Topic: California Dreaming | A Reality Finally ! (Read 8045 times)

Jock · « **on:** May 05, 2009, 05:43:27 PM »

It all started back in June 2006 when some of NorCal Krewe made the journey to the East Coast to take a trip cross country. I was invited, I think or perhaps I worked my way in, to take the journey with them. While I could not perform the entire journey I did make it to the event of 2006 in Cripple Creek, CO.

During the journey I was able to make some new friends quick…JCZ, ak and Jonga became part of my family instantly and I knew I wanted to spend more time with these folks. While in Cripple Creek I was blessed to add more members of my family…erniezap, mr_magoo, Iselbulls, King Salmon, and so many more.

After this great experience I knew I had to get out to their back yard and experience what they were talking about during this event. It took me longer than expected but it finally occurred! If I was forced to express my experience in one word that word would be WOW!

I can not begin to express my thanks and gratitude to the many that did so much and each of you know who you are. I was blown away and you should know that words can not express my thoughts and this could not have occurred at a better time in my life.

Jock · « **Reply #1 on:** May 05, 2009, 05:44:49 PM »

My first journey was to the Bay Area. The weather was not quit what I expected and I was blessed in the fact that ak allowed me to borrow a fleece that Brandon wore which made it really special. I had packed long sleeve shirts and an Under Armor shirt but that was not enough for the wimp!

We hooked up with Hotrodstitcher, a dude with a really cool gig, and headed towards the Bay Area. All is good in the world.

So have you heard of the term “Twin Peaks”…

No, No, No…Not that one…I am referring to San Francisco “Twin Peaks”…Well this is it…As for me I would have never known this place existed. What a view of San Francisco! Some fog in the area too.

Jock · « **Reply #2 on:** May 05, 2009, 05:45:36 PM »

Golden Gate Bridge from “Twin Peaks” All right…get you mind out of the gutter by now !!! I know you expect it from me…sorry.

Jock · « **Reply #3 on:** May 05, 2009, 05:46:09 PM »

Castro Street from “Twin Peaks” If you know what Castro Street is all about please DO NOT LET ME KNOW. Mmmmm…now for you East Coast folk…do the Google Search but beware…You must me open minded.

Jock · « **Reply #4 on:** May 05, 2009, 05:46:44 PM »

“Twin Peaks” Friends…Hotrodstitcher & ak

ak…

Hotrodstitcher & Jock

Jock · « **Reply #5 on:** May 05, 2009, 05:47:35 PM »

The Cliff House is a restaurant perched on the headlands on the cliffs just north of Ocean Beach on the western side of San Francisco, California. It overlooks the site of the former Sutro Baths and a room-sized camera obscura and is now part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, operated by the National Park Service.

ak & Jock

Jock · « **Reply #6 on:** May 05, 2009, 05:48:22 PM »

San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge

Jock · « **Reply #7 on:** May 05, 2009, 05:49:26 PM »

The Palace of Fine Arts in the Marina District of San Francisco, California is a building originally constructed for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition.

Hotrodstitcher, Jock & ak

Hotrodstitcher, Jock & ak…note Jock is taking in the local favor…”not that there is anything wrong with that!”

Jock · « **Reply #8 on:** May 05, 2009, 05:50:37 PM »

San Francisco Area

“Who let the dogs out…” I have never seen so many dogs in my life in a city!

Jock · « **Reply #9 on:** May 05, 2009, 05:52:16 PM »

Chick Magnet...ak

Jock · « **Reply #10 on:** May 05, 2009, 05:53:21 PM »

Lombard Street is in San Francisco, California. It is famous for having a steep, one-block section that consists of tight hairpin turns. You would have thought that we were Rock Stars when we arrived here to ride down the street…Everyone taking photos…

ak on Lombard Street

Jock on Lombard Street

Jock · « **Reply #11 on:** May 05, 2009, 05:53:56 PM »

Alcatraz Island, commonly referred to as simply Alcatraz or locally as The Rock, is a small island located in the middle of San Francisco Bay in California, United States. It served as a lighthouse, then a military fortification, then a military prison followed by a federal prison until 1963. It became a national recreation area in 1972 and received landmarking designations in 1976 and 1986.

“I think I may have found a way out of here…Alcatraz Island

Jock · « **Reply #12 on:** May 05, 2009, 05:55:25 PM »

Another view of the Golden Gate Bridge

Jock · « **Reply #13 on:** May 05, 2009, 05:56:19 PM »

San Francisco Toilet….

San Francisco Toilet… Before…Hotrodstitcher…

San Francisco Toilet…After…Hotrodstitcher…

DAMN…!!!! Not sure if they clean it every time or just after Hotrodstitcher! LOL…

Jock · « **Reply #14 on:** May 05, 2009, 05:57:06 PM »

A view of San Francisco

Hotrodstitcher & ak

Jock · « **Reply #15 on:** May 05, 2009, 05:58:04 PM »

Sausalito, CA

Our lunch stop

Jock · « **Reply #16 on:** May 05, 2009, 05:58:55 PM »

Mount Tamalpais is the highest peak in the Marin Hills, which are part of the Northern California Coast Ranges. The elevation at the East Peak, its second highest point, is 2,572 feet (784 m). The West Peak, the mountain's highest peak where a radar dome currently stands, is 2,574 feet (785 m). It stood over 2,600 feet (792 m) before the summit was flattened for the radar dome construction. The mountain is clearly visible from the city of San Francisco and the East Bay region.

Mount Tamalpais View | San Francisco, CA

Mount Tamalpais…ak, Mr & Mrs RidinRuby

Jock · « **Reply #17 on:** May 05, 2009, 05:59:38 PM »

Jock gettin’ liquored up at an interesting saloon in San Francisco

ak is the bouncer

Jock · « **Reply #18 on:** May 05, 2009, 06:00:40 PM »

San Francisco Stop

Jock · « **Reply #19 on:** May 05, 2009, 06:01:18 PM »

I believe I must have gone through every Santa or San something town in Central Western CA…Here we are in Santa Cruz at an awesome bakery…erniezap, Kimberly, ak & moto-michael

Jock · « **Reply #20 on:** May 05, 2009, 06:02:46 PM »

Monterey, CA

erniezap & Kimberly

erniezap & Jock

Erniezap, Jock, ak & moto-michael

Some damn cold water

The “wild life” on the beach

Monterey, CA Cannery Row

ak & moto-michael at Bubba Gump’s

Need a shirt? Gotta ya covered…

I have been chasing beaver my entire life and I finally caught some in Monterey…

The krewe with Miles…more about him later…a really nice guy

This stuff could do some damage…

erniezap gets there just in time to prevent tickets from being written on the bikes…Good catch and Thank you!

Jock · « **Reply #21 on:** May 05, 2009, 06:11:10 PM »

Off to Pebble Beach, CA

erniezap & Kimberly were able to get us on 17 Mile Drive…a real privilege…scooters are NOT ALLOWED HERE! I was blessed to have this opportunity.

The 17 Mile Drive is a scenic road through Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach, California, United States, much of which hugs the Pacific coastline and passes famous golf courses and mansions. It also serves as the main road through the gated community of Pebble Beach. Like the community, the majority of 17-Mile Drive is owned and operated by the Pebble Beach Corporation.

Thank you so much…

Looks like this deer is playing through…

Some nice homes…

The Lone Cypress

Jock · « **Reply #22 on:** May 05, 2009, 06:14:17 PM »

Now on to Big Sur…

Bixby Creek Bridge is a reinforced concrete open-spandrel arch bridge in Big Sur, California. It is located 120 miles (190 km) south of San Francisco and 13 miles (21 km) south of Carmel in Monterey County along California Highway One.

Bixby Creek Bridge is important historically because it introduced automobile travel to Big Sur, connecting the remote coastal towns to each other. Simply awesome!

Jock · « **Reply #23 on:** May 05, 2009, 06:18:50 PM »

From here it was time to take our steel ponies to The Post Ranch Inn for lunch. Remember me new friend Miles from Monterey? Well this is his place and what a place it is.

Nestled on the cliffs of Big Sur, California, Post Ranch Inn provides the ultimate accommodations for a romantic getaway for a price.

The restaurant

The view…

Say hello to my friends…moto-michael & erniezap!

The property…

A room buried in the side of the mountain..

A room in a tree house…

The ocean view from outside…

Jock · « **Reply #24 on:** May 05, 2009, 06:20:06 PM »

And I am just getting started…more to come…

GregKhougaz · « **Reply #25 on:** May 05, 2009, 06:26:40 PM »

Great pictures Jock! Thanks for sharing. Wonderful to meet and ride with you. I'm sure the whole CA contingent wishes you a speedy return to CA! Looking forward to the rest of your "report."

GK

sgchick · « **Reply #26 on:** May 05, 2009, 06:48:30 PM »

Wow!! Spectacular pics Jock!! :2vrolijk_21:Glad you enjoyed your stay. Hopefully Trapperdog, (Roger), and I will get to meet ya!!

erniezap · « **Reply #27 on:** May 05, 2009, 07:16:35 PM »

Great Pictures! Can't wait to see the rest! Jock, it's always a pleasure getting together with you!

Lil-Bit · « **Reply #28 on:** May 05, 2009, 07:25:06 PM »

Awespme pictures Jock!!!! Glad you were able to make it out for the GTG & got to see some other areas of California. Looking forward to the rest of your pictures.

Jock · « **Reply #29 on:** May 05, 2009, 08:32:53 PM »

After a couple of great days in the Bay Area it was off to JCZ’s neck of the woods!! But before I would make this journey it was time to meet the MAN that turned me on to Hawg Wired Tunes….hd-dude!

It would be there that I purchased some Schampa under clothing. I had some Under Armor but this is better and I should have listened a long time ago from the NorCal Krewe.

Meet the MAN…hd-dude…A pleasure to meet you my friend and thanks for the help.

Some bikes at the shop…

Jock · « **Reply #30 on:** May 05, 2009, 08:33:38 PM »

During my trip to JCZ’s I saw this sign and was temped but knew this would give me another reason to return to the area again.

Jock · « **Reply #31 on:** May 05, 2009, 08:34:09 PM »

I arrived and JCZ was ready to ride…Gotta Love A Man Like That!

Jock · « **Reply #32 on:** May 05, 2009, 08:34:44 PM »

It was off to Folsom Prison which was great to be able to see…such history here in more ways then can be expressed…

Thought I was going to get lucky here with this lady walking out…just knew she had just been released! NOT!

Post Office here

I view of a cell…

One of the inmates made this…

Jock · « **Reply #33 on:** May 05, 2009, 08:35:21 PM »

From here we went on a nice ride through some of the Gold Rush Country and stopped at this One Hell of A Bridge

Jock · « **Reply #34 on:** May 05, 2009, 08:36:28 PM »

You need to hear the story about this hotel and the honey moon suite and the ring of the bell !!! Ask JCZ !!!

Jock · « **Reply #35 on:** May 05, 2009, 08:37:01 PM »

One of the great views on this excellent ride…

Jock · « **Reply #36 on:** May 05, 2009, 08:38:25 PM »

Hey Mom! I am in Gold Country!!!!

My Tour Guide JCZ

Bet you know what that is…

JCZ checking out the facility but said it was not up to San Francisco standards…Guess this one does not have a Cleaning Cycle!

Jock · « **Reply #37 on:** May 05, 2009, 08:39:25 PM »

Still more on the way...

Jock · « **Reply #38 on:** May 05, 2009, 08:52:37 PM »

After a great time with JCZ in his neck of the woods. From here I would head towards Lake Tahoe...

Lake Tahoe is a large freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada mountains of the United States. It is located along the border between California and Nevada, west of Carson City, Nevada. Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America. Its depth is 1,645 ft (501 m) making it America's second-deepest, (Crater Lake, in Oregon, being the deepest at 1945 feet (594 m) deep.

JCZ provided me with an awesome ride for the next few days. I could have never performed this on my own. When and if he retires he should be a tour planner.

A beautiful area!

Here is the view entering into the Lake Tahoe area…

Now a view of the Lake…

We have landed...

TN · « **Reply #39 on:** May 05, 2009, 09:01:19 PM »

excellent. thanks for sharing.

TN

Jock · « **Reply #40 on:** May 05, 2009, 09:03:59 PM »

Time for some spectacular views of the Lake and its beauty…

Jock · « **Reply #41 on:** May 05, 2009, 09:15:42 PM »

Inspiration Point and it certainly is that…

Jock · « **Reply #42 on:** May 05, 2009, 09:19:08 PM »

More views…

Jock · « **Reply #43 on:** May 05, 2009, 09:39:23 PM »

A Tunnel of Love

Jock · « **Reply #44 on:** May 05, 2009, 09:39:59 PM »

The Nevada Side…

Jock · « **Reply #45 on:** May 05, 2009, 09:40:47 PM »

Back to California…

Jock · « **Reply #46 on:** May 05, 2009, 09:41:23 PM »

Leaving Lake Tahoe it was time to head towards the Toiyabe National Forest…

Jock · « **Reply #47 on:** May 05, 2009, 09:42:12 PM »

On the way I made it through Luther Pass…

Luther Pass (el. 7,740 ft.) is a mountain pass in California in the Sierra Nevada, between the Carson River basin and Lake Tahoe. It is traversed by State Route 89 and lies on the boundary between Alpine County and El Dorado County. The mountains southwest of Luther Pass form part of the main ridge of the Sierra Nevada, while to the northeast they spur off to form the Carson Range.

Jock · « **Reply #48 on:** May 05, 2009, 09:43:02 PM »

And Carson Pass…

Kit Carson Pass, named after the famed explorer Kit Carson, (el. 8,650 ft.) is a mountain pass through the Sierra Nevada range in Alpine County, California. It is traversed by State Route 88. It was the most significant overland route during the California Gold Rush, as well as the primary route for shipping resources from California to assist in the Civil War until the completion of the First Transcontinental Railroad.

Jock · « **Reply #49 on:** May 05, 2009, 09:51:15 PM »

Eldorado National Forest here I am…

Note the still somewhat frozen lake in late April…

Snow still here…

Jock · « **Reply #50 on:** May 05, 2009, 09:51:54 PM »

What a change in the day…

Jock · « **Reply #51 on:** May 05, 2009, 10:25:03 PM »

From here I would head towards Jamestown, CA and prepare for my trip to Yosemite National Park. This is a cool area and I should have stayed in Jamestown but I needed to get a few things performed at work on the computer. The downtown area is ole school which is very cool and worth the trip.

Jock · « **Reply #52 on:** May 05, 2009, 10:26:07 PM »

Here is a view on CA Highway 120 towards Yosemite National Park…

Jock · « **Reply #53 on:** May 05, 2009, 10:27:05 PM »

Here is a Tour Group from Germany in the area...

Jock · « **Reply #54 on:** May 05, 2009, 10:27:44 PM »

I have arrived….

Jock · « **Reply #55 on:** May 05, 2009, 10:29:33 PM »

Yosemite National Park views…

Yosemite National Park is a national park located in the eastern portions of Tuolumne, Mariposa and Madera counties in east central California, United States. The park covers an area of 761,266 acres or 1,189 square miles and reaches across the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountain chain.

One of several Tunnels of Love…

More views…

Jock · « **Reply #56 on:** May 05, 2009, 10:39:49 PM »

Yosemite National Park Bridalveil Fall

Jock · « **Reply #57 on:** May 05, 2009, 10:43:10 PM »

More to come...

Lil-Bit · « **Reply #58 on:** May 05, 2009, 10:48:01 PM »

Beautiful pictures!!!!!! We rode through Tahoe & Yosemite on the Nor Cal tour last Sept. & it was beautiful then. But w/ the melting snow, it really changes things w/ all the waterfalls & creeks. Can't wait to see more

Wrongway · « **Reply #59 on:** May 05, 2009, 11:49:51 PM »

Forgot how much I Love America!!!

RidinRuby · « **Reply #60 on:** May 06, 2009, 12:45:20 AM »

Hey Jock those are some awsome photo's

Makes me want to go to Yosemite!

jonga · « **Reply #61 on:** May 06, 2009, 01:36:52 AM »

Great to see you again Jock, glad your trip was enjoyable and eventful. Did you make it through the avenue of giants? I didn't see any photos. I guess thats just one the reasons you will need to come back and see us again. I also am ready to make a trip to your side of this great country...... I'm sure our paths will cross again hopefully sooner than later. Take care my brother...... Jon

CVOJOE · « **Reply #62 on:** May 06, 2009, 01:59:07 AM »

Great photos Jock!!!

Glad you enjoyed your trip out this direction and hopefully on your next trip I can join the crew, just too much going on work and personal wise to get any decent amount of time off lately. SUX!

Joe

ccr · « **Reply #63 on:** May 06, 2009, 08:59:49 AM »

Fantastic photos and it is great to meet some of the great friends you have made over the years again.

I liked getting to have a glimpse of a HD/Ford truck with a camper top on it.

16HD117 · « **Reply #64 on:** May 06, 2009, 09:48:12 AM »

Man! California must have rednecks too! Looks like one used this sign for target practice....

Nice pics Jock!

Jock · « **Reply #65 on:** May 06, 2009, 10:23:36 AM »

El Capitan is a 3,000-foot vertical rock formation in Yosemite National Park, located on the north side of Yosemite Valley, near its western end. The granite monolith is one of the world's favorite challenges for rock climbers.

Jock · « **Reply #66 on:** May 06, 2009, 10:24:14 AM »

This is Curry Village located in Yosemite National Park in the Valley area. Here you can camp, eat see lots of people and just hang out.

Jock · « **Reply #67 on:** May 06, 2009, 10:25:29 AM »

Some more views of Yosemite…

Jock · « **Reply #68 on:** May 06, 2009, 10:26:14 AM »

The Ahwahnee Hotel is a destination hotel in Yosemite National Park, on the floor of Yosemite Valley, constructed from stone, concrete, wood and glass, which opened in 1927. It is a premiere example of National Park Service Rustic architecture, and was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1987.

Jock · « **Reply #69 on:** May 06, 2009, 10:26:57 AM »

Here is Yosemite Fall…

Jock · « **Reply #70 on:** May 06, 2009, 10:27:33 AM »

My German Friends going through the Park…

Jock · « **Reply #71 on:** May 06, 2009, 10:28:16 AM »

Another waterfall…

Jock · « **Reply #72 on:** May 06, 2009, 10:28:58 AM »

Yosemite CA Highway 140 Entrance…

Jock · « **Reply #73 on:** May 06, 2009, 10:29:38 AM »

During my travels I rode on CA Highway 49…State Route 49 is a north-south state highway that passes through many historic mining communities of the 1849 California gold rush. Highway 49 is numbered after the "49ers", the waves of immigrants who swept into the area looking for gold, and a portion of it is known as the Gold Country Highway.

Jock · « **Reply #74 on:** May 06, 2009, 10:30:12 AM »

It was time to leave Yosemite and head towards my meeting point to hook up with JCZ, Terrie, Jonga, King Salmon and Gina. But on the way I ran across this little watering hole…Iron Door Saloon in Grovetown.

Jock · « **Reply #75 on:** May 06, 2009, 10:30:56 AM »

A little later on the trip I ran across this billboard and thought could there be truth in their advertising?

Only three ugly ones?

Jock · « **Reply #76 on:** May 06, 2009, 10:32:11 AM »

On Thursday we hooked up at Eagles Nest Harley Davidson which is located in Lathrop, CA.

Take a look at these service hours! Now the question is what type of work and quality do they perform?

When JCZ ask the question to the little girl behind the counter, “What are you #1 in?” , she had no clue!

One of their rides for sale…

Jock · « **Reply #77 on:** May 06, 2009, 10:33:13 AM »

The first to arrive was Jonga…It would have been JCZ and Terrie but JCZ had an issue with the bike that had to be addressed.

Shortly after King Salmon and Gina arrived…I had not seen Jonga and King Salmon since the ride to Cripple Creek and it was great to see them again.

With JCZ and Terrie’s arrival the krewe was here it was time to ride.

But before we could get started it was time to gas up…Thank GOD ak taught me the proper method to gas up in CA because I would have never been able to ride. On my first try I got like 23¢ in fuel and said WTF?

With fuel in the tank and a power bar in the belly it was time to take on Interstate 5 and let yer rip!

Jock · « **Reply #78 on:** May 06, 2009, 10:36:31 AM »

We were making time on the road and all of a sudden JCZ pulled over…

After making a call to the West Coast’s Best Mechanic hd-dude, it was determined that the bike was going to have to be towed to get repaired. No road side service could work here.

With that being said it was time to make some adjustments…Jonga got the tour pack he was always looking for courtesy of JCZ…

While we were waiting for the tow truck it was time for a photo opp…

Note the “hanger” JCZ has…I know that has a hidden meaning…I need to think about that one.

Two sweet B & Bs…

Jonga found a nice hole to relieve himself but does he always cry after taking a pi$$?

I almost could not bring myself to take the following pics…

Jock · « **Reply #79 on:** May 06, 2009, 10:37:32 AM »

Well with the bike loaded up JCZ got on Terrie’s bike and I got the dream of a lifetime. A Hot Babe on the back of a bike in California! One proud man! Hey did I just type that? Good thing I am back on the East Coast and JCZ is out there!

Before we arrived in Solvang I was treated to the spot where James Dean was killed. My brother-in-law was named after him so this had some special meaning and perspective for me.

Jock · « **Reply #80 on:** May 06, 2009, 10:38:08 AM »

More to come...

porthole · « **Reply #81 on:** May 06, 2009, 11:10:53 AM »

Typical Jock fashion .................................................

Hugh Janis · « **Reply #82 on:** May 06, 2009, 11:29:10 AM »

Quote from: Jock on May 06, 2009, 10:38:08 AM

More to come...

Lil-Bit · « **Reply #83 on:** May 06, 2009, 11:56:48 AM »

As MANY pictures he took, he's needs a break in-between

Jock · « **Reply #84 on:** May 06, 2009, 12:40:22 PM »

So we pulled into Solvang at the host hotel and the party had already gotten well under way. I swiftly unpacked the bike and headed towards the hotel watering hole.

As we arrived we were greeted by a krewe of lovely young ladies and several lucky men. It was at this point that I decided we needed to take pictures of each other taking pictures. The only problem was we were to take them at the same time. I started the countdown and what do you know…the young ladies were suffering from pre-mature ejaculation of then shutter button. Now something tells me that they have experienced this in other areas of their life. I attempted to train them on the proper slow and enjoyment method but they would have no use for it. Guess they have been brain washed. Too bad! But it was still fun! Sometimes fast and furious works too!

Jock · « **Reply #85 on:** May 06, 2009, 12:41:25 PM »

After some “quick” fun at the bar it was time to check into the foosball game.

It was Kimberly and Wrongway taking on ak & Sherrie

These folks had some skills.

After a night of fun it was time to retire and prepare for Friday ride

Jock · « **Reply #86 on:** May 06, 2009, 12:42:45 PM »

Morning came and it was going to be ANOTHER awesome day for me…

CVO Glide Alley

Jock · « **Reply #87 on:** May 06, 2009, 12:44:51 PM »

We started the ride with some wine…

Hell I’m drunk just looking at all of the pictures!

Jock · « **Reply #88 on:** May 06, 2009, 12:45:27 PM »

What goes better with wine then beef?

Jock · « **Reply #89 on:** May 06, 2009, 12:47:15 PM »

Time for our first road stop…

mr_magoo takin’ a break from the action…

King Salmon says “Hey Mom!”

Iselbulls with his ride

Let’s talk about that road…

Time to get back on the road

But where are we going? Good thing VANAMAL is leading the way because I have no clue!

Jock · « **Reply #90 on:** May 06, 2009, 12:48:51 PM »

Our next stop would be a the Harley Dealership…

Note the CVO For Sale…

Apparently erniezap is not a fan of this one…

Come to think about it, I had not taken a bath in five days maybe it was me!?

Ironhorse is checking out a new ride but I think the seat was not a winner for him…

Note to King Salmon…I see one of these in Gina’s future!

It was time to pack it up and head towards our next stop and grab some grub!

The ladies dropped off some money at the dealership…

We did not know it at the time but this was a good stop for one of the krewe. GregKhougaz had an issue with the bike and what better place could you be? There is a story to be told on this one and he would be best in sharing it. Bottom Line – Ask him about dealership co-operation.

Jock · « **Reply #91 on:** May 06, 2009, 12:50:04 PM »

At our lunch stop in Guadalupe, CA this young lady was selling raffle tickets and running for Rodeo Queen. I think she was also checking out Jonga’s hair!

Remember the training at the watering hole regarding photo taking? Mrs. Rooster was giving it a try while Mr. Rooster looks on...

Jock · « **Reply #92 on:** May 06, 2009, 12:52:18 PM »

After another night of fun it was time to load up for another day of excellent riding…

Here’s GregKhougaz, ak & Sherrie preparing for the ride…By the way…where’s Panhead_Jimmy?

Two wild and crazy guys… 110 Mofo & Wrongway

The Line Up…

Jock · « **Reply #93 on:** May 06, 2009, 12:54:45 PM »

Our first stop would be Solvang, CA… Solvang was founded in 1911 on 9,000 acres of formerly Spanish land by a group of Danish educators, who traveled west to escape midwestern winters. The city is home to some bakeries, restaurants, and merchants offering a taste of Denmark in California. The architecture of many of the buildings follows traditional Danish style. VANAMAL performs quite a bit of his handy work here on these buildings.

Check out this roof!

Rbaker and Ironhorse checkin’ out the town…

The krewe comparing notes…

While in town ak had some dental work performed from one of the locals…I think I would ask for my money back wouldn’t you?

Come to think of it…I feel like I am back home in Sothern Georgia!

I gained 20lbs just walking into this place…

Well 45 minutes later and 20lbs heavier it was time to hop on the scooters and travel down the road…Time to shut ‘er down…

Off we go into the hills…

Jock · « **Reply #94 on:** May 06, 2009, 12:59:56 PM »

Our next stop would be Jalama Beach…the road into the area has a striking view…

Before we could arrive there a train had to pass on some prime real estate.

Start your engines…GO!

Back on the way…

We have arrived…

Get out there and FLY!

Jalama Beach

Jock hits the beach…

The railroad bridge…

Ironhorse riding like a pro…”I like this bike!”

Our lunch stop…

Guess what other club was in town…

A rock garden…

While we were eating a sea gull decided to empty his belly on Jonga’s bike. Don’t ask me why he choose his bike but members of the pack had their thoughts.

Jonga washing his hands?

With the new administration looking at ways to reduce cost could this be our future?

Well once again the belly was full and it was off to the next stop…

Jock · « **Reply #95 on:** May 06, 2009, 02:11:36 PM »

One of the views to our next stop…

Jock · « **Reply #96 on:** May 06, 2009, 02:12:20 PM »

Do not know the name of this bridge…

Jock · « **Reply #97 on:** May 06, 2009, 02:13:11 PM »

Our next stop Cold Spring Traven

Jonga, JCZ & VANAMAL

Some history regarding this area…

Jock · « **Reply #98 on:** May 06, 2009, 02:14:08 PM »

Here’s the Cold Spring Traven…

A good question…

Looks like a wedding party for the evening…poor SOB…

A little shop…

Hey there’s Panhead_Jimmy!

Jock · « **Reply #99 on:** May 06, 2009, 02:22:33 PM »

A future WANTED poster in the Post Office

Jock · « **Reply #100 on:** May 06, 2009, 02:23:36 PM »

From here VANAMAL was kind enough to take me to Santa Barbara being so close and I wanted to go.

We have arrived….

Jock · « **Reply #101 on:** May 06, 2009, 02:24:31 PM »

On to the pier…

Jock · « **Reply #102 on:** May 06, 2009, 02:25:11 PM »

Jock in Santa Barbara

VANAMAL in Santa Barbara

Traveling Santa Barbara style

I’ll take my bike any day over this one…

Jock · « **Reply #103 on:** May 06, 2009, 02:25:57 PM »

Time to head out…a local restaurant…

Local flavor

I tried but too fast

The beach

One if by sea, two if by land…

Jock · « **Reply #104 on:** May 06, 2009, 02:26:40 PM »

Traveling back to Solvang on Highway 101

Jock · « **Reply #105 on:** May 06, 2009, 05:16:19 PM »

Our final night we were treated to Mendenhall’s Museum of Gasoline Pumps which is filled with interesting pieces. While many of these photographs you have seen already you may find one or two you did not with some interesting background.

And whata know…here’s Panhead_Jimmy!

Jock · « **Reply #106 on:** May 06, 2009, 05:16:57 PM »

The bar

Jock · « **Reply #107 on:** May 06, 2009, 05:17:35 PM »

The cars

Jock · « **Reply #108 on:** May 06, 2009, 05:18:13 PM »

Jock · « **Reply #109 on:** May 06, 2009, 05:19:28 PM »

Jock · « **Reply #110 on:** May 06, 2009, 05:20:06 PM »

The pumps

Jock · « **Reply #111 on:** May 06, 2009, 05:20:50 PM »

The signs

Jock · « **Reply #112 on:** May 06, 2009, 05:22:59 PM »

A Dyno of yesterday…

Jock · « **Reply #113 on:** May 06, 2009, 05:23:41 PM »

Jock · « **Reply #114 on:** May 06, 2009, 05:24:23 PM »

The Duke was in da “house”…the out house that is…

Jock · « **Reply #115 on:** May 06, 2009, 05:25:01 PM »

Jock · « **Reply #116 on:** May 06, 2009, 05:25:54 PM »

Hey looky here…

Jock · « **Reply #117 on:** May 06, 2009, 05:26:37 PM »

Jock · « **Reply #118 on:** May 06, 2009, 05:27:53 PM »

Well, Well…

Jock · « **Reply #119 on:** May 06, 2009, 05:28:29 PM »

The original station

WOW!

Jock · « **Reply #120 on:** May 06, 2009, 05:29:34 PM »

It was like a high school dance…boys on one side…girls on the other!

Jock · « **Reply #121 on:** May 06, 2009, 05:30:47 PM »

At Night

We had some fun! Thanks to everyone that put this together!

GregKhougaz · « **Reply #122 on:** May 06, 2009, 05:48:26 PM »

09S/E roadglide · « **Reply #123 on:** May 06, 2009, 07:01:50 PM »

That was worth every minute flipping through all those pics.....not a bad one in the bunch

Thanks for sharing the ride with us east coast boys

Wrongway · « **Reply #124 on:** May 06, 2009, 07:04:24 PM »

How the he!! can you have any more? Great shots, glad you had 14 memory cards for your camera

Jock · « **Reply #125 on:** May 06, 2009, 07:33:45 PM »

As I woke up that Sunday morning I knew the time had come for the final ride of my long awaited journey. Several years had pasted since I wanted to take this trip and I did not want it to end. It was hard for me to pack up and head back but I knew it had to be performed. In my mind I thought “well you have taken the first step by getting out here now just allow it to occur more often.” With that being said, that will be a goal I will shoot for in the future.

Again I would like to thank everyone for their hospitality, generosity and welcome. It was truly a pleasure to see ole friends and meet new ones. I will treasure our time together and look forward to future ones. Because of you I was able to accomplish and see so much in so little time. A special moment for me in my life…Thanks

ak · « **Reply #126 on:** May 06, 2009, 08:42:07 PM »

Reply #120 is after 5 lb,s of tri-tip.....Jock nice Job on the photo,s - AK

lilbear · « **Reply #127 on:** May 06, 2009, 08:44:01 PM »

Incredible photos Jock!

I know you had a great time and it really shows through your photo journalism here. Starting in SF was awesome, I love that town! Gorgeous places and incredible friends! I'll keep looking at these photos for quite some time. Really makes me want to get started planning my Western trip!

Thanks for sharing the incredible times,
Craig

Jock · « **Reply #128 on:** May 06, 2009, 08:45:28 PM »

Quote from: ak on May 06, 2009, 08:42:07 PM

Reply #120 is after 5 lb,s of tri-tip

Good catch! It was good!

Jock · « **Reply #129 on:** May 06, 2009, 08:48:28 PM »

Quote from: lilbear on May 06, 2009, 08:44:01 PM

I know you had a great time and it really shows through your photo journalism here. Starting in SF was awesome, I love that town! Gorgeous places and incredible friends! I'll keep looking at these photos for quite some time. Really makes me want to get started planning my Western trip!

As Nike would say..."JUST DO IT"..of course it took me more than three years so what the hell am I saying!

JCZ · « **Reply #130 on:** May 06, 2009, 10:11:25 PM »

Man, after viewing these photos over the past couple of days it makes me want to go visit there!

Jock you set the bar very high on your photo journal and narrative. Don't think I could ever raise up to that level.

Let's see, we've got Fort Brag, Willits, the Redwoods, Clear Lake, Mt. Shasta and the Napa Valley still to get done.........are you coming back for the San Juan Bautista/Nor Cal GTG during Labor Day weekend?

Oh hell.....JUST DO IT!

Jock · « **Reply #131 on:** May 06, 2009, 10:25:55 PM »

Quote from: JCZ on May 06, 2009, 10:11:25 PM

Let's see, we've got Fort Brag, Willits, the Redwoods, Clear Lake, Mt. Shasta and the Napa Valley still to get done.........are you coming back for the San Juan Bautista/Nor Cal GTG during Labor Day weekend? Oh hell.....JUST DO IT!

Holy chit! Don't think that I had not already thought of it! I must admit that I was quickly reminded of my work duties this afternoon and that places a cramp on my thoughts.

One matter is for certain...I must take advantage of future opportunities to visit this most excellent area more frequently!

Thanks for everything my friend and I trust you will make it my way in the future.

Fired00d · « **Reply #132 on:** May 07, 2009, 06:27:16 PM »

Jock,
Great job!!!!! You first picture "peaked"

my interest and the following pictorial narrative was such as I felt I was on the ride with you. Thanks so much you really know how to show what all of us that weren't on the trip missed.

Ride Safe,
Fired00d

ak · « **Reply #133 on:** May 07, 2009, 07:42:56 PM »

Gary- Were flying to Chicago next weekend to catch a show in Chicago $99.00 each way.....Come on out for a week or weekend I Know you want TOO. You know I,ll Hook you up (ask Jock) AK

Fired00d · « **Reply #134 on:** May 07, 2009, 07:51:25 PM »

Quote from: ak on May 07, 2009, 07:42:56 PM

Gary- Were flying to Chicago next weekend to catch a show in Chicago $99.00 each way.....Come on out for a week or weekend I Know you want TOO. You know I,ll Hook you up (ask Jock) AK

Andy,
There isn't any doubt in my mind that I wouldn't be taken care of, and you are correct I DO want to.. It's just a matter of timing and things lining up right for me to be able to do it. I've got another year and a semester to "penny pinch" until youngest gets out of college. After that I can spend more freely.

Ride Safe,
Fired00d

Gettinold · « **Reply #135 on:** May 07, 2009, 08:57:39 PM »

Jock and all you west coasters, that was total bad ass fun. Thanks for sharing.

Wrongway · « **Reply #136 on:** May 07, 2009, 09:23:04 PM »

We have a standard to beat! For years we have seen what you all have been doing, now it's our turn to show off. Weather? We have it, but we pay the price in taxes.

DCFIREMANN · « **Reply #137 on:** May 09, 2009, 10:57:55 AM »

Jock I must say it looked like one hell of a trip. Wish I could have made it. I would love to some riding out there. Someday it will happen I am sure.

OH and BTW the pics were off the hook.

Be Safe

THE DAWG

jonga · « **Reply #138 on:** May 10, 2009, 02:52:46 PM »

Great pics, Jock it was great to see you again, my pleasure to share the road with you. Looking forward to a easterly trip with a southern flair......after I do one with a northern twist. I want to ship my bike to Boston and visit my sisters and her clan. Hopeing that might happen this year.....who knows, depends on that work thing. Like others have said I will treasure these pictures for years to come. Thanks again Dick

JCZ · « **Reply #139 on:** May 12, 2009, 10:31:35 AM »

Already working on seconds, huh Jock?

Jock · « **Reply #140 on:** May 12, 2009, 10:33:54 PM »

Quote from: JCZ on May 12, 2009, 10:31:35 AM

Already working on seconds, huh Jock?

I think it may be done...Reno...Looking at travel now...

JCZ · « **Reply #141 on:** May 13, 2009, 10:01:40 AM »

Quote from: Jock on May 12, 2009, 10:33:54 PM

I think it may be done...Reno...Looking at travel now...

Great. The next thing that you'll want to do early is reserve the rental bike. Like any big rally, the rentals get sucked up quickly.

Jock · « **Reply #142 on:** May 13, 2009, 04:43:59 PM »

Quote from: JCZ on May 13, 2009, 10:01:40 AM

Great. The next thing that you'll want to do early is reserve the rental bike. Like any big rally, the rentals get sucked up quickly.

You bet...

Author Topic: California Dreaming | A Reality Finally ! (Read 8045 times)