It is that time of year again.
And again, I must thank Diane for donating so many toys.
After struggling to carry the toys into the building the past couple years, this year I planned a little better.
I decided that I would load all the toys into the touring bags rain cover, so I would be able to just carry one big bag instead of trying to carry many smaller ones.
With the threat of and forcast for rain, I was a little worried that the turnout was going to be small.
I was pleased to see that it didn't keep people away.
As always, there are a few bikes that have that extra flare.
You may or may not have noticed that I has a string of lights on the back of my bike, but this guy went all out.
Here are a couple others.
While milling around and taking pictures, I was over on the steps of Lancer Lanes to get more elevation for the picture.
The Grinch was there doing the same.
There was a young man, maybe in his twenties, sitting on the steps.
He is here from California and heard all the noise and had walked over to see what was going on.
The lady and he had a short conversation about what we were doing.
He seemed very impressed that we would do this.
I didn't see anyone that I know personally, but I did recognize a few faces and a few more bikes that are there every year.
When 1:00 rolled around, we mounted up and started the ride. As always, there are people out along the route to wave.
After arriving at the Salvation Army, I took off my helmet and gloves and put on my Santa hat. I took the net off the bag of toys headed for the building.
This year we were able to go into the building. They had us dropping off the toys right as you walk in the doors. I unloaded my bag and then went on into the kitchen/cafeteria area. The cookies were pre-bagged again this year. I grabbed one and got in line for a hot cocoa. However, it didn't take me long to notice that the hot cocoa was out, so I headed outside.
I finished off the cookies as I walked to the bike. After putting my santa hat and bag in the trunk, I put on my helmet and gloves and headed home.
It is always nice to participate in such a good cause, but this year it was also really nice to get a little bit longer ride. And with that, I will bid you adieu.
This is exactly how Santa got his start. I'm waiting for the beard to go white.
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