Well Hello, and welcome to my little story of this years Highwaymen MC Toy Run.
Before I get into the activities, I just want to share that this will be the maiden voyage for my new boots. My old pair are beat up and dirty, so I decided I needed something nicer to wear to things like this. I got ones that already had the zipper so I could get this leg in.
As usual Diane supplied a few bags of toys and a stuffed... Unicorn?... Whatever it is, a child is going to be happy to have it.
I was able to get all the toys into the rain cover and get it strapped on the back seat.
I used my new strand of LED colored lights to decorate the back of the bike.
Knowing that the toy run was coming up, I filled up the bike last week (on 12/3) while I was out running errands. However, I did some extra riding this week, including two trips over to the Port of Wilma, so I needed to top off the bike again. Since I was a bit head of schedule and I knew that the Harley Shop was doing pre toy run refreshments, I decided to go top off the bike and then head over there.
After checking out the bikes while having a hot cocoa and eating a donut, I decided it was time to go.
As I was walking out, this guy pulled up and I had to ask him if I could take a picture of him with his bike.
As you can see here, he said yes and even let me sit on it while he took a picture.
He said that the saddle was the one he used to ride on all the time, but the saddle got old and the horse got old, so he decided to mount it on this bike. After we finished our conversation, I mounted my own steed and headed over to Lancer Lanes.
The forcast had changed several times over the past couple days, and it did sprinkle at my house earlier in the day, but it held off for us today.
With ugly clouds and the threat of storm, I believe several riders decided not to show, nevertheless, we did still have a good turn out.
We were spread out a bit more in the parking lot today and with the trucks and trailers hauling extra toys and bicycles it was hard to get a good full picture.
I found this cool paint job, but also noticed there were several bikes with this same sticker.
In case you can't read the stiker, it is: BACA - Bikers Against Child Abuse
And there is the guy with this helmet. Notice it even has the three little red lights on it's right side. (Your left)
And Mrs. Clause came with an Elf.
And then there is this one... He's a regular, and goes all out on his bike every year.
Someone brought Grogu.
And even the Grinch showed up.
And here are some different angles in the parking lot. These were taken a bit early and we did have more bikes show up.
I don't normally buy a shirt, but this year I decided that I would.
At about 5 minutes to 1:00 people start getting ready and motors started revving up. There were a couple people in cars in the lot that I don't think knew what was going on and got in the way. But we all worked our way around as the ride began.
As always there are people along the road that wave and take pictures or video as we go by. This year, as I crested the hill at the top of Bryden Canyon road I saw none other than Timon and Jill watching the parade of bikes go by. I wasn't surprised to see Fred out front of his house since he is there every year. It is sad that George hasn't been able to join us the past couple years. I know he enjoyed it as well as Linda when she was able.
I'm not sure why, but the ride was a little faster this year. I know this because my playlist only made it to the second to last song by the time I reached the Salvation Army.
I put on my Santa hat, took the bungee cords off which were holding the bag of toys on the bike, and made my way into the building.
Last years setup must have worked well for them, because they were setup the same way this year. 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. I had a slice of what I believe was pumkin bread with chocolate chips in it, which was very good. They also had the pre-bagged cookies again, so I grabbed one of those as well. I got in line for and got a hot cocoa, then made my way out of traffic so others could get through.
Once all the toys had been brought in, a gentleman from the Salvation Army came in and stood on a chair. After a few people had to be hushed so we could hear, he gave a short thank you speach, sharing how much they appreciate us for our participation. Also sharing how much it will help so many children this Christmas.
And that is exactly why I so enjoy taking part.
After making my way outside and back to my bike, I ran over to Amber's house to see if anyone was around. Amber was sleeping with the baby, but a couple other kids were there. I was able to tease Akery, telling her how much she missed out on, since she doesn't go with me anymore.
And that brings us to the conclusion of this years story. I wish you all a Merry Christmas.
No comments:
Post a Comment