rePete was having some trouble with the CB again, so he could hear me but he couldn't transmit. It worked out though because with the small group I saw him raise his hand to acknowledge when I called out turns or to take lanes. And I guess I didn't have to get any on-the-bike critique either, so that was a plus.
We took a number of back roads as I had described in the ride posting and it was enjoyable trip. We stopped after only about 35 miles at the end of Old Ocean Highway at 17 and Ditch got a chance to warm up his hands. rePete was happy that he had finally gotten his heated grips fixed and other than Mike's hands, we were all pretty toasty with multiple layers and I had my heated gear and full helmet.
We continued down Stone Chimney down through Holden Beach and up through Shalotte and then down to Ocean Isle. The restaurant was small but nice and had quite few tables. We scored a booth and rPete got us started with a mighty fine crab and artichoke dip and we began with the never ending Diet Pepsis. Ditch chowed down on a "Godfather" steak sandwich, rePete went with the Corned Beef Classic Reuben and I had the Cubano in honor of Travis who missed the ride while in Cuba. Each came with a nice side and all the food was delicious. We should go here with a larger group when the weather is nicer.
Straight shot back on 17, Pete and I stopped in to say Hi to the Road Queen who is still recovering in her PJs. She looked good and is looking forward to getting out on a ride soon.
All in all, I think it went well for my first time. I will start planning another.
Scotty