“Live free or die.” As we ride through New Hampshire the plethora of helmetless bikers seem to embody the state motto that’s plastered on all of the license plates.

On our way from West Lebanon to the rally in Laconia, we stop for gas at Dicks Village Store in Danbury. After seeing my California license plate, Dick shares some stories about living in Hermosa Beach, CA in 1969. He then points across the street at a series of colored umbrellas providing shade to some weathered picnic tables and asks me if I know what that is. He informs me that its “hippy hill” and thanks to a local law that was passed, its the only place in the state where you can legally drink alcohol in public. Apparently they host regular parties which attract locals and visitors alike. We opt for some petrol and ice tea and continue our ride.

[Dicks General Store]

[Hippy Hill]

Shortly after noon we arrive at the Channel Cottages, for our standing reservation my grandfather has had for decades. We are the first three to arrive, so we make a trip to the grocery store for the essentials. The proximity of the cottage to the channel makes for entertainment throughout the weekend as the endless parade of boats use the channel to go between Lake Winnipesaukee and Paugus Bay.

[our digs for the weekend]

[the view of the channel from the cottage]

[the road to the grocery store]

The same folks return to the Laconia Bike Week year after year, so the first day is a reunion of sorts. The last time I was in attendance was eleven years ago, so there are many less than familiar faces for me to reconnect with. Everyone rides a motorcycle and upon learning about my origin, everyone wants to hear my stories from the 4000 mile cross country journey. The day is spent greeting newly arriving guests and talking about great rides, motorcycles and life. Both my uncle Jason and a longtime family friend named Jim, ride in late in the afternoon. My grandfather and his friend Glen will be arriving tomorrow. The long weekend in Laconia should be a great time.