The ride was fairly direct via MLK over 421 into Brunswick County and onto 17 south. We continued down 17 to Hickman Road into SC and our 1st Comfort Stop. After a brief stop, we rolled out down 31 to 544 with a delay due to a broken down tractor trailer and then popped back out onto 17 and hit all kinds of additional traffic delays due to Spring Break. We arrived later than originally planned at the Rustic Table in Pawley’s Island around 1 PM. Sparkles and her dad (Bruce) were already there and knew we were running late since I sent them a text along the way and all were ready to eat! This place was awesome and the food was delicious with some of the very best fried pickles ever! We had a great view of the outside pond with fountain and several shops to distract some of us. Bruce proceeded to share some Krista stories of their sailing experiences together (LOL) along with enjoying typical jokes and jabs by members. Following lunch, we took a few photo ops, said our goodbyes to Bruce and were on our way now with 6 bikes (Sparkles too!) joining our group.
Decided to deviate slightly on the return route based upon a great recommendation by Pat (Godfather) down 707 to avoid some of the traffic and lights. Normally a great route; however, most of the road was under construction on both sides due to widening the road so a little slower than normal but still better than the alternative. Once we popped out onto 31, Smallfri was getting a little nervous since her low fuel light came on and signaled Flip-Flop who let me know toot-sweet. Only 5 miles to go to the comfort stop; however, Smallfri decided to be safe and exit for fuel ahead of time (better to be safe than sorry) with Flip-Flop joining her as any great Tail Gunner would. After, the group fueled up, we continued down Hickman Road to 17 then made a quick stop to say our goodbyes at Beach House Harley in Shallotte then head home. Funniest part of the day came when I was reminding Smallfri about using her hand signals and she proceeded to tell me that if she did and let go of the handle bar, she might get blown off the bike. LOL
Wow…a big THANK YOU goes out to Tracey (Flip-Flop) who did a fantastic job as our pseudo Tail Gunner protecting our backside. Now mind you, we did not use CB radios and Tracey assessed the various situations during the ride capturing lanes, protecting the group and staying with Smallfri when she peeled off for fuel like a pro...Great job Girl! Also a special thank you to everyone who joined us on the ride, which truly makes our events so much fun!
Thanks for the memories…ride safe and often!