July 16, 7:21 pm. Some back country road west of Frederick, Maryland.
The Dyna was thrumming smoothly as we leaned into the curve, straightened, and then leaned opposite, sweeping through the next bend. The sun was still shining - another hour or so until sunset - and warm when it found me through the shadows of the trees; dips in the road covered in shadow brought chills.
Topping a hill and leaving the tree line, Frederick County lay before me in all its glory. A horse farm to the left - double fences painted black - groups of horses scattered among the paddocks. Corn, as tall as I, stood straight in rows across acres to the right. Golden tassels gently waving in unison to a gentle breeze.
A ribbon of empty 2 lane road stretched before me - another curve up ahead.
And above it all a hot air balloon, floating gently across the landscape.
Last week I packed up the dog and left the wife at our home in Florida to return to Maryland. While I truly enjoy the winter warmth, the beach, and the sunsets there, I haven't seen anything there that will replace riding the Dyna on days like today here.
I thought about stopping and taking a picture, but decided against it. I wanted to experience it - live it - repeat it.
I can always remember it.
I hope.
