This is Dan. I met him in Bellevue early yesterday morning. I was standing to the side of him at a Starbucks, admiring the patches on his jacket when it struck me how long it has been since I posted an everyday adornment image. I knew he’d be perfect, but the whole approach-a-complete-stranger-and-ask-to-photograph-him thing is sometimes a reach for me. We chatted about the weather and then he left with his drink while I waited for mine.

I decided that I didn’t want to lose the opportunity to work with him for a post. And so americano in hand, I headed across the parking lot. He was friendly, maybe a little surprised to see me again, and willing to participate. . .

Dan has been riding for 40 years, and is currently Road Captain for his particular chapter of riders (which numbers about 240). Check this out!:

He rode up from Federal Way to lead the ride. The parking lot by the Starbucks was the start point. He said it’s typical to get anywhere from 4-5 to upwards of 20 others on a ride, and you never know how many until that day. Among the riders, and in addition to him, there is always a Sweep, who rides last and makes sure the ride stays safe.

Because this post is about adornment, I asked him which is his favorite patch. He pointed to the one that says Wyatt Wilson, as it commemorates his son, who died of cancer. For the past 8 years, Dan has organized a ride in memory of his son. It benefits the Ronald McDonald House.

(No post about a motorcycle rider would be complete without an image of the rider and his bike.)