Don't be jealous of my journey. It was (and still is) a tragedy that put me into this. I'm getting better at dealing with it i think.
Don't know why. But i have the urge to point the Yamaha in the direction of Utah.
I dunno.
Utah is as good a destination as any! If I could attempt to talk you out of blasting down I84 into a minor detour, eastern Oregon is one of the most underrated motorcycle destinations anywhere. Nobody listens when I tell them that, and it's mostly ignored because it's not usually on the way anywhere either side, but believe me, it's incredible.
Unlike Washington state, the Oregon DOT spends big money on their roads, and it shows. The eastern 2/3rds of the state is far removed from the lush coastal stereotype. Very dry, a bit scrubby, feels very Western. It's also nearly empty, so you get the incredible roads mostly to yourself (Unlike Portland, which has some of the most aggressive drivers I've experienced anywhere.) The Painted Hills have some great roads nearby, and some incredible scenery. On the off chance I've actually sold you, here's a decent article that'll give you some idea of what I'm talking about:
I’ll let you in on a secret. Some of the finest riding in the United States remains largely undiscovered — the remote, empty roads winding through the wide-open landscapes of Eastern Oregon.
traveloregon.com
Should you end up heading south, a great way to get to the US is via the Black Ball ferry from Victoria to Port Angeles, though be cautious about getting anywhere near Seattle at rush hour. Their traffic rivals Toronto. Really cool city, though. The Boeing air museum is incredible.
PS - Getting better at dealing with loss is a lifetime journey, I think. First year is the hardest, or so I've been told. I believe you're going about it a good way. Something about the meditative state of riding that simultaneously means you can't hide from yourself but also keeps the new coming in a way that encourages perspective.
