The Divas Ride Again
By DJ
Jones
Not a cloud in the sky and the engine sounds of 16 motorcycles—time to ride. We had gathered together once again, the Divas. A group of ladies and their machines. We met for coffee before heading out on our June Ride. Weck's was again our restaurant of choice. A reserved table and wonderful service—how can you beat that? The wonderful time we all had on the first ride, inspired me to organize Diva Rides for the rest of the year. We meet, we ride, we enjoy good food, and we simply enjoy the fact that we are together as one. All the Diva rides are thoroughly mapped out. Beginning, middle and a final meeting location. There is always a road captain to lead the whole group and a sweep rider in the back of the group. This way we can stay together as a group, and no one gets left behind. It enables everyone to feel comfortable, regardless of their skill level or experience. The route we had chosen was Old Route 66 to South 14, to Mountainair, New Mexico, for lunch. After several cups of coffee, a pit stop was needed before we arrived for our lunch destination. The short break was a good chance to stretch our legs and get to know each other, which is a special benefit of these rides. As we started to regroup, a very large group of bikes paraded by. We waved until our arms were tired as they continued to stream by. One of the ladies said, “I hope they aren't going to Mountainair, because there won't be any food or gas left when we get there.” We all laughed, but at the same time, hoped they were headed to a different location. We waited for the last bike to pass. Then we saddled up and continued South on 14. Behold, we saw the bikes that had passed us, parked North of Mountainair. Lucky for us. The sigh of relief could be felt from all the Divas. Cool. Now it was time to eat. We parked our bikes in front of The Cowboy Café, and we found there was only a ten-minute wait before chow. We used the time to take pictures and talk about what an awesome time everyone was having.
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I grew up in Oklahoma with a Mom that loved to see everyone eat—the Divas would have made her proud. After fueling ourselves, it was time to fuel our bikes. The beautiful day had inspired a lot of bikers to get out for a ride, so we had to get in line at the pumps. With full tanks and full bellies, we gathered for the last stretch of road. Our final destination, before returning home was the Isleta Casino, just south of Albuquerque. We headed west on US 60 to SR 47 North. There are always mixed feeling about this part of the trip for me. I know the run is about to end, but I'm also looking forward to getting home to start planning the next Diva Ride. But this day was not over yet. We pulled into the parking lot of the Casino, parked and went inside. No Diva Ride would be complete without a toast............TO THE DIVAS and to a successful ride once again. After each and every Diva Ride, I always thank them all for making these rides worthwhile. When I decided to organize these rides, I hoped I could make a difference in someone's life. After these Rides, I too, receive thanks for gathering the Divas together. Wow, what a rush! I wish I could share all the thank-yous I've received, but I will share one, one that made tears come to my eyes: back on Old Route 66, I pulled up next to one of the ladies. She was a new rider. She was sitting tall in the saddle. Her posture was regal and proud. Her comment to me was, "I've never been cool before." The smile on her face was priceless. It was a proud moment for her. And you know what? She was cool. This ride was not only a success, but made a positive impact on someone's life.
Until next time ladies—keep riding!
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