It was such a beautiful day. We left home, the sun was shining, the sky was clear and the forecast said it was going to stay this way. We headed down 400 to Atlanta Motor World to meet everyone. We were running a little late. I always like to be one of the first ones to arrive, but this day that wasn't going to happen. As I turned the corner I could see the dealership, but I didn't see any bikes in the parking lot. First I thought I had really messed up and come on the wrong day, or got the time wrong...but 'no' I was sure this was right. As I turned in I saw a three bikes....Doug & Teresa's Venture....Steve Argo's Roadstar and one I wasn't sure of. We pulled into the parking lot, parked, got off our bike and went inside. Walking in the door I saw Doug and Teresa, Mitch (turned out he was riding his dad's bike) and that was it. We walked up and said our hellos and were introduced to Mike (the other bike). He was joining us today for the first time.

The next words out of my mouth were "Where is everyone?". Doug and Teresa were as stumped as I was. Figured everyone was running late...but then, I was late, so I didn't put too much stock in that theory. We did figure a couple more people would show up. However, time to leave rolled around and still no one else was there.

Well, we saddled up and headed out. We were a little disappointed in the turnout, but it was a beautiful day and we just figured people had other things to do, places to go, or people to meet. Those of you who were unable to attend missed a good ride.

We headed up 400 then ran across Gainesville. From Gainesville we went up 985 to 17 and went through the town of Toccoa. We left Toccoa and took some scenic roads to the T/60 Grill on Lake Hartwell, just across the SC border. We made a refreshment stop between Gainesville and Toccoa. It was a warm day and some liquid refreshment kept us cool and hydrated. Actually we did have to make a couple other quick stops to let someone, whose name I won't mention, fasten their saddlebags....not once...but TWICE. I'll give him a break though since he was riding his dad's bike and wasn't used to having the bags. And, to his credit  at least it was a different side each time. (Oooops...did I give away who it was?)

The T/60 grill sits way off the main road. How anyone would ever find it that didn't know it was there is beyond me. But, they do more business off the lake that they do off the highway. A convenient dock allows boaters to pull up, dock and walk up to the restaurant for lunch.

The food was excellent and we were taken care of by a very friendly staff....of course there were only six of us !! We took our time, enjoyed the food and had some good conversation. Even after we completed our meal it was nice just to site on the deck outside where we ate and enjoy the view and company. Even though the day was warm, we were seated in a shady area and there was nice little breeze. Everyone stayed very comfortable the whole time.

When it was time to leave, we planned a route back. We decided to come back through Athens and down 29 just to add a little variety to the day. We took a break around Athens and refreshed ourselves. Saddlebag boy managed to keep everything fastened up coming home and no additional stops were required.

We really missed seeing everyone else and truly hope that next time you will be able to join us. Riding is always great, riding with the Chapter 111 family makes it even better, so be there next time if you can.

Attending:

Doug & Teresa Turco
Gary & Maria Kohl
Mitch Argo