Morning light filtering in, I roll onto my back. Reach arms up high. Point and flex toes. Windshield wiper legs. Attempt to soften and release shoulders and hips stiff from side sleeping on a camp pad. Freeing my feet from the napsack, I cinch it at my waist. Transform it into a coat and prepare for the morning exploration.
Wandering deeper into the forest, we hop across a tiny tributary. Climb over moss covered logs. Come to the stream’s edge and meander along the rocky banks. The gray skies lend the day a winter-is-coming vibe, but the temperature climbs steadily, promises autumn is still in effect. Baylor humors me as I invert, balance and turn the forest into my very own gymnastics studio. I return the favor. Follow him as he sniffs, marks and leads us in a circuitous, seemingly random route.
In need of a computer charge and a bit of wifi, we head into town in search of an office. Rolling down main street I nod at locals. Rumbling lost down a side street, the group of men look up. Stare in shock. Smile. Wave enthusiastically. Within a few minutes I’ve canvassed the entire town. Considering the options, we circle back to one with a large, covered patio. Pull to the side, kick into neutral and push it into a parking spot.
Pulling my helmet off, I look up as a lifted truck comes to a sudden halt on the other side of the street. Watch as the man lumbers out, heads straight for us.
Princess, you’re amazing! I mean, my friend once had a harley with a sidecar, but this. This is amazing.
I laugh. Introduce myself and shake his hand.
He looks the bike over. Asks about Baylor.
Princess, I love you. This is great.
I hand him a postcard and he smiles. If you want, you can follow along on our website. A look of horror flashes across his face. Oh, no I don’t do anything with computers, Princess.
I laugh. Well, keep it anyways, then you can show people the crazy girl you met.
He smiles, Princess, you know Gilligan is all about crazy. Never grow up, that’s what I say.
He turns back to his truck. Grins and looks at me, You’ve got a cooler toy than me. I’m gonna go home and tell my momma on you. Climbs into his seat, leans out the window. Be safe out there, Princess.
Smile stuck on my face, I crouch down. Dig in the sidecar for my backpack.
I can’t say that I’ve ever been called princess before. Certainly didn’t think I’d enjoy it so thoroughly, but Gilligan has just made my day. Ranked himself right up there with Curtis and Jake the Snake on the memorable character scale. Interactions like this are the very reason I’m enjoying traveling on a motorcycle-sidecar. Characters like him are the very reason I love staying off the interstate and wandering through teeny, tiny, off the beaten path towns.
If I were traveling in a modern car I probably would’ve cruised right through this town without stopping. If I had a fancier rig people might not feel the same kinship. If I didn’t have an adorable doggle wearing pup as my sidekick strangers wouldn’t feel as comfortable approaching us.
Thank goodness I’m lucky enough to travel with Baylor and Rufio. Cause you just never know what each moment will bring to this wacky trio.
Turning towards the cafe, I smile. Whatever happens this afternoon, the day is already a smashing success. Gilligan just upgraded me from burly chick to princess. And I rather like it.
158 days down. Many to come.
