I returned to Toronto on Aug 19, much earlier than anticipated. Managing time proves to be a major benefit when travelling alone.

The last memorable image was the sunset from outside my room at the Crest Motel in Ashland,Wisconsin. Not a bad view for $45 night's stay. The following morning looked like this:

The final two days from Ashland, Wisconsin, through Sault St. Marie, Sudbury and Perry Sound were spent in heavy rain. This is quite a contrast to the mostly wonderful weather throughout the former part of the trip. My protective gear did not stand up to the test and within a short time I was drenched but cheerful.

True adventures take on different experiences, some predictable, some most unexpected. But each motorcycling adventure enriches your life in a way that nothing else could.

Gary, third from left, Paul on the far right

In many ways this trip was similar to those already taken, whether with Paul or Gary, who were both present in the picture above but are no longer with us. Many of the roads I have travelled before, with either one of these gentlemen, but each time I travel that way I develop a different perspective and appreciation for the way things are.

The economic times of the recent years have created certain difficulties for Americans. This is evident when your travel takes you off the beaten path - the gas stations that have become ghost stations, the motels where the only occupants are weeds and tall grass. But, the Wall-Marts of the nation are thriving. And there is plenty of food, good food, thank goodness.

Travelling on a motorcycle without the liability of a radio, hand held camera, cell phone, or blue tooth communication technology is a bliss. Multitasking while riding a motorcycle is recipe for disaster and takes away what true enjoyment of motorcycling is about. What can be better than listening to the sound and feeling the rhythm of your motor while observing the nature around you. It would be the next best thing to flying. Of course those that don't ride a Harley wouldn't know the sound and rhythm of a motor - pity.

And this completes another motorcycle odyssey to the American west, at least for this year.

The bottom line:

- the scenery was priceless;

- cost of accommodations ranged between $39 and $69 per night;

- food, most of which I would describe as excellent but simple, run between $5 and $25 per meal (14 oz New York cut at Uncle Joe's Steak House in Havre, Montana);

- the beast had sipped gas at about 42 miles/gal on average during the nearly 6000 mile trip, did not   consume one drop of oil, did not fail to start once nor did it overheat in the desert, and at the odometer crossed over 63000 miles (100000 kms).

Not bad for American crap.

Everyone loved my Fulmer Captain America helmet.

God bless America, and God bless Paul.