How 2020 Changed Things ~ Part 3
Going into June the pandemic was continuing to change things rapidly and it was far from over. Vaccines were being worked on and tested and I was looking forward to be able to get one when they were released. Meanwhile, the death count continued to go up.
Colorado via Wisconsin ~
When I retired a year earlier than planned in 2019, it turned out to be perfect timing as my sister moved in with me, from Wisconsin. Originally, the plan was to retire in the fall of 2020 at the same time my friends Becky and Lee would be retiring. We had exciting motorcycle adventures planned, starting with the Motorcycle Continental Divide Trail from Mexico to Canada, covering 5 states and about 2800 miles. However, certain sections, particularly in Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado, were known for their challenging sandy roads.
My trusty bike for dual-sport riding, the 2007 Suzuki DR200SE, fondly named the Superbug, struggled in sandy terrain, often toppling over. Knowing the sand is an obstacle in many of our planned rides, I realized I needed a more suitable bike. That’s when I set my sights on the Yamaha TW200.
Even though plans were uncertain due to the pandemic, I began searching for a used TW200 to be prepared when Becky and Lee retired. I casually mentioned my intentions on ADVRider, a forum I frequent, without actively seeking one yet.
To my surprise, a man from Colorado messaged me offering a TW200 for sale, even though he hadn’t listed it anywhere yet. The bike was an older model from ’88 but in good condition, equipped with a larger gas tank and the rare combination of both kick start and electric start, features only available in ’87 and ’88 models. I liked the versatility of having both start options for this type of motorcycle.
Spending most of the winter indoors, I welcomed the idea of a long drive. I agreed to purchase the TW200 and planned a trip to Colorado to pick it up. With my sister’s birthday approaching, it was the perfect opportunity to drive to Wisconsin to deliver her belongings and celebrate together. After visiting Wisconsin, I would head to Colorado and pick up the TW200.
Wisconsin Bound ~ June 7, 2020 ~
Becky helped me load my van with my sister’s belongings that she had left behind when she returned to Wisconsin. Packing the van was like solving a puzzle, and we managed to fit everything in filling every available space.
Once the van was loaded, I hit the road. Becky couldn’t come with me since she was still working for a few more months. My travel routine this time was far from normal. I kept a “travel kit” on the passenger seat during this time, stocked with a mask, wipes, Lysol, disposable gloves, hand sanitizer, a spare mask and paper towels.
I kept stops to a minimum, and whenever I did stop, I followed strict pandemic protocols. I wore a mask and disposable gloves when getting fuel, and even though I wore gloves, I used hand sanitizer after removing the gloves. At rest stops, I tried not to touch anything, using toilet paper to handle flush levers. I washed my hands thoroughly, used sanitizer, and even wiped a bit on the van door handle and steering wheel.
With the mixed situation of some restaurants open and others closed, I opted to bring groceries along for my meals. I found a small cooler sufficient for keeping anything needing refrigeration fresh. For meals, I kept it simple: cheese and crackers served as a meal, tortillas spread with peanut butter and jam, or filled with tuna. Breakfast consisted of oatmeal, while lunch typically involved crackers and cheese or a tortilla sandwich. For dinner, I enjoyed soup.
Since the van was fully loaded, camping in it wasn’t an option, and I wasn’t keen on tent camping, so motels were the plan. Upon entering the motel rooms, I immediately sprayed Lysol on all surfaces I would touch, including door handles, fixtures, countertops, and especially the TV remote. After lightly spraying the remote with Lysol, I placed it in a sandwich bag so I wouldn’t have to touch it directly. Then, more hand washing and sanitizer.
I didn’t want to be cooped up at home, but I also didn’t want to get sick. Taking precautions to stay healthy while traveling was my top priority.
It did feel good to be out and I enjoyed seeing things along the way, old ranches, flowers, whatever.
During my drive to Wisconsin, I didn’t have any specific side trips or plans for geocaching. The highlight of the initial days was finding gas priced under $2.00 a gallon in Butte, MT. It had been quite some time since I’d seen prices that low.
Deviating from my usual route along Interstate 90, I decided to head north from Billings, MT, and east on Interstate 94. This decision led me through North Dakota instead of my typical route through South Dakota, offering me the chance to see new sights.
Badlands in North Dakota ~ Time for a break ~
Interstate 94 cuts through the rugged landscape of North Dakota’s Badlands, where the Painted Canyon Visitor Center and trails are along the highway. This area is part of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. A stop provides a vibrant, colorful landscape that played a significant role in shaping Theodore Roosevelt’s life. He once hunted and ranched in these very Badlands as a young man.
Stopping at the Painted Canyon Visitor Center was a welcome break during my drive. I parked the van, stretched my legs, and enjoyed lunch at one of the picnic tables, taking in the breathtaking scenery. This National Park is truly special with its tranquility; it’s not overrun with crowds.
Although I had visited before, it had been many years, so rediscovering the terrain was fun. While bison, also known as buffalo, roam freely in the area, I unfortunately didn’t spot any during this visit.
Avoiding Cities ~ and Another Break ~
Instead of sticking to Interstate 94, which would lead me through Minneapolis and Saint Paul, I chose to route north of the Interstate to avoid the city traffic. Most of the time, I didn’t have much of an idea of my exact location, but as long as I was headed in the right direction with plenty of fuel, I took in the sights along the way.
As I drove, a light rain began to fall, more of a mist than a downpour. Despite the drizzle, I couldn’t resist pulling over at a trailhead near a river for a leisurely stroll. The warm mist added to the ambiance of the walk, making it even more enjoyable rather than a miserable hike in the rain.
At one point, I paused to snap a picture of my GPS to keep track of my whereabouts. A little further along, I came across the Cobban Bridge and took a moment to read the historical marker detailing its significance. I feel fortunate to have seen the bridge, as it has since been demolished and replaced with a modern structure. Despite efforts to save it, the campaign to preserve the Cobban Bridge ultimately fell short. Personally, I find bridges with intricate ironwork and arches far more visually appealing than their modern, concrete replacements.
The Final Stretch ~ To My Sisters' ~
With less than 100 miles to go until Wausau, WI, where my sisters live, and with straight roads ahead, I decided to push through without any more stops. While locals might find this area uninteresting, it’s all new and interesting to me.
Arriving in the early evening, I had a few hours to spend with my second sister. We met up at Culver’s Custard, a spot near the motel where I usually stay during my visits to Wisconsin. Since Culver’s isn’t available where I live, I always make it a point to stop by when I’m in the area.
The following day was my other sister’s birthday, so my second sister and I brainstormed ideas on how to make it special for her. Knowing she preferred avoiding public places and even declined visiting my second sister’s home, we decided on a family gathering in a park.
We spent our evening chatting, catching up, and enjoying custard. It was wonderful to have some one-on-one time with her. Whenever we’re together, we always have a blast and share plenty of laughter. I wish we could see each other more often.
The next day, I dropped by my sister’s apartment to deliver her belongings. Due to the pandemic, we kept our distance, wore masks, and I refrained from entering her apartment. Fortunately, her place is on the ground floor, making it easy to put the items just inside the door for her to take them the rest of the way in.
With my sister’s belongings safely delivered, we headed to the park for the birthday celebration. My second sister had baked a cake, prepared a thermos of coffee, and brought along some lemonade, eagerly awaiting our arrival. Her daughter and grandsons joined us, although her husband was at work and couldn’t make it. It was heartwarming to reunite with everyone and celebrate my sister’s birthday with cake, coffee and small gifts.
Although my visit was brief, it allowed me to spend quality time with both of my sisters. These moments are precious, and I cherish every minute of them.
The next day, I was up early and hit the road, bound for Colorado…