This morning the weather was cool and a little overcast as we got ready to leave Benecia, but the weather forecast promised sunny warmth as we headed north.  We rode to Vallejo for our first morning stop at their Harley-Davidson dealer, who put on a fantastic breakfast of sausage and pancakes for us!

Beth’s mom and husband turned up to surprise her and join in the photos and fun.  Rhonda our Super Sweep from rides past also rode in on her police style bike, to add some support to the rear of our riding column.

As we headed out, Wanda donned her leathers and helmet and went for her first ride on the back of Meredith’s bike.  We headed out towards the wine country and spent a beautiful hour winding between vineyards, hills, and patches of forest on our way to Calistoga.

After a quick gas stop, Wanda regretfully retired to the van, and Lisa Levitin took her turn on the back of the bike for the next hour towards our lunch stop.  The wineries gradually gave way to redwoods and the beautiful scenery of Russian River, before we pulled over at the famous Korbel Champagne winery.

We had a fantastic lunch at their café and bistro, and then it was another beautiful ride to our evening destination of Rohnert Park, through redwood forests and along Bohemian and Bodega Hwys.

Tonight was our last night together as a group.  We commandeered the breakfast room at our hotel, and ordered in pizza for a final party together.  As we did on the first night, we took the time to go around the group and each one shared the impact that this amazing journey has had on them.  Over the last week we have become a family, and we all know that whatever challenges lie ahead, they have a strong group of support to rely on.

We finished the evening watching a slideshow of photos from our amazing ride.  One more day to go!