We all have the experience of many firsts in our life, as a Harley owner and Lady Rider my biggest one came Monday, May 9, 2005. I had flown up to Pittsburgh to visit my Mother who was in the intensive care (this was less than one month before she passed away) and also to pick up a purple Road King beauty that my husband, Charles, had purchased for me. Finally I was leaving Pennsylvania and heading home to Louisiana. My first long distance solo ride.

My mind was filled with a sense of adventure, but also slight apprehension. This was my first long distance ride and I was doing it solo. Charles, would not be with me on this ride.

The bike handled great and moved out when I needed her to. The Interstate riding was very fast paced and a little stressful but exhilarating at the same time. Thumbs up from a few ladies in cages (cars) as they drove by plus a few horn blasts from the big trucks were a fun pick me up.

I made it to Nashville, Tennessee in 12 hours and 584 miles! My planned stop for the night was at a friends house. (Another Lady Rider). In the morning after a cup of coffee, packing my gear and loading it onto my bike, a quick wave and I was on my way again heading towards Memphis on Hwy 40 South.

I found myself stopping at the Harley-Davidson dealership “Bumpus” in Memphis. A quick check of the clearance rack produced a nice summer top for 50% off! (ok, I’m a lady! Shopping is what we do!) But before I could leave Memphis a sign for “Graceland” beckoned me. I was surprised and disappointed at the part of town where “Graceland” was nestled. A quick photo and I was on my way. Slightly disappointed at what I found but at least I could say, “I’ve been there!”

The rest of the trip was a dream come true for me. A sense of freedom that I have never tasted. The sun was brighter, the sky bluer and the fragrance of honeysuckle filled the air from Tennessee to Mississippi. Wild Flowers lined the highways with Bright reds in Tennessee to Purple and Yellow blossoms in Mississippi.I appreciated the beauty surrounding me. When I crossed the state line in Louisiana I knew I was in the home stretch. The closer I got to home, the faster I seemed to ride.

As I turned the corner onto my street my house came into view and standing there with the brightest grin was my husband. I couldn’t keep the biggest smile I’ve ever had from stretching across my face.

I pulled up into the driveway and back to the garage. I went over everything in mind….neutral, engine off, light off, & kick stand down. I made it! 12 hours the second day for a grand total of 1142 miles. Home safe and sound. My first long distance solo ride was a success.

Note: I belong to Women Who Ride Delphi Forum that can be found at http://forums.delphiforums.com/distaff/start