Friends and neighbours gathered to bid us a fond farewell as we rolled away from home on September 17.  Just south of Calgary we had our first wildlife encounter with a black bear on the side of Tongue Creek Road. Fortunately he was running at high speed in the opposite direction.  As much as we love to travel, explore and appreciate other areas of the world, this was a great reminder of the beauty and wonder that exists in our own back yard.  It was a great start to our trip.

Friends Richard and Ken rode with us as far as Waterton before heading back to Calgary while we continued on through the U.S.border and Logan’s pass before settling in for the first night of our journey in Polson, Montana.

The next morning it was off to one of Montana’s favorite rides for motorbikers – Lolo pass.  This was our first trip to the pass and it didn’t disappoint.  The ride was great fun and the scenery beautiful.

We have now moved through Oregon and into Northern California where we are beginning to indulge in the Mexican food that we love.  Hopefully we don’t get sick of this before we actually get to Mexico.

Good Day All;

Last week we had an opportunity to visit with old and new friends at the Horizons Unlimited meeting in Nakusp, BC, Canada  (www.horizonsunlimited.com)

A great event! We had a ceremonial start to our trip and Grant Johnson the co-founder of Horizons placed the HU decal on the sidecar to begin the adventure.

We camped with the Snowsells; Ken and Charlotte, as well as Sherri Jo Wilkins, an ex-pat living in Australia and continuing her around the world tour – A great time was had by all. Quite a few travelers shared current information about South America and Adrienne shared her new soon-to-be husband who she met on her trip south!

The Ural performed flawlessly and carried all our gear without a hiccup – We are ready!

Eleven days to go and Tracey is disappointed that I’m not excited yet – I’m trying! it’s just been busy out lately. Our ‘smiles and miles’ decals are on the way and we should see them soon. Get them while they’re hot.

Wade helped out and turned all the brake drums on the bike. It stops better than ever now and no more headshake. Thanks Wade.

Now we just have to get on the road!

Happy Trails,

Miles