I received short notice through my network that a band of brigands from Ohio were going to invade VA near Front Royal yesterday. They were three to my one and it wasn't enough time to bring reinforcements. Someone had to stop them. So I met them on the battlefield yesterday morning (Cracker Barrel of Front Royal). At first I thought they had retired back to Ohio as I couldn't find their steeds in the parking lot, but yes they were there parked on the side of the building out of quick sight. Very stealthy, I thought of them. Totally on time, though. My respect for them increased a thousand fold. Upon gaining entrance I found them hidden in the central victual area engaging in strategy to attack both the Skyline drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway. I made myself welcome (as I always do). Their names are Brian, Steve, and Craig. We jousted a bit and then partook of breakfast. As I was totally outnumbered I decided to plead with them to only stay a day in the state and to head back to Ohio post haste. They agreed. Little did they know that I would be invading Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois sometime in July of this year. I imagine their knees would be shaking at the thought but I couldn't let on about that......course some of that may have slipped during the eating as I'm terrible at keeping secrets when I eat.
The last laugh would be with me, though, as their Yankee dollars would be spent in the Commonwealth this day and all three would be charged additional monies to ride the Skyline Drive.....at 35mph...on a Saturday....with all the other tourists...
while I on the other hand would be riding the twisties at speed through Fort Valley into Luray and then on to Sperryville, Culpeper, and Fredericksburg.
I had a short layover at Fortsmouth VFD (my old fire and rescue chums) to renew old times. They've changed a bit as it's been nearly 25 years since I served there but it was as I was there yesterday. They have a new symbol on their vehicles which I have included below. I liked it so much, I'm going to get it tattooed on my back in the near future.
The picture of the brigands could have been a bit better but my camera couldn't handle the glare from Craig's head....
. Very colorful individuals and I may yet ride with them one day or at least I hope to. By the way, Pokey is exactly like he sounds here. His charming personality remains the same.
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The Skyline really wasn't crowded at all, except for too many stupid ass cyclists! 
The 35 MPH limit blows, but we maintained a pretty consistent 40/45 most the time. Rangers were not out in full force, and the BRP to Roanoke was fun. Route 311 is off the hook crazy fun, and 219 in WV is fantastic too. Always great to see you, had some quick laughs and we parted ways. We shall see eachother again soon, and for much longer this time. Glad you are feeling better and back on 2 wheels, and yes Craig has a very shiny big head. 
