still counting the days…

A year ago today, on March 12, 2024, TheFox and I went out on our first ride of the season.

I don’t remember where we went, but wherever it was it was exhilarating. I had missed riding so much over the winter.  A couple of days later, James Amundson, Lynn Jenkins, and I rode to White Lake and back. There was still snow in the ditches and the air was crisp and cool, especially through areas where there are forests on either side of the road. Being able to feel the change in temperature through different terrains is one of the things I love about motorcycling.

It was wonderful to be out on the road again.

Until late January, I had been counting down the days, firm in the belief that I would be riding today, March 12, 2025. But it was not to be. Four days after my 69^th birthday, I had a stroke. Two strokes in fact. They were small but debilitating and things got worse before they got better. My whole left side was rendered completely useless. I was unable to walk. I couldn’t use my left hand or my left arm and I didn’t know whether I would be able to regain their use.

A day ago, March 11, 2025, I walked around the Perth and Smith Falls District hospital in the sunshine. Once in the morning, once in the afternoon. It was beautiful day. I carried a cane, but I didn’t use it, except in a couple of places where water streamed across my path. I didn’t want to fall. It was the first time I’d been outside for a walk in six weeks. It felt great and I am grateful I’m able to walk again.

But nothing can compare with being on my motorcycle.

I hope to be able to ride again. I’m still counting the days, despite not knowing when it might be…