🏍️ The McDonald Clan Rides Again
By Jackie Todhopper
Every now and then, you’re reminded that time doesn’t just pass — it layers. It stacks memories like old riding jackets: faded, stitched with scars, but still holding warmth.
This past week, I found myself once again in the company of the McDonald clan — a gathering that’s been happening since 1969 when Dennis McDonald, the eldest of eight, decided that one summer weekend a year should be sacred. They came down from South Boston, brought their stories, their bikes, their coolers, and most importantly, each other.
Dennis has passed on now, and of the original eight McDonalds, only three are still with us. But the spirit never died. Nephews, nieces, grandkids — and now their kids — still make the trip. And this year, I sat back and realized that the ones I knew when they were seven or eight now have teenagers of their own.
And then there’s Pat.
Back in 1972, I fell asleep smoking and lit my mattress on fire. Pat McDonald was in the next room. The smoke woke him up. He kicked the door in, pulled me out, and put the fire out. Just like that. We’ve been friends ever since. You don’t forget a thing like that.
This year, Pat rolled in with his Harley trike and a toy hauler camper. John and his wife, Betty, showed up too — more longtime riders, more lifers in the clan. And of course, we went riding.
And at some point, I started telling stories — those Jackie Todhopper stories I’ve been working on. I figured they’d politely listen and nod. Instead, they laughed, they encouraged, and they reminded me why I write these damn things in the first place.
🔥 The Thing About Old Friends
You can’t buy history like this. It’s forged across decades — through fire, loss, laughter, camp chairs, long rides, and quick looks that say, “I remember who you used to be.”
One of the boys, Sandy’s son, Dwayne, came all the way from Arkansas. He’s the same guy Dusti and I used to stay with when riding down to Mexico and back. Seeing him again, here, layered on top of old memories — well, it hit different.
These people were part of the start. They may also be the first to see where this thing goes.
🚪Just Between Us
Right now, you’re the only ones who even know about this website. But you’re in the wiring. You’re in the stories. And now… you’re in the archive.
Thanks for the road time, the stories, the encouragement, and the laughs.
Let’s not wait another year to do it again.
—
Jackie Todhopper
(The name may have changed, but the campfire’s still warm.)