R15 6 Reunited and It Feels So Good!

And there, snapping in the breeze, high above the Wal-Mart parking lot: the flag! The Beaver Flag!

Installation!

The team was gathering at the Wal-Mart in Grimes parking lot. This year, as opposed to previous years, we could identify the RV as our RV, because, besides the bikes, and grey and pink shirts, and luggage and beer, there was a flag!

The majesty!

The Deb dreamed it and Pochy brought it into existence!

I had never been to the Beaver Ark Roll Out Round Up before, and it was pure delightful chaos. Cars were being unloaded, beavers were arriving and departing, people were exchanging the year's collection of tshirts and jerseys and money. Coolers were filled, cheeseballs were sought in the Wal-Mart.

It was magical!

Nearly the moment I hopped out of Perfect Fit's truck, Steven grabbed me and put a Thai friendship on my wrist that said Team Beaver. (So, so much branding).

The Deb and the Dale were loading gear into the Ark in their usual accustomed fashion. I made some small talk with some friends of a friend who were riding out to Sioux City with us. (We charged them $20 bucks and 12-pack of beer and set them up in the Jeep with the Deb.)

And, before we knew it, the Ark was loaded.

In the midst of our goodbyes to the folks who were not so lucky to get to go on the Ragby (the award goes out to Grandma, who would be solo watching their twins with a busted arm), we found a moment to take a group picture.

I think we look pretty good...

Beavers before!