Although not reaching the double digit number we had for Sunday's Mt. Pinos ride, we more than made up for it in quality. Six patriotic riders showed up for our country's 229th birthday ride, led by a most special individual who gave up the blacktop to get back to his earthly roots, a man of letters and words, the one and only Uncle Louie. In fact Uncle Louie and I have teamed up to offer you a possible first in RCY history....a Joint Ride Report. Uncle Louie will provide the words and I will provide a few pictures along with some commentary. Take it away, Stevie....

Today, July 4, 2005, represents a first, as near as I can remember. For today’s report is a joint effort. And no, I didn’t smoke a joint before writing it. What the hell were you thinking? Instead, today’s report is a combination between me and Robco Baggins, two of 6 who showed up to Cheseboro this morning. The others were Dean “Viva Las Vegas” Blau, his unrelated twin, Rod (rejoining the fold after his Yosemite travels), Joe and, saving the best for last, Reuben.

No one was more surprised to see me in the dirt than I was, but I felt guilty for missing out on the big Pinos ride (Robco is supposed to insert a joke here, but he doesn't want to belittle his tiny Uncle) where I hear 17 people rode the beast (my joke that probably only I find to be funny). It was a pretty casual tour through Cheseboro as we took the main canyon trail out to Sulphur Springs and over to Sheppard’s Flat. From there we headed down GasPipe/BrokenSpoke Trail where Mr. Baggins took some photos of us.

It was great to have Rod back with us!

Reuben rides with the flock

Dean focuses on the treacherous trail

A look back down the trail

Lance protege Uncle Louie in fine form

Joe lookin' for the best line

From there we headed out to Ahmanson and out of the park for a brief moment at Las Virgenes. We all followed Rod to something he insisted was a trail back into Cheseboro, which involved mostly climbing and trying to find trail under our tires. Riding along this supposed trail reminded me of hacking my way through the jungle . . . or at least what I imagine that would be like from watching Tarzan movies.

Have a terrific holiday today and remember all the reasons we are fortunate enough to celebrate this day in a free country where all of us are presented with opportunities to seek out our own paths leading to the lives we are privileged enjoy.