those tree pics are amazing.... this sounds like a really wonderful group! I like to go out and hammer sometimes... but I ride for the joy of it... and am perfectly content riding 12 mph sometimes just to enjoy the summer breeze, the birds and the scenery... and the no drop policy is very helpful for a newbie wanting to try their first group ride! thanks for sharing that...

and I like the hell ride concept... I would love to start a touring group too... but alas, the scenery here is not so great... and the traffic is helacious! I hope it works for you...