I stopped for gas in Newburgh, N.Y. and an "old-timing" guy asked me if I was going to visit Orange Country Choppers. I asked him why and he replied because OCC was about 2 miles from the gas station. Well . . . that's a no-brainer and off I go! It's a beautiful store with lots of totally gorgeous "iron" on the floor, hanging from the ceiling, and in the windows. I made a few purchases and at the same time was looking for someone to take my pic in front of OCC. No
luck. As I'm walking back to my bike a mini-van parks and a couple appearing to be in their early 40's got out. I figured they were my golden opportunity and I asked the misses if she would mind taking my pic. She said no problem and quickly handed off the iPhone to her husband (who shot be pic shown below).
Well one thing led to another and they wanted to check out the trike. (The misses is thinking about getting one). During the course of which they share with me that they have a motorcycle ministry in Georgia for the "1% bikers". They shared some really interesting experiences with me. I have a picture of Christ etched on my windshield which they, of course, noticed. They said they needed to move along but would I mind if we prayed for my safe return home. I said I would appreciate it and the next thing we're standing in the middle of the OCC parking lot holding hands and praying for my safe return. They gave me their name and phone number in Atlanta (in case I was ever there and needed a place to stay). I couldn't have asked for a better "end of the road trip" experience and, hopefully, will never forget it.
I am so appreciative of all the support from Manjo, my kids and daughters-in-law, friends AND VROC'ers. I didn't meet one jerk, creep or a-hole on my trip. Perhaps I was just lucky . . . but I think it's much more than that. To quote Michelle (a colleague at the Home) this trip renewed my "faith in human nature" and definitely re-centered me.
I'm already thinking about next summer :>)
LilDoc
Total Mileage for the trip: 6419
