Week end away

With CoVid still on a lot of the rally scene has been canned. But there are small invite only affairs happening. T and me got invited to one last week.
Leaving Friday because we’re still not working. We headed over the Bells line through the Blue mountains. This is known by the locals as a direct and fast but windy run out of Sydney to the western side of the mountains. It can be a seriously exhilarating ride or you can be stuck behind trailers for friggin’ miles.
With the luxury of Friday we had a lunch break at Mt Tomah in the Royal Botanic high altitude cool climate Gardens. Free and fabulous. Continued to Lithgow with a smattering of freezing rain on the way to remind us of how good the sun is.
After a pit stop we turned away from the main roads along Possum Hollow Way which wanders through valleys and over ridges with glorious views and minimal traffic.
Not more than 30 minutes out and a sou’wester slammed across the district. Gale force winds, icy heavy rain, thick cloud. We went from 24C in Lithgow to maybe 10C at best on the road. And crossing the ridges had me pushed across the road each time. This all happened so quick we did not bother with our rain gear and the open face helmets were no protection at all.
Struggling on at a snails pace trying to see through sunglasses and rain and fog we eventually got to Tarana pub. I just kicked the stand and walked in. If the bike fell I was not concerned. A fire raged in the bar and I took station in front and peeled my gear off. Teresa followed. A beer was bought and downed (obligatory) and I began to feel a little better. The publican came over with a bucket and mop to soak up the puddle we stood in. Locals were streaming in as well with reports of trees on roads and cars off. Another beer was taken and an enquiry as to lodging.
As per Joseph and Mary there was no room at the inn but a shed with bed was offered if we did not mind sharing with the animals. True.
T was not keen and I thought if we have to go out in that storm at all, it should be to warmth and comfort. The next town had rooms at the pub and would hold one for our arrival. More people were coming in and the joint was getting crowded with competition for the fire and chairs. We left and took on the storm with renewed determination. 40 kilometres seemed like an age and several trees were negotiated but finally the yellow walls of O’Connell hotel were before us.
This time having walked into the rain on purpose I did not feel so bad so parked the bike and removed the helmet and jacket before walking in. Keys were dispensed and soon T and me were under a blistering hot shower with all heaters at MAX+1.
Next morning everything was dry. Jackets, pants, shirts, boots, socks, undies and sky. Clear and blue as we know and love. We packed and rode out to join our friends and camp for Saturday night. Many beers were drunk that day and 2 bottles of a mix I shall call “rocket fuel” warmed us all as the sun went down. Sunday dawned with a few sore heads and the prospect of a stunning ride home.
Before l had reached Lithgow I took a different turn and found another way into the Blue mountains. A portion of Bells and then a different way back into town that took me over the Wisemans ferry. Home by 4, and a hot cup of tea.