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My new thing this year is doing a live stream called #WhatsUpWednesday. The first and third Wednesday of each month I'll be getting out of my comfort zone and will be broadcasting live to the </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FXCHD/" style="font-size: x-large;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Facebook Page</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> of </span><a href="https://www.fxcapraraharley-davidson.com/" style="font-size: x-large;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">FX Caprara Harley-Davidson</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">, and to the </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-tzl2wxH3JU696N6w9LPww?view_as=subscriber" style="font-size: x-large;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Life Behind Bars Youtube channel</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">. We'll be talking about what's new around the dealership - bikes, parts, clothes and more.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And by entering the new year with a purpose gives this Biker a sense that, even though it might be uncomfortable, it'll be another good one.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUvoYKOLucX4R42RErm5YGDAhNvUkGxwbQjEXiD-uIMQCOUbGgJITaREys-juF6HbfJt7rRVIMA8VSv-7Q6DABIl03Q5EN9MDv4o3IzlCF-JTN8b-DA3wGLDyLnSlkbMJZZc59fYQtrU91/s1600/12398910_10153637765990804_1590181911_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUvoYKOLucX4R42RErm5YGDAhNvUkGxwbQjEXiD-uIMQCOUbGgJITaREys-juF6HbfJt7rRVIMA8VSv-7Q6DABIl03Q5EN9MDv4o3IzlCF-JTN8b-DA3wGLDyLnSlkbMJZZc59fYQtrU91/s320/12398910_10153637765990804_1590181911_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-1658765658208308892018-12-14T11:00:00.000-08:002018-12-14T11:00:22.216-08:00Who are these HOGs anyways??<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrHWZ49LsPTrIRmnDXfNhzCW6SnHGkkT8tpNfoYsGiJ1IdEifRah1Yz7dxf_inWJ9ECFeVnLWRuAamAjXyRisWP4BqT2HRN6NLHGfopwsFP43s5MNbWc19HAoNQKVIz2FLUTQ7lZt4zK01/s1600/IMG-20181207-WA0002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="460" data-original-width="460" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrHWZ49LsPTrIRmnDXfNhzCW6SnHGkkT8tpNfoYsGiJ1IdEifRah1Yz7dxf_inWJ9ECFeVnLWRuAamAjXyRisWP4BqT2HRN6NLHGfopwsFP43s5MNbWc19HAoNQKVIz2FLUTQ7lZt4zK01/s200/IMG-20181207-WA0002.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Our Northern New York Harley Owners Group (sponsored by <a href="https://www.fxcapraraharley-davidson.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">FX Caprara Harley-Davidson</span></a>) -or NNY H.O.G. for short- had their Annual Christmas Party celebration, this year at the Watertown VFW. The food was excellent, the staff kind and professional, and great fun was had during the Great Card Game Gift Exchange. To see more pictures, just click over to <a href="http://www.northernnewyorkhog.com/gallery.html"><span style="color: blue;">NorthernNewYorkHOG.com</span></a></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJQU6Qv5CXC7uGLkoI3mq2exQp5EPDrzvDpWW4dUjSaSVRT9WVO0-bc7y7er7CMt5OfM7d4Fnrd0G0lj-RzY_axm6binmJgIWQTZNoLsTvGQEJxbJ4bZyso7mgcnqE9hefvFRv_jv9Efmv/s1600/IMG-20181208-WA0006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="345" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJQU6Qv5CXC7uGLkoI3mq2exQp5EPDrzvDpWW4dUjSaSVRT9WVO0-bc7y7er7CMt5OfM7d4Fnrd0G0lj-RzY_axm6binmJgIWQTZNoLsTvGQEJxbJ4bZyso7mgcnqE9hefvFRv_jv9Efmv/s200/IMG-20181208-WA0006.jpg" width="199" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">But who are these HOGs and how did they get here?? To answer that we've got to go back -way back to 1919 with Ray Weishaar, the Wrecking Crew, and a little piglet named Johnny. The newspapers related how the factory race team 'hogged' all the race track records. This led to the term "hog" as referring to a Harley-Davidson motorcycle: "Nice Hog, man."</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQBu53oDlmaBgGV0N7weYuDYN3JfIv6PS0M2RlMiw2jZhZzMG3wrCKOHQXSLqIK0tpNg9HoUNK_AY2a8Yv-e5KzsVqqMCNVbuP5CggE2prWLxLfNyCKgd0KlOUBbn20np0jQPnRah2hLR1/s1600/0906_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="389" data-original-width="720" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQBu53oDlmaBgGV0N7weYuDYN3JfIv6PS0M2RlMiw2jZhZzMG3wrCKOHQXSLqIK0tpNg9HoUNK_AY2a8Yv-e5KzsVqqMCNVbuP5CggE2prWLxLfNyCKgd0KlOUBbn20np0jQPnRah2hLR1/s400/0906_001.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Fast forward to 1983 and times are lean. The Motor Company had bought itself back from AMF just two years before, but the tarnished reputation was still there. To strengthen the bond between dealers and customers, Willie G. Davidson (grandson of co-founder William A. Davidson) and some other company execs went on a cross-country ride.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPm4inBRmNPMDmzibMM8JLzqDWt5dazd75eYMeVBP-wD6bTM84PbD_ms2Ve5dUmR33TpK3mzbTbw4rZFmEsHVP8v2n_foZXPaPOAyWsQpvL1OV-bNpz06BsYX0zcgmsJX31o02FA5LVyGk/s1600/Screenshot+2018-12-14+13.30.25.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="361" data-original-width="477" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPm4inBRmNPMDmzibMM8JLzqDWt5dazd75eYMeVBP-wD6bTM84PbD_ms2Ve5dUmR33TpK3mzbTbw4rZFmEsHVP8v2n_foZXPaPOAyWsQpvL1OV-bNpz06BsYX0zcgmsJX31o02FA5LVyGk/s400/Screenshot+2018-12-14+13.30.25.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Willie G. is on the far right, standing</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As they rode, they figured out that riding, having fun and connecting with people who share the same passion of the open road is a great thing. Why not start a club where they could promote motorcycling, offer benefits & services, and develop a close relationship with those who are passionate about riding?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFbe2u11TjDbO9STUyH63_u86vnn8V_X9wDBnfkRlkdNWxucBF0HYOZdEl6TfJwXHwR5oK7iKUdTf1cbJKS2bIK3tEyCK9adv2a29m5xFpm4NcVASqx20-PqIdYQnOUdAlL5QMqeiu8PTc/s1600/1983-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="274" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFbe2u11TjDbO9STUyH63_u86vnn8V_X9wDBnfkRlkdNWxucBF0HYOZdEl6TfJwXHwR5oK7iKUdTf1cbJKS2bIK3tEyCK9adv2a29m5xFpm4NcVASqx20-PqIdYQnOUdAlL5QMqeiu8PTc/s320/1983-1.jpg" width="241" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Then they took the term "hog" and created an acronym: <u>H</u>arley <u>O</u>wners <u>G</u>roup. Almost immediately H.O.G. becomes the largest factory sponsored club in the world. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">To join a local H.O.G. chapter you need to be a National H.O.G. Member first. That's easy to do -just own a Harley-Davidson motorcycle and go to <a href="http://hog.com/"><span style="color: blue;">HOG.com</span></a>. There's all sorts of benefits to being a member: discounts on insurance, hotels, motorcycle shipping and more, mileage and membership year recognition, rallies, events and rides, and tons more.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Even though our NNY H.O.G. Chapter isn't riding right now, we still like to have fun. All through the winter months we'll have monthly get-togethers, meet up occasionally for breakfasts and dinners, and have parties at Christmas, Valentine's Day, and Easter. Then during the riding season it's on! We'll have all that plus day and overnight rides.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">With bloodlines like ours, it's no wonder that our motto is: </span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i>We like to Ride and Have Fun!</i></b></span></blockquote>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY9NEFSe4sS1ryCIA7jJcZ3a4Z1F6fTWZw7rauKGGgfg_rFWv0jmIYXBiT3PuxzcEOAHXl0G0XWOYzjYoizicCxby_GuOhwpHrR7rQgSCj6f2C1qtWVJHhbEbXdBX1aJ-Wlz90qK9bESKX/s1600/12687924_1021885351225743_4463202780346460924_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="401" data-original-width="960" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY9NEFSe4sS1ryCIA7jJcZ3a4Z1F6fTWZw7rauKGGgfg_rFWv0jmIYXBiT3PuxzcEOAHXl0G0XWOYzjYoizicCxby_GuOhwpHrR7rQgSCj6f2C1qtWVJHhbEbXdBX1aJ-Wlz90qK9bESKX/s400/12687924_1021885351225743_4463202780346460924_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-24744163953914053942018-11-28T06:31:00.000-08:002018-11-28T06:31:20.735-08:00What Bikers REALLY Want this Holiday<span style="font-size: large;">Gift Guides Galore this time of year - enough to make the average person cringe with fear every time they open their Inbox! That being said, we've already put out <a href="https://pages.e2ma.net/pages/38598/12273" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Our Holiday Gift Guide</span></a>... what can we say? 🎅</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="presented - the fxchd holiday gift guide" border="0" data-original-height="592" data-original-width="1600" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-eHX1UexzeRFWtIngoMPszsY8d4ah6KafSU1uJjRo1CW5tycj-c8T0vtKOWu7GBlGyZqxgP3bkPgJxohMM91tSSIGGu3Wx0VQ3aLUIFEOpvuaRyN5LbasNrTCJn-ZpRg4SxBBE3XvsSIM/s400/gift+guide+FB+banner.jpg" title="PRESENTED - FXCHD's Holiday Gift Guide" width="400" /></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">But back to the purpose of this blog: we at FX Caprara Harley-Davidson are here to tell ya what the Biker on your list really wants this year.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">But first, a few things we Bikers would like you to keep in mind:</span><br />
<br />
<ol>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Don't spend outside your budget. Yes, a brand new beautiful Harley-Davidson Motorcycle would be lovely to see in the garage on Christmas morning! But not if you have to go deep into debt over it. As we said on our <a href="https://pages.e2ma.net/pages/38598/12140?utm_campaign=2018HolidayGG&utm_medium=landing-page&utm_source=web&utm_content=+" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">"Thankful" web page</span></a>: make a list, check it twice.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">While it's nice if you know the exact year & model bike of the person you're shopping for -"He's got a 2009 FLTR Road Glide, which is the first year of the frame re-design"- it isn't exactly necessary. There are more than a few parts & accessories where we don't need to know. And if they've bought their bike from FXCHD and/or brought it in for Service, we're going to have that info in case we do need it. Although if it's a part s/he has specifically told you they want, then you're golden!</span></li>
</ol>
<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjstkxWyEAiTl8YgWSkm8CcL70icVyZm17v7h0fNAZPj_Dn-xYVT0UJklDo9k_u3ytVzXZ-BErjOg5AbXvDU8XV0DI0DwFy8rSEfQ2NEcZTEAB40Z_focC_cR51CFkZH9o1Z6rWbJCIuxlP/s1600/Harley_Santa-19_ill_DME.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="403" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjstkxWyEAiTl8YgWSkm8CcL70icVyZm17v7h0fNAZPj_Dn-xYVT0UJklDo9k_u3ytVzXZ-BErjOg5AbXvDU8XV0DI0DwFy8rSEfQ2NEcZTEAB40Z_focC_cR51CFkZH9o1Z6rWbJCIuxlP/s320/Harley_Santa-19_ill_DME.jpg" width="206" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">But don't let that fool you! Honestly, it really is easy to surprise that Biker with a gift he, she or they will really love.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">If you've budgeted $0 - $25 </span></h3>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Grab a motorcycle map which shows things like Bike Nights and scenic routes (we have 'em here!). Or a photo of them riding- scan their Facebook or Instagram account and have it printed. Beanie caps, ear plugs, a pocket knife, motorcycle Christmas ornaments and can coozies also are appreciated.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">If you've got $25-$75</span></h3>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The stuff your Biker will find to be right up their alley: Bike Cleaning Kits, a Smart Battery Tender, Snap-On 8-in-1 Screw Driver, H-D Barware -pint & rocks glasses, Harley button-up shirts, hoodies, and the like... I could go on and on, but I think you've got the point. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">For the $75+ budget</span></h3>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Things like luggage, vintage motorcycle signs, a bike dryer, <a href="https://pages.e2ma.net/pages/38598/10744" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">FXRG Riding Gear</span></a> or even a paid spot for an Advanced Riders Course immediately come to mind. Then there's the gift of adventure: a day at the track, a weekend on the lake (when it's warm enough to ride their motorcycle to), or a project bike for them to restore. Again, endless possibilities.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">All of those are really nice gifts to give... and o</span><span style="font-size: large;">f course we </span><span style="font-size: large;">would love to have you buy everything in our dealership over the next six weeks...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">That being said, the one thing that Bikers really want is:</span></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Respect</span></h2>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Treat Bikers just as you would like others to treat you -that wonderfully simple 'golden rule' that so many seem to forget these days. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Just be honest and respectful with us. Don't assume we're automatically 'bad' people who are uneducated and unimportant. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Allow me to share <a href="https://www.facebook.com/john.mcgrath.927/videos/10213575140272871/UzpfSTE2MTAwMDA1NzMyNzIyMToyMDE2NjIwMTc4NDMxODU3/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">this video</span></a> from one of our good friends. Jaws sums it up best I think: "...actually get treated right..."</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">And if you still need gift ideas for that Biker in your life, feel free to <a href="https://www.fxcapraraharley-davidson.com/give-us-a-call-or-send-us-an-email--xcontact" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">ask us</span></a> -we're happy to help!!</span></div>
Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-59865595829392580272018-11-14T13:40:00.000-08:002018-11-14T13:40:00.808-08:00How to stay sane during the off-season<span style="font-size: large;">Bye, bye bike for the next five to six months... (but hopefully sooner). How to survive?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">In case jetting off to someplace warmer where you can ride isn't in your budget -<a href="https://www.fxcapraraharley-davidson.com/meet-our-work-team--xstaff" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>just like us at FXCHD</b></span></a>- here's some ideas on how you can stay sane when you're off you bike:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">• Winter is pretty - get outside!! You already love to be outside riding your motorcycle... maybe try renting a snowmobile and get a hobby to keep you occupied and outside during the winter months.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQXFCYRPp1yKXKAlNkVL_7zuzD2YWGQXGi9J7eJtdQ8307-8f1l33SjdFVCvSX1mc61_9qs7RV-hu7dl4yC_DlP4KJ1mGJXJH88yADCeXFL8vjFf254JqRe2BZcbhrKJSvbqHwMbUgL3hB/s1600/Ski-Doo_ImageseCom_1322x1100_S_130218081637.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1100" data-original-width="1322" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQXFCYRPp1yKXKAlNkVL_7zuzD2YWGQXGi9J7eJtdQ8307-8f1l33SjdFVCvSX1mc61_9qs7RV-hu7dl4yC_DlP4KJ1mGJXJH88yADCeXFL8vjFf254JqRe2BZcbhrKJSvbqHwMbUgL3hB/s400/Ski-Doo_ImageseCom_1322x1100_S_130218081637.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">• It is officially Snow Shoveling Season -which really is good exercise (you could burn 300-400 calories in 30 minutes). Just be sure to do it safely: follow <a href="http://insidehook.tumblr.com/image/108022676904" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>these tips</b></span></a> from Insidehook. You'll be fit in no time!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">• Watch as many motorcycle movies and television shows as possible. 21 Days Under the Sky, Easy Rider, On Any Sunday, Sons of Anarchy, etc., etc. Living vicariously through others is one way to escape the winter blues.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">• Bank your Time Off: if you're lucky enough to work where you can save up your paid vacation till you want to use it (as opposed to being told when you get vacation), bank 'em up. And/or you can get a part-time seasonal job to save up- that way you can take even more time off during the summer riding season. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcxxj3o2RVm5dX1VfKgCO7Ea70e9zC_7osbH4j4KYqQ0PQEMAoDDyI0KvCLBv8IULg169ztWCzrYHlPwU1ua0xe0zuqwlkdHbU_AUUvgltTWkJ9BOFC89PdLlHGhJBHv27S5bIHRcs_D8E/s1600/2017+Winter+Storage+FB+Cover+Photo+-+Touring+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="462" data-original-width="851" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcxxj3o2RVm5dX1VfKgCO7Ea70e9zC_7osbH4j4KYqQ0PQEMAoDDyI0KvCLBv8IULg169ztWCzrYHlPwU1ua0xe0zuqwlkdHbU_AUUvgltTWkJ9BOFC89PdLlHGhJBHv27S5bIHRcs_D8E/s400/2017+Winter+Storage+FB+Cover+Photo+-+Touring+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">• Do any engine upgrades now and take advantage of the down-time. You'll have fun turning your bike into a beast and will be ready to unleash it come spring-time.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">• Plan your next motorcycle adventure: start doing research now, choose your destination, where you'll stay, the roads to get there and what you'd like to see. But remember to leave enough 'wiggle room' to allow for exploration.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">• Socialize! Join your local H.O.G. Chapter -our NNY Harley Owners Group always has stuff going on, even in the 'off' months.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Sure spring is months away, but the next Riding Season starts now!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkkCMGpOtXLHJz-krsQHPcTHvJga7mJocWO0b0x2Bj1PSXfYn04LEN-WMbaGH4I1lodLjTH_H6Pqk_Trfh8lRh6m7EW5cUzeZUzb60ljO68DhzobBbWTt6m6IJGv6dQaw6IoQzsYwn7Bm7/s1600/432162_AM_19GAP_181261_v2_FN+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="998" data-original-width="999" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkkCMGpOtXLHJz-krsQHPcTHvJga7mJocWO0b0x2Bj1PSXfYn04LEN-WMbaGH4I1lodLjTH_H6Pqk_Trfh8lRh6m7EW5cUzeZUzb60ljO68DhzobBbWTt6m6IJGv6dQaw6IoQzsYwn7Bm7/s400/432162_AM_19GAP_181261_v2_FN+%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-71682920245782344542018-10-23T07:13:00.000-07:002018-10-23T07:13:40.679-07:003 Reasons Why Fall is a Good Time to Buy a Motorcycle<span style="font-size: large;">Shorter days, changing leaves and dropping temps all herald the end of the Riding Season (at least for us in Northern New York and similar climates). </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsTqyLe7uScPmjxsrJfWTlbq0ZCqZmP88OHFitafFChcbfuIB2IMmqd_11qqBiXoEsCDTAzLF6UwzF00H_67w5PKbvzJlAt8WHyYSmRuzxR16Eivba-Ee0j1DZ_LpY32uQOxCs1Ypvf8GE/s1600/last+ride+of+2018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="663" data-original-width="966" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsTqyLe7uScPmjxsrJfWTlbq0ZCqZmP88OHFitafFChcbfuIB2IMmqd_11qqBiXoEsCDTAzLF6UwzF00H_67w5PKbvzJlAt8WHyYSmRuzxR16Eivba-Ee0j1DZ_LpY32uQOxCs1Ypvf8GE/s400/last+ride+of+2018.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One last ride before my bike went for her nap!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;">You might be thinking that, since you'll probably be storing any motorcycle you get now until Spring, it isn't the best time to buy one. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">But it actually is. Here's why:</span><br />
<br />
<ol>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Less is More:</u> I've blogged about how <a href="https://fxcapraraharleydavidson.blogspot.com/2017/02/do-you-hear-their-call.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><i>Bikes Call to People</i></span></a> no matter what time of year we're in. However, those who bought their bike at the beginning of and during the season are now no longer looking. This translates to less competition and more opportunities for you, the buyer.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Other Ways to Save</u>: Having less people after the same bike you want means you have a little more time to shop banks & lenders -especially if you've got a good to great credit score. This will potentially save you thousands in interest! Keep in mind tho- a little time is not a lot... give it 8 business days max. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Extended Manufacturer's Warranty</u>: The MoCo is offering an extension on their limited Two Year Warranty when you get a new 2016 through 2018 model year H-D® Motorcycle*, to make up for the 'lost' winter months we won't be riding. Who said leftovers were a bad thing? Get the deets by <a href="https://pages.e2ma.net/pages/38598/10997" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">clicking here</span></a>.</span></li>
</ol>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">So, if you've been wanting to get a motorcycle all summer long and somehow didn't, allow this to be your motivation to get it done. NOW!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfnFoFNRnHpUBMv8_tG_QNZuytwpMZgWAnUNG7Q3yXc8jOpcsVjOFRDNNjqm9sb4-o24N6CaGbf7cGde6hM7B43Q1l4p8Tpb43gqOU6Djg7b-pxbcwx2uTbbuhIN3lv9IbNZ4CPPLFrf00/s1600/1387884_10151929721865804_1410930717_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="736" data-original-width="736" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfnFoFNRnHpUBMv8_tG_QNZuytwpMZgWAnUNG7Q3yXc8jOpcsVjOFRDNNjqm9sb4-o24N6CaGbf7cGde6hM7B43Q1l4p8Tpb43gqOU6Djg7b-pxbcwx2uTbbuhIN3lv9IbNZ4CPPLFrf00/s400/1387884_10151929721865804_1410930717_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-11033567582834067402018-10-13T07:11:00.000-07:002018-10-13T07:11:05.388-07:005 Driving Mistakes Bikers Can't Stand<span style="font-size: large;">Days are getting shorter, temps are decreasing... soon enough all of us will be caging it (aka back behind the steering wheel of our daily driver). </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">(*crying inside)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Since it's coming to that soon, we <a href="https://www.fxcapraraharley-davidson.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">at FX Caprara Harley-Davidson</span></a> thought we'd go over the stuff that drives us insane, no matter if we're riding or driving.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiclmB9XkmUrnXQLXJ0MjMNascb_h9alLZj_z0OsQ_pLitZQMGOjlGVFVUyT7iEykdxfGLhRDG1YJ8RAZh36Rf2vvaE7vQXKSu88udStrT92JFYY344AqV8n5wc9TzwQrNEx_DQYJCpQ19t/s1600/logan-fisher-586235-unsplash+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiclmB9XkmUrnXQLXJ0MjMNascb_h9alLZj_z0OsQ_pLitZQMGOjlGVFVUyT7iEykdxfGLhRDG1YJ8RAZh36Rf2vvaE7vQXKSu88udStrT92JFYY344AqV8n5wc9TzwQrNEx_DQYJCpQ19t/s320/logan-fisher-586235-unsplash+%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/eAx74YcYEF8?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Logan Fisher</a><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; white-space: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/search/photos/drivers-seat?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Unsplash</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">You see, most of us have taken the Basic Riders Course to get the "M" endorsement on our Driver's License, which makes us better drivers as well (that's why your auto insurance company will give you a discount after completing the class). </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Hopefully you know enough not to be doing these mistakes... but if you're guilty please stop it now. You are putting yourself and others at risk of an accident that could have been avoided - not cool.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">5) Not using your Turn Signals</span></h3>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Those are the signals you give to indicate which way you're going to turn or when you wish to change lanes. I know every modern car and truck have them! So when you see a Biker getting upset because you changed lanes or slowed down to turn into a parking lot without signaling, now you know we didn't know what you were doing. Tell us which way you're going to go and we'll be ok with that.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">4) Crossing the White/Fog Line to pass on the right</span></h3>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">While it isn't illegal to do so in most states, it is something that drives Bikers mad and here's why: It's true motorcycles take up less room on the road, however we still like our 'cushion' room. A Biker has their 'personal space' even while riding and when a driver invades that space, s/he takes it kind of personally. Please give us the same room you'd give a car.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_0yadTlJOuYXnsk7YsL90YuzMIlZccalZuCxDlKrLUo1dhTTpmdq6bbMpHd3mRVaJoLjPXvqx4GxcTxpTTLcnCa0-ptgHeNGVPYE8g_Y4zDHfw8GhdCHTLgyupxavun0zFHL2IxU4OuPK/s1600/david-guenther-639350-unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_0yadTlJOuYXnsk7YsL90YuzMIlZccalZuCxDlKrLUo1dhTTpmdq6bbMpHd3mRVaJoLjPXvqx4GxcTxpTTLcnCa0-ptgHeNGVPYE8g_Y4zDHfw8GhdCHTLgyupxavun0zFHL2IxU4OuPK/s320/david-guenther-639350-unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/9dcQu2mxuRc?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">David Guenther</a><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; white-space: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/search/photos/drivers-seat?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Unsplash</a></td></tr>
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<br />
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">3) Jumping the Light </span></h3>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We get it- you're in a hurry because you woke up late, got stuck behind the school bus or snow plow, or the dog got sick and you had to clean it up, etc., etc. Now you're waiting for the light to turn green, which you can see it'll do soon since the cross-traffic light is changing to yellow, soon to be red. There's no traffic coming... You decide you can just go ahead and go before you actually get the green light.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">What you didn't see was that other vehicle -be it Biker or Driver- who is also in a hurry. Or maybe they decided they wouldn't be able to stop in time for the light and 'went for it' instead. Either way now you're both trying to be in the same space at the same time -not good! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">This is why there's a delay between when the stop light turns red for the other direction and your light turning green. Take your time and wait your turn.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">2) Driving too slow in the Passing Lane</span></h3>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Two-lanes traveling in the same direction on a highway or interstate, the left lane is called the 'Passing Lane'. That means you travel in the right lane and, when you encounter a vehicle going slower than you, you move to the left, <u>pass them</u>, and then move back.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Drivers who 'hang out' in the Passing Lane, especially when they are not passing anyone, are most aggravating. Also, when they're going just 68mph passing someone doing 65mph.... so we'll say it again:</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Using the left lane, <i>actively pass</i> the slower vehicle in the right lane, and then move back over!! </span></blockquote>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJyFKq-yEUKeFS4DmjGP9XbsxYRPdni39GdbpER2o2nfffUo0HgqJgvFPekb8wtW4ArxGUKesr20gUB937jBGvCue33_k5tscDV1URRWQIwYLr6pyDVQoDcTdXHCcNxgghQ4b2G-EYKu4d/s1600/free-range-chicken-its-what-you.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="899" data-original-width="919" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJyFKq-yEUKeFS4DmjGP9XbsxYRPdni39GdbpER2o2nfffUo0HgqJgvFPekb8wtW4ArxGUKesr20gUB937jBGvCue33_k5tscDV1URRWQIwYLr6pyDVQoDcTdXHCcNxgghQ4b2G-EYKu4d/s320/free-range-chicken-its-what-you.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No matter who is calling, put the phone down and drive!</td></tr>
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<br />
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">1) Distracted Driving and Driving Under the Influence</span></h3>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Drivers that are on their phone, doing make-up, trying to eat their fast food, and those too drunk to even know where they are = the biggest threats to our lives when we're on the road. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">You don't see hardly anyone or know what's going on around you. You're the equivalent of a small bomb poised to potentially really screw-up an innocent person's day (and possibly even their life) as well as your own.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Put the phone down. Do your make-up at home. Stop somewhere to eat. Call a friend, a cab or Uber rather than drive. The life you save will be your own.</span>Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-43247259614653420382018-09-26T13:11:00.000-07:002018-09-26T13:11:44.416-07:00Going Fall Throttle - 5 tips for great Autumn Rides<span style="font-size: large;">Anyone who has lived in the Northeast during the three months of Fall knows that Mother Nature puts on one hell of a show! And the predictions for 2018 are that it'll be an Awesome Autumn up in the Adirondacks.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIe2oCSs1ucNTAB5nKjoppu5dM4BRgeKww_qBROmq0uO-xxwYC8y7lluGn_og__v_H6w1iHZERvNqWeCkMfVKR_mXTdiNMLcU1LfEdFbHfwCpAFIwgaxl1rhNRQAPJ98A4vRpSngRREPNi/s1600/12108118_942769172447891_6470822078211176422_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="641" data-original-width="960" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIe2oCSs1ucNTAB5nKjoppu5dM4BRgeKww_qBROmq0uO-xxwYC8y7lluGn_og__v_H6w1iHZERvNqWeCkMfVKR_mXTdiNMLcU1LfEdFbHfwCpAFIwgaxl1rhNRQAPJ98A4vRpSngRREPNi/s400/12108118_942769172447891_6470822078211176422_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gazebo in Harrisville, NY</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;">Some of the best riding of the year can be had in the vast Adirondack mountain wilderness <a href="https://www.fxcapraraharley-davidson.com/map-and-directions-dealership--hours" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>to the east of FX Caprara Harley-Davidson</b></span></a>. The vistas that now have blazing orange, red and yellow can be breath-taking. </span><br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Looking for New Roads to Ride? Get with the <a href="http://www.northernnewyorkhog.com/join.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>NNY H.O.G. Chapter</b></span></a> or check out <a href="http://gotourny.com/"><span style="color: blue;"><b>GoTourNY.com</b></span></a></span></blockquote>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But before heading out to fall in love with all the Fall colors, here's a few tips to take with you down the road:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQMflmYzoNK3Myot7KyUQNkSstK9EyII8IxjcADk5ep8Kq0lmdPsT8I2DWh7wv0s2gZWAHd5YSwQuuvXvChZATId0tVcy363zWWLd495EKJGRSrchyphenhyphenU0uZuMl6Nm2wjhogOOue2Fc_dP5Z/s1600/HD_Sioux_Falls_06_0108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQMflmYzoNK3Myot7KyUQNkSstK9EyII8IxjcADk5ep8Kq0lmdPsT8I2DWh7wv0s2gZWAHd5YSwQuuvXvChZATId0tVcy363zWWLd495EKJGRSrchyphenhyphenU0uZuMl6Nm2wjhogOOue2Fc_dP5Z/s400/HD_Sioux_Falls_06_0108.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cool roads & tires can affect your traction -make sure you've got the right tire pressure!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">• Do your <a href="https://www.msf-usa.org/downloads/T-CLOCS_Inspection_Checklist.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">T-CLOCS Inspection</span></a></span></h3>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Pay particular attention to your tire pressure (cooler temps can cause the pressure in your tires to go significantly lower!) and your lights (all the better to see and be seen with!).</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">• Check the Weather</span></h3>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The weather in the valley can differ greatly from what they're getting up on the mountain, so check all the points you plan on riding to know before you go. Plus it never hurts to take your Rain Gear.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUMkz1VDfM_AxfaHtkJI0a6ovNzM3evdiHW3mjCETU5XKJsAZE-Qpf8Oeiek07sytveC1f-p7rNpbqeg0k7hhW30OT-_ZjL_0oeI_oAbGh6i6gy0KK3oqQwVcJQpdmoLz0cQbfrvqv72iL/s1600/FXRG_Shot69_70_12022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUMkz1VDfM_AxfaHtkJI0a6ovNzM3evdiHW3mjCETU5XKJsAZE-Qpf8Oeiek07sytveC1f-p7rNpbqeg0k7hhW30OT-_ZjL_0oeI_oAbGh6i6gy0KK3oqQwVcJQpdmoLz0cQbfrvqv72iL/s400/FXRG_Shot69_70_12022.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">FXRG Layers will help keep you warm while looking cool</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">• Look cool, but stay warm</span></h3>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">It might be warm when you start out, but things can quickly change so you'll want to layer up. A good base layer (<a href="https://www.harley-davidson.com/store/NaturalSearchDisplay?searchTerm=FXRG+base+layer&userSearchTerm=FXRG+base+layer&storeId=10152&catalogId=10051&langId=-1&pageSize=45&beginIndex=0&searchSource=Q&sType=SimpleSearch&showResultsPage=true&pageView=image&resultCatEntryType=2" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Harley-Davidson's FXRG</span></a> line is good to start), wind proof jacket (in a pinch you can use your rain gear b/c waterproof = wind proof), chaps and a good Leather Riding Jacket with a removable liner is just what I've been recommending for years.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Neck gators, 3/4 or full face helmets, and insulated gauntlet gloves will complete your look -plus help fight against the cold. And a 'Hi-Vis' top layer will help you be more visible to the cagers.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">• Be aware of the Road Conditions</span></h3>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Leaves gathering on the asphalt and in turns, wet pavement, slick 'tar snakes', frost & fog, etc., etc. -watch for these potential hazards and plan ahead for how you'll ride through or around them as necessary.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Let's not forget increased traffic -thousands of tourists come from all around the world to enjoy Autumn in the Adirondacks. Leave yourself enough of a 'cushion' so that they'll have more time to see you -not that they will... When you see someone waiting to turn left and they're going to cross your path, take that as an immediate threat to you! Slow down, cover your brakes and prepare to take evasive action.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Va2_kM1YqzqRwFQzCS-nE-iPgvDi5cEGKzREsaF-LQzyjIxNBy5ZW64xKbYdCDf7yfhPun0r7KpJh2Nd4Ab0whmNVscnHcY-jvYO6zm2ViZwzS6f5gxRTmuHr-WyW-6nGpP5AyA2GaXZ/s1600/scott-jackson-648221-unsplash+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1290" data-original-width="1600" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Va2_kM1YqzqRwFQzCS-nE-iPgvDi5cEGKzREsaF-LQzyjIxNBy5ZW64xKbYdCDf7yfhPun0r7KpJh2Nd4Ab0whmNVscnHcY-jvYO6zm2ViZwzS6f5gxRTmuHr-WyW-6nGpP5AyA2GaXZ/s400/scott-jackson-648221-unsplash+%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/OSPVacVamU0?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Scott Jackson</a><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; white-space: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/search/photos/deer?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: whitesmoke; box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out 0s, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out 0s; white-space: nowrap;">Unsplash</a></td></tr>
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</div>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">• Please Deer, not tonight</span></h3>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The fall months mean it's that romantic time of year for our furry four-legged friends as well!! That, along with the fact that farmers are out in the fields harvesting their crops, means deer are more active. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Best advice is to ride during the day only..... but that's not always doable so when you have to ride at night, go at the speed limit or slower (within reason) and stick to the main roads (as opposed to the back country roads for obvious reasons). For more deer avoidance tips, check out this <a href="https://www.revzilla.com/common-tread/not-tonight-deer-tips-to-avoid-hitting-a-deer-on-your-motorcycle?utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=9%2F01%2F2018_CT&utm_term=Common+Tread+%7C+Combined" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>Common Tread Post</b></span></a>.</span></div>
<br />Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2316336551056283041.post-78610835237386341962018-09-18T10:58:00.000-07:002018-09-18T10:58:54.693-07:00What I learned on my Ride Home<span style="font-size: large;">ICYMI: Harley-Davidson had their 115th Anniversary in Milwaukee, Wisconsin over the Labor Day Weekend. And I rode there on my 115th Anniversary Heritage Softail, aaalllll the way from Northern New York with members of our Northern New York Harley Owners Group..... and then I rode a bit more before coming home.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnHayD09zkvss9f29A1DuxT2hGoLLUgrFFl4WqM88l6jFJkVZfwz0ZZuBiY0W_zRJjZRYtGtrsesqaJ0ZMiG_-3x01f06sBt6Dpw4538t9rgtqBND34euzstYnDBLJ2TqhHXo-C0osSZLD/s1600/Screenshot+2017-09-25+12.02.06.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="510" data-original-width="1345" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnHayD09zkvss9f29A1DuxT2hGoLLUgrFFl4WqM88l6jFJkVZfwz0ZZuBiY0W_zRJjZRYtGtrsesqaJ0ZMiG_-3x01f06sBt6Dpw4538t9rgtqBND34euzstYnDBLJ2TqhHXo-C0osSZLD/s400/Screenshot+2017-09-25+12.02.06.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I went from <a href="http://www.fxcapraraharley-davidson.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>FX Caprara Harley-Davidson</b></span></a> to Elyria, OH, to Milwaukee, WI to Munising, crossing over the Mackinac Bridge to Alpena and Port Huron, MI, and cutting through Canada to Niagara Falls before coming home.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">After 2,217 miles on the road, here's what I learned: </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1nu96OpaBRNaeBiZZCUn1QwKS6cokorRGRoJgXY8aKr6SIS3vB7e8Mqdeb8Towey1-COeCcrG46AghXGhlm7M083MObQRUoaqfAobIXAC7Bo8MRUlcoJtW44t1w6gF-H7hgMeNspCwIfh/s1600/Screenshot+2018-09-18+12.11.16.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="487" data-original-width="1366" height="142" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1nu96OpaBRNaeBiZZCUn1QwKS6cokorRGRoJgXY8aKr6SIS3vB7e8Mqdeb8Towey1-COeCcrG46AghXGhlm7M083MObQRUoaqfAobIXAC7Bo8MRUlcoJtW44t1w6gF-H7hgMeNspCwIfh/s400/Screenshot+2018-09-18+12.11.16.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skirting rain clouds on the coast of Lake Michigan (photo credit Google Maps)</td></tr>
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<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">• When you stop, check the weather radar -then put on ALL your rain gear if needed!</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Somewhere in Ohio on our way out our group stopped to gas up and grab a quick bite. One member checked his weather app and proceeded to suit up while I thought all I needed was just my rain jacket.... WRONG! I got drenched.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">Not making the same mistake on the same trip!! As I left Milwaukee there were numerous pop-up thunder showers, so I put on my full rain gear and this time it did its job -kept the rain away.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5wMTn5GM8pAGBB8ZDlm1aV6YGgFLmX8ViczjZpvj-oBz6iaXpP9sR3shcfPM6Hf7SpJkDhVmFg8RprYRcpRCLbAfks_1ukajzfg7QmgkHBLqnxgqFQOv-dqg0quNpRZRPHFMFOCbv0xjf/s1600/20180906_191031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="827" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5wMTn5GM8pAGBB8ZDlm1aV6YGgFLmX8ViczjZpvj-oBz6iaXpP9sR3shcfPM6Hf7SpJkDhVmFg8RprYRcpRCLbAfks_1ukajzfg7QmgkHBLqnxgqFQOv-dqg0quNpRZRPHFMFOCbv0xjf/s400/20180906_191031.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Remember to leave room for all the goodies you want to bring home!</td></tr>
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<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">• If you collect souvenirs, you'll need space to carry them home!</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Start with a list of what you're going to pack, and stick to it. And once you've packed it all, make sure you've got space to bring home the souvenirs. I had extra space, but not enough and so I missed out on getting duty free items in Niagara before coming home. (Of course that just means I have to go back!!)</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhACvj6szBEVF1PyZnzeu6Q-KM0mMDuAyppGmOkp6PVjI2rnel8Q55o0lAeoHPGu7OOlgn4KLlANfG9lB-pAivBmBkM8qIyDRSfM3RGj52x8HHoC7m23sQyrO3eYSXNmydJAEaW6pfxkKW6/s1600/20180831_170501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="827" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhACvj6szBEVF1PyZnzeu6Q-KM0mMDuAyppGmOkp6PVjI2rnel8Q55o0lAeoHPGu7OOlgn4KLlANfG9lB-pAivBmBkM8qIyDRSfM3RGj52x8HHoC7m23sQyrO3eYSXNmydJAEaW6pfxkKW6/s400/20180831_170501.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harley-Davidson Serial Number 1 -a must see!!</td></tr>
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<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">• Have an idea of what you want to do, but not a plan...</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Being in Fort Drum's backyard, we have more than a few "military" types who can have the tendency of over planning... but what I found works best is to have an idea of what you'd like to do/see, but don't be a slave to a rigid schedule. When you allow for flexibility, you'll be able to relax, enjoy the moment and see what the day brings.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQClqSMny208TPFNJTwYtKJH4fHZp5JOhZ4QmhfVg8Z2ZcZLHXMrcFzVKjptJszR0T-6tWNUMQxdizww9iuYi0SqE3EEP3FW0KnVF1nsc_t-cBN7sTZV_YU_x8CQ0XyNcUPqCffak-DFh/s1600/20180901_164714.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="620" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQClqSMny208TPFNJTwYtKJH4fHZp5JOhZ4QmhfVg8Z2ZcZLHXMrcFzVKjptJszR0T-6tWNUMQxdizww9iuYi0SqE3EEP3FW0KnVF1nsc_t-cBN7sTZV_YU_x8CQ0XyNcUPqCffak-DFh/s400/20180901_164714.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These lovely ladies put on a great show at Veterans Park</td></tr>
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<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">• Getting to meet interesting people</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">We met more than a few people along the way who were also riding out to Milwaukee, then even more when we got to where we were going. Guys that rode all the way from Brazil. People from Japan. Others speaking German. And to top it off, one of our Uber drivers who wants to ride his motorcycle in NNY next year.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHGr18XKYDrO2j0hBy959UfBTi49kozbSPm14Tk5TnQGC3vw1eKlRMNXQAxRBBTDGlTJyglFa6JFFQ05s5g5XsnpsrI4TD5DVO4p-M-tEDtg8D6CJV5AG8lXvdlTfS3-yD1BCEB4QVo12I/s1600/20180901_155848.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="465" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHGr18XKYDrO2j0hBy959UfBTi49kozbSPm14Tk5TnQGC3vw1eKlRMNXQAxRBBTDGlTJyglFa6JFFQ05s5g5XsnpsrI4TD5DVO4p-M-tEDtg8D6CJV5AG8lXvdlTfS3-yD1BCEB4QVo12I/s400/20180901_155848.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gertie the Duck on the Milwaukee River</td></tr>
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<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">• U-Turns are what make a trip interesting</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">These days GPS and route planners make getting from A to B a lot easier... but if your bike is like mine, you might not have that info right in front of you. Trying to remember route numbers and directions isn't always easy... and when you miss a turn, even though it's a 'mistake' it sometimes is for the best because then you find interesting stuff. There's a saying, "You're not lost as long as you've got gas," and this is very true when it comes to traveling by motorcycle.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxhQrgBqZdu496AJnG06i8nEtFBf5zIeD9rSV8bAJsQux_euB_Ryjus-QuvxSJIvaOV71PztXz67XkqofPVHetavPQ_95DzI7k8x-oaNFM41kcBtuwkygDUiTMwz4TbaSFBPQKgvkvy1m/s1600/20180906_094520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="465" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxhQrgBqZdu496AJnG06i8nEtFBf5zIeD9rSV8bAJsQux_euB_Ryjus-QuvxSJIvaOV71PztXz67XkqofPVHetavPQ_95DzI7k8x-oaNFM41kcBtuwkygDUiTMwz4TbaSFBPQKgvkvy1m/s400/20180906_094520.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A quiet spot close to Niagara Falls</td></tr>
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<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">• There really is still kindness in the world</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Despite all the news headlines would have us believe, there are nice people out there. While putting on </span><u style="font-size: x-large;">all</u><span style="font-size: large;"> my rain gear (after Milwaukee) I had a couple of riders stop in to check if I was ok. And while riding in Canada, all I had to do was put on my turn signal (to change lanes) and other cars would let me right in! It seemed where ever I went there were nice people welcoming me, asking how the ride was.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdZITe8ic2x-mKoavVxiK-ZAIuc4tI3-fJ8GSs0GzDowJQRFUrkiJwfUOFA2QoYvsOb2fdXU-m9gEl0BMezq6Ew5m2fpwXD814T0LpAuT45BnoFdZep-43Cl5jLGsSWZsiaK2YR1MwzGwj/s1600/20180903_172509.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="465" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdZITe8ic2x-mKoavVxiK-ZAIuc4tI3-fJ8GSs0GzDowJQRFUrkiJwfUOFA2QoYvsOb2fdXU-m9gEl0BMezq6Ew5m2fpwXD814T0LpAuT45BnoFdZep-43Cl5jLGsSWZsiaK2YR1MwzGwj/s400/20180903_172509.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Bike looking over at the Mackinac Bridge before crossing</td></tr>
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<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">• It wasn't fear I was feeling, it was the excitement of getting out of my comfort zone</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">During the torrential down-pour we experienced on our way out to Milwaukee, the 'fear' briefly flashed through my head, "There's lots of water on the road, I'm on a new bike, visibility is bad... I could so easily loose control and go down..." but then I stopped myself. They weren't really fears, just self doubt (which I definitely don't need while riding a motorcycle down the interstate in the pouring rain!). </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Instead I focused on my riding ability and the fact that my 2018 Heritage Softail has ABS. With my Basic Rider's Course Instructor's Voice in my head (even though I took the course nearly 10 years ago), putting the fact that I was soaked through from the waist down to the back of my mind (at least it was a warm rain), and laughing because the water was giving me a nice "fresh water facial" (what some people pay $120 for!!) allowed me to relax and ride through it. The upside to the down-pour for me was increased confidence in my ability and knowing what I can accomplish.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaconXc7d9tn4IBPUUdi4SzFoedhvUln8tEiwwupeWfy1aSEZdh5_Sr_DDey0BMmiDLfoB90TbyFaFzgkRBSYmMlaMWwLgTPBp7fdW6bAyY_J2YMGnk3etalew5ZqpoJVqBxk_O-nRwcgM/s1600/Michigan-Niagara+August+Trip+FB+Banner+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="592" data-original-width="1600" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaconXc7d9tn4IBPUUdi4SzFoedhvUln8tEiwwupeWfy1aSEZdh5_Sr_DDey0BMmiDLfoB90TbyFaFzgkRBSYmMlaMWwLgTPBp7fdW6bAyY_J2YMGnk3etalew5ZqpoJVqBxk_O-nRwcgM/s400/Michigan-Niagara+August+Trip+FB+Banner+collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tribute to the fun I had after the party in Milwaukee</td></tr>
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<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">• Take the time and really enjoy your life, no matter your age!</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Growing up in the '70s & '80s the pressure was on to know what I wanted my career to be, graduating high school and college, and getting a good paying job with great benefits... That wasn't necessarily bad advice, but I realize now that was what their priorities were- not mine. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">When traveling by motorcycle I am forced to slow down and listen to my own voice. I turned 50 this year and I've realized that if I want to stop to enjoy a view or try a restaurant I should do just that. That it's ok to <i>not</i> have a priority or plan and to just enjoy myself, living in the moment. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYJD_hLliYOWxTwoEPJj3rReY4TBXngfkXuVqXs69WYoOOwef7BWpfKU-UgyDLjJK2M9LZ4Er5Ioyd2XKRatNAge00GXKDwWr6pChNissGWDsG2kEfGpnP3_qicwRHD1Z9ICjD_us912za/s1600/Sunset+in+Munising.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="827" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYJD_hLliYOWxTwoEPJj3rReY4TBXngfkXuVqXs69WYoOOwef7BWpfKU-UgyDLjJK2M9LZ4Er5Ioyd2XKRatNAge00GXKDwWr6pChNissGWDsG2kEfGpnP3_qicwRHD1Z9ICjD_us912za/s400/Sunset+in+Munising.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">B-e-a-utiful Sunset in Michigan</td></tr>
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<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">• Be grateful for the little things</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Riding along the coast of Lake Michigan and seeing those views, the beauty of the setting sun, flowers blooming and bees buzzing in a summer garden... After saying "WOW!" at the show Mother Nature was giving me, I'd follow up with a, "Thank you!" I am so blessed to be able to take this all in.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZcirwoXyx_JsxJjB63pAEyaQcitOTt22yHnjGhn9n0mZWNNIwam48XtMaT8hQu95shptkNIg8uQnlF1HgmmGkrAqtzzwCEAfGIcsJupBTS0Ro2SDyh5I7OkiuX2u0KISMLiIKgAAVOkFl/s1600/20180903_113620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="827" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZcirwoXyx_JsxJjB63pAEyaQcitOTt22yHnjGhn9n0mZWNNIwam48XtMaT8hQu95shptkNIg8uQnlF1HgmmGkrAqtzzwCEAfGIcsJupBTS0Ro2SDyh5I7OkiuX2u0KISMLiIKgAAVOkFl/s400/20180903_113620.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pictured Rocks on Lake Superior, Michigan's Upper Peninsula</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi58U2waSEHgk-E7XNVYkqxpPu3wzrb2fGQP5IB-k6ag9csvTi4YtVxoYNfi-pjtMeBhqBa2Bvj6ZanRJrWBZSfy9zdAgmbaBsce0Kg3IRB2RWhYONdYZHrY-ThhaVeMn64xiZrelRzSO7h/s1600/20180905_201051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="827" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi58U2waSEHgk-E7XNVYkqxpPu3wzrb2fGQP5IB-k6ag9csvTi4YtVxoYNfi-pjtMeBhqBa2Bvj6ZanRJrWBZSfy9zdAgmbaBsce0Kg3IRB2RWhYONdYZHrY-ThhaVeMn64xiZrelRzSO7h/s400/20180905_201051.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Niagara Falls in the Evening</td></tr>
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Dawn #atFXCHDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04794540112233607728noreply@blogger.com0