"The Oasis of my Soul"... A Lifelong Journey on the road...

[Beemerchef]

I want to try to keep one thread going... less bandwidth!... as I am learning all about it... I think Juice will also appreciate it...
It does not get much better than this... I still have not made it to Texas... changes... why not... no schedule... I am now allowed to do so, or not to do so! I am in New Iberia, Louisiana. Seems like I am never going to leave this State... at least I know that I will never go hungry... It is morning as I am posting this... a great ride and experience from yesterday... but my mind is already on lunch!... The weather has been cooperative, the rig is running good, I feel healthy and.. overweight. I have decided to spend 5 more days here, visiting friends and everything that surrounds me... including cooking a couple dinners for them. Can't loose my touch in the kitchen... My Blogging format is still not finalized... my own website is still under construction... and somehow I feel Christmas right around the corner... with no plans what so ever... Oh! well... might be a quiet one in some woods celebrating with Mother Nature this year...
My stories are always on my Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)... hope you enjoy...
Be well... Ara and Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/113098250-S.jpg

[Juice]

If you stay here much longer spirit will be to fat to fit in his sidecar.......

[Beemerchef]

If you stay here much longer spirit will be to fat to fit in his sidecar.......

Saturday... saturday... can't help it!...

* Still working on the website!... getting there... it is going to be very nice...
A good foundation for many things to come... I am thinking about being the Travel Agent for all the riders!... you tell me an area and I will dig deep and find out the details!... what a job...

Be well... Ara and Spirit...

[Beemerchef]

Today was a great day... it always is when nothing breaks down, the ride is good and the food even better... no rain always helps!
A nice loop, the Tabasco factory, a great late lunch... what more can a homeless person and his dog asks for?
It is all posted in today’s Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/) with a lot of pictures... love that SmuMug!

Hope you enjoy... Ara and Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/113535239-S.jpg

[Beemerchef]

So glad I got to do the rides I had planned early on the week as today is a rainy day... of course rain has never stopped me... Spirit even has his raincoat, but I have to get ready for my departure from here Friday or Saturday toward East Texas... It is time for some serious camping, maybe even a bit of cold weather again, some adventures and some new scenery... try out all this cooking gear that I have been carrying with me all this time.
Yesterday was a great ride by the levee... I will not say on the levee even though a few miles did see me riding it...
Hope that you enjoy the report in my Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...
You be well... Ara and Spirit.

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/113876874-M.jpg

[BubbaDawg]

... of course rain has never stopped me... Spirit even has his raincoat


"Raincoats.......We don't need no stinking raincoats!!!" How 'bout trading that Pit in for a reliable, waterproof lab there Ara? Nick don't ever take me riding and Spirit can enjoy some nice wooden floors and his own room for a while.

[scootertrash]

Bubba ain't going anywhere..... Brian would be heart broken!

[Ritten]

I don't think Bubba's concerned about Brian's broken heart. It's his broken legs that he's interested it.

[Beemerchef]

I will not leave a comment... only to teach her how to ride and take her with you... isn't that what marriage is all about?...

Well guys and girls... it seems that I will be leaving Louisiana on saturday am... and heading West... I was going to stay East Texas as my mother is going to come and visit for the Holidays... but instead I will go to Germany soon to visit her instead, in Munich. So no reason not to go to Arizona, New Mexico and try to stay warm...

Brian, you have been a gentleman and a good friend and will always cherish that. You have helped me more than you think and I know that we will always stay in touch with each other, including all the other members here, specially the ones I met during the sunday ride... yes... the one that catapulted Juice to fame...Cool12

This Forum will always be very special to me and you will always know about my whereabouts... I will wear your T Shirt with a lot of pride trust me!

Be well... Ara and Spirit...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/112467218-S.jpg

[Beemerchef]

It is almost December, just a few minutes away as I am writing, my first December since graduating from Culinary School not spend working... I keep thinking sometimes... what am I doing? How ironic after all these years, finally on top of my profession, with not many mysteries left and some solid knowledge to be successful... to stop working! It just does not make sense sometimes... but I cannot go back as much as I miss the kitchen, this is one chance of a lifetime to extend a Journey (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/) over 6 months. I know that I have been on the road only a bit over a month, but I have never thought about turning back!... and I could have.. I never wrote about 2 new contracts that have been offered to me since I have left! As much as my passion remains for my profession... going back always seems like a dark tunnel with no daylight.
Today was, what I call a catch up day. A multitude of “things” to do that accumulates... laundry, organizing, downloading the GPS with new maps, that sort of things as my time here remains at one day.
I will be pushing West... toward the vast lands. I had thought about staying East for a while, but my plans have been rearranged and the need is not there anymore... I am so drawn to the vast open spaces, it will not be the first time and not the last. The ability to actually live in one place for a few days or a few weeks suddenly is so appealing. It is the first time that I adventure myself in this fashion. The past has always seen me on the go... ride, ride, ride... only seeing the peripheral attractions which stood up in travelers brochures and magazines... I want to taste and experience the unadvertised paths which need to be discovered!
I want to unpack everything I have... cook... ride... discover the back roads daily, suddenly the knowledge that I am pushing west further has almost given me a new life... there just is so much on the road to share with you all, and strange enough... as much as I want to be there... I don’t want to get there... afraid to miss what lays in between! I should be in Texas by tomorrow, it is 33 degrees here this am in New Iberia, Louisiana!... I know the northerners reading this are probably smiling, I am not complaining, I actually like the cold better than heat, this does however slow down the amount of outdoor activities, specially with Spirit.
Regardless of the mechanical break downs I have had, this first month has been a great trial time... and everyone in my path has been so kind and hospitable, I could not ask for more. If the rest of my Journey includes people as I have just spend time with, well, I will consider the luckiest person alive!
Friendships and human relations have always been for me the key of life. You know the classic saying... “money can’t buy...”. How true it is, and how great it is when, strangers at first, we can spark such positive emotions into each other’s hearts.
I hope, as I leave here, that my Internet connections are many on the road followed! I enjoy posting these reports along the way.
You be well... enjoy your day... looking up the sky will always make you smile... try it.

Ara and Spirit.

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/114068736-M.jpg

[Juice]

The pleasure was all mine my Friend. I Just wish I would have gotten the opportunity to see you off. You have been a scholar and an inspiration to us all. I await the future, the day that our paths cross once more. One day, I will do as you do, until that time arrives we shall see the world through your eyes.

<O:p</O:pBe well my friend.<O:p</O:p
Juice





Brian, you have been a gentleman and a good friend and will always cherish that. You have helped me more than you think and I know that we will always stay in touch with each other, including all the other members here, specially the ones I met during the sunday ride... yes... the one that catapulted Juice to fame...Cool12

[weave]

Happy Trails , Ara, I'm sure most of here are somewhat jealous.

[Beemerchef]

Hi Weave... sorry I never found the time to visit... maybe next time... West is really calling me... I had to rearrange quite a few things to do... one being myself flying to Munich soon to see my mother instead of her coming here later on and having to wait around.

But one needs to always look at the other side of the coin... sure there might be some envy to my lifestyle... but there is a lot of envy also on my part to your lifestyle. Roots, family, a companion for life, children, a solid base one can call home, friends near by... Everything is a compromise, there is no perfect solution to the path taken and the balance one needs to achieve for near perfection happiness is quite non existent! Sometimes one has to choose the path for personal reasons, sometimes the path is thrown at them again for personal reason but without a choice... Which ever, we can only, should anyhow, make the best of it and go on...

Till later... have a great day...

Ara & Spirit

[Ritten]

Be safe and well Ara. I look forward to reading about the rest of your life-long adventure!

[Beemerchef]

It is a “commute” day for us... not a long one as I need to regroup and decide where I will make home for a while... Your comments, you should know, are always appreciated. And also... while in an area maybe interesting to you, if needing any information, just let me know. I will be happy to look it up... let me be your... traveling agent! I would say us... but Spirit is turning out to be a lazy bum on this Journey...
Someone has to do it!... and write about it... this is your own backyard, accessible... right under your nose, no Oceans to cross, we all speak the same language, the food is good, the water drinkable... and how can you not love your... ATM!
Lets see what you think after reading (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/) about it...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/114343595-S.jpg

Ara & Spirit

[Bayou Boy]

That looks like the Rio Grande in Big Bend. Santa Elena Canyon, maybe? Regardless, it's a great place. I've been the last two springs. If you're still there around Mardi Gras, Bonnie and I may meet up with you for a hike or something.Cool12

[Beemerchef]

That looks like the Rio Grande in Big Bend. Santa Elena Canyon, maybe? Regardless, it's a great place. I've been the last two springs. If you're still there around Mardi Gras, Bonnie and I may meet up with you for a hike or something.Cool12


You are pretty good... exactly what it is... door #1 or #2?
Easter?... April... I doubt it I will still be there. I am thinking about a month there maybe... I am having a hard time with non scheduling my life! Just going where I feel like going for as long as I want even if it is a day or a month. I am sure that I will get there. I have never been there, looks like Wyoming or Utah... Four corners?

Be well... Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

So why would someone rests on a Sunday?... because they can... because the winds blew me everywhere but where I pointed my nose at... because it got colder and colder going north...
And the fact that, hopefully there will be a tomorrow... Of course I can always say that Spirit was cold... made me turn around...and that would be it for my Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/) but there is a bit more... but lets not always blame the lazy bum!... he makes up for it with his personality... and his great companionship, he is a good listener, always agrees and low maintenance!
Should be in San Antonio tonight... I repeat... Texas is huge!!!
And then I found out the weather for Big Bend for Friday night... might need some Gerbings for the rig...
Till then... Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/114590816-M.jpg

... and all this is happening just when Juice has a newcomer in the form of a great Pit... Spirit would have loved him... could have been a match in heaven...

[Beemerchef]

Every State is so different... this is like being in a different country everytime I move!...
How is the new Pup Juice... lets post some pictures!... maybe you did... I have to search...
Parked in San Antonio since yesterday... going to sightsee for a while and find some good Tamales!... the Riverwalk... anything else?
How do I manage to meet such great people?... How can my Karma be so good and so kind to my present life?... I must have lived right I guess... I can just imagine... trust me when I say “don’t let the few bad seeds of our society give you the wrong impression about human kindness”.
One always needs to be planted firmly on their two feet... but what a lift it is when one similarly meets good hearted people that open the doors to their home and heart!
Spirit (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/) had a blast yesterday playing with a buddy!... over one acre fenced was his playground... can this dog run or can he run!... He is so much in my care that it felt so great to see him have a good time! Such a shame that Pits have such a bad rap... it is slowly I think changing however... punish the owners... not the breed!...
Crossing Texas... for the first time is really not being felt!... This is the way to do it... take time and cover a couple hundred miles per day, if you have the time... It reminds me of the many times I have crossed Kansas to get to Denver, what a long straight road...
On my way to discover the town... and make preparations for Big Bend...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/23978619-M.jpg

Be well... have a great day...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

Some riding yesterday... urban riding... amongst the city traffic... the stop and go and engine overheating surrounded with the fumes of freshly lay out tar... Somehow one has to sacrifice sometimes the comfort to be able to witness what some cities have to offer on an historical view point, touristic... it is after all a Holiday season... at the height of its commercialism and lights...
It was a great day, a full day... ending with a with a great culinary experience, a kind of food I am fond of... report on the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)... with pictures...
Tomorrow morning we will be leaving... yes... I know, I have been saying that for days... but it is true...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/115187965-S.jpg

Enjoy... stay aboard... and be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Rocky]

I would like to know more about what life is like at the campsite? Cooking? Company, gear and the Good times shared?

[Beemerchef]

I would like to know more about what life is like at the campsite? Cooking? Company, gear and the Good times shared?

What I have found out so far Rocky is that winter is becoming harder to camp... so far I have stayed with friends more than anything and I am anxious like I always have all summers, 6 months every year, truly camp!
I have so much equipment with me!... cooking gear... and that will happen soon.
Unfortunately, we are not even leaving tomorrow!... it is going to be 10 degrees in Big Bend... ice... might snow... going to wait!
You be well... Ara and Spirit

[Beemerchef]

A bit of the Texas Hills...

It seems that plans when living on the road are made to be broken!... As we have been watching the weather, they promised hail and snow and 1 degree temp for tonight in Big Bend... it was already last night... brainless decision to hold the departure for tomorrow am...
Food store today... new coat for Spirit... “camo” design I might add... not my favorite by from lack of choice... and a good night sleep for tomorrow’s travel... half way most likely if anything interesting pops up...
In the meantime, we took a short ride to the Texas Hills yesterday... glad that I did... I know now that Texas is not as flat as I imagined it!
Some pictures and ride report here on the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...

Hope writing to you from Big Bend next time!... really!!!


I could not resist the picture...


http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/115533824-S.jpg

Be well... from Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

Made it to Big Bend... today!

I wanted to make my first sight in daylight and we took two days to get here... Sanderson was last night’s stop... but today I am in Terlingua... and without say... breathtaking... this is not having even been into the Park yet!
All I can hope is that my camera does justice to the scenery for the days to come...
Hwy# 90 was a nice ride... deserted... and as one might say the ocean can be boring and is not... the same scenario plays here. I have heard over and over... but there are no trees... of course not... but if one looks closely there is so much more to the eye... and the mind!
I will go on posting on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/) as much as I can... lucky to have WI FI here from 6am to 10pm... and amazingly the days here are longer!... daylight till about 7pm... summer approaching?
Better not fool myself... winter is going to be here for a while...
Till then... till tomorrow... be well... I am breathing again!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/116022873-M.jpg

Ara and, of course, Spirit...

[Beemerchef]

Some black top riding in Big Bend today... what a huge Park!... Asphalt only and did not even cover half of it!... which you will see tomorrow...
I had still however some untold thoughts about the past couple days before arriving here and some hopefully interesting pictures!... for the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/).

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/116289392-S.jpg

Hope you enjoy them... we did... Ara & Spirit

[Juice]

Nice Shirt.................




http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/ara.jpg

[JayD]

Great shot (& shirt) Ara ;)

[Beemerchef]

Wearing it proudly...
This is off road riding Heaven guys... wait till I start hitting some of those roads... so good that I will be here for 3 weeks!
Come and visit... one day ride!... you can do it!...

Be well... Ara and Spirit

[Beemerchef]

Was having some serious Internet problems... imagine that in the middle of nowhere!
We are riding... we are cooking... we are eating... A peaceful blanket has descended from the skies, what more can someone wish for. Spirit is a changed dog!... I think he is finally realizing that there is no home to go to, this is it, changing daily from our unplanned destinations. We have been taking long walks, longer everyday as I myself need to ease in to it! His appetite has been great, well, so has mine... wish he could tell me about all the smells! Mountain lions maybe?... cousins from the past hovering upon this beautiful land in spirit... who knows... his smile is good enough for me... all this after all was not such a bad idea!
Anyone cares to join me for the Holidays?... this is where we will be... I am looking for a strand of lights for the bike... it will be my tree... she has had a rough life and deserves some kindness too!
Might even go as far as feeding her some fresh oil!... and yes, a nice new filter also!
Enjoy the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/116663389-M.jpg

Be well... look up the skies and smiles... that is the bottom line... it is always the same for all of us!

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

I may be the millionth one visiting this Park... I so much wish now I had a better camera!... looking into it... will try to find optical zoom lenses for a great Nikon Cool Pix 990 that I still have... there are thousands of pictures just more stunning than mine... but this is my story... and... as they say... I will stick to it!
I will start getting into the Park at sunsets... sunrises... I am finding a lot of haze during the day...
I am trying... I want to stop every 100ft... the rock formations resembles so many scenes and people of the past daily life... and it will be fun to post the pictures and write about them...
It was a different ride into the Park today... the West end including Chisos Basin at 5401ft... and the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/) has it all...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/116752548-M.jpg

Be well... and enjoy...

Ara & Spirit

[JayD]

Was having some serious Internet problems... imagine that in the middle of nowhere!



Ara, FWIW
there is a gas station/cafe that has WiFi in Study Butte on the corner or Hwy 118 and 170

Cheers

[Rocky]

Where excatly is Big Bend? Arizona?

[Beemerchef]

Big Bend is south of Texas... I am still trying to get a map going so I can post where I am... any ideas?... maybe use Mapquest?... Yahoo maps? save... copy and paste?
You need to visit if you never have Rocky... plan a vacation...

Yes, the Motor Inn... has WI FI and that is where I am camped... many other bikes also... mainly pure dirt! It goes up and down... has been good for the past 24hrs... Thanks for the tip. There is also an organic little grocery store/cafe that has a good WI FI...

Been thinking about buying my own... $1700... it truly is a bargain... a neighboor has it... one can also secure it! $60 a month...

Be well... under the weather today!... Ara & Spirit... but still riding!

[JayD]

[quote=Beemerchef;23055]Big Bend is south of Texas... I am still trying to get a map going so I can post where I am... any ideas?... quote]

Try this?
http://www.visitbigbend.com/itinerary2.html

Wonderful place!

[Beemerchef]

[quote=Beemerchef;23055]Big Bend is south of Texas... I am still trying to get a map going so I can post where I am... any ideas?... quote]

Try this?
http://www.visitbigbend.com/itinerary2.html

Wonderful place!

It is good but I am trying to find a map for the whole trip!
I have tried my Garmin CD and DeLorme too, wth trip highlights but I cannot save and post...
Might start working with the Zip Codes and use a Yahoo map of some sort...
But thanks... Ara & Spirit...

[iridefar]

[QUOTE=JayD;23057]

It is good but I am trying to find a map for the whole trip!
I have tried my Garmin CD and DeLorme too, wth trip highlights but I cannot save and post...
Might start working with the Zip Codes and use a Yahoo map of some sort...
But thanks... Ara & Spirit...

Try Google Earth. You can upload your tracks from your GPS and Google Earth will give you a 3D map that you can save as a picture or share your GPS points with others online.

[Beemerchef]

It almost seems unfair to be here today... Friday... I remember the traffic jams... everyone getting ready for the weekend getaway... myself mentally abusing my mind to feed the hungry patrons of the late night restaurant scene... or trying to be the object of abuse by the capricious moods of the rich and not so famous billionaire clients, when catering in Naples, Florida, as a Personal Chef...
The brain waves screaming “WOW”... and “OH”... or was it “HO”... just don’t cease... whichever direction I am headed the scenery is just on a constant overdrive, so much that I just wonder how can I describe my being here...
But there was more today than just riding... seeing some familiar faces and a great time with Voni and Paul Glaves... and some... which I tried to put in words on my Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/)...
Tomorrow is another great ride, the river drive to Presidio... I hear stunning... keep tuning in!

Be well... have a great weekend...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/117033686-M.jpg

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

This is in response to a comment on my thread on BMW MOA... “sensory overload”, truly I agree describes the indescribable... and after a while, a few days, one just wants to stop describing and just look.
Every few miles, a 360 degree span offers a new background, new silhouettes against lately the clear blue skies I have been spoiled with... the feelings are actually beyond the scenery, the space here itself is magical and spiritual as being transported in a different medium, which it is with no doubt. I have a tendency to always think about years back when it was the land of the Native Indians and sadness always occurs in my mind. I see families living here off the land, only using what their needs where, the children playing peacefully, the women going on to their chores... it is always the biggest puzzle for me as to what happened? How did this happen! They call life in the past “the dark ages”, I call the present years... “the dark ages”. None of the natives now are here and it was not so many years ago, their Spirits are still lingering, probably tearing constantly to the loss of their lifestyle and ancestry , manhood and civilization... It is to me one of the most mind boggling part of History... I am not even comfortable to the fact that it is now a National Park, sure, trying to conserve the beauty of it all, with rules and regulations needed for the masses that would ruin it all in a heartbeat... how sad would it be to witness some day a descendant of a family that lived on this land, walk to the front gate and pay his or her $5 to get in... can you feel his heart and emotions?... What a World we live in!... driven by greed... materialism and no fondness for the past in real sense... if it was... all the land would be given back... all of it!
NO... I am not a political person or would ever get political... this statement is purely from the heart!
On a different subject... it was a fun time meeting some of the San Antonio riders for a run through the Park, will also the presence of Voni and Paul... as written in my Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...

Be well...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/117203081-M.jpg

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

I feel today ever worse then yesterday, but the weather was too nice to stay cooped up...
One always feel better riding anyhow... right?
Just had to ride “Old Maverick” road one more time going the other way... with many stops
and pictures which you will find on the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...
Tomorrow will be a trip to the Clinic, I was told that there is one in a little town called Lajitas not too far... otherwise, will be a 160 miles round trip to Alpine! A Z-Pack has always done wonders in the past...

In the meantime, you be well...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/117428356-M-1.jpg

Ara & Spirit

[Fitty]

Ara - Get well soon!

Still following along daily and enjoying it very much!

[Beemerchef]

Thanks Fitty... I guess Happy Holidays? right?... Xmas in the Desert... a new one on me...
Will be better soon... rough going!
Be well... Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

All I can say is... do not take your good health for granted!... What a difference a day can make!
It seemed like such a long day yesterday in search for a Doctor in a town where everything seemed to be moving in backwards...
More pictures and report in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...

Be well... we are again... Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/117732145-M.jpg

[Save-the-Manatee]

+1 looks like you and spirit are in for one hell of an adventure. Cool12




Ara - Get well soon!

Still following along daily and enjoying it very much!

[Beemerchef]

Ah!... the Keys... dropping to 17 friday night... The Keys!!!

The wind had its fun yesterday, it blew with full force, took my “dining room” down... we rock and rolled most of the time! Just like in a good Western the tumbleweed was trying to make a touch down on the goal line, as the night went on, the other team won however as the wind changed direction by 180 degrees!
It was an anticipated ride on river road to Presidio and I returned just on time before its full strength, still my arms sore... what a work out it was!
Today is a down day... a catch up day... again the good stuff... laundry, reorganize this place and brace ourselves for some cold weather... it is all in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...
Be well...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/117931968-M.jpg
Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

I have been trying since my departure to switch places with Spirit some days! But no deal... he is a stubborn dog!... and last Sunday was one of those days, courtesy of the San Antonio Riders visiting Big Bend, that I tried really hard to convince him... hey, riding ain’t that bad buddy... the bike runs good, you can build up a bit of your upper body muscles, get a bit of adrenaline rush here and there... you will still get to eat, drink and mingle... but no go...
So I guess I am stuck in this position, witnessing sometimes on a daily basis all the attention he gets, and the petting, and the scratching... where did I go wrong?
And there is more on the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)... I hope this situation lingering ahead does not alter my mind...
I am after all, only a human being!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/118034522-M.jpg

Enjoy... Be well...

Ara and Spirit... I had to sign for him, he is too busy...

[Juice]

That is one lucky dog.......Whats the matter? You could not get her to rub on you like that Ara?

[Beemerchef]

No... I have my principles... he goes after married women... I don't!!!
This dog has no conscience at all...qwer

Nice to hear from you...

A few riders are coming as far as from Chicago...

Come on guys... bring me a Poh-Boy!!!... some good Louisiana Crawfish...
Please... feel sorry for me...Head Bang

Be well... Ara+Spirit

[Beemerchef]

So this is where I lived...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/118260308-M.jpg

This is where I live now...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/118264565-M.jpg

How ironic that public “progress” is the reverse of my present life’s progression...
Thought I would give you a tour of Terlingua (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/), a little town unlike others... with a lot of local flavors and inviting little spots... all in the middle of some of the beautiful landscape I have ever seen... I will be leaving in about 10 days... and I know that I will miss it... but the road is already calling... more Texas? New Mexico? Arizona? Southern California? Maybe Spirit can decide...

Be well... enjoy the Blog.

Ara and Spirit

[Beemerchef]

I am not going to lie and say “it feels like Xmas...”, because it does not...
The campground is fuller, a couple Adv riders have arrived, more tomorrow...
Old Faithful got a new front shoe today and some Xmas lights!
And a dinner at the Starlight Theater finally...
More pictures and a full report on the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/118502556-M.jpg

Enjoy...

Ara and Spirit..

[Juice]

Merry Christmas to you too my Friend.....I wish you and Spirit the best in 2007...................

[Beemerchef]

There has been only one “no good” weather day... and that was yesterday, I cannot even call it bad...
Last night the wind must have been blowing at around 50mph... Mike and John, that was John by the way... not James!... took refuge in their truck... the tough girls, Anna and Becca endured somehow the night in their tent. Real troopers... From Chicago and Texas... would you expect any less?
And the day cleared up and the ride was awesome... as usual... full report in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/118814558-M.jpg

Hope you are all having a great day, Many Thanks to all the great wishes I received... it sure is nice to know that friends think of me...

From Ara and Spirit... have a great one... and stay well...

[Ritten]

Merry Christmas Ara!! It looks like it had turned into one beautiful day for riding. Take care and be safe.

[Beemerchef]

Thanks, Thank you guys...
http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/119178994-L.jpg
Some thoughts went through my mind this morning as I was reading VIVID1's ride report...
I have been out of their shoes these days... but I remember how they fitted not so long ago. I live on the road, like Martha and Bob which I met today... we all ride... but there is more for us... we live on the road... there is no timetable... riding is primordial but it is not all, and, even from my past trips this is what I enjoy I have to say... riding has become the vehicle to able me living this life now with an array and multitude of other interests daily
There is just something about Big Bend... I still remember reading a couple E mails send to me even before my decision to come here... they said “you will fit right in”... and I thought... what do they mean by that? Do I need to look at myself in the mirror? One cannot help wondering what is awaiting at the other end when such a comment is delivered.
And I am starting to understand... my friends do know me well... like a puzzle I do feel like I was a missing piece. It feels like home... even some locals that I have met thought that I lived here!
And it is almost like... I should! The riding?... well, it is endless my friends... “Croton Springs”... “Paint Gap”... those were two news roads yesterday!... and there is more... much more.
There is a change today... There will be no link to SmugMug... In my search to improve this Blogging situation I found a better way to import pictures... and at the same time... I am still working on a website...
Hope you like the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/) today...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Rocky]

How is the weather? ITs cold as hell here on the east Coast.

[Save-the-Manatee]

I haven't posted up much in the past few weeks, but I do check your blog daily. Keep on writing and riding. I'm getting kicks out of here down here.

[Beemerchef]

The weather has been great except... one day!...
Cool night... slightly cool days... hot PM's...
http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/119338970-L.jpg
I found my original Big Bend National Park entrance map last night... it is dated the 12th of December... Have I been here that long?... I am taking roots... and still discovering the town, so unique... still discovering new riding... river beds are my new “thing” as 98% of Texas land is privately owned... found myself sitting in Kathy’s office... some chairs around the fire ring in front of her Kosmic Xafe... for a couple hours... by the road... the local source of gossips... waiving at most cars passing by and meeting more strangers... everyone has a story... a couple professional photographers wanting to take some shots of the rig and Spirit... no, not of me!... and more riding... not a problem...
More riding... and more riders are showing up... they want to see the “girl” that planted this destination in their mind... I am and have not be alone for a while now... and the company is awesome... including sharing some Pizzas for dinner... as it is written in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/)...
Busy... busy... busy... I keep saying... “I need a vacation...!”
Today will be my first ride through the State Park, back through the river road to get there... versus the National Park which I still have to finish exploring and probably will not, leaving some for the next visit.
Till later... you be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Juice]

Greetings Ara

After reading your journal, I have interest in visiting Big Bend in the near future. I had no idea that Texas held such beauty. I hope that you are taking notes and recording tracks of those roads that you are writing about? Can you tell me the best places to camp? Roads to ride? Places to eat and any other info that you think would be useful to anyone who has never visited that area?

[weave]

Ara it seems the park and its inhabitants haven;t changed much over time.
I spent several weeks there in the 7o's, fell right in with like minded folks,
it truly is one of those special places that gathers people and mixes them together in a remote park for some life long memories.

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/119565276-L.jpg

This is a special place... many many Artists live here... this where the modern world and third world country collide. Unlike other places... artistical centers... they are very low key... you will never know he is a famous writer... or she is a very famous photgrapher... I have been lucky to have an interesting scenario as a Chef, a bike with a sidecar and a dog and just living on the road... I did not plan it that way... this is my life and it has interested quite a few people... There will be some ramifications next year because of that, which I cannot write about it now... interesting to say the least... fun.
When you are ready to come here Juice, you just let me know, I'll call you and give you all the details... you will even have WI FI as I do now... just remember one thing... DO NOT RIDE OFF ROAD WHEN IT IS WET!... If you thought the Louisiana mud is bad... this is worse... they build houses with this stuff!
This is one of those days when you have to think by it’s end... any riding is better than none...
When you have to think, well we made it, we build up character, fought the wind, the sand blowing... never reached our destination... but we rode! This was not all however... we met some riders that knew me... and I knew them too... from the Forums... go figure that one in the middle of nowhere.
I might be wrong... geographically it is far down south... but I have stopped to think as Big Bend being in the middle of nowhere for many minds... there are been a sudden growth in the population!... and more to come... as you can read in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...
The rain has finally, for the first time since being here, arrived... I can now lay back and write!
Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/119772600-L.jpg
It suddenly hit me this morning, there is a whole winter ahead of me... cold weather for Spirit, myself also I am not denying, short days... where to go? No, it is not a problem by far, there is a need for a wise decision to be taken for both of us, as the 3rd is approaching, departure day from Big Bend that is closer than ever to my heart and my well being. For years, I have waited for a spark from my senses to ignite a desire to stay in one place... and as much as Big Bend has... I know myself well enough, bohemian blood running in me, I cannot stay still for too long.
Fort Davis has been my planned next destination, I know only a few miles up, but providing a totally different surrounding and vision. New Mexico, Arizona... all on the way West... but again, winter is making its mark and being in a no-riding situation is not an option!
My logic is leaning me toward a straight flight to the southern west coast... Anza Borrego and its surroundings... will it be warmer? Get situated, explore a bit of that beautiful land... and... head south to Baja, Mexico... Rig and Spirit only, leaving the camper and trailer safely behind with maybe someone offering some space.
I have time to think about it...
In the meantime, David and Mike showed up... truck, trailer and bikes... kitchen, outdoor heater... well seasoned campers!... Was a blast to cook for them... you can read it and see it on the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)!
Be well...
Till later... Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/120064891-L.jpg
As the year is closing on us, I feel like there are life’s aspects I need to think about, maybe resolutions to take, try to better our life somehow... but I cannot find anything. I already live to the fullest every day, I can only on this occasion step back a bit and look around me, sometimes amazed at my own path. I am on the path of my desires, hoping some happiness for Spirit and missing my loved ones, the ones too far away to see and the departed ones...
Actually, I look forward to next year, a whole year on the road as I have only done 6 months at the time. There has been some incredible growth in just these past two months, incredible people I have met, the start seems so far away, even geographically as I have been so absorbed by my immediate surroundings... and the finish... I hope that there is none!
Wishing you all a Happy New Year, a healthy one, both physically and mentally... the rest will come.
It has been short rides the past day, still sore from fighting the strong winds on our way to Presidio, a bit of snow and fog has made the scenery and the ride even more enjoyable... after a couple cloudy days, the sun stands up high in the sky as a daily gift again, I think also sending great wishes for the coming New Year... and there is more on the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...
I think the pages have been saturated with the rig’s pictures... not that you will not see more of it, but today... my buddy Spirit... comfy and warm... is on the front page!

See you next year...

Ara and Spirit

[Juice]

Happy New Year Spirit and Ara. I hope you guys are staying warm on the road.

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/120376357-L.jpg
Thanks Juice... same wishes for you, family and all the members... and non members... You need to plan a few days... maybe weeks here!!! No regret...
I could not help feel a bit of emptiness last night after saying my goodbyes to David and Mike!
The campground again was empty, every one had come and gone, no one left on the hill... these pasts days were filled with engines starting, late night talks, much riding... much eating, and now again... left... just Spirit and I... back to our scheduled programming I thought!!!
What schedule?
The year started with a great ride yesterday... South County Road to North County Road, then north toward Alpine, east toward Terlingua Ranch, Marathon road toward 385... great weather, great company and roads... much fun as you can read about it on the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...
John, Mike, Becca, Felipe, Wayne, Byron, David, Mike, Anna, Big Don and Lobby from on the road... even you, the odd Texas Pete... and I have the feeling that I am forgetting some names here... thanks for your presence and making these Holidays some memorable ones... Maybe again next year?
You be well...
Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/120595796-L.jpg
My last sunset on the hill... an untouched photo as the camera took it!... just in case you were wondering... A waive, a smile, a going away present before our departure? You be the judge of it as I have been taking sunrise and sunset pictures throughout my stay... and none compare to this none.
Day to pack... re-arrange things in a better fashion, which worked out much better. It is the first time since I have left, but I am sure it will not be the last time.
Some more good byes and while trying to put some order in this minuscule camper of ours... I just thought about showing you how and where we live! It is kind of a mess... two extra books and it is overcrowded!...
You can see it all in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)... tomorrow we will be in Fort Davis, exploring also Marfa and Balmorhea, Mc Donald Observatory...
You be well...

Good Bye Big Bend... you have been kind to us...

Ara & Spirit

[Fitty]

Happy New Year Ara!!

[Save-the-Manatee]

Happy near year. May you continue to chase your dreams on the open road in 2007.

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/120863729-L.jpg
We rolled in Fort Davis in the afternoon... the weather was not cooperating... very thoughtful that I packed yesterday in dry conditions... and so here we are a few miles north.
And I was thinking that maybe I should have skipped Big Bend, leave it for last, and then again, there is no planned end to this Journey. You guessed it, I just understood what my friends, which had left days earlier, wrote... I already miss it!
There will be other regions, comparable on many levels of its beauty and serenity, but I just realized that Big Bend had been to me like a calm Ocean with its full sun, day after day...
I think today the weather has a lot to do also about how I feel... dark grey all day... there is excitement however in being here... It is a real little town... with many Restaurants... shops... friends to be made and awesome roads to ride... as I understand, it is going to be beautiful these coming days...
Spirit and I took a walk... check it out in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[weave]

Thanks for the tour of home base.

[Beemerchef]

Hi Weave... still have the luxury of WI FI in the camper...
Actually I am ordering an antenna for greater reception... world record WI FI transmission took place in Australia... 56 kilometers!!!...

Home base?... I could have called my Blog... "6 1/2 X 6 1/2" !!!

Hope you are all well... send me some boudin... Head Bang

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/121117704-L.jpg
I fell asleep when I returned from today’s ride, which beat me up again struggling against the winds riding up to Fort Davis Mountain and the Mc Donald Observatory... Awesome roads... it had been a while since riding nice sweepers and twisties, without a speed limit per say, remembering someone not too long ago telling me that I would be done here in a couple days!... So much to see, so much to ride... The start is in today’s Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/).

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/121326128-L.jpg

Quite a contrast from yesterday, was a cool night at the most which even allowed us for a nice walk... Spirit had some problems during the night... and this morning I woke up to snow flurries!
Am I complaining?... not the least... will take it any way it comes... specially after yesterday’s great ride as written in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/121593191-L.jpg

Anza Borrego soon... can you say 500 miles + od dirt in a 600000 acre Park where you can camp anyhere!... Death Valley... Joshua Tree... and much more!
It was an anticipated day to see Meathead, (Mark), can you understand his handle through some of the pictures?... swing by here, Fort Davis, TX, and join me for dinner...
I have posted the pictures and the short stay on my Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...

Enjoy and be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/121887840-L.jpg

Hard to believe that one week and more has already gone by in this New Year... time is starting to speed up as I look at maps, there is no plans or directions, the weather will be my guide mostly as I have to move on to warmer climates, mainly for Spirit. With even two coats on, the poor guy is cold, he does not want to go out and I am not feeling comfortable with his lethargic days... we both need our exercise... him as much as me!

We did not ride yesterday... spend it mostly at Jerry’s and Nalda’s Bookstore... it amazes me for a town this small how many interesting people there are... so many conversations!

There are always pictures from the past that do not make it on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/)... with Cagiva 549's permission I have posted some of the recent past ones...

Hope you enjoy...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/122109644-L.jpg

Don’t you be thinking now...
On my way back from Balmorhea Hot Springs, a few miles into the ride, a black truck with blue and red was flashing... I could not see very well beyond it, looked like a couple bikes had kissed the grass...
Not so...
They were shooting a commercial! I stop... U turn... going the wrong way... the local Sheriff is not very happy, but the guys are... a sidecar with a dog? compared to the usual two wheel stuff they have been working on. Any chance to be in it?... I ask... sorry... wrong brand!
Oh well... maybe better luck next time...
The rest of the riding was great... it is all the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/).

My last day in Texas... you have been good to me... I leave with some new friends and some incredible memories... and I will be back! There is no doubt about it...

Be well...

Ara and Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/122424168-L.jpg

Ah! My friends... we are way over 1000 miles away now!!!
You know the drill if you have ever taken a Freeway, in transit as I call it... and most, unfortunately, because of lack of time, somehow wondering why my time has been lacking now suddenly... needing to get from point A to point B as I am doing!
It finally was a good decision to take Hwy #10... as you might read it in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...

Till then... you all be well... were going...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/122638899-L.jpg

It rained all night, we, I say we!... slept late... kept raining and there was not much sense going to Tucson trying to find another place to camp... 80 miles away, I thought, leave early tomorrow morning and have a do nothing day!
Well, the skies cleared up, and actually for the first time I cannot write it all in one Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/)!
So this is part one of what end up being a full day...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/122802510-L.jpg

A quick overnight in Gila Bend, AZ, and here we are now in Anza Borrego, California! I will spell it for the first time...
A day, or was it two days ago?... returning from the Chiricahuas the sunset was magical... as so was the ride up, all in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/).
Feeling always like a kid in a candy store... that is me today... new maps, new roads with the knowledge that I will be here, in this area anyhow, till it starts warming up a bit...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/123231545-L.jpg

Leave some space I always think... with a load like mine the braking effect is just not the same... specially when second in line to a minor fender bender... What was really funny and I wish I had a picture of it, but we had to move along as this happened... We had to wait a while for the accident to be moved. A cop arrives coming the other way... parks and crosses the median by foot...
They are making some space for us to move along... as we leave... he sprints back to his car as I almost run over him, I look... and the brushes under his car are on fire!!! flames are shooting 3 to 4 feet by the time he reaches the other side... myself wondering what he is going to do... he jumps in the car, gutsy move... and drives it forward! Gets his extinguisher and puts the fire out... his car was not burning... yet! Wonder... wonder... I bet he will never throw that cigarette again down when getting out of his car!!!
It was down to 19 degrees last night!... I will not complain, I know I am at about the most southern point there could be and everyone else has to be colder. So you will not hear about it... anymore! Instead I will write my day in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/), my first day in this unusual State Park...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/123517269-L.jpg

I have not been able to settle since I have been here, unlike other places that I have been, I have dug deeper and deeper and very slowly some mental answers are, vaguely I have to say, taking some various shapes. I watched a short movie this morning at the Visitor Center about the Marshall Family that lived here on Ghost Mountain for 15 years... hiking for 14 miles they brought wood piece by piece to built their home... their water came from miles away 12 gallons at the time... They had 3 children and they end up with a divorce in later years. Can we change so much, from one extreme to another? I miss the simpler years... of course I can go back to them as right now nothing prevails but truly the matters of the mind... ABDSP is an enigma to me as I wonder why it has brought up all these questions in my mind? Is it because it is so vast?... so much land with the freedom to live on it anywhere one likes?... the invitation sure is there... I will probably take it after my stay here in the Park... that is what I have been longing for...
I got to ride some of those areas today... much land... and much sand!

The Blog. (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Fitty]

Ara,
Love those pictures of the Anza Borrego area. It's beautiful. Too bad about those sandy areas. Now I see why you have the winch, although I'm not sure what you could have hooked it to, to get out of that. I'll be on the west coast in August. Hopefully I'll be going through wherever you are at the time and I can meet up with you and Spirit.

[Dusty]

The girlfriend and I are enjoying your story. I'm looking forward to the journey ahead. Keep on doing the things that you are doing, you give us poor suckers at work hope.

[Rocky]

Let me know when you make the east Coast. I would love to buy Spirit a scooby snack and the old man well, I'm sure he could probably use a cup of coffee.

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/123901265-L.jpg

We had a blast today! Literally... my best day since in ABDSP... and, as someone mentioned it, the Southern part of the Park is it for me! No doubt... I am finding out slowly what attracts me to the land... Vast open spaces, the solitude and the lack of a crowd, unlike Borrego Springs itself.
Having commitments from the 26th of this month to be in Death Valley and Mojave Desert and backtrack to Gila Bend for a couple days, I know... thanks for the support, it is a tough schedule... I decided to come back here afterward but camp in the Southern part which you will read a bit of it in today’s Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/).

You be well...

Ara and a tired Spirit... snoring as we speak!!!

PS: Thanks guys... we are enjoying sharing also... The website will be ready soon... I know Juice!... has been a long time... just could not do it myself... not from on the road, I also needed someone in the background...
Early next month I will be trained on my own Internet Dish!... that is great news... post anytime... from anywhere... Even... you will like this... LIVE video Cam! Imagine that... It will be a blast... some of you are going to HAVE to join me!!!

[Navaho6]

Super fine pictures, Ara !!!!!!!!!! I wish that I were there. It's been nasty over here all month. Remember that "momentum" is your friend in that deep sand - pin it, and hang on!! Thanks for the pictures. We're enjoying them.

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/124089214-M.jpg


Busy, busy!... maybe I will take a vacation and “do nothing” someday, and then again, that is just not me!
From meeting locals in Borrego Springs to picking my next campsite in the wilderness... finally... and getting stuck one more time... it is all in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/) with of course, more pictures!

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Dusty]

Your photography skills are amazing. I hope to meet you guys out on the open road one of these days.

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/124409842-L.jpg

Yes, summer is aroud the corner... need a get together... West Coast...

Out of Borrego Springs this am... into the camping spot I was checking out yesterday... time to put everything to test... and even managed to take a little ride toward Salton Sea... A beautiful HOT day, not a good one for pictures as the haze was real thick, still managed to save some for your viewing on the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/124896524-L.jpg

Heavy winds, deep sand... a couple more days and I will be out of here. Thursday, assuming it is Tuesday today... I will spend the day in Julian, nice black top going up and heard that it is a very cool town...
In the meantime I checked out Ocotillo Wells, Salton Sea, dinner with new friends...
All in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/).

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/125299910-M.jpg

Even Spirit is getting excited about sunsets, I think!... Or is it because we had company for dinner... This place is starting to feel more and more like home... have to be careful not to get too attached to the land!...

My Blog has been going through some growing pains!... It is called Bandwidth... At first I had to switch, if you remember to texting on SmugMug, then learn a different way to post... and now...
finally my own Website is all ready to go!

For the first time you will be redirected on it... a little cleaner... same everything as they say...
much more Bandwidth!

... and still a Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)! www.theoasisofmysoul.com

Thank you... be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/125536711-M.jpg

Much thought has gone into writing and publishing what follows.
No ride report today... No pictures of Spirit playing or sunrise or sunset.
I did seek advice, not wanting to be out of context, I hope the moderators will understand. This is a Lifelong Journey on the Road that I have embraced and write about, and as some very good friends of mine wrote to me... “you have been an open book, we all have within ourselves many layers of us, he is part of your Journey, part of your everyday life, there is nothing wrong by dedicating this day’s writing to Lance...”.
I also know that he will like it, he will be thrilled for all of you to get to know him a bit... because he also was my friend, my buddy... and would have been yours also.

Sincerely, “Thank You” for reading today’s Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

Ara

[Juice]

Ara

After reading your tribulations, the petty things that lay heavy on my heart no longer seem significant. You are a good man, a free spirit and an inspiration to those that surround you. Your written words warm the heart and touch the soul. When I read your words, I can share your pleasures, feel your excitement and experience your sorrows. Just remember that Life is a journey that ends only with your death. I am very proud to call you my friend and I anticipate the day that our paths cross once again.

Godspeed Lance




http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/125536711-M.jpg

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/125698315-L.jpg

I wanted to show you before I left where all this was being written from!... a few “regulars” are also around, about one mile apart... We visit each other once in a while! I did not realize till today that I have been here exactly 2 weeks!... A couple more great rides (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) today and we are packing to take off, headed North to Mojave Preserve...
Mostly BLM lands... there will be much to see, ride on hard packed roads... I hope!
You be well... and many “thanks” for all your support which I received yesterday...
Your company is most appreciated...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/126114599-L.jpg

On to Mojave Preserve, CA.

I have to say, I think, still a bit unclear... as that person could not speak up in a forward manner... that my sunsets were...?... or?

“Quote”
Hi Ara,
Author Terry Pratchett writes of the Discworld where magic works
and Twoflower (Discworld's first tourist) is pointing his camera at yet
another sunset when the hatch on the camera top opens and a
paintbrush-wielding Imp sticks his head out to yell:-
"Enough with the sunsets! I'm running out of vermilion! "
Fred Hill, S'toon.


Maybe TV reruns would be more suitable?... I am so confused...
Sunsets... sunrises... moonsets (is there such a word?...)... moonrises... yes? are a spiritual time which culminates a day’s time period... a ritual... a “bravo”... none, I repeat none... unlike TV reruns, are alike...
So here is another one!...

Culture shock today... sensory perceptions overloaded... I-10 Southern California, should I say more... find out (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)!

Tomorrow, back in the wilderness...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/126690736-L.jpg

I am speechless having arrived at the Mitchell Caverns! It is like the thoughts in my mind are going 100 miles per hour, overloaded... and I am thinking... how am I going to ever describe this (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/?p=70)!
Earlier I explored some of the BLM lands, the trails... the hard packed trails!... with a big smile...
This is where I could use an Internet Dish!... Some connection, but very weak... I will have to ride 50 to 60 miles and spend a few hours sending out all this... will be well worth the wait!
I already know that this is where I will spend many weeks... at least a few!
Again, the pictures are not going to do justice... this is above anything I have ever seen and experienced!... wish you could all be here... I would have loved to see the expression on your faces!
Enjoy...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/126761350-L.jpg

You have seen the campsite... this is the other side of the coin, I am pretty sure that is where I am!
I have not had a good connection per say for two days now!... some e Mails are coming in, few going out...
Time has totally lost its notion, the skies have been cloudy and the cold is settling in... perfect weather for the Caverns (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) today...
Enjoy the pictures!... and be well.

Ara and Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127908092-M.jpg

20th Century technology... Hughes Technology... I guess the man that dreamed of the largest plane ever build has left an imprint which has made its way even into my life...

Today is the first time using my own Dish... set up by my own hands... and grey matter... I know all of you must have one hanging somewhere on your roof... I did not! It is fast!... and used at less busy hours... when the world is asleep around me, as I heard the expression... it is smoking!

A different route took me backtracking to Gila Bend, AZ... Wednesday it is back to again more desolate areas... this time... totally self contained.

Enjoy the comments (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)... and be well...

Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127916932-Ti.gif

[Team Redneck]

I hope it works better for you then it does for me. Same setup I have at the house. Mines a POS!

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/128383416-L.jpg

I was thinking about that Walt! trust me on that... BUT... I think it is just a set up!... During the night I am at T1 speeds!... and like now, 2pm in the middle of nowhere fast as DSL! I wish I was closer and I would come and fix it!
I have a installer certification now!... Don't laugh... I do!!! Have an installer come back and get the elevation/skew/azimuth right on and the base of the Dish itself has to be perfectly leveled...

It seems always to be a long day with the early sunsets, specially when we are trying to get to a destination to set up for a few days.
It did not happen today... lunch with a friend that drove all the way from Phoenix... meeting a French couple that wants a sidecar... and what are the chances for both low beams to go out at the same time?... I’ll take it!!!

We are setting camp tomorrow near by Joshua Tree to explore it for a few days...
There was no sense looking for BLM land in the dark tonight!

Some of our day! (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127916932-M.gif

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/128595215-M.jpg

I have been feeling like in another Planet (with capital “P”) since we have arrived here yesterday.
With my good luck this is an awesome campground, the most remote one as I found out today.
Isolation... total silence... Joshua Trees and many rocks... as you will see in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

Be well... enjoy...

Ara and Spirit (UralGrowl)

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127916932-Ti.gif

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/128792442-L.jpg

Today was a great day, peaceful and joyful. I have been receiving quite a few e mails from readers that have been enjoying the Journey, and as I was deep in thoughts about my days here, timing could not have been any better receiving an e mail from a good friend of mine, a kind man, and at the same time, quite a sidecar fabricator, Claude Stanley. His words are words to be read everyday as, his own purpose in life is to also spread joy and happiness amongst us... that is just the way he is!
I want to share this e mail with you all... I know it will make you think about your own life, regardless where you are and regardless what you are doing.
We then took a ride through the Park, a bit of blue skies today... it is all in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...
Sit back and enjoy... and just think how fortunate I am to have a friend like Claude!
Be well...

Ara and Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127916932-Ti.gif

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/129351709-M.jpg

Where was Plan B?

Ah! A lesson learned... a few maybe... we literally spend the whole day from here to there without
the conclusion that should have materialized... Poor Spirit, quietly put up with it... I was disappointed of the outcome... you can read this great day on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127916932-Ti.gif

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/129721302-L.jpg

From The Hole in the Wall to Lake Havasu...

Retreat has become a habit these past couple of days!... What was I thinking trying to camp at the Hole in the Wall in the Mojave Desert without checking the forecast first!
Mid 20's at night, wind blowing at 40mph, hail... and I should really change the spelling of that word...
We are now south of Lake Havasu City... nice BLM land... there is something to be said about BLM land! We did the full circle... in pictures on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127916932-Ti.gif

[Rocky]

Spirits new threads rock. He looks good in red. You guys keep on keeping on.

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/129921941-L.jpg

A Day in Town...

That is Lake Havasu City... nice town... Dogie Bakery... motorcycle shops... drivers are not crazy as other parts of the country... all and all... pretty mellow I have to say!
The Fireworks Convention starts tonight... the best of the best for two nights!
My friend Jkam is coming to visit for a couple days... he was very instrumental in my preparations for this Journey. We have never met... quite some exciting times ahead.
Yesterday is gone... but still remains in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/129921925-M.jpg

A Homeless gathering...

It has been a great time having JKam over, we are small numbers but... we did call it a Homeless Riders Get Together!... Wondering how many more are out there with no ties to any walls and their live’s possession’s at hand! JKam is on a Journey as I am, with a deeper Soul than most, the contrast of being unattached to material possessions makes us dig in deeper into the true essence of life.
We have been lounging around for a couple days now!... Spirit has a new friend, we have shared some great food and many conversations...
Sunrises and Sunsets have been our clock, some great Fireworks seen happening in town... as I have written and pasted the pictures of these couple days in the Blog! (http://www.vtweb.com/theoasisofmysoul/wordpress/)

You be well...

Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127916932-Ti.gif

[weave]

I;ve had the pleasure of camping with J, You guys should start a school for the homeless!

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/131052544-L.jpg

Historic Rt66 to Oatman, AZ.

Our last day here, south of Lake Havasu City... it has been a fine and quiet time, a great place to set up camp, besides a few disrespectful dirt riders not slowing down creating waves of dust!
The town has been convenient to get supplies... I did not want to miss the chance to ride Historic 66 to Oatman... First however we rode south on spur 95 making a long loop... thousands of trailers and RV’s that way... sand dunes... and some pictures on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[weave]

Great Pic Ara

[Juice]

Ara

What kind of camera do you use?

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/131466823-L.jpg

New Friends in Kingman, AZ.

We are finally settled by Red Rock Canyon, Nevada. Why plan any routes since I don’t follow them anyhow!... Left Kingman this morning, actually passed through Las Vegas... I will give you my impressions on the next go around. Yesterday was a smooth ride from Lake Havasu to the Hospitality of Mark, Angie and his wonderful family... including a personal tour in his hangar and some late cooking for everyone... Definitely no dinner for me tonight... but last night was a good one! (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127916932-Ti.gif

Ah! the camera... Pentax A20. Just came out about 4 months or so ago, I was the first one to get one. Has image stabilizer and at 5MP you can also engage both gyroscopes "anti blurr"... I would love truly a Digital SLR... but as we all know... big "thing" on the bike... so far has been good...
Hope that helps...

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/131660663-L.jpg

To Red Rock Canyon, NV.

We have arrived at Red Rock Canyon and it is cold and windy. A shock to the system for the both of us, we were getting used to running around all day in a T Shirt! For the first time I had to put some rocks at the base of the Dish, even though anchored, 30mph winds with gusts of 50 just did not make me trust that anchor.
It was a fine road from Kingman... going through Las Vegas... hummm, what happened to that town?
We are settled and even saw a bit of Mt Hamilton... enjoy the pictures. (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[JayD]

Great shot Ara

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/131860361-L.jpg

A bit of Red Rock Canyon, NV.

I could not stand it anymore... cold and snowing a bit, Spirit has his coat, I have my Gerbings... dark skies or not I wanted to at least ride the loop at Red Canyon. And we did just that...
Today, the sun is out again, the temps are still down, and a renewed energy seemed to have surfaced. Sunshine is definitely the meaning of life and the soul. An incredible energizer for me...
This was the loop yesterday (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)... we have much hiking and rides planned here... we?... right!

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127916932-L.gif

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/132429185-M.jpg

About “Storms” and “Scooters”...

Lots always seems to happen when close to a City... rule of thumb, right?
The idea was to head out for a ride, but seeing scooters after scooters... well, it just did not happen... we stopped, talked and end up following them to their 7th Annual Rally spot!
They were from all over the World, England... Japan... just about all the cities in the USA.
And I was in the middle of it, 4 times their size... that’s the rig mind you.
It took up most of the day... so no sunsets or no sunrise pictures today!
What a break! I’ll make up for it soon... promise!
This was before the storm that caused evacuating Red Rock Canyon... what a night!
Enjoy the Blog... (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/133039173-M.jpg

More of Valley of Fire... NV.

Mother Nature cannot ever be forgotten... as much as we had a great break yesterday. Windy again and cold... but we are going. We cannot let it stop us in our tracks of the beautiful surroundings... a forgotten National Treasure, no doubt...
The pictures (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) today will speak for themselves... such an amazing place!
I think you will truly enjoy yourselves...

Be well...

Ara and Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127916932-Ti.gif

[Beemerchef]

http://i17.tinypic.com/30ifgjs.jpg

Same scenario without the crashing this time...

This is what living on the road is all about... the unexpected... great sunny day and freezing ones... great running bikes and mechanical failures! Will accept it all... with a smile... as around the corner, friends are ready with open arms and open doors of their home to get us going again.
This was the case today as you can read on the Blog (http://http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

We are well, hope you are too...

Ara & Spirit

[Rocky]

No Workie!!!!! Is your site down this morning?

[Beemerchef]

HOW do you post a picture now?... it is not coming up... thanks...

http://i18.tinypic.com/33w2tz9.jpg

Some Reflections on this Journey...



On hold by a rod... I will have it today, and the one my friend Didier overnighted me from New York is much stronger, maybe this will avoid future dismemberment of my rig!... We cannot afford the past experience and this was fortunate enough to be discovered without any further damage.
Today should be the day... and as I sit here waiting, I would like to share some reflections from my recent months on the road... Looking back is always beneficial to the path that lays ahead...
You be the judges (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/113447962-M.jpg

is it working???

[Juice]

Ha Ha Ha!!!!!!!!!!!!!Why does she have my pants unbuttoned?


http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/113447962-M.jpg

is it working???

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/134621709-L.jpg

North... South... West... let’s go East...

The excitement of the rig being so solid again as I took it out for a spin yesterday morning I think distracted me from my plans! Kingman... so close to Sedona, the Grand Canyon, Yavapai, Coconino National Forest... the wheels went East. We drove, we rode... we are south of Sedona by a few miles and it has been HOT... with capital letters!
Much to see... always... and experience and much to cook somehow!
The Oasis of my Soul (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) has many facets it seems like!

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/134821781-L.jpg

Sightseeing around Sedona, AZ.

We are riding to the sites in the books... much History, and much other visitors also, but all worthwhile seeing. From Montezuma Well, to Montezuma Castle, the latter wrongly named, we have been going all day. Meeting another rider and saying my goodbyes to my great neighbors...
A full day... all in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)!

Hope you enjoy, we did...

Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127916932-Ti.gif

[weave]

Ara
Enjoying the blog, jolts a lot of memories.spent many nights camped in the area in the 50's and 60's with my parents, went back on my own in the 70's.
Could camp anywhere, explore the ruins, quite a few "clans" lived in the caves off the beaten paths. I guess Jerome must be a major tourist town by now.

[Beemerchef]

Jerome... you asked for it!!! HI WEAVE!!!... Lately I keep thinking about the Louisiana food!!!...
http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/135341962-L.jpg

Jerome and the Mangus Highway, AZ.

Out of the Sedona traffic and construction roads, on to Jerome up in the Mountains with a great ride through the Mangus Highway down to Prescott, what a great day it was yesterday.
As I will probably head north tomorrow, today is the day for errands, tightening up the scene and the loose ends... top of the fuel and water, food... you never know what is ahead with my open minded Journey ahead of me.
I keep thinking that at some point I will meet someone on the road from a Forum, but it has not happened yet... we saw lots of riders, somehow they were all going the other way!
Enjoy the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)... and be well, have a great week.

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/135878275-L.jpg

More roads up and down and around Sedona...

A gravel road with great watering holes... followed by 89A... not for the faint of heart... and now we are packed headed toward the Grand Canyon... with millions of pictures of it in circulation I have to add my own!... Should be great camping near Tusayan... National Forest... and most likely cooler temps... Ah! Almost forgot... must check NOAA... the weather you know.
Enjoy the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/136087813-M.jpg

Why on the road?...

It was only this morning that we left Beaver Creek Campground, south of Sedona... we are a few miles for the Grand Canyon’s south rim, I have not seen any of it yet, and it is sometime in the middle of the night... We are camped on National Forest, they call it “dispersed” camping, off a forest road which are abundant around here. There is no one near by and my clock right away has switched to a no time zone... more on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/136519514-L.jpg

The Grand Canyon, AZ.


What can one say about the Grand Canyon?... besides being mesmerized throughout this jaw dropping, eye popping, sensory overload experience. One of the few places I can sit for hours and loose my sight and senses deep into this incredible wonder.
One of the most enjoyable place to also camp here... the nearest neighbor is about half a mile away... and I had dinner for lunch... as you will see (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)!

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/136840986-L.jpg

More on the Grand Canyon, AZ.

It was just another beautiful day here, NOAA is predicting snow and mid twenties by Tuesday... but that is a couple days ahead. Lots of riding through the Park, the weekend crowd is a bit different... glad to see many city people coming here to enjoy the sites as we did... before the views disappear due to increasing haze... You can read about it here (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

You be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/137279017-M.jpg

Valle’s “Planes of Fame Air Museum”, AZ.

I think, I am fairly sure that we are going to “The Grand Circle” on our way to California...
“The Grand Circle” including Zion NP, Bryce Canyon NP, Glen Canyon, Capitol Reef... and more.
Exciting riding, hiking, photography and eating!... eating meaning cooking too...
There is much more if we went a bit more North/East... but, have to leave some for next year!... and the following...
A couple days ago we went to Valle ‘s “Planes of Fame Air Museum”, what I thought was going to be a quick stop turned out to be an almost all day visit... a must to see, all in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

PS: if anyone wants more pictures and info (taken also in pictures), let me know. I can send you the SmuMug link they are all on... too many for the Blog...

Be well...

Ara and Spirit... soon on the road again.

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/137781208-L.jpg

On the road, 89N, AZ and Utah.


89 Northbound from the eastern entrance of the south rim Grand Canyon to Utah must be one of the best scenic road I have ever been on. So much scenery, from rock formations, to the Little Colorado Gorge in a more intimate setting than the Grand Canyon... to Panguitch... were we had to turn around. Campgrounds are closed, snow is still present with more on the way, wind is howling and why can I not set my mind to the fact that winter is not over yet!
So we are south of all that... 50 this morning near Kanab... and will take some day trips to the scenic areas surrounding us.
Some pictures of our way up here on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

You be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Fitty]

Just awesome Ara!! I plan to spend as much time as I can in that area when I go out there this August. I came through there last year on 24, 12 and 89, but I was unfortunately in a hurry and didn't see enough. I just went past the entrance to Bryce, and took 9 through Zion, but that was it. I want to do a little gravel this year and get off the main roads some.

Thanks again.

[Beemerchef]

First of all... how dare you guys doing a Crawfish Boil without me being there??? That SUCKS!!!... Wish I could fly to join you...
Fitty... do not despair... just ride what you can... there are just too many roads!!! Take the whole Escalante (I have mega maps)... there is NO PAVED road going through!!! We can only do this in small courses... even me!!! This is just a preview for the years to come...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/138036606-M.jpg

Kanab Canyon and more... UT.

How can so much happen while on the road without a “home”? The trails of the mind must be wide open with all its doors unlocked... Turned on by a friend to Ken Foster’s book “the dogs who found me”, suddenly opens a path of joy finding out that his Pit must be Spirit’s brother!
And what better surrounding than riding through a Canyon to discover just a bit later that “Best Friends Animal Sanctuary”, a no kill shelter for animals, has tours of their center... where I actually find Ken Foster’s book less than 24hrs after its discovery... and should I also mention “autographed”... All this leading to a great dinner... I never thought that living on the road was going to be so exciting... as you might read it in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/138249060-M.jpg

A quick long ride through Zion NP., Utah

I need to learn new words to describe this Park, or I just have to stop riding through these natural wonders. My vocabulary is starting to feel limited! What a blast... going... what a shower... coming back! The rig is purring... with 170+/-K on it I even hate to think about it... no jinks please.
And as if the ride was not enough we are moving there for a while... it will be base camp for many other attractions if that is what we are going to call them.
This one is already in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).
Enjoy, be well... hope that you are also having a great weekend...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/139063996-M.jpg

The Canyon in Zion... Utah.

Staying in most of the day, NOAA called in for some bad weather... but I think they are mistaken.
Great campsite, so great that we might, just might stay here for a couple weeks... but I have said that before. It is just that there are so many places to ride around here... and see!
Might even have some company soon... that would be great... Fire at night, great roads, great scenery... what more can I write on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)!... many pictures too...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Rocky]

Wow, now that is a long ass bicycle trek. Best of luck to that guy. Did you get some contact info to chart his progress?

[Beemerchef]

I will post his website, in German... soon!!!... as soon as I get my eyes off your Avatar... I don't need friends like you... !!!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/139370452-L.jpg

Darker Skies in Zion NP. Utah...

The forecast... after these couple days is as sunny as it can be for as long as they can predict it!
Lets endure these couple of days... I know that it will be all worth it.
Did not hold us back from some riding as darker skies make for some great pictures and give out a different feeling about this whole place.
We did have to turn around, bitter cold winds... the snow flakes were an added attraction...
Luckily enough ingredients to make dinner... preceded by a visit to Farmer’s Market...
The Journey goes on... cannot even think about our next destination! This is Home (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) for now...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/139719357-M.jpg

Kolob Terrace road, Zion NP. Utah


East of here is still bitter cold, I was so wrong assuming that things will arm up at higher elevations! I guess I have lived in Florida too long...
But west of here, off the town of Virgin, is Kolob Terrace road which is less crowded entrance to also Zion Park. Love the setting, the riding... but not the road blocked by the snow a bit further up...
Cooked up a poor man’s pasta dish also with what I had left in the small pantry... tasty!...
It is on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)... in living colors!

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/140066254-M.jpg


April Fool?... not really! I wish...


April Fool’s day unfortunately did not fool me as I hear the snap of a broken eye bolt...
There we go... again! But... happened 10 feet away from camp... could have happened the day before when we went riding through Red Rock Canyon and Bryce Canyon up 9100 feet... without any steering it would have been quite a drop...
A couple more days... of course any day without riding is a tough one!... and we will be back on the road... in the meantime I wrote about the rides we just took... on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/140919903-L.gif

Bryce Canyon itself... Utah.

It turns out that I will be staying in Utah for about another month... how strange that when in Anza Borrego my thoughts where to head North, but slowly I went East... and now, looking at the map of Utah... with all its attractions and colors... why not wander a bit more here!
If the US Postal mail is on track my parts should be in this morning... and then it will be on to the welder for fixing a new crack in the mounts... luckily a secondary mount.
I am so mentally tired of all those breakages that I cannot even comment on them... All I want is a safe rig... the humor is hard to find... it does show however how society governs themselves, the ones in the business have been the hardest ones to deal with... The Manufacture at this point is doing what they can till I get there... new mounts? I can just imagine how the Corporate World is being ran...
I do want to thank all the ones that have send me their support... they have made these pasts days easier and allow me to look into the future of this dilemma...
Bryce Canyon was awesome. Rough conditions... but definitely a place to go back to in a bit warmer weather. Spirit has been a real trooper... and right now, he is also anxious to get going...
Enjoy the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/141502513-L.jpg

Michael and Sandra’s Utah... my 100th Blog.

Somehow it feels like I just have left yesterday, so much has happened and yet... so little! Moving on to some new sceneries withing the same State,Utah... one that intrigues me a lot as it is so full of richness, great roads and incredible geological formations that have taken millions of year... And I get to camp in the middle of it all... quite a treat! We are regrouping these coming days, listening to a local Adv Rider Michael, and his wife Sandra that have opened their house... and kitchen with wide open arms... Spirit has two new buddies... what more can one ask!
Today’s Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...
Be well... Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/142151035-M.jpg

A new campsite, north of Snow Canyon, Utah.

3 days... 4 days?... at Michael and Sandra, adding a few more pounds to this frail body... great company and time. 3 new tires, the rig seems really together and a new campsite, in the middle of some great BLM land.
I have a long list of areas to visit, it is so endless here in Utah that this will take many more visits to even scratch the surface. Good deal... I would hate to run out of places to visit these coming ten years!
Spirit is a bit sad today from losing his two buddies... he is starting to remind me of a sailor with a girl friend in every town...
Enjoy the Blog and the pictures (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)... there will be much going on, specially with the days becoming much longer, finally it feels like winter is behind us.

You be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/142575218-L.jpg

My little Island of Paradise

This inhabited stretch has become my little Island of Paradise these past few days and will be for a few more days to come... all is here and at the same time... nothing!
Lots of vermillion was used in this past sunset... wish you would have all been here to experience it...
The trout is a thing of the past... long gone now... you guessed it!... It was great... could taste its freshness with every bite.
BMW of Las Vegas gave me some hundred dollar chips... their true value?... great service.
The Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) will have it’s story!

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/142797724-M.jpg

A little ride in the neighborhood, Utah.

I have the feeling that everyone wished to have a neighborhood like this one!... Right or left or north or south... great roads and scenery, hardly any traffic and there is a part of Utah that is not all red!
A great dinner (at least they thought so...) for my friends Michael and Sandra, some playing time for Spirit and his buddies... it is all good... all in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).
In our conversations last night, we were wondering why get togethers are always where the crowd is!!! How about one right here...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/143523855-M.jpg

And all end up well...

School is never out just when we “might” think we are done... everyday new lessons are being provided, sometimes the teaching is kind, sometimes not.
What started as, finally thinking of having one, a bad day, end up being a great one... solving obstacles... followed by a great ride... and a great night sleep as Spirit seems to be getting back on track....
It is just part of everyday life on the road... we are not exempt from anything that you yourselves go through. The logistics are sometimes harder, but I would not trade this lifestyle with any other one... I know that some will agree after reading the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

*** By the way... where is this Crawfish Boil thread?... I lost it! Is this going to be an Annual thing?... Because if it is... I WANT to be there...

[Ritten]

Here ya go Ara. The crawfish boil IS an annual thing and will be going off on the 28th of this month. That's two weeks from today. Let me know if you plan on coming, cause your crawfish and drinks will be on me!!

Second annual DSRL crawfish boil (http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2664)

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/143865546-L.jpg

You are too kind... I was thinking next year FOR SURE... I cannot miss that!
I will be ready for the East Coast by then and seeing you guys again...
Just remind me in... 2008. In the meantime... enjoy as I know that you will and I did when I was there... Thanks again!

A ride to Cedar Breaks and Kolob Canyons, Utah.

So yes, I am a bit concerned about Spirit’s condition, it tears me up that he is still sick. Wish it was me instead... so hard to see and feel my helpless buddy! Time for a Doctor...
We did do a ride yesterday, he was doing better then. As usual Utah provides some exciting sceneries and roads. Only wish the winds and the rains would stop soon... maybe tomorrow!
More details on today’s Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

You be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Juice]

Prayers sent for Spirit......God Bless you Two......

[Beemerchef]

You guys are First Class... will see you the nest Crayfish Boil... promise!!!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/144667835-M.jpg

A healthier Spirit and a safer rig, Utah... +...

Unfortunately my Website had been down at times these past two days due to power outages in Vermont... I apologize for that. Was a bit surprised they do not have a generator...
But it all just a matter of time... such as Spirit’s health. He received some good care yesterday and as usual acted like a gentleman only stunned by a crying baby lamb!!!
The rig is much safer as you can see the work done on it... of the outmost quality!
A great visit to the Dinosaur Discovery Center... hard to go back in time a couple millions of years!
We are packing to head for California for a few days... with the hope that Spirit gets better by the day... if not, will track back.
The outpour of concerns for Spirit has moved me more than anything else on this Journey, and realizing that so many great people are out there makes me want to get out and... mingle!!!
Hope you enjoy today’s Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

Be well...

Ara and a healthier Spirit!

[Fitty]

Ara,
So glad to hear Spirit is doing better. Great news!!

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/145525184-L.jpg

One road to Kernville, CA.

We are in Kernville, California, amongst many riders... friends from the past and making new ones.
Cold... very cold, not handling it very well when it drops to the low 20's...
Spirit is doing better everyday and probably wondering why “all those people” want to pet him!!! He did find a few pairs of legs to rub his back against and I am always thankful to anyone that is nice to him...Geode, Glenn... well, cannot blame him for bailing out, weather, distance... schedule... needless to say... “WHIMP”!!!
There will be more in a day or two... have to get back to camp now, my friend Jkam just showed up!... surprise...
You be well... enjoy... (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

*** The picture above does not reflect my sentiments toward Spirit... just a sick sense of humor...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/146076256-M.jpg

The road back to Utah...

It was truly awesome to meet in person all the faces only labeled by a name for these past years...
And at the same time, to be honest about it, my tolerance for sleeping in the freezing temps seems... well has!... diminished...
As a couple of my new friends said... “it is age Ara!’. I will not deny it...
The riders, sceneries, the roads, even the locals in Kernville made us feel so welcomed... we are on the way back (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) to Utah to gather up the rest of my “stuff”, just to turn around and head back to another circle... the California Circle which comprises Death Valley Natl Park, Giant Sequoia Natl Monument, Sequoia Natl Park and Kings Canyon Natl Park... Give us a couple days and we will get there!... eventually...
Till next time... you stay well.

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/146639902-L.jpg

The Extraterrestrial Highway, NV.


We are back from Kernville and we are leaving for Kernville... Long story!!!
It was a great, cold, and sometimes miserable ride back... but those bad moments are water under the bridge and all that remains are some great memories of the Extraterrestrial Highway...
Did it flip my thoughts because of its name?... or the serenity of its vast quietness?
Still thinking about it...
And some pictures of it on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

Enjoy and be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Ritten]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/146639902-L.jpg




Hey, that's an official DSRL sign!! Notice the shocker in the lower right hand corner!

[Beemerchef]

Sure looks like it!!!
http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/147217243-M.jpg

Camping by the Kern River and a great ride... CA.

I guess last weekend’s get together took its toll... as we are back... a bit more north by the river, National Forest primitive camping... peaceful... and quiet, for now! The weather?... Riding to Glennville was an open vent jacket deal... incredibly pleasant.
Sequoia is in the plans... will have to detour as the road from here is still closed... we are just settling in, as they say.
Much more on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) in colors...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[scootertrash]

sometimes I am so envious of you two.... take care Ara and Spirit!


Sure looks like it!!!
http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/147217243-M.jpg

Camping by the Kern River and a great ride... CA.

I guess last weekend’s get together took its toll... as we are back... a bit more north by the river, National Forest primitive camping... peaceful... and quiet, for now! The weather?... Riding to Glennville was an open vent jacket deal... incredibly pleasant.
Sequoia is in the plans... will have to detour as the road from here is still closed... we are just settling in, as they say.
Much more on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) in colors...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

Come and join... come and visit...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/147444637-L.jpg

After six months on the road... CA.

Just realized yesterday... the 27th... six months since we left Georgia! Such changes, and feeling as more to come as the Journey takes its own character and personality.
Nothing to celebrate about!... Just thoughts after thoughts crossing my mind...
I am not one that could just ride and eat and sleep... seems like, as I have all my life, to be dedicated somehow to a purpose accomplishing something positive...
Erasing the past path to create a new one and sharing it through my Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)has been a rewarding one... and with some hope will remain that way.
Thank you all for your support... hope I get to write someday...
“After 10 years on the road...” State and Country unknown for now!

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Juice]

Ara. Where is your paypal button?

[Beemerchef]

Hi Juice... it is always on the right of the first picture/map... BUT... when I was trying to launch some funds through T Shirt sales... which end up being too complicated for someone on the road to handle, you bought one and HAVE already helped... So my Thanks still go to you... from the recent past.

I WANT some crawfish!!!... I will be there next year... will make a point!!!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/148099431-L.jpg


A “must”do loop... CA.

One of the most pleasant ride taken yesterday... could have been a frame of mind but I know that the terrain had a lot to do with it also. Constant change of scenery, friendly drivers waiving, great weather and nice breeze... Watched some kayakers having a blast and back to camp a bit early decided to do my own take on this “tri-tip” revolution so popular here!!! You be the judge on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/149098097-L.jpg

The BIG BIG trees in CA... and a cup of coffee!

Moving means busy... I get particular as to where we camp and sometimes it is not too easy finding the right spot. And then there is cooking, riding and exploring, Spirit and our playtime,
you know such things are laundry and Murphy’s law to always fix the unpredictable...
I would not trade my days anymore for anything you could offer me to replace these times...
Including today’s ride to Sequoia amongst the BIG tress... they are huge!... and always wondered... why there?
The first part is already on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)... with the story of a cup of coffee... beware!
You be well... part two will follow very shortly... we are moving again tomorrow... for a week or so... it will be a bit more permanent... like a week?

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/149098123-L.jpg

Rain or shine we ride!!!... CA.

The worse detriment in our Journey is bad weather. We have been lucky... I cannot take the credit that I follow sunshine throughout as we have had bad surprises... from actually lack of forgetting to check the weather sites! Today started heavily forecasted... but it did not keep us down...
Too many roads and sites to see... even if it is a short loop we were out there...
Nice roads... nice scenery... California does not cease to amaze me... unfortunately the prices of goods also take me a bit back...
Our day... and some of the past day on our Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)... in great colors of Spring.

You all be well... have a great weekend...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/150284810-L.jpg

Under the clear skies of California...

The skies are finally clear... Sequoia and Yosemite are waiting for us, but there are clouds of pain within me! A kidney infection... stones perhaps also... have managed to make their way since yesterday...
Already on medication... awaiting for all this to end... soon I hope... still took a chance for a little ride and mingle with some friends for some great food and conversations. Might have been a slight judgement error as now I am paying even a higher price for that escapade... but the road... at least half of it was worth it and so was the scenery as written on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...
Karma has been good as you might read about it... and as always my thoughts are... so many have it so much worse. This too shall pass...
Till later... be well... I am trying myself to go there!!!

Ara & Spirit

[Rocky]

Get well soon Ara. I look forward to your future travels and splendid writing ability. Give Spirit a scooby snack from all of us here at DSRL.

[Beemerchef]

Thanks Rocky... the proper antibiotics can do wonder!!!... Very lucky to have great people around me!... It has been the case everywhere I go...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/150689704-L.jpg

On to the Gold Country... CA.

Maybe a couple hundred miles further north tonight, I don’t keep much track of mileage truly.
More important are the roads traveled, the scenery and the feel of it.
Past Pioneer on 88... ahead of the riders coming up for the Pashnit Gathering and feeling very fortunate to be allowed to stay here. Beautiful country... much luscious green trees... great weather which I hope holds up for everyone else.
The route is on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) and so are a few other pictures...
Be well...
Ara & Spirit

[Dusty]

Cool12

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/151556469-L.jpg

Do you believe it?... again! Lake Tahoe

At least, again, we did not crash... You must be getting used to this... anyone would like to by a used hack???... Look at it this way... every time something breaks, only 5 times however by now,
it is fixed better... stronger... OK... Maybe you want to wait a little longer, we are getting near completion... not much left that could break... This was a fabricator part by the way...
Besides that, the ride was just fantastic... 88/89 to Lake Tahoe at this time of the year must be the best... cool, just right temps, the roads are dry and open, even Tioga pass is opening tomorrow at noon!
Want to see some pictures... see what happened?... The Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) is up to date...
SmuMug was down for maintenance last night, could not post the pictures and that is OK too...
They are the best in the business...

You be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/152267088-L.jpg

A Great time at the Pashnit gathering... CA

This will be one of those memorable weekend... no doubt about it. Great people making us feel so welcomed, a family oriented gathering, nice to see and feel the togetherness, the friendships, the camaraderie... good food (at least I hope it truly was Friday night too...). The names will surface as we would love to come back next year.
I still need to have a square piece of metal, which a bolt goes through, permanently repaired with a solid piece machined, drilled and welded... Waiting word from South Lake Tahoe... if not... will look into Sacramento or Stockton... I just got word that this man does not have a drill press...
It will all work out... as it normally does.
More on the Blog... (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/152267039-L.jpg

Simply Spectacular Views... CA

You might be surprised at my Spectacular views of today... but I see them... and hope that you do to.
The rig is fixed and more... another bracket broke while there and being removed... Ah! I am so glad that I bought the “heavy duty” mounts... You might have had to send me flowers instead of reading this!
A ride to Yosemite coming up... I am ready... we are ready... I even took a night ride to the adjacent campground!... Make sure that my seven headlights are working... all is fine.
Check it out in the Blog... (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/153582084-L.jpg

Lots of “WOWS”... Yosemite, CA.

Why did it take 18 hours from camp to Yosemite and back??? I am still wondering in amazement...
Great company... too many pictures taken... incredible roads and tired eyes from all the witnessed wonders.
Is there ever any bad weather here?... Perfect.
We are laying low today... real low! Getting ready to move to Cupertino tomorrow putting us closer to SF... and “that” will be a change for us. Are we going to do the tourist thing?... will see.
But Yosemite, part I anyhow, the start... is in the Blog... (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/154016613-L.jpg

More on Yosemite... Part II, CA.

The rest of the story as we take up residence in Cupertino...
We already have been to a Birthday Gathering with the South Bay Riders... and with the same named group a great ride that took us on some beautiful roads, including seeing for the first time in seven month since we left... the Pacific Ocean!!!
But that is for the next time... more on Yosemite on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/155052860-L.jpg

A day in San Francisco... CA.

With well chosen hours the traffic was light, with clear skies and hardly any haze blown away by the winds, it was however an emotional day to go back into San Francisco... It has been over three years...
The City had put on its best composure yesterday, helping out for clear pictures... and some narrative which are up now on the Blog. (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Save-the-Manatee]

Beautiful photos my good man. Sometimes familiar place will help heal the heart.

[Navaho6]

Your pictures are awesome!!! I'd love to go to Yosemite one day.

I hope that you start feeling better.

[Fitty]

Ara, that surely was a beautiful clear day you had in San Francisco. Fairly rare. Thanks again for the great pics.

[ONE LOVE]

I spent a few hours last nite reading your blog in its entirety. What an incredible journey. That dog really is a hoot. I'm looking forward to following your future travels.

[Beemerchef]

Thanks guys... we are only at the beginning!!! Come and join us some day...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/155758950-L.jpg

A loop through Santa Cruz... CA.

More upper body workout on the rig today... sweepers, curves, tight curves... hair pins...
California has it in abundance and more! Some great blue skies... some wet and cold fog... I am learning to add and subtract clothing in a heartbeat... Every few mile has is own weather pattern!
Considering Santa Cruz was not too far... I am not exaggerating!
It was great ride, with a new tire on the sidecar and disc brake functioning close to perfection all day... (that is another story... for another day...), what more can one ask...
More of it on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

Till next time...

You be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/156252406-L.jpg

Thoughts, Bits and Pieces from SF, CA.

Ready... ready... to go back to the Mountains! The Sierras... space please!!! No more traffic lights... traffic period! John said... “you see what you are missing...”. NOT...
But this week has been great, culminating with great company last night over dinner in North Beach... what more can one wish for!
And some pictures not posted before... as I call them... Bits and Pieces... all on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

Have a great... long weekend.

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/156832080-L.jpg

The California Delta...


The Delta Sunset... Space Odyssey... not quite!
Near Walnut Grove, by the levee... by one of the rivers as there are many as we found out this afternoon!
Preceded by a ride to Somerset for a great Rib dinner... company... and laughter!
We are getting back into our space... I feel it!
More on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/157983063-L.jpg

Locke, an old Chinese Delta town, and some new friends… CA

One of course never realize the importance of anything till, in this case, they are about to loose it!… my old faithful lap top! So we have gone through the motions of moving every thing over… a new one, not an easy task… even for me watching my good friend Brian doing his “magic”.
Windows Vista?… Like taming a new wild animal… to say the least!
And a ride in a very interesting little and old Chinese town… I met some people that keep going back as if magnetized by its “space”.
Many pictures of the town, bumping into a rider with who I had corresponded… (what would be the chances!!!)
This new laptop is like a stiff pair of new shoes!… it is all on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) however…

Till then…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[ONE LOVE]

Wow, incredible photos and documentary. That is one lucky dog. How long do you plan to stay on the road? Look me up if you make Illinois.

[Beemerchef]

Thanks... we really don't have a schedule... will let you know if we come by there... he is one lucky dog... and I am also!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/158403436-L.jpg

At the track… and Point Reyes, CA

Good times as always, that is if you discard the windy conditions that are always prevailing here. Some nice cars and rigs at the track… If you are going to have some toys… these people are on top of it!!!
Point Reyes, a nice little town with some great broken down back roads to the Lighthouse…
All in a day’s work… all in the Blog (http://http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

Be well till next time…

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

Thanks again for your comments... I did not know but there is a lot of Crawfish here... A restaurant down the street has it on the Menu... many rivers here... wonder??? if...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/159124371-L.jpg

The Point Reyes Lighthouse, CA

300 steps down and 300 steps up… that is to the lighthouse…
It is a fine ride and a fine view worth coming back to and spending much more time, specially hiking to the beach for the day.
That is the rest of the story from the other day, this State is so full of wonders, including Tioga Pass which we rode yesterday…
Wonder if some members of the V Strom Forum that attended their Reno Gathering and themselves rode Tioga Pass on Saturday afternoon are here… I have something not too nice to say about them…
Enjoy the view on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/159113441-L.jpg

Tioga Pass… CA

A much anticipated ride since our last visit to Yosemite, the big loop through Tioga Pass, to 395 north and back through Lake Tahoe and Sacramento. Another ride not to miss, be ready for some photography as every curve is a new scenery. Many other riders going their own way, a popular destination. It was a long day since we came back that evening,
a bit tired… but rewarded mentally from the ride.
The story and pictures on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[Badger]

hey mr chef i like to read and look at your pictures. i really like that dog. i have a dog to.

[Beemerchef]

Well Brandon, thanks for writing. That is very kind of you and I am glad that you are enjoying the pictures. Maybe some day you can also follow those roads, see the beauty of this country and most important meet all the nice people that populate this beautiful land. I am sure that your dog means a lot to you as he means a lot to me... they are wonderful companions in life.
What is the name of your dog?... Maybe a picture?
You have made my day by posting here... for many reasons.
Thank you my friend...
Ara... and of course Spirit.

This one is for you!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/160596331-L.jpg

We sure spend a lot of time on such a short stretch of road… a few hours to cover the 18 mile round trip. There is just something about those 9 miles… different crops, the trees lining the road, the water pumps in old trucks running 24/7, the best for my sight?… the sprinklers themselves… you can hear them too as the traffic is minimal…
We did participate… “we”… at the “Good Morning Sacramento” TV show… channel 31, CBS… fast and faster one needs to be!!! But we had a great time… they ate… we did not!
I have the video link on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…
Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[Badger]

his name is voodoo he is the black dog



http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_0101.jpg

[Juice]

Ara, that is awesome my man. I always knew that you would be famous one day. Keep on keeping on. I am enjoying the ride.

[Rocky]

Congrats man, That is a great accomplishment. Ever put any thought into writing a cook book?

[Badger]

i have a motorcyce to and i like to ride. me and my dad or building me another race bike for next yera

[Beemerchef]

Voodoo is a cool name!!! Race bike?... nice! Always better riding "off the street" than on the street... I have a few friends that have chosen that route... dirt and track and that is it! Hopefully we will meet next year... always hungry when I think of your part of the country!!!
A cook book?... I am working on it and fell behind!!! It has been busy lately... and by the way... I don't want to be famous!!! Just have some great friends like you all... that is all one needs in life... trust me on that!
Hey Brandon... don't forget "Father's Day" soon... you have a great one!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/161591423-L.jpg

To the California Lost Coast…
Hard to post anything when in transit, specially when having to backtrack, actually push forward to load up on fuel and food and return… The Lost Coast of California is a surprise… How can such a vast area of this State be so desolate… rugged at the same time… I would call it “raw”.
The next leg is to Seattle… but a few days here first! Looking forward to meeting Andy and his family… including the many dogs… I think Spirit will be in Heaven!
The route and some pictures are on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)by now…

Enjoy and be well…

Ara & Spirit

[scootertrash]

Great Pics Ara, Hope you and Spirit are well. Enjoy the posts!
Kevin

[Badger]

i will get dad to help me show you pictures of my racing bikes

[Fitty]

I loved that place. Probably going back there this August since I'll be in the area. It's just amazing there is so much undeveloped land in such a beautiful area. I've been on that same beach. Please ignore the orange FroggToggs. Since it was August I thought it would be hot, but I was wrong. Had to put on everything I had over my mesh gear.

Your pic:

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/161527833-L.jpg

My pic:

http://images110.fotki.com/v573/photos/6/613910/2577558/IMG_1267-vi.jpg

[Rocky]

That is awesome. Nice britches ya got there fitty. That color goes well with you eyes...Gay






I loved that place. Probably going back there this August since I'll be in the area. It's just amazing there is so much undeveloped land in such a beautiful area. I've been on that same beach. Please ignore the orange FroggToggs. Since it was August I thought it would be hot, but I was wrong. Had to put on everything I had over my mesh gear.

Your pic:

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/161527833-L.jpg

My pic:

http://images110.fotki.com/v573/photos/6/613910/2577558/IMG_1267-vi.jpg

[Fitty]

That is awesome. Nice britches ya got there fitty. That color goes well with you eyes...Gay
I SAID it was COLD!! :D

[Rocky]

Here is the link Chef. Brandons dad must not be paying attention today...Bable12


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/forums/showthread.php?t=3187



i will get dad to help me show you pictures of my racing bikes

[Juice]

Hey Ara

Do you have the full resolution copy of this photo? Could you send it to me?



http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/161591423-L.jpg

[Fitty]

Got to his Smugmug site http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/

and see if you can find it and I think you can choose "Get full size photo" and do the right-click, save-as.

[Fitty]

Of course that will only work if he takes the time to upload the full-size images I guess. And now that I think of it, he probably doesn't.

[Beemerchef]

I wish you guys would start speaking 'english'... as much as I post I am in the dark here!!! yes... on SmuMug the pictures should be full size! You can get the original size, I know that... I have to unlock the gallery which I will do now... and yes... I hope someone buys me pants just like those for my Brithday... Oh! such vain wishes... Hope you have the top also... but If I was you I would mix and get the lime green top...qwer
The stick is still here by the way... so is the sun dial... amzing that we have the same picture!
Hi Brandon... I will look at your pictures tonight... I am already jaleous... you are lucky it would be too small for me for when I am back in LA!...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/162151257-L.jpg

More of the California Lost Coast…

We like it here… a lot! Scenery, just a few campers, the beach everyday… awesome roads and, yes again, a Sunset every night!
Hope you are not tired of them yet… however… I will give you a break on them and take one myself too!
I also decided to offer my services!… Beemerchef is for hire! That is as a Personal Chef (http://www.personalchefara.com/)… dinners… parties… even classes, yes, to you... If and when in your area… or we can plan to be in your area. I am excited about this… I have been missing that part of my life.
The Giant trees… the Beach… Spirit posing… all in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)with a new look… You like it?… My idea… You don’t like it?… Brian’s idea, Mr Computer…

You be well…

Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/162291352-M.gif

*** It is unlocked (http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/gallery/2991959#162151185)...

[Juice]

Thanks Ara your photo's are spectacular. Fitty found the photo and e-mailed it to me......I am in the process of putting together a DSRL calender for 2008. I am really trying to capture personality's to go along with the beautiful scenery. In other words I don't just want a pic of a mountain or beach. I would like the photo to be personal. Keep that in mind as you wonder the countryside pointing that camera. You can visit the calender thread here. DSRL Calender (http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/forums/showthread.php?t=3080)

[Beemerchef]

Hey Brandon... I just looked at all the pictures! It is like WOW!!! Too bad it is too small for me... best of luck with it... you have a great Dad!!!
Looking into the Calendar pictures juice... nice idea... very nice... hummmm...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/163028839-L.jpg

The last Sunset, a true Gift… CA


We had to jump the gun as they say… and leave this am for Seattle. Exciting times ahead which will make this Journey a better one… a safer one.
The last sunsets from last night… more big trees… you are all lucky that we actually left as I might not have spared you!
From somewhere in Oregon right now… posted on the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.com/?p=139).

Be well…

and remember… Beemerchef for hire when in your area
www.personalchefara.com

Ara and Spirit

[scooterhose]

Awesome pic.

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/163609512-L.jpg

Rig maintenance in Seattle… WA

They say it rains a lot here, in Seattle, and it must. It has been overcast, but we have been too busy taking the rig apart to notice much of it.
The great news is that “Old Faithful‘s” transmission is fine… it is a big load off my mind.

The dogs are having a blast playing, sometimes hard but always friendly.
It is nice to see Spirit having a friend… I often thought about getting him a companion… but… where would he fit in the sidecar! I had a chance of it the other day when I was offered a Pit puppy!… white with black lips and an L marking on her neck.. Named “Lips”!

No riding for a while… trying to stay busy to distract me from the thought of missing my daily ritual!… won’t be long.

Will post the progress on the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.com/) with everything else that is and will be going on.

Be well…

Don’t forget Beemerchef is for hire when in your area…

Ara & Spirit

[Badger]

i hope that you get your bike fixed. me and my dad went for a ride toady. we alike to take pictures to. then we went to eat at hooters. toady was a fun day. i hope that you had as much fun as me

[Dusty]

I missed the video. Did anyone save it? You Tube?

[Beemerchef]

Hooters?... I am going to have a serious talk with your Dad!!!
I will try to post the video when I return!...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/165384407-L.jpg

Heading back to Seattle…

Mind games that Spirit is here… I hear and feel him, at the same time I get this “drop the stomach” notion at times… I will have to endure this two more days till our eyes meet again. Patience… I think more than that will be needed.
1100 miles or so to go which will see me back in Seattle Saturday, not Friday as I had planned on. Driving is not my favorite past time!
Had to be done… much more ahead.
Enjoy the pictures in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)… as I finally stopped to actively find an Internet connection and take some time to write.

Be well…

Beemerchef for hire if and when in your area!


Ara & Spirit

[Juice]

Happy B-day my friend. I can't wait to meet Mom. Sorry to hear about your hand. I hope you get to feeling better. Man, That new rig looks sweet. Congrats. Prayers already sent out for Paul. I read about that tragedy a few days ago.

[Rocky]

Sorry about the misfortune. I wish you a fast and pain free recovery. Ride on!!!!!

[Beemerchef]

Thank you Juice and Rocky and I am sure you all... Puts everything in perspective... don't you think?

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/166123768-L.jpg

Back in Seattle… reunited!

Feels good to be with my buddy again… even if he was a bit angry! How dare you leave me behind! Feels good to see… the rig again. Did I just say that or did Andy threatened me if I did not write this? The garage door was closed when I pulled in… good thing!
It is all good… all of it! Tired… too much driving…
The rest is on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Beemerchef is for hire if and when in your area…

Ara & Spirit

[Save-the-Manatee]

Nice rig dood. Something to eat, your best friend and two wheels. What more can one ask for? How I envy you my friend.

[Juice]

He Ara, Do you have any more shirts?

[Fitty]

Nice new rig you have there Ara. Hope it serves you as well as the Bronco has.

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/167011212-L.jpg

Idling near Seattle… WA

One day at the time brings us closer to the new roads ahead of us… We are here thought, so laid back… further than most houses from the main road it feels like we are indeed camping out… the dogs are having a blast and much work ahead for both Andy and I… as I have been allowed to help!!! Yes…
A nice walk right here and some thoughts in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[Badger]

hey mr chef where does your dog sleep. does he sleep with you. we had a boxer like the one in your picture but he went up to heaven. he name was rock rock

[Beemerchef]

Hi Brendon... Spirit sleeps on the dinette's couch right now... I sleep up the cab where he cannot come up! He has his own blanket... I let him pick his spot!... spoiled...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/167685653-L.jpg

A Birthday in Seattle… WA

We are at a stand still tonight… Friday night… parts have not showed up as just about everything else has been done, reinforced… need the shocks back to get the rest going… all three of them! Managed to cook a nice dinner last night having come across a Cooper River Sockeye Salmon… fresh… caught Sunday. Some errands… more tomorrow again and will check out the town… “Enumclaw”…
It has been REALLY nice to get best wishes from so many! A real treat I assure you…
When are we getting back on the road? Most likely Wednesday… not a good day for it considering the Holiday weekend, but…
More on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[scootertrash]

Good luck with your parts and putting your trusty steed back together, wish you and spirit safe travels!

[Badger]

hey mr chef one of my dogs dide today. dad said that he was to old. we buryd him in the back yard under the motorcycle tralor.

[Dusty]

Sorry to hear the bad news Brandon. What happened?


hey mr chef one of my dogs dide today. dad said that he was to old. we buryd him in the back yard under the motorcycle tralor.

[Beemerchef]

Oh! Brandon, so sorry to read your post... That is the saddest part about dogs having a shorter life span than us... Personally Spirit is my third dog and I still think vividly about my two other past ones quite often. Just think that they have rejoined their friends and family and are thinking about you for sure... they always will be with you in spirit... Hang in there buddy... thanks for letting me know.

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/168236730-L.jpg

Enumclaw… WA

I don’t know about Spirit… but I can taste and see the finish line suddenly! If it was not for the rebuilt shocks shipped from Georgia ground instead of air… we would have been rolling by Monday for sure… Now? Maybe Tuesday evening… pull a late one!
Anyhow I cannot leave this town till I have a piece of a pie from the “Pie Goddess”… You can see her on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Till later… you be well…

Ara & Spirit

… and don’t forget, if and when in your area… would love to cook for you!

[Badger]

voodoo is sad and miss him lots and i do to

[Beemerchef]

Hey brandon, ask your Dad if it is time to turn around right away and get another puppy?... Give another good dog a great new home... so many out there need one. I wish I could have more than one!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/169762794-M.jpg

Rolling again… Mt Rainier, WA

Savoring the moments with each mile with an incredible handling rig, Mt Rainier’s breathtaking beauty, snow in July, incredible weather, great company, a happy Spirit… what more would I ask for! I must have done something right to deserve all this. What an accomplishment on Andy’s part to have spend unselfishly so many hours reconstructing the rig from ground up… There is Karma, I cannot ignore it. It makes me await the future with excitement as the times to come can only be filled with the great pictures of a life that can only have more positive aspects…
More pictures on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[Save-the-Manatee]

I am still enjoying your blog. Nice Job and thanks for the amazing pictures.

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/170429730-L.jpg

A fun taste of Seattle… WA

Noah… RattytoAustin… this one is for you guys! Thanks for the company and the entertainment… also for Woody from “Woody’s Wheels” for introducing us to a delightful friend of yours… Meg.
It was a fun day… quite different from the ordinary… There will be more of those I am sure as we are moving near by tomorrow waiting for some mail to follow me…
Maybe too many pictures today?… Oh well… enjoy them in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well… as always…

… and remember, if in your area, would love to cook for you… I can do that!

Ara & Spirit

[JayD]

Awesome photos ................
(and getting better!)

[Beemerchef]

Thanks JayD... learning a lot... sometimes!!!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/171598397-L.jpg

Just like a maiden voyage…. WA

No having my usual Internet connection has been enjoyable… seems like “we” have much more time… a double edge sword however… the jury is still out. This feels as part II of the Journey… everything has been fixed… redone… realigned… I just wish I was more mechanically inclined as I have, it seems like, done my share of damage and ill repairs…
The sights are incredible… camping by ourselves… only silence… only the birds in concert…
Sunsets on the hills… and more on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

You be well…

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/172303319-L.jpg

More local riding and stuff… WA

The word on everyone’s mind is HOT… 104 degrees today… uncomfortable after being used to some cool weather. Have to watch Spirit closely, stay under cover or keep moving. After a day at Dauntless, having the sidecar’s disc brake reworked on, great results by the way, courtesy of Jay, we even went up the pass to… I thought… lay on the snow and cool off. But no more snow! All has melted, except on the peaks of course.
More on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[JayD]

Mt Rainier (and park) is a must see for any in that area
That mountain is so beautiful......
The doggone thing dominates the skyline from Seattle 60 miles away!

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/173204905-L.jpg

You are so right... Fitty, I will write to you in a couple days...

Mt St Helen weekend… WA (part I)

What a coincidence to be on the same route and destination as the Northwestern Moto Guzzi riders… we end up camping close by and enjoying their food and company… Learned a couple cooking tips… after all these years… a ride to Mt St Helen…
Today however I have written some thoughts about Life and this Journey following some interesting conversations with other riders… tomorrow will be about the weekend… all on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/). Lets think about this as a two part… to Mt St Helen…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/173234568-L.jpg


Up Mt St Helen… WA (part II)

Does not seem that I can write it all in one page or so… too many pictures also… It was a great weekend being close by the Northwest Guzzi riders… a great and kind group of riders… After all, I was the outsider!
I will leave my feelings toward Mt St Helen for the next time… eerie… transcending deep thoughts… ground zero of a 9/11 with Mother Nature responsible for such destruction and taking so many lives…
In the meantime you can check out how to make an omelet in a ziplock bag… and the sights of this Tropical like forest we have been in… all on the website (http://theoasisofmysoul.com/?p=152).

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[Save-the-Manatee]

You photography is getting better and better. Care if I make a suggestion? You do an amazing job with your blog and photography. I feel like a stranger because I am seeing this beautiful views from a strangers eyes. I would like to learn more about the man behind the camera? What is he like?

[Badger]

hey mr chef how is sprit doing? i hop you guys are having fun on the road.

[Beemerchef]

Hey Brandon... Spirit is doing great! I actually wrote about him today... he gets moody sometimes!... has an attitude sometimes too... but I let him live his own life!!! A Happy one... hope you are doing well... PLanning to come through early 2008! Must be crawfish season however... let me know when that is... you can refresh my memory on how to eat those little creatures!


Save the Manatee... that is a loaded question!... Three days blogs ago I wrote something that might define a bit who I am... a dreamer really... I have been accused of anyhow! Strangely enough... they happen... Let me know what you thought of that Blog...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/173234236-L.jpg

Seeing Mt St Helen is believing… WA

We finally have made it to the Olympic Peninsula which will start riding tomorrow… seems to be a lot of riders going around… most heavily packed… must be a destination…
But today is about the last day up Mt St Helen… I promise this is the end of it… with the salmon and a little dish of my own… a favorite that I have been craving since I left Georgia…
All on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…
Enjoy and be well…

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/175051901-L.jpg

Olympic Peninsula… WA


The forecast is rain and more rain… I do ride in the rain and so does Spirit… This would be a good time to test his cover at higher speeds and of course his raincoat! We end up in Port Townsend yesterday, today’s plan was to see the ocean, also the rain forest maybe as there is so much to see here. This forecast is of the same for the coming three days… in the meantime you can read about yesterday, the ride, meeting some BARF riders and the worse of the 10 best voted cheeseburger! I just cannot figure that one out yet…
The roads are great here, the feel of the land even better, the locals are friendly and the view, well… you will have to see the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) for it.

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/175564191-L.jpg

Lake Cushman and back… WA

Miles and miles of logging roads to ride around here, we did some with Jim for most of the day as the rain was on and off sparing us a bit.
It is relaxed… laid back… not much of a choice as the rain gear never dries out. Better days are in the forecast to ride on the other side of the Peninsula ans see the Ocean again.
The rig is doing great, solid, and as Jim rides an identical one we took some time to inspect each other’s ride…
There is an oyster Farm just across the street… we had some… and more, all on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).
You be well… send us some sunshine.

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/176749441-L.jpg


The SUN is out… WA

It is news when the SUN is out… added energy from its rays… smiles are all around… on the ride we went, up Hurricane Ridge, real energizing. I say we, as besides Spirit, Mike with his V Strom joined us… and… smart, rode behind us! At least he did not have to wait.
Many riders out today, I can tell they are camping from the gear strapped on… have no clue where they are going… I think it is the sunshine… everyone must be in shock… feeling great!… as we are. Even the ones stopped are not talking!!!
A chicken recipe template… figure that one out!… and more pictures on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

Till next time and always… be well.

Ara & Spirit

[scootertrash]

Nice Pics! Keep them coming!

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/177445626-L.jpg

The Olympic Peninsula loop… WA

A long riding day for us considering we stop often… for Spirit you know… and what a great day it was! With the windshield removed I am still amazed at the difference in the handling, speeds and gas mileage…
The loop is awesome and I do now understand why so many bikes pass by here never to be seen backtracking. Beautiful coastline, Indian Reservation little town, friendly people… how can they not be when they see Spirit wearing his Doggles…
I even made an illegal U turn right on 101, never seeing the Ranger parked across the road… decided I better have an excuse and ask her for some phony directions before getting a ticket… she was laughing her head off when she saw him!!! Spirit… the savior… not a word about the U turn!
And much more of this great day on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[Badger]

how do you get spirit to wear those cloths. i dont think that voodoo would like to wear that very much. he is scared of everything.

[Beemerchef]

Hi Brandon... Spirit somehow will do anything I ask him to do!!!... He gets a bit jumpy alsi with certain things... thunder... plastic bags... flags flapping... but he is OK... try it!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/178154685-L.jpg


The road to Neah Bay and more… WA


What a day! How come many had told me to skip 112 to Neah Bay when I find it one of the most picturesque and challenging road on the Peninsula?… Trying to keep it a secret?
Some sand sculptures in Port Angeles… and the best meet? Zak and Duchesse… 3 years on the road… this is when one can say “a picture is worth a thousand words”.
Breakfast with some great Adv Riders before their 3 to 4 day take off for a big circle of the land here… what else?… Just have to see it all in the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/178589634-L.jpg


Neah Bay… WA


Just have to post another picture of Duchesse and Spirit in their respective vehicles… It is just too good to pass it up!
After parting we made it to Neah Bay, an excellent riding road that will keep you on your toes all the way to the end. The end?… calm, serene… isolated, a true retreat if you want to get away from it all.
We are already packing today some (I am anyhow!) as we will be leaving the area tomorrow morning… we have been in the Seattle area for over a month! I has been good to us… Columbia River… Oregon’t High Deserts will be our next destination as we are slowly headed back south for the winter… no rush!
More picture on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[scootertrash]

A Kayak on a bike, a dog in a Kayak on a bike! That friggin rocks!

[Beemerchef]

It was... still is... a sight!!!
Juice... did you ever get the magazine???

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/179858735-L.jpg

To the Columbia River… WA/OR

A couple days by this river and on to some BLM land in Oregon’s High Deserts, south of Hell’s Canyon (???), near the town of Oxbow, which actually is right on the Idaho/Oregon border. I have stopped just wandering toward the next destination, sometimes not knowing where to stop is bringing up some unpleasant surprises, like hours of “finding” that right spot! With all the information available on the Internet and Map software, there is no reason no to.
Pretty busy area here, buses… RV’s… all sightseeing the falls, the hydro electric plants, the windsurfers, the Lewis and Clark trail which is everywhere… We joined them! Playing Tourist for a couple days, enjoyable and at the same time learning some facts about this area.
You can read all about the first part of our stay on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Enjoy… and be well…

Ara & Spirit



Originally Posted by Bozola
One more thing, north of Oxbow, on the Idaho side, there is a decent campgroup (I don't know what the crowds are like in the middle of summer) called Hell's Canyon Park. While I remember it as hot, a little buggy, and a favorite of the senior RV crowd, it has one massively redeeming feature : crayfish.

I lived in Missouri as a kid and I thought I've seen big crayfish. Biggest damn crayfish I've ever seen in the states are in Hell's Canyon. I've found a number of the senior nomads are more than will to part with some of their mudbugs for a little pleasant conversation...

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/179894434-L.jpg


More of the Columbia River… WA/OR

Once again we have been transported to the Desert. Oregon’s High Deserts, on the Snake River bordering Idaho, near the town of Oxbow. Once again this morning I am listening to the silence while sipping on my home roasted Coffee… watching the sun slowly making its mark. I could not help being emotional as the landscape slowly changed yesterday. Yes, the bright greens are gone, the cool temperatures of the Olympic Peninsula have warmed up, but I now realize that the Desert is my element. This is where I feel at home.
Today’s Blog is the continuation of our loop by the Columbia River, a couple days ago, about 300 miles back. Beautiful water falls, wind surfer braving 30 to 40 mph winds as we also did!
Enjoy the pictures (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)… and be well.

Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/181144203-L.jpg


Hell’s Canyon… OR/ID


Sometimes all falls in place even better than imagined. Along the Snake River, by a little town called Oxbum, the BLM campsites are the best I have ever experienced. It is 6am, nice and cool, even during the day the heat has not been too bad, this would be actually the time to ride. The nice breeze has taken the smoke away, the nearest camper is about one mile away, that might change on the weekend, and again, long overdue, I can listen to the silence…
So many different destinations from here. We did ride to Hell’s Canyon Dam, the little town of Halfway, will probably get up the Mountains a bit later on today toward Joseph and check out the Lookout, which road has just reopened yesterday.
This the Oregon High Desert with an incredible variety of terrains which holds its own against any other Desert.
Our first days here, on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well… Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/181613654-L.jpg

Halfway, to Joseph and some thoughts… OR

Camping here by the Snake river in such isolation and serenity seems to have brought up so many thoughts regarding life itself and the path that I am on. I write about it, they are personal thoughts, friends have asked me how can I expose them all so publicly, I do, there is nothing to hide… If anything they might help others dig deep into themselves and in turn communicate them with their own friends and loved one, maybe appreciate their own path a bit more and take the time to “smell the roses”! It brings up such a calm feeling when one can really stay in touch with themselves without the burden of the daily grind… something to try. It will only bring up the reality of it all… maybe help taking some decisions that might not have been otherwise!
The riding also continues here, such little traffic, such beautiful roads where the sights and the smells take over any other present senses.
Halfway is a great little town… all with some pictures (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) here…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[scootertrash]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/181613654-L.jpg

Halfway, to Joseph and some thoughts… OR

Camping here by the Snake river in such isolation and serenity seems to have brought up so many thoughts regarding life itself and the path that I am on. I write about it, they are personal thoughts, friends have asked me how can I expose them all so publicly, I do, there is nothing to hide… If anything they might help others dig deep into themselves and in turn communicate them with their own friends and loved one, maybe appreciate their own path a bit more and take the time to “smell the roses”! It brings up such a calm feeling when one can really stay in touch with themselves without the burden of the daily grind… something to try. It will only bring up the reality of it all… maybe help taking some decisions that might not have been otherwise!
The riding also continues here, such little traffic, such beautiful roads where the sights and the smells take over any other present senses.
Halfway is a great little town… all with some pictures (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) here…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

I do apprecaite your pics.

[Juice]

Awesome read. Thanks Ara. Hope to see you two very soon.

[Dusty]

What do you do with your dog when you shop for groceries? Does he wait in the rig alone?

[Badger]

Hey mr chef.


your pictures are very cool and that dog always makes me happy. our new dog is cool. she is very nice. dad says that we can keep her. she likes to sleep in the bed and she snores really bad. i hope that yall are faving fun..... Here is a picture of me and her.

http://juicebox.smugmug.com/photos/182201087-M.jpg

[Badger]

hey mr chef send some pictures of spirit ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,