HARDATE 15184.6.4 This is the Captain's log. Our journey started in west Texas, in the city of Snyder, and ended in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This is the second day of our big summer trip, and we captured four ABC points.
We got an early start, and with the time change to Mountain time, we would arrive at our destination much earlier than anticipated. So, we went on a side trip to Madrid, New Mexico (pronounced MA-drid, unlike the city in Spain). This city is featured in the movie Wild HOGs in case you've never seen it, with Marisa Tomei, Tim Allen, John Travolta…great flick.
The ride up 41 was breathtaking, with mountains to either side. Some rock formations and desert topography with turquoise mountains to the west. At one point we had to don our rain gear, only to get sprinkled on for a few miles. We can feel the rain before it hits, and we could see it a few miles ahead. The temperature drops suddenly and we can smell it coming. Everything is accented on the bike. It's all a part of the adventure!
We were a tad disappointed to learn that Maggie's Diner never was nor has been an actual diner. It is a store filled with t-shirts and other motorcycle gear. We think they would make more money as an actual diner, with all the bikers we met who came to visit in addition to the cars. Tim was also disappointed that Marisa Tomei was not in town (haha).
The village street is home to many unique shops like the hand-crafted windchimes and the antique store. The Java cafe was a nice stopping place to quench our thirst, and the owner made fresh blueberry pies at home which we had to try. We enjoyed a slice with some whipped cream, and it was very good.
Biker Bovine on Vacation
Our Biker Bovine has been enjoying the Chick-Fil-A “cows on vacation” ride with us, as you can see in the picture left he is chilling on the bike while we walked around.
After our walk around Madrid we headed down the Turquoise Trail to Albuquerque to our hotel. This is a beautiful scenic ride, and well worth your time if you are ever in the area. I was totally surprised by our trip to Madrid. I thought we would just ride in on a rode, see a diner, and then ride back out. Little did I know how beautiful the ride would be going up 41 and back down the Turquoise Trail. I give it two thumbs up. Tomorrow we head to Flagstaff, Arizona, and hopefully see the Grand Canyon.
ABC count for the day = 4 points
1 County: Yoakum County, Texas
1 State: New Mexico
1 City: Joseph City, Arizona
1 Harley Davidson (Champion in Roswell, NM – it was a bit disappointing)
Until next time…
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