This morning had a very unusual and happy start. We gathered as usual in downtown Plant City. While waiting for the rest of the group, our good friend and riding buddy, Boyd Harrell, presented us with copies of his new book.
He then proceeded to autograph them.
Thereafter, we adjourned to Snellgroves where nine of our group enjoyed the usual breakfast and conversation.
When it was time to go, four men and machines headed north to explored the roads between here and Lake Panasoffkee. The route took us through Zephyrhills, where I pointed out A-Team Cycles, Inc. who had given me some good prices on motorcycle maintenance, and on to Dade City so I could show Lloyd the location of the River Road Smokehouse where we would meet next Saturday to begin our trip to Yellowstone. Once through Dade City, the roads became more interesting with rolling green hills and extended vistas.
After a comfort stop at the Hess Station at Spring Hill and Cortez Blvd., we continued northward to Istachatta, Pineola and around the east side of Bradley Lake. To this point the roads were fairly well known, but we soon found ourselves on some first time highway - East Trails End Rd., Withlapopka Dr. and East Gobbler Dr. Very interesting. I am sure we will visit them again.
We made it to Lake Panasoffkee around noon and we went first to the restaurant I had selected for the day - The Harbor Light. The dining room there affords a great view of the lake. Unfortunately, they have to be open to take advantage of the view. They had apparently recently changed to summer hours and were not scheduled to open until 4:00 p.m. (That's my story and I'm sticking to it.) Luckily, J.T. knew of another restaurant and soon led us back to Catfish Johnny's.
The food was decent, although Boyd was not thrilled with the grouper. The rest of us were happy with our fare.
We soon mounted up for the return trip which was to take us across Sloan's Ridge, Lake Erie and finally Green Pond. Before tackling Green Pond, Boyd set up his new helmet cam. I sure hope the video came out well. I am looking forward to seeing it.
It was an excellent day - no rain, but hot (94 degrees and humid on the way home). I arrived home about 2:45 p.m. after covering about 180 miles.
Next week I will not be reporting on the usual Saturday rides as Boyd, Lloyd and I will be leaving on a 6,000 mile trip out to Yellowstone National Park. Barring any technical gremlins, I will be reporting on that trip in this blog, so stay tuned.
See you soon on the highway,
"Gunny" Monroe
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