Finally

[the Ferret]

On the evening of Dec 30, we got our first major snow. It came a little earlier than normal and it wasn't crushing, less than 2 inches, but the private road I live on which is curvy and dippy doesn't get cleared well. They salt the entrance and a couple of the curves. The cars driving in and out on the snow crush it and it freezes to ice underneath, especially when the temperature like we have been having don't allow for melt. Plus there are two long sections with giant pine trees which block the morning sun from getting to the road. So even though the main public roads get salted and plowed and are ok to ride, I end up getting stuck for days waiting for a track to open up I can ride on to get out to the main roads.

Everyday this week I have taken the truck and driven out to the main roads. Then my wife and I discuss whether it would be safe for me to try and escape. New Years Day..nope. Jan 2 nope. Jan 3 nope Jan 4 nope but it's getting close. We can see dry tracks developing. My wife thought I could get out IF no cars came the other way forcing me off the track in the middle of the road, or no deer crossed in front of me causing me to swerve off that line. Too risky.

This morning we went out and it looked like there were enough clear tracks that I would have options if necessary, so about 2:00 I suited up, pushed the ST out and fired it up, turning the heated grips on 50% and plugged in my heated jacket liner at about 75% (it was 16 degrees out). Once the bike hit 2 bars on the heat gauge, I snicked her into gear and headed up the drive, turning left at the top. No cars came and no deer ran out and I made it out to the main road with no drama, which was clear and dry. About an hour later I arrived back home, safe and sound with a doggone big smile. It felt so good to ride! Anyhow, first day and first 35 miles of the year in!