Backseat - From Where I Sit

Chaps, Chills and Chomping At The Bit

It's that time of year again when donning my chaps that had been dormant since last winter brings the ultimate moment of truth - can I still fit in them from last year? All my New Year's resolutions hinge on this one fact. Ok, so it's a woman thing. Some how I can't imagine any of the guys I know sweating over the fact that there is more protruding out of their chaps than the previous year. Vive Le Difference!

The inevitable downtime with hazardous roads and cold weather conditions, not to mention the limited number of motorcycling activities that occur in this time of year, leave me with lots of time to dream and reflect back to the not so distant past rides in the glorious sunshine - without so much as a coat! Sigh. It is this kind of desperation and longing that gave birth to Polar Bear Rides. An event that gives bragging rites to the most hard core biker, the bravest of the brave who dare to laugh in La Niña's face. By the way, I have decided that La Niña is Spanish for "Jack Frost on steroids" and she is definitely kicking VA's butt this winter.

Nothing is more pitiful and bordering on the cruel than starting up the dormant bike only to let it idle aimlessly while fluids course through its previously dried out veins. Allowing it to come to life only enough to flex its muscles by revving the engines longingly and then unceremoniously shutting it back down. Even worse, is the winter teaser ride where you get all dressed up just for a quick time or two around the block and then it's back to the coral to wait for a better day - just enough of a thrill to remind you of what you are missing.

This year, my resolution is to live life to the fullest. To forget about fashion, fit and fancy and just go. To spend more time on the road and less worrying about things I can't control, like getting older. Its all about quality of life and since we only get one, there is no excuse not to give it all you've got.

Happy New Year!

Thanks for visiting VirginiaWind.

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