Dudley and Jennifer's 10,000 Mile Journey Blog

[Dudley]

Spending today resting, we hope to leave tomorrow morning around 9-10 o'clock. We will travel into Canada to get to Bruce. After meeting Bruce in London (about 1 PM?), that would put us at the Michigan state line in late afternoon. So, we are thinking of getting a motel sometime after we cross the line. This would put us in an early morning ride towards anyone in Michigan. So let us see what happens. The weather may be a bit wet. Anyway, that's what it seems like it will be for the next few days.

 

[Kjen]

:clap:Just put the Niagara Falls pics up on my album space; spared you too many but it's all so :2thumbs::yes::firstplace: it was difficult. Not labled but not much even I could say except, AWESOME, ooohhh, ooohhh, take that one.....

 

[Kjen]

A GRIPE

We've had a wonderful, lazy day. For some reason we are tired. Getting to my gripe: Dudley talked about this trip for at least 2 months prior to its undertaking (lord knows I sure got tired of hearing about it). I don't remember any BRP or CanAm person suggesting an ambassador kit or some such to pass on information.
We have been stopped soooo very often, had our pictures snapped repeatedly, been thumbed upped, waved at by drivers and passengers and bystanders......you know the drill. Ours has been in multiples. Try to stop at information centers and rest areas. Oh, the information/rest areas on the toll roads. Droves; I'm talking at least 50 in the last week or so. Want to pull out hair and hide. Love answering questions because we've had them ourselves. Just figure maybe written info or dvds or something easy to hand out would have been a help. Maybe a tee shirt with ITS A CAN-AM SPYDER across the back for me to wear, lol. I don't know. Guess I feel like a peon that maybe got a pat on the head and a "have a nice trip."
Hopefully business will be booming soon because we sure stirred up the spyder interest so far. Like normal it runs the entire age groups.
Enough, don't think too badly of me please, I was just feeling a bit let down by BRP. Dudley had even emailed them about a month before we left. Got what amounted to "Have a nice trip". He had even thought of going to the Spyder plant, but when he mentioned that to them, it went off like water on a duck. OH WELL, we have our memories and are thankful for them.

 

[Roaddog2]

We've had a wonderful, lazy day. For some reason we are tired. Getting to my gripe: Dudley talked about this trip for at least 2 months prior to its undertaking (lord knows I sure got tired of hearing about it). I don't remember any BRP or CanAm person suggesting an ambassador kit or some such to pass on information.
We have been stopped soooo very often, had our pictures snapped repeatedly, been thumbed upped, waved at by drivers and passengers and bystanders......you know the drill. Ours has been in multiples. Try to stop at information centers and rest areas. Oh, the information/rest areas on the toll roads. Droves; I'm talking at least 50 in the last week or so. Want to pull out hair and hide. Love answering questions because we've had them ourselves. Just figure maybe written info or dvds or something easy to hand out would have been a help. Maybe a tee shirt with ITS A CAN-AM SPYDER across the back for me to wear, lol. I don't know. Guess I feel like a peon that maybe got a pat on the head and a "have a nice trip."
Hopefully business will be booming soon because we sure stirred up the spyder interest so far. Like normal it runs the entire age groups.
Enough, don't think too badly of me please, I was just feeling a bit let down by BRP. Dudley had even emailed them about a month before we left. Got what amounted to "Have a nice trip". He had even thought of going to the Spyder plant, but when he mentioned that to them, it went off like water on a duck. OH WELL, we have our memories and are thankful for them.

Wish you have mentioned this when you were in my drivway I would have been more than happy to give you some or all of mine.The way mines been treating me I have not been in a Ambassdor mood lately and have been very honest to people about the lay up time when they try to figure out what the newest problem is :ani29:

 

[Dudley]

Wish you have mentioned this when you were in my drivway I would have been more than happy to give you some or all of mine.The way mines been treating me I have not been in a Ambassdor mood lately and have been very honest to people about the lay up time when they try to figure out what the newest problem is :ani29:

So does that mean you still have the high RPM hot starts?

 

[Director]

Dudley and Jennifer - Fort Erie, Ontario

So does that mean you still have the high RPM hot starts?

I will be leaving my home shortly to ride to Fort Erie (across the river from Buffalo, N.Y.) to meet up with Dudley and Jennifer. We set a rendezvous time of 10:00 a.m. at the Tim Horton's donut shop on Garrison Road, not far from the Peace Bridge. I will then lead them on a scenic ride back to the London area, and they will carry on to Michigan. I am guessing they will be in Michigan by mid to late afternoon, if our timing at the border works out okay.

Bruce

 

[Director]

I will be leaving my home shortly to ride to Fort Erie (across the river from Buffalo, N.Y.) to meet up with Dudley and Jennifer. We set a rendezvous time of 10:00 a.m. at the Tim Horton's donut shop on Garrison Road, not far from the Peace Bridge. I will then lead them on a scenic ride back to the London area, and they will carry on to Michigan. I am guessing they will be in Michigan by mid to late afternoon, if our timing at the border works out okay.

Bruce

Dudley and Jennifer should be arriving in Michigan right about now. Fastfraser and I met them in Fort Erie this morning and we then took a nice scenic ride to the London area using mainly two-lane back roads, where I split off from them and they carried on toward Michigan. We were able to socialize in the morning (while answering a myriad of questions from curious passersby) and again over lunch in Woodstock. Just a few drops of rain came down - for the most part it was very nice all day. The first two pics (Dudley, Jennifer, fastfraser and some random dude who was curious about the Spyders) were taken at the Tim Horton's where we met in the morning and the third outside the Swiss Chalet restaurant in Woodstock, Ont., where we had lunch.
It was great to meet Dudley and Jennifer and to play a small role in their odyssey! It was also a treat for me to meet fastfraser, with whom I had previously exchanged emails and phone messages, but hadn't met in person. Hope to see you again soon, Dan!
Bruce

 

[Dudley]

7-28 Report

:yes:We had a great ride today...306 miles from Niagara Falls, NY to Flint, MI. Director and Fastfraser met us at Ft. Erie, Ontario and Director led us on some beautiful back roads. A great ride it was! After parting, we rode west on CA 402 to Michigan. Once again we had to put the Froggs on, but this time it rained! Not hard...was actually pretty nice. The hardest rain came down when we were at the check point at the Michigan border. Was fun to just sit there waiting and letting the rain do what it wanted. We are now settled in at the Crazy (Super) 8 on Lapeer in Flint, MI. Tomorrow will be a busy day...seems like we will have about 8 Michigan Spyder Ryders to meet and greet! This is so awesome.
The first meet will be at the Exit 141 off I-69 at the Sunoco gas station south of the freeway...1130 AM. Any Spyder Ryder in the area reading this is more than encouraged to join us.hyea:

 

[Kjen]

Today had a lovely beginning; we didn't hurry and I got to eat breakfast and we even had time to spare before departure. Traffic was minimal and the border crossing was quick and finding the correct meeting place went smoothly. Can't ask for much more ease than that.
We got to the Tim Horton's and along came the talkers/questioners; which is OK. One was still with us when Bruce arrived. Bruce then called Dan to come over to meet us at this particular place. Seems there are lots of Tim Horton's in these necks of the woods. Anyway, along came Dan on his Jaws and we all swapped howdy and had coffee. Coffee and chatter then off we went.
Great ride through rural areas. I enjoy seeing how and where others live. Nice rolling hills without being too close together or curvy (I get motion sickness). The landscape was much like that we have seen in the eastern parts on this journey. Its all relaxing, changeable and beautiful. Such large houses to maintain and the yards! Nice to see but I quite like my rocks at home; easy maintainence. Saw lots of old barns (huge) and churches and other buildings which I want share because it takes lots of room. Bridges are way cool too.
After a nice ride we ate lunch. Forgot to take a picture of it all, but the plates went away empty. We all did our hugs and hand shake and departed. Thanks so much guys for giving us of your time; hard to get free days much less give them up meeting people.
Had some rain heading toward the border so on went the Froggs. Sat in the rain in line while awaiting our turn. Again, you have to pay a toll before you get checked. This time it cost $2.75 (versus $1 to get in) to get out. We got in the wrong line-you were supposed to have coins and we didn't and the little guy gave us the dummy treatment. Ah well, lots of cars and as long as I get out he can grouse. Done and free and riding along and then more rain. Arrived in Flint, checked out tomorrows meeting place then settled in at the Super 8 and will see what tomorrow brings.
Thanks again to EVERYone who has juggled their lives to cross our paths.

 

[fastfraser]

Dudley and Jennifer should be arriving in Michigan right about now. Fastfraser and I met them in Fort Erie this morning and we then took a nice scenic ride to the London area using mainly two-lane back roads, where I split off from them and they carried on toward Michigan. We were able to socialize in the morning (while answering a myriad of questions from curious passersby) and again over lunch in Woodstock. Just a few drops of rain came down - for the most part it was very nice all day. The first two pics (Dudley, Jennifer, fastfraser and some random dude who was curious about the Spyders) were taken at the Tim Horton's where we met in the morning and the third outside the Swiss Chalet restaurant in Woodstock, Ont., where we had lunch.
It was great to meet Dudley and Jennifer and to play a small role in their odyssey! It was also a treat for me to meet fastfraser, with whom I had previously exchanged emails and phone messages, but hadn't met in person. Hope to see you again soon, Dan!
Bruce

:2thumbs: Great post Bruce and great route along the Grand river, put that in my do again trips.

Met Dudley and Jennifer yesterday along with the Director (Bruce) in Fort Erie Canada. What a friendly loving couple on a lifes odyssey. To head out on the :spyder2: in what will be about 55-60 day road trip ( we worry what to pack on a two night trip ) I'm amazed simply amazed!! God speed and may the wind always be at your back.

On another topicSHAME ON YOU BRP. What a missed opportunity. Here are two ( Jennifer and Dudley ) :spyder2: ambassadors traveling across North America for two months spreading info and good will about the :spyder2: and BRP says have a nice trip. Man just my opinion but BRP droped the ball on this one big time.

 

[nudle]

:gaah: Sorry I couldn't make it . Looks like you guys & gal had a great visit and trip to London.

 

[bjt]

We just got back from a nice quick meet and banner signing with Dudley and Kjen. RLS, Spyderryder810 and Nancystoy were there to "escort" them down to Marshall for another stop, meeting, dinner, get together. I have one pic from the meet at the Sunoco. Now it's off to work for me.

 

[BRPjunkie]

Got the call that they are on their way from Flint and ETA in Marshall is 2:30.

 

[NancysToy]

We met up just as promised this morning. Deb (DLTang) and Brian (BJT) were there to meet and greet before they went to work. After we all signed the West Coast Spyder Ryders banner, Dudley, Jennifer (Kjen), Joan (SpyderRyder810), Bob (RLS) and I left Flint a bit after noon and headed for Marshall. There we met Mike (BRPJunkie) who was waiting with his grandkids. Cute little fellows! He has a lot of reason to be proud. Dan (Firefly) rode in, and then so did Nancy (of NancysToy fame) on her other toy. Another banner signing, chatted with a couple of interested bikers about the Spyder, then headed off to Dan's favorite brew pub for some food and cool drinks. Their homemade rootbeer was delicious! After that, Nancy, Jen, Dudley and I came to Battle Creek to my place so they could see the pile of wonderful toys. We had some great conversation and a real good time. These are two of the most delightful people you will ever, ever meet...off on a wonderful, amazing journey. The kind most of us will only dream about. My hat is off to them! :thumbup:

They left here about two hours ago, headed to Ohio, just to say they did, then on to Indiana, Illinois, and further west. Jennifer said not to worry if she doesn't get anything posted tonight. She was too polite to say it, but meeting the Michigan contingent slowed them up, and they needed to get in a bit more mileage before quitting for the night. Could it be I talked too much?......nah! Truth is I would have kept them here a week if I could. They are great company.

Dudley and Jennifer, it was an honor meeting you both, and we had the most enjoyable day we have had in a long time. As the man said, Godspeed!

 

[Smylinacha]

Yep, I envy them! Trip of a lifetime and yes very cool people. We thoroughly enjoyed their company! Hope to see them again - maybe we'll make it out West someday!:thumbup:

 

[SpyderRyder810]

Bob (RLS) and I had a great time meeting Dudley, Jen, Mike (BRP Junkie), and Dan (Firefly). As always it was great seeing our friends Deb (dtang), Brian bjt), Scotty, and Nancy (Nancy's Toy) once again. Sorry we couldn't stay longer, but I just ran out of gas today. Bob and I just want to say that Spyderlovers are such a great group of people. We look forward to meeting many more or you in Gatlinburg, TN. Dudley and Jen it was our pleasure to ride with you today. Safe travels!

 

[Dudley]

7-29 Report

What a great day! No use repeating who all we met. It was a wonderful time. The weather couldn't have been nicer. We are settled in the Comfort Inn in Fremont, IN after dipping into Ohio for the map. Tomorrow we plan on riding West on I-80/90 to I-80 West to I-39 North. I don't know how far we will travel tomorrow, but that's the route. As of yet we don't have anyone else to meet unless someone reading this Thread is in the area of our travels and wants to meet and sign our banner. Would be nice if someone who knows anyone in these areas could alert them. Thanks again for a great day guys. Was a very relaxing one.

 

[BRPjunkie]

Wanted to ride with the group that escorted Dudley and Jen through Michigan today, but I had both Grandsons. Some things just have to come before Spyder rides. We made it to Marshall and really enjoyed meeting Dudley, Jen, Bob, Joan and seeing Scotty, Nancy and Dan again. Here is a shot of Joan, Bob and Dudley. Sorry that I didn't get Jen in the shot, but with the two Grandsons standing still and smiling, you take what you can get. They may be the two youngest well wishers they have met on their journey. I am amazed at how well they are holding up after 38 days on the road. Amazing people on an amazing journey. As Rod Stewart sang, "May the Good Lord be with you down every road you roam"!

 

[Kjen]

Everyone said what needs saying. Beautiful day, nice people, lovely green countryside :thumbup:. Thanks to all for taking the time to show and said HI; time is not always a luxury. Stopped in Fremont, IN after dipping our tires into Ohio (think it was that state, is it the one left of IN?). I truly used to know where all the states were. Laundry duty ASAP was done; I had to scoot to beat the lady who came in with a mess of stuff. Only 1 washer and dryer so you have to hustle. Did finally get a cup of coffee and a muffin I had stored away from this mornings motel breakfast. Oh, we had a granola bar too. Thinking about what Mike (brpjunkie) asked, hmm maybe we are gaining (least me), too much carbs in the AM but I'm taking what I get so guess will worry and groan about it at home, SIGH. Just can't cover it all.
Done, good night.

 

[Firefly]

Was great to meet (and re-meet) everyone. Very nice time and was great to see all the different mods live and in person.

FYI Jen---- Carbs in the morning really mess me up!

Have a safe ride the rest of the way - you guys sure have filled that map up!

I was amazed that not only have you taken this trip - you did it without a Garmin! Of course Jen is human GPS!

Have a great rest of your trip!