Cake day! It seemed we’d been waiting weeks for this date to arrive. Not only were we psyched to see one of our favorite bands play live, but today also signaled the beginning of our Fall Break– three wonderful MSC-free days, plus the weekend. Timing worked in our favor, as the Cake concert was the perfect kickoff for our mountain trip in Pigeon Forge, TN. Wednesday morning we cleaned the bike up for its journey, stuffed our luggage into a duffle bag, zipped up our riding boots, and were on our way. First stop: downtown Atlanta.
Since we got an early start, we were able to avoid the interstate, and take the more scenic route of Highway 23. The first leg of our journey was fairly uneventful — just cloudy, cloudy skies and a persistent bit of chilled air that trickled into my jacket sleeves and up my arms. While passing through Jackson, GA we were dumbfounded by a red Jeep that pulled out in front of us, giving us only a few feet and mere seconds to slow down. She never noticed us, as all of her attention was focused on the coffee cup she held in her right hand. Perhaps you should tell your friends and family to watch out for motorcycles– the idea could certainly stand to gain more popularity, and we appreciate all the help we can get. 
We stopped in McDonough, GA for a quick lunch of cheesy-good mexican burritos. Here we added sweatshirts to layer in defense against the clouds that refused to share any sunshine with us. We continued on, and thanks to both the extra layer of warmth and a full stomach, I began to pay more attention the trees lining the roads, and the already visible color changes in the leaves. Today I was content just being on the bike, because it has been so long since we last went riding just to enjoy the ride. The recent, extensive maintenance on the Nighthawk was quite noticeable, not only in its smooth transitions and the sweet purring of the engine, but also by saving us gas money with better mileage.
Once we reached the city, we found the Tabernacle with no problems. We took a picture or two, then my muscles and I guarded the bike while Jerry walked around the corner to pick up our tickets. We zipped up to Tim and Tabatha’s to drop off the bike in exchange for the car, and to visit for a while. Within a few hours, we were on our way back to the Tabernacle to get our Cake on. The show proved to be most enjoyable, with the exception of the opening Beastie Boys-wannabe-girl-band. I think the crowd only clapped for them out of pity, and in hopes of getting them off the stage, clearing the way for the true musicians of the evening.
From the front row of the top balcony, we were nearly eye level with the mirrorball, spinning to the music whenever Cake wanted it to. The hours passed quickly, and Cake ended their set without playing my favorite song, “You Turn the Screws.” I was slightly disappointed in missing that one live, but other than that I had no complaints– well, except for the girl band, but I think I figured that one out! Tomorrow brings the second leg of our journey, and we’re eagerly awaiting the ride through the mountains. Mountains that are hopefully crowned in an array of fall colors.
