When we 1st took on this blog I planned on doing mostly articles and not a whole lot of personal postings, if any. Well, things change and I'm feeling the need to do that very thing occasionally, if for no other reason than to memorialize myself...lol I hope some find it interesting enough to read. If not, just scroll on past. As always, feel free to leave a comment if you'd like.
This a collection of but a few of the many nostalgic memories of a pre-teenage boy’s times spent with his grandparents in the Texas Panhandle. This was all taking place in and around Lefors, Texas, which is a small ranching and oil and gas town built where the North Fork of the Red River and State Highway 273 intersect.
My paternal grandparents lived about 9 or 10 miles east of Lefors. A mile or so out of town, where the McLean highway turns southerly, you would go straight east on a county black top road that after a ways turned to dirt. This would be on the north side of the river. After taking the county road you would pass the old Coltexo gasoline plant. 5 or so more miles you would turn left on a dirt road for 3 or 4 miles. Their place was on the Davis ranch.
My paternal granddad (Papaw) worked as a pumper for The Texas Company, which would become Texaco in later years. My grandmother’s (Mamma) job was keeping the house, sewing, cooking, taking care of a big garden and canning the fruit and vegetables, and feeding the chickens and turkeys, just to name a few things. Oh yes, she also spent a good deal of time keeping up with me!
In the late 40's and 50's Lefors was bustling oil and ranch town of about 1600 or more residents. On summer Saturday evenings there were softball games at the square under the lights and a lot of town and country folk there. Two drug stores, a couple of grocery stores, a dry goods store, a theater, two beer joints, a pool hall, 2 or 3 gas stations and a great, cold well water, swimming pool! The Texas Company and Magnolia Oil Co. had yards there. A pure Norman Rockwell type of place for a kid to spend a lot of his youth. Sadly, the town as I remember it, is no more. The oil companies moved out and most of the town went with them.
My maternal grandmother (Lefors, a shortened version of Lefors Mama) lived about a 1/2 block off the square in a small house across from Trout’s Drug Store. Great hand packed ice cream and a big selection of comic books! She had raised 5 kids, by herself, during the great depression and up until World War 2. She didn’t accomplish this by being on welfare or social security either. She took in washing and ironing. I remember many nights laying in my little fold down bed listening to her tell me stories while she ironed; rotating hot, heavy, solid irons from the kitchen stove. No spray starch or sizing here!
When I stayed with my beloved Lefors I explored the old town, went swimming in the summertime, and snuck in the picture show with my friends. On occasion I would even be allowed to stay in the pool hall, drinking cokes and watching the old men play snooker, 42, or Moon dominos!
When on the ranch, after going with PawPaw to start his wells and gauge the tank batteries, I usually roamed the sand hills and river bottoms with my single shot 22 rifle, riding old Dude, and dreaming of cowboys, outlaws, and Indians that had ridden these very hills and pastures. When I wasn’t on old Dude, I was sometimes learning to drive Papaw’s 40’s something black Ford pickup, with him holding on for dear life! The 10 mile hole was a great swimming and gathering place for me and my friends on lazy summer days. All in all, not a bad place for a boy to be in the early to mid 1950's!
12/29/2008
Motorcycle Boots for Safety’s Sake – Part 2
As I said in the first part of this article, which motorcycle boots to buy is probably the most important decision that a rider makes. We all know that good safety boots gives much needed protection to a motorcycle rider’s feet. They come in a variety of styles and brands. Some of the most popular brands are Harley Davidson, Alpinestars, Gaerne, AGV, Fieldsheer and Motoline. Some motorcycle boots come with added safety features such as padded tops and steel toes. Motorcycle boots can save the driver from serious injuries, especially when on, or off, road conditions are hazardous. The rider has to decide which boot fits the type of motorcycle, riding style, and gives the look he or she wants.
It goes without saying that as far as safety goes, a rider should learn to foresee possible accidents and know how to avoid them. That's easier said than done so it's good that quality riding apparel can and will add a degree of assurance and confidence to the rider. Reading tips and testimonies from experienced riders can help a new rider decide which type of boots would work best them. Listening to experts can give a sense of motivation as well as inspiration. Learning from them by any means, such as Internet blogging and asking questions about different boot types can help a lot. Joining an online community of bikers is a good way of gaining knowledge as to the best riding safety equipment.
I’m sure that anyone who has used a computer has heard the phrase “boot up”. Motorcycle riding gives that a whole new meaning. So, boot up…safely!
It goes without saying that as far as safety goes, a rider should learn to foresee possible accidents and know how to avoid them. That's easier said than done so it's good that quality riding apparel can and will add a degree of assurance and confidence to the rider. Reading tips and testimonies from experienced riders can help a new rider decide which type of boots would work best them. Listening to experts can give a sense of motivation as well as inspiration. Learning from them by any means, such as Internet blogging and asking questions about different boot types can help a lot. Joining an online community of bikers is a good way of gaining knowledge as to the best riding safety equipment.
I’m sure that anyone who has used a computer has heard the phrase “boot up”. Motorcycle riding gives that a whole new meaning. So, boot up…safely!
12/28/2008
Motorcycle Boots for Safety’s Sake – Part 1
A motorcycle is one of the most convenient and economical modes of transportation. The motorcycle is marketed worldwide with types to suit all tastes. Because of the continuing high cost of gasoline (well, it's cheap now, but we all know that won't last!) more people are riding motorcycles to and from work. Many people prefer to buy a motorcycle or scooter because aside from the expediency that it offers, it is also a more affordable vehicle compared to cars and trucks. A good find on a second hand motorcycle can be a real value and still have a lot of miles left on it. Spare parts for scooters and bikes can be bought almost anywhere, including online, at a minimal price. Just a little overhauling, and maybe some cosmetic work and you’re good to go.
Now with all that said, a motorcycle enthusiast must have proper motorcycle riding apparel, which should include quality motorcycle or Harley boots, a helmet, a set of leathers, including pants, chaps, a jacket, and accessories, like goggles and rain gear. These should haves ought to be well chosen and deliberately bought with quality in mind for optimum protection. The single most important "must have" piece of this gear would, hands down, be a good pair of safety boots. No offense to scooter riders, but we're talking motorcycles here. Fat Boys, Soft Tail, choppers, bobbers. Ok, I know, that HD FXDL Low Rider or an old pan head can affectionately be called your "scooter"...lol Let's face it, a genuine motorcycle can be a lot of weight coming down on a pair of sneakers! Some folks may prefer to not wear a helmet, leathers and the other stuff, but few will get on with out their riding boots.
This post started out as a single article, however I felt that more should be said on the subject of motorcycle boots and their importance from a safety standpoint. So stay tuned. Part 2 will be coming shortly!
Now with all that said, a motorcycle enthusiast must have proper motorcycle riding apparel, which should include quality motorcycle or Harley boots, a helmet, a set of leathers, including pants, chaps, a jacket, and accessories, like goggles and rain gear. These should haves ought to be well chosen and deliberately bought with quality in mind for optimum protection. The single most important "must have" piece of this gear would, hands down, be a good pair of safety boots. No offense to scooter riders, but we're talking motorcycles here. Fat Boys, Soft Tail, choppers, bobbers. Ok, I know, that HD FXDL Low Rider or an old pan head can affectionately be called your "scooter"...lol Let's face it, a genuine motorcycle can be a lot of weight coming down on a pair of sneakers! Some folks may prefer to not wear a helmet, leathers and the other stuff, but few will get on with out their riding boots.
This post started out as a single article, however I felt that more should be said on the subject of motorcycle boots and their importance from a safety standpoint. So stay tuned. Part 2 will be coming shortly!
Home from the hollidays!
Well, BP and I got back from Phoenix this afternoon. We went down Christmas eve and spent a couple of days with my cousin and her son soaking up some warm valley weather. Had a nice rare standing prime rib for Christmas dinner. Brrr it's cold up here in the mountains but glad to be home none the less.
Welcome Jayden and Jeff! Glad you're on board and I'll be visiting y'all too.
I have another article for posting but think I'll wait until tomorrow. Calling it a night....BV
Welcome Jayden and Jeff! Glad you're on board and I'll be visiting y'all too.
I have another article for posting but think I'll wait until tomorrow. Calling it a night....BV
12/23/2008
Tips in Preparing for a Motocross Competition
Basically, following safety precautions is the most important thing that any motocross driver can do. The twin disasters of motocross are not being able to manage body balance and control of the motorcycle at all times to accidents. As a sport, motocross requires solid contact with the bike on rocky, uneven roads. It is usually assumed that the biker knows exactly what’s expected of him and his bike when getting himself ready for the big event or competition.
Primarily, motocross lovers must have enough physical stamina and awareness, as this kind of sport requires a high degree of skill. The competition its self requires concentrating on tactics and systematic moves. This kind of sport is not just about the type of competitive motorbike that he has. It is also about physical strength, willingness to take risks and overcoming obstacles. For a motocross rider, aside from the physical qualifications, emotional health and intelligence is also desirable.
Secondly, a motocross enthusiast must also be properly equipped with, not only the finest motorcycle, but with high quality safety gear as well. Motocross riding apparel includes a solid helmet for protection of the head, a mesh safety leather jacket for protection against accidents and the elements, and boots as protection for the feet. Goggles for protection of the eyes are a necessary accessories and if necessary, hearing protection. Other motorcycle gear, such as the rider desires, may also be used and could play an important role in the overall performance of the motorcycle as well as the rider.
Mesh safety leather jackets and pants, gloves and boots all belong in the motocross bikers’ essential riding kit. Choosing the best quality safety gear available will enable the rider to handle the pressure of being safe that is a part of the competition. Mesh safety leather jackets can come in a variety of styles and designs. A motocross rider can opt to choose one that serves the multi-purpose of off track comfort and looks and safety factor while racing. All of this apparel can be found at reasonable prices in online motorcycle specialty stores. There are many styles of poly mesh jackets, some with added features such as a zipper for pants attachment, padded pockets for storage of goggles and glasses, an adjustable waistband, removable water proof liner, elastic sleeve adjusters and many other features. Of course, they also come in a wide variety of prices.
All in all, the best weapon in winning a competition is to be prepared. It helps a lot to have a positive mindset about the event. A clear mind and clean spirit are healthy and good for the contest. Familiarizing oneself with the track where the event will be held, getting information about the nature of the contest, as well as, getting acquainted with the other participants can help boost one’s performance. Being a good sport is one rule that should always be adhered to. Stay healthy by getting enough rest and sleep weeks in advance of the event. Eat a well balanced diet, always including fruit and vegetables in your meal. Shop for the most effective energy drink and use together with your everyday vitamins.
Have you followed everything above? Be prepared and you just might be bringing home a 1st place trophy!
Primarily, motocross lovers must have enough physical stamina and awareness, as this kind of sport requires a high degree of skill. The competition its self requires concentrating on tactics and systematic moves. This kind of sport is not just about the type of competitive motorbike that he has. It is also about physical strength, willingness to take risks and overcoming obstacles. For a motocross rider, aside from the physical qualifications, emotional health and intelligence is also desirable.
Secondly, a motocross enthusiast must also be properly equipped with, not only the finest motorcycle, but with high quality safety gear as well. Motocross riding apparel includes a solid helmet for protection of the head, a mesh safety leather jacket for protection against accidents and the elements, and boots as protection for the feet. Goggles for protection of the eyes are a necessary accessories and if necessary, hearing protection. Other motorcycle gear, such as the rider desires, may also be used and could play an important role in the overall performance of the motorcycle as well as the rider.
Mesh safety leather jackets and pants, gloves and boots all belong in the motocross bikers’ essential riding kit. Choosing the best quality safety gear available will enable the rider to handle the pressure of being safe that is a part of the competition. Mesh safety leather jackets can come in a variety of styles and designs. A motocross rider can opt to choose one that serves the multi-purpose of off track comfort and looks and safety factor while racing. All of this apparel can be found at reasonable prices in online motorcycle specialty stores. There are many styles of poly mesh jackets, some with added features such as a zipper for pants attachment, padded pockets for storage of goggles and glasses, an adjustable waistband, removable water proof liner, elastic sleeve adjusters and many other features. Of course, they also come in a wide variety of prices.
All in all, the best weapon in winning a competition is to be prepared. It helps a lot to have a positive mindset about the event. A clear mind and clean spirit are healthy and good for the contest. Familiarizing oneself with the track where the event will be held, getting information about the nature of the contest, as well as, getting acquainted with the other participants can help boost one’s performance. Being a good sport is one rule that should always be adhered to. Stay healthy by getting enough rest and sleep weeks in advance of the event. Eat a well balanced diet, always including fruit and vegetables in your meal. Shop for the most effective energy drink and use together with your everyday vitamins.
Have you followed everything above? Be prepared and you just might be bringing home a 1st place trophy!
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