Excitement was in the air. The contented hum became an anxious roar as the engines were ignited, one by one.  I'm sure many heads turned towards the thunderous sound of the pack entering the line of traffic.  As the leader (of the pack), my thoughts turned to ensuring that we stay 'tight".  I knew it would be an effort to keep an eye on all those behind (as my left mirror kept wanting to lay down...i.e. it was broken).

 

Off we went  on our adventure................................................................................100 metres in..............I was alone.  I had lost everyone-all two of them!!!!!!!!!

 

I wondered how long it would be before Megsy and Ann realised they were leaderless.  It was only minutes before we were reunited for our second attempt at leaving Warners Bay!

 

But maybe I should have started at the beginning:   Only a small contingent of the Northern Stars were present but it was nevertheless a pleasant and leisurely morning.  The coffee makers must have also been quite relaxed, as the coffees were very sloooowwwww to reach our table.  Paula and Scott came, Cas and Sam in tow.  Phil was there (looking oh so tired - what a great social life he has).  Cath braved the cold northern air to make the trip down.  It was good to put a face to the name and meet Ann.  Megsy was there...on the lookout for some new pets (you had to be there).  After checking out the website, Joy joined us for a cuppa...although Joy's coffee did not arrive at all!  - a big welcome to Ann and Joy. Hope to see you on some future rides. And lastly...moi.

 

So, it was left to me to lead the ride.  I guess I will probably hold the record  for "losing people" for quite some time-possibly forever! (what a dubious claim to fame). Can anyone beat 100 metres? ANYONE???????

After leaving Warners Bay, we  headed off to the vineyards....to soak up the atmosphere at the ever famous cafe - Enzos.  It certainly is a lovely spot , but coffees (and a dessert here and there) were the order of the day.  We checked out the famous log fire......but the sun was out and the courtyard became the popular choice.

The award of the day? A tight competition, but I think it should go to Ann for being keen enough to come for a ride - even though she had to be at work by 2pm.  We accompanied Ann back to Hexham but we weren't seen stopping at Hungry Jacks for a feed....really we weren't (or at least, I don't think anyone saw us).  After not being seen at Hungry Jacks we opted for the upmarket end to our adventure...we went out to the Belmont Yacht Club to catch Deb's afternoon performance (where we also happened upon Lauren and Riley (Deb's daughter and granddaughter).  After a great performance by Deb (and Riley - what a cutie) Megsy and I headed back home.  As always ....an excellent day!!!!!!