"The Oasis of my Soul"... a Lifelong Journey on the road...

[beemerchef]

First of all today I would like to mention that I decided to keep one thread going... instead of starting a new one for every episode of my Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)! As I am learning myself about bandwidth and its limitations I am sure this will be appreciated...
It does not get much better than this... I still have not made it to Texas... changes... why not... no schedule... I am now allowed to do so, or not to do so! I am in New Iberia, Louisiana. Seems like I am never going to leave this State... at least I know that I will never go hungry... It is morning as I am posting this... a great ride and experience from yesterday... but my mind is already on lunch!... The weather has been cooperative, the rig is running good, I feel healthy and.. overweight. I have decided to spend 5 more days here, visiting friends and everything that surrounds me... including cooking a couple dinners for them. Can't loose my touch in the kitchen... My Blogging format is still not finalized... my own website is still under construction... and somehow I feel Christmas right around the corner... with no plans what so ever... Oh! well... might be a quiet one in some woods celebrating with Mother Nature this year...
My stories are always on my Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)... hope you enjoy...
Be well... Ara and Spirit

PS: the boat featured on the Blog by the way I am sure will open up some minds to some mods on your... 4 wheeler!..???

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/113098250-S.jpg

[beemerchef]

Today was a great day... it always is when nothing breaks down, the ride is good and the food even better... no rain always helps!
A nice loop, the Tabasco factory, a great late lunch... what more can a homeless person and his dog asks for?
It is all posted in today’s Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)with a lot of pictures... love that SmuMug!

Hope you enjoy... Ara and Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/113535239-S.jpg

[goodtimes]

I can't access the smugmug site chef. It is saying a password is required.

[beemerchef]

Sorry... I had forgot to unlock it!!!... done...

Be well... Ara and Spirit

[Scott Brady]

YUMMMMMMY!

Please be sure to stop by Arizona on your way west. We promise a big turn out to greet you :clapsmile

[goodtimes]

Nice! As Scott said, be sure to let us know when you roll through Arizona.

[calamaridog]

My oh my, look at those crawfish:beer:

(Why would you leave all that good food anyways?)

I'd just stay there:D

BTW, I was checking out your recipes for about an hour and now I'm VERY hungry:violent-smiley-031:

[beemerchef]

I honestly, and I am not writing this to make you feel any better, God forbide!... love Arizona... the most pictures I have ARE from AZ!
Will plan a big cookout... one that will last days!!!
So glad I got to do the rides I had planned early on the week as today is a rainy day... of course rain has never stopped me... Spirit even has his raincoat, but I have to get ready for my departure from here Friday or Saturday toward East Texas... It is time for some serious camping, maybe even a bit of cold weather again, some adventures and some new scenery... try out all this cooking gear that I have been carrying with me all this time.
Yesterday was a great ride by the levee... I will not say on the levee even though a few miles did see me riding it...
Hope that you enjoy the report in my Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...
You be well... Ara and Spirit.

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/113876874-M.jpg

[beemerchef]

It is almost December, just a few minutes away as I am writing, my first December since graduating from Culinary School not spend working... I keep thinking sometimes... what am I doing? How ironic after all these years, finally on top of my profession, with not many mysteries left and some solid knowledge to be successful... to stop working! It just does not make sense sometimes... but I cannot go back as much as I miss the kitchen, this is one chance of a lifetime to extend a Journey (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/) over 6 months. I know that I have been on the road only a bit over a month, but I have never thought about turning back!... and I could have.. I never wrote about 2 new contracts that have been offered to me since I have left! As much as my passion remains for my profession... going back always seems like a dark tunnel with no daylight.
Today was, what I call a catch up day. A multitude of “things” to do that accumulates... laundry, organizing, downloading the GPS with new maps, that sort of things as my time here remains at one day.
I will be pushing West... toward the vast lands. I had thought about staying East for a while, but my plans have been rearranged and the need is not there anymore... I am so drawn to the vast open spaces, it will not be the first time and not the last. The ability to actually live in one place for a few days or a few weeks suddenly is so appealing. It is the first time that I adventure myself in this fashion. The past has always seen me on the go... ride, ride, ride... only seeing the peripheral attractions which stood up in travelers brochures and magazines... I want to taste and experience the unadvertised paths which need to be discovered!
I want to unpack everything I have... cook... ride... discover the back roads daily, suddenly the knowledge that I am pushing west further has almost given me a new life... there just is so much on the road to share with you all, and strange enough... as much as I want to be there... I don’t want to get there... afraid to miss what lays in between! I should be in Texas by tomorrow, it is 33 degrees here this am in New Iberia, Louisiana!... I know the northerners reading this are probably smiling, I am not complaining, I actually like the cold better than heat, this does however slow down the amount of outdoor activities, specially with Spirit.
Regardless of the mechanical break downs I have had, this first month has been a great trial time... and everyone in my path has been so kind and hospitable, I could not ask for more. If the rest of my Journey includes people as I have just spend time with, well, I will consider the luckiest person alive!
Friendships and human relations have always been for me the key of life. You know the classic saying... “money can’t buy...”. How true it is, and how great it is when, strangers at first, we can spark such positive emotions into each other’s hearts.
I hope, as I leave here, that my Internet connections are many on the road followed! I enjoy posting these reports along the way.
You be well... enjoy your day... looking up the sky will always make you smile... try it.

Ara and Spirit.


http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/114068736-M.jpg

[beemerchef]

I think I am pretty sure you are going to like were I am going...
It is a “commute” day for us... not a long one as I need to regroup and decide where I will make home for a while... Your comments, you should know, are always appreciated. And also... while in an area maybe interesting to you, if needing any information, just let me know. I will be happy to look it up... let me be your... traveling agent! I would say us... but Spirit is turning out to be a lazy bum on this Journey...
Someone has to do it!... and write about it... this is your own backyard, accessible... right under your nose, no Oceans to cross, we all speak the same language, the food is good, the water drinkable... and how can you not love your... ATM!
Lets see what you think after reading (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)about it...


http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/114343595-S.jpg

Ara & Spirit

[mutineer]

:smiley_drive:

Hi Ara

me and some ADV boys are looking at Moab in April

you still be out west around then?

[beemerchef]

:smiley_drive:

Hi Ara

me and some ADV boys are looking at Moab in April

you still be out west around then?

I should be... I don't intend to criss cross the country like mad!... Let me know when and where... should be fun!
Thanks... Ara and Spirit

[beemerchef]

So why would someone rests on a Sunday?... because they can... because the winds blew me everywhere but where I pointed my nose at... because it got colder and colder going north...
And the fact that, hopefully there will be a tomorrow... Of course I can always say that Spirit was cold... made me turn around...and that would be it for my Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/) but there is a bit more... but lets not always blame the lazy bum!... he makes up for it with his personality... and his great companionship, he is a good listener, always agrees and low maintenance!
Should be in San Antonio tonight... I repeat... Texas is huge!!!
And then I found out the weather for Big Bend for Friday night... might need some Gerbings for the rig...
Till then... Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/114590816-M.jpg

Anyone caring to join me in Big Bend???... I can cook!!!... well... some riding too!

[beemerchef]

Parked in San Antonio since yesterday... going to sightsee for a while and find some good Tamales!... the Riverwalk... anything else?
How do I manage to meet such great people?... How can my Karma be so good and so kind to my present life?... I must have lived right I guess... I can just imagine... trust me when I say “don’t let the few bad seeds of our society give you the wrong impression about human kindness”.
One always needs to be planted firmly on their two feet... but what a lift it is when one similarly meets good hearted people that open the doors to their home and heart!
Spirit (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/) had a blast yesterday playing with a buddy!... over one acre fenced was his playground... can this dog run or can he run!... He is so much in my care that it felt so great to see him have a good time! Such a shame that Pits have such a bad rap... it is slowly I think changing however... punish the owners... not the breed!...
Crossing Texas... for the first time is really not being felt!... This is the way to do it... take time and cover a couple hundred miles per day, if you have the time... It reminds me of the many times I have crossed Kansas to get to Denver, what a long straight road...
On my way to discover the town... and make preparations for Big Bend...

Be well... have a great day...


http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/23978619-M.jpg

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

A bit of the Texas Hills...

It seems that plans when living on the road are made to be broken!... As we have been watching the weather, they promised hail and snow and 1 degree temp for tonight in Big Bend... it was already last night... brainless decision to hold the departure for tomorrow am...
Food store today... new coat for Spirit... “camo” design I might add... not my favorite by from lack of choice... and a good night sleep for tomorrow’s travel... half way most likely if anything interesting pops up...
In the meantime, we took a short ride to the Texas Hills yesterday... glad that I did... I know now that Texas is not as flat as I imagined it!
Some pictures and ride report here on the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...

Hope writing to you from Big Bend next time!... really!!!


I could not resist the picture...


http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/115533824-S.jpg

Be well... from Ara & Spirit

[flywgn]

Oh man, Ara, I'm thoroughly enjoying your trip and accounts and regret that I had not seen your thread until today. That's partly owing to the fact that we were in Baja until 11/28 and I'm only now getting caught up.

Sorry I didn't catch you on Avery Island, LA.

Allen R

PS - Scooter sends his regards to Spirit. He's envious.

[beemerchef]

Hey... Baja is always a great excuse!... are you kidding... hope to see you on the road sometime soon...

Made it to Big Bend... today!

I wanted to make my first sight in daylight and we took two days to get here... Sanderson was last night’s stop... but today I am in Terlingua... and without say... breathtaking... this is not having even been into the Park yet!
All I can hope is that my camera does justice to the scenery for the days to come...
Hwy# 90 was a nice ride... deserted... and as one might say the ocean can be boring and is not... the same scenario plays here. I have heard over and over... but there are no trees... of course not... but if one looks closely there is so much more to the eye... and the mind!
I will go on posting on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/) as much as I can... lucky to have WI FI here from 6am to 10pm... and amazingly the days here are longer!... daylight till about 7pm... summer approaching?
Better not fool myself... winter is going to be here for a while...
Till then... till tomorrow... be well... I am breathing again!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/116022873-M.jpg

Ara and, of course, Spirit...

[beemerchef]

Some black top riding in Big Bend today... what a huge Park!... Asphalt only and did not even cover half of it!... which you will see tomorrow...
I had still however some untold thoughts about the past couple days before arriving here and some hopefully interesting pictures!... for the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/).

Hope you enjoy them... we did... Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/116289392-S.jpg

[Scott Brady]

Great stuff, and what a cool dog. Enjoy these days amigo :clapsmile

[beemerchef]

Haven't seen any of you here.... and why???

We are riding... we are cooking... we are eating... A peaceful blanket has descended from the skies, what more can someone wish for. Spirit is a changed dog!... I think he is finally realizing that there is no home to go to, this is it, changing daily from our unplanned destinations. We have been taking long walks, longer everyday as I myself need to ease in to it! His appetite has been great, well, so has mine... wish he could tell me about all the smells! Mountain lions maybe?... cousins from the past hovering upon this beautiful land in spirit... who knows... his smile is good enough for me... all this after all was not such a bad idea!
Anyone cares to join me for the Holidays?... this is where we will be... I am looking for a strand of lights for the bike... it will be my tree... she has had a rough life and deserves some kindness too!
Might even go as far as feeding her some fresh oil!... and yes, a nice new filter also!
Enjoy the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/116663389-M.jpg

Be well... look up the skies and smiles... that is the bottom line... it is always the same for all of us!

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

I may be the millionth one visiting this Park... I so much wish now I had a better camera!... looking into it... will try to find optical zoom lenses for a great Nikon Cool Pix 990 that I still have... there are thousands of pictures just more stunning than mine... but this is my story... and... as they say... I will stick to it!
I will start getting into the Park at sunsets... sunrises... I am finding a lot of haze during the day...
I am trying... I want to stop every 100ft... the rock formations resembles so many scenes and people of the past daily life... and it will be fun to post the pictures and write about them...
It was a different ride into the Park today... the West end including Chisos Basin at 5401ft... and the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/) has it all...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/116752548-M.jpg

Be well... and enjoy...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

It almost seems unfair to be here today... Friday... I remember the traffic jams... everyone getting ready for the weekend getaway... myself mentally abusing my mind to feed the hungry patrons of the late night restaurant scene... or trying to be the object of abuse by the capricious moods of the rich and not so famous billionaire clients, when catering in Naples, Florida, as a Personal Chef...
The brain waves screaming “WOW”... and “OH”... or was it “HO”... just don’t cease... whichever direction I am headed the scenery is just on a constant overdrive, so much that I just wonder how can I describe my being here...
But there was more today than just riding... seeing some familiar faces and a great time with Voni and Paul Glaves... and some... which I tried to put in words on my Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/)...
Tomorrow is another great ride, the river drive to Presidio... I hear stunning... keep tuning in!


http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/117033686-M.jpg
Be well... have a great weekend...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

This is in response to a comment on my thread on BMW MOA... “sensory overload”, truly I agree describes the indescribable... and after a while, a few days, one just wants to stop describing and just look.
Every few miles, a 360 degree span offers a new background, new silhouettes against lately the clear blue skies I have been spoiled with... the feelings are actually beyond the scenery, the space here itself is magical and spiritual as being transported in a different medium, which it is with no doubt. I have a tendency to always think about years back when it was the land of the Native Indians and sadness always occurs in my mind. I see families living here off the land, only using what their needs where, the children playing peacefully, the women going on to their chores... it is always the biggest puzzle for me as to what happened? How did this happen! They call life in the past “the dark ages”, I call the present years... “the dark ages”. None of the natives now are here and it was not so many years ago, their Spirits are still lingering, probably tearing constantly to the loss of their lifestyle and ancestry , manhood and civilization... It is to me one of the most mind boggling part of History... I am not even comfortable to the fact that it is now a National Park, sure, trying to conserve the beauty of it all, with rules and regulations needed for the masses that would ruin it all in a heartbeat... how sad would it be to witness some day a descendant of a family that lived on this land, walk to the front gate and pay his or her $5 to get in... can you feel his heart and emotions?... What a World we live in!... driven by greed... materialism and no fondness for the past in real sense... if it was... all the land would be given back... all of it!
NO... I am not a political person or would ever get political... this statement is purely from the heart!
On a different subject... it was a fun time meeting some of the San Antonio riders for a run through the Park, will also the presence of Voni and Paul... as written in my Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...

Be well...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/117203081-M.jpg

Ara & Spirit

[calamaridog]

Ara,

Someday, we too will be displaced, and the next group who inhabits that piece of terra firma may not charge $5.

Enjoy your holidays:campfire:

[beemerchef]

I have been thinking about the past post all day... never thought about it that way... we are a cycle indeed... that might be true...
I feel today ever worse then yesterday, but the weather was too nice to stay cooped up...
One always feel better riding anyhow... right?
Just had to ride “Old Maverick” road one more time going the other way... with many stops
and pictures which you will find on the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...
Tomorrow will be a trip to the Clinic, I was told that there is one in a little town called Lajitas not too far... otherwise, will be a 160 miles round trip to Alpine! A Z-Pack has always done wonders in the past...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/117428356-M-1.jpg

In the meantime, you be well...

Ara & Spirit

[calamaridog]

Wow,

I've never seen Big Bend. And here I thought I never wanted to visit Texas again:o Thanks for sharing your thoughts and pictures.

I'm sorry something I said caused you to think;) I can assure you that was a fluke:D

Hope you feel well, and soon.

[beemerchef]

Oh!... yes... I thought... and got sick... too much pressure!!!:drool:
All I can say is... do not take your good health for granted!... What a difference a day can make!
It seemed like such a long day yesterday in search for a Doctor in a town where everything seemed to be moving in backwards...
More pictures and report in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...

Be well... we are again... Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/117732145-M.jpg

[beemerchef]

The wind had its fun yesterday, it blew with full force, took my “dining room” down... we rock and rolled most of the time! Just like in a good Western the tumbleweed was trying to make a touch down on the goal line, as the night went on, the other team won however as the wind changed direction by 180 degrees!
It was an anticipated ride on river road to Presidio and I returned just on time before its full strength, still my arms sore... what a work out it was!
Today is a down day... a catch up day... again the good stuff... laundry, reorganize this place and brace ourselves for some cold weather... it is all in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...
Be well...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/117931968-M.jpg
Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

I have been trying since my departure to switch places with Spirit some days! But no deal... he is a stubborn dog!... and last Sunday was one of those days, courtesy of the San Antonio Riders visiting Big Bend, that I tried really hard to convince him... hey, riding ain’t that bad buddy... the bike runs good, you can build up a bit of your upper body muscles, get a bit of adrenaline rush here and there... you will still get to eat, drink and mingle... but no go...
So I guess I am stuck in this position, witnessing sometimes on a daily basis all the attention he gets, and the petting, and the scratching... where did I go wrong?
And there is more on the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)... I hope this situation lingering ahead does not alter my mind...
I am after all, only a human being!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/118034522-M.jpg
Enjoy... Be well...

Ara and Spirit... I had to sign for him, he is too busy...

[beemerchef]

So this is where I lived...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/118260308-M.jpg

This is where I live now...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/118264565-M.jpg

How ironic that public “progress” is the reverse of my present life’s progression...
Thought I would give you a tour of Terlingua (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/), a little town unlike others... with a lot of local flavors and inviting little spots... all in the middle of some of the beautiful landscape I have ever seen... I will be leaving in about 10 days... and I know that I will miss it... but the road is already calling... more Texas? New Mexico? Arizona? Southern California? Maybe Spirit can decide...

Be well... enjoy the Blog.

Ara and Spirit

[beemerchef]

I am not going to lie and say “it feels like Xmas...”, because it does not...
The campground is fuller, a couple Adv riders have arrived, more tomorrow...
Old Faithful got a new front shoe today and some Xmas lights!
And a dinner at the Starlight Theater finally...
More pictures and a full report on the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/118502556-M.jpg

Enjoy...

Ara and Spirit..

[beemerchef]

There has been only one “no good” weather day... and that was yesterday, I cannot even call it bad...
Last night the wind must have been blowing at around 50mph... Mike and John, that was John by the way... not James!... took refuge in their truck... the tough girls, Anna and Becca endured somehow the night in their tent. Real troopers... From Chicago and Texas... would you expect any less?
And the day cleared up and the ride was awesome... as usual... full report in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...

Hope you are all having a great day, Many Thanks to all the great wishes I received... it sure is nice to know that friends think of me...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/118814558-M.jpg

From Ara and Spirit... have a great one... and stay well..

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/119178994-L.jpg

Some thoughts went through my mind this morning as I was reading VIVID1's ride report...
I have been out of their shoes these days... but I remember how they fitted not so long ago. I live on the road, like Martha and Bob which I met today... we all ride... but there is more for us... we live on the road... there is no timetable... riding is primordial but it is not all, and, even from my past trips this is what I enjoy I have to say... riding has become the vehicle to able me living this life now with an array and multitude of other interests daily
There is just something about Big Bend... I still remember reading a couple E mails send to me even before my decision to come here... they said “you will fit right in”... and I thought... what do they mean by that? Do I need to look at myself in the mirror? One cannot help wondering what is awaiting at the other end when such a comment is delivered.
And I am starting to understand... my friends do know me well... like a puzzle I do feel like I was a missing piece. It feels like home... even some locals that I have met thought that I lived here!
And it is almost like... I should! The riding?... well, it is endless my friends... “Croton Springs”... “Paint Gap”... those were two news roads yesterday!... and there is more... much more.
There is a change today... There will be no link to SmugMug... In my search to improve this Blogging situation I found a better way to import pictures... and at the same time... I am still working on a website...
Hope you like the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/) today...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/119338970-L.jpg

I found my original Big Bend National Park entrance map last night... it is dated the 12th of December... Have I been here that long?... I am taking roots... and still discovering the town, so unique... still discovering new riding... river beds are my new “thing” as 98% of Texas land is privately owned... found myself sitting in Kathy’s office... some chairs around the fire ring in front of her Kosmic Xafe... for a couple hours... by the road... the local source of gossips... waiving at most cars passing by and meeting more strangers... everyone has a story... a couple professional photographers wanting to take some shots of the rig and Spirit... no, not of me!... and more riding... not a problem...
More riding... and more riders are showing up... they want to see the “girl” that planted this destination in their mind... I am and have not be alone for a while now... and the company is awesome... including sharing some Pizzas for dinner... as it is written in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/)...
Busy... busy... busy... I keep saying... “I need a vacation...!”
Today will be my first ride through the State Park, back through the river road to get there... versus the National Park which I still have to finish exploring and probably will not, leaving some for the next visit.
Till later... you be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/119565276-L.jpg
This is one of those days when you have to think by it’s end... any riding is better than none...
When you have to think, well we made it, we build up character, fought the wind, the sand blowing... never reached our destination... but we rode! This was not all however... we met some riders that knew me... and I knew them too... from the Forums... go figure that one in the middle of nowhere.
I might be wrong... geographically it is far down south... but I have stopped to think as Big Bend being in the middle of nowhere for many minds... there are been a sudden growth in the population!... and more to come... as you can read in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...
The rain has finally, for the first time since being here, arrived... I can now lay back and write!
Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/119772600-L.jpg
It suddenly hit me this morning, there is a whole winter ahead of me... cold weather for Spirit, myself also I am not denying, short days... where to go? No, it is not a problem by far, there is a need for a wise decision to be taken for both of us, as the 3rd is approaching, departure day from Big Bend that is closer than ever to my heart and my well being. For years, I have waited for a spark from my senses to ignite a desire to stay in one place... and as much as Big Bend has... I know myself well enough, bohemian blood running in me, I cannot stay still for too long.
Fort Davis has been my planned next destination, I know only a few miles up, but providing a totally different surrounding and vision. New Mexico, Arizona... all on the way West... but again, winter is making its mark and being in a no-riding situation is not an option!
My logic is leaning me toward a straight flight to the southern west coast... Anza Borrego and its surroundings... will it be warmer? Get situated, explore a bit of that beautiful land... and... head south to Baja, Mexico... Rig and Spirit only, leaving the camper and trailer safely behind with maybe someone offering some space.
I have time to think about it...
In the meantime, David and Mike showed up... truck, trailer and bikes... kitchen, outdoor heater... well seasoned campers!... Was a blast to cook for them... you can read it and see it on the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)!
Be well...
Till later... Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/120064891-L.jpg
As the year is closing on us, I feel like there are life’s aspects I need to think about, maybe resolutions to take, try to better our life somehow... but I cannot find anything. I already live to the fullest every day, I can only on this occasion step back a bit and look around me, sometimes amazed at my own path. I am on the path of my desires, hoping some happiness for Spirit and missing my loved ones, the ones too far away to see and the departed ones...
Actually, I look forward to next year, a whole year on the road as I have only done 6 months at the time. There has been some incredible growth in just these past two months, incredible people I have met, the start seems so far away, even geographically as I have been so absorbed by my immediate surroundings... and the finish... I hope that there is none!
Wishing you all a Happy New Year, a healthy one, both physically and mentally... the rest will come.
It has been short rides the past day, still sore from fighting the strong winds on our way to Presidio, a bit of snow and fog has made the scenery and the ride even more enjoyable... after a couple cloudy days, the sun stands up high in the sky as a daily gift again, I think also sending great wishes for the coming New Year... and there is more on the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...
I think the pages have been saturated with the rig’s pictures... not that you will not see more of it, but today... my buddy Spirit... comfy and warm... is on the front page!

See you next year...

Ara and Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/120376357-L.jpg

I could not help feel a bit of emptiness last night after saying my goodbyes to David and Mike!
The campground again was empty, every one had come and gone, no one left on the hill... these pasts days were filled with engines starting, late night talks, much riding... much eating, and now again... left... just Spirit and I... back to our scheduled programming I thought!!!
What schedule?
The year started with a great ride yesterday... South County Road to North County Road, then north toward Alpine, east toward Terlingua Ranch, Marathon road toward 385... great weather, great company and roads... much fun as you can read about it on the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...
John, Mike, Becca, Felipe, Wayne, Byron, David, Mike, Anna, Big Don and Lobby from on the road... even you, the odd Texas Pete... and I have the feeling that I am forgetting some names here... thanks for your presence and making these Holidays some memorable ones... Maybe again next year?
You be well...
Ara & Spirit

[Scott Brady]

Ara,

Thanks so much for the updates. Spirit looks pretty snazzy in the blue pull-over.

Stephanie and I have talked about bringing our dog (Yukon) along on more trips, but he does not fit in the truck. Maybe in the Chaser Trailer with a head hatch for him to look around :)

I am going to move this thread to the "in-process" section.

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/120595796-L.jpg
Thank you Scott... love the new look!... Working on a website myself!!!
Bandwidth!... Hopefully will meet some of you as I am now going West... well, in another week or so...
My last sunset on the hill... an untouched photo as the camera took it!... just in case you were wondering... A waive, a smile, a going away present before our departure? You be the judge of it as I have been taking sunrise and sunset pictures throughout my stay... and none compare to this none.
Day to pack... re-arrange things in a better fashion, which worked out much better. It is the first time since I have left, but I am sure it will not be the last time.
Some more good byes and while trying to put some order in this minuscule camper of ours... I just thought about showing you how and where we live! It is kind of a mess... two extra books and it is overcrowded!...
You can see it all in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)... tomorrow we will be in Fort Davis, exploring also Marfa and Balmorhea, Mc Donald Observatory...
You be well...

Good Bye Big Bend... you have been kind to us...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/120863729-L.jpg
We rolled in Fort Davis in the afternoon... the weather was not cooperating... very thoughtful that I packed yesterday in dry conditions... and so here we are a few miles north.
And I was thinking that maybe I should have skipped Big Bend, leave it for last, and then again, there is no planned end to this Journey. You guessed it, I just understood what my friends, which had left days earlier, wrote... I already miss it!
There will be other regions, comparable on many levels of its beauty and serenity, but I just realized that Big Bend had been to me like a calm Ocean with its full sun, day after day...
I think today the weather has a lot to do also about how I feel... dark grey all day... there is excitement however in being here... It is a real little town... with many Restaurants... shops... friends to be made and awesome roads to ride... as I understand, it is going to be beautiful these coming days...
Spirit and I took a walk... check it out in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/121117704-L.jpg

I fell asleep when I returned from today’s ride, which beat me up again struggling against the winds riding up to Fort Davis Mountain and the Mc Donald Observatory... Awesome roads... it had been a while since riding nice sweepers and twisties, without a speed limit per say, remembering someone not too long ago telling me that I would be done here in a couple days!... So much to see, so much to ride... The start is in today’s Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/).

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/121326128-L.jpg

Quite a contrast from yesterday, was a cool night at the most which even allowed us for a nice walk... Spirit had some problems during the night... and this morning I woke up to snow flurries!
Am I complaining?... not the least... will take it any way it comes... specially after yesterday’s great ride as written in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/121593191-L.jpg

It was an anticipated day to see Meathead, (Mark), can you understand his handle through some of the pictures?... swing by here, Fort Davis, TX, and join me for dinner...
I have posted the pictures and the short stay on my Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...

Enjoy and be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/121887840-L.jpg

Hard to believe that one week and more has already gone by in this New Year... time is starting to speed up as I look at maps, there is no plans or directions, the weather will be my guide mostly as I have to move on to warmer climates, mainly for Spirit. With even two coats on, the poor guy is cold, he does not want to go out and I am not feeling comfortable with his lethargic days... we both need our exercise... him as much as me!

We did not ride yesterday... spend it mostly at Jerry’s and Nalda’s Bookstore... it amazes me for a town this small how many interesting people there are... so many conversations!

There are always pictures from the past that do not make it on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/)... with Cagiva 549's permission I have posted some of the recent past ones...

Hope you enjoy...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/122109644-L.jpg

Don’t you be thinking now...
On my way back from Balmorhea Hot Springs, a few miles into the ride, a black truck with blue and red was flashing... I could not see very well beyond it, looked like a couple bikes had kissed the grass...
Not so...
They were shooting a commercial! I stop... U turn... going the wrong way... the local Sheriff is not very happy, but the guys are... a sidecar with a dog? compared to the usual two wheel stuff they have been working on. Any chance to be in it?... I ask... sorry... wrong brand!
Oh well... maybe better luck next time...
The rest of the riding was great... it is all the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/).

My last day in Texas... you have been good to me... I leave with some new friends and some incredible memories... and I will be back! There is no doubt about it...

Be well...

Ara and Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/122424168-L.jpg

You know the drill if you have ever taken a Freeway, in transit as I call it... and most, unfortunately, because of lack of time, somehow wondering why my time has been lacking now suddenly... needing to get from point A to point B as I am doing!
It finally was a good decision to take Hwy #10... as you might read it in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/)...

Till then... you all be well... were going...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/122638899-L.jpg

It rained all night, we, I say we!... slept late... kept raining and there was not much sense going to Tucson trying to find another place to camp... 80 miles away, I thought, leave early tomorrow morning and have a do nothing day!
Well, the skies cleared up, and actually for the first time I cannot write it all in one Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/)!
So this is part one of what end up being a full day...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/122802510-L.jpg

A quick overnight in Gila Bend, AZ, and here we are now in Anza Borrego, California! I will spell it for the first time...
A day, or was it two days ago?... returning from the Chiricahuas the sunset was magical... as so was the ride up, all in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/).
Feeling always like a kid in a candy store... that is me today... new maps, new roads with the knowledge that I will be here, in this area anyhow, till it starts warming up a bit...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Ursidae69]

I'm enjoying all the updates Ara. :jumping:

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/123231545-L.jpg

The whole Forum should come and ride here!!! What an off road Mecca!!!
Leave some space I always think... with a load like mine the braking effect is just not the same... specially when second in line to a minor fender bender... What was really funny and I wish I had a picture of it, but we had to move along as this happened... We had to wait a while for the accident to be moved. A cop arrives coming the other way... parks and crosses the median by foot...
They are making some space for us to move along... as we leave... he sprints back to his car as I almost run over him, I look... and the brushes under his car are on fire!!! flames are shooting 3 to 4 feet by the time he reaches the other side... myself wondering what he is going to do... he jumps in the car, gutsy move... and drives it forward! Gets his extinguisher and puts the fire out... his car was not burning... yet! Wonder... wonder... I bet he will never throw that cigarette again down when getting out of his car!!!
It was down to 19 degrees last night!... I will not complain, I know I am at about the most southern point there could be and everyone else has to be colder. So you will not hear about it... anymore! Instead I will write my day in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/), my first day in this unusual State Park...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Grim Reaper]

The exhaust probably started the fire.

I hope that red truck was the tow rig and I hope he losses his insurance AND gets ticketed heavily. Stupid fool with junk equipment and ZERO safety consciousness. Could have got a family killed when his Beverly hillbillies set up fell apart.

I been meaning to ask. Where were you a Chef at ?

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/123517269-L.jpg

I have not been able to settle since I have been here, unlike other places that I have been, I have dug deeper and deeper and very slowly some mental answers are, vaguely I have to say, taking some various shapes. I watched a short movie this morning at the Visitor Center about the Marshall Family that lived here on Ghost Mountain for 15 years... hiking for 14 miles they brought wood piece by piece to built their home... their water came from miles away 12 gallons at the time... They had 3 children and they end up with a divorce in later years. Can we change so much, from one extreme to another? I miss the simpler years... of course I can go back to them as right now nothing prevails but truly the matters of the mind... ABDSP is an enigma to me as I wonder why it has brought up all these questions in my mind? Is it because it is so vast?... so much land with the freedom to live on it anywhere one likes?... the invitation sure is there... I will probably take it after my stay here in the Park... that is what I have been longing for...
I got to ride some of those areas today... much land... and much sand!

The Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/).

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/123901265-L.jpg

We had a blast today! Literally... my best day since in ABDSP... and, as someone mentioned it, the Southern part of the Park is it for me! No doubt... I am finding out slowly what attracts me to the land... Vast open spaces, the solitude and the lack of a crowd, unlike Borrego Springs itself.
Having commitments from the 26th of this month to be in Death Valley and Mojave Desert and backtrack to Gila Bend for a couple days, I know... thanks for the support, it is a tough schedule... I decided to come back here afterward but camp in the Southern part which you will read a bit of it in today’s Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/).

You be well...

Ara and a tired Spirit... snoring as we speak!!!

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/124089214-M.jpg


Busy, busy!... maybe I will take a vacation and “do nothing” someday, and then again, that is just not me!
From meeting locals in Borrego Springs to picking my next campsite in the wilderness... finally... and getting stuck one more time... it is all in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/) with of course, more pictures!

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[desertgirl66]

I have really been enjoying reading your trip journal. That Spirit is an amazing critter! I love his brindle coloring and he seems to put up with all the off road adventures with a great sense of "spirit" and adventure!

Look forward to more reading.

[DesertRose]

Ara - wonderful blog!

And I LOVE your bike - wow. I have always wanted an R65; then I saw the Enfield, and changed my allegiance; but your bike takes the prize. Wow!

Keep up the great stories - thank you for sharing!

[beemerchef]

Thank you very much... nice to read your posts... It has been fun for us... and Spirit is quite a sweetheart!... patient... well mannered... and lazy when he needs to be!!! It is amazing the change in him these past three months...
In about 2 weeks I will pick up my Internet Dish with a couple days of training on how to set it up... It will open up some new Horizons, specially in warmer weather with the ability to camp anywhere and post instantly... maybe live video cam... What have I gotten in to!!!

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/124409842-L.jpg


Out of Borrego Springs this am... into the camping spot I was checking out yesterday... time to put everything to test... and even managed to take a little ride toward Salton Sea... A beautiful HOT day, not a good one for pictures as the haze was real thick, still managed to save some for your viewing on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/)...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[dirtysouth]

Ara, how are my friend? It looks like you and spirit have covered some ground since the last time I seen you at the Vortex. I was wondering where you might be in between feb.25th and march 11th? Bluebye and I are going to be taking off on the bikes and heading west for a 2 week trip and I was hoping that we could possibly meet up. We don't have definite plans as far as routes, just stay off the Interstates as much as possible. I won't be able to do any dirt because I sold the R100GS and now have a SV650S. I will try to pm you. Keep the rubber side down.

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/124896524-L.jpg

Nice to hear from you... I know I failed you sending the info on the Poerpack by Xantrax!!!... and you failed me by not keeping that GS!!! I cannot believe you did that!!!... That was such an awesome bike... Ah!!!!
Where I will be???... Probably south trying to stay warm... trust me that winter on the road is rough... stay in touch and we will hook up!

Heavy winds, deep sand... a couple more days and I will be out of here. Thursday, assuming it is Tuesday today... I will spend the day in Julian, nice black top going up and heard that it is a very cool town...
In the meantime I checked out Ocotillo Wells, Salton Sea, dinner with new friends...
All in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/).

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[dirtysouth]

Ara don't worry about the info on the Xantrax. I liked the GS but someone made me a offer I couldn't refuse and it happened to work out for me better anyway. 2 weeks after I sold the GS, the Diode board melted in it and then the driveshaft went ou, talking about a close call. I will definitly keep in touch, I still have your number. No definite plans so far, other than staying below I-40 I think. I've never been out west other than flying or the time I rode the DR650 to houston and back so I am looking forward to seeing new things and meeting new people. We have a month to get things organized and in order and we'll be shoving off from atlanta on the 25th of Feb. Until then, be safe and keep warm.


http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/124896524-L.jpg

Nice to hear from you... I know I failed you sending the info on the Poerpack by Xantrax!!!... and you failed me by not keeping that GS!!! I cannot believe you did that!!!... That was such an awesome bike... Ah!!!!
Where I will be???... Probably south trying to stay warm... trust me that winter on the road is rough... stay in touch and we will hook up!

Heavy winds, deep sand... a couple more days and I will be out of here. Thursday, assuming it is Tuesday today... I will spend the day in Julian, nice black top going up and heard that it is a very cool town...
In the meantime I checked out Ocotillo Wells, Salton Sea, dinner with new friends...
All in the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.typepad.com/the_oasis_of_my_soul/).

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/125299910-M.jpg

Even Spirit is getting excited about sunsets, I think!... Or is it because we had company for dinner... This place is starting to feel more and more like home... have to be careful not to get too attached to the land!...

My Blog has been going through some growing pains!... It is called Bandwidth... At first I had to switch, if you remember to texting on SmugMug, then learn a different way to post... and now...
finally my own Website is all ready to go!

For the first time you will be redirected on it... a little cleaner... same everything as they say...
much more Bandwidth!

... and still a Blog (http://www.vtweb.com/theoasisofmysoul/wordpress/)! www.theoasisofmysoul.com

Thank you... be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/125536711-M.jpg

In Lance’s Memory, October 13th 1978 - January 26th 2004

Much thought has gone into writing and publishing what follows.
No ride report today... No pictures of Spirit playing or sunrise or sunset.
I did seek advice, not wanting to be out of context, I hope the moderators will understand. This is a Lifelong Journey on the Road that I have embraced and write about, and as some very good friends of mine wrote to me... “you have been an open book, we all have within ourselves many layers of us, he is part of your Journey, part of your everyday life, there is nothing wrong by dedicating this day’s writing to Lance...”.
I also know that he will like it, he will be thrilled for all of you to get to know him a bit... because he also was my friend, my buddy... and would have been yours also.

Sincerely, “Thank You” for reading today’s Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

Ara

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/125698315-L.jpg

I wanted to show you before I left where all this was being written from!... a few “regulars” are also around, about one mile apart... We visit each other once in a while! I did not realize till today that I have been here exactly 2 weeks!... A couple more great rides (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) today and we are packing to take off, headed North to Mojave Preserve...
Mostly BLM lands... there will be much to see, ride on hard packed roads... I hope!
You be well... and many “thanks” for all your support which I received yesterday...
Your company is most appreciated...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/126114599-L.jpg

On to Mojave Preserve, CA.

I have to say, I think, still a bit unclear... as that person could not speak up in a forward manner... that my sunsets were...?... or?

“Quote”
Hi Ara,
Author Terry Pratchett writes of the Discworld where magic works
and Twoflower (Discworld's first tourist) is pointing his camera at yet
another sunset when the hatch on the camera top opens and a
paintbrush-wielding Imp sticks his head out to yell:-
"Enough with the sunsets! I'm running out of vermilion! "
Fred Hill, S'toon.


Maybe TV reruns would be more suitable?... I am so confused...
Sunsets... sunrises... moonsets (is there such a word?...)... moonrises... yes? are a spiritual time which culminates a day’s time period... a ritual... a “bravo”... none, I repeat none... unlike TV reruns, are alike...
So here is another one!...

Culture shock today... sensory perceptions overloaded... I-10 Southern California, should I say more... find out (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)!

Tomorrow, back in the wilderness...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/126690736-L.jpg

I am speechless having arrived at the Mitchell Caverns! It is like the thoughts in my mind are going 100 miles per hour, overloaded... and I am thinking... how am I going to ever describe this (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/?p=70)!
Earlier I explored some of the BLM lands, the trails... the hard packed trails!... with a big smile...
This is where I could use an Internet Dish!... Some connection, but very weak... I will have to ride 50 to 60 miles and spend a few hours sending out all this... will be well worth the wait!
I already know that this is where I will spend many weeks... at least a few!
Again, the pictures are not going to do justice... this is above anything I have ever seen and experienced!... wish you could all be here... I would have loved to see the expression on your faces!
Enjoy...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/126761350-L.jpg

You have seen the campsite... this is the other side of the coin, I am pretty sure that is where I am!
I have not had a good connection per say for two days now!... some e Mails are coming in, few going out...
Time has totally lost its notion, the skies have been cloudy and the cold is settling in... perfect weather for the Caverns (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) today...
Enjoy the pictures!... and be well.

Ara and Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127134203-M.jpg

A price shocker!... Maybe switch to a bicycle?... How much fun would that be?... with a sidecar...
Leaving Mojave, I don’t want to!... even with the knowledge that I will be back in a few days I am perplexed backtracking to Arizona, just a few miles away... I have to get my grey matters in motion as I will learn how to point and set up this Dish of mine... I have had so many thoughts this week about the direction of this Journey... and at the same time I experienced a great ride up... and through... Christmas Pass (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)!

Enjoy... we did!

Ara and Spirit.

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127134195-M.gif

[kcowyo]

In Lance’s Memory, October 13th 1978 - January 26th 2004

This is a Lifelong Journey on the Road that I have embraced and write about, and as some very good friends of mine wrote to me... “you have been an open book, we all have within ourselves many layers of us, he is part of your Journey, part of your everyday life, there is nothing wrong by dedicating this day’s writing to Lance...”.

I also know that he will like it, he will be thrilled for all of you to get to know him a bit... because he also was my friend, my buddy... and would have been yours also.



Question: How do you know when you've read one of the most moving tributes put into words?

Answer: When you want to read it again and you can't.



be safe Ara -

[Ursidae69]

Question: How do you know when you've read one of the most moving tributes put into words?

Answer: When you want to read it again and you can't.


be safe Ara -


Indeed.



Ara, thanks for the honor of reading about Lance.

I look forward to meeting you & Spirit on the road one of these days.

[dieselcruiserhead]

Ara great read. Cheers to the memory of your son, born exactly one month before me to the day. It is an excellent adventure and great story and great blog on your site!:26_7_2:

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127908092-M.jpg

20th Century technology... Hughes Technology... I guess the man that dreamed of the largest plane ever build has left an imprint which has made its way even into my life...

Today is the first time using my own Dish... set up by my own hands... and grey matter... I know all of you must have one hanging somewhere on your roof... I did not! It is fast!... and used at less busy hours... when the world is asleep around me, as I heard the expression... it is smoking!

A different route took me backtracking to Gila Bend, AZ... Wednesday it is back to again more desolate areas... this time... totally self contained.

Enjoy the comments (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)... and be well...

Ara & Spirit

* Keep your Health at the outmost priorities my friends... nothing else is possible without it... nothing!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127916932-Ti.gif

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/128383416-L.jpg

It seems always to be a long day with the early sunsets, specially when we are trying to get to a destination to set up for a few days.
It did not happen today... lunch with a friend that drove all the way from Phoenix... meeting a French couple that wants a sidecar... and what are the chances for both low beams to go out at the same time?... I’ll take it!!!

We are setting camp tomorrow near by Joshua Tree to explore it for a few days...
There was no sense looking for BLM land in the dark tonight!

Some of our day! (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127916932-M.gif

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/128595215-M.jpg

I have been feeling like in another Planet (with capital “P”) since we have arrived here yesterday.
With my good luck this is an awesome campground, the most remote one as I found out today.
Isolation... total silence... Joshua Trees and many rocks... as you will see in the Blog. (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Be well... enjoy...

Ara and Spirit (UralGrowl)

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127916932-Ti.gif

[goodtimes]

As I have mentioned before....if/when you pass through Southern Arizona (tucson), please let me have the honor of buying you a beer!

:roost:

[Scenic WonderRunner]

I'm enjoying your reports and pics!

AWESOME!

Thanks for sharing!

I saw that you mentioned Anza~Borrego Desert. When you were there, you were only 65 miles from my home!

So where to next? I wish I would have been following your trip more closely.......we should have thrown an Outback Party!:beer:



EDIT:

Now I'm reading more....... and see that you were also in Julian! Just 35 miles from my home!


http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/ScenicWonderRunner/2006_1203SeaportVillageJulian007-1.jpg

[beemerchef]

I am in Joshua Tree and leaving monday morning for Indio... you know... Pharmacy... errands and a friend of mine owns Jillian's in Palm Desert and wants to fee me... feed me! as I need it!
Thinking about going across Salton Sea after that... I hear some painted mountain?... a strange town?... maybe you can feel me in... before I go back to... Mojave Desert for a while!!!... much BLM land there...
Anyhow... be well... and I appreciate your comments...
Ara & Spirit

[Scenic WonderRunner]

Would you be interested in running the "Bradshaw Trail"..........?......while you are very near the Salton Sea?

I've been considering doing a pre~run of the Bradshaw Trail as I want to do a group trip out there and I have never been there. This is just due east of Mecca, CA. Northeast shore of the Salton Sea.....near the Salton Sea State Rec Area.

I want to do a trip along the Bradshaw and then to Picacho State Rec. Area along the Colorado River......then out through the Indian Pass Wilderness area.

Even if we can't meet up.....maybe the Bradshaw Trail and side routes..... might be a a good time for you!

I'm in north county San Diego.

[beemerchef]

Hi Mr WonderRunner...

Now that sounds like some excitement... I checked my agenda... my schedule... and... I am available!
Much logistic to think about...
When... how long... would I take my caravan, Bronco needs new shocks!... 6 of them... is not doing very good off road...
How rough are the roads?...
I will be in Indio Monday night... I can call you... would be after 9pm local time (free cell phone National Plan) and we could talk some more.
I think this would be fun... well, everyday is fun... right?

Or e mail direct: aragureghian@yahoo.com
Cell: (Monday...) 1:239:450.4110

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/128792442-L.jpg

Today was a great day, peaceful and joyful. I have been receiving quite a few e mails from readers that have been enjoying the Journey, and as I was deep in thoughts about my days here, timing could not have been any better receiving an e mail from a good friend of mine, a kind man, and at the same time, quite a sidecar fabricator, Claude Stanley. His words are words to be read everyday as, his own purpose in life is to also spread joy and happiness amongst us... that is just the way he is!
I want to share this e mail with you all... I know it will make you think about your own life, regardless where you are and regardless what you are doing.
We then took a ride through the Park, a bit of blue skies today... it is all in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...
Sit back and enjoy... and just think how fortunate I am to have a friend like Claude!
Be well...

Ara and Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127916932-Ti.gif

[Scenic WonderRunner]

Email Sent!


:camping:
.

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/129351709-M.jpg

Where was Plan B?

Ah! A lesson learned... a few maybe... we literally spend the whole day from here to there without
the conclusion that should have materialized... Poor Spirit, quietly put up with it... I was disappointed of the outcome... you can read this great day on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127916932-Ti.gif

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/129721302-L.jpg

From The Hole in the Wall to Lake Havasu...

Retreat has become a habit these past couple of days!... What was I thinking trying to camp at the Hole in the Wall in the Mojave Desert without checking the forecast first!
Mid 20's at night, wind blowing at 40mph, hail... and I should really change the spelling of that word...
We are now south of Lake Havasu City... nice BLM land... there is something to be said about BLM land! We did the full circle... in pictures on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127916932-Ti.gif

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/129921941-L.jpg

A Day in Town...

That is Lake Havasu City... nice town... Dogie Bakery... motorcycle shops... drivers are not crazy as other parts of the country... all and all... pretty mellow I have to say!
The Fireworks Convention starts tonight... the best of the best for two nights!
My friend Jkam is coming to visit for a couple days... he was very instrumental in my preparations for this Journey. We have never met... quite some exciting times ahead.
Yesterday is gone... but still remains in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/129921925-M.jpg

A Homeless gathering...

It has been a great time having JKam over, we are small numbers but... we did call it a Homeless Riders Get Together!... Wondering how many more are out there with no ties to any walls and their live’s possession’s at hand! JKam is on a Journey as I am, with a deeper Soul than most, the contrast of being unattached to material possessions makes us dig in deeper into the true essence of life.
We have been lounging around for a couple days now!... Spirit has a new friend, we have shared some great food and many conversations...
Sunrises and Sunsets have been our clock, some great Fireworks seen happening in town... as I have written and pasted the pictures of these couple days in the Blog! (http://www.vtweb.com/theoasisofmysoul/wordpress/)

You be well...

Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127916932-Ti.gif

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/131052544-L.jpg

Historic Rt66 to Oatman, AZ.

Our last day here, south of Lake Havasu City... it has been a fine and quiet time, a great place to set up camp, besides a few disrespectful dirt riders not slowing down creating waves of dust!
The town has been convenient to get supplies... I did not want to miss the chance to ride Historic 66 to Oatman... First however we rode south on spur 95 making a long loop... thousands of trailers and RV’s that way... sand dunes... and some pictures on the Blog. (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/131466823-L.jpg

New Friends in Kingman, AZ.

We are finally settled by Red Rock Canyon, Nevada. Why plan any routes since I don’t follow them anyhow!... Left Kingman this morning, actually passed through Las Vegas... I will give you my impressions on the next go around. Yesterday was a smooth ride from Lake Havasu to the Hospitality of Mark, Angie and his wonderful family... including a personal tour in his hangar and some late cooking for everyone... Definitely no dinner for me tonight... but last night was a good one! (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127916932-Ti.gif

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/131660663-L.jpg

To Red Rock Canyon, NV.

We have arrived at Red Rock Canyon and it is cold and windy. A shock to the system for the both of us, we were getting used to running around all day in a T Shirt! For the first time I had to put some rocks at the base of the Dish, even though anchored, 30mph winds with gusts of 50 just did not make me trust that anchor.
It was a fine road from Kingman... going through Las Vegas... hummm, what happened to that town?
We are settled and even saw a bit of Mt Hamilton... enjoy the pictures. (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[kcowyo]

Wonderful tales and photos from Oatman and Kingman. Looks like Rt. 66 should still be on everyone's "to-do" list. Seems like you're eating well and drinking some primo coffee too.

Looking foward to what you find and what finds you in Nevada.

:lurk:

[beemerchef]

Scenic WonderRunner... what happened???...
Primo Coffee... always...
http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/131860361-L.jpg

A bit of Red Rock Canyon, NV.

I could not stand it anymore... cold and snowing a bit, Spirit has his coat, I have my Gerbings... dark skies or not I wanted to at least ride the loop at Red Canyon. And we did just that...
Today, the sun is out again, the temps are still down, and a renewed energy seemed to have surfaced. Sunshine is definitely the meaning of life and the soul. An incredible energizer for me...
This was the loop yesterday (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)... we have much hiking and rides planned here... we?... right!

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127916932-L.gif

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/132429185-M.jpg

About “Storms” and “Scooters”...

Lots always seems to happen when close to a City... rule of thumb, right?
The idea was to head out for a ride, but seeing scooters after scooters... well, it just did not happen... we stopped, talked and end up following them to their 7th Annual Rally spot!
They were from all over the World, England... Japan... just about all the cities in the USA.
And I was in the middle of it, 4 times their size... that’s the rig mind you.
It took up most of the day... so no sunsets or no sunrise pictures today!
What a break! I’ll make up for it soon... promise!
This was before the storm that caused evacuating Red Rock Canyon... what a night!
Enjoy the Blog... (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/132842304-L.jpg

Valley of Fire... cooking with heat?

Good move... the winds are practically non existent here and I (we... I heard him!) slept like logs last night. There was some clouds and rain in the horizons threatening and NOAA showed just scattered rain, (smart... finally!), the temps dropping to the low thirties tonight and we took off on this, I call it, Foreign Planet!
There is “green plants” actually... had not seen any for a while and none of the colors here are what they are suppose to be!... The roads?... awesome and so are the people here. A must to visit... (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)
Oh! I also cooked some...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/133039173-M.jpg

More of Valley of Fire... NV.

Mother Nature cannot ever be forgotten... as much as we had a great break yesterday. Windy again and cold... but we are going. We cannot let it stop us in our tracks of the beautiful surroundings... a forgotten National Treasure, no doubt...
The pictures (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) today will speak for themselves... such an amazing place!
I think you will truly enjoy yourselves...

Be well...

Ara and Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127916932-Ti.gif

[cinemakatie]

Absolutely beautiful. I have yet to visit Nevade, and it's at the top of my list now. I grew up in the eastren part of our country, and I am embarassed to say that until a coupl,e of years ago I thought that Utah, Nevada and other western states were a barren wasteland of sand and heat. I've been proven wrong by Utah, and now it looks like Nevada warrants an adventure.

Good luck on your trip!

Katie

[beemerchef]

Hi Katie, it is amazing what one can find when they look!... Glad that you will also discover some new horizons...
http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/134120252-M.jpg

Some Reflections on this Journey...

On hold by a rod... I will have it today, and the one my friend Didier overnighted me from New York is much stronger, maybe this will avoid future dismemberment of my rig!... We cannot afford the past experience and this was fortunate enough to be discovered without any further damage.
Today should be the day... and as I sit here waiting, I would like to share some reflections from my recent months on the road... Looking back is always beneficial to the path that lays ahead...
You be the judges... (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/134621709-L.jpg

North... South... West... let’s go East...

The excitement of the rig being so solid again as I took it out for a spin yesterday morning I think distracted me from my plans! Kingman... so close to Sedona, the Grand Canyon, Yavapai, Coconino National Forest... the wheels went East. We drove, we rode... we are south of Sedona by a few miles and it has been HOT... with capital letters!
Much to see... always... and experience and much to cook somehow!
The Oasis of my Soul (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) has many facets it seems like!

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/134821781-L.jpg

Sightseeing around Sedona, AZ.

We are riding to the sites in the books... much History, and much other visitors also, but all worthwhile seeing. From Montezuma Well, to Montezuma Castle, the latter wrongly named, we have been going all day. Meeting another rider and saying my goodbyes to my great neighbors...
A full day... all in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)!

Hope you enjoy, we did...

Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/127916932-Ti.gif

[Scenic WonderRunner]

Ara!

Very Sweet!

I've been sending you emails.....but I think you are not getting them.

Check your incoming "bulk folder".

Your pics and stories are great!

I wish I were in Sedona right now!

And I agree with you.....I am very sad to see the huge growth! I've been exploring these areas since I was a young boy......back when there was NO Body around!


.

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/135341962-L.jpg

Jerome and the Mangus Highway, AZ.

Out of the Sedona traffic and construction roads, on to Jerome up in the Mountains with a great ride through the Mangus Highway down to Prescott, what a great day it was yesterday.
As I will probably head north tomorrow, today is the day for errands, tightening up the scene and the loose ends... top of the fuel and water, food... you never know what is ahead with my open minded Journey ahead of me.
I keep thinking that at some point I will meet someone on the road from a Forum, but it has not happened yet... we saw lots of riders, somehow they were all going the other way!
Enjoy the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)... and be well, have a great week.

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/135878275-L.jpg

More roads up and down and around Sedona...

A gravel road with great watering holes... followed by 89A... not for the faint of heart... and now we are packed headed toward the Grand Canyon... with millions of pictures of it in circulation I have to add my own!... Should be great camping near Tusayan... National Forest... and most likely cooler temps... Ah! Almost forgot... must check NOAA... the weather you know.
Enjoy the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/136087813-M.jpg

Why on the road?...

It was only this morning that we left Beaver Creek Campground, south of Sedona... we are a few miles for the Grand Canyon’s south rim, I have not seen any of it yet, and it is sometime in the middle of the night... We are camped on National Forest, they call it “dispersed” camping, off a forest road which are abundant around here. There is no one near by and my clock right away has switched to a no time zone... more on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/136519514-L.jpg

The Grand Canyon, AZ.


What can one say about the Grand Canyon?... besides being mesmerized throughout this jaw dropping, eye popping, sensory overload experience. One of the few places I can sit for hours and loose my sight and senses deep into this incredible wonder.
One of the most enjoyable place to also camp here... the nearest neighbor is about half a mile away... and I had dinner for lunch... as you will see! (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/136840986-L.jpg

More on the Grand Canyon, AZ.

It was just another beautiful day here, NOAA is predicting snow and mid twenties by Tuesday... but that is a couple days ahead. Lots of riding through the Park, the weekend crowd is a bit different... glad to see many city people coming here to enjoy the sites as we did... before the views disappear due to increasing haze... You can read about it here... (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

You be well...

Ara & Spirit

[kcowyo]

What is it they say about dogs and their owners who start to look alike after awhile? Well I don't see it even though you two are starting to dress alike. ;)

Did you make it over to the new, big glass bottomed sidewalk/overlook thing? Not sure if that's on the south rim or north rim...?

I love reading about your one pan creations and seeing the pics of said plates, but what about Spirit? How's he eating? Is his mini-celebrity going to his head yet?

Glad to see the new sattelite dish is working and stellar photos from Grand Canyon. I agree shooting there is tricky. Sunrise and sunset were the only times of day I could get decent lighting and even then framing a decent picture is an overwhelming task.

Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts and impressions from your road Ara. Your updates have been a great way to start each day.

Be safe -

[beemerchef]

What is it they say about dogs and their owners who start to look alike after awhile? Well I don't see it even though you two are starting to dress alike. ;)

Did you make it over to the new, big glass bottomed sidewalk/overlook thing? Not sure if that's on the south rim or north rim...?

I love reading about your one pan creations and seeing the pics of said plates, but what about Spirit? How's he eating? Is his mini-celebrity going to his head yet?

Glad to see the new sattelite dish is working and stellar photos from Grand Canyon. I agree shooting there is tricky. Sunrise and sunset were the only times of day I could get decent lighting and even then framing a decent picture is an overwhelming task.

Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts and impressions from your road Ara. Your updates have been a great way to start each day.

Be safe -

I appreciate the comments! The glass bottom walkway opened today... but... no... with vertigo I already have a hard time enough taking pictures at the Canyon!!! I would freeze... they would have to come and carry me...
I started using my old camera at times, cool pix 990 which I have a UV and polarized filter for it... seems to be doing a bit better... but of course the best time is sunsets!
Fortunately for me... Spirit cannot have human food... will get very sick... so it is all MINE!!!:chowtime:
The Dish... well... without it you would not have all these reports as you are seeing them... not that often anyhow as it takes about 3 to 4 hours per Blog... writing... mainly pictures... posting... The Dish is freedom to me...
Thanks again...

And now for something different!!!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/137279017-M.jpg

Valle’s “Planes of Fame Air Museum”, AZ.

I think, I am fairly sure that we are going to “The Grand Circle” on our way to California...
“The Grand Circle” including Zion NP, Bryce Canyon NP, Glen Canyon, Capitol Reef... and more.
Exciting riding, hiking, photography and eating!... eating meaning cooking too...
There is much more if we went a bit more North/East... but, have to leave some for next year!... and the following...
A couple days ago we went to Valle ‘s “Planes of Fame Air Museum”, what I thought was going to be a quick stop turned out to be an almost all day visit... a must to see, all in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

PS: if anyone wants more pictures and info (taken also in pictures), let me know. I can send you the SmuMug link they are all on... too many for the Blog...

Be well...

Ara and Spirit... soon on the road again.

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/137781208-L.jpg

On the road, 89N, AZ and Utah.


89 Northbound from the eastern entrance of the south rim Grand Canyon to Utah must be one of the best scenic road I have ever been on. So much scenery, from rock formations, to the Little Colorado Gorge in a more intimate setting than the Grand Canyon... to Panguitch... were we had to turn around. Campgrounds are closed, snow is still present with more on the way, wind is howling and why can I not set my mind to the fact that winter is not over yet!
So we are south of all that... 50 this morning near Kanab... and will take some day trips to the scenic areas surrounding us.
Some pictures of our way up here on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

You be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/138036606-M.jpg

Kanab Canyon and more... UT.

How can so much happen while on the road without a “home”? The trails of the mind must be wide open with all its doors unlocked... Turned on by a friend to Ken Foster’s book “the dogs who found me”, suddenly opens a path of joy finding out that his Pit must be Spirit’s brother!
And what better surrounding than riding through a Canyon to discover just a bit later that “Best Friends Animal Sanctuary”, a no kill shelter for animals, has tours of their center... where I actually find Ken Foster’s book less than 24hrs after its discovery... and should I also mention “autographed”... All this leading to a great dinner... I never thought that living on the road was going to be so exciting... as you might read it in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[desertgirl66]

Spirit is looking more and more hip and casual as the journey continues! Love his new coat.

You guys are seeing and experiencing the best of the best at the best time of year.:smiley_drive:

Many Happy Trails to you both~~:wavey:

[secretagent]

Your travels have been awesome o read about and see the pix,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Pleasetell me how you have been able to survive (how do you make money) How often stop (if at all) to shower

Ive been thinking of doing this in my Landcruiser.

Please keep up the andventure, it is truely an ispiration

[beemerchef]

I don't make any money... but will need to soon... to cover my Internet expenses... big pictures... big $'s!!! Will see... I am 59... I have worked 37 years... well, only half a year per year... does not add up... right?
I have sunshowers... I stop at campgrounds and break in... well. once a month is good... I am on my 5th one... I missed one month:jump:
http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/138249060-M.jpg

A quick long ride through Zion NP., Utah

I need to learn new words to describe this Park, or I just have to stop riding through these natural wonders. My vocabulary is starting to feel limited! What a blast... going... what a shower... coming back! The rig is purring... with 170+/-K on it I even hate to think about it... no jinks please.
And as if the ride was not enough we are moving there for a while... it will be base camp for many other attractions if that is what we are going to call them.
This one is already in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).
Enjoy, be well... hope that you are also having a great weekend...

Ara & Spirit

[secretagent]

I don't make any money... but will need to soon... to cover my Internet expenses... big pictures... big $'s!!! Will see... I am 59... I have worked 37 years... well, only half a year per year... does not add up... right?
I have sunshowers... I stop at campgrounds and break in... well. once a month is good... I am on my 5th one... I missed one month:jump:
http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/138249060-M.jpg

A quick long ride through Zion NP., Utah

I need to learn new words to describe this Park, or I just have to stop riding through these natural wonders. My vocabulary is starting to feel limited! What a blast... going... what a shower... coming back! The rig is purring... with 170+/-K on it I even hate to think about it... no jinks please.
And as if the ride was not enough we are moving there for a while... it will be base camp for many other attractions if that is what we are going to call them.
This one is already in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).
Enjoy, be well... hope that you are also having a great weekend...

Ara & Spirit

Thanks for the reponse.............you have inspired me to try this sometime (in a landcruiser hough) but I didn't know wgat others have done to support the adventure..........keep it up and stay safe

[beemerchef]

Lety me tell you that you WOULD have a lot of FUN in a Landcruiser doing this... you will be able to go places I cannot!!!... One day... some day... I might switch... get a smaller bike... smaller sidecar... and a real all around vehicle!!! Blast...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/139063996-M.jpg

The Canyon in Zion... Utah.

Staying in most of the day, NOAA called in for some bad weather... but I think they are mistaken.
Great campsite, so great that we might, just might stay here for a couple weeks... but I have said that before. It is just that there are so many places to ride around here... and see!
Might even have some company soon... that would be great... Fire at night, great roads, great scenery... what more can I write on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)!... many pictures too...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/139370452-L.jpg

Darker Skies in Zion NP. Utah...

The forecast... after these couple days is as sunny as it can be for as long as they can predict it!
Lets endure these couple of days... I know that it will be all worth it.
Did not hold us back from some riding as darker skies make for some great pictures and give out a different feeling about this whole place.
We did have to turn around, bitter cold winds... the snow flakes were an added attraction...
Luckily enough ingredients to make dinner... preceded by a visit to Farmer’s Market...
The Journey goes on... cannot even think about our next destination! This is Home (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) for now...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[RedDog]

Greetings from the western plains. I've been following your travels and blog for some time and should have commented earlier.

You're taking routes I've loved for nearly 30 years - mostly also via motorcycle. I sold my last one in September and for the first time in my adult life currently don't own one. I bought a Jeep just over a year ago and it's filling the void.

Anyway, your locations are bringing back a world of memories, although I don't recall eating so well. If you have the opportunity, you must indulge in the Bumbleberry Pie in Springdale, UT - just outside the Zion Park Gate.

http://www.bumbleberry.com/

[beemerchef]

I am just a few miles from Springdale... actually have to go through the town to get to the Park... will try it!!! Thanks for the tip...
Will post some pictures of a great 1975 Land Rover I found... the one that was meant to be Radio equipped... quite a vehicle!!!
http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/139719357-M.jpg

Kolob Terrace road, Zion NP. Utah


East of here is still bitter cold, I was so wrong assuming that things will arm up at higher elevations! I guess I have lived in Florida too long...
But west of here, off the town of Virgin, is Kolob Terrace road which is less crowded entrance to also Zion Park. Love the setting, the riding... but not the road blocked by the snow a bit further up...
Cooked up a poor man’s pasta dish also with what I had left in the small pantry... tasty!...
It is on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)... in living colors!

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/140066254-M.jpg

April Fool?... not really! I wish...


April Fool’s day unfortunately did not fool me as I hear the snap of a broken eye bolt...
There we go... again! But... happened 10 feet away from camp... could have happened the day before when we went riding through Red Rock Canyon and Bryce Canyon up 9100 feet... without any steering it would have been quite a drop...
A couple more days... of course any day without riding is a tough one!... and we will be back on the road... in the meantime I wrote about the rides we just took... on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[RoundOut]

April Fool?... not really! I wish...

April Fool’s day unfortunately did not fool me as I hear the snap of a broken eye bolt...
There we go... again! But... happened 10 feet away from camp... could have happened the day before when we went riding through Red Rock Canyon and Bryce Canyon up 9100 feet... without any steering it would have been quite a drop...

WOW! Sure glad your location at the time of this failure was not dangerous, and I'm glad you're OK.

[beemerchef]

That is for sure... but wait... there is more...
http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/140919903-L.gif

Bryce Canyon itself... Utah.

It turns out that I will be staying in Utah for about another month... how strange that when in Anza Borrego my thoughts where to head North, but slowly I went East... and now, looking at the map of Utah... with all its attractions and colors... why not wander a bit more here!
If the US Postal mail is on track my parts should be in this morning... and then it will be on to the welder for fixing a new crack in the mounts... luckily a secondary mount.
I am so mentally tired of all those breakages that I cannot even comment on them... All I want is a safe rig... the humor is hard to find... it does show however how society governs themselves, the ones in the business have been the hardest ones to deal with... The Manufacture at this point is doing what they can till I get there... new mounts? I can just imagine how the Corporate World is being ran...
I do want to thank all the ones that have send me their support... they have made these pasts days easier and allow me to look into the future of this dilemma...
Bryce Canyon was awesome. Rough conditions... but definitely a place to go back to in a bit warmer weather. Spirit has been a real trooper... and right now, he is also anxious to get going...
Enjoy the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[kcowyo]

To paraphrase a great quote by legendary Hollywood icon Steve McQueen - "I'd rather break down in Utah, than in any city on Earth."

And as a wise man (http://www.markdstephens.com) once told me, these things are the meat and potatoes of why we do, what we do. I'm glad to read you're trying to find the silver lining and that there are good people in this world willing to lend you a helping hand.

Chin up. Would you rather be stuck in Utah with a few technical difficulties that will get sorted out or be solo on a line after the sous chef & dishwasher called in sick, the Sysco truck shorted you on your order, the walk-in is at 65 degrees, with a green waitstaff and a line out the front door at 4:55pm? :violent-smiley-031:

Great photos from Bryce Canyon. I hope you'll take time to drive into Capitol Reef NP, just up the road. Well, well worth it.

Be safe Ara -

[beemerchef]

To paraphrase a great quote by legendary Hollywood icon Steve McQueen - "I'd rather break down in Utah, than in any city on Earth."

And as a wise man (http://www.markdstephens.com) once told me, these things are the meat and potatoes of why we do, what we do. I'm glad to read you're trying to find the silver lining and that there are good people in this world willing to lend you a helping hand.

Chin up. Would you rather be stuck in Utah with a few technical difficulties that will get sorted out or be solo on a line after the sous chef & dishwasher called in sick, the Sysco truck shorted you on your order, the walk-in is at 65 degrees, with a green waitstaff and a line out the front door at 4:55pm? :violent-smiley-031:

Great photos from Bryce Canyon. I hope you'll take time to drive into Capitol Reef NP, just up the road. Well, well worth it.

Be safe Ara -

That has to be the funniest post I have ever read... and I now feel... well... silly!!! It hit home... as they say!!! And suddenly I did have the vision of THAT kitchen... been there... was not too long ago doing contract work in Atlanta... you described it perfectly as if you were there... including the walk in at 65 degrees!!!
Well, all is fixed, a very good welder... who found another crack on the same arm triangle... it was underneath... For the first time I feel very confident!
Firday 3 new tires... and back to the kitchen... I mean Utah!!!

Thanks for the laugh... appreciate it!
By the way that website is awesome!!!...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/141502513-L.jpg

Michael and Sandra’s Utah... my 100th Blog.

Somehow it feels like I just have left yesterday, so much has happened and yet... so little! Moving on to some new sceneries within the same State, Utah... one that intrigues me a lot as it is so full of richness, great roads and incredible geological formations that have taken millions of year... And I get to camp in the middle of it all... quite a treat! We are regrouping these coming days, listening to a local Adv Rider Michael, and his wife Sandra that have opened their house... and kitchen with wide open arms... Spirit has two new buddies... what more can one ask!
Today’s Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...
Be well... Ara & Spirit

[Grim Reaper]

Every one of those parts that you show broken has been migrating cracks. There is rust and corrosion in every last one of them including the Eye bolt.

Is the side car a BMW part or aftermarket?
Did the bike take a hard hit at some point to give reason for these failures?

If there is not some outside reason there is a real design flaw to be putting that much stress to break all those different mounts and bracket. Either the mounts are just not strong enough or the assembly is not triangulated off the frame in such a way to reduce stresses on the mounts.


Check it carefully and frequently and be safe.

[beemerchef]

I truly appeciata e the concern and comments... all the breakages ahave the the ripple effect of the first one.. manufacter's deffect... There will be some steps taken to reinforce it all... trust me that i will let you posted...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/142151035-M.jpg

A new campsite, north of Snow Canyon, Utah.

3 days... 4 days?... at Michael and Sandra, adding a few more pounds to this frail body... great company and time. 3 new tires, the rig seems really together and a new campsite, in the middle of some great BLM land.
I have a long list of areas to visit, it is so endless here in Utah that this will take many more visits to even scratch the surface. Good deal... I would hate to run out of places to visit these coming ten years!
Spirit is a bit sad today from losing his two buddies... he is starting to remind me of a sailor with a girl friend in every town...
Enjoy the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) and the pictures... there will be much going on, specially with the days becoming much longer, finally it feels like winter is behind us.

You be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/142575218-L.jpg

My little Island of Paradise

This inhabited stretch has become my little Island of Paradise these past few days and will be for a few more days to come... all is here and at the same time... nothing!
Lots of vermillion was used in this past sunset... wish you would have all been here to experience it...
The trout is a thing of the past... long gone now... you guessed it!... It was great... could taste its freshness with every bite.
BMW of Las Vegas gave me some hundred dollar chips... their true value?... great service.
The Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) will have it’s story!

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/142797724-M.jpg

A little ride in the neighborhood, Utah.

I have the feeling that everyone wished to have a neighborhood like this one!... Right or left or north or south... great roads and scenery, hardly any traffic and there is a part of Utah that is not all red!
A great dinner (at least they thought so...) for my friends Michael and Sandra, some playing time for Spirit and his buddies... it is all good... all in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).
In our conversations last night, we were wondering why get togethers are always where the crowd is!!! How about one right here...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/143523855-M.jpg

And all end up well...

School is never out just when we “might” think we are done... everyday new lessons are being provided, sometimes the teaching is kind, sometimes not.
What started as, finally thinking of having one, a bad day, end up being a great one... solving obstacles... followed by a great ride... and a great night sleep as Spirit seems to be getting back on track....
It is just part of everyday life on the road... we are not exempt from anything that you yourselves go through. The logistics are sometimes harder, but I would not trade this lifestyle with any other one... I know that some will agree after reading the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/143865546-L.jpg

A ride to Cedar Breaks and Kolob Canyons, Utah.

So yes, I am a bit concerned about Spirit’s condition, it tears me up that he is still sick. Wish it was me instead... so hard to see and feel my helpless buddy! Time for a Doctor...
We did do a ride yesterday, he was doing better then. As usual Utah provides some exciting sceneries and roads. Only wish the winds and the rains would stop soon... maybe tomorrow!
More details on today’s Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

You be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/144667835-M.jpg

A healthier Spirit and a safer rig, Utah... +...

Unfortunately my Website had been down at times these past two days due to power outages in Vermont... I apologize for that. Was a bit surprised they do not have a generator...
But it all just a matter of time... such as Spirit’s health. He received some good care yesterday and as usual acted like a gentleman only stunned by a crying baby lamb!!!
The rig is much safer as you can see the work done on it... of the outmost quality!
A great visit to the Dinosaur Discovery Center... hard to go back in time a couple millions of years!
We are packing to head for California for a few days... with the hope that Spirit gets better by the day... if not, will track back.
The outpour of concerns for Spirit has moved me more than anything else on this Journey, and realizing that so many great people are out there makes me want to get out and... mingle!!!
Hope you enjoy today’s Blog... (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Be well...

Ara and a healthier Spirit!

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/145525184-L.jpg

One road to Kernville, CA.

We are in Kernville, California, amongst many riders... friends from the past and making new ones.
Cold... very cold, not handling it very well when it drops to the low 20's...
Spirit is doing better everyday and probably wondering why “all those people” want to pet him!!! He did find a few pairs of legs to rub his back against and I am always thankful to anyone that is nice to him...Geode, Glenn... well, cannot blame him for bailing out, weather, distance... schedule... needless to say... “WHIMP”!!!
There will be more in a day or two... have to get back to camp now, my friend Jkam just showed up!... surprise...
You be well... enjoy... (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

*** The picture above does not reflect my sentiments toward Spirit... just a sick sense of humor...

Ara & Spirit

[Scenic WonderRunner]

Very nice...........Ara and Spirit!

I'm enjoying all your post's and travels!..........:26_7_2:

Spirit...............be well...........I know you can do this trip of a lifetime!




.

[beemerchef]

Thanks SWR... all is getting back to normal... and then again... what was normal?...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/146076256-M.jpg

The road back to Utah...

It was truly awesome to meet in person all the faces only labeled by a name for these past years...
And at the same time, to be honest about it, my tolerance for sleeping in the freezing temps seems... well has!... diminished...
As a couple of my new friends said... “it is age Ara!’. I will not deny it...
The riders, sceneries, the roads, even the locals in Kernville made us feel so welcomed... we are on the way back (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) to Utah to gather up the rest of my “stuff”, just to turn around and head back to another circle... the California Circle which comprises Death Valley Natl Park, Giant Sequoia Natl Monument, Sequoia Natl Park and Kings Canyon Natl Park... Give us a couple days and we will get there!... eventually...
Till next time... you stay well.

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/146639902-L.jpg

The Extraterrestrial Highway, NV.


We are back from Kernville and we are leaving for Kernville... Long story!!!
It was a great, cold, and sometimes miserable ride back... but those bad moments are water under the bridge and all that remains are some great memories of the Extraterrestrial Highway...
Did it flip my thoughts because of its name?... or the serenity of its vast quietness?
Still thinking about it...
And some pictures of it on the Blog... (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Enjoy and be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/147217243-M.jpg

Camping by the Kern River and a great ride... CA.

I guess last weekend’s get together took its toll... as we are back... a bit more north by the river, National Forest primitive camping... peaceful... and quiet, for now! The weather?... Riding to Glennville was an open vent jacket deal... incredibly pleasant.
Sequoia is in the plans... will have to detour as the road from here is still closed... we are just settling in, as they say.
Much more on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)in colors...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[kcowyo]

You're surprised that Spirit has become a celebrity? How could a handsome pup, going across country in a motorcycle side car with new red Doggles, not achieve notoriety?

Sorry to tell you this Ara, but I think you may have become the parsley on your Journey's plate. :bike_rider:

[beemerchef]

You are not kidding... at least if I could be a Cilantro instead...:chef:

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/147444637-L.jpg

After six months on the road... CA.

Just realized yesterday... the 27th... six months since we left Georgia! Such changes, and feeling as more to come as the Journey takes its own character and personality.
Nothing to celebrate about!... Just thoughts after thoughts crossing my mind...
I am not one that could just ride and eat and sleep... seems like, as I have all my life, to be dedicated somehow to a purpose accomplishing something positive...
Erasing the past path to create a new one and sharing it through my Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/?p=118#comments) has been a rewarding one... and with some hope will remain that way.
Thank you all for your support... hope I get to write someday...
“After 10 years on the road...” State and Country unknown for now!

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/148099431-L.jpg


A “must”do loop... CA.

One of the most pleasant ride taken yesterday... could have been a frame of mind but I know that the terrain had a lot to do with it also. Constant change of scenery, friendly drivers waiving, great weather and nice breeze... Watched some kayakers having a blast and back to camp a bit early decided to do my own take on this “tri-tip” revolution so popular here!!! You be the judge on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[Scott Brady]

Great picture of Spirit in the newspaper :clapsmile

[Scenic WonderRunner]

Ara.....

I really enjoyed your Kern River area blog.

That's on my list to explore this summer.

You GO!......Spirit!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/147217243-L.jpg


I wish I looked that good with red goggles on!:elkgrin:


.

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/149098097-L.jpg

The BIG BIG trees in CA... and a cup of coffee!

Moving means busy... I get particular as to where we camp and sometimes it is not too easy finding the right spot. And then there is cooking, riding and exploring, Spirit and our playtime,
you know such things are laundry and Murphy’s law to always fix the unpredictable...
I would not trade my days anymore for anything you could offer me to replace these times...
Including today’s ride to Sequoia amongst the BIG tress... they are huge!... and always wondered... why there?
The first part is already on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)... with the story of a cup of coffee... beware!
You be well... part two will follow very shortly... we are moving again tomorrow... for a week or so... it will be a bit more permanent... like a week?

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/149098123-L.jpg

Rain or shine we ride!!!... CA.

The worse detriment in our Journey is bad weather. We have been lucky... I cannot take the credit that I follow sunshine throughout as we have had bad surprises... from actually lack of forgetting to check the weather sites! Today started heavily forecasted... but it did not keep us down...
Too many roads and sites to see... even if it is a short loop we were out there...
Nice roads... nice scenery... California does not cease to amaze me... unfortunately the prices of goods also take me a bit back...
Our day... and some of the past day on our Blog... (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)in great colors of Spring.

You all be well... have a great weekend...

Ara & Spirit

[Red Zebra]

Great journey.....ride on............

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/150284810-L.jpg

Under the clear skies of California...

The skies are finally clear... Sequoia and Yosemite are waiting for us, but there are clouds of pain within me! A kidney infection... stones perhaps also... have managed to make their way since yesterday...
Already on medication... awaiting for all this to end... soon I hope... still took a chance for a little ride and mingle with some friends for some great food and conversations. Might have been a slight judgement error as now I am paying even a higher price for that escapade... but the road... at least half of it was worth it and so was the scenery as written on the Blog... (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)
Karma has been good as you might read about it... and as always my thoughts are... so many have it so much worse. This too shall pass...
Till later... be well... I am trying myself to go there!!!

Ara & Spirit

[Ursidae69]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/149098097-L.jpg

Ara & Spirit

The photos....... wow. :clapsmile :clapsmile

[beemerchef]

Hi Ursidae69... This one will become my favorite... couple nights ago!
http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/150689704-L.jpg

On to the Gold Country... CA.

Maybe a couple hundred miles further north tonight, I don’t keep much track of mileage truly.
More important are the roads traveled, the scenery and the feel of it.
Past Pioneer on 88... ahead of the riders coming up for the Pashnit Gathering and feeling very fortunate to be allowed to stay here. Beautiful country... much luscious green trees... great weather which I hope holds up for everyone else.
The route is on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)and so are a few other pictures...
Be well...
Ara & Spirit

[SLOwag]

Ara - I've enjoyed your blog and pictures immensely, it makes for a great five minute escape during the course of the day.

I'll be just north of your Hwy 49 gold country route this weekend rafting the American River out of the town of Lotus. If you make it that far north and need a place to stay for a night we are base camping along the river in tents and tent cabins and would welcome you and Spirit if need a place to park, cold beer and good company. PM me if you need details.

Ride on!

[pwc]

that's a great picture!

[BajaTaco]

Ara, parsley or not, (that was a great comment KC! LOL) I always love what you are cooking up here on your trip blog. Very sad to hear of your ailment! Get well soon... I know Spirit will help keep your mind focused on the good of each day and help you to forget the bad.

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/151556469-L.jpg

Do you believe it?... again! Lake Tahoe

At least, again, we did not crash... You must be getting used to this... anyone would like to by a used hack???... Look at it this way... every time something breaks, only 5 times however by now,
it is fixed better... stronger... OK... Maybe you want to wait a little longer, we are getting near completion... not much left that could break... This was a fabricator part by the way...
Besides that, the ride was just fantastic... 88/89 to Lake Tahoe at this time of the year must be the best... cool, just right temps, the roads are dry and open, even Tioga pass is opening tomorrow at noon!
Want to see some pictures... see what happened?... The Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)is up to date...
SmuMug was down for maintenance last night, could not post the pictures and that is OK too...
They are the best in the business...

You be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/152267088-L.jpg

A Great time at the Pashnit gathering... CA

This will be one of those memorable weekend... no doubt about it. Great people making us feel so welcomed, a family oriented gathering, nice to see and feel the togetherness, the friendships, the camaraderie... good food (at least I hope it truly was Friday night too...). The names will surface as we would love to come back next year.
I still need to have a square piece of metal, which a bolt goes through, permanently repaired with a solid piece machined, drilled and welded... Waiting word from South Lake Tahoe... if not... will look into Sacramento or Stockton... I just got word that this man does not have a drill press...
It will all work out... as it normally does.
More on the Blog... (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/152267039-L.jpg

Simply Spectacular Views... CA

You might be surprised at my Spectacular views of today... but I see them... and hope that you do to.
The rig is fixed and more... another bracket broke while there and being removed... Ah! I am so glad that I bought the “heavy duty” mounts... You might have had to send me flowers instead of reading this!
A ride to Yosemite coming up... I am ready... we are ready... I even took a night ride to the adjacent campground!... Make sure that my seven headlights are working... all is fine.
Check it out in the Blog... (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[BajaTaco]

Ara, great pics of the machine shop and handycraft. Glad to see you have a solid chunk of steel on there now, and some more new, improved pieces to boot. I look forward to the pics of Yosemite.

[dieselcruiserhead]

I was in Capital Reef in Utah two weekends ago.. These guys cruised by.. I waved and took a pic and thought of you! Best, Andre

[beemerchef]

Great photo!!! Back there next year!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/153582084-L.jpg

Lots of “WOWS”... Yosemite, CA.

Why did it take 18 hours from camp to Yosemite and back??? I am still wondering in amazement...
Great company... too many pictures taken... incredible roads and tired eyes from all the witnessed wonders.
Is there ever any bad weather here?... Perfect.
We are laying low today... real low! Getting ready to move to Cupertino tomorrow putting us closer to SF... and “that” will be a change for us. Are we going to do the tourist thing?... will see.
But Yosemite, part I anyhow, the start... is in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/154016613-L.jpg

More on Yosemite... Part II, CA.

The rest of the story as we take up residence in Cupertino...
We already have been to a Birthday Gathering with the South Bay Riders... and with the same named group a great ride that took us on some beautiful roads, including seeing for the first time in seven month since we left... the Pacific Ocean!!!
But that is for the next time... more on Yosemite on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/155052860-L.jpg


A day in San Francisco... CA.

With well chosen hours the traffic was light, with clear skies and hardly any haze blown away by the winds, it was however an emotional day to go back into San Francisco... It has been over three years...
The City had put on its best composure yesterday, helping out for clear pictures... and some narrative which are up now on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/155758950-L.jpg

A loop through Santa Cruz... CA.

More upper body workout on the rig today... sweepers, curves, tight curves... hair pins...
California has it in abundance and more! Some great blue skies... some wet and cold fog... I am learning to add and subtract clothing in a heartbeat... Every few mile has is own weather pattern!
Considering Santa Cruz was not too far... I am not exaggerating!
It was great ride, with a new tire on the sidecar and disc brake functioning close to perfection all day... (that is another story... for another day...), what more can one ask...
More of it on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)...

Till next time...

You be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/156252406-L.jpg

Thoughts, Bits and Pieces from SF, CA.

Ready... ready... to go back to the Mountains! The Sierras... space please!!! No more traffic lights... traffic period! John said... “you see what you are missing...”. NOT...
But this week has been great, culminating with great company last night over dinner in North Beach... what more can one wish for!
And some pictures not posted before... as I call them... Bits and Pieces... all on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

Have a great... long weekend.

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/156832080-L.jpg

The California Delta...


The Delta Sunset... Space Odyssey... not quite!
Near Walnut Grove, by the levee... by one of the rivers as there are many as we found out this afternoon!
Preceded by a ride to Somerset for a great Rib dinner... company... and laughter!
We are getting back into our space... I feel it!
More on the Blog... (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Be well...

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/157983063-L.jpg

Locke, an old Chinese Delta town, and some new friends… CA

One of course never realize the importance of anything till, in this case, they are about to loose it!… my old faithful lap top! So we have gone through the motions of moving every thing over… a new one, not an easy task… even for me watching my good friend Brian doing his “magic”.
Windows Vista?… Like taming a new wild animal… to say the least!
And a ride in a very interesting little and old Chinese town… I met some people that keep going back as if magnetized by its “space”.
Many pictures of the town, bumping into a rider with who I had corresponded… (what would be the chances!!!)
This new laptop is like a stiff pair of new shoes!… it is all on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) however…

Till then…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/158403436-L.jpg

At the track… and Point Reyes, CA

Good times as always, that is if you discard the windy conditions that are always prevailing here. Some nice cars and rigs at the track… If you are going to have some toys… these people are on top of it!!!
Point Reyes, a nice little town with some great broken down back roads to the Lighthouse…
All in a day’s work… all in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

Be well till next time…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/159124371-L.jpg

The Point Reyes Lighthouse, CA

300 steps down and 300 steps up… that is to the lighthouse…
It is a fine ride and a fine view worth coming back to and spending much more time, specially hiking to the beach for the day.
That is the rest of the story from the other day, this State is so full of wonders, including Tioga Pass which we rode yesterday…
Wonder if some members of the V Strom Forum that attended their Reno Gathering and themselves rode Tioga Pass on Saturday afternoon are here… I have something not too nice to say about them…
Enjoy the view on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/159113441-L.jpg

Tioga Pass… CA

A much anticipated ride since our last visit to Yosemite, the big loop through Tioga Pass, to 395 north and back through Lake Tahoe and Sacramento. Another ride not to miss, be ready for some photography as every curve is a new scenery. Many other riders going their own way, a popular destination. It was a long day since we came back that evening,
a bit tired… but rewarded mentally from the ride.
The story and pictures on the Blog.

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/160596389-L.jpg

We sure spend a lot of time on such a short stretch of road… a few hours to cover the 18 mile round trip. There is just something about those 9 miles… different crops, the trees lining the road, the water pumps in old trucks running 24/7, the best for my sight?… the sprinklers themselves… you can hear them too as the traffic is minimal…
We did participate… “we”… at the “Good Morning Sacramento” TV show… channel 31, CBS… fast and faster one needs to be!!! But we had a great time… they ate… we did not!
I have the video link on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…
Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/161591423-L.jpg

To the California Lost Coast…
Hard to post anything when in transit, specially when having to backtrack, actually push forward to load up on fuel and food and return… The Lost Coast of California is a surprise… How can such a vast area of this State be so desolate… rugged at the same time… I would call it “raw”.
The next leg is to Seattle… but a few days here first! Looking forward to meeting Andy and his family… including the many dogs… I think Spirit will be in Heaven!
The route and some pictures are on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)by now…

Enjoy and be well…

Ara & Spirit

[viter]

great great pictures! you are doing an amazing thing! thank you very much for sharing it with all of us!

and good luck on the road!

[beemerchef]

Thanks Viter...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/162151257-L.jpg


More of the California Lost Coast…

We like it here… a lot! Scenery, just a few campers, the beach everyday… awesome roads and, yes again, a Sunset every night!
Hope you are not tired of them yet… however… I will give you a break on them and take one myself too!
I also decided to offer my services!… Beemerchef is for hire! That is as a Personal Chef (http://www.personalchefara.com/)… dinners… parties… even classes, yes, to you... If and when in your area… or we can plan to be in your area. I am excited about this… I have been missing that part of my life.
The Giant trees… the Beach… Spirit posing… all in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) with a new look… You like it?… My idea… You don’t like it?… Brian’s idea, Mr Computer…

You be well…

Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/162291352-M.gif

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/163028839-L.jpg

The last Sunset, a true Gift… CA


We had to jump the gun as they say… and leave this am for Seattle. Exciting times ahead which will make this Journey a better one… a safer one.
The last sunsets from last night… more big trees… you are all lucky that we actually left as I might not have spared you!
From somewhere in Oregon right now… posted on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

Be well…

and remember… Beemerchef for hire when in your area
www.personalchefara.com

Ara and Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/163609512-L.jpg

Rig maintenance in Seattle… WA

They say it rains a lot here, in Seattle, and it must. It has been overcast, but we have been too busy taking the rig apart to notice much of it.
The great news is that “Old Faithful‘s” transmission is fine… it is a big load off my mind.

The dogs are having a blast playing, sometimes hard but always friendly.
It is nice to see Spirit having a friend… I often thought about getting him a companion… but… where would he fit in the sidecar! I had a chance of it the other day when I was offered a Pit puppy!… white with black lips and an L marking on her neck.. Named “Lips”!

No riding for a while… trying to stay busy to distract me from the thought of missing my daily ritual!… won’t be long.

Will post the progress on the Blog (http://theoasisofmysoul.com/) with everything else that is and will be going on.

Be well…

Don’t forget Beemerchef is for hire when in your area…

Ara & Spirit

[Ursidae69]

How is the wear and tear doing on the ike Ara? Enjoyed the last few updates!

[beemerchef]

Well, the bike will be ready to roll... soon again! BETTER than ever...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/165384407-L.jpg

Heading back to Seattle…

Mind games that Spirit is here… I hear and feel him, at the same time I get this “drop the stomach” notion at times… I will have to endure this two more days till our eyes meet again. Patience… I think more than that will be needed.
1100 miles or so to go which will see me back in Seattle Saturday, not Friday as I had planned on. Driving is not my favorite past time!
Had to be done… much more ahead.
Enjoy the pictures in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)… as I finally stopped to actively find an Internet connection and take some time to write.

Be well…

Beemerchef for hire if and when in your area!


Ara & Spirit

[kcowyo]

Ara, congratulations on your birthday present!

What a wonderful gift, I wonder how you'll be motivated enough to leave it each morning for a bike ride....? And how you'll convince Spirit as well. Will this mean the end of micro-cooking?

I'm glad to read that your hand is healing. Keep pounding out those miles back to Seattle. Knowing you're in a hurry to return to Spirit, I won't ask if you're stopping in WY (today?), but that I hope we can catch up later this summer at your leisure.

It is a real pleasure to view your photos and follow along on your journey. Can't wait to see where fate, curiosity and the Queen Mary take you next. Don't go gettin' all soft on us with your new luxurious accommodations!

Best -

[beemerchef]

:arabia: My answers are in the Blog!!!... Thanks for the comments... I think it was on the tip of many tongs!!!... It's all good... even what is in the picture!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/166123768-L.jpg

Back in Seattle… reunited!

Feels good to be with my buddy again… even if he was a bit angry! How dare you leave me behind! Feels good to see… the rig again. Did I just say that or did Andy threatened me if I did not write this? The garage door was closed when I pulled in… good thing!
It is all good… all of it! Tired… too much driving…
The rest is on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Beemerchef is for hire if and when in your area…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/167011202-L.jpg

Idling near Seattle… WA

One day at the time brings us closer to the new roads ahead of us… We are here thought, so laid back… further than most houses from the main road it feels like we are indeed camping out… the dogs are having a blast and much work ahead for both Andy and I… as I have been allowed to help!!! Yes…
A nice walk right here and some thoughts in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/167685653-L.jpg

A Birthday in Seattle… WA

We are at a stand still tonight… Friday night… parts have not showed up as just about everything else has been done, reinforced… need the shocks back to get the rest going… all three of them! Managed to cook a nice dinner last night having come across a Cooper River Sockeye Salmon… fresh… caught Sunday. Some errands… more tomorrow again and will check out the town… “Enumclaw”…
It has been REALLY nice to get best wishes from so many! A real treat I assure you…
When are we getting back on the road? Most likely Wednesday… not a good day for it considering the Holiday weekend, but…
More on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/168236730-L.jpg

Enumclaw… WA

I don’t know about Spirit… but I can taste and see the finish line suddenly! If it was not for the rebuilt shocks shipped from Georgia ground instead of air… we would have been rolling by Monday for sure… Now? Maybe Tuesday evening… pull a late one!
Anyhow I cannot leave this town till I have a piece of a pie from the “Pie Goddess”… You can see her on the Blog… (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)

Till later… you be well…

Ara & Spirit

… and don’t forget, if and when in your area… would love to cook for you!

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/169762794-M.jpg

Rolling again… Mt Rainier, WA

Savoring the moments with each mile with an incredible handling rig, Mt Rainier’s breathtaking beauty, snow in July, incredible weather, great company, a happy Spirit… what more would I ask for! I must have done something right to deserve all this. What an accomplishment on Andy’s part to have spend unselfishly so many hours reconstructing the rig from ground up… There is Karma, I cannot ignore it. It makes me await the future with excitement as the times to come can only be filled with the great pictures of a life that can only have more positive aspects…
More pictures on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/170429730-L.jpg

A fun taste of Seattle… WA

Noah… RattytoAustin… this one is for you guys! Thanks for the company and the entertainment… also for Woody from “Woody’s Wheels” for introducing us to a delightful friend of yours… Meg.
It was a fun day… quite different from the ordinary… There will be more of those I am sure as we are moving near by tomorrow waiting for some mail to follow me…
Maybe too many pictures today?… Oh well… enjoy them in the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well… as always…

… and remember, if in your area, would love to cook for you… I can do that!

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/171598397-L.jpg

Just like a maiden voyage…. WA

No having my usual Internet connection has been enjoyable… seems like “we” have much more time… a double edge sword however… the jury is still out. This feels as part II of the Journey… everything has been fixed… redone… realigned… I just wish I was more mechanically inclined as I have, it seems like, done my share of damage and ill repairs…
The sights are incredible… camping by ourselves… only silence… only the birds in concert…
Sunsets on the hills… and more on the Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

You be well…

Ara & Spirit

[bovw]

Looks like a fantastic journey, glad I found this post. I'll take time later to read your blog.

[RedDog]

Ara, again, you're touching on so many breathtaking places I've been, often more than once, usually via motorcycle over the years.

You've referred to Montana and such down the road. What would it take to encourage a small side trip into Alberta when you're to be so close?

[Scenic WonderRunner]

Aloha! Ara!

You and Spirit are Lookin' Good.....In the Great State Of Washington!

I was born in Washington.....and spent my best early years in Seattle!

Lookin' Good!

Great Pics! They are bringing back some great memories!



.

[beemerchef]

Nice to read you... beautiful State!!!

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More local riding and stuff… WA

The word on everyone’s mind is HOT… 104 degrees today… uncomfortable after being used to some cool weather. Have to watch Spirit closely, stay under cover or keep moving. After a day at Dauntless, having the sidecar’s disc brake reworked on, great results by the way, courtesy of Jay, we even went up the pass to… I thought… lay on the snow and cool off. But no more snow! All has melted, except on the peaks of course.
More on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/173204905-L.jpg

Mt St Helen weekend… WA (part I)

What a coincidence to be on the same route and destination as the Northwestern Moto Guzzi riders… we end up camping close by and enjoying their food and company… Learned a couple cooking tips… after all these years… a ride to Mt St Helen…
Today however I have written some thoughts about Life and this Journey following some interesting conversations with other riders… tomorrow will be about the weekend… all on the website. (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) Lets think about this as a two part… to Mt St Helen…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[BajaTaco]

A very special post (http://theoasisofmysoul.com/?p=151) from you today Ara. Thanks for writing it. I hope everyone who drops by here takes the time to read it.

You be well too!

:arabia:

[beemerchef]

Thanks Chris... Mt St Helen makes you think! Makes me think anyhow...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/173234568-L.jpg


Up Mt St Helen… WA (part II)

Does not seem that I can write it all in one page or so… too many pictures also… It was a great weekend being close by the Northwest Guzzi riders… a great and kind group of riders… After all, I was the outsider!
I will leave my feelings toward Mt St Helen for the next time… eerie… transcending deep thoughts… ground zero of a 9/11 with Mother Nature responsible for such destruction and taking so many lives…
In the meantime you can check out how to make an omelet in a ziplock bag… and the sights of this Tropical like forest we have been in… all on the website (http://theoasisofmysoul.com/?p=152).

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[Ursidae69]

Great stuff. :lurk:

[BajaTaco]

Ha! Who would have though you'd be learning a thing or two about preparing food. That salmon looks incredible. Thanks for the tip on the omelets. :chowtime:

[beemerchef]

And HERE more sea food! Olympic Peninsula!!!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/173234236-L.jpg


Seeing Mt St Helen is believing… WA

We finally have made it to the Olympic Peninsula which will start riding tomorrow… seems to be a lot of riders going around… most heavily packed… must be a destination…
But today is about the last day up Mt St Helen… I promise this is the end of it… with the salmon and a little dish of my own… a favorite that I have been craving since I left Georgia…
All on the website… (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)
Enjoy and be well…

Ara & Spirit

[BajaTaco]

Ara if you get a chance, you should hike in for a soak in the Olympic hot springs. It's a bit of heaven.

[kcowyo]

....you should hike in for a soak in the Olympic hot springs. It's a bit of heaven.

:iagree:

Love the omelet trick and your latest dish. I've never been able to make a hollandaise when it didn't feel like my arm wasn't going to fall off from the constant whisking. It was always popular at Sunday brunch on the eggs benedict, as was the prime rib hash.

Best biscuits & gravy I can recall (and I'm from the south) were at the Hungry Bear Cafe in Sappho. The Makah Indian Reservation in Neah Bay has an amazing museum chronicling their whale hunting history, as well as being the westernmost point in the lower 48.

It seems your bike repairs and Spirit "repairs" have repaired your spirits as well. Just keep remembering, on your worst day out there, any one of us would trade places with you in a heartbeat.

Keep the dream alive Ara - :smiley_drive: :chowtime: :roost:

[beemerchef]

Thanks for the mental and georgraphical tips! Will bite the bullet in a bit and get out to get soaked!!!... Nothing like a bit of slippery tires practice...
The :sunny: will be out soon enough...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/175128950-L.jpg

Olympic Peninsula… WA


The forecast is rain and more rain… I do ride in the rain and so does Spirit… This would be a good time to test his cover at higher speeds and of course his raincoat! We end up in Port Townsend yesterday, today’s plan was to see the ocean, also the rain forest maybe as there is so much to see here. This forecast is of the same for the coming three days… in the meantime you can read about yesterday, the ride, meeting some BARF riders and the worse of the 10 best voted cheeseburger! I just cannot figure that one out yet…
The roads are great here, the feel of the land even better, the locals are friendly and the view, well… you will have to see the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) for it.

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[Scenic WonderRunner]

Very Nice Ara and Spirit!

My old Seattle ties.....and native side are diggin' it!

[beemerchef]

Nice people around here also...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/175564191-L.jpg

Lake Cushman and back… WA

Miles and miles of logging roads to ride around here, we did some with Jim for most of the day as the rain was on and off sparing us a bit.
It is relaxed… laid back… not much of a choice as the rain gear never dries out. Better days are in the forecast to ride on the other side of the Peninsula ans see the Ocean again.
The rig is doing great, solid, and as Jim rides an identical one we took some time to inspect each other’s ride…
There is an oyster Farm just across the street… we had some… and more, all on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).
You be well… send us some sunshine.

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/176749441-L.jpg

The SUN is out… WA

It is news when the SUN is out… added energy from its rays… smiles are all around… on the ride we went, up Hurricane Ridge, real energizing. I say we, as besides Spirit, Mike with his V Strom joined us… and… smart, rode behind us! At least he did not have to wait.
Many riders out today, I can tell they are camping from the gear strapped on… have no clue where they are going… I think it is the sunshine… everyone must be in shock… feeling great!… as we are. Even the ones stopped are not talking!!!
A chicken recipe template… figure that one out!… and more pictures on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

Till next time and always… be well.

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/177445626-L.jpg

The Olympic Peninsula loop… WA

A long riding day for us considering we stop often… for Spirit you know… and what a great day it was! With the windshield removed I am still amazed at the difference in the handling, speeds and gas mileage…
The loop is awesome and I do now understand why so many bikes pass by here never to be seen backtracking. Beautiful coastline, Indian Reservation little town, friendly people… how can they not be when they see Spirit wearing his Doggles…
I even made an illegal U turn right on 101, never seeing the Ranger parked across the road… decided I better have an excuse and ask her for some phony directions before getting a ticket… she was laughing her head off when she saw him!!! Spirit… the savior… not a word about the U turn!
And much more of this great day on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[kcowyo]

So many great places, so many great memories....:rolleyes:

Ara, thanks so much for taking the Loop and sharing your wonderful photos and impressions with us. That area holds some very special memories for me. Thanks for letting me see it again.

Be safe -

[beemerchef]

There will be more!!!...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/178154685-L.jpg

The road to Neah Bay and more… WA


What a day! How come many had told me to skip 112 to Neah Bay when I find it one of the most picturesque and challenging road on the Peninsula?… Trying to keep it a secret?
Some sand sculptures in Port Angeles… and the best meet? Zak and Duchesse… 3 years on the road… this is when one can say “a picture is worth a thousand words”.
Breakfast with some great Adv Riders before their 3 to 4 day take off for a big circle of the land here… what else?… Just have to see it all in the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/178589634-L.jpg


Neah Bay… WA


Just have to post another picture of Duchesse and Spirit in their respective vehicles… It is just too good to pass it up!
After parting we made it to Neah Bay, an excellent riding road that will keep you on your toes all the way to the end. The end?… calm, serene… isolated, a true retreat if you want to get away from it all.
We are already packing today some (I am anyhow!) as we will be leaving the area tomorrow morning… we have been in the Seattle area for over a month! I has been good to us… Columbia River… Oregon’s High Deserts will be our next destination as we are slowly headed back south for the winter… no rush!
More picture on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/179858735-L.jpg


To the Columbia River… WA/OR

A couple days by this river and on to some BLM land in Oregon’s High Deserts, south of Hell’s Canyon (???), near the town of Oxbow, which actually is right on the Idaho/Oregon border. I have stopped just wandering toward the next destination, sometimes not knowing where to stop is bringing up some unpleasant surprises, like hours of “finding” that right spot! With all the information available on the Internet and Map software, there is no reason no to.
Pretty busy area here, buses… RV’s… all sightseeing the falls, the hydro electric plants, the windsurfers, the Lewis and Clark trail which is everywhere… We joined them! Playing Tourist for a couple days, enjoyable and at the same time learning some facts about this area.
You can read all about the first part of our stay on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Enjoy… and be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/179894434-L.jpg


More of the Columbia River… WA/OR

Once again we have been transported to the Desert. Oregon’s High Deserts, on the Snake River bordering Idaho, near the town of Oxbow. Once again this morning I am listening to the silence while sipping on my home roasted Coffee… watching the sun slowly making its mark. I could not help being emotional as the landscape slowly changed yesterday. Yes, the bright greens are gone, the cool temperatures of the Olympic Peninsula have warmed up, but I now realize that the Desert is my element. This is where I feel at home.
Today’s Blog is the continuation of our loop by the Columbia River, a couple days ago, about 300 miles back. Beautiful water falls, wind surfers braving 30 to 40 mph winds as we also did!
Enjoy the pictures (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)… and be well.

Ara & Spirit

[BajaTaco]

Excellent photo with the colors and textures. And the words speak so much. I enjoyed reading about Spirit getting into the groove! I can just imagine it. I'm looking forward to the "in motion" pic if you can safely snap one.

Take care Ara

[Scenic WonderRunner]

Ara!

Looking good!

Awesome Pics!

Thanks soooooo Much!


.

[beemerchef]

Thanks guys,,, THIS is NICE HERE!!! Some shots of Spirit also riding!!! Now if we could just exchange seats for a while!!!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/181144203-L.jpg


Hell’s Canyon… OR/ID


Sometimes all falls in place even better than imagined. Along the Snake River, by a little town called Oxbum, the BLM campsites are the best I have ever experienced. It is 6am, nice and cool, even during the day the heat has not been too bad, this would be actually the time to ride. The nice breeze has taken the smoke away, the nearest camper is about one mile away, that might change on the weekend, and again, long overdue, I can listen to the silence…
So many different destinations from here. We did ride to Hell’s Canyon Dam, the little town of Halfway, will probably get up the Mountains a bit later on today toward Joseph and check out the Lookout, which road has just reopened yesterday.
This the Oregon High Desert with an incredible variety of terrains which holds its own against any other Desert.
Our first days here, on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well… Ara & Spirit

[BajaTaco]

Ha! They look like the little guy on the back of your bike next to the ADV decal. Wild photo...

You came through - the pics of Spirit are just as I had imagined! Priceless... I know exactly what you mean about the constant looking over and then forward again. Whenever I drive my mom's car with her and her little dog in the passenger seat, the dog does the same thing - looks me right in the eye with a big ol' smile on her face and then out the window again. It cracks me up because she doesn't seem to tire of it.

Congrats on your idyllic campsite. Sounds perfect. With broadband access from your dish, but no cell phone service, you should try skype (http://www.skype.com/products/skypeout/) if you haven't already worked out some way to use your 'net connection for phone calls.

[beemerchef]

Thanks, I am looking into SKYPE... as long as I can call someone that does not have a computer... my 80 year old mother in Munich!!!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/181613654-L.jpg

Halfway, to Joseph and some thoughts… OR

Camping here by the Snake river in such isolation and serenity seems to have brought up so many thoughts regarding life itself and the path that I am on. I write about it, they are personal thoughts, friends have asked me how can I expose them all so publicly, I do, there is nothing to hide… If anything they might help others dig deep into themselves and in turn communicate them with their own friends and loved one, maybe appreciate their own path a bit more and take the time to “smell the roses”! It brings up such a calm feeling when one can really stay in touch with themselves without the burden of the daily grind… something to try. It will only bring up the reality of it all… maybe help taking some decisions that might not have been otherwise!
The riding also continues here, such little traffic, such beautiful roads where the sights and the smells take over any other present senses.
Halfway is a great little town… all with some pictures (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) here…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/182601927-L.jpg


I finally found the original Ford Bronco…

Diamond in the rough… OR

I always try to come up with a title that would be fitting… this one is! Seems like I just can’t sit back in this area… between going to Halfway to eat at Mimi’s… riding along the Snake River… Hells Canyon… an old friend in Joseph… the Farmer’s market… an organic Peach Orchard… it just does not stop! Tomorrow was planned to be a totally, I call it, “veggie” day… you know, do nothing day… but it is HOT again, unbearable during the day and it is time to move a few miles to some cooler temps… Just a few miles!
In the meantime my front Ohlin shock has decided to sip oil again… might have to take a quick run to?… Portland?… Bend?… Clarkston?… to have it fixed… If anyone knows of an Ohlin service shop near by… please let me know…
Enjoy the colors on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/182602001-L.jpg


More Halfway… OR

With still much unexplored roads in this area we have just moved to some cooler grounds. No surprise as I understand now why they call it “Hells Canyon”… a bit unbearable… when you are riding and hot air hits your face… it’s time to go on. We have settled near Halfway, maybe we are just getting too comfortable near this small town. Population… 350. Still working on the logistics about getting 3 new tires and a front shock fixed from a small oil leak… The logistics about living on the road!
Another recipe… a failed dinner (not mine!)… all on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/184009348-L.jpg


Life in the slow lane… OR

Waiting for tires… they seem to vanish a bit faster by their end and so, staying local… Back to the Peach Orchard and getting healthier by the minute on this diet of fresh and delicious produce available around here. I almost feel like I am going to a cleansing of both the soul and the body! The temps are not letting down, they are calling for some clouds soon which will cool things off, in the meantime Spirit has a real hard time with the heat… and then he also has a real hard time with the cold! Life is rough for short hair dogs. Will need to find a good source for some warm coats for the winter coming up soon. Finally posting a few pictures from our visit to the Interpretive Oregon Trail Center where I learned a lot about the hardships of the Pioneers… “rough” does not begin to describe their own Journey.
All on today’s website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/184732704-L.jpg

A bunch of old buildings… OR

More than $20 million dollars have come out of this town while busy with more than 1000 miners! We stopped downtown… on the dirt road where now silence was the only dividend of that fortune found years ago. Some buildings still stand with no one around… much to think about!
A summer recipe considering all the fresh produce I cannot get enough around here… and that about does it for today (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)!

Some of the pictures have been processed with a new HDR software I have been trying… time consuming. The jury is still out… what do you think?

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/185325691-L.jpg


The road to Fish Lake… Or

Finally tomorrow am my front shock should be off the bike in the hands of GP Suspension… I am actually posting this from Oregon City… where we are spending the night at Tom’s and Sue’s house, “Road Rash” on Adv Rider!… a great time, including Spirit with his new girl friend Sandy… he gets around doesn’t he?
But today’s Blog is about our little excursion up to Fish Lake… at a bit above 6000 feet, one of the most serene, peaceful and beautiful area I have experienced yet.
We will be back to camp by tomorrow night… in the meantime you can check out the pictures on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well….

Ara & Spirit

[SLOwag]

Seeing Spirit all decked out in gear makes me wonder if he's ready to take up surfing....

http://loewssurfdog.blogspot.com/

Still enjoying your blog. Hijack over

[beemerchef]

He is just that kind of a dog that would!!!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/186354207-L.jpg

To Portland and back… OR

Adventure Rider Forum has a great thread called “the tent space” where whoever can offer shelter, a room, a bed, tools… whatever they can for the passer by riding through if needed, does. I rarely use it… have in the past when broken down with great experiences ending up with great new friends. This was the case again a couple days ago when I needed to have my front Ohlin shock rebuilt by GP Suspension in Oregon City… great guys by the way… (seems that everything is “great” today!!!). We stayed with Tom and Sue (Road Rash and Tequila Girl… there has to be a story or two here!) making our outing so much more pleasant and easy. Thank you guys… and Sandy… and Glenn (Geode) for having started this great thought on the Forum.
A quick 800 miles round trip through rain and cold and a head wind for a while… it was all part of riding! At the end… a great sunset, Mother Nature had the palette out and was not sparing any colors…
The whole story is here (http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/186354207-L.jpg)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/187198400-L.jpg


The Kleinschmidt Grade… OR

You try typing that one a few times!… Great loop through Oxbow, Cuprum and Council, Cambridge and back here. Empty roads for the most parts, dirt and gravel but made for Buick… besides that height… vertigo problem on the grade, it was another fine day. A big piece of banana cream pie that almost put me to sleep halfway back and some history of the area… all on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

Be well… Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/187875912-L.jpg

A great loop… OR

If you have any kind of vehicle that would slightly do some mild off road riding, driving… this loop is a great one, not to be missed. It will take you from some of the least visited part of the Snake River to more deserted roads going up Lookout Mountain and finally back to the start. A little bit of gravel, sand, rocks, ruts… you name it! A few thousands of feet elevation change… all this in one day… who would have known this! In Oregon.
I narrated the pictures today the best I could… enjoy the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…



Be well

Ara & Spirit

[Scenic WonderRunner]

Looking Good.....Ara and Spirit!

I'm luvin' it!

Now Spirit.....I want to see some good pics soon (or video!).....of you leanin' in da turns bradda! I heard you are getting pretty darn good!


.

[flywgn]

Ara,

Today you've met up with a good friend of ours "Tioga George". Dang, what a small internet world. Just found out on George's blog.

What a kick.

Allen R

[beemerchef]

Yes, George is cool... we had lunch! tried to get him to buy a motorcycle!!!

Small world... do you know him?

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/188915859-L.jpg

Everything is a compromise… OR

Evolution?… Getting older? Straying from true form? From tent and riding every single mile of a Journey to trailering and living in an RV…
I have had issues with those facts truly, I think I have come to terms with it, I have to if we want to continue living on the road for many more years, that is the big difference versus traveling.
I thought I would show you a bit how we now live… I am not complaining… hot water, shower, cooking with more ease… even a freezer! A few pictures here (http://theoasisofmysoul.com/?p=172)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[flywgn]

Yes, George is cool... we had lunch! tried to get him to buy a motorcycle!!!

Small world... do you know him?....

Yes, we do. First met George maybe five years ago. Four? Can't remember precisely. I think the first contact was through DataStorm Users Forum. Found out he is a cancer survivor, as is my wife, and he stopped by to see us in CA. After that, we caught up with him in Baja, Arizona, and just a couple of weeks ago, here in Idaho.

I check out his blog a couple of times a week. Same for your blog, incidentally. Thought a year or so ago that it would only be time before you two vagabonds would meet up on the blue roads.

Diana passed on an omelet recipe when he came by here and I think it caught his attention. He loves omelets. Don't know if eggs are on "Mavicito's" diet or not. :)

I don't think you have to apologize for your new kitchen on wheels at all. As you say, we all compromise in order to do the things we love doing.

BTW, are you on the way east? :chowtime:

Allen R

[beemerchef]

Yes, small world!!! I am on my way to... Big Bend, TX... where I will be spending some serious time throughout the winter... 3 weeks just a while ago was just not enough... stay in touch.

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/189367941-L.jpg


So many more roads… OR


There is no lack of roads, doable roads, here in Eastern Oregon, this also includes Western Idaho. With no end to it… The weather had held up beautifully, nice, specially for the coming County Fair and Rodeo coming up this weekend… never been to one and I am looking forward to this new page of experiences. I wonder if Spirit is also?… could he make maybe new friends?
More pictures on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Ara and Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/190356541-L.jpg

What really matters… OR

I admit, a lot of time for introspect while living on the road… specially when discarding what does not matter. One become’s sensitive to its surroundings and own desires on how to live. It is a raw life more than ever, the tasks do not vanish, but a certain concept of freedom increases.
We also had a visit from a friend I had not seen in 3 years or more, a little ride up a Lookout point which had been closed due to the fires… I am learning how to create web pages to incorporate a magazine within my Blog which I will name “my first hundred years’… it is all here (http://theoasisofmysoul.com/?p=174)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/191089583-L.jpg


My first rodeo… Halfway, OR


From the Deserts and Canyons to this small town of Halfway, experiencing my first Rodeo and Fair was a great experience. Population 350, grown to maybe a thousand for the weekend, it was all about family, kids and friendships. A total “feel good” three days. No Nintendo here, no electronics… but horses and livestock with fathers, mothers and their kids portraying this lifestyle unfound in the big city.
So many picture opportunities here… I had a blast with the camera, people and the animals… great people (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)!

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/191703321-L.jpg


This is one Blog I really enjoyed posting, at the same time as much as I felt welcomed, I also felt a bit as I was watching from the other side of the window. The “family” presence was so strong and in retrospect I have looked deeply at my own life these past couple of days… I cannot help feeling a sense of envy… feeling a missing link… as Spirit and I are such a small family ourselves… too small! But… such is life you know.
So I could not fit 3 days of Rodeo and Fair in one Blog! More of it today, including some of the Parade, the little guys riding… wild lambs, more Livestock being sold at auction meaning sometimes a substantial income for those kids. On the whole, a total family affair. I’ll spare you a third day!
We have not done any riding these past few days! How strange… just walking back and forth to watch it all.
6 more days and we will start the long way down to Big Bend, Texas. As much as I will miss Halfway, I am looking forward to it. We were there for 3 weeks a while back and barely scratched the surface, hopefully the photography also will be exciting.
Enjoy the pictures (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…



Ara & Spirit

[Scenic WonderRunner]

Looking Good...Ara and Spirit!

Thank You for All you do!


Much Aloha!




.

[beemerchef]

Thank you... and Aloha too!!! see you in Texas???

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/192824377-M.jpg


Under the weather… OR


Trying to keep my composure today… yesterday… how quickly one can succumb to a bit of illness! At least take a walk through town I thought… a good thing with good weather. My mail arrived, bumped into some riders exploring the area on some very cool bikes and some good Karma which I wrote about on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).
Change of plans, and then again more changes and changes… We are leaving for Texas tomorrow am via Sacramento to visit with my friend Brian and his family… and learn some computer stuff! Not my favorite hobby, but, I have to learn to be self sufficient when I start adding an Index on my website so one can navigate and find recipes and routes I have taken… It will be a slow road, don’t expect it overnight, but it will get done…
Poor Spirit is stuck with me not going anywhere… good thing I have not heard a complain… yet.


Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/193805048-L.jpg

Placerville… CA

Back into the thick of life… compared with Halfway! So this is where everyone has been hiding this past month. Terlingua, Texas… he we come. But first, some tutorial from my friend Brian, I am going to be Internet literate very soon, I just feel bad that he has to put up with me these coming days…
Used the “tent space” again, from Adv Rider’s Forum… camped here on 40 acres, gracious hosts Kurt and Evie. He even had to get his chainsaw and start clearing some room for us! Many nice people left in this world, trust me on that.
More pictures and our route is on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/).

Enjoy and be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/194739305-L.jpg

The Gold Town of Coloma… CA

First day on the road back to Texas, Terlingua! We are both so exhausted that we stopped early, I hope for a good night sleep. I think stumbling from the High Desert of eastern Oregon to the fire smoke and smog filled air of Placerville was too great of a shock for us. Add to the day hours of computer tutorial, a totally obscure path for me, a short circuit was imminent!
We did find time to visit the little town of Coloma, check out the remains of this old Gold Town, and that was it! I am excited about that moment, in a few days, when, as we exit the last curve approaching Terlingua, my sight will focus on
Big Bend!
The links that I am working on are public, they are work in progress! There will not be much added till we stop moving for a bit… and I am wide open for suggestions! Check it out (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/195403713-L.jpg


Not much rest, almost in Kingman today to visit… one more time… Mark and Angie’s family… maybe they will adopt us! It is only the third time we visit them…
It was hard not to stray while going through Mojave Desert… all those trails in sight, this incredible vast area, spectacular!
And I will write this here also… I would like to invite anyone “that does not” have a Blog, to send me an article, with pictures, to be published in the magazine section of the website “My first hundred years”. It could be about your pet (s), a recipes, travels, motorcycle, truck, life itself… thoughts! I only ask for it to be “G” rated… I have many young readers and there is enough garbage out there, to put it bluntly! This will give an opportunity for anyone not having the ability, yet, to see their writing on the web…
You never know, you might decide after that to have your own Blog! I think the interaction will be nice and interesting for all. No strings attached… e mail me for more information if you like.
Will be waiting (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

In the meantime, you all be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/196822230-L.jpg

A weekend in Kingman… AZ

Not a detour, but coming through Phoenix I thought we would take care of a recall that could set the cruise control unit on fire… even when parked! First appointment?… December!!! Or leave the RV there for 3 to 4 days… How about moving in a Ford dealer for a while… I guess will keep this one on the list to do. Seven years later has not caught on fire… hope it wait’s a bit longer…
Great weekend in Kingman with Mark and Angie, a great ride to the West entrance of the Grand Canyon, the family, the animals… you name it as you can read about it on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

You all be well… we are in transit! Oh… managed to add a recipe…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/198114414-L.jpg

Arriving in Big Bend, Texas…

Familiar roads leading to Terlingua, a couple miles from the entrance of Big Bend Park, at the same time all new feelings discovering a terrain I feel never truly experienced as we will this time.
The beat is off as the Dish is not working… first time now for 24 hrs. Worse things have happened, there is a Restaurant/Coffee Shop that has WI FI walking distance… as the last time we were here. What an irony!
The weather? Just missed a nasty storm… good timing I guess as everything rocked and rolled overnight…
So, some pictures of the Journey down here on the website, and also a new articles submitted by a 9 year old rider from Louisiana, Brandon! What a great kid… and father team.

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

www.theoasisofmysoul.com our website…

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/198536113-L.jpg

The Big Bend articles, 1, Texas.

The excitement is at a new height! And here I thought after such an incredible and I need to use the word “life” in Halfway, Oregon, we would loose that space we love so much to be within. It was a long haul here to the south, took a little bit of a toll as it always does when navigating the mainstream… but Paradise has again opened its doors for us to level off and discover new sceneries, feels and friends.
I feel a bit above ground today, my steps are lighter and frame by frame I know that the days will present themselves filled with sunshine and full moons.
It was a great first day here in Terlingua, Texas… as you can read and see all about it on the website… with a new recipe and even in their own words an article on the “Miracle Inn”…

Till next time… you all be well…

Ara & Spirit… who was not in a good mood in this picture!!!


www.theoasisofmysoul.com our Website and Blog

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/199359046-L.jpg


The Big Bend articles, part 2, Texas

Still fairly warm in the afternoons for Spirit mainly. We took advantage of the cool morning to enter the Park for the first time and witness our first sunrise. Quiet, peaceful, it was time for much reflection on the past, the present. Suddenly all was still, only shadows moving along slowly painting and reveling the colors of the peaks surrounding us and the town of Terlingua just a few miles away.
A ride up the Basin, had been a long time it seems like filled with so many miles across this country in between. All I can say is “it feels good!”.
Come and visit, maybe the pictures on the Blog will entice you to do the same as we do…

Till next time… you all be well, have a great week.

Ara & Spirit

www.theoasisofmysoul.com our Blog and website…

[RoundOut]

I cannot believe how green that is for September!!! WOW! :wings:
They must have gotten a ton of moisture this year. I know Houston has, but I didn't think it went that far west.


http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/198114414-L.jpg

Arriving in Big Bend, Texas…

[beemerchef]

Thanks for the reminder... I had noticed, specially in the Park but forgot to mention it...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/200633843-L.jpg

The Big Bend articles, part 3, Texas

More of the Ghost Town, I am drawn to it, the old school, the church, the radio station… deep down I feel that Terlingua is making a comeback as some new businesses are establishing themselves, or is it only because the “season” is coming up…
The afternoons are still hot here, any day now for the cooler weather to arrive. This is here unlike any other town I have ever been in. And to think that some just pass through, maybe stop for a meal and go on never knowing really goes on here.
More pictures and the story on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)… and a new recipe…

Be well… Ara & spirited Spirit!

[Scenic WonderRunner]

If I wore Doggels.....could I make it to Texas that quick>?!!!

.....hehe


Hi Ara and Spirit!

I'm amazed how fast you made it down to Texas!

Looking good!

I'm always enjoying your pics and write up's!

Thanks for all you do.

[beemerchef]

You will need to get your own however... he already was not happy when I wrote "HI" on the lenses of his dusty ones!!! Yes... we made it fast... we are now here to enjoy it... come and visit!!!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/201200480-L.jpg

The Big Bend articles, part 4, Texas

Good sign, the days are starting to blend in and only sunsets and sunrises are marking the beginnings and the end, this means we are on Terlingua time… which could be symbolized by a blank clock with no hands or numbers!!!
Kathy is back in town and my favorite hang out is now open again… how about some coffee and an “all day burrito” by the fire at around 7 in the morning watching the sun do it’s thing… will we see you there?… Holidays are coming up… better plan on it!
A ride on some nice dirt road… all in the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/) today.

Be well… Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/202129523-L.jpg


The road of a thousand pictures, Texas…

No wonder I have to mostly ride alone, I think most would live me behind when it takes me a whole day to cover the 120 miles or so to Presidio and back filling the camera’s memory card!
The heat slammed on us in the afternoon, it was suddenly brutal and luckily we found some shade at a rest area. Much water is a must these days.
As I have been asked what is happening with our Journey, why am I working 3 days a week, are we settling down… the answer is NO on the settling down!… with more details in today’s Blog (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)… it is all good, better if nothing else!

Till next time, you be well…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/203177455-L.jpg

More about River Road, Texas

I suddenly had two dogs in the sidecar yesterday but was tool slow with the camera!!! What a sight and laughter as also I had come across some riders from San Antonio… They did make a big mistake having lunch at the wrong place instead of Kathy’s Kosmic Kaffee… The food they had instead… I will say no more!!!
Life goes on here, finally some cooler weather mixed in with some clouds, some welcome temperatures.
More about the ride and some pictures on the website… a new recipe also has been posted, a new old recipe that is retrieved from the Blogs… things are starting to be better organized! Finally…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[Scenic WonderRunner]

You mean.....if I could cook as good as you....Ara.......I could do this too!


This is the answer to one of life's most important questions!:wings:



OK......I'm very busy .......don't bother me........... 'cause I'm IN da Kitchen!



.

[beemerchef]

What time is dinner??? Hopefully will get together on the road sometime next year... you will be the "chosen" one!!! All jokes aside... what I post is easy... very easy... Sweating yet?:chowtime:

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/203818017-L.jpg

La Kiva, Terlingua… Texas

Finally some pictures of this famous lounge restaurant where I spend 3 evenings a week chatting, I mean cooking for the locals and tourists… Truly a fun place, the best choice in town for me to get to know what is going on in the area and the off the map places to ride and explore.
Also some pictures of Sotol lookout where we spend a few hours yesterday evening just watching Mother Nature work hard on the constantly changing scenery, complete with thunder and lightning.
All in the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Enjoy… stop by… and be well.


Ara & Spirit

[RoundOut]

I love the star-shaped light coming through the clouds. That is an amazing photo!

Be well, Ara & Spirit!



http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/203818017-L.jpg

[Scenic WonderRunner]

Aloha!..........Ara and Spirit!

Since you showed us your Door pic..........

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/203178948-M.jpg



I just have to show you mine........

From my Panamint Mountain Escape in early August 2007 at the Briggs Cabin.

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/ScenicWonderRunner/2007_0814BriggsEscapeAug20070061.jpg


I'm enjoying every min. of your trip!


If it wasn't so far.......I would head out to meet you for dinner!


Aloha!...............Mark..............."SWR"

[beemerchef]

That is quite a door!!!... hate to see the inside...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/205040861-L.jpg


Marfa’s Gift, Texas

Did they always outdo others in Texas?… How about a town feeding everyone dinner on a Saturday evening?… and not just any food… great food! If you can next year, do not miss the Chinati and Judd Foundation Open Day in Marfa… a must! Incredibly friendly people from all over, much art, much food, much to see and experience.
Spirit, well, I had to walk away for a while as the crowd was gathering to take pictures of him… and he just sits there with his Doggles on (he will normally take them off when we stop by shaking his head!) posing…
Part one on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/), there will be more to come.

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[kcowyo]

.....sadly enough I must say, regardless any camera, composition, proper lighting, the picture is never what was felt when taken. Maybe “they” are just enticing morsels of a Journey that “you” yourselves need to take!You're starting to unlock the mysteries.....


Another great entry from a unique day. Fun photos, love that RV.

[beemerchef]

The RV WAS and IS awesome!!!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/205169176-L.jpg


More an Marfa, Texas

This is the second part of that great Saturday in Marfa. With all the Galleries open, the Judd buildings, a great dinner served to 3000 guests right after a storm, more Artifacts and great people we talked to, the pictures have been plentiful.
I don’t know if we will come back to this particular area next year at this time, but you should really plan on being here for the event. It is a fun time.
I again added one more recipe, a pasta sauce with a twist, and started a series of articles on my past life in Naples when cooking for the rich! The memories are still there from a stage so different and so distant now. Interesting facts (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well… as always…

Ara & Spirit

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/206540819-L.jpg


What do you see???


The Hot Springs in Big Bend, Texas

It is still very hot for hiking at lower elevations, but at the time the Hot Springs seemed like a good destination for the day. Water is always a must, much water and shade. We made it, but the Hot Springs were covered by the rising waters of the Rio Grande! Will just need to return at a later date. The hike however was worth its scenery, the pictographs, the village remainders from the early 1900’s and one cannot forget the giant Palm tree… Spirit is getting used to the heat, he has been quite a trooper and a patient companion throughout these times.
Much more on the website (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[OverlandZJ]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/206540819-L.jpg


What do you see???




Be well…

Ara & Spirit


Bunny?....

Ara, i am so enjoying the adventure you and Spirit are experiencing. Any chance you two can continue on for the next decade till i can start my own?

Be well...

[beemerchef]

I see actually a dog throwing flames at a shark... Yes, we should be on the road for another 10 years, maybe more...

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/2183590-M.jpg


Happy Birthday Lance

Lance has always been part of this Journey on the road… this Journey of the mind on a stage constantly changing where the cast is directed only by Mother Nature. Seems to be the only unique stage I can walk on anymore in sometimes these trying days.
Life is so full of surprises, obscure events, unsuspected paths suddenly taking shape, one can only make the best of it.
Today is Lance’s 30th Birthday (http://theoasisofmysoul.com/)with more sadness than joy.
My emotions are also directed to all of you that share the same circumstances, I have learned over these past years that I am not the only one, having received much support, support very much welcomed and appreciated. Thank you.

You be well.

Ara

[beemerchef]

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/207956200-L.jpg

What do I know?… (Texas)


The odd vehicles (mine included, they say it is…) are lined up by the Porch for the daily Sunset and gathering of the locals… Just another day in Terlingua, Big Bend, Texas!
Through the written support of so many, today the energy is up, some realizations are making sense, lets look around us while we are here, lets admire what has been laid out and accept the resolutions of Life when even the cards dealt are not in our favor.
It seems like it is the only choice we have…
I feel as I have a new Family in all of you after reading comments and e mails send to me. “Thank you” will never be enough words to express my gratitude. All this because of our Blog, we are getting to know each other as a community which I would not trade for anything else.
Mixed in today are some pictures of a short little dirt road behind us called “Indian Head Trail” which has become one of my favorite hang out. Just a bunch of rocks… hope you enjoy them (http://theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well…

Ara & Spirit

[Ursidae69]

As always, I'm enjoying the pictures, the anecdotes, the history, the people you meet, all of it. Thanks Ara. :bowdown:

[Grim Reaper]

The RV WAS and IS awesome!!!

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/205169176-L.jpg


More an Marfa, Texas

This is the second part of that great Saturday in Marfa. With all the Galleries open, the Judd buildings, a great dinner served to 3000 guests right after a storm, more Artifacts and great people we talked to, the pictures have been plentiful.
I don’t know if we will come back to this particular area next year at this time, but you should really plan on being here for the event. It is a fun time.
I again added one more recipe, a pasta sauce with a twist, and started a series of articles on my past life in Naples when cooking for the rich! The memories are still there from a stage so different and so distant now. Interesting facts (http://www.theoasisofmysoul.com/)…

Be well… as always…

Ara & Spirit

House trucks! That was a nice one.

Check out more here:
http://www.housetrucks.com/

http://www.mrsharkey.com/