Well, the holidays are almost over. Everyone has left, and the kitchen is cleaned up. The usual trash bag of leftovers is by the back door, waiting to be carried out. It’s 25 degrees outside, and the weatherman says the wind chill factor is only 15 degrees. Burr......the trash bag may have to wait a little longer. I’ll have another cup of coffee and check to see if the weather might improve. I’m happy, warm, comfortable; not a care in the world. Then my thoughts turn to....her! I look quickly at my wife, did she notice? No, she’s reading her book. OK, I’m safe for the moment.

I let my thoughts drift back, a smile playing at the corners of my mouth. Ah, last summer.......

Zion National Park
My faithful companion took me there. . .

She was beautiful, and the joys we shared were very special ones. An hour here, two hours there. Though our time together was brief, she had a way of making all my cares melt away. And she never failed to make me smile; even when she was difficult. Oh yes, she could be very difficult. I remember one time when she left me stranded by the side of the road. I had to walk two miles, then call a friend to pick me up! Very embarrassing! I blame myself for that one. Something was disturbing her that day and I should have taken the time to find out what it was. But in typical male fashion, I didn’t listen, instead saying "Let’s go have some fun." We eventually worked it out with some T.L.C. but she did make her point! I listen much better now!

Then there was the week-end we spent together in northern Michigan. I’m sure my wife knew, but she never complained. When I arrived back home, she asked me if I had a good time. "Yes," I replied, wondering if she understood. Then she gave me that knowing smile and I realized she did.

Seasons change, as do all things. As the days became cooler, we spent less time together. Then one day there was snow on the ground, and our time of sharing was past. Oh, I see her occasionally, but we both understand. Maybe in the spring......

"Honey!" my wife says, and I know I’m caught! "You had that faraway look in your eyes again. Maybe we’ll have an early spring and you can ride your motorcycle again soon" She smiles, and so do I. Yes, maybe we will.

Ride safe.

-LC