November 7, 2025 (Fri.) – Bowling, Tailgate Fixes, and Stormy Skies.

Today we tagged along with Tom and Chris for their bowling day in Knoxville, joining them and their friends Ed and Terry. We were up early for the 10 AM start, and since it had been years since we last bowled, it felt like a fun throwback. Kirk finally got to test out his new shoulder (he got it replaced in November 2023) on the lanes, while Chris sat this one out due to wrist issues. That worked out perfectly—Lynn got to use her shoes and ball, which fit just right. We had a blast! We’re not exactly pros, but at least we broke 100. Well, Lynn did on the first game… the second was close! Kirk’s new shoulder was great! He hit 3 strikes in a row…a turkey!

Earlier in the day, Kirk and Tom had come up with a potential solution to fix the RV tailgate so the bike wouldn’t be held hostage in the garage anymore. With the famous Tail of the Dragon only 30 minutes away, Kirk was eager to get riding.

After bowling, we all grabbed lunch at Corner 16 in Knoxville, which hit the spot. Then it was off to Triple S Steel for aluminum sheeting and a quick stop at the hardware store. By 4 PM, we were back at the house—men tinkering with the tailgate, ladies relaxing on the deck.

By evening, the project was complete: the tailgate was reinforced but tomorrow will be the true test once we get the bike out. Tomorrow we ride! Hopefully…

The night wrapped up with a delicious chicken dinner, a little wine and whiskey, and plenty of good company. Around 9 PM, rain rolled in with lightning flashing across the lake—an incredible view. By 10 PM, we called it a night, excited for the adventure waiting on the Tail of the Dragon tomorrow.

Weather – High 70*, Low 42*. Winds 4-15 mph with 28 mph gusts. Rain = 75% (0.3″). No humidity.

Traffic – None.

Food – Home cooked chicken dinner. Delicious.

Notable – Bowling, Tailgate Fix, Dinner, Weather.