Day: December 4, 2023

  • Snow Trails and Sick Tales

    There’s nothing quite like the crunch of fresh snow under the wheels of a fat bike, the world around you muffled by a thick, white blanket. That was the setting of what started as an epic Sunday ride. The air was crisp, and my breath came out in puffs like smoke signals from an old Western. Mo and Karen, decked out in their winter best, were tackling the trail on foot, their laughter punctuating the silence of the snowy landscape.

    Our meetups on the trail had become a cherished routine. A nod here, a quick joke there – it was the kind of camaraderie that didn’t need much to flourish. I felt invincible, powering through the snow, my bike and I one entity against the serene backdrop.

    But as the ride went on, the invincibility began to fade, replaced by a creeping malaise that seemed to leach the warmth from my bones. Mo and Karen, still full of energy, waved goodbye, unaware of the battle waging inside me.

    The journey back was a blur. Each pedal stroke was heavier, each breath shorter. The familiar landscape seemed to transform, becoming a bit more daunting with each mile. By the time I reached home, I was a mere shadow of the warrior who had set out that morning. Collapsed on the couch, I gave in to the sickness, and the adventure of the day gave way to the hope of a swift recovery.

    It’s funny how life throws these little curveballs, isn’t it? One minute you’re on top of the world, the next you’re buried under a pile of tissues, nursing a hot lemon drink. But hey, if every day was a victory, we wouldn’t appreciate them half as much. So, here’s to the unexpected adventures, the trails yet ridden, and the health to enjoy them. Get well soon, self – we’ve got more snowy trails to conquer.

  • Changes

    Changes

    After troubles with the law, I was mandated to get another mode of recreation. I think it is time. But will I like it?
  • Livingston Peak Trailhead Ride

    Livingston Peak Trailhead Ride

  • Fat Bike 4 Sale

    This past weekend at Twin lakes
    This past weekend at Twin lakes

    UPDATE: Sold!

    I must sell my fat bike.  That way I can buy a new one. Until then … I am holding the Web Lodge hostage. No posts until I unload “Larry”. I am considering on just giving my bike away to a friend. Hi Rob. But it would be great to sell the bike first. But no worries.

    http://bozeman.craigslist.org/bik/4210864401.html for details …o/o

    Riding the dirt around Bozeman Montana
    Riding the dirt around Bozeman Montana

    Summer fun on a fatty
    Summer fun on a fatty

    Reason for the season
    Reason for the season

    How many fat bikes can say they helped win a cyclocross award?
    How many fat bikes can say they helped win a cyclocross award?

    Larry poses on the Hyalite Trail
    Larry poses on the Hyalite Trail

    "Larry", my snow bike is for sale
    “Larry”, my snow bike is for sale

  • Lazy post

    Okay, you caught me. I’ve been lazy, and a lot’s been going on, actually. Work projects are stressing me out, so it’s all I can do to post a little something each day. Since I haven’t gotten to my RMVQ video yet, at least I have these photos.

    Wouldnt this be nice?

    The sun peeked out for just a moment as we enjoyed our only paved section we’d see for two days.

  • Cant Sleep!

    Yep, again. Just got a job yesterday and accepted it. But, get this, about 20 minutes later, I got a call about a job opportunity at Edu Log here in Missoula. I told them I’d already accepted a part-time gig at Mars Stout. Then, they ring me back a second time, saying it’s a full-time position and they’re flexible with the interview schedule.

    Again, I said sorry, but I’ve already taken another offer. And guess what? 20 minutes later, they’re on the phone again. This time, no talk of interviews, just straight up offered me $10 an hour to start. That made me stop and think.

    Had to decide: do I grab this full-time job that’s offering a full $2 more per hour than the one I just said yes to? I turned it down! Why? Probably why I can’t sleep. It’s just wild, after all this struggle, to land a job and then get hit with a decision like this.

    I feel like I’ll mesh with Mars Stout so well that it’ll grow into something Edu Log just can’t offer. Fingers crossed I’m making the right call.

  • My Car is Cleaner Than Yours

    My Car, My Rules

    Hey everyone, it’s me again! Today’s chat at work really got my gears grinding. Picture this: a bunch of yuppies looking down on me because I don’t pamper my car like it’s a spoiled pet. They think my car’s charm is fading just because it doesn’t get a spa day at the detailer’s. Well, guess what? I’m not buying into that materialistic hullabaloo.

    Here’s my grand plan: I’m going all out to make my car the opposite of theirs. No wax, no fancy washes. I’m even thinking of adding my own artistic touch – a few scratches here and there, and why not a homemade bike rack drilled right onto the roof? The more rugged, the better, I say.

    To those who sneered at me, here’s a fun fact: my bike is sparkling clean. Oh, what’s that? You don’t own a bike? Too busy polishing your car to care about fitness, huh? I see how it is. While your car gleams, your health dims.

    Next time you try to put me down, remember this: I’m here, scribbling away my true thoughts, holding back from making a scene at work. But inside, I’m really not a fan of your shallow antics. Thank goodness for this space where I can let it all out. Even if nobody reads this, it’s my little haven of honesty.