January 9 - Cruise In Country Diner Take Two

I am so very grateful for good friends and for the ability to enjoy each day for what it brings – especially when that means a bike ride!  I met up with Mike Webb, Kelly Webb, Grant Myers, Leo Guzman Fernandez, and Mark Silva at Latus today. We originally planned to head south to Kirks Ferry but after driving on 213 in heavy fog and passing two significant vehicular accidents, we decided to head West instead in search of sunshine and safer roads. Mike Webb led us through Canby, along the Willamette river, on to Paradise Harley, and then to the Cruise in Country Diner in Hillsboro. Even though I had been to the diner last weekend, it was a blast to be there with friends enjoying good weather, great food, and wonderful camaraderie. I was able to get my regular favorite, the Cadillac burger convertible style – blue cheese and bacon on a generous chunk of lettuce - which I then slathered with ranch dressing and ketchup and ate along with delicious hand-cut fries. Then Mike said what I most love to hear when riding a bike – “lets take the long way home.” He ended up leading us on highway 219 to Newberg and then through Canby. Passing the devastating car accidents earlier in the day was a sobering reminder to all of us to be careful about where, when and how we ride, especially this time of year. It also prompted me to reflect on the importance of treasuring every moment I have with my friends and loved ones.