I'm that dog, quiet, aware, and letting the day wash over me. Except I don't have to lay on the concrete. And I can enjoy a breakfast sandwich and juice at the local Starbucks. I don't know this dog, he doesn't know me, but we passed time quietly this morning in the same space. Not sure how he arrived but I was delivered on a Vespa.
The morning was unplanned and as opportunities presented themselves the Vespa responded. Farm lanes often lead to interesting landscapes, opportunities to observe and wonder.
I've photographed this tree many times over the past 35 years -- marking time and change. Someday I made walk up to it and introduce myself.
The morning started as usual with Junior and I greeting the day. He's learned that the scooter signals my departure and a guilt driven presentation of a Milkbone. He seems satisfied with the arrangement.
State College is quiet on Sunday morning. No other motorcycles to deal with and traffic is light. Short trips into town, trips I have been making for decades still intrigue me. There is always something to look at. I still love the way things glow early on a sunny day.
Back on the road, a stop to dream about travel and riding and destinations too far. For today I'm happy with the short ride through the central Pennsylvania landscape. I have plans for the garden today so the Vespa can wait for another time.
One last stop at the Pump Station in Boalsburg before heading home. A cup of tea and a cinnamon roll and some time to write in my journal. This is what I do when I take short rides on the Vespa. I've done the same on a motorcycle but for some unexplained reason a four-wheeled vehicle drains any desire to relax and reflect. It's just a tool to get somewhere I guess. Not sure why and don't really care.
I'm just glad I have a Vespa.
13 comments:
Awesome photos, as usual. Nice work. And your comment about two wheels vs. four wheels is spot on. For me, it's always a completely different experience - and far more enjoyable - on two wheels.
Todd: Thanks for the kind words. And the difference between two and four wheels is pretty amazing.
Dear Mr. Williams:
Once again you delight the gentle reader with a scenario of summer, a portfolio of corn fields, sleeping dogs, and anonymous trees. Oh, how I wish I had your sincerity? Do you have any idea how hard I'd have to work at this to fake the tones you experience so easily?
It was a pleasure meeting you at the Bloomsburg MOA Rally. I sincerely hope our paths cross again. I finally broke free of the post rally doldrums and wrote up the experience.
Fondest regards,
Jack/Reep
Twisted Roads
Miles apart and yet we are connected. By virtue of breakfast sandwiches at Starbucks and being "delivered" by two wheeled vehicles.
To Jack: If we ever meet in person I shall strive to be sincere. However, it shall cost you extra.
Mr. Riepe: Thanks for your critique. You and I write different stories based on different experiences in the world. We add to the diversity of tales available in the riding world.
It was great meeting you as well. You were the reason why I braved the inferno and rode to Bloomsburg.
irondad: Maybe we've found a niche --- the ride, eat, ride, eat, ride, eat niche.
Jack Riepe is the genuine article. Accept no substitutes.
This tree is made for visiting during all four seasons. Beautiful piece of nature, stunning pictures as usual.
In morning Vespa rides lies pure poetry.
Very peaceful... Almost hearing the silence of that tree. For sure, nothing will ever come close to two wheels. Ask Spirit... he will tell you! Be well... Always.
Ara & Spirit
Dear Steve:
Thanks for sending me that picture. It was perfect for my needs.
Fondest regards,
Jack/reep
Twisted Roads
PS: The dumpling lady turned up here at 3am this morning, reeking of gin and wanting to sit in my lap. What could I do? I didn't want to hurt her feelings.
Steve:
everytime you post a photo of that lone tree on the hill it reminds me of that photo on the Ilford photographic paper . Your motto of "ride, eat, ride . . ." should be ammended to "ride, photograph, eat, ride, photograph, eat . . ."
Perhaps when you have a few moments you could clue us in on the Dumpling Lady
bob
Riding the Wet Coast
The opening photograph of your legs and the dog...
"he borrowed Cheyenne while
Conchscooter was in Italy!"
Wonder how Junior is enduring
the continuing warm weather. His dark eyes, long snout and patient waiting look makes me think of somebody who loves his owner. As to the yellow lab at your feet, maybe that dog had the right idea; relax, it's too hot to do anything else!
BTW how goeth the reduce the load on your heart diet??
The new electric scooters will save you big time on the price of high gas
you really have a gift with your photos. keep it up.
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